bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Gujarati archive in Tanzania
Authors: Akhtar Iqbal S.
Published: July 2022

The South Asian presence in East Africa has roots in antiquity through oceanic trade routes linking the Subcontinent to Africa. Existing paper archives date to the colonial period, held both by the government and various communities. Only the most recent sliver of more than two millennia of history is therefore recorded on paper. Of that, most of the academic (Hofmeyr) work done on the Asian minority in East Africa has used colonial era archives in European languages, such as German and English. The voices of Asian merchant communities are rarely heard in their own language and context. Their texts are either totally absent from analysis or dismissed as religious and not addressing the “interesting” historical questions of power (economic, political, and social) that dominate academic historical research on the region.
Breeding ground temperature rises, more than habitat change, are associated with spatially variable population trends in two species of migratory bird
Authors: Martay Blaise , Pearce‐Higgins James W. , Harris Sarah J. , Gillings Simon
Published: July 2022

Habitat loss and climate change are key drivers of global biodiversity declines but their relative importance has rarely been examined. We attempted to attribute spatially divergent population trends of two Afro‐Palaearctic migrant warbler species, Willow WarblerPhylloscopus trochilusand Common ChiffchaffPhylloscopus collybita, to changes in breeding grounds climate or habitat. We used bird counts from over 4000 sites across the UK between 1994 and 2017, monitored as part of the BTO/JNCC/RSPB Breeding Bird Survey. We modelled Willow Warbler and Common Chiffchaff population size and growth in relation to habitat, climate and weather. We then used the abundance model coefficients and observed environmental changes to determine the extent to which spatially varying population trends in England and Scotland were consistent with attribution to climate and habitat changes. Both species' population size and growth correlated with habitat, climate and weather on their breeding grounds. Changes in habitat, in particular woodland expansion, could be linked to small population increases for both species in England and Scotland. Both species' populations correlated more strongly with climate than weather, and both had an optimum breeding season temperature: 11°C for Willow Warbler and around 13.5°C for Common Chiffchaff (with marginally different predictions from population size and growth models). Breeding ground temperature increases, therefore, had the potential to have caused some of the observed Willow Warbler declines in England (where the mean breeding season temperature was 12.7°C) and increases in Scotland (mean breeding season temperature was 10.2°C), and some of the differential rates of increase for Common Chiffchaff. However, much of the variation in species' population abundance and trends were not well predicted by our models and could be due to other factors, such as species interactions, habitat and climate change in their wintering grounds and on migration. This study provides evidence that the effect of climate change on a species may vary spatially and may switch from being beneficial to being detrimental if a temperature threshold is exceeded.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of sexual dysfunction in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa
Authors: Varney Paige , Guo William , Brown Mikayla , Usmani Hunya , Marquez Jocellie , Ayasse Marissa , Kaufmann Tara , Haughton Adrienne
Published: July 2022

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with significant psychosocial comorbidity. To date, the relationship between HS and sexual dysfunction has not been assessed through meta‐analysis. A systematic review was performed by OVID Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Central, PsycINFO via EBSCO, Web of Science, and LILACS. Original English language studies assessing HS and sexual function published prior to April 2020 were screened. Scores from the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX), Frankfurt Self‐Concept Scale for Sexuality (FKKS SEX), and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) were analyzed. Sixteen studies met inclusion criteria, and nine were eligible for meta‐analysis. Pooled mean FSFI score for female HS patients met criteria for sexual dysfunction (mean = 20.32, P < 0.001). Females with HS reported worse FSFI scores than controls (pooled mean difference = −5.704, P = 0.003, I2=0). Mean IIEF score among males with HS was 47.96 (P < 0.001). Males with HS also reported worse IIEF scores than controls (pooled mean difference = −18.77, P = 0.00, I2 = 0). Females with HS performed worse on sexual function inventories than males with HS (SMD = −0.72, P = 0.009, I2 = 0). Both male and female HS patients reported significantly more sexual impairment than same‐sex controls. Female HS patients also experience more sexual impairment than males and on average meet criteria for sexual dysfunction (FSFI <26.55). Clinicians should be aware that their patients with HS, especially females, may be suffering from sexual dysfunction and treated them appropriately.
Technological features of blast identification in the cerebrospinal fluid: A systematic review of flow cytometry and laboratory haematology methods
Authors: Frater John L. , Shirai Cara Lunn , Brestoff Jonathan R.
Published: July 2022

Background

Involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) by acute leukemias (ALs) has important implications for risk stratification and disease outcome. The clinical laboratory plays an essential role in assessment of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens from patients with ALs at initial diagnosis, at the end of treatment, and when CNS involvement is clinically suspected. The two challenges for the laboratory are 1) to accurately provide a cell count of the CSF and 2) to successfully distinguish blasts from other cell types. These tasks are classically performed using manual techniques, which suffer from suboptimal turnaround time, imprecision, and inconsistent inter‐operator performance. Technological innovations in flow cytometry and hematology analyzer technology have provided useful complements and/or alternatives to conventional manual techniques.

Aims

We performed a PRISMA‐compliant systematic review to address the medical literature regarding the development and current state of the art of CSF blast identification using flow cytometry and laboratory hematology technologies.

