bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of social support on the relationships between internet use and sleep problems in adolescents during COVID‐19 pandemic: a multicentre study
Authors: Orhon Filiz , Ergin Ahmet , Topçu Seda , Çolak Burçin , Almiş Habip , Durmaz Nihal , Aygün Burcu , Boran Perran , Bağ Özlem , Ayçiçek Tuğba , Altun Demet , Başkan Sevgi
Published: December 2022

Background

This study examines the frequency of problematic internet use and sleep problems in adolescents aged 14–18 years during the COVID‐19 pandemic and identifies the impact of factors such as sociodemographic characteristics, internet habits, changes in daily life, and perceived social support on these problems.

Methods

This multicentre study was a questionnaire‐based online survey study. The questionnaire included the Young Internet Addiction Scale, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, as well as questions about demographic information, internet habits, and changes in daily life during pandemic. Several multivariate Backward logistic regression models were run to determine the variables that predicted problematic internet use and poor sleep quality.

Results

It was determined that the frequency of problematic internet use was 15.5%, and the frequency of poor sleep quality was 47.8%. Poor sleep quality was found 2.5 times higher in problematic internet users. The perceived social support was found insufficient in adolescents with problematic internet use and poor sleep quality. Various factors such as the excessive use of internet and social media, low school success, lack of physical activity, lack of rules for internet use at home, and worsening of relationships with parents were found to be predictive factors for these problems.

Conclusions

Problematic internet use during the pandemic is associated with worsening sleep quality in adolescents. It is important to create special interventions for problematic internet use and sleep problems that develop in adolescents as a result of restrictions during the pandemic.
From trained immunity in allergy to trained immunity‐based allergen vaccines
Authors: Martín‐Cruz Leticia , Sevilla‐Ortega Carmen , Angelina Alba , Domínguez‐Andrés Jorge , Netea Mihai G. , Subiza José Luis , Palomares Oscar
Published: December 2022

Innate immune cells experience long lasting metabolic and epigenetic changes after an encounter with specific stimuli. This facilitates enhanced immune responses upon secondary exposition to both the same and unrelated pathogens, a process termed trained immunity. Trained immunity‐based vaccines (TIbV) are vaccines able to induce innate immune memory, thus conferring heterologous protection against a broad range of pathogens. While trained immunity has been well documented in the context of infections and multiple immune‐mediated diseases, the role of innate immune memory and its contribution to the initiation and maintenance of chronic allergic diseases remains poorly understood. Over the last years, different studies attempting to uncover the role of trained immunity in allergy have emerged. Exposition to environmental factors impacting allergy development such as allergens or viruses induces the reprogramming of innate immune cells to acquire a more pro‐inflammatory phenotype in the context of asthma or food allergy. Several studies have convincingly demonstrated that prevention of viral infections using TIbV contributes to reduce wheezing attacks in children, which represent a high‐risk factor for asthma development later in life. Innate immune cells trained with specific stimuli might also acquire anti‐inflammatory features and promote tolerance, which may have important implications for chronic inflammatory diseases such as allergies. Recent findings showed that allergoid‐mannan conjugates, which are next generation vaccines for allergen‐specific immunotherapy (AIT), are able to reprogram monocytes into tolerogenic dendritic cells by mechanisms depending on metabolic and epigenetic rewiring. A better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of trained immunity in allergy will pave the way for the design of novel trained immunity‐based allergen vaccines as potential alternative strategies for the prevention and treatment of allergic diseases.
Genotype‐phenotype association in congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21‐hydroxylase deficiency in children
Authors: Ermakhanova Tamara , Bazarbekova Rimma , Svyatova Gulnara , Dossanova Ainur
Published: December 2022

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical manifestation of various forms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) in children of the Republic of Kazakhstan, depending on their genotype.

Design

The study analysed 50 patients diagnosed with CAH from 7 regions of Kazakhstan with different ethnic origins: 35 Kazakhs (70.0%), 8 Russians (16.0%), 2 Turks (4.0%), 2 Ukrainians (4.0%), 2 Uzbeks (4%), 1 Uighur (2%). All the children studied were from 0 to 18 years old, and their average age was 5.7 years ±3.9. In addition, all children were divided into groups depending on the form of the disease according to the phenotypic manifestation of the disease: salt‐wasting (SW) and simple virile (SV) forms. Most of the patients suffered from SW − 32 (64.0%), and a smaller group had SV − 18 (36.0%), also one boy with SW was diagnosed with TART syndrome.

Measurements

50 Kazakh children with the classical form of CAH were analysed. Depending on the severity of the mutations, patients were divided into 4 groups: zero groups (the most severe mutations), A, B, and C.

Results

According to the results of the study, the salt‐wasting form of CAH turned out to be more common than the simple virile form. A high correlation was observed in groups with mutations of high and moderate severity − 0 and A, while group C showed a strong variability of the phenotype. Thus, the correspondence between genotype and phenotype decreased along with the decrease in the severity of the disease.

