bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microencapsulation of astaxanthin based on emulsion solvent evaporation and subsequent spray drying
Authors: Fang Rongxi , Liang Hongshan , Li Jing , Chen Yijie , Luo Xiaogang , Li Yan , Li Bin , Liu Shilin
Published: February 2022

Astaxanthin (AXT) is widely used in the food, drug, and cosmetics fields, but its applications are extremely limited by its intrinsic properties. Herein, a novel encapsulation system had been performed to fabricate AXT‐loaded microcapsules through emulsion solvent evaporation and spray‐dried methodologies. The influence of polylactic acid (PLA) concentrations on the characteristics of AXT‐loaded dispersions and resultant microcapsules were investigated. The results showed that the sizes and zeta potentials of dispersions and microcapsules increased with increasing PLA content (9.8 to 24.6 wt%). The encapsulation efficiency (EE) of the microcapsules increased with increasing PLA concentration up to 21.4 wt%. The moisture content values, flowability, and bulk density of the obtained microcapsules decreased with increasing PLA content (9.8 to 24.6 wt%). Furthermore, the cell culture experiment indicated that the obtained microcapsules had no cytotoxicity and possessed excellent antioxidant activity. This work provides a new strategy for fabricating AXT‐enriched microcapsules and expands their application in nutritional products.

Practical Application

This work fabricated a novel encapsulation system for AXT through emulsion solvent evaporation and spray drying methodologies. The obtained AXT‐loaded microcapsules possessed great physical stability and could expand potential applications of AXT.
Combination of MRI prostate and 18F‐DCFPyl PSMA PET/CT detects all clinically significant prostate cancers in treatment‐naive patients: An international multicentre retrospective study
Authors: Parathithasan Nishanthinie , Perry Elisa , Taubman Kim , Hegarty Justin , Talwar Arpit , Wong Lih‐Ming , Sutherland Tom
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Clinical and biochemical assessment and biopsies can miss clinically significant prostate cancers (csPCa) in up to 20% of patients and diagnose clinically insignificant tumours leading to overtreatment. This retrospective study analyses the accuracy of 18F‐DCFPyL PET/CT in detecting csPCa as a primary diagnostic tool and directly compares it with mpMRI prostate in treatment‐naive patients. The two modalities are then correlated to determine whether they are better in combination, than either alone.

Methods

This is a retrospective dual‐institution study of patients who underwent contemporaneous MRI and PSMA‐PET between January 2017 and March 2020 with histologic confirmation. The images were re‐reviewed and concordance between modalities assessed. Results were compared with histopathology to determine the ability of MRI and PSMA‐PET to detect csPCA.

Results

MRI and PSMA‐PET detected the same index lesion in 90.8% of cases with a kappa of 0.82. PET detected an additional 6.2% of index lesions which were MRI occult. MRI detected an additional 3.1% which were PET occult. No additional csPCa was identified on pathology which was not seen on imaging. The sensitivity of PSMA‐PET in detecting csPCa is 96.7% and that of MRI is 93.4% with no statistically significant difference between the two (P = 0.232). Both modalities detected all four cases of non‐csPCa with these being considered false positives.

Conclusion

Both mpMRI and 18F‐DCFPyL‐PSMA‐PET/CT have high sensitivity for detecting csPCa with high agreement between modalities. There were no synchronous csPCa lesions detected on pathology that were not detected on imaging too.
Prevalence and risk factors for uveitis in spondyloarthritis
Authors: Yasmin Mst. Rupali , Islam Md. Nazrul , Pannu Zahedur Rahman , Azad Mohammad Abul Kalam , Uddin M. Sheikh Giash
Published: February 2022

Aim

To determine the prevalence and risk factors for uveitis in spondyloarthritis (SpA) patients.

Methods

A total of 225 patients who fulfilled Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society classification criteria for axial and peripheral SpA were enrolled. The diagnosis of uveitis was confirmed by an ophthalmologist. From medical records and from clinical evaluation associated information like disease duration, and human leukocyte antigen B27 was collected. Relevant laboratory tests were done and disease severity was assessed using Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score – erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C‐reactive protein. Characteristics of uveitis positive and uveitis negative groups were compared. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done for the risk factors, and P values <.05 were considered significant.

Results

Prevalence of uveitis was 18.7%. The disease duration was 9.3 ± 7 years and 5.4 ± 4.5 years in uveitis and no uveitis groups respectively (P ≤ .001). Family history of SpA was positive in 45.2% in the uveitis group (P ≤ .001). The frequency of axial SpA was 92.9% and 73.8% in the uveitis and no uveitis groups respectively (P ≤ .008). The mean BASDAI was 2.4 ± 1.9 and 3.3 ± 2.8 in uveitis and no uveitis groups respectively (P = .050). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, among the selected variables, family history of SpA (odds ratio [OR] =3.697; 95% CI =1.616‐8.457; P = .002) and duration of disease (OR =1.089; 95% CI =1.004‐1.181; P = .039) were independently associated with the occurrence of uveitis.

