bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Field Crop Yield Loss Calculator for Disease and Invertebrate Pests: An Online Tool from the Crop Protection Network
Authors: Mueller Daren S. , Sisson Adam J. , Eide Brittany , Allen Tom W. , Bradley Carl A. , Faske Travis R. , Friskop Andrew , Lawrence Kathy , Musser Fred , Reisig Dominic , Tenuta Albert U. , Wise Kiersten A.
Published: October 2023

The Field Crop Disease and Invertebrate Loss Calculator Web Tool is an interactive online resource showcasing estimates of the yield reduction and economic impact of plant diseases and invertebrate pests over time and location. Accessible through the Crop Protection Network website ( https://www.cropprotectionnetwork.org ), this free online research tool was developed to inform agronomists and researchers across industry and academia, extension workers, commodity groups, and funding agencies about the impact of crop disease and invertebrate pests. The tool enables widespread user access through commonly used web browsers on computers, tablets, and mobile devices. Yield loss estimates are generally obtained through annual surveys of university-affiliated specialists or others with experience in crop protection. Production data are primarily obtained from U.S. and Canadian government agencies. A detailed understanding of the economic impacts of plant disease and invertebrate pests provides valuable information that can inform the allocation of resources to reduce losses in major field crops.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
An adult Drosophila glioma model to highlight metabolic dysfunctions and evaluate the role of the serotonin 5‐HT7 receptor as a potential therapeutic target
Authors: Bertrand Marylène , Szeremeta Frédéric , Hervouet‐Coste Nadège , Sarou‐Kanian Vincent , Landon Céline , Morisset‐Lopez Séverine , Decoville Martine
Published: October 2023

Gliomas account for 50% of brain cancers and are therefore the most common brain tumors. Molecular alterations involved in adult gliomas have been identified and mainly affect tyrosine kinase receptors with amplification and/or mutation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its associated signaling pathways. Several targeted therapies have been developed, but current treatments remain ineffective for glioblastomas, the most severe forms. Thus, it is a priority to identify new pharmacological targets. Drosophila glioma models established in larvae and adults are useful to identify new genes and signaling pathways involved in glioma progression. Here, we used a Drosophila glioma model in adults, to characterize metabolic disturbances associated with glioma and assess the consequences of 5‐HT7R expression on glioma development. First, by using in vivo magnetic resonance imaging, we have shown that expression of the constitutively active forms of EGFR and PI3K in adult glial cells induces brain enlargement. Then, we explored altered cellular metabolism by using high‐resolution magic angle spinning NMR and 1H‐13C heteronuclear single quantum coherence solution states. Discriminant metabolites identified highlight the rewiring of metabolic pathways in glioma and associated cachexia phenotypes. Finally, the expression of 5‐HT7R in this adult model attenuates phenotypes associated with glioma development. Collectively, this whole‐animal approach in Drosophila allowed us to provide several rapid and robust phenotype readouts, such as enlarged brain volume and glioma‐associated cachexia, as well as to determine the metabolic pathways involved in glioma genesis and finally to confirm the interest of the 5‐HT7R in the treatment of glioma.
Contemporary applications of Y90 for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yu Qian , Khanjyan Michael , Fidelman Nicholas , Pillai Anjana
Published: October 2023

Transarterial radioembolization (TARE) with yttrium-90 (90Y) microspheres has been widely adopted for the treatment of HCC. Recent advances in yttrium-90 (90Y) dosimetry have led to durable local responses. Radiation segmentectomy has become a viable alternative to thermal ablation for early-stage HCC (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer 0 and A) and has been commonly used as a bridge to transplant. TARE is also commonly used for downstaging to transplant using traditional lobar dosimetry and radiation segmentectomy techniques. Radiation lobectomy has a dual role in local tumor control and induction of contralateral liver lobe hypertrophy as a bridge to resection for patients with an inadequate future liver remnant. TARE continues to provide disease control for patients with limited vascular invasion and may be an alternative to systemic therapy for patients with localized advanced disease. The potential synergy between TARE and immunotherapy has been recognized, and prospective studies evaluating this combination are needed for patients with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer B and C HCC.
Steroids in the Management of Infectious Keratitis
Authors: Keenan Jeremy D.
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

To summarize the evidence base on the use of topical corticosteroids for infectious keratitis.

Methods:

Narrative review.

Results:

Infectious keratitis is a painful condition that often results in visually significant corneal stromal scarring, even when antimicrobial therapy is successful. Corticosteroids may reduce inflammation and subsequent scar formation and while relieving the acute ocular pain associated with a corneal ulcer. However, corticosteroids also reduce the host immune response, which could hinder the ability to clear infection. The safety and effectiveness of corticosteroids depends to a large part on the efficacy of the antimicrobials being used to treat the underlying infection. Randomized trials have found that corticosteroids are safe and effective for herpetic keratitis when used with appropriate antiviral therapy, and are safe for bacterial keratitis when used with broad spectrum topical antibiotics. The effectiveness of corticosteroids for bacterial keratitis has not been shown conclusively, although more advanced bacterial corneal ulcers may do better with corticosteroids. No randomized trials have assessed the safety and effectiveness of steroids for fungal or acanthamoeba keratitis. Animal studies suggest corticosteroids may be harmful in fungal keratitis, and observational human studies have found that steroids are harmful for fungal and acanthamoeba keratitis when started prior to anti-amoebics.

