bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupling eco‐evolutionary mechanisms with deep‐time environmental dynamics to understand biodiversity patterns
Authors: Hagen Oskar
Published: July 2022

Pioneer naturalists such as Whewell, Lyell, Humboldt, Darwin and Wallace acknowledged the interactions between ecological and evolutionary forces, as well as the roles of continental movement, mountain formation and climate variations, in shaping biodiversity patterns. Recent developments in computer modelling and paleo‐environmental reconstruction have made it possible for scientists to study in silico how biodiversity emerges from eco‐evolutionary and environmental dynamic processes and their interactions. Simulating emergent biodiversity enables the experimentation of multiple interconnected hypotheses in a largely fragmented scientific landscape, with the final objective of successfully approximating natural mechanisms (i.e. hypothetical spatio–temporally unrestricted generalizations that hold across multiple empirical biodiversity patterns). This new interdisciplinary approach opens unprecedented scientific pathways, facilitating the communication and contemplation of causal implications of complex eco‐evolutionary and environmental interactions.

In this review I provide a comprehensive overview of the available population‐based spatially explicit mechanistic eco‐evolutionary models (MEEMs) that rely on paleo‐environmental reconstructions, critically discussing their relevance and limitations for our understanding of biodiversity. To achieve this, I first introduce diverse biodiversity models and contextualize MEEMs. Second, I define MEEMs and synthesize the major insights from studies using MEEMs combined with deep‐time environmental dynamics (> 0.1 Ma). Lastly, I discuss the challenges and perspectives of solving long‐standing biodiversity enigmas by coupling eco‐evolutionary mechanisms with deep‐time environmental dynamics.

Studies show that linking dynamic environments and eco‐evolutionary processes is necessary to reproduce multiple large‐scale biodiversity patterns simultaneously. Mechanisms related to adaptations (e.g. niche evolution), dispersal abilities and other eco‐evolutionary interactions (e.g. those resulting in speciation or extinction events) show universal importance, although their signatures across spatial and temporal scales remain largely unknown. Investigations with MEEMS spanning multiple levels of complexity in space and time foster interdisciplinary cooperation across the natural sciences and show promise for solving some of the enigmas in Earth's biodiversity.
Tracheal obstructive mastocytoma in a pony
Authors: Meurice Antoine , Pujol Raymond , Albaric Olivier , De Fourmestraux Claire , Tessier Caroline
Published: July 2022

A 15‐year‐old pony gelding was presented with a history of dyspnoea with inspiratory and expiratory noise for 1 week. An upper airway respiratory endoscopic examination revealed two tracheal masses, the largest one being located on the distal third of the neck, occupying almost all of the tracheal diameter. Surgical removal undertaken was in two steps under endoscopic guidance. First, scissors and Babcock forceps inserted through a tracheotomy incision were used to sever the masses. Then, a diode laser was used to cauterise the resection sites. Gross examination and histopathology confirmed a diagnosis of tracheal mastocytoma.
Associations between dyadic relationship quality and stepfamily functioning: A common fate modeling approach
Authors: Jensen Todd M. , Ganong Lawrence H.
Published: July 2022

Clinical and empirical literatures have highlighted the value of attending to distinct dyads within stepfamilies to ensure the needs of various relationships are being met. From a family systems perspective, the growth and maintenance of positive dynamics within one dyadic relationship can yield gains in other relationships and shape the larger stepfamily environment. Research seeking to link information about dyads and larger stepfamily systems is often marked by single‐informant data or measures that represent individual‐level constructs. Methods intended to leverage multi‐informant data as indicators of dyad‐ or family‐level constructs (i.e., common fate modeling; CFM) offer valuable opportunities to expand our understanding of stepfamily experiences. Using a sample of 291 stepparent‐parent dyads, our study uses multi‐informant data and CFM to assess three dyad‐level constructs (i.e., marital quality, marital confidence, and stepparent–child relationship quality) as correlates of three stepfamily‐level constructs (i.e., cohesion, expressiveness, and harmony). Our findings illustrate meaningful linkages among dyadic relationships and broader stepfamily‐level dynamics, specifically emphasizing the role of stepparent–child relationship quality and marital confidence in shaping stepfamily cohesion, expressiveness, and harmony. The results also signal the potential for substantive findings to vary with respect to the selected unit of analysis.
Familial understanding and self‐esteem development: Comparing sexual minority and heterosexual individuals
Authors: Scroggs Barrett , Vennum Amber
Published: July 2022

Objective

The present study sought to explore how support from one's family of origin predicts the development of self‐esteem across the transition to adulthood for sexual minority individuals compared with their heterosexual peers.

Background

Familial relationships have an influence on the development of self‐esteem. Additionally, lesbian, gay, and bisexual emerging adults may perceive less support from their families than heterosexual peers.

Methods

The present study used secondary data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent and Adult Health study. The study conducted a multiple group latent growth curve following the development of self‐esteem.

Results

Results indicated that feeling as though one's family understood them in adolescence was significantly associated with self‐esteem during adolescence for both sexual minority and majority individuals. Additionally, this sense of feeling understood by one's family was also associated with the rate of change of the developmental trajectory of self‐esteem across four time points.

