bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research in interventional oncology: How sound is the evidence base?
Authors: Kaufmann Nathalie C , Zeka Bleranda , Pereira Philippe L
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Interventional oncology (IO) is an essential component of cancer care, which has gained substantial recognition in recent years. The aim of this review is to evaluate the level of evidence supporting IO and its inclusion in cancer treatment guidelines.

Methods

A literature search of the PubMed database was performed to identify publication numbers and types for IO treatments published between 2012 and 2022. Selected cancer treatment guidelines and recommendations were reviewed for their inclusion of IO treatments.

Results

With 68%, the majority of studies on IO treatments are case reports while randomised controlled trials (RCTs) amount only to 7% of studies. Despite this, IO studies have generated sufficient data to support the inclusion of IO treatments in cancer treatment guidelines and recommendations. This was frequently based on large prospective patient cohorts that corresponded to 24% (20% non‐randomised studies and 4% observational studies) of all analysed studies rather than RCTs.

Conclusion

The level of evidence underpinning IO, as well as inclusion of IO in treatment guidelines and recommendations have increased substantially in recent years, indicating the growing importance and acceptance of IO in cancer care. The difficulty in conducting RCTs in IO is mitigated by the observation that they are not necessary to achieve guideline‐inclusion. Nevertheless, it is crucial to conduct well‐designed research projects to further consolidate the position of IO in the field of oncology. This will ensure that IO continues to evolve and meet the needs of cancer patients worldwide.
2015/16 El Niño increased water demand and pushed plants from a Mesic tropical montane grassland beyond their hydraulic safety limits
Authors: Matos Ilaíne Silveira , Rifai Sami W. , Rosado Bruno H. P.
Published: May 2023

In 2015/16, a strong El Niño event caused anomalously high temperatures and reduced precipitation resulting in Pantropical drought‐induced diebacks and wildfires. Although many studies have documented the El Niño impacts on tropical forests, little we know about its effects on tropical grasslands. Here, we investigated plant drought responses during and after the 2015/16 El Niño event (Jun 2016 to Aug 2017) in 12 species with contrasting drought strategies (tolerance, avoidance and escape) in a Brazilian tropical montane grassland. We tested if (1) the El Niño event induced meteorological drought anomalies, (2) the atmospheric and/or soil drought led to plant water stress and (3) plants showed signs of drought recovery. In contrast to other tropical areas, we found that the 2015/16 El Niño event did not strongly affect precipitation in our study site. However, it increased air temperature and vapour pressure deficit, thus pushing all grassland species, even the most drought‐tolerant ones, beyond their hydraulic safety margins during the dry season. Most species showed signs of drought recovery, returning to positive hydraulic margins in the wet season after the El Niño. However, the finding that all evaluated species, regardless of their drought‐response strategy, are already operating close to their hydraulic safe thresholds for stomatal closure and turgor loss suggests that this cool–humid tropical montane grassland is especially vulnerable to meteorological extremes exacerbated by the additive effects of El Niño and climate change.
Modelling of fossil and contemporary data suggest the Broad‐toothed rat (Mastacomys fuscus) currently occupies a small part of its available climatic niche: Implications of paleontological data for conservation of a threatened species
Authors: McDowell Matthew C. , Morris Shane D. , Johnson Christopher N. , Martin Brianna , Brook Barry W.
Published: May 2023

We use fossil, sub‐fossil and contemporary records of the Broad‐toothed rat, Mastacomys fuscus, to model changes in its range over the last 21 thousand years. Mastacomys fuscus was exposed to, and flourished in, a much broader range of environmental conditions in the recent past than it occupies today. It also currently occupies a much smaller range than it did in the Late Pleistocene. Apart from a weak response to sea‐level rise in the Holocene, the decline of M. fuscus does not correlate with known climate change. Instead, the contraction of the species' distribution on mainland Australia to high‐elevation areas occurred recently and rapidly. Small changes in the 1000 year BP and present‐day projected distributions imply some contraction of the area of suitable climate to higher elevations of the mainland subspecies M. f. mordicus, up to 2200 m above sea level. However, M. f. mordicus also persists near sea level at Cape Otway (southwestern Victoria) and from sea level to 1500 m above sea level at Barrington Tops (eastern New South Wales, Australia). This suggests suitable habitat may still exist in coastal Victoria and the central Tablelands/Blue Mountains areas. This research highlights the importance and value of using sub‐fossil data to understand changes in the distribution and niche occupation of threatened species as the basis for conservation planning.
Potentially inappropriate medications and potential prescribing omissions in hospitalised older adults in New Zealand: A retrospective study
Authors: Mohammed Mohammed A. , Chan Amy Hai Yan , Chan Stephanie , Ungureanu Bianca , Seo Hakmi , Ong Patrick , Morrison Caitlyn , Martini Nataly
Published: May 2023

Objective

Medication errors can have detrimental effects on patient outcomes, yet there are limited data on the prevalence of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) and potential prescribing omissions (PPOs) among older adult inpatients in New Zealand (NZ). This study investigated exposure to PIMs and PPOs in older adults in a New Zealand hospital.

Methods

Electronic medical records of 846 older adults (≥ 65 years) discharged from the Auckland District Health Board between June 2020 and May 2021 were retrospectively reviewed to extract data on sociodemographic, medication and diagnostic information. STOPP/START version 2 was used to evaluate PIMs and PPOs on admission and discharge.

