bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical update on cutaneous and subcutaneous sarcomas
Authors: Kumari Jyoti , Das Kinnor , Patil Anant , Babaei Mahsa , Cockerell Clay J. , Goldust Mohamad
Published: September 2022

Background

Cutaneous sarcomas are uncommon cancers that can have a wide range of clinical symptoms and lead to considerable cutaneous as well as systemic morbidity.

Aim

The objective of this review article is to discuss epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and therapy of different types of cutaneous sarcomas.

Material and methods

Literature was screened to retrieve articles from PubMed/Medline and Google Scholar and related websites. Cross‐references from the relevant articles were also considered for review. Review articles, clinical studies, systematic reviews, meta‐analyses, and relevant information from selected websites were included.

Results and discussion

Cutaneous sarcomas have a negative effect on the quality of life. In their diagnosis, clinical presentation and histological evaluation are crucial. Complete surgical removal is the solution for more or less all cutaneous and subcutaneous sarcomas. The prognosis for cutaneous sarcomas is generally favorable since they tend to recur locally with distant metastases only on rare occasions. Patients having advanced disease should be treated in the setting of clinical trials if possible; choices include radiation therapy and systemic medicines. The value of innovative immunotherapy cannot be determined decisively at this time due to a paucity of relevant trials.

Conclusion

As cutaneous sarcomas are rarely diagnosed based on clinical findings, histology plays an important role in the diagnosis. They have a relatively favorable prognosis if treated properly. Patients should be treated at specialized centres.
What we need to know about uncertainty in illness among people with primary malignant brain tumours: A mixed‐methods systematic review
Authors: Hong Soomin , Lee JuHee , Lee Jiyeon , Chang Jong Hee , Park Chang Gi , Kim Tae Hee
Published: September 2022

Aims and objectives

To identify the characteristics of uncertainty in illness (UI) among people with primary malignant brain tumours (PMBT).

Background

High recurrence rates and complex symptoms cause uncertainty in people with PMBT. Given the characteristics of PMBT, reviewing UI among people with PMBT will benefit future research and clinical intervention development.

Design

A mixed‐methods systematic review.

Methods

We performed a mixed‐methods systematic review (PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus and Cochrane Library), including studies on UI among people with PMBT, searched from the databases' inception to the search date. The initial search was conducted in July 2021, with an additional search in March 2022. The major search terms were PMBT and UI, and no limitations were placed on the study design. The Cochrane tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias in randomised controlled trials, and JBI checklists were used to evaluate quasi‐experimental studies, survey methodology studies and a case study. This review was reported using the PRISMA 2020 checklist. Both quantitative and qualitative research data were extracted, analysed and then integrated in three stages of a mixed‐methods systematic review.

Results

Eleven studies were included. Due to physical, psychological and social risk factors, the UI progression of people with PMBT was complex and ambiguous, although they adapted to the PMBT diagnosis and treatment process. Subsequently, we proposed a model of UI among people with PMBT.

Conclusions

UI has multidimensional characteristics, and healthcare providers need to consider these aspects for people with PMBT.

Relevance to clinical practice

The proposed model provides directions for nursing practice and future research. Nurses caring for people with PMBT should comprehend their UI and intervene accordingly.

Patient or public contribution

This review incorporated data including people with PMBT in hospitals and communities. This analysis contributes to the clinical‐to‐community nursing transition process for people with PMBT.
Career Booster or Dead End? Entrepreneurial Failure and Its Consequences for Subsequent Corporate Careers
Authors: Rieger Verena , Wilken Jana , Engelen Andreas
Published: September 2022

Human capital theory establishes that the human capital gained in prior work experience, such as in traditional corporations, is associated with subsequent entrepreneurial success. However, this perspective does not accommodate increasingly boundaryless careers, during which individuals switch between career tracks in both directions. As a result, research to date is unable to explain whether experience with entrepreneurial failure drives corporate career success. We extend existing human capital research by theorizing that and testing empirically whether entrepreneurial activity builds human capital that is conducive to a subsequent corporate career, even when the new venture fails. We provide two main studies, a résumé experiment with 80 recruiters and a study with a matched sample of 326 failed entrepreneurs and comparable graduates who started a career in a corporation, that support this notion. We find that failed entrepreneurs can have a corporate career advantage over those graduates who started a career in a corporation.
How to deal with sleep problems during heatwaves: practical recommendations from the European Insomnia Network
Authors: Altena Ellemarije , Baglioni Chiara , Sanz‐Arigita Ernesto , Cajochen Christian , Riemann Dieter
Published: September 2022

