bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between practice environment, job satisfaction and intention to leave in critical care nurses
Authors: Alenazy Faisal S. , Dettrick Zoe , Keogh Samantha
Published: December 2021

Background

Recent studies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) have shown that the increasing nursing turnover in the health care industry has become a great source of concern. The overdependence on the supply of expatriate nurses (74%) and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) travel restrictions have exacerbated this staffing issue.

Aims

To examine the relationship between perception of nursing practice environment (NPE), job satisfaction and intention to leave (ITL) among critical care nurses working in the state of Ha'il in KSA.

Design

Cross‐sectional correlational (observational) design.

Methods

Data were collected via electronic online survey distributed to registered critical care nurses working in King Khalid Hospital (KKH), Ha'il, KSA, between July and August 2020. Participant demographics and key variables data related to NPE, job satisfaction and ITL respectively were collected from the participants using existing and validated questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and correlational analysis and multivariable analyses were conducted.

Results

A response rate of 98% was achieved (152/160) for the study. Findings showed that the NPE was largely favourable (M = 2.89, SD = 0.44); however, nurse participation in hospital affairs (M = 2.83, SD = 0.47) and staffing and resource adequacy (M = 2.88, SD = 0.47) scored lowest. NPE was found to be significantly correlated with job satisfaction (rs = .287, P < .01). A significant negative relationship was found between NPE and ITL (rs = −0.277**, P < .01). However, job satisfaction was associated with ITL (rs = −.007, P = .930).

Conclusions

Maintaining a healthy work environment and job satisfaction levels in critical care units is key to improving, recruitment and retention of nursing staff.

Relevance to clinical practice

Critical care and hospital leaders should implement programs that enhance the quality of the practice environment. This will improve nurse participation in unit and hospital affairs, job satisfaction and intention to stay.
Dynamic roles and intricate mechanisms of ethylene in epidermal hair development in Arabidopsis and cotton
Authors: Yu Daoqian , Li Xiaona , Li Yonghui , Ali Faiza , Li Fuguang , Wang Zhi
Published: December 2021

Ethylene affects many aspects of plant growth and development, including root hairs and trichomes growth in Arabidopsis, as well as fiber development in cotton, though the underlying mechanism is unclear. In this article, we update the research progress associated with the main genes in ethylene biosynthesis and signaling pathway, and we propose a clear ethylene pathway based on genome‐wide identification of homologues in cotton. Expression pattern analysis using transcriptome data revealed that some candidate genes may contribute to cotton fiber development through the ethylene pathway. Moreover, we systematically summarized the effects of ethylene on the development of epidermal hair and the underlying regulatory mechanisms in Arabidopsis. Based on the knowledge of ethylene‐promoted cell differentiation, elongation, and development in different tissues or plants, we advised a possible regulatory network for cotton fiber development with ethylene as the hub. Importantly, we emphasized the roles of ethylene as an important node in regulating cotton vegetative growth, and stress resistance, and suggested utilizing multiple methods to subtly modify ethylene synthesis or signaling in a tissue or spatiotemporal‐specific manner to clarify its exact effect on architecture, adaptability of the plant, and fiber development, paving the way for basic research and genetic improvement of the cotton crop.
A case of hominin scavenging 1.84 million years ago from Olduvai Gorge (Tanzania)
Authors: Domínguez‐Rodrigo Manuel , Courtenay Lloyd A. , Cobo‐Sánchez Lucía , Baquedano Enrique , Mabulla Audax
Published: December 2021

Meat eating is one of the hallmarks of human evolution. It has been linked to the beginning of stone tool use, to physiological changes leading to crucial anatomical transformations defining our genus, and to new socioreproductive and cognitive behaviors. Uncontroversial evidence of meat eating goes back to 2.6 million years ago; however, little is known about the frequency and timing with which early hominins acquired animal resources. Here, we show that the combination of hunting and scavenging documented in some modern human foragers may have a long evolutionary trajectory. Using a new set of artificial intelligence methods for objective identification, we present direct evidence of an episode of hominins scavenging from large felids—probably lions—discovered at Olduvai Gorge (DS site, Bed I). This casts a new perspective on the diversity of hominin carcass acquisition behaviors and survival strategies, and places some early Pleistocene hominins in ecological proximity to African large carnivore guilds.
How does the food environment influence people engaged in weight management? A systematic review and thematic synthesis of the qualitative literature
Authors: Neve Kimberley L. , Isaacs Anna
Published: December 2021

