bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical characteristics and outcome of neurosarcoidosis‐associated myelitis: A retrospective cohort study and review of the literature
Authors: Nolte Jessica Y. C. , ten Dam Leroy , van de Beek Diederik , Brouwer Matthijs C.
Published: February 2022

Background and purpose

Neurosarcoidosis can affect all parts of the nervous system of which myelitis is relatively frequent. The aim of this study was to describe clinical characteristics, treatment and prognosis of patients with myelitis attributable to neurosarcoidosis.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study and a systematic review and meta‐analysis of neurosarcoidosis‐associated myelitis.

Results

Myelitis was identified in 41 of 153 (27%) neurosarcoidosis patients seen at our clinic from 2015 to 2020. Classification of neurosarcoidosis was definite in three (7%), probable in 29 (71%) and possible in nine patients (22%). The median (interquartile range) age at onset was 49 (41–53) years and 20 of the patients were female (49%). The presenting symptoms included muscle weakness in 31 of 41 patients (78%), sensory loss in 35 (88%) and micturition abnormalities in 30 (75%). Spinal magnetic resonance imaging showed longitudinally extensive myelitis in 27 of 36 patients (75%) and cerebrospinal fluid examination showed an elevated leukocyte count in 21 patients (81%). Initial treatment consisted of glucocorticoids in 38 of 41 patients (93%), with additional methotrexate or azathioprine in 21 of 41 patients (51%) and infliximab in 10 of 41 patients (24%). Treatment led to remission, improvement or stabilization of disease in 37 of 39 patients (95%). Despite treatment, 18 of 30 patients (60%) could not walk independently at the end of follow‐up (median 36 months). A review of the literature published between 2000 and 2020 identified 215 patients with comparable clinical characteristics and results of ancillary investigations.

Conclusion

Sarcoidosis‐associated myelitis is observed in 27% of neurosarcoidosis patients. Although treatment often led to a decrease in disease activity, residual neurological deficits leading to loss of ambulation occurred frequently.
Tree diversity effects on soil microbial biomass and respiration are context dependent across forest diversity experiments
Authors: Cesarz Simone , Craven Dylan , Auge Harald , Bruelheide Helge , Castagneyrol Bastien , Gutknecht Jessica , Hector Andy , Jactel Hervé , Koricheva Julia , Messier Christian , Muys Bart , O’Brien Michael J. , Paquette Alain , Ponette Quentin , Potvin Catherine , Reich Peter B. , Scherer‐Lorenzen Michael , Smith Andrew R. , Verheyen Kris , Eisenhauer Nico
Published: February 2022

Aim

Soil microorganisms are essential for the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems. Although soil microbial communities and functions are linked to tree species composition and diversity, there has been no comprehensive study of the generality or context dependence of these relationships. Here, we examine tree diversity–soil microbial biomass and respiration relationships across environmental gradients using a global network of tree diversity experiments.

Location

Boreal, temperate, subtropical and tropical forests.

Time period

2013.

Major taxa studied

Soil microorganisms.

Methods

Soil samples collected from 11 tree diversity experiments were used to measure microbial respiration, biomass and respiratory quotient using the substrate‐induced respiration method. All samples were measured using the same analytical device, method and procedure to reduce measurement bias. We used linear mixed‐effects models and principal components analysis (PCA) to examine the effects of tree diversity (taxonomic and phylogenetic), environmental conditions and interactions on soil microbial properties.

Results

Abiotic drivers, mainly soil water content, but also soil carbon and soil pH, significantly increased soil microbial biomass and respiration. High soil water content reduced the importance of other abiotic drivers. Tree diversity had no effect on the soil microbial properties, but interactions with phylogenetic diversity indicated that the effects of diversity were context dependent and stronger in drier soils. Similar results were found for soil carbon and soil pH.

Main conclusions

Our results indicate the importance of abiotic variables, especially soil water content, for maintaining high levels of soil microbial functions and modulating the effects of other environmental drivers. Planting tree species with diverse water‐use strategies and structurally complex canopies and high leaf area might be crucial for maintaining high soil microbial biomass and respiration. Given that greater phylogenetic distance alleviated unfavourable soil water conditions, reforestation efforts that account for traits improving soil water content or select more phylogenetically distant species might assist in increasing soil microbial functions.
Hospitalisation and associated costs of gastrointestinal bleeding from primary prevention aspirin use in South Australia: a retrospective case series analysis
Authors: Roberts Gregory , Baker Maxwell , Leiblich Hannah , Paulose Maryssa , Pegoli Matthew , Panagopoulos Lucas , Schiller Carly , Suppiah Vijayaprakash
Published: February 2022

We assessed hospitalisations for gastrointestinal bleeding directly related to primary prevention aspirin in lower risk patients for a 6‐month period in three South Australian hospitals. Those with related underlying pathology or concurrent causative medication were excluded. Identified patients (n = 22) carried little co‐morbidity, 41% received prior proton‐pump inhibitors and 68% were aged >70 years. Mean hospital admission cost was $6769 (95% confidence interval $5198–$8340), with projected state and national annual costs of $0.57 and $8.12 million respectively. In light of recent guideline changes, clinicians need to vigorously assess the need for primary prevention aspirin.
Telehealth in outpatient delivery of palliative care: a prospective survey evaluation by patients and clinicians
Authors: Philip Jennifer , Wawryk Olivia , Pasanen Leeanne , Wong Aaron , Schwetlik Stephanie , Collins Anna
Published: February 2022

Background

In Australia during the COVID‐19 pandemic new funding models were introduced to support telehealth consultations, resulting in their widescale adoption in palliative care service delivery. Clarity around the clinical circumstances and patient populations that might be most appropriate for telehealth models was required.

