bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with sharing equipment among people who inject drugs: The role of community attachment in harm reduction and health promotion
Authors: Broady Timothy R. , Brener Loren , Caruana Theresa , Cama Elena , Treloar Carla
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Sharing injecting equipment is a major route of transmission for blood borne viruses such as hepatitis C and HIV. Although needle and syringe programs are widely available throughout metropolitan Australia, rates of sharing equipment have not significantly changed in recent years. This study aimed to identify factors associated with recent equipment sharing among people who inject drugs in Australia.

Methods

A paper‐based survey was distributed via peer‐based organisations between June and November 2018 and was completed by 603 participants. Survey questions addressed recent injecting experiences, equipment sharing, community attachment, stigma and wellbeing. Participants who had recently shared injecting equipment were compared with those who had not shared any equipment using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Recent equipment sharing was associated with recent heroin use, experiencing any past‐year stigma related to injecting drug use, and higher levels of attachment to a community of people who inject drugs. An interaction effect showed increased community attachment was associated with increased odds of sharing equipment among young participants, but with decreased odds of sharing equipment among older participants.

Discussion and Conclusions

Community networks of people who inject drugs can play important roles in harm reduction initiatives. While being connected with a community of people who inject drugs increased the odds of sharing injecting equipment, this community connection also increases opportunities for social support, sharing information and mitigating the negative effects of stigma. Collaboratively and meaningfully engaging with communities of people who inject drugs has the potential to increase the reach and effectiveness of health promotion services.
Deep Listening as Bridge‐Building in School–Community Partnerships
Authors: Greenhalgh‐Spencer Heather
Published: February 2023

In this article, Heather Greenhalgh‐Spencer argues that deep listening is the foundational component of bridge‐building; that it is deep listening that foments the trust and desire for action that undergirds our building of bridges. While “listening” is not a new topic, Greenhalgh‐Spencer adds to the literature by expanding on what are the essential components of the kind of listening — which she calls “deep listening” — that can lead to ethical action, change, and connection. She identifies desire, care, acknowledgment of difference, acknowledgment of power, and courage as the key components of this form of listening. Furthermore, she aims to provide concrete examples of how deep listening enables — in fact, is the primary foundation for — bridge‐building. She begins the article by defining “deep listening” and then moves to an example of deep listening in action, one taken from the context of community‐engaged partnerships — a type of bridge‐building in which university faculty create partnerships with community members. In taking this approach, Greenhalgh‐Spencer provides a clear illustration of the essential role deep listening plays in the ethical bridge‐building process.
Bed nuclei of the stria terminalis: A key hub in the modulation of anxiety
Authors: Wang Xinxin , Ge Shenglin , Zhang Chengxin
Published: February 2023

The bed nuclei of the stria terminalis (BST) is recognised as a pivotal integrative centre for monitoring emotional valence. It is implicated in the regulation of diverse affective states and motivated behaviours, and decades of research have firmly established its critical role in anxiety‐related behavioural processes. Researchers have recently intricately dissected the BST's dynamic activities, its connection patterns and its functions with respect to specific cell types using multiple techniques such as optogenetics, in vivo calcium imaging and transgenic tools to unmask the complex circuitry mechanisms that underlie anxiety. In this review, we principally focus on studies of anxiety‐involved neuromodulators within the BST and provide a comprehensive architecture of the anxiety network—highlighting the BST as a key hub in orchestrating anxiety‐like behaviour. We posit that these promising efforts will contribute to the identification of an accurate roadmap for future treatment of anxiety disorders.
A novel preference‐based artificial‐bee‐colony algorithm approach to the land reallocation optimization problem in a land consolidation case study: DOT village in Turkey
Authors: Özbeyaz Abdurrahman , İnceyol Yaşar
Published: February 2023

Land consolidation (LC) is a widely used spatial land management tool. The most essential stage of the LC process is land reallocation, which comprises the exchange of property rights. For this reason, land reallocation may be a potential source of dissatisfaction among farmers, and thus, optimization techniques are continually being developed to minimize these dissatisfactions. The goal of this study was to develop a novel preference‐based artificial‐bee‐colony (ABC) algorithm for use in the land reallocation project for DOT village. In the study, the farmer preferences were prioritized. Specifically, 70% of the lands were preference‐based, with the remainder being random. Furthermore, the ABC algorithm's performance was assessed using three limit parameter (LP) values and two probability functions. The best success was attained when the LP was set to 50 and the roulette‐wheel probability function was employed. The success of land reallocation was defined by the occupancy rate in the blocks and the reallocation rates based on the preferences of the farmer's lands. The occupancy rate in all the blocks using the ABC algorithm was 95.54%, the full occupancy rate of blocks according to farmer preferences was 38%, and the land reallocation rate based on the farmers' preferences was 73%. The remaining lands were distributed to the block areas at random using the ABC method. Moreover, the success of the preference‐based population surpassed that of randomly formed populations.
Surgical treatment of tracheocutaneous fistula and tracheostomy scars using a hinged flap and local myocutaneous flap
Authors: Shimada Kazuki , Komiya Takako , Ito Norihito , Sato Munenori , Ida Yukiko , Shibata Dai , Matsumura Hajime
Published: February 2023

