bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The difference in soil organic carbon distribution between natural and planted forests: A case study on stony soils mountainous area in the Upper Min River Arid Valley, China
Authors: Yunwei Han , Qing Wang , Fucheng Li , Yalin Guo , Weipo Yan , Yida An , Yinping Bai , Min Yang , Yuting Zheng , Qi Hu
Published: November 2022

Few studies have been conducted on the factors and distribution of soil organic carbon (SOC) in plantation forests in arid mountainous regions, especially in orchards. We aimed to unravel the SOC distribution among land‐use types and the effects of altitude gradients and rock fragment content (RFC) on SOC accumulation and sequestration in the Upper Min River Arid Valley, China. The differences in SOC distribution among land‐use types were quantified. The correlation analysis of SOC with various factors, such as altitude and RFC, was conducted. The variation percentage in SOC content and stocks was explained by the factors' contribution using mixed‐effects models. SOC distribution was characterized by high content and low stocks in native forests and shrubs, high content and high stocks in eco‐forest, and low content and high stocks in orchards. At the surface (0–30 cm), SOC content and stocks in orchards (cherry, plum, and apple) were significantly lower than those in eco‐forests. There was a significant positive correlation between altitude and SOC content at the surface but not at the subsoil (30–60 cm). With RFC increased, the surface SOC content decreased in native forests, shrubs, and eco‐forests, while it increased in orchards. Our results suggest that land management is the main factor controlling the variation in SOC distribution. Enhancing the surface SOC stability in orchards by land management is a priority for soil carbon pool management in the Arid Valleys.
HvGST plays a key role in anthocyanin accumulation in colored barley
Authors: Xu Dongdong , Dondup Dawa , Dou Tingyu , Wang Chunchao , Zhang Renxu , Fan Chaofeng , Guo Aikui , Lhundrup Namgyal , Ga Zhuo , Liu Minxuan , Wu Bin , Gao Jia , Zhang Jing , Guo Ganggang
Published: November 2022

Blue aleurone of barley is caused by the accumulation of delphinidin‐based derivatives. Although these compounds are ideal nutrients for human health, they are undesirable contaminants in malt brewing. Therefore, the ability to add and remove this trait easily would facilitate breeding barley for different purposes. Here we identified a glutathione S‐transferase gene (HvGST) that was responsible for the blue aleurone trait in Tibetan qingke barley by performing a genome‐wide association study and RNA‐sequencing analysis. Gene variation and expression analysis indicated that HvGST also participates in the transport and accumulation of anthocyanin in purple barley. Haplotype and the geographic distribution analyses of HvGST alleles revealed two independent natural variants responsible for the emergence of white aleurone: a 203‐bp deletion causing premature termination of translation in qingke barley and two key single nucleotide polymorphisms in the promoter resulting in low transcription in Western barley. This study contributes to a better understanding of mechanisms of colored barley formation, and provides a comprehensive reference for marker‐assisted barley breeding.
Compressive Experimental Analysis and Constitutive Model of Sintered Nano-Silver
Authors: He Gong , Tongyang Wang , Jianqun Zhu , Shujin Li , Yao Yao
Published: November 2022

Aiming at the potential high-temperature packaging material of the wide band gap semiconductors, experimental and theoretical analysis on the compressive properties of sintered nano-silver was performed. The viscoplastic properties of sintered nano-silver were investigated by compressive experiments with five loading rates, and the effects of loading rate on the ultimate strength and elastic modulus of sintered nano-silver were analyzed. According to the microstructure characteristics of sintered nano-silver, the damage framework including void volume fraction was developed by extending the Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman model, and the mathematical model between Bonora damage law and void volume fraction was proposed, in which the internal void was assumed to be sphere and cube. A modified constitutive model including the damage model was developed based on the unified creep and plasticity theory for describing the compressive properties of sintered nano-silver. The accuracy of the proposed model was verified by comparing it with the experimental data.
Computational Method to Predict Three-Dimensional Chatter Vibration in Cold Rolling of Flat Metals
Authors: Patel Akash , Malik Arif , Mathews Ritin
Published: November 2022

Introduced is a three-dimensional, physics-based mathematical model capable of efficiently predicting self-excited chatter vibration phenomena in the cold rolling of metal strip and sheet. The described nonlinear chatter model combines the 3D mill structural dynamics behavior with the elastic–plastic rolling process dynamics to predict conditions of instability in a single-stand 4-high mill that can lead to both third-octave and fifth-octave chatter. Formulation of the 3D chatter model is achieved by coupling the dynamic simplified-mixed finite element method with a nonlinear roll-bite process dynamics model to capture self-exciting feedback interactions. In contrast to prior approaches to model chatter in the cold rolling of flat metals, the presented method abandons several simplifying assumptions, including 1D or 2D linear lumped parameter analyses, vertical symmetry of the upper and lower halves of the roll-stack, and continuous contact between the rolls and strip. The model is demonstrated for a single-stand 4-high rolling mill considering the detrimental third-octave self-excited chatter condition. Detailed stability analyses that show time histories of the 3D mill behaviors are presented, respectively, for stable, marginally stable, and unstable rolling speeds, and for changes in the lower housing stiffness to reflect more realistic, asymmetric rolling mill conditions.
A bacterial hydrolase gives the NOD2 tolerance
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: November 2022