Heatwaves are occurring more frequently and are known to affect particularly night‐time temperatures. We review here literature on how night‐time ambient temperature changes affect body temperature and sleep quality. We then discuss how these temperature effects impact particularly vulnerable populations such as older adults, children, pregnant women, and those with psychiatric conditions. Several ways of dealing with sleep problems in the context of heatwaves are then suggested, adapted from elements of cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia, with more specific advice for vulnerable populations. By better dealing with sleep problems during heatwaves, general health effects of heatwaves may be more limited. However, given the sparse literature, many links addressed in this review on sleep problems affected by temperature changes should be the focus of future research.
Congregation Shopping During the Pandemic: A Research Note
Authors: Higgins Nicholas J. , Djupe Paul A.
Published: September 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic provided perhaps the perfect storm to shake up American religion. Congregations closed for a time, the majority offered services online, and people seemed willing to engage with web worship. Moreover, the country was as divided as ever, polarized around the most divisive president in the modern era. In this research note, we focus on data from the middle of the peak of the pandemic (October 2020) to assess the degree to which individuals shopped for new congregations, the degree to which politics and church closures motivated that search, and whether congregational leaving grew during this period. Congregational leaving is perhaps a third greater than normal and shopping appears much higher than normal. Notably, shoppers are not necessarily leavers, and political differences play a role, particularly in the decision to leave among marginal members.
Annual changes in ovarian development stages of farmed female red‐spotted grouper, Epinephelus akaara, and inducing sexual maturity using photoperiod manipulation
Authors: Kim Byeong‐Hoon , Choi Song‐Hee , Lee Young‐Don , Lee Chi‐Hoon
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between melatonin and the reproductive mechanism of farmed female red‐spotted groupers, Epinephelus akaara. Through the reproductive cycle experiment, the sexual maturity period was determined to be from June to July, following which the spawning season occurred in August. In addition, kiss1, kiss2, and GPR54 mRNA expression levels peaked in January, whereas that of sbGnRH mRNA remained at high levels from January to May and decreased during the sexual maturity and spawning seasons. During the day–night cycle, a nocturnal rhythm of AANAT2 mRNA expression was observed in the brain, and AANAT2 mRNA expression showed a seasonal pattern with increased expression during summer compared with that in winter. A correlation between melatonin and reproduction‐related genes could not be observed via melatonin administration, and sexual maturity was observed to be more induced under long photoperiod conditions compared with short photoperiod conditions. These results indicate that the reproductive mechanism of the farmed female red‐spotted grouper is related to changes in photoperiod and melatonin, and further research is needed to clarify the reproductive mechanism. Our findings provide basic information for identifying the reproductive mechanisms of farmed E. akaara.
Brazilian marine phylogeography: A literature synthesis and analysis of barriers
Authors: Martins Nuno T. , Macagnan Leonardo B. , Cassano Valéria , Gurgel Carlos Frederico D.
Published: September 2022

In the last 30 years a plethora of phylogeography studies have been published targeting Brazilian marine species. To date, several historical and extant physical and ecological processes have been identified as drivers of allopatric, sympatric and parapatric population genetic differentiation detected along the Brazilian coast. Examples of extant physical barriers include the split of the South Equatorial Current into the Brazil and North Brazil boundary currents, the mouth of major rivers (e.g., Amazon, São Francisco and Doce rivers) and coastal upwellings. Examples of historical barriers include the Vitória–Trindade seamount chain promoting genetic differentiation during periods of glacial maxima and lower sea levels. Examples of ecological speciation include adaptations to different substrata, resource use and reproductive biology. We used published data to build data sets and generalized additive models to identify patterns of spatial phylogeographical concordance across multiple taxa and markers. Our results identify Cape São Roque as the most dominant extant barrier to gene flow along the Brazilian coast, followed by the Vitória–Trindade seamount chain and Cape Santa Marta. Cape Santa Marta is the northern winter limit of the Rio da Plata plume and is intermittently influenced by the Malvinas Current. This study provides a novel explicit quantitative approach to comparative phylogeography that recognizes four Brazilian phylogeographical regions delimited by processes associated with barriers to gene flow.
Organic food consumption and fecundability in a preconception cohort study of Danish couples trying to conceive
Authors: Weissert Sissel Jessen , Mikkelsen Ellen Margrethe , Jacobsen Bjarke H. , Hatch Elizabeth E. , Wesselink Amelia K. , Wise Lauren A. , Rothman Kenneth J. , Sørensen Henrik T. , Laursen Anne Sofie Dam
Published: September 2022

Background

Little is known about potential health effects of eating organic food in relation to reproduction.

Objective

We examined associations between organic food consumption and fecundability.

Methods

Data were derived from a preconception cohort study of Danish couples trying to conceive (SnartForældre.dk, SF). Participants completed a baseline questionnaire on socio‐demographics, anthropometrics and lifestyle and a validated food‐frequency questionnaire, which included questions on proportions of organic food consumed within six food groups. Participants were followed up with bimonthly questionnaires for up to 12 months or until pregnancy. Analyses were restricted to 2061 participants attempting pregnancy for ≤6 cycles at enrollment and 1303 with <3 cycles. Fecundability ratios (FRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated by proportional probabilities regression models adjusted for potential confounders including age, lifestyle and socioeconomic factors. Associations were examined for vegetables, fruits, cereals, dairy products, eggs and meat, separately, and for the overall pattern of organic food consumption (organic sum score).

Results

The final analytic sample comprised 2069 participants. In the full cohort, organic food consumption was not meaningfully associated with fecundability. Among participants <3 cycles of pregnancy attempt at study entry (n = 1303), the FR was 1.11 (95% CI 0.93, 1.33) for the category ‘less than half’, for ‘more than half’ the FR was 1.17 (95% CI 0.99, 1.38) and for ‘almost everything’ the FR was 1.12 (95% CI 0.97, 1.28).