Materials and Methods

We searched the peer reviewed medical literature using MEDLINE (PubMed interface), Web of Science, and Embase using the keywords “CSF or cerebrospinal” AND “blasts(s)”.

Results

108 articles were suitable for inclusion in our systematic review. These articles covered 1) clinical rationale for CSF blast identification; 2) morphology‐based CSF blast identification; 3) the role of flow cytometry; 4) use of hematology analyzers for CSF blast identification; and 5) quality issues. 9/L, which is much lower than the original machine count and platelet transfusion was warranted.

Discussion

1) Clinical laboratory testing plays a central role in risk stratification and clinical management of patients with acute leukemias, most clearly in pediatric ALs; 2) studies focused on other patient populations, including adults and patients with AML are less prevalent in the literature; 3) improvements in instrumentation may provide better performance for the classification of CSF specimens.

Conclusion

Current challenges include: 1) more precisely characterizing the natural history of AL involvement of the CNS, 2) improvements in automated cell count technology of low cellularity specimens, 3) defining the role of flow MRD testing of CSF specimens and 4) improved recognition of specimen quality by clinicians and laboratory personnel.
Immunoglobulin genes, reproductive isolation and vertebrate speciation
Authors: Collins Andrew M , Watson Corey T , Breden Felix
Published: July 2022

Reproductive isolation drives the formation of new species, and many genes contribute to this through Dobzhansky–Muller incompatibilities (DMIs). These incompatibilities occur when gene divergence affects loci encoding interacting products such as receptors and their ligands. We suggest here that the nature of vertebrate immunoglobulin (IG) genes must make them prone to DMIs. The genes of these complex loci form functional genes through the process of recombination, giving rise to a repertoire of heterodimeric receptors of incredible diversity. This repertoire, within individuals and within species, must defend against pathogens but must also avoid pathogenic self‐reactivity. We suggest that this avoidance of autoimmunity is only achieved through a coordination of evolution between heavy‐ and light‐chain genes, and between these genes and the rest of the genome. Without coordinated evolution, the hybrid offspring of two diverging populations will carry a heavy burden of DMIs, resulting in a loss of fitness. Critical incompatibilities could manifest as incompatibilities between a mother and her divergent offspring. During fetal development, biochemical differences between the parents of hybrid offspring could make their offspring a target of the maternal immune system. This hypothesis was conceived in the light of recent insights into the population genetics of IG genes. This has suggested that antibody genes are probably as susceptible to evolutionary forces as other parts of the genome. Further repertoire studies in human and nonhuman species should now help determine whether antibody genes have been part of the evolutionary forces that drive the development of species.
Heterogeneity in IgG‐CD16 signaling in infectious disease outcomes*
Authors: Gonzalez Joseph C. , Chakraborty Saborni , Thulin Natalie K. , Wang Taia T.
Published: July 2022

In this review, we discuss how IgG antibodies can modulate inflammatory signaling during viral infections with a focus on CD16a‐mediated functions. We describe the structural heterogeneity of IgG antibody ligands, including subclass and glycosylation that impact binding by and downstream activity of CD16a, as well as the heterogeneity of CD16a itself, including allele and expression density. While inflammation is a mechanism required for immune homeostasis and resolution of acute infections, we focus here on two infectious diseases that are driven by pathogenic inflammatory responses during infection. Specifically, we review and discuss the evolving body of literature showing that afucosylated IgG immune complex signaling through CD16a contributes to the overwhelming inflammatory response that is central to the pathogenesis of severe forms of dengue disease and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19).
Localized malignant mesothelioma of the epithelial type occurring as a primary hepatic neoplasm: A case report with review of the literature
Authors: IMURA JOHJI , ICHIKAWA KAZUHITO , TAKEDA JUN , IWASAKI YOSHIMI , TOMITA SHIGEKI , KUBOTA KEIICHI , FUJIMORI TAKAHIRO
Published: July 2022

We report a localized malignant mesothelioma of the epithelial type, occurring as a primary hepatic neoplasm in a 64‐year‐old male. He was found to have a mass located in the right lobe of the liver. Surgery was carried out with resection of the mass from the right hepatic lobe, with partial resection of the diaphragm. Grossly, an ill‐defined tumor was present in the hepatic parenchyma. Histologically, the tumor displayed a predominant tubular pattern of growth with a desmoplastic stroma. The tubules were lined by a single layer of cuboidal or flattened cells with pleomorphic vesicular nuclei. A hyaluronidase‐digestible, mucin‐like substance was demonstrated in the lumen and tumor cytoplasm. The tumor cells were immunohistochemically positive for calretinin, HBME‐1, cytokeratin, i.e. AE1/AE3 and CAM 5.2, but negative for carcinoembryonic antigen, CD 34 and Leu M1. Moreover, the tumor cells showed nuclear accumulation of the p53 oncopotein and reacted frequently with Ki‐67 antibody. These findings support the concept that malignant mesothelioma of the epithelial type may occur at extrapleural sites. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of localized malignant primary mesothelioma arising in the liver.
Urolithin B suppresses osteoclastogenesis via inhibiting RANKL‐induced signalling pathways and attenuating ROS activities
Authors: Qu Zechao , An Hao , Feng Mingzhe , Huang Wangli , Wang Dong , Zhang Zhen , Yan Liang
Published: July 2022