Conclusions

The prevalence of uveitis was 18.7%. The family history and the disease duration of SpA were independently associated with uveitis.
Global 16S rRNA diversity of provannid snail endosymbionts from Indo‐Pacific deep‐sea hydrothermal vents
Authors: Breusing Corinna , Castel Jade , Yang Yi , Broquet Thomas , Sun Jin , Jollivet Didier , Qian Pei‐Yuan , Beinart Roxanne A.
Published: February 2022

Symbioses between invertebrate animals and chemosynthetic bacteria build the foundation of deep‐sea hydrothermal ecosystems worldwide. Despite the importance of these symbioses for ecosystem functioning, the diversity of symbionts within and between host organisms and geographic regions is still poorly understood. In this study we used 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing to determine the diversity of gill endosymbionts in provannid snails of the genera Alviniconcha and Ifremeria, which are key species at deep‐sea hydrothermal vents in the Indo‐Pacific Ocean. Our analysis of 761 snail samples across the distributional range of these species confirms previous findings that symbiont lineages are strongly partitioned by host species and broad‐scale geography. Less structuring was observed within geographic regions, probably due to insufficient strain resolution of the 16S rRNA gene. Symbiont richness in individual hosts appeared to be unrelated to host size, suggesting that provannid snails might acquire their symbionts only during a permissive time window in early developmental stages in contrast to other vent molluscs that obtain their symbionts throughout their lifetime. Despite the extent of our dataset, symbiont accumulation curves did not reach saturation, highlighting the need for increased sampling efforts to uncover the full diversity of symbionts within these and other hydrothermal vent species.
Verification of the accuracy of the recent 50 years of tree growth and long‐term change in intrinsic water‐use efficiency using xylem Δ14C and δ13C in trees in an aseasonal tropical rainforest
Authors: Ichie Tomoaki , Igarashi Shuichi , Yoshihara Ryo , Takayama Kanae , Kenzo Tanaka , Niiyama Kaoru , Zamah Shari Nur Hajar , Hyodo Fujio , Tayasu Ichiro
Published: February 2022

Growth analysis based on tree‐ring chronology is difficult in trees in aseasonal tropical rain forests, because annual growth rings may be unclear or completely absent. Fortunately, tree growth history recorded in xylem tissue is capable of providing valuable information on the responses of trees and forests to past and present environmental changes, including global warming.

We have developed a new technique for aseasonal tropical forest trees which derives their growth rates from xylem Δ14C, and verified its accuracy. We also determined, from xylem δ13C, the intrinsic water‐use efficiency (iWUE) in the past 50 years. We analysed changes in xylem Δ14C and δ13C in 23 canopy trees of 12 species in 6 families growing in Pasoh Forest Reserve, Malaysia; each stem diameter at breast height (DBH) was recorded 14 times from 1969 to 2011.

We found a significant positive relationship between the growth rates determined by 14C dating and the past DBH data. On the other hand, leaf‐internal CO2 (Ci) content did not change with increasing atmospheric CO2 (Ca). Thus, the iWUE increased significantly over the last 50 years in all the families and species tested.

This study showed that the simultaneous measurements of xylem Δ14C and δ13C could reveal a long‐term change in tree growth and iWUE during the past 50 years with high accuracy in various species and/or individuals in aseasonal tropical rainforests exhibiting high species diversity.
Therapeutics and COVID‐19—A living WHO guideline: Endorsement by the Scandinavian Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine
Authors: Møller Morten H. , Chew Michelle S. , Olkkola Klaus T. , Rehn Marius , Yli‐Hankala Arvi , Sigurðsson Martin I.
Published: February 2022

The Clinical Practice Committee of the Scandinavian Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine endorses the Living WHO guideline on therapeutics and COVID‐19. This trustworthy continuously updated guideline serves as a highly useful decision aid for Nordic anaesthesiologists caring for patients with COVID‐19.
Transfusion strategies in bleeding critically ill adults: A clinical practice guideline from the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine: Endorsement by the Scandinavian Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine
Authors: Møller Morten Hylander , Sigurðsson Martin Ingi , Olkkola Klaus T. , Rehn Marius , Yli‐Hankala Arvi , Chew Michelle S.
Published: February 2022

The Clinical Practice Committee of the Scandinavian Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine endorses the clinical practice guideline Transfusion strategies in bleeding critically ill adults: a clinical practice guideline from the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine. This trustworthy clinical practice guideline serves as a useful decision aid for Nordic anaesthesiologists caring for critically ill patients with bleeding.
Prodromal phase: Differences in prodromal symptoms, risk factors and markers of vulnerability in first episode mania versus first episode psychosis with onset in late adolescence or adulthood
Authors: Verdolini Norma , Borràs Roger , Sparacino Giulio , Garriga Marina , Sagué‐Vilavella Maria , Madero Santiago , Palacios‐Garrán Roberto , Serra Maria , Forte Maria Florencia , Salagre Estela , Aedo Alberto , Salgado‐Pineda Pilar , Salvatierra Irene Montoro , Sánchez Gistau Vanessa , Pomarol‐Clotet Edith , Ramos‐Quiroga Josep Antoni , Carvalho Andre F. , Garcia‐Rizo Clemente , Undurraga Juan , Reinares María , Martinez Aran Anabel , Bernardo Miguel , Vieta Eduard , Pacchiarotti Isabella , Amoretti Silvia
Published: February 2022

Objective

This study was aimed at identifying differences in the prodromal symptoms and their duration, risk factors and markers of vulnerability in patients presenting a first episode mania (FEM) or psychosis (FEP) with onset in late adolescence or adulthood in order to guide tailored treatment strategies.

