bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations between biological maturity level, match locomotion, and physical capacities in youth male soccer players
Authors: Gundersen Hilde , Riiser Amund , Algroy Erling , Vestbøstad Mona , Saeterbakken Atle H. , Clemm Hege Havstad , Grendstad Halvard , Hafstad Arild , Kristoffersen Morten , Rygh Cecilie Brekke
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Biological maturity level has shown to affect sport performance in youths. However, most previous studies have used noninvasive methods to estimate maturity level. Thus, the main aim of the present study was to investigate the association between skeletal age (SA) as a measure of biological maturation level, match locomotion, and physical capacity in male youth soccer players.

Method

Thirty‐eight Norwegian players were followed during two consecutive seasons (U14 and U15). Match locomotion was assessed with GPS‐tracking in matches. SA, assessed by x‐ray, physical capacities (speed, strength and endurance) and anthropometrics were measured in the middle of each season. Analysis of associations between SA, match locomotion, and physical capacities were adjusted for the potential confounding effect of body height and weight.

Results

In matches, positive associations were found between SA and maximal speed and running distance in the highest speed zones. Further, SA was associated with 40 m sprint time and countermovement jump (CMJ) height, and with intermittent‐endurance capacity after adjusting for body height (U14). Associations between SA and leg strength and power, and between SA and absolute VO2max were not significant after adjusting for body weight. There was no association between SA and total distance covered in matches.

Conclusion

Biological maturity level influence match locomotion and performance on physical capacity tests. It is important that players, parents and coaches are aware of the advantages more mature players have during puberty, and that less mature players also are given attention, appropriate training and match competition to ensure proper development.
Dermoscopic characteristics of membranous aplasia cutis congenita: Report of 56 cases
Authors: Zhang Li , Zhang Zhao , Jiang Hong‐Jing , Pu Yun‐Jing , Shu Hong , Li Ya‐Dong
Published: August 2022

Background

Membranous aplasia cutis congenita (MACC) presents at birth characterized by oval epidermis defect. Skin lesions with MACC have various clinic manifestations. In recent years, the usefulness of trichoscopy (scalp dermoscopy) has been reported for hair loss diseases. However, the dermoscopic features of MACC were mostly reported by case reports.

Objectives

To summarized the obvious dermoscopic characteristics of MACC.

Materials & Methods

These 56 cases met the clinical diagnostic criteria for MACC without forceps delivery complications or other birth injuries. To find the dermoscopic characteristics of MACC by summarizing 56 infants' dermoscopic pictures.

Results

The dermoscopic manifestation of MACC are characterized by hair follicle openings and hair deficiency in the center of skin lesions, translucent epidermis, hair root and hair bulb arranged along the margins of skin lesion.

Conclusion

The typical dermoscopic characteristics of MACC could help clinicians to early diagnose and differential diagnosis.
Wheat traits and the associated loci conferring radiation use efficiency
Authors: Li Yibo , Tao Fulu , Hao Yuanfeng , Tong Jingyang , Xiao Yonggui , He Zhonghu , Reynolds Matthew
Published: August 2022

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) radiation use efficiency (RUE) must be raised through crop breeding to further increase the yield potential, as the harvest index is now close to its theoretical limit. Field experiments including 209 wheat cultivars which have been widely cultivated in China since the 1940s were conducted in two growing seasons (2018–2019 and 2019–2020) to evaluate the variations of phenological, physiological, plant architectural, and yield‐related traits and their contributions to RUE and to identify limiting factors for wheat yield potential. The average annual genetic gain in grain yield was 0.60% (or 45.32 kg ha−1 year−1; R2 = 0.44, P < 0.01), mainly attributed to the gain in RUE (r = 0.85, P < 0.01). The net photosynthetic rates were positively and closely correlated with grain RUE and grain yield, suggesting source as a limiting factor to future yield gains. Thirty‐four cultivars were identified, exhibiting not only high RUE, but also traits contributing to high RUE and 11 other critical traits – of known genetic basis – as potential parents for breeding to improve yield and RUE. Our findings reveal wheat traits and the associated loci conferring RUE, which are valuable for facilitating marker‐assisted breeding to improve wheat RUE and yield potential.
Late Cenozoic environmental changes drove the diversification of a weevil genus endemic to the Cape Floristic Region
Authors: Hévin Noémie M.‐C. , Hansen Steffan , Addison Pia , Benoit Laure , Kergoat Gael J. , Haran Julien
Published: August 2022