People engaged in weight loss or weight loss maintenance (weight management) often regain weight long term. Unsupportive food environments are one of the myriad challenges people face when working towards a healthier weight. This systematic review explores how the food environment influences people engaged in weight management and the policy implications. Nine electronic databases (CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO, Academic Search Complete, Embase, Ovid Emcare, PubMed, Open Grey, and BASE) were searched systematically in May 2020 to synthesize the qualitative evidence. Eligible studies were conducted with adults (18+) in high‐income countries, available in English and published 2010–2020 with a substantial qualitative element and reference to food environments. Data were analyzed using a thematic synthesis approach. Quality assessment using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme was undertaken. We identified 26 studies of 679 individuals reporting on weight management experiences with reference to the food environment. Limitations of the included studies included a lack of detail regarding socioeconomic status and ethnicity in many studies. The analysis revealed that food environments undermine efforts at weight management, consistently making purchasing and consumption of healthier food more difficult, particularly for those on a low income. For weight management to be more successful, concurrent actions to reshape food environments are necessary.
Total dairy consumption in relation to overweight and obesity in children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Babio Nancy , Becerra‐Tomás Nerea , Nishi Stephanie K. , López‐González Leyre , Paz‐Graniel Indira , García‐Gavilán Jesús , Schröder Helmut , Martín‐Calvo Nerea , Salas‐Salvadó Jordi
Published: December 2021

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of cross‐sectional and prospective cohort studies was conducted to assess the associations between total dairy consumption and its different subtypes with the prevalence and incidence of overweight, obesity, and overweight/obesity in children and adolescents. A literature search was conducted in Medline through PUBMED and Cochrane Library databases until October 18, 2021. Articles reporting the risk estimates as odd ratios (OR), risk ratios (RR), or hazard ratios and their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) for the association between dairy product consumption and the risk of overweight and/or obesity were included. In the meta‐analysis from cross‐sectional studies, results showed an inverse association between total dairy consumption and obesity prevalence (OR (95% CI): 0.66 (0.48–0.91). No significant associations were found between milk or yogurt and obesity prevalence risk. Regarding prospective studies, total milk consumption was positively associated with overweight prevalence (OR (95% CI): 1.13 (1.01–1.26)) and incidence (RR (95%CI): 1.17 (1.01–1.35)) risk. Evidence from pooled analysis of cross‐sectional studies suggested an inverse association between total dairy consumption and obesity. However, there is limited and no conclusive evidence to confirm an inverse relationship from pooled analysis of prospective studies in children and adolescents.
Validation of a new combined transcutaneous tcPCO2 and tcPO2 sensor in children in the operating theater
Authors: van Wijk Jan J. , van Weteringen Willem , Hoeks Sanne E. , Staals Lonneke M.
Published: December 2021

Background

Arterial blood gas analysis is the gold standard for monitoring of PaCO2 and PaO2 during mechanical ventilation. However, continuous measurements would be preferred. Transcutaneous sensors continuously measure blood gases diffusing from the locally heated skin. These sensors have been validated in children mostly in intensive care settings. Accuracy in children during general anesthesia is largely unknown.

Aims

We conducted a study in children undergoing general anesthesia to validate the use and to determine the accuracy of continuous transcutaneous measurements of the partial pressures of PCO2 (tcPCO2) and PO2 (tcPO2).

Methods

A prospective observational study in a tertiary care pediatric hospital in The Netherlands, from April to October 2018, in children aged 0–18 years undergoing general anesthesia. Patients were included when endotracheally intubated and provided with an arterial catheter for regular blood sampling. Patients with a gestational age <31 weeks, burn victims, and patients with skin disease were excluded. TcPCO2 and tcPO2 measurements were performed with a SenTec OxiVenT™ sensor (SenTec AG). Accuracy was determined with an agreement analysis between arterial and transcutaneous PCO2 and PO2 values, and between arterial and endtidal PCO2 (etCO2) values, according to Bland and Altman, accounting for multiple measurements per subject.

Results

We included 53 patients (median age 4.1 years, IQR 0.7–14.4 years) and retrieved 175 samples. TcPCO2‐PaCO2 agreement analysis provided a bias of 0.06 kPa (limits of agreement (LOA) −1.18 to 1.31), the etCO2‐PaCO2 agreement showed a bias of −0.31 kPa (LOA −1.38 to 0.76). Results of the tcPO2‐PaO2 agreement showed a bias of 3.40 to 0.86* (mean tension) kPa.

Conclusions

This study showed good agreement between PaCO2 and tcPCO2 in children of all ages during general anesthesia. Both transcutaneous and endtidal CO2 measurements showed good accuracy. TcPO2 is only accurate under 6 months of age.
External validation and comparison of risk score models in pediatric heart transplants
Authors: Dani Alia , Heidel Justin S. , Qiu Tingting , Zhang Yin , Ni Yizhao , Hossain Md Monir , Chin Clifford , Morales David L. S. , Huang Bin , Zafar Farhan
Published: December 2021

Background

Pediatric heart transplant (PHT) patients have the highest waitlist mortality of solid organ transplants, yet more than 40% of viable hearts are unutilized. A tool for risk prediction could impact these outcomes. This study aimed to compare and validate the PHT risk score models (RSMs) in the literature.

Methods

The literature was reviewed to identify RSMs published. The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) registry was used to validate the published models identified in a pediatric cohort (<18 years) transplanted between 2017 and 2019 and compared against the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR) 2021 model. Primary outcome was post‐transplant 1‐year mortality. Odds ratios were obtained to evaluate the association between risk score groups and 1‐year mortality. Area under the curve (AUC) was used to compare the RSM scores on their goodness‐of‐fit, using Delong's test.