A bacterial endopeptidase that generates NOD2 ligands suppresses colitis.
Antibiotic-Specific Risk for Community-Acquired
Clostridioides difficile
Infection in the United States from 2008 to 2020
Authors: Zhang Jimmy , Chen Ling , Gomez-Simmonds Angela , Yin Michael T. , Freedberg Daniel E.
Published: November 2022

Antibiotic exposure is a crucial risk factor for community-acquired
Clostridioides difficile
infection (CA-CDI). However, the relative risks associated with specific antibiotics may vary over time, and the absolute risks have not been clearly established.
How To Deal with Toxic Amino Acids: the Bipartite AzlCD Complex Exports Histidine in
Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Meißner Janek , Schramm Thorben , Hoßbach Ben , Stark Katharina , Link Hannes , Stülke Jörg
Published: November 2022

Amino acids are building blocks for protein biosynthesis in each living cell. However, due to their reactivity and the similarity between several amino acids, they may also be involved in harmful reactions or in noncognate interactions and thus may be toxic.
Bacillus subtilis
can deal with otherwise toxic histidine by overexpressing the bipartite amino acid exporter AzlCD.
UBXN3B Controls Immunopathogenesis of Arthritogenic Alphaviruses by Maintaining Hematopoietic Homeostasis
Authors: Geng Tingting , Yang Duomeng , Lin Tao , Cahoon Jason G. , Wang Penghua
Published: November 2022

The human genome encodes 13 ubiquitin regulatory X (UBX) domain-containing proteins (UBXN) that might participate in diverse cellular processes. However, their
in vivo
physiological functions remain largely elusive.
Host Cell Amplification of Nutritional Stress Contributes To Persistence in Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Pokorzynski Nick D. , Alla Monisha R. , Carabeo Rey A.
Published: November 2022

Bacteria respond to nutritional stress through universal and unique mechanisms. Genome reduction in the
Chlamydiaceae
, a consequence of coevolution with their obligate eukaryotic hosts, has reduced their repertoire of stress response mechanisms.
SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Diversity in Households Highlights the Challenges of Sequence-Based Transmission Inference
Authors: Bendall Emily E. , Paz-Bailey Gabriela , Santiago Gilberto A. , Porucznik Christina A. , Stanford Joseph B. , Stockwell Melissa S. , Duque Jazmin , Jeddy Zuha , Veguilla Vic , Major Chelsea , Rivera-Amill Vanessa , Rolfes Melissa A. , Dawood Fatimah S. , Lauring Adam S.
Published: November 2022

We performed whole-genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 from prospectively identified cases in three longitudinal household cohorts. In a majority of multi-infection households, SARS-CoV-2 consensus sequences were indistinguishable, and they differed by 1 to 2 mutations in the rest.
Function-Based Rhizosphere Assembly along a Gradient of Desiccation in the Former Aral Sea
Authors: Wicaksono Wisnu Adi , Egamberdieva Dilfuza , Berg Christian , Mora Maximilian , Kusstatscher Peter , Cernava Tomislav , Berg Gabriele
Published: November 2022

The desertification of the Aral Sea basin in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan represents one of the most serious anthropogenic environmental disasters of the last century. Since the 1960s, the world's fourth-largest inland body of water has been constantly shrinking, which has resulted in an extreme increase of salinity accompanied by accumulation of many hazardous and carcinogenic substances, as well as heavy metals, in the dried-out basin.
Evaluation of the Protective Immune Response Induced by an
rfbG-
Deficient Salmonella enterica Serovar Enteritidis Strain as a Live Attenuated DIVA (Differentiation of Infected and Vaccinated Animals) Vaccine in Chickens
Authors: Wang Xinwei , Kang Xilong , Pan Mingxing , Wang Ming , Zhang Jiayue , Song Hongqin
Published: November 2022

S
. Enteritidis is a highly adapted pathogen that causes significant economic losses in the poultry industry around the world.
Isomaltooligosaccharides Sustain the Growth of
Prevotella
Both
In Vitro
and in Animal Models
Authors: Chen Junkui , Li Zhengpeng , Wang Xiaofan , Fan Bin , Deng Feilong , D.Yu Hongwei , Ze Xiaolei , Zhu Liying , Yin Yeshi , Chen Yanhong , Zhao Jiangchao , Yang Yunsheng , Wang Xin
Published: November 2022

The
Prevotella
enterotype type is a human traditional enterotype with high dietary fiber intake, which is related to healthy ageing and Parkinson’s disease development. Manipulations of the dwelled gut microbes by dietary isomalto-oligosaccharides efficiently sustained
Prevotella
type enterotypes, indicating that it can be used in the improvement of elderly health by increasing the gut transit time.
Inhibition of the Type III Secretion System of Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium via Treatment with Fraxetin
Authors: Shi Yunjia , Sun Zeyu , Liu Yang , Shu Jingyan , Zhang Yong , Lv Qianghua , Wang Jianfeng , Deng Xuming , Liu Hongtao , Qiu Jiazhang
Published: November 2022

