bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reasons for non‐attendance in youth mental health clinics: Insights from mobile messaging communications
Authors: Ayalde Jeremiah , Soong Wei , Thomas Shane , McCann Polly , Griffiths Jennifer , Nicholls Craig , Heble Samir , Dragovic Milan , Waters Flavie
Published: February 2023

Aim

Non‐attendance at appointments in youth mental health services is a common problem which contributes to reduced service effectiveness and unmet needs. Reasons cited by young people for non‐attendance are poorly understood. Information derived from short‐message‐service (SMS) conversations about appointments between patients and clinicians can uncover new insights about the circumstances leading to ‘did not attend’ events.

Methods

Text messages between young people and clinicians were examined in a retrospective audit of medical records in two youth mental health services in Perth, Australia. Frequently non‐attending young people aged 16–24 (n = 40) engaged in 302 SMS message chains about appointments. Mixed methods included quantitative data and qualitative thematic analysis of textual data.

Results

Medical reasons (32/190, 16.8%) and forgetfulness (20/190, 10.5%) were the most frequent reasons for non‐attendance. Major issues included non‐avoidable events while others were potentially preventable and could be addressed by the service.

Conclusions

The analysis of mobile communications in clinical practice can be used for service evaluation and to reveal barriers that impede attendance to ongoing care.
VEXAS syndrome: A review of bone marrow aspirate and biopsies reporting myeloid and erythroid precursor vacuolation
Authors: Cherniawsky Hannah , Friedmann Jordan , Nicolson Hamish , Dehghan Natasha , Stubbins Ryan J. , Foltz Lynda M. , Leitch Heather A. , Sreenivasan Gayatri M. , Ambler Kimberley L. S. , Nevill Thomas J. , McGinnis Eric , Wilson Lorena , Beck David B. , Chen Luke Y. C. , Marcon Krista M.
Published: February 2023

Myeloid and erythroid precursor vacuolation is a common dysplastic finding associated with myeloid malignancies, toxins, drug, and nutritional deficiencies. It has been described as a core morphologic feature in VEXAS (vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X‐linked, autoinflammatory, somatic) syndrome. We sought to determine the number of cases attributable to VEXAS syndrome in bone marrow biopsies and aspirates (BAMB) reporting myeloid precursor vacuolation. We reviewed 1318 individual BAMB reports from January 2020 to July 2021 where “vacuole(s),” “vacuolation,” or “vacuolated” was reported. Bone marrow biopsies with vacuolation confined to blasts or those completed as routine workup prior to stem cell transplant or post induction chemotherapy for AML (acute myeloid leukemia) were excluded. Myeloid and erythroid precursor vacuolation was noted in 219 reports representing 210 patients. The most common etiology was myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) (38.6%), AML (16.7%), lymphoproliferative disorders and multiple myeloma (7.6%), drug or toxin exposure (5.2%) myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) or MPN/MDS overlap syndrome (4.3%). VEXAS syndrome was determined to be the etiology in 2.9% of patients. Two additional cases of VEXAS syndrome with bone marrow biopsies reported in the specified time frame did not explicitly report myeloid or erythroid precursor vacuolation but were identified based on clinical suspicion and repeat BAMB review. Myeloid and erythroid precursor vacuolation is a dysplastic feature attributable to VEXAS syndrome in at least 2.9% of cases. Standardized reporting of vacuolization, triaging of molecular sequencing and optimal treatment of this disorder are critical issues facing those seeing patients with suspected VEXAS syndrome.
Functional connectivity fingerprints of the frontal eye field and inferior frontal junction suggest spatial versus nonspatial processing in the prefrontal cortex
Authors: Soyuhos Orhan , Baldauf Daniel
Published: February 2023

Neuroimaging evidence suggests that the frontal eye field (FEF) and inferior frontal junction (IFJ) govern the encoding of spatial and nonspatial (such as feature‐ or object‐based) representations, respectively, both during visual attention and working memory tasks. However, it is still unclear whether such contrasting functional segregation is also reflected in their underlying functional connectivity patterns. Here, we hypothesized that FEF has predominant functional coupling with spatiotopically organized regions in the dorsal (‘where’) visual stream whereas IFJ has predominant functional connectivity with the ventral (‘what’) visual stream. We applied seed‐based functional connectivity analyses to temporally high‐resolving resting‐state magnetoencephalography (MEG) recordings. We parcellated the brain according to the multimodal Glasser atlas and tested, for various frequency bands, whether the spontaneous activity of each parcel in the ventral and dorsal visual pathway has predominant functional connectivity with FEF or IFJ. The results show that FEF has a robust power correlation with the dorsal visual pathway in beta and gamma bands. In contrast, anterior IFJ (IFJa) has a strong power coupling with the ventral visual stream in delta, beta and gamma oscillations. Moreover, while FEF is phase‐coupled with the superior parietal lobe in the beta band, IFJa is phase‐coupled with the middle and inferior temporal cortex in delta and gamma oscillations. We argue that these intrinsic connectivity fingerprints are congruent with each brain region's function. Therefore, we conclude that FEF and IFJ have dissociable connectivity patterns that fit their respective functional roles in spatial versus nonspatial top‐down attention and working memory control.
Characterization of ventromedial hypothalamus activity during exposure to innate and conditioned threats
Authors: Tobias Brooke C. , Schuette Peter J. , Maesta‐Pereira Sandra , Torossian Anita , Wang Weisheng , Sethi Ekayana , Adhikari Avishek
Published: February 2023

