bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PM10 exposure interacts with abdominal obesity to increase blood triglycerides: a cross-sectional linkage study
Authors: Gaio Vânia , Roquette Rita , Monteiro Alexandra , Ferreira Joana , Lopes Diogo , Dias Carlos Matias , Nunes Baltazar
Published: October 2021

Background

Blood lipids and glucose levels dysregulation represent potential mechanisms intermediating the adverse cardiovascular effects of ambient particulate matter (PM) exposure. This study aims to estimate the effect of long-term PM10 exposure on blood lipids and glucose levels and to assess the potential mediation and/or modification action of abdominal obesity (AO) (waist-to-height ratio).

Methods

Our study was based on 2,390 participants of the first Portuguese Health Examination Survey (INSEF, 2015) with available data on blood lipids and glucose parameters and living within a 30-km radius of an air quality monitoring station with available PM10 measurements. PM10 concentrations were acquired from the air quality monitoring network of the Portuguese Environment Agency. Generalized linear models were used to assess the effect of 1-year PM10 exposure on blood lipids and glucose levels. An interaction term was introduced in the models to test the modification action of AO.

Results

We found an association between PM10 and non-fasting blood triglycerides (TG) after adjustment for age, sex, education, occupation, lifestyles-related variables and temperature but only in participants with AO. Per each 1 µg/m3 PM10 increment, there was a 1.84% (95% confidence interval: 0.02–3.69) increase in TG. For the remaining blood lipid and glucose parameters, no associations were found.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that even at low levels of exposure, long-term PM10 exposure interacts with AO to increase blood TG. Our findings suggest that reducing both AO prevalence and PM10 below current standards would result in additional health benefits for the population.
Trace Densities and Algebraic Index Theorems for Sheaves of Formal Cherednik Algebras
Authors: Vitanov Alexander
Published: October 2021

We show how a novel construction of the sheaf of Cherednik algebras $\mathscr {H}_{1, c, X, G}$ on a quotient orbifold $Y:=X/G$ in author’s prior work leads to results for $\mathscr {H}_{1, c, X, G}$, which until recently were viewed as intractable. First, for every orbit type stratum in $X$, we define a trace density map for the Hochschild chain complex of $\mathscr {H}_{1, c, X, G}$, which generalizes the standard Engeli–Felder’s trace density construction for the sheaf of differential operators $\mathscr {D}_X$. Second, by means of the newly obtained trace density maps, we prove an isomorphism in the derived category of complexes of $\mathbb {C}_{Y}\llbracket \hbar \rrbracket $-modules, which computes the hypercohomology of the Hochschild chain complex of the sheaf of formal Cherednik algebras $\mathscr {H}_{1, \hbar , X, G}$. We show that this hypercohomology is isomorphic to the Chen–Ruan cohomology of the orbifold $Y$ with values in the ring of formal power series $\mathbb {C}\llbracket \hbar \rrbracket $. We infer that the Hochschild chain complex of the sheaf of skew group algebras $\mathscr {H}_{1, 0, X, G}$ has a well-defined Euler characteristic that is equal to the orbifold Euler characteristic of $Y$. Finally, we prove an algebraic index theorem.
Patients experience more support, information and involvement after first-time hospital accreditation: a before and after study in the Faroe Islands
Authors: Bergholt Maria daniella , Falstie-jensen Anne mette , Brink valentin Jan , Hibbert Peter , Braithwaite Jeffrey , Johnsen Søren paaske , Von plessen Christian
Published: October 2021

Background

The impact of hospital accreditation on the experiences of patients remains a weak point in quality improvement research. This is surprising given the time and cost of accreditation and the fact that patient experiences influence outcomes. We investigated the impact of first-time hospital accreditation on patients’ experience of support from health-care professionals, information and involvement in decisions.

Objective

We aimed to examine the association between first-time hospital accreditation and patient experiences.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal study in the three Faroese hospitals that, unlike hospitals on the Danish mainland and elsewhere internationally, had no prior exposure to systematic quality improvement. The hospitals were accredited in 2017 according to a modified second version of the Danish Healthcare Quality program. Study participants were 18 years or older and hospitalized for at least 24 h in 2016 before or 2018 after accreditation. We administered the National Danish Survey of Patient Experiences for acute and scheduled hospitalization. Patients rated their experiences of support, information and involvement in decision-making on a 5-point Likert scale. We calculated individual and grouped mean item scores, the percentages of scores ≥4, the mean score difference, the relative risk (RR) for high/very high scores (≥4) using Poisson regression and the risk difference. Patient experience ratings were compared using mixed effects linear regression.

Results

In total, 400 patients before and 400 after accreditation completed the survey. After accreditation patients reported increased support from health professionals; adjusted mean score difference (adj. mean diff.) = 1.99 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.89, 2.10), feeling better informed before and during the hospitalization; adj. mean diff. = 1.14 (95% CI: 1.07; 1.20) and more involved in decision-making; adj. mean diff. = 1.79 (95% CI: 1.76; 1.82). Additionally, the RR for a high/very high score (≥4) was significantly greater on 15 of the 16 questionnaire items. The greatest RR for a high/very high score (≥4) after accreditation, was found for the item ‘Have you had a dialogue with the staff about the advantages and disadvantages of the examination/treatment options available?’; RR= 5.73 (95% CI: 4.51, 7.27).