Conclusions:

Topical corticosteroids, when used as an adjunct to antimicrobial therapy, may be beneficial if the antimicrobial being used can effectively clear or suppress the infection, such as in bacterial and herpetic keratitis. Randomized trials would be helpful to further delineate the role of corticosteroids for infectious keratitis.
Development and internal validation of a prediction model for long-term opioid use—an analysis of insurance claims data
Authors: Held Ulrike , Forzy Tom , Signorell Andri , Deforth Manja , Burgstaller Jakob M. , Wertli Maria M.
Published: October 2023

In the United States, a public-health crisis of opioid overuse has been observed, and in Europe, prescriptions of opioids are strongly increasing over time. The objective was to develop and validate a multivariable prognostic model to be used at the beginning of an opioid prescription episode, aiming to identify individual patients at high risk for long-term opioid use based on routinely collected data. Predictors including demographics, comorbid diseases, comedication, morphine dose at episode initiation, and prescription practice were collected. The primary outcome was long-term opioid use, defined as opioid use of either >90 days duration and ≥10 claims or >120 days, independent of the number of claims. Traditional generalized linear statistical regression models and machine learning approaches were applied. The area under the curve, calibration plots, and the scaled Brier score assessed model performance. More than four hundred thousand opioid episodes were included. The final risk prediction model had an area under the curve of 0.927 (95% confidence interval 0.924-0.931) in the validation set, and this model had a scaled Brier score of 48.5%. Using a threshold of 10% predicted probability to identify patients at high risk, the overall accuracy of this risk prediction model was 81.6% (95% confidence interval 81.2% to 82.0%). Our study demonstrated that long-term opioid use can be predicted at the initiation of an opioid prescription episode, with satisfactory accuracy using data routinely collected at a large health insurance company. Traditional statistical methods resulted in higher discriminative ability and similarly good calibration as compared with machine learning approaches.
Predictors of Healthcare Utilization in Family Caregivers of Persons With a Primary Malignant Brain Tumor
Authors: Goldberg Isabella , Sherwood Paula , Sereika Susan M. , Donovan Heidi S. , Weimer Jason , Drappatz Jan , Boele Florien , Shi Xiaojun , Loughan Ashlee
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND: Negative physical health results from the emotional stress of providing care to a family member with a primary malignant brain tumor; however, the downstream effects on caregivers' healthcare utilization (HCU) are unknown. This analysis examined associations between caregivers' emotional health and markers of HCU during the 6 months after patients' diagnoses. METHODS: Caregivers' self-report HCU data from a longitudinal study with 116 neuro-oncology caregivers were analyzed. Healthcare utilization was operationalized as number of prescription medications, reporting visits to primary care providers (PCPs), nature of PCP visit, number of comorbid conditions, and change in comorbid conditions. Potential predictors were caregivers' depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale), hours providing care per day, mastery (Pearlin and Schooler), and burden (Caregiver Reaction Assessment). Logistic mixed effects modeling were used. RESULTS: Caregivers with higher levels of depressive symptoms (P < .01), anxiety (P = .02), burden related to schedule (P = .02), and abandonment (P < .01) were more likely to report worsening comorbid conditions. Those with higher mastery (P = .02) were less likely to report worsening comorbid conditions. Caregivers who had a PCP visit and reported higher burden related to feelings of self-esteem (P = .03) were more likely to report an illness-related visit. CONCLUSION: Findings suggest a relationship between neuro-oncology caregivers' emotional health and their HCU. Data highlight the importance of caregivers' PCPs identifying caregivers at risk for deteriorating health and increased HCU and intervene to ensure caregivers' self-care.
Diagnostic accuracy of RBC scintigraphy and CTA for detection of patients with suspected lower gastrointestinal bleeding: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sagar Sambit , Kaushik Prateek , Phulia Ankita , Khan Dikhra , Sarswat Sulochana , Reddy K. Sreenivasa , Kundu Nivedita , Roy Arup , V Rahul , Y.S. Manikya
Published: October 2023

Objective

Detection of lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) through noninvasive modalities is very important in the successful management of LGIB. RBC scintigraphy and CT have a role in the detection of LGIB and guiding the management of patient by localization of the bleeding site. However, only a small number of studies have evaluated the role of RBC scintigraphy and CT in the diagnosis of LGIB. This systematic review was conducted to evaluate the diagnostic performance of RBC scintigraphy and CT in the detection of LGIB in patients with clinical or biochemical findings suspicious of LGIB.

Methods

This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines. Searches in PubMed, Scopus, and Embase were conducted using relevant keywords, and articles published through 30 April 2022, were included. Using endoscopy or surgical outcomes as the reference standard, the numbers of true and false positives and true and false negatives were extracted. Pooled estimates of diagnostic test accuracy – including sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, and summary ROC (SROC) curve – were generated using bivariate random-effects meta-analysis.

