bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) to measure perceived knowledge about the control of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: The impact of a training program in primary healthcare professionals
Authors: Brito‐Brito Pedro Ruymán , Fernández‐Gutiérrez Domingo Ángel , Martínez‐Alberto Carlos Enrique , Sáez‐Rodríguez María Jesús , Núñez‐Marrero Janet , García‐Hernández Alfonso Miguel
Published: December 2021

Purpose

To analyze the impact of an online training intervention on primary healthcare professionals in Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain), evaluating the perceived knowledge about prevention and control of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection using the NOC outcome “Knowledge: Infection management” [1842].

Methods

Quasi‐experimental design with prepost analysis of 12 indicators. The participants were the 705 primary healthcare professionals, both healthcare professionals and nonhealthcare professionals, who completed the online training program prepared and implemented by nurses in the teaching and research fields between May and July 2020. The change in the perceived level of knowledge before and after, as well as other associations between this knowledge and the other variables included in the study, were confirmed.

Findings

The results of the study describe significant differences in the change between pre‐ and posttraining for all indicators included in the comparison.

Conclusions

This research shows the effectiveness of an online training program, appropriate for the need for social distancing required by the pandemic, in improving the knowledge of primary healthcare professionals about prevention and control of COVID‐19. It also describes a new context for the use of the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) through a training program organized and led by nurses.

Implications for nursing practice

Our results suggest that the NOC classification is useful for assessing perceived knowledge about prevention and control of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in the community among primary healthcare professionals. This study also provides evidence of the effectiveness of a nurse‐led, nurse‐designed online training intervention. To this end, the outcome criterion “Knowledge: Infection management” [1842] was used and its 12 original indicators were operationally defined. Overall, this study proposes a useful new framework for the NOC taxonomy, which, in addition to being intended for the assessment of outcomes among patients, families, and communities, is versatile enough to assess knowledge outcomes among professionals as well.
CEO inside debt holdings and trade credit
Authors: Hasan Mostafa Monzur , Hossain Ashrafee T. , Hossain Takdir
Published: December 2021

This study investigates the relationship between chief executive officer (CEO) inside debt holdings (pension benefits and deferred compensation) and use of supplier‐provided trade credit. We provide evidence that CEO inside debt holdings are negatively related to the use of trade credit. Our results are robust to the use of alternative regression estimation and alternative measures of key variables. We exploit the final enforcement of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) as an exogenous shock to inside debt holdings. Our difference‐in‐difference regression analysis establishes a causal relationship. In addition, we provide evidence that our documented results are not driven by omitted variable bias. We also employ instrumental variable regression estimation using heteroskedasticity‐based instruments to mitigate the endogeneity concern. Our cross‐sectional analyses reveal that the relationship between CEO inside debt holdings and trade credit is more pronounced in firms with poor information environments and greater financing constraints. Overall, findings from our study suggest that CEO inside debt has important implications for the financing policy of the firm.
Efficiency of Endosonic Blue, Eddy, Ultra X and Endoactivator in the removal of calcium hydroxide paste from root canals
Authors: Güven Yahya , Ali Afzal , Arslan Hakan
Published: December 2021

We investigated the efficiency of Endosonic Blue, EDDY, Ultra X and EndoActivator in removing calcium hydroxide from artificially created apical grooves in root canal walls. In Materials and Methods: A total of 60 single‐root maxillary central incisors, root canals were created and the roots were divided into two longitudinal parts. In the most suitable root piece, artificial grooves were created in the apical section and filled with calcium hydroxide. Calcium hydroxide in the grooves was removed using EDDY, Ultra X, Endosonic Blue or EndoActivator, and the remnants in the grooves were examined under a stereomicroscope. EDDY and Ultra X removed significantly more calcium hydroxide than Endosonic Blue and EndoActivator. The performance of EDDY and Ultra X or Endosonic Blue and EndoActivator was comparable. Therefore, EDDY and Ultra X are more effective than Endosonic Blue and EndoActivator in removing calcium hydroxide from apical grooves in root canal walls. No technique could achieve complete calcium hydroxide removal.
Big Data in Asian Central Banks
Authors: Cornelli Giulio , Doerr Sebastian , Gambacorta Leonardo , Tissot Bruno
Published: December 2021

The present paper reviews the use of big data in Asian central banks, leveraging on a survey conducted by the Irving Fischer Committee on Central Bank Statistics (IFC) of the Bank for International Settlements. It reveals four main insights. First, Asian central banks define big data in an encompassing way. Second, they show higher interest in big data, including at the senior policy level. Third, big data already supports a wide range of tasks. Fourth, big data poses new challenges and increases the need for international policy cooperation, especially to make use of payments data and promote innovative technological solutions.
“What is the Point of School Anyway?”: Refugee Youth, Educational Quality, and Resettlement Tunnel Vision
Authors: Wesley Bonet Sally
Published: December 2021

Drawing from three years of ethnographic engagement at a refugee school in Egypt, this study explores how refugee youths’ resettlement aspirations collide with the systemic barriers that define their displacement contexts. This study contributes to the field of anthropology and education by pointing to the limitations of quality learning environments in contexts where the future life chances of refugee students are already predetermined by structural barriers that texture their home, community, and host country environments.
Cone distribution and visual resolution of the yellow‐legged gull, Larus michahellis (Naumann, 1840)
Authors: Victory Noemi , Segovia Yolanda , García Magdalena
Published: December 2021