Conclusion

Hospitalized patients experienced significantly more support from health professionals, information and involvement in decision-making after accreditation. Future research on accreditation should include the patients’ perspective.
Timing of prior exposure to antibiotics and failure of Helicobacter pylori eradication: a population-based study
Authors: Guo Chuan-Guo , Jiang Fang , Cheung Ka Shing , Li Bofei , Ooi Poh Hwa , Leung Wai K.
Published: October 2021

Background

The success rate of conventional Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy is declining, due to rising antibiotic resistance.

Objectives

To determine the temporal effects of prior antibiotic exposure on eradication outcome.

Patients and methods

This is a retrospective cohort study including all H. pylori-infected patients who received their first course of clarithromycin-containing triple therapy in 2003–18. Prior antibiotic exposures before H. pylori eradication therapy (up to 180 days, 1 year or 3 years) were retrieved. A logistic regression model was used to evaluate the association between different timings of previous antibiotic exposure, recent (within 30/60 days) or distant period, and the need for retreatment for H. pylori.

Results

A total of 120 787 H. pylori-infected patients were included. Prior exposure to any antibiotics within 180 days was associated with a higher risk of retreatment (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.13–1.24) and the risk progressively increased with longer duration of antibiotic use. The results were consistent for prior exposure up to 1 year (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.20–1.31) or 3 years (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.25–1.35). However, when compared with those without prior antibiotic exposure, recent exposure (within 30 days) did not increase the risk of retreatment, which was consistent for analysis with prior antibiotic exposure up to 3 years. Notably, recent use of cephalosporins within 30/60 days and nitroimidazole within 30 days had significantly lower risks of retreatment.

Conclusions

Any prior antibiotic exposure increased the risk of treatment failure of clarithromycin-containing triple therapy. Recent exposures to some classes of antibiotics may paradoxically increase treatment success.
Genetic control of leaf angle in sorghum and its effect on light interception
Authors: Zhi Xiaoyu , Tao Yongfu , Jordan David , Borrell Andrew , Hunt Colleen , Cruickshank Alan , Potgieter Andries , Wu Alex , Hammer Graeme , George-Jaeggli Barbara , Mace Emma
Published: October 2021

Developing sorghum genotypes adapted to different light environments requires understanding of a plant’s ability to capture light, determined through leaf angle specifically. This study dissected the genetic basis of leaf angle in 3 year field trials at two sites, using a sorghum diversity panel (729 accessions). A wide range of variation in leaf angle with medium heritability was observed. Leaf angle explained 36% variation in canopy light extinction coefficient, highlighting the extent to which variation in leaf angle influences light interception at the whole-canopy level. This study also found that the sorghum races of Guinea and Durra consistently having the largest and smallest leaf angle, respectively, highlighting the potential role of leaf angle in adaptation to distinct environments. The genome-wide association study detected 33 quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with leaf angle. Strong synteny was observed with previously detected leaf angle QTLs in maize (70%) and rice (40%) within 10 cM, among which the overlap was significantly enriched according to χ2 tests, suggesting a highly consistent genetic control in grasses. A priori leaf angle candidate genes identified in maize and rice were found to be enriched within a 1-cM window around the sorghum leaf angle QTLs. Additionally, protein domain analysis identified the WD40 protein domain as being enriched within a 1-cM window around the QTLs. These outcomes show that there is sufficient heritability and natural variation in the angle of upper leaves in sorghum which may be exploited to change light interception and optimize crop canopies for different contexts.
Dark Energy Survey Year 3 Results: Deep Field optical + near-infrared images and catalogue
Authors: Hartley W G , Choi A , Amon A , Gruendl R A , Sheldon E , Harrison I , Bernstein G M , Sevilla-Noarbe I , Yanny B , Eckert K , Diehl H T , Alarcon A , Banerji M , Bechtol K , Buchs R , Cantu S , Conselice C , Cordero J , Davis C , Davis T M , Dodelson S , Drlica-Wagner A , Everett S , Ferté A , Gruen D , Honscheid K , Jarvis M , Johnson M D , Kokron N , MacCrann N , Myles J , Pace A B , Palmese A , Paz-Chinchón F , Pereira M E S , Plazas A A , Prat J , Rodriguez-Monroy M , Rykoff E S , Samuroff S , Sánchez C , Secco L F , Tarsitano F , Tong A , Troxel M A , Vasquez Z , Wang K , Zhou C , Abbott T M C , Aguena M , Allam S , Annis J , Bacon D , Bertin E , Bhargava S , Brooks D , Burke D L , Carnero Rosell A , Carrasco Kind M , Carretero J , Castander F J , Costanzi M , Crocce M , da Costa L N , De Vicente J , DeRose J , Desai S , Dietrich J P , Eifler T F , Elvin-Poole J , Ferrero I , Flaugher B , Fosalba P , García-Bellido J , Gaztanaga E , Gerdes D W , Gschwend J , Gutierrez G , Hinton S R , Hollowood D L , Huterer D , James D J , Kent S , Krause E , Kuehn K , Kuropatkin N , Lahav O , Lin H , Maia M A G , March M , Marshall J L , Martini P , Melchior P , Menanteau F , Miquel R , Mohr J J , Morgan R , Neilsen E , Ogando R L C , Pandey S , Romer A K , Roodman A , Sako M , Sanchez E , Scarpine V , Serrano S , Smith M , Soares-Santos M , Suchyta E , Swanson M E C , Tarle G , Thomas D , To C , Varga T N , Walker A R , Wester W , Wilkinson R D , Zuntz J ,   (DES Collaboration)
Published: October 2021