Results

The mean age was 77.47 ± 8.12 years, and 51% were female. On admission, 48% had ≥1 PIMs and 40% had ≥1 PPOs. On discharge, 45% had ≥1 PIMs and 40% had ≥1 PPOs. Increasing age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.02, 95% CI [confidence interval] 1.01, 1.04), number of medicines (AOR = 1.23, CI 1.17, 1.29) and 28‐day admission history (AOR = 1.58, CI 1.15, 2.18) were associated with higher odds of PIMs use on admission. At discharge, the number of medicines (AOR = 1.19, CI 1.13, 1.25) and history of readmission (AOR = 1.47, CI 1.08, 2.02) were associated with higher odds of PIMs. Female patients had higher odds of PPOs both on admission (AOR = 1.35, CI 1.02, 1.78) and discharge (AOR = 1.34, CI 1.01, 1.78). Māori, Asian and Pacific patients were more likely to have prescribing omissions compared to NZ Europeans.

Conclusions

Prescribing omissions and inappropriate medications were common in older inpatients. There were differences observed between different ethnic groups, with NZ Europeans having fewer omissions than other ethnic groups. These findings highlight key opportunities for health‐care providers to improve medication use in older adults in NZ.
Gestational diabetes mellitus and time in active labor: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Nevander Sofia , Carlhäll Sara , Källén Karin , Lilliecreutz Caroline , Blomberg Marie
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have higher rates of adverse perinatal outcomes compared with women without GDM, including an increased risk for having labor induced and for cesarean section. The findings from previous studies analyzing duration of labor in women with GDM are contradictory.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of GDM on time in spontaneous and induced active labor.

Material and methods

This was a population‐based cohort study including 247 524 primiparous women who gave birth to a singleton fetus with cephalic presentation, ≥34+0 (completed gestational weeks + additional days) between January 2014 and May 2020 in Sweden. Data was obtained from the Swedish Pregnancy Register. Time in active labor was compared between women with GDM and without GDM with a spontaneous labor onset or induction of labor using Kaplan Meier survival analysis and Cox regression analysis.

Results

Women with GDM had significantly longer time in active labor, both with a spontaneous onset and induction of labor compared to women without GDM. Women with GDM had a decreased chance of vaginal delivery at a certain time‐point compared to women without GDM, with adjusted hazard ratio of 0.92 (0.88–0.96) and 0.83 (0.76–0.90) for those with spontaneous onset and induction of labor, respectively. Women with GDM had increased risk for time in active labor ≥12 h both in spontaneous labor onset (adjusted odds ratio 1.14 [1.04–1.25]) and in induction of labor (adjusted odds ratio 1.55 [1.28–1.87]).

Conclusions

Women with GDM seem to spend a longer time in active labor, both in spontaneous and induced active labor compared to women without GDM. To be able to individualize care intrapartum, there is a need for more studies demonstrating the impact of hyperglycemia during pregnancy on outcomes during childbirth.
Extracorporeal CPR after the INCEPTION trial: No one steps twice into the same river
Authors: Scquizzato Tommaso , Yannopoulos Demetris , Bělohlávek Jan , Taccone Fabio S. , Lorusso Roberto , Scandroglio Anna Mara , Landoni Giovanni , Swol Justyna
Published: May 2023

The use of veno‐arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation in patients suffering out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest, largely increased in the last decade despite evidence supporting this practice being limited to non‐randomized studies. However, between 2020 and 2023, four randomized studies were published comparing extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation to conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation with controversial findings that triggered great debates. In this controversy, we discuss merits and pitfalls, and provide a critical interpretation of the available evidence from randomized trials on the use of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation, with a particular focus on the recent multi‐center INCEPTION trial.
Outcomes of penile sarcomatoid squamous cell carcinoma from a single tertiary referral centre: a matched cohort study
Authors: Pang Karl H. , Girling Benedict , Osinibi Elizabeth , Sawhney Paramvir , Haider Aiman , Freeman Alex , Hadway Paul , Nigam Raj , Rees Rowland , Mitra Anita , Muneer Asif , Alifrangis Constantine , Alnajjar Hussain M.
Published: May 2023

Objective

To report the oncological survival outcomes of men with penile sarcomatoid squamous cell carcinoma (sSCC).

Patients and Methods

A retrospective analysis of men with penile sSCC diagnosed between January 2010 and January 2020 in a single centre was conducted. Disease‐specific (DSS), recurrence‐free (RFS) and metastasis‐free (MFS) survival were evaluated. Outcomes were compared with a non‐sarcomatoid penile SCC cohort matched to age, type of surgery and tumour stage. Kaplan–Meier plots were used to estimate survival outcomes.

