bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial control of cell division by GA‐OsGRF7/8 module in a leaf explaining the leaf length variation between cultivated and wild rice
Authors: Jathar Vikram , Saini Kumud , Chauhan Ashish , Rani Ruchi , Ichihashi Yasunori , Ranjan Aashish
Published: February 2022

Cellular and genetic understanding of the rice leaf size regulation is limited, despite rice being the staple food of more than half of the global population. We investigated the mechanism controlling the rice leaf length using cultivated and wild rice accessions that remarkably differed for leaf size.

Comparative transcriptomics, gibberellic acid (GA) quantification and leaf kinematics of the contrasting accessions suggested the involvement of GA, cell cycle and growth‐regulating factors (GRFs) in the rice leaf size regulation. Zone‐specific expression analysis and VIGS established the functions of specific GRFs in the process.

The leaf length of the selected accessions was strongly correlated with GA levels. Higher GA content in wild rice accessions with longer leaves and GA‐induced increase in the leaf length via an increase in cell division confirmed a GA‐mediated regulation of division zone in rice. Downstream to GA, OsGRF7 and OsGRF8 function for controlling cell division to determine the rice leaf length.

Spatial control of cell division to determine the division zone size mediated by GA and downstream OsGRF7 and OsGRF8 explains the leaf length differences between the cultivated and wild rice. This mechanism to control the rice leaf length might have contributed to optimizing leaf size during domestication.
SHED‐derived exosomes improve the repair capacity and osteogenesis potential of hPDLCs
Authors: Wang Menghong , Li Jie , Ye Yanyan , Chen Duanjing , Song Jinlin
Published: February 2022

Objective

Exosomes secreted by stem cells are recognized as a critical component in tissue regeneration during stem cell‐based therapy. Considering the limited sources and bone regeneration efficiency of human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs), we explored whether exosomes secreted by stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED‐exo) could improve the pluripotency and regenerative potential of hPDLCs.

Methods and Materials

In hPDLCs, cell proliferation, migration, cell cycle, apoptosis, and osteogenic differentiation were detected after cells were exposed to SHED‐exo (SHED‐exo group), blank (control group), or control supernatant without exo (Csup group), via CCK‐8, scratch analysis, flow cytometric, real‐time PCR, and so on. Exosomes sequencing was performed to compare and analyze miRNAs contented in SHED‐exo and hPDLC‐exo.

Results

As compared to control or Csup, SHED‐exo significantly increased migration, apoptosis, and proliferation, promoted cell cycle transition from G1 to S phase in hPDLCs, and enhanced Runx2 expression and mineralization. In addition, it may be explained by the significant differences in miRNA contented in SHED‐exo and hPDLC‐exo.

Conclusion

Exosomes from SHED can improve cell proliferation, migration, cell cycle, apoptosis, and osteogenic differentiation of hPDLCs, which highlights the therapeutic value of this bioactive component in the regeneration of periodontal tissues using hPDLCs in clinical practice.
Outcome and success rate of dental autotransplantation: A long‐term evaluation of 144 teeth
Authors: Pinheiro Tiago Novaes , Leite Milena Gomes Melo , Consolaro Alberto , Taveira Luis Antonio de Assis , Intra João Batista Gagno , Roldi Armelindo
Published: February 2022

Aim

To evaluate a sample consisting of 144 autotransplanted teeth performed in 128 patients, which were subjected to periodic follow‐up from 6 months to 23 years.

Materials and methods

The sample consists of 33 molars, 91 premolars, 4 canines and 16 incisors. Clinical and radiographic examinations were performed every 6 months since the day of transplantation. In the last follow‐up visit, successful autotransplantation should present the following: absence of active inflammatory root resorption and ankylosis; crown/root ratio <1 (root size higher than crown size); radiographic evidence of additional root growth (in case of partly formed root grafts); absence of tooth mobility, periodontal disease and persistent periapical lesions after endodontic treatment. The success rate was acquired by percentage of transplanted teeth that met the criteria in relation to the total number of transplanted teeth in the sample. Statistical tests were performed as indicators of success.

Results

The evaluation showed a 93% success rate for the completion of autotransplanted teeth. Eight teeth showed inflammatory root resorption and five teeth, ankylosis. The success rate of molars was 91% and canines was 100%. All variables presented statistical p value of <0.05, except for tooth colouration, root development, donor site and recipient site.

Conclusion

These findings support that tooth autotransplantation is a reliable treatment and preferred solution for early tooth loss in children and young patients. Furthermore, it demands the professionals the correct evaluation as well as to create the necessary conditions regarding the site receptor, tooth to be transplanted, quality of the surgical procedure, aesthetic complement and periodic control of each case.
Implementing a post‐traumatic stress disorder screening for first responders in rural area
Authors: Leung Tak Yee , Shen Qiuhua
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant public health problem especially among first responders who are routinely exposed to traumatic events. First responders in rural areas are faced with additional stressors. The purpose of this quality improvement program was to implement PTSD screening for first responders at a primary care concierge clinic.

Design

Implementation of PTSD screening program among first responders was conducted from October to December 2020, using the PTSD Checklist for DSM‐5 with Life Events Checklist for DSM‐5 and Criterion A (PCL‐5 with LEC‐5 and Criterion A).

Sample

First responders who visited the clinic during program implementation period.

