bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevention of demineralization during multi‐bracketed fixed orthodontic treatment: An overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Sardana Divesh , Manchanda Sheetal , Ekambaram Manikandan , Yang Yanqi , McGrath Colman P. , Yiu Cynthia K. Y.
Published: September 2021

Background

Demineralization during multi‐bracketed fixed orthodontic treatment is a well‐known problem.

Aim

To systematically evaluate the evidence for the prevention of enamel demineralization during multi‐bracketed fixed orthodontic treatment.

Design

Systematic reviews (with or without meta‐analysis) that have appraised the primary studies on the prevention of demineralization during multi‐bracketed fixed orthodontic treatment were searched systematically and included as per pre‐defined eligibility criteria. The risk of bias of the included reviews was assessed by two authors using the ROBIS tool and AMSTAR‐2 tool.

Results

Twenty‐nine reviews conducted on 128 exclusive primary studies were included for the present overview; 23 of these reviews were assessed to be of a high risk of overall bias, 5 were of low risk, and 1 review was of unclear risk of bias.

Conclusions

Predominantly, the published reviews have focused on fluorides, whereas some reviews have also studied the role of casein phosphopeptide‐amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP‐ACP), reminder therapy, lasers, and sealants. Professional fluorides, sealants, reminder therapy, and lasers might be valuable interventions to prevent demineralization during orthodontic treatment based on the conclusions of reviews with high quality; however, further studies are required to elucidate the role of CPP‐ACP, chlorhexidine varnish, and powered toothbrushes.
Finding shortest and dissimilar paths
Authors: Moghanni Ali , Pascoal Marta , Godinho Maria Teresa
Published: September 2021

The purpose of the dissimilar paths problem is to find a set of paths, between the same pair of nodes, which share few arcs. The problem has been addressed from an application point of view, and integer programming formulations have also been introduced recently. In the present work, it is assumed that each arc is assigned with a cost, and the goal is then to find dissimilar paths while simultaneously minimizing the total cost. Some of the previous formulations: one minimizing the number of repeated arcs, another one minimizing the number of arc repetitions, as well as modifications that bound the number of paths in which the arcs appear, are extended with a cost function. Properties of the resulting biobjective problems are studied and the ‐constraint method is adapted to solve them using a decreasing and an increasing strategy for updating . These methods are tested for finding sets of 10 paths in random and grid instances to assess the efficiency of the ‐constraint methods and the performance of the formulations to calculate shortest and dissimilar paths. Results show that minimizing the number of arc repetitions produces efficient solutions with higher dissimilarities faster than minimizing the number of repeated arcs. The cost range of the solutions is similar in both approaches. Additionally, bounding the number of paths in which each arc appears improves the quality of the solutions as to the dissimilarity while worsening its cost.
Low‐temperature dielectric behavior of Sc‐ and In‐doped bismuth titanate pyrochlores
Authors: Krasnov Aleksei G. , Sakhatskii Aleksandr S. , Piir Irina V.
Published: September 2021

The detailed structural description and analysis of dielectric behavior of Bi1.6MxTi2O7‐δ (M – Sc, In; x = 0.2, 0.4, 0.6) compositions are demonstrated. Doping results in cation disorder either in A‐site (x = 0.2, 0.4) or A‐,B‐sites (x = 0.6) of pyrochlore. The displacements of the A‐site atoms and O′ from the ideal sites are shown. For both dopants, the maximum dielectric constant ε′ was 98, and the dielectric losses remain reasonably close to the values below 0.0058 at x = 0.4, 25 °C, 1 MHz. A drop of ε′ is observed at the other dopants concentrations. With the dopant content rising, the temperature coefficient of capacitance (TCC) increases and is positive (579 ÷ 782 ppm/°C) below room temperature (RT) and then becomes negative (−49 ÷ −220 ppm/°C) above RT. The revealed low‐temperature relaxation process could be associated with jumps of the A‐ions within the A2O′ substructure.
Facilitating the inclusion of adults with intellectual disability as direct respondents in research: Strategies for fostering trust, respect, accessibility and engagement
Authors: McDonald Katherine E. , Gibbons Colleen , Conroy Nicole , Olick Robert S.
Published: September 2021

Background

Adults with intellectual disability experience disparities in social determinants of health and health outcomes. While new knowledge can advance health equity, adults with intellectual disability are frequently excluded from being direct respondents in research. Their inclusion requires addressing scientific and ethical challenges that contribute to their exclusion.

Method

We describe our multi‐phased process, inclusive of community‐engagement, to develop a self‐report survey for adults with intellectual disability and share findings from an institutional ethnography conducted to identify strategies for facilitating inclusion. We also assessed indicators of the quality of these strategies.

Results

We identified building trust, showing respect, designing in accessibility, maximising flexibility and allowing individualised accommodations as strategies that foster inclusion. Multiple indicators validate the effectiveness of these strategies.