Results

In all, 1286 men were diagnosed with penile SCC during the study period and of these 38 (3%) men had sSCC. The median (interquartile range) age and follow‐up was 70 (57–81) years and 16 (7–44) months, respectively. Operations performed included: circumcision, one (2.6%); wide local excision, four (10.5%); glansectomy, 11 (29%); partial penectomy, 10 (26%); subtotal/total penectomy, 12 (32%). The Kaplan–Meier estimated 12‐, 24‐ and 36‐month DSS was 62% (vs non‐sarcomatoid, 67%), 43% (vs non‐sarcomatoid, 67%) and 36% (vs non‐sarcomatoid, 67%), respectively (P = 0.03). The Kaplan–Meier estimated 12‐ and 24‐month RFS was 47% (vs non‐sarcomatoid, 60%) and 28% (vs non‐sarcomatoid, 55%), respectively (P = 0.01). The MFS was 52% (vs non‐sarcomatoid, 62%) at 12 months and 37% (vs non‐sarcomatoid, 57%) at 24 months (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Sarcomatoid differentiation was associated with a lower DSS, RFS and MFS. Due to the rarity of its incidence and aggressiveness, expert histological review and multidisciplinary management is required in a specialist penile cancer centre.
Identification and characterization of the new generation soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator BAY‐747 designed for the treatment of resistant hypertension
Authors: Wunder Frank , Stasch Johannes‐Peter , Knorr Andreas , Mondritzki Thomas , Brockschnieder Damian , Becker‐Pelster Eva‐Maria , Sandner Peter , Tinel Hanna , Redlich Gorden , Hartung Ingo V. , Vakalopoulos Alexandros , Follmann Markus
Published: May 2023

Background and Purpose

First‐generation soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulators have shown clinical benefit in pulmonary hypertension (riociguat) and chronic heart failure (vericiguat). However, given the broad therapeutic opportunities for sGC stimulators, tailored molecules for distinct indications are required.

Experimental Approach

We report the high‐throughput screening (HTS)‐based discovery of a second generation of sGC stimulators from a novel imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine lead series. An intense medicinal chemistry programme resulted in the discovery of the sGC stimulator BAY 1165747 (BAY‐747). The pharmacokinetic profile of BAY‐747 was determined in different species, and it was broadly characterized in pharmacological model systems relevant for vasodilatation and hypertension.

Key Results

BAY‐747 is a highly potent sGC stimulator in vitro. In addition, BAY‐747 showed an excellent pharmacokinetic profile with long half‐life and low peak‐to‐trough ratio. BAY‐747 was investigated in experimental in vivo models of malignant and resistant hypertension (rHT). In spontaneously hypertensive (SH) rats, BAY‐747 caused a dose‐related and long‐lasting decrease in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP). Oral treatment over 12 days resulted in a persistent decrease. BAY‐747 provided additional benefit when dosed on top of losartan, amlodipine or spironolactone and even on top of triple combinations of frequently used antihypertensive drugs. In a new canine model of rHT, BAY‐747 caused a dose‐related and long‐lasting (>6 h) MAP decrease.

Conclusion and Implications

BAY‐747 is a potent, orally available sGC stimulator. BAY‐747 shows long‐acting pharmacodynamic effects with a very low peak‐to‐trough ratio. BAY‐747 could be a treatment alternative for patients with hypertension, especially those not responding to standard‐of‐care therapy.
Exhaustivity and Anti‐Exhaustivity in the RSA Framework: Testing the Effect of Prior Beliefs
Authors: Cremers Alexandre , Wilcox Ethan G. , Spector Benjamin
Published: May 2023

During communication, the interpretation of utterances is sensitive to a listener's probabilistic prior beliefs. In this paper, we focus on the influence of prior beliefs on so‐called exhaustivity interpretations, whereby a sentence such as Mary came is understood to mean that only Mary came. Two theoretical origins for exhaustivity effects have been proposed in the previous literature. On the one hand are perspectives that view these inferences as the result of a purely pragmatic process (as in the classical Gricean view, and more recent Bayesian approaches); on the other hand are proposals that treat them as the result of an encapsulated semantic mechanism (Chierchia, Fox & Spector 2012). We gain traction on adjudicating between these two approaches with new theoretical and experimental evidence, focusing on the behavior of different models for exhaustivity effects, all of which fit under the Rational Speech Act modeling framework (RSA, Frank & Goodman, 2012). Some (but not all!) of these models include an encapsulated semantic mechanism. Theoretically, we demonstrate that many RSA models predict not only exhaustivity, but also anti‐exhaustivity, whereby “Mary came” would convey that Mary and someone else came. We evaluate these models against data obtained in a new study which tested the effects of prior beliefs on both production and comprehension, improving on previous empirical work. We find that the models which have the best fit to human behavior include an encapsulated exhaustivity mechanism. We conclude that, on the one hand, in the division of labor between semantics and pragmatics, semantics plays a larger role than is often thought, but, on the other hand, the tradeoff between informativity and cost which characterizes all RSA models does play a central role for genuine pragmatic effects.
The association between nutrients and occurrence of COVID‐19 outcomes in the population of Western Iran: A cohort study
Authors: Vaisi Dana , Moradpour Farhad , Mohammadi Shadieh , Roshani Daem , Moradi Yousef
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The study aimed to determine the association between nutrients (micronutrients, macronutrients, and antioxidants) and the occurrence of COVID‐19‐related outcomes (morbidity and hospitalization) using a cohort study in Western Iran.