Results

Six recipient and one donor RSMs published between 2008 and 2021 were included in the analysis. The validation cohort included 1,003 PHT. Low‐risk groups had a significantly better survival than high‐risk groups as predicted by Choudhry (OR = 4.59, 95% CI [2.36–8.93]) and Fraser III (3.17 [1.43–7.05]) models. Choudhry's and SRTR models achieved the best overall performance (AUC = 0.69 and 0.68, respectively). When adjusted for CHD and ventricular assist device support, all models reported better predictability [AUC > 0.6]. Choudhry (AUC = 0.69) and SRTR (AUC = 0.71) remained the best predicting RSMs even after adjustment.

Conclusion

Although the RSMs by SRTR and Choudhry provided the best prediction for 1‐year mortality, none demonstrated a strong (AUC ≥ 0.8) concordance statistic. All published studies lacked advanced analytical approaches and were derived from an inherently limited dataset.
An Integrated Biosecurity Risk Assessment Model (IBRAM) For Evaluating the Risk of Import Pathways for the Establishment of Invasive Species
Authors: Jamieson Lisa E. , Woodberry Owen , Mascaro Steven , Meurisse Nicolas , Jaksons Rodelyn , Brown Samuel D. J. , Ormsby Michael
Published: December 2021

An important aspect of analyzing the risk of unwanted organisms establishing in an area is understanding the pathways by which they arrive. Evaluating the risks of these pathways requires use of data from multiple sources, which frequently are uncertain. To address the needs of agencies responsible for biosecurity operations, we present an Integrated Biosecurity Risk Assessment Model (IBRAM) for evaluating the risk of establishment and dispersal of invasive species along trade pathways. The IBRAM framework consists of multiple linked models which describe pest entry into the country, escape along trade pathways, initial dispersal into the environment, habitat suitability, probabilities of establishment and spread, and the consequences of these invasions. Bayesian networks (BN) are used extensively to model these processes. The model includes dynamic BN components and geographic data, resulting in distributions of output parameters over spatial and temporal axes. IBRAM is supported by a web‐based tool that allows users to run the model on real‐world pest examples and investigate the impact of alternative risk management scenarios, to explore the effect of various interventions and resource allocations. Two case studies are provided as examples of how IBRAM may be used: Queensland fruit fly (Bactrocera tryoni) (Diptera: Tephritidae) and brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) are unwanted organisms with the potential to invade Aotearoa New Zealand, and IBRAM has been influential in evaluating the efficacy of pathway management to mitigate the risk of their establishment in the country.
Associations among child temperament, parenting, and young children's moral and conventional understanding: The moderating role of self‐regulation
Authors: Yoo Ha Na , Smetana Judith G.
Published: December 2021

The current study examined the role of child temperament, parenting, and their interactions in 2‐ to 6‐year‐olds’ (n = 112; Mage = 3.82 years, SD = 1.01) moral and social‐conventional understanding. Children's judgments regarding hypothetical moral and conventional transgressions were assessed in a semi‐structured interview administered on an iPad. Parents reported on their child's temperamental self‐regulation (i.e., effortful control) and negative affect, as well as their own parenting practices (hostility and positive affect); children's self‐regulatory behavior was assessed during a snack delay task. Parent‐rated child effortful control was associated with greater distinctions between moral and conventional judgments, as estimated using latent difference score modeling, but only when parents were high in positive affect. Parental hostility was associated negatively with moral‐conventional domain distinctions, but only for children with poorer behavioral self‐regulation. Finally, children high in negative affect differentiated moral and social‐conventional transgressions more only when they were rated as high in effortful control by parents. The results demonstrated that an interplay between child temperament and parenting was associated with the development of young children's moral and social‐conventional understanding.
Maternal caregiving, prosocial behavior, and self‐esteem in middle childhood
Authors: Coulombe Brianne R. , Yates Tuppett M.
Published: December 2021

This study assessed maternal caregiving quality and children's prosocial behavior as related to changes in child self‐esteem from early childhood across the transition into formal schooling. Although a robust literature indicates that sensitive caregiving promotes self‐esteem, less is known about the potential contribution of children's positive social behavior to enhanced self‐esteem. This study drew on a diverse sample of young children (N = 250; Mage = 4.085, SD = .249; 50% female, 50% male; 46% Latinx) to evaluate prospective relations between an observational assessment of sensitive maternal caregiving at the age of 4 and child reports of self‐esteem at the age of 8 as mediated by teacher‐reports of children's prosocial behavior at the age of 6. Analyses revealed a significant indirect pathway whereby sensitive maternal caregiving promoted children's self‐esteem via children's prosocial behavior. These findings highlight both sensitive caregiving and children's prosocial behavior as promising points of intervention to bolster children's self‐esteem.
Social development quartet: Benefits of intergroup connections: Examining associations between peer networks and academic and socio‐emotional competencies of diverse youth
Authors: Neal Jennifer Watling
Published: December 2021