Conclusions

Researchers can promote first‐person decision‐making and direct research participation by focusing on promoting accessibility, trust, respect and engagement.
Genomic diversity and breed composition of Vietnamese smallholder dairy cows
Authors: Bang Nguyen N. , Hayes Ben J. , Lyons Russell E. , Randhawa Imtiaz A. S. , Gaughan John B. , McNeill David M.
Published: September 2021

Vietnamese smallholder dairy cows (VDC) are the result of crossbreeding between different zebu (ZEB) and taurine dairy breeds through many undefined generations. Thus, the predominant breed composition of VDC is currently unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the level of genetic diversity and breed composition of VDC. The SNP data of 344 animals from 32 farms located across four dairy regions of Vietnam were collected and merged with genomic reference data, which included three ZEB breeds: Red Sindhi, Sahiwal and Brahman, three taurine breeds: Holstein (HOL), Jersey (JER) and Brown Swiss (BSW), and a composite breed: Chinese Yellow cattle. Diversity and admixture analyses were applied to the merged data set. The VDC were not excessively inbred, as indicated by very low inbreeding coefficients (Wright's FIS ranged from −0.017 to 0.003). The genetic fractions in the test herds suggested that the VDC are primarily composed of HOL (85.0%); however, JER (6.0%), BSW 5.3%) and ZEB (4.5%) had also contributed. Furthermore, major genotype groupings in the test herds were pure HOL (48%), B3:15/16HOL_1/16ZEB (22%) and B2:7/8HOL_1/8ZEB (12%). The genetic makeup of the VDC is mainly components of various dairy breeds but also has a small percentage of ZEB; thus, the VDC could be a good genetic base for selecting high milk‐producing cows with some degree of adaptation to tropical conditions.
The geographical distribution of rodent granivory and cheek pouches across North America
Authors: Vander Wall Stephen B. , Dittel Jacob W.
Published: September 2021

Aim

One of the specializations that many granivorous rodents exhibit to increase their efficiency in harvesting seeds is cheek pouches. We propose that the presence or absence of cheek pouches is related to seed size and the productivity of the habitat where those rodents reside.

Location

North America – United States and Canada.

Taxon

Granivorous rodents.

Methods

We divided granivorous rodents into those species with and without cheek pouches. We then compiled a list of plant species (n = 389) that are known or suspected to be dispersed by these rodents by scatter hoarding the seeds in soil and compared the richness distributions of small (≤10 mm) and large seeds (>10 mm) to the distributions of rodents with and without cheek pouches.

Results

Most rodents with cheek pouches live in the arid southwestern North America, whereas most rodents that lack cheek pouches live in the mesic southeastern North America. The richness distribution of rodents with cheek pouches was more similar to the richness distribution of small seeds, and the richness distribution of rodents that lack cheek pouches was more similar to the richness distribution of large seeds (nuts). Rodents with cheek pouches (mean = 59.5 g) are smaller than rodents that lack cheek pouches (592.6 g).

Main conclusions

Large rodents that lack cheek pouches live mostly in the more productive southeastern North America where there are many trees that produce large nuts. Small rodent with cheek pouches live mostly in the less productive southwestern North America where there are many shrubs, forbs, and grasses that produce small seeds.
Survey on sodium and potassium intake in patients with hypertension in China
Authors: Sun Ningling , Jiang Yinong , Wang Hongyi , Yuan Yifang , Cheng Wenli , Han Qinghua , Yuan Hong , Yang Li , Guo Zihong , Sun Yuemin , Sun Gang , Yin Xinhua , Wang Hao , Mu Jianjun , Wang Jiguang
Published: September 2021

Sodium and potassium intake in hypertensive patients in China is not clear. The authors aimed to investigate the distribution of sodium and potassium intake in hypertensive patients in China, and to analyze the relationship between sodium and potassium intake and blood pressure. The study was performed in 130 hospitals from 23 provinces across China from 2016 to 2019. Finally, 9501 hypertensive patients average aged 54 years were included. 24 h urinary sodium and potassium excretion were measured. Distribution of urinary electrolytes were described according to age, gender and region. The association between urinary electrolytes and blood pressure was analyzed by multivariate linear regression. Hypertensive patients exhibited an average 24 h urinary sodium and potassium excretion of 156.7 ± 81.5 mmol/d and 39.2 ± 20.2 mmol/d (equivalent to sodium chloride of 9.2 g/d, potassium chloride of 2.9 g/d), sodium/potassium ratio (median) of 4.14 (2.92,5.73). Urinary electrolytes were lower in women than men (sodium: 171.1 vs 138.7, p < .05; potassium: 40.3 vs 37.7, p < .05), in the elderly than in the younger (sodium: 168.7 vs 139.9, p < .05; potassium: 39.5 vs. 37.5, p < .05). For every 1 unit of Na/K ratio increase, blood pressure increased by 0.46/0.24 mmHg. Blood pressure was 2.75/1.27 mmHg higher in quartile 4 than quartile 1 of Na/K. It remains high sodium and low potassium for hypertensive patients in China. Decreased sodium, Na/K ratio and increased potassium may help for blood pressure management.
Aortic valve disease in diabetes: Molecular mechanisms and novel therapies
Authors: Manduteanu Ileana , Simionescu Dan , Simionescu Agneta , Simionescu Maya
Published: September 2021

