bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal vitamin D levels and lupus low disease activity state in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Kim Ji‐Won , Baek Wook‐Young , Jung Ju‐Yang , Kim Hyoun‐Ah , in Yang Cheong , Kim Seung‐Ju , Suh Chang‐Hee
Published: September 2023

Background

Seasonal variation and sunlight exposure can impact serum vitamin D levels, potentially influencing lupus symptoms. We investigated seasonal vitamin D levels and their correlation with clinical manifestations and disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

Serum 25(OH) vitamin D3 (25(OH)D3) levels were categorised as deficient (25(OH)D3 < 10 ng/mL), insufficient (10–30 ng/mL) and sufficiency (>30 ng/mL) in participants analysed in winter (n = 407) and summer (n = 377). Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the impact of vitamin D levels on achieving a lupus low disease activity state (LLDAS), stratified by season.

Results

The mean serum 25(OH)D3 levels differed significantly between the winter and summer measurement groups (22.4 vs. 24.2 ng/mL; p = .018). The prevalences of vitamin D deficiency, insufficiency and sufficiency in the winter group were 12.8%, 66.6% and 20.6%, respectively, compared with 4.5%, 67.9% and 27.6% in the summer group. Achieving LLDAS was highest in the vitamin D sufficiency group (winter: 56.6%, summer: 55%) and lowest in the vitamin D deficiency group (winter: 15.4%, summer: 13.6%), with significant differences (all p < .001). Multivariate analysis identified SLE disease activity index ≤4, normal anti‐double‐stranded DNA and vitamin D sufficiency as significant factors for achieving LLDAS in both seasons.

Conclusions

Sufficient vitamin D levels are important for achieving LLDAS in patients with SLE during winter and summer. Therefore, physicians should pay attention to the adequacy of vitamin D levels and consider recommending vitamin D supplementation for patients with vitamin D insufficiency.
COVID‐19 illness: Different comorbidities may require different immunological therapeutic targets
Authors: Gremese Elisa , Tolusso Barbara , Bruno Dario , Paglionico Anna Maria , Perniola Simone , Ferraccioli Gianfranco , Alivernini Stefano
Published: September 2023

Background

The SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic has led to more than 6,870.000 deaths worldwide. Despite recent therapeutic advances, deaths in Intensive Care Units still range between 34 and 72%, comprising substantial unmet need as we move to an endemic phase. The general agreement is that in the first few days of infection, antiviral drugs and neutralizing monoclonal antibodies should be adopted. When the patient is hospitalized and develops severe pneumonia, progressing to a systemic disease, immune modifying therapy with corticosteroids is indicated. Such interventions, however, are less effective in the context of comorbidities (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, obesity and central nervous system‐CNS diseases) which are by themselves associated with poor outcomes. Such comorbidities comprise common and some distinct underlying inflammatory pathobiology regulated by differential cytokine taxonomy.

Methods

Searching in the PubMed database, literature pertaining to the biology underlying the different comorbidities, and the data from the studies related to various immunological treatments for the Covid‐19 disease were carefully analyzed.

Results

Several experimental and clinical data have demonstrated that hypertension and atrial fibrillation present an IL‐6 dependent signature, whereas diabetes, obesity, heart failure and CNS diseases may exhibit an IL‐1a/b predominant signature. Distinct selective cytokine targeting may offer advantage in treating severe COVID‐19 illness based on single or multiple associated comorbidities. When the patient does not immediately respond, a broader target range through JAKs pathway inhibitors may be indicated.

Conclusions

Herein, we discuss the biological background associated with distinct comorbidities which might impact the SARS‐CoV‐2 infection course and how these should to be addressed to improve the current therapeutic outcome.
Changing trends in the prevalence of heart failure impairment with Thalassemias over three decades
Authors: Tang Hongwei , Zhang Nan , Deng Jianchuan , Zhou Kang
Published: September 2023

Background

To assess the prevalence trend and contributing factors of heart failure (HF) impairment with thalassemias at global, regional and national levels.

Methods

Data on HF impairment with thalassemias was collected from the Global Burden of Disease study. The absolute number and prevalence of the disease were systematically collected for each year, and the estimated annual percentage changes (EAPC) in HF impairment were calculated by gender, region and country to measure temporal trends.

Results

Thalassemias have caused a significant global burden since 1990, and the case number of HF related to thalassemias has been steadily increasing. The highest case number of HF impairments with thalassemias is observed in China (7739 cases) and the highest prevalence is in Pakistan (1.61 per 100,000) currently. Besides, the middle sociodemographic index (SDI) region carries the highest burden of comorbid disease yet exhibits the most evident trend for improvement across the five regions (EAPC = −.98). The burden of thalassemias and comorbid HF is generally higher in males than females with the gender gap growing chasm in the future. Besides, the hotspots of HF impairment with thalassemias have gradually shifted to low SDI regions, though middle SDI regions still hold a relatively higher prevalence (.37 per 100,000) across different regions.

