bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute systemic myeloid inflammatory and stress response in severe food allergic reactions
Authors: Sharma Ankit , Rijavec Matija , Tomar Sunil , Yamani Amnah , Ganesan Varsha , Krempski James , Schuler Charles F. , Bunyavanich Supinda , Korosec Peter , Hogan Simon P.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Food allergic reactions can be severe and potentially life‐threatening and the underlying immunological processes that contribute to the severity of reactions are poorly understood. The aim of this study is to integrate bulk RNA‐sequencing of human and mouse peripheral blood mononuclear cells during food allergic reactions and in vivo mouse models of food allergy to identify dysregulated immunological processes associated with severe food allergic reactions.

Methods

Bulk transcriptomics of whole blood from human and mouse following food allergic reactions combined with integrative differential expressed gene bivariate and module eigengene network analyses to identify the whole blood transcriptome associated with food allergy severity. In vivo validation immune cell and gene expression in mice following IgE‐mediated reaction.

Results

Bulk transcriptomics of whole blood from mice with different severity of food allergy identified gene ontology (GO) biological processes associated with innate and inflammatory immune responses, dysregulation of MAPK and NFkB signalling and identified 429 genes that correlated with reaction severity. Utilizing two independent human cohorts, we identified 335 genes that correlated with severity of peanut‐induced food allergic reactions. Mapping mouse food allergy severity transcriptome onto the human transcriptome revealed 11 genes significantly dysregulated and correlated with severity. Analyses of whole blood from mice undergoing an IgE‐mediated reaction revealed a rapid change in blood leukocytes particularly inflammatory monocytes (Ly6Chi Ly6G−) and neutrophils that was associated with changes in CLEC4E, CD218A and GPR27 surface expression.

Conclusions

Collectively, IgE‐mediated food allergy severity is associated with a rapid innate inflammatory response associated with acute cellular stress processes and dysregulation of peripheral blood inflammatory myeloid cell frequencies.
Epigenome alterations in food allergy: A systematic review of candidate gene and epigenome‐wide association studies
Authors: Safar Ramia , Oussalah Abderrahim , Mayorga Lina , Vieths Stefan , Barber Domingo , Torres Maria Jose , Guéant Jean‐Louis
Published: February 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to systematically review the evidence across studies that assessed DNA methylome variations in association with food allergy (FA).

Design

A systematic review of the literature and meta‐analysis were carried out within several databases. However, the risk of bias in the included articles was not evaluated.

Data sources

PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Web of Science were used to search up to July 2022.

Eligibility criteria

We included targeted and epigenome‐wide association studies (EWASs) that assessed DNA methylome alterations in association with FA in adult or paediatric populations.

Results

Among 366 publications, only 16 were retained, which were mainly focused on FA in children. Seven candidate gene‐targeted studies found associations in Th1/Th2 imbalance (IL4, IL5, IL10, INFG, IL2 and IL12B genes), regulatory T cell function (FOXP3 gene), Toll‐like receptors pathway (TLR2, CD14 genes) and digestive barrier integrity (FLG gene). Nine EWAS assessed the association with peanut allergy (n = 3), cow's milk allergy (n = 2) or various food allergens (n = 4). They highlighted 11 differentially methylated loci in at least two studies (RPS6KA2, CAMTA1, CTBP2, RYR2, TRAPPC9, DOCK1, GALNTL4, HDAC4, UMODL1, ZAK and TNS3 genes). Among them, CAMTA1 and RPS6KA2, and CTBP2 are involved in regulatory T cell function and Th2 cell differentiation, respectively. Gene‐functional analysis revealed two enriched gene clusters involved in immune responses and protein phosphorylation. ChIP‐X Enrichment Analysis 3 showed eight significant transcription factors (RXRA, ZBTB7A, ESR1, TCF3, MYOD1, CTCF, GATA3 and CBX2). Ingenuity Pathway Analysis identified canonical pathways involved, among other, in B cell development, pathogen‐induced cytokine storm signalling pathway and dendritic cell maturation.

Conclusion

This review highlights the involvement of epigenomic alterations of loci in Th1/Th2 and regulatory T cell differentiation in both candidate gene studies and EWAS. These alterations provide a better insight into the mechanistic aspects in FA pathogenesis and may guide the development of epigenome‐based biomarkers for FA.
Optic nerve sheath fenestration for treating papilloedema in the era of cerebral venous sinus stenting
Authors: McCluskey Peter J. , Lam Danny , Ang Timothy , Todd Michael J. , Halmágyi Gábor M.
Published: February 2023

Background

Pseudotumour cerebri (PTC) is the syndrome of intracranial hypertension without intracranial mass or hydrocephalus and is the commonest cause of papilloedema seen in many eye clinics. In the last 10 years, we have increasingly used TSS in patients whose papilloedema was not well controlled with medical treatment and have done fewer ONSFs. Here, we review our experience at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Sydney with ONSF in 35 patients over the period 2002–2021.

Methods

Retrospective case series of 35 patients, 30 of whom had primary PTC [i.e., idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH)] and 5 with secondary PTC.