In the face of imminent predatory danger, animals quickly detect the threat and mobilize key survival defensive actions, such as escape and freezing. The dorsomedial portion of the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) is a central node in innate and conditioned predator‐induced defensive behaviours. Prior studies have shown that activity of steroidogenic factor 1 (sf1)‐expressing VMH cells is necessary for such defensive behaviours. However, sf1‐VMH neural activity during exposure to predatory threats has not been well characterized. Here, we use single‐cell recordings of calcium transients from VMH cells in male and female mice. We show this region is activated by threat proximity and that it encodes future occurrence of escape but not freezing. Our data also show that VMH cells encoded proximity of an innate predatory threat but not a fear‐conditioned shock grid. Furthermore, chemogenetic activation of the VMH increases avoidance of innate threats, such as open spaces and a live predator. This manipulation also increased freezing towards the predator, without altering defensive behaviours induced by a shock grid. Lastly, we show that optogenetic VMH activation recruited a broad swath of regions, suggestive of widespread changes in neural defensive state. Taken together, these data reveal the neural dynamics of the VMH during predator exposure and further highlight its role as a critical component of the hypothalamic predator defense system.
Prognostic interictal electroencephalographic biomarkers and models to assess antiseizure medication efficacy for clinical practice: A scoping review
Authors: Reynolds Ashley , Vranic‐Peters Michaela , Lai Alan , Grayden David B. , Cook Mark J. , Peterson Andre
Published: February 2023

Antiseizure medication (ASM) is the primary treatment for epilepsy. In clinical practice, methods to assess ASM efficacy (predict seizure freedom or seizure reduction), during any phase of the drug treatment lifecycle, are limited. This scoping review identifies and appraises prognostic electroencephalographic (EEG) biomarkers and prognostic models that use EEG features, which are associated with seizure outcomes following ASM initiation, dose adjustment, or withdrawal. We also aim to summarize the population and context in which these biomarkers and models were identified and described, to understand how they could be used in clinical practice. Between January 2021 and October 2022, four databases, references, and citations were systematically searched for ASM studies investigating changes to interictal EEG or prognostic models using EEG features and seizure outcomes. Study bias was appraised using modified Quality in Prognosis Studies criteria. Results were synthesized into a qualitative review. Of 875 studies identified, 93 were included. Biomarkers identified were classed as qualitative (visually identified by wave morphology) or quantitative. Qualitative biomarkers include identifying hypsarrhythmia, centrotemporal spikes, interictal epileptiform discharges (IED), classifying the EEG as normal/abnormal/epileptiform, and photoparoxysmal response. Quantitative biomarkers were statistics applied to IED, high‐frequency activity, frequency band power, current source density estimates, pairwise statistical interdependence between EEG channels, and measures of complexity. Prognostic models using EEG features were Cox proportional hazards models and machine learning models. There is promise that some quantitative EEG biomarkers could be used to assess ASM efficacy, but further research is required. There is insufficient evidence to conclude any specific biomarker can be used for a particular population or context to prognosticate ASM efficacy. We identified a potential battery of prognostic EEG biomarkers, which could be combined with prognostic models to assess ASM efficacy. However, many confounders need to be addressed for translation into clinical practice.
Unexplained reproductive failure in a Thoroughbred mare with a uterine infection by Arcanobacterium hippocoleae
Authors: Dias Maria Eduarda , Moni Camila Azevedo , Lopes Cassiane Elisabete , Volpato Fabiana Caroline Zempulski , Barth Afonso Luis , Siqueira Franciele Maboni
Published: February 2023

Endometritis is recognised as one of the major causes of reproductive failure, specifically infertility and abortions, in mares. Infectious agents are the most common cause of endometritis, mainly bacteria. Here, we describe a case of an unexplained reproductive failure caused by an uncommon bacterium, A. hippocoleae, in a 15‐year‐old Thoroughbred mare with an oscillating reproductive history from Southern Brazil. Strain A. hippocoleae_LBV077/21 was isolated from the mare's uterus swab and identified by MALDI‐TOF (Matrix‐Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation – Time of Flight) and 16 S rDNA sequencing. The antimicrobial susceptibility test showed that the strain was susceptible to ampicillin, ceftiofur, cephalexin, ciprofloxacin, rifampicin, penicillin, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, tetracycline and vancomycin. Partial 16 S rDNA sequence phylogenetic analysis indicated a well‐supported position of A. hippocoleae_LBV077/21 in an exclusive clade of A. hippocoleae, whilst all other Arcanobacterium species were positioned in a separated clade, highlighting the lower syntenic relationship of the species A. hippocoleae to the other Arcanobacterium species. The present study reaffirms the importance of the isolation and identification of infectious agents in mares in cases of reproductive failure because uncommon agents can impede successful treatment and the improvement of reproductive failures.
Proton channels in molluscs: A new bivalvian‐specific minimal HV4 channel
Authors: Chaves Gustavo , Jardin Christophe , Franzen Arne , Mahorivska Iryna , Musset Boris , Derst Christian
Published: February 2023

