bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screening, characterization and growth of γ-aminobutyric acid-producing probiotic candidates from food origin under simulated colonic conditions
Authors: Mousavi Rojaalsadat , Mottawea Walid , Hassan Hebatoallah , Gomaa Ahmed , Audet Marie-Claude , Hammami Riadh
Published: March 2022

Aims

This study aims to isolate probiotic bacteria candidates from various starter cultures and fermented foods and characterize their ability to produce γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is a major inhibitory neuromediator of the central and enteric nervous systems with a role in several health disorders.

Methods and Results

Fourteen strains of lactic acid bacteria were isolated from food environment and screened for the presence of the glutamate decarboxylase (gadB) gene using PCR and GAD enzymatic assay. The identified potent GABA-producers included Strep. thermophilus, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lact. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus. GC-FID analyses confirmed the high GABA production capacity of Strep. thermophilus ST16 (1641.5 ± 154.15 μmol l−1), Strep. thermophilus ST8 (1724.5 ± 48.08 μmol/L). To a lesser extent, Bif. animalis ST20, Lact. acidophilus LP16-2 and Ent. faecium ST3 produced 947.5 ± 70.71, 918.0 ± 121.42, and 907.83 ± 55.15 μmol/L of GABA, respectively. These potent strains were able to grow and produce GABA in MRS broth and pre-fermented Macfarlane broth, the latter medium mimicking the nutrient and metabolome composition encountered in the colon. The identified bioactive strains exhibited strong biological safety and probiotic potential profiles as indicated by sensitivity to antibiotics, absence of virulence factors and survival in gastrointestinal conditions.

Conclusions

Several GABA producing probiotic candidates, including Bif. animals ST20, Strep. thermophilus ST8, Lact. acidophilus LP16-2, L. plantarum LP6 & LP9, and Ent. faecium ST3, have shown potential to grow under simulated colonic conditions.

Significance and Impact of Study

Findings from this study provide evidence of the suitability of the isolated GABA-producing probiotic candidates for the development of health-oriented functional food products.
Intellectual/developmental disabilities among people incarcerated in federal correctional facilities in Ontario, Canada: Examining prevalence, health and correctional characteristics
Authors: Matheson Flora I. , Dastoori Parisa , Whittingham Lisa , Calzavara Andrew , Keown Leslie A. , Durbin Anna , Kouyoumdjian Fiona G. , Lin Elizabeth , Volpe Tiziana , Lunsky Yona
Published: March 2022

Background

There is little research with people who experience intellectual/developmental disabilities and imprisonment.

Methods

The study linked health and correctional data to examine prevalence of intellectual/developmental disabilities and health and correctional characteristics among adults experiencing their first federal incarceration between 1 January 2002 and 31 December 2011 (n = 9278) and two non‐incarcerated groups (n = 10,086,802).

Results

The prevalence of intellectual/developmental disabilities was 2.1% in the incarcerated group and 0.9% in the non‐incarcerated group. Before incarceration, those with, versus without, intellectual/developmental disabilities were at greater risk of traumatic brain injury, mental illness, and substance use disorders. While incarcerated, those with intellectual/developmental disabilities were more likely to incur serious institutional disciplinary charges. Post‐incarceration, persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities were at greater risk of emergency department visits, and psychiatric and acute hospitalizations, than the non‐incarcerated groups.

Conclusions

People with intellectual/developmental disabilities are overrepresented in Canadian federal correctional institutions. The authors offer strategies to support people prior to, during, and post‐incarceration.
Optimal candidates for early colonoscopy in the management of acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Saino Masachika , Aoyama Taiki , Yamane Masahiro , Masuda Satoshi , Nomura Risa , Shigita Kenjiro , Asayama Naoki , Fukumoto Akira , Mukai Shinichi , Nagata Shinji
Published: March 2022

Background and Aim

Early colonoscopy has not shown any advantages over elective colonoscopy in reducing the risk of early rebleeding (≤ 30 days) after acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (ALGIB). Considering the heterogeneity among patients with ALGIB, we sought to evaluate appropriate candidates for early colonoscopy.

Methods

A total of 592 patients with ALGIB were enrolled, and the clinical outcomes of early colonoscopy were investigated. Thereafter, the participants were divided into two groups: the recent bleeding group (n = 445), with hematochezia 0–6 h before hospital arrival, and non‐recent bleeding group (n = 147). The clinical outcomes yielded by early colonoscopy were assessed in each group.

Results

The multivariate analysis including the entire population revealed that early colonoscopy (< 24 h) did not reduce the risk of early rebleeding (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.55–1.39). However, in the subgroup analysis, early colonoscopy independently reduced the risk of early rebleeding in the recent bleeding group (AOR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.33–0.94). Moreover, a reduction in the need for radiological or surgical intervention (AOR, 0.34), transfusion (AOR, 0.62), and prolonged hospitalization (AOR, 0.42), as well as improvement in diagnostic yield (AOR, 1.78) and endoscopic treatment rates (AOR, 1.66), were observed. Early colonoscopy did not improve the outcomes of the non‐recent bleeding group.