This Social Development quartet highlights how social network approaches can enhance developmental researchers’ understanding of the benefits of intergroup connections for diverse youth. The introduction provides an overview of the four included articles, highlighting their common and unique contributions to the literature. The first article describes four relational mechanisms that could explain the benefits of intergroup connections and summarizes promising social network methods that can be used to explore these mechanisms. The second article examines how friends’ parental education is associated with the academic outcomes of adolescents from socioeconomically and ethnoracially diverse backgrounds. The remaining two articles examine how cross‐linguistic relationships at the individual and setting level are associated with academic and social outcomes for youth. As a set these articles represent multiple types of intergroup connections, network relationships (e.g., friendship, affiliation, academic collaboration) and settings (e.g., schools, classrooms, afterschool programs). They provide a nuanced account of the benefits of intergroup connections and offer promising future directions for research.
Tensor‐CA: A high‐performance cellular automata model for land use simulation based on vectorization and GPU
Authors: Zhuang Haoming , Liu Xiaoping , Liang Xun , Yan Yuchao , He Jinqiang , Cai Yiling , Wu Changjiang , Zhang Xinchang , Zhang Honghui
Published: December 2021

With the ability to understand linkages and feedbacks between land use dynamics and human–land relationships, cellular automata (CA) are extensively applied in land use/cover change (LUCC) simulation. However, with complex transition rules and a growing volume of spatial data, conventional serial CA models cannot meet the demands of efficient computation. In this article, a Tensor‐CA model using vectorization and Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) technology based on a tensor computation framework for optimizing multiple LUCC simulations is presented. Complex transition rules of LUCC‐CA models are vectorized and formalized to tensor operations which are effectively solved by GPU. The proposed Tensor‐CA model was applied to LUCC simulations in the Pearl River Delta of China. The experimental results indicate that the proposed model effectively improved the performance compared to Serial‐CA, Parallel‐CA, and GPU‐CA.
Accessory cavitated uterine malformations (ACUMs): an unfamiliar cause of dysmenorrhoea
Authors: Setty Thulasi , Naftalin Joel , Jurkovic Davor
Published: December 2021

Key Content

Accessory cavitated uterine malformations (ACUMs) are isolated cavitated lesions within the lateral aspect of the myometrium, inferior to the attachment of the round ligament.

They are a rare Müllerian anomaly and are increasingly recognised as a cause for severe dysmenorrhoea and pelvic pain.

ACUMs can be diagnosed with ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, where they appear as well‐defined lesions with a central cavity containing haemorrhagic content, surrounded by a myometrial mantle. On histological examination, the cavity is lined by functional endometrial glands and stroma.

Recognised treatments include hormonal suppression, destruction of the endometrial lining by alcohol sclerotherapy, or complete surgical excision, which has demonstrated curative results.

Learning Objectives

To know what ACUMs are and recognise them as a cause of dysmenorrhoea and pelvic pain.

To be able to diagnose an ACUM with the use of ultrasound, MRI and histological findings if surgically excised.

To be able to counsel patients with ACUMs on the different management options, including conservative, medical and surgery.

Ethical issues

All women with ACUMs are currently offered surgical excision, but is it appropriate to offer this, to patients as young as 13 years old, with no long‐term data on the effect of surgery on future fertility?
Determination of the efficacy rate and time‐to‐efficacy of subcutaneous immunotherapy in dogs with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Tham Heng L. , Olivry Thierry
Published: December 2021

Background

Allergen‐specific immunotherapy (ASIT) is reported to have a success rate of 50–70% when given for up to 12 months to dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD). How soon ASIT is clinically effective is unclear.

Objectives

To compare the efficacy rate (ER) and time‐to‐efficacy (TTE) of various types of subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) administered using conventional dosing regimens using the methodology of a critically appraised topic.

Methods and materials

Three databases were searched to extract information on the ER and TTE of SCIT in dogs with AD. Herein, “efficacy” was defined as a ≥50% reduction in pruritus and/or skin lesions, and the TTE as the time needed to achieve such a reduction.

Results

We selected 12 publications including 194 dogs. The ER was significantly higher with the polymerised allergoids coupled with nonoxidized mannan than for the “classic” aqueous and alum‐precipitated SCIT types. A TTE of three months or shorter was seen in a significantly higher proportion of dogs receiving mannan‐couple allergoids, pullulan‐conjugated Der f 2 or tyrosine‐adjuvanted than aqueous or alum‐precipitated SCIT; with the latter two formulations, the TTE might be nine months or longer in ≤20% of atopic dogs.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

In spite of the low number of articles available for review and small number of enrolled dogs, novel SCIT regimens appear to have a faster – and possibly higher – efficacy than the currently available aqueous or alum‐precipitated formulations. A standardisation of outcome measures for ASIT clearly is needed to allow a more meaningful comparison between SCIT types.
High‐field MRI using standard pulse sequences has moderate to substantial interobserver agreement and good accuracy for differentiation between intracranial extra‐axial histiocytic sarcoma and meningioma in dogs
Authors: Mai Wilfried , Burke Emily E. , Reetz Jennifer A. , Hecht Silke , Paek Matthew , Church Molly E. , Werre Stephen R. , Mariani Christopher L. , Griffin John F. , Glass Eric N.
Published: December 2021