Methods

Patients with a FEM or FEP underwent a clinical assessment. Prodromes were evaluated with the Bipolar Prodrome Symptom Scale‐Retrospective (BPSS‐R). Chi‐squared tests were conducted to assess specific prodromal symptoms, risk factors or markers of vulnerability between groups. Significant prodromal symptoms were entered in a stepwise forward logistic regression model. The probabilities of a gradual versus rapid onset pattern of the prodromes were computed with logistic regression models.

Results

The total sample included 108 patients (FEM = 72, FEP = 36). Social isolation was associated with the prodromal stage of a FEP whilst Increased energy or goal‐directed activity with the prodrome to a FEM. Physically slowed down presented the most gradual onset whilst Increased energy presented the most rapid. The presence of obstetric complications and difficulties in writing and reading during childhood were risk factors for FEP. As for markers of vulnerability, impairment in premorbid adjustment was characteristic of FEP patients. No specific risk factor or marker of vulnerability was identified for FEM.

Conclusion

Early characteristics differentiating FEP from FEM were identified. These findings might help shape early identification and preventive intervention programmes.
Fos‐expressing neuronal ensembles in rat infralimbic cortex encode initial and maintained oxycodone seeking in rats
Authors: Gobin Christina , Sortman Bo , Rakela Samantha , Quintana‐Feliciano Richard , Warren Brandon L.
Published: February 2022

Neuronal ensembles within the infralimbic cortex (IL) and their projections to the nucleus accumbens (NAc) mediate opiate seeking in well‐trained rats. However, it is unclear how early this circuitry is recruited during oxycodone self‐administration. Here, we used retrograde labelling (CTb) and immunohistochemistry to identify NAc‐projecting neurons in the IL that were activated during initial oxycodone seeking. Next, we sought to determine the role of IL neuronal ensembles in initial oxycodone self‐administration. We used the Daun02 procedure in male and female Fos‐LacZ rats to chemogenetically inactivate IL Fos‐expressing neurons at different time points in oxycodone self‐administration training: immediately after meeting criteria for acquisition of behaviour and following nine daily sessions with increasing schedules of reinforcement (FR1, FR2 and FR3) in which rats demonstrated stable oxycodone intake under increasing effort to self‐administer. We found that Daun02 infusions attenuated oxycodone seeking at both the initial learning and well‐trained time points. These results suggest that IL neuronal ensembles are formed during initial learning of oxycodone self‐administration and required for the maintenance and expression of oxycodone seeking.
Anomalous branching of the aortic arch in a dog
Authors: Wyatt Sean Alexander , Rutllant Josep
Published: February 2022

Anomalies in the subclavian and common carotid arteries can be of interest in cases of cranial mediastinal surgeries, as well as to diagnose the cause of oesophageal constrictions leading to clinical signs of dysphagia (dysphagia lusoria). The development and regression of the aortic arches are of key importance in understanding the origin of these type of vascular anomalies. This report describes the congenital anomalous aortic origin of the common carotid and the subclavian arteries in a 14‐year‐old dog and the plausible developmental pattern failure. Academic dissection revealed a common bicarotid trunk and bisubclavian trunk arising from the most cranial aspect of the aortic arch. Despite the abnormal origin, these vessels displayed a predominantly standard anatomical course. All the anticipated branches were identified and described. Cardiac abnormalities were also noted including right atrial dilation, coronary sinus enlargement, right and left valvular endocardiosis, a patent foramen ovale and marked concentric left ventricular hypertrophy with compensatory left atrial dilation. Additionally, the right recurrent laryngeal nerve demonstrated an aberrant course consistent with a ‘non‐recurrent laryngeal nerve’ (non‐RLN). Awareness of the anatomical variations of the aortic arch is important for surgical interventions of the cranial mediastinum as well as radiological interpretation. Although infrequent, the variants similar to the one described here have been reported in different species.
Omentoplasty to reduce anastomotic leak in colorectal surgery: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Sahebally Shaheel Mohammad , Chan Erick , Azmir Alisha , Lu Cu Tai , Doudle Mark , Naik Arun , Nolan Gregory , Von Papen Michael
Published: February 2022

Background

Anastomotic leaks (AL) remain a devastating complication following intestinal anastomoses resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. Wrapping the anastomosis with omentum may be protective although data are conflicting. We performed a meta‐analysis to assess the effect of omentoplasty on colorectal anastomoses.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane databases were searched for relevant articles from inception until August 2021. All randomized controlled trials (RCT) that reported on the use of omentoplasty in colon and rectal surgery were included. The primary outcome was rate of overall AL while secondary outcomes included clinical and radiological AL, overall reoperation and mortality. Random effects models were used to calculate pooled effect size estimates. Sensitivity analyses were also performed.

