bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AirMeasurer: open‐source software to quantify static and dynamic traits derived from multiseason aerial phenotyping to empower genetic mapping studies in rice
Authors: Sun Gang , Lu Hengyun , Zhao Yan , Zhou Jie , Jackson Robert , Wang Yongchun , Xu Ling‐xiang , Wang Ahong , Colmer Joshua , Ober Eric , Zhao Qiang , Han Bin , Zhou Ji
Published: July 2022

Low‐altitude aerial imaging, an approach that can collect large‐scale plant imagery, has grown in popularity recently. Amongst many phenotyping approaches, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) possess unique advantages as a consequence of their mobility, flexibility and affordability. Nevertheless, how to extract biologically relevant information effectively has remained challenging.

Here, we present AirMeasurer, an open‐source and expandable platform that combines automated image analysis, machine learning and original algorithms to perform trait analysis using 2D/3D aerial imagery acquired by low‐cost UAVs in rice (Oryza sativa) trials.

We applied the platform to study hundreds of rice landraces and recombinant inbred lines at two sites, from 2019 to 2021. A range of static and dynamic traits were quantified, including crop height, canopy coverage, vegetative indices and their growth rates. After verifying the reliability of AirMeasurer‐derived traits, we identified genetic variants associated with selected growth‐related traits using genome‐wide association study and quantitative trait loci mapping.

We found that the AirMeasurer‐derived traits had led to reliable loci, some matched with published work, and others helped us to explore new candidate genes. Hence, we believe that our work demonstrates valuable advances in aerial phenotyping and automated 2D/3D trait analysis, providing high‐quality phenotypic information to empower genetic mapping for crop improvement.
Diversity of genomic adaptations to the post‐fire environment in Pezizales fungi points to crosstalk between charcoal tolerance and sexual development
Authors: Steindorff Andrei S. , Seong Kyungyong , Carver Akiko , Calhoun Sara , Fischer Monika S. , Stillman Kyra , Liu Haowen , Drula Elodie , Henrissat Bernard , Simpson Hunter J. , Schilling Jonathan S. , Lipzen Anna , He Guifen , Yan Mi , Andreopoulos Bill , Pangilinan Jasmyn , LaButti Kurt , Ng Vivian , Traxler Matthew , Bruns Thomas D. , Grigoriev Igor V.
Published: July 2022

Wildfires drastically impact the soil environment, altering the soil organic matter, forming pyrolyzed compounds, and markedly reducing the diversity of microorganisms. Pyrophilous fungi, especially the species from the orders Pezizales and Agaricales, are fire‐responsive fungal colonizers of post‐fire soil that have historically been found fruiting on burned soil and thus may encode mechanisms of processing these compounds in their genomes.

Pyrophilous fungi are diverse. In this work, we explored this diversity and sequenced six new genomes of pyrophilous Pezizales fungi isolated after the 2013 Rim Fire near Yosemite Park in California, USA:Pyronema domesticum,Pyronema omphalodes,Tricharina praecox,Geopyxis carbonaria,Morchella snyderi, andPeziza echinospora.

A comparative genomics analysis revealed the enrichment of gene families involved in responses to stress and the degradation of pyrolyzed organic matter. In addition, we found that both protein sequence lengths and G + C content in the third base of codons (GC3) in pyrophilous fungi fall between those in mesophilic/nonpyrophilous and thermophilic fungi.

A comparative transcriptome analysis ofP. domesticumunder two conditions – growing on charcoal, and during sexual development – identified modules of genes that are co‐expressed in the charcoal and light‐induced sexual development conditions. In addition, environmental sensors such as transcription factors STE12, LreA, LreB, VosA, and EsdC were upregulated in the charcoal condition.

Taken together, these results highlight genomic adaptations of pyrophilous fungi and indicate a potential connection between charcoal tolerance and fruiting body formation inP. domesticum.
Exact mass GC‐MS analysis: Protocol, database, advantages and application to plant metabolic profiling
Authors: Abadie Cyril , Lalande Julie , Tcherkez Guillaume
Published: July 2022

Plant metabolomics has been used widely in plant physiology, in particular to analyse metabolic responses to environmental parameters. Derivatization (via trimethylsilylation and methoximation) followed by GC‐MS metabolic profiling is a major technique to quantify low molecular weight, common metabolites of primary carbon, sulphur and nitrogen metabolism. There are now excellent opportunities for new generation analyses, using high resolution, exact mass GC‐MS spectrometers that are progressively becoming relatively cheap. However, exact mass GC‐MS analyses for routine metabolic profiling are not common, since there is no dedicated available database. Also, exact mass GC‐MS is usually dedicated to structural resolution of targeted secondary metabolites. Here, we present a curated database for exact mass metabolic profiling (made of 336 analytes, 1064 characteristic exact mass fragments) focused on molecules of primary metabolism. We show advantages of exact mass analyses, in particular to resolve isotopic patterns, localise S‐containing metabolites, and avoid identification errors when analytes have common nominal mass peaks in their spectrum. We provide a practical example using leaves of different Arabidopsis ecotypes and show how exact mass GC‐MS analysis can be applied to plant samples and identify metabolic profiles.
Public Health Nurses’ Activities toward Child Abuse Prevention before Childbirth in Japan
Authors: Yokobori Haruka , Iwasaki‐Motegi Riho , Naruse Takashi , Yamamoto‐Mitani Noriko
Published: July 2022