The morphological characteristics of the yellow‐legged gull's photoreceptors and cone distribution were studied using light and electron microscopy. In wholemount fresh retinas, five different coloured oil droplets located in the cone inner segments could be seen and characterized by colour, diameter and stratification. The photoreceptors were classified by comparing the fresh and fixed vertical sections under a light and electron microscope. Rods were easily distinguished from cones based on the outer segment morphology and the absence of oil droplets in their inner segments. Four types of single cones were associated with red, yellow, colourless and transparent oil droplets. Unequal double cones comprised a long principal member with a green oil droplet and an accessory short member containing a green microdroplet which was highly electron‐dense under electron microscopy. The different types of oil droplets were counted from microphotographs of fresh retinal samples in 20 regions. The density, percentage and diameter of the oil droplets were determined. The results showed that central regions had the highest oil droplet density which decreased towards the retinal periphery in all quadrants. Moreover, the oil droplet density was higher in the dorsotemporal quadrant than in other retinal regions. The average density of the red oil droplets was highest in the central areas, whereas colourless oil droplets had the highest density throughout the retina. In contrast, transparent oil droplets had the lowest density across all the regions of the retina. Finally, the retinal resolution was 52.61 cycles/degree. It was calculated using the posterior nodal distance and the oil droplet diameter. The work concludes by discussing the significance of the relative proportion of different cone types across the retina.
Validation of a residential aged care consumer experience survey, 2019
Authors: Forder Peta M. , Byles Julie E. , Golenko Xanthe , Cyarto Elizabeth , Donohoe Stuart G. , Zernike Wendy , Lowthian Judy A.
Published: December 2021

Objective

Residential aged care (RAC) quality is often measured as part of regulatory compliance. To inform care delivery and service improvements, we developed a consumer experience survey.

Methods

Validation study incorporating 2018–2019 survey data (n = 1504 individuals, 25 RAC homes) and test‐retest reliability evaluation.

Results

Most of the respondents were women (67%) with 38% of the surveys completed by residents, 39% with staff support, and 23% by family members. Moderate‐to‐high correlations (0.46–0.84) between individual items indicate the survey is a coherent measure of satisfaction; good inter‐item correlation was found across all sections (0.61–0.70) with high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.90–0.94); and moderate correlation for test‐retest reliability was found on the same individual when providing an overall recommendation score (individual ICC 0.684).

Conclusions

The RAC Consumer Experience Survey is a validated measure of lived experience and satisfaction that aligns closely with the Australian Aged Care Quality Standards, affording providers a standardised tool for benchmarking and informing care quality across the sector.
Avoiding use of lid speculum and indentation reduced infantile stress during retinopathy of prematurity examinations
Authors: Mataftsi Asimina , Lithoxopoulou Maria , Seliniotaki Aikaterini K. , Talimtzi Persefoni , Oustoglou Eirini , Diamanti Elisavet , Soubasi Vasiliki , Ziakas Nikolaos , Haidich Anna‐Bettina
Published: December 2021

Purpose

To study the safety and efficacy of indirect ophthalmoscopy with (Sp) or without (speculum free, SpF) the use of lid speculum and scleral indentation for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening.

Methods

In this crossover randomized controlled trial, preterm infants received either the Sp on their first and the SpF technique on their second examination a week later or vice versa. Video recordings of the infants’ reactions were assessed by two observers, using Premature Infant Pain Profile–Revised score and the crying score of the Bernese Pain Scale for Neonates. Fundoscopy adequacy, its duration and adverse events within the first 24 hr postscreening were also recorded.

Results

Thirty‐seven infants with median (interquartile range) gestational age of 28.7 (28.0, 30.2) weeks and mean (standard deviation, SD) birth weight 1225 (377) grams were enrolled. The mydriasis‐induced stress was similar between the Sp and SpF exam (mean difference [MD]: 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.83, 2.38; p = 0.33). The stress induced by fundoscopy (MD: 4.98, 95% CI: 3.58, 6.37; p < 0.001) and examination overall (MD: 2.32, 95% CI: 0.96, 3.67; p = 0.001) were higher in the Sp than in the SpF exam, and so was the crying score during fundoscopy (MD: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.56; p < 0.001). Adverse events in the two groups were similar (p = 0.13). Fundoscopy was adequate in identifying the absence of treatment‐requiring ROP in all cases, and lasted longer in the Sp than in the SpF exam (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that the use of speculum and indentation should be reserved for the few cases where fundus visualization is insufficient for excluding the presence of severe ROP.
Growth factor expression is enhanced, and extracellular matrix proteins are depressed in healing skin wounds in septic patients compared with healthy controls
Authors: Jaurila Henna , Koskela Marjo , Koivukangas Vesa , Gäddnäs Fiia , Salo Tuula , Ala‐Kokko Tero I.
Published: December 2021