Intracranial extra‐axial histiocytic sarcoma shares common MRI features with meningioma. As histiocytic sarcoma carries a generally worse prognosis than meningioma, the ability to differentiate between these two neoplasms is of clinical value. The aim of this retrospective diagnostic accuracy and observer agreement study was to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of high‐field MRI to differentiate between these two tumors, using standard pulse sequences and published MRI features. A total of 51 dogs were included (26 meningiomas and 25 histiocytic sarcomas). Magnetic resonance imaging examinations were independently assessed by three experienced board‐certified radiologists, evaluating 18 imaging features. They were asked to assign each case to one of three categories (meningioma, histiocytic sarcoma, and undetermined). Agreement for the MRI diagnosis across all three reviewers was moderate (κ 0.54) while paired interobserver agreement ranged from moderate to substantial (κ 0.58‐0.74) with percent agreement ranging between 86.1% and 87.7%. Overall, the probability of correctly diagnosing meningioma in a dog with this tumor ranged between 79.2% and 94.4%, and the probability of correctly diagnosing histiocytic sarcoma in a dog with this tumor ranged between 76.0% and 92.3%. The overall probability to diagnose the correct tumor, irrespective of type, ranged between 79.2% and 89.7%. Histiocytic sarcomas tended to have more extensive edema and more often had combined perilesional and distant meningeal enhancement affecting both pachy‐ and leptomeninges, while for meningiomas, meningeal enhancement tended to more commonly be perilesional and pachymeningeal. Imaging features that seemed more useful to make a correct diagnosis included “location/type of meningeal enhancement,” “osseous changes in the adjacent neurocranium,” “cystic changes,” and “herniation severity.”
A review of the biology, distribution patterns and management of the invasive species Amaranthus palmeri S. Watson (Palmer amaranth): Current and future management challenges
Authors: Roberts Jason , Florentine Singarayer
Published: December 2021

Amaranthus palmeri S. Watson (Palmer amaranth) is an invasive agricultural weed that has quickly risen from a state of relative obscurity to now being globally regarded as one of the most economically destructive and difficult to manage weed species. It is now found in more than 45 countries where it poses a serious threat to agricultural production systems. Amaranthus palmeri is known to aggressively compete against crop plants for resources such as light, space, nutrients and soil moisture, all of which can result in significant crop yield reduction or even lead to crop failure. It has also been reported that A. palmeri is highly prone to evolve herbicide resistance; this makes management exceedingly challenging. Whilst there have been several control approaches introduced to manage the spread and impact of A. palmeri, many of them require more specific and focused research for their successful local and widespread application. In this regard, this global review explores the species’ biology and global distribution patterns, together with previous and current management strategies. It also explores and identifies promising areas of research that still require further investigation to more confidently assist in the control and containment of this globally concerning weed.
Early-life imprinting of unconventional T cells and tissue homeostasis
Authors: Constantinides Michael G. , Belkaid Yasmine
Published: December 2021

Atypical T cells take a different path

Conventional T cells recognize peptides that are presented by polymorphic major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs). By contrast, many tissue-resident T cells, such as mucosal-associated invariant T cells, invariant natural killer T cells, and γδ T cells, respond to modified peptides and small molecules presented by conserved MHC-like molecules. Unconventional T cells are important for host defense and tissue repair and seed tissues during critical early-life windows of development. Constantinides and Belkaid review recent advances describing how unconventional T cell subsets compete for early-life signals, including those from the microbiota, which instruct their development and have enduring consequences for the health of the host. —STS
Response to Comment on “An early Miocene extinction in pelagic sharks”
Authors: Sibert Elizabeth C. , Rubin Leah D.
Published: December 2021

Feichtinger
et al
. assert that the reduction in denticle abundance and diversity we found are incorrect, claiming that we failed to consider changes in sedimentation rate. However, we used standard methods that explicitly account for changes in sedimentation rate and density. We maintain that our initial dataset and conclusions are robust and provide evidence for a major early Miocene extinction in pelagic sharks.
Oncolytic virotherapy as immunotherapy
Authors: Melcher Alan , Harrington Kevin , Vile Richard
Published: December 2021

Recognizing immune responses to oncolytic virotherapy opens the way for new combinations
Academic freedom under fire
Authors: Cole Jonathan R.
Published: December 2021

Academic freedom is under fire across the world—from Hong Kong, where the Chinese government’s crackdown on open discussion has spurred an exodus of scholars from universities, to the United States, where there is a rising tide of anti-intellectualism and assaults on free inquiry. The effort to undermine this cornerstone of American democracy has been driven by former President Trump and his administration, members of Congress, state governors, and legislators. Alas, it also comes from faculty and students on the ideological right and left, and even from some presidents of the country’s research universities. These are powerful forces that must be overcome.
Archaeologist reinstated as Max Planck director
Authors: Curry Andrew
Published: December 2021

After allegations of bullying, Nicole Boivin returns to supervisory role
Key cancer results failed to be reproduced
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: December 2021

Project to replicate high-impact preclinical cancer studies delivers sobering verdict
Supplemental Material: Tectonic controls on Quaternary landscape evolution in the Ventura basin, southern California, USA, quantified using cosmogenic isotopes and topographic analyses
Authors: Hughes A. , al. et
Published: December 2021

