bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival benefit of the homologous kidney allograft in simultaneous pancreas‐kidney transplants and its potential protective role
Authors: Serrano Oscar K. , Kandaswamy Raja , Finger Erik B.
Published: August 2021

The superior death‐censored graft survival of the pancreas allograft in simultaneous pancreas kidney transplants (SPK) over pancreas alone transplants (PTA) has long been recognized. Using data from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR) and a high‐volume pancreas transplant program, we investigated the possible protective role of the kidney allograft in SPK transplants. We analyzed 19 043 primary pancreas transplants between 2000 and 2020, including 735 transplants performed at the University of Minnesota. SPK transplants demonstrated a superior death‐censored graft survival over pancreas after kidney (PAK) and simultaneous pancreas and living donor kidney (SPLK) transplants, which both demonstrated better survival than PTA transplants. This effect was not affected by mode or duration of renal replacement therapy prior to transplant. Furthermore, we found that HLA match at the B‐locus between the prior kidney and current pancreas allografts demonstrated a protective effect (HR .54; 95% confidence interval .29–1.00), with a 2‐antigen match demonstrating superior death‐censored graft survival to a 1‐ or 0‐antigen match. We propose that a homologous kidney allograft in SPK transplants affords protection to the pancreas allograft–likely through a combination of better surveillance for rejection and direct immunoprotection offered by the same‐donor kidney.
Effects of artificial and natural defects on fatigue strength of a cast aluminum alloy
Authors: Szalva Péter , Orbulov Imre Norbert
Published: August 2021

Highlights

Fatigue life was affected by the measure of the casting defects and the characteristics of the casting defects.

The Kitagawa–Takahashi approach is proved to be a correct indirect method to determine the threshold stress intensity value.

The Murakami parameter was used to consider the differences of defect shape and defect size.
Decoupling between ammonia emission and crop production in China due to policy interventions
Authors: Adalibieke Wulahati , Zhan Xiaoying , Cui Xiaoqing , Reis Stefan , Winiwarter Wilfried , Zhou Feng
Published: August 2021

Cropland ammonia (NH3) emission is a critical driver triggering haze pollution. Many agricultural policies were enforced in past four decades to improve nitrogen (N) use efficiency while maintaining crop yield. Inadvertent reductions of NH3 emissions, which may be induced by such policies, are not well evaluated. Here, we quantify the China's cropland‐NH3 emission change from 1980 to 2050 and its response to policy interventions, using a data‐driven model and a survey‐based dataset of the fertilization scheme. Cropland‐NH3 emission in China doubled from 1.93 to 4.02 Tg NH3‐N in period 1980–1996, and then decreased to 3.50 Tg NH3‐N in 2017. The prevalence of four agricultural policies may avoid ~3.0 Tg NH3‐N in 2017, mainly located in highly fertilized areas. Optimization of fertilizer management and food consumption could mitigate three‐quarters of NH3 emission in 2050 and lower NH3 emission intensity (emission divided by crop production) close to the European Union and the United States. Our findings provide an evidence on the decoupling of cropland‐NH3 from crop production in China and suggest the need to achieve cropland‐NH3 mitigation while sustaining crop yields in other developing economies.
First Ladies navigation into African politics: A historical survey
Authors: Bawa Aisha Balarabe
Published: August 2021

Ever since the world summit for the economic advancement of Rural Women held in Geneva in 1992, Presidential Spouses in Africa have sought to play an autonomous and coordinated role in national and international politics. In spite of lack of constitutional mandate, First Ladies have significant political influence, which offers unique insights into national politics. Yet, African First Ladies' role in politics had not been adequately discussed in the academic literature. In this paper, I aim to contribute to the scarce research on African First Ladies' roles in politics. The paper analyses the extent of their political influence drawing from their political activism, party affiliation, and partner in the conquest of power. In this paper, I employed qualitative methods of inquiry; primary data was obtained from previous interviews with Nigerian First Ladies during PhD fieldwork. The secondary sources of this paper are derived from books and journal articles.
Direct, indirect and total effect of HIV coinfection on the risk of non‐liver‐related cancer in hepatitis C virus‐infected patients treated by direct‐acting antivirals: a mediation analysis
Authors: Chalouni Mathieu , Pol Stanislas , Sogni Philippe , Fontaine Helene , Lacombe Karine , Lacombe Jean‐Marc , Esterle Laure , Dorival Céline , Bourlière Marc , Bani‐Sadr Firouzé , de Ledinghen Victor , Zucman David , Larrey Dominique , Salmon Dominique , Carrat Fabrice , Wittkop Linda ,   the ANRS CO13 HEPAVIH, ANRS CO22 HEPATHER Cohorts Study Groups, Martinez V.
Published: August 2021

Objectives

HIV‐coinfected patients experience higher incidences of non‐liver‐related cancers than HCV‐monoinfected patients. Chronic inflammation, immunosuppression, but also higher tobacco or alcohol consumption and metabolic dysregulation could explain this higher risk. We aimed to estimate the direct, indirect and total effects of HIV coinfection on the risk of non‐liver‐related cancers in HCV participants treated with direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs).