The Cape Floristic Region in the Republic of South Africa is a well‐recognized hotspot of biodiversity. Although this region is mostly known for its high level of plant diversity and endemicity, it also hosts an understudied and likely diverse arthropod fauna. Here we investigate the evolutionary history and timing of diversification of the apterous weevil genus Phlyctinus (Curculionidae: Entiminae), which is endemic to the coastal area and adjacent mountain ranges of the Cape floristic region and generally associated with sunflower plants (Asteraceae). We use a diverse array of molecular analyses (phylogenetic inference, molecular species delimitation and dating analyses) to analyse a novel molecular dataset of 202 weevil specimens (including 170 Phlyctinus sampled in 60 sites), and sequenced for two mitochondrial and four nuclear gene fragments. Phylogenetic and dating analyses indicate that the genus started diversifying in the late Miocene, with contrasting diversification dynamics for the three inferred clades, which present disjunct distributions. Host plant records and the lack of relatedness of species living in sympatry indicate that the diversification of Phlyctinus was predominantly driven by allopatric (geographic) speciation. We hypothesize that the interplay between topography and recurring cycles of coastline‐habitat fragmentation resulting from sea level oscillations spurred the diversification of the most speciose clade, whereas in the two remaining clades populations likely remained connected thus hampering allopatric speciation. Interestingly, this pattern echoes with the role of sea level oscillations as an important driver of the radiation of several lineages in the coastline ecosystems of the Cape Floristic Region.
Multilocus phylogeny reveals habitat driven cryptic diversity in Ochotona rufescens (Ochotonidae)
Authors: Mohammadi Zeinolabedin , Ghorbani Fatemeh , Aliabadian Mansour , Lissovsky Andrey A. , Yazdani Moghaddam Faezeh , Olsson Urban
Published: August 2022

Taxonomy of Afghan pikas Ochotona rufescens distributed in Western and Central Asia has long been debated, and the presence of cryptic diversity within the species has been suggested. In this study, we used one mitochondrial (cyt b) and six nuclear (nuDNA) markers to investigate genetic diversity within Afghan pikas O. rufescens populations based on 54 new samples from Western and Central Asia. In total, we included 200 new sequences of mitochondrial cyt b and six nuclear markers from 60 samples. Our results reveal a genetic split within Afghan pikas both in mitochondrial and nuclear markers, estimated to date back to at least 0.58 Mya, suggesting that two cryptic and isolated lineages exist among Afghan pikas in Western and Central Asia. Geographic patterns corresponding to known subspecies were largely corroborated. We hypothesize that during interglacials pikas are forced to track their habitat and move to higher elevations to avoid the desertification of the lowlands, effectively trapping them in refugia at the highest elevations. During glacials, cool climate may have created lowland habitats that pikas could tolerate, potentially allowing them to disperse between mountains. Pikas thus appear to be forced into refugia during the warmer climates of interglacials, rather than enduring ice ages in refugia, like most other organisms discussed in the context of Pleistocene refugia.
FEASIBILITY OF HORIZONTAL SUBSURFACE FLOW AS AN ALTERNATIVE TECHNIQUE FOR WASTEWATER TREATMENT IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Authors: Rajab Ahmed Rahomi , Al-Ani Yasir , Ismael Zainab Malik
Published: August 2022

Ramadi is one of the Iraqi cities which doesn't have a WWTP. The generated domestic wastewaters are treated by the individual septic tanks. Hence, most domestic wastewater is percolating into the subsurface water and groundwater causing their pollution. The tragedian water shortage scenarios predicted by other studies have motivated the looking for new water resources. The reuse of treated wastewater is one of these alternatives. Therefore, this study tries to investigate the feasibility of using such a cheap and easy controlled technique as a horizontal subsurface flow (HSF) for treating wastewater. A lab-scale reactor has been built up from acrylic, one half of its height was filled with soil that has been collected from a selected region. The reactor was charged with wastewater using batch feeding (30 L each run) and the study lasted for 3 months with an average of one run weekly including the acclimatization period. Results revealed the fairly contaminants’ removal, where the average removal efficiency of COD, BOD5, and TSS were 76%, 73%, and 90%, respectively. In conclusion, the HSF is a reasonable, low cost, less complicated treatment technology that could be adopted as an alternative water resource for irrigation of the green belt.
A NEW REPORT ON USING A LACCASE PRODUCING YEAST FOR MELANOIDIN DEGRADATION AND ELECTRICITY GENERATION BY MICROBIAL FUEL CELL
Authors: Pimprapa Chaijak , Purimprach Sinkan , Patcharida Wetchapan
Published: August 2022

Palm oil milled effluent (POME) is one of the most environmental concerned industrial wastewater owing to its complex structure. Melanoidin is a highly stable content in POME that caused the dark color. In this study, the Galactomyces sp. rich consortium TM11 with high laccase activity was used to remove a contaminated melanoidin from raw POME. Besides, the single chamber ceramic microbial fuel cell (sCMFC) was developed to eliminate melanoidin and simultaneously generate electrical power. The results indicated that the maximal current density and power density of 215.56±5.09 mA/m2 and 139.44±6.56 mW/m2 were reached. Whereas the melanoidin removal of 83.50±2.93%  was obtained. This study was the first reported of using laccase producing yeast comsortium to remove melanoidin and generate electrical power.
REMEDIATION OF PALM OIL MILL EFFLUENT (POME) USING SELECTED BIOLOGICAL TECHNIQUES: A MINI REVIEW
Authors: Jumadi Juliana , Kamari Azlan , Abdul Rahim Nurulsaidah , Yusof Norjan , Fatimah Is
Published: August 2022