Aims

To evaluate patient and physician satisfaction, acceptability and utility of outpatient palliative care provision through telehealth.

Methods

This is a multi‐site prospective, cross‐sectional, observational study conducted during a time of significant public health restrictions. A survey was used to collect matched patient‐ and physician‐reported perceptions of palliative care telehealth consultations across three metropolitan hospitals in Victoria, Australia.

Results

There were 127 matched patient–physician data of telehealth consultations and a further 812 physician‐only assessments. Telehealth was generally acceptable and satisfactory, with patients providing greater positive scores than clinicians. Telehealth incorporating both audio and video were more acceptable and satisfactory, particularly with the presence of a carer, and during routine reviews. Physicians were less satisfied using telehealth when there was increasing symptom complexity across all domains (pain, psychological, and other symptoms).

Conclusions

Telehealth has high utility in palliative care practice. A future hybrid model of care comprising both face‐to‐face and telehealth consultations seems favoured by patients and physicians but must be accompanied by targeted support for specific patient groups to ensure equitable healthcare access. Further evaluation of telehealth during a time of fewer public health emergency measures and lower community anxiety is required to fully understand its ongoing role.
Black Lives Matter! Adolescent Research Incrementally Dismantles Racism and Systems of Oppression
Authors: Witherspoon Dawn P. , Wray‐Lake Laura , Halgunseth Linda C.
Published: February 2022

This Black Lives Matter! Special Issue uses diverse methods to examine how multiple systems of oppression at different levels (individual, institutional, and structural) affect Black youth. Through an intersectionality lens, scholars examine how gender, sexual orientation, skin tone, and socioeconomic status create unique experiences for Black youth. Collectively, the 17 papers address the sweeping impact of racism and other systems of oppression on Black youth by examining structural factors (e.g., policing), interpersonal experiences (e.g., teacher–student), and developmental processes (e.g., socialization). Commentaries provide a historical view and future perspective to contextualize how far we have come and how much farther we need to go in our quest to combat racism and other systems of oppression and improve the lives of Black adolescents.
First report of association of Ca. Phytoplasma australasia‐related strain (16SrII‐D) with Thuja occidentalis plants showing leaf yellowing symptoms in Uttarakhand province, India
Authors: Mitra Surabhi , Reddy Madem G. , Rao Govind P.
Published: February 2022

Thuja occidentalis L. is an evergreen coniferous species of high medicinal value with fan‐like branches and scaly leaves. Leaf yellowing symptoms were recorded on T. occidentalis plants in 2019 at Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand, India. Using the universal 16S rRNA and secA gene phytoplasma‐specific primers, the expected amplicons of ~1.25 kb and 480 bp were consistently obtained in ten symptomatic thuja leaf samples. Virtual RFLP profiles showed that the thuja phytoplasma strains were associated with Ca. Phytoplasma australasia (16SrII‐D subgroup)‐related strain by matching the restriction patterns of the 16S rRNA gene. This is the first time a phytoplasma from the 16SrII‐D subgroup has been recorded with thuja yellows disease in the world.
Ift88 regulates enamel formation via involving Shh signaling
Authors: Kudo Takehisa , Kawasaki Maiko , Kawasaki Katsushige , Meguro Fumiya , Nihara Jun , Honda Izumi , Kitamura Madoka , Fujita Akira , Osawa Kazuaki , Ichikawa Kaya , Nagai Takahiro , Ishida Yoko , Sharpe Paul T. , Maeda Takeyasu , Saito Isao , Ohazama Atsushi
Published: February 2022

Objectives

The ciliopathies are a wide spectrum of human diseases, which are caused by perturbations in the function of primary cilia. Tooth enamel anomalies are often seen in ciliopathy patients; however, the role of primary cilia in enamel formation remains unclear.

Materials and Methods

We examined mice with epithelial conditional deletion of the ciliary protein, Ift88, (Ift88fl/fl;K14Cre).

Results

Ift88fl/fl;K14Cre mice showed premature abrasion in molars. A pattern of enamel rods which is determined at secretory stage, was disorganized in Ift88 mutant molars. Many amelogenesis‐related molecules expressing at the secretory stage, including amelogenin and ameloblastin, enamelin, showed significant downregulation in Ift88 mutant molar tooth germs. Shh signaling is essential for amelogenesis, which was found to be downregulated in Ift88 mutant molar at the secretory stage. Application of Shh signaling agonist at the secretory stage partially rescued enamel anomalies in Ift88 mutant mice.