Conclusions

Early colonoscopy is not required for all patients with ALGIB. However, it may be suitable for those with hematochezia 0–6 h before hospital arrival, as it reduces early rebleeding and improves clinical outcomes.
Calculated phase equilibria for high‐pressure serpentinites and compositionally related rocks close to the MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O (MASH) system
Authors: Rebay Gisella , Powell Roger , Holland Tim J. B.
Published: March 2022

The metamorphic evolution of serpentinite has a fundamental bearing on geochemical cycles, mechanical behaviour and seismic properties of the Earth. Phase equilibria in the system MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O (MASH) provide a ‘backbone’ for phase equilibria in larger systems that are applicable to serpentinites and also many whiteschists. Phase equilibria for MASH, and departures from MASH, are calculated using the Holland and Powell data set,tc‐ds62, and new activity–composition relations for antigorite and talc. Phase relations are presented usingPTprojections and compatibility diagrams to highlight the role ofP,Tand composition on the equilibrium mineral assemblages stable in these chemical systems at high pressure. These phase relations provide the context for pseudosection and other modelling focused on individual rock compositions.
Preliminary assessment of gastrointestinal parasites of the sun‐tailed monkey (Allochrocebus solatus) in a semi‐free‐ranging colony
Authors: Dibakou Serge‐Ely , Ngoubangoye Barthélémy , Boundenga Larson , Ntie Stephan , Moussadji Cyr , Tsoumbou Thierry‐Audrey , Setchell Joanna M.
Published: March 2022

Background

The occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in the sun‐tailed monkey (Allochrocebus solatus) at the CIRMF primatology center is unknown. We, therefore, assessed the presence and richness (number of different parasite taxa) of gastrointestinal parasites in a semi‐free‐ranging colony of A. solatus.

Methods

A total of 46 fecal samples were screened using a modified McMaster technique for fecal egg counts.

Results

In the 46 samples collected, seven taxa of gastrointestinal parasites, including protozoa and nematodes were identified. The most prevalent parasite was strongyles parasites (98%), followed by Trichuris spp. (72%), Strongyloides spp. (67%) and Entamoeba coli (65%). Balantioides coli (33%), Endolimax nana (25%), and Spirurid eggs (26%) were only found in a minority of the animals.

Conclusions

This study contributes new host records of gastrointestinal parasites in semi‐free‐ranging A. solatus and highlights the need to investigate the health of this species and implement proper precautions in the management of this colony.
Understanding the nursing practices and perspectives of transfusion reaction reporting
Authors: Miao Wenxin , Sibbald Shannon L. , Law Benson , Solh Ziad
Published: March 2022

Aims and Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate nurse perspectives on transfusion‐related adverse reaction reporting practices.

Background

Transfusion‐related adverse reaction reporting is an essential component of hemovigilance in Canada, but reporting rates vary and under‐reporting of minor transfusion‐related adverse reactions exists. To our knowledge, this is the first report of nursing transfusion‐related adverse reaction reporting attitudes.

Design

This qualitative descriptive study explored the nursing practices and perspectives of transfusion‐related adverse reaction reporting by conducting one‐on‐one interviews with nurses (n = 25) working in adult oncology inpatient and outpatient units.

Methods

Data were thematically analysed; data collection ended when saturation was reached. The COREQ checklist was used to guide this study.

Results

The study revealed that the nursing practices of transfusion‐related adverse reaction reporting are not standardised to meet the institutional reporting guidelines. Under‐reporting of febrile reactions exists at this institution. Major concepts uncovered included the factors impacting nurses' transfusion‐related reporting practices, as well as barriers and facilitators to transfusion reporting.

Conclusion

A practice change in transfusion‐related adverse reaction reporting is needed to achieve optimal hemovigilance at this institution. Using the barriers and facilitators identified in this study, institutions can better inform future interventions by employing strategies like TR reporting education in order to improve reporting of transfusion‐related adverse reactions in this hospital and other similar institutions.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study informs clinical practice and decision‐making for nurses and nursing educators who manage blood transfusion administration procedures.
Downstream Cross‐Holdings and Upstream R&D*
Authors: Hu Qing , Monden Aika , Mizuno Tomomichi
Published: March 2022

Cross‐holdings affect firms’ behavior in other vertically related markets. We consider a vertical market with two downstream firms and an upstream firm engaging in cost‐reducing R&D. Since downstream cross‐holdings weaken downstream competition, the upstream firm also decreases its investment. Hence, we find that as the degree of downstream cross‐holdings increases, input price increases and investment level decreases. Although cross‐holdings have this negative effect on downstream firms’ profits, they increase the downstream firms’ profits if the investment technology is inefficient. Finally, we show that with inefficient upstream investment, total surplus increases with cross‐holdings, while consumer surplus always decreases with cross‐holdings.
What Determines Heterogeneous Merger Effects on Competitive Outcomes?*
Authors: Siebert Ralph B.
Published: March 2022