The increasingly serious problem of bacterial antibiotic resistance limits the clinical application of antibiotics, which increases the need for the development of antivirulence agents. The type III secretion system (T3SS) plays a critical role in host cell invasion and pathogenesis of
Salmonella
and becomes a popular target for antivirulence agents screening.
Discovery of Two Inhibitors of the Type IV Pilus Assembly ATPase PilB as Potential Antivirulence Compounds
Authors: Dye Keane J. , Vogelaar Nancy J. , O’Hara Megan , Sobrado Pablo , Santos Webster , Carlier Paul R. , Yang Zhaomin
Published: November 2022

Many bacterial pathogens use their type IV pilus (T4P) to facilitate and maintain an infection in a human host. Small-molecule inhibitors of the production or assembly of the T4P are promising for the treatment and prevention of infections by these bacteria, especially in our fight against antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
Charge Distribution and Spin Textures in Magic-Angle Twisted Bilayer Graphene
Authors: Sboychakov A. O. , Rozhkov A. V. , Rakhmanov A. L.
Published: November 2022

The spin density wave existing on the background of the inhomogeneous charge distribution is examined as a possible ground state of the magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene. When interactions are not included, the spectrum of the material has four (eight if spin is taken into account) almost flat almost degenerate bands. Interactions break down the degeneracy forming an order parameter which is usually assumed to be a spin density wave with a preset spin structure. Here, a possible charge density wave contribution to the order parameter; i.e., an inhomogeneous distribution of the charge density within a twisted graphene supercell is taken into account. The spin structure of the order parameter is calculated self-consistently. It is found that the density wave order is stable in the whole doping range from –4 to +4 extra electrons per supercell. The spin texture changes from collinear at zero doping to almost coplanar at finite doping. The density wave order shows nematic distortion when we dope the system. It is demonstrated that the local spin magnetization in energy units is much stronger than the charge density variation, unless doping exceeds three extra electrons or holes per supercell.
Getting to health equity in NICU care in the USA and beyond
Authors: Profit Jochen , Edwards Erika M , Pursley DeWayne
Published: November 2022

Differences in race/ethnicity, gender, income and other social factors have long been associated with disparities in health, illness and premature death. Although the terms ‘health differences’ and ‘health disparities’ are often used interchangeably, health disparities has recently been reserved to describe worse health in socially disadvantaged populations, particularly members of disadvantaged racial/ethnic groups and the poor within a racial/ethnic group. Infants receiving disparate care based on race/ethnicity, immigration status, language proficiency, or social class may be discomforting to healthcare workers who dedicate their lives to care for these patients. Recent literature, however, has documented differences in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) care quality that have contributed to racial and ethnic differences in mortality and significant morbidity. We examine the within-NICU and between-NICU mechanisms of disparate care and recommend approaches to address these disparities.
Erythema nodosum as key manifestation of histoplasmosis case
Authors: Wang Susanna , Morrical Jennifer
Published: November 2022

Histoplasmosis is a systemic infection caused by the fungus,Histoplasma capsulatum. Infection ofH. capsulatumfrequently occurs by inhaling the spores of the fungus, which is found in bat and bird droppings, or soil enriched with their excrement. If not detected and treated, histoplasmosis can develop late, severe complications such as mediastinal fibrosis, or even develop into a disseminated infection. However, histoplasmosis infections are often asymptomatic, making its detection more difficult. Further, only 6% of histoplasmosis cases will present with erythema nodosum, with most cases associated with female patients. This case presents a woman in her 50s with a pertinent history of fibromyalgia and hypothyroidism secondary to Hashimoto’s who initially sought medical care for painful nodules on her legs and was eventually diagnosed with histoplasmosis. This report clearly demonstrates the importance of maintaining a broad differential when working up inflammatory manifestations, such as erythema nodosum.
De novo pancytopaenia in an older adult with severe COVID-19 infection
Authors: Lee Helena , Thein Onn Shaun , Muneer Tazeen
Published: November 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was recognised that SARS-CoV-2 can cause multisystem illness. Non-respiratory complications observed early in the pandemic were haematological in nature. A rare but serious haematological complication of COVID-19 infection is pancytopaenia. We describe a case of an older adult without pre-existing haematological disease or risk factors for cell dyscrasia with severe pancytopaenia induced by COVID-19, who developed critical illness requiring respiratory support in intensive care and died. Our case report highlights that de novo pancytopaenia may only present with mild dermatological manifestations and may indicate severe COVID-19 infection. Management is primarily supportive and early involvement of haematology should be sought.
Ten-year experience with intracameral chemotherapy for aqueous seeding in retinoblastoma: long-term efficacy, safety and toxicity
Authors: Stathopoulos Christina , Beck-Popovic Maja , Moulin Alexandre P , Munier Francis L
Published: November 2022

Aims

To report long-term results of intracameral chemotherapy (ICC) for aqueous seeding (AS) in retinoblastoma.