Conclusions

The relationship between the genotype and the phenotype of both forms of CAH exists indirectly, through the activity of the 21‐hydroxylase enzyme. Mutations in the CYP21A2 gene affect the level of the synthesized enzyme, which, in turn, determines the degree of hormone production in the blood.
Education and the social mobility conundrum: An examination of the ‘psychosocial and academic trust alienation theory’ in the context of disadvantaged students in the UK secondary education sector
Authors: Jones Caroline Sarah
Published: December 2022

The purpose of this investigation was to identify original insights into the educational social mobility conundrum in the UK via examination of the current body of empirical and existing literature associated with disadvantaged secondary school students. The lens of the ‘psychosocial and academic trust alienation theory’ (PATA) has been applied to explore themes of educational social mobility disadvantage, disengagement and alienation and trauma and trust. This systematic literature review followed PRISMA guidelines, with the SPIDER model adopted to demonstrate the search strategy employed which identified N = 58 publications for inclusion. The contribution of this research to the field of children, young people and society is three‐fold: Firstly, findings provide evidence of the additional educational psychological theory. Secondly, secondary education is identified as a pivotal milestone, where efforts to drive change for educational progress contributing to social mobility progress for disadvantaged students could be focused. Thirdly, the synthesis of current research and literature, identified that there is currently no existing literature related to the PATA theory positioned within the disadvantaged secondary school student context aligned to educational social mobility. This analysis shows that the issues experienced in the education system by disadvantaged students in secondary education correlate with the layered elements of the PATA theory, providing justification for further empirical research. Additionally, the insights reported here could be of interest to the children and young people sector, educational psychology community, educational policy‐makers and international groups who share similar social policy, social mobility demographics and educational systems.
Investigation and feed‐forward neural network‐based estimation of dyeing properties of air plasma treated wool fabric dyed with natural dye obtained from Hibiscus sabdariffa
Authors: Omerogullari Basyigit Zeynep , Eyupoglu Can , Eyupoglu Seyda , Merdan Nigar
Published: December 2022

In the colouring processes of textile products, more environmentally friendly chemicals and finishing methods should be used instead of conventional ones that harm the environment every day, so that alternative realistic ways to protect nature, both academically and industrially, could be possible. Due to some inconveniences caused by synthetic dyes that are widely used today, in this study, ultrasonic dyeing of wool fabric with Hibiscus sabdariffa was carried out after environmental‐friendly air vacuum plasma application which increased the absorption of the dyes into the textile material. According to the performance results, colour strengths of the wool fabrics were increased significantly. Surface morphology analysis was carried out and etching effects of air vacuum plasma treatment were clearly seen on the micrographs of the treated wool fabrics. An environmental‐friendly green process was achieved through this study and it was concluded that vacuum air plasma treatment could be an alternative green‐process as a pretreatment to increase the dye up‐take of natural dyeing treatment. Moreover, in this study, a feed‐forward neural network (FFNN) model was presented and used for predicting the dyeing properties (L, a, b and K/S) of samples. The experimental results showed that the presented model achieves the regression values greater than 0.9 for all dyeing properties. Consequently, it was considered that the proposed FFNN was successfully modelled and could be efficiently utilised for dyeing characteristics of wool fabrics dyed with natural dye extracted from Hibiscus sabdariffa.
Aspirin reverses inflammatory suppression of chondrogenesis by stabilizing YAP
Authors: Wang Xudong , Liao Hongyi , Liu Yong , Kang Yunze , Tu Qingqiang , Li Zhiwen , Kang Yan , Sheng Puyi , Zhang Ziji
Published: December 2022

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) transplantation methods are promising candidates for osteoarthritis (OA) treatment. However, inflammatory factors (such as TNF‐α) that occur at cell transplantation sites are critical factors that impair the effectiveness of the treatment. Previous studies have shown that aspirin (AS) had a regulatory role in stem cell differentiation. However, little is known about the role of AS on the chondrogenesis of BMMSCs. The purpose of this study is to explore the protective role of AS against the negative effects of TNF‐α on BMMSC chondrogenesis. In this study, we investigated the effects of AS and TNF‐α on BMMSCs chondrogenesis by performing the Alcian Blue staining, safranin O‐fast green staining, haematoxylin and eosin staining, and immunohistochemical staining, as well as real‐time RT‐PCR and western blot assays. Our results demonstrated that TNF‐α inhibited chondrogenic differentiation of BMMSCs by disrupting the balance of cartilage metabolism and promoting oxidative stress in BMMSCs, while AS treatment attenuated these effects. Furthermore, a detailed molecular mechanistic analysis indicated that Yes‐associated protein (YAP) played a critical regulatory role in this process. In addition, AS treatment mitigated the progression of cartilage degeneration in a mouse destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) model. AS alleviated the inhibitory effect of TNF‐α on chondrogenesis of BMMSCs by stabilizing YAP, which may provide new therapeutic strategies for OA treatment.
Impact of 2016 UNOS pediatric heart allocation policy changes on VAD utilization, waitlist, and post‐transplant survival outcomes in children with CHD versus Non‐CHD
Authors: Das Bibhuti B. , Blackshear Chad T. , Lirette Seth T. , Slaughter Mark S. , Ghaleb Stephanie , Moskowitz William , Ghanamah Mohammad , Burch Phillip T.
Published: December 2022

Aims

We analyzed the impact of the revised pediatric heart allocation policy on types of ventricular assist device (VAD) utilization, and waitlist (WL) and post‐heart transplant (HT) survival outcomes in congenital heart disease (CHD) versus non‐CHD patients before (Era‐1) and after (Era‐2) pediatric heart allocation policy implementation.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the UNOS database from December 16, 2011, through March 31, 2021, for patients < 18 years old and listed for primary HT. We compared the differences observed between Era‐1 and Era‐2.