We describe the Dark Energy Survey (DES) Deep Fields, a set of images and associated multiwavelength catalogue (ugrizJHKs) built from Dark Energy Camera (DECam) and Visible and Infrared Survey Telescope for Astronomy (VISTA) data. The DES Deep Fields comprise 11 fields (10 DES supernova fields plus COSMOS), with a total area of ∼30 sq. deg. in ugriz bands and reaching a maximum i-band depth of 26.75 (AB, 10σ, 2 arcsec). We present a catalogue for the DES 3-yr cosmology analysis of those four fields with full 8-band coverage, totalling 5.88 sq. deg. after masking. Numbering 2.8 million objects (1.6 million post-masking), our catalogue is drawn from images coadded to consistent depths of r = 25.7, i = 25, and z = 24.3 mag. We use a new model-fitting code, built upon established methods, to deblend sources and ensure consistent colours across the u-band to Ks-band wavelength range. We further detail the tight control we maintain over the point-spread function modelling required for the model fitting, astrometry and consistency of photometry between the four fields. The catalogue allows us to perform a careful star–galaxy separation and produces excellent photometric redshift performance (NMAD = 0.023 at i < 23). The Deep-Fields catalogue will be made available as part of the cosmology data products release, following the completion of the DES 3-yr weak lensing and galaxy clustering cosmology work.
Evidence for an expanding corona based on spectral-timing modelling of multiple black hole X-ray binaries
Authors: Cao Zheng , Lucchini Matteo , Markoff Sera , Connors Riley M T , Grinberg Victoria
Published: October 2021

Galactic black hole X-ray binaries (BHXBs) provide excellent laboratories to study accretion, as their relatively quick evolution allows us to monitor large changes in the in-flowing and/or out-flowing material over human timescales. However, the details of how the inflow-outflow coupling evolves during a BHXB outburst remain an area of active debate. In this work we attempt to probe the physical changes underlying the system evolution, by performing a systematic analysis of the multi-wavelength data of three BHXB sources: XTE J1752-223, MAXI J1659-152, and XTE J1650-500, during hard and hard-intermediate states. Using the power spectral hue which characterises the X-ray variability properties, we identify several clusters of BHXB epochs and perform the joint multi-wavelength spectral modelling to test their commonality with a physical jet model. Under the assumption that the corona is related to the base of the jet, we find that the power spectral hue traces the variation of the coronal radius (from ∼10Rg − ∼ 40Rg) in multiple BHXBs at hard and hard-intermediate states, and that the data are consistent with moderately truncated accretion discs (<25Rg) during hard-intermediate states. We also find that all epochs of low disc reflection have high hue located near the hard-intermediate to soft-intermediate state transition, indicating that in these states the vertical extent of the corona and/or its bulk speed are increasing. Our results link the geometrical similarity in the corona among multiple BHXB sources to their timing characteristics, and probe the corona responding to the disc-jet interactions at hard and intermediate states during outbursts.
A multiwavelength study of the H ii region G347.600 + 00.211 and its effects on the surrounding medium
Authors: Cárdenas S B , Cichowolski S , Suad L A , Molina Lera J A , Gamen R , Rizzo L
Published: October 2021

We present a multiwavelength investigation of the H ii region G347.600+00.211, located at a distance of 7.9 kpc. We analyse the gas and dust properties aiming to disentangle the origin of the region as well as its role in the formation of new stars. G347.600 + 00.211 is very conspicuous at 1420 MHz and infrared wavelengths, showing an incomplete shell-like structure with two distinct zones of very intense emission. The infrared bubble S8 is part of the shell structure. The spatial distribution of the molecular gas shows the presence of six clouds located around the ionized region and showing a good morphological correlation with the 8-$\mu$m emission. Cold dust is coincident with the dense gas shown in the CO measurements. As for the origin of the region, we found that the massive cluster [DBS2003]179 and two Wolf–Rayet (WR) stars are located at the same distance than the ionized gas. Based on a stellar density analysis, we inferred that one of the WR stars, 1181-81L, is also a probable member of the cluster. Both the cluster and the WR stars are not only within the ring-like structure, but are also located near the two spots of very heightened emission, suggesting they may be responsible for this bright emission. Finally, as expanding H ii regions are hypothesized to trigger star formation, we used different infrared point source catalogues to search for young stellar object candidates (cYSOs). A total of 33 cYSOs and 4 CH ii regions were identified projected on to the photodissociation regions and molecular clouds.
Workers’ health surveillance targeting mental health: evaluation of a training
Authors: Los F S , van der Molen H F , de Boer A G E M , Hulshof Carel T J , Ketelaar S M , Nieuwenhuijsen K
Published: October 2021

Background

Mental health complaints occur frequently among healthcare workers. A workers’ health surveillance mental health module (WHS-MH) was found to be effective in improving work functioning of nurses, although not implemented regularly. Therefore, training for occupational physicians and nurses to facilitate the implementation of WHS-MH was developed and evaluated.