Recently, three proton channels (HV) have been identified and characterized in Aplysia californica (AcHV1‐3). Focusing on AcHV1 and AcHV2, analysis of Transcriptome Shotgun Assembly and genomic databases of 91 molluscs identified HV homologous channels in other molluscs: channels homologous to AcHV1 and to AcHV2 were found in 90 species (56 full‐length sequences) and in 33 species (18 full‐length sequences), respectively. Here, we report the discovery of a fourth distinct proton channel family, HV4. This new family has high homology to AcHV1 and AcHV2 and was identified only in bivalvian molluscs (13 species, 12 full‐length sequences). Typically, these channels possess an extracellular S1–S2 loop of intermediate size (~ 20 amino acids) compared to the shorter loops of molluscan HV1 channels (~ 13 amino acids) and the much larger loops of molluscan HV2 channels (> 65 amino acids). The characteristic voltage‐sensor motif in S4 possesses only two arginine residues with the common third arginine being replaced by a lysine. Moreover, HV4 channels are much smaller with only around 200 amino acids in total length. The smallest functional channel found so far in nature (189 amino acids) is expressed in the pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas (CgHV4) and might be considered an archetypical minimal proton channel. Functional expression and electrophysiological characterization demonstrated that CgHV4 shares distinctive hallmarks of other investigated proton channels as high proton selectivity, slow activation, and pH‐ and voltage‐regulated gating. This work is the first description of a HV4 type channel, adding a new member to the recently expanded family of proton channels.
Climate change disrupts core habitats of marine species
Authors: Hodapp Dorothee , Roca Irene T. , Fiorentino Dario , Garilao Cristina , Kaschner Kristin , Kesner‐Reyes Kathleen , Schneider Birgit , Segschneider Joachim , Kocsis Ádám T. , Kiessling Wolfgang , Brey Thomas , Froese Rainer
Published: February 2023

Driven by climate change, marine biodiversity is undergoing a phase of rapid change that has proven to be even faster than changes observed in terrestrial ecosystems. Understanding how these changes in species composition will affect future marine life is crucial for conservation management, especially due to increasing demands for marine natural resources. Here, we analyse predictions of a multiparameter habitat suitability model covering the global projected ranges of >33,500 marine species from climate model projections under three CO2 emission scenarios (RCP2.6, RCP4.5, RCP8.5) up to the year 2100. Our results show that the core habitat area will decline for many species, resulting in a net loss of 50% of the core habitat area for almost half of all marine species in 2100 under the high‐emission scenario RCP8.5. As an additional consequence of the continuing distributional reorganization of marine life, gaps around the equator will appear for 8% (RCP2.6), 24% (RCP4.5), and 88% (RCP8.5) of marine species with cross‐equatorial ranges. For many more species, continuous distributional ranges will be disrupted, thus reducing effective population size. In addition, high invasion rates in higher latitudes and polar regions will lead to substantial changes in the ecosystem and food web structure, particularly regarding the introduction of new predators. Overall, our study highlights that the degree of spatial and structural reorganization of marine life with ensued consequences for ecosystem functionality and conservation efforts will critically depend on the realized greenhouse gas emission pathway.
No difference in quality of life between persons with severe haemophilia A and B
Authors: Kihlberg Kristina , Baghaei Fariba , Bruzelius Maria , Funding Eva , Andre Holme Pål , Lassila Riitta , Nummi Vuokko , Ranta Susanna , Gretenkort Andersson Nadine , Berntorp Erik , Astermark Jan
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Good health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) is an important goal in the treatment of persons with haemophilia B (PwHB). Studies focusing on this population are limited, however, and data are insufficient.

Aim

To assess the HRQoL in PwHB and to compare this to data on persons with haemophilia A (PwHA), as well as to evaluate the impact of joint health on HRQoL and to identify areas of insufficient care.

Methods

The B‐NORD study enrolled persons with severe haemophilia B and matched controls with haemophilia A. HRQoL was assessed using the EQ‐5D‐3L questionnaire and joint health using Haemophilia Joint Health Score 2.1 (HJHS).

Results

The EQ‐5D‐3L was completed by 63 PwHB and 63 PwHA. Mobility problems were reported by 46% of PwHB and 44% of PwHA, pain/discomfort by 62% and 56%, and anxiety/depression by 33% and 17%, respectively. No significant difference was observed between PwHA and PwHB in EQ‐5D profiles, level sum score, EQ‐5D index (PwHB mean .80, PwHA mean .83, p = .24), or EQ VAS score (PwHB: mean 70, PwHA: mean 77, p = .061). Linear regression adjusted for age demonstrated that an increase in HJHS score was associated with a significant decrease in both EQ‐5D index (B ‐.003, R2 .22) and EQ VAS score (B ‐.37, R2 .17).