Valve disease and particularly calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) and diabetes (DM) are progressive diseases constituting a global health burden for all aging societies (Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases. 2014;56(6):565:Circulation Research. 2021;128(9):1344). Compared to non‐diabetic individuals (The Lancet. 2008;371(9626):1800:The American Journal of Cardiology. 1983;51(3):403:Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2017;69(12):1523), the diabetic patients have a significantly greater propensity for cardiovascular disorders and faster degeneration of implanted bioprosthetic aortic valves. Previously, using an original experimental model, the diabetic‐hyperlipemic hamsters, we have shown that the earliest alterations induced by these conditions occur at the level of the aortic valves and, with time these changes lead to calcifications and CAVD. However, there are no pharmacological treatments available to reverse or retard the progression of aortic valve disease in diabetes, despite the significant advances in the field. Therefore, it is critical to uncover the mechanisms of valve disease progression, find biomarkers for diagnosis and new targets for therapies. This review aims at presenting an update on the basic research in CAVD in the context of diabetes. We provide an insight into the accumulated data including our results on diabetes‐induced progressive cell and molecular alterations in the aortic valve, new potential biomarkers to assess the evolution and therapy of the disease, advancement in targeted nanotherapies, tissue engineering and the potential use of circulating endothelial progenitor cells in CAVD.
Sexual performance and survival of males of Ceratitis capitata VIENNA 8 (Diptera: Tephritidae) inoculated with a commercial formulation of Beauveria bassiana
Authors: Ramírez y Ramírez Francisco , Salvador‐Figueroa Miguel , Rosas‐Quijano Raymundo , Cruz‐López Leopoldo , Toledo Jorge , Quintero‐Fong Luis
Published: September 2021

The Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae), is a polyphagous pest that feeds upon more than 300 host plants, including fruits and vegetables. To eradicate this pest, the Mexican program (Programa Moscamed) targeting fruit flies applied a novel approach that works with the sterile insect technique (SIT) by inoculating sterile flies with fungal spores of a commercial formulation of Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin. Dissemination occurs through contact with the sterile insect with wild populations. However, the fungus is known to reduce the homeostatic condition of the vector (sexual and aggressive interactions) to the point that it affects physical contact with the receptor. The objective was to evaluate the effect of B. bassiana on the sexual performance and survival of sterile males of the C. capitata strain VIENNA 8. Mating competition, induction of sterility, production of the sexual pheromone and survival were compared between inoculated and non‐inoculated sterile males. The parameters evaluated were fundamental to evaluate the success in the SIT. The results of the study indicated that the inoculated males with B. bassiana showed a gradual decrease in sexual performance (mating, induction of sterility and production of the sexual pheromone) and survival after treatment. We conclude that for SIT release programs, the effectiveness of targeted males is up to 5 days post‐inoculation. The implications of this biological control method in SIT are discussed.
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided gallbladder and bile duct drainage with lumen apposing metal stent: A large multicenter cohort (with videos)
Authors: Rajadurai Anton , Zorron Cheng Tao Pu Leonardo , Cameron Rees , Tagkalidis Peter , Holt Bronte , Bassan Milan , Gupta Saurabh , Croagh Daniel , Swan Michael , Saxena Payal , Efthymiou Marios , Vaughan Rhys , Chandran Sujievvan ,   ANZEC
Published: September 2021

Background and Aim

Cholecystectomy and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography are the gold standard for managing acute cholecystitis and malignant biliary obstruction, respectively. Recent advances in therapeutic endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) have provided alternatives for managing patients in whom these approaches fail, namely, EUS‐guided gallbladder drainage (EUS‐GB) and EUS‐guided bile duct drainage (EUS‐BD). We aimed to assess the technical and clinical success of these techniques in the largest multicenter cohort published to date.

Methods

A retrospective, multicenter, observational study involving 17 centers across Australia and New Zealand was conducted. All patients who had EUS‐GB or EUS‐BD performed in a participating center using a lumen apposing metal stent between 2016 and 2020 were included. Primary outcome was technical success, defined as intra‐procedural successful drainage. Secondary outcomes included clinical success and 30‐day mortality.

Results

One hundred and fifteen patients underwent EUS‐GB (n = 49) or EUS‐BD (n = 66). EUS‐GB was technically successful in 47 (95.9%) while EUS‐BD was successful in 60 (90.9%). All failed cases were due to maldeployment of the distal flange outside of the targeted lumen. Clinical success of EUS‐GB was achieved in 39 (79.6%). No patients required subsequent cholecystectomy. Clinical success of EUS‐BD was achieved in 52 (78.8 %). Thirty‐day mortality was 14.3% for EUS‐GB and 12.1% for EUS‐BD.