Supplemental text, 6 figures, and 10 data tables to support the methods and results from the main manuscript.
Comparative Study of the Phenotypic Structure and Photoperiodic Responses of Female Asian Ladybirds Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) from Moscow, Belgorod, and Sochi
Authors: Belyakova N. A. , Ovchinnikov A. N. , Bezman-Moseyko O. S. , Reznik S. Ya.
Published: December 2021

Insect invasions are often accompanied by changes in the phenotypic structure of the populations and in the photoperiodic responses that regulate seasonal cycles. The Asian ladybird Harmonia axyridis has been recently discovered in Krasnodar Territory, from whence it is now gradually colonizing Central Russia. Our comparative study of individuals collected in 2020 in Sochi, Belgorod Province, and Moscow Province shows that interpopulation differences in their phenotypic structure are nonsignificant. The proportion of the light morph succinea is 77–83%; the proportion of the most common dark morph, spectabilis, is 13–20%. Laboratory experiments show that females from all the studied populations exhibit only a weak photoperiodic response. Comparative analysis reveals that females from the more northerly Moscow and Belgorod populations have a somewhat greater tendency to diapause and slightly delay reproductive maturation.
Modern Concepts on Diamond Genesis
Authors: Kaminsky F. V. , Voropaev S. A.
Published: December 2021

The best-known, most well-studied diamondiferous rocks are kimberlites and lamproites. Diamonds are also found in impactites, metamorphic rocks, ophiolites, and modern volcanic rocks. Diamonds from these rocks differ from kimberlitic diamonds in size, morphology, trace-element and isotope composition, and physical properties. Differences in these characteristics are related to their different mechanisms of origin. In some cases, diamonds can be formed in “metastable” conditions under disequilibrium thermodynamic parameters, supporting the conclusion that diamond is a polygenetic mineral, formed in nature under different physicochemical and geodynamic conditions. According to thermodynamic considerations and calculations, “metastable” crystallization of diamond is mainly controlled by the size of the forming crystallites. The main effectors in decreasing the energetic barrier for nanosized diamonds are surface tension and related surface energy.
Primary Evans syndrome in an adult man
Authors: Makharia Archita , Lakhotia Manoj , Roy Brateen
Published: December 2021

Evans syndrome (ES) is a simultaneous or subsequent development of two haematological disorders, autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). It can be primary (idiopathic) or secondary (associated with an underlying disease). Primary Evans is a diagnosis of exclusion and has a poorer prognosis than AIHA or ITP alone. We present a 55-year-old man who presented with weakness and lethargy and was diagnosed to be suffering from primary ES.
Ceftazidime induced liver injury
Authors: Shah Tayyab , Joslyn James A , Lai James
Published: December 2021

A 65-year-old woman with type II diabetes mellitus complicated by non-healing ulcers with recurrent osteomyelitis was admitted for progression of cellulitis after treatment failure with an outpatient course of amoxicillin-clavulanate. She was found to have persistent osteomyelitis and started on ceftazidime for a culture documentedPseudomonas aeruginosainfection. After two parenteral doses, she had a rapid rise in liver function tests (LFTs) in a hepatocellular pattern. Due to rapid identification, all medications with potential hepatotoxicity, including ceftazidime, were discontinued and the LFTs promptly returned to baseline over 3 days. Of note, the patient did not experience any symptoms of liver injury. Other causes of acute liver injury were effectively ruled out, but the case was confounded by usage of other potential hepatotoxic medications. Still, the most likely culprit was ceftazidime, a rare cause of drug induced liver injury with very few reports in the literature.
Cerebral dominance in an unusual case of Landau-Kleffner syndrome
Authors: Chowdhury Nodee , Bansal Atma Ram , Goyal Rajeev , Nikhila Gowathi
Published: December 2021

Landau-Kleffner syndrome (LKS) is described by the International Classification of Epileptic Syndromes since 1985 as a constellation of clinical and electrographic signs, including acquired aphasia, regression of language milestones and seizures, along with sleep-activated paroxysms on electroencephalogram which can progress to electrographic status epilepticus of sleep. In this case, a 7-year-old boy presented with an atypical history of new-onset aphasia and regression of language milestones with rare seizures. However, there was an electrographic mismatch in the form of right-sided epileptiform activity and continuous spike and wave of sleep pattern. Detailed speech analysis and perusal of the history revealed a possibly ambidextrous child with right hemispheric language dominance, and he was diagnosed with LKS and treated. This report illustrates the many pitfalls in the diagnosis and treatment of this rare epileptic syndrome.
Association of bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy with all cause and cause specific mortality: population based cohort study
Authors: Cusimano Maria C , Chiu Maria , Ferguson Sarah E , Moineddin Rahim , Aktar Suriya , Liu Ning , Baxter Nancy N
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To determine if bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, compared with ovarian conservation, is associated with all cause or cause specific death in women undergoing hysterectomy for non-malignant disease, and to determine how this association varies with age at surgery.

Design

Population based cohort study.

