bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil filtration‐sedimentation improves shelled protist recovery in eukaryotic eDNA surveys
Authors: Lentendu Guillaume , Bruni Estelle P. , Ah‐Peng Claudine , Fujinuma Junichi , Kubota Yasuhiro , Lorite Juan , Peñas Julio , Huang Shuyin , Strasberg Dominique , Vittoz Pascal , Mitchell Edward A. D.
Published: May 2023

A large part of the soil protist diversity is missed in metabarcoding studies based on 0.25 g of soil environmental DNA (eDNA) and universal primers due to ca. 80% co‐amplification of non‐target plants, animals and fungi. To overcome this problem, enrichment of the substrate used for eDNA extraction is an easily implemented option but its effect has not yet been tested. In this study, we evaluated the effect of a 150 μm mesh size filtration and sedimentation method to improve the recovery of protist eDNA, while reducing the co‐extraction of plant, animal and fungal eDNA, using a set of contrasted forest and alpine soils from La Réunion, Japan, Spain and Switzerland. Total eukaryotic diversity was estimated by V4 18S rRNA metabarcoding and classical amplicon sequence variant calling. A 2‐ to 3‐fold enrichment in shelled protists (Euglyphida, Arcellinida and Chrysophyceae) was observed at the sample level with the proposed method, with, at the same time, a 2‐fold depletion of Fungi and a 3‐fold depletion of Embryophyceae. Protist alpha diversity was slightly lower in filtered samples due to reduced coverage in Variosea and Sarcomonadea, but significant differences were observed in only one region. Beta diversity varied mostly between regions and habitats, which explained the same proportion of variance in bulk soil and filtered samples. The increased resolution in soil protist diversity estimates provided by the filtration‐sedimentation method is a strong argument in favour of including it in the standard protocol for soil protist eDNA metabarcoding studies.
The dual nature of cyberloafing
Authors: Spector Paul E.
Published: May 2023

Cyberloafing occurs when employees use electronic devices for nonwork activities while at work. It can have both constructive (means of regulating stress) and destructive (form of counterproductive work behavior) impact. For jobs where there is a fixed schedule of work versus break time, defining cyberloafing is clearcut. In other jobs where employees are allowed to self‐regulate their work flows, it can be difficult to distinguish cyberloafing from legitimate breaks.
Real‐world experience with Curcumin–QingDai combination for patients with active ulcerative colitis: A retrospective multicentre cohort study
Authors: Yanai Henit , Salomon Nir , Lahat Adi , Ungar Bella , Eliakim Rami , Kriger‐Sharabi Ofra , Reiss‐Mintz Hilla , Koslowsky Benjamin , Shitrit Ariella Bar‐Gil , Tamir‐Degabli Natalie , Dotan Iris , Zittan Eran , Maharshak Nitsan , Hirsch Ayal , Ben‐Horin Shomron , Kopylov Uri
Published: May 2023

Background

Curcumin and QingDai (QD, Indigo) have been shown to be effective for treating active ulcerative colitis (UC).

Aim

To evaluate the real‐world experience with the Curcumin–QingDai (CurQD) herbal combination to induce remission in active UC.

Methods

A retrospec‑tive multicentre adult cohort study from five tertiary academic centres (2018–2022). Active UC was defined as a Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index (SCCAI) ≥ 3. Patients were induced by CurQD. The primary outcome was clinical remission at weeks 8–12, defined as SCCAI ≤2 and a decrease ≥3 points from baseline. Secondary outcomes were clinical response (SCCAI decrease ≥3 points), corticosteroid‐free remission, faecal calprotectin (FC) response (reduction ≥50%), FC normalisation (FC ≤100 μg/g for patients with FC ≥300 μg/g at baseline), and safety. All outcomes were analysed for patients who were maintaining stable treatment.

Results

Eighty‐eight patients were included; 50% were biologics/small molecules experienced, and 36.5% received ≥2 biologics/small molecules. Clinical remission was achieved in 41 (46.5%), and clinical response in 53 (60.2%). Median SCCAI decreased from 7 (IQR:5–9) to 2 (IQR:1–3); p < 0.0001. Of the 26 patients on corticosteroids at baseline, seven achieved corticosteroid‐free remission. Among 43 biologics/small molecules experienced patients, clinical remission was achieved in 39.5% and clinical response in 58.1%. FC normalisation and response were achieved in 17/29 and 27/33, respectively. Median FC decreased from 1000 μg/g (IQR:392–2772) at baseline to 75 μg/g (IQR:12–136) at the end of inductions (n = 30 patients with paired samples); p < 0.0001. No overt safety signals emerged.

Conclusion

In this real‐world cohort, CurQD effectively induced clinical and biomarker remission in patients with active UC, including patients who were biologics/small molecules experienced.
Detection and verification of neurodegeneration after traumatic brain injury in the mouse: Immunohistochemical staining for amyloid precursor protein
Authors: Xiong Guoxiang , Metheny Hannah , Hood Kaitlin , Jean Ian , Farrugia Anthony M. , Johnson Brian N. , Tummala Shanti R. , Cohen Noam A. , Cohen Akiva S.
Published: May 2023

