bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PD‐L1 heterogeneity in patients with non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Wei Zhigang , Fan Linlin , Yang Xia , Li Jie , Zhan Xuemei , Ye Xin
Published: September 2021

Aims

Programmed death receptor ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) expression has been identified as the main predictor of responsiveness to programmed death receptor‐1 (PD‐1)‐targeted immunotherapy in patients with advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this retrospective study, we explored the inter‐ and intratumoral PD‐L1 heterogeneity in patients who received two separate pathologically verified NSCLC diagnoses at Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University and Linyi People's Hospital.

Methods

Patients were classified into four groups according to the type of intra‐ and intertumoral heterogeneity: Group 1 included patients in whom primary tumor heterogeneity was observed between biopsy and surgical specimens; in Group 2, heterogeneity was observed between primary tumors and paired dissected regional lymph nodes; in Group 3, heterogeneity was observed between resected primary tumors and distant metastases or recurrent disease; in Group 4, heterogeneity was observed before and after microwave ablation. Of the 221 enrolled patients, 97, 36, 57, and 31 were allocated to groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively.

Results

Significant heterogeneity was observed among all patients (P = 0.026) and within Group 1 (P = 0.022) when using a PD‐L1 tumor proportion score (TPS) cut‐off of 5%. However, no heterogeneity was observed in the other groups or with a PD‐L1 TPS cut‐off value of 1%.

Conclusions

Intratumoral PD‐L1 expression heterogeneity between the biopsy and surgical specimens of primary tumors was more frequently detected than intertumoral heterogeneity in advanced NSCLC.
Mycoplasma genitalium prevalence and macrolide resistance‐associated mutations and coinfection with Chlamydia trachomatis in Southern Jutland, Denmark
Authors: Desdorf Rasmus , Andersen Niles Moller , Chen Ming
Published: September 2021

This study aims to investigate prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium and macrolide resistance‐associated mutations and coinfection with other sexually transmitted bacteria in Southern Jutland, Denmark, where this information is very limited. Urinary samples from patients suspected of sexually transmitted bacterial infections collected at primary healthcare facilities in Southern Jutland are routinely tested for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. 601 of these samples were analysed with SpeeDx MG+23S reagents, which can detect M. genitalium and macrolide resistance‐mediating mutations in the 23S rRNA gene. Moreover, 147 C. trachomatis positive urinary samples from routine test were also analysed with the PCR assay to detect M. genitalium. 72 out of 601 samples were detected positive for C. trachomatis (12%), five samples (0.83%) positive for N. gonorrhoeae and 25 samples positive for M. genitalium (4.2%). 14 of the 25 M. genitalium samples were detected having 23S rRNA gene mutations associated with macrolide resistance (56%). 25 of 147 C. trachomatis positive samples were tested positive for M. genitalium (17%) and two of them were positive for M. genitalium and N. gonorrhoeae (1.4%). The high prevalence of M. genitalium and macrolide resistance‐associated mutation and the coinfection with C. trachomatis in the region suggesting that M. genitalium testing should be included in routine sexually transmitted infection screening.
The expression and prognostic relevance of CDH3 in tongue squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Seppälä Miia , Jauhiainen Laura , Tervo Sanni , Al‐Samadi Ahmed , Rautiainen Markus , Salo Tuula , Lehti Kaisa , Monni Outi , Hautaniemi Sampsa , Tynninen Olli , Mäkitie Antti , Mäkinen Laura K. , Paavonen Timo , Toppila‐Salmi Sanna
Published: September 2021

P‐cadherin (CDH3) is a cell‐to‐cell adhesion molecule that regulates several cellular homeostatic processes in normal tissues. Lack of CDH3 expression is associated with aggressive behavior in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Previous studies have shown that CDH3 is downregulated in high‐grade OSCC and its reduced expression is predictive for poorer survival. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression and prognostic relevance of CDH3 in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC). A retrospective series of 211 TSCC and 50 lymph node samples were stained immunohistochemically with polyclonal antibody (anti‐CDH3). CDH3 expression was assessed semi‐quantitatively with light microscopy. Fisher’s exact test was used to compare patient and tumor characteristics, and the correlations were tested by Spearman correlation. Survival curves were drawn by the Kaplan–Meier method and analyzed by the log‐rank test. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression was used to estimate the association between CDH3 expression and survival. CDH3 expression did not affect TSCC patient’s disease‐specific survival or overall survival. Strong CDH3 expression in the primary tumor predicted poor disease‐specific and overall survival in patients with recurrent disease. CDH3 expression in lymph nodes without metastasis was negative in all cases. CDH3 expression was positive in all lymph node metastases with extranodal extension. In contrast to previous report about the prognostic value of CDH3 in OSCC, we were not able to validate the result in TSCC.
Aquaporins in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Bruun‐Sørensen Anne Sofie , Edamana Sarannya , Login Frédéric H. , Borgquist Signe , Nejsum Lene N.
Published: September 2021