Results

5551 patients were listed for HT, of whom 2447(44%) were in Era‐1 and 3104(56%) were in Era‐2. CHD patients were listed as status 1A unchanged, but the number of patients listed as status 1B decreased in Era‐2, whereas the number of non‐CHD patients listed as status 1A decreased, but status 1B increased. In Era‐2 compared to Era‐1, both temporary (1% to 4%, p < .001) and durable VAD (13.6% to 17.8%, p < .001) utilization increased, and the transplantation rate per 100‐patient years increased in both groups. The median WL period for CHD patients increased marginally from 70 to 71 days (p = .06), whereas for non‐CHD patients it decreased from 61 to 54 days (p < .001). Adjusted 90‐day WL survival increased from 84% to 88%, p = .016 in CHD, but there was no significant change in non‐CHD patients (p = .57). There was no significant difference in 1‐year post‐HT survival in CHD and non‐CHD patients between Era‐1 and Era‐2.

Conclusions

In summary, after the revised heart allocation policy implementation, temporary and durable VAD support increased, HT rate increased, waitlist duration marginally increased in the CHD cohort and decreased in the non‐CHD cohort, and 90‐day WL survival probability improved in children with CHD without significant change in 1‐year post‐HT outcomes. Future studies are needed to identify changes to the policy that may further improve the listing criteria to improve WL duration and post‐HT survival.
Restriction of interleukin‐6 alters endothelial cell immunogenicity in an allogenic environment
Authors: Lion Julien , Maitre Mathilde Le , de Truchis Camille , Taupin Jean‐Luc , Poussin Karine , Haziot Alain , Chong Edward , Glotz Denis , Mooney Nuala
Published: December 2022

The microvascular endothelium of the renal transplant is the first site of graft interaction with the host immune system and is often injured in chronic Antibody Mediated Rejection (AMR). Microvascular inflammation is an independent determinant of AMR and heightens endothelial expression of HLA molecules thereby increasing the possibility of Donor Specific Antibody (DSA) binding. Endothelial cells produce IL‐6 in the steady‐state and this is increased by inflammation or by HLA‐DR antibody binding in an allogeneic setting. Because IL‐6 has been implicated in AMR, IL‐6 blockade is currently under investigation as a therapeutic target. To further understand the role of IL‐6 in endothelial cell immunogenicity, we have examined whether humanized antibody blockade of IL‐6 altered endothelial cell interactions with allogeneic PBMC and after anti‐HLA or DSA binding to endothelial cells in an in vitro human experimental model. Soluble factors, endothelial phenotype, Stat‐3 activation, CD4+‐T differentiation, and C4d deposition were examined. Blockade of IL‐6 reduced endothelial cell secretion of IL‐6 and of the monocyte chemoattractant MCP‐1. Pre‐activation of endothelial cells by anti‐HLA or DSA binding increased IL‐6 secretion, that was further increased by concurrent binding of both antibodies and this was inhibited by IL‐6 blockade. Activation of Stat‐3 in CD4+‐T mediated by soluble factors produced in endothelial‐PBMC interactions, and endothelial differentiation of CD4+‐T cell subsets (Th1, Th17, Treg), were impaired whereas activation of Complement by anti‐HLA antibody binding remained unchanged by IL‐6 blockade. Together, these data identify EC‐mediated pro‐inflammatory responses (T cell expansion, EC auto‐activation, chemokine secretion) targeted by IL‐6 blockade.
Overlooked or Unimportant? An Overview of the Coprolite Collections at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Zipfel Bernhard , Montgomery Chandele , Neumann Frank H. , Scott Louis , Choiniere Jonah , Hancox John P.
Published: December 2022

Fossilized feces, termed coprolites, provide unique information on digestive systems, diets, and ecosystems of extinct animals, and are potentially useful for palynology, biostratigraphy and preservation of animal and plant remains. Despite this broad utility, scientific enquiry into coprolites has been relatively sparse. We carried out a systematic investigation into 23 significant South African fossil collections of the Evolutionary Studies Institute (ESI), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, in search of coprolites. This study spanned a temporal range from the Permian to the recent Cenozoic returning approximately 790 known coprolites in the collections. Of these, only four assemblages have appeared in six coprolite‐specific publications. Others have been mentioned to some extent in publications focused on fauna, palynology or simply mentioned that coprolites were present. Clearly, the coprolite collections at the ESI are understudied and require attention with the intention of stimulating a greater interest in this field.
Comparison of a novel aluminum lactate‐based with an aluminum chloride‐based antiperspirant in excessive axillary and inguinal perspiration: first randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lütgerath Constantin , Weiß Christel , Faulhaber Jörg , Karsai Syrus
Published: December 2022

Background

Topical aluminum salts are a commonly used remedy for excessive axillary perspiration. To the contrary, less is known about their anhidrotic potential in the groin. This study sought to compare the anhidrotic efficacy and tolerability of an aluminum chloride‐based antiperspirant to an innovative aluminum lactate‐based antiperspirant in healthy study participants presenting with excessive axillary and inguinal perspiration.