Osteoporosis (OP) has severely affected human health, which is characterized by abnormal differentiation of osteoclasts. Urolithin B (UB), as a potential natural drug, has been reported to exhibit numerous biological activities including antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory but its effects on OP, especially on RANKL‐stimulated osteoclast formation and activation, are still understood. In our study, we have demonstrated for the first time that UB inhibits RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation and explored its potential mechanisms of action. The RAW264.7 cells were cultured and induced with RANKL followed by UB treatment. Then, the effects of UB on mature osteoclast differentiation were evaluated by counting tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)‐positive multinucleated cells and F‐actin ring analysis. Moreover, the effects of UB on RANKL‐induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured by 2′, 7′‐dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH‐DA) staining. Further, we explored the potential mechanisms of these downregulation effects by performing Western blotting and quantitative RT‐PCR examination. We found that UB represses osteoclastogenesis, F‐actin belts formation, osteoclast‐specific gene expressions and ROS activity in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent manner. Mechanistically, UB attenuates intracellular ROS levels by upregulation of Nrf2 and other ROS scavenging enzymes activation. Furthermore, UB also inhibited RANKL‐induced NF‐κB, MAPK and Akt signalling pathway and suppressed expression of c‐Fos and nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (NFATc1), which is the master transcription factor of osteoclast differentiation. Taken together, our findings confirm that UB is a polyphenolic compound that can be a potential therapeutic treatment for osteoclast‐related bone diseases such as osteoporosis.
Systematic comparison of machine learning algorithms to develop and validate predictive models for periodontitis
Authors: Bashir Nasir Z. , Rahman Zahid , Chen Sam Li‐Sheng
Published: July 2022

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the validity of different machine learning algorithms to develop and validate predictive models for periodontitis.

Materials and Methods

Using national survey data from Taiwan (n = 3453) and the United States (n = 3685), predictors of periodontitis were extracted from the datasets and pre‐processed, and then 10 machine learning algorithms were trained to develop predictive models. The models were validated both internally (bootstrap sampling) and externally (alternative country's dataset). The algorithms were compared across six performance metrics ([i] area under the curve for the receiver operating characteristic [AUC], [ii] accuracy, [iii] sensitivity, [iv] specificity, [v] positive predictive value, and [vi] negative predictive value) and two methods of data pre‐processing ([i] machine‐learning‐based feature selection and [ii] dimensionality reduction into principal components).

Results

Many algorithms showed extremely strong performance during internal validation (AUC > 0.95, accuracy > 95%). However, this was not replicated in external validation, where predictive performance of all algorithms dropped off drastically. Furthermore, predictive performance differed according to data pre‐processing methodology and the cohort on which they were trained.

Conclusions

Larger sample sizes and more complex predictors of periodontitis are required before machine learning can be leveraged to its full potential.
Sleep influences daily suicidal ideation through affective reactivity to interpersonal events among high‐risk adolescents and young adults
Authors: Hamilton Jessica L. , Tsypes Aliona , Zelazny Jamie , Sewall Craig J.R. , Rode Noelle , Merranko John , Brent David A. , Goldstein Tina R. , Franzen Peter L.
Published: July 2022

Background

Identifying proximal risk factors for suicidal ideation that are modifiable and relevant for adolescents and young adults is critical for suicide prevention. This study used an intensive monitoring approach to examine whether objectively‐ and subjectively‐ measured sleep characteristics predict next‐day suicidal ideation occurrence and intensity through affective reactivity to interpersonal events in young people at high risk for suicide.

Methods

Participants included 59 (13–23 years; 76% White; 75% female) adolescents and young adults undergoing intensive outpatient program treatment for depression and suicidality. Participants completed daily ratings of suicidal ideation, sleep quality, and affective reactivity to positive and negative interpersonal events for up to 3 months (M = 56 days, SD = 24.13). Actigraphy captured behavioral sleep duration and timing. Multilevel modeling was used to evaluate within‐person fluctuations in sleep and affective reactivity as predictors of suicidal ideation, and multilevel mediation tested the indirect effects of sleep on suicidal ideation via affective reactivity to interpersonal events.

Results

Results indicate significant indirect effects of objectively measured sleep duration and subjective sleep quality on next‐day suicidal ideation via affective reactivity to negative and positive interpersonal events, respectively. Shorter‐than‐usual sleep predicted the presence and intensity of next‐day suicidal ideation via heightened affective reactivity to negative interpersonal events. Worse sleep quality than usual predicted next‐day suicidal ideation via reduced affective reactivity to positive interpersonal events.