Methods

Retrospective study including 20 patients with primary (n=4) or secondary non-iatrogenic (n=16) AS treated with ICC according to a previously described technique between 2011 and 2020 with at least 1-year follow-up.

Results

AS control was initially achieved in all cases with a mean 5 injections of melphalan (n=13) or topotecan (n=7). Three eyes had an isolated AS relapse at a mean interval of 8 months after the first ICC course, which regressed with a second course of intracameral melphalan. Concomitant interciliary process seed implantation was treated with additional brachytherapy if sectorial (n=3) or proton therapy if annular (n=1). Other therapies including systemic, intra-arterial chemotherapy and/or focal treatments were given in 15 eyes to treat concomitant tumour sites. Eye preservation was achieved in 85% of the eyes (n=17/20) at a mean event-free follow-up of 45 months for aqueous disease, and 40 months for any other intraocular tumour activity. Three cases were enucleated due to refractory non-aqueous disease. All patients are alive without metastasis (mean follow-up of 48 months after first ICC). ICC-related intraocular toxicity included iris atrophy (n=5), cataract (n=4), posterior synechiae (n=2) and iris heterochromia (n=1). No patient suffered irreversible vision loss. Useful to normal vision was found in 82% of the cases (n=14/17).

Conclusion

ICC appears to be safe and efficient for AS without irreversible vision-threatening adverse effects. More data are needed to determine any superiority in efficiency/toxicity of topotecan versus melphalan.
Variables associated with progression of moderate-to-severe Crohn’s disease
Authors: Sacramento Carolina da Silva Beda , Motta Marina Pamponet , Alves Candida de Oliveira , Mota Jaciane Araujo , Codes Lina Maria Goes de , Ferreira Reginaldo Freitas , Silva Pedro de Almeida , Palmiro Larissa do Prado , Barbosa Rafael Miranda , Andrade Mariana Nery , Andrade Vitor Damasceno , Vasconcelos Vitor Brandão , Thiara Bernardo Wasconcellos , Netto Eduardo Martins , Santana Genoile Oliveira
Published: November 2022

Objective

Determine the variables associated with hospitalisations in patients with Crohn’s disease and those associated with surgery, intestinal resection, hospital readmission, need for multiple operations and immunobiological agent use.

Design

A cross-sectional study was conducted from 2019 to 2021, using two centres for inflammatory bowel diseases in the Brazilian Public Health System.

Results

This study included 220 patients. Only perianal disease was associated with hospitalisation (31.6% vs 13.0%, p=0.012). Stricturing or penetrating behaviour (35.8% vs 12.6%, p<0.001) and perianal disease (45.9% vs 9.9%, p<0.001) were associated with surgery. Ileal or ileocolonic location (80.0% vs 46.5%, p=0.044) and stricturing or penetrating behaviour (68.0% vs 11.2%, p<0.001) were associated with intestinal resection. Steroids use at first Crohn’s disease occurrence and postoperative complications were associated with hospital readmission and need for multiple operations, respectively. Age below 40 years at diagnosis (81.3% vs 62.0%, p=0.004), upper gastrointestinal tract involvement (21.8% vs 10.3%, p=0.040) and perianal disease (35.9% vs 16.3%, p<0.001) were associated with immunobiological agent use.

Conclusion

Perianal disease and stricturing or penetrating behaviour were associated with more than one significant outcome. Other variables related to Crohn’s disease progression were age below 40 years at diagnosis, an ileal or ileocolonic disease localisation, an upper gastrointestinal tract involvement, the use of steroids at the first Crohn’s disease occurrence and history of postoperative complications. These findings are similar to those in the countries with a high prevalence of Crohn’s disease.
Policies to prevent zoonotic spillover: protocol for a systematic scoping review of evaluative evidence
Authors: Clifford Astbury Chloe , Lee Kirsten M , Aguiar Raphael , Atique Asma , Balolong Marilen , Clarke Janielle , Labonte Ronald , Ruckert Arne , Togño Kathleen Chelsea , Viens A M , Wiktorowicz M , Yau Amy , Penney Tarra L
Published: November 2022

Introduction

The increasing incidence of pathogen transmission from animals to humans (zoonotic spillover events) has been attributed to behavioural practices and ecological and socioeconomic change. As these events sometimes involve pathogens with epidemic or pandemic potential, they pose a serious threat to population health. Public policies may play a key role in preventing these events. The aim of this review is to identify evaluations of public policies that target the determinants of zoonotic spillover, examining approaches taken to evaluation, choice of outcomes measures and evidence of effectiveness. Our approach to identifying and analysing this literature will be informed by a One Health lens, acknowledging the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health.

Methods and analysis

A systematic scoping review methodology will be used. To identify articles, we will search Medline, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Global Health in May 2021 using search terms combining animal health and the animal–human interface, public policy, prevention and zoonoses. We will screen titles and abstracts and extract data according to published guidelines for scoping reviews. All evaluations of public policies aiming to prevent zoonotic spillover events will be eligible for inclusion. We will summarise key data from each study, mapping policies along the spillover pathway and outlining the range of policies, approaches to evaluation and outcome measures. Review findings will provide a useful reference for researchers and practitioners, outlining the state of the evaluative evidence around policies to prevent zoonotic spillover.

