bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laminar evoked responses in mouse somatosensory cortex suggest a special role for deep layers in cortical complexity
Authors: Hönigsperger Christoph , Storm Johan F. , Arena Alessandro
Published: August 2023

It has been suggested that consciousness is closely related to the complexity of the brain. The perturbational complexity index (PCI) has been used in humans and rodents to distinguish conscious from unconscious states based on the global cortical responses (recorded by electroencephalography, EEG) to local cortical stimulation (CS). However, it is unclear how different cortical layers respond to CS and contribute to the resulting intra‐ and inter‐areal cortical connectivity and PCI. A detailed investigation of the local dynamics is needed to understand the basis for PCI. We hypothesized that the complexity level of global cortical responses (PCI) correlates with layer‐specific activity and connectivity. We tested this idea by measuring global cortical dynamics and layer‐specific activity in the somatosensory cortex (S1) of mice, combining cortical electrical stimulation in deep motor cortex, global electrocorticography (ECoG) and local laminar recordings from layers 1–6 in S1, during wakefulness and general anaesthesia (sevoflurane). We found that the transition from wake to sevoflurane anaesthesia correlated with a drop in both the global and local PCI (PCIst) values (complexity). This was accompanied by a local decrease in neural firing rate, spike‐field coherence and long‐range functional connectivity specific to deep layers (L5, L6). Our results suggest that deep cortical layers are mechanistically important for changes in PCI and thereby for changes in the state of consciousness.
Five fundamental ways in which complex food webs may spiral out of control
Authors: Lever J. Jelle , Van Nes Egbert H. , Scheffer Marten , Bascompte Jordi
Published: August 2023

Theory suggests that increasingly long, negative feedback loops of many interacting species may destabilize food webs as complexity increases. Less attention has, however, been paid to the specific ways in which these ‘delayed negative feedbacks’ may affect the response of complex ecosystems to global environmental change. Here, we describe five fundamental ways in which these feedbacks might pave the way for abrupt, large‐scale transitions and species losses. By combining topological and bioenergetic models, we then proceed by showing that the likelihood of such transitions increases with the number of interacting species and/or when the combined effects of stabilizing network patterns approach the minimum required for stable coexistence. Our findings thus shift the question from the classical question of what makes complex, unaltered ecosystems stable to whether the effects of, known and unknown, stabilizing food‐web patterns are sufficient to prevent abrupt, large‐scale transitions under global environmental change.
Functional traits explain waterbirds' host status, subtype richness, and community‐level infection risk for avian influenza
Authors: Yin Shenglai , Li Ning , Xu Wenjie , Becker Daniel J. , de Boer Willem F. , Xu Chi , Mundkur Taej , Fountain‐Jones Nicholas M. , Li Chunlin , Han Guan‐zhu , Wu Qiang , Prosser Diann J. , Cui Lijuan , Huang Zheng Y. X.
Published: August 2023

Species functional traits can influence pathogen transmission processes, and consequently affect species' host status, pathogen diversity, and community‐level infection risk. We here investigated, for 143 European waterbird species, effects of functional traits on host status and pathogen diversity (subtype richness) for avian influenza virus at species level. We then explored the association between functional diversity and HPAI H5Nx occurrence at the community level for 2016/17 and 2021/22 epidemics in Europe. We found that both host status and subtype richness were shaped by several traits, such as diet guild and dispersal ability, and that the community‐weighted means of these traits were also correlated with community‐level risk of H5Nx occurrence. Moreover, functional divergence was negatively associated with H5Nx occurrence, indicating that functional diversity can reduce infection risk. Our findings highlight the value of integrating trait‐based ecology into the framework of diversity–disease relationship, and provide new insights for HPAI prediction and prevention.
Survival of formalin intoxication in a 13‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding
Authors: Lovett Amy , Vokes Jessica , Loghides Natasha , Johnstone Laura , Sykes Benjamin
Published: August 2023

Background

Formalin intoxication via the gastrointestinal route has not been previously reported in the horse. Whereas ingestion of formalin in humans, although rare, is well documented. Majority of human cases are either accidental, suicidal or homicidal and often lead to fatality, with a reported lethal formaldehyde dose equating to 0.12 – 0.16 g/kg bwt.

Objectives

To describe a single case report of the clinical management of an adult horse referred to a veterinary teaching hospital following accidental administration of 10% formalin via nasogastric tube.

Methods

A 13‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding originally presented to the referring veterinarian for colic where 1.8 L of 10% formalin was accidentally administered instead of mineral oil via nasogastric intubation, a potentially lethal dose of formaldehyde (0.12 g/kg bwt). Approximately 20‐hours following 10% formalin administration the horse was admitted to the referral hospital with moderate tachycardia, occasional ectopic beats, tacky and hyperaemic mucous membranes, delayed capillary refill time, reduced borborygmi, and pronounced digital pulses. Diagnostic investigations included laboratory blood analysis, urinalysis, electrocardiogram, abdominal ultrasound, palpation per rectum and gastroscopy.

