bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining an optimal surveillance strategy for patients following choledochal cyst resection: results of a systematic review
Authors: Koea Jonathan , O'Grady Michael , Agraval Jash , Srinivasa Sanket
Published: May 2022

Background

Choledochal cysts should be treated with complete surgical resection, or, rarely liver transplantation. Treated patients can remain at risk of developing metachronous cholangiocarcinomas and lifelong follow up is indicated. However, there is no agreement on what constitutes an acceptable follow up strategy. This review was undertaken to develop an evidenced based surveillance strategy.

Methods

A systematic review of MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was undertaken for reports (published up to 10 September 2021) describing late biliary complications and development of metachronous cholangiocarcinoma following choledochal cyst resection.

Results

Twenty‐five publications described 74 metachronous cholangiocarcinomas occurring in 3911 patients (overall incidence 2%). Cancers developed commonly at the hepatic hilus and were diagnosed after a median interval of 92 months (range 9–249 months) after the initial resection. While reporting is incomplete, the majority of cholangiocarcinomas developed following resection of type I and type IV cysts with few metachronous cancers recorded after treatment of type II or III cysts. Peak age range for presentation with metachronous cholangiocarcinoma is in the twenties following cyst resection in childhood suggesting that patients are at greatest risk for metachronous tumour development for up to 20 years (240 months).

Conclusion

A surveillance strategy is proposed for patients treated primarily for cyst types I and IV and unresected type V using annual liver function tests, Ca 19–9 measurement and biannual ultrasound assessment for 20 years post cyst resection, with biannual liver function testing, Ca 19–9 measurement and three yearly ultrasound assessment thereafter.
Intra‐individual trajectories of subjectively prioritizing health over other life domains
Authors: Meyerhof Hannah , Jones Christopher M. , Schüz Benjamin
Published: May 2022

Subjectively prioritizing health over other life domains is an indicator of health motivation and is associated with higher levels of health behaviors and more effective health behavior self‐regulation. However, little is known about when individuals prioritize health over other life domains and which factors predict prioritizing health.

Here, we examine 3644 older adults in Germany (mean age 60.79) over a period of 6–9 years from DEAS, a population‐representative survey. Latent growth curves were estimated to examine individual change in prioritizing health. Socio‐structural (gender, educational attainment) and indicators of health status (baseline status and change in [a] number of illnesses, [b] functional health, and [c] self‐rated health) were tested as predictors of changes in health prioritization.

Participants prioritized health over other life domains, and this increased over time. Women and those with worse health status (lower functional and lower self‐rated health) prioritized health more than men and those with better health status, respectively. Lower educational attainment was associated with higher increases in prioritizing health, and interactions between educational status and health indicators show that increases are larger in those with worse health and lower educational attainment. This indicates individual differences in the degree and the changes of prioritizing health.
Mergers, multiperiod Cournot competition, and Coasian dynamics
Authors: Rouskas Evangelos
Published: May 2022

Under the simplifying conditions of product homogeneity, linear demand, symmetric and constant marginal costs, the static Cournot–Nash equilibrium predicts that exogenous horizontal mergers generate losses for the participants if the participants represent less than 80% of the firms in the industry. I successfully challenge the applicability of this well‐known merger paradox to markets for durable goods by introducing Coasian dynamics to the quantity competition, while maintaining all other simplifying conditions. I demonstrate that exogenous mergers with a relatively small number of insiders in industries with a relatively large initial number of firms can be profitable as long as the common discount factor is sufficiently high and the decision‐making horizon is sufficiently long. Unlike previous research on mergers in durable‐goods industries, the significance of the decision‐making horizon is emphasized; mergers that are unprofitable in a short‐horizon version of my model for all values of the discount factor can prove profitable in a long‐horizon version provided that agents are sufficiently patient.
Early taphonomy of benthic foraminifera in Storfjorden ‘sea‐ice factory’: the agglutinated/calcareous ratio as a proxy for brine persistence
Authors: Nardelli Maria Pia , Fossile Eleonora , Péron Olivier , Howa Hélène , Mojtahid Meryem
Published: May 2022

The recurrent latent‐heat polynya characterizing Storfjorden (Svalbard, Norway) triggers seasonal formation of thin first‐year sea ice. This leads to the production of dense, salty, and corrosive brines that cascade towards the sea floor and mix with shelf waters. The bottom topography of the fjord is responsible for the retention of these dense waters in two central deep basins throughout the year. Recent studies show that living benthic foraminifera in Storfjorden are particularly affected by the persistence of brines on the sea floor, with a strong dominance of agglutinated (A) species and high degrees of dissolution of calcareous(C) faunas. Therefore, the A/C ratio, calculated on living faunas, was proposed as a proxy for brine persistence. In the present study we analyse the fossil faunas, found below the taphonomically active zone, to investigate the residual signal of the A/C proxy after the intense early taphonomic processes and challenge its applicability in sedimentary archives. Our results show that despite the generally high taphonomic loss inside the fjord, a high proportion of agglutinated species is still visible in fossil faunas at the stations experiencing regular and/or persistent presence of brine‐enriched shelf waters. These results support the application of the A/C ratio in historical records to reconstruct the persistence of brines and indirectly the first‐year sea ice formation in Storfjorden. This can be further applied to other Arctic fjords with similar settings and characterized by the production of brines during the winter–early spring season.
New insight into dyslipidemia‐induced cellular senescence in atherosclerosis
Authors: Xiang Qunyan , Tian Feng , Xu Jin , Du Xiao , Zhang Shilan , Liu Ling
Published: May 2022