Tracheocutaneous fistula and tracheostomy scar are complications associated with the prolonged use of tracheostomy tubes. They have functional and cosmetic problems owing to tracheal tugging during swallowing and easily visible scars. Although many procedures exist to correct this issue, there is no consensus on the optimal surgical technique. Therefore, an ideal surgical procedure was devised. The study was performed on 12 patients between September 2016 and May 2021. All patients had persistent tracheocutaneous fistulas or hypertrophic scars on the neck after tracheostomy. All procedures were performed using a hinged flap and two myocutaneous local flaps. All patients had no complications, and their aesthetics were excellent in postoperative photographs. The scar was better on the straight scar when the flap's skin is denuded than on the VY advancement flap. It should be noted, however, that this procedure can cause the flap to become congested in a short period after head and neck surgery. This procedure is safe, reliable and simple for surgical closure. This was found to produce excellent cosmetic results with no major complications.
Non‐operative management of umbilical pilonidal sinus: One more step towards ideal therapy
Authors: Muhialdeen Aso S. , Baba Hiwa O. , Salih Abdulwahid M. , Fathalla Bahman Latif , Latif Shaban , Hasan Sabah Jalal , Mohammed Rebaz Omer , Hamasalih Hussein M. , Karim Sanaa O. , Ali Halkawt Omer , Mohammed Shvan H. , Kakamad Fahmi H. , Hassan Marwan N.
Published: February 2023

There are controversies regarding the management of umbilical pilonidal sinuses. The current study aims to report on the efficacy of a non‐operative, umbilical conserving procedure in the treatment of umbilical pilonidal sinus. This is a prospective, single cohort study. The cases were managed in a single private practice center. Patients were assessed and managed throughout the previous nine years (from January 2013 to June 2022). The required information was obtained from the center's medical database. The current study included 114 patients. There were 82 (71.9%) male patients. The patients’ ages varied from 14 to 56 years (mean = 23.24). The umbilicus was retracted under local anesthesia. The sinuses were cleaned with povidone‐iodine. Following the drying of the cavity, the mixture was put in the umbilicus, and the area was dressed. The amount of mixture was determined by the size of the cavity. Following treatment, the patients were directly discharged home with instructions to remove all hair from the chest and abdomen and keep the dressing dry for three days. After three days, the patients were advised to use a clean cotton swab to remove the injected mixture. Recurrence was reported in 5 cases (4.4%). The current technique might be used effectively in the treatment of umbilical pilonidal sinus. It is an umbilical preserving technique with a minimal recurrence rate.
Social participation and incident disability and mortality among frail older adults: A JAGES longitudinal study
Authors: Abe Noriyuki , Ide Kazushige , Watanabe Ryota , Hayashi Takahiro , Iizuka Genmei , Kondo Katsunori
Published: February 2023

Background

Frailty is the highest risk factor for incident disability and mortality. Social participation is a modifiable factor for reducing adverse outcomes among independent older adults. However, the association between social participation and incident disability and mortality among frail older adults remains unclear. Therefore, we examined the association between various social activities and incident disability and mortality.

Methods

This nationwide prospective cohort study (The Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study) recruited older adults with frailty, aged 65 years and older (N = 9090) who were followed up for 6 years (2010–2016). We examined incident disability and all‐cause mortality at the end of the follow‐up period. Frailty was assessed using the Kihon Checklist. The independent variable was social participation in 2010, grouped into the following seven categories: hobby groups, sports groups or clubs, volunteer groups, senior citizens' clubs, industries, neighborhood communities, and paid work.

Results

The incidence of disability among participants was 19.5% (1770) and that of mortality was 19.2% (1753). Belonging to sports groups or clubs (Hazard Ratios [HR] = 0.74; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 0.57, 0.98) or hobby groups (HR = 0.77; 95% CI = 0.60, 0.98) was significantly associated with a lower risk of incident disability. Meanwhile, hobby groups (HR = 0.68; 95% CI = 0.56, 0.83), sports groups or clubs (HR = 0.71; 95% CI = 0.57, 0.88), volunteer groups (HR = 0.69; 95% CI = 0.54, 0.88), and senior citizens' club (HR = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.61, 0.90) were associated with lower risk of incident mortality.

Conclusions

Social participation was associated with a lower risk of incident disability and mortality, not only in healthy older adults but also in frail older adults who are at higher risk of incident disability and mortality. This suggests that frail older adults should be encouraged to participate in all the seven types of social participation examined in this study, as this may lower the risk of subsequent disability and mortality.
Involvement of the endocannabinoid system in current and recurrent periodontitis: A human study
Authors: Pellegrini Gaia , Carmagnola Daniela , Toma Marilisa , Rasperini Giulio , Orioli Marica , Dellavia Claudia
Published: February 2023

Objective

The aim of the present study was to assess if the endocannabinoid system is involved differently in patients with recurrent and non‐recurrent periodontal disease and if in sites that have a predisposition for reactivation, levels of anandamide (AEA) change after periodontal therapy.