Results

Patient assessment found evidence of toxicity to the gastrointestinal tract, hypovolaemia and risk for laminitis. Intensive care included fluid and electrolyte therapy, anti‐inflammatories and analgesia, continuous digital cryotherapy, gastro‐protectants and other methods of gastrointestinal support. The horse was discharged from hospital on day 14 with no long‐term complications and the client‐veterinarian relationship was preserved.

Discussion

In human cases of ingestion, gastrointestinal injury is typically accompanied by severe metabolic acidosis and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome due to toxicity of other body systems that can contribute to non‐survival. Formaldehyde toxicity in the present case predominantly affected the gastrointestinal tract, most likely a direct result of the route of administration. Aside from gastrointestinal injury, primary toxicity of other body systems was not confirmed. To prevent this medical error recurring, the referring veterinary clinic revised their labelling and storage of 10% formalin.

Conclusion

This is the first report of systemic formalin intoxication in the horse. Following a high dose of 10% formalin (0.12 g/kg bwt formaldehyde) enterally, the horse survived having received intensive supportive care based on human guidelines for ingested formalin.
Antibiotic usage in 14 equine practices over a 10‐year period (2012–2021)
Authors: Tallon Rose E. , Whitt Brian , Bladon Bruce M.
Published: August 2023

Background

Monitoring antibiotic usage is an important part of tackling antimicrobial resistance. The use of computerised records for monitoring has been previously described in the equine sector but there is currently no consensus on metrics used to report usage.

Objectives

To document antibiotic use in equine practices in the United Kingdom over a 10‐year period using commercially available practice management software.

Study design

Retrospective survey.

Methods

A custom antibiotic usage report was created using Eclipse® practice management software. Participating practices were given instructions on how to generate the usage report. Annual reports were requested for a 10‐year period (2012–2021 inclusive). Each report provided sales of each class of antibiotic in total mg and in mg/kg, based on the number of equids treated (for any transaction) and their average weight. The defined daily dose for animals (DDDvet) and the DDD/1000 (used in people) were also calculated to correct for variation in dosage rates between antibiotics.

Results

Fourteen practices submitted data for an annual maximum of 107 977 horses. Overall, median annual antibiotic usage was 54.25 mg/kg (range 45.34–60.27 mg/kg), 1.52 defined daily doses/animal/year (range 1.39–1.70) and 4.17 defined daily dose/1000 animals (range 3.82–4.66). Overall median highest priority critically important antimicrobial usage was 0.67 mg/kg (range 0.56–1.71), 0.12 defined daily doses/animal/year (range 0.10–0.14) and 0.33 defined daily dose/1000 animals (range 0.29–0.39).

Main limitations

The software relied on the accurate identification of antibiotic preparations. The calculation of DDDvet was complicated by the varying dose rates of antimicrobials used in equine practice.

Conclusions

A reliable technique to measure antibiotic usage is presented. Defined daily dosage calculations may be more helpful in equine practice due to the preponderance of potentiated sulphonamides usage. These data and methods may provide the basis for future clinical audits aiming to enhance antimicrobial stewardship.
Preliminary evidence that Merkel cells exert chemosensory functions in human epidermis
Authors: Piccini Ilaria , Chéret Jeremy , Tsutsumi Moe , Sakaguchi Saito , Ponce Leslie , Almeida Luis , Funk Wolfgang , Kückelhaus Maximilian , Kajiya Kentaro , Paus Ralf , Bertolini Marta
Published: August 2023

The mechanotransduction of light‐touch sensory stimuli is considered to be the main physiological function of epidermal Merkel cells (MCs). Recently, however, MCs have been demonstrated to be also thermo‐sensitive, suggesting that their role in skin physiologically extends well beyond mechanosensation. Here, we demonstrate that in healthy human skin epidermal MCs express functional olfactory receptors, namely OR2AT4, just like neighbouring keratinocytes. Selective stimulation of OR2AT4 by topical application of the synthetic odorant, Sandalore®, significantly increased Piccolo protein expression in MCs, as assessed by quantitative immunohistomorphometry, indicating increased vesicle trafficking and recycling, and significantly reduced nerve growth factor (NGF) immunoreactivity within MCs, possibly indicating increased neurotrophin release upon OR2AT4 activation. Live‐cell imaging showed that Sandalore® rapidly induces a loss of FFN206‐dependent fluorescence in MCs, suggesting OR2AT4‐dependent MC depolarization and subsequent vesicle secretion. Yet, in contrast to keratinocytes, OR2AT4 stimulation by Sandalore® altered neither the number nor the proliferation status of MCs. These preliminary ex vivo findings demonstrate that epidermal MCs also exert OR‐dependent chemosensory functions in human skin, and invite one to explore whether these newly identified properties are dysregulated in selected skin disorders, for example, in pruritic dermatoses, and if these novel MC functions can be therapeutically targeted to maintain/promote skin health.
CXRNet: CNN‐attention based CXR image classifier
Authors: Agarwal Saurabh , Arya K. V.
Published: August 2023