Aquaporins are water channel proteins facilitating passive transport of water across cellular membranes. Aquaporins are over‐ or ectopically expressed in a multitude of cancers, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, which is a highly aggressive cancer with low survival rate. Evidence suggests that aquaporins can affect multiple cellular processes involved in cancer development and progression including epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, cellular migration, cell proliferation, invasion, and cellular adhesions. In pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, aquaporin‐1, aquaporin‐3, and aquaporin‐5 are overexpressed and have been associated with metastatic processes and poor survival. Thus, aquaporin expression has been suggested as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
Magnetic Fe3O4@graphene oxide improves the therapeutic effects of embryonic stem cells on acute liver damage
Authors: Foroutan Tahereh , Kassaee Mohammad Zaman , Salari Mahdi , Ahmady Fatemeh , Molavi Fatemeh , Moayer Fariborz
Published: September 2021

Objective

Acute liver failure is usually associated with inflammation and oxidation of hepatocytes and has high mortality and resource costs. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs) has occasionally been reported to have no beneficial effect due to poor transplantation and the survival of implanted cells. Recent studies showed that embryonic stem cell (ESC)‐derived MSCs are an alternative for regenerative medicine. On the other hand, graphene‐based nanostructures have proven useful in biomedicine. In this study, we investigated whether magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) improved the effects of ESC‐MSC conditioned medium (CM) on protecting hepatocytes and stimulating the regeneration of damaged liver cells.

Materials and methods

To provide a rat model of acute liver failure, male rats were injected intraperitoneally with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). The rats were randomly divided into six groups, namely control, sham, CCl4, ESC‐MSC‐CM, MGO and ESC‐MSC‐CM + MGO. In the experimental groups, the rats received, depending on the group, 2 ml/kg body weight CCl4 and either ESC‐MSC‐CM with 5 × 106 MSCs or 300 μg/kg body weight MGO or both. Symptoms of acute liver failure appeared 4 days after the injection. All groups were compared and analysed both histologically and biochemically 4 days after the injection. Finally, the results of ESC‐MSC‐CM and MSC‐CM were compared.

Results

The results indicated that the use of MGO enhanced the effect of ESC‐MSC‐CM on reducing necrosis, inflammation, aspartate transaminase, alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase in the CCl4‐induced liver failure of the rat model. Also, the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) was significantly upregulated after treatment with MGO. Also, the results showed that the ESC‐MSC‐CM has more efficient effective compared to MSC‐CM.

Conclusion

Magnetic graphene oxide improved the hepatoprotective effects of ESC‐MSC‐CM on acute liver damage, probably by suppressing necrosis, apoptosis and inflammation of hepatocytes.
Characterization of heart rate variability and oxygen saturation in sepsis patients
Authors: Al‐Mualemi Bilal Yaseen , Lu Lu
Published: September 2021

One of the most major and common health crises which occur across all the hospitals, worldwide, is seen to be sepsis that occurs in patients. However, despite its wide prevalence no novel tool has been devised for predicting its occurrence. An accurate and early prediction of sepsis in the patients could significantly help the physicians administer proper treatment and decrease the uncertain diagnosis. Some machine‐learning‐based models or schemes can help in identifying the potential clinical variables and display a better performance compared to the prevailing conventional low‐performance models. In this study, a machine learning‐based scheme for fast and accurate sepsis identification was proposed. This scheme employed the power spectrum and mean estimation for data record intervals, which were then classified for reaching the final decision. For a 72‐h interval, the obtained detection accuracy was 94.2% that shows very good sign to use it as a fast and robust sepsis identification.
Net effects of conservation agriculture principles on sustainable land use: A synthesis
Authors: Xiao Liangang , Kuhn Nikolaus J. , Zhao Rongqin , Cao Lianhai
Published: September 2021

Despite the strong recommendations from scientists, to till or not to till remains a confusing question for many farmers around the world due to the worries of crop yield decline and negative impacts on soils and environment. A confused understanding of the role of the individual principles of conservation agriculture significantly limits the effectiveness and applicability of soil conservation strategies and frameworks to achieve sustainable agriculture. By distinguishing clearly between the different principles of conservation agriculture, the net effects of no‐tillage on improving and sustaining agro‐ecosystems are analyzed based on 49 recent meta‐analyses in this study. The review shows that no‐tillage leads to a significant decline of crop yield (−8.0% to 10.0%, median: −1.9%), whereas residue retention represents the key driver for improving crop production (4.0%–28.0%, median: 8.2%). The efficacy of no‐tillage for water erosion control, especially runoff (−24.0% to −0.7%, median: −10.0%), is often insignificant and otherwise lower compared to residue retention (−87.0% to −14.0%, median: −45.5%). Soil carbon sequestration potential under conservation tillage is quite limited or even close to zero, and if any, it can likely be attributed to the associated residue retention (−0.1% to 12.8%, median: 9.7%) rather than no‐tillage (−2.0% to 10.0%, median: 4.8%). Our analysis illustrates that in conservation agriculture, no‐tillage as the original and central principle of soil management is often less effective than associated supplementary measures, in particular residue retention. Residue retention may therefore play a key role for achieving sustainable land use. An additional benefit of residue retention is the less dramatic change of farming practices compared to no‐tillage. The results of this review illustrate that a new framework for assessing the benefits of conservation practices has to be developed. To till, or not to till, is not the question: residue retention seems more critical.
Did she have an epidural? The long‐term consequences of postdural puncture headache and the role of unintended dural puncture
Authors: Barad Meredith , Carroll Ian , Reina Miguel A. , Ansari Jessica , Flood Pamela
Published: September 2021