Methods

Up to four HCV‐monoinfected participants from the ANRS CO22 HEPATHER cohort were matched by age and sex to HIV/HCV‐coinfected participants from the ANRS CO13 HEPAVIH cohort. Participants were followed from DAA initiation until the occurrence of a non‐liver‐related cancer. Counterfactual mediation analysis was carried out to estimate the direct (chronic inflammation and immunosuppression), indirect (tobacco and alcohol consumption and metabolic syndrome) and total effect of HIV coinfection on the risk of non‐liver‐related cancers.

Results

548 HIV/HCV‐coinfected and 2016 monoinfected participants were included. Overall, HIV coinfection was associated with a 3.7‐fold [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.7–7.0] higher risk of non‐liver‐related cancers in HCV participants. This increased risk was explained by significant direct effect [hazard ratio (HR) = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.7–6.6] but not indirect effect (HR = 1.1, 95% CI: 0.8–1.5) of HIV coinfection.

Conclusions

In HCV participants treated with DAAs, the direct effect of HIV coinfection, reflecting chronic inflammation and immunosuppression, was associated with a 3.7‐fold higher risk of non‐liver‐related cancer. By contrast, the indirect effect of HIV coinfection, reflecting higher tobacco and alcohol consumption and metabolic dysregulation, was not significantly associated with the risk of non‐liver‐related cancers.
Great earthquake at 7.3 ka inferred from tsunami deposits in the Sukumo Bay area, Southwestern Japan
Authors: Nanayama Futoshi , Tsuji Tomohiro , Yamaguchi Tatsuhiko , Kondo Yasuo , Ikeda Michiharu , Nakanishi Toshimichi , Miwa Michiko , Hongo Chuki , Furusawa Akira , Kuwahata Mitsuhiro
Published: August 2021

Tsunami deposits in Kyushu Island, Southwestern Japan, have been attributed to the 7.3 ka Kikai caldera eruption, but their origin has not been confirmed. We analyzed an 83‐cm‐thick Holocene event deposit in the SKM core, obtained from incised valley fill in the coastal lowlands near Sukumo Bay, Southwestern Shikoku Island. We confirmed that the event deposit contains K‐Ah volcanic ash from the 7.3 ka eruption. The base of the event deposit erodes the underlying inner‐bay mud, and the deposit contains material from outside the local terrestrial and marine environment, including angular quartz porphyry from a small inland exposure, oyster shell debris, and a coral fragment. Benthic foraminifers and ostracods in the deposit indicate various habitats, some of which are outside Sukumo Bay. The sand matrix contains low‐silica volcanic glass from the late stage of the Kikai caldera eruption. We also documented the same glass in an event deposit in the MIK1 core, from the incised Oyodo River valley in the Miyazaki Plain on Southeastern Kyushu. These two 7.3 ka tsunami deposits join other documented examples that are widely distributed in Southwestern Japan including the Bungo Channel and Beppu Bay in Eastern Kyushu, Tachibana Bay in Western Kyushu, and Zasa Pond on the Kii Peninsula as well as around the caldera itself. The tsunami deposits near the caldera have been divided into older and younger 7.3 ka tsunami deposits, the younger ones matching the set of widespread deposits. We attribute the younger 7.3 ka tsunami deposits to a large tsunami generated by a great interplate earthquake in the Northern part of the Ryukyu Trench and (or) the Western Nankai Trough just after the late stage of the Kikai caldera eruption and the older 7.3 ka tsunami deposits to a small tsunami generated by an interplate earthquake or Kikai caldera eruption.
Diaphragm dysfunction: a comprehensive review from diagnosis to management
Authors: Hannan Liam M. , De Losa Rebekah , Romeo Nicholas , Muruganandan Sanjeevan
Published: August 2021

Although the diaphragm represents a critical component of the respiratory pump, the clinical presentations of diaphragm dysfunction are often non‐specific and can be mistaken for other more common causes of dyspnoea. While acute bilateral diaphragm dysfunction typically presents dramatically, progressive diaphragm dysfunction associated with neuromuscular disorders and unilateral hemidiaphragm dysfunction may be identified incidentally or by recognising subtle associated symptoms. Diaphragm dysfunction should be considered in individuals with unexplained dyspnoea, restrictive respiratory function tests or abnormal diaphragm position on plain chest imaging. A higher index of suspicion should occur for individuals with profound orthopnoea, those who have undergone procedures in proximity to the phrenic nerve(s) or those with co‐morbid conditions that are associated with diaphragm dysfunction, particularly neuromuscular disorders. A systematic approach to the evaluation of diaphragm function using non‐invasive diagnostic techniques such as respiratory function testing and diaphragm imaging can often confirm a diagnosis. Neurophysiological assessment may confirm diaphragm dysfunction and assist in identifying an underlying cause. Identifying those with or at risk of respiratory failure can allow institution of respiratory support, while specific cases may also benefit from surgical plication or phrenic nerve pacing techniques.
Safety and efficacy of botulinum toxin type A in preventing and treating scars in animal models: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Pan Lingfeng , Qin Haiyan , Li Caihong , Yang Liehao , Li Mingxi , Kong Jiao , Zhang Guang , Zhang Lianbo
Published: August 2021