Methods

The basic study information was collected from February 2019 to February 2020 from the baseline phase of the Dehgolan Prospective Cohort Study (DehPCS). The primary outcomes in this study included risk of contracting COVID‐19 and hospitalization due to it at a specific time. To compare these outcomes based on different nutritional groups (macronutrients or micronutrients), Kaplan–Meier chart and log rank test were used. Also, univariate and multivariate regression models were used to investigate the association between different nutritional groups and desired outcomes (risk of contracting COVID‐19 and hospitalization due to it at a certain time).

Results

The results showed that people having an insufficient intake of selenium (HR: 1.180; % 95 CI: 1.032–2.490; P: 0.042), vitamin A (HR: 1.119; % 95 CI: 1.020–1.442; p: 0.033), and vitamin E (HR: 1.544; % 95 CI: 1.136–3.093; p: 0.039) were significantly more infected with COVID‐19 than the ones who had a sufficient intake of these nutrients. Also, the results showed that people having an insufficient intake of selenium (HR: 2.130; % 95 CI: 1.232–3.098; p: 0.018) and vitamin A (HR: 1.200; % 95 CI: 1.000–2.090; p: 0.043) were significantly hospitalized more than the ones who had a sufficient intake of these nutrients.

Conclusion

Insufficient intake of selenium and vitamins A and E can significantly increase the incidence of COVID‐19 and hospitalization due to it.
Erythrocytosis and thrombotic events in kidney transplant recipients prescribed a sodium glucose cotransport‐2 inhibitor
Authors: Gill Maia , Leung Marianna , Luo Cindy Y , Cheung Catherine , Beauchesne Arielle , Chang Doris , Lan James , Johnston Olwyn
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The safety and efficacy of sodium glucose cotransport‐2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in kidney transplant recipients remains uncertain. Transplant recipients may be at risk of thrombosis because of post‐transplant erythrocytosis and SGLT2i are associated with an increase in hematocrit.

Methods

We determined SGLT2i use, the change in hematocrit and incidence of thrombotic events in kidney transplant recipients in 1700 prevalent patients in our center.

Results

Among the 42 patients treated with SGLT2i, the mean pre‐transplant hematocrit was 31%, and none of the patients had a hematocrit ≥50%. The mean percent change in hematocrit measured at an average of 53 days after initiation of an SGLT2i was 11% and four patients (10%) had a hematocrit ≥ 50%. The mean hematocrit measured 3 months after treatment was 42% and two patients (5%) had a hematocrit ≥50%. One patient had a cerebellar stroke 14 months post‐SGLT2i initiation when the hemoglobin was 173 grams/liter, and the hematocrit was 52%.

Conclusions

All patients had a sustained increase in hematocrit 3 months after SGLT2i treatment. Hematocrit ≥50% occurred in 10%, and one patient had a thrombotic event that may or may not have been related to an increase in hematocrit. Clinicians may consider monitoring for erythrocytosis after starting and SGLT2i in kidney transplant recipients.
The evolving landscape of immunotherapy for the treatment of allergic conditions
Authors: Pandya Aarti , Adah Esosa , Jones Bridgette , Chevalier Rachel
Published: May 2023

Allergic conditions, such as asthma, chronic urticaria, atopic dermatitis (AD), and eosinophilic esophagitis, have long been treated with oral and topical steroids which resulted in negative off‐target effects. However, newer biologic medications are increasingly being developed and approved for treatment of these conditions. These medications have a variety of mechanisms of action to target pathophysiology specific to these diseases. As biologics become more targeted, fewer off‐target effects are seen improving tolerability for patients as well as expanded options for treatment of these conditions. This review discusses monoclonal antibody therapies (omalizumab, mepolizumab, reslizumab, benralizumab, dupilumab, tezepelumab, and tralokinumab) including their safety and use in asthma, chronic urticaria, AD, and eosinophilic esophagitis.
People living with HIV who inject or have injected non‐prescription drugs: Evidence of substantial differences in health inequalities and experiences of clinical care
Authors: Norman Thomas , Power Jennifer , Clifton Brent , Murray Joel , Bourne Adam
Published: May 2023

Introduction

This study investigates differences in health and well‐being associated with current, past or no injecting drug use (IDU) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Australia, identifying key health care considerations between injecting experiences.

Methods

Data were extracted from the HIV Futures 9 study; a survey of PLHIV conducted in 2018–2019. Chi‐square and analysis of variance analyses compared clinical and treatment characteristics, major physical and mental comorbidities, sexually transmitted infection diagnoses, and quality of life for those who reported current (last 12 months), past (12+ months ago) or no IDU.

Results

Current IDU (n = 106) was associated with higher rates of sexually transmitted infection testing and diagnoses, higher frequency of self‐reported antiretroviral therapy non‐adherence due to drug use and greater social quality of life than past (n = 126) or no IDU (n = 508; total N = 740). Past and current IDUs were associated with more mental illness diagnoses and self‐reported concern about drug use. Past IDU was associated with more physical comorbidities, lower satisfaction with clinical care and greater difficulty in affording health care than current or no IDU.