Objective

This narrative literature review examines the long‐term impact of postdural puncture headache (PDPH) in postpartum women following an unintended dural puncture (UDP) with a large bore needle commonly used for epidural catheter placement. It seeks to bridge the knowledge gap for the neurologist as to the mounting body of obstetric anesthesia literature on the development of chronic headache after PDPH with this unique needle.

Background

Headache is the most common complication of dural puncture, and the risk is greatest in the parturient population. Preexisting risk factors for this population include youth and sex, and after UDP with a large bore needle, almost 70%–80% report a headache. Additionally, there appears to be a significant cohort who experience long‐term, persistent headache after UDP.

Methods

We performed a narrative review of literature using PubMed, searching terms that included long‐term follow‐up after UDP with a large bore needle in the postpartum population.

Results

In women who had UDP with a large bore needle used for epidural catheter placement at delivery, the rate of chronic debilitating headache is around 30% in the months following delivery and may persist for up to a year or longer.

Conclusion

Based on the existing literature, we have mounting evidence that UDP with the large bore needle used to place an epidural catheter should be understood as a high‐risk inciting event for the development of long‐term headaches not simply a high risk of acute PDPH. Additionally, consideration should be given to stratifying the etiology of PDPH, based on needle type, and recognizing the entity of chronic PDPH, thus allowing for improvements in research and diagnosis.
Perspectives of patients with depression and chronic pain about bone health after a fragility fracture: A qualitative study
Authors: Sale Joanna E. M. , Gignac Monique , Frankel Lucy , Thielke Stephen , Bogoch Earl , Elliot‐Gibson Victoria , Hawker Gillian , Funnell Larry
Published: September 2021

Background

Compromised bone health is often associated with depression and chronic pain.

Objective

To examine: (1) the experience of existing depression and chronic nonfracture pain in patients with a fragility fracture; and (2) the effects of the fracture on depression and pain.

Design

A phenomenological study guided by Giorgi's analytical procedures.

Setting and Participants

Fracture patients who reported taking prescription medication for one or more comorbidities, excluding compromised bone health.

Main Variables Studied

Patients were interviewed within 6 weeks of their fracture, and 1 year later. Interview questions addressed the recent fracture and patients' experience with bone health and their other health conditions, such as depression and chronic pain, including the medications taken for these conditions.

Results

Twenty‐six patients (5 men, 21 women) aged 45–84 years old with hip (n = 5) and nonhip (n = 21) fractures were recruited. Twenty‐one participants reported depression and/or chronic nonfracture pain, of which seven reported having both depression and chronic pain. Two themes were consistent, based on our analysis: (1) depression and chronic pain overshadowed attention to bone health; and (2) the fracture exacerbated reported experiences of existing depression and chronic pain.

Conclusion

Experiences with depression and pain take priority over bone health and may worsen as a result of the fracture. Health care providers treating fragility fractures might ask patients about depression and pain and take appropriate steps to address patients' more general emotional and physical state.

Patient Contribution

A patient representative was involved in the study conception, data interpretation and manuscript writing.
The emerging role of mast cells in skin cancers: involved cellular and molecular mechanisms
Authors: Elieh Ali Komi Daniel , Jalili Ahmad
Published: September 2021

Skin cancers are the most common cancers worldwide. They can be divided into nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC) including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and less common lymphomas and merkel cell carcinoma, and melanomas. Melanomas comprise less than 5% of skin cancer rate but are responsible for more than 90% of skin cancer death. Mast cells (MCs) are multifunctional cells that play an important role in inflammatory and allergic reactions. They attract other key players of the immune system by releasing cytokines. Healthy human skin comprises MCs under physiological status, and the number can increase under certain conditions including skin malignancies postulating their possible role in pathogenesis of and immunity against skin cancers. MCs respond to cytokines released by tumor stromal cells, release mediators (including histamine and tryptase), and induce the neovascularization, degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM), and induce mitogenesis. However, MCs may use molecular mechanisms to exert immunosuppressive activity including releasing complement C3, lower expression of CD40L, and overexpression of enzymes with vitamin D3 metabolizing activity including CYP27A1 and CYP27B1. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the role of MCs in pathogenesis and immunity against skin cancers.
Distance learning perceptions during the coronavirus outbreak: Freshmen versus more advanced students
Authors: Baruth Orit , Gabbay Hagit , Cohen Anat , Bronshtein Alla , Ezra Orit
Published: September 2021

Background

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID‐19) at the beginning of 2020 forced most higher education institutions to shift immediately from traditional learning to distance learning and emergency remote teaching (ERT).