Outcomes

Numbers of PTSD screening, positive screening, positive PTSD symptoms, and referral.

Results

Thirty‐four first responders completed the PTSD screening. 23.5% (n = 8) of first responders were screened positive. Almost 80% of first responders reported experiencing at least one PSTD symptom (n = 27). Six of the eight screened positive first responders (75%) received a referral.

Conclusion

The standardized PTSD screening protocol utilizing PCL‐5 was effective to identify first responders with PTSD. It can be integrated into the workflow of a primary care concierge clinic and help improving PTSD assessment in first responders and initiated referrals.
Experiences of stress among West Africa‐born immigrant women with hypertension in Washington DC area
Authors: Ude Assumpta Onyinye
Published: February 2022

Objective

To report a study that explored hypertension (HTN) stress and coping experiences of West‐Africa‐born immigrant (WABI) women in Washington DC Metropolitan area of the United States.

Design and sample

This qualitative study conducted from December 2017 to May 2018 involved WABI women (n = 15) in Washington Metropolitan area that self‐reported diagnosis of HTN. The transactional model of stress and coping (TMSC) provided the conceptual framework. Data collection was through semi‐structured one‐on‐one interviews.  Data analysis was done through manual open‐hand coding of themes.

Results

Three themes emerged from the analysis: Perceived Stressors, Sources of Stress, and Coping Measures. Participants perceived that their HTN diagnosis contributed to their stress; reported other financial, school, work, trauma, household and marriage‐related stressors, and coping measures that include faith‐based and other recreational leisure activities.

Conclusion

Participants mentioned stressors related to lack of support with domestic house chores and described various religious practices as coping strategies. These findings provide additional insights relevant to several ongoing public health nursing conversations on acute and chronic stress management in different parts of the globe. Public health nurses need to utilize these findings when assessing stressors and considering safe coping measures that appeal to WABI women experiencing HTN or chronic illness.
The perceived threat of COVID‐19 and its impact on hygienic precautionary behaviors: A multi‐countries study
Authors: Alzaatreh Mohammad Yousef , Al‐Maraira Obay A. , Khrais Huthaifah , Alsadi Mohammad Rafe , AbuKmail Hanan , Bottcher Bettina
Published: February 2022

Objective(s)

To explore the perceived threats of COVID‐19 and how it changed the personal hygienic precautionary behaviors across multiple countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Design

A cross‐sectional descriptive design was used to survey the four targeted MENA countries: Jordan, Palestinian territories, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.

Sample

A nonprobability convenience sampling design was utilized. The link to the survey questionnaire was distributed through social media groups within Facebook® and Twitter®. The groups are known and accessible by known across the general population at the targeted countries.

Measurement

Data was collected using The Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire and an adapted instrument that examine the hygienic precautionary behaviors during COVID‐19 pandemic.

Results

Answers of participants (n = 2604) were valid and included in the study. The results show that a minimal perception of threat among the participants on most of the BIP‐Q5 items (M = 12.9, SD = 7.2). Moreover, the highest compliance rates to recommended hygienic precautionary behaviors were found among populations above the age of 50 years (F = 2.89, p = .04), females (t = 5.18, p = .003), being married (F = 3.09, p = .029), and being a health care professional (t = ‐2.20, p = .028).

Conclusion

The perceived threat of COVID‐19 and compliance rates with the recommended hygienic precautionary behaviors among Arab societies were found to below and need critically urgent attention.
Pediatric tuberculosis in India: Justice and human rights
Authors: Mannebach Kinsey , Dressel Anne , Eason Leighann
Published: February 2022

Tuberculosis (TB) is the deadliest infectious disease across the world, with the greatest burden occurring in India. Pregnant women and children are especially vulnerable to adverse effects from infection, and they tend to have diminished ability to protect themselves. Malnutrition, HIV, and other causes of immune suppression such as exposure to air pollution make one more prone to serious illness or death from TB infection. Risk factors are influenced by maternal education, access to health care, poverty, nutrition, healthcare stigma, and sanitation, among others. Current literature is heavily clinical, lacking focus on upstream factors, with a skew toward secondary and tertiary prevention strategies (i.e., case finding and treatment), and less emphasis on primary prevention (e.g., wealth equity and environmental regulation). Given concerns with extremely drug resistant TB and because infectious diseases can permeate National borders, public health nurses, and other healthcare professionals must educate themselves and advocate on behalf of vulnerable populations such as children in India. Improved sanitation, air quality monitoring, women's education, and increased access to health care are cost‐effective and evidence‐based strategies to address pediatric TB in India, a challenge which is grounded in human rights and justice.
Altered insulin, leptin and ghrelin hormone levels and atypical estrous cycle lengths in two highly fertile mouse lines
Authors: Calanni‐Pileri Michela , Weitzel Joachim M. , Langhammer Martina , Wytrwat Erika , Michaelis Marten
Published: February 2022

