bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retention of functional mitochondria in mature red blood cells from patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: Moriconi Chiara , Dzieciatkowska Monika , Roy Micaela , D'Alessandro Angelo , Roingeard Philippe , Lee June Young , Gibb David R. , Tredicine Maria , McGill Marlon A. , Qiu Annie , La Carpia Francesca , Francis Richard O. , Hod Eldad A. , Thomas Tiffany , Picard Martin , Akpan Imo J. , Luckey Chance John , Zimring James C. , Spitalnik Steven L. , Hudson Krystalyn E.
Published: June 2022

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder characterized by sickled red blood cells (RBCs), which are more sensitive to haemolysis and can contribute to disease pathophysiology. Although treatment of SCD can include RBC transfusion, patients with SCD have high rates of alloimmunization. We hypothesized that RBCs from patients with SCD have functionally active mitochondria and can elicit a type 1 interferon response. We evaluated blood samples from more than 100 patients with SCD and found elevated frequencies of mitochondria in reticulocytes and mature RBCs, as compared to healthy blood donors. The presence of mitochondria in mature RBCs was confirmed by flow cytometry, electron microscopy, and proteomic analysis. The mitochondria in mature RBCs were metabolically competent, as determined by enzymatic activities and elevated levels of mitochondria‐derived metabolites. Metabolically‐active mitochondria in RBCs may increase oxidative stress, which could facilitate and/or exacerbate SCD complications. Coculture of mitochondria‐positive RBCs with neutrophils induced production of type 1 interferons, which are known to increase RBC alloimmunization rates. These data demonstrate that mitochondria retained in mature RBCs are functional and can elicit immune responses, suggesting that inappropriate retention of mitochondria in RBCs may play an underappreciated role in SCD complications and be an RBC alloimmunization risk factor.
Perceptions des offres éducatives du marché scolaire montréalais par des parents immigrants
Authors: Grenier Véronique , Magnan Marie‐Odile
Published: June 2022

This article aims to better understand how immigrant parents perceive Montreal's school market at the high school level. Based on thirty semi‐structured interviews, it presents immigrant parents’ perceptions of the educational offers available in that specific urban context. Rooted in an interpretative sociology, the analysis reveals that curriculum contents and perceived pupils’ socio‐demographic characteristics are used to classify schools and their programs. These indicators are considered in order to increase the chances that the migration project is a success. Evolving in a multicultural city, immigrant parents’ perceptions are intertwined in the social and racial relations that are shaping Quebec's society.
Influence of two caries detection strategies on the quality of life of preschool children: An analysis of secondary outcomes of a 2‐Year randomized clinical trial
Authors: Freitas Julia Gomes , Pontes Laura Regina Antunes , Acosta Carolina de Picoli , Novaes Tatiane Fernandes , Lara Juan Sebastian , Gimenez Thais , Ardenghi Thiago Machado , Braga Mariana Minatel , Raggio Daniela Prócida , Mendes Fausto Medeiros ,   CARDEC collaborative group
Published: June 2022

Objective

This randomized clinical trial aimed to evaluate the influence of two caries diagnosis strategies, and subsequent management, on oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) of preschoolers. Additionally, the association of the OHRQoL outcomes with the clinician‐centred primary outcome used in the main study was also explored.

Materials and Methods

This study refers to the OHRQoL secondary outcomes analyses of the so‐called RCT ‘CARDEC‐1’. Three‐ to 6‐year‐old children were randomly allocated in two caries detection strategies in primary molars: visual inspection (VIS) or visual + radiographic (RAD) assessment. Participants were diagnosed and treated according to the allocated group and followed up for 2 years. Caregivers answered the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS) at baseline and after 2 years. Intention‐to‐treat analysis was performed. ECOHIS scores at baseline and 2 years later were compared using the Mann–Whitney test. Effect sizes, change scores and the minimally important difference (MID) were also compared between groups. Additional analysis was performed to assess if OHRQoL variables could reflect the primary clinical outcome (number of new operative interventions during the follow‐up), observing if these met the Prentice criteria.

Results

Two hundred and five children had the ECOHIS answered in both period times (18.7% attrition rate). There was a decrease in total ECOHIS scores, as well as for different domains for both trial groups, with effect sizes varying from 0.43 to 0.77. Comparisons between groups, however, did not show significant differences. In the additional analysis, the OHRQoL variables met the Prentice criteria and presented the same trends observed with the clinician‐centred primary endpoint.

Conclusion

Caries detection performed by visual inspection alone or associated with radiographic method does not influence the long‐term impact on OHRQoL. Furthermore, OHRQoL variables reflect clinical outcomes in this type of clinical trial. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02078453.
Downregulation of PLK4 expression induces apoptosis and G0/G1‐phase cell cycle arrest in keloid fibroblasts
Authors: Huang Ru‐Lin , Liu Chuanqi , Fu Rao , Yan Yuxin , Yang Jing , Wang Xinggang , Li Qingfeng
Published: June 2022

Objectives

Keloids are benign fibroproliferative tumors that display many cancer‐like characteristics, such as progressive uncontrolled growth, lack of spontaneous regression, and extremely high rates of recurrence. Polo‐like kinase 4 (PLK4) was recently identified as a master regulator of centriole replication, and its aberrant expression is closely associated with tumorigenesis. This study aimed to investigate the expression and biological role of PLK4 in the pathogenesis of keloids.