Atherosclerosis, characterized by lipid‐rich plaques in the arterial wall, is an age‐related disorder and a leading cause of mortality worldwide. However, the specific mechanisms remain complex. Recently, emerging evidence has demonstrated that senescence of various types of cells, such as endothelial cells (ECs), vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), macrophages, endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), and adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs) contributes to atherosclerosis. Cellular senescence and atherosclerosis share various causative stimuli, in which dyslipidemia has attracted much attention. Dyslipidemia, mainly referred to elevated plasma levels of atherogenic lipids or lipoproteins, or functional impairment of anti‐atherogenic lipids or lipoproteins, plays a pivotal role both in cellular senescence and atherosclerosis. In this review, we summarize the current evidence for dyslipidemia‐induced cellular senescence during atherosclerosis, with a focus on low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) and its modifications, hydrolysate of triglyceride‐rich lipoproteins (TRLs), and high‐density lipoprotein (HDL), respectively. Furthermore, we describe the underlying mechanisms linking dyslipidemia‐induced cellular senescence and atherosclerosis. Finally, we discuss the senescence‐related therapeutic strategies for atherosclerosis, with special attention given to the anti‐atherosclerotic effects of promising geroprotectors as well as anti‐senescence effects of current lipid‐lowering drugs.
Action research with caseworkers: Responding to and reflecting on the impacts of COVID‐19 on birth family contact
Authors: Ciftci Sarah , Collings Susan , Wright Amy Conley
Published: May 2022

Social distancing due to COVID‐19 forced changes to contact with birth relatives for children in out‐of‐home care. This required a shift to using technologies, which was previously underutilized and viewed as risky. In an action research study, 33 caseworkers in New South Wales, Australia, reflected upon adapting their practices. Three key themes characterized the changes in caseworker practices and how these impacted upon social interactions between children and their birth and carer families: communication, not location; shared not separate spaces and spontaneous not restricted interaction. First, caseworkers described how contact via technologies involved fewer logistical arrangements, shifting the focus on interactions among children and their two families and encouraging these to be flexible and child‐centred. Second, caseworkers discussed how spending time together virtually could build trust, as carers and birth relatives could forge relationships around shared commitment to the child's wellbeing. Third, caseworkers noted that technology‐facilitated communication enabled greater choice and control for children while requiring renegotiating boundaries. The findings reflect a shift in caseworker perceptions of technology‐facilitated contact from a risk to opportunity framework as a result of COVID‐19 conditions, consistent with social shaping of technology theory. Beyond the pandemic, contact with birth relatives can be enhanced through technology.
Epidemiologie von Hautkrankheiten in Deutschland: Systematische Literaturanalyse des aktuellen Forschungsstands – Teil 3: infektiöse Hauterkrankungen
Authors: Hansen Inga , Augustin Matthias , Schäfer Ines , Mohr Nicole
Published: May 2022

Das Ziel dieser Arbeit war die systematische Erfassung aller bisher publizierten bevölkerungsbezogenen epidemiologischen Daten zu Hauterkrankungen in Deutschland. Der vorliegende Teil 3 der Publikationsserie thematisiert die infektiösen Hauterkrankungen. Die Ergebnisse zu den Tumorerkrankungen der Haut (Teil 1) sowie zu den nichtinfektiösen Hauterkrankungen (Teil 2) bilden weitere Teile dieser Publikationsreihe.

Es wurde eine systematische Literaturrecherche mit PubMed/MEDLINE für den Zeitraum der letzten 15 Jahre durchgeführt. Mit dem Ziel alle dermatologischen Erkrankungen einzuschließen, wurde eine Diagnoseliste auf Basis des ICD‐11‐Katalogs erstellt. Diese Liste umfasste 1347 Hautkrankheiten und bildete die Basis für die Recherche. Die Literaturrecherche ergab 4650 Treffer, von denen 72 Arbeiten zu 43 verschiedenen Hautkrankheiten in die Synthese eingeschlossen wurden. Darunter waren zwölf Treffer zu infektiösen Dermatosen, von denen sich sechs Arbeiten auf Masern bezogen. Die höchsten Lebenszeitprävalenzen fanden sich für Varizellen und Verrucae vulgares.

Diese Arbeit ist die erste systematische Literaturrecherche, die zum Ziel hatte, alle verfügbaren epidemiologischen Daten zu Hautkrankheiten in Deutschland zu berichten. Dabei zeigte sich, dass zu vielen infektiösen Erkrankungen bisher keine repräsentativen Daten vorliegen. Die eingeschlossenen Arbeiten waren methodisch sehr heterogen. Dennoch ist der Nutzen dieser epidemiologischen Daten vielseitig und kann als Referenz verschiedener epidemiologischer Fragestellungen dienen.
Versorgungsstruktur der Patienten mit Mycosis fungoides und Sézary‐Syndrom in Deutschland – Versorgungsforschung auf Basis von GKV‐Routinedaten
Authors: Assaf Chalid , Dobos Gabor , Zech Immo‐Maximilian , Doess Axel , Hibbe Thomas , Jadasz Janusz J.
Published: May 2022

Hintergrund

Kutane T‐Zell‐Lymphome (CTCL) sind seltene Formen von Non‐Hodgkin‐Lymphomen mit T‐Zell‐Ursprung, die hauptsächlich in der Haut auftreten. Die häufigste Form ist Mycosis fungoides (MF), aber auch das Sézary‐Syndrom (SS), als eine aggressivere verlaufende Form des CTCL, ist eine relevante Untergruppe. Aufgrund des seltenen Krankheitsbilds sind populationsbezogene Untersuchungen zur Epidemiologie, Krankheitslast und Einblicke in das Versorgungsgeschehen begrenzt.