Conclusions

The burden of thalassemias and accompanying HF, as well as their temporal trends, vary greatly across countries and regions. These findings can improve understanding of these conditions and guide policymakers in developing appropriate policies to address disparities between countries.
Detection efficiency of adult Pacific lamprey passage counts at Leaburg Dam and upstream distribution in the McKenzie River (Oregon, USA)
Authors: Romer Jeremy D. , Clemens Benjamin J. , Ziller Jeffrey S. , Garner Emma
Published: September 2023

Adult Pacific lamprey (Entosphenus tridentatus) were counted using consistent methodology since 2005 with a video monitoring system as they passed Leaburg Dam (McKenzie River, Oregon, USA) en route to upstream spawning areas. In this study we evaluated the detection efficiency of the video system and upstream distribution of Pacific lamprey using the video counts of lamprey passage (herein, “dam counts”), passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags, and radio telemetry. In 2019–2020 we collected, tagged and tracked 32 adult lamprey (4 from the McKenzie River and 28 that were translocated from Willamette Falls). All fish were tagged and released into the tailrace of Leaburg Dam in June 2019. Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife employees and volunteers from the local community conducted mobile radiotracking above and below the dam in drift boats (114 mainstem river kilometers) and on foot (several tributaries). The estimated detection efficiency for dam counts was 92% (95% confidence interval: 67%–99%). Fifty percent (16 of 32) of the tagged lamprey passed the dam, including 13 of 28 that were translocated. Thirty‐seven percent (6 of 16) of lamprey that passed Leaburg Dam were detected in a restored reach of the South Fork McKenzie, 32.6 river kilometers upstream of the dam.
Self‐stigma and quality of life among people with psychosis: The protective role of religion
Authors: Seet Vanessa , Lee Ying Ying , Chua Yi Chian , Verma Swapna Kamal , Subramaniam Mythily
Published: September 2023

Aim

The quality of life in people with psychosis has been consistently demonstrated to be lower than those without, with self‐stigma contributing greatly to this impairment. Hence, it is imperative to address this gap in order to facilitate recovery‐oriented and other outcomes. This study investigates the potential of religiosity in moderating the effects of self‐stigma on quality of life among those with psychosis.

Methods

Adults with psychosis (n = 99) were recruited from the Early Psychosis Intervention Programme in Singapore from 2018 to 2021, and administered the self‐report Religious Commitment Index, Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness scale, and Abbreviated World Health Organization Quality of Life instrument. Linear regression analyses were conducted and the interaction between self‐stigma and religious commitment scores calculated to investigate the moderation effects of religiosity on the relationship between stigma and quality of life.

Results

Preliminary regression analyses revealed a significant association between sex and psychological quality of life. After controlling for sex, religiosity was found to moderate the relationship between self‐stigma and psychological quality of life.

Conclusions

The results of the study demonstrate the potential of religiosity in buffering the effects of self‐stigma on quality of life. This reveals an area that can be easily targeted and addressed in treatment programs to improve outcomes beyond the clinical setting among people living with psychosis, to facilitate their recovery journey and beyond.
Doing qualitative research: Methodological reflections on researching teachers work
Authors: Jayantilal Kumar , Lalli Gurpinder Singh
Published: September 2023

Reflexive commitments tend to be lacking, particularly from the perspective of early career scholars. This is particularly true in relation to published research, but evident in doctoral studies exploring teachers work. Using principles of phenomenological reflexivity, this methodological paper explores the critical incidents that have come to shape a qualitative, ethnographical case study before entering the field. Key findings highlight four implications for novice researchers: an engagement with critical independent reflection, critical friendship, skills development through academic modules and reflexive reading, and communities of practice. The paper calls for continued attention to the methodological framing of research, particularly during and after entering the field.
Genetic screening for hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy in western Sicily: Two years of experience in a neurological clinic
Authors: Di Stefano Vincenzo , Lupica Antonino , Alonge Paolo , Pignolo Antonia , Augello Sofia Maria , Gentile Francesca , Gagliardo Andrea , Giglia Francesca , Brinch Daniele , Cappello Maria , Di Lisi Daniela , Novo Giuseppina , Borgione Eugenia , Scuderi Carmela , Brighina Filippo
Published: September 2023

Background and purpose

Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy (ATTRv‐PN) is caused by mutations in the TTR gene, leading to misfolded monomers that aggregate generating amyloid fibrils.

Methods

A prospective systematic genetic screening for ATTRv‐PN was proposed in patients presenting with a sensory–motor idiopathic polyneuropathy and two or more “red flags” among the following: family history of polyneuropathy or cardiopathy, bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome, cardiac insufficiency, renal amyloidosis, lumbar tract stenosis, autonomic dysfunction, idiopathic gastrointestinal disease, amyloid deposits on biopsy, and vitreous opacities. The detection rate was calculated, and nonparametric analyses were carried out to underline differences among screened positive versus negative patients.

Results

In the first step, 145 suspected patients underwent genetic testing, revealing a diagnosis of ATTRv‐PN in 14 patients (10%). Then, cascade screening allowed early recognition of 33 additional individuals (seven symptomatic ATTRv‐PN patients and 26 presymptomatic carriers) among 84 first‐degree relatives. Patients with a positive genetic test presented a higher frequency of unexplained weight loss, gastrointestinal symptoms, and family history of cardiopathy.