Background

Periodontal disease (PD) may be due to a dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system.

Methods

Periodontal patients were recruited, treated for PD and monitored. Gingival samples from these patients with recurrent (n = 10) and non‐recurrent (n = 10) periodontal disease were harvested before and after treatment and compared to those of periodontally healthy (n = 10) subjects. Levels of CB1 and CB2, AEA and CBs receptor activation were assessed in healthy and inflamed samples using immunohistochemistry, chromatography and autoradiography. In healed sites, AEA levels were also assessed.

Results

The number of CBs in inflamed sites of recurrent patients was significantly higher than in those with non‐recurrent disease and also higher than those in healthy subjects. Inflamed sites of recurrent patients had significantly lower CBs receptor activation than those of healthy subjects. Levels of AEA in inflamed sites of non‐recurrent patients were significantly higher than those found both in inflamed recurrent sites and in healthy sites. Otherwise, the amount of AEA in healthy subjects and recurrent inflamed sites was similar. After periodontal therapy, levels of AEA were significantly lower in both periodontal groups. In recurrent sites, they resulted significantly lower than in non‐recurrent and even in healthy subjects.

Conclusions

The endocannabinoid system seems involved differently in subjects with recurrent and non‐recurrent periodontal disease.
Clinical presentation, diagnostic investigations, treatment protocols and outcomes of dogs diagnosed with tick‐borne diseases living in the United Kingdom: 76 cases (2005‐2019)
Authors: Silvestrini P. , Lloyd‐Bradley B. , Glanemann B. , Barker E. N. , Badham H. , Tappin S. , Pascual M. , Haines A. , Mas A. , Roura X. , Piviani M.
Published: February 2023

Objectives

To report the presence of tick‐borne diseases in dogs living in the United Kingdom.

Materials and Methods

Dogs with a final diagnosis of tick‐borne diseases made between January 2005 and August 2019 at seven referral institutions in the United Kingdom were included in the study.

Results

Seventy‐six dogs were included: 25 were diagnosed with ehrlichiosis, 23 with babesiosis, eight with Lyme borreliosis and six with anaplasmosis. Fourteen dogs had co‐infections with two or three pathogens. Except for those dogs with anaplasmosis and Lyme borreliosis, most dogs with tick‐borne diseases had a history of travel to or from endemic countries. However, three dogs with ehrlichiosis, and one dog each infected with Babesia canis and Babesia vulpes did not have any history of travel. A variety of non‐specific clinical signs and laboratory abnormalities were reported. Targeted treatment was successful at achieving clinical remission in 64 (84%) dogs.

Clinical Significance

Even in non‐endemic areas, veterinary surgeons should consider tick‐borne diseases in dogs with compatible clinical presentation and laboratory findings and especially where there is a history of travel. As autochthonous transmission of tick‐borne‐pathogens does occur, an absence of travel should not rule out tick‐borne diseases. Specific diagnostic testing is required to confirm infection, and this enables prompt targeted treatment and often a positive outcome.
Virtual modeling of asphalt mixture beam using density and distributional controls of aggregate contact
Authors: Jin Can , Wang Shuliang , Liu Pengfei , Yang Xu , Oeser Markus
Published: February 2023

The characteristic indicators of aggregate contacts in asphalt mixtures, including the number, orientation, and area of contact regions, significantly affect skeleton morphology and mixture stability. To investigate the influence of indicators on mixture stability, structures with diverse characteristics of aggregate contacts are required. This study proposes an algorithm for the virtual modeling of asphalt mixture beams, which supports the density and distributional controls of aggregate contacts in the microstructure. The methodology comprises three main steps: (1) three‐dimensional models of coarse aggregates conforming to the predefined gradation and volumetric content are randomly selected from a digital library of realistic aggregates, (2) contact relations of aggregates are established during the adaptive arrangement of aggregates in samples with prescribed control parameters of aggregate contact using self‐developed codes, and (3) air voids are randomly scattered in the sample without overlapping aggregates according to the volumetric content of the air voids, and an asphalt mortar model is then constructed using Boolean operations. Four beam samples with different contact characteristics were obtained using the proposed method to conduct simulations of three‐point bending tests. The number and spatial distribution of aggregate contacts in beam models are consistent with the prescribed parameters, showing the reliability of the proposed method for the control of aggregate contact in asphalt mixtures. A comprehensive comparison of the results of the laboratory test and simulations validates the ability of the digital beam to capture the macroscale response of asphalt mixtures. Furthermore, simulation results indicate that the sample with the greatest number and distribution uniformity of aggregate contacts has the largest peak strength and fracture energy, which is beneficial for the understanding of the relationship between the indicators of aggregate contacts and the rutting and fatigue resistance of mixtures.
Proceedings of a roundtable event ‘Workplace Diet and Health – priorities for researchers and practitioners’
Authors: Gibson Rachel , Lewis Jo , Hilberink Annewies , Philippou Elena , Wilson Dona , Theobald Hannah E. , Sum Kiu , David Deborah , Alawfi Jumanah S. , Roper Holly J. , Makinwa Fiyin , Lessons Greg , Clark Alison , Maynard Natasha , Viner Laura , Hall Wendy L.
Published: February 2023