Sepsis manifests as a dysregulated immune response to infection, damaging organs. Skin has a critical role in protecting the body. In sepsis, skin wound healing is impaired. The mechanisms behind it have been poorly studied. In this study, suction blister wounds were induced on intact abdominal skin in 15 septic patients. A single blister wound was biopsied from each patient and from 10 healthy controls. Immunohistochemical staining of growth factors and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins was performed. Significance (p < 0.05) of the differences was calculated. The following growth factors were overexpressed in the skin of septic patients compared with healthy controls: epithelial growth factor (intact epithelium p = 0.007, migrating epithelium p = 0.038), vascular epithelial growth factor (intact epithelium p < 0.001, migrating epithelium p = 0.011) and transforming growth factor beta (migrating epithelium p = 0.002). The expression of syndecan‐1 was upregulated in the skin of septic patients compared with healthy controls (intact epithelium p = 0.048, migrating epithelium p = 0.028). The following ECM proteins had lower expression in the epithelium in septic patients than in healthy controls: tenascin‐C (migrating epithelium p = 0.03) and laminin‐332 (intact epithelium p = 0.036). In sepsis, growth factor and syndecan expression was enhanced, while ECM and basement membrane proteins were mostly depressed.
Synthesis and inhibitory activities of inhibitors for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Zhou Shiyang , Huang Gangliang
Published: December 2021

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease with unknown etiology and pathogenesis, in which butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) plays an important role in the pathogenesis and progression. Inhibition of BuChE is a potential strategy for the treatment of advanced AD. Herein, the advantages and disadvantages of various synthesis methods on BuChE inhibitors and their inhibitory activities were summarized.
High sugar intake from sugar‐sweetened beverages is associated with prevalence of untreated decay in US adults: NHANES 2013–2016
Authors: Moss Mark E. , Luo Huabin , Rosinger Asher Y. , Jacobs Molly M. , Kaur Roopwant
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To assess the association between sugar from sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSBs) and untreated decay in permanent teeth and calculate the cost burden of sugar from SSBs on untreated decay in US adults.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data from the 2013–2014 and 2015–2016 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were analysed in 2020 (n = 9001 adults aged ≥20). Multivariable analyses assessed sugar intake from SSB consumption with the presence of untreated decay in permanent teeth and number of untreated decayed teeth. Population attributable risk was used to estimate the cost burden arising from SSBs on untreated decay in US adults.

Results

One fourth (25.1%) of US adults had untreated dental decay, and higher prevalence was observed among those with low income, low education and race/ethnicity of non‐Hispanic Black. Overall, 53% of adults reported no intake of SSBs. For the remaining 47%, the median 24‐h intake was 46.8 g of sugar from SSBs. The adjusted prevalence ratio (PR) for untreated decay was 1.3 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–1.5) for consumption of 46.8 g or more of sugar from SSBs compared to those reporting no sugar from SSBs. Number of untreated decayed teeth increased with sugar intake from SSBs from lowest to highest tertile: 0.1, (p = .35); 0.4, (p = .006); and 0.6, (p < .001). The cost burden of untreated decay attributable to SSBs in US adults is estimated conservatively at $1.6 billion USD.

Conclusions

Community level interventions directed at sugar from SSBs are justified to address disparities in the burden of untreated dental decay.
Individual participant data meta‐analysis versus aggregate data meta‐analysis: A case study in eczema and food allergy prevention
Authors: Van Vogt Eleanor , Cro Suzie , Cornelius Victoria R. , Williams Hywel C. , Askie Lisa M. , Phillips Rachel , Kelleher Maeve M. , Boyle Robert J.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Meta‐analysis traditionally uses aggregate data from published reports. Individual Participant Data (IPD) meta‐analysis, which obtains and synthesizes participant‐level data, is potentially more informative, but resource‐intensive. The impact on the findings of meta‐analyses using IPD in comparison with aggregate data has rarely been formally evaluated.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of a Cochrane systematic review of skincare interventions for preventing eczema and food allergy in infants to identify the impact of the analytical choice on the review's findings. We used aggregate data meta‐analysis only and contrasted the results against those of the originally published IPD meta‐analysis. All meta‐analysis used random effects inverse variance models. Certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE.

Results

The pooled treatment effects for the Cochrane systematic review's co‐primary outcomes of eczema and food allergy were similar in IPD meta‐analysis (eczema RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.81, 1.31; I241%, 7 studies 3075 participants), and aggregate meta‐analysis (eczema RR 1.01 95% CI 0.77, 1.33; I253%, 7 studies, 3089 participants). In aggregate meta‐analysis, the statistical heterogeneity could not be explained but using IPD it was explained by one trial which used a different, bathing intervention. For IPD meta‐analysis, risk of bias was assessed as lower and more adverse event data were available compared with aggregate meta‐analysis. This resulted in higher certainty of evidence, especially for adverse events. IPD meta‐analysis enabled analysis of treatment interactions by age and hereditary eczema risk; and analysis of the effect of treatment adherence using pooled complier‐adjusted‐causal‐effect analysis, none of which was possible in aggregate meta‐analysis.

Conclusions

For this systematic review, IPD did not significantly change primary outcome risk ratios compared with aggregate data meta‐analysis. However, certainty of evidence, safety outcomes, subgroup and adherence analyses were significantly different using IPD. This demonstrates benefits of adopting an IPD approach to meta‐analysis.
Patient‐reported outcomes after pelvic exenteration for colorectal cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Denys Andreas , van Nieuwenhove Yves , Van de putte Dirk , Pape Eva , Pattyn Piet , Ceelen Wim , van Ramshorst Gabriëlle H.
Published: December 2021

Aim

Pelvic exenteration (PE) carries high morbidity. Our aim was to analyse the use of patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) in PE patients.