Participants and Methods

Fifty participants were enrolled in this open open‐labeled, randomized, controlled trial. Following a baseline assessment, efficacy was analyzed at two time points throughout the study period by means of four physiological parameters (pH value, transepidermal water loss, gravimetric analysis, Minor test) and two questionnaires (Dermatology Life Quality Index, Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale). Tolerability was evaluated via symptom diaries.

Results

Both study preparations were comparably effective in reducing axillary and inguinal perspiration and exhibited increasing effectiveness over time. In both treatment regions, the aluminum lactate‐based antiperspirant had a more favorable tolerability profile than the aluminum chloride‐based antiperspirant.

Conclusions

Due to its comparable efficacy and – most noticeably in the groin – superior tolerability, this study supports the use of topical aluminum lactate as a first‐line option to control excessive axillary and inguinal perspiration.
The role of the microbiota–gut–brain axis in long‐term neurodegenerative processes following traumatic brain injury
Authors: Chiu Li Shan , Anderton Ryan S.
Published: December 2022

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be a devastating and debilitating disease to endure. Due to improvements in clinical practice, declining mortality rates have led to research into the long‐term consequences of TBI. For example, the incidence and severity of TBI have been associated with an increased susceptibility of developing neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease. However, the mechanisms linking this alarming association are yet to be fully understood. Recently, there has been a groundswell of evidence implicating the microbiota–gut–brain axis in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Interestingly, survivors of TBI often report gastrointestinal complaints and animal studies have demonstrated gastrointestinal dysfunction and dysbiosis following injury. Autonomic dysregulation and chronic inflammation appear to be the main driver of these pathologies. Consequently, this review will explore the potential role of the microbiota–gut–brain axis in the development of neurodegenerative diseases following TBI.
Heterozygous GABAA receptor β3 subunit N110D knock‐in mice have epileptic spasms
Authors: Qu Shimian , Jackson Laurel G. , Zhou Chengwen , Shen DingDing , Shen Wangzhen , Nwosu Gerald , Howe Rachel , Catron Mackenzie A. , Flamm Carson , Biven Marshall , Kang Jing‐Qiong , Macdonald Robert L.
Published: December 2022

Objective

Infantile spasms is an epileptic encephalopathy of childhood, and its pathophysiology is largely unknown. We generated a heterozygous knock‐in mouse with the human infantile spasms‐associated de novo mutation GABRB3 (c.A328G, p.N110D) to investigate its molecular mechanisms and to establish the Gabrb3+/N110D knock‐in mouse as a model of infantile spasms syndrome.

Methods

We used electroencephalography (EEG) and video monitoring to characterize seizure types, and a suite of behavioral tests to identify neurological and behavioral impairment in Gabrb3+/N110D knock‐in mice. Miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs) were recorded from layer V/VI pyramidal neurons in somatosensory cortex, and extracellular multi‐unit recordings from the ventral basal nucleus of the thalamus in a horizontal thalamocortical slice were used to assess spontaneous thalamocortical oscillations.

Results

The infantile spasms–associated human de novo mutation GABRB3 (c.A328G, p.N110D) caused epileptic spasms early in development and multiple seizure types in adult Gabrb3+/N110D knock‐in mice. Signs of neurological impairment, anxiety, hyperactivity, social impairment, and deficits in spatial learning and memory were also observed. Gabrb3+/N110D mice had reduced cortical mIPSCs and increased duration of spontaneous oscillatory firing in the somatosensory thalamocortical circuit.

Significance

The Gabrb3+/N110D knock‐in mouse has epileptic spasms, seizures, and other neurological impairments that are consistent with infantile spasms syndrome in patients. Multiple seizure types and abnormal behaviors indicative of neurological impairment both early and late in development suggest that Gabrb3+/N110D mice can be used to study the pathophysiology of infantile spasms. Reduced cortical inhibition and increased duration of thalamocortical oscillatory firing suggest perturbations in thalamocortical circuits.
Towards evolutionary predictions: Current promises and challenges
Authors: Wortel Meike T. , Agashe Deepa , Bailey Susan F. , Bank Claudia , Bisschop Karen , Blankers Thomas , Cairns Johannes , Colizzi Enrico Sandro , Cusseddu Davide , Desai Michael M. , van Dijk Bram , Egas Martijn , Ellers Jacintha , Groot Astrid T. , Heckel David G. , Johnson Marcelle L. , Kraaijeveld Ken , Krug Joachim , Laan Liedewij , Lässig Michael , Lind Peter A. , Meijer Jeroen , Noble Luke M. , Okasha Samir , Rainey Paul B. , Rozen Daniel E. , Shitut Shraddha , Tans Sander J. , Tenaillon Olivier , Teotónio Henrique , de Visser J. Arjan G. M. , Visser Marcel E. , Vroomans Renske M. A. , Werner Gijsbert D. A. , Wertheim Bregje , Pennings Pleuni S.
Published: December 2022