Results

Three studies comprising 171 patients were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio for the detection of LGIB using RBC scintigraphy were 0.787 (95% CI, 0.643–0.893), 0.289 (95% CI, 0.164–0.443), 1.214 (95% CI, 0.923–1.597) and 0.576 (95% CI, 0.296–1.121) respectively. The area under the SROC curve was 0.73. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio for the detection of LGIB using CT were 0.931 (95% CI, 0.772–0.992), 0.870 (95% CI, 0.737–0.951), 6.085 (95% CI, 0.840–44.097), 0.126 (95% CI, 0.006–2.509) respectively. The area under the SROC curve was 0.095.

Conclusion

RBC scintigraphy has overall good sensitivity and CTA has excellent sensitivity specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratio in the detection of LGIB in patients with clinical or biochemical findings suspicious for LGIB.CTA along with RBC scintigraphy can be used algorithmically to rule out patients who do not have a localization for the site of LGIB thereby helping these patients to avoid invasive procedures like endoscopy or surgical explorations.
Dilemma in diagnosing incomplete Kawasaki disease in a resource limited setting
Authors: Bhatta Mukesh , Baniya Aashish , Koirala Diwakar , Bhattarai Karun , Shah Abhishek
Published: October 2023

Introduction and importance:

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute febrile systemic vasculitis that predominantly affects small to medium sized vessels and mostly occurs in children below 5 years of age. The morbidity and mortality mostly occur due to cardiac involvement.

Case presentation:

The authors present a case of a 5-year-old male child from hilly region of Nepal who presented with fever for 7 days along with strawberry tongue and non-exudative conjunctivitis without rashes, extremity changes or lymphadenopathy. A suspicion of incomplete KD (IKD) was made. The notable investigation findings were increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, leucocyte count and platelets. Echocardiography showed normal findings. Based on the clinical features and supplemental laboratory findings, a diagnosis of IKD was made. The patient improved after intravenous immunoglobulin and Aspirin.

Clinical discussion:

The main learning objective that the authors get from this case is the challenges in the diagnosis of IKD in the resource limited setting like Nepal. Whether or not to start intravenous immunoglobulin is a dilemma for the physician in most of the cases of suspected IKD, due to the high cost and poor availability of intravenous immunoglobulin in this setting. Hence, the use of inflammatory markers, supplemental laboratory findings together with the few diagnostic criteria met by the patient helps in making a diagnosis and institute timely treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin.

Conclusion:

Diagnosis of KD in difficult in resource limited setting.
The Relationship Between Accurate Triage and Core Measures Compliance for Acute Myocardial Infarction and Heart Failure in Older Adults Presenting to the Emergency Department
Authors: Wolf Lisa , Russell Angelique
Published: October 2023

Background:

Accurate emergency department (ED) triage in the geriatric population is an important nurse-sensitive quality indicator; however, few quality indicators are verified for impact.

Purpose:

To examine the relationship between triage accuracy in adults older than 65 years and Core Measures for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and heart failure (HF).

Methods:

A correlational approach was used to determine strength and direction of the relationship between variables.

Results:

Strong positive correlations were found between triage accuracy and mortality for AMI and HF, as well as with 30-day hospital readmissions for AMI. A weak negative correlation was found between triage accuracy and 30-day hospital readmissions for HF.

Conclusions:

Accurate triage can lead to a more effective care trajectory for patients, better adherence to Core Measures, and better outcomes. Accuracy in triage for AMI and HF is a valid indicator of ED quality care.
The impact of bullying in childhood and adolescence
Authors: Bhatia Richa
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review

Bullying is a common adversity affecting many children and adolescents. It has been shown to negatively impact the psychological well being not only of targets of bullying, but also that of bullying perpetrators and those witnessing bullying. Bullying is linked to depression and poorer mental health and functioning among children and adolescents. Given the high prevalence of bullying among children and adolescents and the negative mental health sequelae of bullying, this is an area of urgent public health concern. This narrative review brings forth recent research findings in this arena, which could help shape public health policies for addressing and preventing bullying.

Recent findings

Recent findings demonstrate an association of bullying among children and adolescents with depression, nonsuicidal self-injury, sleep loss, reduced health-related quality of life, poorer rates of graduation from high school and later mental health problems. A recent systematic review also showed an association of peer-victimization among children and adolescents with activation of amygdala, left parahippocampal gyrus and fusiform gyrus, and alterations in other brain areas.

Evidence indicates that bullying in childhood and adolescence is associated with higher odds of developing mental health problems; therefore, early identification and timely intervention is crucial.
Predicting diagnostic conversion from major depressive disorder to bipolar disorder: an EHR based study from Colombia
Authors: Service Susan K. , De La Hoz Juan , Diaz-Zuluaga Ana M. , Arias Alejandro , Pimplaskar Aditya , Luu Chuc , Mena Laura , Valencia Johanna , Ramírez Mauricio Castaño , Bearden Carrie E. , Sabbati Chiara , Reus Victor I. , López-Jaramillo Carlos , Freimer Nelson B. , Loohuis Loes M. Olde
Published: October 2023

Bipolar Disorder (BD) is a severe and chronic disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of depression, mania, and/or hypomania. Most BD patients initially present with depressive symptoms, resulting in a delayed diagnosis of BD and poor clinical outcomes. This study leverages electronic health record (EHR) data from the Clínica San Juan de Dios Manizales in Colombia to identify features predictive of the transition from Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) to BD.