Previous studies have used botulinum toxin type A (BTXA) to improve postoperative and hypertrophic scars; however, there is lack of detailed verification on the safety and effectiveness of this approach. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of BTXA on postoperative hypertrophic scars and its influence on cytokine expression in animal models. A computerised search of different databases was performed, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, Embase, CNKI, and Wanfang, up to 10 March 2021. A meta‐analysis was performed using R 4.0.0 based on hypertrophic index, epithelialisation time, wound area, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression. Eleven studies were included. The meta‐analysis showed a significant difference in hypertrophic index (standardised mean difference [SMD] = −2.63, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −3.50 to −1.76, P < .01), wound area (SMD = −0.54, 95% CI: −1.24 to 0.16, P < .01), and VEGF expression (SMD = −2.56, 95% CI: −3.50 to −1.62, P < .01). This study shows that BTXA is safe and effective in preventing and treating scar hypertrophy in animal models, but excessive doses of BTXA and BTXA to treat large areas should be avoided.
Theoretical investigation of formation and diffusion mechanisms for point defects in ytterbium and lutetium silicates
Authors: Fan Yun , Lai Mengling , Zhao Juanli , Yao Yun , Yang Lan , Liu Yuchen , Li Yiran , Li Qian , Liu Bin
Published: August 2021

Understanding the mechanism of point defects and the oxygen vacancy diffusion in rare earth (RE) silicates is important to evaluate their performance as environmental barrier coatings. In this work, the defect formation energies are calculated and the similar predominant native point defect type, that is, O Frenkel defect, in RE2SiO5 and RE2Si2O7 (RE = Yb and Lu) is uncovered. Furthermore, the nonstoichiometry related defects and phase composition in RE2SiO5 and RE2Si2O7 is also studied. For RE2SiO5, or is the predominate defect complex accompanied with the RE2Si2O7 separation under SiO2‐rich condition, while or is favorable under RE2O3‐rich condition. In the case of RE2Si2O7, or is the favorable defect complex under SiO2‐rich condition while or dominates the defects, accompanied with the formation of RE2SiO5, under RE2O3‐rich case. Finally, the high oxygen migration barriers are revealed for both RE2SiO5 and RE2Si2O7, indicating the low oxygen permeability in these silicates. These results will not only guide the future performance optimization of RE2SiO5 and RE2Si2O7 through tailoring their composition, but also suggest their potential application as oxidation protective coatings.
BAG1 down‐regulation increases chemo‐sensitivity of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia cells
Authors: Mariotto Elena , Corallo Diana , Pantile Marcella , Giarin Emanuela , Pigazzi Martina , Basso Giuseppe , Viola Giampietro , Aveic Sanja
Published: August 2021

BCL2‐associated athanogene‐1 (BAG1) is a multi‐functional protein that is found deregulated in several solid cancers and in paediatric acute myeloid leukaemia. The investigation of BAG1 isoforms expression and intracellular localization in B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B‐ALL) patient‐derived specimens revealed that BAG1 levels decrease during disease remission, compared to diagnosis, but drastically increase at relapse. In particular, at diagnosis both BAG1‐L and BAG1‐M isoforms are mainly nuclear, while during remission the localization pattern changes, having BAG1‐M almost exclusively in the cytosol indicating its potential cytoprotective role in B‐ALL. In addition, knockdown of BAG1/BAG3 induces cell apoptosis and G1‐phase cell cycle arrest and, more intriguingly, shapes cell response to chemotherapy. BAG1‐depleted cells show an increased sensitivity to the common chemotherapeutic agents, dexamethasone or daunorubicin, and to the BCL2 inhibitor ABT‐737. Moreover, the BAG1 inhibitor Thio‐2 induces a cytotoxic effect on RS4;11 cells both in vitro and in a zebrafish xenograft model and strongly synergizes with pan‐BCL inhibitors. Collectively, these data sustain BAG1 deregulation as a critical event in assuring survival advantage to B‐ALL cells.
Effect of vaccines against pancreas disease in farmed Atlantic salmon
Authors: Røsæg Magnus Vikan , Thorarinsson Ragnar , Aunsmo Arnfinn
Published: August 2021

Pancreas disease (PD) caused by salmonid alphavirus (SAV) continues to negatively impact salmon farming. To assess the effect on growth and mortality of three vaccines against PD, two controlled field designs were employed: one controlled field study with individual marked fish (PIT tag) assessing three PD vaccines and three controls groups, and a second controlled field study with group marked fish (Maxilla) comparing two PD vaccines against controls. In addition, a descriptive study using whole cages compared fish immunized with two different PD vaccines against controls.

The target populations experienced a natural PD outbreak where both SAV 2 and SAV 3 were identified. Only one of the PD vaccines provided statistically significant improvements in harvest weight of 0.43 kg (CI: 0.29–0.57) and 0.51 kg (CI: 0.36–0.65) compared with the control in the PIT tag and the Maxilla study, respectively. In the latter, a significant reduction in mortality of 1.31 (CI:0.8–1.8) per cent points was registered for the same vaccine compared with controls. These results aligned with the growth and PD‐specific mortality registered in the descriptive Cage study. The data in this study show a difference in the efficacy of PD vaccines in farmed Atlantic salmon.
Improving delirium detection in intensive care units: Multicomponent education and training program
Authors: Sinvani Liron , Delle Site Cynthia , Laumenede Tara , Patel Vidhi , Ardito Suzanne , Ilyas Anum , Hertz Craig , Wolf‐Klein Gisele , Pekmezaris Renee , Hajizadeh Negin , Thomas Lily
Published: August 2021

Background

Delirium is a common, devastating, and underrecognized syndrome in the intensive care unit (ICU). The study aimed to describe and evaluate a multicomponent education and training program utilizing a “Train‐The‐Trainer” (TTT) model, to improve delirium detection across a large health system.