Materials and Methods

We evaluated the expression of PLK4 in keloids and adjacent normal skin tissue samples. Then, we established PLK4 knockdown and overexpression cell lines in keloid fibroblasts (KFs) and normal skin fibroblasts (NFs), respectively, to investigate the roles of PLK4 in the regulation of proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and cell cycle in KFs. Centrinone B (Cen‐B), a highly selective PLK4 inhibitor, was used to inhibit PLK4 activity in KFs to evaluate the therapeutic effect on KFs.

Results

We discovered that PLK4 was overexpressed in keloid dermal samples and KFs compared with adjacent normal skin samples and NFs derived from the same patients. High PLK4 expression was positively associated with the proliferation, migration, and invasion of KFs. Furthermore, knockdown of PLK4 expression or inhibition of PLK4 activity by Cen‐B suppressed KF growth, induced KF apoptosis via the caspase‐9/3 pathway, and induced cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase in vitro.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that PLK4 is a critical regulator of KF proliferation, migration, and invasion, and thus, Cen‐B is a promising candidate drug for keloid treatment.
Second pregnancy following kidney transplantation is not associated with an increased risk of graft loss in a single center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lichtenberg Shelly , Freilich Rom Dana , Aspitz Haggar Zoe , Keshet Rom , Rahamimov Ruth , Rozen‐Zvi Benaya
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Previous studies on first pregnancy following kidney transplantation (KT) show no association with decreased graft survival. This study examined patients with multiple gestations compared to a single pregnancy following KT and evaluated the risk of graft function deterioration.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study on fertile female kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) from Rabin Medical Center between January 2001 and December 2017 was performed. Data were collected on patients' comorbidities, pregnancy complications, graft loss, mortality, and lab results. Time‐varying COX analysis was performed ‐ second pregnancy being the time‐related variable.

Results

Fifty‐two KTRs split into 30 single pregnancy and 22 multiple pregnancy patients following KT. Single pregnancy patients were older during their first pregnancy and had a higher caesarian section rate. During a median follow‐up period of 5.6 years, multiple pregnancies, compared to a single pregnancy, were not associated with an increased rate of graft loss. No significant difference was seen between first and second pregnancy in gestational age, birth weight, graft function, and proteinuria rates.

Conclusions

Second pregnancy following KT was not shown to be associated with a decreased graft survival. In addition, obstetrical, maternal, and fetal complication rates are not increased in second compared to first pregnancy following KT.
Respiratory morbidity and neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants born preterm: A complex web
Authors: Hibbs Anna Maria
Published: June 2022

This commentary is on the original article by Yu et al. on pages 1246–1253 of this issue.
Early identification of children with myoclonus‐dystonia: Is it time for a revision of diagnostic criteria?
Authors: Roze Emmanuel
Published: June 2022

This commentary is on the original article by Correa‐Vela et al. on pages 207‐214 of this issue.
Long‐term clinical outcomes of oral antidiabetic drugs as fixed‐dose combinations: A nationwide retrospective cohort study
Authors: Cho Sang‐Jun , Oh In‐Sun , Jeong Han Eol , Cho Young Min , Hwangbo Yul , Yu Oriana Hoi Yun , Shin Ju‐Young
Published: June 2022

Aim

To compare treatment patterns and clinical outcomes of single‐pill fixed‐dose combination (FDC) and two‐pill combination (TPC) therapies using real‐world data.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide retrospective cohort study using South Korea's healthcare database (2002‐2015). We identified two cohorts of incident patients with type 2 diabetes who initiated FDC or TPC therapy within 4 months of their first prescription for metformin or sulphonylurea. We examined persistence and adherence patterns and the clinical outcome of a composite endpoint of death or hospitalization for acute myocardial infarction, heart failure or stroke and compared the differences in treatment patterns and clinical outcomes using Cox models.

Results

Of 5143 and 10 973 patients who initiated FDC and TPC therapy, respectively, we identified 5143 patient pairs after propensity score matching. The FDC group exhibited greater median time to treatment discontinuation (163 vs. 146 days), and proportion of days covered at 12 months (mean 0.60 vs. 0.57, P < .0001) and at 24 months (0.53 vs. 0.51, P = .014) than the TPC group. The FDC group, compared with the TPC group, had reduced risks of the composite clinical outcome (hazard ratio 0.86, 95% confidence intervals 0.77‐0.97) and hospitalization for stroke (0.80, 0.67‐0.96).