Understanding how the work environment impacts health behaviours is essential to a life course approach in public health nutrition. A roundtable event ‘Workplace Diet and Health – priorities for researchers and practitioners’ was held by the Nutrition Society in October 2022. The overarching aims of the roundtable event were to consider (i) the relevance of nutritional wellbeing for employers and organisations, (ii) the research priorities for workplace diet and health and (iii) how researchers and practitioners can work with stakeholders in the development and testing of workplace diet and health interventions and nutritional education. Participants represented a range of stakeholders including dietetic and nutrition professionals working in workplace health, academics and science communication with an interest in workplace diet and health, non‐governmental organisations and providers of workplace nutritional health and wellbeing programmes. All roundtable participants agreed that good nutrition and access to healthy food at work was part of corporate responsibility comparable to that of health and safety provision. It was recognised that nutritional wellbeing was not seen as a priority by many companies due to the complexity and wide range of employee health and wellbeing options available and the perceived lack of clear financial benefit. Three priority areas were identified and agreed upon by roundtable participants: (1) strengthening the evidence base to demonstrate the tangible benefit of nutritional wellbeing interventions in the workplace, (2) creating a knowledge exchange hub to share best practices and experiences of working across sectors and (3) expand stakeholder engagement in workplace nutritional wellbeing.
Real‐time threat assessment based on hidden Markov models
Authors: Theodosiadou Ourania , Chatzakou Despoina , Tsikrika Theodora , Vrochidis Stefanos , Kompatsiaris Ioannis
Published: February 2023

An essential factor toward ensuring the security of individuals and critical infrastructures is the timely detection of potentially threatening situations. To this end, especially in the law enforcement context, the availability of effective and efficient threat assessment mechanisms for identifying and eventually preventing crime‐ and terrorism‐related threatening situations is of utmost importance. Toward this direction, this work proposes a hidden Markov model‐based threat assessment framework for effectively and efficiently assessing threats in specific situations, such as public events. Specifically, a probabilistic approach is adopted to estimate the threat level of a situation at each point in time. The proposed approach also permits the reflection of the dynamic evolution of a threat over time by considering that the estimation of the threat level at a given time is affected by past observations. This estimation of the dynamic evolution of the threat is very useful, since it can support the decisions by security personnel regarding the taking of precautionary measures in case the threat level seems to adopt an upward trajectory, even before it reaches the highest level. In addition, its probabilistic basis allows for taking into account noisy data. The applicability of the proposed framework is showcased in a use case that focuses on the identification of potential threats in public events on the basis of evidence obtained from the automatic visual analysis of the footage of surveillance cameras.
Price dispersion and the stability of trade*
Authors: Oglend Atle , Asche Frank , Mezzalira Pincinato Ruth Beatriz , Straume Hans‐Martin
Published: February 2023

Research on trade relationships has documented a high rate of relationship breakup and churning. We use data on Norwegian exports to document two stylized facts about the stability of trade relationships. First, the probability of relationship breakup increases in the deviation of the relationship‐specific price from a reference price. Second, relationship hazards follow Zipf's law. We propose a search model with limited information and search frictions to explain these facts. Reference prices provide information on outside trade options that inform optimal breakups, leading to the first stylized fact. Strong heterogeneity in breakup frictions across relationships can explain the Zipf's law hazards.
Vellus hair condition is related to dermal elasticity and facial sagging severity
Authors: Ezure Tomonobu
Published: February 2023

Background

Sagging of facial skin is a critical factor associated with an aged appearance. However, the mechanism of sagging has not been fully elucidated. The facial skin contains vellus hair (fine hair), but the contribution of vellus hair to skin condition and facial aging has yet to be studied.

Aim

We aimed to clarify the influence of vellus hair on the physical properties and sagging severity of facial skin by establishing an evaluation system for vellus hair condition.

Method

Photographs were taken to assess the vellus hair condition in the cheek area in 30 middle‐aged female volunteers. Skin elasticity was measured with a cutometer and sagging severity was evaluated by using previously established photograph‐based grading criteria.

Results

Facial skin vellus hairs were divided into three types: fine, thick, and normal thickness. Based on this observation, we established a 6‐grade photograph‐based grading system based on the dominant type of vellus hair in the target area and used it to evaluate vellus hair condition at the cheek. We found that vellus hair condition is significantly positively related to skin elasticity parameters Ua/Uf (representing overall elasticity including creep and creep recovery), Ur/Ue (representing net elasticity without viscoelastic creep), and Ur/Uf (ratio of elastic recovery to total deformation). Further, vellus hair condition was significantly negatively correlated to sagging severity.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that vellus hair condition positively contributes to the skin's physical properties, and consequently deterioration of the vellus hair condition promotes an aged facial appearance.
Genomic analysis of Bornean geckos (Gekkonidae:Cyrtodactylus) reveals need for updated taxonomy
Authors: Davis Hayden R. , Nashriq Izneil , Woytek Kyra S. , Wikramanayake Shanelle A. , Bauer Aaron M. , Karin Benjamin R. , Brennan Ian G. , Iskandar Djoko T. , Das Indraneil
Published: February 2023