Discussion

The study illustrates the lasting influence one's family of origin has during this important developmental moment. Results illustrated how familial understanding in adolescence was significantly associated with the development of self‐esteem for both sexual minority and sexual majority individuals.

Implications

The relationship with the family of origin has a lasting impact into emerging adulthood, and practitioners working with families can help ensure support for sexual minority adolescents. This includes, but is not limited to, encouraging communication within the family to build a sense of understanding.
Influence of testing method on mode II fracture toughness (KIIc) of hot mix asphalt mixtures
Authors: He Jianxin , Liu Liang , Yang Wu , Aliha M.R.M.
Published: July 2022

Till now, only very limited test results have been reported for mode II fracture toughness (KIIc) of asphalt mixtures. In the absence of any standard testing method for determiningKIIcvalue for these materials, in this research, an experimental program is done to measure and investigate this parameter at low‐temperature using four different test specimens and configurations. The specimens have circular and semi‐circular shapes but with different crack types and loading setup namely: center cracked circular disc (CCCD), inclined cracked semi‐circular bend (ISCB), asymmetric semi‐circular bend (ASCB), and asymmetric edge notch disc bend (AENDB). The test results showed thatKIIcdepends significantly on the geometry and configuration of test sample such that its value determined from the AENDB sample is about twice theKIIcvalue of ISCB specimen. Among the investigated samples, the AENDB results can simulate more realistically the actual and field conditions of real cracked overlays subjected to traffic loading.KIIcresults are also predicted successfully using two fracture criteria capable of considering the influence of geometry on mode II cracking.
Mixed mode I+II fracture parameters and cracking trajectory of heterogeneous multilayer pavement structure containing reflective crack
Authors: Ziari Hassan , Aliha Mohammad Reza Mohammad , Fard Ehsan Sobhani , Sarbijan Majid Jebalbarezi
Published: July 2022

Using aggregate generation and packing algorithm technique coupled with finite element method, a part of reconstructed asphalt pavement structure with five layers and containing a bottom‐up crack was simulated. For more realistic modeling and more accurate analyzing the cracking behavior of pavement, a region surrounding the initial crack (and bottom‐up crack) region and its neighborhood was modeled as a heterogeneous two‐phase (aggregate/mastic) mixture. The results of numerical analyses showed that a significant difference exists between the crack tip fracture parameters (i.e., KI, KII, Keff, T‐stress, and Biaxiality ratio) of the homogenous and heterogeneous models. The heterogeneous simulation (in this case study) leads to approximately 70% reduction in the effective stress intensity factor. Furthermore, it was shown that the fracture trajectory of a simulative reflective cracking (SRC) test conducted on a real bilayer asphalt beam sample can be predicted well by modeling the beam layers as a heterogeneous two‐phase mixture.
Pediatric autoimmune blistering disorders – a five‐year demographic profile and therapy experience
Authors: Mahajan Rahul , Handa Sanjeev , Kumar Sheetanshu , Chatterji Debajyoti , Saikia Uma Nahar , De Dipankar
Published: July 2022

Background

There is a paucity of literature on pediatric autoimmune bullous disorders (AIBD) in the Indian population. We aimed to retrospectively evaluate the clinico‐demographic profile of pediatric AIBDs in our patients and their response to various therapeutic modalities.

Materials and Methods

This was a retrospective chart review of patients enrolled in our immunobullous disease clinic from November 2013 to August 2019. The clinical records of all the patients aged less than 18 years old with a definitive diagnosis of AIBD were reviewed based on clinical, histopathological, and immunological features.

Results

Forty out of 1209 patients with AIBD (3.3%) belonged to the pediatric age group. Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) was the most common AIBD (24, 60%) followed by chronic bullous disease of childhood (CBDC) at 15% (6) and pemphigus foliaceus (PV) at 12.5% (5). Subepidermal blistering disorders had a significantly younger age of onset (P = 0.04) compared to intraepidermal blistering disorders but higher frequency of achieving complete remission off therapy (P = 0.02). The mean time to achieve remission was significantly shorter in PV patients treated with a combination of rituximab and corticosteroids compared to those treated with oral prednisolone and oral immunosuppressive adjuvants (P = 0.001). Rituximab was tolerated well in all 12 pemphigus patients. Oral lesions in PV patients took significantly longer time to achieve remission compared to the cutaneous lesions (P = 0.001).

Conclusion and Relevance

PV was the most common pediatric AIBD in Indian patients. Rituximab was a safe and effective modality of treatment in moderate to severe pediatric pemphigus.
Impact of the Coming‐of‐Age Day and ceremony on the risk of SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission in Japan: A natural‐experimental study based on national surveillance data
Authors: Ko Yura K. , Kinoshita Ryo , Yamauchi Masato , Otani Kanako , Kamigaki Taro , Kasuya Kazuki , Yoneoka Daisuke , Arima Yuzo , Kobayashi Yusuke , Arashiro Takeshi , Otsuka Miyako , Shimbashi Reiko , Suzuki Motoi
Published: July 2022

Background

Quantifying the impact on COVID‐19 transmission from a single event has been difficult due to the virus transmission dynamics, such as lag from exposure to reported infection, non‐linearity arising from the person‐to‐person transmission, and the modifying effects of non‐pharmaceutical interventions over time. To address these issues, we aimed to estimate the COVID‐19 transmission risk of social events focusing on the Japanese Coming‐of‐Age Day and Coming‐of‐Age ceremony in which “new adults” practice risky behavior on that particular day.