Conclusions

Affectivity reactivity is a proximal mechanism through which sleep indices may influence risk for suicidal thinking on a daily basis. Findings highlight the utility of targeting sleep and emotion regulation in suicide prevention among adolescents and young adults at high‐risk for suicide.
PROTEIN S‐ACYL TRANSFERASE 13/16 modulate disease resistance by S‐acylation of the nucleotide binding, leucine‐rich repeat protein R5L1 in Arabidopsis
Authors: Gao Jin , Huang Gai , Chen Xin , Zhu Yu‐Xian
Published: July 2022

Nucleotide binding, leucine‐rich repeat (NB‐LRR) proteins are critical for disease resistance in plants, while we do not know whether S‐acylation of these proteins plays a role during bacterial infection. We identified 30 Arabidopsis mutants with mutations in NB‐LRR encoding genes from the Nottingham Arabidopsis Stock Center and characterized their contribution to the plant immune response after inoculation with Pseudomonas syringae pv tomato DC3000 (Pst DC3000). Of the five mutants that were hyper‐susceptible to the pathogen, three (R5L1, R5L2 and RPS5) proteins contain the conserved S‐acylation site in the N‐terminal coiled‐coil (CC) domain. In wild‐type (WT) Arabidopsis plants, R5L1 was transcriptionally activated upon pathogen infection, and R5L1 overexpression lines had enhanced resistance. Independent experiments indicated that R5L1 localized at the plasma membrane (PM) via S‐acylation of its N‐terminal CC domain, which was mediated by PROTEIN S‐ACYL TRANSFERASE 13/16 (PAT13, PAT16). Modification of the S‐acylation site reduced its affinity for binding the PM, with a consequent significant reduction in bacterial resistance. PM localization of R5L1 was significantly reduced in pat13 and pat16 mutants, similar to what was found for WT plants treated with 2‐bromopalmitate, an S‐acylation‐blocking agent. Transgenic plants expressing R5L1 in the pat13 pat16 double mutant showed no enhanced disease resistance. Overexpression of R5L1 in WT Arabidopsis resulted in substantial accumulation of reactive oxygen species after inoculation with Pst DC3000; this effect was not observed with a mutant R5L1 carrying a mutated S‐acylation site. Our data suggest that PAT13‐ and PAT16‐mediated S‐acylation of R5L1 is crucial for its membrane localization to activate the plant defense response.
Effect of facial application of essence containing royal jelly extract on stratum corneum moisture content: A placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, parallel‐group study
Authors: Maeda Yuka , Fujikura Chizuru , Asama Takashi , Yagi Masayuki , Okumura Nobuaki , Yamaki Ayanori , Ohkuma Akio , Numano Kayoko
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the moisturizing function and other effects of royal jelly extract on the skin. The effects of applying an essence containing royal jelly extract on the skin of healthy Japanese males and females were examined.

Methods

Thirty‐five healthy Japanese men and women who were aware of their skin dryness applied an essence containing royal jelly extract or placebo for 4 weeks using the split‐face method in a placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, parallel comparative study. The stratum corneum water content, transepidermal water evaporation, pigmentation, pores, and redness were evaluated.

Results

The stratum corneum water content significantly increased by the application of essence containing royal jelly extract to the cheeks for 4 weeks compared with placebo.

Conclusion

The application of an essence containing royal jelly extract significantly improved the moisture content of the stratum corneum of the cheeks, confirming the improvement in the moisturizing function of the royal jelly extract. Furthermore, no adverse events were observed at the application site during the application period, and the test products and royal jelly extract contained in the test product were considered highly safe.
Non‐invasive system delivering microwaves energy for unwanted fat reduction and submental skin tightening: Clinical evidence
Authors: Salsi Benedetta , Fusco Irene
Published: July 2022

Background

Cervicomental contour represents an important aesthetic problem.

Aims

This research evaluates the safety and the efficacy of a new non‐invasive system delivering microwave energy for the treatment of submental skin laxity and fat.

Methods

Forty‐eight subjects underwent submental treatment with the device at hand at Poliambulatorio San Michele, Reggio Emilia, Italy. The treatment was performed on the submental area starting from 1.5 cm below the lower border of the mandible up to the hyoid bone. Treatment consisted of 6 sessions of 10 min, with a 2‐week interval between each session. At the baseline and upon follow‐up 12 weeks from the last treatment, the following evaluations were performed: Photographic evaluation, Clinician‐Reported Submental Fat Rating Scale (CR‐SMFRS), Submental Skin Laxity Grade (SMSLG), Five‐Point Likert Scale Questionnaire (LSQ) for Skin Laxity, Patient‐Reported Submental Fat Rating Scale (PR‐SMFRS) and Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for pain evaluation.

Results

Mean submental fat and laxity scores evaluation significantly decrease respectively from 3.4 ± 0.5 and 3.7 ± 0.5 at baseline to 1.7 ± 0.6 and 2.4 ± 0.6 (p < 0.01) at 12‐week follow‐up after the last treatment. The treatment was well‐tolerated according to the NRS results. Out of the 47 participants (70.2%), 33 were very satisfied or satisfied. Most patients denied experiencing any discomfort during and after the treatment with the non‐invasive device delivering microwaves. The submental subcutaneous fat reduction, the improvement of submental skin tightening, and aesthetic results are confirmed also by photographic evaluation. No side effects were observed.

Conclusions

Our results showed the potential microwaves role in the treatment of localized submental subcutaneous adiposities and skin laxity.
Tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2: A potential diagnostic marker for discriminating benign from malignant ovarian tumors
Authors: Kobayashi Hiroshi , Yamada Yuki , Kawaguchi Ryuji , Ootake Norihisa , Myoba Shohei , Kimura Fuminori
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125), CA19‐9, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), human epididymis protein 4 (HE4), and the Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm (ROMA) are widely used as tumor markers and algorithms for the diagnosis of ovarian cancer (OC). Tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 (TFPI2) has been developed as a potential serodiagnostic marker for OC in Japan. The aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the six markers alone and in combination to find the best marker for discriminating between benign and malignant ovarian tumors.