Ethics and dissemination

Formal ethical approval is not required, because the study does not involve primary data collection. The findings of this study will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication, presentations and summaries for key stakeholders.
Effectiveness of self-management applications in improving clinical health outcomes and adherence among diabetic individuals in low and middle-income countries: a systematic review
Authors: Dsouza Sherize Merlin , Shetty Sahana , Venne Julien , Pundir Prachi , Rajkhowa Priyobrat , Lewis Melissa Glenda , Brand Helmut
Published: November 2022

Introduction

A variety of mobile health (mHealth) applications are available to monitor an individual’s health or lifestyle to make it convenient to access healthcare facilities at home. The usability of mHealth applications in controlling HbA1c (estimated average blood glucose) levels is unclear despite their increasing use. The burden of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is high in low and middle-income countries (LMICs), with the highest burden in the Indian population. Our objective is to identify the effectiveness of mHealth applications in managing blood glucose levels of individuals with T2DM and to assess the impact of using mHealth applications in managing T2DM concerning health-promoting behaviour among the LMICs in the context of India.

Methods and analysis

The electronic databases included for search are PubMed, Ovid Medline, EBSCO, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials; additional sources of the search will be grey literature available on diabetes management websites and reference lists of included studies. Studies published in the English language in indexed and peer-reviewed sources will be considered. Studies reporting the effectiveness of mobile applications in the management of T2D in LMICs will be eligible for inclusion. The Population-Intervention-Comparison-Outcomes framework and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement 2021 will be used for reporting. Data analysis will be carried out using narrative synthesis, and a meta-analysis may be conducted if we come across homogenous data for the outcome.

Ethics and dissemination

As this study is a systematic review, we will not be recruiting any participants for the study and hence will not require ethical approval. The study summary will be disseminated at a conference.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021245517.
NET-RMDs study: networks of fatigue and pain in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases – protocol for an international cross-sectional study
Authors: Gavilán-Carrera Blanca , Geenen Rinie , Hughes Ciara , Barbosa Lourdes , Visser Marianne , McVeigh Joseph , Ferreira Ricardo J O , Boschloo Lynn , Estévez-López Fernando
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Fatigue and pain are the main symptoms of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs). Healthcare professionals have a primary role in helping patients to manage both these symptoms, which are part of a complex network of co-occurring factors including sleep problems, psychological distress, social support, body weight, diet, inactive lifestyle and disease activity. The patterns of relationships (networks) between these factors and these symptoms, fatigue and pain, are largely unknown. The current proposal aims to reveal them using network estimation techniques. We will also consider differences in networks for subgroups of people with (1) different RMDs and (2) different clusters (profiles) of biopsychosocial factors.

Methods and analysis

Adults with at least one RMD will be recruited to this online cross-sectional observational project. To provide a complete overview, a large sample size from different countries will be included. A brief online survey, using 0–10 numeric rating scales will measure, for the past month, levels of fatigue and pain as well as scores on seven biopsychosocial factors. These factors were derived from literature and identified by interviews with patients, health professionals and rheumatologists. Using this input, the steering committee of the project decided the factors to be measured giving priority to those that can be modified in self-management support in community health centres worldwide. Network estimation techniques are used to detect the complex patterns of relationships between these biopsychosocial factors, fatigue and pain; and how these differ for subgroups of people with different RMDs and profiles.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval of national Institutional Review Boards was obtained. The online survey includes an information letter and informed consent form. The findings will be disseminated via conferences and publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals, while public media channels will be used to inform people with RMDs and other interested parties.
Parent, teacher, and nurse concerns and school doctor actions: an observational study of general health checks
Authors: Nikander Kirsi , Hermanson Elina , Vahlberg Tero , Kaila Minna , Kosola Silja
Published: November 2022

Objective

To evaluate the association between the concerns of parents, teachers, and nurses regarding each child’s well-being and the school doctor actions conducted in routine general health checks.

Design

A blinded, observational study. Prior to the health check parents, teachers, and nurses completed questionnaires assessing their concerns. Doctors, blinded to the responses, routinely examined all children accompanied by parents and reported their actions after each health check. Multilevel logistic regression was used to analyse the association of the concerns with the actions.

Setting

21 primary schools in four municipalities in Finland.

Participants

Between August 2017 and August 2018, we randomly recruited 1341 children from grades 1 and 5, aged 7 and 11 years, respectively.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures were the respondents’ concerns and the school doctor actions. The extent of concerns was assessed on a five-point Likert scale. Concern refers to ‘Quite a lot or a great deal of concern’ by at least one respondent. The school doctor actions included instructions and/or significant discussions, prescriptions, laboratory tests and/or medical imaging, scheduling of follow-up appointments, referrals to other professionals, and referrals to specialised care.

Results

Altogether, respondents were concerned about 47.5% of children. The top three concerns comprised growth/and or physical symptoms (22.7%), emotions (16.2%), and concentration (15.1%). All concerns were associated with some type of school doctor action (ORs: 1.66–4.27, p≤0.05); but only concerns regarding growth and/or physical symptoms were associated with all actions. Almost all concerns were associated with referrals to other professionals (ORs: 1.80–4.52, p≤0.01); emotions had the strongest association OR 4.52 (95% CI 3.00 to 6.80, p<0.0001).