Mouse models of decreased fertility mainly support scientific knowledge in the field of reproductive biology. In this study, we changed the perspective, using Dummerstorf high‐fertility mouse lines FL1 and FL2 selected for increased reproductive performances that doubled the amount of ovulated oocytes per cycle and the number of offspring per litter compared to an unselected control line (founder population, FZTDU, ctrl). After recent observations, both fertility lines seem to show a lower pregnancy rate compared to ctrl together with an atypical reproductive cycle. We analysed the estrous cycle of those mice, but also plasma levels of insulin, glucagon, leptin and ghrelin that, when irregular, may have an impact on the reproductive cycle length by modifying the GnRH release. We included females of another independent line (DU6P), selected from the same founder population but independently of fertility traits, as an additional model of decreased pregnancy rate. We aim to evaluate if do they use a similar mechanism associated in the regulation of the estrous cycle or implicated in altered pregnancy mechanism compared to control, because they show a similar situation as FL2 line does, even without an increase in fertility parameters. We speculate that FLs’ estrous cycle undergoes changes during the selection period and aim to demonstrate that some hormonal dysfunctions link with altered reproductive cycle, dampened pregnancy rates and reduced first delivery rates mostly in FL2, but also with higher‐fertility phenotype rather than lower in both FLs.
Amoxicillin does not affect the development of cow’s milk allergy in a Brown Norway rat model
Authors: Locke Arielle Vallée , Larsen Jeppe Madura , Graversen Katrine Bækby , Licht Tine Rask , Bahl Martin Iain , Bøgh Katrine Lindholm
Published: February 2022

The use of antibiotics as well as changes in the gut microbiota have been linked to development of food allergy in childhood. It remains unknown whether administration of a single clinically relevant antibiotic directly promotes food allergy development when administrated during the sensitisation phase in an experimental animal model. We investigated whether the antibiotic amoxicillin affected gut microbiota composition, development of cow's milk allergy (CMA) and frequencies of allergic effector cells and regulatory T cells in the intestine. Brown Norway rats were given daily oral gavages of amoxicillin for six weeks and whey protein concentrate (WPC) with or without cholera toxin three times per week for the last five weeks. Microbiota composition in faeces and small intestine was analysed by 16S rRNA sequencing. The development of CMA was assessed by WPC‐specific IgE in serum, ear swelling response to WPC and body hypothermia following oral gavage of WPC. Allergic effector cells were analysed by histology, and frequencies of regulatory and activated T cells were analysed by flow cytometry. Amoxicillin administration reduced faecal microbiota diversity, reduced the relative abundance of Firmicutes and increased the abundance of Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria. Despite these effects, amoxicillin did not affect the development of CMA, nor the frequencies of allergic effector cells or regulatory T cells. Thus, amoxicillin does not carry a direct risk for food allergy development when administrated in an experimental model of allergic sensitisation to WPC via the gut. This finding suggests that confounding factors may better explain the epidemiological link between antibiotic use and food allergy.
Spanish validation of the Emotion Regulation Checklist (ERC) in preschool and elementary children: Relationship with emotion knowledge
Authors: Lucas‐Molina Beatriz , Giménez‐Dasí Marta , Quintanilla Laura , Gorriz‐Plumed Ana Belén , Giménez‐García Cristina , Sarmento‐Henrique Renata
Published: February 2022

Emotion Regulation is one of the most widely studied variables in child development. However, it is a complex construct, and there are few validated instruments to evaluate children. The main goal of this study was to test the factorial structure of the Emotion Regulation Checklist (ERC) in two samples of Spanish children, one with 284 preschool children (48.3% girls; M = 4.38) and the other with 323 elementary school children (49.2% girls; M = 8.82). The ERC was completed by the children's teachers. Although this instrument has been validated in different cultural contexts, no studies have analyzed its psychometric properties in Spanish samples. An examination of the internal structure, using Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling (ESEM), revealed that the original two‐factor model (Emotion Regulation and Lability/Negativity) fitted the elementary school children's data well; however, in the sample of preschool children, the factorial model showed poor goodness‐of‐fit indices. The reliability of the ERC subscales was .77 for ER and .88 for L/N in the preschool‐aged sample, and .80 for ER and .77 for L/N in the sample of elementary school children. In addition, the relationship between the ERC and the Test of Emotion Comprehension (TEC) was explored. L/N correlated negatively and significantly with TEC in the sample of elementary school children. These findings provide some support for the use of the Spanish teachers’ version of the ERC with elementary school children.
EXPLAINING EVIL IN THE BIOSPHERE: ASSESSING SOME EVOLUTIONARY THEODICIES FOR MUSLIM THEISTS
Authors: Chowdhury Safaruk Zaman
Published: February 2022

The problem of evil is one of the most difficult and protracted problems for the trio of Abrahamic faiths that uphold the classical conception of an “omni‐competent God”—omniscient, omnipotent, and omnibenevolent. In its standard formulation in the literature, the existence or character of God is brought into direct contention with the existence of evil. One subset of this problem, reinvigorated by recent discussions within the intersection between the philosophy of religion and philosophy of science, is the evolutionary problem of evil or the “Darwinian problem of evil.” This article analyzes this subset of the evolutionary problem of evil hitherto unexplored in any depth within contemporary Islamic theology and proposes some possible evolutionary theodicies that Muslim theists can utilize based on core doctrines and other precepts of the Qur’ān as well as ideas developed within contemporary evolutionary theism and environmental ethics. In this way, the article offers a contribution to the currently small but growing body of theodicy literature within contemporary Islamic ethics and environmentalism.
Molecular Basis of Rhodomyrtone Resistance in Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Huang Li , Matsuo Miki , Calderón Carlos , Fan Sook-Ha , Ammanath Aparna Viswanathan , Fu Xiaoqing , Li Ningna , Luqman Arif , Ullrich Marvin , Herrmann Florian , Maier Martin , Cheng Anchun , Zhang Fajun , Oesterhelt Filipp , Lämmerhofer Michael , Götz Friedrich
Published: February 2022

Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health problem, and alternative antibiotics are urgently needed. Rhodomyrtone (Rom), an antimicrobial compound originally isolated from
Rhodomyrtus tomentosa
, is active against multiple resistant Gram-positive pathogens.
Hydrogeochemical evolution of formation waters responsible for sandstone bleaching and ore mineralization in the Paradox Basin, Colorado Plateau, USA
Authors: Kim Ji-Hyun , Bailey Lydia , Noyes Chandler , Tyne Rebecca L. , Ballentine Chris J. , Person Mark , Ma Lin , Barton Mark , Barton Isabel , Reiners Peter W. , Ferguson Grant , McIntosh Jennifer
Published: February 2022

The Paradox Basin in the Colorado Plateau (USA) has some of the most iconic records of paleofluid flow, including sandstone bleaching and ore mineralization, and hydrocarbon, CO2, and He reservoirs, yet the sources of fluids responsible for these extensive fluid-rock reactions are highly debated. This study, for the first time, characterizes fluids within the basin to constrain the sources and emergent behavior of paleofluid flow resulting in the iconic rock records. Major ion and isotopic (δ18Owater; δDwater; δ18OSO4; δ34SSO4; δ34SH2S; 87Sr/86Sr) signatures of formation waters were used to evaluate the distribution and sources of fluids and water-rock interactions by comparison with the rock record. There are two sources of salinity in basinal fluids: (1) diagenetically altered highly evaporated paleo-seawater-derived brines associated with the Pennsylvanian Paradox Formation evaporites; and (2) dissolution of evaporites by topographically driven meteoric circulation. Fresh to brackish groundwater in the shallow Cretaceous Burro Canyon Formation contains low Cu and high SO4 concentrations and shows oxidation of sulfides by meteoric water, while U concentrations are higher than within other formation waters. Deeper brines in the Pennsylvanian Honaker Trail Formation were derived from evaporated paleo-seawater mixed with meteoric water that oxidized sulfides and dissolved gypsum and have high 87Sr/86Sr indicating interaction with radiogenic siliciclastic minerals. Upward migration of reduced (hydrocarbon- and H2S-bearing) saline fluids from the Pennsylvanian Paradox Formation along faults likely bleached sandstones in shallower sediments and provided a reduced trap for later Cu and U deposition. The distribution of existing fluids in the Paradox Basin provides important constraints to understand the rock record over geological time.
Late Paleozoic to Mesozoic tectonic transition in northeastern Eurasia: Constraints from two island arc magmatic belts in eastern NE China
Authors: Li Gong-Yu , Zhou Jian-Bo , Li Long , Chen Zhuo , Wang Hong-Yan
Published: February 2022

Since the Paleozoic, the tectonic evolutionary process of eastern Eurasia has been affected by at least three paleo-ocean regimes: the Paleo-Asian Ocean, the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean, and the Paleo-Pacific Ocean. However, the tectonic transition among these ocean regimes is not well understood. Recently, the Heilongjiang Ocean was proposed to play an important role during the transition from the Paleo-Asian Ocean regime to the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean (and later the Paleo-Pacific Ocean) regime. Here we report on a new combined study of petrological, geochemical, and geochronological data of biotite–plagioclase gneisses from the Qinglongcun Complex in the west Jiamusi-Khanka Block to better understand the tectonic evolution during this transition period. The results show that the protoliths of these biotite–plagioclase gneisses are medium-K calcalkaline rhyolites that were derived from a volcanic island arc environment related to paleo-oceanic subduction that occurred at ca. 260 Ma. Integrated with previous studies of the Permian arc-affinity rocks within the Jiamusi-Khanka Block, we identified two island arc magmatic belts with ages of ca. 290 Ma and ca. 260 Ma at the east and west margins of Jiamusi-Khanka Block, respectively. The east island arc magmatic belt was related to subduction of the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean during the Early–middle Permian, which provided a driving force for the opening of the Heilongjiang Ocean. Subduction of the Heilongjiang Ocean during the middle–Late Permian resulted in the west arc island magmatic belt. These two belts provide key evidence for understanding the tectonic transition from the Paleo-Asian Ocean to the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean to the Paleo-Pacific Ocean during the late Paleozoic to early Mesozoic.
Supplemental Material: Hot atmospheric formation of carbonate accretionary lapilli at the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary, Brazos River, Texas, from clumped isotope thermometry
Authors: Burtt David , al. et
Published: February 2022

The Rayleigh model methodology, Figures S1–S6, and Tables S1 and S2.
Supplemental Material: Stagnation and tearing of the subducting northwest Pacific slab
Authors: Sun Muchen , Yu Youqiang , al. et
Published: February 2022

Figure S1 (stacked receiver functions along 34°N, 35°N, 36°N, and 43°N latitudinal lines), and Table S1 (results of receiver function stacking for each bin).
Supplemental Material: Cumulate granites: A perspective from new apatite MgO partition coefficients
Authors: Zhan Qiong-Yao , Zhu Di-Cheng , al. et
Published: February 2022

Supplemental methods, Figures S1‒S4, and Tables S1‒S5.
Diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis with D-dimer adjusted to clinical probability: prospective diagnostic management study
Authors: Kearon Clive , de Wit Kerstin , Parpia Sameer , Schulman Sam , Spencer Frederick A , Sharma Sangita , Afilalo Marc , Kahn Susan R , Le Gal Gregoire , Shivakumar Sudeep , Bates Shannon M , Wu Cynthia , Lazo-Langner Alejandro , D'Aragon Frédérick , Deshaies Jean-François , Spadafora Luciana , Julian Jim A
Published: February 2022

Objective

To evaluate the safety and efficiency of a diagnostic algorithm for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) that uses clinical pretest probability based D-dimer thresholds to exclude DVT.