Methods

Frozen serum samples collected from 484 patients were divided into three groups based on histopathological results: OC (n = 119), borderline ovarian tumors (BR) (n = 48), and benign ovarian tumors (BN) (n = 317). Diagnostic accuracy was calculated with an area under a receiver operating characteristic (AUC) curve.

Results

TFPI2 achieved the highest discrimination between the OC + BR group versus the BN group (AUC 0.8076). ROMA values best discriminated patients with OC from those with BN (AUC, 0.8966), which was equivalent to TFPI2 (AUC, 0.8937). For discriminating the OC group from the BR + BN group, the highest AUC value was achieved by ROMA values (AUC, 0.8884), and TFPI2 also showed comparable diagnostic accuracy (AUC, 0.8845). Combining TFPI2 with ROMA had the highest AUC (0.8420–0.9357).

Conclusion

TFPI2 may be a clinically useful single marker comparable to conventional ROMA values for discriminating between benign and malignant ovarian tumors.
Buddhist Entrepreneurs, Managerial Attention Allocation, and New Ventures' Access to External Resources
Authors: Xu Zuhui , Tang Yi , Liu Zhiyang
Published: July 2022

New ventures are often short of resources crucial to their survival and development. This research sheds new light on how new ventures can obtain better access to external resources by analysing a survey of a large sample of Chinese private entrepreneurs. We found that by comparison with their non‐Buddhist counterparts, Chinese Buddhist entrepreneurs tend to give greater attention to external activities and have a higher chance of gaining sociopolitical legitimacy and therefore have a better chance of accessing external resources such as bank loans. Moreover, the indirect effect on bank loans of the amount of attention allocated to external activities by Chinese Buddhist entrepreneurs is weakened by lower government intervention and better development of intermediary agencies in regions where new ventures are located, largely due to Chinese Buddhist entrepreneurs' reduced reliance on sociopolitical legitimacy to access external resources.
Circ_0058063 contributes to oral squamous cell carcinoma development by sponging miR‐145‐5p and upregulating SERPINE1
Authors: Yu Jie , Lou Ying , Hou Ming , Ma Xin , Wang Lu
Published: July 2022

Background

We aimed to demonstrate the effects circ_0058063 exerted on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and its downstream mechanism associated with miR‐145‐5p and SERPINE1.

Methods

The relevant contents of miR‐145‐5p, circ 0058063, and SERPINE1 mRNAs in OSCC were evaluated using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Functional experiments including CCK‐8, Transwell, Western blot, and in vivo experiment were implemented to investigate the biological impacts on OSCC cells. Using dual‐luciferase reporter, RIP, and RNA pull‐down assays, the direct binding relationship between miR‐145‐5p, circ 0058063, and SERPINE1, SMAD3, CYR61, and IGF1R mRNAs was verified.

Results

In OSCC, Circ 0058063 was significantly overexpressed. Knockdown of circ_0058063 suppressed OSCC cell migration and proliferation, but enhanced cell apoptosis. Functionally and mechanistically, circ_0058063 could specifically bind with miR‐145‐5p and thus upregulated expression of downstream target SERPINE1, which together contributed to the progression of OSCC.

Conclusion

Circ_0058063 could promote the malignant behavior of OSCC by upregulating SERPINE1 through sponging miR‐145‐5p.
Donor and recipient safety in human milk banking
Authors: Clifford Vanessa , Klein Laura D , Brown Richard , Sulfaro Christine , Hoad Veronica , Gosbell Iain B , Pink Joanne
Published: July 2022

Aim

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood supplies pasteurised donor human milk (PDHM) to more than 30 partner hospitals across Australia. Preterm infants who receive PDHM are a highly vulnerable population but formal biovigilance programs are rare in human milk banking. Lifeblood Milk performs ongoing surveillance for both donor and recipient adverse events. This study aimed to formally review adverse events reported to Lifeblood Milk since 2018.

Methods

Milk donor infectious diseases testing outcomes and donor adverse events (DAEs) are prospectively recorded at Lifeblood. Infant recipient adverse events are contractually reported back to Lifeblood Milk by hospitals and assessed according to severity and likelihood of relationship to PDHM administration. Donor and recipient adverse events over a 3.5‐year period (July 2018 to December 2021) were reviewed.

Results

There were three DAEs (3/976 = 0.31%) related to phlebotomy; these included two vasovagal reactions and one phlebotomy site haematoma. Eight (8/976 = 0.81%) additional donors had biological false reactive (BFR) infectious diseases serology results. There were 10 reported suspected adverse events in recipients. Six were infection‐related; other events included milk curd obstruction, high urinary iodine levels, sudden cardiac death and nasogastric tube obstruction. All reported suspected adverse events in recipients were classified as unlikely to be related, or definitely not related, to PDHM administration.