Patienten und Methodik

Auf Basis eines anonymisierten, alters‐ und geschlechtsadjustierten Routinedatensatzes mit circa fünf Millionen gesetzlich Krankenversicherten wurde in einem Sechsjahreszeitraum (2012–2017) eine retrospektive, longitudinale Versorgungsforschung durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse

Bei 55 % der Patienten mit MF und SS wurde die Erstdiagnose ambulant dokumentiert; in 59 % der Fälle durch einen Dermatologen. Die durchflusszytometrische Immunphänotypisierung gilt als wichtige Untersuchung für Erkennung und Verlaufsdiagnostik einer Blutbeteiligung kutaner Lymphome, da das Krankheitsstadium der wichtigste prognostische Faktor bei MF und SS ist; diese erfolgte bei lediglich 10 % der Patienten. Die primäre Versorgung erfolgte durch topische Anwendung (76 %), insbesondere mit Corticosteroiden (66 %).

Schlussfolgerungen

Erkenntnisse dieser Versorgungsforschung deuten auf die Notwendigkeit einer verbesserten Leitlinien‐gerechten Versorgung hin.
Endoscopic resection via antral submucosal tunneling for en bloc removal of tumors in the duodenal bulb
Authors: Luo Xiao‐Bei , Huang Jun‐Sheng , Liu Ming , Li Yue , Li Ai‐Min , Zhang Qiang , Wang Zhen , Xing Tong‐Yin , Huang Ying , Huang Rong , Bai Yang , Liu Si‐De , Han Ze‐Long
Published: May 2022

To overcome difficulties in the removal of duodenal bulb lesions, especially those in anatomically challenging locations, we developed the endoscopic resection via antral submucosal tunneling (ERAST) technique. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility and safety of ERAST for the removal of superficial and subepithelial lesions in the duodenal bulb. This was a single‐center retrospective study of 10 patients with lesions in the bulb. Submucosal tunneling from the gastric antrum to the duodenum was performed to facilitate en bloc tumor resection in the bulb. The en bloc resection rate, postoperative bleeding, and perforation were the primary endpoints. Ten lesions (four superficial and six subepithelial), with an average size of 19.1 ± 9.2 mm, were resected en bloc by ERAST. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy follow‐up after 2 months indicated complete wound healing in all patients. In our primary experience, ERAST was found to be a feasible and safe endoscopic resection technique for the removal of lesions in the duodenal bulb, especially those that are difficult to access.
Needs, concerns and self‐management experiences of people with type 2 diabetes during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A qualitative study
Authors: Upsher Rebecca , Noori Yasaman , Kuriakose Lisa , Vassiliadou Io , Winkley Kirsty , Ismail Khalida
Published: May 2022

Background

Type 2 diabetes is associated with increased COVID‐19 severity. Little is understood about the needs, concerns and self‐management experiences of people with type 2 diabetes during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Aim

To examine the lived experiences of people with type 2 diabetes during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Method

This qualitative study recruited people with type 2 diabetes from the SOUth‐London Diabetes (SOUL‐D) cohort. Semi‐structured interviews via telephone were conducted between September 2020 and January 2021. Deductive thematic analysis derived themes from the data to explore needs, concerns and self‐management experiences of people with type 2 diabetes.

Results

Twenty‐nine people with type 2 diabetes were interviewed. Three themes with subthemes were outlined: (1) information needs of people with type 2 diabetes during the Covid‐19 pandemic, (2) concerns about Covid‐19 from people with type 2 diabetes and (3) diabetes self management and well‐being during the Covid‐19 pandemic.

Conclusion

During a pandemic, there is a need for consistent, diabetes‐specific, messaging from healthcare professionals for people with type 2 diabetes. People with type 2 diabetes need support to access digital resources to aid remote communication. Future research could help develop recourses to prevent social isolation and loneliness for people with type 2 diabetes during a pandemic.
Changes in soil phosphorus fractions under different land uses in desert grasslands in northwestern China
Authors: Wang Zeng‐Ru , Li Feng‐Rui , Liu Lu‐Lu , Yang Kun
Published: May 2022