Results

Eighteen patients had bilateral ONSF and 17 patients unilateral ONSF, in each case of the worse eye. Thirteen patients then underwent transverse sinus stenting (TSS), in each case following ONSF. The primary outcome measures were visual acuity (VA) and mean deviation (MD) on visual field (VF) testing. MD improved by 5 dB or more in 34 of 70 total eyes (48.6%); VA improved by 0.2 logMAR (two lines on Snellen chart) or more in 21 eyes (30%), and by both in 15 eyes (21.4%). Final MD was −10 dB or better in 38 eyes (54.3%); final VA was 0.3 (6/12) or better in 54 eyes (77.1%), and both in 39 eyes (55.7%).

Conclusions

The results confirm that ONSF can relieve papilloedoema in both eyes and improve both VF and VA, even in cases of fulminant PTC with severe acute visual impairment.
Diagnostic yield from prenatal exome sequencing for non‐immune hydrops fetalis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Al‐Kouatly Huda B. , Shivashankar Kavya , Mossayebi Matthew H. , Makhamreh Mona , Critchlow Elizabeth , Gao Zimeng , Fasehun Luther‐King , Alkuraya Fowzan S. , Ryan Erin E. , Hegde Madhuri , Wodoslawsky Sascha , Hughes Joel , Berger Seth I.
Published: February 2023

Non‐immune hydrops fetalis (NIHF) has multiple genetic etiologies diagnosable by exome sequencing (ES). We evaluated the yield of prenatal ES for NIHF, and the contribution of additional clinical findings and history. Systematic review was performed with PROSPERO tag 232951 using CINAHL, PubMed, and Ovid MEDLINE from January 1, 2000 through December 1, 2021. Selected studies performed ES to augment standard prenatal diagnostic approaches. Cases meeting a strict NIHF phenotype were tabulated with structured data imputed from papers or requested from authors. Genetic variants and diagnostic outcomes were harmonized across studies using current ACMG and ClinGen variant classification guidelines. Thirty‐one studies reporting 445 NIHF cases had a 37% (95% CI: 32%–41%) diagnostic rate. There was no significant difference between isolated NIHF and NIHF with fetal malformations or between recurrent and simplex cases. Diagnostic rate was higher for consanguineous than non‐consanguineous cases. Disease categories included RASopathies (24%), neuromuscular (21%), metabolic (17%), lymphatic (13%), other syndromes (9%), cardiovascular (5%), hematologic (2%), skeletal (2%), and other categories (7%). Inheritance patterns included recessive (55%), dominant (41%), and X‐linked (4%). ES should be considered in the diagnostic workup of NIHF with and without associated ultrasound findings regardless of history of recurrence or consanguinity.
Nonsurgical cleaning potential of deep‐threaded implants and titanium particle release: A novel in vitro tissue model
Authors: Fischer Kai R. , Büchel Jasmin , Gubler Andrea , Liu Chun Ching , Sahrmann Philipp , Schmidlin Patrick R.
Published: February 2023

Objectives

To measure the efficiency of three cleaning modalities on two implant designs with similar diameters but different thread depths as well as the presence of titanium particles.

Methods

Sixty dyed implants (30 × 4.8 apically tapered (ATAP) and 30 × 5.0 fully tapered (FTAP)) were fixed in plastic models. The horizontal bone defects were surrounded with porcine soft tissue. Three instrumentation modalities were used to clean for 150 s: Curette (CUR), ultrasonic scaler (US), and air powder waterjet device (APWJ) with erythritol powder. Afterward, implants were photographed and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images were taken. Titanium in the soft tissues was quantified in dissolved samples and histologically confirmed.

Results

For ATAP and FTAP implants, the percentage of the cleaned surface was 26.4 ± 3.0 and 17.1 ± 2.4% for CUR, 33.7 ± 3.8% and 28.1 ± 2.3% for US, and 45.5 ± 4.1% and 24.7 ± 3.8% for APWJ, respectively. SEM images showed significant implant surface changes, especially after instrumentation with CUR and US, whereas APWJ had little to no effect. Most titanium residues were found after cleaning ATAP implants with CUR (152.0 ± 75.5), followed by US (89.5 ± 73.8) and APWJ (0.3 ± 0.8). For the FTAP implants, respective values accounted for 129.5 ± 58.6 μg and 67.0 ± 14.4 μg for CUR and US, respectively. No titanium residues were detected on ATAP with APWJ.

Conclusion

Based on in vitro data, erythritol‐powered APWJ still appears to be the most efficient and gentle cleaning method. All three instruments, however, were found to have unprocessed areas depending on different implant designs, hence, clinical relevance for non‐surgical approaches remains challenging and warrants further improvement.
The efficacy of laser haemorrhoidoplasty (LHP) in the treatment of symptomatic haemorrhoidal disease: An observational cohort study
Authors: Boerhave Nadim H. P. , Klicks Rutger J. , Dogan Kemal
Published: February 2023

Aim

Laser haemorrhoidoplasty (LHP) is an emerging nonexcisional surgical procedure in which the arteriovenous flow of the haemorrhoidal plexus is interrupted through laser coagulation. The aim of this cohort study was to assess efficacy of LHP in treating symptomatic haemorrhoidal disease through patient satisfaction, remission of symptoms (blood loss, pain, itching, soiling, mucosal prolapse) and recurrence of haemorrhoids.