Conclusion

Higher consumption of organic foods was not meaningfully associated with fecundability, although slightly greater fecundability was seen among participants with <3 cycles of pregnancy attempt time.
Impact of monocyte‐related modulators and kidney function on mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Sendic Senka , Mansouri Ladan , Havervall Sebastian , Thålin Charlotte , Lundahl Joachim , Jacobson Stefan H.
Published: September 2022

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at high risk of severe complications from COVID‐19 and functional monocyte disturbances have been implicated to play a role. Our objective was to analyse the association between kidney function and monocyte modulatory factors, with risk of mortality in patients with COVID‐19. Hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 (n = 110) were included and in‐hospital mortality was analysed with unadjusted and adjusted multiple logistic regression analysis. Plasma levels of monocyte chemoattractant factors (MIP‐1α, MCP‐1, IL‐6) and a monocyte immune modulator (sCD14) were analysed and correlated to kidney function and risk of mortality. Monocyte modulatory factors were also determined in CKD patients without infection (disease controls) and in healthy subjects. Patients who died in hospital were more often in CKD stages 3‐5, with lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and had significantly higher MIP‐1α and IL‐6 levels than survivors. In multiple regression analyses adjusted for age, sex and eGFR, both high MCP‐1 and high MIP‐1α were significantly associated with risk of in‐hospital mortality. Apart from impaired kidney function, also the concentrations of MCP‐1 and MIP‐1α add important prognostic information in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19. These data provide an increased understanding of the impact of monocyte modulators in patients with COVID‐19 and normal or impaired kidney function, and warrant consideration in the pursuit of new effective therapies.
Empowering learners to provide dietary counselling
Authors: Jain Seema , Higashi Robin T. , Bonnema Rachel , Albin Jaclyn
Published: September 2022

Background

Despite calls to increase dietary counselling by physicians to help address the epidemic of lifestyle‐related chronic disease, medical education does not equip future physicians with the training to provide effective dietary counselling. In addition to the multiple barriers that clinician educators face in implementing clinically relevant nutrition education curricula, evaluation modalities in the nutrition education literature that assess student skills and behaviour remain limited.

Approach

We implemented a brief, virtual nutrition education intervention in a US medical school during the outpatient clinical clerkship and assessed how our curriculum influenced students' development of dietary counselling skills.

Evaluation

Student feedback revealed appreciation for learning how to approach conversations about diet in a non‐judgmental manner and specific strategies to use during counselling. We thematically analysed the free‐text responses from 81 dietary counselling encounter forms submitted by students. Three emergent themes reflected the key dietary counselling skills students demonstrated during patient encounters: (1) eliciting drivers of current eating patterns and barriers to healthier eating patterns, (2) individualising recommendations and (3) recommending evidence‐based strategies.

Implications

After receiving brief, clinically relevant, virtual nutrition education, students were able to successfully apply dietary counselling skills to patient care. In conjunction with indirect skill assessment through targeted documentation, we offer a sustainable approach for feasible nutrition education paired with meaningful evaluation.
Probing the interstitial calcium compartment
Authors: Valiente‐Gabioud Ariel A. , Fabritius Arne , Griesbeck Oliver
Published: September 2022

Calcium in interstitial fluids is a crucial ion pool for entry into cells through a plethora of calcium‐permeable channels. It is also sensed actively by dedicated receptors. While the mechanisms of global calcium homeostasis and regulation in body fluids appear well understood, more efforts and new technology are needed to elucidate local calcium handling in the small and relatively isolated interstitial spaces between cells. Here we review current methodology for monitoring interstitial calcium and highlight the potential of new approaches for its study. In particular, new generations of high‐performance low‐affinity genetically encoded calcium indicators could allow imaging of calcium in relatively inaccessible intercellular structures in live tissues and organisms.

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Le Corbusier, Sert y Wiener: las huellas del plan para Bogotá
Authors: Tarchópulos Doris
Published: September 2022

Este libro reivindica las figuras de Le Corbusier, Josep Lluís Sert y Paul Lester Wiener en los planes de construcción de la ciudad de Bogotá. El impacto que tuvieron estos arquitectos en el desarrollo y en la implantación de paradigmas sociales y urbanísticos de la ciudad no es menor, a pesar de lo que se ha creído en la academia del país. Acompañado de un rico material gráfico, este libro plantea un detallado análisis del panorama histórico de dos episodios especialmente significativos en la construcción de ciudad y en las ideas de desarrollo derivadas de esta: los planes Piloto y Regulador (1949-1953). Estos proyectos delimitaron la zonificación urbana en Bogotá, el sistema vial, los regímenes de construcción, la planificación de la vivienda pública, entre otros elementos. Así, el lector encontrará en este libro cuidadosamente editado una amplia documentación de estos planes urbanos, que se recupera con un serio trabajo de archivo y con la búsqueda rigurosa de Doris Tarchópulos.
Effect of pH on the growth of three lactic acid bacteria strains isolated from sour cream
Authors: Vera-Peña Madalyd Yurani , Rodriguez-Rodriguez Wendy Lizeth
Published: September 2022