Objectives

This research aimed to capture the authentic sounds of this unusual learning experience from the field while it was still fresh and to explore congruence with existing models of online learning success factors. We also aimed to examine the differences between freshman students and more advanced students (second year onwards) with regard to the emerging data and its respective model.

Methods

During the second semester of 2020, 170 Tel Aviv university students majoring in various fields responded to an online questionnaire consisting of open‐ended questions.

Results and conclusions

The researchers classified the themes retrieved from 1559 statements into a framework of critical success factors for distance learning. The framework included five dimensions: course, student, instructor, learning environment and institution. Well‐known benefits of distance learning emerged, among them flexibility and personalized learning pace. Nevertheless, the findings revealed that the rapid transition to distance learning posed challenges and difficulties, mainly concerning the readiness of students and instructors for this form of teaching and learning. The number of statements in instructor dimension indicated the importance of providing support and training to instructors and staff. Significant differences were found in students' perceptions according to the year standing. More advanced students made more ‘internal’ references, attributing more statements to student and learning environment dimensions. In contrast, freshman made more ‘external’ references, attributing more statements to instructor and course dimensions than students in their second year and onwards.

Major takeaways

The results may help in planning and preparing for times of crisis. From a broader perspective, the findings may help in designing ways to incorporate distance learning.
Editorial Perspective: Prato Research Collaborative for change in parent and child mental health – principles and recommendations for working with children and parents living with parental mental illness
Authors: Reupert Andrea , Bee Penny , Hosman Clemens , van Doesum Karin , Drost Louisa M. , Falkov Adrian , Foster Kim , Gatsou Lina , Gladstone Brenda , Goodyear Melinda , Grant Anne , Grove Christine , Isobel Sophie , Kowalenko Nick , Lauritzen Camilla , Maybery Darryl , Mordoch Elaine , Nicholson Joanne , Reedtz Charlotte , Solantaus Tytti , Stavnes Kristin , Weimand Bente M. , Yates Scott , Ruud Torleif
Published: September 2021

Children whose parents have mental illnesses are among the most vulnerable in our communities. There is however, much that can be done to prevent or mitigate the impact of a parent’s illness on children. Notwithstanding the availability of several evidence‐based interventions, efforts to support these children have been limited by a lack of adequate support structures. Major service reorientation is required to better meet the needs of these children and their families. This editorial provides recommendations for practice, organisational, and systems change.
The prevalence and characterization of self‐perceived sensitive facial skin among Freshmen in Urumqi, China
Authors: Feng Yanyan , Shi Qun , Ding Yuan , Xiang Fang , Liu Jianyong , Yu Junfeng
Published: September 2021

Background

The clinical signs, symptoms, and the etiology of sensitive skin (SS) in general populations have been extensively studied over the last decades, but the characteristics of SS in Xinjiang, particularly the age‐related characteristics, still remain unknown.

Objective

This study aimed to characterize the SS facial skin in normal adolescents of Xinjiang.

Methods

A questionnaire was developed based on SS and given to each participant. The clinical signs, symptoms, associated trigger factors, and DQLI of facial SS were compared in normal young Chinese males versus females.

Results

A total of 3584 freshmen were investigated, wherein 83 were diagnoses as self‐reported facial SS (2.3%). The prevalence of SS was found to be significantly higher in females than in males. Spicy food, mood change, and skin care products are the major contributors to facial SS (p < 0.01). Moreover, family history and sun exposure are closely related to the onset of SS (p < 0.05). More SS patients were sensitive to emotional factors and had a greater difficulty with shopping or housework, dressing, socializing, or other leisure activities. The main manifestations of SS are flushing, erythema, and dry skin on buccal, frontal, and temporal sputum. The symptoms mainly include skin burning and dry itching, and two or more symptoms at the same time. The absolute value of red area and pores of SS were higher than that of normal skin (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The prevalence, symptoms, clinical characteristics, and triggering factors of facial SS in normal young of Xinjiang, especially freshmen in the 17–21 age group, were not similar with SS, which might be due to racial and regional differences.
Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour to assess nursing and allied health students' knowledge and intention to care for patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Al Maskari Turkiya S. , Al Barwani Saada , Al Alawi Salwa S. , Al Reesi Hamed Khamis , Alshidi Amal S. , Al Maskari Mohammed A.
Published: September 2021

Aims and Objectives

To assess nursing and allied health students' demographics, knowledge and intentions to care for patients with an infectious disease, COVID‐19.

Background

COVID‐19 has caused a public health crisis and worldwide panic. Little is known about students' knowledge levels and intentions to care for infected patients during pandemics.

Design

A quantitative, cross‐sectional study.

Method

A cross‐sectional study with a convenience sample (N = 480) of nursing and allied health students was analysed using the Mann–Whitney and Spearman's correlation tests.