Conclusions

Milk donor adverse events were rare but biological false reactive serology results were not uncommon. There were no recipient adverse events considered causally related to pasteurised donor human milk, which is generally a low‐risk biological product. Ongoing biovigilance remains essential.
Rectal measurements and their correlation with bowel habits: Evaluation by trans‐abdominal ultrasound in children with functional constipation
Authors: Shapouri Samaneh , Matani Rahman , Salahshoor Ali , Qorbani Mostafa , Hosseini Amirhossein , Norouzi Mahsa , Khavandegar Armin
Published: July 2022

Aim

Constipation is one of the most common complaints in childhood affecting the quality of life of both children and parents. This study intends to investigate rectal measurements on ultrasound and their relationship with bowel habits.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 100 children with functional constipation (FC) referred to a single hospital between 2018 and 2019 were enrolled. After obtaining informed consent, a questionnaire including demographic and constipation characteristics was completed, and a physical examination including digital rectal examination (DRE) was performed. Complete abdominopelvic ultrasound was then performed. Target measurements included rectal transverse diameter (RTD), rectal anterior wall thickness (RAWT) and the presence of faecal impaction.

Results

One hundred children with a mean age of 7.68 ± 3.30 years were present in the study. The mean duration of constipation was 15.86 ± 13.34 months. In 14% of children, painful defaecation was reported. 88% of children had some degree of faecal incontinence. According to the ultrasound findings, the mean RTD and RAWT were 3.39 ± 0.73 cm and 2.77 ± 0.68 mm, respectively, and faecal impaction was present in 70% of cases. There was a positive correlation between RTD and RAWT with age, duration of constipation and the presence of hard stools, and there was a negative correlation with frequency of defecation (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

RTD and RAWT increased with increasing constipation duration and the presence of hard stools and decreased with increasing frequency of defaecation. DRE could be omitted from the initial clinical assessment if you had access to reliable ultrasound data.
Synergistic effects of probiotic Bifidobacterium isolated from chicken's intestine in combination with polyvinylpyrrolidone on reduction of aflatoxin B1
Authors: Aalipanah S. , Fazeli M.R. , Akhavan Sepahi A. , Shariatmadari F.
Published: July 2022

Food contamination with aflatoxin is one of the most critical concerns of health professionals. One of the best ways to reduce aflatoxin content in food is probiotics. Therefore, this study was performed to isolate Bifidobacterium from the chick's intestine; evaluate its probiotic activities and its application with Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to reduce aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in the medium were investigated. Samples were isolated from the chick's intestine, and Bifidobacterium was isolated and identified by biochemical and molecular methods. Next, the potential probiotic characterization was assessed. Afterwards, the effect of selected isolate and PVP on reducing AFB1 in the medium was studied using ELISA and HPLC. Biochemical and molecular evaluations indicated isolation of Bifidobacterium bifidum strain from chick's intestine. One of the B. bifidum strains was selected for the next steps, which showed potential probiotic characterization and the ability to reduce the concentration of AFB1 in the medium (50% reduction). When used in combination with PVP showed synergistic effects in reducing the concentration of AFB1 from the medium (up to 90%). In the conclusion, it was found that selected B. bifidum strains and PVP could have synergistic effects in reducing AFB1 toxin in a medium up to 90%.
Currency returns and systematic risk
Authors: Gonçalves Fernanda , Ferreira Giuliano , Ferreira Alex , Scatimburgo Pedro
Published: July 2022

We investigate the relationship between currency excess returns and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in a Consumption Capital Asset Pricing Model. GDPs are observable systematic risk factors in our asset pricing equations. The correlation between the unobservable systematic factors is explored by Seemingly Unrelated Regressions estimations. The sample comprises the period from 1999:M01 to 2019:M12 and 48 countries. Results show that GDP growth risk is significant for most currency pairs and portfolios. We also find that they are priced in the cross‐section of excess returns. Furthermore, currency returns are directly affected by regional business cycles (Europe, America, and Asia).
Genetic variability and the ecology of geographic range: A test of the central‐marginal hypothesis in Australian scincid lizards
Authors: Singhal Sonal , Wrath John , Rabosky Daniel L.
Published: July 2022

For many species, both local abundance and regional occupancy are highest near the centre of their geographic distributions. One hypothesis for this pattern is that niche suitability declines with increasing distance from a species geographic centre, such that populations near range margins are characterized by reduced density and increased patchiness. In these smaller edge populations, genetic drift is more powerful, leading to the loss of genetic diversity. This simple verbal model has been formalized as the central‐marginal hypothesis, which predicts that core populations should have greater genetic diversity than edge populations. Here, we tested the central‐marginal hypothesis using a genomic data set of 25 species‐level taxa of Australian scincid lizards in the generaCtenotusandLerista. A majority of taxa in our data set showed range‐wide patterns of genetic variation consistent with central‐marginal hypothesis, and eight of 25 taxa showed significantly greater genetic diversity in the centre of their range. We then explored biological, historical, and methodological factors that might predict which taxa support the central‐marginal hypothesis. We found that taxa with the strongest evidence for range expansion were the least likely to follow predictions of the central‐marginal hypothesis. The majority of these taxa had range expansions that originated at the range edge, which led to a gradient of decreasing genetic diversity from the range edge to the core, contrary to the central‐marginal hypothesis.
WWOM VII: Effectiveness of topical interventions in the management of burning mouth syndrome: A systematic review
Authors: Goncalves Sandra , Carey Barbara , Farag Arwa M. , Kuten‐Shorrer Michal , Natto Zuhair S. , Ariyawardana Anura , Mejia Lina M. , Chmieliauskaite Milda , Miller Craig S. , Ingram Mark , Nasri‐Heir Cibele , Sardella Andrea , Carlson Charles R. , Klasser Gary D. , O'Neill Francis , Albuquerque Rui
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To assess the effectiveness of topical interventions in the management of burning mouth syndrome (BMS), based on the core outcome domains recommended by the Initiative on Methods, Measurement, and Pain Assessment in Clinical Trials (IMMPACT).