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have an important role in the food industry because they are used in the production of fermented fo ds. To use these microorganisms in the food industry, it is necessary to obtain a high amount of biomass. One of the most important environmental factors in the growth of LAB is pH. Most of LAB species can tolerate a pH below 5.0, however, a suboptimal pH is expected to limit LAB growth. For this reason, the LAB strains Leuconostoc mesenteroides 67-1, Lactobacillus plantarum 60-1, and Streptococcus infantarius 46-3, isolated from sour cream, were grown in culture media under four different intial pH values to determine their optimal growth pH. Growth was assesed via colony-forming unit (CFU/ml) determination. We found that the growth of each LAB was affected by culture medium pH. We determined that the setpoints of pH for Leuconostoc mesenteroides 67-1, Streptococcus infantarius 46-3, and Lactobacillus plantarum 60-1 were of 4.5 (± 0.5), 5.5 (± 0.5), and 6.0 (± 0.5), respectively. We thus conclude that the growth of these LAB strains is pH-dependent (p < 0.05).
Feeding strategy of fish that colonize reservoirs in the Magdalena river basin
Authors: Restrepo Santamaria Daniel , Navia Andrés Felipe , Palacio Jaime , Jiménez-Segura Luz Fernanda
Published: September 2022

Construction of dams for hydropower in Andean rivers of Colombia is increasing loss of species of the region. Fish species that persist in these artificial ecosystems are those which find favorable the new conditions for their recruitment. Because feeding is one of the fish life strategies that influence their persistence in reservoirs, we analyzed the stomach contents of the species present in two cascade reservoirs in the Magdalena river basin. The objectives were to describe the diet, to determine their feeding strategies and to evaluate if the rainy season or spatial distribution affects the diet of the fish species. Our results indicate that the fish species Brycon henni and Astyanax microlepis that feed on a wide range of resources that the system offers and adopt a generalist strategy. Also, opportunistic species such as Roeboides dayi and Hoplosternum magdalenae occupied these environments. Climatic seasonality does not influence the feeding habits of the fish species inhabiting the study reservoirs. Knowledge of the feeding habits of fish species is a priority for strengthening the environmental management of aquatic resources of the Andes.
Study of Ultrasonic-Guided Wave Interaction With Core Crush Damage for Nondestructive Evaluation of a Honeycomb Composite Sandwich Panel
Authors: Raja B. Ramana , Tallur Siddharth , Banerjee Sauvik
Published: September 2022

Honeycomb composite sandwich structures are extensively used for the manufacturing of many different components of aerospace, automobiles, wind turbine blades, and marine ship hull structures. Despite its widespread use and advantages, the honeycomb core is frequently damaged during production and operation, even if the damage is not visible on the face-sheet. In this study, an ultrasonic-guided wave (GW) propagation technique is utilized for robust and reliable nondestructive evaluation of a honeycomb composite sandwich panel (HCSP) in the presence of core crush damage. A 2D semi-analytical model was developed to understand the dispersion characteristics in the HCSP and to identify various modes of GW propagation in the signals. Extensive numerical simulations are carried out using abaqus to study the guided wave interaction with core crush damage. For this purpose, two numerical models were considered (a realistic model with both crushed core and cavity, and a simplified model that only comprises the cavity) and experimentally validated using a contact-type transducer. The presence of core crush damage in an HCSP increases the amplitude and group velocity of the primary antisymmetric mode, and this characteristic has been used for localization of the core crush region in the HCSP. Finally, a damage detection algorithm using signal difference coefficient is presented for successful localization of the core crush region within a square monitoring area. Unlike other studies reported in the literature, we demonstrate the utility of the simplified numerical model for studying GW interactions with core crush defect and experimentally validate the nondestructive evaluation (NDE) technique to localize core crush defect on an HCSP.
Slip Characteristics in Cylindrical Roller Bearings—Part III: Influence of Bearing Clearance on the Roller and Set Slip
Authors: Dawoud Michael , Beitler Stephan , Schwarze Hubert
Published: September 2022

The set and roller slip of an NU215 cylindrical roller bearing with medium clearance (MC) and tight clearance (TC) classes have been tested and compared to those of extensive clearance (EC) presented in Parts I and II of this publication. A total of two cages were tested in this part presenting the brass and polyamide single-part cages. The normal TC clearance under the tight fitting of the inner and outer rings resulted in preloading of all the rollers and hence no set slip. Under low oil flowrates, the roller experienced no slip even in the load free zone. For the MC clearance, the polyamide cage showed better behavior (less roller and rolling set slip tendency) than the brass cage contrasting the results obtained earlier under the EC clearance. It is concluded that the polyamide cage deforms under the unsymmetrical loading of the EC clearance resulting in this elevated slip however, under a more even loading in the MC clearance, its lightweight was reflected in a reduced slip behavior.
Isolated ballistic non-abelian interface channel
Authors: Dutta Bivas , Umansky Vladimir , Banerjee Mitali , Heiblum Moty
Published: September 2022

The topological order of a quantum Hall state is mirrored by the gapless edge modes owing to bulk-edge correspondence. The state at the filling of ν = 5/2, predicted to host non-abelian anyons, supports a variety of edge modes (integer, fractional, neutral). To ensure thermal equilibration between the edge modes and thus accurately determine the state’s nature, it is advantageous to isolate the fractional channel (1/2 and neutral modes). In this study, we gapped out the integer modes by interfacing the ν = 5/2 state with integer states ν = 2 and ν = 3 and measured the thermal conductance of the isolated-interface channel. Our measured half-quantized thermal conductance confirms the non-abelian nature of the ν = 5/2 state and its particle-hole Pfaffian topological order. Such an isolated channel may be more amenable to braiding experiments.
Chiral light sources get a helping hand
Authors: Forbes Andrew
Published: September 2022