Undoubtedly, industrial activities have produced a large amount of waste, which has significantly contributed to the global environmental problem. The palm oil sector, which is considered a water-intensive industry, is one of the industrial sectors that have become a major source of severe water pollution concerns. Normally, 50% of the freshwater used during the extraction of crude palm oil will end up in the production of undesirable liquid waste. Thus, proper regulation and enforcement are required to control the discharge of such waste to ensure the sustainability of water resource management. Based on research databases such as Scopus, ScienceDirect, Web of Science and PubMed the total number of publications focused on palm oil mill effluent (POME) treatment has increased significantly over the past five years. The increase in publications shows the growing concern about the POME issue among the scientific community. This mini review focuses on selected biological treatment techniques for remediation of POME focusing on ponding systems, bioadsorption, activated sludge, microorganism and plant, aerobic biodegradation and integrated/hybrid treatment strategies. The summary of optimum operating conditions, characteristics of the treatment system, properties of materials and performance of each treatment are discussed in detail. To achieve a high level of contaminant removal performance, it is critical to discover the synergistic effect between the treatment procedures, materials employed, operational cost, and circumstances.
PREDICTION OF SHORELINE CHANGE USING A NEW LONG-TERM SHORELINE EVOLUTION MODEL BASED ON THE CONCEPT OF SEDIMENT BALANCE
Authors: Ali Omar , Ab Razak Mohd Shahrizal
Published: August 2022

A new model that can predict long-term shoreline evolution in response to climate change for the 21st century has been developed. The developed model is an analytical model, capable of simulating coastal processes that contribute to long-term shoreline change, driven by the concept of sediment mass balance. The model was employed to simulate shoreline change along the 53 Km of coastline on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, which includes a variety of beach settings. The model was able to produce results close to the actual historical shoreline change for a hindcast period of 10 years, with an accuracy of 90%, indicating an excellent agreement between observed and predicted shoreline changes. Future coastal evolution predicted by the model indicate that by the year 2100, on average, 65% of beaches that are located along the coast of Pahang are going to disappear completely. Primarily due to the effects of long-term coastal sediment misbalance, the beaches are expected to lose roughly twice the amount of gained sediment as a result of the increasing impact of the coastal processes in the next 80 years.
PRODUCTION OF CELLULOSE NANOCRYSTALS FROM OIL PALM EMPTY FRUIT BUNCH AND PINEAPPLE LEAF FIBRE USING DOUBLE OXIDATION APPROACH
Authors: Samat Noorasikin , Nasrudin Raimi Fariz , Mokhtar Nur Afiqah , Yacob Norzita
Published: August 2022

Cellulose nanocrystasl (CNC) were produced from oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) and pineapple leaf fibre (PALF) using double oxidation treatment comprising bleaching and ammonium persulfate (APS) treatments. Different techniques were used to characterise the extracted CNC. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra confirmed the formation of carboxyl group and decreasing fractions of non-cellulosic components. The CNCs from both fibres show a better crystallinity index than the raw fibre, and the CNCs also conform to the crystalline structure of cellulose I. Morphology analysis using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) reveals that the CNCs of EFB and PALF have different shapes and dimensions. Spherical EFB had a 16.33 ± 8.5 nm diameter, while rod-like PALF had 13.07 ± 6.15 nm and 78.67 ± 38.07 nm diameter and length. However, the thermal stability of both CNCs decreased slightly. Hence, the findings indicate that the double oxidation approach using agricultural biomass wastes can work as an alternative route for the preparation of CNCs.
EFFECT OF CLAY SHALE SHEAR STRENGTH DEGRADATION ON BORED PILE FRICTION IN CLAY SHALE
Authors: Brilyant Arief Rifqi , Irsyam Masyhur , M Alatas Idrus , Krisnanto Sugeng , Susila Endra , Nawir Hasbullah , Nazir Ramli
Published: August 2022

This research aims at investigating and modeling the axial bearing capacity degradation of a bored pile on clay shale due to the bored pile installation processes. Clay shale sample models were prepared to simulate the wetting and drying cycles through weathering process between 0 to 6 hours. All samples were tested in which every 1 hour of the weathering process representing 1 cycle of wetting and drying. The direct shear laboratory tests were performed to obtain the peak and residual shear strength parameters of the interface between the bored pile and clay shale. The peak and residual shear strength parameters were obtained after 6 hours of the weathering process. The residual shear strength parameters were measured by applying with and without stress release. This investigation showed that the shear strength degradation at peak, residual without stress release, and residual with stress release respectively reached 87-62%, 28-20%, and 25-14% after 1 to 6 hours of weathering process. This result is very useful for predicting the bored pile skin friction in clay shale soils.
Opportunities and Challenges in Passive Thermal-Fluid and Energy Systems
Authors: Shabgard Hamidreza , Li Xianglin , Faghri Amir
Published: August 2022

This article focuses on passive systems that are used in energy and thermal-fluid applications. These passive systems do not have moving parts and are reliable and cost-effective. Fluid motion in these passive devices could be driven by capillary force, gravity, osmotic pressure, and/or concentration gradient. The fundamental mechanisms and limitations of transport phenomena for passive systems are highlighted, followed by their applications in heat pipes, fuel cells, thermal energy storage, and desalination systems. The capabilities of the passive systems are limited by the balance between the driving force and transport resistance. Based on the fundamental understanding of fluid flow and phase change in passive systems, this study proposes associated transport phenomena and quantitative criteria to determine the maximum heat transfer rate, the transport distance, and minimum pore size of wick structures (when relevant) in these passive devices. This article concludes with the discussion of challenges and future opportunities of passive systems.
Effect of Counter- and Co-Swirl on Low-Frequency Combustion Instabilities of Jet A-1 Spray Flames
Authors: Ahn Byeonguk , Kim Kyu Tae
Published: August 2022