Conclusion

FDC therapy may provide favourable cardiovascular benefits, especially reducing the risk of hospitalization for stroke, and has better medication adherence among patients with type 2 diabetes.
The curious case of great ape curiosity and how it is shaped by sociality
Authors: Forss Sofia , Willems Erik
Published: June 2022

Although curiosity has huge implications for human creativity and learning, its evolutionary roots and function in animals remain poorly understood. Modern humans, who lack natural predators, thrive with curiosity, but our ancestors faced more hazardous environments that would not necessarily favor individual curiosity. Instead, being curious may have undergone selection in interaction with sociality. Our closest living relatives, the great apes (henceforth apes) have evolved facing conditions more like human ancestors and as such, can help us understand the functions of curiosity and its expression in non‐human species. In this study, we defined curiosity as a combination of behavioral traits like neophilia, exploration diversity, and prolonged interest in exploring novelty and compared it, under similar captive environments across four ape species (N = 101):Pan troglodytes,Pan paniscus,Pongo abelii,andPongo pygmaeus. Results revealed that curiosity followed a linear gradient across the four species in accordance with their sociality. We proposethe social curiosity hypothesisto explain the observed pattern, reflecting those individuals in highly social species, like bonobos and chimpanzees, regularly are accompanied by conspecifics, and thereby accustomed to an abundance of social cues, leading to inhibited curiosity when alone, compared to more solitary orangutans. As such, our study implies that ape curiosity evolved interlinked with sociality. Further, a subset of the sample (N = 46) enabled us to examine if curiosity benefits problem‐solving skills, but our data did not support such link.
Three‐dimensional ontogenetic shifts of groundfish in the Northeast Pacific
Authors: Li Lingbo , Hollowed Anne B. , Cokelet Edward D. , McClure Michelle M. , Keller Aimee A. , Barbeaux Steve J. , Palsson Wayne A.
Published: June 2022

It has been more than 100 years since fish were first described to move to deep waters as size increased, termed ‘Heincke's Law’. However, large‐scale studies on ontogenetic shifts are rare compared with increased reports of distributional changes in response to temperature, often confounded with the ontogenetic shifts. We fill this gap by examining the distribution of ten abundant groundfish species in three dimensions, depth, latitude and longitude, at 10‐cm size intervals within nine subregions of NE Pacific. Here, we utilized large, quality‐controlled datasets from random depth‐stratified, bottom trawl surveys consistently conducted during summer along the NE Pacific shelf from 1996 to 2015. Groundfish demonstrated complex ontogenetic movements in three dimensions across species, size class and subregion. In addition to the expected ontogenetic deepening, shoaling also occurred and some species demonstrated major ontogenetic shifts in longitude and/or latitude with limited changes in depth. Based on standardized ontogenetic shifts in three dimensions, our analyses show that there were significant differences in aggregate fish ontogenetic shifts between small (≤30 cm) and large (>30 cm) size groups. Small fish exhibited substantially larger ontogenetic shifts in depth than the large size group while both groups showed relatively small shifts in latitude and longitude. Our analyses strongly suggest that size structure and ontogenetic shifts should be included in the population distribution.
The influence of corrosion pit–pit spacing on the pit‐to‐crack transition and fatigue lifetime
Authors: Fatoba Olusegun , Akid Robert
Published: June 2022

The influence of separation distance between pre‐induced corrosion pits on both crack initiation and fatigue lifetimes is studied in an air environment by testing specimens containing pit pairs in the low‐stress, high cycle fatigue regime. The results of these tests are compared with equivalent tests with samples containing similar sized single pit. Within the scope of pit sizes and separation distances investigated, when the separation distance is below a threshold, decreasing the separation distance between pits leads to earlier onset of crack initiation and decreased fatigue lifetimes; this threshold being dependent on the applied stress and relative pit sizes. When the separation distance is above this threshold, multiple pits tend to behave independently of each other. The implication of the results from the viewpoint of structural integrity assessment of components containing flaws such as corrosion pits in close proximity is discussed.
A double‐clipping method to achieve the fatigue damage equivalence between uniaxial and triaxial random vibrations
Authors: Bai Jin , Qiu Yuanying , Li Jing , Wang Haidong , Wang Zhaoxi
Published: June 2022

In this paper, a double‐clipping method dealing with both load spectrum and test time is proposed for fatigue damage equivalence between uniaxial and triaxial random vibrations. The load spectrum is clipped appropriately to avoid strength failure because of triaxial over‐testing by defining the stress margin. The test time is clipped and three criteria for selecting the key equivalent points are presented to achieve fatigue damage equivalence of important components between uniaxial and triaxial random vibrations. The proposed method is verified through a notched specimen and a printed circuit board (PCB), respectively, showing that the double‐clipping method not only avoids over‐testing and saves test time but also provides a valuable reference for formulating triaxial random vibration test standards.
A Tool for Forecasting the Arrival Time of a Tracer or a Pollutant at a Karst Spring
Authors: Preisig Giona , Perrochet Léa
Published: June 2022