Conclusions

A systematic screening for ATTRv‐PN yielded an increased recognition of the disease in our neurological clinic. Unexplained weight loss associated with axonal polyneuropathy had the highest predictive value in the guidance of clinical suspicion. A focused approach for the screening of ATTRv‐PN could lead to an earlier diagnosis and identification of asymptomatic carriers, who will be promptly treated after a strict follow‐up at the clinical onset.
The role of clay minerals in the preservation of Precambrian organic‐walled microfossils
Authors: Woltz C. R. , Anderson R. P. , Tosca N. J. , Porter S. M.
Published: September 2023

Precambrian organic‐walled microfossils (OWMs) are primarily preserved in mudstones and shales that are low in total organic carbon (TOC). Recent work suggests that high TOC may hinder OWM preservation, perhaps because it interferes with chemical interactions involving certain clay minerals that inhibit the decay of microorganisms. To test if clay mineralogy controls OWM preservation, and if TOC moderates the effect of clay minerals, we compared OWM preservational quality (measured by pitting on fossil surfaces and the deterioration of wall margins) to TOC, total clay, and specific clay mineral concentrations in 78 shale samples from 11 lithologic units ranging in age from ca. 1650 to 650 million years ago. We found that the probability of finding well‐preserved microfossils positively correlates with total clay concentrations and confirmed that it negatively correlates with TOC concentrations. However, we found no evidence that TOC influences the effect of clay mineral concentrations on OWM preservation, supporting an independent role of both factors on preservation. Within the total clay fraction, well‐preserved microfossils are more likely to occur in shales with high illite concentrations and low berthierine/chamosite concentrations; however, the magnitude of their effect on preservation is small. Therefore, there is little evidence that bulk clay chemistry is important in OWM preservation. Instead, we propose that OWM preservation is largely regulated by physical properties that isolate organic remains from microbial degradation such as food scarcity (low TOC) and low sediment permeability (high total clay content): low TOC increases the diffusive distances between potential carbon sources and heterotrophic microbes (or their degradative enzymes), while high clay concentrations reduce sediment pore space, thereby limiting the diffusion of oxidants and degradative enzymes to the sites of decay.
Pkd2, mutations linking to autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum and regulates calcium signaling in fission yeast
Authors: Koyano Takayuki , Fujimoto Takahiro , Onishi Kaori , Matsuyama Makoto , Fukushima Masaki , Kume Kazunori
Published: September 2023

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a renal disorder caused by mutations in the PKD2 gene, which encodes polycystin‐2/Pkd2, a transient receptor potential channel. The precise role of Pkd2 in cyst formation remains unclear. The fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe has a putative transient receptor potential channel, Pkd2, which shares similarities with human Pkd2. In this study, truncation analyses of fission yeast Pkd2 were conducted to investigate its localization and function. The results revealed that Pkd2 localizes not only to the plasma membrane but also to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in fission yeast. Furthermore, Pkd2 regulates calcium signaling in fission yeast, with the transmembrane domains of Pkd2 being sufficient for these processes. Specifically, the C‐terminal region of Pkd2 plays a crucial role in the regulation of calcium signaling. Interestingly, human Pkd2 also localized to the ER and had some impact on calcium signaling in fission yeast. However, human Pkd2 failed to suppress the loss of fission yeast Pkd2. These findings indicate that hPkd2 may not completely substitute for cellular physiology of fission yeast Pkd2. This study provides insights into the localization and functional characteristics of Pkd2 in fission yeast, contributing to our understanding of the pathogenesis of ADPKD.
Broad spectrum SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific immunity in hospitalized First Nations peoples recovering from COVID‐19
Authors: Zhang Wuji , Clemens E Bridie , Kedzierski Lukasz , Chua Brendon Y , Mayo Mark , Lonzi Claire , Hinchcliff Alexandra , Rigas Vanessa , Middleton Bianca F , Binks Paula , Rowntree Louise C , Allen Lilith F , Tan Hyon‐Xhi , Petersen Jan , Chaurasia Priyanka , Krammer Florian , Wheatley Adam K , Kent Stephen J , Rossjohn Jamie , Miller Adrian , Lynar Sarah , Nelson Jane , Nguyen Thi HO , Davies Jane , Kedzierska Katherine
Published: September 2023

Indigenous peoples globally are at increased risk of COVID‐19‐associated morbidity and mortality. However, data that describe immune responses to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in Indigenous populations are lacking. We evaluated immune responses in Australian First Nations peoples hospitalized with COVID‐19. Our work comprehensively mapped out inflammatory, humoral and adaptive immune responses following SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Patients were recruited early following the lifting of strict public health measures in the Northern Territory, Australia, between November 2021 and May 2022. Australian First Nations peoples recovering from COVID‐19 showed increased levels of MCP‐1 and IL‐8 cytokines, IgG‐antibodies against Delta‐RBD and memory SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific T cell responses prior to hospital discharge in comparison with hospital admission, with resolution of hyperactivated HLA‐DR+CD38+ T cells. SARS‐CoV‐2 infection elicited coordinated ASC, Tfh and CD8+ T cell responses in concert with CD4+ T cell responses. Delta and Omicron RBD‐IgG, as well as Ancestral N‐IgG antibodies, strongly correlated with Ancestral RBD‐IgG antibodies and Spike‐specific memory B cells. We provide evidence of broad and robust immune responses following SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in Indigenous peoples, resembling those of non‐Indigenous COVID‐19 hospitalized patients.
Penalisation Methods in Fitting High‐Dimensional Cointegrated Vector Autoregressive Models: A Review
Authors: Levakova Marie , Ditlevsen Susanne
Published: September 2023