Conclusion

Findings in the present study indicate that the function of the primary cilia via Ift88 is critical for the secretory stage of amelogenesis through involving Shh signaling.
Two rare variants reveal the significance of Grainyhead‐like 3 Arginine 391 underlying non‐syndromic cleft palate only
Authors: Huang Wenbin , He Qing , Li Mingzhao , Ding Yi , Liang Wei , Li Weiran , Lin Jiuxiang , Zhao Huaxiang , Chen Feng
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Non‐syndromic cleft palate only (NSCPO) is one of the most common craniofacial birth defects with largely undetermined genetic etiology. It has been established that Grainyhead‐like 3 (GRHL3) plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of NSCPO. This study aimed to identify and verify the first‐reported GRHL3 variant underlying NSCPO among the Chinese cohort.

Methods

We performed whole‐exome sequencing (WES) on a Chinese NSCPO patient and identified a rare variant of GRHL3 (p.Arg391His). A validated deleterious variant p.Arg391Cys was introduced as a positive control. Zebrafish embryos injection, reporter assays, live‐cell imaging, and RNA sequencing were conducted to test the pathogenicity of the variants.

Results

Zebrafish embryos microinjection demonstrated that overexpression of the variants could disrupt the normal development of zebrafish embryos. Reporter assays showed that Arg391His disturbed transcriptional activity of GRHL3 and exerted a dominant‐negative effect. Interestingly, Arg391His and Arg391Cys displayed distinct nuclear localization patterns from that of wild‐type GRHL3 in live‐cell imaging. Bulk RNA sequencing suggested that the two variants changed the pattern of gene expression.

Conclusions

In aggregate, this study identified and characterized a rare GRHL3 variant in NSCPO, revealing the critical role of Arginine 391 in GRHL3. Our findings will help facilitate understanding and genetic counseling of NSCPO.
Characterization of the antibody response to SARS‐CoV‐2 in a mildly affected pediatric population
Authors: Kopanja Sonja , Gattinger Pia , Schmidthaler Klara , Sieber Justyna , Niepodziana Katarzyna , Schlederer Thomas , Weseslindtner Lukas , Stiasny Karin , Götzinger Florian , Pickl Winfried F. , Frischer Thomas , Valenta Rudolf , Szépfalusi Zsolt
Published: February 2022

Background

While children usually experience a mild course of COVID‐19, and a severe disease is more common in adults, the features, specificities, and functionality of the SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific antibody response in the pediatric population are of interest.

Methods

We performed a detailed analysis of IgG antibodies specific for SARS‐CoV‐2‐derived antigens S and RBD by ELISA in 26 SARS‐CoV‐2 seropositive schoolchildren with mild or asymptomatic disease course, and in an equally sized, age‐ and gender‐matched control group. Furthermore, a detailed mapping of IgG reactivity to a panel of microarrayed SARS‐CoV‐2 proteins and S‐derived peptides was performed by microarray technology. The capacity of the antibody response to block RBD‐ACE2 binding and virus neutralization were assessed. Results were compared with those obtained in an adult COVID‐19 convalescent population.

Results

After mild COVID‐19, anti‐S and RBD‐specific IgG antibodies were developed by 100% and 84.6% of pediatric subjects, respectively. No difference was observed in regards to symptoms and gender. Mounted antibodies recognized conformational epitopes of the spike protein and were capable to neutralize the virus up to a titer of ≥80 and to inhibit the ACE2‐RBD interaction by up to 65%. SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific IgG responses in children were comparable to mildly affected adult patients.

Conclusion

SARS‐CoV‐2 asymptomatic and mildly affected pediatric patients develop a SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific antibody response, which is comparable regarding antigen, epitope recognition, and the ability to inhibit the RBD‐ACE2 interaction to that observed in adult patients after mild COVID‐19.
Crowdsourcing as a means of fundraising for juvenile dermatomyositis
Authors: Goldman Nathaniel , Kassamali Bina , Shahriari Neda , Lonowski Sarah , Nwankwo Christy , Tran Amity , Vleugels Ruth Ann , LaChance Avery
Published: February 2022

This study used the crowdsourcing platform GoFundMe to analyze the financial hardships associated with treatment of juvenile dermatomyositis. Uncovered medical expenses, travel costs, and loss of income were all commonly cited reasons for fundraising, demonstrating high out‐of‐pocket costs and significant economic hardship associated with this disease, even among families with health insurance.
Alterations in the immune phenotype of thymectomized children and the development of atopic disorders after heart transplantation
Authors: Kim Tiffany B. , Ionescu Lavinia , Avdimiretz Nicholas , Murdoch Faye , Larsen Ingrid M. , Motyka Bruce , West Lori J. , Urschel Simon
Published: February 2022

Background

Atopic disorders are more common in children after heart transplant (HTx). We hypothesized that HTx at an early age and thymus excision (TE) affect development of T and B cells, especially regulatory T cells (Tregs), which help maintain tolerance.

Methods

In this single‐center study including 24 patients transplanted between 2013 and 2018, we investigated lymphocyte patterns in relation to these factors using flow cytometry. Clinical data were collected from standardized questionnaires and medical charts. Patients were stratified into TE and non‐TE groups as well as patients with and without post‐transplant atopy development/worsening.