Chest X‐ray (CXR) images are widely accepted for the diagnosis of lung diseases. The X‐ray machinery is widely available but the number of radiologists who interpret these images is very limited. Therefore, the development of an automated disease classification system is a need for the healthcare industry. The existing testing methods take hours to days to generate the testing result and have low detection accuracy and high false detection rate. Furthermore, the testing kits are costly, and availability is limited. Therefore, Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) based framework is proposed to address these limitations. Four pre‐trained frameworks, ResNet50V2, InceptionV3, NASNetMobile, and Xception are used to generate highly dense features, refine the features using the attention module, and then fused these features to classify the diseases using CXR images. In addition, extensive experiments were carried out on the activation functions (Relu, Leaky Relu, and Tanh), which help to improve the results. Evaluation is done on the three enriched CXR datasets DS‐1, DS‐2, and DS‐3 to examine the performance of the proposed framework in terms of binary classification and multi‐class classification. The proposed model achieved a class‐5 accuracy of 92.89% on dataset DS‐3 and the class‐3 classification accuracy of 95.22%, 92.25% on dataset DS‐1 and DS‐2, respectively. The class‐2 classification accuracy on dataset DS‐1 and DS‐2 is 99.23% and 98.85%, respectively.
Quantifying the impacts of suburbanization without growth on central city housing vacancy
Authors: Ganning Joanna
Published: August 2023

Scholars have written descriptively about the relationship between suburbanization and central city decline. However, research has not produced systematic, quantitative estimates of the relationships between the components of suburbanization and vacancy—generally or amid urban decline. Such estimates are required to design effective policies that could protect against the social inequalities associated with such development patterns. This paper applies an economic framework of suburbanization and vacancy to 99 urbanized areas in the United States to estimate the impact on central city residential vacancy from 2013 to 2019. The results support the central hypothesis, that regional over‐building contributes to central city vacancy, and that this impact is significantly magnified by the context of decline. Results show regional over‐building causes central city vacancy in Shrinking Cities at 9.6 times the effect observed in other Principal Cities. Ameliorating factors vary between Shrinking and Non‐Shrinking contexts.
Patients' requests for radiological imaging: A qualitative study on general practitioners' perspectives
Authors: De Silva Lizzie , Baysari Melissa , Keep Melanie , Kench Peter , Clarke Jillian
Published: August 2023

Background

With the increasing availability of information, patients are becoming more informed about radiology procedures and requesting imaging studies. This qualitative study aims to explore factors that influence general practitioners' (GPs) decisions to fulfil patient requests for imaging studies during clinical consultation.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 10 GPs working across five private medical centres in Northwest Sydney. Conventional content analysis was used with emergent themes to identify GPs perspectives.

Results

Six themes stood out from the interviews with GPs fulfilling patient requests for imaging studies. They included four pertaining to patient factors: patient expectations, ‘therapeutic scans’, ‘impressive labels’ and entitled. Two further themes pertained to the GP perspective and included defensive medicine, and ‘new patients’. Requests are fulfilled from anxious or health‐obsessed patients, with GPs worrying about litigation if they refuse. However, GPs decline requests from patients with entitlement attitudes or during first visits.

Discussion

The findings suggest that GPs struggle to balance their responsibilities as gatekeepers of imaging with patients' expectations of request fulfilment. Clear guidelines on the appropriate use of diagnostic imaging and its limitations could help patients understand its proper use and ease anxiety. Additionally, education and training for GPs could help them manage patient expectations and provide appropriate care.

Patient Contributions

Patients, service users, caregivers, people with lived experiences or members of the public were not directly involved in the design, conduct, analysis or interpretation of the study. However, our study was conducted in primary care facilities where the GPs were interviewed about patients' requests for diagnostic imaging based on their own initiatives. GPs' perspectives in managing patient expectations and healthcare utilisation were explored within the Australian Medicare system, where medical imaging and image‐guided procedures come at little to no cost to the individual. The study findings contribute to a better understanding of the challenges faced by GPs in dealing with patient consumerism and requests for diagnostic imaging, as well as factors influencing request fulfilment or denial. Insights gained from this study may inform future research about delivering patient‐centred care within a similar context.
Gene fusions in poroma, porocarcinoma and related adnexal skin tumours: An update
Authors: Kervarrec Thibault , Pissaloux Daniel , Tirode Franck , de la Fouchardière Arnaud , Sohier Pierre , Frouin Eric , Hamard Aymeric , Houben Roland , Schrama David , Barlier Anne , Cribier Bernard , Battistella Maxime , Macagno Nicolas
Published: August 2023

Poroma is a benign sweat gland tumour showing morphological features recapitulating the superficial portion of the eccrine sweat coil. A subset of poromas may transform into porocarcinoma, its malignant counterpart. Poroma and porocarcinoma are characterised by recurrent gene fusions involving YAP1, a transcriptional co‐activator, which is controlled by the Hippo signalling pathway. The fusion genes frequently involve MAML2 and NUTM1, which are also rearranged in other cutaneous and extracutaneous neoplasms. We aimed to review the clinical, morphological and molecular features of this category of adnexal neoplasms with a special focus upon emerging differential diagnoses, and discuss how their systematic molecular characterisation may contribute to a standardisation of diagnosis, more accurate classification and, ultimately, refinement of their prognosis and therapeutic modalities.
Soft body reconstruction of a reptile fossil by the nondestructive elemental mapping with a newly designed XRF
Authors: Wang Wei , Shu Ling , Wang Deqi
Published: August 2023