Previous studies of human traumatic brain injury (TBI) have shown diffuse axonal injury as varicosities or spheroids in white matter (WM) bundles when using immunoperoxidase‐ABC staining with 22C11, a mouse monoclonal antibody against amyloid precursor protein (APP). These findings have been interpreted as TBI‐induced axonal pathology. In a mouse model of TBI however, when we used immunofluorescent staining with 22C11, as opposed to immunoperoxidase staining, we did not observe varicosities or spheroids. To explore this discrepancy, we performed immunofluorescent staining with Y188, an APP knockout‐validated rabbit monoclonal that shows baseline immunoreactivity in neurons and oligodendrocytes of non‐injured mice, with some arranged‐like varicosities. In gray matter after injury, Y188 intensely stained axonal blebs. In WM, we encountered large patches of heavily stained puncta, heterogeneous in size. Scattered axonal blebs were also identified among these Y188‐stained puncta. To assess the neuronal origin of Y188 staining after TBI we made use of transgenic mice with fluorescently labeled neurons and axons. A close correlation was observed between Y188‐stained axonal blebs and fluorescently labeled neuronal cell bodies/axons. By contrast, no correlation was observed between Y188‐stained puncta and fluorescent axons in WM, suggesting that these puncta in WM did not originate from axons, and casting further doubt on the nature of previous reports with 22C11. As such, we strongly recommend Y188 as a biomarker for detecting damaged neurons and axons after TBI. With Y188, stained axonal blebs likely represent acute axonal truncations that may lead to death of the parent neurons. Y188‐stained puncta in WM may indicate damaged oligodendrocytes, whose death and clearance can result in secondary demyelination and Wallerian degeneration of axons. We also provide evidence suggesting that 22C11‐stained varicosities or spheroids previously reported in TBI patients might be showing damaged oligodendrocytes, due to a cross‐reaction between the ABC kit and upregulated endogenous biotin.
LIPUS‐SCs‐Exo promotes peripheral nerve regeneration in cavernous nerve crush injury‐induced ED rats via PI3K/Akt/FoxO signaling pathway
Authors: Ye Kun , Li Zitaiyu , Yin Yinghao , Zhou Jun , Li Dongjie , Gan Yu , Peng Dongyi , Xiao Ming , Zhao Liangyu , Dai Yingbo , Tang Yuxin
Published: May 2023

Objective

Clinical treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) caused by cavernous nerve (CN) injury during pelvic surgery is difficult. Low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) can be a potential strategy for neurogenic ED (NED). However, whether Schwann cells (SCs) can respond to LIPUS stimulation signals is unclear. This study aims to elucidate the signal transmission between SCs paracrine exosome (Exo) and neurons stimulated by LIPUS, as well as to analyze the role and potential mechanisms of exosomes in CN repair after injury.

Methods

The major pelvic ganglion (MPG) neurons and MPG/CN explants were stimulated with LIPUS of different energy intensities to explore the appropriate LIPUS energy intensity. The exosomes were isolated and purified from LIPUS‐stimulated SCs (LIPUS‐SCs‐Exo) and non‐stimulated SCs (SCs‐Exo). The effects of LIPUS‐SCs‐Exo on neurite outgrowth, erectile function, and cavernous penis histology were identified in bilateral cavernous nerve crush injury (BCNI)‐induced ED rats.

Results

LIPUS‐SCs‐Exo group can enhance the axon elongation of MPG/CN and MPG neurons compared to SCs‐Exo group in vitro. Then, the LIPUS‐SCs‐Exo group showed a stronger ability to promote the injured CN regeneration and SCs proliferation compared to the SCs‐Exo group in vivo. Furthermore, the LIPUS‐SCs‐Exo group increased the Max intracavernous pressure (ICP)/mean arterial pressure (MAP), lumen to parenchyma and smooth muscle to collagen ratios compared to the SCs‐Exo group in vivo. Additionally, high‐throughput sequencing combined with bioinformatics analysis revealed the differential expression of 1689 miRNAs between the SCs‐Exo group and the LIPUS‐SCs‐Exo group. After LIPUS‐SCs‐Exo treatment, the phosphorylated levels of Phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (Akt) and forkhead box O (FoxO) in MPG neurons increased significantly compared to negative control (NC) and SCs‐Exo groups.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that LIPUS stimulation could regulate the gene of MPG neurons by changing miRNAs derived from SCs‐Exo, then activating the PI3K‐Akt‐FoxO signal pathway to enhance nerve regeneration and restore erectile function. This study had important theoretical and practical significance for improving the NED treatment.
Multicentre, prospective, randomized control non‐inferiority trial of bladder catheter management in colon surgery
Authors: Serra‐Aracil Xavier , Hidalgo Jose M. , Dominguez Arturo , Vallverdu Helena , Millan Monica , Caro‐Tarragó Aleidis , Delgado Salvadora , Gomez C. , Llorach Nuria , Mora‐Lopez Laura ,   the CR‐Vesical Cath‐Study group
Published: May 2023

Aim

Perioperative bladder catheterization is a controversial issue. Most current recommendations are based on data from open surgery extrapolated to enhanced recovery after surgery or fast‐track programmes ranging between 24 and 48 h. The aim of this study is to provide a rationale for reducing catheterization time while at the same time avoiding acute urine retention (AUR), in patients undergoing scheduled laparoscopic colon surgery.

Method

This is a multicentre, prospective, controlled, randomized non‐inferiority study of bladder catheter management in patients undergoing scheduled laparoscopic colon surgery, randomized into two groups: experimental (with catheter removal immediately after surgery) and control (with catheter removal 24 h post‐surgery). The main outcome will be the development of AUR, and secondary outcomes the development of urinary infection within the first 30 days and hospital stay. Demographic, surgical and pathological variables will also be evaluated, especially the development of adverse effects assessed according to the Clavien scale and the Comprehensive Complication Index. Following the literature, we assume an incidence of AUR of 11% and a margin of non‐inferiority (delta) of 8% and estimate that a sample size of 208 patients per group will be required (with an estimated 10% of losses per group).