Evolution has traditionally been a historical and descriptive science, and predicting future evolutionary processes has long been considered impossible. However, evolutionary predictions are increasingly being developed and used in medicine, agriculture, biotechnology and conservation biology. Evolutionary predictions may be used for different purposes, such as to prepare for the future, to try and change the course of evolution or to determine how well we understand evolutionary processes. Similarly, the exact aspect of the evolved population that we want to predict may also differ. For example, we could try to predict which genotype will dominate, the fitness of the population or the extinction probability of a population. In addition, there are many uses of evolutionary predictions that may not always be recognized as such. The main goal of this review is to increase awareness of methods and data in different research fields by showing the breadth of situations in which evolutionary predictions are made. We describe how diverse evolutionary predictions share a common structure described by the predictive scope, time scale and precision. Then, by using examples ranging from SARS‐CoV2 and influenza to CRISPR‐based gene drives and sustainable product formation in biotechnology, we discuss the methods for predicting evolution, the factors that affect predictability and how predictions can be used to prevent evolution in undesirable directions or to promote beneficial evolution (i.e. evolutionary control). We hope that this review will stimulate collaboration between fields by establishing a common language for evolutionary predictions.
Comparison of bacterial suppression by phage cocktails, dual‐receptor generalists, and coevolutionarily trained phages
Authors: Borin Joshua M. , Lee Justin J. , Gerbino Krista R. , Meyer Justin R.
Published: December 2022

The evolution and spread of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria have renewed interest in phage therapy, the use of bacterial viruses (phages) to combat bacterial infections. The delivery of phages in cocktails where constituent phages target different modalities (e.g., receptors) may improve treatment outcomes by making it more difficult for bacteria to evolve resistance. However, the multipartite nature of cocktails may lead to unintended evolutionary and ecological outcomes. Here, we compare a 2‐phage cocktail with a largely unconsidered group of phages: generalists that can infect through multiple, independent receptors. We find that λ phage generalists and cocktails that target the same receptors (LamB and OmpF) suppress Escherichia coli similarly for ~2 days. Yet, a “trained” generalist phage, which previously adapted to its host via 28 days of coevolution, demonstrated superior suppression. To understand why the trained generalist was more effective, we measured the resistance of bacteria against each of our phages. We find that, when bacteria were assailed by two phages in the cocktail, they evolved mutations in manXYZ, a host inner‐membrane transporter that λ uses to move its DNA across the periplasmic space and into the cell for infection. This provided cross‐resistance against the cocktail and untrained generalist. However, these mutations were ineffective at blocking the trained generalist because, through coevolutionary training, it evolved to bypass manXYZ resistance. The trained generalist's past experiences in training make it exceedingly difficult for bacteria to evolve resistance, further demonstrating the utility of coevolutionary phage training for improving the therapeutic properties of phages.
Heat treatment effects on fracture resistance of additively manufactured PLA specimens under mode I loading
Authors: Ayatollahi Majid R. , Rezaeian Parham , Nabavi‐Kivi Amir , Khosravani Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2022

The current paper deals with the influence of heat treatment on the tensile, flexural, and fracture strength of polylactic acid (PLA) specimens made by the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique. Three different temperatures of 80°C, 100°C, and 120°C were used to anneal the dog bone and enlarged compact tension (ECT) specimens to examine the mechanical and fracture performance of the FDM‐PLA parts, respectively. The fracture behavior was assessed using the equivalent material concept (EMC) combined with the J‐integral, average strain energy density (ASED), and maximum tangential stress (MTS) criteria, and the theoretical estimates were compared with the experimental results. Finally, the effectiveness of these criteria was discussed comprehensively, and the failure mechanisms in the broken tensile and flexural specimens were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Overall, applying heat treatment to the FDM specimens could improve their structural integrity by around 57% from the fracture resistance point of view.
Consistent centennial‐scale change in European sub‐Arctic peatland vegetation toward Sphagnum dominance—Implications for carbon sink capacity
Authors: Piilo Sanna R. , Väliranta Minna M. , Amesbury Matt J. , Aquino‐López Marco A. , Charman Dan J. , Gallego‐Sala Angela , Garneau Michelle , Koroleva Natalia , Kärppä Mai , Laine Anna M. , Sannel A. Britta K. , Tuittila Eeva‐Stiina , Zhang Hui
Published: December 2022

Climate warming is leading to permafrost thaw in northern peatlands, and current predictions suggest that thawing will drive greater surface wetness and an increase in methane emissions. Hydrology largely drives peatland vegetation composition, which is a key element in peatland functioning and thus in carbon dynamics. These processes are expected to change. Peatland carbon accumulation is determined by the balance between plant production and peat decomposition. But both processes are expected to accelerate in northern peatlands due to warming, leading to uncertainty in future peatland carbon budgets. Here, we compile a dataset of vegetation changes and apparent carbon accumulation data reconstructed from 33 peat cores collected from 16 sub‐arctic peatlands in Fennoscandia and European Russia. The data cover the past two millennia that has undergone prominent changes in climate and a notable increase in annual temperatures toward present times. We show a pattern where European sub‐Arctic peatland microhabitats have undergone a habitat change where currently drier habitats dominated by Sphagnum mosses replaced wetter sedge‐dominated vegetation and these new habitats have remained relatively stable over the recent decades. Our results suggest an alternative future pathway where sub‐arctic peatlands may at least partly sustain dry vegetation and enhance the carbon sink capacity of northern peatlands.
Clinical significance of geriatric conditions in acute hospitalization
Authors: Umegaki Hiroyuki , Nagae Masaaki , Komiya Hitoshi , Watanabe Kazuhisa , Yamada Yosuke , Sakai Tomomichi , Tajima Tomihiko
Published: December 2022