Aims

This study was aimed to evaluate the effect of training on knowledge, self-efficacy and motivation to implement WHS-MH, and to evaluate participants’ satisfaction with the training.

Methods

Three-hour training was held among 49 occupational physicians and nurses in the Netherlands. Effect on knowledge, self-efficacy and motivation was assessed using knowledge tests and questionnaires before and immediately after the training. Satisfaction with the training was measured using questionnaires after the training.

Results

A mean knowledge test score of 5.3 (SD = 1.6) was found before training, which did not significantly increase after training (M = 5.6, SD = 1.8). In total, 43% agreed or strongly agreed to have sufficient skills to implement WHS-MH, which significantly increased to 78% after the training. Furthermore, 87% agreed or strongly agreed to be motivated to initiate WHS, which significantly increased to 94% after the training. The majority of participants were satisfied with the training.

Conclusions

Training may enhance the implementation of the WHS-MH through increasing self-efficacy and motivation. However, no effect on level of knowledge to implement WHS-MH was found.
SARS-CoV-2 exposures among healthcare workers in New York City
Authors: Ganz-Lord F A , Segal K R , Gendlina I , Rinke M L , Weston G
Published: October 2021

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has had a significant impact on hospitals, including the occupational health departments in charge of handling healthcare worker (HCW) staffing during high rates of exposure and infection of HCWs. HCWs who were exposed to a patient or community member infected with SARS-CoV-2 were required to isolate from work for a minimum of 14 days from the date of exposure.

Aims

This study was aimed to assess the relative risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection following different types of workplace and community exposures.

Methods

We analyzed the details of workplace and community exposures of HCWs to SARS-CoV-2 at Montefiore Medical Center in New York between 22 June 2020 and 22 November 2020.

Results

Of 562 HCW SARS-CoV-2 exposures analyzed, 218 were from the community and 345 were from the workplace. Twenty-nine per cent of community exposures resulted in infection, which was significantly greater than workplace exposure infection (2%). Household community exposures resulted in a larger frequency of infection than non-household community exposures. Of the seven infections after workplace exposures, five had qualifying exposures to a co-worker and two were exposed to an infected patient during a non-aerosolized procedure.

Conclusions

HCW exposure to SARS-CoV-2 continues to present staffing challenges to healthcare systems. Even with deviations from standard personal protective equipment protocol, workplace exposures resulted in low frequencies of infection. In our study, the primary source of HCW infection was exposure in the community. Our findings support investing in efforts to educate around continued masking and social distancing in the community in addition to interventions targeted at addressing vaccine hesitancy.
Banding data show hummingbirds have high rates of hybridization
Authors: Clark Christopher J , Rankin David T , Rudeen Carl E
Published: October 2021

We estimate hybridization rates among hummingbirds using nearly a million banding records from the United States and Canada. Annually from 2006 to 2019, an average of 44,600 individual hummingbirds and 14 hybrids were banded. Nearly all reports of hybrids come from localities west of the Mississippi, where multiple species breed in sympatry, whereas only Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) breeds east of the Mississippi. Adult male hybrids comprise 62% of all hybrids banded, a significantly greater fraction than “regular” adult males, which are 29% of all birds banded (excluding Ruby-throated Hummingbird). We infer that this excess of adult male hybrids is caused by ascertainment bias: banders more often misidentify female hybrids as parental species because females mostly lack species-specific showy sexual ornaments of male hummingbirds, making them harder to identify, rather than Haldane’s rule of reduced survivorship of the heterogametic sex. Also influencing the apparent hybridization rate are banders, a few of whom seek out or avoid hybrids. After considering these biases, the data suggest that, in areas of the United States and Canada with >1 species, approximately 1 hummingbird in a thousand (0.1%) is an F1 hybrid.
Exogenous chalcone synthase expression in developing poplar xylem incorporates naringenin into lignins
Authors: Mahon Elizabeth L , de Vries Lisanne , Jang Soo-Kyeong , Middar Sandeep , Kim Hoon , Unda Faride , Ralph John , Mansfield Shawn D
Published: October 2021

Lignin, a polyphenolic polymer, is a major chemical constituent of the cell walls of terrestrial plants. The biosynthesis of lignin is a highly plastic process, as highlighted by an increasing number of noncanonical monomers that have been successfully identified in an array of plants. Here, we engineered hybrid poplar (Populus alba x grandidentata) to express chalcone synthase 3 (MdCHS3) derived from apple (Malus domestica) in lignifying xylem. Transgenic trees displayed an accumulation of the flavonoid naringenin in xylem methanolic extracts not inherently observed in wild-type trees. Nuclear magnetic resonance analysis revealed the presence of naringenin in the extract-free, cellulase-treated xylem lignin of MdCHS3-poplar, indicating the incorporation of this flavonoid-derived compound into poplar secondary cell wall lignins. The transgenic trees also displayed lower total cell wall lignin content and increased cell wall carbohydrate content and performed significantly better in limited saccharification assays than their wild-type counterparts.
FABP3 overexpression promotes vascular fibrosis in Takayasu’s arteritis by enhancing fatty acid oxidation in aorta adventitial fibroblasts
Authors: Wu Sifan , Kong Xiufang , Sun Ying , Dai Xiaojuan , Yu Wensu , Chen Rongyi , Ma Lili , Jiang Lindi
Published: October 2021

Objective

To identify the role of fatty acid binding protein 3 (FABP3) in vascular fibrosis in Takayasu’s arteritis (TAK) and to explore the underlying molecular mechanism.