Humans influence desert ecosystem structure and function by transforming native vegetation into agricultural and non‐agricultural land. However, how different land uses in desert grasslands affect soil phosphorus (P) fractions with varying lability by creating distinct soil physicochemical and microbial properties remains poorly understood. To address this question, a field study was conducted in the arid region of northwestern China, where sites were selected for having an area containing natural desert grassland and three adjacent differently managed land uses converted from desert grassland: 28‐year‐old rainfed shrub (Haloxylon ammodendron) plantation, 35‐year‐old irrigated tree (Populus gansuensis) plantation, and 33‐ to 40‐year‐old irrigated and fertilized croplands. We collected data from four land‐use types for concentrations of soil inorganic and organic P (Pi and Po) fractions of decreasing lability (labile P: resin‐ and NaHCO3‐extractable P; moderately labile P: NaOH‐extractable P; recalcitrant P: HCl‐extractable P and residual P) and edaphic variables as predictors. The relative contributions of individual predictors to variation in P fractions were evaluated using a boosted regression tree analysis. We found significant increases in (1) all P fractions in croplands (77%–418%), with the largest increase in resin‐P; (2) all P fractions except resin‐P in tree plantations (52%–367%), with the largest increase in labile Po; and (3) NaHCO3‐P and HCl‐Pi in shrub plantations (14%–134%), with the largest increase in labile Pi, compared with natural desert grasslands. Edaphic properties dominantly controlled the changes of different P fractions, explaining 51%–93% of the variation in P fractions, but the dominant influential factors differed across P fractions. We conclude that different land uses in desert grassland soil resulted in significant differences in the fractional composition and availability of soil P by affecting edaphic properties differently, informing that soil P cycling can be regulated by altering land‐use types and management levels.

Highlights

Assessing the impact of different land uses in desert grasslands on soil P fractions.

Different land‐use types showed distinct patterns of soil P dynamics and availability.

Soil P responses to land‐use changes were mainly mediated by edaphic properties.

The importance of edaphic factors in regulating P dynamics differed among P fractions.

Soil P cycling can be regulated by altering land‐use types and management levels.
Ultrasound biomicroscopy of the equine iridocorneal angle
Authors: Knickelbein Kelly E. , Lassaline Mary E. , Kim Soohyun , Thomasy Sara M.
Published: May 2022

Background

The iridocorneal angle (ICA) is the major pathway of aqueous humour outflow from the anterior chamber of the eye. Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) has been utilised to characterise the morphology of this drainage pathway in numerous species. UBM may allow for early recognition of aqueous humour outflow obstructions in horses, allowing for earlier recognition of risk for glaucoma, a vision‐threatening and painful disease. UBM morphology of the normal equine ICA has yet to be described.

Objectives

To determine the ultrasonographic morphology of the equine ICA by UBM in standing sedated horses.

Study design

In vivo experimental study.

Methods

Thirty healthy adult horses underwent UBM of the ICA at four locations (superior, temporal, inferior, nasal) of each eye utilising standing sedation, topical anaesthesia and auriculopalpebral perineural anaesthesia. Anatomic structures were defined on ultrasound images through comparison to published histologic photomicrographs of the equine ICA.

Results

Ultrasound imaging of the ICA at all four locations was easily performed in standing, sedated horses. High‐resolution images of the ICA allowed for identification of the pectinate ligament, corneoscleral trabecular meshwork (TM), uveal TM and supraciliary TM.

Main limitations

Pupil size was midrange in all eyes, but was not strictly controlled. Lighting conditions not controlled. Various breeds included.

Conclusion

In vivo UBM of the equine ICA is feasible and provides high‐resolution images of the structures of the aqueous humour outflow pathway.
Associations among incontinence, incontinence‐associated dermatitis and pressure injuries in older nursing home residents
Authors: Hoedl Manuela , Eglseer Doris
Published: May 2022

Objective

This study was conducted to investigate the association between incontinence (INC), incontinence‐associated dermatitis (IAD) and (nosocomial) pressure injuries (PI) in nursing home residents aged 60 years or older.

Methods

We included 3725 older residents in this cross‐sectional, multisite secondary data analysis. A standardized questionnaire was used that included demographic data and other data including care dependency, as well as data on INC, IAD and PI. We analysed the data using methods of descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis and univariable/multivariate regressions.

Results

Our results showed that risks for malnutrition, diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, and having a catheter for INC reasons were associated with a higher risk for (nosocomial) PI in this population. Independent of their age group, specifically residents with a catheter had a higher risk of developing a (nosocomial) PI.

Conclusions

We strongly recommend carrying out further studies to examine the association between the risk of malnutrition and PI. To address other aspects of nutritional status, studies on associations between obesity on INC, IAD as well as PI would also be of great interest.
Amino acid metabolism: challenges and opportunities for the therapeutic treatment of leukemia and lymphoma
Authors: Liao Peiyun , Chang Ning , Xu Binyan , Qiu Yingqi , Wang Sheng , Zhou Lijuan , He Yanjie , Xie Xiaoling , Li Yuhua
Published: May 2022

Leukemia and lymphoma—the most common hematological malignant diseases—are often accompanied by complications such as drug resistance, refractory diseases and relapse. Amino acids (AAs) are important energy sources for malignant cells. Tumor‐mediated AA metabolism is associated with the immunosuppressive properties of the tumor microenvironment, thereby assisting malignant cells to evade immune surveillance. Targeting abnormal AA metabolism in the tumor microenvironment may be an effective therapeutic approach to address the therapeutic challenges of leukemia and lymphoma. Here, we review the effects of glutamine, arginine and tryptophan metabolism on tumorigenesis and immunomodulation, and define the differences between tumor cells and immune effector cells. We also comment on treatments targeting these AA metabolism pathways in lymphoma and leukemia and discuss how these treatments have profound adverse effects on tumor cells, but leave the immune cells unaffected or mildly affected.
Immunometabolism shapes B cell fate and functions
Authors: Fu Ying , Wang Luman , Yu Baichao , Xu Damo , Chu Yiwei
Published: May 2022