Background

Geriatric conditions (GCs) are common in the elderly population, but their clinical significance in acute care is not well understood. In this study, we first investigated the cross‐sectional associations of GCs with frailty and polypharmacy at the time of admission to an acute care geriatric ward. Then, to clarify the clinical significance of GCs in acute care, we prospectively examined the association of GCs with the incidence of hospital‐acquired complications and consequences after discharge.

Methods

Participants were 184 patients (40.2% men: mean age 85.0 ± 6.0 years) hospitalized in an acute care geriatric ward at a university hospital. We examined the cross‐sectional associations of GCs with frailty and polypharmacy by multiple regression analysis, and then the associations of GCs with the incidence of hospital‐acquired complications, falls and death within 3 months of discharge by multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results

GCs were associated with frailty and use of polypharmacy, independent of multiple morbidity. GCs were also associated with readmission within 3 months of discharge; however, there was no significant association with the incidence of hospital‐acquired complications, falls, or mortality after discharge.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that GCs are clinically significant in the hospitalized elderly and further research on GCs is warranted. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 50–53.
Automated image analysis of keratin 7 staining can predict disease outcome in primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Sjöblom Nelli , Boyd Sonja , Manninen Anniina , Blom Sami , Knuuttila Anna , Färkkilä Martti , Arola Johanna
Published: December 2022

Background and Aims

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease that obstructs the bile ducts and causes liver cirrhosis and cholangiocarcinoma. Efficient surrogate markers are required to measure disease progression. The cytokeratin 7 (K7) load in a liver specimen is an independent prognostic indicator that can be measured from digitalized slides using artificial intelligence (AI)‐based models.

Methods

A K7‐AI model 2.0 was built to measure the hepatocellular K7 load area of the parenchyma, portal tracts, and biliary epithelium. K7‐stained PSC liver biopsy specimens (n = 295) were analyzed. A compound endpoint (liver transplantation, liver‐related death, and cholangiocarcinoma) was applied in Kaplan–Meier survival analysis to measure AUC values and positive likelihood ratios for each histological variable detected by the model.

Results

The K7‐AI model 2.0 was a better prognostic tool than plasma alkaline phosphatase, the fibrosis stage evaluated by Nakanuma classification, or K7 score evaluated by a pathologist based on the AUC values of measured variables. A combination of parameters, such as portal tract volume and area of K7‐positive hepatocytes analyzed by the model, produced an AUC of 0.81 for predicting the compound endpoint. Portal tract volume measured by the model correlated with the histological fibrosis stage.

Conclusions

The K7 staining of histological liver specimens in PSC provides significant information on disease outcomes through objective and reproducible data, including variables that cannot be measured by a human pathologist. The K7‐AI model 2.0 could serve as a prognostic tool for clinical endpoints and as a surrogate marker in drug trials.
Brodalumab: Efficacy, safety, and survival in mid‐term (52 weeks) on real clinical practice in Andalucia, Spain
Authors: Galan‐Gutierrez Manuel , Font‐Ugalde Pilar , Padilla Laura , Hernandez‐Montoya Carlos , Godoy Daniel , Armario‐Hita Jose C. , Ruiz‐Villaverde Ricardo
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Brodalumab is a recombinant monoclonal antibody (IgG2) that binds with high affinity to the human interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) receptor A and blocks the biological activity of the proinflammatory cytokines IL‐17A, IL‐17F, IL‐17A/F heterodimer, and IL‐ 25, resulting in inhibition of inflammation and clinical symptoms associated with psoriasis. Its introduction has managed to increase the levels of efficacy, safety (improving that previously presented by the anti‐IL‐17 class), and survival.

Material and methods

Retrospective analysis of a multicenter, observational study of real clinical practice including patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in treatment with brodalumab. This cross‐sectional analysis includes information of patients between February 2019 and February 2022. A total of five tertiary hospitals in Andalusia (Spain) participated in this study. Analyses were performed “as observed” using GraphPad Prism version 8.3.0 for Windows.

Results

Our study included 85 patients, 54 men (63.5%) and 31 women (36.5%), with moderate–severe psoriasis treated with brodalumab. In order to evaluate the efficacy of brodalumab, our patients started with mean Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) values of 12.8 and body surface area (BSA) of 16.9, as well as a Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) of 15.6, highlighting that they reported that the mean baseline visual analog scale (VAS) pruritus was 6.15. On week 52, mean PASI reached 1.26 and mean BSA 2.3, showing a clear stabilization and even sustained improvement regarding results on week 12. Concerning the brodalumab survival, we obtained 85.8% persistence at week 52.