Cointegration has shown useful for modeling non‐stationary data with long‐run equilibrium relationships among variables, with applications in many fields such as econometrics, climate research and biology. However, the analyses of vector autoregressive models are becoming more difficult as data sets of higher dimensions are becoming available, in particular because the number of parameters is quadratic in the number of variables. This leads to lack of statistical robustness, and regularisation methods are paramount for obtaining valid estimates. In the last decade, many papers have appeared suggesting different penalisation approaches to the inference problem. Here, we make a comprehensive review of different penalisation methods adapted to the specific structure of vector cointegrated models suggested in the literature, with relevant references to software packages. The methods are evaluated and compared according to a range of error measures in a simulation study, considering combinations of low and high dimension of the system and small and large sample sizes.
An effective disease diagnostic model related to pyroptosis in ischemic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Jin Zhankui , Liu Fuqiang , Zhang Guoan , Zhang Jingtao , Zhao Xiangrong , Huo Xueping , Huang Xiaoyan , Xu Cuixiang
Published: September 2023

Pyroptosis is involved in ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM). The study aimed to investigate the pyroptosis‐related genes and clarify their diagnostic value in ICM. The bioinformatics method identified the differential pyroptosis genes between the normal control and ICM samples from online datasets. Then, protein–protein interaction (PPI) and function analysis were carried out to explore the function of these genes. Following, subtype analysis was performed using ConsensusClusterPlus, functions, immune score, stromal score, immune cell proportion and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes between subtypes were investigated. Moreover, optimal pyroptosis genes were selected using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis to construct a diagnostic model and evaluate its effectiveness using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis. Twenty‐one differential expressed pyroptosis genes were identified, and these genes were related to immune and pyroptosis. Subtype analysis identified two obvious subtypes: sub‐1 and sub‐2. And LASSO identified 13 optimal genes used to construct the diagnostic model. The diagnostic model in ICM diagnosis with the area under ROC (AUC) was 0.965. Our results suggested that pyroptosis was tightly associated with ICM.
Identifying and mapping the spatial distribution of regions prone to snowmelt flood hazards in the arid region of Central Asia: A case study in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Liu Yan , Zhang Jun min , Huo Hong , Li Yang , Lu Xin yu , Wang Ni , Yang Yun
Published: September 2023

Snowmelt floods are highly hazardous meteorological disasters that can potentially threaten human lives and property. Hence, snowmelt susceptibility mapping (SSM) plays an important role in flood prevention systems and aids emergency responders and flood risk managers. In this paper, a method of identifying snowmelt flood hazards is proposed, and a large‐scale snowmelt flood hazard zonation scheme based on historical recordings and multisource remote sensing data is established. To assess the quality of our approach, the proposed model was tested in the cold and arid region of Xinjiang, China. Overall, 140 historical snowmelt flood events and 27 explanatory factors were selected to construct a geospatial dataset for SSM of the contemporary period. GridSearchCV was used to comprehensively search the candidate parameters from the grid of given parameters obtained with the random forest (RF) algorithm. Then, the geospatial dataset was divided into two subsets: 70% for training and 30% for testing. Next, SSM results were obtained with the RF algorithm using optimized parameters. The results indicate that our optimized RF classifier performs well for the task of SSM, with a high AUC value (0.975) for the test dataset. The validation and analysis suggest that the proposed method can efficiently identify snowmelt flood hazards in undersampled arid areas at a regional scale.
Prospective cohort study of neurodevelopmental outcomes following extreme neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia in Australia
Authors: McGillivray Angela J , Polverino Jan , Badawi Nadia , Evans Nicholas J
Published: September 2023

Aim

This study aimed to establish the incidence and nature of neurodevelopmental outcomes following extreme neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia in an Australian cohort.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of neurodevelopmental outcomes up to 3 years of age of infants born between 2010 and 2013 at ≥34 weeks gestation, with total serum bilirubin ≥450 μmol/L and/or clinical signs of acute bilirubin encephalopathy. Outcome measures comprised neurological examination, Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, 3rd edition and Ages and Stages Questionnaire, 3rd edition.

Results

The Australian estimated incidence of kernicterus is 0.35 per 100 000 live births. Within the follow‐up cohort of 26, three children have clinical neurodevelopmental impairment: one has gross motor function classification system level 4 cerebral palsy, audiological deficiency and visual impairment; the second has gross motor function classification system level 1 cerebral palsy and the third has global developmental delay with autism spectrum disorder. Mean Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, 3rd edition scores were: cognition 10.3 (SD 1.5), receptive communication 9.4 (SD 1.8), expressive communication 9.2 (SD 2.4), fine motor 10.4 (SD 2.6) and gross motor 9.2 (SD 2.3).