Methods

Fourteen ICUs across nine hospitals participated in a multicomponent delirium program consisting of a 1‐day workshop that included: (1) patient testimonials, (2) small group discussions, (3) didactics, and (4) role‐playing. Additionally, four ICUs received direct observation/training via telehealth (tele‐delirium training). The Kirkpatrick model was used for program evaluation in a pre/post‐test design.

Results

A 1‐day delirium workshop was held at two time points and included 73 ICU nurses. Of the 65 nurses completing the post‐workshop satisfaction survey, most (46.2) had >10 years of clinical experience, and no or minimal delirium training (69.2%). All nurses (100%) identified lack of knowledge as a barrier to delirium detection, while time constraints and lack of importance accounted for only 25%. Overall, nurses rated the workshop positively (excellent 66.7%, and very good 23.3%), and likely to change practice (definitely 73.3% and very likely 15.0%). All validated Confusion Assessment Method for the ICU (CAM‐ICU) cases demonstrated improvement in number of correct responses. Delirium detection across the health system improved from 9.1% at baseline to 21.2% in ICUs that participated in the workshop and 30.1% in those ICUs that also participated in the tele‐delirium training (p = 0.005).

Conclusion

A multicomponent delirium education and training program using a TTT model was rated positively, improved CAM‐ICU knowledge, and increased delirium detection.
Sudden fetal death with placental mesenchymal dysplasia complicated by placenta previa
Authors: Tanimura Kenji , Shi Yutoku , Imafuku Hitomi , Nakanishi Takaaki , Kanzawa Maki , Terai Yoshito
Published: August 2021

Placental mesenchymal dysplasia (PMD) is a rare placental abnormality that is closely related to severe pregnancy complications. A 27‐year‐old woman with fetal growth restriction and placenta previa was referred to a university hospital at 22 gestational weeks (GW). She was suspected of having a twin pregnancy with a complete or partial hydatidiform mole and coexisting normal live fetus, because two separate placentas, an enlarged one with multiple cystic lesions and a normal one, were shown on ultrasound examinations. At 27 GW, she experienced a sudden intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) after bleeding due to placenta previa, despite confirmation of fetal well‐being at 2 h before bleeding. After delivery, histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of PMD. This is the first documented case of a woman with PMD and placenta previa who had a sudden IUFD after bleeding. Patients with both PMD and placenta previa should be considered at extremely high risk for IUFD.
Menstrual regularity and bleeding is associated with sleep duration, sleep quality and fatigue in a community sample
Authors: Kennedy Kathryn E. R. , Onyeonwu Chidera , Nowakowski Sara , Hale Lauren , Branas Charles C. , Killgore William D. S. , Wills Chloe C. A. , Grandner Michael A.
Published: August 2021

Female menstrual health and its relationship with sleep is an understudied subject. The aim of this investigation was to determine the association between the two in a community sample. Data were obtained fromn = 579 menstruating females who participated in the Sleep and Health Activity, Diet, Environment, and Socialization (SHADES) study, a community‐based sample of adults aged 22–60 years. Participants were asked, “How regular is your period?”, with response choices of “very regular”, “mostly regular”, “fairly regular” and “not regular”. They were also asked, “How much bleeding do you usually experience during your period?” Response choices were: “very heavy”, “heavy”, “medium”, “light” or “very light”. These were evaluated as ordinal outcomes. Sleep‐related predictors included sleep duration (in hr; ≤ 6 [short], 7–9 [normal] and ≥ 9 [long]), Insomnia Severity Index score, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score, Epworth Sleepiness Scale score and Fatigue Severity Scale score. Covariates included age, education, income, race/ethnicity and body mass index. Short sleep duration was associated with heavier bleeding (odds ratio = 1.46,p = 0.026) and greater cycle irregularity (odds ratio = 1.44,p = 0.031) as compared with normal sleep. Higher Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score was associated with greater cycle irregularity (odds ratio = 1.05,p = 0.022). Higher Fatigue Severity Scale score was associated with heavier bleeding (odds ratio = 1.02,p = 0.003) and greater cycle irregularity (odds ratio = 1.02,p = 0.008). Long sleep, Insomnia Severity Index and Epworth Sleepiness Scale were not associated with either outcome. These results demonstrate an association between short sleep duration, poor sleep quality, fatigue, stress and depression with heavier bleeding and menstrual cycle irregularity, highlighting the need for further studies to improve treatment options.
Evidence for multiple colonisations and Wolbachia infections shaping the genetic structure of the widespread butterfly Polyommatus icarus in the British Isles
Authors: Arif Saad , Gerth Michael , Hone‐Millard William G. , Nunes Maria D. S. , Dapporto Leonardo , Shreeve Timothy G.
Published: August 2021