The present article experimentally investigates the influence of pilot swirling directions on low-frequency combustion instabilities of pilot diffusion flames in a laboratory-scale combustor with jet A-1 fuel and air at atmospheric pressure. Airblast atomization nozzles with either counter-rotating (CTR) or corotating (COR) pilot swirl flows were examined using nonlinear time-series analyses and high-speed flame imaging measurements under idle and subidle operating conditions. We show that while the amplitude and frequency of limit cycle oscillations are observed to be similar for both cases, detailed examinations of measured experimental data reveal marked differences in stabilization mechanisms and pressure-heat release coupling processes. The spray flame dynamics subjected to counter-rotating swirl flows are governed by large-amplitude pressure oscillations, even under the influence of destructive pressure-heat release rate interference. The mechanism of destructive interference is closely related to the interactions between a spiral diffusion flame and a periodically detached reaction zone. Nonpremixed liquid-fueled flames involving corotating swirl, on the other hand, feature a more compact and intense reaction zone.
Multifidelity Simulation Research on the Low Reynolds Number Effect on the Engine Performance at Different Altitudes
Authors: Jia Zihao , Tang Hailong , Jin Donghai , Chen Min , Li Shulei , Liu Xiaoheng
Published: August 2022

With the rapid development of unmanned aerial vehicles, the effect of the low Reynolds number on gas turbine performance and high-altitude endurance has received extensive attention. However, the existing three-dimensional component modeling cannot meet the design requirements of the whole engine level, and the accuracy and physical principles of the existing engine empirical correction cannot be guaranteed. Through the study of a single-shaft turbojet engine, this paper adopts a versatile and accurate coupling method, which combines the volume method and the full coupling method and conducts multifidelity simulation research on the zero-dimensional engine model and the three-dimensional component model. Then, based on the high-altitude test data, under typical operating conditions, compared with the existing empirical correction method in gasturb, the accuracy of the engine inlet flow, fuel flow, thrust, and exhaust gas temperature predicted by the volume-based fully coupled method is improved by 6.2%, 7.9%, 4.7%, and 11.4%, respectively. Next, as the flight altitude rises from 0 km to 21 km, the Reynolds number reduces, the working lines approach the surge lines, and the maximum mass flow rate and the efficiency of the engine components gradually decrease. In addition, in the flow field of the components, the thickness of the boundary layer increases, the shock wave intensity decreases, and the position moves forward. The core innovation of this article is that it provides a creative multifidelity evaluation method for gas turbines to effectively solve the problems of insufficient accuracy of the existing empirical correction methods and the inability of the component design to meet the gas turbine requirements in the study of the low Reynolds number effect at different altitudes, which significantly strengthens the connection among the component internal flow field information extraction, the component characteristics analysis, and the gas turbine performance matching. Moreover, it is conducive to the scientific design of the advanced unmanned aerial vehicles' power.
A sustainable mouse karyotype created by programmed chromosome fusion
Authors: Wang Li-Bin , Li Zhi-Kun , Wang Le-Yun , Xu Kai , Ji Tian-Tian , Mao Yi-Huan , Ma Si-Nan , Liu Tao , Tu Cheng-Fang , Zhao Qian , Fan Xu-Ning , Liu Chao , Wang Li-Ying , Shu You-Jia , Yang Ning , Zhou Qi , Li Wei
Published: August 2022

Chromosome engineering has been attempted successfully in yeast but remains challenging in higher eukaryotes, including mammals. Here, we report programmed chromosome ligation in mice that resulted in the creation of new karyotypes in the lab. Using haploid embryonic stem cells and gene editing, we fused the two largest mouse chromosomes, chromosomes 1 and 2, and two medium-size chromosomes, chromosomes 4 and 5. Chromatin conformation and stem cell differentiation were minimally affected. However, karyotypes carrying fused chromosomes 1 and 2 resulted in arrested mitosis, polyploidization, and embryonic lethality, whereas a smaller fused chromosome composed of chromosomes 4 and 5 was able to be passed on to homozygous offspring. Our results suggest the feasibility of chromosome-level engineering in mammals.
A cognitive process occurring during sleep is revealed by rapid eye movements
Authors: Senzai Yuta , Scanziani Massimo
Published: August 2022

Since the discovery of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, the nature of the eye movements that characterize this sleep phase has remained elusive. Do they reveal gaze shifts in the virtual environment of dreams or simply reflect random brainstem activity? We harnessed the head direction (HD) system of the mouse thalamus, a neuronal population whose activity reports, in awake mice, their actual HD as they explore their environment and, in sleeping mice, their virtual HD. We discovered that the direction and amplitude of rapid eye movements during REM sleep reveal the direction and amplitude of the ongoing changes in virtual HD. Thus, rapid eye movements disclose gaze shifts in the virtual world of REM sleep, thereby providing a window into the cognitive processes of the sleeping brain.
Machine learning ecological networks
Authors: O’Gorman Eoin J.
Published: August 2022