Karst aquifers are a groundwater resource of global importance. Protection and contamination of karst water resources are often tackled by means of land‐use planning and monitoring of physico‐chemical and microbial water properties coupled to early‐warning systems. However, these solutions of management do not integrate observational data on karst hydrodynamic, for example, tracer tests. Thus, this technical note aims at introducing a straightforward method for forecasting the arrival time of a tracer or a pollutant at a karst spring. Deliverables from the proposed method can assist professionals in the case of a pollution involving a swallow hole of the karst network. The approach is based on repeated tracer testing, gauging of spring flow rate and mathematical curve fitting. Tracer tests and gauging of spring flow rates are repeated under low, middle, and high flow periods. Arrival times of tracer from a given swallow hole of the network are plotted as a function of measured flow rates at the karst spring. The observational data are finally fitted by a mathematical function. Flow rate monitoring at high‐temporal resolution at the karst spring and the mathematical functions allow forecasting the arrival of a tracer or a pollutant at the spring in the case of an accident involving a swallow hole of the network or estimating the duration of a pollution if hydrodynamic conditions do not change abruptly. The applicability of the method is documented by three study sites in Switzerland.
Cutaneous heat and light‐induced pain thresholds in post‐traumatic headache attributed to mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Starling Amaal J. , Cortez Melissa M. , Jarvis Nicholas R. , Zhang Nan , Porreca Frank , Chong Catherine D. , Schwedt Todd J.
Published: June 2022

Objective

The purpose of this study was to characterize cutaneous heat and light‐induced pain thresholds in people with post‐traumatic headache (PTH) compared with healthy controls (HCs).

Background

Photophobia and allodynia are common in PTH, and there is emerging evidence to support multimodal sensory dysfunction.

Methods

In this age‐ and sex‐matched cohort study, individuals with PTH (n = 20) and HCs (n = 20), aged 18–65 years, were recruited from an institutional database of research volunteers, from the concussion clinic, and via the use of approved flyers posted on the Mayo Clinic Campus in Scottsdale, Arizona. Participants were assessed using the Allodynia Symptom Checklist (ASC‐12), Photosensitivity Assessment Questionnaire (PAQ), State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Quantitative sensory testing quantified heat pain thresholds. A light stimulation device quantified light‐induced pain thresholds. Subsequently, heat pain thresholds were obtained immediately, 10, and 40 min after a bright light stressor.

Results

The mean photophobia symptom severity score, based on the PAQ, was higher in participants with PTH compared with HCs, mean 0.62 (SD = 0.25) versus mean 0.24 (SD = 0.24), p < 0.001. Light‐induced pain thresholds were lower in participants with PTH (median = 90.5 lux and quartiles = 17.8 to 378.5) compared with HCs (median = 863.5 lux and quartiles = 519.9 to 4906.5) and were independent from BDI and STAI (p < 0.001). Allodynia scores did not differ between participants with PTH and HCs after adjusting for BDI and STAI scores. Baseline forehead heat pain thresholds were not different, participants with PTH mean 41.9°C (SD = 0.89) versus HCs mean 44.3°C (SD = 0.89), p = 0.061; however, forearm heat pain thresholds were lower in participants with PTH compared with HCs, mean 40.8°C (SD = 0.80) versus mean 44.4°C (SD = 0.80), p = 0.002. The forehead heat pain threshold change from baseline post bright light stressor in participants with PTH versus HCs was different immediately (mean −1.2 (SD = 0.53), p = 0.025), 10 min (mean −1.8 (SD = 0.74), p = 0.015), and 40 min (mean −1.8 (SD = 0.88), p = 0.047). The forearm heat pain threshold change immediately post bright light stressor in participants with PTH versus HCs was different, mean −1.9°C (SD = 0.58), p = 0.001, however, not different at 10 and 40 min.

Conclusions

Photophobia is higher and light‐induced pain thresholds are lower in participants with PTH. Exposure to a light stressor reduced heat pain thresholds in participants with PTH immediately post bright light stressor, but not in HCs. This study provides evidence for multimodal sensory dysfunction in people with PTH.
An observational study of self‐reported migraine triggers and prospective evaluation of the relationships with occurrence of attacks enabled by a smartphone application (App)
Authors: Casanova Amparo , Vives‐Mestres Marina , Donoghue Stephen , Mian Alec , Martin Paul R.
Published: June 2022

Objective

To investigate the relationship between self‐reported triggers and the occurrence of migraine attacks using a smartphone application.

Background

One of several issues around the study of migraine attack triggers is that limited available evidence supports whether self‐reported triggers can induce a headache on a particular subject.

Methods

This is an observational longitudinal cohort study of individuals with migraine registered to track their headaches prospectively using a smartphone application. For 90 days, participants entered daily data about triggers (potential triggers and premonitory symptoms) that may be associated with attack risk, as well as migraine symptoms. The statistical significance of univariate associations between each trigger and migraine recurrent events was determined for each individual. Statistically identified triggers were then compared to self‐reported triggers.

Results

In 328 individuals (290/328 [88.4%] female; mean [standard deviation] 4.2 [1.5] migraine attacks/month) the mean (standard deviation) number of triggers moderately or highly endorsed per individual was 28.0 (7.7) in individuals presented with up to 38 possible triggers. Of these, an average (standard deviation) of 2.2 (2.1) triggers per individual were statistically associated with increased risk of attacks. Even the most commonly endorsed triggers (sleep quality, stress, tiredness/fatigue, sleep duration, dehydration, neck pain, missed meals, eyestrain, mean barometric pressure, and anxiety) were statistically associated in fewer than one third of individuals suspecting each, with the exception of neck pain (117/302 [38.7%]).