The paradigm of isolation in southern refugia during glacial periods followed by expansions during interglacials, producing limited genetic differentiation in northern areas, dominates European phylogeography. However, the existence of complex structured populations in formerly glaciated areas, and islands connected to mainland areas during glacial maxima, call for alternative explanations. We reconstructed the mtDNA phylogeography of the widespread Polyommatus Icarus butterfly with an emphasis on the formerly glaciated and connected British Isles. We found distinct geographical structuring of CO1 haplogroups, with an ancient lineage restricted to the marginal European areas, including Northern Scotland and Outer Hebrides. Population genomic analyses, using ddRADSeq genomic markers, also reveal substantial genetic structuring within Britain. However, there is negligble mito‐nuclear concordance consistent with independent demographic histories of mitochondrial versus nuclear DNA. While mtDNA‐Wolbachia associations in northern Britain could account for the geographic structuring of mtDNA across most of the British Isles, for nuclear DNA markers (derived from ddRADseq data) butterflies from France cluster between northern and southern British populations – an observation consistent with a scenario of multiple recolonisation. Taken together our results suggest that contemporary mtDNA structuring in the British Isles (and potentially elsewhere in Europe) largely results from Wolbachia infections, however, nuclear genomic structuring suggests a history of at least two distinct colonisations. This two‐stage colonisation scenario has previously been put forth to explain genetic diversity and structuring in other British flora and fauna. Additionally, we also present preliminary evidence for potential Wolbachia‐induced feminization in the Outer Hebrides.
Distinguishing genomic homogenization from parapatric speciation in an elevationally replacing pair of Ramphocelus tanagers
Authors: E. Luzuriaga‐Aveiga Vanessa , Ugarte Mauricio , Weir Jason T.
Published: August 2021

Geographically connected species pairs with weakly differentiated genomes could either represent cases of genomic homogenization in progress or of incipient parapatric speciation. Discriminating between these processes is difficult because intermediate stages of either may produce weakly differentiated genomes that diverge at few locations. We used coalescent modelling applied to a genome‐wide sample of SNPs to discriminate between speciation with gene flow and genomic homogenization in two phenotypically distinct but genomically weakly diverged species of elevationally replacing Ramphocelus tanagers, forming a hybrid zone in the Andean foothills. We found overwhelming support for a model of genomic homogenization following secondary contact. Simulating under this model suggested that our species pair was differentiated (FST = 0.30) at secondary contact but that most of the genome has rapidly homogenized during 254 Ky of high gene flow towards the present (FST = 0.02). Despite extensive genome‐wide homogenization, plumage remains distinctive with a narrower than expected geographic cline width, indicating divergent selection on colour. We found two SNPs significantly associated with plumage colour, which retain moderately high FST. We conclude that the majority of the genome has fused, but that divergent selection on select loci probably maintains the geographically structured colour differences between these incipient species.
Waist circumference and waist‐to‐height ratio in 7‐year‐old children—WHO Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative
Authors: Taxová Braunerová Radka , Kunešová Marie , Heinen Mirjam M. , Rutter Harry , Hassapidou Maria , Duleva Vesselka , Pudule Iveta , Petrauskienė Aušra , Sjöberg Agneta , Lissner Lauren , Spiroski Igor , Gutiérrez‐González Enrique , Kelleher Cecily C. , Bergh Ingunn Holden , Metelcová Tereza , Vignerová Jana , Brabec Marek , Buoncristiano Marta , Williams Julianne , Simmonds Philippa , Zamrazilová Hana , Hainer Vojtěch , Yngve Agneta , Rakovac Ivo , Breda João
Published: August 2021

Childhood obesity is a serious global health problem. Waist circumference (WC) and waist‐to‐height ratio (WHtR) reflect body fat distribution in children. The objectives of this study were to assess WC and WHtR in 7‐year‐old children and to determine body mass index (BMI), WC, and WHtR differences in children from 10 selected countries across Europe (Bulgaria, Czechia, Greece, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Norway, Spain, and Sweden) participating in the World Health Organization (WHO) Europe Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI). The 50th and 90th percentile of WC (according to COSI and “Identification and prevention of Dietary‐ and lifestyle‐induced health EFfects In Children and infantS” (IDEFICS) cutoff values) and WHtR above 0.5 were used as measures of abdominal obesity in a unique sample of 38,975 children aged 7.00–7.99 years. Southern European countries, including Greece and Spain, showed significantly higher BMI, WC, and WHtRin both genders (p < 0.0001) than Eastern and Northern Europe. The highest values for WC were observed in Greece (60.8 ± 7.36 cm boys; 60.3 ± 7.48 cm girls), North Macedonia (60.4 ± 7.91 cm boys; 59.0 ± 8.01 cm girls), and Spain (59.7 ± 6.96 cm boys; 58.9 ± 6.77 cm girls). WC and WHtRin may add an information about the occurrence of central obesity in children.
Three‐dimensional assessment of asymmetric mid‐palatal suture expansion assisted by a customized microimplant‐supported rapid palatal expander in non‐growing patients: Uncontrolled Clinical Trial
Authors: Almaqrami Bushra Sufyan , Alhammadi Maged Sultan , Al‐somairi Majedh Abdo Ali , ALyafrusee Enas Senan , Xiong Hui , He Hong
Published: August 2021

Objectives

The objective was to evaluate the magnitude, incidence and possible factors of asymmetric expansion with a customized microimplant‐supported rapid palatal expander (MARPE) in non‐growing patients.

Setting and sample population

This retrospective study included a sample of 49 patients (mean age: 23.9 ± 3.9 years) treated with a customized microimplant‐supported rapid palatal expander. Based on the symmetry of expansion, the sample was divided into Group S (symmetric expansion group, n = 26) and Group A (asymmetric expansion group, n = 23).