Methods

Using national surveillance data in Japan in 2021 and 2022, we conducted difference‐in‐differences regression against COVID‐19 incidences by setting “new adults” cases as the treatment group and the cases 1 year younger or older than these “new adults” as the control group. In addition, we employed a triple differences approach to estimate the risk of holding the Coming‐Age ceremony by using a binary variable regarding the presence or absence of the ceremony in each municipality.

Results

We estimated the relative risks (RRs) of the Coming‐of‐Age Day as 1.27 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–1.57) in 2021 and 3.22 (95% CI 2.68–3.86) in 2022. The RR of the Coming‐of‐Age ceremony was also large, estimated as 2.83 (1.81–4.43) in 2022.

Conclusions

When planning large social events, it is important to be aware of the unique risks associated with these gatherings, along with effective public health messages to best communicate these risks.
Annotated checklist and genetic data for parasitic helminths infecting New Zealand marine invertebrates
Authors: Bennett Jerusha , Poulin Robert , Presswell Bronwen
Published: July 2022

Parasitic helminths with complex life cycles require multiple hosts in a particular order to complete their life cycles. Although almost all helminths infect invertebrates at some point in their life cycle, we know very little about which species of invertebrates harbor parasites compared with what is known for vertebrates. In New Zealand, <1% of marine invertebrates that may be expected to host parasites have records of parasite infections. This is a strong indication that our knowledge of invertebrate parasites within marine ecosystems is highly limited. Here, we provide the first comprehensive parasite–host checklist including data from the literature and newly discovered infections of parasitic helminths infecting marine invertebrates in New Zealand. Including both pre‐existing and newly found data from our survey, we present data on 73 parasite taxa (five acanthocephalans, 13 cestodes, nine nematodes, and 46 trematodes) infecting 62 marine invertebrate species in New Zealand. In addition, we compile existing and new genetic data for many of these parasites, as a useful tool for future studies of parasite biodiversity and phylogenetics.
‘To be, or not to be’—The dilemma of ‘silent’ antimicrobial resistance genes in bacteria
Authors: Deekshit Vijaya Kumar , Srikumar Shabarinath
Published: July 2022

Antimicrobial resistance is a serious threat to public health that dramatically undermines our ability to treat bacterial infections. Microorganisms exhibit resistance to different drug classes by acquiring resistance determinants through multiple mechanisms including horizontal gene transfer. The presence of drug resistance genotypes is mostly associated with corresponding phenotypic resistance against the particular antibiotic. However, bacterial communities harbouring silent antimicrobial resistance genes—genes whose presence is not associated with a corresponding resistant phenotype do exist. Under suitable conditions, the expression pattern of such genes often revert and regain resistance and could potentially lead to therapeutic failure. We often miss the presence of silent genes, since the current experimental paradigms are focused on resistant strains. Therefore, the knowledge on the prevalence, importance and mechanism of silent antibiotic resistance genes in bacterial pathogens are very limited. Silent genes, therefore, provide an additional level of complexity in the war against drug-resistant bacteria, reminding us that not only phenotypically resistant strains but also susceptible strains should be carefully investigated. In this review, we discuss the presence of silent antimicrobial resistance genes in bacteria, their relevance and their importance in public health.
Impact of benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride and chloroxylenol on bacterial antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Maillard Jean-Yves
Published: July 2022

This review examined 3655 articles on benzalkonium chloride (BKC), benzethonium chloride (BZT) and chloroxylenol (CHO) aiming to understand their impact on antimicrobial resistance. Following the application of inclusion/exclusion criteria, only 230 articles were retained for analysis; 212 concerned BKC, with only 18 for CHO and BZT. Seventy-eight percent of studies used MIC to measure BKC efficacy. Very few studies defined the term ‘resistance’ and 85% of studies defined ‘resistance’ as <10-fold increase (40% as low as 2-fold) in MIC. Only a few in vitro studies reported on formulated products and when they did, products performed better. In vitro studies looking at the impact of BKC exposure on bacterial resistance used either a stepwise training protocol or exposure to constant BKC concentrations. In these, BKC exposure resulted in elevated MIC or/and MBC, often associated with efflux, and at time, a change in antibiotic susceptibility profile. The clinical relevance of these findings was, however, neither reported nor addressed. Of note, several studies reported that bacterial strains with an elevated MIC or MBC remained susceptible to the in-use BKC concentration. BKC exposure was shown to reduce bacterial diversity in complex microbial microcosms, although the clinical significance of such a change has not been established. The impact of BKC exposure on the dissemination of resistant genes (notably efflux) remains speculative, although it manifests that clinical, veterinary and food isolates with elevated BKC MIC carried multiple efflux pump genes. The correlation between BKC usage and gene carriage, maintenance and dissemination has also not been established. The lack of clinical interpretation and significance in these studies does not allow to establish with certainty the role of BKC on AMR in practice. The limited literature and BZT and CHO do not allow to conclude that these will impact negatively on emerging bacterial resistance in practice.
The intestinal microbiome associated with lipid metabolism and obesity in humans and animals
Authors: Jian Zonghui , Zeng Li , Xu Taojie , Sun Shuai , Yan Shixiong , Zhao Sumei , Su Zhengchang , Ge Changrong , Zhang Yunmei , Jia Junjing , Dou Tengfei
Published: July 2022