Using molecular genetic data, recognised diversity within the gecko genusCyrtodactylushas more than doubled, with many lineages that were once thought to be wide‐ranging being delimited into multiple independent species. On the Southeast Asian island of Borneo, there has been a recent renewed focus on reptile taxonomy, as genetic data have demonstrated a high amount of unrecognised biodiversity. We herein advance this taxonomic trend by delimiting three distinct species within theCyrtodactylus consobrinusspecies complex:C. consobrinus, C. kapitensissp. n., andC. hutansp. n. To do so, we use a combination of ddRADseq and single‐locus data, and morphological data. Using genomic data, we test species and population boundaries within theconsobrinusspecies complex and show minimal population structure but high species‐level diversity. Despite not finding uniquely diagnostic morphological characters to delimit the new species, we suggest a combination of characters that can be used to identify each lineage. Lastly, we use our data to comment on the status ofC. malayanus, with indications that this lineage is also better considered a species complex. These data highlight the prevalence of unrecognised lineages on Borneo, many of which face threats due to increasing deforestation and other anthropogenic pressures.
Advance care planning experiences of patients with heart failure and their families: a qualitative systematic review protocol
Authors: Higashitsuji Asahiko , Sano Motohiro , Majima Tomoko
Published: February 2023

Objective:

This review aims to synthesize advance care planning experiences of patients with heart failure at stage C or D, and the experiences of their families.

Introduction:

The high incidence rates worldwide and the health burdens associated with heart failure indicate a need to implement end-of-life care for people with cardiovascular disease. Advance care planning is a core process in effective end-of-life cardiovascular care. Since the trajectory of heart failure is unique, it is necessary to establish patient-specific interventions focusing on their experiences, and develop effective advance care planning interventions. However, no previously published systematic reviews have integrated knowledge of the patient’s or the family’s experience. Therefore, more comprehensive analyses of the experiences of patients with heart failure and their families are required to conduct better interventions.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider qualitative studies on the experiences of adult patients with stage C or D heart failure who participated in advance care planning, and the experiences of their families. Studies conducted in all settings that accommodate patients with heart failure will be considered.

Methods:

PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Science Direct, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycINFO, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, Google Scholar, and gray literature will be searched for articles that meet the inclusion criteria. Studies published in English from the inception of the database to the present will be considered. Eligible studies will be critically appraised using standardized JBI tools for qualitative synthesis. The findings will be pooled using a meta-aggregation approach. The final synthesized findings will be assessed according to the ConQual approach to establish confidence in qualitative research synthesis.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42021229096
Estrategias y prácticas de los grupos de investigación frente a los sistemas de evaluación.
Authors: Pérez Martelo Constanza Beatriz , Patarroyo Durán Nubia , Jaime Astrid
Published: February 2023

Esta investigación indaga cómo se endogenizan los procesos de evaluación en las prácticas de los grupos de investigación universitarios. Se propone un estudio de casos en una universidad colombiana, a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas y un análisis documental, tomando como eje de análisis el proceso de medición de grupos que se conduce en el ámbito nacional. Apoyados en la literatura sobre evaluación y gestión de la investigación, se encuentra que en los grupos y en la institución emergen aprendizajes a partir del proceso de evaluación, que se traducen en estrategias y prácticas de investigación y gestión diferenciadas. Estos resultados aportan en la comprensión de la dimensión performativa de la evaluación de la investigación.
Prototyping Strategies to Engage Stakeholders During Early Stages of Design: A Study Across Three Design Domains
Authors: Rodríguez-Calero Ilka , Daly Shanna R. , Burleson Grace , Sienko Kathleen H.
Published: February 2023

Using prototypes to engage stakeholders during front-end design activities is crucial for successful design outcomes. Compared to prototyping that is used for iterative refinement during back-end engineering design activities, prototyping that informs problem definition, requirements and specifications development, concept generation, and other front-end design activities is understudied. To identify patterns in prototyping strategies for engaging stakeholders during the design front end, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 26 design practitioners across three product design domains: automotive, consumer products, and medical devices. Seventeen strategies evident across the collection of practitioners were used in generally consistent ways, with some variation based on context, e.g., project scope, stakeholders engaged, and the stakeholder interaction situation. Twelve of those 17 strategies were used by industry practitioners across the three domains, and five of those 17 strategies were used by practitioners from the medical device domain and either the automotive or consumer products domain. The descriptions and in-context examples of prototyping strategies used to engage stakeholders during front-end design can guide the design strategies of both experienced and novice designers.
Ultrasonography findings of papillary renal neoplasm with reverse polarity
Authors: Chen Guiwu , Liu Wenqin , Liao Xiao Min , Xie Yu Huan
Published: February 2023