Methods

Pre‐ and post‐treatment cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were superimposed to assess skeletal change in both studied groups. Seven variables were tested: unilateral crossbite, maxillary base cant, chin deviation, the initial asymmetrical position of the mid‐palatal suture, split pattern of frontomaxillary suture, Angle's classification and dental arch crowding. Paired t‐test and logistic regression analyses were utilized to evaluate the possible factors behind the asymmetric expansion.

Results

There was a significant difference (P < .01) between the studied groups. The average expansion was 4.26 mm at the anterolateral maxillary walls (BB) and 3.83 mm at the greater palatine foramen region (GPF). The average expansion at the GPF was 90% of that at the BB. The frequency of asymmetric expansion was 46.9%. Among the seven tested variables, the presence of the initial asymmetric position of the mid‐palatal suture is the only variable that showed correlation with asymmetric expansion.

Conclusion

Initial asymmetric position of the mid‐palatal suture is considered a contributing factor of skeletal asymmetric expansion following microimplant‐supported rapid palatal expansion in skeletally comparable patients.
The expression of emotion in pictures
Authors: Brassey Vanessa
Published: August 2021

The analysis of expression of emotion in pictures has been comparatively overlooked in the philosophy of art. Typically treated as an extension of the problem of expressive music, the notion of an ‘expressive picture’ is here considered as an independent problem which may or may not generalise to other sense‐based media. The paper surveys the extant views, attempting to dispel some confusion in regard to how these accounts overlap, intersect or resist one another. Thus, it is organised around mapping the key theories into groups in order to identify major disagreements that are frustrating progress in current research. For example, there is disagreement concerning whether or not there need be an identifiable expresser for the picture to be expressive of an emotion. While most theorists accept that there are occasions where expressers seem ineliminable to the expression—such as in expressive portraiture—most would reject the idea that a picture expresses only if there is an expresser. This paper emphasises the tension generated by this aspect of the debate. In the concluding section, I recommend a reframing move that will allow us to treat this seemingly intractable disagreement in a productive way.
Prodigiosin Production and Photoprotective/Antigenotoxic Properties in Serratia marcescens Indigenous Strains from Eastern Cordillera of Colombia
Authors: Cediel Becerra José D.D , Suescún Sepúlveda Jhon Alexander , Fuentes Jorge Luis
Published: August 2021

Serratia marcescens is a bacterial species that produces an antibacterial pigment (Prodigiosin) showing a wide adaptive response to environmental stresses. The study aimed to investigate Prodigiosin production in S. marcescens wild‐type strains, as well as its relation to photoprotection and antigenotoxicity against UVB. Prodigiosin yield was spectrophotometrically assayed in extracts of bacterial strains grown in different culture media. In vitro photoprotection efficacy was evaluated using the in vitro indices sun protection factor (SPFin vitro) and critical wavelength (λc). The percentage of UVB antigenotoxicity estimates (%GI) in the SOS Chromotest was also evaluated. Correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between Prodigiosin yield, SPFin vitro, %GI estimates and environmental traits (altitude, temperature, rainfall and solar irradiance). Prodigiosin yield in S. marcescens strains varied depending on culture media used for its growth, and it was correlated with environmental variables such as temperature and solar irradiance. SPFin vitro estimates were well correlated with Prodigiosin concentration and %GI values in the bacterial strains being studied. UVB photoprotective efficacy of the extracts obtained from S. marcescens strains depends on the strain’s Prodigiosin yield and its antigenotoxic potential. The extracts with Prodigiosin yield higher than ~17 μg mL−1 could be used as sources of sunscreen ingredients.
Alterations in the default mode‐salience network circuit provide a potential mechanism supporting negativity bias in depression
Authors: Guha Anika , Yee Cindy M. , Heller Wendy , Miller Gregory A.
Published: August 2021

Aberrant effective connectivity between default mode (DMN) and salience (SAL) networks may support the tendency of depressed individuals to find it difficult to disengage from self‐focused, negatively‐biased thinking and may contribute to the onset and maintenance of depression. Assessment of effective connectivity, which can statistically characterize the direction of influence between regions within neural circuits, may provide new insights into the nature of DMN‐SAL connectivity disruptions in depression. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was collected from 38 individuals with a history of major depression and 50 healthy comparison participants during completion of an emotion‐word Stroop task. Activation within DMN and SAL networks and effective connectivity between DMN and SAL, assessed via Granger causality, were examined. Individuals with a history of depression exhibited greater overall network activation, greater directed connectivity from DMN to SAL, and less directed connectivity from SAL to DMN than healthy comparison participants during negative‐word trials. Among individuals with a history of depression, greater DMN‐to‐SAL connectivity was associated with lower overall network activation and worse task performance during positive‐word trials; this pattern was not observed among healthy participants. Present findings indicate that greater network activation and, specifically, influence of DMN on SAL, support negativity bias among previously depressed individuals.
Biotic and abiotic treatments as a bet‐hedging approach to restoring plant communities and soil functions
Authors: Rader Audrey J. , Chiquoine Lindsay P. , Weigand James F. , Perkins Judy L. , Munson Seth M. , Abella Scott R.
Published: August 2021