Methods

The expression of FABP3 and extracellular matrix proteins (ECMs) were detected in aorta tissues from TAK patients (n = 12) and healthy controls (n = 8) by immunohistochemistry. The concentration of serum proteins was determined by ELISA. CCK8 and Ki67 staining were used to measure aorta adventitial fibroblast (AAF) proliferation. Widely targeted lipidomic profiling was used to screen for associated metabolic pathways. Changes in ECMs and fatty acid oxidation (FAO)-related enzymes were determined by RT-qPCR and Western blot. The interactions between FABP3 and these enzymes were explored with a co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assay.

Results

The expression of FABP3 was increased in the thickened adventitia of TAK patients and was positively correlated with the serum expression of ECMs. FABP3 knockdown inhibited AAF proliferation and ECM production, whereas FABP3 overexpression enhanced these processes. Further analysis revealed that FABP3 upregulation promoted carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A and carnitine/acylcarnitine carrier protein (CACT) expression, two key enzymes in FAO, as well as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels. FABP3 and CACT were co-localized in the adventitia and bound to each other in AAFs. Etomoxir reversed the enhanced FAO, ATP production, AAF proliferation and ECM production mediated by FABP3 upregulation. Treatment with 60 g/day curcumin granules for 3 months reduced the level of serum FABP3. Curcumin also inhibited vascular fibrosis by reducing FABP3-enhanced FAO in AAFs.

Conclusion

Elevated FABP3 expression accelerated vascular fibrosis in TAK, which was likely mediated by promoting FAO in AAFs.
OCCUPATIONAL DOSE OF OPERATORS OF NUCLEAR MOISTURE DENSITY GAUGES USED IN PAVEMENT CONSTRUCTION IN SAUDI ARABIA USING THERMOLUMINESCENT DOSEMETERS
Authors: Alashban Yazeed , Shubayr Nasser , Al-Shehri Saad
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to estimate the radiation effective doses for operators of nuclear moisture density gauges that are used in pavement construction in the road industry in Saudi Arabia from 2016 to 2019. The effective doses of 278 workers were estimated using thermoluminescent dosemeters (TLD-700). The analysis of the dosimetry data revealed that the mean annual effective dose for all workers averaged over the study period was 0.80 mSv, which falls below the recommended dose limits. About 68% of the pavement construction workers received annual effective doses of <1 mSv. All annual effective doses were below the recommended dose limits. While the annual effective mean dose of pavement construction workers in Saudi Arabia is not high, radiation protection in the country still needs to be further improved to protect such workers and to keep their annual radiation dose as low as reasonably achievable.
Chiefs and Rural Health Services in South-Western Nigeria, c. 1920—c. 1950s
Authors: Adetiba Adedamola , Msindo Enocent
Published: October 2021

This article examines the role of African chiefs in the administration of colonial medicine in rural south-western Nigeria, emphasising the adaptive ways they navigated a difficult position between colonial medical authorities and indigenous medical legitimacy. Whereas colonial authorities expected chiefs to enforce medical policies and to encourage their subjects to use medical facilities, Africans wanted chiefs to defend and promote Yoruba medical and religious practices that colonial authorities and missionaries usually undermined. By supporting established African healing systems, chiefs stood to gain political mileage and favour with traditional healers. Furthermore, we argue that although African chiefs cooperated with the government in implementing health policies, they had a difficult relationship with sanitary inspectors who enforced sanitary regulations in ways that bred resentment. In the 1940s, Yoruba chiefs advocated for more rural health services, perhaps to pacify the rising nationalist movement that would have made them irrelevant had they not cooperated.
The Pattern of Vitamin D Levels in Children 0–4 Years of Age in Yunnan Province
Authors: Wu Yuqin , Yang Yanfei , Xiao Xiao , Wang Lin , Yin Zheng , Li Yangfang
Published: October 2021

Objective

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that regulates the activity of calcium and bone hormones throughout life; however, vitamin D levels in children, which is the most crucial period during human development, has not been established.

Methods

As the first descriptive study of serum vitamin D levels in children in Yunnan Province, we determined the serum vitamin D levels in children 0‒4 years of age who underwent physical examinations at Kunming Children's Hospital, and the association between the serum vitamin D level and the calcium, phosphorus and alkaline levels.

Results

Vitamin D levels in children were highest in the summer months and lowest in the winter months. Vitamin D deficiency was more common in girls than boys. A social-economic effect was shown, as evidenced by the significantly higher serum vitamin D levels in children from the top five cities compared with the lower-ranked cities. Moreover, we also demonstrated a significant correlation between vitamin D and serum calcium levels.