B lymphocyte‐mediated humoral immune response is essential for protection against infectious diseases. Deeper research in B cell biology, particularly metabolism is required for the better understanding of its properties in homeostasis and in diseases. Emerging immunometabolism, including anabolism and catabolism, has tremendously impacts on immune cells from development to function and markedly advances our view on immunoregulation. Growing evidence suggests that the ultimate effect of intracellular metabolism on immune cell functions is not only influenced by the external stimuli but also by the balance of the different metabolic pathways. However, B cell immunometabolism is not deeply investigated like T cells. The complex development and differentiation processes of B cell subsets have left many untouched, but fundamental aspects in B cell metabolism. Available evidence demonstrated that the intracellular metabolism has the ubiquitous impact on B cell fate and function decisions at the transcriptional regulation and signal transduction processes. In this review, we update the recent development in the immunometabolism of B cells with the latest findings including the immune‐metabolic steering on B cell development, differentiation, and function skewing, and emphasis on how immunometabolism landscape may shape B cell functions in metabolic, autoimmune, and inflammatory disorders. The metabolic interaction of B cells with other immune cells in disease context will also be discussed.
Factors influencing tooth loss in European populations
Authors: Pitchika Vinay , Jordan Rainer A. , Norderyd Ola , Rolander Bo , Welk Alexander , Völzke Henry , Holtfreter Birte , Kocher Thomas
Published: May 2022

Aim

This study aimed to identify the factors influencing the changes in the number of teeth present and the number of healthy or filled surfaces between two time points.

Materials and Methods

Repeated cross‐sectional data from population‐based studies, namely the German Oral Health Studies (DMS‐III vs. DMS‐V), the Studies of Health in Pomerania (SHIP‐START‐0 vs. SHIP‐TREND‐0), and the Jönköping study (2003 vs. 2013), were analysed. Oaxaca decomposition models were constructed for the outcomes (number of teeth, number of healthy surfaces, and number of filled surfaces).

Results

The number of teeth increased between examinations (DMS: +2.26 [adults], +4.92 [seniors], SHIP: +1.67, Jönköping: +0.96). Improvements in education and dental awareness brought a positive change in all outcomes. An increase in powered toothbrushing and inter‐dental cleaning had a great impact in DMS (adults: +0.25 tooth, +0.78 healthy surface, +0.38 filled surface; seniors: +1.19 teeth, 5.79 healthy surfaces, +0.48 filled surface). Inter‐dental cleaning decreased by 4% between SHIP‐START‐0 and SHIP‐TREND‐0, which negatively affected the outcomes.

Conclusions

From this study, it can be concluded that education may be the most important factor having a direct and indirect effect on the outcomes. However, for better oral health, powered toothbrushing and inter‐dental cleaning should not be neglected.
Real‐world evidence from the non‐interventional, prospective, German multicentre PERSIST study of patients with psoriasis after 1 year of treatment with guselkumab
Authors: Gerdes S. , Asadullah K. , Hoffmann M. , Korge B. , Mortazawi D. , Wegner S. , Personke Y. , Gomez M. , Sticherling M.
Published: May 2022

Background

PERSIST was a prospective, non‐interventional, long‐term, German multicentre study of patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis receiving guselkumab, an approved monoclonal antibody that binds to the p19 subunit of interleukin (IL)‐23, in a real‐world setting.

Objectives

Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of guselkumab, and its effect on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), in patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis who have received 52 weeks of treatment.

Methods

Patients (≥18 years old) were prescribed guselkumab as per routine clinical practice. End points assessed include Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), Physician's Global Assessment (PGA), target Nail Psoriasis Severity Index (NAPSI), and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI).

Results

Overall, 303 patients were enrolled and treated with guselkumab. Mean disease duration was 21.0 years, and 77.2% and 51.2% of patients had received ≥1 prior conventional systemic or ≥1 prior biologic therapy, respectively. Mean PASI score decreased from 16.4 at baseline to 3.0 by Week (W) 28, and further decreased to 2.4 by W52, while the proportion of patients achieving an absolute PASI score of ≤1 increased from 1.3% at baseline, to 50.8% at W28 and to 58.4% by W52. PASI90 and PASI100 responses also showed marked improvements between W28 and W52, regardless of biologic treatment history. Clearance of psoriatic skin was observed in difficult‐to‐treat areas, with the percentage of patients achieving a PGA score ≤1 increasing between W28 and W52. Guselkumab improved HRQoL; mean DLQI score decreased from 13.7 at baseline to 2.8 by W28, and further decreased to 2.4 by W52. At W52, 64.6% of patients achieved a DLQI score ≤1. The cumulative probability of drug survival was 92.4% at W52.

Conclusions

Guselkumab is efficacious and well tolerated regardless of previous biologic therapies, comorbidities or psoriasis manifestation in difficult‐to‐treat areas. No new safety signals were observed.
Gender, migration and violence among third country nationals accessing the sexual health clinic in Malta
Authors: Rossoni I. , Gauci D. , Gauci Farrugia A. , Padovese V.
Published: May 2022

Background

In 2020, the number of displaced people worldwide reached 41.3 million (IOM, 2020). Among them, are many migrants and refugees at risk of sexual and gender‐based violence (SGBV). Healthcare providers have a key role to play in identifying migrant victims/survivors of violence.