Conclusions

In this study we try to demonstrate that the bladder catheter can be removed immediately after scheduled laparoscopic colon surgery, without increasing acute urine retention. This measure would offers the benefits of earlier mobilization and reduces catheter‐related morbidity.
Digital technologies: Innovations that transform the face of drug development
Authors: Izmailova Elena S. , AbuAsal Bilal , Hassan Hazem E. , Saha Anindita , Stephenson Diane
Published: May 2023

Recently, digital health technologies (DHTs) and digital biomarkers have gained a lot of traction in clinical investigations, motivating sponsors, investigators, and regulators to discuss and implement integrated approaches for deploying DHTs. These new tools present new and unique challenges for optimal technology integration in clinical trial processes, including operational, ethical, and regulatory issues. In this paper, we gathered different perspectives to discuss challenges and perspectives from three different stakeholders: industry, US regulators, and a public‐private partnership consortium. The complexities of DHT implementation, which include regulatory definitions, defining the scope of validation experiments, and the need for partnerships between BioPharma and the technology sectors, are highlighted. Most of these challenges are related to translation of DHT‐derived measures into endpoints that are meaningful to clinicians and patients, participant safety, training, and retention and privacy of data. The example of the Wearable Assessments in the Clinic and Home in PD (WATCH‐PD) study is discussed as an example that demonstrated the advantages of pre‐competitive collaborations, which include early regulatory feedback, data sharing, and multistakeholder alignment. Future advances in DHTs are expected to spur device‐agnostic measured development and incorporate patient reported outcomes in drug development. More efforts are needed to define validation experiments for a defined context of use, incentivize data sharing and development of data standards. Multistakeholder collaborations via precompetitive consortia will help facilitate broad acceptance of DHT‐enabled measures in drug development.
A meta‐analytic review of the effectiveness of psychological treatment of functional/dissociative seizures on non‐seizure outcomes in adults
Authors: Gaskell Chris , Power Niall , Novakova Barbora , Simmonds‐Buckley Melanie , Reuber Markus , Kellett Stephen , Rawlings Gregg H.
Published: May 2023

Psychological therapies are considered the treatment of choice for functional/dissociative seizures (FDSs). Although most previous studies have focused on seizure persistence or frequency, it has been argued that well‐being or health‐related quality of life outcomes may actually be more meaningful. This study contributes by summarizing and meta‐analyzing non‐seizure outcomes to quantify the effectiveness of psychological treatment in this patient group. A pre‐registered systematic search identified treatment studies (e.g., cohort studies, controlled trials) in FDSs. Data from these studies were synthesized using multi‐variate random‐effects meta‐analysis. Moderators of treatment effect were examined using treatment characteristics, sample characteristics, and risk of bias. A total of 171 non‐seizure outcomes across 32 studies with a pooled sample size of N = 898 yielded a pooled effect‐size of d = .51 (moderate effect size). The outcome domain assessed and the type of psychological treatment were significant moderators of reported outcomes. Greater rates of improvement were demonstrated for outcomes assessing general functioning. Behavioral treatments emerged as particularly effective interventions. Psychological interventions are associated with clinical improvements across a broad array of non‐seizure outcomes, over and above seizure frequency, in adults with FDSs.
Effect of ultrasonic treatment on soybean okara to be used as a gluten‐free bread improver
Authors: Moscoso Ospina Yeisson A , Lionello Melina E. , Garófalo Luciana , Burbano Juan J. , Cabezas Dario M. , Correa M. Jimena
Published: May 2023

The production of soybean protein isolates generates an insoluble residue called okara that is rich in proteins and dietary fibre. These macromolecules have functional properties that can be modified and improved by emerging technologies, such as high‐intensity ultrasound. The objectives of this work were to analyse the ability of soybean okara (UOK) to act as a gluten‐free bread improver and to evaluate the effect of a sonication process on this property (OKS). Both okaras were assayed at two percentages (2% and 3%) leading to a reinforcement of interactions in the matrix of batters, producing bread of better technological and sensorial quality. The addition of OKS 3%, improved specific volume (20%), reduced the hardness (30%) and increased the cohesiveness of the crumb and improved the air inclusion. These results demonstrated the efficiency of the sonication process to obtain a gluten‐free bread improver from a bulky by‐product of the soybean industry.
Fabrication of pea protein–naringin Pickering emulsion to mask the bitterness of naringin
Authors: Tian Mengwei , Wang Jin , Hayat Khizar , Lu Hui , Cong Lixia , Huang Meigui
Published: May 2023

Naringin has various biological activities with an unacceptable bitter taste. In this work, pea protein–naringin complexes (PP–NG complexes) were constructed to stabilise the Pickering emulsion and reduce the bitterness of naringin. Sensory evaluation results showed that the bitterness and after‐bitterness of the PP–NG complexes were reduced by 77.78% and 75.99% compared with 1 mm naringin respectively. For the PP–NG complexes, the fluorescence spectra results showed that the endogenous fluorescence intensity of pea protein decreased with the naringin concentration increased (0–2 mm), and each pea protein molecule bound to one naringin molecule. Results obtained via thermodynamic analysis molecular docking demonstrated that naringin had an excellent binding affinity (−7.4 kcal mol−1) with pea protein and could form five hydrophobic bonds and four hydrogen bonds with pea protein. These findings would provide a new idea for the masking of bitterness and the evolution of Pickering emulsions stabilised by the protein–polyphenol nanoparticles.
Combined effects of paper‐containing 1‐methylcyclopropene with nitrogen‐modified atmosphere packaging in the logistics process of e‐commerce on fruit quality of plum (Prunus salicina cv. ‘Qingcuili’) during shelf life
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Guan Wenqiang , Xiong Jinliang , Lin Hengxun , Wang Xueqing , Huang Ming , Tan Junjie , Lei Guisheng , Luo Qingyi , Zhao Qian
Published: May 2023