Methods

Patients who underwent treatment for symptomatic haemorrhoids (degrees 1–4) through an LHP procedure between 2015 and 2021 were included in the study. A 1470 nm‐diode laser was used. A total of 200 patients (71% male, average age 51 years) were analysed. Primary outcomes were patient satisfaction and/or complete recovery of symptoms. Secondary outcomes were operating time, complications and recurrence rates. Patient satisfaction, postoperative blood loss, pain and complications were evaluated 6–7 weeks postoperatively. Room turnover time and operating time were documented. Recurrence of haemorrhoids following LHP treatment within 1 year was evaluated.

Results

Patient satisfaction regarding LHP treatment was reached in 155 (84,7%) patients. Postoperative blood loss was reported by 44 (24,0%) patients during time of evaluation. Twenty‐four (13,1%) patients reported postoperative pain after 6–7 weeks. Postoperative complications occurred in seven patients (3 anal fissures, 2 perianal abscess, 1 perianal fistula, 1 postoperative anaemia). Room turnover time (patient in to patient out) was 21 min with an average operating time of 7 min. Recurrence of haemorrhoids within 1 year occurred in 50 (27,3%) patients.

Conclusions

Laser haemorrhoidoplasty appears to be a promising and effective nonexcisional surgical procedure in the treatment of symptomatic haemorrhoidal disease with high patient satisfaction, acceptable postoperative symptoms, minimal complications and short operating times.
Home drinking practices among middle‐class adults in midlife during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Material ubiquity, automatic routines and embodied states
Authors: Lyons Antonia C. , Young Jessica , Blake Denise , Evans Penny , Stephens Christine
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Harmful drinking is increasing among mid‐life adults. Using social practice theory, this research investigated the knowledge, actions, materials, places and temporalities that comprise home drinking practices among middle‐class adults (40–65 years) in Aotearoa New Zealand during 2021–2022 and post the COVID‐19 pandemic lockdowns.

Methods

Nine friendship groups (N = 45; 26 females, 19 males from various life stages and ethnicities) discussed their drinking practices. A subset of 10 participants (8 female, 2 male) shared digital content (photos, screenshots) about alcohol and drinking over 2 weeks, which they subsequently discussed in an individual interview. Group and interview transcripts were thematically analysed using the digital content to inform the analysis.

Results

Three themes were identified around home drinking practices, namely: (i) alcohol objects as everywhere, embedded throughout spaces and places in the home; (ii) drinking practices as habitual, automatic and conditioned to mundane everyday domestic chores, routines and times; and (iii) drinking practices intentionally used by participants to achieve desired embodied states to manage feelings linked to domestic and everyday routines.

Discussion and Conclusions

Alcohol was normalised and everywhere within the homes of these midlife adults. Alcohol‐related objects and products had their own agency, being entangled with domestic routines and activities, affecting drinking in both automatic and intentional ways. Developing alcohol policy that would change its ubiquitous and ordinary status, and the ‘automatic’ nature of many drinking practices, is needed. This includes restricting marketing and availability to disrupt the acceptability and normalisation of alcohol in the everyday domestic lives of adults at midlife.
Physicians' attitudes towards ethical issues and end‐of‐life decision‐making for pediatric patients with unresponsive wakefulness syndrome: An international survey
Authors: Schembs Leah , Racine Eric , Shevell Michael , Jox Ralf J.
Published: February 2023

Aim

We examined physicians' perspectives on the mental capabilities of pediatric patients with unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) and their attitudes towards limiting life‐sustaining treatment (LST) in an international context.

Method

A questionnaire survey was conducted among 267 neuropediatricians, practicing in 65 countries. Comparisons were made according to the Human Development Index (HDI) of the countries. The Idler Index of Religiosity was applied to determine religiosity.

Results

Participants from countries with a very high HDI were generally more favorable to limiting LST (p < 0.001), specifically cardiopulmonary resuscitation (p = 0.021), intubation/ventilation (p = 0.014), hemodialysis/hemofiltration (p < 0.001), and antibiotic therapy (p < 0.001). Treatment costs that were too high had a weaker influence on their decisions (p < 0.001). Participants who found it never ethically justifiable to limit LST had a higher mean Idler Index of private (p = 0.001) and general (p = 0.020) religiosity and were less satisfied with treatment decisions (p < 0.001) and the communication during the process (p = 0.016).

Interpretation

The perspectives towards limiting LST for pediatric patients with UWS are markedly different between physicians from countries with very high and lower HDIs.
Risk of dementia associated with body mass index, changes in body weight and waist circumference in older people with type 2 diabetes: The Edinburgh Type 2 Diabetes Study
Authors: Chen Bo‐Jen , Sluiman Anniek J. , Khalid Wardah , Strachan Mark W. J. , Price Jackie F.
Published: February 2023

Aims/Hypothesis

To determine the relationship of dementia with preceding body mass index (BMI), changes in body weight and waist circumference in older people with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

In the Edinburgh Type 2 Diabetes Study (1064 men and women with type 2 diabetes, aged 60–75), body weight, waist circumference and BMI were measured at baseline and after 4 years in a subgroup (n = 821). Percentage body weight and waist circumference change over 4 years were calculated. Data on incident dementia was recorded during a median follow‐up time of 10.84 years. Survival models considering a range of co‐variables and/or death as a competing risk were used to estimate the risks of dementia associated with each weight‐related variable.