Conclusions

EUS‐guided gallbladder drainage and EUS‐BD are promising alternatives for managing nonsurgical candidates with cholecystitis and malignant biliary obstruction following failed endoscopic retrograde pancreatography. Both techniques delivered high technical success with acceptable clinical success. Further research is needed to investigate the gap between technical and clinical success.
National disparities in use of minimally invasive surgery for rectal cancer in older adults
Authors: Simon Hillary L. , Reif de Paula Thais , Spigel Zachary A. , Keller Deborah S.
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is safe and improves outcomes in older persons with rectal cancer but may be underutilized. As older persons are the largest surgical population, investigation of the current use and factors impacting MIS use is warranted. Our goal is to investigate the trends and disparities that affect utilization of MIS in older persons with rectal cancer.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database was reviewed for persons 65 years and older who underwent curative resection for rectal adenocarcinoma from 2010 to 2017. Cases were stratified by surgical approach (open or MIS [laparoscopic or robotic]). Univariate analysis compared patient and provider demographics across approaches. Multivariate analysis investigated variables associated with MIS use. Main outcome measures were trends and factors associated with MIS use in older persons.

RESULTS

Of 31,910 patients analyzed, 51.9% (n = 16,555) were open and 48.1% (n = 15,355) MIS. The MIS cohort was 66.7% (n = 10,236) laparoscopic and 33.3% (n = 5119) robotic. MIS increased from 29% in 2010 (n = 1197; 25% laparoscopic, 4% robotic) to 65% in 2017 (n = 2382; 35% laparoscopic, 30% robotic), likely from annual increases in robotics (OR 1.24/year, p < 0.0001). In the unadjusted analysis, there were significant differences in MIS use by age, race, comorbidity, socioeconomic status, and facility type. In multivariate analysis, patients with advancing age (OR 0.93, p < 0.001), major comorbidity (OR 0.75, p < 0.001), total proctectomy (OR0.78, p < 0.001), and advanced pathologic stage (OR 0.51, p < 0.001) were less likely to undergo MIS.

CONCLUSION

Nationwide, less than half of rectal cancer cases in older persons were performed with MIS, despite steady robotic growth. Patient and facility factors impacted MIS use. Further work on regionalizing rectal cancer care and ensuring equitable MIS access and training could improve utilization.
OsMKKK70 regulates grain size and leaf angle in rice through the OsMKK4‐OsMAPK6‐OsWRKY53 signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Zhiqi , Mei Enyang , Tian Xiaojie , He Mingliang , Tang Jiaqi , Xu Min , Liu Jiali , Song Lu , Li Xiufeng , Wang Zhenyu , Guan Qingjie , Xu Qijiang , Bu Qingyun
Published: September 2021

Grain size and leaf angle are key agronomic traits that determine final yields in rice. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well understood. Here we demonstrate that the Oryza sativa Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase Kinase Kinase OsMKKK70 regulates grain size and leaf angle in rice. Overexpressing OsMKKK70 caused plants to produce longer seeds. The osmkkk62/70 double mutant and the osmkkk55/62/70 triple mutant displayed significantly smaller seeds and a more erect leaf angle compared to the wild type, indicating that OsMKKK70 functions redundantly with its homologs OsMKKK62 and OsMKKK55. Biochemical analysis demonstrated that OsMKKK70 is an active kinase and that OsMKKK70 interacts with OsMKK4 and promotes OsMAPK6 phosphorylation. In addition, the osmkkk62/70 double mutant showed reduced sensitivity to Brassinosteroids (BRs). Finally, overexpressing constitutively active OsMKK4, OsMAPK6, and OsWRKY53 can partially complement the smaller seed size, erect leaf, and BR hyposensitivity of the osmkkk62/70 double mutant. Taken together, these findings suggest that OsMKKK70 might regulate grain size and leaf angle in rice by activating OsMAPK6 and that OsMKKK70, OsMKK4, OsMAPK6, and OsWRKY53 function in a common signaling pathway that controls grain shape and leaf angle.
Electromagnetic muscle stimulation: A retrospective study of patient experience
Authors: Moradi Amir , Fabi Sabrina , Rapaport David , Shridharani Sachin , Goldman Mitchel P. , Tsai Fu Felicia
Published: September 2021

Background

Electromagnetic muscle stimulation (EMMS) is a non‐invasive body contouring technology for strengthening, firming, and toning the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs that is associated with high patient satisfaction.

Aims

To gain a greater understanding of factors contributing to patient satisfaction with EMMS.

Methods

This was a retrospective, non‐comparative study of patient information and questionnaires regarding EMMS treatments to abdomen and/or buttocks collected July 1 to December 1, 2019 from clinical practices in the United States. Questionnaires collected and included for study analysis were the Subject Experience Questionnaire (SEQ), the Body Satisfaction Questionnaire (BSQ), and the Subject‐rated Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (SGAIS).

Results

Responses from 146 treated patients were analyzed (abdomen only: n = 94; buttocks only, n = 30; abdomen and buttocks: n = 22). Patients were 79% female with mean age of 41.3 years (range: 19–73). Frequently cited reasons for seeking EMMS treatment were a desire to appear more toned (89%) or slimmer (42%), and to feel stronger (38%). BSQ and SGAIS scores were improved 4 weeks after treatment. On post‐treatment SEQ, most patients reported being “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with abdomen (83.2%; n = 89/107) or buttocks (57.4%; n = 27/47) treatment. Most patients reported feeling stronger after abdomen treatment, and across both body areas, patients were more confident, happier with their overall appearance, and motivated to work out and maintain treatment results.