Resonant metasurfaces pave the way for more compact sources of pure chiral light
Effectiveness and Safety of Beta-Lactam Antibiotics with and without Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa Pneumonia or Bloodstream Infection
Authors: Kunz Coyne Ashlan J. , Alshaer Mohammad , Casapao Anthony M. , Venugopalan Veena , Isache Carmen , Ferreira Jason , Jankowski Christopher A.
Published: September 2022

This objective of this study was to compare clinical outcomes in hospitalized patients with
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
pneumonia (PNA) or bloodstream infection (BSI) receiving beta-lactam antibiotic (BLA) infusions with and without the guidance of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). A retrospective, parallel cohort study was conducted at two academic medical centers between December 2015 and January 2020, UF Shands Gainesville, which uses BLA TDM for select patients (BLA TDM), and UF Health Jacksonville, which does not use BLA TDM (No-BLA TDM).
Pleiotropic Effects of Hfq on the Cytochrome
c
Content and Pyomelanin Production in Shewanella oneidensis
Authors: Wang Wei , Liang Yawen , Liu Lulu , Han Sirui , Wu Shihua , Gao Haichun
Published: September 2022

In bacteria, Hfq has been implicated in regulation of diverse biological processes posttranslationally. In
S. oneidensis
, Hfq affects the content of cytos
c
that serve as the basis of its respiratory versatility and potential application in bioenergy and bioremediation.
Characterization of MroQ-Dependent Maturation and Export of the Staphylococcus aureus Accessory Gene Regulatory System Autoinducing Peptide
Authors: Stock Madison R. , Fang Liwei , Johnson Kaelie R. , Cosgriff Chance , Teoh Wei Ping , Alonzo Francis
Published: September 2022

Gram-positive bacteria produce small autoinducing peptides (AIPs), which act to regulate expression of genes that promote adaptive traits, including virulence. The Gram-positive pathogen
Staphylococcus aureus
generates a cyclic AIP that controls expression of virulence factors via the accessory gene regulatory (Agr) system.
S. aureus
strains belong to one of four Agr groups (Agr-I, -II, -III, and -IV); each group harbors allelic variants of AgrD, the precursor of AIP.
Zebra: Static and Dynamic Genome Cover Thresholds with Overlapping References
Authors: Hakim Daniel , Wandro Stephen , Zengler Karsten , Zaramela Livia S. , Nowinski Brent , Swafford Austin , Zhu Qiyun , Song Se Jin , Gonzalez Antonio , McDonald Daniel , Knight Rob
Published: September 2022

Taxonomic assignment, assigning sequences to specific taxonomic units, is a crucial processing step in microbiome analyses. Issues in taxonomic assignment affect interpretation of what microbes are present in each sample and may be associated with specific environmental or clinical conditions.
The Bacterial MtrAB Two-Component System Regulates the Cell Wall Homeostasis Responding to Environmental Alkaline Stress
Authors: Qin Xiaoyu , Zhang Kaiduan , Fan Yuzhao , Fang Hui , Nie Yong , Wu Xiao-Lei
Published: September 2022

Microorganisms can be found in most extreme environments, and they have to adapt to a wide range of environmental stresses. The two-component systems (TCSs) found in bacteria detect environmental stimuli and regulate physiological pathways for survival.
Latency of Motion Onset Response as an Integrative Measure of Processing Sound Movement
Authors: Semenova V. V. , Shestopalova L. B. , Petropavlovskaia E. A. , Salikova D. A. , Nikitin N. I.
Published: September 2022

Abstract—

The characteristics of a specific event-related potential elicited by sound motion onset (motion-onset response, MOR) were estimated. Moving sound stimuli with delayed motion onset were presented to right-handed subjects in dichotic conditions. Sound motion was produced by linear changes of interaural time differences. The amplitude and latency of cN1 and cP2 components of evoked potentials were measured in a wide range of velocities. The latency of cN1 increased linearly with the increase in time of 1° azimuthal shift of a stimulus, whereas the cP2 latency remained nearly constant. The time interval of motion integration was about 140–180 ms. Thus, the latency of cN1 deflection may be considered as an electrophysiological correlate of integrative neuronal processes activated by sound motion presented as a separate auditory event.
Thermal Flaw Detection Scanner for Testing Large-Sized Flat Products Made of Composite Materials
Authors: Chulkov A. O. , Vavilov V. P. , Nesteruk D. A. , Shagdyrov B. I.
Published: September 2022

A self-propelled thermal flaw detector has been developed for testing large-sized flat parts by means of thermal scanning that provides higher efficiency and test performance than conventional thermal testing scheme over individual zones. The flaw detector is designed to detect delaminations, impact damage, and foreign inclusions in composite materials and can be used to test for corrosion in metal shells, providing continuous monitoring with a performance of up to 20 m2/h.
Prevention of covid-19 and other acute respiratory infections with cod liver oil supplementation, a low dose vitamin D supplement: quadruple blinded, randomised placebo controlled trial
Authors: Brunvoll Sonja H , Nygaard Anders B , Ellingjord-Dale Merete , Holland Petter , Istre Mette Stausland , Kalleberg Karl Trygve , Søraas Camilla L , Holven Kirsten B , Ulven Stine M , Hjartåker Anette , Haider Trond , Lund-Johansen Fridtjof , Dahl John Arne , Meyer Haakon E , Søraas Arne
Published: September 2022

Objective

To determine if daily supplementation with cod liver oil, a low dose vitamin D supplement, in winter, prevents SARS-CoV-2 infection, serious covid-19, or other acute respiratory infections in adults in Norway.