.
Comments and illustrations of the WFUMB CEUS liver guidelines: Rare vascular pathology, part II
Authors: Moller Kathleen , Zadeh Ehsan Safai , Görg Christian , Jenssen Christian , Hocke Michael , De Molo Chiara , Serra Carla , Dong Yi , Cui Xin Wu , Lim Adrian , Thees-Laurenz Ruth , Faiss Siegbert , Dietrich Christoph F.
Published: February 2023

In this second part of the topic the hepatic pseudoaneurysm, hepatic infarction, and pylephlebitis are discussed as acute and potentially life-threatening hepatic vascular diseases. The focus is on their appearance on B-mode ultrasonography, duplex ultrasonography, and contrast-enhanced ultrasonography. Zahn’s pseudo infarction is an important differential diagnosis to wedge-shaped hepatic infarction in this context. Knowledge of the data should help raise awareness of these rare findings, to come up with relevant differential diagnoses in the corresponding clinical situation, to interpret the ultrasound images correctly and thus to initiate the appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic steps in time.
Passive source localization based on multipath arrival angles with a vertical line array using sparse Bayesian learning
Authors: Qi Yubo , Zhou Shihong , Luo Zailei , Liu Changpeng , Du Shuyuan , Dun Jincong , Zhou Lei
Published: February 2023

In deep water, multipath time delays or frequency-domain interference periods of the acoustic intensity combined with multipath arrival angles are typically used for source localization. However, depth estimate is hard to achieve for a narrowband source at a remote part of the direct arrival zone as the required bandwidth increases with the source range. In this paper, a passive source localization method with a vertical line array, suitable for both broadband and narrowband sources, is proposed. Based on the variation trends of multipath angles with source range and depth, source localization is achieved by only matching the measured angles of the direct path and surface-reflected path with model-based values of a predefined grid of potential source locations. Considering the angle resolution limited by the array aperture and the presence of coherent multipath, sparse Bayesian learning is used and compared with the conventional beamforming and the minimum-variance distortionless-response beamforming to resolve and estimate the multipath angles. Simulations and experimental data of explosive sources collected by a vertical line array in the South China Sea are carried out to illustrate the method and demonstrate the performance.
Non-invasive manipulation scheme of spherical particle in viscous fluids in a tube based on acoustic radiation force
Authors: Gong Menyang , Xu Xin , Fei Zhonghan , Li Yuanyuan , Liu Teng , Gao Shenlian , Liu Jiehui , He Aijun , Liu Xiaozhou
Published: February 2023

A theoretical solution of the acoustic radiation force (ARF) on spherical particles by an arbitrary beam in viscous fluids in a tube is proposed. Based on the parametric design with the purpose of promoting calculi in the urinary system, theoretical solutions and finite element simulations are carried out, which mutually confirm the accuracy and feasibility of the scheme. The variation law of the ARF with adjustable parameters, such as incident angle, frequency spectrum, particle radius, tube radius, and viscosity, is studied, and the mechanism of the variation law is explained. This solution lays a foundation for the application of non-contact and non-invasive in-tube manipulation based on ARF in medicine and life sciences.
Suppressing feedback signals to visual cortex abolishes attentional modulation
Authors: Debes Samantha R. , Dragoi Valentin
Published: February 2023

Attention improves perception by enhancing the neural encoding of sensory information. A long-standing hypothesis is that cortical feedback projections carry top-down signals to influence sensory coding. However, this hypothesis has never been tested to establish causal links. We used viral tools to label feedback connections from cortical area V4 targeting early visual cortex (area V1). While monkeys performed a visual–spatial attention task, inactivating feedback axonal terminals in V1 without altering local intracortical and feedforward inputs reduced the response gain of single cells and impaired the accuracy of neural populations for encoding external stimuli. These effects are primarily manifested in the superficial layers of V1 and propagate to downstream area V4. Attention enhances sensory coding across visual cortex by specifically altering the strength of corticocortical feedback in a layer-dependent manner.
The NIH-led research response to COVID-19
Authors: Collins Francis , Adam Stacey , Colvis Christine , Desrosiers Elizabeth , Draghia-Akli Ruxandra , Fauci Anthony , Freire Maria , Gibbons Gary , Hall Matthew , Hughes Eric , Jansen Kathrin , Kurilla Michael , Lane H. Clifford , Lowy Douglas , Marks Peter , Menetski Joseph , Pao William , Pérez-Stable Eliseo , Purcell Lisa , Read Sarah , Rutter Joni , Santos Michael , Schwetz Tara , Shuren Jeffrey , Stenzel Timothy , Stoffels Paul , Tabak Lawrence , Tountas Karen , Tromberg Bruce , Wholley David , Woodcock Janet , Young John
Published: February 2023

Investment, collaboration, and coordination have been key
Epstein-Barr Virus Synergizes with BRD7 to Conquer c-Myc-Mediated Viral Latency Maintenance via Chromatin Remodeling
Authors: Li Shen , Yang Li , Li Yanling , Yue Wenxing , Xin Shuyu , Li Jing , Long Sijing , Zhang Wentao , Cao Pengfei , Lu Jianhong
Published: February 2023