Results

A total of 105 incident dementia events were recorded. When compared with people in the lowest BMI group (<25 kg/m2), risk of dementia was lower in intermediate BMI groups (25–29.9 kg/m2, HR 0.44, p = 0.002; 30–34.9 kg/m2, HR 0.41, p = 0.001) and the highest BMI group (≧35 kg/m2, HR 0.35, p = 0.001). In the weight change subgroup, 78 incident dementia events were recorded between years 4 and 10. Body weight loss over 5% (compared with ≦5%) was associated with higher incidence of dementia (HR 2.06, p = 0.010). The association between waist circumference change and dementia was not significant.

Conclusions/Interpretations

Both a lower BMI and weight loss over a period of years are indicative of increased dementia risk for older people with type 2 diabetes, while waist circumference changes may be less informative.
The role of ornamental plants as hosts of Tomato chlorotic spot virus and its vector thrips affecting tomato production
Authors: Khan Rafia A. , Seal Dakshina R. , Zhang Shouan , Liburd Oscar E. , Srinivasan Rajagopalbabu , Colee James
Published: February 2023

The tomato industry in South Florida (USA) is seriously affected by recently emerging Tomato chlorotic spot virus (TCSV). Western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), and common blossom thrips, Frankliniella schultzei (Trybom) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), are the two known vectors of TCSV in Florida. In the present study, the presence of thrips vectors and TCSV in 24 flowering ornamental plant species was observed in South Florida. The two thrips vectors, as well as melon thrips, Thrips palmi Karny (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), were abundant in the area; they were observed with a range from high (83.1 per sample of 10 flowers) in Hibiscus rosa‐sinensis L. to low (3.7 per sample of 10 flowers) in Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don in a nursery study. In a subsequent greenhouse study, we selected seven species of ornamentals, among which the species with the highest thrips abundance, and planted them next to tomato, to determine their effects on TCSV incidence and thrips abundance in tomatoes. Tomatoes with Portulaca oleracea L. next to them showed a higher number of TCSV‐infected plants (4.25 plants per plot in 2017, and 3.25 plants per plot in 2018) compared to tomatoes with some of the other ornamentals next to them. We report the presence of TCSV through reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis in Lantana camara L., H. rosa‐sinensis, Mandevilla spec., Gazania linearis (Thunb.) Druce, Hemerocallis spec., Agastache spec., and P. oleracea. Identification of alternative hosts of TCSV and thrips vectors can be helpful to evaluate the ongoing management programs and develop future programs in local tomato‐growing areas.
Adaption, neutrality and life‐course diversity
Authors: Steiner Ulrich Karl , Tuljapurkar Shripad
Published: February 2023

Heterogeneity among individuals in fitness components is what selection acts upon. Evolutionary theories predict that selection in constant environments acts against such heterogeneity. But observations reveal substantial non‐genetic and also non‐environmental variability in phenotypes. Here, we examine whether there is a relationship between selection pressure and phenotypic variability by analysing structured population models based on data from a large and diverse set of species. Our findings suggest that non‐genetic, non‐environmental variation is in general neither truly neutral, selected for, nor selected against. We find much variations among species and populations within species, with mean patterns suggesting nearly neutral evolution of life‐course variability. Populations that show greater diversity of life courses do not show, in general, increased or decreased population growth rates. Our analysis suggests we are only at the beginning of understanding the evolution and maintenance of non‐genetic non‐environmental variation.
Successful surgical removal of a pheochromocytoma in a mare via trans‐costal approach
Authors: O'Brien Thomas J. , Pezzanite Lynn M. , Acutt Elizabeth V. , Vilander Allison C. , Hassel Diana M. , Hector Rachel C. , Hendrickson Dean A.
Published: February 2023

Background

Pheochromocytomas have been previously reported in horses, but successful antemortem diagnosis and surgical removal without recurrence of clinical signs have not been described.

Objective

To report the clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, surgical technique, anaesthetic management and post‐operative care of a mare diagnosed with pheochromocytoma.

Study design

Clinical case report.

Methods

An 18‐year‐old Quarter Horse mare presented for recurrent episodes of colic, profuse sweating, muscle fasciculations and agitation over a 2‐month period. Clinical, clinicopathologic and ultrasonographic (transcutaneous, transrectal) abnormalities were consistent with a unilateral left‐sided adrenal mass. Surgical removal of the mass was performed via a trans‐costal approach with removal of the 18th rib and retraction of the left kidney to improve exposure. Associated vasculature was ligated, and the adrenal mass was removed and submitted for histopathology and immunohistochemistry.

Results

A trans‐costal surgical approach provided excellent visualisation of the adrenal mass and allowed for identification and ligation of associated vessels. Total surgical and anaesthesia time were 86 and 114 min, respectively. Several intraoperative (hypertension, tachycardia) and post‐operative (colic with tachycardia, tachypnea, large colon pelvic flexure impaction and nasogastric reflux) complications were encountered and managed successfully. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated positive labelling for synaptophysin and chromogranin A, confirming diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. The mare had recovered well at 6‐week recheck post‐operatively and returned to training at 6 months post‐operatively. No further clinical signs consistent with pheochromocytoma have been observed following removal.