In this study, the paper‐containing 1‐methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) and 100% nitrogen (modified atmosphere packaging, MAP) were used to treat plums during logistics process of e‐commerce (about 24 h). Quality changes of plums were analysed during shelf life at 25 °C and 4 °C for 6 and 12 days, respectively. Results showed that compared with control, 1‐MCP, MAP and 1‐MCP + MAP decreased respiration rate and ethylene production, maintained lower weight loss, higher green (a*) and firmness, maintained titratable acidity (TA) and ascorbic acid (ASA) content, reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation, inhibited polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity and maintained peroxidase (POD) activity. The quality of 1‐MCP + MAP group was the best, followed by the 1‐MCP group and MAP group. Overall, the combination of 1‐MCP with MAP treatments in the logistics process of e‐commerce has potential prospects for application to maintain the shelf life quality of fruits.
Comparison of different pretreatments on drying characteristics, physical properties, nutritional compounds and antioxidant activity of heat pump‐dried longan pulp
Authors: Zhu Jingnan , Peng Jian , Li Jun , Li Lu , Bi Jinfeng , Yang Wanyuan , Yi Jianyong , Chen Shupeng , Xu Yujuan , Gu Qingqing
Published: May 2023

Drying pretreatments are usually considered as effective way to improve the quality of dried fruit products. The results of this research showed that the blanching (BL), ultrasonic (US) and freeze–thaw (FT) pretreatments could significantly shorten the drying time, and improve the rehydration capacity of the dried longan pulp. Compared with the control group (CK, without pretreatment), more irregular inner micropores were formed in the dried longan pulp treated with BL, US and FT. Besides, the brightness and yellowness of dried longan pulp with pretreatments were higher than those of the CK. The higher retention rates of total phenolic content (292.54 mg/100 g d.b.) and ascorbic acid (2.38 mg g−1 d.b.) were observed in the dried longan pulp treated with BL. Meanwhile, a higher chlorogenic acid content was found in the samples treated with FT (3.68 mg/100 g d.b.) and radio frequency (RF) (3.10 mg/100 g d.b.). Furthermore, the highest retention of a total free amino acid (1843.13 mg/100 g d.b) was exhibited by RF‐treated longan pulp. This work guides how pretreatments are applied prior to longan pulp drying.
Determinants of the success in flap reconstruction—Outcome analysis of 120 flaps in 484 procedures for pressure injury
Authors: Huang Ching‐Ya , Lee Sheng‐Lian , Chiu Wen‐Kuan , Chen Chiehfeng , Chen Jin‐Hua , Wang Hsian‐Jenn
Published: May 2023

Pressure injury (PI) mainly occurs in bedridden older adults or those with physical limitations. Here, we aimed to determine the appropriate timing to conduct flap reconstruction in patients with PIs and identify factors affecting surgical outcomes. We retrospectively reviewed the data of all patients who received debridement or flap reconstruction surgery for PIs in our hospital from January 2016 to December 2021. The extracted data included patient demographics, surgical records, blood test results, vital signs, and flap outcomes. In total, 484 surgical procedures (364 debridements and 120 flaps) were performed on 216 patients. Serum albumin level of ≥2.5 g/dL remarkably increased the likelihood of complete wound healing (odds ratio [OR] = 4.12, P = .032) and reduced the risk of postoperative complications (OR = 0.26, P = .040). In contrast, advanced age (OR = 1.04, P = .045) and serum creatinine level ≥2 mg/dL (OR = 5.07, P = .016) increased the risk of postoperative complications. Thus, patients with a favourable nutrition status have a higher likelihood of achieving complete wound healing. By contrast, patients who are older and have serum creatinine ≥2 mg/dL and serum albumin <2.5 g/dL tend to develop more postoperative complications. Overall, thorough correction for patient inflammation, infection, anaemia, and malnutrition status can provide optimal flap surgery outcomes.
Surgical site infection in skin surgery—An observational study
Authors: Schlager Justin Gabriel , Patzer Kathrin , Wallmichrath Jens , French Lars E. , Kunrad Elena , Schlingmann Sophia , Stiefel Daniel , Kendziora Benjamin , Hartmann Daniela
Published: May 2023

Background

Surgical site infection (SSI) has a significant impact on patients’ morbidity and aesthetic results.

Objective

To identify risk factors for SSI in dermatologic surgery.

Patients and Methods

This prospective, single‐centre, observational study was performed between August 2020 and May 2021. Patients that presented for dermatologic surgery were included and monitored for the occurrence of SSI. For statistical analysis, we used a mixed effects logistic regression model.

Results

Overall, 767 patients with 1272 surgical wounds were included in the analysis. The incidence of SSI was 6.1%. Significant risk factors for wound infection were defect size over 10cm2 (OR 3.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.80–7.35), surgery of cutaneous malignancy (OR 2.96, CI 1.41–6.24), postoperative bleeding (OR 4.63, CI 1.58–13.53), delayed defect closure by local skin flap (OR 2.67, CI 1.13–6.34) and localisation of surgery to the ear (OR 7.75, CI 2.07–28.99). Wound localisation in the lower extremities showed a trend towards significance (OR 3.16, CI 0.90–11.09). Patient‐related factors, such as gender, age, diabetes, or immunosuppression, did not show a statistically significant association with postoperative infection.