Design

Prospective diagnostic management study.

Setting

University based emergency departments or outpatient clinics in Canada.

Participants

Patients with symptoms or signs of DVT.

Intervention

DVT was considered excluded without further testing by Wells low clinical pretest probability and D-dimer <1000 ng/mL or Wells moderate clinical pretest probability and D-dimer <500 ng/mL. All other patients had proximal ultrasound imaging. Repeat proximal ultrasonography was restricted to patients with initially negative ultrasonography, low or moderate clinical pretest probability, and D-dimer >3000 ng/mL or high clinical pretest probability and D-dimer >1500 ng/mL. If DVT was not diagnosed, patients did not receive anticoagulant treatment.

Main outcome measure

Symptomatic venous thromboembolism at three months.

Results

1508 patients were enrolled and analysed, of whom 173 (11.5%) had DVT on scheduled diagnostic testing. Of the 1275 patients with no proximal DVT on scheduled testing who did not receive anticoagulant treatment, eight (0.6%, 95% confidence interval 0.3% to 1.2%) were found to have venous thromboembolism during follow-up. Compared with a traditional DVT testing strategy, this diagnostic approach reduced the need for ultrasonography from a mean of 1.36 scans/patient to 0.72 scans/patient (difference −0.64, 95% confidence interval −0.68 to −0.60), corresponding to a relative reduction of 47%.

Conclusions

The diagnostic strategy using a combination of clinical pretest probability and D-dimer identified a group of patients at low risk for DVT during follow-up while substantially reducing the need for ultrasound imaging.

Registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT02038530.
Prognostic effects of health-related quality of life at baseline and early change in health-related quality of life on response to treatment and survival in patients with advanced lung cancer: a prospective observational study in China
Authors: Liu Jiali , Ma Yuxiang , Gao Ruizhen , Liu Xia , Wang Yalan , Yu Juan , Zhan Jianhua , Huang Yan , Qin Huiyin , Zhang Li
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To investigate the relationship among baseline health-related quality of life (HRQoL), early changes in HRQoL from baseline to completion of the first cycle of chemotherapy, and prognosis in patients with advanced lung cancer.

Design

This was a prospective, observational study.

Setting

The study was conducted in a national cancer centre in South China.

Participants

A total of 243 patients with chemo-naïve with advanced lung cancer were enrolled.

Intervention

None.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Lung was used to assess HRQoL at baseline and at the end of the first cycle of chemotherapy. The Trial Outcome Index (TOI) and Lung Cancer Scale (LCS) were calculated as predictive indicators. Response to treatment was evaluated as per the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) V.1.1. Survival data were gathered from follow-up to September 2019.

Results

Patients with 5-point or greater decreases in TOI (65% vs 48%, adjusted risk ratio (aRR)=2.19, 95% CI 1.09 to 4.41) or 2-point or greater decreases in LCS (72% vs 48%, aRR=3.29, 95% CI 1.50 to 7.22) from baseline to completion of the first cycle of chemotherapy were more likely to show stable or progressive disease than those whose HRQoL had improved. Baseline TOI ≤54 (80.0% vs 69.9%, adjusted hazard risk (aHR)=1.36, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.84) and LCS ≤21 (77.6% vs 72.5%, aHR=1.36, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.83) were associated with higher risk for death compared with TOI>54 and LCS>21. Area under the curve analysis indicated that early changes in LCS and baseline LCS scores could better predict response to treatment and overall survival than the corresponding TOI values.

Conclusions

Higher pretreatment HRQoL scores could predict longer survival, while declining HRQoL values could predict unfavourable treatment outcome among patients with advanced lung cancer. The use of the LCS is recommended for the routine collection of patient-reported HRQoL.

Trial registration number

NCT01914120.
Process evaluation of peer-to-peer delivery of HIV self-testing and sexual health information to support HIV prevention among youth in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: qualitative analysis
Authors: Adeagbo Oluwafemi Atanda , Seeley Janet , Gumede Dumsani , Xulu Sibongiseni , Dlamini Nondumiso , Luthuli Manono , Dreyer Jaco , Herbst Carina , Cowan F , Chimbindi Natsayi , Hatzold Karin , Okesola Nonhlanhla , Johnson Cheryl , Harling Guy , Subedar Hasina , Sherr Lorraine , McGrath Nuala , Corbett Liz , Shahmanesh Maryam
Published: February 2022

Objective

Peer-to-peer (PTP) HIV self-testing (HIVST) distribution models can increase uptake of HIV testing and potentially create demand for HIV treatment and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We describe the acceptability and experiences of young women and men participating in a cluster randomised trial of PTP HIVST distribution and antiretroviral/PrEP promotion in rural KwaZulu-Natal.