Conclusions

Individuals with episodic migraine believe that many triggers contribute to their attacks; however, few of these withstand statistical testing at the individual level. Improved personal knowledge of potential triggers and premonitory symptoms may help individuals adopt behavioral changes to mitigate attack risk.
Seasonal changes of internet searching suggest circannual rhythmicity of primary headache disorders
Authors: Radziwon Jakub , Waszak Przemysław
Published: June 2022

Objective

To investigate whether web searching for headache disorders presents some circannual rhythm.

Background

Studies support the influence of seasonal rhythms in primary headache disorders such as cluster headache (CH) and episodic migraine. We investigated whether internet users’ searching for headaches reflect these circannual rhythms.

Methods

This was an internet‐based study using the Google Trends (Google) platform. The 10‐year interest across four related topics (headache, migraine, tension‐type headache [TTH], and CH) in 31 European countries was scanned.

Results

Significant differences between months were found for the topics “headache” and “migraine.” Interest in the former was superior in February (median for all countries, 61 [25th–75th percentile, 45–80]), October (61 [44–75]), and November (61 [45–76]). The lowest search volumes for headache appeared in July (52 [37–66]) (p < 0.001). Migraine was searched most commonly in November (56 [40–73]) and rarely in June (46.5 [31–64]) (p < 0.001). Differences were observed for the topic of headache in Northern Europe (p = 0.001) and for headache and migraine in Central Europe (p < 0.001 and p = 0.016 respectively) but not in the southern region. TTH and CH were apparently less searched and no evident trends regarding them were present (median, 22 [0–44] for TTH and 15 [0–33] for CH; direct popularity comparison: headache 56 [44–63], migraine 16 [12–24], TTH 2 [1–2], and CH 2 [1–2]; between‐month differences, p = 0.168 and p = 0.081 respectively).

Conclusions

Public attention on headache‐related topics on the internet is distributed according to a significant trend of increased searching around spring and autumn. It suggests that a large number of patients may experience some level of seasonal variation in their headaches. Assessment of whether those temporal changes are present in clinical practice is necessary.
Protracted headache after COVID‐19: A case series of 31 patients from a tertiary headache center
Authors: Moskatel Leon S. , Smirnoff Liza
Published: June 2022

Background

Headache can be a prominent feature of Post‐Acute Sequelae of SARS‐Cov2 infection (PASC) and previous studies have centered around PASC headaches that have resolved within a month of infection.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of 31 adults evaluated at the Stanford Headache Clinic between September 2020 and January 2022 who developed new or worsening headaches after COVID‐19 infection that were unresolved at time of evaluation for demographics, medical history, and headache diagnosis.

Results

Headache had been present for a mean duration of 7.4±4.8 months after infection. Notably, 25/31 (81%) had a previous history of headache. The specific features of the headache varied considerably, but 23/31 (74%) met International Classification of Headache Disorders, Third Edition (ICHD‐3) criteria for migraine, with 20/31 (65%) meeting ICHD‐3 criteria for chronic migraine, while only 5/31 (16%) met these criteria before COVID infection. Additionally, full‐time employment decreased from 25/31 (81%) to 17/31 (55%). Prior to establishing care at our clinic, 13/18 (72%) of the patients who were started on preventive medications currently indicated for migraine management, reported a decrease in frequency and/or severity of headaches.

Conclusions

Our study presents a group of patients with protracted headache after COVID‐19 infection that includes both patients with a previously lower headache burden who largely exhibited chronification from episodic to chronic migraine, as well as patients with no previous history of headache who meet ICHD‐3 criteria for headache attributed to a systemic viral illness, mostly with a migrainous phenotype.
Effectiveness of root canal instrumentation for the treatment of apical periodontitis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bürklein Sebastian , Arias Ana
Published: June 2022

Background

The development of endodontic instruments has rapidly advanced, but their impact on endodontic outcome parameters remains unclear.

Objectives

This systematic review aimed to answer the following PICOT questions: In patients with apical periodontitis (P) what is the effectiveness of root canal instrumentation ([Q1] performed with contemporary techniques [I] in comparison with ‘traditional’ techniques [C]] and ([Q2] performed with contemporary engine‐driven NiTi instruments [I] compared with other types of contemporary engine‐driven NiTi instruments [with different design and/or technology] [C]) in terms of clinical and patient‐related outcomes (O)?

Methods

After PROSPERO protocol registration, a literature search was conducted using Clarivate Analytics' Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Grey literature and major journal contents were examined. Two independent reviewers performed the study selection, data extraction and appraisal of included studies. A quantitative meta‐analysis was considered, and statistical heterogeneity and overall quality of evidence were assessed.

Results

Nine studies were identified showing substantial methodological differences. Five studies addressed PICOT 1 and three PICOT 2, whereas one study aimed both. A random‐effects meta‐analysis model was considered for the outcome ‘radiographic evidence of normal periodontal ligament space or reduction of apical lesion size’ (PICOT 1) based on three studies with 332 evaluable participants and showed that contemporary instrumentation was associated with a more favourable outcome (p = .005) compared with root canal preparation with stainless steel instruments (odds ratio = 2.07 [95%‐confidence interval = 1.25–3.44]) with no evidence of statistical heterogeneity (I2 = 0%) but low quality of evidence.