Method

Search strategies were protocolized and registered in PROSPERO. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Web of Science and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched with the terms ‘patient reported outcomes’, ‘pelvic exenteration’ and ‘colorectal cancer’. Studies published after 1980 reporting on PROMs for at least 10 PE patients were considered. Study selection, data extraction, rating of certainty of evidence (GRADE) and risk of bias (ROBINS‐I) were performed independently by two reviewers.

Results

Nineteen of 173 studies were included (13 retrospective, six prospective). All studies were low to very low quality, with an overall moderate/serious risk of bias. Studies included data on 878 patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (n = 344), recurrent rectal cancer (n = 411) or cancer of unknown type (n = 123). Thirteen studies used validated questionnaires, four used non‐validated measures and two used both. Questionnaires included the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy—Colorectal questionnaire (n = 6), Short Form Health Survey (n = 6), European Organization for Research and Treatment for Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 (n = 6), EORTC‐CR38 (n = 4), EORTC‐BLM30 (n = 1), Brief Pain Inventory (n = 2), Short Form 12 (n = 1), Assessment of Quality of Life (n = 1), Short Form Six‐Dimension (n = 1), the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Sphincter Function Scale (n = 1), the Cleveland Global Quality of Life (n = 1) or other (n = 4). Timing varied between studies.

Conclusions

Whilst the use of validated questionnaires increased over time, this study shows that there is a need for uniform use and timing of PROMs to enable multicentre studies.
Current problems and perspectives of pathological risk factors for lymph node metastasis in T1 colorectal cancer: Systematic review
Authors: Ichimasa Katsuro , Kudo Shin‐ei , Miyachi Hideyuki , Kouyama Yuta , Mochizuki Kenichi , Takashina Yuki , Maeda Yasuharu , Mori Yuichi , Kudo Toyoki , Miyata Yuki , Akimoto Yoshika , Kataoka Yuki , Kubota Takafumi , Nemoto Tetsuo , Ishida Fumio , Misawa Masashi
Published: December 2021

With the prevalence of endoscopic submucosal dissection and endoscopic full thickness resection, which enable complete resection of T1 colorectal cancer with a negative margin, the treatment strategy following endoscopic resection has become more important. The necessity of secondary surgical resection is determined on the basis of the risk of lymph node metastasis according to the histopathological findings of resected specimens because ~10% of T1 colorectal cancer cases have lymph node metastasis. The current Japanese treatment guidelines state four risk factors for lymph node metastasis: lymphovascular invasion, histological differentiation, depth of submucosal invasion, and tumor budding. These guidelines have succeeded in stratifying the low‐risk group for lymph node metastasis, in which endoscopic resection alone is acceptable for cure. On the other hand, there are some problems: there is variation in diagnosis methods and low interobserver agreement for each pathological factor and 90% of surgical resections are unnecessary, with lymph node metastasis negativity. To ensure patients with T1 colorectal cancer receive more appropriate treatment, these problems should be addressed. In this systematic review, we gave some suggestions to these practical issues of four pathological factors as predictors.
Apolipoprotein D and transthyretin are reduced in female adolescent offspring of women with type 1 diabetes: The EPICOM study
Authors: Overgaard Martin , Ravnsborg Tina , Lohse Zuzana , Bytoft Birgitte , Clausen Tine D. , Jensen Rikke B. , Damm Peter , Højlund Kurt , Gravholt Claus H. , Knorr Sine , Jensen Dorte M.
Published: December 2021

Aims

Adolescent offspring exposed to maternal diabetes during intrauterine life show a less favourable metabolic profile than the background population. Here, we hypothesize that offspring of women with type 1 diabetes (T1D), possess sex‐specific alterations in the serum profile of proteins involved in lipid, metabolic and transport processes and that these alterations are associated with lipid profile and indices of insulin sensitivity and secretion.

Methods

A prospective nationwide follow‐up study (EPICOM) in a Danish population. Blood samples were assessed from offspring of women with T1D (index offspring, n = 267, 13–20 years), and matched control offspring (n = 290). Serum proteins were analysed using a 25‐plex cardio‐metabolic targeted proteomics assay, which includes 12 apolipoproteins and 13 transport and inflammatory proteins.

Results

Apolipoprotein D (ApoD) and transthyretin (TTR) were reduced in index females as compared to female controls (−8.1%, p < 0.001 and −6.1%, p = 0.006 respectively), but not in index males (2.2%, p = 0.476 and −2.4%, p = 0.731 respectively). Sex‐dependent inverse associations between exposure to maternal T1D in utero and ApoD and TTR were significant after adjusting for age, BMI‐SDS and Tanner stage (OR = 0.252 [95% CI 0.085, 0.745], p = 0.013 and OR = 0.149 [95% CI 0.040, 0.553], p = 0.004). ApoD correlated to indices of insulin sensitivity and secretion in a similar sex‐specific pattern in crude and adjusted analyses.