As child abuse becomes increasingly serious, the activities of nursing professionals during pregnancy have become more important. This study aimed to describe public health nurses’ (PHNs) activities for child abuse prevention, focusing on how they approach pregnant women at possible risk to enable early prevention. A qualitative design was applied. Fifteen PHNs in Japan participated and were interviewed about 23 cases using semistructured interviews focus on the series of PHN's activity. Transcripts were coded, and the codes were categorized into several categories, and content analysis was conducted. PHNs’ activities included exploring at‐risk cases by various means, creating opportunities to begin individual support, examining the risk of abuse specifically to predict suspected abuse after childbirth, encouraging behavior to reduce the risk of abuse, waiting consciously for a while, expanding support systems for cases. If PHNs anticipated that the situation would not stabilize, they returned to creating an opportunity to begin individual support and repeated the process. PHNs’ had six activities, which were repeated depending on the magnitude of the risk of abuse. It was suggested that these activities are aimed at long‐term child‐rearing support. PHNs belonging to municipal governments conducted these activities; further support can be provided by utilizing municipal governments.
Minimal invasiveness in the reconstructive treatment of peri‐implantitis defects
Authors: Montero Eduardo , Roccuzzo Andrea , Molina Ana , Monje Alberto , Herrera David , Roccuzzo Mario
Published: July 2022

Peri‐implantitis is a plaque‐associated pathologic condition occurring in tissues around dental implants, clinically characterized by increased peri‐implant probing pocket depth and progressive loss of supporting bone. Consequently, to arrest further disease progression and to increase the chance to obtain re‐osseointegration, surgical reconstructive procedures have been adopted. In particular, following a paradigm gathered from periodontal therapy, recent protocols have underlined the importance of a minimally invasive approach to optimize the outcomes of therapy while minimizing the risks of postoperative complications. The present review summarizes the level of evidence on the surgical reconstructive protocols focusing on the new approaches aiming to minimize surgical trauma and patients’ postoperative discomfort, underlining the pros and cons of each treatment modality.
Spectral analysis of a viscoelastic tube conveying fluid with generalized boundary conditions
Authors: Feng Xiao Xuan , Mahinzaeim Mahyar , Xu Gen Qi
Published: July 2022

We study the spectral problem associated with the equation governing the small transverse motions of a viscoelastic tube of finite length conveying an ideal fluid. The boundary conditions considered are of general form, accounting for a combination of elasticity and viscous damping acting on both the slopes and the displacements of the ends of the tube. These include many standard boundary conditions as special cases such as the clamped, free, hinged, and guided conditions. We derive explicit asymptotic formulas for the eigenvalues for the case of generalized boundary conditions and specialize these results to the clamped case and the case in which damping acts on the slopes but not on the displacements. In particular, the dependence of the eigenvalues on the parameters of the problem is investigated.
Teleconsultation in health and social care professions education: A systematic review
Authors: Wetzlmair Lisa‐Christin , O'Carroll Veronica , O'Malley Andrew S. , Murray Stuart
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Teleconsultation education in health care and social work education is under‐reported. However, literature indicates that educating the workforce in teleconsultation skills is essential to continue with safe, high‐quality delivery of services and increases the likelihood of implementing teleconsultations in health care. Training for students should, therefore, be encouraged. This systematic literature review aims to investigate global experiences of teleconsultation training in undergraduate health care and social work education.

Methods

A systematic review of peer‐reviewed literature was undertaken. The review was guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. Electronic databases were searched for eligible evidence. Studies were included only if they described and evaluated teleconsultation education for undergraduate health care and social work students.

Results/Discussion

This review shows that mandatory education in teleconsultation is limited in undergraduate health care and social work education. Narrative synthesis and analysis of 14 studies led to the development of two themes: pedagogical aspects, and perspectives on telecommunication and teleconsultation learning and teaching. Practical experiences with simulated patients or during clinical placements with real patients were the most common mode of delivery. Feedback on teleconsultation education was generally positive; overall, health care students felt more confident using teleconsultation and valued safety of learning through simulation.

Conclusion

Teleconsultation education is a legitimate way to expose students to telehealth. High satisfaction rates, increased knowledge and confidence in use indicate the positive impact this learning has on students. Nevertheless, further high‐quality research and guidance for educators are warranted.
Lysine acetylation regulates moonlighting activity of the E2 subunit of the chloroplast pyruvate dehydrogenase complex in Chlamydomonas
Authors: Neusius Daniel , Kleinknecht Laura , Teh Jing Tsong , Ostermeier Matthias , Kelterborn Simon , Eirich Jürgen , Hegemann Peter , Finkemeier Iris , Bohne Alexandra‐Viola , Nickelsen Jörg
Published: July 2022