Vertebrate fossils usually consist only of mineralized skeletons and rarely preserve soft body parts. However, the buried soft body releases the degraded material into the surrounding sediments. The degraded material can be preserved as invisible signals of some chemicals or authigenic minerals, which can be revealed by the elemental distribution of the fossils' surface and their surrounding rock. As a method for surface elemental mapping, X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) measurement requires the samples to be ground and polished as a mirror‐like plane that keeps a stable distance of X‐ray source‐sample‐detector. This destructive pretreatment is undesirable for precious fossils. To rectify this problem, a nondestructive XRF for element mapping of the fossils' 3D surface is newly invented. The new equipment can follow the 3D shape model to keep the distance for every XRF scanned point. We performed the element mapping of Ca and Fe on the surface of a marine sauropterygian fossil (Keichousaurus hui) and its surrounding sediments, and found that the soft tissue around the thoracic cage is thicker than the abdomen. The abnormal elemental distribution on the area of the angular and surangular of the skull can be explained as unprofessionally prepared. In addition, this research found that elemental mapping revealed the invisible signals of the paleoenvironment around fossils and information for the reconstruction of soft‐tissue anatomy. We also give an example that based on the wide application of the “Internet of Things” and “Industrial Network,” the design and development of specialized equipment for paleontologists' requirements are going simple.
Responding to COVID‐19: The impact of corporate social responsibility on consumer behavior
Authors: Stadler Blank Ashley , Loveland Katherine E. , Cheng Andong , Beck Scott , Rundus Austin
Published: August 2023

Firms responded to the COVID‐19 pandemic by participating in an unprecedented level of corporate social responsibility (CSR). The authors build on the existing CSR and crisis response and disaster relief literatures by examining nine CSR types employed during the pandemic (donating in‐kind, donating money, creating content, free products, free services, communication of operational changes, employee support, financial support, and shifting production). Then, they test the impact of starting versus stopping each CSR type on consumer perceptions of authenticity, attitude, and purchase intentions in two experiments, replicated in 2020, 2021, and 2022. Consumers distinguish between CSR types and rate employee and financial support most favorably and creating content and communication of operational changes least favorably. Starting (vs. stopping or no) CSR increases authenticity and subsequent attitude and purchase intentions. Interestingly, stopping CSR is worse than no CSR in 2020, but no CSR is worse than stopping CSR in 2022. This indicates that consumers discredit firms for stopping CSR during the acute phase of the pandemic but discredit firms for not engaging in any CSR after the acute phase ends. Finally, consumers rate small (vs. large) firms more favorably for engaging in some CSR types. Taken together, these results help inform how firms should engage in CSR activities in response to crises and disasters.
The shifting motherhood penalty and fatherhood premium in China's gig economy: Impact of parental status on income changes
Authors: ZHENG Qi , QIU Zitong , YANG Weiguo
Published: August 2023

The fatherhood premium and motherhood penalty are key concepts in the study of gender income gaps. Using an ordinary least squares model, influencing mechanism analysis and Oaxaca‐Blinder decomposition, we examine changes in Chinese gig workers’ income by gender, before and after parenthood. The results indicate that, in the Chinese gig economy, the motherhood penalty is vanishing, while the fatherhood premium has evolved into a fatherhood penalty owing to work pressure and the gender segregation of occupations in the gig economy, requiring men to balance their time and energy between work and childcare in a way that is not as prevalent in other sectors.
Estimating SARS‐CoV‐2 infections and associated changes in COVID‐19 severity and fatality
Authors: Marziano Valentina , Guzzetta Giorgio , Menegale Francesco , Sacco Chiara , Petrone Daniele , Mateo Urdiales Alberto , Del Manso Martina , Bella Antonino , Fabiani Massimo , Vescio Maria Fenicia , Riccardo Flavia , Poletti Piero , Manica Mattia , Zardini Agnese , d'Andrea Valeria , Trentini Filippo , Stefanelli Paola , Rezza Giovanni , Palamara Anna Teresa , Brusaferro Silvio , Ajelli Marco , Pezzotti Patrizio , Merler Stefano
Published: August 2023

Background

The difficulty in identifying SARS‐CoV‐2 infections has not only been the major obstacle to control the COVID‐19 pandemic but also to quantify changes in the proportion of infections resulting in hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, or death.

Methods

We developed a model of SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission and vaccination informed by official estimates of the time‐varying reproduction number to estimate infections that occurred in Italy between February 2020 and 2022. Model outcomes were compared with the Italian National surveillance data to estimate changes in the SARS‐CoV‐2 infection ascertainment ratio (IAR), infection hospitalization ratio (IHR), infection ICU ratio (IIR), and infection fatality ratio (IFR) in five different sub‐periods associated with the dominance of the ancestral lineages and Alpha, Delta, and Omicron BA.1 variants.

Results

We estimate that, over the first 2 years of pandemic, the IAR ranged between 15% and 40% (range of 95%CI: 11%–61%), with a peak value in the second half of 2020. The IHR, IIR, and IFR consistently decreased throughout the pandemic with 22–44‐fold reductions between the initial phase and the Omicron period. At the end of the study period, we estimate an IHR of 0.24% (95%CI: 0.17–0.36), IIR of 0.015% (95%CI: 0.011–0.023), and IFR of 0.05% (95%CI: 0.04–0.08).