Methods

A systematic literature review of RCTs on topical interventions for the management of BMS, published in PubMed, Web of Science, PsycInfo, Cochrane Database/Central, and Google Scholar through May 2021 was performed.

Results

Eight RCTs (n = 358 study participants) were included in this study. Due to underreporting of IMMPACT domains, publication bias, high degree of heterogeneity between studies, meta‐analysis was not undertaken. Based on changes in visual analogue pain scores (ΔVAS), the most reported outcome, the effectiveness of the topical interventions was demonstrated; however, it is low level of evidence.

Conclusions

High levels of variability (interventions, outcomes, outcome measurement tools, and intervention effects evaluated), heterogeneity, publication bias, and underreporting of IMMPACT domains were observed across the RCTs. This systematic review highlights the need for application of standardized outcome measures to future RCTs. At the present time, there is lack of moderate‐strong evidence on short‐ and long‐term outcomes to support or refute the use of any particular topical intervention in managing BMS. Future RCTs with standardized outcome measures are needed.
Fanconi anemia and haploidentical stem cell transplantation
Authors: Medina‐Valencia Diego , Aristizabal Ana Maria , Beltran Estefania , Franco Alexis A.
Published: July 2022

Background

Fanconi anemia is a congenital disorder belonging to bone marrow syndromes, with a risk of developing malignancy. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is the only curative treatment in these cases. Here, we aimed to report our clinical experience in pediatric patients with Fanconi anemia treated with haploidentical stem cell transplantation and post‐transplant cyclophosphamide, an alternative strategy.

Methods

We performed a case report based on clinical records of two patients who signed the informed consent form and were treated at Fundación Valle del Lili.

Result

Two pediatric patients, both with reduced‐intensity conditioning, prophylaxis for acute graft‐versus‐host disease with post‐transplant cyclophosphamide. They achieved primary neutrophil/platelets engraftment, and 100% chimerism. Had grade I or II graft‐versus‐host disease resolved? Currently are alive and in complete remission.

Conclusions

The use of mismatched related donors for haploidentical stem cell transplantation and post‐transplant cyclophosphamide might be a promising option, and well‐tolerated in pediatric patients. Serial chimerism can be useful during follow‐up.
Clinical indicators of slow graft function and outcome after pediatric kidney transplantation
Authors: Bajaj Sargun , Gershony Sharon , Afshar Kourosh , Blydt‐Hansen Tom David
Published: July 2022

Background

Lesser degrees of perioperative ischemia–reperfusion injury that does not require dialysis may nonetheless influence allograft outcomes, necessitating evaluation of suitable surrogate indicators of perioperative allograft injury.

Methods

This retrospective analysis of pediatric kidney transplants evaluated two indicators representing pace and completeness of recovery, for association with 12‐month estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and first‐year rate of eGFR decline: time to creatinine nadir (TTN) and ratio of recipient/donor unadjusted GFR (uGFRR/D) at 1‐month post‐transplant. Donor, recipient, and perioperative risk factors were tested further for association with these 2 indicators.

Results

179 patients (190 transplants) aged 13 (IQR 7–17) years and 56% male were included. Twelve‐month eGFR was strongly associated with unadjusted GFR at 1 month (uGFR1M, p < .001) and uGFRR/D (p = .003), but not with TTN. None of the indicators was associated with the rate of subsequent eGFR decline after 1‐month post‐transplant. As a potential surrogate indicator, uGFR1M is effectively modeled by TTN and uGFRR/D (adjusted R2 = 0.57) and is associated with 12‐month eGFR (β = 0.81 ± 0.08; p < .001). Clinical factors associated with uGFRR/D included donor uGFR (p < .001), BSA (p = .026), age (p = .074), and recipient BSA (p < .001). Factors associated with pace of recovery (TTN) included donor uGFR (p = .018), type (p = .019), and recipient BSA (p = .022).