Discussion

Albeit a few studies fulfilled eligible criteria, no study had a low risk of bias. Compelling evidence indicating significantly different outcome rates using different endodontic instruments when treating teeth with apical periodontitis is lacking.

Conclusions

In terms of healing, the results of the meta‐analysis determined the higher effectiveness of root canal instrumentation performed with contemporary techniques in comparison with conventional stainless steel instruments in patients with apical periodontitis followed for a minimum of 1 year with low quality of evidence. No differences could be demonstrated between preparations with traditional stainless steel and contemporary NiTi instruments for other clinical and patient‐related outcomes.

Registration

PROSPERO (CRD42021274642).
Activités essentielles, télétravail et surveillance numérique: l'effet panoptique de la pandémie
Authors: ALOISI Antonio , DE STEFANO Valerio
Published: June 2022

Avec la pandémie, les pratiques de surveillance numérique ont explosé sur les lieux de travail physiques et virtuels, modifiant les rapports de force professionnels, au profit de l'employeur. Tant les travailleurs essentiels que les télétravailleurs ont fait les frais de cette évolution, qui risque de survivre à la crise. Dans ce contexte, les auteurs s'interrogent sur l'adéquation du cadre juridique européen sur la protection des données. Pour eux, le dialogue social, l'autonomisation des travailleurs et la maîtrise des techniques numériques figurent parmi les moyens à mobiliser pour améliorer la protection des travailleurs tout en promouvant la flexibilité, le bien‐être et la compétitivité.
Outcomes of thrombus aspiration during primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST‐elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Rajakariar Kevin , Andrianopoulos Nick , Gayed Daniel , Liang Danlu , Backhouse Brendan , Ajani Andrew E. , Duffy Stephen J. , Brennan Angela , Roberts Louise , Reid Christopher M. , Oqueli Ernesto , Clark David , Freeman Melanie
Published: June 2022

Background

Previous large multi‐centre randomised controlled trials have not provided clear benefit with routine intracoronary thrombus aspiration (TA) as an adjunct to primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Aim

To determine whether there is a difference in outcomes with the use of manual TA prior to PCI, compared with PCI alone in a cohort of patients with STEMI.

Methods

We analysed data from 6270 consecutive patients undergoing primary PCI for STEMI prospectively enrolled in the Melbourne Interventional Group registry between 2007 and 2018. Multivariable analysis was performed to determine predictors of 30‐day major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) and long‐term mortality.

Results

We compared 1621 (26%) patients undergoing primary PCI with TA to 4649 (74%) patients undergoing PCI alone. Male gender (81% vs 78%; P < 0.01), younger age (61 vs 63 years; P = 0.03), GP‐IIb/IIIa use (76% vs 58%, P < 0.01), and current smoking (40% vs 36%; P < 0.01) were more common in the TA group. TA was more likely to be used in patients with complex lesions (83% vs 66%; P < 0.01) with TIMI 0 flow (77% vs 56%; P < 0.01). No significant difference in post‐procedural TIMI flow, stroke, 30‐day mortality, or long‐term mortality were identified. Multivariable analysis demonstrated a reduction in 30‐day MACCE (hazard ratio (HR) 0.75; confidence interval (CI) 0.63–0.89; P < 0.01) in the TA group, but was not associated with long‐term mortality (HR 0.98; CI 0.85–1.1; P = 0.73).

Conclusion

The use of TA in patients undergoing primary PCI for STEMI was not associated with improved short or long‐term mortality when compared with PCI alone.
Compliance with Therapeutic Goods Association prescribing information: weekly or second weekly cetuximab for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Loft Matthew , Shapiro Jeremy , Lee Margaret , Wong Rachel , Tie Jeanne , Kosmider Suzanne , Wong Vanessa , Jalali Azim , Lee Belinda , Ananda Sumitra S. , Gibbs Peter
Published: June 2022

Background

Treatment with cetuximab provides a survival benefit for patients with RAS wild‐type metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Practice‐defining cetuximab studies utilised weekly (q1w) administration. More convenient second weekly (q2w) administration is supported by pharmacokinetic data and a recent meta‐analysis, but large head‐to‐head studies have not been conducted. Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA) prescribing information states cetuximab be administered q1w for all indications.

Aim

To assess the real‐world use of q1w versus q2w cetuximab schedule and any difference in outcomes.

Methods

We analysed data from a prospective mCRC database at seven Melbourne hospitals from January 2010 to August 2019. Characteristics and outcomes for cetuximab‐treated patients were examined, comparing q1w versus q2w schedules. Progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were the primary endpoints.