Design

Quadruple blinded, randomised placebo controlled trial.

Setting

Norway, 10 November 2020 to 2 June 2021.

Participants

34 601 adults (aged 18-75 years), not taking daily vitamin D supplements.

Intervention

5 mL/day of cod liver oil (10 µg of vitamin D, n=17 278) or placebo (n=17 323) for up to six months.

Main outcome measures

Four co-primary endpoints were predefined: the first was a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result determined by reverse transcriptase-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and the second was serious covid-19, defined as self-reported dyspnoea, admission to hospital, or death. Other acute respiratory infections were indicated by the third and fourth co-primary endpoints: a negative SARS-CoV-2 test result and self-reported symptoms. Side effects related to the supplementation were self-reported. The fallback method was used to handle multiple comparisons.

Results

Supplementation with cod liver oil was not associated with a reduced risk of any of the co-primary endpoints. Participants took the supplement (cod liver oil or placebo) for a median of 164 days, and 227 (1.31%) participants in the cod liver oil group and 228 (1.32%) participants in the placebo group had a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result (relative risk 1.00, multiple comparison adjusted confidence interval 0.82 to 1.22). Serious covid-19 was identified in 121 (0.70%) participants in the cod liver oil group and in 101 (0.58%) participants in the placebo group (1.20, 0.87 to 1.65). 8546 (49.46%) and 8565 (49.44%) participants in the cod liver oil and placebo groups, respectively, had ≥1 negative SARS-CoV-2 test results (1.00, 0.97 to 1.04). 3964 (22.94%) and 3834 (22.13%) participants in the cod liver oil and placebo groups, respectively, reported ≥1 acute respiratory infections (1.04, 0.97 to 1.11). Only low grade side effects were reported in the cod liver oil and placebo groups.

Conclusion

Supplementation with cod liver oil in the winter did not reduce the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, serious covid-19, or other acute respiratory infections compared with placebo.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov
NCT04609423
.
Trends in the relation between hyperglycemia correction and active Charcot neuroarthropathy: results from the EPICHAR study
Authors: Dardari Dured , Schuldiner Sophie , Julien Carole-Anne , Ha Van Georges , M’Bemba Jocelyne , Bourgeon Muriel , Sultan Ariane , Lepeut Marc , Grandperret-Vauthier Sylvie , Baudoux Florence , François Maud , Clavel Sylvaine , Martini Jacques , Vouillarmet Julien , Michon Paul , Moret Myriam , Monnier Arnaud , Chingan-Martino Vaneva , Rigalleau Vincent , Dumont Isabelle , Kessler Laurence , Stifii Ionela , Bouillet Benjamin , Bonnin Pierre , Lemoine Amal , Da Costa Correia Enrique , Faraill Marie Martine Bonello , Muller Marie , Cazaubiel Marie , Zemmache Mohammed Zakarya , Hartemann Agnes
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The pathophysiology of Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) remains unclear. There are a number of hypotheses but these are not exclusive. In its clinical presentation, this complication intersects with the semiology of diabetic-induced neuropathy, such as peripheral hypervascularization and the appearance of arteriovenous shunt. The EPICHAR study is as yet an unpublished cohort of people living with diabetes complicated by CN (in active or chronic phase). Based on the findings of the EPICHAR study, this study aimed to investigate whether a reduction in the rate of hyperglycemia accompanies the onset of an active phase of CN.

Research design and methods

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels were assessed 3 months (M3) and 6 months (M6) before the diagnosis of active CN (M0).

Results

103 patients living with diabetes and presenting active CN were included between January and December 2019 from the 31 centers participating in this study (30 in France and 1 in Belgium). The mean age of the participants was 60.2±12.2 years; the vast majority were men (71.8%) living with type 2 diabetes (75.5%). Mean HbA1c levels significantly declined between M6 (median 7.70; Q1, Q3: 7.00, 8.55) and M3 (median 7.65; Q1, Q3: 6.90, 8.50) (p=0.012), as well as between M6 and M0 (median 7.40; Q1, Q3: 6.50, 8.50) (p=0.014). No significant difference was found between M3 and M0 (p=0.072).

Conclusions

A significant reduction in HbA1c levels seems to accompany the onset of the active phase of CN.

Trial registration number

NCM03744039.
Postbariatric hypoglycemia in symptomatic versus asymptomatic patients: proposals for clinical assessments
Authors: Uddén Hemmingsson Joanna , Leijonmarck Carl-Eric , Klingvall Maria
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Recurrent hypoglycemia due to postbariatric hypoglycemia (PBH) is a postoperative complication after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP). The historic term is late dumping syndrome or reactive hypoglycemia. The aim of this study was to assess clinically applicable tools, in order to diagnose these patients, for the purpose of preventing hypoglycemic complications.

Research design and methods

Ten patients with PBS and nine controls were recruited. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and food intake were registered for 7 days, together with metabolic parameters at baseline.