Conclusions

Since 2021, changes in the dominant SARS‐CoV‐2 variant, vaccination rollout, and the shift of infection to younger ages have reduced SARS‐CoV‐2 infection ascertainment. The same factors, combined with the improvement of patient management and care, contributed to a massive reduction in the severity and fatality of COVID‐19.
Metabolic monitoring of pediatric patients prescribed second‐generation antipsychotic medication
Authors: Roebuck Julie Henshaw
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The prevalence of psychotropic medication prescription use in youth has increased over the past several years. Despite recommendations and practice parameters established by the American Diabetes Association‐American Psychiatric Association (ADA‐APA) outlining metabolic monitoring of patients prescribed second‐generation antipsychotic (SGA) medication, monitoring adherence for the pediatric patient population remains inadequate.

Aims

This project aimed to improve metabolic monitoring of pediatric patients prescribed SGAs and discharge recommendations for follow‐up monitoring within a small, child, and adolescent psychiatric hospital.

Methods

This project compared metabolic monitoring adherence rates pre and postimplementation of a metabolic monitoring organizational policy developed to provide procedural guidance, using ADA‐APA guidelines. Participants included prescribing clinicians (physicians and psychiatric nurse practitioners).

Results

Phase 1 chart reviews found no records of fasting blood glucose, fasting lipid profile or waist circumference. Following project implementation, chart review found that fasting blood glucose and fasting lipid profile was recorded in 21 (72.4%) of the charts, and waist circumference was recorded in 18 (62.1%) of the charts for patients prescribed SGA medication. For patients discharged on an SGA, written recommendations for follow‐up metabolic monitoring improved from 13% to 70% (<0.001).

Conclusions

Implementing an organizational metabolic monitoring policy and protocol can improve clinician adherence to ADA‐APA guidelines for recording in‐patient monitoring of metabolic parameters and discharge recommendations for pediatric patients prescribed SGA medication.
Acid ground nano‐realgar processed product inhibits breast cancer by inducing mitophagy via the p53/BNIP3/NIX pathway
Authors: Fang Jiahui , Zou Xue , Gong Ling , Xi Juan , Liu Yi , Yang Xiaoli , Zhang Xiuqiao , Gui Chun
Published: August 2023

Breast cancer is a highly prevalent malignancy with the first morbidity and the primary reason for female cancer‐related deaths worldwide. Acid ground nano‐realgar processed product (NRPP) could inhibit breast cancer cell proliferation and induce autophagy in our previous research; however, the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. Therefore, this research aimed to verify whether NRPP induces breast cancer mitophagy and explore the mitophagy‐mediated mechanism. Primarily, rhodamine‐123 assay and transmission electron microscopy were applied to detect mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and ultrastructural changes in the MDA‐MB‐435S cells, respectively. Mito‐Tracker Green/Lyso‐Tracker Red staining, western blot, immunofluorescence and RT‐PCR were used to explore molecular mechanisms of NRPP‐induced mitophagy in vitro. MDA‐MB‐435S breast cancer xenograft models were established to assess the activity and mechanisms of NRPP in vivo. Our results showed that NRPP decreased MMP and increased autophagosome numbers in MDA‐MB‐435S cells and activated mitophagy. Furthermore, mitophagy was consolidated because mitochondria and lysosomes colocalized phenomenology were observed, and the expression of LC3II/I and COXIV was upregulated. Additionally, we found the p53/BNIP3/NIX pathway was activated. Finally, NRPP inhibited tumour growth and downregulated the levels of TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IL‐6. Necrosis, damaged mitochondria and autophagosomes were observed in xenograft tumour cells, and proteins and mRNA levels of LC3, p53, BNIP3 and NIX were increased. Overall, NRPP inhibited MDA‐MB‐435S cell proliferation and tumour growth by inducing mitophagy via the p53/BNIP3/NIX pathway. Thus, NRPP is a promising candidate for breast cancer treatment.
Frequency of significant steatosis and compensated advanced chronic liver disease among adults with chronic liver disease
Authors: Shahrani Shahreedhan , Gill Sandeep Singh , Sooi Choong Yeong , Skantha Ruben , Kumar C Vikneshwaran Chandra , Limun Mohd Fairul , Affendi Nik Arsyad Nik Muhamad , Chuah Kee Huat , Khoo Stanley , Rajaram Ruveena Bhavani , Chan Wah Kheong , Mahadeva Sanjiv
Published: August 2023

Background

With changes in the epidemiology and treatment of chronic liver disease (CLD), the impact of various etiologies of liver disease on steatosis and advanced fibrosis are uncertain.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted among liver disease patients of various etiologies undergoing transient elastography (TE) over a 9‐year duration.