Conclusions

The trans‐costal approach allowed for surgical removal of a pheochromocytoma in a mare. Surgical removal of adrenal masses in horses may be associated with complications yet was successfully performed without subsequent recurrence of clinical signs associated with tumour presence and return to athletic use in this mare.
Astronomically controlled deep‐sea life in the Late Cretaceous reconstructed from ultra‐high‐resolution inoceramid shell archives
Authors: Wierzbicki Adam , Wolfgring Erik , Wagreich Michael , Kędzierski Mariusz , Mertz‐Kraus Regina
Published: February 2023

The periodicity of the mutual position of celestial bodies in the Earth‐Moon‐Sun system is crucial to the functioning of life on Earth. Biological rhythms affect most of the processes inside organisms, and some can be recorded in skeletal remains, allowing one to reconstruct the cycles that occur in nature deep in time. In the present study, we have used ultra‐high‐resolution elemental ratio scans of Mg/Ca, Sr/Ca and Mn/Ca from the fossil, ca. 70 Ma old inoceramid bivalve Inoceramus (Platyceramus) salisburgensis from deep aphotic water and identified a clear regularity of repetition of the geochemical signal every of ~0.006 mm. We estimate that the shell accretion rate is on average ~0.4 cm of shell thickness per lunar year. Visible light–dark lamination, interpreted as a seasonal signal corresponding to the semilunar‐related cycle, gives a rough shell age estimate and growth rate for this large bivalve species supported by a dual feeding strategy. We recognize a biological clock that follows either a semilunar (model A) or a tidal (model B) cycle. This cycle of tidal dominance seems to fit better considering the biological behaviour of I. (P.) salisburgensis, including the estimated age and growth rate of the studied specimens. We interpret that the major control in such deep‐sea environment, well below the photic zone and storm wave base, was due to barotropic tidal forces, thus changing the water pressure.
Assessing the impact of transitional care units on dialysis patient outcomes: A multicenter, propensity score‐matched analysis
Authors: Blankenship Derek M. , Usvyat Len , Kraus Michael A. , Chatoth Dinesh K. , Lasky Rachel , Turk Joseph E. , Maddux Franklin W.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Inadequate predialysis care and education impacts the selection of a dialysis modality and is associated with adverse clinical outcomes. Transitional care units (TCUs) aim to meet the unmet educational needs of incident dialysis patients, but their impact beyond increasing home dialysis utilization has been incompletely characterized.

Methods

This retrospective study included adults initiating in‐center hemodialysis at a TCU, matched to controls (1:4) with no TCU history initiating in‐center hemodialysis. Patients were followed for up to 14 months. TCUs are dedicated spaces where staff provide personalized education and as‐needed adjustments to dialysis prescriptions. For many patients, therapy was initiated with four to five weekly dialysis sessions, with at least some sessions delivered by home dialysis machines. Outcomes included survival, first hospitalization, transplant waiting‐list status, post‐TCU dialysis modality, and vascular access type.

Findings

The study included 724 patients initiating dialysis across 48 TCUs, with 2892 well‐matched controls. At the end of 14 months, patients initiating dialysis in a TCU were significantly more likely to be referred and/or wait‐listed for a kidney transplant than controls (57% vs. 42%; p < 0.0001). Initiation of dialysis at a TCU was also associated with significantly lower rates of receiving in‐center hemodialysis at 14 months (74% vs. 90%; p < 0.0001) and higher rates of arteriovenous access (70% vs. 63%; p = 0.003). Although not statistically significant, TCU patients were more likely to survive and less likely to be hospitalized during follow‐up than controls.

Discussion

Although TCUs are sometimes viewed as only a means for enhancing utilization of home dialysis, patients attending TCUs exhibited more favorable outcomes across all endpoints. In addition to being 2.5‐fold more likely to receive home dialysis, TCU patients were 42% more likely to be referred for transplantation. Our results support expanding utilization of TCUs for patients with inadequate predialysis support.
Outcomes of operative intervention for ulcers over hemodialysis arteriovenous access
Authors: Gunawardena Thilina , Sharma Hemant , Mehra Sanjay
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The native arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the gold standard for long‐term hemodialysis access. When native vein options are exhausted, arteriovenous graft (AVG) becomes the next choice. An ulcer over an AVF or AVG is a serious condition with the potential for life‐threatening hemorrhage.

Objectives

This study aims to present our experience with surgical management of ulcers over AVFs or AVGs.

Materials and Methods

Electronic records of 26 patients who underwent 27 consecutive surgical procedures for ulcers over AVFs or AVGs from December 31, 2016 to December 31, 2021 at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The majority were males (14/26, 53.8%) and the median age was 64.5 years. Operative repair was required for 25 ulcers over 24 AVFs and 2 ulcers over 2 AVGs. Ten patients (37%) presented with bleeding. Seventeen (63%) had impending bleeding suggested by a thin soft tissue covering or a false aneurysm at the site of the ulcer. Previous endovascular intervention for fistula outflow stenosis was a significant predictor for presenting with bleeding (p = 0.031). All ulcers (27/27, 100%) underwent excision and primary skin closure. Fistula wall defects were directly repaired in 18/27 (66.7%). Four/26 (14.8%) fistulas had to be ligated and 2 (7.4%) had end‐to‐end re‐anastomosis after excision of damaged segments. Three/26 (11.53%) fistulas thrombosed immediately after the intervention. The overall fistula salvage rate was 73.08% (19/26). There was 1 (3.7%) patient mortality due to bleeding from wound breakdown after surgery.