We examine whether heterogeneous merger effects predominantly stem from technological or product market heterogeneities. Using detailed firm and product‐specific information, we employ a heterogeneous merger effects model. Our results show that merging firms realize substantial heterogeneous post‐merger effects on competitive outcomes such as production or prices. Merger effects vary substantially across merging firms, depending on the firms' pre‐merger efficiency levels, price elasticities, and innovative activities. Firms' efficiency level and price elasticities prior to merging determine large post‐merger heterogeneities. The results show that product market attributes (differences in inefficiencies and price elasticities) cause larger post‐merger heterogeneities compared with technology market attributes.
Welfare Improving Horizontal Mergers in Successive Oligopoly*
Authors: Ghosh Arghya , Morita Hodaka , Wang Chengsi
Published: March 2022

We study welfare effects of horizontal mergers in a successive oligopoly model with general demand. We find that downstream mergers can increase welfare if they reduce input price. In an environment with asymmetric upstream firms, lower input price reallocates some input production from cost‐inefficient upstream firms to cost‐efficient ones. In the presence of fixed cost and free entry, lower input price rationalizes the upstream sector and decreases average cost of production for each upstream firm. Both reallocation and rationalization can improve welfare. We identify necessary and sufficient conditions for welfare‐improving horizontal mergers and explore how demand curvature, market structure and Herfindahl index (in case of asymmetric firms) affect these conditions. The possibility of consumer surplus improvement and upstream mergers is also explored.
Potential Pathways From Peer Victimization to Alcohol Use Among Biracial Adolescents: The Intervening Role of Parental Support
Authors: Hong Jun Sung , Yan Yueqi , Clark Goings Trenette T. , Takahashi Lois M. , Tabb Karen M. , Voisin Dexter R.
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

This study examined pathways from peer victimization to alcohol use and the role of parental support in mediating potential peer effects among biracial youth. Given a significant dearth of research on biracial youth, this study addresses this significant gap in the extant literature.

METHODS

Secondary data analyses were conducted using the Health Behavior in School‐Aged Children (HBSC) study in the United States. This study enrolled 492 self‐identified biracial school‐aged youth using a nationally representative sampling of public and private schools.

RESULTS

Structural equation modeling was computed to test the mediational effects of low number of close friends, affiliation with delinquent friends, and parental support on alcohol use. Major findings indicated that affiliation with delinquent friends was correlated with higher alcohol use, higher levels of parental support were correlated with lower peer victimization, and higher levels of parental support were negatively correlated with affiliation with delinquent peers and alcohol use.

CONCLUSIONS

Parental and peer effects remain salient for biracial youth who are navigating adolescence and experiencing peer victimization. School‐based interventions that include parents and friends of biracial youth are likely to be effective in reducing peer victimization and its negative sequelae.
Assessment of physicochemical, rheological, and thermal properties of Indian rice cultivars: Implications on the extrusion characteristics
Authors: Bhati Dolly , Singh Baljit , Singh Arashdeep , Sharma Savita , Pandiselvam Ravi
Published: March 2022

The implications of physicochemical, rheological, and thermal properties of seven eminent Indian rice cultivars (PR 114, 121, 122, 123, 124, 126, and 127) on the extrusion behavior and physico‐functionalities of the extrudates were investigated. The amylose and amylopectin content of the cultivars ranged between 12.72 to 28.86% and 71.14 to 87.28% in addition with protein and crude fat content that varied from 7.05 to 9.15% and 0.49 to 1.17%, respectively. The onset (r = 0.98), peak (r = 0.95), and conclusion (r = 0.98) temperatures of the cultivars were in positive correlation with amylose. Likewise, pasting temperature (r = 0.979), final viscosity (r = 0.91), set back viscosity (r = 0.89), and stability ratio (r = 0.90) of the cultivars demonstrated a significant positive correlation with the amylose content. However, peak (r = − 0.879) and hold viscosity (r = − 0.89) were negatively correlated. The cultivars were extruded at feed moisture of 15%, screw speed of 500 rpm and barrel temperature of 150°C. The extrudates characteristics viz., expansion ratio—1.82 (PR 123); bulk density—184 g/cc (PR 123); specific mechanical energy—262.35 Wh/kg; water absorption index (WAI)—6.26 (PR 122); water solubility index—48.52% (PR 123); hardness—148.63 N (PR 122); and hydration power—284% (PR 122) were viably hyphenated with the physicochemical and rheological behavior of cultivars. The physico‐functional characterization of the extrudates in terms of their starch and protein structural indexes, α‐amylase susceptibility; water soluble carbohydrates and proteins revealed the possibility of exploring these cultivars as a functionally viable and diverse ingredient for the production of ready‐to‐eat extrudates.
Antimicrobial discontinuation in dogs with acute aspiration pneumonia based on clinical improvement and normalization of C‐reactive protein concentration
Authors: Fernandes Rodrigues Nina , Giraud Léna , Bolen Géraldine , Fastrès Aline , Clercx Cécile , Gommeren Kris , Billen Frédéric
Published: March 2022

Background

Evidence regarding optimal treatment duration in dogs with aspiration pneumonia (AP) and the role of thoracic radiographs (TXR) and lung ultrasonography (LUS) in the long‐term follow‐up of affected dogs is lacking. C‐reactive protein (CRP) is a reliable acute phase protein to monitor bacterial pneumonia in dogs.