Conclusions

Health checks by school doctors may lead to referrals of children to other professionals especially for children’s psychosocial problems. This should be considered when developing the roles, training, and multiprofessional collaboration of school health care professionals.

Trial registration

NCT03178331.
Association between high burn-out and workplace violence among healthcare workers in China: a WeChat-based survey
Authors: Chen Zengyu , Peng Kexin , Liu Xiaopei , Yang Jiaxin , Long Liuxin , Liu Yiting , Li Yamin , Tian Yusheng
Published: November 2022

Objectives

This study is conducted to examine whether overall workplace violence (WPV) and its five types are associated with high burn-out among healthcare workers in China.

Design

A WeChat-based cross-sectional survey. Snowball sampling was used in this study.

Participants

Front-line healthcare workers (N=3706) from 149 cities across 23 provinces in China responded to the survey, and 22 questionnaires were excluded because of incomplete data.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

(1) The Chinese Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey was used to measure high burn-out. (2) WPV was assessed using the Chinese version of the Workplace Violence Scale. (3) An anonymous self-designed web-based questionnaire consisting of demographic, behavioural and occupational information was used to identify covariates.

Results

A total of 3684 front-line healthcare workers (934 physicians and 2750 nurses) were included. Of all participants, 13.3% (491/3193) experienced high burn-out. Adjusted logistic regression revealed that experience of WPV in the past year was associated with high burn-out (OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.69 to 2.62). Healthcare workers who had suffered emotional abuse, threat or verbal sexual harassment were more vulnerable to high burn-out.

Conclusion

This study finds that healthcare workers with WPV, especially emotional abuse, threat and verbal sexual harassment, are more likely to experience burn-out. These types of WPV should be considered in interventions to reduce and prevent burn-out for healthcare workers.
FUTURE-GB: functional and ultrasound-guided resection of glioblastoma – a two-stage randomised control trial
Authors: Plaha Puneet , Camp Sophie , Cook Jonathan , McCulloch Peter , Voets Natalie , Ma Ruichong , Taphoorn Martin J B , Dirven Linda , Grech-Sollars Matthew , Watts Colin , Bulbeck Helen , Jenkinson Michael D , Williams Matthew , Lim Adrian , Dixon Luke , Price Stephen John , Ashkan Keyoumars , Apostolopoulos Vasileios , Barber Vicki S , Taylor Amy ,   FUTURE-GB collaborators, Nandi Dipankar
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Surgery remains the mainstay for treatment of primary glioblastoma, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Current standard of care during surgery involves the intraoperative use of image-guidance and 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA). There are multiple other surgical adjuncts available to the neuro-oncology surgeon. However, access to, and usage of these varies widely in UK practice, with limited evidence of their use. The aim of this trial is to investigate whether the addition of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and intraoperative ultrasound (iUS) to the standard of care surgery (intraoperative neuronavigation and 5-ALA) impacts on deterioration free survival (DFS).

Methods and analysis

This is a two-stage, randomised control trial (RCT) consisting of an initial non-randomised cohort study based on the principles of the IDEAL (Idea, Development, Exploration, Assessment and Long-term follow-up) stage-IIb format, followed by a statistically powered randomised trial comparing the addition of DTI and iUS to the standard of care surgery. A total of 357 patients will be recruited for the RCT. The primary outcome is DFS, defined as the time to either 10-point deterioration in health-related quality of life scores from baseline, without subsequent reversal, progressive disease or death.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial was registered in the Integrated Research Application System (Ref: 264482) and approved by a UK research and ethics committee (Ref: 20/LO/0840). Results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. Further dissemination to participants, patient groups and the wider medical community will use a range of approaches to maximise impact.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN38834571.
Medication management for patients with hip fracture at a regional hospital and associated primary care units in Norway: a descriptive study based on a survey of clinicians’ experience and a review of patient records
Authors: Henriksen Ben Tore , Krogseth Maria , Nguyen Caroline Thy , Mathiesen Liv , Davies Maren Nordsveen , Andersen Randi Dovland , Andersson Yvonne
Published: November 2022

Objective

Patients with hip fracture are at high risk of medication errors due to a combination of high age, comorbidities, polypharmacy and several care transitions after fracture. The aim was to study medication management tasks concerning patient safety: medication reconciliation, medication review and communication of key medication information in care transitions.

Design

Descriptive study comprising a self-administered clinician survey (MedHipPro-Q) and a retrospective review of hospital medical records of patients with hip fracture.

Setting

Regional hospital and the associated primary care units (South-Eastern Norway).

Participants

The survey received responses from 253 clinicians, 61 medical doctors and 192 nurses, involved in the medication management of patients with hip fracture, from acute admittance to the regional hospital, through an in-hospital fast track, primary care rehabilitation and back to permanent residence. Respondents’ representativeness was unknown, introducing a risk of selection and non-response bias, and extrapolating findings should be done with caution. The patient records review included a random sample of records of patients with hip fracture (n=50).