Conclusion

The Australian national rate of kernicterus compares favourably with global estimates. Future preventative strategies in this context include universal neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia assessment and mandated adverse outcome reporting and investigation.
Should the police give priority to violence within criminal organizations? A personnel economics perspective
Authors: Bravard C. , Durieu J. , Kamphorst J. , Roché S. , Sémirat S.
Published: September 2023

Even among themselves, criminals are not seen as trustworthy. Consequently, a criminal organization needs to incentivize its members, either by threats of violence or by rewarding good behavior. The cost of using violence depends on the resources police allocate to investigating intraorganizational violence. This means that the police may affect the choice of an incentive scheme by the criminal organization. The design of the optimal strategy for crime control has to take this into account. We develop a model of an infinitely repeated criminal labor market where (i) a criminal organization hires and incentivizes members, and (ii) peripheral crime (crime outside the criminal organization) is a stepping stone to a career in organized crime. We establish that there are two possible optimal strategies for the police. (i) There are situations in which the optimal strategy for the police is to use all of their resources to decrease the efficiency of criminals. (ii) In other situations, the optimal strategy for the police is to spend the minimum amount of resources to ensure that the criminal organization cannot punish disloyal criminals, and spend the rest of their resources to decrease the efficiency of criminals.
Risk‐stratified approach by aMAP score for community population infected with hepatitis B and C to guide subsequent liver cancer screening practice: A cohort study with 10‐year follow‐up
Authors: He Hua , Wu Yanhua , Jia Zhifang , Xu Hongqin , Pan Yuchen , Cao Donghui , Zhang Yangyu , Tao Xuerong , Zhao Tianye , Lv Haiyong , Yi Jiaxin , Wang Yuehui , Gao Yanhang , Kou Changgui , Niu Junqi , Jiang Jing
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to determine whether the age‐Male‐ALBI‐Platelet (aMAP) score is applicable in community settings and how to maximise its role in risk stratification. A total of thousand five hundred and three participants had an aMAP score calculated at baseline and were followed up for about 10 years to obtain information on liver cancer incidence and death. After assessing the ability of aMAP to predict liver cancer incidence and death in terms of differentiation and calibration, the optimal risk stratification threshold of the aMAP score was explored, based on absolute and relative risks. The aMAP score achieved higher area under curves (AUCs) (almost all above 0.8) within 10 years and exhibited a better calibration within 5 years. Regarding absolute risk, the risk of incidence of and death from liver cancer showed a rapid increase after an aMAP score of 55. The cumulative incidence (5‐year: 8.3% vs. 1.3% and 10‐year: 20.9% vs. 3.6%) and mortality (5‐year: 6.7% vs. 1.1% and 10‐year: 17.5% vs. 3.1%) of liver cancer in individuals with an aMAP score of ≥55 were significantly higher than in those with a score of <55 (Grey's test p  < .001). In terms of relative risk, the risk of death from liver cancer surpassed that from other causes after an aMAP score of ≥55 [HR = 1.38(1.02–1.87)]. Notably, the two types of death risk had opposite trends between the subpopulation with an aMAP score of ≥55 and < 55. To conclude, this study showed the value of the aMAP score in community settings and recommends using 55 as a new risk stratification threshold to guide subsequent liver cancer screening.
Vegan/vegetarian diet and human milk donation: An EMBA survey across European milk banks
Authors: Gandino Serena , Bzikowska‐Jura Agnieszka , Karcz Karolina , Cassidy Tanya , Wesolowska Aleksandra , Królak‐Olejnik Barbara , Klotz Daniel , Arslanoglu Sertac , Picaud Jean‐Charles , Boquien Clair‐Yves , Bertino Enrico , Moro Guido E. , Weaver Gillian
Published: September 2023

The nutritional adequacy of human milk (HM) from vegan/vegetarian mothers has been a matter of debate, and a variety of recommendations regarding the eligibility of these mothers as human milk donors exists. According to the latest evidence, HM from vegans/vegetarians is similar in its composition to that from omnivores, however, some differences may be observed regarding vitamin B12 and omega‐3 fatty acids concentrations. Maternal supplementation of these compounds has been proven effective in increasing their HM concentration. With this survey, we aimed to explore the practices currently in use in European human milk banks (HMBs) regarding potential donors following vegan/vegetarian diets. The online survey was distributed to European HMBs between January and July 2022. A total of 188 HMBs were contacted, and 118 replied (response rate 63%). Vegan and vegetarian mothers were recommended supplements of vitamin B12 to be accepted as donors in 27% and 26% of HMBs, respectively. Additional omega‐3 fatty acid supplementation was required in 8% HMBs. In the remaining HMBs, these mothers were either systematically excluded or included regardless of supplementation. The dosage of the recommended supplements was extremely variable. Fifty‐one percent of HMBs were following recommendations to guide their practice, national or local recommendations mainly. Great variability in European HMBs practices towards potential donors following vegan/vegetarian diets exists. Some of these practices can result in loss of donors and/or in potential nutritional deficiencies. Standardised evidence‐based recommendations on this issue and their implementation in daily HMB practice are needed.
Diagnostic accuracy of severe periodontitis for Ramfjord teeth based on different classifications
Authors: Shi Jiahong , Zhou Nan , He Biyu , Hong Xin , Guo Wei , Jiang Lishan , Wang Chenchen , Lei Lang , Li Houxuan
Published: September 2023

Objective

To evaluate the accuracy of Ramfjord teeth (RT) protocol for the diagnosis of severe periodontitis based on different classifications and explore the misclassification bias such as teeth loss.