Hypothesis

Investigate the safety of antimicrobial discontinuation based on clinical improvement and serum CRP normalization, as well as the usefulness of TXR and LUS for follow‐up.

Animals

Dogs diagnosed with AP and treated with antimicrobials.

Methods

Prospective observational study. Antimicrobials were discontinued based on clinical improvement and serum CRP normalization after 1, 3, or 5 weeks. At each consultation, a quality‐of‐life questionnaire, physical examination, serum CRP, TXR, and LUS were assessed. Short‐ (2 weeks) and long‐term (>1 month) follow‐ups after treatment discontinuation were performed to monitor for possible relapses.

Results

Seventeen dogs were included. Antimicrobials were discontinued after 1 week in 12 dogs (70.6%) and 3 weeks in the remaining 5 dogs (29.4%). Short‐term relapse was not observed in any dog and long‐term relapse was diagnosed in 3 dogs. Thoracic radiographs and LUS were useful for diagnosis, but did not add additional information during follow‐up, because image normalization lagged behind clinical improvement and serum CRP normalization.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Dogs with AP can be safely and effectively treated using a short‐term antimicrobial regimen discontinued after clinical improvement and serum CRP normalization. Imaging might still be useful for complicated cases with a less favorable response to treatment.
Mycophenolate mofetil decreases humoral responses to three doses of SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine in liver transplant recipients
Authors: Meunier Lucy , Sanavio Mathilde , Dumortier Jérôme , Meszaros Magdalena , Faure Stéphanie , Ursic Bedoya José , Echenne Maxime , Boillot Olivier , Debourdeau Antoine , Pageaux Georges Philippe
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims

After 2 doses, the efficacy of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination seems to be lower in solid organ transplant recipients than in the immunocompetent population. The objective of this study was to determine the humoral response rate after vaccination, including with a booster dose, and to identify risk factors for non‐responsiveness in liver transplant recipients.

Methods

We included all patients seen in consultation in two French liver transplant centres between January 1, 2021, and March 15, 2021.

Results

598 liver transplant recipients were enrolled and 327 were included for analysis. Sixteen patients received one dose, 63 patients two doses and 248 patients three doses. Anti‐SARS‐Cov‐2 antibodies were detected in 242 out of 327 (74.0%) liver transplant patients after vaccination. Considering an optimal serologic response defined as an antibody titre >260 BAU/ml, 172 patients (52.6%) were responders. Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) treatment was an independent risk factor for a failure to develop anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies after vaccination (OR 0.458; 95%CI 0.258–0.813; p = .008). Conversely, male gender (OR 2.247, 95%CI 1.194–4.227; p = .012) and receiving an mRNA vaccine (vs a non‐mRNA vaccine) (OR 4.107, 95%CI 1.145–14.731; p = .030) were independent predictive factors for developing an optimal humoral response after vaccination. None of the patients who received the vaccine experienced any serious adverse events.

Conclusions

Even after a third booster dose, response rate to vaccination is decreased in liver transplant recipients. MMF appears to be a major determinant of seroconversion and optimal response to vaccination in these patients.
Prevalence of advanced hepatic fibrosis and comorbidity in metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease in Korea
Authors: Kim Mimi , Yoon Eileen L. , Cho Seon , Lee Chul‐min , Kang Bo‐Kyeong , Park Huiyul , Jun Dae Won , Nah Eun‐Hee
Published: March 2022

Background & Aims

There are several reports on the prevalence of metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). However, the prevalence of advanced hepatic fibrosis in MAFLD is largely unknown. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of advanced fibrosis in MAFLD.

Methods

A total of 6775 subjects from nationwide 13 health check‐up centres were included in this cross‐sectional study. Fatty liver was evaluated using ultrasonography. Significant (≥F2) and advanced (≥F3) hepatic fibrosis were defined by MRE thresholds of 3.0 kPa (range: 2.99–3.65 kPa) and 3.6 kPa (range: 3.4–3.9 kPa) respectively. The sex‐ and age‐standardized prevalence of MAFLD and hepatic fibrosis was estimated.

Results

The sex‐ and age‐standardized prevalence of MAFLD was 33.9%. The prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥25 kg/m2) in MAFLD was 71.1%, and 79.0% of obese subjects had MAFLD. The prevalence of diabetes in MAFLD was 13.3%, and 73.6% of subjects with diabetes had MAFLD. The sex‐ and age‐standardized prevalence of significant (≥F2) and advanced hepatic fibrosis (≥F3) amongst MAFLD was 9.7% (range: 3.0–9.8%) and 3.0% (range: 2.6–4.6%) respectively. The prevalence of advanced hepatic fibrosis in overweight/obese (group I), lean (group II) and diabetic (group III) MAFLD was 2.3%, 3.1% and 9.5% respectively.