Deep-learning tools can help to construct historical, modern-day, and future food webs
Conserved FimK Truncation Coincides with Increased Expression of Type 3 Fimbriae and Cultured Bladder Epithelial Cell Association in Klebsiella quasipneumoniae
Authors: Venkitapathi Sundharamani , Wijesundara Yalini H. , Cornelius Samuel A. , Herbert Fabian C. , Gassensmith Jeremiah J. , Zimmern Philippe E. , De Nisco Nicole J.
Published: August 2022

K. quasipneumoniae
is often indicated as the cause of opportunistic infections, including urinary tract infection, which affects >50% of women worldwide. However, the virulence factors of
K. quasipneumoniae
remain uninvestigated.
Overlapping and Distinct Functions of the Paralogous PagR Regulators of Bacillus anthracis
Authors: Corsi Ileana D. , Koehler Theresa M.
Published: August 2022

The protective antigen component of the anthrax toxin is essential for the delivery of the enzymatic components of the toxin into host target cells. The toxin genes and other virulence genes of
B. anthracis
are regulated by multiple
trans
-acting regulators that respond to a variety of host-related signals.
Toxin-Producing Endosymbionts Shield Pathogenic Fungus against Micropredators
Authors: Richter Ingrid , Radosa Silvia , Cseresnyés Zoltán , Ferling Iuliia , Büttner Hannah , Niehs Sarah P. , Gerst Ruman , Scherlach Kirstin , Figge Marc Thilo , Hillmann Falk , Hertweck Christian
Published: August 2022

The soil community is a complex system characterized by predator-prey interactions. Fungi have developed effective strategies to defend themselves against predators.
Boosting with Multiple Doses of mRNA Vaccine after Priming with Two Doses of Protein Subunit Vaccine MVC-COV1901 Elicited Robust Humoral and Cellular Immune Responses against Emerging SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Chiu Chun-Hsiang , Chang Yu-Hsiu , Tao Chi-Wei , Chang Feng-Yee , Chiu Kuo-Chou , Chang Tien-Wei , Yen Li-Chen
Published: August 2022

Vaccination is the most important strategy to combat the COVID-19 outbreak; however, it remains to be determined whether heterologous prime-boost regimens could induce equal or even stronger immune responses against SARS-CoV-2. Here, we showed that boosting the additional doses of mRNA-1273 (Mod) priming with two doses of MVC-COV1901 (MVC) (2× MVC/Mod) improved humoral and cellular immunity compared to two doses of AZD1222 (2× AZ) or MVC (2× MVC) against SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Genetic Characteristics of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus argenteus Isolates Collected in the Dutch National MRSA Surveillance from 2008 to 2021
Authors: Witteveen Sandra , Hendrickx Antoni P. A. , de Haan Angela , Notermans Daan W. , Landman Fabian , van Santen-Verheuvel Marga G. , de Greeff Sabine C. , Kuijper Ed J. , van Maarseveen Noortje M. , Vainio Saara , Schouls Leo M.
Published: August 2022

We show that MRSArg has been circulating in the Netherlands since at least 2008. Although MRSArg is distinct from MRSA, it has a comparable population structure and carries similar resistance and virulence genes. The Dutch national MRSA surveillance has been expanded to include other methicillin-resistant members of the
S. aureus
complex, such as
S. argenteus
and
Staphylococcus
schweitzeri
.
Effective healthcare communication with children and young people: a systematic review of barriers and facilitators
Authors: Navein Alice , McTaggart James , Hodgson Xanthe , Shaw Joanna , Hargreaves Dougal , Gonzalez-Viana Eva , Mehmeti Agnesa
Published: August 2022

Objective

To identify children and young people’s preferences for effective healthcare communication.

Design

A systematic review of qualitative studies was conducted to identify evidence from children and young people on effective healthcare communication. Electronic databases and reference lists of relevant articles were searched to July 2020.

Results

A total of 13 studies were included. Five major themes were identified: medical information (timing, amount, coordination and futures), person not patient (creating relationships, time, nurse involvement, sensitivity), type of communication (creative and interactive, behavioural, talking and listening, written communication), consultations (first impressions, with and without parents, actively promoting involvement, open and honest, age appropriate) and communication with parents (using parental knowledge, support).

Conclusions

Research in this area remains sparse and consistent implementation is debateable. Children and young people articulate a preference for two-way healthcare communication. General principles for effective communication are identified as well as the need to avoid making assumptions and to tailor approaches to individuals. Establishing and maintaining relationships is essential and requires time and resources. Parents and carers have a positive role in healthcare communication which needs to be balanced with the needs and rights of children. All these factors also apply to children with communication difficulties or from marginalised groups, but additional extra support may be required.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019145539.
Rare case of posterior hip dislocation caused by low-energy trauma in a boy in early adolescence: acute and long-term management–review of the literature
Authors: Kwiatkowska Magdalena , Coombes Kyle , Siddique Amir
Published: August 2022