Methods

Patients (n = 435) receiving full‐mouth periodontal examination (FMPE) were included. Patients were classified as severe (stage III/IV) periodontitis and no/mild/moderate (no/stage I/II) periodontitis according to the case definition proposed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP)‐(CDC/AAP), a new classification introduced by AAP and the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP)‐(AAP/EFP), and consensus of Chinese experts (CCE). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, Youden's index, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) compared with FMPE were evaluated.

Results

The specificity of RT was 86.8%, 92.2%, and 77.1% when compared with FMPE protocol based on CDC/AAP, AAP/EFP, and CCE classifications, while the AUROC value was 0.934, 0.961, and 0.886 specifically. The loss of the first molar leads to the greatest reduction in the detection rate of severe periodontitis.

Conclusions

RT showed the highest specificity based on the new AAP/EFP classification. The loss of the first molar leads to the greatest reduction in the detection rate of severe periodontitis.
Error traps in the perioperative management of children with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Hoagland M. , Duggar B. , Hamrick J. , Alonso G. Todd , Martin L.
Published: September 2023

Patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) require insulin administration at all times to maintain euglycemia and metabolic stability. Insulin administration in the perioperative period is complicated by fasting requirements and perioperative stressors that can change the patient's insulin needs. In addition, many anesthesia providers are not familiar with insulin dosing strategies and technology, such as insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), that are commonly used by patients with T1D. Errors in perioperative insulin administration can lead to hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and diabetic ketoacidosis. This article reviews common errors of associated with the perioperative management of patients with T1D, including failure to assess and coordinate patient care preoperatively; failure to understand diabetes management and technology; failure to monitor blood glucose and recognize dysglycemia; and failure to appropriately administer basal insulin.
YouTube as a source of information on infantile colic
Authors: Demirtas Mehmet Semih , Alici Nurettin
Published: September 2023

Background

YouTube is increasingly used by patients and parents as a source of information in the field of health. The aim of the study was to measure the quality and reliability levels of the videos published in English on infantile colic (IC) uploaded on YouTube.

Methods

A YouTube search was achieved by two authors using the key words “infantile colic,” “baby”, “colic”, “children” and “treatment”. Along with the general features of the videos, their quality and reliability were evaluated according to the global quality score (GQS), modified DISCERN (mDISCERN) score.

Results

Among the 55 videos included in the study, 25 (55.6%) were high quality, 19 (42.2%) medium quality and 11 (2.2%) low quality. The mDISCERN and GQS scores of the videos in the useful group were higher than those in the misleading group (p < 0.001). Videos uploaded by academic institutes and physicians had higher mDISCERN and GQS scores than other groups (p = 0.045, p = 0.005) and positive correlation detected between mDISCERN and GQS scores (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

IC videos broadcasted on YouTube, whose usage rates are increasing with the COVID‐19 pandemic, are a useful data source for patients/parents. Digital video resources provided by academic institutions, universities and healthcare professionals can assist physicians and parents in IC pathophysiology and treatment.
Temporal unpredictability increases error monitoring as revealed by EEG–EMG investigation
Authors: Korolczuk I. , Burle B. , Coull J. T. , Ogińska H. , Ociepka M. , Senderecka M. , Śmigasiewicz K.
Published: September 2023

Reacting in an unpredictable context increases error monitoring as evidenced by greater error‐related negativity (ERN), an electrophysiological marker linked to an evaluation of response outcomes. We investigated whether ERN also increased when participants evaluated their responses to events that appeared in unpredictable versus predictable moments in time. We complemented electroencephalographic (EEG) analysis of cortical activity by measuring performance monitoring processes at the peripheral level using electromyography (EMG). Specifically, we used EMG data to quantify how temporal unpredictability would affect motor time (MT), the interval between the onset of muscle activity, and the mechanical response. MT increases following errors, indexing online error detection, and an attempt to stop incorrect actions. In our temporally cued version of the stop‐signal task, symbolic cues predicted (temporally predictable condition) or not (temporally unpredictable condition) the onset of a target. In 25% of trials, an auditory signal occurred shortly after the target presentation, informing participants that they should inhibit their response completely. Response times were slower, and fewer inhibitory errors were made during temporally unpredictable than predictable trials, indicating enhanced control of unwanted actions when target onset time was unknown. Importantly, the ERN to inhibitory errors was greater in temporally unpredictable relative to temporally predictable conditions. Similarly, EMG data revealed prolonged MT when reactions to temporally unpredictable targets had not been stopped. Taken together, our results show that a temporally unpredictable environment increases the control of unwanted actions, both at cortical and peripheral levels, suggesting a higher subjective cost of maladaptive responses to temporally uncertain events.
Pathogenesis of the crosstalk between reproductive function and stress in animals—part 1: Hypothalamo–pituitary–adrenal axis, sympatho‐adrenomedullary system and kisspeptin
Authors: Kaiser Marianne , Jaillardon Laetitia
Published: September 2023