When establishing persistent infection in most human hosts, EBV is usually latent. How the viral latency is maintained in cells remains largely unknown. c-Myc was recently reported to act as a controller of the lytic switch, while whether and how EBV regulates it remain to be explored.
Characterization of Vibrio mediterranei Isolates as Causative Agents of Vibriosis in Marine Bivalves
Authors: Fan Congling , Liu Sheng , Dai Wenfang , He Lin , Xu Hongqiang , Zhang Haiyan , Xue Qinggang
Published: February 2023

In the marine environment,
Vibrio
members have a significant impact on aquatic organisms. Larval vibriosis, caused by bacteria of the genus
Vibrio
, often poses a threat to the marine fishery industry and ecosystem by causing the mortality of bivalves.
Antiseizure medication at discharge in infants with hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy: an observational study
Authors: Sewell Elizabeth K , Shankaran Seetha , McDonald Scott A , Hamrick Shannon , Wusthoff Courtney J , Adams-Chapman Ira , Chalak Lina F , Davis Alexis S , Van Meurs Krisa , Das Abhik , Maitre Nathalie , Laptook Abbott , Patel Ravi Mangal
Published: February 2023

Objectives

To assess variability in continuation of antiseizure medication (ASM) at discharge and to evaluate if continuation of ASM at discharge is associated with death or disability among infants with hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) and seizures.

Design

Retrospective study of infants enrolled in three National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network Trials of therapeutic hypothermia.

Setting

22 US centres.

Patients

Infants with HIE who survived to discharge and had clinical or electrographic seizures treated with ASM.

Exposures

ASM continued or discontinued at discharge.

Outcomes

Death or moderate-to-severe disability at 18–22 months, using trial definitions. Multivariable logistic regression evaluated the association between continuation of ASM at discharge and the primary outcome, adjusting for severity of HIE, hypothermia trial treatment arm, use of electroencephalogram, discharge on gavage feeds, Apgar Score at 5 min, birth year and centre.

Results

Of 302 infants included, 61% were continued on ASMs at discharge (range 13%–100% among 22 centres). Electroencephalogram use occurred in 92% of the cohort. Infants with severe HIE comprised 24% and 22% of those discharged with and without ASM, respectively. The risk of death or moderate-to-severe disability was greater for infants continued on ASM at discharge, compared with those infants discharged without ASM (44% vs 28%, adjusted OR 2.14; 95% CI 1.13 to 4.05).

Conclusions

In infants with HIE and seizures, continuation of ASM at discharge varies substantially among centres and may be associated with a higher risk of death or disability at 18–22 months of age.
Bilateral renal aspergillosis with a fungal cast masquerading as renal malignancy
Authors: Tosh Jyoti Mohan , Navriya Shiv Charan , Agrawal Shruti , Jain Nikunj
Published: February 2023

Invasive isolated renal aspergilloma in an immunocompetent host is rare, and few cases have been reported in the literature. It is a unique entity encountered by a urologist that can lead to catastrophic complications like end-stage renal disease. Infective pathology may closely resemble renal mass, and timely, appropriate investigations are obligatory for early intervention. This case report highlights the importance of strong consideration of renal fungal infections in the differential diagnosis of a renal mass with atypical radiological findings in an immunocompetent host. Meticulous decision-making and appropriate management help to prevent disastrous sequelae.
Improved knowledge on substandard and falsified (SF) medical products through a dedicated course for pharmacy students at three universities in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Kusynová Zuzana , Bais Youssra , van den Ham Hendrika A , Mantel-Teeuwisse Aukje K , Etame-Loe Gisele , Kaale Eliangiringa , Sarr Serigne Omar , Guiet-Mati Fatima , Bourdillon-Esteve Pernette
Published: February 2023

Background

Too few pharmacists receive formal training on substandard and falsified (SF) medical products. Strengthening knowledge across pharmacists is considered a moral and ethical duty of academia, that is, to build the health systems’ capacities to combat this global health threat these poor-quality products represent. This study therefore aimed to evaluate whether a dedicated educational course for undergraduate pharmacy students can improve their knowledge on these products.

Methods

A survey was conducted at three sub-Saharan universities. Knowledge was assessed through scores on a 20-point questionnaire with questions related to the course content. Scores were compared before and after the course, and a linear mixed-effects model analysis was used to analyse score differences. Students were furthermore asked for feedback and self-assessment. In addition, teachers were interviewed on the context of the course introduction. These data were analysed descriptively.

Results

Among 335 out of 355 students who completed the survey (n=41/53 in Cameroon, n=244/252 in Senegal and n=50/50 in Tanzania), knowledge of SF medical products was enhanced, with increase in all countries, overall, by 3.5 (95% CI 3.1 to 3.9) score points. Students improved in all offered modules in each country. Students confirmed their improvement through self-assessment.

The course was well received among students and teachers. Barriers included time constraints and access to practical means (equipment availability, room allocation, internet accessibility and affordability). These barriers can be overcome by key enablers such as the support from university leadership and early involvement of the university in the course design.