Results

64% of TE patients experienced new or worsening asthma/eczema post‐transplant compared to 20% of non‐TE patients. TE patients had higher total Treg proportions (CD4+CD25+CD127lo) than non‐TE patients (p = .043), but borderline significantly lower naïve Tregs (CD45RA+CD27−) (p = .057). Memory CD4+ T cells were higher in TE patients in trend (p = .084). Total Tregs did not differ between atopic/nonatopic groups, although naïve Tregs were significantly lower in atopic patients (p = .028). Memory CD4+ T cells were higher in atopic patients in trend (p = .082). IgM+IgD+ B cells were higher in nonatopic patients in trend (p = .064).

Conclusions

New/worsening atopy is more common in thymectomized HTx children and is associated with alterations in T‐cell profiles. Avoiding TE may prevent these alterations and reduce incidence of atopy post‐HTx.
HLA ‐ matched related donor hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in a patient with polynucleotide kinase 3–phosphatase mutation developed acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Bayram Nihan , Yaman Yontem , Elli Murat , Ozdilli Kursat , Nepesov Serdar , Dogan Mehmet Sait , Ayaz Akif , Anak Sema
Published: February 2022

Background

PNPK gene mutations result in DNA repair disorders and have a spectrum of neurodevelopmental manifestations. To date, cancer predisposition has not been described in patients with PNKP mutations.

Observation

Here, we report a patient with PNKP mutation, who developed AML at age of five and underwent reduced‐intensity HSCT.

Conclusion

Although many DNA repair disorders are known to have increased risk of malignancy, association between PNKP mutations and malignancy is not well‐described. This report is the first description of a PNPK mutation patient developing a malignancy and undergoing curative HSCT.
Sarcopenia prevalence in pediatric intestinal transplant recipients: Implications on post‐transplant outcomes
Authors: Raghu Vikram K. , Sico Rita , Rudolph Jeffrey A. , Mazariegos George V. , Squires Judy , Squires James E.
Published: February 2022

Background

Sarcopenia has been associated with poor surgical outcomes but has not been studied in pediatric intestinal transplantation. We aimed to determine sarcopenia prevalence in intestinal transplant recipients and the association of sarcopenia with outcomes.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional retrospective chart review of intestinal transplant recipients from 2000‐present. We estimated total psoas muscle area (tPMA) at L3‐L4 and L4‐L5 from computed tomography scans prior to or in the immediate peri‐operative period. Sarcopenia was defined by tPMA below the 5th percentile for age and sex. We built a Cox‐proportional hazards model to determine the association between sarcopenia and patient and graft survival.

Results

Of the 56 intestinal transplant recipients included, 36 (64%) were sarcopenic. Graft survival was 79% at one year and 59% at five years. Overall patient survival was 86% at one year and 76% at five years. Peri‐transplant sarcopenia was associated with improved graft survival (Hazard ratio 0.42, 95% confidence interval: 0.20–0.88) but not overall survival (Hazard ratio 0.47, 95% confidence interval: 0.19–1.20).

Conclusions

In this first report of sarcopenia in pediatric intestinal transplant, we found a high sarcopenia prevalence without an association with worse outcomes. The potential improved graft survival in sarcopenic patients along with underlying mechanisms warrant further exploration.
Fish parasites can reflect environmental quality in fish farms
Authors: Jerônimo Gabriela Tomas , da Cruz Matheus Gomes , Bertaglia Elisabeth de Aguiar , Furtado William Eduardo , Martins Maurício Laterça
Published: February 2022

In the aquatic environment, fish are subject to different pollutants and environmental variations that favour stress on animals, making them vulnerable to pathogens. Fish parasites are excellent biological indicators of environmental quality, as their parasitic population may increase or decrease in response to changes in water parameters and/or the presence of pollutants. Ectoparasites are considered excellent indicators of environmental quality because they have a monoxenic life cycle with high reproductive rates that have been responsible for the immediate response to changes in aquatic biota. In turn, parasites with a heteroxenous life cycle are also responsive to environmental variation because, with the mortality of intermediate hosts, their population can be easily changed. However, studies with endoparasites and their relation with the environment are more numerous, as they are accumulators of pollutants, especially trace elements, either via fish or through stages of development outside the host that also contribute to the accumulation of metals. Moreover, Digenea, Acanthocephala, Nematoda and Cestoda parasites can compete for trace elements that are bioavailable in the environment, as fish with a greater abundance of parasites have a lower concentration of toxic metals in their tissues. Furthermore, they have a high affinity for trace elements that are toxic to human and fish health (arsenic, mercury, lead and cadmium). This review is a comprehensive overview of the use of fish parasites as environmental sentinels and describes their potential as bioindicators of effect and accumulation, and evaluates their application in fish farms environments.
Co‐designing and building an expert‐elicited non‐parametric Bayesian network model: demonstrating a methodology using aBonamia Ostreaespread risk case study
Authors: Hanea Anca M. , Hilton Zoë , Knight Ben , P. Robinson Andrew
Published: February 2022