Discussion

Brodalumab showed excellent results in the control of psoriasis in the mid‐term with an elevated number of patients maintaining treatment after 52 weeks. There were no statistically significant differences in the efficiency, safety, or survival results of brodalumab between patients coming from previous therapies.
The activity of β‐mannanase in the commercial enzyme Pectinex Ultra SP‐L and its use for the production of mannooligosaccharides from copra meal
Authors: Chimpanao Iththichai , Pruksasri Suwattana
Published: December 2022

The β‐mannanase present in the commercial enzyme Pectinex Ultra SP‐L was characterised and tested for its ability to hydrolyse copra meal for the production of mannooligosaccharides (MOS). The optimum pH and temperature for the mannanase activity were 4.0 and 65 °C, respectively. The relative activity of the β‐mannanase of the commercial preparation Pectinex Ultra SP‐L on copra meal was 49% when compared to the complete hydrolysis of locust bean gum, indicating its potential to hydrolyse the agricultural waste. The maximum MOS concentration of 25 g L−1 was obtained from the hydrolysis of 300 g L−1 copra meal with Pectinex Ultra SP‐L at 55 °C for 2 h. The hydrolysate consisted of ~45% oligosaccharides and the rest were monosaccharides. Mannobiose and mannotriose were the only oligosaccharides present in the mixture, with mannobiose accounting for 90%. A simple and efficient method to obtain oligosaccharides from copra meal using a commercial pectinolytic enzyme is presented.
Lupus anticoagulants as a prospective independent predictor in COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Kim Hyunji , Chu Daehyun , Kim Miyoung , Cho Young‐uk , Park Chan‐jeoung , Bae Seongman , Kim Min Jae , Chong Yong Pil , Jang Seongsoo , Kim Sung‐Han
Published: December 2022

Objective

Lupus anticoagulant (LA) are commonly detected during SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. However, the relationship between LA and clinical significance is still unclear.

Methods

A retrospective chart analysis was performed on COVID‐19 patients who were tested for LA at our hospital from March 2020 to November 2021. We analyzed the patient's characteristics based on the result of the LA test. In addition, subgroup analysis performed the LA‐positive group who had undergone serial LA tests.

Results

A total of 219 COVID‐19 patients were enrolled in the study, 148 patients (67.6%) were positive for LA test. The LA‐positive group received more treatment of high flow nasal cannula (LA‐positive 73.0%, LA‐negative 57.7%, p = 0.024). The LA‐positive group showed prolonged aPTT, higher levels of CRP and fibrinogen (all p's < 0.05). Among 148 LA‐positive patients, 127 patients (86.5%) were found to be LA‐positive within 10 days of SARS‐CoV‐2 positive, and LA‐positive group confirmed a median time to LA loss of 10 days. However, there was a group that was negative for LA in the early stages of infection and became positive about 13 days later. A subgroup analysis showed that these patients had different characteristics due to their longer hospital stays and higher D‐dimer levels.

Conclusions

In COVID‐19 patients, LA is expected to be associated to disease severity. Since the clinical significance of LA is different depending on the onset time of LA positivity, the LA test is suggested to be done at diagnosis of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, even if LA is negative, follow‐up test should be considered within 10 days.
Burden and seasonality of primary and secondary symptomatic common cold coronavirus infections in Nicaraguan children
Authors: Frutos Aaron M. , Balmaseda Angel , Vydiswaran Nivea , Patel Mayuri , Ojeda Sergio , Brouwer Andrew , Tutino Rebecca , Cai Shuwei , Bakker Kevin , Sanchez Nery , Lopez Roger , Kuan Guillermina , Gordon Aubree
Published: December 2022

Background

The current SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic highlights the need for an increased understanding of coronavirus epidemiology. In a pediatric cohort in Nicaragua, we evaluate the seasonality and burden of common cold coronavirus (ccCoV) infection and evaluate likelihood of symptoms in reinfections.

Methods

Children presenting with symptoms of respiratory illness were tested for each of the four ccCoVs (NL63, 229E, OC43, and HKU1). Annual blood samples collected before ccCoV infection were tested for antibodies against each ccCoV. Seasonality was evaluated using wavelet and generalized additive model (GAM) analyses, and age–period effects were investigated using a Poisson model. We also evaluate the risk of symptom presentation between primary and secondary infections.

Results

In our cohort of 2576 children from 2011 to 2016, we observed 595 ccCoV infections and 107 cases of ccCoV‐associated lower respiratory infection (LRI). The overall incidence rate was 61.1 per 1000 person years (95% confidence interval (CI): 56.3, 66.2). Children under two had the highest incidence of ccCoV infections and associated LRI. ccCoV incidence rapidly decreases until about age 6. Each ccCoV circulated throughout the year and demonstrated annual periodicity. Peaks of NL63 typically occurred 3 months before 229E peaks and 6 months after OC43 peaks. Approximately 69% of symptomatic ccCoV infections were secondary infections. There was slightly lower risk (rate ratio (RR): 0.90, 95% CI: 0.83, 0.97) of LRI between secondary and primary ccCoV infections among participants under the age of 5.