Analyzing EHR data from 13,607 patients diagnosed with MDD over 15 years, we identified 1,610 cases of conversion to BD. Using a multivariate Cox regression model, we identified severity of the initial MDD episode, the presence of psychosis and hospitalization at first episode, family history of mood or psychotic disorders, female gender to be predictive of the conversion to BD. Additionally, we observed associations with medication classes (prescriptions of mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants) and clinical features (delusions, suicide attempt, suicidal ideation, use of marijuana and alcohol use/abuse) derived from natural language processing (NLP) of clinical notes. Together, these risk factors predicted BD conversion within five years of the initial MDD diagnosis, with a recall of 72% and a precision of 38%.

Our study confirms many previously identified risk factors identified through registry-based studies (such as female gender and psychotic depression at the index MDD episode), and identifies novel ones (specifically, suicidal ideation and suicide attempt extracted from clinical notes). These results simultaneously demonstrate the validity of using EHR data for predicting BD conversion as well as underscore its potential for the identification of novel risk factors and improving early diagnosis.
Histopathology-assisted proteogenomics provides foundations for stratification of melanoma metastases
Authors: Kuras Magdalena , Betancourt Lazaro Hiram , Hong Runyu , Szadai Leticia , Rodriguez Jimmy , Horvatovich Peter , Pla Indira , Eriksson Jonatan , Szeitz Beáta , Deszcz Bartłomiej , Welinder Charlotte , Sugihara Yutaka , Ekedahl Henrik , Baldetorp Bo , Ingvar Christian , Lundgren Lotta , Lindberg Henrik , Oskolas Henriett , Horvath Zsolt , Rezeli Melinda , Gil Jeovanis , Appelqvist Roger , Kemény Lajos V. , Malm Johan , Sanchez Aniel , Szasz A. Marcell , Pawłowski Krzysztof , Wieslander Elisabet , Fenyö David , Nemeth Istvan Balazs , Marko-Varga György
Published: October 2023

Here we describe the histopathology-driven proteogenomic landscape of 142 treatment-naïve metastatic melanoma samples. We identified five proteomic subtypes that integrate the immune and stroma microenvironment components, and associate with clinical and histopathological parameters, providing foundations for an in-depth molecular classification of melanoma. Our study shows that BRAF V600 mutated melanomas display heterogeneous biology, where the presence of an oncogene-induced senescence-like phenotype improves patient survival. Therefore, we propose a mortality-risk-based stratification, which may contribute to a more personalized approach to patient treatment. We also found a strong association between tumor microenvironment composition, disease progression, and patient outcome supported by single-cell omic signatures that point to straightforward histopathological connective tissue-to-tumor ratio assessment for better informed medical decisions. A melanoma-associated signature of single amino acid variants (SAAV) responsible for remodeling the extracellular matrix was uncovered together with SAAV-derived neoantigen candidates as targets of anti-tumor immune responses. Overall, this study offers comprehensive stratifications of melanoma metastases that may help develop tailored strategies for diagnosing and treating the disease.
Lactobacillusspp. decrease the susceptibility ofSalmonellaTyphimurium to the last resort antibiotic azithromycin
Authors: Blais Lya , Couture Laurence , Laforest-Lapointe Isabelle , Côté Jean-Philippe
Published: October 2023

Bacteria are involved in numerous interactions during infection and among host-associated microbial populations.Salmonella entericaserovar Typhimurium is a foodborne pathogen of great importance as well as a model organism to study interactions within a microbial community. In this study, we found thatS. Typhimurium becomes tolerant to azithromycin when co-cultured with strains ofLactobacillus. Similarly, acidified media, from cell-free supernatant ofLactobacilluscultures for instance, also induced the tolerance ofS. Typhimurium to azithromycin. The addition of membrane disruptors restored the normal sensitivity to azithromycin in acidified media, but not whenLactobacilluswas present. These results suggested that the acidification of the media led to modification in envelope homeostasis, but that a different mechanism promoted the tolerance to azithromycin in the presence ofLactobacillusstrains. To further understand howLactobacillusstrains modify the sensitivity ofS. Typhimurium to azithromycin, a high-throughput assay was carried using the single gene deletion collection of theS. Typhimurium (1) in coculture withL. rhamnosusand (2) in sterile acidic conditions (pH 5.5 media only). As expected, both screens identified genes involved in envelope homeostasis and membrane permeability. Our results also suggest that changes in the metabolism ofS. Typhimurium induce the tolerance observed in the presence ofL. rhamnosus. Our results thus highlight two different mechanisms by whichLactobacillusstrains induce tolerance ofS. Typhimurium to antibiotics.