Results

Data for 2886 patients were analyzed and had the following demographics: The median age was 60 (IQR: 45–69) years, 51% were males, and ethnicity was predominantly Chinese (52.5%), followed by Malays (34%) and Indians (12.3%). The median CAP score was 272 (IQR: 219–319) dB/m and the median liver stiffness measurement (LSM) score was 6.5 (IQR: 4.9–9.7) kPa. Hepatic steatosis occurred across the spectrum of etiologies of CLD. Among patients with steatosis, the most common etiologies were nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) at 62% and chronic hepatitis B (CHB) at 26.3%. TE findings suggestive of cACLD (10.1–15 kPa) and highly suggestive of cACLD (>15 kPa) were observed in 11.3% and 12.4% of patients, respectively. NAFLD was found to be the most common etiology for cases with suggestive of cACLD (47.2%) and highly suggestive of cACLD (41.5%).

Conclusion

Hepatic steatosis is common in CLD, regardless of etiology. Compared with other etiologies, NAFLD is now the leading cause of cACLD.
A framework for understanding land control transfer in agricultural commodity frontiers
Authors: del Giorgio Olivia
Published: August 2023

Across the globe, the expansion of large‐scale commodity agriculture is occurring not into empty space but over existing social systems. An understanding of the dynamics of expansion and associated impacts of commodity agriculture thus fundamentally requires examining how existing control regimes are dissolved and, simultaneously, how novel ones are assembled in order to make way for the changes in resources use that characterize these transitional moments. With this in mind, in this article, I provide a broad review of the strategies used to secure control over land prospected for agricultural commodity production, distinguishing between the tactics that are applied by agro‐interested actors in order to ‘break down’ forms of existing land control, those they apply in parallel to ‘build up’ new control structures, and those strategies that are applied by actors (often smallholders) wishing to ‘hold on to’ the control that they have. I then present a framework for examining the dynamics of control transfer that builds on this analytical structure of ‘breaking down’, ‘building up’, and ‘holding on to’ control.
Controlling peripheral intravenous catheter failure by needleless connector design: A pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Marsh Nicole , Larsen Emily , O’Brien Catherine , Peach Hannah , Keogh Samantha , Davies Karen , Mihala Gabor , Hewer Barbara , Booker Catriona , McCarthy Alexandra L. , Flynn Julie , Rickard Claire M.
Published: August 2023

Aim

To test the feasibility of a study protocol that compared the efficacy of neutral‐ and negative‐pressure needleless connectors (NCs).

Design

A single‐centre, parallel‐group, pilot randomised control trial.

Methods

Our study compared neutral‐(intervention) and negative‐pressure (control) NCs among adult patients in an Australian hospital. The primary feasibility outcome was measured against predetermined criteria (e.g. eligibility, attrition). The primary efficacy outcome was all‐cause peripheral intravenous catheter failure, analysed as time‐to‐event data.

Results

In total, 201 (100 control; 101 intervention) participants were enrolled between March 2020 and September 2020. All feasibility criteria were met except eligibility, which was lower (78%) than the 90% criterion. All‐cause peripheral intravenous catheter failure was significantly higher in the intervention group (39%) compared to control (19%).

Conclusion

With minor modifications to participant screening for eligibility, this randomised control trial is feasible for a large multicentre randomised control trial. The neutral NC was associated with an increased risk of peripheral intravenous catheter failure.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

There are several NC designs available, often identified by their mechanism of pressure (positive, negative and neutral). However, NCs can contribute to peripheral intravenous catheter failure. This is the first randomised controlled trial to compare neutral and negative NC designs. Negative pressure NCs had lower PIVC failure compared to neutral NCs, however the results might not be generalisable to other brands or treatment settings. Further high‐quality research is needed to explore NC design.

Reporting Method

Study methods and results reported in adherence to the CONSORT Statement.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Resurvey studies of terricolous bryophytes and lichens indicate a widespread nutrient enrichment in German forests
Authors: Diekmann Martin , Heinken Thilo , Becker Thomas , Dörfler Inken , Heinrichs Steffi , Leuschner Christoph , Peppler‐Lisbach Cord , Osthaus Magdalena , Schmidt Wolfgang , Strubelt Ilka , Wagner Eva‐Rosa
Published: August 2023

Questions

Vegetation resurveys, both single studies and meta‐analyses, have predominantly been based on vascular plant data while bryophytes and lichens have largely been neglected. Our study aims to fill this gap and addresses the following research questions: has the overall species richness of terricolous bryophytes and lichens in forests changed over time? Which are the winners and losers among single species and ecological species groups? Do the results give a signal of the impact of nutrient enrichment, of changes in the light regime and of climate change?

Location

Deciduous and coniferous forests in Germany.

Methods

We compiled 35 single resurvey data sets, including 1096 plots in total (each sampled twice). The time interval between initial surveys and resurveys ranged from 10 to 65 years. The differences between old and new plots were analysed with respect to the frequency of single species, total species richness, and the absolute and relative numbers of taxa in the species groups. Trend scores of species were related to ecological indicator values to identify the main environmental drivers behind the observed changes.

Results

Total species richness did not systematically change, while pleurocarpous mosses had increased at the expense of acrocarpous mosses and, in coniferous forests, of lichens. Weak changes were generally observed in deciduous forests on base‐rich soils. In coniferous forests and in deciduous forests on acid soils, species with high nitrogen demand and high shade tolerance had increased, whereas those being typical for more infertile and open forest sites had decreased. There were trends towards a larger share of taxa with a more oceanic distribution.