Conclusion

The sex‐ and age‐standardized prevalence of advanced fibrosis was 3.0% (range: 2.6–4.6%) in subjects with MAFLD.
First report of the invasive Ceratium furcoides (dinoflagellate) in Paracambi Reservoir, Rio de Janeiro: Risks to the world's largest domestic water treatment plant
Authors: Corrêa Raphael Ferreira , Macêdo Rafael Lacerda , Fonseca Kauan Nunes , Thiago Mariana Guedes Ribeiro , Miranda Viviane Bernardes dos Santos , Orsi Mario Luis , Portugal Samira da Guia Mello , Branco Christina Wyss Castelo
Published: March 2022

Ceratium furcoides (Dinophyta) have gained international attention as invasive aquatic species, especially in South America, due to its fast proliferation into various aquatic systems and the subsequent adverse impacts on water quality and native biota. The present study reports the detection of dense populations of C. furcoides in the Paracambi Small Hydropower Plant (SHP) located in the Guandu River basin. Sampling was conducted at five sites during two sampling events in 2019 and 2020 during different seasons (spring and summer), respectively. We used two different standardized sampling methods, including surface collections (SS) (100‐ml) traditionally used for quantitative analysis of inland water phytoplankton, as well as filtration of 20‐L sub‐surface water (FS) through a zooplankton net. The cell densities were higher in SS (599 individuals/ml) than in FS (0.068 individuals/ml), possibly indicating a patchy distribution of Ceratium in the surface water layers. The total cell length exhibited high values (mean length of 249‐μm; mean width of 67‐μm), possibly accounting for water treatment impairment, an inability of zooplankton to consume them and/or fish gill clogging. This new observation within an extensively investigated area, and a source of water for nine million people, in the present study advocates for integrated samplings that also consider a search for cysts accumulated in the bottom sediments, as well as more detailed spatial and temporal investigations considering the salient features of C. furcoides’ populations.
Estimating the number of deaths averted from 2008 to 2020 within the Ethiopian CMAM programme
Authors: Laillou Arnaud , Baye Kaleab , Guerrero Oteyza Saul I. , Abebe Frezer , Daniel Tewoldeberha , Getahun Banchiliyew , Chitekwe Stanley
Published: March 2022

The management of wasting in Ethiopia is heavily reliant on the Community‐based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) programme that has been implemented in more than 18,000 service delivery points scattered across the country. Despite the full‐scale implementation of the CMAM, the number of child death averted, and the cost per child death averted remains unknown. This study aimed to estimate the cost and the number of child death averted by the CMAM programme between 2008 and 2020. Using data from routine monitoring of the CMAM programme, we estimated the excess mortality averted by the programme and estimated the cost per averted child death based on supply and labour. Over the past 13 years between 2008 and 2020, 3.6 million children under 5 years were admitted to the Ethiopian CMAM programme. The yearly average admission of 317,228 was achieved since 2011. On average, ~34,000 child deaths were averted yearly. The CMAM programme was estimated to have saved 437,654 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 320,161; 469,932) child deaths between 2008 and 2020, approximately 12% of the admitted cases. The average cost of the programme per adverted death was estimated at US$762/child death averted (95% CI = 639; 1001). The CMAM programme in Ethiopia is cost‐effective and has continued to avert a significant number of child death. Given the high short‐ and long‐term economic and health consequences of child wasting, concerted multi‐sectoral efforts are needed to accelerate progress not only in its treatment but also in its prevention.
Prevalence, risk factors, and interventions for obesity in Saudi Arabia: A systematic review
Authors: Salem Victoria , AlHusseini Noara , Abdul Razack Habeeb Ibrahim , Naoum Anastasia , Sims Omar T. , Alqahtani Saleh A.
Published: March 2022

Saudi Arabia (SA) has a reported obesity prevalence greater than the global average. Here, we systematically review firstly the prevalence and associated factors (59 studies) and secondly the pharmacological, lifestyle, and surgical interventions for obesity (body mass index, >30 kg/m2) in SA (29 studies) between December 2020 and March 2021 in PubMed, Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, and Cochrane. Peer‐reviewed articles in Arabic and English on human adults (aged >18 years) were searched. Among the eight largest studies with sample sizes over 10,000 people, the maximum‐reported obesity prevalence was 35.6%, with notable variations in gender and geographic region. Diet, specifically the move towards Western diet and heavy consumption of sugary beverages, and high levels of inactivity are major contributing factors to obesity. The reported obesity‐risk polymorphisms are not specific. Bariatric surgery is underrepresented, and in general, there is a lack of nationally coordinated studies on weight loss interventions. In particular, the systematic review did not find a body of research on psychological interventions. There is no trial data for the use of GLP‐1 analogs in SA, despite their widespread use. These findings can help policymakers, and practitioners prioritize future research efforts to reduce obesity prevalence in SA.
The medical profile of patients accessing emergency dental care: A comparative study
Authors: Gray Emma , Hedayat‐Kelishadi Melika , Rowe Sally , Dave Manas , Patel Neil
Published: March 2022

Introduction

As the life expectancy of the general population increases, the proportion of patients living with comorbidities and retaining their natural dentition will also increase. Therefore, the medical profile of patients is postulated to change with time.