Objectives

This paper seeks to assess STIs prevalence, sexual health and sexual violence among third country nationals (TCNs) attending the GUC in Malta.

Methods

This is a mixed methods study carried out at the Genitourinary Clinic (GUC), which is the only public sexual health clinic in Malta. Demographic data, sexual history and diagnoses of patients attending the GUC between January 2018 and December 2019 were collected and retrospectively analysed. A SGBV risk assessment was performed through a semi‐structured questionnaire.

Results

In the 24‐month study period, a total of 12 654 patients accessed the GUC in Malta. Demographic data were collected on age, gender, nationality, marital status and sexual orientation. 16.4% (n = 2064) of these were extra‐European migrants, predominantly male. 80 different nationalities were recorded, with the 5 most common being Nigerian, Filipino, Libyan, Syrian and Brazilian. The average age was 32.6 years. Over 110 sex workers were visited at the GUC in the study period – 20 were foreign, primarily from China. The presence of a ‘massage parlour owner’ during consultation, lack of control over passports and other factors were identified as warning signs of trafficking. 5 cases of sexual violence and forced prostitution involving girls from Sub‐Saharan Africa and, in 2 cases, boys recently arrived in Malta by boat, were encountered. 6 African women accessing the service exhibited a type of female genital mutilation (FGM).

Conclusions

Migration, sexual health and SGBV overlap in important ways. Further research and training in SGBV and migration in the healthcare setting and awareness‐raising about existing services among the migrant population are required.
Anchoring Validity Evidence for Automated Essay Scoring
Authors: Shermis Mark D.
Published: May 2022

One of the challenges of discussing validity arguments for machine scoring of essays centers on the absence of a commonly held definition and theory of good writing. At best, the algorithms attempt to measure select attributes of writing and calibrate them against human ratings with the goal of accurate prediction of scores for new essays. Sometimes these attributes are based on the fundamentals of writing (e.g., fluency), but quite often they are based on locally developed rubrics that may be confounded with specific content coverage expectations. This lack of transparency makes it difficult to provide systematic evidence that machine scoring is assessing writing, but slices or correlates of writing performance.
Ochodaeus berytensis Petrovitz (Coleoptera: Ochodaeidae), a new pest of the truffle Tuber aestivum in Upper Galilee, Israel
Authors: Huchet Jean‐Bernard , Azoulay Lotem , Danay Ofer , Ezov Nirit , Perman Idan , Friedman Ariel‐Leib , Shaltiel‐Harpaz Liora
Published: May 2022

In light of the introduction of truffle cultivation into northern Israel, previously unrecorded damage to the edible ectomycorrhizal truffle Tuber aestivum in Northern Israel is described and attributed to the scarab beetle Ochodaeus berytensis (Coleoptera: Ochodaeidae). The unique presence of adults within the truffles indicates that the life cycle of O. berytensis occurs elsewhere, very likely at the expense of another, yet unknown, hypogeal fungus. The damage to the ripe stage of fruiting bodies of the truffle are substantial and consist of borings, tunnels and galleries comparable with those perpetrated by the truffle beetle pest Leiodes cinnamomea (Panzer, 1793) (Leiodidae). Although Ochodaeidae have long been assumed to be mycophagous, it is the first recorded association of these beetles with hypogeal fungi. A distribution map of O. berytensis within the country is provided.
Structural insight into chitin perception by chitin elicitor receptor kinase 1 of Oryza sativa
Authors: Xu Li , Wang Jizong , Xiao Yu , Han Zhifu , Chai Jijie
Published: May 2022

Plants have developed innate immune systems to fight against pathogenic fungi by monitoring pathogenic signals known as pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMP) and have established endo symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi through recognition of mycorrhizal (Myc) factors. Chitin elicitor receptor kinase 1 of Oryza sativa subsp. Japonica (OsCERK1) plays a bifunctional role in mediating both chitin‐triggered immunity and symbiotic relationships with AM fungi. However, it remains unclear whether OsCERK1 can directly recognize chitin molecules. In this study, we show that OsCERK1 binds to the chitin hexamer ((NAG)6) and tetramer ((NAG)4) directly and determine the crystal structure of the OsCERK1‐(NAG)6 complex at 2 Å. The structure shows that one OsCERK1 is associated with one (NAG)6. Upon recognition, chitin hexamer binds OsCERK1 by interacting with the shallow groove on the surface of LysM2. These structural findings, complemented by mutational analyses, demonstrate that LysM2 is crucial for recognition of both (NAG)6 and (NAG)4. Altogether, these findings provide structural insights into the ability of OsCERK1 in chitin perception, which will lead to a better understanding of the role of OsCERK1 in mediating both immunity and symbiosis in rice.
Combining the use of two non‐invasive instruments to confirm that a formula can improve skin luminance while respecting constitutive melanogenesis
Authors: de Dormael Romain , Gueniche Audrey , Bastien Philippe , Verschoore Michèle
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Skin radiance products achieve perceivable benefits with different sort of mechanism of action.

Aims

To use two non‐invasive instrumental devices to evaluate the effectiveness of a cosmetic formula designed to improve skin reflectance while respecting skin integrity.