The dihydrolipoamide acetyltransferase subunit DLA2 of the chloroplast pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (cpPDC) in the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii has previously been shown to possess moonlighting activity in chloroplast gene expression. Under mixotrophic growth conditions, DLA2 forms part of a ribonucleoprotein particle (RNP) with the psbA mRNA that encodes the D1 protein of the photosystem II (PSII) reaction center. Here, we report on the characterization of the molecular switch that regulates shuttling of DLA2 between its functions in carbon metabolism and D1 synthesis. Determination of RNA‐binding affinities by microscale thermophoresis demonstrated that the E3‐binding domain (E3BD) of DLA2 mediates psbA‐specific RNA recognition. Analyses of cpPDC formation and activity, as well as RNP complex formation, showed that acetylation of a single lysine residue (K197) in E3BD induces the release of DLA2 from the cpPDC, and its functional shift towards RNA binding. Moreover, Förster resonance energy transfer microscopy revealed that psbA mRNA/DLA2 complexes localize around the chloroplast's pyrenoid. Pulse labeling and D1 re‐accumulation after induced PSII degradation strongly suggest that DLA2 is important for D1 synthesis during de novo PSII biogenesis.
Trend Analysis of Public Enthusiasm for COVID-19 Vaccines on Social Media
Authors: Lawelai Herman , Sadat Anwar , Suherman Ansar , Agustiyara Agustiyara , Nurmandi Achmad
Published: July 2022

Social media users benefit from advances in information and communication technology. Each user can access and obtain information by using a mobile phone or other communication device connected to the internet. The implementation of the COVID-19 Vaccination is one of the hottest topics discussed on the Twitter social media platform. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to analyze the trend of public interest in the COVID-19 vaccine on Twitter. This study utilizes Twitter data crawled by the Drone Emprit Academic application using the term "Pfizer Vaccine Enthusiasm and Moderna Vaccines". This study examines 170,641 Twitter mentions related to COVID-19 vaccine messages. Based on the findings of this study, the public's response to COVID-19 immunization was 42,963 mentions from August 23, 2021, to April 23, 2022. Based on the findings of this study, Asia, Europe, and the United States factored for the vast bulk of tweets about the COVID-19 vaccination. There were 25,288 (59 percent) mentions of positive emotions, followed by 16,484 (38 percent) comments and 1,191 (3 percent) topics of neutral emotions. This study's findings enable the government to understand the complexities of the widely discussed topic of COVID-19 immunization, which it can utilize to promote policies and enhance service quality.
In vivo low‐intensity magnetic pulses durably alter neocortical neuron excitability and spontaneous activity
Authors: Boyer Manon , Baudin Paul , Stengel Chloé , Valero‐Cabré Antoni , Lohof Ann M. , Charpier Stéphane , Sherrard Rachel M. , Mahon Séverine
Published: July 2022

Magnetic brain stimulation is a promising treatment for neurological and psychiatric disorders. However, a better understanding of its effects at the individual neuron level is essential to improve its clinical application. We combined focal low‐intensity repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (LI‐rTMS) to the rat somatosensory cortex with intracellular recordings of subjacent pyramidal neurons in vivo. Continuous 10 Hz LI‐rTMS reliably evoked firing at ∼4–5 Hz during the stimulation period and induced durable attenuation of synaptic activity and spontaneous firing in cortical neurons, through membrane hyperpolarization and a reduced intrinsic excitability. However, inducing firing in individual neurons by repeated intracellular current injection did not reproduce the effects of LI‐rTMS on neuronal properties. These data provide a novel understanding of mechanisms underlying magnetic brain stimulation showing that, in addition to inducing biochemical plasticity, even weak magnetic fields can activate neurons and enduringly modulate their excitability.

image

Key points

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a promising technique to alleviate neurological and psychiatric disorders caused by alterations in cortical activity.

Our knowledge of the cellular mechanisms underlying rTMS‐based therapies remains limited.

We combined in vivo focal application of low‐intensity rTMS (LI‐rTMS) to the rat somatosensory cortex with intracellular recordings of subjacent pyramidal neurons to characterize the effects of weak magnetic fields at single cell level.

Ten minutes of LI‐rTMS delivered at 10 Hz reliably evoked action potentials in cortical neurons during the stimulation period, and induced durable attenuation of their intrinsic excitability, synaptic activity and spontaneous firing.

These results help us better understand the mechanisms of weak magnetic stimulation and should allow optimizing the effectiveness of stimulation protocols for clinical use.
Discussion: “Comparison of the V&V10.1 and V&V20 Modeling Error Quantification Procedures for the V&V10.1 Example” (Eça, L., Dowding, K., Moorcroft, D., and Ghia U., 2022, ASME J. Verif. Valid. Uncert., 7(2), p. 021004)
Authors: Roache Patrick J.
Published: July 2022

The present comment concerns the above paper.
Integrated Sport Psychology Support: A Case Study in Motor Sport
Authors: Mosley Emma , Wimshurst Zöe L. , Kavanagh Emma
Published: July 2022