Aim

The aim was to explore the changes in medical profiles of adult patients attending a University Dental Hospital for emergency dental care and scheduled oral surgery appointments compared to data from 9 years previously.

Methods

Data from 400 systematically sampled adult patients booked in for either emergency or oral surgery appointments between 1 October 2020 and 16 October 2020 were retrospectively recorded.

Results

From the 400 patients sampled, 67% (n = 267) had a single medical condition and 34% (n = 135) had more than one medical condition. This represented a respective increase of 34% and 11% from our study in 2011–2012. Cardiovascular, psychiatric and respiratory diseases were the most common presenting conditions. Sixty‐three percent of patients were taking a prescribed medication (increased by 29%) with the most common being antihypertensives, proton‐pump inhibitors/antacids and antidepressants.

Conclusion

There is an increase in patients presenting with medical conditions and medications. The results from this study can be used to develop courses and inform the undergraduate curriculum.
Successful percutaneous extraction of malpositioned pacemaker lead in the left ventricle after proper dabigatran treatment
Authors: Farouq Maiwand , Borgquist Rasmus , Brandt Johan , Mörtsell David , Wang Lingwei
Published: March 2022

Malpositioned pacemaker lead in the left ventricle (LV) is a rare procedural complication, which causes a special risk of thromboembolic events. Hence, prompt identification and early management of misplaced leads inside the LV is critical. Herein, we present a case of malpositioned pacemaker lead with transient ischemic attacks after the pacemaker implantation. The misplaced ventricular lead was discovered during regular echocardiography. Both leads were extracted percutaneously after dabigatran treatment. To our knowledge, this is the first report of uncomplicated percutaneous extraction of an inadvertently placed LV lead after dabigatran treatment. No neurologic events during a follow‐up of 4 years.
Prospects of telomere‐to‐telomere assembly in barley: Analysis of sequence gaps in the MorexV3 reference genome
Authors: Navrátilová Pavla , Toegelová Helena , Tulpová Zuzana , Kuo Yi‐Tzu , Stein Nils , Doležel Jaroslav , Houben Andreas , Šimková Hana , Mascher Martin
Published: March 2022

The first gapless, telomere‐to‐telomere (T2T) sequence assemblies of plant chromosomes were reported recently. However, sequence assemblies of most plant genomes remain fragmented. Only recent breakthroughs in accurate long‐read sequencing have made it possible to achieve highly contiguous sequence assemblies with a few tens of contigs per chromosome, that is a number small enough to allow for a systematic inquiry into the causes of the remaining sequence gaps and the approaches and resources needed to close them. Here, we analyse sequence gaps in the current reference genome sequence of barley cv. Morex (MorexV3). Optical map and sequence raw data, complemented by ChIP‐seq data for centromeric histone variant CENH3, were used to estimate the abundance of centromeric, ribosomal DNA, and subtelomeric repeats in the barley genome. These estimates were compared with copy numbers in the MorexV3 pseudomolecule sequence. We found that almost all centromeric sequences and 45S ribosomal DNA repeat arrays were absent from the MorexV3 pseudomolecules and that the majority of sequence gaps can be attributed to assembly breakdown in long stretches of satellite repeats. However, missing sequences cannot fully account for the difference between assembly size and flow cytometric genome size estimates. We discuss the prospects of gap closure with ultra‐long sequence reads.
Freedom and the open future
Authors: Cohen Yishai
Published: March 2022

I draw upon Helen Steward's concept of agential settling to argue that freedom requires an ability to change the truth‐value of tenseless future contingents over time from false to true and that this ability requires a metaphysically open future.
Who are “we”?: Animalism and conjoined twins
Authors: Francescotti Robert
Published: March 2022

Various cases of conjoined twinning have been presented as problems for the animalist view that we are animals. In some actual and possible cases of human dicephalus that have been discussed in the literature, it is arguable that there are two persons but only one human animal. It is also tempting to believe that there are two persons and one animal in possible instances of craniopagus parasiticus that have been described. Here it is argued that the animalist can admit that these are cases in which human persons are not animals, without forfeiting the title “animalist.” It is also shown that this is not only an option but also a well‐motivated and plausible option for the animalist. Seeing this requires getting clear on what the word “we” should be thought to include in the animalist's claim that we are animals. Here animalism is defended against twinning objections by figuring out how to view the scope of the animalist's identity claim.
Dynamic correlation between crude oil and agricultural futures markets
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Yan Bo , Kang Hanwen
Published: March 2022

In recent years, the relationship between agricultural commodities and crude oil has become increasingly close with the promotion of biofuel policies. This study examines the dynamic correlation between global crude oil futures and seven agricultural commodity futures by applying the consistent dynamic conditional correlation and dynamic equicorrelation models. The empirical results show that the dynamic correlation between the global crude oil futures market and China's agricultural futures market is weak compared to the global agricultural futures market. In particular, soybean oil has the strongest correlation with crude oil, while Dalian Commodity Exchange (DCE) corn and Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange wheat have the weakest correlation with crude oil. There is an indirect linkage between crude oil futures and DCE soybean meal and DCE soybean oil. Moreover, the dynamic correlation between crude oil and agricultural commodities increased during the financial crisis, the novel coronavirus (COVID‐19) epidemic, and the crude oil crash crisis. Brent crude oil has a stronger co‐movement with China's agricultural commodities than West Texas Intermediate crude oil and can better hedge the risk of agricultural commodities. The findings of this study provide some insights into the contagion risk management of crude oil futures and agricultural futures markets.
Secure Big Data Collection and Processing: Framework, Means and Opportunities
Authors: Zhang Li-Chun , Haraldsen Gustav
Published: March 2022