The development and use of probabilistic models, particularly Bayesian networks (BN), to support risk‐based decision making is well established. Striking an efficient balance between satisfying model complexity and ease of development requires continuous compromise. Codesign, wherein the structural content of the model is developed hand‐in‐hand with the experts who will be accountable for the parameter estimates, shows promise, as do so‐called nonparametric Bayesian networks (NPBNs), which provide a light‐touch approach to capturing complex relationships among nodes. We describe and demonstrate the process of codesigning, building, quantifying, and validating an NPBN model for emerging risks and the consequences of potential management decisions using structured expert judgment (SEJ). We develop a case study of the local spread of a marine pathogen, namely,Bonamia ostreae. The BN was developed through a series of semistructured workshops that incorporated extensive feedback from many experts. The model was then quantified with a combination of field and expert‐elicited data. The IDEA protocol for SEJ was used in its hybrid (remote and face‐to‐face) form to elicit information about more than 100 parameters. This article focuses on the modeling and quantification process, the methodological challenges, and the way these were addressed.
Excess Mortality Versus COVID‐19 Death Rates: A Spatial Analysis of Socioeconomic Disparities and Political Allegiance Across U.S. States
Authors: Aron Janine , Muellbauer John
Published: February 2022

Excess mortality is a more robust measure than the counts of COVID‐19 deaths typically used in epidemiological and spatial studies. Measurement issues around excess mortality, considering data quality and comparability both internationally and within the U.S., are surveyed. This paper is the first state‐level spatial analysis of cumulative excess mortality for the U.S. in the first full year of the pandemic. There is strong evidence that, given appropriate controls, states with higher Democrat vote shares experienced lower excess mortality (consistent with county‐level studies of COVID‐19 deaths). Important demographic and socio‐economic controls from a broad set tested were racial composition, age structure, population density, poverty, income, temperature, and timing of arrival of the pandemic. Interaction effects suggest the Democrat vote share effect of reducing mortality was even greater in states where the pandemic arrived early. Omitting political allegiance leads to a significant underestimation of the mortality disparities for minority populations.
Smart home technology: Challenges and opportunities for collaborative governance and policy research
Authors: Mallinson Daniel J. , Shafi Saahir
Published: February 2022

Developing and developed nations face demographic challenges in the coming decades. Aging populations are expected to strain health resources and social safety nets. Smart home technology (SHT) is touted as a means for simultaneously improving quality of life and independence, while also reducing the long‐term costs of caring for an aging population. SHT also presents myriad governance and policy challenges, especially the protection and use of vast amounts of patient data. Alas, the governance and policy aspects of SHT research have been largely peripheral. The aims of this review are to cogently present the governance benefits and challenges of SHT and prompt greater engagement by policy scholars in myriad unanswered research questions. Specifically, it uses the collaborative governance framework to identify opportunities for, and barriers to, forward‐thinking public and private collaboration. Research engagement by policy researchers is vital for effective governing of this burgeoning sector.
Numerical study of Davey–Stewartson I systems
Authors: Frauendiener Jörg , Klein Christian , Muhammad Umar , Stoilov Nikola
Published: February 2022

An efficient high precision hybrid numerical approach for integrable Davey–Stewartson (DS) I equations for trivial boundary conditions at infinity is presented for Schwartz class initial data. The code is used for a detailed numerical study of DS I solutions in this class. Localized stationary solutions are constructed and shown to be unstable against dispersion and blow‐up. A finite‐time blow‐up of initial data in the Schwartz class of smooth rapidly decreasing functions is discussed.
Spatial dynamics of protest: Themes and trajectories
Authors: Jalili Jaleh
Published: February 2022

In this article, I discuss some ongoing and emerging debates on spatial dynamics of protest and examine different approaches in studying spaces of protest. With a thematic approach, I first discuss studies that engage with space from a bird's eye view perspective. These studies generally focus on relational dynamics of space and examine how socioeconomic, political, and cultural elements of spatially bounded entities provide spatial contexts for mobilization and protest. I then turn to space/movement relations through revisiting dynamics of social movements as they unfold in space. Three main lines of research help in structuring these scholarly conversations: claim making; policing and control of space; and meaning making and cultural production. Finally, I discuss some new and evolving themes and trajectories, including virtual spaces and their interactions with the physical space. I conclude by discussing how these approaches intersect and shape our knowledge of spatial dynamics of protest.
Empathy in preschool Portuguese children: Validation of the Empathy Questionnaire (EmQue)
Authors: da Silva Brenda M.S. , Rieffe Carolien , Veiga Guida
Published: February 2022

Empathy is an important building block for social interactions, that not only allows individuals experience and understand others’ affective states, but also to helpfully respond to them. Although empathy can already be observed from infancy, only one questionnaire has been specifically developed to examine young children's empathy. This study translated and validated the original Dutch Empathy Questionnaire (EmQue) into Portuguese. A total of 250 caregivers of preschool typically developed children, aged between 3 and 6 years old, participated in this study. To assess the validation, a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted, and internal consistency and concurrent validity were tested. The outcomes confirmed that the Portuguese version of the EmQue is also organized in a three‐factor structure (i.e., Emotion Contagion, Attention to Others’ Feelings, and Prosocial Actions). The validation required the exclusion of five of the original items. The internal consistencies of the three EmQue scales for this Portuguese version were good. Associations between the three empathy scales with emotion recognition and prosocial behaviors were in accordance with previous research confirming concurrent validity. Divergent validity assessed through the association of the three empathy scales with aggression was partially confirmed.
Diagnosing of primary cutaneous amyloidosis using dermoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy
Authors: Lei Wang , Ai‐E Xu
Published: February 2022

Background

Primary cutaneous amyloidosis (PCA) is apruritic and potentially disfiguring disorder; this disease is usually diagnosed clinically due to its common occurrence. However, for cases with atypical presentations or for those physicians not familiar with PCA, the diagnosis can be a challenge.