Two related concepts in restoration ecology include the relative interchangeability of biotic and abiotic restoration treatments for initiating recovery and bet hedging using multiple restoration approaches to increase the likelihood of favorable restoration outcomes. We used these concepts as a framework to implement a factorial experiment including biotic (outplanting greenhouse‐grown individuals of three perennial species) and abiotic treatments (constructing microtopography or vertical mulch consisting of upright, dead plant material). These treatments were designed to stimulate native plant recruitment and reverse soil degradation at four disturbed sites in the Sonoran Desert, U.S.A. The first growing season after the restoration treatments was the driest of the last 47 years, and 100% of outplants died. While the biotic treatment failed, the vertical mulch abiotic treatment increased native shrub seedling cover at the driest site and reversed soil loss across sites by increasing soil accumulation by 6× to 2 cm/year. Results revealed that (1) inexpensive, minimal‐input abiotic treatments outperformed resource‐intensive biotic treatments; (2) the restoration effort withstood the total failure of a major component (outplanting) to nevertheless achieve key restoration benefits within 2–3 growing seasons; and (3) incorporating multiple treatment types served as a bet‐hedging approach to buffer against treatment failures. Integrating minimal‐input abiotic treatments in restoration warrants consideration given their low cost and bet‐hedging potential.
Financial literacy education: An opportunity for colleges and sociology
Authors: Bradley Stephanie L.
Published: August 2021

Financial literacy represents the knowledge necessary to manage one's financial affairs in a way that contributes to overall wellbeing, yet financial literacy and financial education are understudied in sociology. While emerging adults have low rates of financial literacy overall, this article focuses on college students due to increasing college access and student loan debt. Based on the limited literature that assesses college financial literacy education, it appears that these types of programs may serve to advance college students' financial knowledge. Additional mechanisms that serve to develop college students' financial literacy include parent socialization, banking experience, and high school financial education programs. However, not everyone has the same access to these resources. Thus, given the magnitude of the US student debt crisis and persistent economic inequalities, college financial literacy education may prove beneficial for all students, particularly those from economically vulnerable backgrounds. This article serves as an invitation to sociologists to consider financial literacy education as both a worthwhile pursuit in application and as a research topic.
Safety and efficacy of Magnesium Sulfate in the management of Tetanus: A systematic review
Authors: Nepal Gaurav , Coghlan Megan Ariel , Yadav Jayant Kumar , Kharel Sanjeev , Ka Shing Yow , Ojha Rajeev , Xing Hou Shuang , Bo Yu , Zhi Lan Tu
Published: August 2021

Tetanus is a rare life‐threatening condition often complicated by repetitive spasms, dysautonomia and neuromuscular respiratory failure contributing to high fatality rates in its severe form. Benzodiazepines used to treat muscle spasms pose a high risk of respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation, which is unaffordable and inaccessible for many. Magnesium sulfate, a cheap and widely available medication in all urban and rural health centres of LMICs for the treatment of eclampsia, can be used to control muscle spasms and dysautonomia. We thus conducted a systematic review of evidence to assess the safety and efficacy of magnesium sulfate in the treatment of tetanus. Any study published before April 15, 2021, discussing the efficacy and/or safety of MgSO4 infusion in the treatment of tetanus was systemically reviewed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA). Our systematic review included data from 13 studies, three were randomised, double‐blind and controlled trials. The remaining ten studies were observational; six prospective and four retrospective studies. Our review showed no mortality benefit associated with the use of magnesium sulfate. However, magnesium sulfate was found to be effective in reducing spasms along with diazepam, leading to better control of dysautonomia, reduced need for mechanical ventilation and shorter hospital stay by 3–7 days. The incidence of magnesium toxicity was very low in the studies included.
Surgical treatment of conjunctival hemangioma and hemangiosarcoma: A retrospective study of 52 dogs
Authors: Richardson Sarah , Deykin Anna R.
Published: August 2021

Objective

To review cases of canine conjunctival hemangioma (HA) and hemangiosarcoma (HSA) treated surgically at a referral center to establish success of surgical management, recurrence rates, and long‐term outcomes for patients.

Animals Studied

Retrospective record review of dogs that underwent surgery to remove histologically diagnosed conjunctival HA or HSA between April 2004 and April 2020 to collect data on signalment, tumor location, interval between initial presentation and surgery, tumor diagnosis, surgical dose, surgical margins, tumor size, recurrence and survival times.

Results

A total of 52 dogs (60 tumors) were included. The mean age of affected dogs was 8.69 years; the most affected breed was the Border collie (n = 13, 25%). 28 tumors were HA (46.67%) and 32 HSA (53.33%). Tumors occurred in three locations: the lateral bulbar conjunctiva (n = 37, 61.67%), the third eyelid margin (n = 19, 31.67%), and the ventral conjunctival fornix (n = 4, 6.67%). There was no site predilection for HA versus HSA. 97% of tumors occurred in non‐pigmented tissue. Corneal invasion was more likely to be a feature of malignant tumors. Five tumors were incompletely excised, one of which recurred. There was no statistical difference in likelihood of incomplete excision between HSA and HA. Six tumors (10%) recurred. HSA was not statistically more likely to recur than HA. Recurrence times ranged from 5 weeks to 1 year.