Conclusion

This retrospective study of patient questionnaires provides important information on aesthetic and functional factors that can contribute to high patient satisfaction following EMMS treatment of the abdomen and/or buttocks.
A prospective open‐label, multicentre study evaluating a non‐cross‐linked hyaluronic acid based soft‐tissue filler in the correction of lateral canthal and perioral lines
Authors: Sulovsky Monika , Müller Daniel , Prinz Valentina , Moellhoff Nicholas , Cajkovsky Mia , Duschek Nikolaus , Frank Konstantin
Published: September 2021

Objective

The aim of this investigation was to assess the effectiveness of a non‐cross‐linked hyaluronic acid based soft‐tissue filler in the correction of lateral canthal lines and periorbital lines.

Material and methods

A total of 59 female Caucasian patients with a mean age of 52.6 ± 9.0 years were enrolled in this prospective open‐label, multicentre study and received intradermal injections of a soft‐tissue filler at baseline, after 3 and 6 weeks. Aesthetic improvement and patient satisfaction, skin hydration, skin firmness and skin elasticity, as well as adverse events were assessed at 3, 6, 8, 12 and 16 weeks.

Results

At baseline, the lateral canthal skin firmness was 0.206 ± 0.07 mm and increased after 8 weeks to 0.087 ± 0.08 mm with p < 0.001, while the perioral skin firmness was 0.205 ± 0.09 mm and increased after 8 weeks to 0.116 ± 0.08 mm with p < 0.001. Increases in skin hydration were observed after 8 weeks in both areas, however, did not reach statistical significance at any point. At week 8, 12 and 16 a majority (93.1%, 91.1% and 73.7% respectively) of the patients stated that they were ‘satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’ with the treatment.

Conclusion

Overall, the skin firmness and skin visco‐elasticity showed significant increases in the lateral canthal and perioral region. Moreover, albeit not statistically significant, skin hydration increased in both areas after 8 weeks. The procedure has been shown to be safe and satisfactory for the treated patients; however, emergence of oral herpes should be added to the safety profile of intradermally applied hyaluronic acid treatments.
Revealing how language builds the identity of the advanced nurse practitioner
Authors: Thompson Wayne , McNamara Martin
Published: September 2021

Aims and objectives

To explore how language works to enable and constrain the role of the advanced nurse practitioner (ANP) in the health system.

Background

Nurses and doctors are produced within historically established disciplinary boundaries. These boundaries are becoming more porous, offering the possibility of a more liberated identity for ANPs that will allow them to reach their full potential. Current uncertainty and confusion about ANPs’ identity result in their role being underutilised.

Design

A critical discourse analysis design was used to explore participants’ language‐in‐use. Findings are reported according to the COREQ research checklist.

Method

Data were collected through seven in‐depth interviews and four focus groups and analysed using Gee’s (2010) Identity Building Tool. Participants included ANPs, nurses (including nurse managers), doctors and allied healthcare professionals.

Results

Four discourses were revealed. Participants’ language‐in‐use worked to privilege the ANP’s uniquely holistic identity. However, this aspect is also associated with a controlled identity, predominantly constrained by medics and restricted from advancing. The third discourse, the medicalised identity builds an identity that positions ANPs as medical replacements who are assigned trivial medical tasks. The final discourse constructs an independent powerful identity for the ANP that is influential and autonomous.

Conclusions

Circulating discourses and conversations can influence and shape the construction of the ANP identity. Healthcare professionals need to identify and counter discourses and conversations that construct ANPs’ ways of knowing and knowledge as inferior and their role as subservient. Otherwise, ANPs’ identity will continue to be controlled and their advancement restricted.

Relevance to clinical practice

Confusion concerning the role and identity of the ANP can limit their contribution to the healthcare system. Healthcare professionals need to be aware of how language‐in‐use can prevent the role from developing and reaching its full potential in enhancing healthcare provision and delivery. Reporting follows the COREQ criteria.
Effect of platelet‐rich plasma injection combined with individualised comprehensive physical therapy on temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Liu Sha‐sha , Xu Li‐li , Fan Shuai , Lu Shen‐ji , Jin Lei , Liu Li‐kun , Yao Yuan , Cai Bin
Published: September 2021

Background

The effectiveness of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) injection combined with physical therapy for the treatment of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ‐OA) has not been studied.

Objectives

To assess the effectiveness of PRP injection combined with individualised comprehensive physical therapy for the treatment of TMJ‐OA.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 40 patients with TMJ‐OA who received PRP injection or PRP injection combined with individualised comprehensive physical therapy. Pain intensity, maximum mouth opening, temporomandibular joint sounds, and the Jaw Functional Limitation Scale (JFLS) scores and imaging findings were compared before treatment and during follow‐up.

Results

The pain intensity, maximum mouth opening, and temporomandibular joint sounds of the two groups significantly improved with an increase in treatment time (p < .05). The pain improvement in the combined treatment group was greater than that in the PRP injection group at 3 and 6 months (p < .05). The improvement of mouth opening was better in the combined treatment group, whereas the improvement of joint sounds was better in the PRP injection group. The improvement in JFLS scores in the combined treatment group was greater than that in the PRP injection group at 6 months (p < .05). The imaging improvement rates of the two groups were similar.