Methods

Between March and September 2019, 24 pairs of trained peer navigators were randomised to two approaches to distribute HIVST packs (kits+HIV prevention information): incentivised-peer-networks where peer-age friends distributed packs within their social network for a small incentive, or direct distribution where peer navigators distributed HIVST packs directly. Standard-of-care peer navigators distributed information without HIVST kits. For the process evaluation, we conducted semi-structured interviews with purposively sampled young women (n=30) and men (n=15) aged 18–29 years from all arms. Qualitative data were transcribed, translated, coded manually and thematically analysed using an interpretivist approach.

Results

Overall, PTP approaches were acceptable and valued by young people. Participants were comfortable sharing sexual health issues they would not share with adults. Coupled with HIVST, peer (friends) support facilitated HIV testing and solidarity for HIV status disclosure and treatment. However, some young people showed limited interest in other sexual health information provided. Some young people were wary of receiving health information from friends perceived as non-professionals while others avoided sharing personal issues with peer navigators from their community. Referral slips and youth-friendly clinics were facilitators to PrEP uptake. Family disapproval, limited information, daily pills and perceived risks were major barriers to PrEP uptake.

Conclusion

Both professional (peer navigators) and social network (friends) approaches were acceptable methods to receive HIVST and sexual health information. Doubts about the professionalism of friends and overly exclusive focus on HIVST information materials may in part explain why HIVST kits, without peer navigators support, did not create demand for PrEP.
Healthy food prescription incentive programme for adults with type 2 diabetes who are experiencing food insecurity: protocol for a randomised controlled trial, modelling and implementation studies
Authors: Olstad Dana Lee , Beall Reed , Spackman Eldon , Dunn Sharlette , Lipscombe Lorraine L , Williams Kienan , Oster Richard , Scott Sara , Zimmermann Gabrielle L , McBrien Kerry A , Steer Kieran J D , Chan Catherine B , Tyminski Sheila , Berkowitz Seth , Edwards Alun L , Saunders-Smith Terry , Tariq Saania , Popeski Naomi , White Laura , Williamson Tyler , L'Abbé Mary , Raine Kim D , Nejatinamini Sara , Naser Aruba , Basualdo-Hammond Carlota , Norris Colleen , O’Connell Petra , Seidel Judy , Lewanczuk Richard , Cabaj Jason , Campbell David J T
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The high cost of many healthy foods poses a challenge to maintaining optimal blood glucose levels for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who are experiencing food insecurity, leading to diabetes complications and excess acute care usage and costs. Healthy food prescription programmes may reduce food insecurity and support patients to improve their diet quality, prevent diabetes complications and avoid acute care use. We will use a type 2 hybrid-effectiveness design to examine the reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation and maintenance (RE-AIM) of a healthy food prescription incentive programme for adults experiencing food insecurity and persistent hyperglycaemia. A randomised controlled trial (RCT) will investigate programme effectiveness via impact on glycosylated haemoglobin (primary outcome), food insecurity, diet quality and other clinical and patient-reported outcomes. A modelling study will estimate longer-term programme effectiveness in reducing diabetes-related complications, resource use and costs. An implementation study will examine all RE-AIM domains to understand determinants of effective implementation and reasons behind programme successes and failures.

Methods and analysis

594 adults who are experiencing food insecurity and persistent hyperglycaemia will be randomised to a healthy food prescription incentive (n=297) or a healthy food prescription comparison group (n=297). Both groups will receive a healthy food prescription. The incentive group will additionally receive a weekly incentive (CDN$10.50/household member) to purchase healthy foods in supermarkets for 6 months. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline and follow-up (6 months) in the RCT and analysed using mixed-effects regression. Longer-term outcomes will be modelled using the UK Prospective Diabetes Study outcomes simulation model-2. Implementation processes and outcomes will be continuously measured via quantitative and qualitative data.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the University of Calgary and the University of Alberta. Findings will be disseminated through reports, lay summaries, policy briefs, academic publications and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

NCT04725630.

Protocol version

Version 1.1; February 2022
Respiratory and circulatory insufficiency during emergent long-distance critical care interhospital transports to tertiary care in a sparsely populated region: a retrospective analysis of late mortality risk
Authors: Fredriksson Sundbom Marcus , Sangfelt Amalia , Lindgren Emma , Nyström Helena , Johansson Göran , Brändström Helge , Haney Michael
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To test if impaired oxygenation or major haemodynamic instability at the time of emergency intensive care transport, from a smaller admitting hospital to a tertiary care centre, are predictors of long-term mortality.

Design

Retrospective observational study. Impaired oxygenation was defined as oxyhaemoglobin %–inspired oxygen fraction ratio (S/F ratio)<100. Major haemodynamic instability was defined as a need for treatment with norepinephrine infusion to sustain mean arterial pressure (MAP) at or above 60 mm Hg or having a mean MAP <60. Logistic regression was used to assess mortality risk with impaired oxygenation or major haemodynamic instability.

Setting

Sparsely populated Northern Sweden. A fixed-wing interhospital air ambulance system for critical care serving 900 000 inhabitants.