Statistical disclosure control is important for the dissemination of statistical outputs. There is an increasing need for greater confidentiality protection during data collection and processing by National Statistical Offices. In particular, various transactions and remote sensing signals are examples of useful but very detailed big data that can be highly sensitive. Moreover, possible conflicts of interest may arise for data suppliers who operate commercially. In this paper, we formulate statistical disclosure control for data collection and processing as an optimisation problem. Even when it is difficult to specify and solve the problem unequivocally, the formulation can still provide the basis for comparing different disclosure control methods. We develop a general compartmented system that adapts and implements non-perturbative methods in the related fields of linking sensitive data and secure computation. We illustrate how the system can be configured to yield variously required tables and microdata sets with sufficiently low disclosure risks.
Zero-State Coupled Markov Switching Count Models for Spatio-Temporal Infectious Disease Spread
Authors: Douwes-Schultz Dirk , Schmidt Alexandra M.
Published: March 2022

Spatio-temporal counts of infectious disease cases often contain an excess of zeros. With existing zero-inflated count models applied to such data it is difficult to quantify space-time heterogeneity in the effects of disease spread between areas. Also, existing methods do not allow for separate dynamics to affect the reemergence and persistence of the disease. As an alternative, we develop a new zero-state coupled Markov switching negative binomial model, under which the disease switches between periods of presence and absence in each area through a series of partially hidden nonhomogeneous Markov chains coupled between neighbouring locations. When the disease is present, an autoregressive negative binomial model generates the cases with a possible zero representing the disease being undetected. Bayesian inference and prediction is illustrated using spatio-temporal counts of dengue fever cases in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
´You are not yourself anymore´: The place of the ethical demand in a practical home care context
Authors: Jakobsen Lena M. , Lind Ranveig
Published: March 2022

The study's rationale

The Scandinavian nursing tradition is based on caring science as the ontological backdrop. This means that meeting the patient with openness and respect is essential in care. The experiences of an elderly woman receiving home nursing provide insight into a world many healthcare workers need to understand; meaning what is important in the encounter with the fragile old patient whose voice is not often heard in the society nor in research. Caring science with its person‐oriented care clashes with the New Public Management's ideal for municipal health care in Norway, at the expense of the needs of the elderly patients.

Aims and objectives

This article aims to express the phenomenon of lived experience as presented by an elderly woman, more specifically her experience of care in home nursing run according to the principles of new public management.

Methodological design

The article is based on an empirical narrative in the form of an individual qualitative research interview.

Findings

The patient has needs that cannot be defined without the nurse having an ethical understanding of what may be important in the patient´s lifeworld. The core findings are: Feeling disregarded as a human being, Broken agreements, Surrendering in anonymous relationships and Each day is a different day with altered needs.

Conclusion

The system of New Public Management sets a strain on the time at hand for the nurse to develop a relationship that acknowledges and supports the patient´s life courage. The ethical demand and care ethics can explain how the patient´s will to live can be preserved, and provide knowledge of how the caregiver can best attend to the patient's ways of expressing what is important to her. Nevertheless, within the time at disposal, the nurse has an opportunity to either marginalize or strengthen the old person´s dignity.
Application of minority stress and the interpersonal theory of suicide in bisexual+ versus gay/lesbian young adults
Authors: Chang Cindy J. , Feinstein Brian A. , Chu Brian C. , Selby Edward A.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Sexual minority young adults are at increased risk for suicidal ideation (SI) compared with heterosexual young adults. Though several frameworks exist to explain the development of suicide risk, including the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS) and the Minority Stress Model, few studies have examined these frameworks simultaneously. This study examines these frameworks longitudinally among sexual minority young adults.

Methods

A total of 792 sexual minority young adults (50% bisexual+, 50% gay/lesbian) completed an online survey at baseline, one‐month follow‐up, and two‐month follow‐up assessing constructs related to IPTS, the minority stress model, and SI.

Results

Over half of our sample (52.9%) reported any SI at baseline. In the full sample, all types of minority stress at baseline were significantly associated with SI at two‐month follow‐up via perceived burdensomeness (PB) and thwarted belongingness (TB) at one‐month follow‐up. In the bisexual+ subsample, all bisexual‐specific minority stressors at baseline were significantly associated with SI at two‐month follow‐up via PB at one‐month follow‐up; internalized binegativity was also associated with SI via TB. However, effects became non‐significant when controlling for previous levels of the mediators and outcome variables.