Conclusions

The changes in the vegetation of terricolous bryophytes and lichens in the studied forests indicate nutrient enrichment and increasingly shady conditions in forests on acid soils, likely caused by nitrogen deposition and shrub layer closure.
Brazil's LGBTQ public policy: A Potemkin policy?
Authors: Galego Diego
Published: August 2023

Although there are many frameworks of policy change analysis, little attention has been paid to policy manipulation, especially policies related to the community of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ). This article develops a framework to fill this gap; it analyzes the process of policy manipulation by drawing on the metaphor of the Potemkin village, referring to the creation of a façade to suggest advances or progress to external observers. These Potemkin features have implications for informing a case study of Brazil's LGBTQ and human rights policies. Through content analysis of federal executive policy outputs, and an analysis of changes made by political elites in instruments, ideas, and actors over 20 rights‐based LGBTQ policies adopted in Brazil between 1996 and 2020, the article finds evidence that Brazil's LGBTQ policy is a Potemkin one.
Disentangling wildlife–cattle interactions in multi‐host tuberculosis scenarios: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ferreira Eduardo M. , Duarte Elsa L. , Cunha Mónica V. , Mira António , Santos Sara M.
Published: August 2023

Ecological interactions involving wildlife (wild mammals) and cattle Bos taurus are considered fundamental drivers of animal tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium bovis at the wildlife–livestock interface. Despite recent insights about the role of direct and indirect interactions on TB dynamics, a mechanistic evaluation of studies addressing patterns of wildlife–cattle interaction at the global level is lacking, and the most likely factors explaining interaction rates under different epidemiological scenarios remain poorly understood.

We began by reviewing the main criteria used to define a wildlife–cattle interaction relevant to Mycobacterium bovis transmission under different methodological approaches (camera‐trapping, proximity loggers and Global Positioning System collars). Secondly, we applied a generic framework to estimate and characterise interaction patterns between susceptible wildlife and cattle hosts worldwide, testing the effect of potential ecological and methodological factors on interaction rates.

We synthesise two main criteria to define direct interactions and five criteria to define indirect interactions between wildlife and cattle. Using data from 31 studies, our meta‐analysis showed that wildlife–cattle direct interaction rates were low (mean = 0.03 interactions/month per species pair, range: 0.00–0.12). In contrast, indirect interaction rates were 154 times higher than the mean of direct interaction rates (mean = 4.63 interactions/month per species pair, range: 0.16–30.00).

To prevent TB transmission to cattle, attention should be given to indirect interactions between wildlife and cattle in shared environments. Indirect interactions significantly increase with increasing wildlife density, which, hypothetically, could result in a higher TB transmission risk for cattle. We outline recommendations to achieve harmonised integration and comparison of results in future studies. Consolidation of knowledge in this field will contribute towards guiding control and biosecurity measures, also applicable to other infectious diseases at the wildlife, domestic species and human interfaces.
Taxonomic Novelties in Senna ser. Bacillares (Leguminosae, Cassieae)
Authors: Lima Alexandre Gibau de , Trovó Marcelo , Bacon Christine D. , Queiroz Luciano Paganucci de , Souza Vinicius Castro , de Freitas Mansano Vidal
Published: August 2023

Senna ser. Bacillares (Leguminosae, Cassieae) is the largest of the American Senna series, with approximately 50 species. Several taxa are still poorly known or with problematic delimitation. Based on extensive fieldwork and collection‐based research for our ongoing taxonomic studies on Senna ser. Bacillares, we identified two new species which we here describe as S. dryadica and S. franciscana. In addition, we recognize S. gloriosa as a morphologically and ecologically distinct species, rather than as a variety of S. splendida. The two new species are illustrated and described, and distributional and phenological data as well as a preliminary conservation assessment for each species is provided.
Exploring the potential of meeting adolescent girls’ nutrient needs in urban Colombia using food‐based recommendations
Authors: Knight Frances , Kuri Sabrina , Damu Claudia , Mejia Carla , Correa Guzmán Nathalia , Bergeron Gilles , Restrepo‐Mesa Sandra L.
Published: August 2023

During adolescence, many young people gain greater food choice agency but also become increasingly exposed and susceptible to environmental pressures that influence their food choices. This coincides with increased nutritional needs, especially for girls. In urban Colombia, adolescent diets are often high in undesirable foods and low in nutritious foods, contributing to overweight and micronutrient deficiencies. This study aimed to explore the potential of improving diet quality using food‐based recommendations (FBRs) within the parameters of local food systems and adolescents’ existing dietary patterns to inform context‐specific programmatic responses to malnutrition. We applied linear programming analysis to dietary data from 13‐ to 20‐year‐old girls in Medellin to identify problem nutrients, local micronutrient sources, and promising FBRs. Iron and, to a lesser extent, calcium targets were difficult to meet using optimized diets based on local foods, especially for 13‐ to 17‐year‐olds. High habitual consumption of foods with excessive salt, fat, or sugar provided >5% of micronutrients in optimized diets. Otherwise, significant micronutrient sources included legumes, meat, dairy, bread, potatoes, and fruit. FBRs met targets for 10 micronutrients but only 32%–39% recommended nutrient intake for iron. FBRs, including occasionally consumed foods and supplements, met all intake targets for less cost, indicating a need to increase access to nutrient‐dense products.
Using integrated multispecies occupancy models to map co‐occurrence between bottlenose dolphins and fisheries in the Gulf of Lion, French Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Lauret Valentin , Labach Hélène , David Léa , Authier Matthieu , Gimenez Olivier
Published: August 2023