The incidence of hip dislocations in teenagers caused by low-velocity trauma is a relatively rare finding and constitutes a true orthopaedic emergency. Prompt reduction is recommended to avoid long-term complications. On average, the non-weight-bearing period ranges from 4 to 6 weeks. Follow-up with radiographic imaging is necessary to evaluate for hip pathologies over time. In this paper, we will report the findings of a posterior hip dislocation in a healthy boy in early adolescence caused by a ground level fall on grass with review of the literature. Closed reduction of the right hip was performed within 4 hours of the dislocation. A 6-week non-weight-bearing period was recommended before transitioning into a 2-week period of partial weight-bearing. At 12 weeks, our patient returned to sports and had negative radiographic and clinical findings of hip pathology throughout the follow-up period.
Ventricular sense response pacing in cardiac resynchronisation therapy: a potentially effective treatment option for heart failure in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Higuchi Motoaki , Hasegawa Tomoaki , Chiba Yoshiro
Published: August 2022

Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) for atrial fibrillation (AF) with intraventricular conduction and low cardiac output may not allow high-frequency biventricular pacing (BiVP). To this end, drugs and ablation treatments are commonly used. Ventricular sense response pacing (VSRP) senses self-pulse and can produce a state comparable with BiVP. If found to be effective for cardiac resynchronisation, the benefit of CRT with VSRP is expected to extend to patients with AF. Herein, we describe the case of a man in his early 60s with low cardiac output caused by AF and left bundle branch block. CRT-defibrillator (CRT-D) implantation was performed, and VSRP was applied. We found VSRP to be more effective in improving cardiac function than drug-induced BiVP. VSRP may become an effective treatment option following CRT-D implantation in patients with AF.
Bilateral paediatric optic nerve sheath meningioma
Authors: Hurley Daire John , Whitlow Shane , O'Rourke Declan , Flitcroft Ian
Published: August 2022

At birth, the patient was noted to have microphthalmia and optic atrophy in her left eye with no apparent cause. In early childhood, the vision in that eye began to deteriorate. A few years later, disc swelling was noted in the contralateral right eye. Neuroimaging was normal and a subsequent lumbar puncture found borderline high opening pressure. Vision and visual fields in the right eye remained stable until the patient was in early adolescence when she started to complain of blurred vision. Her pattern visual evoked potential showed a 75% reduction in P100 amplitude compared with the previous year. Repeat neuroimaging was suggestive of bilateral meningiomas and a biopsy was performed to confirm this. Subsequently, the patient was treated with proton beam therapy to salvage vision in her right eye. This is a novel case of meningioma presenting with enophthalmos due to contraction of the retrobulbar optic nerve.
Spontaneous resolution of subretinal fluid postvitreoretinal surgery for tractional retinal detachment in proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Aggarwal David , Rani Padmaja Kumari
Published: August 2022

A man in his 60s with proliferative diabetic retinopathy presented with vision loss in both eyes in the past 1 month. On presentation, the best corrected visual acuity was 20/60 and 20/125 for the right and left eyes, respectively. On examination, he had total tractional retinal detachment (TRD) in the left eye and macula threatening TRD in the right eye. In both eyes, the patient had pars plana vitrectomy, membrane peeling, endolaser and silicone oil injection. Though the left eye’s postoperative recovery was uneventful, the subretinal fluid (SRF) in the right eye macula persisted. There was no open retinal break noted in the postoperative period, and no surgical intervention was done for the persistent SRF. The fluid was eventually absorbed over 4 months, with the recovery of vision to 20/40.
Concomitant methimazole-induced agranulocytosis and cholestatic jaundice in a young woman
Authors: Alcorn Chris , Subarajan Prathayini , Anderson Jay
Published: August 2022

A woman in her 30s presented to the emergency department with new-onset sore throat and fever. She had recently been diagnosed with Graves’ disease 3 months prior. As a result, she was initiated on atenolol and methimazole for management. Her methimazole dosing had been stable at 15 mg daily for the month prior to presentation. Investigation revealed severe neutropenia and jaundice. She was found to have concomitant agranulocytosis and cholestatic jaundice secondary to methimazole.

Methimazole was discontinued on admission and the patient received granulocyte colony-stimulating factor for an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of zero. She was placed on broad-spectrum antibiotics and intravenous steroids for epiglottic and supraglottic oedema noted on bedside laryngoscopy. ANC and bilirubin improved over a 2-week hospital course. She was discharged on a temporary regimen of propranolol, dexamethasone and potassium iodide until she was able to undergo successful thyroidectomy for definitive management of Graves’ disease outpatient.
Chronic nasopharyngeal and otitis media tuberculosis: diagnosis and management difficulties
Authors: Pais José Pedro , Caçador Maria , Mourato Teresa , Paço João
Published: August 2022

Nasopharyngeal and otitis media tuberculosis are rare extrapulmonary manifestations ofMycobacterium tuberculosisinfection. We present a case of a middle-aged woman with manifestations of both conditions along with a description of the anatomical and temporal evolution of the disease. This case also highlights the difficulty of diagnosis and management of this condition, requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Extrapulmonary tuberculosis must be considered in the differential diagnosis of multiple head and neck conditions, including refractory chronic rhinosinusitis and otitis.
Association of baseline optical coherence tomography angiography with the development of glaucomatous visual field defects in preperimetric glaucoma eyes
Authors: Lee Jin Yeong , Shin Joong Won , Lee Anna , Baek Min Su , Kook Michael S
Published: August 2022

Aims

To evaluate whether baseline vessel density (VD) parameters derived from optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) is associated with the development of glaucomatous visual field (VF) defects in preperimetric glaucoma (PPG) patients.