Results

At least 60% of the participants attained high scores for 16 of the 22 items on the knowledge scale. Knowledge was positively associated with attitude (rs = .19, p < .01) and perceived behavioural control (rs = .38, p < .01) and negatively associated with subjective norms (rs = −.11, p < .05). Senior students had higher scores (p = .024) in knowledge. Intention was negatively correlated with knowledge (rs = −.24, p < .01) and perceived behavioural control (rs = −.16, p < .01). Male students (p = .031) and younger students had higher scores in intention (p = .040). Males had higher scores in subjective norms (p < .001), and older and senior students had higher scores in perceived behavioural control (p < .001).

Conclusions

Despite the current knowledge on COVID‐19 available through multimedia‐communication channels, students had negative perceived behavioural controls and intentions to care for COVID‐19 patients. Formal education and training are required to enhance students' intentions to care for patients with infectious diseases. Additionally, demographics and belief variables influence students’ intentions to care, and further in‐depth analysis is required.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This study suggests the importance of updating and contextualizing nursing and allied health curricula to meet global infectious disease guidelines and, ultimately, to support the healthcare system with efficient practitioners in future pandemics.
The pairedA‐NotA withABandBApairs
Authors: Bi Jian , Kuesten Carla
Published: September 2021

This article explores the two‐interval, two‐alternative forced‐choice (2I2AFC) paradigm in signal detection theory (SDT), which can also be called the paired A‐Not A with AB and BA pairs in the sensory and consumer fields. The article describes how to estimate the parameters and their variances from the psychometric function of the method. Tables and R codes were developed and are provided for the estimations. The performance of the method is evaluated. It shows that the paired A‐Not A with AB and BA pairs is more effective and powerful than the conventional A‐Not A and the A‐Not A with reminder (A‐Not AR) tests. An extension of the method, that is, the ratings of the paired A‐Not A with AB and BA pairs is also explored. A facial shine case study applying this method is provided.

Practical applications

As one of the paired versions of sensory discrimination methods, the paired A‐Not A with AB and BA pairs has wide potential applications to detect and measure sensory difference, especially to detect and measure before‐after treatment effects of products. The method can be used to detect both product effects and serving order effects.
Role of Inhibitor SMADs in Stage 3 Grade B periodontitis before and after periodontal treatment
Authors: Çelen Selman , Öngöz Dede Figen , Avşar Candeğer
Published: September 2021

Objective

This study aimed to examine the levels of transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β) and inhibitory‐Smads (I‐Smads) in saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in patients with Stage 3 Grade B periodontitis before and after non‐surgical periodontal treatment.

Background

Recently, it has been stated that Smads play an active role in all conditions where TGF‐β is involved, including periodontal inflammation.

Methods

Twenty healthy participants (control) and 20 patients with Stage 3, Grade B periodontitis were recruited. GCF and saliva samples and clinical periodontal recordings were investigated at the baseline and 1 month after treatment. TGF‐β and I‐Smads (Smads 6 and 7) were determined by ELISA.

Results

Salivary Smad6 and Smad7 levels were significantly lower in the periodontitis group than healthy controls (p < .05), while there was no difference in salivary TGF‐β levels between groups at baseline (p > .05). The total amounts and concentrations of GCF TGF‐β, Smad6, and Smad7 were significantly lower in the periodontitis group than healthy controls at baseline (p < .05), and then decreased in concentration levels with treatment (p < .001). Positive correlations were found between total amounts and concentrations of GCF TGF‐β, Smad6, and Smad7 (p < .05).

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that Smad6 and Smad7 in GCF and saliva decreased in periodontitis and then increased after periodontal treatment. Our study suggests that I‐Smads act in parallel with TGF‐β in periodontal inflammation and may have a role in the development of periodontitis.
Repeated sampling of individuals reveals impact of tropical and temperate habitats on microbiota of a migratory bird
Authors: Skeen Heather R. , Cooper Nathan W. , Hackett Shannon J. , Bates John M. , Marra Peter P.
Published: September 2021

Migratory animals experiencing substantial change in diet and habitat across the annual cycle may have corresponding shifts in host‐associated microbial diversity. Using automated telemetry and radio tags to recapture birds, we examined gut microbiota structure in the same population and often same individual of Kirtland's Warblers (Setophaga kirtlandii) initially sampled on their wintering grounds in The Bahamas and subsequently resampled within their breeding territories in Michigan, USA. Initial sampling occurred in March and April and resampling occurred in May, June and early July. The composition of the most abundant phyla and classes of the warblers’ microbiota is similar to that of other migratory birds. However, we detected notable variation in abundance and diversity of numerous bacterial taxa, including a decrease in microbial richness and significant differences in microbial communities when comparing the microbiota of birds first captured in The Bahamas to that of birds recaptured in Michigan. This is observed at the individual and population level. Furthermore, we found that 22 bacterial genera exhibit heightened abundance within specific sampling periods and are probably associated with diet and environmental change. Finally, we described a small, species‐specific shared microbial profile that spans multiple time periods and environments within the migratory cycle. Our research highlights that the avian gut microbiota is dynamic over time, most significantly impacted by changing environments associated with migration. These results support the need for full annual cycle monitoring of migratory bird microbiota to improve understanding of seasonal host movement ecologies and response to recurrent physiological stressors.
An analysis of Norwegian public health nursing curricula: Where is the nursing literature?
Authors: Laholt Hilde , Bergvoll Lise‐Marie , Fjelldal Sunniva Solhaug , Clancy Anne
Published: September 2021

Background

Norwegian public health nurses prevent diseases and promote health in children and young people aged 0–20 and their families. Public health nursing programs prepare students for their practical role and provide relevant theoretical knowledge.