Discussion and Conclusions

Past and current IDUs are associated with unique health concerns. However, past IDU appears to be related to greater dissatisfaction in navigating health care than individuals with current IDU experience. Higher social connection and the types of services being accessed by individuals who currently inject may play a role in shaping service satisfaction. Peer‐based interventions to help support individuals in accessing services that are affirming of their needs is an ongoing priority.
Divergent dynamics: disasters and conflicts as ‘drivers’ of internal displacement?
Authors: Cantor David James
Published: May 2023

Disasters and conflicts are both widely recognised as ‘drivers’ of internal displacement. Yet, despite a growing body of research and policy, there has been little consideration to date of how the different features of each ‘context’ shape the micro‐level dynamics of internal displacement. Where and why are these dynamics similar across the two contexts and how do they differ? This paper draws on general concepts from the disaster field to develop a comparative analytical model of internal displacement dynamics in the disaster and conflict contexts. Based on inferences from the patchy extant data across the two contexts, it identifies and explains points of convergence and divergence between internal displacement dynamics in both the disaster and conflict contexts. This ‘contextual’ model of the micro‐level dynamics of internal displacement has implications for academic debates, as well as for policy and practice, in the disaster, conflict, peace, climate change, and forced migration/displacement fields.
The prevalence and changes over time of equine glandular gastric disease in a teaching herd population
Authors: Sharbine Kirsten P. , McConnell Emma J. , Secombe Cristy , Byrne David
Published: May 2023

Background

The natural progression of equine glandular gastric disease (EGGD) in the absence of treatment has not yet been described in the literature, nor has the prevalence in a teaching herd population been reported.

Objectives

The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of disease in a teaching population over the study period (2019–2021) and to observe the changes over time in disease severity of naturally occurring diseases (not experimentally induced) without medical intervention.

Methods

Twenty‐one horses underwent an initial gastroscopy and a repeat gastroscopy between 14 and 731 days later. Gastroscopy data were graded quantitatively and described qualitatively. Prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. The changes over time were determined by comparing initial and repeat gastroscopies.

Results

The prevalence from initial, repeat and total number of gastroscopies was 62% (95% CI: 40.8–79.3), 71% (95% CI: 50.0–86.2) and 67% (95% CI: 51.6–79), respectively. The changes over time included worsening of disease in 29% of horses (95% CI: 13.8–50.0), improvement of disease to a lower grade in 24% (95% CI: 10.6–45.1), no change in grade in 38% (95% CI: 20.8–59.1), and complete resolution of disease to grade 0 in 10% (95% CI: 2.7–28.9).

Main limitations

Limitations included a maximum of two gastroscopies per horse given COVID‐19 restrictions on data collection, and highly varied interval times between initial and repeat gastroscopies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is a high prevalence of disease in this teaching herd. The changes over time in naturally occurring diseases without medical intervention might include worsening, improvement, no change or resolution of disease.
NET‐Works paediatric obesity prevention trial: 66 month outcomes
Authors: French Simone A. , Kunin‐Batson Alicia S. , Sherwood Nancy E. , Berge Jerica M. , Shanley Ryan
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives

The NET‐Works trial (2012–2018) randomized 534 children ages 2–4 years at baseline and their caregivers to either a 3‐year multicomponent obesity prevention intervention or a control group. This research examined treatment effects on body mass index and other outcomes at 66 months.

Methods

Parent–child dyads (n = 338) who agreed to participate in a 66 month measurement visit were measured for child BMI, physical activity, diet, and cardiometabolic risk factor variables.

Results

At 66 months, no significant treatment effects were observed on BMI (Effect = −0.38; 95% CI = −1.13, 0.37). Subgroup results were consistent with the NET‐Works 36 month results. Children with overweight at baseline in the intervention group gained significantly less BMI versus children with overweight in the control group (Effect = −1.28; 95% CI = −2.48, −0.07). Among Hispanic children, those in the intervention gained significantly less BMI than those in the control group (Effect = −1.04; 95% CI = −1.97, −0.11).

Conclusions

Evidence suggests that early intervention with children at highest risk for obesity, using community‐based, multicomponent, multisetting interventions, may be effective in reducing excess weight gain and obesity among certain subgroups of children. The intervention appeared to be effective in slowing BMI gain 66 months after randomization among children who were already overweight at ages 2–4 years and among children of Hispanic ethnicity.
Epistemic justice in international social work research: Postcolonial theory and analytic strategies
Authors: Willey‐Sthapit Claire
Published: May 2023

Scholars have long grappled with the ways in which unequal power relations influence the creation and circulation of international social work knowledge. I outline a robust postcolonial theoretical framework to elucidate complexities of global knowledge and power and extend possibilities for considering such questions of epistemic justice. Drawing on my own research with service providers in Nepal, I suggest three analytic strategies to apply postcolonial insights in international social work research: reflexivity, critical discourse analysis, and postcolonial translation. Postcolonial theory and the strategies provided support social work researchers to comprehend, generate, and disseminate knowledge that can disrupt colonial assumptions.
Breastfeeding, consumption of ultraprocessed foods, and dental caries at 4 years of age: A birth cohort study
Authors: Mathias Fernanda Burkert , Cademartori Mariana Gonzalez , Buffarini Romina , Barros Fernando , Bertoldi Andréa Dâmaso , Demarco Flávio Fernando , Goettems Marília Leão
Published: May 2023

Background

Cohort studies have demonstrated an association between prolonged and/or frequent breastfeeding and early childhood caries (ECC).