Conclusion

Large defects, surgery of cutaneous malignancy, postoperative bleeding, and delayed flap closure increase the risk for SSI. High‐risk locations are the ears and lower extremities.
Bifidobacterium breve CBT BR3 is effective at relieving intestinal inflammation by augmenting goblet cell regeneration
Authors: Park I Seul , Kim Ji Hyung , Yu Jongwook , Shin YooJin , Kim Kibeom , Kim Tae Il , Kim Seung Won , Cheon Jae Hee
Published: May 2023

Background and Aim

Bifidobacterium breve was the first bacteria isolated in the feces of healthy infants and is a dominant species in the guts of breast‐fed infants. Some strains of B. breve have been shown to be effective at relieving intestinal inflammation, but the modes of action have yet to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of action of B. breve CBT BR3 isolated from South Korean infant feces in relieving colitis in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

Colitis was induced in mice with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) and dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS). Quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction, in vitro FITC‐dextran flux permeability assay, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) luciferase assay are performed using Caco‐2 cells and HT29‐Lucia™ AhR cells.

Results

B. breve CBT BR3 was orally administered. B. breve CBT BR3 improved colitis symptoms in both DSS‐ and DNBS‐induced colitis models. B. breve CBT BR3 increased the number of goblet cells per crypt. B. breve increased the mRNA expressions of Notch, Spdef, Muc5, and Il22. The mRNA expressions of Occludin, which encodes a membrane tight‐junction protein, and Foxo3, which encodes a protein related to butyrate metabolism, were also increased in the DSS‐ and DNBS‐induced colitis models. B. breve CBT BR3 protected inflammation‐induced epithelial cell permeability and improved goblet cell function by inducing aryl hydrocarbon receptor in vitro.

Conclusions

These results indicate that B. breve CBT BR3 is effective at relieving intestinal inflammation by augmenting goblet cell regeneration.
Oral health literacy and its associated factors among nurses: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yan Wen , Li Min , Luo Ling , Ju Xiangqun , Jamieson Lisa , Liu Fan
Published: May 2023

Aims and Objectives

To investigate the oral health literacy (OHL) of nurses and explore the factors affecting their OHL.

Background

OHL is important for improving the oral health outcomes. Nurses' OHL may affect the oral health of themselves, families, and patients. Few studies have examined the OHL and its related factors among nurses.

Design

A cross‐sectional design following the STROBE guideline.

Methods

A total of 449 nurses were recruited from tertiary hospitals in the minority areas of southwest China. The participants completed an online questionnaire, which contained questions related to the OHL, sociodemographic factors, general health, oral health and related behaviours, oral health knowledge, attitudes, and oral health‐related quality of life. OHL was measured using the validated Chinese version of the short‐form Health Literacy of Dentistry (HeLD‐14) scale. Descriptive statistics, the Mann–Whitney U test, Spearman's correlation, and multiple linear regression analysis were used to analyse the data.

Results

The median HeLD‐14 score (p25–p75) was 50.0 (44.0–54.0). The regression model for OHL was found to be significant. The factors that influenced OHL included oral health knowledge, oral health attitudes, self‐reported oral health, annual household income, and dental flossing; these factors accounted for 13.9% of the variance in OHL.

Conclusions

The nurse' OHL has room for improvement. Nurses' OHL could be improved by enriching their oral health knowledge, promoting their positive oral health attitudes, increasing their household income, and helping them build correct oral health behaviours.

Relevance to clinical practice

The findings of the study could be used to make a case for changing nursing curricula. Oral health knowledge curriculum or programmes targeted towards nurses should be developed to improve their OHL.

Patient or public contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Race, Religion, and Black Lives Matter: Assessing the Association between Sermon Content and Racial Justice Attitudes and Behaviors
Authors: Brown R. Khari , Brown Ronald E. , Wyatt Randall
Published: May 2023

We use the 2020/2021 National Politics Study to examine two central questions: 1. How do religious beliefs and clergy sermons about race associate with support for Black Lives Matter (BLM) and racial justice work? And 2. Is the relationship between religion and BLM‐related attitudes and activism similar or different across race groups? We found the following: In the months following the summer of 2020 protests in response to George Floyd's murder, African, Hispanic, and White American worship goers who heard sermons about race and policing were more likely than were their co‐ethnics to approve of BLM and to engage in racial justice work. Identifying with the religious left and believing that social justice is a core part of one's religaious beliefs is also associated with these groups approving of BLM and engaging in racial justice work. That said, race matters. These forms of religion tend to maintain stronger relationships with White BLM‐related attitudes and activism than they do for African Americans and Hispanics.
Optimizing therapy in primary biliary cholangitis: Alkaline phosphatase at six months identifies one‐year non‐responders and predicts survival
Authors: Murillo Perez C. Fiorella , Ioannou Stephanie , Hassanally Iman , Trivedi Palak J. , Corpechot Christophe , van der Meer Adriaan J. , Lammers Willem J. , Battezzati Pier Maria , Lindor Keith D. , Nevens Frederik , Kowdley Kris V. , Bruns Tony , Cazzagon Nora , Floreani Annarosa , Mason Andrew L. , Gulamhusein Aliya , Ponsioen Cyriel Y. , Carbone Marco , Lleo Ana , Mayo Marlyn J. , Dalekos George N. , Gatselis Nikolaos K. , Thorburn Douglas , Verhelst Xavier , Parés Albert , Londoño Maria‐Carlota , Janssen Harry L. A. , Invernizzi Pietro , Vuppalanchi Raj , Hirschfield Gideon M. , Hansen Bettina E. , Levy Cynthia ,   the Global PBC Study Group
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

Patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and insufficient response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), currently assessed after 1 year, are candidates for second‐line therapy. The aims of this study are to assess biochemical response pattern and determine the utility of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) at six months as a predictor of insufficient response.