Setting

Ontario, Canada from 1 January 1996 to 31 December 2015, and follow-up to 31 December 2017.

Participants

200 549 women (aged 30-70 years) undergoing non-malignant hysterectomy, stratified into premenopausal (<45 years), menopausal transition (45-49 years), early menopausal (50-54 years), and late menopausal (≥55 years) groups according to age at surgery; median follow-up was 12 years (interquartile range 7-17).

Exposures

Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy versus ovarian conservation.

Main outcomes measures

The primary outcome was all cause death. Secondary outcomes were non-cancer and cancer death. Within each age group, overlap propensity score weighted survival models were used to examine the association between bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and mortality outcomes, while adjusting for demographic characteristics, gynaecological conditions, and comorbidities. To account for comparisons in four age groups, P<0.0125 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy was performed in 19%, 41%, 69%, and 81% of women aged <45, 45-49, 50-54, and ≥55 years, respectively. The procedure was associated with increased rates of all cause death in women aged <45 years (hazard ratio 1.31, 95% confidence interval 1.18 to 1.45, P<0.001; number needed to harm 71 at 20 years) and 45-49 years (1.16, 1.04 to 1.30, P=0.007; 152 at 20 years), but not in women aged 50-54 years (0.83, 0.72 to 0.97, P=0.018) or ≥55 years (0.92, 0.82 to 1.03, P=0.16). Findings in women aged <50 years were driven largely by increased non-cancer death. In secondary analyses identifying a possible change in the association between bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and all cause death with advancing age at surgery, the hazard ratio gradually decreased during the menopausal transition and remained around 1 at all ages thereafter.

Conclusion

In this observational study, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy at non-malignant hysterectomy appeared to be associated with increased all cause mortality in women aged <50 years, but not in those aged ≥50 years. While caution is warranted when considering bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy in premenopausal women without indication, this strategy for ovarian cancer risk reduction does not appear to be detrimental to survival in postmenopausal women.
Changes in respiratory diseases in South Korea during the COVID-19 pandemic: an interrupted time series study
Authors: Mun Seog-Kyun , Yang Bo Ram , Chang Munyoung
Published: December 2021

Introduction

In South Korea, non-pharmaceutical interventions such as mask-wearing, hand washing and social distancing were strictly implemented to prevent the spread of COVID-19 after a national crisis alert was raised to the highest level early in the pandemic (23 February 2020). We aimed to investigate changes in the occurrence of respiratory diseases at the national level after the COVID-19 outbreak.

Methods

The study period was from 1 January to 1 August 2019 (213 days) and from 1 January to 31 July 2020 (213 days). Based on the National Health Insurance Service data, we analysed changes in the numbers of patients treated for respiratory diseases. The changes in the numbers of individuals using public transportation and visiting the theatre were investigated to assess the effect of social distancing after the national crisis alert was raised. Differences in daily cumulative numbers (DDCNs) in 2020 were calculated as follows: (daily cumulative number in 2020)–(cumulative number for that day in 2019). A change over time in DDCNs of <0 was taken as indication that the numbers decreased from 2019 to 2020. Segmented regression analyses were performed using generalised least squares method to identify changes in trends of DDCNs of patients treated for respiratory diseases and individuals using public transportation and visiting the theatre.

Results

After the national crisis alert was raised to the highest level, DDCNs of patients treated for respiratory diseases, individuals using public transportation, and those visiting the theatre exhibited a significant daily decline by 53.18 per 10 000 inhabitants (95% CI −65.86 to −40.49), 48.19 per 1000 inhabitants (95% CI −62.05 to −34.32) and 25.30 per 5000 inhabitants (95% CI −36.30 to −14.30), respectively, compared with before the national crisis alert was raised.

Conclusion

Non-pharmaceutical interventions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 significantly reduce the incidence of respiratory diseases.
Retrospective study of patterns of vitamin D testing and status at a single institution paediatric orthopaedics and sports clinics
Authors: Mahan Susan , Ackerman Kathryn , DiFazio Rachel , Miller Patricia , Feldman Lanna , Sullivan Nicholas , Glotzbecker Michael , Holm Ingrid A
Published: December 2021

Objective(s)

There has been a recent increase in awareness of the importance of bone health in children treated by paediatric orthopaedic and sports medicine providers. The purpose of this study was to assess our utilisation of 25 hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)Vit D) testing in the past 10 years, and to evaluate the level of 25(OH)Vit D sufficiency in various populations of patients seen.

Design

This is a single site, retrospective medical record review study.

Setting

The study took place at a single large, private, paediatric level 1 trauma teaching hospital in the Northeast USA.

Participants

Our internal medical records query system identified all patients who have had 25(OH)Vit D testing in the past 10 years, from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2018. All patients included were seen on an outpatient basis at our Orthopaedic clinics.

Interventions

No interventions for strict research, however, eligible patients have had 25(OH)Vit D testing during their standard of care treatment.

Main outcome measure(s)

The varying number of 25(OH)Vit D testing that occurred over the study time period within Orthopaedic groups, and by Vit D levels as sufficient, insufficient and deficient. 25(OH)Vit D sufficiency was ≥30 ng/mL, insufficiency <30 ng/mL and deficiency were <20 ng/mL. Patients were stratified and analysed.