Aim

To investigate the association between prolonged breastfeeding and ECC at 48 months, while considering the interaction between prolonged breastfeeding and ultraprocessed foods (UPF).

Design

Data from a birth cohort study conducted in southern Brazil were used (n = 3645). Poisson regression was used to evaluate the influence of breastfeeding and UPF consumption on the prevalence and experience of caries. To measure the interaction on the additive scale between breastfeeding and UPF consumption on the prevalence and experience of ECC, the relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI) was calculated.

Results

Prolonged breastfeeding was associated with higher prevalence (PR = 1.82; CI:1.59–2.08) and experience (RR = 2.47; CI:1.97–3.10) of ECC. Greater prevalence (PR = 1.16; CI: 1.04–1.30) and experience of ECC (RR = 1.22; CI: 1.00–1.48) were found in children who had high consumption of UPFs. Negative RERIs were observed for the prevalence and experience of ECC (−0.25 and −0.001).

Conclusion

High UPF consumption and prolonged breastfeeding were associated with ECC. No interaction, however, was observed, showing that the two exposures have independent effects. To prevent ECC, policies and programs are needed to support breastfeeding until the age of 2 years and to limit the consumption of UPF.
Habitat use of five sympatric predatory reef fishes at a remote island in the south‐western Atlantic
Authors: Anderson Antônio B. , Pinheiro Hudson T. , Francini‐Filho Ronaldo B. , Ferreira Carlos E. L. , Joyeux Jean‐Christophe
Published: May 2023

Density‐dependent mechanisms and habitat use are important drivers of marine spatial distribution in complex ecosystems such as coral or rocky reefs. In the last decade, a few studies have assessed habitat use by reef fishes in nearshore and coastal environments along the Brazilian coast. Serranidae (groupers and sea basses) are regarded as excellent models for understanding habitat use patterns due to their diversity, long lifespan, wide distribution, morphological and functional diversity, and behavioural complexity. Their trophic position in the food web, from meso‐ to top‐predators, grants them critical roles as top‐down population controllers. Herein, we present the first assessment of habitat use by five sympatric Serranidae in a Brazilian oceanic island, Trindade. The model species selected for this assessment were the coney (Cephalopholis fulva), the rock hind (Epinephelus adscensionis), the greater soapfish (Rypticus saponaceus), the Creole‐fish (Paranthias furcifer) and the hybrid between C. fulva and P. furcifer. Our findings revealed that the species showed specific associations with topographic characteristics related to shelter from predation, reproduction and feeding. Habitat use in Trindade was similar to that observed in nearshore coastal environments (where the hybrid is absent). The present work contributes to the knowledge of habitat use and niche partitioning among key species, which is a valuable tool to subsidize effective conservation initiatives such as designing marine protected areas focusing on the behaviour and habitat use of key ecological players.
Long‐term patterns in inland fish kills associated with cold‐shock and winter stress: a regional case study from Texas
Authors: Lopez Steven G. , Aspbury Andrea S. , Fritts Sarah R. , Tidwell Travis , Bonner Timothy H.
Published: May 2023

Colder water temperatures are generally regarded as a stressful period for fishes (i.e., winter stress syndrome), which can be exacerbated by cold‐shock stress associated with major arctic freezes. Although cold‐shock stress and mass mortalities are well documented for coastal marine fishes, few studies report the effects of winter stress or cold‐shock stress on inland fishes. The purposes of this study were to describe patterns in inland fish mortalities associated with winter stress syndrome and with cold‐shock stress in Texas as a regional example of inland fish mortalities associated with colder water temperatures. Using fish mortality reports (1969–2021) recorded by state agency biologists, colder water temperature mortalities occurred in 66% (N = 35) of the years, with greatest percentages of the reports occurring during three major arctic freezes in 1981, 1983 and 2021. The majority of reports were from urbanized counties (79%) and from lentic habitats (56%). Seventeen taxa and 1,021,217 individuals were estimated to be killed during the 53s years. Numbers of inland fish mortalities were greater during major arctic freeze years than non‐major arctic freeze years, attributed primarily to mortalities of non‐native fishes (e.g., blue tilapia Oreochromis aureus, suckermouth catfish Hypostomus plecostomus). Numbers of native fish mortalities, primarily clupeids and catostomids, were not different between major arctic freeze years and non‐major arctic freezes. The 43,000 inland fish mortalities reported during major arctic freeze years are in stark contrast to the 35 million coastal marine fish mortalities. Proposed mechanisms to explain cold‐shock mortalities in coastal waters (e.g., species within the northern extent of their range, lack of access to deeper water) are similar in inland waters, yet inland waters do not have the same level of mortalities. Consequently, the disparities between mortalities in coastal and inland waters are not readily discernable at this time.
Collateral Framework: Liquidity Premia and Multiple Equilibria
Authors: LENGWILER YVAN , ORPHANIDES ATHANASIOS
Published: May 2023