Conclusions

An acceptable fistula salvage rate can be expected following surgical repair of ulcers over AVFs and AVGs. A history of previous endovascular interventions for fistula outflow stenosis was a predictor of bleeding from these ulcers.
Impact of preventive pill‐based treatment on migraine days: A secondary outcome study of the Childhood and Adolescent Migraine Prevention (CHAMP) trial and a comparison of self‐report to nosology‐derived assessments
Authors: Gibler Robert C. , Peugh James L. , Coffey Christopher S. , Chamberlin Leigh Ann , Ecklund Dixie , Klingner Elizabeth , Yankey Jon , Korbee Leslie L. , Kabbouche Marielle , Kacperski Joanne , Porter Linda L. , Reidy Brooke L. , Hershey Andrew D. , Powers Scott W.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To examine group differences in self‐reported migraine days among youth who completed the Childhood and Adolescent Migraine Prevention (CHAMP) trial prior to its closure and explore the relationship between self‐reported and “nosology‐derived” (i.e., International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition [ICHD‐3]) migraine days.

Background

The CHAMP trial compared amitriptyline and topiramate to placebo for migraine prevention in youth and proposed to analyze change in migraine days as a secondary outcome. There is considerable variability in the field regarding what constitutes a “migraine day,” how this is determined and reported in trials, and how consistent these measures are with diagnostic nosology.

Methods

CHAMP trial completers (N = 175) were randomized to receive amitriptyline (n = 77), topiramate (n = 63), or placebo (n = 35). Participants maintained daily headache diaries where they reported each day with headache and if they considered that headache to be a migraine. For each headache day, participants completed a symptom record and reported about symptoms such as pain location(s) and presence of nausea/vomiting or photophobia and phonophobia. We examined group differences in self‐reported migraine days at trial completion (summed from trial weeks 20–24) compared to baseline. We also used an algorithm to determine whether participants’ symptom reports met ICHD‐3 criteria for migraine without aura, and examined the association between self‐reported and “nosology‐derived” migraine days.

Results

Results showed no significant differences between groups in self‐reported migraine days over the course of the trial. Self‐reported and “nosology‐derived” migraine days during the baseline and treatment phases were strongly associated (r's = 0.73 and 0.83, respectively; p's < 0.001).

Conclusion

Regardless of treatment, CHAMP trial completers showed clinically important reductions in self‐reported migraine days over the course of the trial (about 3.8 days less). The strong association between self‐reported and “nosology‐derived” migraine days suggests youth with migraine can recognize a day with migraine and reliably report their headache features and symptoms. Greater rigor and transparency in the calculation and reporting of migraine days in trials is needed.
A consensus approach: Understanding the support needs of women in Newport West, Wales, to participate in breast screening
Authors: Yu Juping , Wallace Sarah , Kenkre Joyce
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Breast screening is an effective way to improve the early detection of breast cancer and reduce mortality. Unfortunately, low uptake of screening is often reported. This study aimed to explore the support needs of women residing in Newport West, Wales, to participate in breast screening.

Methods

Group Concept Mapping, a structured participatory consensus approach, was used as the method. Participants completed three activities either online or offline: brainstorming to generate statements, sorting statements into themed categories; rating statements for perceived importance and accessibility (easy to get).

Results

Thirty‐seven participants from seven ethnic groups took part. Sixty‐three statements (items of support) were generated and sorted into seven conceptually similar clusters (themes) (Trusting that I will be respected; Reassurance about my experience; Accessibility and convenience; Practical support; Addressing cultural diversity; Information tailored to individual needs; Raising awareness and understanding of breast screening). The ‘Trusting that I will be respected’ cluster was rated most important, while the ‘Practical support’ cluster was rated least accessible. Some disparity between responses was found based on ethnicity, language, disability and previous attendance of breast screening.

Conclusions

Women require a range of support to participate in breast screening. The results highlight the importance of ensuring women feel and are respected, instilling trust in the staff performing the screening, offering reassurance about positive experiences of breast screening and providing practical support, especially individualized/targeted support for people who do not speak and/or read English and those with a disability.

Patient or Public Contribution

The public contributed to the development of the information sheet, consent form, recruitment and data collection method.
Dietary niche overlap and resource partitioning among six steppe passerines of Central Spain using DNA metabarcoding
Authors: Zurdo Julia , Barrero Adrián , da Silva Luís P. , Bustillo‐de la Rosa Daniel , Gómez‐Catasús Julia , Morales Manuel B. , Traba Juan , Mata Vanessa A.
Published: February 2023