Conclusion

Our study suggested that sex and age affected the vitamin D levels of children, and a reasonable reference range in children 0–4 years of age in Yunnan Province was determined.
1New Materialisms
Authors: Diener Samuel
Published: October 2021

This review of new work in the new materialisms in 2020 picks up a thread of inquiry outlined in the previous year: how to understand how human persons may live, act, and find political efficacy in a relational and intertangled material world. Each of the monographs reviewed offers a different approach to understanding how persons find agency from within the intertanglements of things. Along the way, they address questions of embodiment, of race and of gender, of the materiality of language, of the role of the imagination, of the philosophy of history, and of critical method. Following the introduction, the first three sections are 1. Lo! A Shape!; 2. Militant Vegetables; and 3. Blackness and Plasticity. Each of these offers a distinct account of human ontology, accounting both for the ways the self is moved by its world and the ways it acts within it. The last three sections are: 4. Strange Words, Strange Matter; 5. Disappearing Things; and 6. Four Degrees of History. Each of these considers a monograph which synthesizes new materialist theory with frameworks from related fields in order to offer new perspectives on human action, freedom, or thought.
An update on practice guidelines for primary care treatment of pediatric migraine
Authors: Rosenblum Ruth K. , Manion Amy
Published: October 2021

Headaches are a frequent reason for children and adolescents to seek healthcare, and such visits include pediatric ED visits. Headache-related school absences can affect academic performance. Diagnosing and treating headaches in this population can be challenging for the primary care NP. This article reviews recent management and treatment guidelines.
A Modified Delphi Process to Prioritize Experiences and Guidance Related to ICU Restricted Visitation Policies During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic
Authors: Fiest Kirsten M. , Krewulak Karla D. , Makuk Kira , Jaworska Natalia , Hernández Laura , Bagshaw Sean M. , Burns Karen E. , Cook Deborah J. , Doig Christopher J. , Fox-Robichaud Alison , Fowler Robert A. , Kho Michelle E. , Parhar Ken Kuljit S. , Rewa Oleksa G. , Rochwerg Bram , Sept Bonnie G. , Soo Andrea , Spence Sean , West Andrew , Stelfox Henry T. , Parsons Leigh Jeanna
Published: October 2021

OBJECTIVES:

To create evidence-based consensus statements for restricted ICU visitation policies to support critically ill patients, families, and healthcare professionals during current and future pandemics.

DESIGN:

Three rounds of a remote modified Delphi consensus process.

SETTING:

Online survey and virtual polling from February 2, 2021, to April 8, 2021.

SUBJECTS:

Stakeholders (patients, families, clinicians, researchers, allied health professionals, decision-makers) admitted to or working in Canadian ICUs during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

During Round 1, key stakeholders used a 9-point Likert scale to rate experiences (1—not significant, 9—significant impact on patients, families, healthcare professionals, or patient- and family-centered care) and strategies (1—not essential, 9—essential recommendation for inclusion in the development of restricted visitation policies) and used a free-text box to capture experiences/strategies we may have missed. Consensus was achieved if the median score was 7–9 or 1–3. During Round 2, participants used a 9-point Likert scale to re-rate experiences/strategies that did not meet consensus during Round 1 (median score of 4–6) and rate new items identified in Round 1. During Rounds 2 and 3, participants ranked items that reached consensus by order of importance (relative to other related items and experiences) using a weighted ranking system (0–100 points). Participants prioritized 11 experiences (e.g., variability of family’s comfort with technology, healthcare professional moral distress) and developed 21 consensus statements (e.g., communicate policy changes to the hospital staff before the public, permit visitors at end-of-life regardless of coronavirus disease 2019 status, creating a clear definition for end-of-life) regarding restricted visitation policies.

CONCLUSIONS:

We have formulated evidence-informed consensus statements regarding restricted visitation policies informed by diverse stakeholders, which could enhance patient- and family-centered care during a pandemic.
A Comparison of Single-Dose Versus Multidose Metronidazole by Select Clinical Factors for the Treatment of Trichomonas vaginalis in Women
Authors: Muzny Christina A. , Mena Leandro A. , Lillis Rebecca A. , Schmidt Norine , Martin David H. , Kissinger Patricia
Published: October 2021

Background

In a randomized controlled trial of 2 g (single-dose) metronidazole (MTZ) versus 500 mg twice daily for 7 days (multidose) for Trichomonas vaginalis treatment, multidose was superior. We examined if the effect was similar by select clinical factors to determine if treatment recommendations could be targeted.

Methods

The primary outcome was T. vaginalis repeat infection at test-of-cure (TOC) 4 weeks after completion of therapy. Analyses were stratified by T. vaginalis history, baseline genital symptoms, and concurrent diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis (BV) per Nugent score at baseline.

Results

Women who returned for TOC (n = 540) were included. At baseline, 52.9% had a self-reported history of T. vaginalis; 79.3%, genital symptoms; 5.8%, a gonorrhea diagnosis; and 47.5%, BV. During follow-up, 97.4% took all MTZ as instructed and 34.5% had interval condomless sex with a baseline partner. At TOC, 14.8% tested positive for T. vaginalis. In stratified analysis, women randomized to single-dose MTZ had a higher rate of TOC T. vaginalis positivity than those randomized to multidose if they were symptomatic at baseline (21.4% vs. 10.8%, P = 0.003) or had a reported history of T. vaginalis (24.1% vs. 12.6%, P = 0.01). Test-of-cure T. vaginalis positivity was higher for women receiving a single dose (18.9%) versus multidose (10.8%), irrespective of baseline BV status (P > 0.06). In multivariable analysis, only a history of T. vaginalis and single-dose MTZ were independently associated with a positive TOC for T. vaginalis.