Results

There was a significant difference (p<0.05) in Dumping Syndrome Rating Scale (DSRS) between the groups. There was no difference between p-glucose or HbA1c between the groups, but a highly significant difference in C peptide p<0.01 was observed. Using the Dexcom Studio system, the PBH group had significantly (p<0.05) more time during the day in very low blood sugar (5.9±4.2% vs 1.8%±2.3%) compared with the controls. Counting hyperglycemic and hypoglycemic episodes showed that the quantity of hypoglycemic episodes was significantly higher, p<0.01, in the PBH group compared with controls (16.6±11.0 vs 8.1±8.6 hypoglycemic events). C peptide was positively correlated with the late dumping group, p<0.01 (CI 95% 0.353 to 0.814) and very low blood sugar (<3.2 mmol/L) in all subjects with p<0.01 (CI 95% 0.194 to 0.763).

Conclusions

Finding patients with recurrent hypoglycemic episodes after bariatric surgery is important to prevent future health problems. To diagnose recurrent hypoglycemia (PBH) after RYGBP, we used blood sugar analyzing tools that are commonly available in clinical settings. Interestingly, patients with few or no symptoms of PHB still had recurrent hyperglycemic and hypoglycemic events. We recommend an active approach with dumping syndrome questionnaires, assessment of metabolic parameters and CGM with food registration. Assessment of PBH using this method can potentially lead to reduced blood glucose variability due to behavioral changes.
Effects of occupational hazards and occupational stress on job burn-out of factory workers and miners in Urumqi: a propensity score-matched cross-sectional study
Authors: Lu Yaoqin , Liu Qi , Yan Huan , Liu Tao
Published: September 2022

Objective

This study was designed to explore the impact of occupational hazards and occupational stress on job burn-out among factory workers and miners. This study also aimed to provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of job burn-out among factory workers and miners.

Design

A cross-sectional study based on the factory Workers and Miners of Urumqi, Xinjiang. Demographic biases, that is, confounding factors, were eliminated by the propensity score-matched analysis method.

Participants

An electronic questionnaire was used to survey 7500 eligible factory workers and miners in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, and 7315 complete questionnaires were returned.

Primary outcome measures

A general demographic questionnaire, the Effort–Reward Imbalance (ERI) and the Chinese Maslach Burnout Inventory.

Results

The total rate of burn-out was 86.5%. Noise (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.64) and ERI (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.78 to 2.61) were the risk factors for job burn-out among factory workers and miners (p<0.001).

Conclusion

The job burn-out rate of factory workers and miners was high, and the noise and occupational stress factors among occupational hazard factors will affect the likelihood of job burn-out of factory workers and miners. We should control the impact of occupational hazards on factory workers and miners and reduce occupational stress to alleviate workers’ job burn-out.
Spatiotemporal analysis of pertussis in Hunan Province, China, 2009–2019
Authors: Tan Huiyi , Liang Linlong , Yin Xiaocheng , Li ChunYing , Liu Fuqiang , Wu Chengqiu
Published: September 2022

Objectives

This study aims to explore the spatial and spatiotemporal distribution of pertussis in Hunan Province, and provide a scientific basis for targeting preventive measures in areas with a high incidence of pertussis.

Design

In this retrospective spatial and spatiotemporal (ecological) study, the surveillance and population data of Hunan Province from 2009 to 2019 were analysed. The ArcGIS V.10.3 software was used for spatial autocorrelation analysis and visual display, and SaTScan V.9.6 software was used for statistical analysis of spatiotemporal scan data.

Settings

Confirmed and suspected pertussis cases with current addresses in Hunan Province and onset dates between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2019 were included in the study.

Participants

The study used aggregated data, including 6796 confirmed and suspected pertussis cases.

Results

The seasonal peak occurred between March and September, and scattered children were at high risk. The global Moran’s I was between 0.107 and 0.341 (p<0.05), which indicated that the incidence of pertussis in Hunan had a positive spatial autocorrelation. The results of local indicators of spatial autocorrelation analysis showed that the hot spots were mainly distributed in the northeast region of Hunan Province. Moreover, both purely space and spatiotemporal scans showed that the central and northeastern parts were the most likely cluster areas with an epidemic period between March and October in 2018 and 2019.

Conclusion

The distribution of the pertussis epidemic in Hunan Province from 2009 to 2019 shows spatiotemporal clustering. The clustering areas of the pertussis epidemic were concentrated in the central and northeastern parts of Hunan Province between March and October 2018 and 2019. In areas with low pertussis incidence, the strengthening of the monitoring system may reduce under-reporting. In areas with high pertussis incidence where we could study whether the genes of endemic pertussis strains are mutated and differ from vaccine strains.
Relation of gut microbiota and postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction in older patients with colon cancer undergoing elective colon resection: a protocol for a prospective, observational cohort study
Authors: Wang Na , Zuo Haojiang , Xu Yujie , Zhou Yong , Wei Ailing , Li Ka
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Gut microbiota (GM) appears critical for gastrointestinal symptoms, but whether alterations in GM are associated with increased risk of postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction (POGID) in older patients with colon cancer (CC) undergoing elective colon resection remains unclear.