Stress is defined as a disruption of the body homeostasis in response to modest as well as perceived challenge. Two main physiological routes, the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal system (HPA) and the sympatho‐adrenomedullary system (SAM), aim to maintain or restore homeostasis by mutual interaction. SAM is quickly‐reacting as it primarily works through the nervous system—the sympathetic nervous system. In response to stress, signals are sent to activate the adrenal medulla which releases catecholamines (primarily adrenaline and norepinephrine). The catecholamines have a momentary effect on the body's organs that are prepared for a fight situation. At the same time, the stressor activates the HPA axis by signals from the brain causing secretion of the pituitary hormone adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH acts on the adrenal cortex, which secretes glucocorticoids, including cortisol. Since HPA primarily works through hormones, the system is slightly slower than SAM and gives rise to a metabolic effect. While short‐term stress response is an adaptive and beneficial process, chronic or excessive stress can lead to a range of negative health outcomes including reproductive disorders and infertility. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the link between stress and reproduction. This includes in particular kisspeptin, which is closely related to reproduction, as it is a powerful stimulator of the Hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) system. The present review, through current knowledge in various male and female species, deals with the role of the SAM and the HPA, including the major action of kisspeptin and glucocorticoids that trigger the consequences of psychological or physiological stress on reproductive function.
Extracellular traps as an emerging inflammatory pathway with promising therapeutic potential
Authors: King Paul T. , Dousha Lovisa
Published: September 2023

See related article
Empirical and instance‐dependent estimation of Markov chain and mixing time
Authors: Wolfer Geoffrey
Published: September 2023

We address the problem of estimating the mixing time of a Markov chain from a single trajectory of observations. Unlike most previous works which employed Hilbert space methods to estimate spectral gaps, we opt for an approach based on contraction with respect to total variation. Specifically, we estimate the contraction coefficient introduced in Wolfer (2020), inspired from Dobrushin's. This quantity, unlike the spectral gap, controls the mixing time up to strong universal constants and remains applicable to nonreversible chains. We improve existing fully data‐dependent confidence intervals around this contraction coefficient, which are both easier to compute and thinner than spectral counterparts. Furthermore, we introduce a novel analysis beyond the worst‐case scenario by leveraging additional information about the transition matrix. This allows us to derive instance‐dependent rates for estimating the matrix with respect to the induced uniform norm, and some of its mixing properties.
Sex differences in hemodynamic response to high‐intensity interval exercise
Authors: Coe Leah Noël , Astorino Todd Anthony
Published: September 2023

Sex differences in the cardiorespiratory and hemodynamic response to exercise exist due to differences in heart size, blood volume, and hemoglobin mass, eliciting higher maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) in men versus women. Data are equivocal whether sex differences in training responsiveness occur. This study investigated potential sex differences in the hemodynamic response (stroke volume (SV) and cardiac output (CO)) to high‐intensity interval exercise (HIIE). Habitually active men (n = 15) and women (n = 13) underwent VO2max testing, followed by three HIIE sessions consisting of the 4 × 4, 10 × 1, and reduced exertion high‐intensity training (REHIT), whose order was randomized. During exercise, oxygen uptake (VO2) and hemodynamic responses were determined. Results showed no sex difference in peak relative VO2 (p = 0.263), CO (p = 0.277), or SV (p = 0.116), although absolute values were higher in men (p < 0.05). Peak absolute (127.3 ± 20.6 vs. 115.2 ± 16.6 mL/beat, p = 0.004, d = 0.66) and relative SV (111.0 ± 15.5 vs. 100.7 ± 11.1% max, p = 0.005, d = 0.78) were higher with REHIT versus 4 × 4. No sex differences in mean relative VO2, CO, or SV occurred (p > 0.05). Data showed lower mean VO2 during REHIT versus 4 × 4 (59.3 ± 6.8 vs. 65.8 ± 5.8 %VO2max, p < 0.001, d = 1.05) and 10 × 1 (59.3 ± 6.8 vs. 69.1 ± 7.4 %VO2max, p < 0.001, d = 1.4). Mean CO was lower in REHIT than 10 × 1 (79.8 ± 8.6 vs. 84.0 ± 7.4% max, p = 0.012, d = 0.53). Previously reported differences in VO2max response to HIIE may not be due to unique hemodynamic responses.
Public understandings of welfare and the economy: Who knows what and does it relate to political attitudes?
Authors: Eichhorn Jan , Kenealy Daniel , Bennett Hayley
Published: September 2023