This article shares a joint reflection of three practitioners who provided specialist support to one elite motor sport athlete. The 9-month program began with the broad aim of making the driver better prepared for performance at the highest level using the practitioners’ experience. One practitioner specialized in athlete well-being and performance support, another in vision/perceptual training, and the final practitioner in heart rate variability. The practitioners developed a bespoke program of support, including vision training, slow-paced breathing, and self-awareness. Program effectiveness was determined through objective measures, such as physiological readings and subjective measures, including feedback from the driver and performance coach. Evaluation and reflections of the program suggest that the athlete successfully learned slow-paced breathing, improved functional vision, and enhanced preperformance preparation and in-race regulation. The athlete also perceived the support to be beneficial and had the desire to develop mind–body effectiveness in the future.
Changes in Canadian Adolescent Time Use and Movement Guidelines During the Early COVID-19 Outbreak: A Longitudinal Prospective Natural Experiment Design
Authors: Duncan Markus Joseph , Riazi Negin Alivia , Faulkner Guy , Gilchrist Jenna Diane , Leatherdale Scott Thomas , Patte Karen Allison
Published: July 2022

Background: Comprehensive, prospective, longitudinal data are lacking on the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak on adolescents’ movement behaviors (moderate to vigorous physical activity [MVPA], sleep, recreational screen use, and strengthening exercises). The purpose was to compare movement behavior changes among adolescents affected by the pandemic with controls. Methods: Survey data from 10,659 students at 82 Canadian secondary schools (aged 12–19 y) during the 2018–2019 and 2019–2020 school years were analyzed. One-year change in time spent in movement behaviors and likelihood of meeting Canadian 24-hour movement guidelines was compared between preoutbreak controls (October 2019–March 2020) and early outbreak respondents (May–July 2020) after controlling for sociodemographic factors. Results: Compared with controls, the early outbreak group reported a greater decrease in time spent in MVPA and greater increases in time spent in sleep and recreational screen use. The early outbreak group was less likely to meet MVPA and recreational screen time guidelines but more likely to meet guidelines for strengthening exercises and sleep duration. Conclusions: Findings for MVPA and screen time changes were in the same direction as retrospective reports from children and youth samples. Sleep adherence may have improved due to no longer having to commute to school. Strengthening exercises may represent physical activity that is easier to do in the home with minimal equipment leading to improved adherence during restrictions.
Let Us Debate! A Proposal to Promote Social Entrepreneurship in Physical Education Teacher Education
Authors: Capella-Peris Carlos , Chiva-Bartoll Oscar , Salvador-Garcia Celina , Maravé-Vivas María
Published: July 2022

Purpose: To analyze the effects of debates on social entrepreneurship (SE) in physical education teacher education students (n = 38) from an urban university. Participants discussed the role that society, social class, gender, race, and violence play in sports. Method: A convergent parallel mixed-methods design with methodological triangulation was employed: QUAN + QUAL. Results: The quantitative results provide evidence regarding the positive effect of debates on SE. The qualitative analysis complements this outcome by describing how SE was developed, for example, facing a new teaching methodology, being challenged by peers and/or the teacher, analyzing different opinions and their implications, developing new arguments for discussion, discussing topics according to the students’ interests, and leading the conversation while debating. Data transformation and sentiment analyses provide supplemental information regarding the benefits provided. Discussion/Conclusion: Our results display how debates improve SE in physical education teacher education students, calling for new research in this direction.
Validation of Dance-Specific Balance Test: Evidence From Comparisons Between Dancers and Nondancers
Authors: Johari Muhammad Ridhuan , Kee Ying Hwa , Kong Pui Wah
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was to establish the utility of the dance-specific balance test in examining the stability in postural control for dancers. Specifically, the method involves using the time taken to stabilize upon perturbation to quantify postural stability. The dance-specific balance test involved performing a four-step dance-like routine followed by a forward hop onto the force plate with one’s dominant leg, ending with an attempt to sustain balance for a 30-s period. Results from the dance-specific balance test indicated that dancers stabilize faster (0.45 ± 0.11 s) than nondancers (1.09 ± 0.59 s); t(35.39) = −6.16, p < .001, Cohen’s d = 1.46. Dancers are found to be faster to adapt after a perturbation than nondancers, and this suggests the usability of this tool for assessing stability in dancers.
Bioadhesive ultrasound for long-term continuous imaging of diverse organs
Authors: Wang Chonghe , Chen Xiaoyu , Wang Liu , Makihata Mitsutoshi , Liu Hsiao-Chuan , Zhou Tao , Zhao Xuanhe
Published: July 2022

Continuous imaging of internal organs over days could provide crucial information about health and diseases and enable insights into developmental biology. We report a bioadhesive ultrasound (BAUS) device that consists of a thin and rigid ultrasound probe robustly adhered to the skin via a couplant made of a soft, tough, antidehydrating, and bioadhesive hydrogel-elastomer hybrid. The BAUS device provides 48 hours of continuous imaging of diverse internal organs, including blood vessels, muscle, heart, gastrointestinal tract, diaphragm, and lung. The BAUS device could enable diagnostic and monitoring tools for various diseases.
Molecular recorders to track cellular events
Authors: Masuyama Nanami , Konno Naoki , Yachie Nozomu
Published: July 2022

DNA tapes could be used to record dynamic molecular and cellular events in animals
DNA-guided lattice remodeling of carbon nanotubes
Authors: Lin Zhiwei , Beltran Leticia C. , De los Santos Zeus A. , Li Yinong , Adel Tehseen , Fagan Jeffrey A , Hight Walker Angela R. , Egelman Edward H. , Zheng Ming
Published: July 2022