Methods

UDCA‐treated patients in the GLOBAL PBC database with available liver biochemistries at one year were included. POISE criteria were used to assess response to treatment, defined as ALP <1.67 × upper limit of normal (ULN) and normal total bilirubin at one year. Various thresholds of ALP at six months were evaluated to predict insufficient response based on negative predictive value (NPV) and that with nearest to 90% NPV was selected.

Results

For the study, 1362 patients were included, 1232 (90.5%) female, mean age of 54 years. The POISE criteria were met by 56.4% (n = 768) of patients at one year. The median ALP (IQR) of those who met POISE criteria compared to those who did not was 1.05 × ULN (0.82–1.33) vs. 2.37 × ULN (1.72–3.69) at six months (p < .001). Of 235 patients with serum ALP >1.9 × ULN at six months, 89% did not achieve POISE criteria (NPV) after one year of UDCA. Of those with insufficient response by POISE criteria at one year, 210 (67%) had an ALP >1.9 × ULN at six months and thus would have been identified early.

Conclusions

We can identify patients for second‐line therapy at six months using an ALP threshold of 1.9 × ULN, given that approximately 90% of these patients are non‐responders according to POISE criteria.
The effects of physical exercise on structural, functional, and biochemical brain characteristics in individuals with chronic whiplash‐associated disorder: A pilot randomized clinical trial
Authors: de Zoete Rutger M. J. , McMahon Katie L. , Coombes Jeff S. , Sterling Michele
Published: May 2023

Background

Exercise for people with whiplash associated disorder (WAD) induces hypoalgesic effects in some, but hyperalgesic effects in others. We investigated the exercise‐induced neurobiological effects of aerobic and strengthening exercise in individuals with chronic WAD.

Methods

Sixteen participants (8 WAD, 8 pain‐free [CON]) were randomised to either aerobic or strengthening exercise. MRI for brain morphometry, functional MRI for brain connectivity, and magnetic resonance spectroscopy for brain biochemistry, were used at baseline and after the 8‐week intervention.

Results

There were no differences in brain changes between exercise groups in either the WAD or CON group, therefore aerobic and strengthening data were combined to optimise sample size. After the exercise intervention, the CON group demonstrated increased cortical thickness (left parahippocampus: mean difference = 0.04, 95% CI = 0.07–0.00, p = 0.032; and left lateral orbital frontal cortex: mean difference = 0.03, 95% CI = 0.00–0.06, p = 0.048). The WAD group demonstrated an increase in prefrontal cortex (right medial orbital frontal) volume (mean difference = 95.57, 95% CI = 2.30–192.84, p = 0.046). Functional changes from baseline to follow‐up between the default mode network and the insula, cingulate cortex, temporal lobe, and somatosensory and motor cortices, were found in the CON group, but not in the WAD group. There were no changes post‐exercise in brain biochemistry.

Conclusion

Aerobic and strengthening exercises did not exert differential effects on brain characteristics, however differences in structural and functional changes were found between WAD and CON groups. This suggests that an altered central pain modulatory response may be responsible for differential effects of exercise in individuals with chronic WAD.
Application of environmental sampling to investigate a case of avian chlamydiosis in a pet store and breeding facility leading to mass bird exposures
Authors: Bonwitt Jesse , Riethman Madison , Glashower Derel , Oltean Hanna N. , Wohrle Ron , Joseph Brian , McHale Brittany , Ritchie Branson
Published: May 2023

Chlamydia psittaci is a bacterium that causes chlamydiosis in birds and can cause zoonotic psittacosis in people. In November 2017, we received notification of a suspected case of avian chlamydiosis in a captive cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) that was sold by an online pet bird retail and breeding facility in Washington State. We describe the investigation with emphasis on how environmental sampling was used to guide veterinary and public health interventions. Bird samples were collected either from pooled droppings, pooled plumage or individual nasal and choanal swabs. Environmental samples were obtained by swabbing cleaning mops, tables and cage structures. All samples were tested by polymerase chain reaction and positive samples underwent genotyping. Approximately 1000 birds representing four taxonomic orders were kept within an open‐space warehouse. Eight of 14 environmental samples and one of two pooled faecal samples were positive for Chlamydia spp. The contaminating strain of Chlamydia spp. was identified as genotype A. The facility was closed for environmental disinfection, and all psittacines were treated with oral doxycycline for 45 days. Ten of 10 environmental and two of two pooled faecal samples were negative for C. psittaci 11 months after the completion of environmental disinfection and antimicrobial treatment. This investigation highlights the importance of preventing and mitigating pathogen incursion in an online pet retail and breeding facility. Environmental sampling is valuable to guide animal and public health interventions for control of C. psittaci, particularly when large numbers of birds are exposed to the pathogen.
Exploring Media and Communication Students’ Perception of Egyptian Universities’ Use of Augmented Reality in Learning
Authors: Taha Sawsan , Abulibdeh Enas , El-Gendi Hanan , Almarashdi Hanan Shaher , Alghazo Emad M. , Mostafa Imad Ibraheem , Abusini Bushra S. , Al-Aqtash Salem Khalil , Hejazi Abed El Hakeem , Ayasrah Firas Tayseer Mohammad , Alkhalaileh Mohannad Salameh
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the perceptions of media students in Egypt universities about using augmented reality (AR) technology in learning. To achieve this, the study adopted Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and utilized a survey questionnaire to collect data from students in seven universities across Egypt. The findings revealed that (i) the students had a positive perception about using AR in media and communication learning; (ii) many media students in Egypt were not fully aware of the various AR technology applications in media and communication education; (iii) the students identified several negative factors that may hinder their acceptance of AR technology as an instructional tool, such as poor connectivity, lack of free AR programs, and lack of training programs. Addressing these barriers could help promote the adoption of AR technology in media and communication learning among students in Egypt. The significance of the study lies in that it sheds light on the need for increased awareness and education of the potential benefits of using AR technology in media and communication learning.
Establishment of Continuous
In Vitro
Culture of
Babesia gibsoni
by Using VP-SFM Medium with Low-Concentration Serum
Authors: Li Dongfang , Wang Lingna , Guan Xingai , Wang Sen , Liu Qin , Chen Fangwei , Zheng Yaxin , He Lan , Zhao Junlong
Published: May 2023