Importance

This study provides valuable insights into the intricate interactions between bacteria during infections and within host-associated microbial communities. Specifically, it sheds light on the significant role ofLactobacillusstrains in inducing antibiotic tolerance inSalmonella entericaserovar Typhimurium, a critical foodborne pathogen and model organism for microbial community studies. The findings not only uncover the mechanisms underlying this antibiotic tolerance but also reveal two distinct pathways through whichLactobacillusstrains might influenceSalmonella’s response to antibiotics. Understanding these mechanisms has the potential to enhance our knowledge of bacterial infections and may have implications for the development of strategies to combat antibiotic resistance in pathogens likeSalmonella. Furthermore, our results underscore the necessity to explore beyond the direct antimicrobial effects of antibiotics, emphasizing the broader microbial community context.
Analysis of whole‐genome changes and characteristics of Linepithema humile (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Jung Young Jun , Kim Dayeong , Kim Dong Eon
Published: October 2023

The Argentine ant, Linepithema humile (Mayr, 1868), native to the Paraguay River in South America, was first discovered in Korea in 2019. With increasing reports of L. humile, its genetic variation according to domestic growth colonies and its effects on the domestic ecosystem should be studied. Here, the genomes of L. humile specimens found at three locations in Busan were analyzed for genetic changes. First, morphological observation of L. humile samples collected from the three sites showed no phenotypic differences among them. Next, single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)/insertion and deletion (INDEL) analyses on the genomic DNA from the three groups showed that in the 1‐NIE sample, the most frequent mutations were G → A and C → T. The mutations A → C and T → G were confirmed in the 14‐NIE and 19‐NIE samples. Although the number of SNPs in the N section was small, sequences of 4681 bp (1‐NIE), 4217 bp (14‐NIE) and 4631 bp (19‐NIE) in length were identified. From the INDEL length distribution of the three samples, most changes were associated with insertions and deletions of 1–2 bp. However, no heterogeneity was found in the population samples analyzed based on SNP data. Comparative analysis of the SNPs investigated revealed that 760 819 (11.72%) of the total 6 492 517 SNPs were found in common, demonstrating that the three groups analyzed had different genetic backgrounds. Overall, we have developed a method for analyzing the genetic diversity of L. humile invading the Republic of Korea, precisely classified its genetic characteristics and obtained genomic data on interspecies mutations, according to the local environment.
Withdrawal time of danofloxacin and difloxacin and in vitro binding phenomenon to melanin in black‐boned silky fowl
Authors: Chen Zimin , Liu Wanyi , Wu Qiang , Li Ziliang , Tan Lei , Ding Huanzhong , Liu Wenzi , Shen Xiangguang
Published: October 2023

Fluoroquinolones are commonly used in poultry breeding. Few studies have evaluated the causes of serious drug residues in black‐boned silky fowl until enrofloxacin has been banned in black‐boned silky fowl breeding in the Chinese Veterinary Commission of Chinese Veterinary Pharmacopoeia (2020). However, similarly structured fluoroquinolones have not been studied in black‐boned silky fowl. In this study, the elimination of tissue residues of danofloxacin (DAN) and difloxacin (DIF) was studied in four tissues of black‐boned silky fowl. The specific administration methods were 100 mg/L of DIF aqueous solution for free drinking for 5 days and 50 mg/L of DAN aqueous solution for free drinking for 3 days. Based on the experiment, the withdrawal times of 44 days for muscle, 95 days for skin + fat, 3 days for liver, and 44 days for kidney of DAN were acquired, of 43 days for muscle, 61 days for skin + fat, 0 days for liver, and 38 days for kidney of DIF were acquired, which showed that DIF and DAN should be used with caution for application in black‐boned silky fowl. In vitro experiments showed that black‐boned silky fowl tissues had stronger adsorption capacity to DAN and DIF than yellow chicken tissues (especially in skin + fat), and melanin has a strong adsorption effect on DAN and DIF, which is an important reason for the high residual concentrations of fluoroquinolone in black‐boned silky fowl.
Social support associated with restorative treatment, professionally applied fluoride and flossing: A cross‐sectional analysis including recent immigrants from Central America and Mexico in the Midwest USA
Authors: Brooks Caroline V. , Maupomé Gerardo
Published: October 2023

Objectives

This study examined how Mexican and Central American immigrants' social support was associated with three selected dental outcomes among recent immigrants, prior to the 2020 COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

Using baseline wave data from the 2017–2022 VidaSana study about the health and social networks of Mexican and Central American immigrants living in Indiana, this study utilized logistic and ordinal logistic regression to predict lifetime fluoride use, lifetime dental restoration and flossing frequency, across levels of social support and differences between Mexican and Central American immigrants.

Results

Data from 547 respondents were included in the present analysis (68% women; mean age 34.4 years [SD 11.2]; Central American 42%; Mexican 58%). Results show a high level of social support was associated with increased probability of fluoride use, dental restoration and higher flossing frequency for Mexican immigrants. However, social support for Central American immigrants was associated with a decreased likelihood of fluoride use, more infrequent flossing, and had no significant association with dental restorations experience. What would be a negative association between Central American immigrants and dental restoration was accounted for by education level and never having been to a dentist.