Covalent modification of carbon nanotubes is a promising strategy for engineering their electronic structures. However, keeping modification sites in registration with a nanotube lattice is challenging. We report a solution using DNA-directed, guanine (G)-specific cross-linking chemistry. Through DNA screening we identify a sequence, C
3
GC
7
GC
3
, whose reaction with an (8,3) enantiomer yields minimum disorder-induced Raman mode intensities and photoluminescence Stokes shift, suggesting ordered defect array formation. Single-particle cryo–electron microscopy shows that the C
3
GC
7
GC
3
functionalized (8,3) has an ordered helical structure with a 6.5 angstroms periodicity. Reaction mechanism analysis suggests that the helical periodicity arises from an array of G-modified carbon-carbon bonds separated by a fixed distance along an armchair helical line. Our findings may be used to remodel nanotube lattices for novel electronic properties.
Inactive (PbI
2
)
2
RbCl stabilizes perovskite films for efficient solar cells
Authors: Zhao Yang , Ma Fei , Qu Zihan , Yu Shiqi , Shen Tao , Deng Hui-Xiong , Chu Xinbo , Peng Xinxin , Yuan Yongbo , Zhang Xingwang , You Jingbi
Published: July 2022

In halide perovskite solar cells the formation of secondary-phase excess lead iodide (PbI
2
) has some positive effects on power conversion efficiency (PCE) but can be detrimental to device stability and lead to large hysteresis effects in voltage sweeps. We converted PbI
2
into an inactive (PbI
2
)
2
RbCl compound by RbCl doping, which effectively stabilizes the perovskite phase. We obtained a certified PCE of 25.6% for FAPbI
3
(FA, formamidinium) perovskite solar cells on the basis of this strategy. Devices retained 96% of their original PCE values after 1000 hours of shelf storage and 80% after 500 hours of thermal stability testing at 85°C.
The court is lost
Authors: Thorp H. Holden
Published: July 2022

The United States has an insatiable desire for technological advancement but is governed by founding documents that are completely unsuited for science and technology. This incongruity has manifested in recent disastrous actions by the US Supreme Court on guns, abortion, and climate. The decisions suggest that the battle is being won by the portion of America who—while lionizing the past and clinging to the infallibility of words written in the late 18th century—can’t put down their cell phones. Reactionary posts on social media wouldn’t get very far without a hundred years of technical advances—and massive amounts of power to recharge mobile device batteries and run the server farms that support the digital world. Because the disconnect between aspects of modern life and the framing of the country’s governance appears inconsequential to the conservative majority of justices in the US Supreme Court, it is vital that the scientific community advocate a political and societal landscape in which compassion and adaptability attend technological progress.
Q&A with Mani L. Bhaumik
Authors: Korte Andrea
Published: July 2022

Bhaumik Breakthrough of the Year Award to recognize individual researchers
Surprise virus tied to pediatric hepatitis cases
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: July 2022

Two viruses plus a child’s genetic background may explain a recent surge in the United Kingdom
Ancient Europeans farmed dairy—but couldn’t digest milk
Authors: O’Grady Cathleen
Published: July 2022

Giant study of ancient pottery and DNA challenges common evolutionary explanation for lactase persistence
Scleral contact lenses for optimal visual recovery in a case of severe acid burn with total lagophthalmos
Authors: Chaudhary Simmy , Chatterjee Subhajit , Jain Neha , Basu Sayan
Published: July 2022

Chemical injuries can severely damage the ocular surface. We present the case of a man in his 40s with severe periocular chemical injury with total lid loss and severe exposure keratopathy. He sustained burns to 45% of his body surface area and needed tracheostomy and multiple full-thickness skin grafts. Both eyes required surgery, Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis and penetrating keratoplasty for the right and left eye, respectively. There was melting in the right eye and a persistent epithelial defect in the left eye. Eventually, we suggested 18 mm diameter scleral contact lenses for both eyes to aid in ocular surface stabilisation. His best corrected visual acuity improved significantly with the scleral lenses to 20/100 and 20/320 in the right and left eyes, respectively. This case demonstrates that scleral lenses can treat the complications of exposure keratopathy and can improve vision. Therefore, they may be considered for rehabilitation of the ocular surface in eyes with severe chemical periocular injuries.
Tracheal bronchus: a rare cause of recurrent pneumonia in adults
Authors: Mishra Mayank , Kumar Arjun
Published: July 2022

Tracheal bronchus, also known asbronchus suis, is a rare congenital anomaly of the airway where an accessory bronchus originates directly from the trachea. With an estimated incidence of 0.001%–2.0%, this condition is rarely reported in literature. It is usually discovered as an incidental finding in an otherwise asymptomatic individual. However, it can act as a focus of recurrent infection or present as persistent radiographic infiltrates. Multidetector CT imaging and bronchoscopy play a crucial role in the identification of this entity. We hereby report the case of a middle-aged man who presented with recurrent right upper lobe pneumonia, which was found to be due to an underlying tracheal bronchus.
Multibacillary leprosy with an incubation period exceeding 50 years
Authors: Taggart Michael , Kelly Albert , Stell Rick , Chu Eric
Published: July 2022