Intestinal microbiota is considered to play an integral role in maintaining health of host by modulating several physiological functions including nutrition, metabolism and immunity. Accumulated data from human and animal studies indicate that intestinal microbes can affect lipid metabolism in host through various direct and indirect biological mechanisms. These mechanisms include the production of various signalling molecules by the intestinal microbiome, which exert a strong effect on lipid metabolism, bile secretion in the liver, reverse transport of cholesterol and energy expenditure and insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues. This review discusses the findings of recent studies suggesting an emerging role of intestinal microbiota and its metabolites in regulating lipid metabolism and the association of intestinal microbiota with obesity. Additionally, we discuss the controversies and challenges in this research area. However, intestinal micro-organisms are also affected by some external factors, which in turn influence the regulation of microbial lipid metabolism. Therefore, we also discuss the effects of probiotics, prebiotics, diet structure, exercise and other factors on intestinal microbiological changes and lipid metabolism regulation.
Company and perceiver characteristics influencing willingness to invest in female‐versus male‐led start‐up companies in STEM and non‐STEM fields
Authors: Macchione Alicia L. , Sacco Donald F. , Brown Mitch , Keefer Lucas A.
Published: July 2022

Given disparities in the number and success of female relative to male‐led businesses, the current program of research tested whether gender‐based company cues, employment sector (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics [STEM] vs. non‐STEM) and CEO gender lead to disparities in willingness to invest in start‐up companies. Using both university (Study 1) and community samples from the United States (Study 2 A and 2B), we assessed intentions to invest in hypothetical STEM and non‐STEM companies led by male and female CEOs with equivalent qualifications. In Study 1, university participants viewed STEM companies more favorably when the CEO was a man and viewed non‐STEM companies more favorably when the CEO was a woman. Study 2 A additionally demonstrated that STEM companies are typified by agentic traits and non‐STEM companies by communal traits underlying many gender stereotypes. Although the community sample (Study 2B) did not differ in perceptions of male and female CEOs in STEM companies, perceived communality for women‐led non‐STEM companies and perceived agency for women‐led STEM companies elicited favorability. Demographic differences in the two samples may explain variation in results.
Team members' reactions to a gender‐dissimilar leader: Competence monitoring and influence
Authors: Li Jiping , Knippenberg Daan van , Chattopadhyay Prithviraj , Wu Wen
Published: July 2022

Gender bias against female leaders suggests that female leaders are less accepted than male leaders. Moreover, research has suggested that male subordinates are less willing to accept female leaders than their female peers. We propose that their unwillingness to accept a female leader's influence may invite male team members to seek to develop their own influence within the team. Drawing on the theory of social self‐regulation in relational demography, we argue that compared with their female counterparts, male team members are more motivated to increase their influence within the team through competence monitoring (self‐regulated behavior to establish their competence within the team), especially when there is a greater proportion of male peers in the team (i.e., a lower level of gender dissimilarity between themselves and the rest of the team). In turn, we propose that competence monitoring has an increasingly positive relationship with the influence of male members within the team. The findings of our multisource survey of 288 members of 61 research and development teams supported our hypotheses. We discuss the implications of our findings for research on gender and leadership and relational demography.
Systolic blood pressure trajectories after acute ischemic strokes and clinical outcomes: A systematic review
Authors: Chen Xiuhua , Liu Huiliang , Ye Hongyuan , Bian Zhe , Peng Yanbo
Published: July 2022

Blood pressure(BP) varies drastically during the acute phase after stroke onset. BP level and BP variability may have a major impact on acute ischemic stroke (AIS) prognosis. However, the association between trajectories of blood pressure over time and clinical outcomes have not been established. This review sought out existing evidences for associations of systolic blood pressure (SBP) trajectories on outcomes after stroke to determine the connection between SBP trajectories and stroke prognosis. According to a pre‐designed search strategy, literature search was carried out in Embase, Pubmed and Web of Science. Two authors independently evaluated study eligibility and quality, and literature data were extracted. When the literature was eligible, we perform meta‐analysis to determine associations of SBP trajectories with clinical outcomes. Seven studies were finally screened out of 52 studies retrieved. Seven studies received a good risk of bias rating and reported BP measurement methods and intervals, BP trajectories modeling methods, outcome measures, but it was found that final systolic BP trajectories in various papers were significantly different. All studies reported statistically significant associations between systolic blood pressure trajectories and prognosis. Methodological heterogeneity is observed in studies. However, this systematic review suggests that the high SBP group after AIS is related to poor clinical outcomes, while the rapid decline or medium‐to‐low or low SBP group is associated with relatively better clinical outcomes at different period after stroke. More prospective studies are needed to report the full methodology according to standardized criteria and explore relationships between SBP trajectories and prognosis of stroke.
Identification of red jujube varieties based on hyperspectral imaging technology combined with CARS‐IRIV and SSA‐SVM
Authors: Wang Simin , Sun Jun , Fu Lvhui , Xu Min , Tang Ningqiu , Cao Yan , Yao Kunshan , Jing Jianpeng
Published: July 2022