Methods

One eye from each of 200 consecutive PPG patients with a normal standard automated perimetry and OCT-A at baseline was retrospectively analysed. OCT-A was used to measure the circumpapillary VD (cpVD) and the parafoveal and perifoveal VD. The retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) and macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thicknesses were measured as reference standards. Two patient groups were stratified based on the development of repeatable glaucomatous VF loss. A Cox proportional hazards model was constructed to determine the predictive ability of OCT-A parameters for VF defects. The correlation between these baseline OCT-A parameters and the rate of global VF sensitivity loss (dB/year) was calculated using linear regression analysis.

Results

During a 3.1-year average follow-up period, 18 eyes (9.0%) developed glaucomatous VF defects. At baseline, the lower inferior temporal cpVD (HR (95% CI)=0.934 (0.883 to 0.988); p=0.017) and thinner inferior RNFL (HR (95% CI)=0.895 (0.839 to 0.956); p=0.001) were predictive of glaucomatous VF loss. A lower inferior temporal cpVD and thinner RNFL at baseline were associated with faster rate of global VF sensitivity loss (β=0.015; p=0.001).

Conclusion

In PPG eyes, a lower baseline inferior temporal cpVD is significantly associated with glaucomatous VF defect development and a faster rate of global VF loss.
Prevalence of and factors associated with osteoarthritis and pain in retired Olympians compared with the general population: part 1 – the lower limb
Authors: Palmer Debbie , Cooper Dale , Whittaker Jackie L , Emery Carolyn , Batt Mark E , Engebretsen Lars , Schamasch Patrick , Shroff Malav , Soligard Torbjørn , Steffen Kathrin , Budgett Richard
Published: August 2022

Objectives

This study aims (1) to determine the prevalence of lower limb osteoarthritis (OA) and pain in retired Olympians; (2) to identify factors associated with their occurrence and (3) to compare with a sample of the general population.

Methods

3357 retired Olympians (median 44.7 years) and 1735 general population controls (40.5 years) completed a cross-sectional survey. The survey captured demographics, general health, self-reported physician-diagnosed OA, current joint/region pain and injury history (lasting >1 month). Adjusted OR (aOR) compared retired Olympians with the general population.

Results

The prevalence of (any joint) OA in retired Olympians was 23.2% with the knee most affected (7.4%). Injury was associated with increased odds (aOR, 95% CI) of OA and pain in retired Olympians at the knee (OA=9.40, 6.90 to 12.79; pain=7.32, 5.77 to 9.28), hip (OA=14.30, 8.25 to 24.79; pain=9.76, 6.39 to 14.93) and ankle (OA=9.90, 5.05 to 19.41; pain=5.99, 3.84 to 9.34). Increasing age and obesity were also associated with knee OA and pain. While the odds of OA did not differ between Olympians and the general population, Olympians with prior knee and prior hip injury were more likely than controls with prior injury to experience knee (1.51, 1.03 to 2.21 (Olympians 22.0% vs controls 14.5%)) and hip OA (4.03, 1.10 to 14.85 (Olympians 19.1% vs Controls 11.5%)), respectively.

Conclusions

One in four retired Olympians reported physician-diagnosed OA, with injury associated with knee, hip and ankle OA and pain. Although overall OA odds did not differ, after adjustment for recognised risk factors Olympians were more likely to have knee and hip OA after injury than the general population, suggesting injury is an occupational risk factor for retired Olympians.
Association of headgear mandate and concussion injury rates in girls’ high school lacrosse
Authors: Herman Daniel C , Caswell Shane V , Kelshaw Patricia M , Vincent Heather K , Lincoln Andrew E
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Headgear use is a controversial issue in girls’ lacrosse. We compared concussion rates among high school lacrosse players in an American state with a headgear mandate (HM) to states without an HM.

Methods

Participants included high schools with girls’ lacrosse programmes in the USA. Certified athletic trainers reported athlete exposure (AE) and injury data via the National Athletic Treatment, Injury and Outcomes Network during the 2019–2021 seasons. The HM cohort was inclusive of high schools from the state of Florida, which mandates the use of ASTM standard F3137 headgear, while the non-HM (NHM) cohort was inclusive of high schools in 31 states without a state-wide HM. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% CIs were calculated.

Results

141 concussions (HM: 25; NHM: 116) and 357 225 AEs were reported (HM: 91 074 AEs; NHM: 266 151 AEs) across all games and practices for 289 total school seasons (HM: 96; NHM: 193). Overall, the concussion injury rate per 1000 AEs was higher in the NHM cohort (0.44) than the HM cohort (0.27) (IRR=1.59, 95% CI: 1.03 to 2.45). The IRR was higher for the NHM cohort during games (1.74, 95% CI: 1.00 to 3.02) but not for practices (1.42, 95% CI: 0.71 to 2.83).