Leprosy is a chronic granulomatous infection predominantly involving the skin and peripheral nervous system. The condition is caused by infection with the obligate intracellular bacillusMycobacterium lepraeand the clinical phenotype is largely dependent on the host immune response to the organism. Transmission is suspected to occur via respiratory secretions with infection usually requiring prolonged periods of contact. The incubation period is highly variable with disease manifestations appearing up to several decades after the initial exposure. The disease can be broadly divided into ‘paucibacillary’ and ‘multibacillary’, and treatment with multidrug therapy including dapsone, clofazimine and rifampicin offers high rates of cure. Here, we report of a case of leprosy with a suspected incubation period in excess of 50 years following occupational exposure in rural Australia. To our knowledge, this incubation period is the longest reported to date.
Tearing down the barriers to exercise after mastectomy: a qualitative inquiry to facilitate exercise among breast cancer survivors
Authors: Yeon Sujin , Jeong Ansuk , Min Jihee , Byeon Jiyong , Yoon Yong Jin , Heo Jinmoo , Lee Chulwon , Kim Jeeye , Park Seho , Kim Seung Il , Jeon Justin Y
Published: July 2022

Objective

Proper exercise immediately after breast cancer surgery (BCS) may prevent unnecessary physical and psychological decline resulting from the surgery; however, patients’ attitude, barriers and facilitators for exercise during this period have not been studied. Hence, this study aims to explore the barriers and facilitators of exercise among patients with breast cancer through multiple interviews immediately after surgery through 4 weeks after BCS.

Methods

We conducted three in-depth interviews of 33 patients with breast cancer within 1 month after BCS.

Results

We identified 44 themes, 10 codes and 5 categories from interview results. Physical constraints and psychological resistance were identified as the barriers to exercise, while a sense of purpose and first-hand exercise experience were identified as the facilitators of exercise. By conducting the interviews over the course of 4 weeks after surgery, we monitored patterns of changes in barriers and facilitators over time. Overall, our analyses identified that professional intervention based on the time since surgery and the physical state after BCS is essential. The intervention would counteract the overwhelming psychological resistance in the early weeks by developing a sense of purpose in the later weeks.

Conclusions

We made suggestions for future research and exercise intervention programmes that can benefit breast cancer survivors based on the categories, codes and themes identified in this study.
Psychological distress and associated factors among healthcare professionals in Ethiopia during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Demilew Demeke , Angaw Dessie Abebaw , Getnet Berhanie , Tesfaye Bizuneh , Atnafu Asmamaw , Andualem Zewudu , Kerebih Habtamu
Published: July 2022

Objectives

The objective of the study was to assess psychological distress (depression, anxiety and stress) and associated factors among healthcare professionals working at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia.

Design

Institution-based cross-sectional study.

Setting

This study was conducted at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital.

Participants

Study participants were healthcare professionals from University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. They were selected for the study using a stratified sampling technique.

Measurement

Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. The 21-item Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale was used to assess the depression, anxiety and stress levels. Descriptive and analytical statistics were used to present the findings. To determine the predictor variables for depression, anxiety and stress, a binary logistic regression model was fitted. Finally, variables with p value <0.05 in the final model were declared as significantly associated with psychological distress.

Result

Almost half (49.5) of the participants have psychological distress. The prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic among healthcare workers was 167 (42.7%), 201 (51.4%) and 242 (61.9%), respectively. In multivariable analysis, respondents found in the ages between 35 and 44; unmarried marital status; educational status with specialty, subspecialty and PhD holders; anaesthesia professionals; and healthcare professionals with known medical illness were significantly associated with depression. Unmarried marital status, anaesthesia professional, laboratory technologist and living with family were significantly associated with anxiety. Unmarried marital status; educational status with specialty, subspecialty and PhD holders; and anaesthesia professional were also statistically significant with stress.

Conclusion and recommendation

The prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic among the Gondar University healthcare professionals was high. This could contribute to implementation of mitigation measures in a standardised and sustainable manner and emphasis should be given to this aspect of health even for future similar and unanticipated events.
Embryo selection through non-invasive preimplantation genetic testing with cell-free DNA in spent culture media: a protocol for a multicentre, double-blind, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Huang Jin , Li Rong , Zeng Lin , Hu Liang , Shi Juanzi , Cai Liyi , Yao Bing , Wang Xiu-Xia , Xu Yanwen , Yao Yuanqing , Wang Yan , Zhao Junzhao , Guan Yichun , Qian Weiping , Hao Guimin , Lu Sijia , Liu Ping , Qiao Jie
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Morphological evaluation is used to select embryos for in vitro fertilisation. However, it does not fully reflect the implantation potential. Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A) can detect embryonic aneuploidy, but biopsy procedure is invasive. Currently, a non-invasive PGT (ni-PGT) approach using spent medium is being evaluated. However, the clinical benefit of ni-PGT has not been clearly demonstrated. A multicentre randomised trial is needed to verify whether ni-PGT can be an new effective tool for evaluating embryos.