Objective

To observe the characteristics of PCA under dermoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) in order to gain experience and reference for clinicians to facilitate diagnosis.

Methods

The typical lesions of 110 patients with primary cutaneous amyloidosis were observed by dermoscopy and RCM, and scanning results were recorded. Thirty patients followed by complete excision for histopathological analysis.

Results

A total of 110 patients with clinically diagnosed PCA were enrolled. Forty‐seven patients had lesions consistent with macular amyloidosis and 63 with lichen amyloidosus. The dermoscopic findings of PCA shared a common feature, each ‘macule’ was composed of a central hub pattern surrounded by brownish pigmentation, The pattern of the central hub could be brown, white, scar‐like and structureless area. RCM features of total patients consisted of dermal papilla present cloud‐like agglomerate which are high refractive index.

Conclusions

Dermoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy can be used in the diagnosis of PCA, which can provide a basis for doctors to diagnose.
Evaluation of cutaneous and circulating (serum and exosomes) levels of chemokines (CCL17, CCL22, CCL27 and CCL28) in atopic dogs and their correlation with severity of the disease
Authors: Santoro Domenico , Archer Linda , Chong Eric
Published: February 2022

Background

Canine atopic dermatitis (AD) is a complex multifactorial disease characterised by an exaggerated immunological response. Little is known about the role that cutaneous and circulating chemokines play in disease severity.

Objective

To evaluate the messenger (m)RNA and protein levels of selected chemokines in skin and serum of healthy and atopic dogs, and in the atopic group to determine whether there is a correlation with disease severity.

Materials and methods

Skin biopsies and blood samples were taken from 12 privately owned atopic [lesional (AD‐L) and nonlesional (AD‐NL) skin] and 12 privately owned healthy dogs. Circulating exosomes were extracted from the serum. Cutaneous and exosomal mRNA levels of CCL17, CCL22, CCL27 and CCL28 were quantified using quantitative real‐time PCR. Protein levels were evaluated using canine‐specific ELISA kits. The severity and extent of the clinical signs also were assessed in the atopic dogs using Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, 4th iteration (CADESI‐04) and a validated pruritus Visual Analog Scale (pVAS).

Results

The expression of CCL28 exosomes in skin was greater in AD‐L when compared to healthy (P = 0.019) and AD‐NL (P = 0.002) samples. However, serum expression was lower in dogs with AD compared to healthy dogs (P = 0.03). A higher expression of CCL17 and CCL22 was seen in AD‐L when compared to healthy skin (P = 0.018 and P = 0.019, respectively). There also was a positive correlation between clinical scores and CCL22 (AD‐NL; r = 0.6, P = 0.05) and between the pruritus score and CCL22 (AD‐L; r = 0.6, P = 0.05). Differences in CCL27 concentrations were not observed.

Conclusions and clinical importance

This study suggests that CCL17, CCL22 and CCL28 may play a role in the cutaneous inflammatory response in atopic dogs. They may be considered as markers of disease severity, although further studies are needed to validate these findings.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the normal equine pituitary gland
Authors: Hobbs Kallie J. , Porter Erin , Wait Courtney , Dark Michael , MacKay Robert J.
Published: February 2022

Magnetic resonance imaging is increasingly available for evaluation of horses with suspected pituitary adenomas; however, published studies describing the MRI features of normal equine pituitary glands are currently lacking. This retrospective, descriptive, anatomic study describes the MRI appearance and size of presumed normal equine pituitary glands and assesses potential correlations between pituitary size, brain size, and patient weight. These findings serve as a reference for MRI evaluation of the equine pituitary gland. Inclusion criteria consisted of adult horses (2–15 years old), over 300 kg with no evidence of Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) and no pituitary abnormalities identified with MRI, yielding 27 horses. Histology was available on seven pituitary glands; all were considered normal by a board‐certified anatomic pathologist. Imaging features of the glands were evaluated on T2‐weighted and pre‐ and postcontrast T1‐weighted images. Pituitary length, width, and height and brain height and width were measured by two authors on transverse and mid‐sagittal plane postcontrast T1 weighted images. The mean ± SD pituitary gland width was 21.0 ± 2.4 mm, height: 10.4 ± 1.9 mm, and length: 24.5 ± 2.7 mm. There were no significant correlations using a Pearson's correlation coefficient between pituitary and brain measurements, pituitary measurement, and body weight, or between brain measurements and body weight. A statistical difference was not identified using an unpaired t‐test (p > 0.05) in pituitary and brain measurements between necropsied and non‐necropsied horses. Relative to the cerebral white matter, all pituitary glands were isointense to slightly hyperintense on T1‐weighted images and isointense on T2‐weighted images, with the exception of a focal T1‐weighted hyperintensity that was present in the caudal aspect of the pituitary gland in 88% of horses. All pituitary glands were homogenously contrast enhancing. Pituitary dimensions did not correlate with either brain size or body weight in horses.
Single‐modality palliative radiotherapy versus palliative radiotherapy after chemotherapy failure for cats with nasal lymphoma
Authors: Yamazaki Hiroki , Wada Yusuke , Tanaka Toshiyuki , Noguchi Shunsuke
Published: February 2022