Conclusions

Low ApoD may be regarded as an early risk marker of metabolic syndrome. A possible link between ApoD and cardiovascular disease needs further investigation.
Impact of acute and chronic nicotine administration on midbrain dopaminergic neuron activity and related behaviours in TRPV1 knock‐out juvenile mice
Authors: Allain Anne‐Emilie , Aribo Oceane , Medrano Maria‐Carmen , Fournier Marie‐Line , Bertrand Sandrine S. , Caille Stephanie
Published: December 2021

The addictive properties of nicotine, the main alkaloid in tobacco and tobacco‐derived products, largely depend on its action on the activity of midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons. The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channel has also been examined as an emerging contributor to addiction‐related symptoms due to its ability to modulate midbrain neurons. Thus, the objective of our study was to explore the role of TRPV1 receptors (TRPV1Rs) on nicotine‐induced behaviours and associated response of DA neuron activity. Both wild type juvenile mice and juvenile mice with invalidation of the TRPV1R gene were exposed to acute or chronic nicotine 0.3 mg/kg administration. We analysed locomotor activity in response to the drug. In addition, we performed cell‐attached and whole‐cell recordings from ventral tegmental area (VTA) neurons after nicotine exposure. Our results showed that the genetic deletion of TRPV1Rs reduced nicotine‐induced locomotor sensitization. In addition, it provided evidence in support of TRPV1Rs being regulators of inhibitory synaptic transmission in the VTA. However, TRPV1Rs did not seem to modulate either nicotine‐induced conditioning place preference or nicotine‐evoked electrical activity of DA neurons. In conclusion, TRPV1Rs modulate nicotine‐induced psychomotor sensitization in mice independently of a control on VTA DA neuron activity. Thus, TRPV1R control may depend on another key player of the mesolimbic circuit.
Difficulty in identification of patients with active secondary progressive multiple sclerosis by clinical classification tools
Authors: Klinsing Svenja , Yalachkov Yavor , Foerch Christian
Published: December 2021

Background and purpose

The transition from relapsing–remitting to secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) is not well defined. Different definitions and tools to identify SPMS have been proposed. Meanwhile, early diagnosis of “active” SPMS is getting progressively more important as pharmaceutical treatment options are developed. In this study, we compared different classification methods regarding their accuracy to reliably identify “active SPMS.”

Methods

Independent from previous diagnostic classification, we descriptively analyzed the disease course (regarding relapses, progression, and magnetic resonance imaging activity) in 208 consecutive multiple sclerosis (MS) patients treated in our MS outpatient clinic in 2018. Patients were reclassified according to different SPMS criteria and tools. Diagnostic accuracy in identifying patients with “active SPMS” was determined.

Results

Comparing the tools to each other, significant variability in the number of patients identified as having SPMS as well as in the proportion of these patients having “active SPMS” was noted. Applying both diagnostic criteria “SPMS” and “active disease” reduced the sensitivity in identifying patients with active progressive disease in all approaches.

Conclusions

We propose lessening the emphasis on the label “SPMS” in favor of the more open term “active progressive disease” to simplify the process of identifying patients who may benefit from immune therapy.
Tuberculosis incidence in country of origin is a key determinant of the risk of active tuberculosis in people living with HIV: Data from a 30‐year observational cohort study
Authors: White Helena A. , Okhai Hajra , Kirwan Peter , Rafeeq Sonia H. , Dillon Helen , Hefford Phillip , Wiselka Martin J. , Pareek Manish
Published: December 2021

Introduction

People living with HIV (PLWH) are at high risk of active tuberculosis (TB) but this risk in the era of antiretroviral treatment (ART) remains unclear. It is critical to identify the groups who should be prioritised for latent TB (LTBI) screening. In this study we identified the risk factors associated with developing incident TB disease, by analysing a 30‐year observational cohort.

Methods

We evaluated PLWH in Leicester, UK, between 1983 and 2017 to ascertain those who developed active TB and the timing of this in relation to HIV diagnosis; whether before, concurrently with, or more than 3 months after the diagnosis of HIV (incident TB). Predictors of incident TB were ascertained using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

In all, 325 out of 2158 (15.1%) PLWH under care had had active TB; 64/325 (19.7%) prior to HIV diagnosis, 161/325 (49.5%) concurrently with/within 3 months of HIV diagnosis and 100/325 (30.8%) had incident TB. Incident TB risk was 4.57/1000 person‐years. Increased TB incidence in the country of birth was associated with an increased risk of developing incident TB [50–149/100 000 population, adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) = 3.10, 95% CI: 0.94–10.20; 150–249/100 000 population, AHR = 7.14, 95% CI: 3.46–14.74; 250–349/100 000 population, AHR = 5.90, 95% CI: 2.32–14.99; ≥ 350/100 000 population, AHR = 3.96, 95% CI: 1.39–11.26].