To identify the varieties of red jujube rapidly and nondestructively, hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technology was applied in this article. Hyperspectral data of 480 samples with four different varieties were acquired in the range of 400.68–1001.61 nm. First, Savitzky–Golay and standard normal variable were utilized to process raw spectra. Afterward, a novel method combining competitive adaptive reweighted sampling and iterative retained information variable (CARS‐IRIV) was proposed to select feature wavelengths. The support vector machine (SVM) modeling results indicated that CARS‐IRIV had better information extraction performance and simplified the model. Finally, to further improve the accuracy, sparrow search algorithm (SSA) was adopted to optimize the parameters (c, g) of SVM. The results showed that SSA‐SVM exhibited greater accuracy than other compared models, and the accuracy of training and test sets were 100% and 96.68%, respectively. It confirmed that HSI technology coupled with CARS‐IRIV‐SSA‐SVM can effectively identify varieties of red jujube.

Practical Applications

The traditional ways of classifying red jujube varieties are destructive and laborious. Therefore, HSI technology was adopted to overcome the above shortcomings. In this article, the best identification performance was based on the CARS‐IRIV‐SSA‐SVM model with an identification accuracy of 96.68%. This study is helpful for the identification of other agricultural product varieties by HSI technology.
Novel pathway regarding good cosmetics brands by NFT in the metaverse world
Authors: Lee Jinkyung , Kwon Ki Han
Published: July 2022

Background

Globally, the coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19) is an incomplete homework task. The society has transitioned into a non‐face‐to‐face society due to COVID‐19. Thus, research was conducted focusing on a new market in the cosmetic market using non‐fungible token (NFT) in the metaverse era, a virtual world that is starting anew.

Purpose

This study is an empirical analysis focused on introducing the new start of luxury cosmetics brands using the metaverse world to good consumption using NFT.

Method

These data were reviewed to identify agreement between each section and unique guiding areas. The 39 papers were finally considered appropriate for evaluating the research objectives as follows in relation to the search criteria. This can be done through the PRISMA flow diagram to determine how many records were identified, included, and excluded.

Result

Good consumption in the future beauty market is vital, following COVID‐19. Therefore, this narrative review article concluded that, only good, irreplaceable brands that utilize NFT fitting the luxury brand strategy and consuming good money will survive when the metaverse cosmetic era opened.

Conclusion

By identifying new changes in the global metaverse world and cosmetics market using NFT, this study can be used as an important marketing material in the metaverse cosmetics market.
Optimal gestational weight gain to reduce the risk of hypertension disorders of pregnancy among women with obesity: A single tertiary referral center study in Japan
Authors: Sugeno Misa , Kyozuka Hyo , Murata Tsuyoshi , Hiraiwa Tsuyoshi , Jin Toki , Fujimori Mimori , Fukumoto Yuki , Ito Fumihiro , Suzuki Daisuke , Toma Fukuda , Yasuda Shun , Fujimori Keiya , Nomura Yasuhisa
Published: July 2022

Aim

To examine the effect of weight gain during pregnancy on hypertension disorders of pregnancy among women with a prepregnancy body mass index ≥30.0 kg/m2.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 257 Japanese women (116 primipara; 141 multipara) with singleton pregnancies with a prepregnancy body mass index ≥ 30.0 kg/m2, who gave birth during 2013 to 2020 at Ohta Nishinouchi Hospital. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the effect of gestational weight gain on early‐onset (<34 weeks), late‐onset (≥34 weeks), and overall hypertension disorders of pregnancy.

Results

The prevalence of hypertension disorders of pregnancy in primiparas and multiparas was 28.4% and 11.3%, respectively. By multiple logistic regression analysis, gestational weight gain during pregnancy increased the risk of early‐onset (adjusted odds ratio: 1.20, 95% confidence interval: 1.03–1.39, p < 0.05) and overall hypertension disorders of pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio: 1.12, 95% confidence interval: 1.03–1.22, p < 0.05) among primiparas. Based on receiver operating characteristic curve analyses for early‐onset (area under the curve 0.67, 95% confidence interval: 0.56–0.78; p < 0.05) and overall hypertension disorders of pregnancy (area under the curve 0.76, 95% confidence interval: 0.61–0.91; p < 0.05) among primiparas, we determined the cut‐off weight gain during pregnancy for early‐onset and overall hypertension disorders of pregnancy as 3.85 kg, with sensitivity/specificity of 0.76/0.59 and 0.91/0.53, respectively.