Published studies describing outcomes for cats with nasal lymphoma (NLSA) receiving first‐line palliative radiation (PRT) versus PRT after chemotherapy failure are currently lacking. The aims of this retrospective observational study were to compare outcomes for cats with NLSA that were treated with these two methods. A total of 48 cats were included in analyses; 32 receiving PRT alone and 16 receiving PRT after chemotherapy failure. The treatment response, progression‐free survival (PFS), disease‐specific survival (DSS), overall survival (OS), and incidence rate of systemic disease were compared between the two groups. The overall response rate (ORR) was calculated from the same target lesions between pre‐RT (within a week before starting PRT) and post‐RT (on date of PRT completion) by computed tomography (CT) imaging. The ORR was 94% in cats that received PRT alone, 13 had a complete response (CR) and 17 had a partial response (PR). The ORR was 88% in cats that received PRT after chemotherapy failure, with five having CR and nine with PR. There were no significant differences in the ORR between the two groups. The PFS, DSS, and OS significantly increased in the cats that received PRT alone compared to the cats that received PRT after chemotherapy failure (median PFS: 336 vs 228 days, P = 0.0012, median DSS: 360 vs 242 days, P = 0.0025, median OS: 346 vs 242 days, P = 0.0036, respectively). The incidence rate of systemic disease significantly increased in 75% (12/16) of cats receiving PRT after chemotherapy failure compared to 41% (13/32) of cats receiving PRT alone. The results suggested that clinical outcomes may improve in cats with NLSA with first‐line PRT compared to PRT after chemotherapy failure.
The use of common antimicrobial agents in US veal calves
Authors: Cheng Ting‐Yu , Almeida Breanna G. , Pempek Jessica A. , Masterson Margaret A. , Habing Gregory G.
Published: February 2022

The use of antimicrobials in food animals and the selection of antimicrobial‐resistant pathogens continue to be prominent concerns for human food safety and public health. To provide optimal stewardship programs, antimicrobial use in animal production operations must be quantified and standardized for benchmarking and creating goals, monitoring temporal trends, and identifying causes of emerging resistance. In the United States, quantified estimates of antimicrobial use are available in dairy and beef cattle, but these data have not been generated for veal calf herds. Therefore, the objective of this study was to estimate the treatment incidence (TI) of antimicrobials for eight US veal calf farms in one rearing cycle. Treatment incidences were compared between calculated doses defined by the labeled daily dose (LDD), animal‐defined daily dose (ADD) from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) guideline, and the used daily dose (UDD) from the farm treatment protocols. Among eight farms, veal calves received a mean of 34.40 LDD, 34.88 ADD, and 28.68 UDD of an antimicrobial per 100 days. The lower TI based on the UDD administration was a result of higher farm protocol dosing relative to the labeled and EMA daily doses. Higher quantities of antimicrobial administration were observed in the first three weeks (day 1–21) of rearing (Tukey‐adjusted p < .05). This study is the first to quantitatively estimate the TI of antimicrobials on the US veal calf operations and serves as an important step toward the development of antimicrobial stewardship programs.
Interference of Cultures: Turkic and Slavic Languages (Lexical Level of Kazakh and Russian)
Authors: Kabylova Aina , Aidana Rysbek
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study is to describe and analyse the interference of the Kazakh and Russian languages at the lexical level as a result of the interaction of the two languages and to identify the special features of the use of the Russian language among Kazakhs. The material of the study is the results of an experiment conducted in a school with 29 pupils in Grade 9 with Kazakh as the language of instruction at the Nur-Sultan Lyceum School No. 48. The first part of the study consists in the fact that the subjects were offered words with which they had to form phrases from the proposed pairs. In the second part of the experiment, students were offered sentences in Kazakh that had to be translated into Russian. The study considered various views on the definition of the phenomenon of interference resulting from the interaction of language systems in the context of bilingualism, during linguistic contacts. Interference is expressed in deviations from the norm and the system of the studied language under the influence of the native. In addition, the causes of interference were described, which are explained not only by linguistic, but also by extralinguistic factors.
Identifying facilitators, barriers, and strategies to implement social determinants of health screening, referral, and follow-up in the US: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Gagnon Kelly , Ortiz-Siberón Ángel , Patel Nirali Deepak , James Richard , Hawk Mary , Damian April Joy , Beidas Rinad
Published: February 2022

Objective:

This review will assess the literature exploring facilitators, barriers, and strategies for the implementation of social determinants of health and social needs screening, referral to community resources, and follow-up in clinical settings and clinical training curricula in the United States.