Patients and Methods

Subjects (N = 43) aged 18–50 years old had healthy skin of phototype V–VI and Individual Typology Angle between −10° and −50°. The treatment was applied twice weekly for 4 weeks on a delineated area of the back, and an adjacent area was left untreated. Instrumental and clinical scoring assessments of treated and untreated skin were performed at baseline and Day 26.

Results

Between baseline and Day 26, reflectance (Delta L*) increased by 1.27 points and was considered as clinically relevant. Dermatologist clinical scoring of radiance significantly improved from 2.6 to 3.6 after 4 weeks of treatment and the Skin Color Chart Clarity level significantly decreased from a score of 15.5 to 14.3, representing a skin reflectance improvement. Conversely, the change between baseline and Day 26 in Mexameter Melanin Density was not clinically different for treated skin versus untreated skin (difference of 2.54). At Day 26, changes from baseline for Mexameter Melanin Density and Delta L* parameters appeared to be uncorrelated (r = −0.036).

Conclusions

This combination of two non‐invasive devices can be useful to confirm that a product can modulate skin reflectance without modifying constitutive pigmentation. The formula tested in this study did not interfere with constitutive melanogenesis.
Bundling Sequentially Released Durable Goods*
Authors: Cabral Luís , Natividad Gabriel
Published: May 2022

Suppose two durables are sequentially released and suppose that consumer valuations of these goods are positively correlated. By the time the second good is released, high‐valuation buyers are out of the market for the first good. Therefore, a bundle can be targeted at the low‐valuation consumers without violating the high‐valuation consumers' incentive compatibility constraint. We test the model's predictions on data from retail DVD sales in the 2000's. Consistent with theory, our estimates suggest that mixed bundling increases revenues, especially when the bundle components are similar (which in turn suggests positive correlation of valuations).
Real‐time assessment of individual optimal CT perfusion acquisition time in patients with ischemic stroke
Authors: Filice Silvano , Pavarani Antonio , Cerasti Davide
Published: May 2022

Background and Purpose

This study aims to investigate the feasibility of a “real‐time” estimate of the optimal CT perfusion (CTP) acquisition time (Top) in ischemic stroke patients.

Methods

The arterial input function, the venous output function (VOF), and the time‐attenuation curves of ischemic core and ischemic penumbra of 51 patients with acute ischemic stroke in anterior circulation were obtained. The curves were analyzed to determine for each patient the Top value; additionally, several time parameters were derived from each waveform. The relationship between each of these parameters and Top was investigated.

Results

We found a strong linear correlation between each time parameter derived from VOF curve and Top, suggesting that the VOF waveform is rescaled from patient to patient without significant change in shape.

Conclusions

The linear correlation between Top and the VOF time to peak is well suited to implement a new technique to automatically customize the patient's CTP acquisition time. The method does not require an additional dose of contrast medium and does not increase the overall study time, so its use would be desirable to decrease the average radiation dose.
Genetic diversity of Iranian populations of Pyrenophora graminea, the causal agent of leaf stripe disease on barley
Authors: Dokhanchi Haleh , Arzanlou Mahdi , Abed‐Ashtiani Farnaz
Published: May 2022

Leaf stripe disease caused by Pyrenophora graminea is an economically significant disease of cultivated barley worldwide, including Iran. Considering economic impact of this disease on barley industry in Iran, in this study genetic diversity of P. graminea populations mainly collected from barley (229 isolates) in different regions of East Azerbaijan Province was examined using ISSR and RAPD molecular markers. The average polymorphic information content (PIC) values for ISSR and RAPD were 0.28 in both markers, and a significant correlation was observed between ISSR and RAPD data (r = .78, p < .05). No clear clustering was found within P. graminea populations in relation to their geographical origins. Applying the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) procedure and principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) revealed no obvious clustering of isolates based on geographic region. Totally, gene diversity of 0.2 was noticed among P. graminea isolates. High level of genetic differentiation (PhiPT = 0.257; p ≤ .001), with 74% of the genetic variation occurring within populations and 26% occurring among populations, indicated the existence of population differentiation. In addition, a moderate amount of gene flow (Nm = 1.1985) was found between populations. Information obtained from this study may be beneficial to design and improve management strategies such as breeding resistant barley varieties to leaf stripe disease.
Vertebral stabilisation for thoracolumbar vertebral instability associated with cranial and caudal articular process anomalies in pugs: Seven cases (2010‐2019)
Authors: Aikawa T. , Miyazaki Y. , Kihara S. , Saitoh Y. , Nishimura M. , Stephan S. L. , Dewey C. W.
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To describe the diagnostic findings, surgical technique and outcomes in seven pugs with thoracolumbar vertebral instability due to articular process anomalies.

Materials and Methods

Records (2010 to 2019) of pugs with thoracolumbar vertebral instability associated with articular process anomalies that underwent decompressive laminectomy and vertebral stabilisation were reviewed. Data on preoperative and postoperative neurologic status, diagnostic findings, surgical techniques and outcomes were retrieved.