Results

Four RCTs were included capturing 1067 patients. The mean (SD) age of the cohort was 61.5 (±14.8) years. On random effects analysis, omentoplasty reduced rate of overall (OR 0.43, 95% CI = 0.21–0.87, p = 0.02) and clinical AL (OR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.15–0.81, p = 0.01). However, there was no difference in radiological AL (OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.40–1.47, p = 0.42), overall reoperations (OR 0.48, 95% CI = 0.18–1.32, p = 0.16) or mortality (OR 0.52, 95% CI = 0.12 to–2.18, p = 0.37). On sensitivity analysis, assessing rectal anastomoses only, the results for overall AL remained similar (OR 0.28, 95% CI = 0.12–0.61, p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Although omentoplasty appears to reduce the rate of overall and clinical AL, the heterogeneity in the data prevents definitive recommendations from being made. Further well‐designed trials are needed to investigate this technique.
Anxiety, depression and marital satisfaction in women with hyperemesis gravidarum: A comparative cross‐sectional study in Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah, Klang, Malaysia
Authors: Azlan Wan Asyikin Wan , Ramalingam Magendra , Razali Rosdinom , Abdullah Mohamad Farouk , Rahman Fairuz Nazri Abdul
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) is a severe form of vomiting that occurs among pregnant mothers. Due to the nature of HG, pregnant mothers may feel fatigued and burdened by it and questions have been raised about the emergence of psychiatric illness during this period of vulnerability.

Methods

A comparative cross‐sectional study using Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), M.I.N.I (MINI International Neuropsychiatric Interview) and ENRICH‐ EMS (Evaluation and Nurturing Relationship Issues, Communication and Happiness – Marital Satisfaction Scale) were performed in a group of 112 pregnant women.

Results

There were no differences in the prevalence rate of any anxiety disorder among the patient with HG vs comparative group (9% vs 3%, P > 0.05) and depressive disorder in women with HG vs comparative group (16% vs 8%, P > 0.05) respectively. There were associations between HG and gravida, past history of miscarriage, and gestational diabetes (P < 0.05). After adjustment, only past history of gestational diabetes was associated with HG as a protective factor (AOR 0.034 95% CI 0.002–0.181; P = 0.0014). We found that women in the HG group tended to score statistically significantly higher than the comparison group for depressive symptoms in the HADS Depression subscale (P = 0.041).

Discussion

We found no convincing association between HG and anxiety disorder, depressive disorder, and marital satisfaction, but women with HG statistically significantly reported more depressive symptoms than women who were not diagnosed with HG. Psychiatric evaluation should be considered for women with HG.
Sickness presenteeism associated with influenza‐like illness in veterinarians working in New South Wales: Results of a state‐wide survey
Authors: Pasfield K , Gottlieb T , Tartari E , Ward MP , Quain A
Published: February 2022

Background

Sickness presenteeism in the veterinary profession potentially jeopardises the wellbeing of veterinary team members and endangers quality of patient care. In veterinary team members with influenza‐like illness (ILI), sickness presenteeism poses a risk to the health and wellbeing of colleagues and clients, particularly in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic. This study aimed to evaluate factors associated with sickness presenteeism in NSW registered veterinarians suffering from ILI, both before and since the beginning of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

Veterinarians registered in NSW were invited to complete an anonymous online mixed‐methods survey between 31 March 2021 and 31 June 2021, regarding sickness presenteeism and absenteeism associated with ILI. The questionnaire was distributed through online and print newsletters of the Australian Veterinary Association NSW Branch and the NSW Veterinary Practitioners Board.

Results

From a total of 122 participants, 81 veterinarians (66.4%) reported that they would attend work despite displaying symptoms of ILI. Most veterinarians would stay at home with a fever alone (n = 108, 88.5%), however, many would still attend work with a sore throat (n = 121, 99.2%) or a dry cough (n = 91, 74.6%). Sickness presenteeism was significantly associated with lack of staff to cover workers. Although sickness presenteeism remained common, participants reported that they were less likely to attend work with symptoms of ILI since the beginning of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Discussion

The data are discussed in relation to sickness presenteeism in healthcare workers. These findings underscore an urgent need for relief staff to decrease sickness presenteeism.
Relations between prior school performance and later test anxiety during the transition to secondary school
Authors: Plante Isabelle , Lecours Véronique , Lapointe Raphaël , Chaffee Kathryn Everhart , Fréchette‐Simard Catherine
Published: February 2022

Background

When exposed to evaluative situations, up to 40% of students develop test anxiety, reflected, namely, by extensive worry, intrusive thoughts, and physiological arousal. Though the negative influence of test anxiety on later school performance is well documented, the role of students’ initial achievement in the development of later test anxiety is less clear.

Aims and Sample

To better capture the nature of the relations between prior mathematics and language arts achievement and later test anxiety across genders, this study examined linear and curvilinear relationships among 1,569 French‐speaking Canadian students followed across the transition to secondary school, a critical period for test anxiety.

Methods

Students completed a questionnaire at the beginning and the end of the first year of secondary school, and schools provided us with students grades at the end of 6th grade and the fall of 7th grade.

Results

Multilevel regression analyses showed that only mathematics achievement at the end of elementary school predicted test anxiety at the beginning of secondary school. In secondary school, beginning‐of‐year achievement in both mathematics and language arts predicted test anxiety at the end of this same year, but different patterns were observed for boys and girls.