Conclusions

Platelet‐rich plasma injection can significantly improve pain, mouth opening, abnormal joint sound, and mandibular function in patients with TMJ‐OA and has good repair effect on condylar bone defects. PRP injection combined with individualised comprehensive physical therapy can effectively control the medium‐ and long‐term pain of patients.
Nonlinear association between chemosensory dysfunction and body mass index
Authors: Chen Ben , Masala Carla , Oleszkiewicz Anna , Englmaier Verena , Gunder Nadine , Menzel Susanne , Haehner Antje , Hummel Thomas
Published: September 2021

Chemosensory (gustatory and olfactory) dysfunction contributes to obesity, but the association between body mass index (BMI) and chemosensory dysfunction are inconsistently reported. The present study included 4,390 subjects at a Smell and Taste Clinic. Results suggested that both the obesity class II group (BMI ≥ 35) and underweight group (BMI < 18.5) exhibited impaired taste function compared with the normal weight group (p < .05). Comparing with the other groups, the obesity class II group exhibited a higher proportion of impaired bitter identification (8.6%), and the underweight group showed a higher proportion of impaired salty identification (7.9%). When investigating differences for individual tastes, subjects with impaired bitter identification had higher BMI (t = 2.79, p = .005) and lower olfactory scores (p < .05) compared with those with intact bitter identification. Finally, reduced taste scores are associated with an increased BMI (r = −.04, p = .022). This correlation becomes more pronounced with age (F = 1.42, p < .001).

Practical Application

The nonlinear association between chemosensory dysfunction and BMI suggested that maintaining the gustatory and olfactory function is of significance for normal metabolism. In obesity regulating bitter taste appears to be more important than the other tastes.
Influenza vaccination among caregivers and household contacts of children with congenital heart disease before and during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Gkentzi Despoina , Mpania Lamprini , Fouzas Sotirios , Sinopidis Xenophon , Dimitriou Gabriel , Karatza Ageliki A
Published: September 2021

Aim

We aimed to investigate the influenza immunisation status of caregivers and household contacts of children with congenital heart disease (CHD) and potential barriers to vaccine uptake.

Methods

Prospective questionnaire‐based survey over two influenza seasons (2019–2020 and 2020–2021) on 161 children with CHD attending a tertiary paediatric cardiology clinic and their families. Logistic regression and factor analysis were performed to identify factors associated with influenza vaccine uptake.

Results

Influenza vaccination coverage of children was 65%, whereas that of their fathers and mothers was 34% and 26%, respectively. Children with unvaccinated siblings represented 43% and those with unvaccinated adults in the household 79% of our study population. No statistically significant differences were found before and during COVID‐19 pandemic on vaccine uptake. Logistic regression analysis showed that higher education level, understanding the risk of contracting the disease and vaccination status of the child determined the vaccination status of parents, regardless of their age, age of their child, severity of CHD, beliefs about vaccine safety and efficacy and risk of transmission if not vaccinated. Factor analysis revealed distinct groups among unvaccinated parents (76.3% of the variation in the responses).

Conclusions

Vaccination coverage of caregivers and household contacts of children with CHD is suboptimal. Influenza vaccination campaigns should take into consideration the specific characteristics of parental groups and target interventions accordingly to increase their vaccine uptake and indirectly protect children with CHD.
Dental public health post‐graduate trainees in the US: Experiences, challenges, and opportunities—A qualitative study
Authors: Banava Sepideh , Obadan‐Udoh Enihomo , Mertz Elizabeth
Published: September 2021

Objectives

The goal of this study was to explore challenges and opportunities that dental public health (DPH) residents and recent graduates experienced during and after their residency training programs in the US.

Methods

In this qualitative study, to recruit participants, study invitations were distributed to 93 DPH postgraduate trainees via social media, email, and an online DPH nationwide course in 2019. Semi‐structured in‐depth interviews were conducted through Zoom audioconference. The interviews were conducted until thematic saturation was achieved. The audio‐recorded interviews were transcribed and crosschecked to ensure accuracy. The interviews were coded using grounded theory. A qualitative analysis software (ATLAS.ti 8.0) was used to facilitate coding and organizing data extraction from transcripts.

Results

Eighteen DPH postgraduate trainees from 12 DPH residency programs participated and completed the interview. DPH trainees had experienced educational and financial challenges, difficulty finding DPH‐related jobs after graduation, and a complex board examination preparation process.