Results

Seven dogs were presented with ambulatory or non‐ambulatory paraparesis. Caudal articular process anomalies (three dogs) and concomitant cranial and caudal articular process anomalies (four dogs) were noted. Myelography (six dogs) or magnetic resonance imaging (one dog) showed none to severe spinal cord compression. Dynamic myelography in six dogs demonstrated nine distinct sites of spinal cord dimension reduction positioned in extension and/or flexion (mean reduction: 16.0%, range: 8.5 to 24.0%). These dynamic compressions were located at sites with articular process anomalies (seven sites) and sites with no articular process anomalies (two sites). Vertebral instability was confirmed by intraoperative spinal manipulation in all dogs. All dogs remained ambulatory with improved (five dogs) or static (two dogs) neurological deficits at the last follow‐up (median: 16 months; range: 1.5 to 66 months).

Clinical Significance

Dynamic myelography and/or intraoperative spinal manipulation demonstrated vertebral instabilities at sites with or without articular process anomalies on imaging. Decompressive laminectomy with vertebral stabilisation resulted in long‐term neurological improvement in most dogs.
The differences in the trophic structure of semi‐enclosed and open coastal communities under the influence of an alien top predator (red king crab in the Barents Sea)
Authors: Zalota Anna K. , Spiridonov Vassily A. , Antokhina Tatyana I. , Deart Yury V.
Published: May 2022

The impact of the introduced red king crab (RKC), Paralithodes camtschaticus, in the Barents Sea was mostly studied through its direct predation on native species. This study uses stable isotope analysis of carbon and nitrogen to characterize major trophic groups (including grazing sea urchins) and specifically looks at RKC's trophic position and niche partitioning with the native hermit and spider crab species. To achieve this, we sampled organisms from the food web of a small fjord‐like Zelenaya Inlet on the Murmansk coast in the southwestern Barents Sea and the open sea coast, just outside the inlet for comparison. There, macrophyte‐derived carbon is the major source of organic matter along with the phytoplankton. In general, the fucoid source of primary production was more prominent within the inlet food web compared to the nearby open coastal zone. Isotopic trophic niches calculated using SIBER analysis showed partition between the native hermit and spider crabs suggesting, some degree of trophic segregation between coevolved species. RKCs are clustered together in the center of native decapod species' niches. There were some distinct differences between the feeding habits of RKCs within the inlet and the open sea coastal waters. The subadult RKCs that are present in the inlet throughout the year have a narrower (in the area and specifically in δ15N dimension) niche than the adults from the open sea. The latter have a wider variety of food items due to their migration and may prey on food items from different trophic levels. Sea urchins are an important trophic link transferring the macrophyte carbon to RKC. However, P. camtschaticus may also directly consume plant residues. Despite generally similar calculated trophic levels of decapod species, our isotopic data and literature data on the food composition of Paralithodes camtschaticus in the Barents Sea do not indicate significant RKC's competition with, and predation on, native species of crabs.
Seasonal variation of microbiota composition in Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles coluzzii in two different eco‐geographical localities in Cameroon
Authors: Sandeu Maurice Marcel , Maffo Claudine Grâce Tatsinkou , Dada Nsa , Njiokou Flobert , Hughes Grant L. , Wondji Charles S.
Published: May 2022

Understanding the environmental factors affecting the microbiota in malaria vectors may help in the development of novel vector control interventions, similar to paratransgenesis. This study evaluated seasonal and geographical variations in the microbial community of the two major malaria vectors. Adult Anopheles mosquitoes were collected across two different eco‐geographical settings in Cameroon, during the dry and wet seasons. DNA was extracted from the whole individual mosquitoes from each group and processed for microbial analysis using Illumina Miseq sequencing of the V3‐V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Data analysis was performed using QIIME2 and R software programs. A total of 1985 mosquitoes were collected and among them, 120 were selected randomly corresponding to 30 mosquitoes per season and locality. Overall, 97 bacterial taxa were detected across all mosquito samples, with 86 of these shared between dry and wet seasons in both localities and species. There were significant differences in bacterial composition between both seasons, with a clear separation observed between the dry and wet seasons (PERMANOVA comparisons of beta diversity, Pseudo‐F = 10.45; q‐value = 0.01). This study highlights the influence of seasonal variation on microbial communities and this variation's impact on mosquito biology and vectorial capacity should be further investigated.
Sunflecks in the upper canopy: dynamics of light‐use efficiency in sun and shade leaves of Fagus sylvatica
Authors: Durand Maxime , Stangl Zsofia R. , Salmon Yann , Burgess Alexandra J. , Murchie Erik H. , Robson T. Matthew
Published: May 2022

Sunflecks are transient patches of direct radiation that provide a substantial proportion of the daily irradiance to leaves in the lower canopy. In this position, faster photosynthetic induction would allow for higher sunfleck‐use efficiency, as is commonly reported in the literature. Yet, when sunflecks are too few and far between, it may be more beneficial for shade leaves to prioritize efficient photosynthesis under shade.

We investigated the temporal dynamics of photosynthetic induction, recovery under shade, and stomatal movement during a sunfleck, in sun and shade leaves of Fagus sylvatica from three provenances of contrasting origin.

We found that shade leaves complete full induction in a shorter time than sun leaves, but that sun leaves respond faster than shade leaves due to their much larger amplitude of induction. The core‐range provenance achieved faster stomatal opening in shade leaves, which may allow for better sunfleck‐use efficiency in denser canopies and lower canopy positions.

Our findings represent a paradigm shift for future research into light fluctuations in canopies, drawing attention to the ubiquitous importance of sunflecks for photosynthesis, not only in lower‐canopy leaves where shade is prevalent, but particularly in the upper canopy where longer sunflecks are more common due to canopy openness.