Conclusions

Tuberculosis risk remains high among PLWH and is related to TB incidence in the country of birth. Further work is required to determine whether specific groups of PLWH should be targeted for programmatic LTBI screening, and whether it will result in high uptake and completion of chemoprophylaxis and is cost‐effective for widespread implementation.
Investigation of the effect of ytterbium doping on photoluminescence and photocatalytic activity of Li4Ti5O12
Authors: Kiliç Dokan Fatma
Published: December 2021

This work reports the combined effect of the morphology and crystallization to investigate the role of Yb3+ as an additive in Li4Ti5O12 crystals on its photocatalytic and photoluminescence (PL) properties. With the pure phase, the synthesized samples have a spherical morphology and spherical structure with good crystallinity and uniform particle size distribution. Li4Ti5O12 doped with ytterbium (Yb3+), were obtained by a new optimized hydrothermal approach. The crystal properties and surface morphology of the synthesized compounds were examined by X‐ray diffraction method and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Bond structures and surface areas were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller analyses. Finally, the excitation and emission spectra were obtained by a PL spectrophotometer. The PL results show that room‐temperature PL of Yb3+ doped Li4Ti5O12 phosphor has an emission peak at 710 nm which can be attributed to Li4Ti5O12 crystal defect emission. Moreover, it has been found that Yb doping resulted in enhancement of photocatalytic activity, evaluated by monitoring the degradation of methylene blue solution. Note that, 0.01% Yb doped lithium titania phosphor exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity.
Influence of tef flour and its association with other flours on the nutritional, technological, and sensory quality of bakery products
Authors: Homem Raisa Vieira , Doneda Divair , Kist Tarso Ledur , Venzke Janaína Guimarães , da Silva Vanuska Lima , de Oliveira Viviani Ruffo
Published: December 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate chemical, technological, and sensory quality of tef in products made exclusively with tef flour and tef flour associated with other flours. The selection of the studies and the extraction of information were carried out through research in several databases. Tef flour was used in cakes, cookies, breads, cupcakes, muffins, and extruded snacks. Bread was the most evaluated product with tef flour associated with other flours or exclusively. Most of the outcomes were with tef (5–50%) associated with other flours. Increased levels of fibers, minerals, antioxidant capacity, and flavonoids were noted according to the percentage of tef. Technological characteristics demonstrated that these products showed intermediate final quality, due to the characteristics of volume, specific volume, firmness, and luminosity. Regarding sensory quality, studies that used (5–35%) tef flour associated with other flours were well‐accepted.
Comparative study: Thermal and non‐thermal treatment on enzyme deactivation and selected quality attributes of fresh carrot juice
Authors: Umair Muhammad , Jabbar Saqib , Lin Yue , Nasiru Mustapha Muhammad , Zhang Jianhao , Abid Muhammad , Murtaza Mian Anjum , Zhao Liqing
Published: December 2021

The combined effect of emerging electro‐technology high‐voltage cold plasma (HVCP) and non‐thermal ultra‐high hydrostatic pressure (UHP) as bioprocess technologies on the quality and stability of carrot juice has been evaluated. Carrot juice was treated with HVCP (70 kV for 3 min), UHP (300, 400, and 500 MPa) at 25 °C for 5 min, and a blanched sample of 100 °C for 5 min (BS) was also prepared. As compared to control and single treatments, the combined treatment (HVCP‐UHP500) has attained better results in terms of enzyme inactivation and electroporation extraction of coloring compounds, phytochemicals, and ascorbic acid. Wherein, the maximum of 25.87 ± 0.12a µg/100 mL of β‐Carotene, 11.89 ± 0.80aGAE (µg g−1) of total phenols, and 24.07 ± 0.12b mg/100 mL of ascorbic acid content in carrot juice were also observed in the combined treatment at 500 MPa. In addition, phytochemical enhancement might be attributed to the disintegration of phenolic dimers into simple aglycones, predominantly because of the electro‐kinetic phenomenon of HVCP, which is subsequently intensified by UHP treatment. Therefore, the current study suggests that the combination of two novel techniques is a highly efficient method in terms of energy, time, and cost, with low yield efficiency and bio‐safety.
Is obesity in the brain? Parent perceptions of brain influences on obesity
Authors: Sadler Jennifer R. , Persky Susan , Gu Cihang , Aghababian Anahys H. , Carnell Susan
Published: December 2021

Neuroimaging studies demonstrate associations of brain structure and function with children's eating behaviour and body weight, and the feasibility of integrating brain measures into obesity risk assessment and intervention is growing. However, little is known about lay perceptions of how the brain influences obesity. We investigated parent perceptions of brain contributions to obesity in three separate studies: 1) a study of mothers of adolescents recruited for neuroimaging research (n = 88), 2) a study of ethnically Chinese parents of 5–13 year olds participating in a parent feeding survey (n = 277), and 3) a study of parents of 3–15 year olds completing an online survey (n = 113). In general, parents believed that brain factors influence obesity, but considered them less influential than behaviours such as diet and exercise. Causal attributions for brain factors were correlated with attributions for genetic factors and biological factors (e.g., metabolism). Parents who perceived their child to be overweight or had a high concern about their child becoming overweight in the future rated brain factors as more important in determining their child's weight and more likely to lessen their child's ability to control their weight. Our results suggest that parents attribute obesity to the brain to a moderate degree, and that education or feedback regarding brain influences on obesity could be a promising obesity intervention component.
Pattern of prescription of psychotropics (antipsychotics, antidepressants and benzodiazepines) in Western Australian residential aged care facilities
Authors: Almutairi Hend , Stafford Andrew , Etherton‐Beer Christopher , Flicker Leon
Published: December 2021

Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia are exhibited by up to 90% of residents in aged care facilities and are associated with a risk of inappropriate use of psychotropic drugs. This study examined the prevalence pattern of psychotropic drug use in 409 residents from 11 residential aged care facilities in Western Australia. Sixty‐four (n = 64; 15.6%) residents were not prescribed any psychotropic drug, 345 (84.4%) were prescribed at least one psychotropic drug and between 4 and 10% were prescribed high doses, depending on the class of psychotropic. Despite increasing awareness of inappropriate psychotropic drug use in this population, targeted and effective interventions are required to improve psychotropic prescribing practices.
Repeated adrenaline requirements for anaphylaxis
Authors: Chatelier Josh , Stojanovic Stephanie , Lin Tiffany , Denton Eve , Dabscheck Eli , Hew Mark , Bosco Julian J.
Published: December 2021

We examined the pattern of adrenaline administration in patients presenting with anaphylaxis. Forty‐four percent required repeated adrenaline administration, among whom there had been greater cardiorespiratory compromise. Repeated administration was more frequent in males and older patients, and those triggered by insect sting or unknown cause; no other patient factors were identified. This study supports the provision of two adrenaline auto‐injectors to all anaphylaxis patients.
Zanamivir aqueous solution in severe influenza: A global Compassionate Use Program, 2009–2019
Authors: Wang‐Jairaj Jie , Miller Irene , Joshi Aditya , Jayabalan Tharaka , Peppercorn Amanda , Zammit‐Tabona Peter , Oliver Amanda
Published: December 2021

Background

Zanamivir is a neuraminidase inhibitor effective against influenza A and B viruses. In 2009, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) began clinical development of intravenous (IV) zanamivir and initiated a global Compassionate Use Program (CUP) in response to the evolving H1N1 global pandemic. The goal of the CUP was to provide zanamivir to critically ill patients with limited treatment options.

Methods

Zanamivir was administered to patients with suspected or confirmed influenza infection who were not suitable for other approved antiviral treatments. Reporting of serious adverse events (SAEs) was mandatory and recorded in the GSK safety database. A master summary tracking sheet captured requests and patient characteristics. A case report form was available for detailing medical conditions, dosing, treatment duration, and clinical outcomes.

Results

In total, 4,033 requests were made for zanamivir treatment of hospitalized patients from 38 countries between 2009 and 2019; ≥95% patients received zanamivir via the IV route. Europe had the highest number of requests (n = 3,051) followed by North America (n = 713). At least 20 patients were aged ≤6 months, of whom 12 were born prematurely. The GSK safety database included 466 patients with ≥1 SAE, of whom 374 (80%) had a fatal outcome. Drug‐related SAEs were reported in 41 (11%) patients, including hepatic failure (n = 6 [2%]) and acute kidney injury (n = 5 [1%)].

Conclusions

The CUP facilitated global access to zanamivir prior to product approval. No new safety concerns were identified in the CUP compared with IV zanamivir clinical studies.
Knowing What Justice Means and Being Committed to It: Remarks on Allen Buchanan's Analysis of Conservative Factual Beliefs
Authors: Forst Rainer
Published: December 2021

Allen Buchanan argues that a particular set of false factual beliefs, especially when part of a comprehensive ideology, can lead persons to develop ‘morally conservative’ convictions that stand in the way of realising justice even though these persons have a ‘firm grasp of correct principles of justice and a robust commitment to their realisation’. In my remarks, I raise some questions concerning the core argument: How ‘firm’ can a grasp of principles of justice be if a person is blind to the realities of injustice? And how ‘sincerely committed’ to justice can such an injustice‐insensitive person be? Alternatively: How firm is that grasp or commitment if one has a radically pessimistic view about human nature so that one does not believe that (egalitarian) justice can or could ever be realised? Secondly, I ask: If such ideologies or false beliefs are in play in reproducing injustice, do they not also ‘mask’ existing injustices?
Curcumin modulates airway remodelling‐contributing genes—the significance of transcription factors
Authors: Wieczfinska Joanna , Sitarek Przemysław , Kowalczyk Tomasz , Rieske Piotr , Pawliczak Rafal
Published: December 2021

Bronchial epithelial cells and fibroblasts play an essential role in airway remodelling, due to their protective and secretory functions. There are many studies proving that infection caused by human rhinovirus may contribute to the process of airway remodelling. The beneficial properties of curcumin, the basic ingredient of turmeric, have been proved in many studies. Therefore, the aim of this study was the evaluation of curcumin immunomodulatory properties in development of airway remodelling. Fibroblasts (WI‐38 and HFL1) and epithelial cells (NHBE) were incubated with curcumin. Additionally, remodelling conditions were induced with rhinovirus (HRV). Airway remodelling genes were determined by qPCR and immunoblotting. Moreover, NF‐κB, c‐Myc and STAT3 were silenced to analyse the pathways involved in airway remodelling. Curcumin reduced the expression of the genes analysed, especially MMP‐9, TGF‐β and collagen I. Moreover, curcumin inhibited the HRV‐induced expression of MMP‐9, TGF‐β, collagen I and LTC4S (p < 0.05). NF‐κB, c‐Myc and STAT3 changed their course of expression. Concluding, our study shows that curcumin significantly downregulated gene expression related to the remodelling process, which is dependent on NF‐κB and, partially, on c‐Myc and STAT3. The results suggest that the remodelling process may be limited and possibly prevented, however this issue requires further research.
Annual Research Review: A systematic review of mental health services for emerging adults – moulding a precipice into a smooth passage
Authors: Anderson Joanna K. , Newlove‐Delgado Tamsin , Ford Tamsin J.
Published: December 2021

Background

The transition between child and adult services should aim to support young people into the next stage of their life in a way that optimises their function. Yet financial, organisational and procedural barriers to continuity of care often hamper smooth transition between child and adult services.