Conclusion

Despite the majority of patients being treated with prophylaxis, impaired HRQoL was reported in both PwHB and PwHA. No differences in HRQoL were found between the two groups. Impaired joint health had a significant negative impact on HRQoL.
Individually adjusted absolute blood volume feedback control: A promising solution for intradialytic hypotension
Authors: Álvarez Nadal Marta , Rodríguez Mendiola Nuria , Díaz Domínguez Martha Elizabeth , Fernández Lucas Milagros
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Intradialytic hypotension (IDH) remains one of the most frequent complications associated to hemodialysis (HD), frequently triggered by a reduction in absolute blood volume (ABV) not compensated by vascular refilling. A recently developed dilutional method allows routinary measurement of ABV and, by a simple algorithm, may turn blood volume monitor (BVM) guided UF (ultrafiltration) biofeedback into an ABV control, automatically adjusting UF rate to maintain ABV above a preset threshold. The aim of this study is to identify an individual critical ABV threshold and test the ability of an ABV feedback control to avoid IDH.

Methods

We studied 24 patients throughout three consecutive midweek HD treatments. ABV and blood pressure (BP) were measured every 30 min and anytime the patient referred any symptoms to identify each patient's critical ABV (ABV at the time of hypotension). A fixed bolus dilution approach at the start of HD was used to calculate ABV. Then, patients were followed through three additional HD treatments and IDH development was analyzed.

Findings

Seventy‐one treatments performed in 24 patients. ABV monitoring showed a constant decrease as HD treatment progressed. Thirteen IDH events were observed in eight different patients, with a mean systolic BP drop in IDH treatments of 37.38 ± 4.31 mmHg and a mean adjusted ABV at hypotension of 71.07 ± 14.88 mL/kg. Critical ABV was individually set in patients prone to IDH. As expected, ABV feedback control successfully maintained ABV over preset critical ABV. IDH events were avoided in 21 out of 22 treatments performed. ABV drop was successfully reduced, as well as SBP drop (despite similar UF than prior to ABV feedback control implementation).

Discussion

ABV feedback control avoided IDH in 21 out of 22 treatments performed by maintaining blood volume above critical ABV, significantly reducing ABV variations without compromising prescribed UF.
The conservation of Afro‐Palaearctic migrants: What we are learning and what we need to know?
Authors: Vickery Juliet A. , Mallord John W. , Adams William M. , Beresford Alison E. , Both Christiaan , Cresswell Will , Diop Ngoné , Ewing Steven R. , Gregory Richard D. , Morrison Catriona A. , Sanderson Fiona J. , Thorup Kasper , Van Wijk Rien E. , Hewson Chris M.
Published: February 2023

The global long‐term decline of migrant birds represents an important and challenging issue for conservation scientists and practitioners. This review draws together recent research directed at the Afro‐Palaearctic flyway and considers its implications for conservation. The greatest advances in knowledge have been made in the field of tracking. These studies reveal many species to be highly dispersed in the non‐breeding season, suggesting that site‐level conservation at a small number of locations will almost certainly be of limited value for most species. Instead, widespread but ‘shallow’ land‐sharing solutions are likely to be more effective but, because any local changes in Africa will affect many European populations, any impact will be extremely difficult to detect through monitoring in the breeding grounds. Targeted action to boost productivity in Europe may help to halt declines of some species but reversing declines for many species is also likely to require these ‘shallow’ land‐sharing approaches in non‐breeding areas. The retention or planting of native trees in the humid and arid zones within Africa may be a generic conservation tool, especially if planting is concentrated on favoured tree species. Overall, and despite a growing knowledge, we remain largely unable to progress beyond general flyway‐level actions, such as maintaining suitable habitat across an increasingly anthropogenic landscape for generalists, targeted site‐based conservation for specialists and at stop‐over sites, protection of species from hunting, and individual species‐level solutions. We remain unable to assess the cost‐effectiveness of more specific conservation action, mainly because of uncertainty around how migrant populations are affected by conditions during passage and on the non‐breeding grounds, as well as around the efficacy of implementation of actions, particularly in non‐breeding areas. For advances in knowledge to develop and implement effective conservation, scientific approaches need to be better integrated with each other and implemented across the full annual cycle. However, we urge the immediate use of available scientific knowledge rather than waiting for a complete understanding, and that any action is combined with species monitoring and adaptive management across the flyway.
Effects of empowerment‐based illness management on the medication adherence and recovery of persons with schizophrenia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hsieh Wen‐Ling , Li I‐Hsien , Liu Wen‐I
Published: February 2023

Medication adherence and recovery rates are <50% among persons with schizophrenia; therefore, this health concern needs attention. Empowerment is a vital element for behavioural change, but previous studies have presented different results and lack specific connotations about empowerment. Therefore, this study systematically reviewed and meta‐analysed the effects of empowerment‐based illness management on the medication adherence and recovery of persons with schizophrenia. The databases searched included the PROSPERO registration network, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycAricle, and Airiti Library. The research steps were based on PRISMA. RoB 2.0 was used for article quality evaluation, the effect size was calculated using RevMan software, and the random‐effect model and standardized mean differences (SMD) were established. Eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 859 participants were used to investigate the effect of empowerment on medication adherence. The trials involved the use of effective strategies as inducing medication motivation, promoting self‐medication management, and providing support resources. A moderate effect was observed (SMD = 0.58, 95% CI 0.18–0.99). Ten RCTs involving 1473 participants were used to investigate the effect of empowerment on recovery. These trials involved the use of such effective strategies as using self‐strength, connecting external forces, understanding personal needs, and overcoming self‐stigma. A moderate effect was observed (SMD = 0.55, 95% CI 0.10–0.99). Empowerment in illness management can effectively promote the medication adherence and recovery of persons with schizophrenia. In the future, nurses can use self‐strength care to promote medication motivation and connect internal and external forces to assist a person's medication adherence and recovery.
Moral distress in carers for people with an intellectual disability who died during the COVID‐19 pandemic, a template analysis extending the Barlem and Ramos model of moral distress
Authors: Kelly Kathyan , Margaret Haigh , McCarron Mary , McCallion Philip , Burke Eilish , Wormald Andrew David
Published: February 2023