Trophic niche partitioning is a mechanism that facilitates the coexistence of ecologically similar species by sharing their resource use. However, detailed information of the trophic niche in insectivorous birds is usually limited by the lack of accurate identification of consumed food resources. The use of DNA metabarcoding has proved useful for molecular identification of the taxa present in bird faecal samples. Here, we used this molecular technique to study the diets of six steppe passerine species distributed in two Special Protection Areas in central Spain, and to characterize the dietary niche overlap and the prey composition differences between bird species. In total, we distinguished 112 diet items, covering 39 arthropod families of 13 orders. Although significant dietary differences existed in prey species composition, our results indicated a 74% overlap in steppe bird dietary niche, mostly due to high consumption of abundant arthropod prey such as beetles, grasshoppers and spiders in the breeding season by all bird species. The lowest overlap was found for the dietary niches of the Greater Short‐toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla and Dupont's Lark Chersophilus duponti, a scarce and threatened species, which appeared to be the species with the most distinct dietary niche within the community. Our results make a significant contribution to the knowledge of shrub‐steppe bird diets and their trophic interactions, indicating that some extent of interspecific resource partitioning occurs in the study area, notably between Dupont's Lark and the Greater Short‐toed Lark. Our study demonstrates the value of DNA metabarcoding in the assessment of passerine diets and provides useful ecological results for the design of biodiversity conservation programmes in the increasingly scarce and threatened steppe habitats.
Genetic variations in low‐to‐medium‐affinity Fcγ receptors and autoimmune neutropenia in early childhood in a Danish cohort
Authors: Kløve‐Mogensen Kirstine , Steffensen Rudi , Masmas Tania Nicole , Glenthøj Andreas , Jensen Christina Friis , Haunstrup Thure Mors , Ratcliffe Paul , Höglund Petter , Hasle Henrik , Nielsen Kaspar René
Published: February 2023

Autoimmune neutropenia (AIN) in early childhood is caused by autoantibodies directed against antigens on the neutrophil membrane and is a frequent cause of neutropenia in children. Association of AIN with Fcγ receptor (FCGR) 3B variants is well described. In this study, we investigate genetic variations in the FCGR locus and copy number variation of FCGR3B. A total of 130 antibody‐positive AIN patients, 64 with specific anti‐HNA‐1a antibodies and 66 with broad‐reacting anti‐FcγRIIIb antibodies, were genotyped with a multiplex ligation probe assay and compared with healthy controls. Positive findings were confirmed with real‐time q‐PCR. We determined copy numbers of the FCGR2 and FCGR3 genes and the following SNPs: FCGR2A Q62W (rs201218628), FCGR2A H166R (rs1801274), FCGR2B I232T (rs1050501), FCGR3A V176F (rs396991), haplotypes for FCGR2B/C promoters (rs3219018/rs780467580), FCGR2C STOP/ORF and HNA‐1 genotypes in FCGR3B (rs447536, rs448740, rs52820103, rs428888 and rs2290834). Generally, associations were antibody specific, with all associations being representative of the anti‐HNA‐1a‐positive group, while the only association found in the anti‐FcγRIIIb group was with the HNA‐1 genotype. An increased risk of AIN was observed for patients with one copy of FCGR3B; the HNA genotypes HNA‐1a, HNA‐1aa or HNA‐1aac; the FCGR2A 166H and FCGR2B 232I variations; and no copies of FCGR2B 2B.4. A decreased risk was observed for HNA genotype HNA‐1bb; FCGR2A 166R; FCGR2B 232T; and one copy of FCGR2B promoter 2B.4. We conclude that in our Danish cohort, there was a strong association between variation in the FCGR locus and AIN. The findings of different genetic associations between autoantibody groups could indicate the presence of two different disease entities and disease heterogeneity.
Summary of the clinical practice manual for late‐onset hypogonadism
Authors: Ide Hisamitsu , Akehi Yuko , Fukuhara Shinichiro , Ohira Shin , Ogawa Sumito , Kataoka Tomoya , Kumagai Hiroshi , Kobayashi Ko , Komiya Akira , Shigehara Kazuyoshi , Syuto Takahiro , Soh Jintetu , Tanabe Makito , Taniguchi Hisanori , Chiba Koji , Matsushita Kazuhito , Mitsui Yozo , Yoneyama Takahiro , Shirakawa Tomoya , Fujii Yasuhisa , Kumano Hiroaki , Ueshiba Hajime , Amano Toshiyasu , Sasaki Haruaki , Maeda Seiji , Mizokami Atsushi , Suzuki Kazuhiro , Horie Shigeo
Published: February 2023

Testosterone plays an important role in maintaining both physical and mental function. Age‐related testosterone depletion contributes to the development of angina, arteriosclerosis, obesity, metabolic syndrome, dementia, frailty, and a range of other conditions. A condition involving age‐related testosterone depletion and the associated clinical symptoms is defined as late‐onset hypogonadism (LOH). LOH is treated by testosterone replacement therapy. Indications for testosterone replacement therapy are determined by evaluating symptoms and signs.
Children's post‐burn scars in Mongolia
Authors: Enkhtuvshin Saranchimeg , Odkhuu Erdenezaya , Batchuluun Khongorzul , Chimeddorj Battogtokh , Yadamsuren Enkhtur , Lkhagvasuren Naranbat
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to identify some risk factors for post‐burn scarring in children aged 0–18 years. One hundred and eighty two participants were involved in this cohort study. Under the age of 18 who were admitted to the Department of Burn Reconstructive Surgery with a diagnosis of upper and lower extremity burns were followed for 6 months. A total of 182 participants (62.1% male, and 37.9% female participants) enrolled in this study. Age ranged from 1 to 17 and the average age was 3.95 ± 3.35. The degree of burn and the anatomical location of the burn had a statistically significant effect on the development of hypertrophic scars. The length of the patient's hospitalisation days and the area of ​​the burn were statistically correlated with wound healing (P = 000, P = .074). For example, the average length of hospitalisation days was 8 ± 5 days in the hypertrophic scars group of patients, and in the group with normal scars, average bed days were 6 ± 3 days (P = .000). Grade IIIb burns increased the risk of hypertrophic scar development by 4.9 times and grade IV burns increased it by 2.5 times. In addition, when the area of burns was 11% or more, the risk of hypertrophic scar development was increased by 58.8%. In the case of wound swab infection, the risk of hypertrophic scar development was 12.4% higher (B = 1.124, 95 EI = 0.55; 2.28, P = .748). Participants' age, burn area and degree of burn are statistically significant risk factors for post‐burn scarring in children aged 0–18 years.
Risk factors for recurrent pressure ulcers after reconstructive surgery: A retrospective study in a single medical centre
Authors: Lin‐Yin Wang , Chia‐Ming Liang , Lin Hong‐Ling , Chu‐Yu Chen , Tzeng Yuan‐Sheng
Published: February 2023