Conclusion

We recommend that the optimal gestational weight gain for reducing HDP be under 3.85 kg. This information may facilitate personalized pre‐conception counseling among women with obesity.
Thyroid antibodies and levothyroxine effects in subclinical hypothyroidism: A pooled analysis of two randomized controlled trials
Authors: Lyko Christina , Blum Manuel R. , Abolhassani Nazanin , Stuber Mirah J. , Del Giovane Cinzia , Feller Martin , Moutzouri Elisavet , Oberle Jolanda , Jungo Katharina T. , Collet Tinh‐Hai , den Elzen Wendy P. J. , Poortvliet Rosalinde K. E. , Du Puy Robert S. , Dekkers Olaf M. , Trompet Stella , Jukema J. Wouter , Aujesky Drahomir , Quinn Terry , Westendorp Rudi , Kearney Patricia M. , Gussekloo Jacobijn , Van Heemst Diana , Mooijaart Simon P. , Bauer Douglas C. , Rodondi Nicolas
Published: July 2022

Background

Antithyroid antibodies increase the likelihood of developing overt hypothyroidism, but their clinical utility remains unclear. No large randomized controlled trial (RCT) has assessed whether older adults with subclinical hypothyroidism (SHypo) caused by autoimmune thyroid disease derive more benefits from levothyroxine treatment (LT4).

Objective

To determine whether older adults with SHypo and positive antibodies derive more clinical benefits from LT4 than those with negative antibodies.

Methods

We pooled individual participant data from two RCTs, Thyroid Hormone Replacement for Untreated Older Adults with Subclinical Hypothyroidism and IEMO 80+. Participants with persistent SHypo were randomly assigned to receive LT4 or placebo. We compared the effects of LT4 versus placebo in participants with and without anti–thyroid peroxidase (TPO) at baseline. The two primary outcomes were 1‐year change in Hypothyroid Symptoms and Tiredness scores on the Thyroid‐Related Quality‐of‐Life Patient‐Reported Outcome Questionnaire.

Results

Among 660 participants (54% women) ≥65 years, 188 (28.5%) had positive anti‐TPO. LT4 versus placebo on Hypothyroid Symptoms lead to an adjusted between‐group difference of −2.07 (95% confidence interval: −6.04 to 1.90) for positive antibodies versus 0.89 (−1.76 to 3.54) for negative antibodies (p for interaction = 0.31). Similarly, there was no treatment effect modification by baseline antibody status for Tiredness scores—adjusted between‐group difference 1.75 (−3.60 to 7.09) for positive antibodies versus 1.14 (−1.90 to 4.19) for negative antibodies (p for interaction = 0.98). Positive anti‐TPO were not associated with better quality of life, improvement in handgrip strength, or fewer cardiovascular outcomes with levothyroxine treatment.

Conclusions

Among older adults with SHypo, positive antithyroid antibodies are not associated with more benefits on clinical outcomes with LT4.
Analysis of genetic variants of frequently mutated genes in human papillomavirus‐negative primary head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, resection margins, local recurrences and corresponding circulating cell‐free DNA
Authors: Flach Susanne , Kumbrink Jörg , Walz Christoph , Hess Julia , Drexler Guido , Belka Claus , Canis Martin , Jung Andreas , Baumeister Philipp
Published: July 2022

Background

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma remains a substantial burden to global health. Despite evolving therapies, 5‐year survival is <50% and unlike in other cancers, reliable molecular biomarkers to guide treatment do not exist.

Methods

We performed targeted panel next‐generation sequencing to analyse somatic variants from primary and recurrent tumour tissue, corresponding resection margins and cell‐free DNA from intra‐operatively collected plasma samples from eight patients with human papillomavirus‐negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Patients were primarily treated with curative‐intent surgery and received subsequent adjuvant treatment.

Results

The most frequently mutated gene was TP53. Other mutated genes included NOTCH1, NF1 and CDKN2A among others. A total of 20.8% of variants were shared between primary tumour and resection margin. Out of all the variants detected, 37.5% were shared between cell‐free DNA and primary tumour, whereas 12.5% were commonly found in cell‐free DNA, primary tumour and resection margin. Mutational profiling was able to distinguish between a locoregional recurrence and a second primary tumour by identifying a different TP53 mutation in the primary tumour compared to the recurrent tumour in addition to private FBXW7 and CTNNB1 mutations. We also identified identical TP53 and PIK3CA mutations in another primary tumour and corresponding recurrence.

Conclusion

Molecular profiling of cell‐free DNA and resection margins has potential applications in clinical practice to guide future treatment decisions.
No size‐dependent net particle retention in the hindgut of horses
Authors: Schwarm Angela , Clauss Marcus , Ortmann Sylvia , Jensen Rasmus B.
Published: July 2022

Sieve analyses of hindgut contents of horses as well as observations in horses where plastic markers had been applied to a caecal cannula suggested that there may be a discrimination by particle size in the passage or retention of digesta. Here, we performed a similar experiment with five caecum‐cannulated horses (562 ± 31 kg) fed a constant amount (6.81 kg dry matter/day) of grass hay. Passage markers representing the liquid (Co‐EDTA) as well as the particulate digesta phase (Yb—undefined; Cr mordanted fibre 1−2 mm; Ce‐mordanted fibre 8 mm) were given as a pulse‐dose into the cannula to measure their mean retention times (MRT). The MRTs were compared by repeated‐measurements analysis of variance. The MRT in the hindgut was 22.2 ± 2.4 h for Co, 25.0 ± 3.4 h for Yb, 26.2 ± 1.6 h for Cr and 26.3 ± 1.5 h for Ce. Whereas differences between the particle marker MRTs were not significant (padj. > 0.05), significant differences were observed between the solute marker Co and each of the particle markers Cr and Ce (padj. < 0.009). The results confirm the well‐known significant, albeit small, difference in MRT in horses between the fluid and the particle digesta phase, and corroborate another recent study that used a combination of whole, marked hay and individual marker analysis in different particle size fractions of the faeces, which also did not detect a selective retention of any particle size class.
Integration of a social cluster of Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) after a large immigration event in 2013
Authors: Elliser Cindy R. , Volker Cassandra L. , Herzing Denise L.
Published: July 2022