The VP-SFM as a base medium supplemented with AlbuMAX I and a low concentration of canine serum (2.5%) allowed the continuous
in vitro
culture of
Babesia gibsoni
at both small and large volumes, which was to meet different experimental needs, such as long-term culture and obtaining high parasitemia and subclone culture. The establishment of
in vitro
culture systems allows researchers to better understand the metabolism and growth patterns of
Babesia
.
An Aquareovirus Exploits Membrane-Anchored HSP70 To Promote Viral Entry
Authors: Hou Guoli , Zhang Qiushi , Li Chun , Ding Geye , Hu Lingling , Chen Xiaoying , Lv Zhao , Fan Yuding , Zou Jun , Xiao Tiaoyi , Zhang Yong-An , Li Junhua
Published: May 2023

The seasonality of viral diseases in ectotherms is a prevailing phenomenon in the aquatic environment, which causes huge economic losses every year worldwide and hinders sustainable development of the aquaculture industry. Nevertheless, our understanding of the molecular mechanism of how temperature determines the pathogenesis of aquatic viruses remains largely unexplored.
Supplemental Material: Hadean tectonics: Insights from machine learning
Authors: Chen Guoxiong , Cheng Qiuming , al. et
Published: May 2023

Details on machine learning analysis of zircon composition dataset.  
Supplemental Material: Progressive lawsonite eclogitization of the oceanic crust: Implications for deep mass transfer in subduction zones
Authors: Hernández Uribe David , Tsujimori Tatsuki
Published: May 2023

Materials and methods for petrological modeling.  
Protocol for tumour-focused dose-escalated adaptive radiotherapy for the radical treatment of bladder cancer in a multicentre phase II randomised controlled trial (RAIDER): radiotherapy planning and delivery guidance
Authors: Hafeez Shaista , Webster Amanda , Hansen Vibeke N , McNair Helen A , Warren-Oseni Karole , Patel Emma , Choudhury Ananya , Creswell Joanne , Foroudi Farshad , Henry Ann , Kron Tomas , McLaren Duncan B , Mitra Anita V , Mostafid Hugh , Saunders Daniel , Miles Elizabeth , Griffin Clare , Lewis Rebecca , Hall Emma , Huddart Robert
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Daily radiotherapy delivered with radiosensitisation offers patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) comparable outcomes to cystectomy with functional organ preservation. Most recurrences following radiotherapy occur within the bladder. Increasing the delivered radiotherapy dose to the tumour may further improve local control. Developments in image-guided radiotherapy have allowed bladder tumour-focused ‘plan of the day’ radiotherapy delivery. We aim to test within a randomised multicentre phase II trial whether this technique will enable dose escalation with acceptable rates of toxicity.

Methods and analysis

Patients with T2-T4aN0M0 unifocal MIBC will be randomised (1:1:2) between standard/control whole bladder single plan radiotherapy, standard dose adaptive tumour-focused radiotherapy or dose-escalated adaptive tumour-focused radiotherapy (DART). Adaptive tumour-focused radiotherapy will use a library of three plans (small, medium and large) for treatment. A cone beam CT taken prior to each treatment will be used to visualise the anatomy and inform selection of the most appropriate plan for treatment.

Two radiotherapy fractionation schedules (32f and 20f) are permitted. A minimum of 120 participants will be randomised in each fractionation cohort (to ensure 57 evaluable DART patients per cohort).

A comprehensive radiotherapy quality assurance programme including pretrial and on-trial components is instituted to ensure standardisation of radiotherapy planning and delivery.

The trial has a two-stage non-comparative design. The primary end point of stage I is the proportion of patients meeting predefined normal tissue constraints in the DART group. The primary end point of stage II is late Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events grade 3 or worse toxicity aiming to exclude a rate of >20% (80% power and 5% alpha, one sided) in each DART fractionation cohort. Secondary end points include locoregional MIBC control, progression-free survival overall survival and patient-reported outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

This clinical trial is approved by the London-Surrey Borders Research Ethics Committee (15/LO/0539). The results when available will be disseminated via peer-reviewed scientific journals, conference presentations and submission to regulatory authorities.