Methods and analysis

Overall, 1148 couples aged 35~42 (women) receiving in vitro fertilization–intracytoplasmic sperm injection are planned to be enrolled. Couples will be digitally randomised to (1) ni-PGT and (2) conventional morphology groups at a 1:1 treatment ratio. The primary outcome will be the ongoing pregnancy rate related to the first transfer cycle within 6 months after oocyte retrieval.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol is approved by the Ethics Committee of Peking University Third Hospital and the participating hospitals. The results will be disseminated through international conferences and scientific journals.

Trial registration number

NCT04339166.
Association between incident falls and subsequent fractures in patients attending the fracture liaison service after an index fracture: a 3-year prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Vranken Lisanne , Wyers Caroline E , Van der Velde Robert Y , Janzing Heinrich M J , Kaarsemakers Sjoerd , Driessen Johanna , Eisman John , Center Jacqueline R , Nguyen Tuan V , Tran Thach , Bliuc Dana , Geusens Piet , van den Bergh Joop P
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the risk of subsequent fractures in patients who attended the Fracture Liaison Service (FLS), with and without incident falls after the index fracture.

Design

A 3-year prospective observational cohort study.

Setting

An outpatient FLS in the Netherlands.

Participants

Patients aged 50+ years with a recent clinical fracture.

Outcome measures

Incident falls and subsequent fractures.

Results

The study included 488 patients (71.9% women, mean age: 64.6±8.6 years). During the 3-year follow-up, 959 falls had been ascertained in 296 patients (60.7%) (ie, fallers), and 60 subsequent fractures were ascertained in 53 patients (10.9%). Of the fractures, 47 (78.3%) were fall related, of which 25 (53.2%) were sustained at the first fall incident at a median of 34 weeks. An incident fall was associated with an approximately 9-fold (HR: 8.6, 95% CI 3.1 to 23.8) increase in the risk of subsequent fractures.

Conclusion

These data suggest that subsequent fractures among patients on treatment prescribed in an FLS setting are common, and that an incident fall is a strong predictor of subsequent fracture risk. Immediate attention for fall risk could be beneficial in an FLS model of care.

Trial registration number

NL45707.072.13.
Impact of alcohol drinking and tobacco smoking on the drug-resistance of newly diagnosed tuberculosis: a retrospective cohort study in Shandong, China, during 2004–2020
Authors: Song Wan-mei , Li Shi-jin , Liu Jin-yue , Fu Qi , Xu Ting-ting , Tao Ning Ning , Zhang Qian-yun , Liu Si-qi , An Qi-qi , Zhu Xue-han , Liu Yao , Yu Chun-bao , Li Yi-fan , Dong Jihua , Li Huai-chen
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To investigate the independent and collective impact of alcohol drinking and tobacco smoking on the drug-resistance of newly diagnosed tuberculosis (TB).

Design

This was a retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Shandong, China.

Participants

Patients with newly diagnosed TB from 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2020 were collected. Exclusive criteria: retreated cases; extrapulmonary tuberculosis; without information on drug susceptibility testing results, smoking or drinking habits; bacteriological identification as non-tuberculous mycobacteria.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Patients were classified into four groups including smokers only (G1), drinker only (G2), smoker +drinker (G3), non-smoker +non-drinker group (G0). We described the drug-resistant profiles, clinical factors and calculated the ORs of different drug-resistance among G1, G2, G3, compared with G0 through univariate and multivariate logistics regression models.

Results

Of the 7996 TB cases enrolled, the proportions of G1, G2, G3 and G0 were 8.25%, 3.89%, 16.46% and 71.40%, respectively. The rates of drug-resistant (DR)-TB, mono-resistant TB, multidrug resistant (MDR)-TB, polydrug resistant TB in G1, G2, G3 and G0 were 19.24%/16.4%/17.33%/19.08%, 11.52%/8.68%/10.94%/11.63%, 3.03%/2.57%/2.96%/3.66% and 4.70%/4.82%/3.34%/ 4.08%, respectively. G3 had a higher risk of MDR1: isoniazid +rifampin (adjusted OR (aOR)=1.91, 95% CI: 1.036 to 3.532), but had a lower risk of DR-TB (aOR=0.84, 95% CI: 0.71 to 0.99), rifampin-related resistance (aOR=0.68, 95% CI: 0.49 to 0.93), streptomycin-related resistance (aOR=0.82, 95% CI: 0.68 to 0.99), ethambutol-related resistance (aOR=0.57, 95% CI: 0.34 to 0.95), MDR3: isoniazid +rifampin+streptomycin (aOR=0.41, 95% CI: 0.19 to 0.85), any isoniazid +streptomycin resistance (aOR=0.85, 95% CI: 0.71 to 1.00). However, there were no significant differences between G1 and G0, G2 and G0 in all drug-resistant subtypes. Those patients with cavity had a higher risk of DR-TB among G3 (OR=1.35, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.81).