Conclusions

Because nonlinear relations were observed at each timepoint, low achievers may not be the only group of students who are at greater risk of developing high levels of test anxiety. Therefore, interventions targeting students with different achievement profiles might help to reduce test anxiety and facilitate the transition to secondary school.
No aspect of structure should be left behind in relation to student autonomous motivation
Authors: Mouratidis Athanasios , Michou Aikaterini , Telli Sibel , Maulana Ridwan , Helms‐Lorenz Michelle
Published: February 2022

Background

Provision of structure in classroom settings constitutes one of the pillars of conducive learning environments. However, little is known whether the particular elements of provided structure—namely, contingency, clear expectations, help and support, and monitoring—are equally important for student learning and motivation.

Aims

In this cross‐sectional study, we aimed to investigate to what extent students’ autonomous motivation is linearly and curvilinearly related to their perceptions of their teachers’ contingency, clear expectations, help and support, and monitoring.

Sample

Participants were 12,036 Turkish adolescent students (age range: 15–19 years; 54.4% males) from 446 classes, nested into 24 public schools.

Methods

Cross‐sectional, based on student ratings of their self‐determined motivation and their teacher structure provision and autonomy support.

Results

Multilevel and ordinary least‐squares polynomial regression analyses showed all the four perceived structure elements to predict autonomous motivation, with expectations and contingency (especially when coupled with monitoring) being even more important predictors than the other elements. Response surface analyses also showed strong positive relation between autonomous motivation and all the possible pairs of the four elements of perceived structure along the line of congruence, suggesting an additive effect when teachers are thought to be contingent and helpful and supportive (or monitor their students, or clearly communicate their expectations).

Conclusions

These findings imply the key role that teachers could play in enhancing their students’ autonomous motivation by providing all the elements of structure.
Long‐term effects of targeted prevention programmes for families with young children: A population‐based study on parenting stress and children's negative emotionality
Authors: Ulrich Susanne M. , Lux Ulrike , Liel Christoph , Walper Sabine
Published: February 2022

Background

Many prevention programmes for families focus parental adversities and adverse childhood experiences. Effects of such programmes are often examined in clinical trials; there is less research on effects under naturalistic conditions. The aim of this study was to examine the longitudinal association between parenting stress and child's negative emotionality, its modification through targeted prevention programmes, and to investigate the effects in the general population.

Methods

Data were taken from a sample of n = 903 families with infants (mean age: 13.3 months) who participated in a baseline study (T1) and a follow‐up study (T2) 2 years later. The survey included parental self‐report measurements on parenting stress and child's negative emotionality (T1 and T2 each) and targeted prevention programmes (T1 only). An autoregressive cross‐lagged panel design was used to analyse the association of parenting stress and the child's negative emotionality, including use of targeted prevention programmes as moderator. We also tested if targeted prevention programmes can reduce parenting stress or child's negative emotionality using Propensity Score Matching (PSM).

Results

Parenting stress at T1 affected children's negative emotionality at T2, but children's negative emotionality at T1 did not affect parenting stress at T2. When targeted prevention was included as moderator, the correlation disappeared among programme users. With PSM, there was no direct effect on parenting stress or child's negative emotionality. But a subsample of parents with high parenting stress at T1 who used targeted prevention at T1 reported less child's negative emotionality problems at T2 than parents who scored high in parenting stress but did not receive targeted prevention at T1.

Conclusion

Results suggest that the spillover from parenting stress to child's negative emotionality may be modified by prevention. Prevention programmes may help to build resources and have a direct positive effect on the child, especially for parents with high parenting stress.
Region‐specific disturbed iron redistribution in Cushing's disease measured by magnetic resonance imaging‐based quantitative susceptibility mapping
Authors: Jiang Hong , Li Zhenghao , Yang Wenjie , Sun Yuhao , Yan Fuhua , Sun Qingfang , Wei Hongjiang , Bian Liuguan
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Cushing's disease (CD) is most common endogenous Cushing's syndrome. This study aimed to assess iron alternations in deep grey matter in CD.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was performed.

Patients

In this study, 48 active CD patients, 39 remitted CD patients and 52 healthy control (HC) subjects underwent magnetic resonance imaging.

Measurements

Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM).

Results

Decreased susceptibility values were found in the bilateral putamen, caudate, red nucleus, subthalamic nucleus and pulvinar nuclei of the thalamus (TL‐PLV) in active and remitted patients with CD compared with HCs. Interestingly, in remitted patients with CD, altered susceptibility values were significantly correlated with altered brain volumes in TL‐PLV, while TL‐PLV may play an essential role as a general regulatory hub for adaptive and flexible cognition.

Conclusion

Chronic exposure to hypercortisolism may be related to iron distribution and significantly correlated with altered brain volumes and clinical features in patients with CD.
17β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 3 deficiency in 46,XY disorders of sex development: Our experience and a gender role‐focused systematic review
Authors: Krishnappa Brijesh , Arya Sneha , Lila Anurag R. , Sarathi Vijaya , Memon Saba S. , Barnabas Rohit , Kumbhar Bajarang V. , Bhandare Vishwambhar V. , Patil Virendra , Shah Nalini S. , Kunwar Ambarish , Bandgar Tushar
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To describe Asian Indian patients with 17β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 3 (17βHSD3) deficiency and to perform a systematic review to determine the factors influencing gender role in 46,XY disorder of sex development (DSD) due to 17βHSD3 deficiency.