Conclusions

Although multidose MTZ is recommended for all women with T. vaginalis, it is especially important for women with a T. vaginalis history and, given high posttreatment infection rates, a TOC should be performed.
Testing for Sexually Transmitted Infection Using Wet and Dry Self-Collected Brush Samples Among Women in Mombasa, Kenya
Authors: Grabert Brigid K. , Islam Jessica Y. , Kabare Emmanuel , Vielot Nadja A. , Waweru Wairimu , Mandaliya Kishor , Shafi Juma , Adala Lucy , McClelland R. Scott , Smith Jennifer S.
Published: October 2021

We compared detection of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis using dry and wet self-collected samples using brushes among females who engage in sex work in Mombasa, Kenya. Detection of T. vaginalis and N. gonorrhoeae in dry and wet samples was similar, but C. trachomatis detection in dry samples appeared lower.
Limited Risk Compensation Among Women Who Inject Drugs: Results From the Project Sexual Health Equity Preexposure Prophylaxis Demonstration Study in Philadelphia
Authors: Tran Nguyen K. , Van Der Pol Barbara , Shrestha Roman , Bazzi Angela R. , Bellamy Scarlett L. , Sherman Susan G. , Roth Alexis M.
Published: October 2021

The impact of preexposure prophylaxis uptake on sexual and injection-related behaviors among women who inject drugs is poorly understood. Over 24 weeks, preexposure prophylaxis uptake among women who inject drugs was associated with increased sharing of injection equipment but not syringes and no changes in condomless sex, providing limited evidence of risk compensation in this vulnerable population.
Interrater Reliability of the Pediatric Asthma Score
Authors: Gardiner Michael A. , Wilkinson Matthew H.
Published: October 2021

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the interrater reliability (IRR) of the Pediatric Asthma Score (PAS) and to evaluate the discriminative performance of this score to predict the need for hospital admission among children with acute asthma.

Methods

A secondary analysis of prospective data was performed to compare triage nurse and study personnel PAS scores among children aged 6 to 18 years presenting to the emergency department with acute asthma. The IRR was determined by calculation of weighted Cohen κ with differences evaluated by Wilcoxon ranked pairs. Receiver operating characteristic curves were created to evaluate the predictive ability of PAS to determine the need for hospital admission.

Results

One hundred one subjects were evaluated by both study personnel and a triage nurse with PAS score recorded. The IRR of the total PAS score was determined to be moderate (κ = 0.57) and acceptable, although lower than previously reported. Individual components of the PAS score demonstrated fair to substantial agreement. Receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrated total PAS at emergency department triage to have poor test characteristics in predicting the need for hospital admission, whether PAS was determined by study personnel, triage nurse, or an average score (area under the curve, 0.62–0.65).

Conclusions

In this study, total PAS score demonstrated a moderate and acceptable level of IRR with a poor discriminative ability to determine the need for hospital admission at the time of ED triage.
Three-Dimensional Evaluation of Deformed Noses in Patients With Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Binqing , Zhang Zeya , Xu Meng , Deng Haixia , Wang Zhiyan , Song Tao
Published: October 2021

Multiple surgeries for patients with cleft lip and palate may be required to repair secondary deformities after the completion of cleft repair. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the three-dimensional nasal morphology in patients with unilateral cleft palate who underwent cleft lip and palate repair but did not undergo terminal nasal repair. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data, and SINOMED databases were searched from inception until December 2020. Studies involving patients ages ≥6 years with cleft lip and palate who did not undergo terminal nasal repair were included. Quantitative data were obtained through three-dimensional evaluation. Mean weighted effect sizes with 95% confidence intervals, heterogeneities, and publication biases were assessed using raw data obtained from 13 studies. In general, patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate had a significantly wider nose; shorter bridge length and nasal height; larger forehead-nose angle, nasal tip angle, and alar slope angle; and smaller nasolabial angle. The number of studies that included patients with unilateral cleft lip, unilateral cleft lip and alveolus, and unclassified deformities was limited, and their results were similar to those involving patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate. Patients with unilateral cleft tend to have short, flat, and wide noses. Nasal tip elevation and alar base adduction should be prioritized during terminal nasal repair to achieve more normalized cleft-side nostrils.
Downregulation of lncRNA GAS5 prevents mitochondrial apoptosis and hypoxic-ischemic brain damage in neonatal rats through the microRNA-128-3p/Bax/Akt/GSK-3β axis
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Zhe , Wang Haibin
Published: October 2021

Objective

Hypoxic/ischemic brain damage (HIBD) results in increased neonatal mortality and serious neurologic morbidity. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are shown as essential modulators of various neurological diseases. Here, we determined the mechanisms of lncRNA GAS5 in mitochondrial apoptosis in HIBD rats.

Methods

The HIBD neonatal rat model was established and treated with shRNA-GAS5 or antagomir miR-128-3p. The morphological changes and apoptosis rate were observed by histological staining. Expressions of GAS5, miR-128-3p, and Bax mRNA in brain tissues of HIBD neonatal rats were determined. The binding relationships between GAS5 and miR-128-3p, and miR-128-3p and Bax were confirmed by dual-luciferase assay. Subsequently, the mitochondrial membrane potential and apoptosis-related factors in brain tissues of HIBD neonatal rats were detected. Western blot analysis was performed to detect the expression of Akt/GSK3β pathway-associated proteins.