Introduction:

Social determinants of health and social needs are a central cause of health inequity and poor health outcomes in the United States. Existing research primarily focuses on theoretical implications of social determinants of health on health outcomes, with a growing secondary focus on the development of screening tools that identify patients’ specific unmet social needs. However, summative research has not yet focused on the barriers, facilitators, and strategies relating to the implementation of social determinants of health and social need screenings into routine clinical care. This scoping review aims to examine literature on the implementation of social determinants of health and social needs screening in clinical settings and clinical training curricula while also identifying gaps that require further exploration.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will include relevant studies examining the facilitators, barriers, and strategies for the implementation of social determinants of health and social needs screening, referral, and follow-up as they relate to human subjects. The literature must be in English from 2010 and focus on United States clinical health settings and curricula.

Methods:

We will search PubMed, CINAHL, and Embase databases for relevant articles. Two independent reviewers will screen abstracts for eligibility. Data will be extracted from eligible articles and results will be presented in narrative and tabular format in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews.
Patient-reported outcome measures of digitally versus conventionally constructed removable dentures: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Geerts Greta , Kimmie-Dhansay Faheema
Published: February 2022

Objective:

This review will evaluate patient-reported outcome measures of treatment with digitally fabricated versus conventionally manufactured removable dental prostheses in partially or completely edentate adults.

Introduction:

Compared with conventionally manufactured dental prostheses, digitally fabricated prostheses may simplify and reduce the number of clinical steps and minimize errors in the production of prostheses without compromising occlusal accuracy and fit. This may, in turn, improve patient satisfaction, ability to speak, esthetics, stability, and oral health status. Determining evidence of patient-reported outcomes will assist the dental practitioner when communicating patient expectations.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will consider experimental and quasi-experimental study designs, including randomized and non-randomized controlled trials, comparative clinical studies, prospective or retrospective trials, longitudinal clinical studies, clinical reports, and technique articles. The review will include patient-reported outcome measures from fully or partially edentulous adult participants who received either conventionally or digitally fabricated dental prostheses.

Methods:

The following databases will be searched for scientific, peer-reviewed literature: Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, Dentistry and Oral Sciences (all via EBSCO), MEDLINE (PubMed), ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The search strategy will include terms relevant to the intervention, which will be adapted for each bibliographic database, in combination with database-specific filters, where available. The language restriction will be English and Dutch. All included studies will be critically appraised and data will be extracted for synthesis. If possible, a meta-analysis will be conducted. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach will be followed to evaluate the certainty of evidence.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42018094357
Oil-Film Whirl—An Investigation of Disturbances Due to Oil Films in Journal Bearings
Authors: Newkirk B. L. , Lewis J. F.
Published: February 2022

With three rotors and five bearings, tests have been run with oil at various viscosities to determine conditions defining a range of stable operation with cylindrical journal bearings at speeds above twice critical speed. It is concluded that short bearings, rather large clearance ratios, and moderate unit bearing loads favor a wide range of such stable operation, up to more than five times critical speed. Slight misalignment resulted in a remarkable increase of the range. After discussion of historical background and consideration of recently reported findings that seem to be at variance with those reported here, it is suggested that two substantially different phenomena should be recognized. Results of a large number of runs under which the whirl was impending (the border line of instability) are presented in two tables.
Quadratic Programming of Interdependent Activities for Optimum Performance
Authors: Saline Lindon E.
Published: February 2022

This paper develops and demonstrates a generalized procedure for programming a quadratic function to achieve optimum performance. The method is a generalization of linear programming techniques which have been used successfully to achieve optimum performance in many economic situations.
Sensitivity and Life Data on Bourdon Tubes
Authors: Mason H. L.
Published: February 2022

Information supplied by manufacturers to the Empirical Data Subcommittee of the ASME Research Committee on Mechanical Pressure Elements is presented in tabular and graphic form. Sensitivities are compared with the theories of Wuest, Wolf, and Clark-Gilroy-Reissner. Plots of life data as a function of maximum fiber stress are shown for steel and for phosphor bronze.
Water Tunnels for Hydraulic Investigations
Authors: Robertson J. M.
Published: February 2022

The water tunnel is defined as a device similar to a wind tunnel for cavitation and other hydraulic testing. A list is presented of tunnels in the United States, and the various types of tunnels are described. Cavitation, the principal phenomenon of interest in most water-tunnel researches, is discussed and its scaling factor defined. The purposes and uses for which water tunnels have been built or employed are reviewed. A bibliography on cavitation and water tunnels is included.
Design of Optimum Clearances in Positive-Displacement Pumps and Motors
Authors: Wilson W. E.
Published: February 2022

Since the efficiency of a positive-displacement pump or motor depends, to a great extent, upon the slip flow and the drag developed by moving surfaces, it is essential to proportion slip passages in such a manner that the energy losses are kept to a minimum. In this presentation, the slip flow and the drag on the moving elements are determined on the basis of a theory of laminar flow which takes into consideration the internal heating of the liquid and consequent reduction in viscosity. The optimum clearance, under various operating conditions is determined. It is shown that, under certain circumstances, the optimum clearance is not materially different from that predicted by the constant-viscosity theory. Under other circumstances, the minimum clearance that is physically possible is shown to be the optimum.