Participants

Intensive care cases transported in fixed-wing air ambulance from outlying hospitals to a regional tertiary care centre during 2000–2016 for adults (16 years old or older). 2142 cases were included.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

All-cause mortality at 3 months after transport was the primary outcome, and secondary outcomes were all-cause mortality at 1 and 7 days, 1, 6 and 12 months.

Results

S/F ratio <100 was associated with increased mortality risk compared with S/F>300 at all time-points, with adjusted OR 6.3 (2.5 to 15.5, p<0.001) at 3 months. Major haemodynamic instability during intensive care unit (ICU) transport was associated with increased adjusted OR of all-cause mortality at 3 months with OR 2.5 (1.8 to 3.5, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Major impairment of oxygenation and/or major haemodynamic instability at the time of ICU transport to get to urgent tertiary intervention is strongly associated with increased mortality risk at 3 months in this cohort. These findings support the conclusion that these conditions are markers for many fold increase in risk for death notable already at 3 months after transport for patients with these conditions.
Association among the exposure to giving knowledge, attitude and practice for handwashing in people residing in Seoul, South Korea: a retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Kim Jayeun , Yoon Kyuhyun
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Handwashing is known as the most preventive method for various infectious diseases. Health authorities have conducted various campaigns and public relations targeting the general population but few evaluations of these long-term interventions. This study aimed to investigate the association between experience of educational events or public relations (EXEP), attitude towards the effectiveness of handwashing (AEHW) and handwashing practice (HWP).

Setting

Using a population-based cross-sectional study with a complex sample design, we explored the response outcomes of handwashing. Those outcomes were collected biennially using Community Health Survey among the years 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2019. We applied multivariate logistic regression for the association among sociodemographic factors, health conditions, EXEP, AEHW and HWP.

Participants

Total participants residing in Seoul were 23 139 (men 44.2%), 23 004 (men 44.4%), 22 955 (men 44.8%) and 22 930 (men 43.9%), in 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2019, respectively.

Results

Overall, participants with EXEP are more likely to be women, aged between the 30s and 60s, and with a higher educational level. Particularly, participants with EXEP had an increased association with HWP (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.19 to 1.33) and AEHW (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.38 to 1.63). In addition, AEHW also had an increased association with HWP (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.53 to 1.81). The mediated effect of AEHW to HWP is not determined evidently.

Conclusion

The results showed that EXEP is positively associated with HWP and AEHW among community-dwelling people. Our results confirm that educational activity can lead to more pronounced behavioural changes only when it forms a positive attitude.
‘Mindfulness Living with Insomnia’: an mHealth intervention for individuals with insomnia in China: a study protocol of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Pan Chen , Tie Bingyu , Yuwen Weichao , Su Xiaoyou , Deng Yunlong , Ma Xin , Wu Yan , Liao Yanhui , Kong Luya , Zhang Yutao , Li Ziwan , Pan Qinghua , Tang Qiuping
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Insomnia has a remarkably negative effect on the work, quality of life and psychosomatic health of individuals, and imposes a substantial economic burden on society. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have proven beneficial in the treatment of insomnia. However, the effect of mobile or online-based (mHealth) MBIs requires further verification. This study will evaluate the effectiveness of an mHealth MBI, ‘Mindful Living with Insomnia’ (MLWI), relative to that of mHealth cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I).

Methods and analysis

The study is an mHealth, randomised controlled trial. Two hundred and fifty participants will be allocated randomly and equally to either the MLWI or CBT-I group. The intervention will involve 12 sessions over a 6-week course, with 2, 30 min sessions per week. The primary outcomes are sleep quality, severity of insomnia symptoms and sleep activity, according to the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Insomnia Severity Index and sleep tracker Mi Smart Band, respectively. The secondary outcomes are perceived stress, anxiety, depression and mindfulness. Outcomes will be evaluated at the baseline, end of the intervention period and at the 3-month follow-up. Data analyses will include covariance, regression analysis, χ2, t-test and Pearson’s correlations. Participants will be recruited from January to June 2022, or until the recruitment process is complete. The follow-up will be completed in December 2022. All trial results should be available by the end of December 2022.

Ethics and dissemination

Full approval for this study has been obtained from the Ethics Committee at The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China (21010). Study results will be disseminated via social media and peer-reviewed publications.

Trial registration number

NCT04806009.
Hospital bed occupancy rate is an independent risk factor for COVID-19 inpatient mortality: a pandemic epicentre cohort study
Authors: Castagna Francesco , Xue Xiaonan , Saeed Omar , Kataria Rachna , Puius Yoram A , Patel Snehal R , Garcia Mario J , Racine Andrew D , Sims Daniel B , Jorde Ulrich P
Published: February 2022

Introduction

COVID-19 first struck New York City in the spring of 2020, resulting in an unprecedented strain on our healthcare system and triggering multiple changes in public health policy governing hospital operations as well as therapeutic approaches to COVID-19. We examined inpatient mortality at our centre throughout the course of the pandemic.

Methods

This is a retrospective chart review of clinical characteristics, treatments and outcome data of all patients admitted with COVID-19 from 1 March 2020 to 28 February 2021. Patients were grouped into 3-month quartiles. Hospital strain was assessed as per cent of occupied beds based on a normal bed capacity of 1491.