Results

Between 2009 and 2018, there were 4426 patients who had 25(OH)Vit D testing. Vitamin D testing increased significantly (p<0.001) in the past 10 years. 43% of patients had sufficient 25(OH)Vit D levels, 41% had insufficient levels and 15% had deficient levels.

Conclusion

More frequent testing has led to an increased identification of patients with insufficient and deficient 25(OH)Vit D levels. We found over 50% of patients tested were found to have 25(OH)Vit D levels under 30 ng/mL. There should be an increased awareness of patients with orthopaedic problems who may present with 25(OH) insufficiency.
Top 10 (plus 1) research priorities for expectant families and those with children to age 24 months in Alberta, Canada: results from the Family Research Agenda Initiative Setting (FRAISE) priority setting partnership project
Authors: Brockway Meredith Lee , Keys Elizabeth , Bright Katherine Stuart , Ginn Carla , Conlon Leslie , Doane Stephanie , Wilson Jacqueline , Tomfohr-Madsen Lianne , Benzies Karen
Published: December 2021

Objective

The study objective was to identify the top 10 research priorities for expectant parents and caregivers of children up to age 24 months.

Design

A priority setting partnership using a modified James Lind Alliance approach was implemented. First, a core steering committee was formed, consisting of 17 parents, clinicians and community agency representatives. Second, through in-person collaboration with steering committee members, we developed and distributed a survey to identify research priorities across 12 topics. In total, 596 participants consented and 480 completed the survey. Survey responses were grouped and themed into codes during a consensus-building workshop with steering committee members (n=18). Research and practice experts were consulted to provide feedback on which themes had already been researched. An in-person (n=21) workshop was used to establish the top 34 priorities, which were circulated to the broader steering committee (n=25) via an online survey. Finally, the core steering committee members (n=18) met to determine and rank a top 10 (plus 1) list of research priorities.

Setting

This study was conducted in Alberta, Canada.

Participants

Expectant parents and caregivers of children up to age 24 months.

Results

Survey results provided 3232 responses, with 202 unique priorities. After expert feedback and steering committee consensus, a list of 34 priorities was moved forward for final consideration. The final top 10 (plus 1) research priorities included three priorities on mental health/relationships, two priorities on each of access to information, immunity and child development, and one priority on each of sleep, pregnancy/labour and feeding. Selecting 11 instead of 10 priorities was based on steering committee consensus.

Conclusions

The findings will direct future maternal–child research, ensuring it is rooted in parent-identified priorities that represent contemporary needs. To provide meaningful outcomes, research in these priority areas must consider diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and experiences.
Assessing effective mask use by the public in two countries: an observational study
Authors: Atzema Clare L , Mostarac Ivona , Button Dana , Austin Peter C , Javidan Arshia P , Wintraub Lauren , Li Allen , Patel Raumil V , Lee Daniel Dongjoo , Latham Nathaniel P , Latham Eric A , Brown Patrick C M , Somogyi Rita D , Chang Alex , Nguyen Huong , Buerk Sara , Chen Bin , Zimmerman Tristen , Funari Trevor , Colbert Cameron , Kea Bory
Published: December 2021

Objectives

During the COVID-19 pandemic wearing a mask in public has been recommended in some settings and mandated in others. How often this advice is followed, how well, and whether it inadvertently leads to more disease transmission opportunities due to a combination of improper use and physical distancing lapses is unknown.

Design

Cross-sectional observational study performed in June–August 2020.

Setting

Eleven outdoor and indoor public settings (some with mandated mask use, some without) each in Toronto, Ontario, and in Portland, Oregon.

Participants

All passers-by in the study settings.

Outcome measures

Mask use, incorrect mask use, and number of breaches (ie, coming within 2 m of someone else where both parties were not properly masked).

Results

We observed 36 808 persons, the majority of whom were estimated to be aged 31–65 years (49%). Two-thirds (66.7%) were wearing a mask and 13.6% of mask-wearers wore them incorrectly. Mandatory mask-use settings were overwhelmingly associated with mask use (adjusted OR 79.2; 95% CI 47.4 to 135.1). Younger age, male sex, Torontonians, and public transit or airport settings (vs in a store) were associated with lower adjusted odds of wearing a mask. Mandatory mask-use settings were associated with lower adjusted odds of mask error (OR 0.30; 95% CI 0.14 to 0.73), along with female sex and Portland subjects. Subjects aged 81+ years (vs 31–65 years) and those on public transit and at the airport (vs stores) had higher odds of mask errors. Mask-wearers had a large reduction in adjusted mean number of breaches (rate ratio (RR) 0.19; 95% CI 0.17 to 0.20). The 81+ age group had the largest association with breaches (RR 7.77; 95% CI 5.32 to 11.34).

Conclusions

Mandatory mask use was associated with a large increase in mask-wearing. Despite 14% of them wearing their masks incorrectly, mask users had a large reduction in the mean number of breaches (disease transmission opportunities). The elderly and transit users may warrant public health interventions aimed at improving mask use.