Patients and Design

We present the phenotypic and genotypic data of 10 patients (9 probands and 1 affected family member) with 17βHSD3 deficiency from our 46,XY DSD cohort (N = 150; Western India) and a systematic review of 152 probands with genetically proven, index 17βHSD3 deficiency patients from the world literature to identify the determinants of gender role.

Results

17βHSD3 deficiency was the third most common (6%) cause of non‐dysgenetic 46,XY DSD in our cohort. Five patients each had prepubertal (atypical genitalia) and pubertal (primary amenorrhoea) presentations. Six patients were initially reared as female of whom two (one each in prepubertal and pubertal age) changed their gender role. Ten pathogenic molecular variants (six novel) were observed. In the systematic review, initial male sex of rearing was uncommon (10.5%) and was associated with atypical genitalia, higher testosterone/androstenedione (T/A) ratio and Asian origin. Gender role change to male was seen in 10.3% of patients with initial female sex of rearing and was associated with Asian origin but unrelated to pubertal androgens or molecular variant severity. It has not been reported in patients of European origin.

Conclusions

We report the first Indian case series of 17βHSD3 deficiency, the third most common cause of 46,XY DSD, with six novel molecular variants. Distinct geographical differences in the frequency of initial male sex of rearing and gender role change to male in those initially reared as females in 17βHSD3 deficiency were noted which needs further evaluation for the underlying molecular mechanisms.
Desire to lose weight was associated with the adoption of weight control strategies but not healthier lifestyle behaviours among post‐bariatric surgery patients: NHANES 2013–2018
Authors: Yu Yang , Ma Qianheng , Groth Susan W.
Published: February 2022

The desire to lose weight is presumably high among patients with severe obesity who have undergone bariatric surgery. The purpose of this study is to examine the associations of desire to lose weight with weight control strategies, depressive symptoms and lifestyle behaviours among post‐bariatric surgery patients. Participants were adults who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2013–2018) and self‐identified a history of bariatric surgery. The desire to lose weight, weight control strategies, depressive symptoms, physical activity and sitting time were measured by self‐report questionnaires. Dietary information was derived from 24‐h dietary recalls. The correlates of the desire to lose weight were examined by logistic or linear regressions with appropriate weighting and variance estimation techniques, adjusting for covariates such as length of time post‐surgery. Results showed that at a mean of 7.8 (standard deviation [SD] = 0.5) years post‐surgery (N = 142), 88.6% of participants wanted to weigh less. The average total energy intake was 1747 (SD = 72) kcal/day with 36.2% (SD = 0.7%) of the energy from total fat; the median total moderate‐intensity physical activity was 88.5 min/week; and the mean sitting time was 796.0 (SD = 47.0) min/day. The desire to lose weight was positively associated with the adoption of healthy weight control strategies (odds ratio 17.4, 95% confidence interval 3.5–87.0, p < .01). No other significant associations were observed. Findings highlight the need for studies to improve patients' lifestyle behaviours post‐surgery (e.g., reduce fat intake, increase physical activity) and examine the correlates of desire to lose weight in larger samples.
Contact sensitization to iron: A potentially underestimated metal allergen and elicitor of complications in patients with metal implants
Authors: Oppel Eva , Kapp Florian , Böhm Ann‐Sophie , Pohl Ralf , Thomas Peter , Summer Burkhard
Published: February 2022

Background

Little is known about sensitization to iron (Fe) in private, occupational, and medical settings, particulary implantology.

Objectives

To investigate sensitization to metals, particularly to Fe, both in pre‐implant individuals with presumed metal allergy and in patients with suspected metal implant allergy. To further characterize Fe‐sensitized individuals.

Methods

Analysis of patch test reactions to an Fe (II) sulfate–containing metal series in 183 consecutive patients (41 pre‐implant, 142 metal implant bearers). Test readings were on day (D)2, D3, and D6. Evaluation of questionnaire‐aided history of metal reactivity patterns and demographics of Fe reactors.

Results

Metal reactivity in pre‐implant/implant/total group was: to nickel 39%/30%/32%; to cobalt 17%/15%/15%; and to chromium 7%/13%/11%. Co‐sensitizations cobalt/nickel (19/58) and cobalt/chromium (11/21) were significant atP < .001; co‐sensitizations Fe/nickel (4/10) and chromium/knee arthroplasty (11/73) atP = .03. Ten of 183 (5.5%) reacted to Fe (2 of 41 pre‐implant patients, 8 of 142 implant bearers), with 10 reacting only on D6. Fe reactivity was highest in complicated knee arthroplasty (7/73). Further peculiarities of Fe reactors included frequent isolated Fe reactivity (6/10), occupational metal exposure (7/10), previous (par)enteral Fe substitution (6/10).