Objectives

To gain knowledge of the literature in the Norwegian public health nursing curricula, and to examine further the nursing base in these curricula.

Design

An explorative and descriptive design was chosen.

Sample

Reading lists based on syllabus documents from the 10 higher educational institutions in Norway offering programs in public health nursing.

Measurements

A summative content analysis and a categorization of content from reading lists were performed.

Results

Numerical information on the content and categorization of reading lists shows that social science and humanities literature dominates, followed by psychology and medicine. Nursing texts, theories and philosophy comprise only a minor part of the curricula.

Conclusion

The paper provides valuable data on the theoretical focus in Norwegian public health nursing and raises important questions about the paucity of nursing texts in the curriculum. The imbalance in reading lists in Norway should be studied further and similar studies conducted in other countries to encourage reflection on the theoretical content of public health nursing education globally.
A primary thymic adenocarcinoma with two components that traced distinct evolutionary trajectories
Authors: Ishida Ayami , Yamada Yosuke , Ishida Yoshihiro , Yoshizawa Akihiko , Nakajima Daisuke , Date Hiroshi , Marx Alexander , Haga Hironori
Published: September 2021

Even though it is a rare subtype, identifying the genetic features of thymic adenocarcinoma is valuable for a multifaceted understanding of thymic epithelial tumors. We experienced a female patient with thymic adenocarcinoma associated with thymic cysts. The tumor consisted of a solid whitish lesion (lesion‐1) and a large cystic lesion with small papillary nodules (lesion‐2). Microscopically, lesion‐1 exhibited poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma accompanying numerous inflammatory cell infiltrates, and lesion‐2 (the nodules within the cystic lesion) exhibited enteric‐type adenocarcinoma. Consistent with the histological difference, whole‐exome sequencing revealed that these two components exhibited distinct genetic features, except for only a few shared mutations, including CDKN2A truncation. Lesion‐1 exhibited microsatellite instability‐high signature with high mutation burden, for which immune checkpoint inhibitors might apply; and lesion‐2 exhibited whole‐genome doubling with KRAS hotspot mutation. Our case presents novel genetic features of thymic adenocarcinoma and demonstrates that distinct mutational processes can be operative within a single tumor.
We See Data Everywhere Except in the Productivity Statistics
Authors: Goodridge Peter , Haskel Jonathan , Edquist Harald
Published: September 2021

This paper uses Labor Force Survey data for European countries to estimate national investment in data assets, where the asset boundary is extended beyond that for software and databases as currently defined in the System of National Accounts. We find that: (a) in 2011–2018, 1.4 percent of EU‐28 employment was engaged in the formation of (software and) data assets, with a mean growth rate of 5 percent per annum; (b) on average in 2011–2016, expanding the asset boundary raises the level of own‐account GFCF in software and databases in the EU‐16 by 61 percent, and mean growth in real investment in own‐account software and data assets to 6.9 percent pa, compared to 2.7 percent pa in national accounts; (c) in 2011–2016, expansion of the asset boundary raises labor productivity growth in the EU‐13 from 0.79 percent to 0.83 percent pa, and the contribution of software and data capital deepening over three‐fold, from 0.03 percent to 0.10 percent pa.
Urnings: A New Method for Tracking Dynamically Changing Parameters in Paired Comparison Systems
Authors: Bolsinova Maria , Maris Gunter , Hofman Abe D. , van der Maas Han L. J. , Brinkhuis Matthieu J. S.
Published: September 2021

We introduce a new rating system for tracking the development of parameters based on a stream of observations that can be viewed as paired comparisons. Rating systems are applied in competitive games, adaptive learning systems and platforms for product and service reviews. We model each observation as an outcome of a game of chance that depends on the parameters of interest (e.g. the outcome of a chess game depends on the abilities of the two players). Determining the probabilities of the different game outcomes is conceptualized as an urn problem, where a rating is represented by a probability (i.e. proportion of balls in the urn). This setup allows for evaluating the standard errors of the ratings and performing statistical inferences about the development of, and relations between, parameters. Theoretical properties of the system in terms of the invariant distributions of the ratings and their convergence are derived. The properties of the rating system are illustrated with simulated examples and its potential for answering research questions is illustrated using data from competitive chess, a movie review system, and an adaptive learning system for math.
Global value chain participation and its impact on industrial upgrading
Authors: Tian Kailan , Dietzenbacher Erik , Jong‐A‐Pin Richard
Published: September 2021