Conclusions

While higher social support was linked to beneficial outcomes for oral health in Mexican immigrants, the opposite was found in Central Americans. These findings highlighted the complexities of social relationships among new immigrants, and potential heterogeneity within the Hispanic population, particularly regarding social and behavioural measures as they pertain to oral health. Further research is needed to identify the underlying mechanisms producing both differences in social support and oral health outcomes.
Association of children's oral health and school environment on academic performance in 12‐year‐old schoolchildren of Quito, Ecuador
Authors: Mendes Fausto Medeiros , Knorst Jéssica Klockner , Quezada‐Conde Maritza Del Carmen , Lopez Edisson Fernando , Alvarez‐Velasco Patricia Lourdes , Medina Marco Vinicio , Balseca‐Ibarra Mariela Cumanda , Ardenghi Thiago Machado , Frias Antonio Carlos , Pannuti Claudio Mendes , Raggio Daniela Prócida , Michel‐Crosato Edgard
Published: October 2023

Objectives

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate if children's oral health and oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) were associated with school performance. Moreover, the study aimed to examine whether school environment factors influenced this association.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was based on a population‐based sample of 998 12‐year‐old schoolchildren from 31 public schools in Quito, Ecuador. Trained and calibrated examiners conducted clinical exams for dental caries, dental trauma and malocclusion. Furthermore, children completed the Spanish version of the Child Perception Questionnaire (CPQ11‐14), and their parents answered questions about socio‐economic status. School coordinators provided information on the physical environment, promotion of health practices and the occurrence of negative episodes in the school. There were three outcomes: grades obtained in Spanish language and mathematics and the number of missed school days. Multilevel linear and Poisson regression models were conducted using a hierarchical approach to include the variables guided by a previously created direct acyclic graph.

Results

Children with dental trauma and higher CPQ11‐14 scores showed lower grades and school attendance. Schoolchildren from schools with episodes of vandalism had more school days missed.

Conclusion

The school performance of 12‐year‐old children is affected by dental trauma and by a worse OHRQoL, as well as a negative school environment. Therefore, supportive environments and promoting health measures in schools could overcome this worse academic performance in children with oral health problems.
Timing of complementary feeding for early childhood allergy prevention: An overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Kuper Paula , Hasenpusch Claudia , Proebstl Simone , Matterne Uwe , Hornung Catherine J. , Grätsch Esther , Li Mengtong , Sprenger Antonia A. , Pieper Dawid , Koplin Jennifer J. , Perkin Michael R. , Genuneit Jon , Apfelbacher Christian
Published: October 2023

Objective

To summarise and critically appraise systematic review (SR) evidence on the effects of timing of complementary feeding (CF) on the occurrence of allergic sensitisation and disease.

Design

Overview of SRs. AMSTAR‐2 and ROBIS were used to assess methodological quality and risk of bias (RoB) of SRs. RoB 2 Tool was used to assess RoB of primary randomised controlled trials (RCTs) (or extracted). The certainty of evidence (CoE) was assessed using GRADE. Findings were synthesised narratively.

Data Sources

MEDLINE (via PubMed and Ovid), the Cochrane Library and Web of Science Core Collection (2010 to 27 February 2023).

Eligibility Criteria

SRs investigating the effects of timing of CF in infants or young children (0–3 years) on risk of developing food allergy (FA), allergic sensitisation, asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic eczema and adverse events based on RCT evidence.

Results

Eleven SRs were included. Only two SRs had low RoB; common issues were failure to report on funding of primary studies and failure to provide a list of excluded trials. Common limitations of included trials were lack of blinding of outcome assessment or detailed trial preregistration, and inadequate handling of high loss to follow up. Primary study overlap was very high for specific FA and slight to moderate for FA in general and other primary outcomes. Introducing specific foods (peanut, cooked egg) early probably reduces the risk of specific FA. Evidence for other allergic outcomes was mostly very uncertain and based on few primary studies. Trials varied regarding timing of CF, nature of complementary foods and population risk, which limited comparability between SRs.

Conclusions

For developing guidelines to support decision‐making on the timing of CF as a preventive strategy, early introduction of specific foods (i.e. egg and peanut) seems promising and safe, whereas more extensive research is required regarding other allergic outcomes and potential adverse events.
Feasibility of underwater endoscopic mucosal resection in the right lateral decubitus position for superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors
Authors: Shimada Tomohiro , Kanno Yoshihide , Ito Kei
Published: October 2023

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Designing an Innovatıon Culture Within an Entrepreneurial Environment
Authors: Kochargaonkar Apurva , Boult John
Published: October 2023

Finance, marketing, branding, new product development, and networking are all important to a new company that wants to innovate. But corporate culture is the air that all of them breathe.

For a company that wants to be truly innovative, building the right corporate culture should be a matter of deliberate design.
Brand Building for the New Millennium
Authors: Wintrob Michael
Published: October 2023

It's a case study—and a microcosm of design‐based innovation within the US federal government.