Conclusions

The uGFRR/D ratio, but not TTN, is a useful indicator of perioperative allograft damage that is associated with one‐year functional outcome; and uGFR1M is a potential early surrogate outcome. Donor, recipient, and perioperative factors that are associated with slow allograft function are identified.
Bayesian dithering for learning: Asymptotically optimal policies in dynamic pricing
Authors: Huh Woonghee Tim , Kim Michael Jong , Lin Meichun
Published: July 2022

We consider a dynamic pricing and learning problem where a seller prices multiple products and learns from sales data about unknown demand. We study the parametric demand model in a Bayesian setting. To avoid the classical problem of incomplete learning, we propose dithering policies under which prices are probabilistically selected in a neighborhood surrounding the myopic optimal price. By analyzing the effect of dithering in facilitating learning, we establish regret upper bounds for three typical settings of demand model. We show that the dithering policy achieves an upper bound of order [Formula: see text] when the parameter set is finite. It can be modified to achieve a constant regret bound under an additional assumption. We also prove an upper bound of order [Formula: see text] when the parameter set is compact and convex. Each bound matches (up to a logarithmic factor) the existing lower bound of any pricing policy. In this way, we show that dithering policies achieve asymptotically optimal performance in three different parameter settings, which demonstrates dithering as a unified approach to strike the balance between exploration and exploitation.
Systematic construction of non‐autonomous Hamiltonian equations of Painlevé‐type. III. Quantization
Authors: Błaszak Maciej , Marciniak Krzysztof
Published: July 2022

This is the third article in our series of articles exploring connections between dynamical systems of Stäckel‐type and of Painlevé‐type. In this article, we present a method of deforming of minimally quantized quasi‐Stäckel Hamiltonians, considered in Part I to self‐adjoint operators satisfying the quantum Frobenius condition, thus guaranteeing that the corresponding Schrödinger equations possess common, multitime solutions. As in the classical case, we obtain here both magnetic and nonmagnetic families of systems. We also show the existence of multitime‐dependent quantum canonical maps between both classes of quantum systems.
Dialogue is a prerequisite for the nurse–patient relationship in nutritional care: A secondary analysis using the fundamentals of care framework
Authors: Søe Jensen Pia , Nørholm Vibeke , Poulsen Ingrid , Vendel Petersen Helle
Published: July 2022

Background

Providing good nutritional care is complex as it goes beyond assessing and ensuring the patients' dietary needs. So far, nutritional research has mainly focused on establishing evidence for the nutritional treatment, while less attention has been on the complexity of providing nutritional care. The Fundamentals of Care (FoC) describes five elements (focus, knowledge, anticipate, evaluate and trust) essential for establishing a nurse–patient relationship as a foundation for quality care. By studying how these elements shape nutritional care and dialogue, we can explore and describe the complexity of nutritional care.

Aim

By using the FoC framework as an analytic framework, this study explores how the nurse–patient relationship shapes the nutritional care of orthopaedic patients.

Method

This study is a secondary analysis using deductive content analysis of interviews with patients undergoing major orthopaedic surgery, nursing staff and observations of interactions between nursing staff and patients. The core dimension of the FoC framework, ‘Establishment of relationship,’ was used as an analytic framework.

Result

The nurses perceived serving meals and providing nutritional supplements as an essential part of the nutritional care. Still, the nutritional care was organised as a routine task to be less time‐consuming. Appropriate care was initiated when the nursing staff explored patients´ food preferences. When the nursing staff failed to familiarise themselves with the patient's preferences, the patients interpreted nutritional care as unrelated to their needs, resulting in a lack of trust.

Conclusion

The need for efficiency within nutritional care must not compromise the patients' need for dialogue with the nurse. Establishing a trusting relationship between nurses and patients prevents nutritional care from becoming a routine task unrelated to the patients' needs.
Effect of different hemodialysis modalities on hepcidin clearance in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis
Authors: Sun Ling , Hua Rui‐Xue , Wu Yu , Zou Lu‐Xi
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Hepcidin is a master regulator of iron utilization and takes part in the pathophysiology of anemia in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Hepcidin is a moderate‐molecular‐weight substance and partially binds to plasma proteins in the circulation, which theoretically might be removed efficiently by hemoperfusion (HP). This study aimed to compare the effect of different dialysis modalities on hepcidin removal and discuss its effect on the iron and anemia status in MHD patients.

Materials and Methods

In a longitudinal interventional study of 26 stable MHD patients, the serum hepcidin, β2‐microglobulin (β2‐MG), and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) were measured before and after one treatment session of hemodialysis (HD), hemodiafiltration (HDF), HD + HP, and HDF + HP, separately. One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to identify the effect of dialysis modalities on the intra‐dialysis clearance ratios.

Results

The combined dialysis modalities (HD + HP and HDF + HP) achieved greater clearance ratios of serum hepcidin than HD and HDF alone, HD + HP vs. HD (16 ± 15% vs. 4 ± 13%, p < 0.001), HDF + HP vs. HDF (18 ± 5% vs. 10 ± 13%, p = 0.0036). Similarly, the combined dialysis modalities also performed better than HD and HDF alone in removing β2‐MG. There was no significant difference in iPTH clearance among these four modalities, except that HDF + HP achieved a greater clearance ratio than HD. Furthermore, the anemia was improved after the 6‐month treatment with regular HD/HDF plus HP, which was indicated by increasing hemoglobin (p = 0.0004) and reduction of erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents (ESAs) resistance index (ERI) (p = 0.0431).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the combined dialysis modalities of HD/HDF plus HP could achieve better clearance ratios of hepcidin than HD/HDF alone, thereby, might improve iron utilization, and benefit anemia management in MHD patients. Further studies with larger sample‐size patients and longer follow‐up duration are still needed.