Demographic changes can result in alterations of social structure and behavior which in turn may affect survival, reproduction, or movement and may influence how populations respond to changes in the environment. In 2013, 52 Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) left Little Bahama Bank (LBB) and immigrated into a resident group of spotted dolphins on Great Bahama Bank (GBB). Initially there was little interaction and two distinct social clusters delineated by residency status. Here we describe the social structure of the dolphins on GBB between 2015–2020. Analyses were conducted with SOCPROG 2.9 and coefficients of association were nonrandom. The number of associations between LBB and GBB individuals increased, and standardized lagged association rates indicated continued associations over time. Modularity analysis showed one community without clear social clusters, although there were preferential associations within the original communities. Multiple Regression Quadratic Assignment Procedure indicated that sex, age, and residency status were good predictor variables that explained the patterns of the association indices. Male alliances were present between LBB, GBB, and LBB/GBB males. New and old relationships are influencing the social restructuring of this community. This study furthers our understanding of how demographic changes can shape the social structure of a population.
Respiratory chain dysfunction in perifascicular muscle fibres in patients with dermatomyositis is associated with mitochondrial DNA depletion
Authors: Hedberg‐Oldfors Carola , Lindgren Ulrika , Visuttijai Kittichate , Lööf Daniel , Roos Sara , Thomsen Christer , Oldfors Anders
Published: July 2022

Aims

Patients with dermatomyositis (DM) suffer from reduced aerobic metabolism contributing to impaired muscle function, which has been linked to cytochrome c oxidase (COX) deficiency in muscle tissue. This mitochondrial respiratory chain dysfunction is typically seen in perifascicular regions, which also show the most intense inflammatory reaction along with capillary loss and muscle fibre atrophy. The objective of this study was to investigate the pathobiology of the oxidative phosphorylation deficiency in DM.

Methods

Muscle biopsy specimens with perifascicular COX deficiency from five juveniles and seven adults with DM were investigated. We combined immunohistochemical analyses of subunits in the respiratory chain including complex I (subunit NDUFB8), complex II (succinate dehydrogenase, subunit SDHB) and complex IV (COX, subunit MTCO1) with in situ hybridisation, next generation deep sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

There was a profound deficiency of complexes I and IV in the perifascicular regions with enzyme histochemical COX deficiency, whereas succinate dehydrogenase activity and complex II were preserved. In situ hybridisation of mitochondrial RNA showed depletion of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) transcripts in the perifascicular regions. Analysis of mtDNA by next generation deep sequencing and quantitative PCR in affected muscle regions showed an overall reduction of mtDNA copy number particularly in the perifascicular regions.

Conclusion

The respiratory chain dysfunction in DM muscle is associated with mtDNA depletion causing deficiency of complexes I and IV, which are partially encoded by mtDNA, whereas complex II, which is entirely encoded by nuclear DNA, is preserved. The depletion of mtDNA indicates a perturbed replication of mtDNA explaining the muscle pathology and the disturbed aerobic metabolism.
Outcomes addressed in randomized controlled lifestyle intervention trials in community‐dwelling older people with (sarcopenic) obesity—An evidence map
Authors: Galicia Ernst Isabel , Torbahn Gabriel , Schwingshackl Lukas , Knüttel Helge , Kob Robert , Kemmler Wolfgang , Sieber Cornel C. , Batsis John A. , Villareal Dennis T. , Stroebele‐Benschop Nanette , Visser Marjolein , Volkert Dorothee , Kiesswetter Eva , Schoene Daniel
Published: July 2022

Obesity and sarcopenic obesity (SO) are characterized by excess body fat with or without low muscle mass affecting bio‐psycho‐social health, functioning, and subsequently quality of life in older adults. We mapped outcomes addressed in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on lifestyle interventions in community‐dwelling older people with (sarcopenic) obesity. Systematic searches in Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Web of Science were conducted. Two reviewers independently performed screening and extracted data on outcomes, outcome domains, assessment methods, units, and measurement time. A bubble chart and heat maps were generated to visually display results. Fifty‐four RCTs (7 in SO) reporting 464 outcomes in the outcome domains: physical function (n = 42), body composition/anthropometry (n = 120), biomarkers (n = 190), physiological (n = 30), psychological (n = 47), quality of life (n = 14), pain (n = 4), sleep (n = 2), medications (n = 3), and risk of adverse health events (n = 5) were included. Heterogeneity in terms of outcome definition, assessment methods, measurement units, and measurement times was found. Psychological and quality of life domains were investigated in a minority of studies. There is almost no information beyond 52 weeks. This evidence map is the first step of a harmonization process to improve comparability of RCTs in older people with (sarcopenic) obesity and facilitate the derivation of evidence‐based clinical decisions.
Myopia control with dual‐focus soft contact lenses during the first year of measures to contain the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Cabanes‐Martí Emma , García‐Ayuso Diego
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study compared refractive and axial length (AL) changes in children wearing dual‐focus soft contact lenses for myopia control (MiSight®) with myopic children wearing spectacles one year from the start of lockdown during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

This retrospective, descriptive, parallel‐group, observational study reviewed the charts of 11 children who began treatment for myopia control with dual‐focus soft contact lenses for myopia control (MiSight®) in March 2020 and 11 matched spectacle‐wearing controls. The mean increase in spherical equivalent refraction (SER) and AL from the beginning of the lockdown and up to 1 year later were compared. The parents of the children were asked about the average time spent on near work, contact lens wearing time both during and after the strict confinement and whether they had discontinued contact lens wear during lockdown.