Outcome measures

Medication reconciliation, medication review and communication of medication information from two perspectives: the clinicians’ (ie, experiences with medication management) and the practice (ie, documentation of completed medication management).

Results

In the survey, most clinicians stated they performed medication reconciliation (79%) and experienced that patients often arrived without a medication list after care transition (37%). Doctors agreed that more patients would benefit from medication reviews (86%). In the hospital patient records, completed medication reconciliation was documented in most patients (76%). Medication review was documented in 2 of 50 patients (4%). Discharge summary guidelines were followed fully for 3 of 50 patients (6%).

Conclusion

Our study revealed a need for improved medication management for patients with hip fracture. Patients were at risk of medication information not being transferred correctly between care settings, and medication reviews seemed to be underused in clinical practice.
Prevalence and associated factors of common childhood illnesses in sub-Saharan Africa from 2010 to 2020: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chilot Dagmawi , Belay Daniel Gashaneh , Shitu Kegnie , Mulat Bezawit , Alem Adugnaw Zeleke , Geberu Demiss Mulatu
Published: November 2022

Objective

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of common childhood illnesses in sub-Saharan Africa.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Sub-Saharan Africa.

Participants

Under-5 children.

Primary outcome

Common childhood illnesses.

Methods

Secondary data analysis was conducted using data from recent Demographic and Health Survey datasets from 33 sub-Saharan African countries. We used the Kids Record dataset file and we included only children under the age of 5 years. A total weighted sample size of 208 415 from the pooled (appended) data was analysed. STATA V.14.2 software was used to clean, recode and analyse the data. A multilevel binary logistic regression model was fitted, and adjusted OR with a 95% CI and p value of ≤0.05 were used to declare significantly associated factors. To check model fitness and model comparison, intracluster correlation coefficient, median OR, proportional change in variance and deviance (−2 log-likelihood ratio) were used.

Result

In this study, the prevalence of common childhood illnesses among under-5 children was 50.71% (95% CI: 44.18% to 57.24%) with a large variation between countries which ranged from Sierra Leone (23.26%) to Chad (87.24%). In the multilevel analysis, rural residents, mothers who are currently breast feeding, educated mothers, substandard floor material, high community women education and high community poverty were positively associated with common childhood illnesses in the sub-Saharan African countries. On the other hand, children from older age mothers, children from the richest household and children from large family sizes, and having media access, electricity, a refrigerator and improved toilets were negatively associated.

Conclusions

The prevalence of common illnesses among under-5 children was relatively high in sub-Saharan African countries. Individual-level and community-level factors were associated with the problem. Improving housing conditions, interventions to improve toilets and strengthening the economic status of the family and the communities are recommended to reduce common childhood diseases.
Early antibiotic use and incidence of necrotising enterocolitis in very preterm infants: a protocol for a UK based observational study using routinely recorded data
Authors: Shen Rene , Embleton Nicholas , Lyng Forman Julie , Gale Chris , Greisen Gorm , Sangild Per Torp , Uthaya Sabita , Berrington Janet
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) remains a major contributor to preterm mortality and morbidity. Prolonged duration of antibiotic therapy after delivery is associated with later NEC development but recent evidence suggests that absence of antibiotic treatment after delivery may also increase NEC risk. We will explore this controversy using a large pre-existing dataset of preterm infants in the UK.

Methods and analysis

This is a retrospective cohort study using data from UK National Neonatal Research Database (NNRD) for infants born 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2020. Eligible infants will be <32 weeks gestation, alive on day 3. Primary outcome is development of severe NEC, compared in infants receiving early antibiotics (days 1–2 after birth) and those not. Subgroup analysis on duration of early antibiotic exposure will also occur. Secondary outcomes are: late onset sepsis, total antibiotic use, predischarge mortality, retinopathy of prematurity, intraventricular haemorrhage, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, focal intestinal perforation and any abdominal surgery. To address competing risks, incidence of death before day 7, 14 and 28 will be analysed. We will perform logistic regression and propensity score matched analyses. Statistical analyses will be guided by NEC risk factors, exposures and outcome presented in a causal diagram. These covariates include but are not limited to gestational age, birth weight, small for gestational age, sex, ethnicity, delivery mode, delivery without labour, Apgar score, early feeding and probiotic use. Sensitivity analyses of alternate NEC definitions, specific antibiotics and time of initiation will occur.

Ethics and dissemination

We will use deidentified data from NNRD, which holds permissions for the original data, from which parents can opt out and seek study-specific research ethics approval. The results will help to determine optimal use of early antibiotics for very preterm infants.