Conclusion

DPH postgraduate trainees and especially foreign‐trained dentists experienced serious challenges during and after their postgraduate residency programs. Opportunities exist to enhance the strength of DPH programs to build a competent DPH workforce.
Extracellular vesicles derived from melatonin‐preconditioned mesenchymal stem cells containing USP29 repair traumatic spinal cord injury by stabilizing NRF2
Authors: Liu Wei , Tang Pengyu , Wang Jiaxing , Ye Wu , Ge Xuhui , Rong Yuluo , Ji Chengyue , Wang Zhuanghui , Bai Jianling , Fan Jin , Yin Guoyong , Cai Weihua
Published: September 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating trauma that leads to irreversible motor and sensory dysfunction and is, so far, without effective treatment. Recently, however, nano‐sized extracellular vesicles derived from preconditioned mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown great promise in treating various diseases, including SCI. In this study, we investigated whether extracellular vesicles (MEVs) derived from MSCs pretreated with melatonin (MT), which is well recognized to be useful in treating diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, non‐small cell lung cancer, acute ischemia‐reperfusion liver injury, chronic kidney disease, and SCI, are better able to promote functional recovery in mice after SCI than extracellular vesicles derived from MSCs without preconditioning (EVs). MEVs were found to facilitate motor behavioral recovery more than EVs and to increase microglia/macrophages polarization from M1‐like to M2‐like in mice. Experiments in BV2 microglia and RAW264.7 macrophages confirmed that MEVs facilitate M2‐like polarization and also showed that they reduce the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and regulate mitochondrial function. Proteomics analysis revealed that ubiquitin‐specific protease 29 (USP29) was markedly increased in MEVs, and knockdown of USP29 in MEVs (shUSP29‐MEVs) abolished MEVs‐mediated benefits in vitro and in vivo. We then showed that USP29 interacts with, deubiquitinates and therefore stabilizes nuclear factor‐like 2 (NRF2), thereby regulating microglia/macrophages polarization. In NRF2 knockout mice, MEVs failed to promote functional recovery and M2‐like microglia/macrophages polarization. We also showed that MT reduced global N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification and levels of the m6A “writer” methyltransferase‐like 3 (METTL3). The stability of USP29 mRNA in MSCs was enhanced by treatment with MT, but inhibited by overexpression of METTL3. This study describes a very promising extracellular vesicle‐based approach for treating SCI.
A parent’s intuition is always right: Weighing intuitions in the debate over the nature of full moral status
Authors: Graber Abraham
Published: September 2021

The debate over the grounds of full moral status relies heavily on the “method of cases.” In the method of cases intuitions about particular cases are taken as evidence for philosophical theories. Much in the debate over the grounds of full moral status turns on our intuitions regarding the moral status of individuals with intellectual disability. This paper argues that the intuitions of those in close personal relationships with individuals with intellectual disability are more reliable than the intuitions of those who lack such a relationship. When theorizing about full moral status, we should privilege the intuitions of those who have a close personal relationship with an individual with intellectual disability.
Are we trapped in Plato’s cave?
Authors: Weissman David
Published: September 2021

We often read Plato’s cave allegory for its trajectory: out of darkness into light. The back of the cave—where imagination projects fantasies onto shadows—is a place to flee. This part of the allegory reduces reality testing to thought or imagining, ignoring action and the people or things engaged. Yet thinkers prominent in our time—Immanuel Kant and W. V. O. Quine—suppose that our experience of the world is that of the cave’s prisoners: we too mistake fantasies for reality. This is an odd stance when practical life and science—beliefs informed by action and experiment—are better tests of reality than their arguments for world‐making.
Application of a Bayesian hierarchical model to estimate trends in Atlantic harbor seal (Phoca vitulina vitulina) abundance in Maine, U.S.A., 1993–2018
Authors: Sigourney Douglas B. , Murray Kimberly T. , Gilbert James R. , Ver Hoef Jay M. , Josephson Elizabeth , DiGiovanni Robert A.
Published: September 2021

The population of harbor seals (Phoca vitulina vitulina) along the coast of Maine, U.S.A., has experienced rapid growth in abundance following passage of the Marine Mammal Protection Act in 1972 but current information on trends in abundance is lacking. In this study, we apply a Bayesian hierarchical model to aerial survey data of nonpups and pups. Prior to 2001, estimates of growth rates from 8‐year moving averages reached a high of 2.1% and 9.4% per year with posterior probabilities of positive growth of .97 and >.99 for nonpups and pups, respectively. Between 2001 and 2012, estimated growth rates for nonpups decreased to a low of −1.9% per year with a posterior probability of negative growth of .95. Between 2012 and 2018, posterior estimates of growth were close to zero suggesting little change in abundance of nonpups. Estimates of growth for pups were close to zero between 2001 and 2012 but reached a low of −2.5% per year with a posterior probability of negative growth of 0.94 at the end of the time series suggesting a decrease in pup abundance between 2012 and 2018. The total abundance estimate for 2018 is 61,336 (CV = 0.08).
The association between health status and job satisfaction among female workers: A nationwide cross‐sectional study
Authors: Bae Sung‐Heui
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine the job satisfaction among female workers in Korea and the association between health status and job satisfaction. The Korean Longitudinal Survey of Women and Families was used for this nationwide cross‐sectional study. Data from 1570 female workers were analyzed to determine job satisfaction and examine the association between health status and job satisfaction, controlling for other variables such as personal characteristics, work attributes, job opportunities, and work conditions. Analyses included descriptive statistics, independent t‐tests, ANOVA, Pearson's correlation, and multivariate regression. Subjective health status was positively related, while diagnosed disease and depressive symptoms were negatively associated with job satisfaction. Monthly salary, work hours, fringe benefits, and geographical region were also significantly related to female workers' job satisfaction, and commute distance was related to job satisfaction with a small effect size. This study thus found that subjective health status, diagnosed disease, and depressive symptoms were related to female workers' job satisfaction. Health promotion and supporting mental health among female workers may be important managerial strategies for supporting increased job satisfaction in female workers.
Operating room nurses' perceptions of the impact of surgical smoke and its countermeasures: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Moon Ha Na , Park Boo Hyo , Chang Sung Ok
Published: September 2021