Ever wondered how Coca‐Cola's brand could be worth $79 billion? Here's an explanation.
Behavioural and physical changes in equine patients after complete extraction of all incisors due to equine odontoclastic tooth resorption with hypercementosis
Authors: Rainbow William
Published: October 2023

Background

Equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis (EOTRH) is being increasingly recognised as a painful and debilitating condition in some affected horses, that can produce pain on prehension or result in infected, fractured and loose incisors. The only known way to completely alleviate the pain and secondary infection associated in many horses affected with EOTRH is by extraction of the diseased incisors. Currently, few large‐scale clinical outcome studies have been performed.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine if horses that are diagnosed with clinical EOTRH experience a statistically significant improvement in the quality of their lives after surgical extraction of all incisors and to determine if owners were satisfied with the results of the surgery.

Study design

A retrospective web‐based survey was sent out to owners of horses diagnosed with EOTRH who had undergone extraction of all incisors in the previous 3 years.

Methods

Forty‐eight surveys were completed, and the answers examined for statistical significance.

Results

Statistically significant differences were found in the horses' body condition, dropping of hay, speed of eating, general behaviour, resistance to bridling and headshaking. In addition, owners reported that horses were ‘happier’ after surgery and that total extraction improved quality and extended the life of their horse. Over 90% of owners would also elect to have the procedure performed on another horse in the future.

Main limitations

Retrospective surveys are prone to selection, recall and misclassification bias.

Conclusions

Owners were highly satisfied with the total extraction of all incisors as a treatment for horses affected by EOTRH. Survey results showed that post‐extraction horses had improved body condition and exhibited better bridling and eating behaviours which are consistent with a decrease in dental pain. Owners felt that their horse was happier and that the surgery had improved the horse's quality of life.
The seroprevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in Malaysia: 7 August to 11 October 2020
Authors: Chong Zhuo‐Lin , Rodzlan Hasani Wan Shakira , Noor Asari Filza , Muhammad Eida Nurhadzira , Mutalip Mohd Hatta Abdul , Robert Lourdes Tania Gayle , Rifin Halizah Mat , Singh Sarbhan , Thayan Ravindran
Published: October 2023

Background

From the beginning of the COVID‐19 pandemic until mid‐October 2020, Malaysia recorded ~15,000 confirmed cases. But there could be undiagnosed cases due mainly to asymptomatic infections. Seroprevalence studies can better quantify underlying infection from SARS‐CoV‐2 by identifying humoral antibodies against the virus. This study was the first to determine the prevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in  Malaysia's general population, as well as the proportion of asymptomatic and undiagnosed infections.

Methods

This cross‐sectional seroprevalence study with a two‐stage stratified random cluster sampling design included 5,131 representative community dwellers in Malaysia aged ≥1 year. Data collection lasted from 7 August to 11 October 2020 involving venous blood sampling and interviews for history of COVID‐19 symptoms and diagnosis. Previous SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was defined as screened positive using the Wantai SARS‐CoV‐2 Total Antibody enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and confirmed positive using the GenScript SARS‐CoV‐2 surrogate Virus Neutralization Test. We performed a complex sampling design analysis, calculating sample weights considering probabilities of selection, non‐response rate and post‐stratification weight.

Results

The overall weighted prevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was 0.49% (95%CI 0.28–0.85) (N = 150,857). Among the estimated population with past infection, around 84.1% (95%CI 58.84–95.12) (N = 126 826) were asymptomatic, and 90.1% (95%CI 67.06–97.58) (N = 135 866) were undiagnosed.

Conclusions

Our study revealed a low pre‐variant and pre‐vaccination seroprevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in Malaysia up to mid‐October 2020, with a considerable proportion of asymptomatic and undiagnosed cases. This led to subsequent adoption of SARS‐CoV‐2 antigen rapid test kits to increase case detection rate and to reduce time to results and infection control measures.
Research Review: Psychological and psychosocial interventions for children and adolescents with depression, anxiety, and post‐traumatic stress disorder in low‐ and middle‐income countries – a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Alozkan‐Sever Cansu , Uppendahl Jana R. , Cuijpers Pim , de Vries Ralph , Rahman Atif , Mittendorfer‐Rutz Ellenor , Akhtar Aemal , Zheng Zhuoli , Sijbrandij Marit
Published: October 2023

Background

The incidence of depression, anxiety, and post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among children and adolescents residing in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) poses a significant public health concern. However, there is variation in the evidence of effective psychological interventions. This meta‐analysis aims to provide a complete overview of the current body of evidence in this rapidly evolving field.

Methods

We conducted searches on PubMed,Embase.com, and EBSCO/APA PsycInfo databases up to June 23, 2022, identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effectiveness of psychological interventions in LMICs that targeted children and adolescents with elevated symptoms above a cut‐off score for depression, anxiety, and PTSD, comparing a psychological or psychosocial intervention with other control conditions. We conducted random effects meta‐analyses for depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms. Sensitivity analysis for outliers and high‐risk studies, and analyses for the publication bias were carried out. Subgroup analyses investigated how the intervention type, intervention format, the facilitator, study design, and age group of the participant predicted effect sizes.