Implications

This data will help optimise early antibiotic use in preterm infants.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN55101779.
Relationship between cerebral vasospasm vascular territory and functional outcome after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Cole Tyler S , Rudy Robert F , Faridmoayer Erfan , Gandhi Sirin , Cavallo Claudio , Catapano Joshua S , Jadhav Ashutosh P , Lawton Michael T , Albuquerque Felipe C , Ducruet Andrew F
Published: November 2022

Background

Vasospasm following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) contributes significant morbidity and mortality after brain aneurysm rupture. However, the association between vascular territory of vasospasm and clinical outcome has not been studied. We present a hypothesis-generating study to determine whether the location of vasospasm within the intracranial circulation is associated with functional outcome after SAH.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of a prospective, intention-to-treat trial for aneurysmal SAH was performed to supplement trial outcomes with in-hospital angiographic imaging and treatment variables regarding vasospasm. The location of vasospasm and the position on the vessel (distal vs proximal) were evaluated. Modified Rankin scale (mRS) outcomes were assessed at discharge and 6 months, and predictive models were constructed.

Results

A total of 406 patients were included, 341 with follow-up data at 6 months. At discharge, left-sided vasospasm was associated with poor outcome (odds ratio (OR), 2.37; 95% CI, 1.25 to 4.66; P=0.01). At 6 months, anterior cerebral artery (ACA) vasospasm (OR, 3.87; 95% CI, 1.29 to 11.88; P=0.02) and basilar artery (BA) vasospasm (OR, 6.22; 95% CI, 1.54 to 27.11; P=0.01) were associated with poor outcome after adjustment. A model predicting 6-month mRS score and incorporating vasospasm variables achieved an area under the curve of 0.85 and a net improvement in reclassification of 13.2% (P<0.01) compared with a previously validated predictive model for aneurysmal SAH.

Conclusions

In aneurysmal SAH, left-sided vasospasm is associated with worse discharge functional status. At 6 months, both ACA and BA vasospasm are associated with unfavorable functional status.
Medicinal cannabis in palliative medicine: lessons learnt from randomised controlled trials
Authors: Gurgenci Taylan , Hardy Janet , Olson Rebecca , Huggett Georgie , Foster Karyn , Good Phillip
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To detail important lessons learnt while conducting several large, medicinal cannabis (MC) randomised clinical trials in a palliative cancer population.

Methods

Investigators involved in these trials had several meetings to agree on the major lessons learnt and how the various challenges could be mitigated in the future.

Results

The lessons were sorted into separate categories: patient confidentiality, family dynamics, driving, cost, unfounded beliefs, accessing specific MC products, trial funding, telehealth and COVID-19, and miscellaneous issues.

Conclusion

Using MC as the intervention arm in such trials entails some unique regulatory, logistical and other challenges. This short report presents key lessons learnt in conducting these randomised controlled trials in a palliative care population for the benefit of future investigators planning similar trials in a similar patient population.
Trichomycetes from freshwater and salt marsh mosquito larvae with a new species in the monotypic genus Legerioides
Authors: Strongman D.B. , Wang Y.
Published: November 2022

The intestinal tract of herbivorous arthropods provides a microhabitat for a group of protistan and fungal endosymbionts known as trichomycetes. Many hosts are the aquatic immature stages of insects. One understudied group is mosquito larvae with only six trichomycete species reported from the mosquito gut, but Smittium culicis Manier and Zancudomyces culisetae Y. Wang, Tretter, Lichtw. & M.M. White are globally distributed and common in these insects. Mosquitoes are mostly found in standing freshwater habitats, but there are species that are found in brackish water pools common in salt marshes. No trichomycetes are reported from salt marsh mosquitoes. A new species, Legerioides culicicola, is described from mosquito larvae from freshwater sources in Nova Scotia (NS) and Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada, and Smittium gronthidium Strongman & M.M. White is reported for the first time in this host. Smittium culicis is reported from salt marsh mosquitoes from collections in the same provinces in Eastern Canada. Information on the prevalence of mosquito trichomycetes is presented for sites in NS and PEI.
Can amino acid racemization be utilized for fish age validation?
Authors: Chamberlin Derek W. , Shervette Virginia R. , Kaufman Darrell S. , Bright Jordon E. , Patterson William F.
Published: November 2022

We investigated the relationship between aspartic acid d:l ratios and otolith-derived age estimates in Gulf of Mexico red snapper, Lutjanus campechanus (ages 1–26 years; R2 = 0.89) and Caribbean yellowtail snapper, Ocyurus chrysurus (ages 2–17 years; R2 = 0.84). The estimated racemization rate was 0.61 × 10−3 year−1 for red snapper and 1.28 × 10−3 year−1 for yellowtail snapper, reflecting temperature differences between study regions. Mean jackknifed error in ages predicted from aspartic acid d:l was 1.70 ± 0.39 years for red snapper and 1.57 ± 0.41 years for yellowtail snapper. Results suggest amino acid racemization may be an effective tool for direct age estimation and potentially age validation in fishes.
The Horava–Lifshitz modifications of the Casimir effect at finite temperature revisited
Authors: Cheng Hongbo
Published: November 2022

We investigate the Casimir force for parallel plates at finite temperature in the Horava–Lifshitz (HL) theory. We find that the HL exponent cannot be chosen as an integer, or the Casimir energy will be a constant, and further, the Casimir force between two parallel plates will vanish. The higher temperature causes the attractive Casimir force to weaken, which is consistent with the original results confirmed theoretically and experimentally. We can select the HL factor appropriately to obtain a thermally revised Casimir force similar to the standard results for the parallel plates.