In the Mediterranean Sea, interactions between marine species and human activities are prevalent. The coastal distribution of bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus and the predation pressure they put on fishing stocks lead to regular interactions with fisheries. Multispecies occupancy models are a relevant framework to estimate co‐occurrence between two (or more) species while accounting for false negatives and potential interspecific dependance although requiring substantial quantity of data to fit. Here, we extended multispecies occupancy model to integrate multiple datasets to map spatial co‐occurrence between trawlers and bottlenose dolphins in the Gulf of Lion, French Mediterranean Sea combining data from aerial surveys and boat surveys at a large spatial scale. The integrated multispecies occupancy model produced more precise estimate than single‐dataset multispecies occupancy models. Our results support that both integrated and multispecies frameworks are relevant to map distribution and understand species interactions in our case study. Besides, our application of multispecies occupancy models to bottlenose dolphins and fishing trawlers enabled to map co‐occurrence probability, which open promising avenues in the understanding of interactions between human activities and marine mammals that occur at large spatial scales.
Psychometric evaluation of the Indonesian version of the Person‐centered Care Assessment Tool
Authors: Weni Woro Mustika , Shimizu Megumi , Ando‐Ohmura Chiaki , Ohashi Yuki , Edvardsson David , Backman Annica , Baxter Rebecca , Kloos Noortje , Ozaki Akiko
Published: August 2023

Background

The number of Indonesian care staff working in hospitals and long‐term care facilities caring for persons with dementia in Japan is increasing; however, there is no instrument available in the Indonesian language to assess their dementia care practice.

Objectives

This study aimed to translate the Person‐centered Care Assessment Tool (P‐CAT) and evaluate its psychometric properties in a sample of Indonesian care staff working in dementia care and long‐term care facilities in Japan.

Methods

This is a descriptive, methodological, and cross‐sectional study. The P‐CAT was translated into the Indonesian language. The draft was administered to Indonesian care staff (n = 218) working at long‐term care facilities in Japan. Data were analysed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), known‐group validity, internal consistency, and test–retest reliability.

Results

EFA showed three‐factor and CFA of the three‐factor indicated that the model had an acceptable fit (chi‐squared statistics/degree of freedom = 1.78, comparative fit index = 0.94, root mean square error of approximation = 0.06) with a slightly different structure compared to the original P‐CAT. Regarding known‐group validity, the P‐CAT total score was significantly higher for those who had training in dementia, who knew about person‐centred care, and who showed satisfaction in the job. Internal consistency (Cronbach's α) of the total scale was 0.68 which is considered acceptable, and the test–retest reliability intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.61 which is considered moderate.

Conclusion

The Indonesian P‐CAT indicated sound validity and reliability to measure person‐centred care among Indonesian care staff working in dementia care and long‐term care facilities in Japan.

Implication for Practice

The development of Indonesian P‐CAT allows the evaluation of dementia care, promotes and further improves person‐centred care for persons with dementia provided by Indonesian care staff working in long‐term care facilities in Japan.
Nurses' perspectives on medication errors and prevention strategies in residential aged care facilities through a national survey
Authors: Kuppadakkath Subhash Chandran , Bhowmik Jahar , Olasoji Michael , Garvey Loretta
Published: August 2023

Background

Medication errors are common in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) due to several factors. Effective medication management is essential to prevent medication errors among older people particularly due to the complexity of co‐morbidities they can experience.

Objectives

This study aimed to examine and quantify the contributing factors of medication errors from nurses' perspectives and the prevention strategies to reduce medication errors among older adults living in RACFs.

Methods

A survey with 140 completed responses from registered nurses (RNs) and endorsed enrolled nurses (EENs) working in RACFs across Australia were included in the study. The survey had 24 items, related to contributing factors of medication errors, and the prevention strategies. Descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis were used in the data analysis process.

Results

The study identified medication errors are caused by contributing factors such as use of agency staffing (70.4%) and delays in receipt of laboratory results (94.3%). However, it also identified suggestions to reduce medication errors in RACFs, for example use of electronic alerts (88.3%), and efficient laboratory communication (91.8%). Our results revealed three key factors for causes (workload, interprofessional involvement and interruptions) and suggestions (medication safety alerts, medication process improvement and effective reporting).

Conclusion

Medication errors in RACFs are a global problem being one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. The knowledge and awareness of the factors associated with medication errors and the prevention strategies can guide potential quality improvement plans and contribute to minimisation of risk associated with medication safety in RACFs.

Implications for practice

The study recommends strategies for best practices in medication management such as interprofessional collaboration, implementing standardised policies and electronic alerts to reduce medication errors in RACFs.