Results

The neurons in the brain tissue of HIBD neonatal rats decreased with disordered arrangement, and showed vacuolization and nuclear pyknosis, obvious brain damage, increased neuronal apoptosis, and enhanced mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Downregulated miR-128-3p and upregulated GAS5 and Bax mRNA were found in HIBD neonatal rats. There were binding relationships between GAS5 and miR-128-3p, and miR-128-3p and Bax mRNA. Inhibition of lncRNA GAS5 in HIBD neonatal rats suppressed mitochondrial apoptosis. miR-128-3p knockdown annulled the inhibitory effect of inhibiting lncRNA GAS5 on mitochondrial apoptosis. Silencing GAS5 increased the phosphorylation levels of Akt and GSK3β.

Conclusion

Downregulation of lncRNA GAS5 prevents mitochondrial apoptosis in neonatal HIBD rats by regulating the miR-128-3p/Bax/Akt/GSK-3β axis.
Factors affecting nurses’ duty to care during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Shin Hyerine , Kim Kyung hee , Kim Ji-su , Kwak Yeun-hee
Published: October 2021

Background

Although the demand for nursing care in disaster situations has grown, there has been a lack of discussion on nurses’ duty to care in these situations.

Aim

This study aimed to examine South Korean nurses’ duty to care during the COVID-19 crisis and identify factors influencing the same.

Research design

This was a cross-sectional descriptive research study, using a structured online questionnaire.

Participants and research context

Korean registered nurses (n = 342) in a clinical setting were recruited. Participants responded to a demographic questionnaire and the Nash Duty to Care Scale. After excluding missing values, data from 320 nurses were analyzed.

Findings

Older age and working at a general hospital increased nurses’ duty to care. Being male, higher education level, and working at a general hospital increased perceived risk. Older age, more clinical career experience, a master’s degree or above, and working at a higher-level hospital increased nurses’ confidence in their employer. Older age and higher monthly wage increased perceived obligation. Older age, job position, 3–7 years of clinical experience, working at the internal medicine department, and working at the tertiary hospital were factors associated with increased professional preparedness. Age was a factor influencing all dimensions of duty to care, except perceived risk. Clinical career influenced both confidence in employer and professional preparedness.

Conclusion

Given the lack of research on nurses’ duty to care, this study expands the scope of nursing research. In the future, more active research on nurses’ duty to care should be conducted.
Predictors of treatment outcomes with Auto-titrating CPAP therapy in adults with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Fashanu Olabimpe S , Quan Stuart F
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To determine factors that predict OSA therapy outcomes with auto-titrating positive airway pressure (APAP).

Methods

We sequentially grouped patients from a retrospective cohort based on APAP efficacy (sufficiently vs. insufficiently treated; insufficiently treatment defined as residual AHI of ≥ 5); therapy adherence (compliant vs. non-compliant, non-compliance defined as < 70% usage for ≥ 4 hours/night); and therapy outcomes (optimal vs non-optimal (non-optimal outcomes defined as non-compliant and insufficiently treated). We subsequently compared each group.

Results

The insufficiently treated were older (68.4 ± 12.5 vs. 60.4 ± 13.1 years, p < 0.01) and had lower BMI (31.9 ± 6.3 vs.37.9 ± 9.1 kg/m2, p < 0.01). They had higher baseline central apnea indices (CAI), longer leaks, higher peak pressures and were less compliant.

The non-compliant were younger (61.1 ± 12.6 vs. 65.5 ± 13.2 years, p = 0.03) and comprised more females (56.1 vs. 43.9%, p = 0.04). The leak duration per usage hour was higher in the non-compliant (13.9 ± 42.1 vs. 1.83 ± 3.53 minutes/hour, p < 0.01). The non-optimally treated had lower BMI, longer leaks and shorter nightly usage.

Following multivariate analysis, the aforementioned variables except age were predictive of higher residual AHI, while age and gender predicted compliance.

Conclusions

Various demographic and clinical factors were predictive of treatment efficacy and adherence. Overall, lower BMI, longer leaks and shorter nightly usage predicted poor therapy outcomes.
Assessment of Agaricus bisporus Mushroom as Protective Agent Against Ultraviolet Exposure
Authors: Hwang Chae Yeon , Halim Yuniwaty , Sugata Marcelia , Rosa Dela , Wijaya Sherlyn Putri , Steven Eden
Published: October 2021

Mushrooms are versatile materials with applications including but not limited to food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. In this work, the potential of the common button mushroom, Agaricus bisporus, as a protective agent against ultraviolet exposure was assessed. The assessment was done by investigating the radical scavenging activity, sun protecting capability, and tyrosinase inhibiting properties of Agaricus bisporus ethanolic extract. The extraction was carried out using absolute ethanol as its solvent at low to room temperatures. The bioactive components of the ethanolic extract were analysed for its phenolic and flavonoid contents quantitatively, while other phytochemical agents were analysed qualitatively. The Agaricus bisporus ethanolic extract was found exhibit varying degree of activity in all of the assessment. We found low radical scavenging ability with %RSA IC50 of ∼5456 μg/mL, low to moderate sun protecting factor of ∼5.355 at 5000 ppm concentration, and high tyrosinase inhibition property with IC50 of ∼2 μg/mL. The high tyrosinase inhibition property was found to correlate with relatively high total phenolic content of ∼1143 mg GAE/100g for Agaricus bisporus and the presence of terpenoid in the ethanolic extract.