Conclusions

These findings suggest a statewide HM for high school girls’ lacrosse is associated with a lower concussion rate than playing in a state without an HM. Statewide mandates requiring ASTM standard F3137 headgear should be considered to reduce the risk of concussion.
Using codesign focus groups to develop an online COmmunity suPporting familiEs after Sudden Cardiac Death (COPE-SCD) in the young
Authors: Yeates Laura , Gardner Karen , Do Judy , van den Heuvel Lieke , Fleming Gabrielle , Semsarian Christopher , McEwen Alison , Adlard Leesa , Ingles Jodie
Published: August 2022

Objective

To codesign an online support intervention for families after sudden cardiac death (SCD) in the young (<35 years).

Design

Codesign of an SCD family intervention by stakeholder focus groups.

Setting

Families and healthcare professionals with experience in SCD in the young.

Participants

Semistructured online focus groups were held with key stakeholders, that is, family members who had experienced young SCD, healthcare professionals and researchers based in New South Wales, Australia. Guided discussions were used to develop an online support intervention. Thematic analysis of discussions and iterative feedback on draft materials guided content development.

Results

Four focus groups were held (4–6 participants per group, 12 unique participants). Stakeholder involvement facilitated development of high-level ideas and priority issues. Creative content and materials were developed based on user preference for stories, narratives and information reflecting everyday experience of families navigating the legal and medical processes surrounding SCD, normalising and supporting grief responses in the context of family relationships and fostering hope. Emphasis on accessibility led to the overarching need for digital information and online engagement. These insights allowed development of an online intervention—COPE-SCD: A COmmunity suPporting familiEs after Sudden Cardiac Death—which includes a website and online support programme.

Conclusion

Using codesign with stakeholders we have developed a support intervention that addresses the needs of SCD families and aims to fill a large gap in existing healthcare. We will evaluate COPE-SCD to determine whether this is an effective intervention for support of families following a young SCD.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of a South African laboratory cryptococcal antigen screening programme using a retrospective cohort and a cluster-randomised trial design
Authors: DeSanto Daniel J , Bangdiwala Ananta S , Van Schalkwyk Erika , Skipper Caleb P , Greene Greg , Paxton Juliet , Huppler Hullsiek Kathy , Mashau Rudzani , Rajasingham Radha , Boulware David R , Govender Nelesh P
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Cryptococcal meningitis is a common fungal opportunistic infection and a leading cause of death among people with advanced HIV disease in sub-Saharan Africa. The WHO recommends cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening followed by pre-emptive therapy to prevent cryptococcal meningitis and death in this population. In 2016, South Africa was the first country to implement reflexive laboratory CrAg screening nationally. The Cryptococcal Antigen Screen-and-Treat National Evaluation Team (CAST-NET) aims to evaluate the effectiveness of this national screening programme to optimise health outcomes.

Methods and analysis

The CAST-NET study consists of two integrated parts: a retrospective cohort study and a cluster-randomised trial (CRT). The retrospective cohort study will determine 6-month cryptococcal meningitis-free survival among CrAg-positive patients. Secondary outcomes include the proportion of CrAg-positive results noted for action in the CrAg-positive patient chart, the proportion of CrAg-positive patients offered and accept/decline a lumbar puncture, the proportion of CrAg-positive patients prescribed antifungal therapy and the proportion of CrAg-positive patients who have antiretroviral therapy initiated or reinitiated at an appropriate time according to South African national guidelines. Cohort data will be analysed by the type of facility (ie, hospital vs primary health clinic) at which the patient was diagnosed with antigenaemia. The CRT will determine if the appointment and mentoring of a healthcare worker, or ‘crypto champion’, at intervention facilities is associated with a higher proportion of CrAg-positive persons initiating pre-emptive fluconazole therapy. Secondary outcomes will include 6-month cryptococcal meningitis-free survival and the proportion prescribed fluconazole maintenance treatment.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approvals were received from the University of the Witwatersrand Human Research Ethics Committee (Medical), the University of KwaZulu-Natal Biomedical Research Ethics Committee and the University of Pretoria Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee. Study results will be disseminated to the South African Department of Health and participating facilities through peer-reviewed publications and reports.
Study protocol: computerised cognitive testing in a cohort of people with frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Moore Katrina , Convery Rhian S , Rohrer Jonathan D
Published: August 2022

Introduction

The term frontotemporal dementia (FTD) refers to a heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative disorders affecting the frontal and temporal lobes. Cognitively, impairment of executive function and social cognition predominates across the FTD spectrum, although other domains can be affected. Traditionally, cognition is tested through standard ‘pen and paper’ tasks in FTD. However, recent attempts have been made across other neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease to develop computerised batteries that allow more accurate and sensitive detection of cognitive impairment.

Methods and analysis

This paper describes the development of a novel battery of tests for a tablet computer, particularly focused on FTD. It consists of 12 different tasks which aim to tap into information processing speed, various aspects of executive function, social cognition, semantic knowledge, calculation and visuospatial skills. Future studies will focus on validating the battery in a healthy control cohort, comparing it against a standard ‘pen and paper’ psychometric battery, and finally testing it within an FTD cohort, including those with genetic forms of FTD where we will be able to assess its ability to detect very early cognitive deficits prior to the onset of symptoms.

Ethics and dissemination

Normative data will be produced in the initial validation study (approved by the UCL Ethics Committee, project ID 17691/002) and will be made available online.