Results

Of 214 eligible patients, 103 (48%) received q1w and 111 (52%) received q2w cetuximab. Q2w cetuximab has been used in >70% of patients from 2015. Q2w was more commonly used in public patients (70% vs 13% in private, P < 0.001), in left‐sided primary tumours (83% vs 68%, P = 0.025) and in combination with chemotherapy (73% q2w vs 40% q1w, P < 0.001). Q2w treatment was less common in BRAFV600E mutated tumours (4% vs 13%, P = 0.001). PFS was similar across all lines of therapy, including when analyses were limited to a left‐sided primary and there was no difference in OS in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

This real‐world analysis shows q2w cetuximab has become the dominant method of administration, despite TGA guidance. Our outcome data adds to other data supporting the use of q2w cetuximab as the standard option. Consideration could be given to modifying current TGA advice.
Effect of body mass index on surgical site wound infection, mortality, and postoperative hospital stay in subjects undergoing possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Qiao Yating , Zhang Tao , Bai Tianliang , Peng Xinyu , Lin Hengxue , Zhang Aimin
Published: June 2022

We performed a meta‐analysis to evaluate the effect of body mass index on surgical site wound infection, mortality, and postoperative hospital stay in subjects undergoing possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer. A systematic literature search up to March 2022 was performed and 2247 subjects with possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer at the baseline of the studies; 2889 of them were obese, and 9358 were non‐obese. Odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the effect of body mass index on surgical site wound infection, mortality, and postoperative hospital stay in subjects undergoing possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer using the dichotomous or contentious methods with a random or fixed‐effect model. The obese subjects had a significantly higher surgical site wound infection after colorectal surgery (OR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.62‐2.15, P < .001), and higher mortality (OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.07‐2.32, P = .02) in subjects with possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer compared with non‐obese. However, obese did not show any significant difference in postoperative hospital stay (MD, 0.81; 95% CI, −0.030 to 1.92, P = .15) compared with non‐obese in subjects with possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer. The obese subjects had a significantly higher surgical site wound infection after colorectal surgery, higher mortality, and no significant difference in postoperative hospital stay compared with non‐obese in subjects with possibly curative surgery for colorectal cancer. The analysis of outcomes should be with caution because of the low number of studies in certain comparisons.
Clinicopathological‐genetic features of congenital myasthenic syndrome from a Chinese neuromuscular centre
Authors: Huang Kun , Duan Hui‐Qian , Li Qiu‐Xiang , Luo Yue‐Bei , Bi Fang‐Fang , Yang Huan
Published: June 2022

Congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) encompasses a heterogeneous group of inherited disorders affecting nerve transmission across the neuromuscular junction. The aim of this study was to characterize the clinical, physiological, pathohistological and genetic features of nine unrelated Chinese patients with CMS from a single neuromuscular centre. A total of nine patients aged from neonates to 34 years were enrolled who exhibited initial symptoms. Physical examinations revealed that all patients exhibited muscle weakness. Muscle biopsies demonstrated multiple myopathological changes, including increased fibre size variation, myofibrillar network disarray, necrosis, myofiber grouping, regeneration, fibre atrophy and angular fibres. Genetic testing revealed six different mutated genes, including AGRN (2/9), CHRNE (1/9), GFPT1 (1/9), GMPPB (1/9), PLEC (3/9) and SCN4A (1/9). In addition, patients exhibited differential responses to pharmacological treatment. Prompt utilization of genetic testing will identify novel variants and expand our understanding of the phenotype of this rare syndrome. Our findings contribute to the clinical, pathohistological and genetic spectrum of congenital myasthenic syndrome in China.
A resting‐state fMRI study of temporal lobe epilepsy using multivariate pattern analysis and Granger causality analysis
Authors: Hao Siyao , Duan Ying , Qi Lei , Li Zhimei , Ren Jiechuan , Nangale Naluyele , Yang Chunlan
Published: June 2022

Background and Purpose

Understanding the pathogenesis of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is essential for its diagnosis and treatment. The study aimed to explore regional homogeneity (ReHo) and changes in effective connectivity (EC) between brain regions in TLE patients, hoping to discover potential abnormalities in certain brain regions in TLE patients.

Methods

Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance data were collected from 23 TLE patients and 32 normal controls (NC). ReHo was used as a feature of multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) to explore the ability of its alterations in identifying TLE. Based on the results of the MVPA, certain brain regions were selected as seed points to further explore alterations in EC between brain regions using Granger causality analysis.

Results

MVPA results showed that the classification accuracy for the TLE and NC groups was 87.27%, and the right posterior cerebellum lobe, right lingual gyrus (LING_R), right cuneus (CUN_R), and left superior temporal gyrus (STG_L) provided significant contributions. Moreover, the EC from STG_L to right fusiform gyrus (FFG_R) and LING_R and the EC from CUN_R to the right occipital superior gyrus (SOG_R) and right occipital middle gyrus (MOG_R) were altered compared to the NC group.

Conclusion

The MVPA results indicated that ReHo abnormalities in brain regions may be an important feature in the identification of TLE. The enhanced EC from STG_L to FFG_R and LING_R indicates a shift in language processing to the right hemisphere, and the weakened EC from SOG_R and MOG_R to CUN_R may reveal an underlying mechanism of TLE.
Susceptibility source separation from gradient echo data using magnitude decay modeling
Authors: Dimov Alexey V. , Nguyen Thanh D. , Gillen Kelly M. , Marcille Melanie , Spincemaille Pascal , Pitt David , Gauthier Susan A. , Wang Yi
Published: June 2022

Background and Purpose

The objective is to demonstrate feasibility of separating magnetic sources in quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) by incorporating magnitude decay rates in gradient echo (GRE) MRI.