Background

This article aims to understand moral distress in carers of people with an intellectual disability during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Method

Nine staff carers of seven people with an intellectual disability, who had been participants of the IDS‐TILDA study in Ireland, who died during the COVID‐19 pandemic participated in in‐depth, semi‐structured telephone interviews. Template analysis was used to analyze the interviews.

Results

Obstructions in performing their duties left carers feeling powerless and experiencing moral conflict distress, moral constraint distress and moral uncertainty distress. Most managed to connect to the moral dimension in their work through peer support, understanding they fulfilled the wishes of the deceased, and/or thinking about how they or others did the best they could for the person they were caring for.

Conclusions

This research demonstrates that while restrictions may have been effective in reducing the spread of COVID‐19, they were potentially damaging to carer wellbeing.
Genomic analysis reveals a KIT‐related chromosomal translocation associated with the white coat phenotype in yak
Authors: Zhang Fengwei , Wang Chong , Xu Haiyue , Xia Xiaoting , Luo Xiaoyu , Li Kaihui , Han Jianlin , Lei Chuzhao , Chen Ningbo , Yue Xiangpeng
Published: February 2023

White coat pigmentation is a striking phenotype of many domesticated species and has various genetic controls. The Tianzhu White yak, an indigenous breed with a complete white coat, has fascinated Tibetans for centuries. However, the genetic basis of this trait remains unknown. Here, we conducted population genomics analysis and genome‐wide association study based on the whole‐genome sequencing data of 38 white and 59 non‐white‐coated yak. The results revealed the presence of KIT‐linked Cs alleles characterized by the translocations between chromosomes 6 and 29 in all‐white yak. Furthermore, structural variations showed additional duplications of the Cs alleles in white yak compared with colour‐sidedness cattle. Interestingly, the Cs alleles associated with the white coat phenotype in yak were found to have introgressed from taurine cattle. Our findings unveil the shared genetic control of the white coat phenotype and its evolution in closely related bovine species.
Prenatal exposure to air pollution and childhood internalizing problems: roles of shyness and anterior cingulate cortex activity
Authors: Liu Ran , Pagliaccio David , Herbstman Julie B. , Fox Nathan A. , Margolis Amy E.
Published: February 2023

Background

Prenatal exposure to air pollution increases the risk for psychiatric disorders characterized by internalizing problems. In this study, we examined the roles of shyness and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) activity in the association between prenatal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and children's internalizing problems at 7–9 years old.

Methods

Participants include 53 children (31 girls, 22 boys). Personal air monitoring was conducted over 48 continuous hours during the third trimester of pregnancy to measure 8 PAHs. Mothers reported children's shyness (Emotionality Activity Sociability Temperament Survey) at age 5 and internalizing problems (Child Behavior Checklist) at ages 7–9. ACC activity was measured by fMRI during the Simon Spatial Incompatibility task at ages 7–9.

Results

Shyness mediated the association between prenatal PAH exposure and internalizing problems. Higher prenatal PAH exposure predicted increased shyness, which in turn predicted greater internalizing problems. Moreover, left ACC activity during the Simon task moderated the association between prenatal PAH exposure and internalizing problems. Prenatal PAH exposure predicted increased risk for internalizing problems only when children showed heightened left ACC activity during the resolution of cognitive conflict.

Conclusions

Our study innovatively synthesizes the fields of developmental psychology and environmental health science to offer new insights into the risk factors for anxiety disorders. Facilitating the development of healthy reactive and regulatory processes may improve the developmental outcomes for children highly exposed to air pollution.
Factors associated with frequent emergency department visits among health centre patients receiving primary care
Authors: Pourat Nadereh , Lu Connie , Chen Xiao , Zhou Weihao , Hair Brionna , Bolton Joshua , Hoang Hank , Sripipatana Alek
Published: February 2023

Rationale, Aims and Objectives

We sought to examine specific care‐seeking behaviours and experiences, access indicators, and patient care management approaches associated with frequency of emergency department (ED) visits among patients of Health Resources and Services Administration‐funded health centres that provide comprehensive primary care to low‐income and uninsured patients.

Method

We used cross‐sectional data of a most recent nationally representative sample of health centre adult patients aged 18–64 (n = 4577) conducted between October 2014 and April 2015. These data were merged with the 2014 Uniform Data System to incorporate health centre characteristics. We measured care‐seeking behaviours by whether the patient called the health centre afterhours, for an urgent appointment, or talked to a provider about a concern. Access to care indicators included health centre continuity of care and receipt of transportation or translation services. We included receipt of care coordination and specialist referral as care management indicators. We used a multilevel multinomial logistic regression model to identify the association of independent variables with number of ED visits (4 or more visits, 2–3 visits, 1 visit, vs. 0 visits), controlling for predisposing, enabling, and need characteristics.