Conclusion

Although we did not found an independent impact of alcohol drinking or tobacco smoking on TB drug-resistance, respectively, these two habits had a combined effect on TB drug-resistance.
Impact of a phone call with a medical student/general practitioner team on morbidity of chronic patients during the first French COVID-19 lockdown (COVIQuest): a cluster randomised trial
Authors: Dibao-Dina Clarisse , Léger Julie , Ettori-Ajasse Isabelle , Boivin Estelle , Chambe Juliette , Abou-Mrad-Fricquegnon Karim , Sun Sophie , Jego Maeva , Motte Baptiste , Chiron Benoit , Sidorkiewicz Stéphanie , Khau Cam-Anh , Bouchez Tiphanie , Ghali Maria , Bruel Sébastien , Lebeau Jean-Pierre , Camus Vincent , El-Hage Wissam , Angoulvant Denis , Caille Agnès , Guillon-Grammatico Leslie , Laurent Emeline , Saint-Lary Olivier , Boussageon Rémy , Pouchain Denis , Giraudeau Bruno
Published: July 2022

Objectives

The first COVID-19 lockdown led to a significantly reduced access to healthcare, which may have increased decompensations in frail patients with chronic diseases, especially older patients living with a chronic cardiovascular disease (CVD) or a mental health disorder (MHD). The objective of COVIQuest was to evaluate whether a general practitioner (GP)-initiated phone call to patients with CVD and MHD during the COVID-19 lockdown could reduce the number of hospitalisation(s) over a 1-month period.

Design

This is a cluster randomised controlled trial. Clusters were GPs from eight French regions.

Participants

Patients ≥70 years old with chronic CVD (COVIQuest_CV subtrial) or ≥18 years old with MHD (COVIQuest_MH subtrial).

Interventions

A standardised GP-initiated phone call aiming to evaluate patients’ need for urgent healthcare, with a control group benefiting from usual care (ie, the contact with the GP was by the patient’s initiative).

Main outcome measures

Hospital admission within 1 month after the phone call.

Results

In the COVIQuest_CV subtrial, 131 GPs and 1834 patients were included in the intervention group and 136 GPs and 1510 patients were allocated to the control group. Overall, 65 (3.54%) patients were hospitalised in the intervention group vs 69 (4.57%) in the control group (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.56 to 1.20; risk difference −0.77, 95% CI −2.28 to 0.74). In the COVIQuest_MH subtrial, 136 GPs and 832 patients were included in the intervention group and 131 GPs and 548 patients were allocated to the control group. Overall, 27 (3.25%) patients were hospitalised in the intervention group vs 12 (2.19%) in the control group (OR 1.52, 95% CI 0.82 to 2.81; risk difference 1.38, 95% CI 0.06 to 2.70).

Conclusion

A GP-initiated phone call may have been associated with more hospitalisations within 1 month for patients with MHD, but results lack robustness and significance depending on the statistical approach used.

Trial registration number

NCT04359875.
Benefits of realist evaluation for rapidly changing health service delivery
Authors: Jagosh Justin , Stott Hannah , Halls Serena , Thomas Rachel , Liddiard Cathy , Cupples Margaret , Cramp Fiona , Kersten Paula , Foster Dave , Walsh Nicola E
Published: July 2022

Realist evaluation is a methodology that addresses the questions: ‘what works, for whom, in which circumstances, and how?’. In this approach, programme theories are developed and tested against available evidence. However, when complex interventions are implemented in rapidly changing environments, there are many unpredictable forces that determine the programme’s scope and architecture, as well as resultant outcome. These forces can be theorised, in real time, and included in realist evaluation outputs for current and future optimisation of programmes. Reflecting on a realist evaluation of first-contact physiotherapy in primary care (the FRONTIER Study), five important considerations are described for improving the quality of realist evaluation outputs when studying rapidly changing health service delivery. These are: (1) ensuring that initial programme theories are developed through creative thinking sessions, empirical and non-empirical literature, and stakeholder consultation; (2) testing the causal impact of formal and informal (eg, emergent) components of service delivery models; (3) contrasting initial programme theories with rival theory statements; (4) envisioning broad system impacts beyond the immediate implementation setting; and (5) incorporating rapidly evolving service developments and context changes into the theory testing process in real-time (eg, Additional Role Reimbursement Scheme, COVID-19). Through the reflections presented, the aim is to clarify the benefit of realist evaluation to assess emerging models of care and rapidly changing health service delivery.
Doctor! Did you Google my symptoms? A qualitative study of patient perceptions of doctors’ point-of-care information seeking
Authors: Tranter Isaac , van Driel Mieke L , Mitchell Ben
Published: July 2022

Objective

To explore patient perceptions regarding doctors’ information seeking during consultations.

Design and setting

Qualitative interviews with participants from six general practice waiting rooms in South East Queensland, Australia. Participants were asked about their experiences and opinions, and to comment on short videos of simulated consultations in which a doctor sought information. The interviews were analysed through a process of iterative thematic analysis using the framework of Braun and Clarke.

Participants

The 16 participants were purposively sampled including 5 men and 11 women from a diverse range of educational and age groups.

Results

How a doctor’s need to look up information impacted patient impressions of competence and trust was an overarching theme. The four dominant themes include: the trust a patient has in the doctor before the consultation, whether the doctor is expected to know the answer to a question without searching, has the doctor added value to the consultation by searching and the consultation skills used in the process.

Conclusions

Patient trust is fundamental to positive perceptions of general practitioners’ information seeking at the point-of-care. Communication is key to building this trust. Understanding the patient’s agenda, listening, assessing thoroughly and being honest and transparent about the need to seek information all contribute to a positive experience.