Conclusions

The 5.5% prevalence of Fe reactions suggests a potentially underestimated role of this metal allergen in general and in implant bearers. The latter also shows a distinct metal sensitization pattern.
A million is more than a thousand: Children's acquisition of very large number words
Authors: Cheung Pierina , Ansari Daniel
Published: February 2022

Very large numbers words such as “hundred,” “thousand,” “million,” “billion,” and “trillion” pose a learning problem for children because they are sparse in everyday speech and children's experience with extremely large quantities is scarce. In this study, we examine when children acquire the relative ordering of very large number words as a first step toward understanding their acquisition. In Study 1, a hundred and twenty‐five 5–8‐year‐olds participated in a verbal number comparison task involving very large number words. We found that children can judge which of two very large numbers is more as early as age 6, prior to entering first grade. In Study 2, we provided a descriptive analysis on the usage of very large number words using the CHILDES database. We found that the relative frequency of large number words does not change across the years, with “hundred” uttered more frequently than others by an order of magnitude. We also found that adults were more likely to use large number words to reference units of quantification for money, weight, and time, than for discrete, physical entities. Together, these results show that children construct a numerical scale for large number words prior to learning their precise cardinal meanings, and highlight how frequency and context may support their acquisition. Our results have pedagogical implications and highlight a need to investigate how children acquire meanings for number words that reference quantities beyond our everyday experience.
Toward a generic framework of perceived negative manager/leader behavior: A comparative study across nations and private sector industries
Authors: Patel Taran , Hamlin Robert G. , Louis Dima
Published: February 2022

Reviewing three relevant streams of extant literature reveals a marked absence of a generic framework composed of a full range of negative manager/leader behaviors (from moderate to extreme) across sectors and countries, a void particularly detrimental to the effectiveness of management and leadership development (MLD) programs. To address this concern, we conduct a multiple cross‐case/cross‐nation comparative analysis (MCCA) of data collected from our own 13 previous empirical replication studies (using the critical incident technique) of effective/ineffective managerial/leader behavior across nine culturally diverse countries and varied private sector industries, resulting in a comprehensive framework of perceived negative manager/leader behavior. Our generic framework is composed of five behavioral dimensions: inadequate functional behavior, unethical behavior, impersonal domineering behavior, depriving behavior, and closed/negative‐minded behavior, and lends support to the universal school of culture in business literature by showing that neither national culture nor sectorial specificities influence people's perceptions of negative manager/leader behavior. It also stresses the importance of the mundane (as opposed to the glorious) in managerial/leadership work by revealing that employees' perceptions of negative manager/leader behavior include not only conspicuously “bad” behaviors but also less conspicuous “poor” behaviors.
Potential role of regulatory DNA variants in modifying the risk of severe cutaneous reactions induced by aromatic anti‐seizure medications
Authors: Mullan Kerry A. , Anderson Alison , Shi Yi‐Wu , Ding Jia‐Hong , Ng Ching‐Ching , Chen Zhibin , Baum Larry , Cherny Stacey , Petrovski Slave , Sham Pak C. , Lim Kheng‐Seang , Liao Wei‐Ping , Kwan Patrick
Published: February 2022

Objective

Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions. Antiseizure medications (ASMs) with aromatic ring structure, including carbamazepine, are among the most common culprits. Screening for human leukocyte antigen (HLA) allele HLA‐B*15:02 is recommended prior to initiating treatment with carbamazepine in Asians, but this allele has low positive predictive value.

Methods

We performed whole genome sequencing and analyzed 6 199 696 common variants among 113 aromatic ASM‐induced SJS/TEN cases and 84 tolerant controls of Han Chinese ethnicity.

Results

In the primary analysis, nine variants reached genome‐wide significance (p < 5e‐08), one in the carbamazepine subanalysis (85 cases vs. 77 controls) and a further eight identified in HLA‐B*15:02‐negative subanalysis (35 cases and 53 controls). Interaction analysis between each novel variant from the primary analysis found that five increased risk irrespective of HLA‐B*15:02 status or zygosity. HLA‐B*15:02‐positive individuals were found to have reduced risk if they also carried a chromosome 12 variant, chr12.9426934 (heterozygotes: relative risk = .71, p = .001; homozygotes: relative risk = .23, p < .001). All significant variants lie within intronic or intergenic regions with poorly understood functional consequence. In silico functional analysis of suggestive variants (p < 5e‐6) identified through the primary and subanalyses (stratified by HLA‐B*15:02 status and drug exposure) suggests that genetic variation within regulatory DNA may contribute to risk indirectly by disrupting the regulation of pathology‐related genes. The genes implicated were specific either to the primary analysis (CD9), HLA‐B*15:02 carriers (DOCK10), noncarriers (ABCA1), carbamazepine exposure (HLA‐E), or phenytoin exposure (CD24).