Participation in global value chains (GVCs) has become a central topic in trade and development policy. It has opened new ways to achieve industrial upgrading. However, some theoretical models suggest that not all countries will upgrade through participation in GVCs. Using panel data from the World Input‐Output Database, we examine the effects of backward and forward GVC participation on three dimensions of industrial upgrading (process, product and skill upgrading). We find that backward GVC participation provides more upgrading opportunities for developing countries as it enables a less developed country to import sophisticated inputs. This activates learning through embodied knowledge. In contrast, forward participation has higher level of upgrading effect on developed countries.
Interruptible Power
Authors: Webber Michael E.
Published: September 2021

A leading energy expert examines the causes of the Texas power crisis of February 2021. He finds that many of the contributing factors were well known beforehand and even caused a smaller power outage in 2011. He then lists some steps that could help reduce the potential for another, similar blackout.
Reaching New Heights
Authors: Coaker, P.E. Jim , Gibson George W.
Published: September 2021

The history of the ASME A17 elevator safety code is intertwined with the ability to build ever-taller skyscrapers. One key landmark, the Empire State Building, may have been impossible without the contribution of ASME code committee members.
Detecting Multidimensional Pareto Fronts During the Optimization of a Return Channel Within a Centrifugal Compressor
Authors: Bisping Jan , Jeschke Peter
Published: September 2021

We explain the advantages of using big-data methods for evaluating numerical optimization. The investigation focuses on the performance potential of three-dimensional return channel vanes under realistic manufacturing constraints. Based on an analysis of an optimization database, this paper presents a systematic approach for analysis and design guidelines for three-dimensional return channel vanes. To this end, a validated numerical setup was developed on the basis of experimental investigations, followed by a numerical optimization using a genetic algorithm and an artificial neural network. The optimization database was analyzed with a dimension reduction method called t-stochastic neighbor embedding. This method enabled linking geometric design features with physical correlations and, finally, with the objective functions of the optimization. With the help of the detected correlations within the database, it has been possible to work out a method for deciding on the selection of a design on the Pareto front and to draw new relevant conclusions. The systematic use of big-data methods proposed enables a more penetrating insight to be gained into numerical optimization, which is more general and relevant than those gained by simply comparing a single optimized design with a reference design. An analysis of the Pareto front reveals that 0.6% efficiency can be exchanged for 20% more homogeneous outflow.
Metabolomics activity screening of T cell–induced colitis reveals anti-inflammatory metabolites
Authors: Montenegro-Burke J. Rafael , Kok Bernard P. , Guijas Carlos , Domingo-Almenara Xavier , Moon Clara , Galmozzi Andrea , Kitamura Seiya , Eckmann Lars , Saez Enrique , Siuzdak Gary E. , Wolan Dennis W.
Published: September 2021

Metabolites that are dysregulated in a mouse model of inflammatory bowel disease are identified and characterized.
Uncloaking tumors
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: September 2021

Blocking PARP7 enables an antiviral-associated pathway of cancer immunosurveillance.
Probing the Role of
bba30,
a Highly Conserved Gene of the Lyme Disease Spirochete, Throughout the Mouse-Tick Infectious Cycle
Authors: Bhatia Bharti , Hillman Chadwick , Stewart Philip E. , Rosa Patricia
Published: September 2021

Borrelia burgdorferi
, the causative agent of Lyme disease, has a complex and segmented genome consisting of a small linear chromosome and up to 21 linear and circular plasmids. Some of these plasmids are essential as they carry genes that are critical during the life cycle of the Lyme disease spirochete.
On the Offensive: the Role of Outer Membrane Vesicles in the Successful Dissemination of New Delhi Metallo-β-lactamase (NDM-1)
Authors: Martínez Melina M. B. , Bonomo Robert A. , Vila Alejandro J. , Maffía Paulo C. , González Lisandro J.
Published: September 2021

Resistance to carbapenems, last-resort antibiotics, is spreading worldwide, raising great concern. NDM-1 is one of the most potent and widely disseminated carbapenem-hydrolyzing enzymes spread among many bacteria and is secreted to the extracellular medium within outer membrane vesicles.
Prevalence of neurological problems in a community-based sample of paediatric coeliac disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: O'Neill Thom , Gillett Peter M , Wood Philippa , Beattie David , Patil Deepa J , Chin Richard F
Published: September 2021

Background

The prevalence of and risk factors for neurological problems in childhood coeliac disease (CD) are unclear.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional, community-based audit of CD in children diagnosed from January 2010 to December 2016 in Lothian.

Results

79 (28%) of 284 children with CD (201, 70.8% female) (mean age 8.3 years, range of 1–16) had neurological problems. Fifteen (5.3%) had headaches/migraine, 10 (3.5%) anxiety, 8 (2.8%) motor/co-ordination problems / ataxia (there were no patients with ataxia), 7 (2.5%) had behavioural issues, 5 (1.8 %) with ASD, 5 (1.8%) low mood, 4 (1.4%) ADD/ ADHD, 3 (1.1%) seizures and 2 (0.7%) had neuropathy. Neurological problems were more common with later age at CD diagnosis (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.14) and male gender (OR 1.69, 95% CI 0.96 to 2.95).