Conclusions

The course improved students’ knowledge on SF medical products. These findings encourage further full implementation of this course in existing curricula beyond the pilot and can inform possible future scale-up. This has a potential for reinforcing the capacity of health systems to protect communities from SF medicines, by empowering all pharmacist across the health systems to intervene.
Sleep hygiene strategies for individuals with chronic pain: a scoping review
Authors: Gupta Charlotte C , Sprajcer Madeline , Johnston-Devin Colleen , Ferguson Sally A
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Up to a quarter of the world’s population experience chronic pain, which, in addition to interfering with daily activities and waking function, is often associated with poor sleep. Individuals experiencing poor sleep are often encouraged to implement sleep hygiene strategies. However, current sleep hygiene strategies have not been developed considering the unique challenges faced by individuals with chronic pain and therefore they might not be as effective in this population. The aim of this scoping review is to map the state of the existing literature examining sleep hygiene strategies in individuals with chronic pain.

Design

This scoping review included a search of four online databases (Medline, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL) to identify articles examining the use of sleep hygiene strategies in populations with chronic pain.

Results

Thirty articles investigated at least one sleep hygiene strategy in individuals with chronic pain, with improvements to sleep reported for six sleep hygiene strategies (education, exercise, limiting alcohol use, limiting tobacco use, prebed state and sleep environment). However, the timing of these strategies was often not reported which limits the degree to which these strategies can be generalised for use as a presleep strategy.

Conclusion

This scoping review examined the existing literature focusing on sleep hygiene strategies for people with chronic pain. There are limitations to the methodology of the existing literature and gaps in our understanding of sleep hygiene strategies in some chronic pain conditions that must be addressed in future research before the effectiveness of these strategies can be understood.
Is anybody ‘Learning’ from deaths? Sequential content and reflexive thematic analysis of national statutory reporting within the NHS in England 2017–2020
Authors: Brummell Zoe , Braun Dorit , Hussein Zainab , Moonesinghe S Ramani , Vindrola-Padros Cecilia
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The imperative to learn when a patient dies due to problems in care is absolute. In 2017, the Learning from Deaths (LfDs) framework, a countrywide patient safety programme, was launched in the National Health Service (NHS) in England. NHS Secondary Care Trusts (NSCTs) are legally required to publish quantitative and qualitative information relating to deaths due to problems in care within their organisation, including any learning derived from these deaths.

Method

All LfDs report from 2017 to 2020 were reviewed and evaluated, quantitatively and qualitatively using sequential content and reflexive thematic analysis, through a critical realist lens to understand what we can learn from LfDs reporting and the mechanisms enabling or preventing engagement with the LfDs programme.

Results

The majority of NSCTs have identified learning, actions and, to a lesser degree, assessed the impact of these actions. The most frequent learning relates to missed/delayed/uncoordinated care and communication/cultural issues. System issues and lack of resources feature infrequently. There is significant variation among NSCTs as to what ‘learning’ in this context actually means and a lack of oversight combining patient safety initiatives.

Discussion

Engagement of NSCTs with the LfDs programme varies significantly. Learning as a result of the LfDs programme is occurring. The ability, significance or value of this learning in preventing future patient deaths remains unclear. Consensus about what constitutes effective learning with regard to patient safety needs to be defined and agreed on.
Genetically determined serum serine level has a novel causal effect on multiple sclerosis risk and predicts disability progression
Authors: Lin Xin , Yang Yuanhao , Fuh-Ngwa Valery , Yin Xianyong , Simpson-Yap Steve , van der Mei Ingrid , Broadley Simon A , Ponsonby Anne-Louise ,   Ausimmune/ AusLong Investigators Group, Burdon Kathryn P , Taylor Bruce V , Zhou Yuan
Published: February 2023

Background

There are currently no specific biomarkers for multiple sclerosis (MS). Identifying robust biomarkers for MS is crucial to improve disease diagnosis and management.

Methods

This study first used six Mendelian randomisation methods to assess causal relationship of 174 metabolites with MS, incorporating data from European-ancestry metabolomics (n=8569–86 507) and MS (n=14 802 MS cases, 26 703 controls) genomewide association studies. Genetic scores for identified causal metabolite(s) were then computed to predict MS disability progression in an independent longitudinal cohort (AusLong study) of 203 MS cases with up to 15-year follow-up.

Results

We found a novel genetic causal effect of serine on MS onset (OR=1.67, 95% CI 1.51 to 1.84, p=1.73×10−20), such that individuals whose serine level is 1 SD above the population mean will have 1.67 times the risk of developing MS. This is robust across all sensitivity methods (OR ranges from 1.49 to 1.67). In an independent longitudinal MS cohort, we then constructed time-dynamic and time-fixed genetic scores based on serine genetic instrument single-nucleotide polymorphisms, where higher scores for raised serum serine level were associated with increased risk of disability worsening, especially in the time-dynamic model (RR=1.25, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.42, p=7.52×10−4).

Conclusions

These findings support investigating serine as an important candidate biomarker for MS onset and disability progression.