Results

Inpatient mortality decreased from 25.0% in spring to 10.8% over the course of the year. During this time, use of remdesivir, steroids and anticoagulants increased; use of hydroxychloroquine and other antibiotics decreased. Daily bed occupancy ranged from 62% to 118%. In a multivariate model with all year’s data controlling for demographics, comorbidities and acuity of illness, percentage of bed occupancy was associated with increased 30-day in-hospital mortality of patients with COVID-19 (0.7% mortality increase for each 1% increase in bed occupancy; HR 1.007, CI 1.001 to 1.013, p=0.004)

Conclusion

Inpatient mortality from COVID-19 was associated with bed occupancy. Early reduction in epicentre hospital bed occupancy to accommodate acutely ill and resource-intensive patients should be a critical component in the strategic planning for future pandemics.
Complex PrEP: the factors requiring consultant-led review of PrEP users
Authors: Tittle Victoria , Dalton Rebecca , Nugent Diarmuid , Girometti Nicolo , Whitlock Gary , Mcowan Alan , McCormack Sheena
Published: February 2022

Introduction

HIV-1 pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been available in England since March 2020 on the National Health Service using generic emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil. 56 Dean Street (56DS) provided PrEP through (1) additional private care from September 2015, estimated to be providing 11% of England’s PrEP in 2019; and (2) the IMPACT trial, as well as monitoring those self-sourcing PrEP. Providing PrEP at scale through a nurse-led service required a safety net for complex individuals. 56DS introduced a consultant-led PrEP outpatient service, the PrEP review clinic, in January 2018 and we report the outcomes of this service.

Methods

We present a retrospective case note review of the PrEP review clinic with descriptive outcomes from 26 January 2018 to 20 December 2019. Reason for referral, demographics, PrEP management and PrEP discontinuations were recorded.

Results

13 980 unique users accessed PrEP from 56DS during the two year evaluation period. 220 individuals were seen in the PrEP review clinic. Majority of patients were referred for renal issues (114 of 220, 51.8%), followed by side effects (59 of 220, 26.8%) and comorbidities (38 of 220, 17.2%). Of those with renal issues, 89 (out of 114, 78.1%) users were referred for an abnormal estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). 35 (out of 114, 30.7%) PrEP users had an eGFR between 45 and 59 mL/min/1.73 m2, of whom 2 (5.7%) discontinued PrEP. Majority of users were advised to stop supplements±switch to event-based dosing (24 of 35, 68.6%). Ten PrEP users were referred with an eGFR between 30 and 44 mL/min/1.73 m2; 4 (40%) stopped or did not start PrEP and 6 (60%) were asked to stop supplements±switch to event-based dosing.

Discussion

A small proportion of PrEP users have complex PrEP issues. Methods to manage renal dysfunction with PrEP included stopping supplements and switching to event-based dosing. Those with side effects were managed with an array of options, with only modest effectiveness. Other PrEP options are needed to support those with toxicities or intolerances.
A short proof of a theorem of Tanaka on composite knots with symmetric union presentations
Authors: Köse Feride Ceren
Published: February 2022

We present a short proof of a theorem of Tanaka that if a composite ribbon knot admits a symmetric union presentation with one twist region, then it has a non-trivial knot and its mirror image as connected summands.
Editorial: Overview and Some New Directions
Authors: WU GUO-CHENG , ABDELJAWAD THABET , ATICI FERHAN , LIZAMA CARLOS
Published: February 2022

The fractional derivative holds historical dependence or memory effects. But it also brings error accumulation of the numerical solutions as well as the theoretical analysis since many properties from the integer order case cannot hold. The fractional difference is discrete counterpart of the fractional derivative. The memory kernel is defined by applying the discrete functions on time scale and avoids the errors from the numerical discretization. It is particularly suitable for fractional modeling with computer implementations. Many applications of fractional dynamics to neural networks, signal processing, time series and big data become possible now. This issue of work presents the latest progress in the neighborhood related to fractional calculus.
Finite groups with σ-abnormal or 𝔉-subnormal σ-primary subgroups
Authors: Hussain Muhammad Tanveer
Published: February 2022

Let [Formula: see text] be some partition of the set of all primes [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] a finite group and [Formula: see text]. A set [Formula: see text] of subgroups of [Formula: see text] is said to be a complete Hall[Formula: see text]-set of [Formula: see text] if every non-identity member of [Formula: see text] is a Hall [Formula: see text]-subgroup of [Formula: see text] for some [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] contains exactly one Hall [Formula: see text]-subgroup of [Formula: see text] for every [Formula: see text]. A subgroup [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is said to be [Formula: see text]-primary if it is a finite [Formula: see text]-group for some [Formula: see text]; [Formula: see text]-abnormal in [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] is not [Formula: see text]-primary whenever [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is a maximal subgroup of [Formula: see text]. A subgroup [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is called [Formula: see text]-subnormal if there is a chain of subgroups [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text]. This is equivalent to [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we study the structure of a finite group [Formula: see text] in which every [Formula: see text]-primary cyclic subgroups are [Formula: see text]-quasinormal or [Formula: see text]-abnormal. We also describe the structure of a finite group [Formula: see text] with self-normalizing or [Formula: see text]-subnormal [Formula: see text]-primary cyclic subgroups for a subgroup-closed saturated lattice formation [Formula: see text] containing all [Formula: see text]-nilpotent groups.