Recurrence of pressure ulcers following reconstructive surgery occurs frequently, causing a significant burden on the patient and the public health care system. We assessed risk factors for the recurrence of pressure ulcers based on the experience of a single surgeon at our medical centre. We retrospectively analysed patients admitted to our medical centre with stage III and IV pressure ulcers who underwent reconstructive surgery. The hospital database was searched for patients diagnosed with pressure ulcers who underwent reconstructive surgery. Patient characteristics analysed included age, sex, cause and location of defect, comorbidities, lesion size, wound reconstruction methods, operation time, debridement times, duration of hospital stay, and wound complications. Recurrence and mortality rates were retrospectively examined. One hundred and eighty‐nine patients were enrolled, and 166 patients with 176 pressure ulcers met our inclusion criteria. All 14 recurrences (7.95%) were followed for at least 1 year. Logistic regression analysis indicated that recurrence was associated with albumin levels (P = 0.001) and wound size (P = 0.043); however, no association was found for body mass index, bacterial profile, comorbidities, localisation, previous surgery, operation time, or time to admission for reconstruction. In conclusion, higher albumin levels were associated with lower recurrence rates in patients who underwent reconstructive surgery.
Central bank communication and social media: From silence to Twitter
Authors: Masciandaro Donato , Peia Oana , Romelli Davide
Published: February 2023

This paper discusses the evolution of central bank communication, focusing on recent efforts by central banks to engage with a wider audience via social media. We document the social media presence of major central banks and discuss how analyzing Twitter content by and about monetary policy makers can inform about the effectiveness of communication in influencing beliefs. We focus on recent techniques employed in analyzing social media content in order to understand how central bank communication affects expectations and, subsequently, behavior in financial markets.
Perioperative complications and outcomes following partial ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy in pet rabbits: 20 cases (2009‐2021)
Authors: Dobberstein R. E. A. , Brisson B. A. , McMillan S. , Oblak M. L. , Singh A. , Dutton C. J. , Zhang M.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To investigate the perioperative complications and outcomes of rabbits undergoing partial ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy for treatment of chronic otitis.

Materials and Methods

Surgical logbooks were searched to identify rabbits that underwent partial ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy between December 2009 and September 2021. Data collected included signalment, history, clinical signs, historical and current medical management, physical examination findings, preoperative diagnostic imaging and aural bacterial culture results, surgical procedure information, duration of hospitalisation, complications and final outcome.

Results

Twenty rabbits with chronic, medically unresponsive otitis underwent 27 partial ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomies. Ten rabbits had pre‐existing neurologic deficits and 17 had an ear base abscess at the time of surgery. A total of 13 (65%) rabbits developed at least one complication, either in the perioperative period or between discharge and recheck. Three of these rabbits (15%) underwent revision surgery for persistent or recurrent ear base abscess. Complete resolution of clinical signs ultimately occurred in 12 (60%) rabbits. Three (15%) rabbits showed improved but not completely resolved clinical signs (three facial asymmetry). Five (25%) rabbits died of causes potentially related to chronic otitis and/or partial ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy; two of these rabbits had undergone revision surgery.

Clinical Significance

Although this study reports a high complication rate (65%), most complications resolved, with 15 (75%) rabbits having a good to excellent final outcome. Since the majority of rabbits in this study had chronic and severe ear disease, further studies are required to determine if surgical intervention earlier in the disease process could result in a lower complication rate.
The Digitalization of Religion: Smartphone Use and Subjective Well‐Being during COVID‐19
Authors: Muralidharan Sidharth , La Ferle Carrie , Roth‐Cohen Osnat
Published: February 2023

Previous findings indicate that smartphone use can decrease life satisfaction and can negatively impact religious or spiritual goals. But since the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic, smartphones have become significantly more positive and useful. Smartphones have helped people move on with their lives, especially due to the myriad benefits they offer. Users can “virtually” spend time with family and friends (i.e., social) and can order groceries, read the news, attend to religious and spiritual needs, and entertain themselves (i.e., process) without venturing out. In the theoretical framework of uses and gratifications, we explored the impact that smartphone use can have on the subjective well‐being of Jews and Christians, respectively, in countries with the highest smartphone penetration: Israel and the United States. Furthermore, we introduced religiosity and spirituality, which have surged during the pandemic, as mediators in the proposed model. In the United States, social and process smartphone use enhanced subjective well‐being through religiosity (vs. spirituality). In Israel, the process use enhanced subjective well‐being through spirituality (vs. religiosity). Theoretical implications are discussed.