Although surgical team members are exposed to surgical smoke, most do not fully recognize the hazards of such exposure during surgery. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of surgical smoke and its countermeasures in the operating room, specifically among nurses who have been exposed to surgical smoke for a long time. This was a mixed‐methods study involving focus groups and a descriptive survey. The focus group revealed that nurses believed harmful substances accumulating in the body were proportional to the years worked, and many were unaware of the existent hazards in their work environment. They encouraged the formulation of self‐protection measures and perceived that the recognition of rules and collaboration should take precedence among potential countermeasures. Our survey showed that properly wearing personal protective equipment and being educated on surgical smoke hazards were identified as essential coping methods for nurses. These findings will help create awareness regarding surgical smoke hazards in operating rooms. Policies and systems need to be established at the hospital administration level to substantially reduce the risks associated with surgical smoke for operating room nurses.
Centrally Administered Neuropeptide‐S Alleviates Gastrointestinal Dysmotility Induced by Neonatal Maternal Separation
Authors: Bülbül Mehmet , Sinen Osman
Published: September 2021

Background

Neuropeptide‐S (NPS) regulates autonomic outflow, stress response, and gastrointestinal (GI) motor functions. This study aimed to investigate the effects of NPS on GI dysmotility induced by neonatal maternal separation (MS).

Methods

MS was conducted by isolating newborn pups from dams from postnatal day 1 to day 14. In adulthood, rats were also exposed to chronic homotypic stress (CHS). Visceral sensitivity was assessed by colorectal distension‐induced abdominal contractions. Gastric emptying (GE) was measured following CHS, whereas fecal output was monitored daily. NPS or NPS receptor (NPSR) antagonist was centrally applied simultaneously with electrocardiography and gastric motility recording. Immunoreactivities for NPS, NPSR, corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF), choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), and c‐Fos were assessed by immunohistochemistry.

Key Results

NPS alleviated the MS‐induced visceral hypersensitivity. Under basal conditions, central exogenous or endogenous NPS had no effect on GE and gastric motility. NPS restored CHS‐induced gastric and colonic dysmotility in MS rats while increasing sympatho‐vagal balance without affecting vagal outflow. NPSR expression was detected in CRF‐producing cells of hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, and central amygdala, but not in Barrington's nucleus. Moreover, NPSR was present in ChAT‐expressing neurons in dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV), and nucleus ambiguus (NAmb) in addition to the TH‐positive neurons in C1/A1, and locus coeruleus (LC). Neurons adjacent to the adrenergic cells in LC were found to produce NPS. NPS administration caused c‐Fos expression in C1/A1 cells, while no immunoreactivity was detected in DMV or NAmb.

Conclusions

NPS/NPSR system might be a novel target for the treatment of stress‐related GI dysmotility.
Healthcare professionals' experiences of using a biopsychosocial approach to understand behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Steele Claire , Berry Katherine , Brown Laura J. E.
Published: September 2021

Background

Biopsychosocial approaches to understanding behavioural and psychological (otherwise known as “non‐cognitive” or “neuropsychiatric”) symptoms of dementia tend to be conducted by specialist psychology professionals. To increase service users' access to these approaches, healthcare professionals from nursing and allied health disciplines are being trained to use them. However, little is known about healthcare professionals' experiences of implementing biopsychosocial approaches in everyday practice.

Objectives

To explore nursing and allied healthcare professionals' views of using the “Newcastle Model,” which is a biopsychosocial approach to understanding behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia.

Method

Thirteen community mental healthcare professionals from nursing, social work and occupational therapy backgrounds were interviewed about their views and experiences of using the Newcastle Model to understand and work with behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Five themes were identified. The first theme reflected the perceived positive value of taking a more psychosocial approach to understanding behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. The second theme reported participants' expressions of low confidence in using the approach, as well as their reported difficulties in prioritising it. The third theme highlighted the perceived time‐consuming nature of the approach, and the adaptations that some staff made to increase its practicality. The fourth theme highlighted the importance of working in collaboration with those who provided direct care and support to the person with dementia. The final theme reflected participants’ positive view of the effectiveness of the approach for delivering person‐centred care

Conclusion

Community healthcare professionals valued the integration of a biopsychosocial approach into their practice, although identified key implementation barriers.

Implications for Practice

Formalising this approach within professional role descriptions; increasing collaborative working within multidisciplinary teams; and increasing carers' psychological understanding of dementia, are key ways in which this biopsychosocial approach could be implemented more effectively.