Results

Calling the health centre after‐hours (OR = 2.41) or for urgent care (OR = 2.53), and being referred to specialists (OR = 2.36) were associated with higher odds of four or more ED visits versus none. Three or more years of continuity with the health centre (OR = 0.32) was also associated with lower odds of four or more ED visits versus none.

Conclusions

Findings underscore opportunities to reduce higher frequency of ED visits in health centres, which are primary care providers to many low‐income populations. Our findings highlight the potential importance of improving patient retention, better access to providers afterhours or for urgent visits, and access to specialist as areas of care in need of improvement.
The alleviation of ammonium toxicity in plants
Authors: Xiao Chengbin , Fang Yuan , Wang Suomin , He Kai
Published: February 2023

Nitrogen (N) is an essential macronutrient for plants and profoundly affects crop yields and qualities. Ammonium (NH4+) and nitrate (NO3−) are major inorganic N forms absorbed by plants from the surrounding environments. Intriguingly, NH4+ is usually toxic to plants when it serves as the sole or dominant N source. It is thus important for plants to coordinate the utilization of NH4+ and the alleviation of NH4+ toxicity. To fully decipher the molecular mechanisms underlying how plants minimize NH4+ toxicity may broadly benefit agricultural practice. In the current minireview, we attempt to discuss recent discoveries in the strategies for mitigating NH4+ toxicity in plants, which may provide potential solutions for improving the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and stress adaptions in crops.
Risky business: Understanding the association between objective COVID‐19 occupational risk features and worker subjective risk perceptions
Authors: Eby Lillian T. , Robertson Melissa M. , Facteau David B. , Anker Jocelyn G.
Published: February 2023

Many workers are at risk of contracting COVID‐19 through work, and subjective perceptions of COVID‐19 risk are important predictors of worker attitudes and behaviours. However, little to no research provides comprehensive examination of objective COVID‐19 occupational risk factors and how, or under what conditions, these factors relate to subjective risk perceptions. Using two wave survey data matched with archival data from the Occupational Information Network (O*Net) and county‐level COVID‐19 case data (N = 295), we examine how objective COVID‐19 occupational risk relates to workers' subjective risk of contracting COVID‐19 at work. We also examine the moderating roles of financial frailty, adherence to governmental workplace safety recommendations, and local COVID‐19 threat. Results indicate that objective COVID‐19 occupational risk significantly predicts subjective risk of contracting COVID‐19 at work. Moreover, factors representing in‐person work conducted in close proximity to others accounted for a large proportion of explained variance in subjective risk. There was no support for moderation; however, financial frailty and workplace safety had independent main effects on subjective risk perceptions. Our results have theoretical implications for the Economic Stress and COVID‐19 Occupational Risk model (Sinclair et al., Appl. Psychol., 70, 2021, 85), individual models of subjective risk perceptions, and practical implications for mitigating occupational risk at work.
Trajectories of loneliness during COVID‐19 pandemic and associations with mental health and substance use
Authors: Cadigan Jennifer M. , Calhoun Brian H. , Rhew Isaac C. , Lee Christine M.
Published: February 2023

We examined patterns of longitudinal trajectories of loneliness during the COVID‐19 pandemic using six time points (January 2020 [pre‐pandemic] to March/April 2021) and whether trajectories were associated with psychological distress (depression/anxiety) and substance use (alcohol/cannabis) outcomes in Spring 2021. Participants were 644 young adults who completed online assessments. Outcomes were regressed on most‐likely loneliness trajectory adjusting for pre‐pandemic measures. Three loneliness trajectories varied from consistently lower to consistently higher. Pre‐pandemic social support was associated with lower odds of a higher loneliness trajectory. Higher loneliness trajectories were associated with greater odds of past‐month cannabis use compared to Low trajectories, but not significantly associated with depression, anxiety, or alcohol use in Spring 2021. Interventions addressing co‐occurring loneliness and cannabis use are needed.
Eating disorders in young patients with neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Chiavarino Francesca , Pruccoli Jacopo , Cecconi Ilaria , Vancini Nicolò , Cordelli Duccio M , Parmeggiani Antonia
Published: February 2023

Aim

We describe the association of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and feeding and eating disorders (FED) in five patients admitted to our third level centre for both FED and NF1.

Methods

Case series of five adolescent females with NF1 treated for FED.

Results

We collected data from five patients with NF1 aged between 14 and 22 years, all females. The onset of eating disorder symptoms occurred between 13 and 19 years of age and was characterised by food intake restriction, associated with physical hyperactivity in three out of five cases. One patient also reported self‐injurious acts and episodic binges. Patients received diagnoses of anorexia nervosa (AN, n = 2), atypical AN (n = 1), bulimia nervosa (n = 1), unspecified feeding and eating disorder (n = 1).