Central banks normally accept debt of their own governments as collateral in liquidity operations without reservations. This gives rise to a valuable liquidity premium that reduces the cost of government finance. The ECB is an interesting exception in this respect. It relies on external assessments of the creditworthiness of its member states, such as credit ratings, to determine eligibility and the haircut it imposes on such debt. We show how such features in a central bank's collateral framework can give rise to cliff effects and multiple equilibria in bond yields and increase the vulnerability of governments to external shocks. This policy can potentially induce sovereign debt crises and defaults that would not otherwise occur. The success of the ECB's temporary suspension of these features of its collateral framework during the pandemic illustrates the practical relevance of this mechanism.
Insulin resistance is associated with cognitive dysfunction in multiple sclerosis patients: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ayromlou Hormoz , Hosseini Samaneh , Khalili Mohammad , Ayromlou Samin , Khamudchiyan Shagayeg , Farajdokht Fereshteh , Hassannezhad Sina , Amiri Moghadam Shirin
Published: May 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive inflammatory neurodegenerative disease of the nervous system accompanied by demyelination. MS‐associated cognitive impairments mainly involve recent memory, information processing speed, stable memory, and executive function. Moreover, MS is associated with impaired glucose and insulin metabolism, which can exacerbate cognitive decline. The present study aimed to compare the cognitive status of MS patients with and without insulin resistance. In this cross‐sectional study, 74 relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis diagnosed patients were enrolled. Indicators of insulin resistance, including fasting blood glucose, insulin level, and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) index, were measured. They were then divided into two groups based on the results of the HOMA‐IR index. Cognition status was evaluated by the minimal assessment of cognitive function in multiple sclerosis battery. The prevalence of insulin resistance was 37.8%, and the prevalence of cognitive decline was estimated to be 67.56%. Mean scores of the California verbal learning test (CVLT), CVLT delayed free recall, controlled oral word association test, and judgment of line orientation tests were significantly lower in MS patients with insulin resistance than without. In addition, a negative correlation was demonstrated between the results of the CVLT, CVLT delayed free recall, controlled oral word association test, judgment of line orientation tests, brief visuospatial memory test, and Delis‐Kaplan executive function system sorting tests and fasting insulin levels. Greater verbal memory and spatial comprehension impairments were observed in MS patients with insulin resistance.
Establishment of clinical evaluation criteria for scalp seborrheic dermatitis
Authors: Zhang Fan , Li Yuanhong , Ren Wei , Li Shurun
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the three symptom indicators of scalp seborrheic dermatitis (SSD), namely scalp flaking, maximum erythema area, and pruritus, to develop a “16‐point scale,” to explore its relationship with the severity of SSD, and verify the reliability of the 16‐point scale.

Method

A dermatologist evaluated patients with SSD using a 16‐point scale, and statistically analyzed the collected data with the help of SPSS 26.0 software. The measurement data are expressed as (mean ± SD), and the intergroup comparison was done using a non‐parametric test. We performed the correlation analysis using the bivariate correlation analysis method, and the relationship among non‐normal distribution data variables were analyzed using Spearman's correlation coefficient. p < 0.05 indicated that the difference was statistically significant.

Results

The total score of the “16‐point scale” strongly correlated with the severity of disease, where scalp flaking had the strongest correlation. As compared with a single score, the correlation of the total score with the severity of disease was higher. The scoring range for mild patients was (0, 5], that for moderate patients was (5, 9], and that for severe patients was (9, 16].

Conclusion

A “16‐point scale”, consisting of items for adherent scalp flaking (0–10), maximum erythema area (0–3), and pruritus (0–3), was used to score the patients with SSD, and the total score was strongly correlated with and differentiated the severity of SSD. Recommended evaluation criteria: a total score of 0–5 points indicates mild SSD, 6–9 points indicates moderate SSD, 10–16 points indicates severe SSD. These criteria can help to standardize disease diagnosis and treatment, and efficacy assessment.
The role of MR diffusion kurtosis and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging in evaluating gliomas
Authors: Genç Barış , Aslan Kerim , Özçağlayan Ali , İncesu Lütfi
Published: May 2023

Background and Purpose

Conventional MRI sequences in neuro‐oncology are insufficient for glioma grading. However, newly developed diffusion‐weighted imaging techniques have been shown to have a great potential for glioma grading. This study examined the diagnostic performance of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI), neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI), and their combinations in glioma grading.

Methods

Multishell diffusion tensor images were obtained with 3T MRI in 38 glioma patients (22 high‐grade glioma [HGG], 16 low‐grade glioma [LGG]). DTI (fractional anisotropy [FA], mean diffusivity [MD], axial diffusivity [AD], radial diffusivity [RD]), DKI (Axial kurtosis [AK], mean kurtosis [MK], radial kurtosis [RK]), and NODDI (intracellular volume fraction [ICVF], orientation distribution index, isotropic water fraction [ISO]) images were obtained after preprocessing. The average value of these parameters was calculated in the solid components of the tumors. The receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were performed to investigate the diagnostic performance and the curves were compared with the Delong test.

Results

FA shows an increase in HGG, while MD, RD, and AD exhibit a decrease. AK, MK, and RK were higher in HGG than LGG. ICVF increased in HGG, while ISO decreased. AK demonstrated the best diagnostic performance among all parameters, and kurtosis outperformed NODDI but not DTI. Combining these parameters did not yield a statistically significant improvement in diagnostic performance.