Results

During this first year of preventive COVID‐19 measures (March 2020–March 2021), for the contact lens group the average SER and AL increased −0.14 ± 0.09D and 0.13 ± 0.05 mm, respectively. For the spectacle wearers, the corresponding increases were −0.54 ± 0.16D and 0.25 ± 0.08 mm, respectively. A significant difference was found between the groups for both SER (p < 0.001) and AL (p < 0.05). The average time spent outdoors was restricted for both groups during lockdown and increased after. However, statistically significant changes in the time spent outdoors during and after lockdown were only found for the spectacle group (p < 0.05; t‐test), whereas this change was not significant for the contact lens group (p = 0.08).

Conclusions

Over the observed time period, dual‐focus soft contact lenses for myopia control were effective despite the decreased time spent outdoors during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Tongue Manifestation in Patients with Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: A Cross‐sectional Study
Authors: Jia Yan , Sun Jigao , Jia Zhaoxu , Xue Zhipeng , Wang Rongtian , He Haijun , Chen Weiheng
Published: July 2022

Objective

Although tongue manifestation is a vital component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), relevant research on patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is still lacking. This study will explore the characteristic tongue manifestation of ONFH patients to inform future research and clinical practice.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional study. All ONFH patients meeting criteria and their clinical data were collected from the online China osteonecrosis of the femoral head database (CONFHD) since it was created. Organized tongue manifestations of eligible patients through the tongue manifestation acquisition instrument, including tongue shape, tongue color, tongue coating thickness, tongue coating color and tongue coating moisture. We used descriptive analysis for the general information while systematic clustering analysis for the better summary of tongue characteristics.

Results

A total of 375 ONFH patients were included with an average age of 46.3 years. Most patients appeared with enlarged tongue body (54.4%), and the proportions of pale and red tongue (62.4%) were higher than others. Tongue coating were mainly showed as thick (64.5%), white (57.6%) and moist (79.7%). Comparison of tongue shape between different causes of ONFH had a significant statistically difference (P = 0.000). Tongue manifestations could be cluster analyzed into three categories which were matched into four TCM syndromes.

Conclusions

The tongue manifestation of ONFH patients has a significant change both in tongue body and coating, and different features may be related to the ONFH pathology. This study provides new and valuable tongue informations for a preliminary screening of ONFH patients.
A Mid‐term Follow‐up Study on the Reimplantation of Autoclaved Femoral and Tibial Components as Spacers for Treating Infected Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Li Peng , Zhu Zhiqi , Tang Xiangyang , Shi Zhanjun
Published: July 2022

Objective

Infection after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a rare but devastating complication. Different types of spaces have been used in two‐stage revision. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of autoclaved femoral and tibial components as spacers for treating periprosthetic infections after TKA.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed for 13 patients (five males, eight females) with a mean age of 69 ± 6 (range, 57–80) years and suffering from periprosthetic infection after TKA. They were treated with unconventional two‐stage revision from May 2008 to June 2017. In the first‐stage surgery, the autoclaved femoral and tibial components were reimplanted with a new liner as a spacer after a thorough debridement. After 4–6 months, the second‐stage surgery was performed according to the patients' requirements. The knee society score (KSS) and knee range of motion (ROM) were assessed before and after surgery. The reinfection rate was calculated.

Results

The mean duration of follow‐up was 5.7 ± 2.1 (range, 3.1–8.8) years. Culture‐positive infections comprised 69% of the cohort. All patients were able to walk 24 h after the first stage surgery, and the knee ROM could reach 90° in 1 week. Two patients (15.4%) experienced an infection recurrence. One patient was reinfected 1 year after the first stage surgery. Another patient developed reinfection 3 years after surgery but did not choose re‐revision and died of pneumonia. Only one patient underwent the second stage revision. The remaining 10 patients refused to receive a new prosthesis. At the time of the final follow‐up, six patients had slight pain in the knee while walking, and one patient required crutches to walk. There were no signs of prosthesis dislocation, rupture, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or delayed wound healing. No radiolucent lines or osteolysis were found. The mean KSS improved from 51 ± 10 (range, 35–63) points preoperatively to 79 ± 5 (range, 60–85) points at the final follow‐up. The average ROM before and after the first stage surgery were 62° ± 29° (range, 10°–100°) and 104° ± 9° (range, 90°–120°) (t = 4.659, P < 0.01) respectively. The infection control rate was 84.6%.

Conclusion

Reimplantation of the autoclaved original femoral and tibial components as an articulating spacer during the first stage surgery is a valuable addition for treating an infected TKA.