Trial registration number

NCT02447549
Rate of paediatric gastrostomy insertion in England and relationship to epidemiology of cerebral palsy
Authors: Popescu Mara , Mutalib Mohamed
Published: May 2023

Background and objectives

Gastrostomy tubes are commonly used to provide an alternative route for enteral nutrition. Most of the gastrostomies are inserted in children with cerebral palsy. Previous studies have shown an increase in insertion rate, however, epidemiological studies reveal a stasis in prevalence of cerebral palsy. We aimed to provide an up-to-date rate of gastrostomy insertion in children in England over a 20-year period and systematically review the prevalence of cerebral palsy to ascertain an epidemiological explanation for insertion trends.

Methods

Retrospective search of Hospital Episode Statistic, a database held diagnosis and procedural code from all England National Health Service hospitals from 2000 to 2021 using International Classification of Disease-10 and Office of Population Censuses and Survey’s Classification-4. England Office for National Statistics data were used for population census. MEDLINE and EMBASE were systematically searched for epidemiology of cerebral palsy.

Results

There were 23 079 gastrostomies inserted in children <15 years in England (2000–2021) leading to a frequency of 12.4 insertions per 100 000 children per year and 1383 gastrostomy insertions in 15–18 years age group (6 per 100 000). The overall gastrostomy insertion rate in children <15 years has increased from 3.7 procedures per 100 000 in 2000 to 18.3 per 100 000 in 2017. Prevalence of cerebral palsy remained stable (1.5–3.3 per 1000 birth) since 1985.

Conclusions

There was a significant increase in the rate of gastrostomy insertion in children in England during most of the last 20 years not explained by a stable prevalence of cerebral palsy.
First-in-human, phase 1 study of PF-06753512, a vaccine-based immunotherapy regimen (VBIR), in non-metastatic hormone-sensitive biochemical recurrence and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC)
Authors: Autio Karen A , Higano Celestia S , Nordquist Luke , Appleman Leonard J , Zhang Tian , Zhu Xin-Hua , Babiker Hani , Vogelzang Nicholas J , Prasad Sandip M , Schweizer Michael T , Madan Ravi A , Billotte Stephane , Cavazos Nora , Bogg Orlaith , Li Ray , Chan Kam , Cho Helen , Kaneda Megan , Wang I-Ming , Zheng Jenny , Tang Szu-Yu , Hollingsworth Robert , Kern Kenneth A , Petrylak Daniel P
Published: May 2023

Background

This phase 1 study evaluated PF-06753512, a vaccine-based immunotherapy regimen (PrCa VBIR), in two clinical states of prostate cancer (PC), metastatic castration-resistant PC (mCRPC) and biochemical recurrence (BCR).

Methods

For dose escalation, patients with mCRPC received intramuscular PrCa VBIR (adenovirus vector and plasmid DNA expressing prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and prostate stem cell antigen (PSCA)) with or without immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs, tremelimumab 40 or 80 mg with or without sasanlimab 130 or 300 mg, both subcutaneous). For dose expansion, patients with mCRPC received recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of PrCa VBIR plus tremelimumab 80 mg and sasanlimab 300 mg; patients with BCR received PrCa VBIR plus tremelimumab 80 mg (Cohort 1B-BCR) or tremelimumab 80 mg plus sasanlimab 130 mg (Cohort 5B-BCR) without androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). The primary endpoint was safety.

Results

Ninety-one patients were treated in dose escalation (mCRPC=38) and expansion (BCR=35, mCRPC=18). Overall, treatment-related and immune-related adverse events occurred in 64 (70.3%) and 39 (42.9%) patients, with fatigue (40.7%), influenza-like illness (30.8%), diarrhea (23.1%), and immune-related thyroid dysfunction (19.8%) and rash (15.4%), as the most common. In patients with mCRPC, the objective response rate (ORR, 95% CI) was 5.6% (1.2% to 15.4%) and the median radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS) was 5.6 (3.5 to not estimable) months for all; the ORR was 16.7% (3.6% to 41.4%) and 6-month rPFS rate was 45.5% (24.9% to 64.1%) for those who received RP2D with measurable disease (n=18). 7.4% of patients with mCRPC achieved a ≥50% decline in baseline PSA (PSA-50), with a median duration of 4.6 (1.2–45.2) months. In patients with BCR, 9 (25.7%) achieved PSA-50; the median duration of PSA response was 3.9 (1.9–4.2) and 10.1 (6.9–28.8) months for Cohorts 5B-BCR and 1B-BCR. Overall, antigen specific T-cell response was 88.0% to PSMA, 84.0% to PSA, and 80.0% to PSCA.

Conclusions

PrCa VBIR overall demonstrated safety signals similar to other ICI combination trials; significant side effects were seen in some patients with BCR. It stimulated antigen-specific immunity across all cohorts and resulted in modest antitumor activity in patients with BCR without using ADT.

Trial registration number

NCT02616185.
An eye gaze-aided virtual tape measure for smart construction
Authors: Wang Xin , Han Wei , Du Eric , Dai Fei , Zhu Zhenhua
Published: May 2023

In construction, the accurate measurements are important in ensuring the quality of work delivered. Different measuring tools have been developed to help workers conduct accurate measuring. However, they may be subject to manipulation difficulties, such as the need for tap/gesture interaction. This paper proposes a novel eye gaze-aided virtual tape measure framework that provides a hands-free manner for conducting the measurements in construction. This framework consists of three components: data collection for point of interest, sensor calibration, and distance calculation. Its effectiveness is tested by measuring the dimensions of 15 common objects in laboratory and on-site environments and achieves the average absolute and relative errors of 2.4 cm and 4.8%. The absolute errors range from 0.3 to 7.3 cm. A comparison study is conducted to demonstrate its superior performance over iPhone’s Measure application. The results illustrate the feasibility and potential of using the framework to enable measures for smart construction.