Conclusion

DTI, DKI, and NODDI approaches can differentiate between HGG and LGG; however, kurtosis parameters perform better and adding NODDI parameters does not improve diagnostic performance. Using multishell b‐value has not led to an increase in diagnostic performance.
How I got here: Career influences on healthcare professionals who work with persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: McCann Hannah P. , Smith Sydnie E. , Urbano Richard C. , Dykens Elisabeth M. , Hodapp Robert M.
Published: May 2023

Although increasing the healthcare workforce serving those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) remains critical, we know little about how current healthcare workers began serving this population. Surveying 153 U.S.‐based healthcare professionals who work with persons with IDD, this study examined the presence, influence, and nature of their disability‐related experiences. The most common and influential experiences involved pre‐ and post‐professional disability training. Less frequent, albeit influential, experiences included being a sibling or having other family members with disabilities and working at disability‐related camps. First encounters with persons with IDD occurred during the child and adolescent (i.e., preprofessional) years for 38% of respondents, with slightly lower percentages occurring earlier (34%, involving family) or later (28%, during pre‐ or post‐professional training). Those with family or child–adolescent first encounters more often also reported disability experiences in subsequent periods. Respondents spoke of the formative effects of hands‐on disability training as well as of family and child–adolescent experiences, although some disability‐related careers also featured an element of chance. Practical and policy implications are discussed.
Business as usual? Donald Trump and US hegemony through the lens of dollar diplomacy in Argentina
Authors: Rowley Jude
Published: May 2023

The Trump presidency was an unwavering source of controversy and attention for four years; it can now be evaluated for its legacy. This article assesses the Trumpian contribution to US foreign policy, turning to the case study of US policy toward Argentina. Situating it in the wider historical context of traditional US “dollar diplomacy,” it argues that, despite warnings from the US foreign policy elite, Trump has not weakened US hegemony in Latin America, but conversely, has acted as an indicator of its strength. We contextualize Trump's influence on US hegemony by suggesting that the occupant of the White House had less of an effect on transforming the broader contours of US foreign policy than the deep‐rooted structural factors shaping it. By viewing US hegemony as a complex adaptive system, able to absorb changes such as the shift from Obama to Trump, it is possible to reconceptualize the way foreign policy is understood and evaluated in both the Latin American and the global context.
Reinforcement learning and artificial agency
Authors: Butlin Patrick
Published: May 2023

There is an apparent connection between reinforcement learning and agency. Artificial entities controlled by reinforcement learning algorithms are standardly referred to as agents, and the mainstream view in the psychology and neuroscience of agency is that humans and other animals are reinforcement learners. This article examines this connection, focusing on artificial reinforcement learning systems and assuming that there are various forms of agency. Artificial reinforcement learning systems satisfy plausible conditions for minimal agency, and those which use models of the environment to perform forward search are capable of a form of agency which may reasonably be called action for reasons.
A multicentre external quality assessment: A first step to standardise PCR protocols for the diagnosis of histoplasmosis and coccidioidomycosis
Authors: Wilmes Dunja , Hagen Ferry , Verissimo Cristina , Alanio Alexandre , Rickerts Volker , Buitrago Maria José
Published: May 2023

Background

In‐house real‐time PCR (qPCR) is increasingly used to diagnose the so‐called endemic mycoses as commercial assays are not widely available.

Objectives

To compare the performance of different molecular diagnostic assays for detecting Histoplasma capsulatum and Coccidioides spp. in five European reference laboratories.

Methods

Two blinded external quality assessment (EQA) panels were sent to each laboratory that performed the analysis with their in‐house assays. Both panels included a range of concentrations of H. capsulatum (n = 7) and Coccidioides spp. (n = 6), negative control and DNA from other fungi. Four laboratories used specific qPCRs, and one laboratory a broad‐range fungal conventional PCR (cPCR) and a specific cPCR for H. capsulatum with subsequent sequencing.

Results

qPCR assays were the most sensitive for the detection of H. capsulatum DNA. The lowest amount of H. capsulatum DNA detected was 1–4 fg, 0.1 pg and 10 pg for qPCRs, specific cPCR and broad‐range cPCR, respectively. False positive results occurred with high concentrations of Blastomyces dermatitidis DNA in two laboratories and with Emergomyces spp. in one laboratory. For the Coccidioides panel, the lowest amount of DNA detected was 1–16 fg by qPCRs and 10 pg with the broad‐range cPCR. One laboratory reported a false positive result by qPCR with high load of Uncinocarpus DNA.

Conclusion

All five laboratories were able to correctly detect H. capsulatum and Coccidioides spp. DNA and qPCRs had a better performance than specific cPCR and broad‐range cPCR. EQAs may help standardise in‐house molecular tests for the so‐called endemic mycoses improving patient management.
Two cases of KRT1 mutation‐associated epidermolytic ichthyosis without typical epidermolytic hyperkeratosis in the neonatal skin lesions
Authors: Kim Taehee , Kim Soo‐Chan , Lee Sang Eun
Published: May 2023

Epidermolytic ichthyosis (EI) is a rare genetic disorder of keratinization caused by mutations in either KRT1 or KRT10. Histopathologically, epidermolytic hyperkeratosis (EHK) is a hallmark of EI. Here, we report two EI cases in which KRT1 mutation was confirmed by molecular study, but without typical EHK present on skin biopsies performed within 1 week of age. Our cases demonstrate that EHK may not be evident in EI if skin biopsy is performed during the neonatal period.