Methods

Magnetic susceptibility source separation was developed using and compared with a prior method using that required an additional sequence to measure the transverse relaxation rate R2. Both susceptibility separation methods were compared in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients (n = 17). Susceptibility values of negative sources estimated with ‐based source separation in a set of enhancing MS lesions (n = 44) were correlated against longitudinal myelin water fraction (MWF) changes.

Results

In in vivo data, linear regression of the estimated and susceptibility values between the ‐ and the ‐based separation methods performed across 182 segmented lesions revealed correlation coefficient r = .96 and slope close .99. Correlation analysis in enhancing lesions revealed a significant positive association between the increase at 1‐year post‐onset relative to 0 year and the MWF increase at 1 year relative to 0 year (β = ‐0.144, 95% confidence interval: [–0.199, –0.1], p = .0008) and good agreement between and methods (r = .79, slope = .95).

Conclusions

Separation of magnetic sources based solely on GRE complex data is feasible by combining magnitude decay rate modeling and phase‐based QSM and change may serve as a biomarker for myelin recovery or damage in acute MS lesions.
Care coordination for children with medical complexity and caregiver empowerment in the process: A literature review
Authors: Van Orne Julie
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Advances in health care have led to an increase in infants and children being discharged home with increasingly complex conditions. Children with medical complexity require care from many physicians and specialties to thrive in their home environment. While some care coordination programs are in place, these programs are often dependent upon the child living within the geographic area of a major healthcare system. Additionally, children with medical complexity often need specialized care from providers outside the participating healthcare system, placing the onus of care coordination on the child's family. This literature review aimed to examine care coordination programs for children with medical complexity and what tools have been created to empower the child's family in the process.

Method

Qualitative and quantitative research studies published from 2015 to 2021 found in Academic Search Complete, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Medline that included a review of a care coordination program for children with medical complexity were included. Nonresearch articles, articles written about adults, or written in languages other than English were excluded. The Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence‐Based Practice grading scale was used to appraise the evidence. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) checklist was utilized to structure this review to deter the risk of bias. A qualitative synthesis was used to analyze and present the results.

Conclusions

There are varying strategies used to facilitate care coordination of children with medical complexity. Effects of care coordination on the child are inconsistent; however, the child's caregiver considers high‐quality care coordination to improve quality of life. There are limited tools available for caregivers of children with medical complexity to coordinate their child's care across healthcare systems. Generalizability is a concern due to the small sample sizes of studies and underrepresentation of non‐English speaking families in the research. Risk of bias is possible due to highly engaged families willing to participate in the selected research studies.

Practice Implications

There is an opportunity to develop further and study care coordination tools to empower the caregivers of children with medical complexity.
A novel strategy for improving watermelon resistance to cucumber green mottle mosaic virus by exogenous boron application
Authors: Bi Xinyue , Guo Huiyan , Li Xiaodong , Zheng Lijiao , An Mengnan , Xia Zihao , Wu Yuanhua
Published: June 2022

The molecular mode controlling cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV)‐induced watermelon blood flesh disease (WBFD) is largely unknown. In this study, we have found that application of exogenous boron suppressed CGMMV infection in watermelon fruit and alleviated WBFD symptoms. Our transcriptome analysis showed that the most up‐regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were associated with polyamine and auxin biosynthesis, abscisic acid catabolism, defence‐related pathways, cell wall modification, and energy and secondary metabolism, while the down‐regulated DEGs were mostly involved in ethylene biosynthesis, cell wall catabolism, and plasma membrane functions. Our virus‐induced gene silencing results showed that silencing of SPDS expression in watermelon resulted in a higher putrescine content and an inhibited CGMMV infection correlating with no WBFD symptoms. SBT and TUBB1 were also required for CGMMV infection. In contrast, silencing of XTH23 and PE/PEI7 (low‐level lignin, cellulose and pectin) and ATPS1 (low‐level glutathione) promoted CGMMV accumulation. Furthermore, RAP2‐3, MYB6, WRKY12, H2A, and DnaJ11 are likely to participate in host antiviral resistance. In addition, a higher (spermidine + spermine):putrescine ratio, malondialdehyde content, and lactic acid content were responsible for fruit decay and acidification. Our results provide new knowledge on the roles of boron in watermelon resistance to CGMMV‐induced WBFD. This new knowledge can be used to design better control methods for CGMMV in the field and to breed CGMMV resistant watermelon and other cucurbit crops.
Candidiasis presenting as pseudocircinate balanitis in a preschooler
Authors: Mehta Hitaishi , Devana Sudheer Kumar , Gupta Smriti , De Dipankar , Mahajan Rahul
Published: June 2022

Candidal balanitis typically affects sexually active adult males and may present as eroded papules, pustules, whitish discharge or erythema with dry glazed appearance. We report an unusual presentation of this common infection in an uncommon demographic, candidal balanitis presenting as coalescent vesicles and erosions arranged in an arcuate pattern in a pre‐school child.