Methods and analysis

This study aims to prospectively recruit 284 elderly patients with CC undergoing elective colon resection. GM of fresh faeces specimens is characterised using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Data are collected preoperatively, daily postoperatively during the in-hospital stay, and follow-up visits are scheduled four times within 30 days after discharge. Associations with POGID will be investigated using logistic regression models to calculate ORs with 95% CIs. The models include the adjustment for age, sex, frequency of spicy diet, coffee drinking and tea drinking, tobacco and alcohol history, diabetes, obesity, gastroenteritis, preoperative gut microbial composition. Furthermore, we will use joint modelling for longitudinal data to study several outcome variables simultaneously.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of West China Hospital, Sichuan University (IRB Number: 20201334). The results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications or conference presentations.

Trial registration number

It has been registered in PROSPERO, number CRD42019145032. It has been registered in the Chinese clinical trial registry, number ChiCTR2100043646.
Low back pain in the Bangladeshi adult population: a cross-sectional national survey
Authors: Momen Majumder Muhammad Shoaib , Hakim Ferdous , Bandhan Iftekhar Hussain , Razzaque Mohammad Abdur , Zahid-Al-Quadir Ahmad , Ahmed Shamim , Choudhury Minhaj Rahim , Haq Syed Atiqul , Zaman MM
Published: September 2022

Objective

Low back pain (LBP) is a common musculoskeletal disorder. This study aims to determine the residence-specific and sex-specific prevalence and the factors associated with LBP in Bangladesh.

Methods

The study subjects (aged ≥18 years) were identified from 20 primary sampling units of the national census following a cross-sectional multistage stratified sampling design. We considered the mechanical type of LBP for this study. A Bangla version of the modified Community Oriented Programme for Control of Rheumatic Disorders questionnaire was used. A team of trained field workers, rheumatology residents and rheumatologists collected the data. Analysis was done using weighted data.

Results

Two thousand subjects were approached, but 1843 could be screened. Among them, 561 had musculoskeletal disorders, and 343 were diagnosed with LBP. The weighted prevalence of LBP was 18.5% (95% CI: 11.8% to 25.2%) and age-standardised prevalence of LBP was 19.4% (95% CI: 14.0% to 24.8%), which was higher in women (27.2%, 19.3% to 35.1%) than men (14.0%, 8.7% to 19.3%). The prevalence persistently increased from age group 18–34 years (10.5%, 5.7 to 15.4) to ≥55 years (27.8%, 16.1% to 39.5%). People with no education had the highest prevalence (31.3%, 22.3% to 40.4%). The prevalence did not differ between urban and rural residential locations. Four factors were significantly associated with LBP: age (adjusted odds ratio: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.7 to 3.4), female sex (2.2, 1.5 to 3.3), absence of formal education (2.3, 1.6 to 3.3) and hypertension (1.7, 1.1 to 2.6).

Conclusion

LBP is a common problem in Bangladeshi adults. The factors identified are age, female sex, no formal education and hypertension. These should be addressed adequately to prevent and treat LBP.
Munich atopy prediction study (MAPS): protocol for a prospective birth cohort addressing clinical and molecular risk factors for atopic dermatitis in early childhood
Authors: Preis Sarah , Schmidt Lea , Tizek Linda , Schielein Maximilian , Lang Viktoria , Bleuel Rachela , Duswald Anna , Sitaru Sebastian , Blasini Annette , Gasteiger Christine , Merdha Lennard , Kurgyis Zsuzsanna , Kuschel Bettina , Hauenstein Evelyn , Sander Maximilian , Niedermeier Sebastian , Argiriu Desiree , Engel Sabrina , Skabytska Yuliya , Silva Rafaela L , Hils Miriam , Evers Beatrix , Kaesler Susanne , Hufnagel Hanna , Köberle Martin , Amar Yacine , Zink Alexander , Biedermann Tilo
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The pathogenesis of atopic diseases is highly complex, and the exact mechanisms leading to atopic dermatitis (AD) onset in infants remain mostly enigmatic. In addition to an interdependent network of components of skin development in young age and skin barrier dysfunction underlying AD development that is only partially understood, a complex interplay between environmental factors and lifestyle habits with skin barrier and immune dysregulation is suspected to contribute to AD onset. This study aims to comprehensively evaluate individual microbiome and immune responses in the context of environmental determinants related the risk of developing AD in the first 4 years of a child’s life.

Methods and analyses

The ‘Munich Atopic Prediction Study’ is a comprehensive clinical and biological investigation of a prospective birth cohort from Munich, Germany. Information on pregnancy, child development, environmental factors, parental exposures to potential allergens and acute or chronic diseases of children and parents are collected by questionnaires together with a meticulous clinical examination by trained dermatologists focusing on allergies, skin health, and in particular signs of AD at 2 months after birth and then every 6 months. In addition, skin barrier functions are assessed through cutometry, corneometry and transepidermal water loss at every visit. These measurements are completed with allergy diagnostics and extensive microbiome analyses from stool and skin swabs as well as transcriptome analyses using skin microbiopsies.

The aim is to assess the relevance of different known and yet unknown risk factors of AD onset and exacerbations in infants and to identify possible accessible and robust biomarkers.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is approved by the Ethical Committee of the Medical Faculty of the Technical University of Munich (reference 334/16S). All relevant study results will be presented at national and international conferences and in peer-reviewed journals.