Significance

We identified variants that could explain why some carriers of HLA‐B*15:02 tolerate treatment, and why some noncarriers develop ASM‐induced SJS/TEN. Additionally, this analysis suggests that the mixing of HLA‐B*15:02 carrier status in previous studies might have masked variants contributing to susceptibility, and that inheritance of risk for ASM‐induced SJS/TEN is complex, likely involving multiple risk variants.
A critical analysis of research methods and experimental models to study irrigants and irrigation systems
Authors: Boutsioukis Christos , Arias‐Moliz Maria Teresa , Chávez de Paz Luis E.
Published: February 2022

Irrigation plays an essential role in root canal treatment. The purpose of this narrative review was to critically appraise the experimental methods and models used to study irrigants and irrigation systems and to provide directions for future research. Studies on the antimicrobial effect of irrigants should use mature multispecies biofilms grown on dentine or inside root canals and should combine at least two complementary evaluation methods. Dissolution of pulp tissue remnants should be examined in the presence of dentine and, preferably, inside human root canals. Micro‐computed tomography is currently the method of choice for the assessment of accumulated dentine debris and their removal. A combination of experiments in transparent root canals and numerical modeling is needed to address irrigant penetration. Finally, models to evaluate irrigant extrusion through the apical foramen should simulate the periapical tissues and provide quantitative data on the amount of extruded irrigant. Mimicking the in vivo conditions as close as possible and standardization of the specimens and experimental protocols are universal requirements irrespective of the surrogate endpoint studied. Obsolete and unrealistic models must be abandoned in favour of more appropriate and valid ones that have more direct application and translation to clinical Endodontics.
Comparison of electrochemical behavior of CrN single‐layer coating and Cr/CrN nanolayered coating produced by cathodic arc evaporation physical vapor deposition
Authors: Jasempoor Fatemeh , Elmkhah Hassan , Imantalab Omid , Fattah‐Alhosseini Arash
Published: February 2022

The aim of the present work is to study the CrN single‐layer coating and the Cr/CrN nanolayered coating by cathodic arc evaporation physical vapor deposition (CAE‐PVD) on AISI 304 stainless steel and to assess the electrochemical behavior of the coatings. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) were utilized to study the morphology and microstructure of the coatings. The mechanical behavior of the coatings was studied by the nanoindentation technique. The electrochemical behavior of the formed coatings in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution was investigated via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) tests. Based on the microscopic images, it was realized that both CrN and Cr/CrN coatings were formed having a dense structure on the substrate. The results of EIS measurements showed gradual changes in the polarization resistance of the Cr/CrN nanolayered coating during the immersion time. However, significant changes in the polarization resistance of the CrN single‐layer coating were seen by increasing immersion time comparing with the Cr/CrN coating. The higher polarization resistance of the Cr/CrN coating can be attributed to the effects of the interface between the layers in comparison to the CrN coating.
The effect of mandatory audit firm rotation and the auditing and reporting standards on the auditor competition and audit fees relationship: Evidence from emerging markets
Authors: Kamarudin Khairul Anuar , Islam Ainul , Wan Ismail Wan Adibah , Jahan Mosammet Asma
Published: February 2022

This research investigates whether auditor competition is associated with low audit fees and whether a country's implementation of mandatory audit firm rotation requirements as well as strong auditing and reporting standards weaken the negative effect of auditor competition on audit fees. Using 41,811 firm‐year observations from 10 emerging markets—specifically China, India, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Poland, Russia, South Africa, Thailand, and Turkey—we find that auditor competition has a decreasing effect on audit fees. We also find that firms from countries with mandatory audit firm rotation requirements and strong auditing and reporting standards have higher audit fees than firms from countries with weak auditing and reporting standards and no mandatory audit firm rotation requirements. In the former countries, the negative relationship between auditor competition and audit fees is weaker than that for firms in the latter countries. Our results are robust to various specification tests, such as those for endogeneity issues, and alternative measures of country‐level institutional features. This study presents significant implications for regulators by providing evidence that both mandatory audit firm rotation requirements and the strength of auditing and reporting standards play an essential role in enhancing audit quality by curbing the negative effect of audit competition.
Prevalence and seasonality of viral respiratory infections in a temperate climate region: A 24‐year study (1997–2020)
Authors: García‐Arroyo Laura , Prim Núria , Del Cuerpo Marga , Marín Pilar , Roig Maria Carme , Esteban Mnontserrat , Labeaga Rosa , Martí Neus , Berengua Carla , Gich Ignasi , Navarro Ferran , Rabella Núria
Published: February 2022

Background

Few long‐term reports have been published on the epidemiology of respiratory viruses despite their frequent involvement in extremely common infections. The aim here was to determine the frequency and distribution of respiratory viruses in a temperate climate area (Barcelona, Spain) throughout a 24‐year period.

Methods

We collected data on all respiratory viruses detected from 1997 to 2020 in our institution. Clinical specimens were analyzed mainly by conventional techniques, and molecular techniques were also used.

Results

Of the 59,579 specimens analyzed, 21,382 (35.9%) were positive for at least one virus. The number of positive samples during cold months was significantly higher than in warm months. Respiratory virus infections were detected in patients of all ages, above all in children under 3 years of age, who were most frequently infected with the respiratory syncytial virus, whereas Influenza A virus predominated in the other groups, especially in adults. A clear demographic and seasonal pattern was established for some viruses. Circulation of other respiratory viruses during the FLUAV H1N1pdm09 and SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemics was observed.

Conclusions

This long‐term study provides new knowledge about the prevalence of respiratory viruses in a Mediterranean region. Throughout the study period, the frequency of some viruses remained constant, whereas others varied with the year. A clear demographic and seasonal pattern was established for some viruses. Patients suffering from severe respiratory infections should be examined for a range of respiratory viruses regardless of gender, age, or season.