Conclusion

The current literature reports a single case of an adult with NF1 and comorbid AN, focusing on the dermatological features of NF1. Our article describes a case series of five patients in developmental age affected by NF1 and FED. Clinical and psychological features of NF1 may play a role in the pathogenesis of FED when these two conditions co‐occur. The dermatological alterations of NF1 may contribute to body image distortion that characterises AN. Further research is required to systematically screen populations of patients with NF1 for the presence of FED.
Bread‐making properties of different pulse flours in composites with refined wheat flour
Authors: Nkurikiye Eric , Xiao Ruoshi , Tilley Michael , Siliveru Kaliramesh , Li Yonghui
Published: February 2023

There has been a growing demand for pulses due to the nutrition, health benefits, and agronomical advantages, along with the recommendation of international organizations to diversify the use of pulses. Lentil, yellow pea, and chickpea were studied for their effect on the quality of the bread when incorporated into refined wheat flour. The pulse grains were roller milled into different particle sizes (small: 44–59 μm, medium: 70–85 μm, and large: 95–104 μm) with similar composition, and each refined pulse flour was incorporated in refined wheat flour at levels of 5, 12.5, and 20% (wt/wt). The flours were characterized for particle size distribution, starch damage, proximate composition, water retention, and dough mixing properties, followed by baking test and texture analysis. The particle size of the pulse flours did not significantly affect the bread volume or the texture, while increasing the pulse flour incorporation decreased the bread specific volume from 5.0 to 3.4 cm3/g and the hardness of the bread increased from 3.9 to 9.9 N at the maximum incorporation level. The crust color darkened as pulse flour incorporation was increased, while the effect on crumb color was marginable. Among the three pulses, chickpea performed better compared to lentil and yellow pea, and yellow pea resulted in bread with lower volume at all levels of incorporation. Enriched bread can be produced by incorporating pulse flours at up to 12.5% (wt/wt) without significant effect on the quality of bread, with chickpeas possessing better baking properties than yellow pea or lentil.
Plasma disposition of florfenicol after intramuscular administration in rabbits pretreated with pentoxifylline
Authors: Cazanga Victoria , Palma Cristina , Casanova Tomás , Barrera Karin , Valenzuela Cristhian , Acevedo Aracely , Pérez‐Fernández Rubén
Published: February 2023

This work aimed to assess the effects of the coadministration of pentoxifylline (PTX) on the pharmacokinetic profile of florfenicol (FFC) after intramuscular administration in rabbits. Ten New Zealand white rabbits, 1 year of age and 3.9 ± 0.1 kg body weight, were assigned according to a randomized block design to Group 1 (FFC): treated with 30 mg/kg of FFC intramuscularly, and Group 2 (PTX + FFC) treated with an oral dose of 30 mg/kg PTX 45 min before the intramuscular injection of 30 mg/kg FFC. Blood samples were collected before and at different times between 0.5 and 12.0 h after drug administration. FFC plasma concentrations were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Results showed that IM injection of the long‐acting formulation of FFC in rabbits resulted in a slow increase in mean plasma concentrations reaching a Cmax of 3.09 ± 0.52 ug/mL at 2.8 ± 0.45 h (Tmax) after drug administration. While coadministration of PTX and FFC decreased the time to achieve the maximal concentration by modifying the absorption of FFC without changes in the other pharmacokinetic parameters.
Local roots, global vines: Human rights museums in western Japan as expressions of identity
Authors: Mueller Lisa
Published: February 2023

Recently human rights movements among Japan's Buraku people have become increasingly globalized, situating the Buraku struggle among those of other caste‐based minorities around the world. Scholars have theorized that this globalization manifests in a global–local feedback loop in which decisions made by global and local actors inform one another. In this study, I utilize field research and qualitative content analysis of brochures at three Buraku human rights museums in western Japan to investigate this global reorientation. I show that two museums correspond to global–local feedback loop theory and I further identify how local nuances affect the disparate strategies the museums employ to engage with this new globalized Buraku identity. The third museum, however, serves as a counterexample by electing to keep its exhibits locally focused, reflecting its community‐driven mission. I argue that these museums function as interlocutors of Buraku identity at both the local and global levels.
Onychomycosis associated with diabetic foot syndrome: A systematic review
Authors: Navarro‐Pérez David , Tardáguila‐García Aroa , García‐Oreja Sara , López‐Moral Mateo , García‐Madrid Marta , Lázaro‐Martínez José Luis
Published: February 2023

Background

A systematic review was conducted to investigate the prevalence of onychomycosis in patients with diabetes. The association of onychomycosis with risk factors in patients with diabetic foot syndrome was also examined.

Methods

The recommendations in the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analysis (PRISMA) checklist were applied, and the included studies were assessed using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) method. Searches were conducted in October 2022 using PubMed (Medline) and Scopus for clinical studies, clinical trials, comparative studies, observational studies, and randomised clinical trials or controlled clinical trials addressing the prevalence and consequences of onychomycosis in patients with diabetes, diagnoses or treatments. Two authors performed the study selection and data extraction, and any discrepancies between the two reviewers were resolved through discussion with a third reviewer.

Results

The systematic review included ten studies that met the inclusion criteria, and these studies enrolled 5664 patients with diabetes. Among these patients, 29.18% had onychomycosis that was mainly caused byTrichophyton rubrum. A significant association was found between the occurrence of onychomycosis and the presence of diabetic neuropathy (p = .012) and elevated glycosylated haemoglobin values (p = .039). There was no significant association between onychomycosis and ulceration (p = .185). Eight studies had a grade 4 level of evidence and a grade C recommendation, and one study had a grade 1b level of evidence and a grade A recommendation.