Conclusions

ccCoV spreads annually among children with the greatest burden among ages 0–1. Reinfection is common; prior infection is associated with slight protection against LRI among the youngest children.
Specialty specific quality measures needed to improve outcomes in wound care
Authors: Tettelbach William , Forsyth Allyn
Published: December 2022

Despite the health care community's best efforts, 20% of diabetic patients who develop a diabetic foot ulcer will require some form of amputation. Those undergoing a major lower extremity amputation risk an increase in their five‐year mortality rate to 56.6%, which is comparable to or higher than many forms of cancer. Given this perspective, quality measures need to be considered at each patient inflection point to drive increased compliance with best practices in order to redirect patients whose therapies fail. Medicare limited datasets (October 2015 through October 2019) retrospectively analyzed patients with diabetes receiving care for chronic lower extremity diabetic ulcers (LEDUs). The analysis demonstrated that only 21% of Medicare patients with hard‐to‐heal LEDUs received sharp debridement at intervals of every 7 days and less, while only 40% received sharp debridement at intervals of every 8 to 14 days. This is despite landmark prospective randomized controlled trials showing the benefits of frequent sharp debridement to patients with LEDUs. According to the Medicare data, when patients received debridement at intervals of 7 days or less with concurrently applied skin substitutes, observed amputation rates dropped by 65% to the lowest levels identified among Medicare LEDU episodes (2.1%). Optimal use of debridement and adjunctive use of skin substitutes significantly improves outcomes and lowers the use of healthcare resources. Another unexpected finding highlighted in the Medicare data analysis was that wound care providers have not been applying skin substitutes early enough. Clinical guidelines related to LEDUs have long relied on the seminal Sheehan marker study, which identified that diabetic ulcers that have not progressed to at least 53% healing after four weeks of conservative care have only a 9% chance of proceeding to closure by 12 weeks. It is therefore vital that patients move to advanced therapies within 30 to 45 days after initiation of failed conservative care; however, the Medicare claims data shows this is not happening regularly enough (average time to first skin substitute application >69 days) to benefit both the patient and the healthcare system. There is a demonstrable need for quality measures that encourage (1) frequent and adequate debridement throughout wound treatment, (2) earlier adoption of advanced treatments, such as skin substitutes, for LEDUs to align with clinical guidelines, (3) the application of skin substitutes to better align with medical evidence, which is associated with improved patient outcomes, as well as (4) expansion of best practices across all demographic and socioeconomic populations.
Patient experiences of, and preferences for, surgical wound care education
Authors: Tobiano Georgia , Walker Rachel M. , Chaboyer Wendy , Carlini Joan , Webber Louise , Latimer Sharon , Kang Evelyn , Eskes Anne M. , O'Connor Tom , Perger Debra , Gillespie Brigid M.
Published: December 2022

The aim of this study was to describe patients' experiences of, and preferences for, surgical wound care discharge education and how these experiences predicted their ability to self‐manage their surgical wounds. A telephone survey of 270 surgical patients was conducted across two hospitals two weeks after discharge. Patients preferred verbal (n = 255, 94.8%) and written surgical wound education (n = 178, 66.2%) from medical (n = 229, 85.4%) and nursing staff (n = 211, 78.7%) at discharge. The most frequent education content that patients received was information about follow‐up appointments (n = 242, 89.6%) and who to contact in the community with wound care concerns (n = 233, 86.6%). Using logistic regression, patients who perceived that they participated in surgical wound care decisions were 6.5 times more likely to state that they were able to manage their wounds at home. Also, patients who agreed that medical and/or nursing staff discussed wound pain management were 3.1 times more likely to report being able to manage their surgical wounds at home. Only 40% (107/270) of patients actively participated in wound‐related decision‐making during discharge education. These results uncovered patient preferences, which could be used to optimise discharge education practices. Embedding patient participation into clinical workflows may enhance patients' self‐management practices once home.
Thermal insulation and antioxidation of vertical graphene oxide‐grafted carbon nanofiber aerogels with ceramic coating
Authors: Ding Wei , Li Hongyan , Liu Hongli , Zheng Yinghan
Published: December 2022

In this work, composite aerogels with low thermal conductivity and antioxidation were prepared by introducing graphene oxide (GO) on the carbon nanofibers (CNFs) surface, followed by ceramic coating. CNFs surface‐grafted vertical morphology of GO was used as an enhancer to hinder the heat radiation transmission. The introduced shrinkage‐resistant ceramic coating was used as an antioxidant barrier for carbon materials. The anti‐shrinking ceramic coating was obtained by heat treatment of coating with wrinkle morphology to complete the ceramic transformation. The wrinkle morphology of the coating originated from the gradient crosslinking of the coating before its ceramic transformation. Among them, the gradient crosslinking of the coating could be done by irradiation crosslinking and crosslinker impregnation crosslinking. The thermal insulation and antioxidant of the composite aerogel were jointly investigated. Moreover, the mechanism of CNFs surface grafting GO and the anti‐shrinkage mechanism of the coating were systematically discussed. The experimental results showed that the aerogel exhibited excellent thermal insulation and oxidation resistance in a wide range of temperatures. The structural design of the aerogel not only weakened the thermal radiation transmission to the CNFs aerogel but also significantly enhanced the antioxidant.