Conclusion

Prevalence of neurological problems in children with CD in Lothian is lower than published adult CD studies and similar or lower to the reported prevalence in the general childhood population.
Recommendations following a modified UK-Delphi consensus study on best practice for referral and management of severe asthma
Authors: Jackson David J , Butler Claire , Chaudhuri Rekha , Pink Katie , Niven Robert , Prigmore Samantha , Renwick Charlotte , Calvert James
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Severe asthma affects an estimated 3%–5% of people with asthma and is associated with frequent exacerbations, poor symptom control and significant morbidity from the disease itself, as well as high dose of inhaled and systemic steroids used to treat it. The introduction of specialist asthma services across the UK has attempted to improve quality of care and ensure that patients undergo a full systematic assessment prior to initiation of advanced biological therapies. However, improvements are required in the patient pathway to minimise avoidable harm.

Objectives

To define standards of care in areas where the evidence base is lacking through patient and healthcare professional (HCP) consensus.

Methods

The precision UK National Working Group of asthma experts identified 42 statements formed from 7 key themes. An online four-point Likert scale questionnaire was sent to HCPs working in asthma throughout the UK to assess agreement (consensus) with these statements; a subset of the statements formed a patient questionnaire. Consensus was defined as high if ≥75% and very high if ≥90% of respondents agreed with a statement.

Results

A total of 117/197 responses (59.3% response rate) were received from severe asthma patients (n=15) and HCPs (n=102) including respiratory physicians, respiratory nurse specialists, respiratory pharmacists, specialist physiotherapists and general practitioners. Consensus was very high in 25 (60%) statements, high in 12 (29%) statements and was not achieved in 5 (12%) statements. Based on the consensus scores, the precision UK National Working Group derived 10 key recommendations. These focus on referrals from primary and secondary care, accessing specialist asthma services, homecare provision for severe asthma patients and outcome measures.

Conclusions

Implementation of these 10 recommendations across the severe asthma pathway in the UK has the potential to improve outcomes for patients by reducing delays to assessment and initiation of advanced phenotype-specific therapies.
Socioeconomic position and SARS-CoV-2 infections: seroepidemiological findings from a German nationwide dynamic cohort
Authors: Hoebel Jens , Grabka Markus M , Schröder Carsten , Haller Sebastian , Neuhauser Hannelore , Wachtler Benjamin , Schaade Lars , Liebig Stefan , Hövener Claudia , Zinn Sabine
Published: September 2021

Background

Evidence on the relationship between socioeconomic position (SEP) and infections with SARS-CoV-2 is still limited as most of the available studies are ecological in nature. This is the first German nationwide study to examine differences in the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infections according to SEP at the individual level.

Methods

The ‘CORONA-MONITORING bundesweit’ (RKI-SOEP) study is a seroepidemiological survey among a dynamic cohort of the German adult population (n=15 122; October 2020–February 2021). Dried blood samples were tested for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and oral-nasal swabs for viral RNA. SEP was measured by education and income. Robust logistic regression was used to examine adjusted associations of SARS-CoV-2 infections with SEP.

Results

288 participants were seropositive, PCR positive or self-reported a previous laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. The adjusted odds of SARS-CoV-2 infection were 1.87-fold (95% CI 1.06 to 3.29) higher among low-educated than highly educated adults. Evidence was weaker for income differences in infections (OR=1.65; 95% CI 0.89 to 3.05). Highly educated adults had lower odds of undetected infection.

Conclusion

The results indicate an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in low-educated groups. To promote health equity in the pandemic and beyond, social determinants should be addressed more in infection protection and pandemic planning.
Trends in clinical development of pediatric cancer for PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors: an analysis of ClinicalTrials.gov
Authors: Que Yi , Hu Yang , Hong Dongchun , Zhang Yizhuo
Published: September 2021

Compared with cytotoxic chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, positive findings have been acquired through the approach of blocking the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) pathway with antibodies that exert inhibitory effects on PD-1 or cell death protein ligand 1 (PD-L1). Results from clinical trials showed great potential in adult patients with cancers, such as melanoma, non-small cell carcinoma, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. However, studies of checkpoint inhibitors specifically targeting PD-1/PD-L1 in pediatric patients are limited. We evaluated ongoing clinical trials using PD-1 or PD-L1 inhibitors alone or in combination with other therapies to treat pediatric cancer. The proportion of PD-1/PD-L1 combination clinical trials has increased since 2018; the three most common trials over the past 2 years used CTLA-4 monoclonal antibodies, chemotherapy, and therapies that target the vascular endothelial growth factor axis. This commentary aimed to provide trends and specific insights into methods for conducting clinical trials of immunotherapy in the pediatric population.