Conclusion

The information described in the literature is insufficient and heterogeneous regarding the association of risk factors and ulceration in patients with diabetic foot compared with developing onychomycosis. There is also a need to implement onychomycosis diagnostic testing instead of relying only on a clinical diagnosis. Additional prospective, randomised, comparative studies are needed to increase the quality of studies in the literature.
Oral complications in a paediatric graft versus host disease (GVHD) clinic: A retrospective study
Authors: Emperumal Chitra Priya , Weller Brett , Okane Sara , Joseph Renita , Kharbanda Sandhya , Ling Zhan , Villa Alessandro
Published: February 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the oral health status among allogeneic transplant recipients who were seen in a multidisciplinary graft‐versus‐host disease paediatric clinic at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent allogeneic transplants and were seen in the graft‐versus‐host disease paediatric clinic between January 2010 and September 2021. Demographic, medical and oral health data were recorded and analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

A total of 25 patients were seen in the paediatric graft‐versus‐host disease clinic (68% males) with a median age of 12 years at the time of transplant were included. Among them, 12 patients (48%) were diagnosed with oral chronic GVHD, 11 (44%) with dry mouth, four (16%) with oral pseudomembranous candidiasis, one (4%) with recrudescent Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infection and one (4%) with mammalian target of rapamycin‐inhibitor stomatitis and were managed by the oral medicine team, accordingly with medications, such as topical steroids (44%) and anti‐fungal (20%).

Conclusions

HSCT recipients may present with a variety of oral complications. Patients may benefit by a multi‐disciplinary approach including a dental specialist as part of the cancer care team.
Endoscopic Revision for Long‐Term Symptomatic Cage Retropulsion after TLIF: The Clinical Presentation in a Single Center
Authors: Xu Guangming , Zhu Guangye , Jiang Xiaobing , Cui Jianchao , Liang Ziyang
Published: February 2023

Background

Cage retropulsion after transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) is a common complication that is more frequently detected in the early postoperative period. Revision in the early stages is relatively less difficult in symptomatic cases. However, cage retropulsion is quite rare for patients with intervertebral osseous fusion in the long term after TLIF, and there are no relevant reports related to the revision plan.

Case presentation

Here, we report a case of a patient who underwent L4‐S1 TLIF at another hospital 4 years ago, accompanied by recurrent pain and discomfort of the left lower limb after the operation. Due to recent condition aggravation, it was considered to be caused by compression of the nerve root due to cage retropulsion. Nerve root sealing and endoscopy surgery were performed on the operative segment. It was found that cage retropulsion at the L4/5 level was a suspicious focus according to careful analysis of the clinical manifestations of the patient. Selective block of the nerve root on the level resulted in relief of the patient's original symptoms. After the posterior edge of the cage was exposed under the endoscope through an intervertebral foramen approach, the posterior edge of the cage protruding into the spinal canal was removed by high‐speed burr grinding, working casing reduction and other methods. Postoperative symptoms of pain in the low back and lower limb were relieved completely.

Conclusions

It is feasible to use the power system to remove the retrograde cage under the endoscope through the intervertebral foramen approach for the revision of symptomatic polyether ether ketone (PEEK) cage retropulsion in the long term after TLIF.
The effectiveness and feasibility of using multi‐lead ECG monitoring combined with a programmed intracavitary ECG to complete left bundle branch area pacing
Authors: Wang Min , Sun Yaxun , Shan Yu , Zhang Jiefang , Sheng Xia , Ye Yang , Yang Ying , Fu Guosheng
Published: February 2023

Background

Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBaP) as an alternative method for delivering physiological pacing, is difficult for many primary hospitals that lack the electrophysiological multichannel recorder to carry out. We hope to find a simple and feasible method that combines the multi‐lead surface electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring and the intracavity ECG of the pacing programmer to achieve LBBaP.

Methods

A total of 50 patients with bradycardia indications who attempted permanent pacemaker implantation were included in this study. We referred to multi‐lead surface ECG monitoring and pacing system analyzer (PSA), combined with the nine‐zone pacing method of the LBBaP, to complete LBBaP. We assessed multiple parameters to verify whether the LBBaP was successfully achieved and used univariable analysis of variance for repeated measures to judge the feasibility and effectiveness of LBBaP without the electrophysiological multichannel recorder.

Results

LBBaP was successfully archived without the electrophysiological multichannel recorder in 44 of 50 patients (88%). In the study, paced QRS duration and the stimulus to peak left ventricular activation time (Sti‐LVAT) were 117.04 ± 10.34 ms and 71.10 ± 7.91 ms and had no significant changes in the 3‐month follow‐up. The unipolar pacing threshold and R‐wave amplitudes were 0.85 ± 0.32 V and 10.36 ± 5.24 mV at baseline respectively, which also showed stability during the 1‐month and 3‐month follow‐up. During the 3‐month follow‐up, no lead‐related complication was recorded.

Conclusion

It is effective and feasible to achieve LBBaP combining the multi‐lead ECG monitoring and the intracavitary ECG of PSA without the electrophysiological multichannel recorder, which could be an alternative to perform LBBaP.