Conclusion

Both minority stress and IPTS are relevant for understanding suicide risk among sexual minority young adults.
Nosocomial disseminated fusariosis in a hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipient
Authors: Kaur Harpreet , Riedel David J.
Published: March 2022

We report a case of nosocomial disseminated Fusarium in a stem cell transplant recipient. Identification of hospital fungal water reservoirs with routine surveillance cultures could potentially decrease rates of invasive infection.
Female genital mutilation and cutting in the Arab League and diaspora: A systematic review of preventive interventions
Authors: Abidogun Tolulope M. , Alyssa Ramnarine Leah , Fouladi Negin , Owens Janine , Abusalih Howeida H. , Bernstein Joshua , Aboul‐Enein Basil H.
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting (FGM/C) is an act of gender‐based violence (GBV) and a global public health issue with well‐documented adverse outcomes. With the rise in global migration, there is an increasing prevalence of FGM/C among Arab diaspora living in the West and Global South. What remains unclear is how to reduce the practice. This study was designed to identify interventions exerting an effect on reducing the practice of FGM/C.

Methods

A systematic review of peer‐reviewed articles was conducted on interventions targeting individuals and/or the broader community to prevent FGM/C within the Arab League and its diaspora, up to December 2021. Databases searched included PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, PsycINFO, EMBASE, CINAHL, BIOSIS, ASSIA and Scopus. Quality assessment used the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) 2018.

Results

Twelve of 896 studies met the inclusion criteria. Eight interventions relied entirely on education with short‐term gains but unchanged practices. Three interventions used social marketing and mixed media. Only one study took a multi‐sectoral approach.

Conclusions

At a macro level, opportunities to reduce or to end the practice of FGM/C exist through legislation, policy, a public health approach grounded in gender equality and human rights. Using multi‐sectoral actions that consider the social context and challenge social norms at macro, meso and micro levels appears more effective than individual‐level interventions. Promoting advocacy and developing supportive environments to reduce GBV, enhance gender equality and empower communities is crucial for interventions to succeed and achieve the Sustainable Development Goal target of FGM/C abandonment by 2030.
Procarbazine, prednisolone and cyclophosphamide oral combination chemotherapy protocol for canine lymphoma
Authors: O'Connell Kathleen , Thomson Maurine , Morgan Elizabeth , Henning Joerg
Published: March 2022

Orally administered daily chemotherapy offers a novel treatment approach for canine lymphoma in a population of dogs that have failed or not tolerated maximum tolerable dose chemotherapy. A multidrug oral chemotherapy protocol was designed and implemented for the treatment of 50 dogs with multicentric lymphoma with minimal side effects. The protocol consisted of oral procarbazine, prednisolone and cyclophosphamide (PPC) administered daily. Efficacy and toxicity were evaluated by clinical and laboratory evaluation. An overall response rate of 70% was achieved, with 24% and 46% of dogs having a partial and complete response, respectively, to treatment with the PPC protocol. Response to the PPC protocol (complete or partial) and age were the only factors identified as prognostic for time from initiation of the PPC chemotherapy until death. Overall, the protocol was very well tolerated with only one dog requiring protocol discontinuation due to grade 4 thrombocytopenia. Eight dogs recorded gastrointestinal toxicities, seven grade I and one grade II toxicity. These findings demonstrate that the administration of a continuous oral combination chemotherapy can provide comparable survival times in the rescue setting in dogs with multicentric lymphoma with minimal side effects.
Validation of ultrasonography for measurement of cartilage thickness in the equine carpus
Authors: Andersen Camilla , Griffin John F. , Jacobsen Stine , Østergaard Stine , Walters Marie , Mori Yuki , Lindegaard Casper
Published: March 2022

Articular cartilage thinning is an important hallmark of osteoarthritis (OA), and ultrasonography (US) is a clinically accessible tool potentially suitable for repeated evaluation. The aim of the present prospective methods comparison study was to validate US as a tool for measuring cartilage thickness in the carpus of the horse. Eight Standardbred trotters underwent US examination with 9 and 15 MHz linear transducers. Six anatomical locations in the radiocarpal joint (RCJ) and middle carpal joint (MCJ) were examined. The same joints were assessed by ultrahigh field (9.4 Tesla) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histology. Associations between measurements obtained by the different modalities were assessed by ANOVA, Deming regression, Pearson correlation and Bland–Altman plots. Histologically assessed total cartilage thickness (the noncalcified cartilage (NCC) plus the calcified cartilage zone (CCZ)) overestimated thickness compared to MRI (P < 0.01) and US (P < 0.01). US 15 MHz had substantial agreement with MRI and NCC histology, and repeatability was acceptable (coefficient of variation = 8.6–17.9%) when used for assessment of cartilage thickness in the RCJ. In contrast, 9 MHz US showed poorer agreement with MRI and NCC histology, as it overestimated the thickness of thin cartilage and underestimated the thickness of thicker cartilage in the RCJ and MCJ. Moreover, repeatability was suboptimal (coefficient of variation = 10.4–26.3%). A 15 MHz transducer US is recommended for detecting changes in RCJ cartilage thickness or monitoring development over time, and it has the potential for noninvasive assessment of cartilage health in horses.