Conclusion

Surgical treatment of conjunctival HA and HSA is likely to be curative. There is a recurrence rate of 10% regardless of tumor type, and recurrence may be late in the course of the disease.
Biomechanics of the optic nerve head and sclera in canine glaucoma: A brief review
Authors: Park Shin Ae , Komáromy András M.
Published: August 2021

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, a progressive optic neuropathy with retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death beginning in the optic nerve head (ONH). A primary risk factor for developing glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Reducing IOP is the only treatment proven to be effective at delaying disease progression. Nevertheless, even when patients have their IOP reduced, the majority of them continue to lose vision. There are, in both humans and dogs, significant interindividual variabilities in susceptibilities to IOP‐induced optic nerve damage. Vision loss progresses much more slowly in Beagles with open‐angle glaucoma (OAG) caused byADAMTS10 mutation. This can be attributed to the mutation‐related altered ocular biomechanical properties. The principal site of optic nerve (ON) damage in glaucoma is the ONH. It is suggested that the biomechanical properties of the ONH and the surrounding peripapillary sclera (PPS) contribute to glaucoma development and progression. As far as the beneficial biomechanical properties of the ONH and PPS for a decreased susceptibility and slow progression of glaucoma, data are inconsistent and conflicting. Recent biomechanical studies on beagles withADAMTS10 mutation demonstrated that the mutant dogs have mechanically weak posterior sclera. This weakness was associated with a reduced collagen density and a lower proportion of insoluble collagen. These changes, observed before glaucoma development, were considered intrinsic characteristics caused by the mutation rather than a secondary effect of IOP elevation. Further studies of ADAMTS10‐OAG may elucidate the effects of altered biomechanical properties of ONH and PPS in determining the glaucoma progression.
The association of topical flurbiprofen with the incidence of postoperative glaucoma after phacoemulsification in dogs
Authors: Kang Seonmi , Shim Jaeho , Seo Kangmoon
Published: August 2021

Objective

To investigate the relationship between topical administration of flurbiprofen plus corticosteroids versus corticosteroids alone following phacoemulsification and the development of postoperative glaucoma in dogs.

Animal studied

Thirty‐eight/eighty‐three (45.8%) eyes were prescribed topical flurbiprofen plus corticosteroids immediately postop while 45/83 (54.2%) eyes received topical corticosteroids alone.

Procedures

Logistic regression models were performed to analyze the relationship between topical flurbiprofen and development of glaucoma and to predict potential risk factors for postoperative glaucoma occurrence.

Results

Eighty‐three eyes (65 dogs) were included. The mean age at surgery was 8.2 years, with even gender distribution. Increasing age at the time of surgery significantly increased the probability of postoperative glaucoma occurrence (odds ratio [OR] = 1.344, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.093–1.652;p = 0.005). Glaucoma occurred in 17/83 (20.5%) eyes; of these, 15/38 (39.5%) and 2/45 (4.4%) eyes were prescribed topical flurbiprofen plus corticosteroids and topical corticosteroids alone, respectively. Immediate postoperative use of topical flurbiprofen was significantly associated with an increased probability of postoperative glaucoma occurrence (OR = 19.183 [95% CI 3.367–109.286],p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Immediate postoperative use of topical flurbiprofen was a potential predisposing risk factor for the development of glaucoma following phacoemulsification. Restriction of postoperative use of topical flurbiprofen might decrease the possibility of postoperative glaucoma development in dogs.
Linkage between ABO Blood Type and Occupation: Evidence from Japanese Politicians and Athletes
Authors: Kanazawa Masayuki
Published: August 2021

In Asian countries, e.g., Japan, South Korea, China and Taiwan, many studies on the relationship between ABO blood type and personality have been conducted. Recently, it has been estimated that more than half of Japanese, Korean and Taiwanese people feel that this relationship is legitimate. Therefore, when data from these countries are used in personality tests, it is theoretically difficult to eliminate the effects of the “contamination of knowledge,” even if differences are found. To avoid this issue, this study examined the linkage between ABO blood type and occupations in Japan. The results showed that personality traits corresponding to blood type appeared in the data of each of the three groups of politicians and athletes, and all differences were statistically significant. We observed a clear and significant relationship between blood type and personality. Additionally, it is also necessary to consider the influence of social background.
Trends in guideline implementation: an updated scoping review protocol
Authors: Gagliardi Anna R. , Malinowski Jennifer , Munn Zachary , Peters Sanne , Senerth Emily
Published: August 2021

Objective:

The objective of this review is to assess trends in guideline implementation, including the interventions used, rationale provided, and the impact on patient or health care professional knowledge, behavior or outcomes.

Introduction:

Guidelines must be actively implemented to promote use and achieve beneficial outcomes. A review published in 2015 found that studies of guideline implementation did not employ a range of implementation planning approaches to select and tailor interventions, resulting in inconsistent impact. This study will update the 2015 review and elaborate beyond the four diseases originally covered to determine whether more recent efforts to implement guidelines are informed by best implementation practices.

Inclusion criteria:

We will include published studies that describe the implementation of guidelines on any clinical topic relevant to primary, secondary, or tertiary care using interventions targeted at patients, families/caregivers, or health care professionals.

Methods:

We will search MEDLINE, Embase, AMED, CINAHL, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library from 2014 (search date in 2015 review) to the present. Two or more reviewers will screen titles and full-text articles, and extract data from included studies. We will use summary statistics, tables, and a narrative summary to describe study characteristics, guideline implementation interventions, the rationale for intervention selection and tailoring (pre-identified barriers, patient or stakeholder preferences, theory), and intervention impact.