Aim and method

We reviewed studies of transition from child to adult mental health services, focusing on: (a) rates of referrals and referral acceptance; (b) barriers and facilitators of successful transition; (c) continuity of care during and post‐transition and (d) service users’ experience of transition. Studies were identified through systematic searches of electronic databases: PsycINFO, Medline, Embase and Child Development and Adolescent Studies.

Findings

Forty‐seven papers describing 43 unique studies met inclusion criteria. Service provision is influenced by previous history and funding processes, and the presence or absence of strong primary care, specialist centres of excellence and coordination between specialist and primary care. Provision varies between and within countries, particularly whether services are restricted to ‘core’ mental health or broader needs. Unsupportive organisational culture, fragmentation of resources, skills and knowledge base undermine the collaborative working essential to optimise transition. Stigma and young people’s concerns about peers’ evaluation often prompt disengagement and discontinuation of care during transition, leading to worsening of symptoms and later, to service re‐entry. Qualitative studies reveal that young people and families find the transition process frustrating and difficult, mainly because of lack of advanced planning and inadequate preparation.

Conclusions

Despite increasing research interest over the last decade, transition remains ‘poorly planned, executed and experienced’. Closer collaboration between child and adult services is needed to improve the quality of provision for this vulnerable group at this sensitive period of development.
Predictive ability of current machine learning algorithms for type 2 diabetes mellitus: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Kodama Satoru , Fujihara Kazuya , Horikawa Chika , Kitazawa Masaru , Iwanaga Midori , Kato Kiminori , Watanabe Kenichi , Nakagawa Yoshimi , Matsuzaka Takashi , Shimano Hitoshi , Sone Hirohito
Published: December 2021

Aims/Introduction

Recently, an increasing number of cohort studies have suggested using machine learning (ML) to predict type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, its predictive ability remains inconclusive. This meta‐analysis evaluated the current ability of ML algorithms for predicting incident type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Materials and Methods

We systematically searched longitudinal studies published from 1 January 1950 to 17 May 2020 using MEDLINE and EMBASE. Included studies had to compare ML’s classification with the actual incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and present data on the number of true positives, false positives, true negatives and false negatives. The dataset for these four values was pooled with a hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic and a bivariate random effects model.

Results

There were 12 eligible studies. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio and negative likelihood ratio were 0.81 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.67–0.90), 0.82 [95% CI 0.74–0.88], 4.55 [95% CI 3.07–6.75] and 0.23 [95% CI 0.13–0.42], respectively. The area under the summarized receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.88 (95% CI 0.85–0.91).

Conclusions

Current ML algorithms have sufficient ability to help clinicians determine whether individuals will develop type 2 diabetes mellitus in the future. However, persons should be cautious before changing their attitude toward future diabetes risk after learning the result of the diabetes prediction test using ML algorithms.
Development and validation of a shortened and practical frailty index for people with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Schoufour J. D. , Oppewal A. , van Maurik M. C. , Hilgenkamp T. I. M. , Elbers R. G. , Maes‐Festen D. A. M.
Published: December 2021

Background

There is no widely used instrument to detect frailty in people with intellectual disabilities (IDs). We aimed to develop and validate a shorter and more practical version of a published frailty index for people with IDs.

Method

This study was part of the longitudinal ‘Healthy Ageing and Intellectual Disability’ study. We included 982 people with IDs aged 50 years and over. The previously developed and validated ID‐Frailty Index consisting of 51 deficits was used as the basis for the shortened version, the ID‐FI Short Form. Content of the ID‐FI Short Form was based on statistics and clinical and practical feasibility. We evaluated the precision and validity of the ID‐FI Short Form using the internal consistency, the correlation between the ID‐FI Short Form and the original ID‐Frailty Index, the agreement in dividing participants in the categories non‐frail, pre‐frail and frail, and the association with survival.

Results

Seventeen deficits from the original ID‐Frailty Index were selected for inclusion in the ID‐FI Short Form. All deficits of the ID‐FI Short Form are clinically and practically feasible to assess for caregivers and therapists supporting people with ID. We showed acceptable internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha of 0.75. The Pearson correlation between the ID‐Frailty Index and the ID‐FI Short Form was excellent (r = 0.94, P < 0.001). We observed a good agreement between the full and short forms in dividing the participants in the frailty categories, with a kappa statistic of 0.63. The ID‐FI Short Form was associated with survival; with every 1/100 increase on the ID‐FI Short Form, the mortality probability increased by 7% (hazard ratio 1.07, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The first validation of the ID‐FI Short Form shows it to be a promising, practical tool to assess the frailty status of people with ID.