Previous studies have revealed significant gaps in the UK public's knowledge about the welfare state and the economy. However, we know little about which groups of the population know more, and which less. Drawing on survey evidence, we confirm that many people overstimate both the size of unemployment provision and levels of benefit fraud, and also make mistakes when answering factual questions about finance, employment rights, and benefit entitlements. While men, older people and university degree holders demonstrate slightly better knowledge on average, substantial differences appear when we distinguish specific domains of knowledge. For example, women know more about benefits, but men more about finance. We argue that understanding patterns of economic knowledge requires more complex engagement than has been undertaken to date. This is important because we find that knowledge is linked to political attitudes, with those who are more supportive of the welfare state – and those who tend to emphasise the government's role in the delivery of public services – more likely to demonstrate greater levels of knowledge.
Testing conditional independence in casual inference for time series data
Authors: Cai Zongwu , Fang Ying , Lin Ming , Tang Shengfang
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we propose a new procedure to test conditional independence assumption in studying casual inference for time series data. The conditional independence assumption is transformed to a nonparametric conditional moment test with the help of auxiliary variables which are allowed to affect policy choice but the dependence can be fully captured by potential outcomes and observable controls. When the policy choice is binary, a nonparametric statistic test is developed further for testing the conditional independence assumption conditional on policy propensity score. Under some regular conditions, we show that the proposed test statistics are asymptotically normal under the null hypotheses for time series data. In addition, the performances of the proposed methods are illustrated through Monte Carlo simulations and a real example considered in Angrist and Kuersteiner (2011).
Characterization of the novel HLA‐DPB1*04:02:01:40 allele by Oxford nanopore sequencing (ONT) technology
Authors: Liacini Abdelhamid , Rond Lisa , Rijkers Maaike , 't Hart Daan C. , Peters Lindsey
Published: September 2023

Full‐length sequence of HLA‐DPB1*04:02:01:40 covers the 5'‐untranslated region (UTR), all introns and exons and the 3' UTR.
Integration of African countries in regional and global value chains: Static and dynamic patterns
Authors: Mensah Emmanuel B. , Van Biesebroeck Johannes
Published: September 2023

We study the geographic concentration of trade flows of African countries using information on the global input–output structure of trade from the Eora database. Most countries show a similar concentration between close‐by versus long‐distance trade in their foreign input sourcing as in their export sales. However, changes over the last two decades indicate that many countries increasingly focus their long‐distance trade on only one of these two dimensions. This trend is most pronounced in manufacturing industries with stronger global value chains. In line with the learning‐by‐exporting hypothesis, export success on distant markets is a leading predictor (Granger causes) of regional export success. Only in light manufacturing do we find some evidence of a reverse pattern, that is, regional exports preceding global exports.
Trade and value chain participation: Domestic firms and FDI spillovers in Africa
Authors: Hoekman Bernard , Sanfilippo Marco
Published: September 2023

Data on the location of foreign direct investment (FDI) projects within and across African nations are combined with firm‐level survey data and information on sectoral input–output relationships to assess what types of FDI are more likely to influence participation in global value chains (GVCs) and to investigate the relationship between FDI and the performance of proximate domestic firms. Firm‐level analysis finds evidence of vertical spillovers from exposure to FDI, mainly in the manufacturing sector: domestic firms located near FDI projects that offer potential supply or demand linkages are more likely to engage in trade through imports or exports. Proximity to FDI projects in the same sector (horizontal linkage) is less likely to affect trade or GVC performance of domestic firms. Both vertical and horizontal FDI linkages are associated with higher labour productivity and other dimensions of performance.
Pendular mechanism determinants and elastic energy usage during walking of obese and non‐obese children
Authors: Peyré‐Tartaruga Leonardo Alexandre , Oliveira Henrique Bianchi , Dewolf Arthur H. , Buzzachera Cosme Franklim , Martinez Flávia Gomes , Ivaniski‐Mello André
Published: September 2023

The mechanical and metabolic responses of walking by obese children are not yet well understood. The objectives of this study were (1) to compare the pendular mechanism (recovery, phase shift by α and β values, and ratio between forward and vertical mechanical work), the maximum possible elastic energy usage and the bilateral coordination during walking between non‐obese and obese children, and (2) to verify if the bilateral coordination could contribute to understanding the pendular mechanism and elastic energy usage in these populations. Nine obese (six female, 8.7 ± 0.5 years, 1.38 ± 0.04 m, 44.4 ± 6.3 kg and 24.1 ± 3.50 kg/m2) and eight non‐obese (four female, 7.4 ± 0.5 years, 1.31 ± 0.08 m, 26.6 ± 2.1 kg and 16.4 ± 1.40 kg/m2) children were analysed during walking on a treadmill at five speeds: 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 km/h. The results indicated that although the mechanical energy response of the centre of mass during walking is similar between obese and non‐obese children, the obese children showed a lower pendulum‐like mechanism and greater elastic energy usage during level walking. Therefore, obese children seem to use more elastic energy during walking compared to non‐obese children, which may be related to their apparent higher positive work production during the double support phase. Finally, bilateral coordination presented high values at slow speeds in both groups and requires further attention due to its association with falls.
Self-joule heating assisted field emission following the Child–Langmuir law
Authors: Neo Yoichiro , Oda Rikuto , Moon Jonghyun
Published: September 2023

In this study, stable and long-term field emission properties that completely follow the Child–Langmuir law were successfully observed. A tungsten tip covered with a liquid gallium metal was used. The current characteristics showed three phases. The electron emission first began below half of the threshold voltage for the emission from a bare W chip, and the current increased by 20 μA. Then, the field emission pattern showed multiple disordered blinking spots, which originated Ga Taylor cones and the emission current value reached several mAs. Then, emission current began to follow the Child–Langmuir law, and a clear field emission pattern from {011}-oriented tungsten was observed. Electrons emitted from the submicrometer sized area that is heated by itself with joule heating of current densities greater than 107 A/cm2.