Results

Thirty‐one RCTs (6,123 participants) were included. We found a moderate effect of interventions on depression outcomes compared to the control conditions (g = 0.53; 95% CI: 0.06–0.99; NNT = 6.09) with a broad prediction interval (PI) (−1.8 to 2.86). We found a moderate to large effect for interventions on anxiety outcomes (g = 0.88; 95% CI: −0.03 to 1.79; NNT = 3.32) with a broad PI (−3.14 to 4.9). Additionally, a moderate effect was observed on PTSD outcomes (g = 0.54; 95% CI: 0.19–0.9; NNT = 5.86) with a broad PI (−0.64 to 1.72).

Conclusions

Psychological and psychosocial interventions aimed at addressing depression, anxiety, and PTSD among children and adolescents in LMICs have demonstrated promising results. However, future studies should consider the variation in evidence and incorporate long‐term outcomes to better understand the effectiveness of these interventions.
Causes of mortality among adults with Down syndrome before and after the COVID‐19 pandemic in Spain
Authors: Sánchez Moreno Beatriz , Adán‐Lirola Laura , Rubio‐Serrano Javier , Real de Asúa Diego
Published: October 2023

Background

The life expectancy of people with Down syndrome (DS) is limited by Alzheimer's disease (AD)‐related deaths, mainly due to respiratory infections. The emergence of the COVID‐19 pandemic could have changed known, past trends in mortality in this population. We analysed the differences in causes of mortality between individuals with DS deceased before and after the onset of the pandemic.

Method

This is a cross‐sectional study of adults with DS recruited at a tertiary, university outpatient clinic in Madrid, Spain. Demographic and clinical data were retrospectively collected from their medical records, including information on their deaths, if any.

Results

Five hundred seventy‐two adults were included in the study, and 67 (11.7%) died. The main cause of death was respiratory infections, which occurred in 36 participants [9 (45.0%) before, and 27 (58.7%) after the appearance of COVID‐19]. No significant differences were found in the determinants of pre‐pandemic and post‐pandemic death after adjusting for age and AD, except for an association between the use of psychotropic medication and death in the post‐pandemic period (odds ratio: 2.24; 95% confidence interval: 1.04–4.82). Vaccination against COVID‐19 showed a marked protective effect against mortality (odds ratio: 0.0002; 95% confidence interval: 6.7e10−6 to 0.004).

Conclusions

The appearance of COVID‐19 has not impacted the overall trend of increase in mean age of death of adults with DS in our milieu, probably thanks to the very important protective effect of vaccination, which supports prioritising people with DS in future immunisation campaigns. The association between psychotropic medication use and mortality requires further exploration.
The “Cthulhu network”: The process by which the popular myth was made
Authors: Arroyo‐Barrigüete Jose Luis
Published: October 2023

In the context of popular culture, the work of Lovecraft deserves a prominent role, not only for its influence on many later authors, but for its profound impact on 20th century popular culture, from music and video games to films, comics, and merchandising. This paper analyzes the way in which Lovecraft developed his Cthulhu Mythos, creating a dense network of relationships between his different tales. After analyzing a corpus of 102 works by this author, which covers almost all of his literary production, several conclusions are drawn about the way Lovecraft was able to create this icon of popular culture.
Adolescent pregnancy is associated with child undernutrition: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Welch Caroline , Wong Christopher K. , Lelijveld Natasha , Kerac Marko , Wrottesley Stephanie V.
Published: October 2023

Adolescent pregnancy is associated with poor fetal growth and development which, in turn, increases the risk of childhood wasting and underweight. However, evidence on how young maternal age affects childhood anthropometry beyond the neonatal period is limited. This systematic review and meta‐analysis examined associations between adolescent pregnancy and child wasting and underweight and explored potential underlying social and biological factors. Peer‐reviewed literature published in English since 1990 was systematically searched. Eligible studies presented data on wasting and/or underweight in children (≤59 months) born to adolescent mothers (10–19, or ≤24 years where applicable) from low‐ and middle‐income countries. Data extraction used a predefined extraction sheet. Both meta‐analysis and qualitative synthesis were performed. Of 92 identified studies, 57 were included in the meta‐analysis. The meta‐analysis showed that children born to adolescent versus adult mothers were at a higher risk of moderate (odds ratio [OR]: 1.12, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00–1.26 p = 0.04) and severe underweight (OR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.08–1.35 p < 0.01). Associated risk of wasting was not statistically significant: (OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 0.98–1.12 p = 0.17); severe wasting (OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 0.68–1.96 p = 0.59). These findings were supported by the qualitative synthesis. Evidence on the potential role of biological/social factors was limited, but suggested an intermediary role of maternal nutritional status which warrants further exploration. Particularly in contexts where adolescent pregnancy remains common, interventions to both delay adolescent pregnancy and improve adolescent nutritional status could help reduce the risk of undernutrition in children and contribute to breaking the intergenerational cycle of malnutrition.
I Told Steve Bannon: “We Are Not At War With Islam.” He Disagreed
Authors: Rose Flemming
Published: October 2023

I was the target of Islamist ire for publishing cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad in a Danish newspaper. But a war against all Muslims is not the solution.