bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MRI‐based kidney radiomic analysis during chronic lithium treatment
Authors: Beunon Paul , Barat Maxime , Dohan Anthony , Cheddani Lynda , Males Lisa , Fernandez Pedro , Etain Bruno , Bellivier Frank , Marlinge Emeline , Vrtovsnik François , Vidal‐Petiot Emmanuelle , Khalil Antoine , Haymann Jean‐Philippe , Flamant Martin , Tabibzadeh Nahid
Published: February 2022

Background

Lithium therapy during bipolar disorder is associated with an increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) that is slowly progressive and undetectable at early stages. We aimed at identifying kidney image texture features as possible imaging biomarkers of decreased measured glomerular filtration rate (mGFR) using radiomics of T2‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

One hundred and eight patients treated with lithium were evaluated including mGFR and kidney MRI, with T2‐weighted sequence single‐shot fast spin‐echo. Computed radiomic analysis was performed after kidney segmentation. Significant features were selected to build a radiomic signature using multivariable Cox analysis to detect an mGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m². The texture index was validated using a training and a validation cohort.

Results

Texture analysis index was able to detect an mGFR decrease, with an AUC of 0.85 in the training cohort and 0.71 in the validation cohort. Patients with a texture index below the median were older (59 [42–66] vs. 46 [34–54] years,p = .001), with longer treatment duration (10 [3–22] vs. 6 [2–10] years,p = .02) and a lower mGFR (66 [46–84] vs. 83 [71–94] ml/min/1.73m²,p < .001). Texture analysis index was independently and negatively associated with age (β = −.004 ± 0.001,p < .001), serum vasopressin (−0.005 ± 0.002,p = .02) and lithium treatment duration (−0.01 ± 0.003,p = .001), with a significant interaction between lithium treatment duration and mGFR (p = .02).

Conclusions

A renal texture index was developed among patients treated with lithium associated with a decreased mGFR. This index might be relevant in the diagnosis of lithium‐induced renal toxicity.
Bee‐associated fungi mediate effects of fungicides on bumble bees
Authors: Rutkowski Danielle , Litsey Eliza , Maalouf Isabelle , Vannette Rachel L.
Published: February 2022

Bumble bees are important pollinators that face threats from multiple sources, including agrochemical application. Declining bumble bee populations have been linked to fungicide application, which could directly affect the fungi often found in the stored food and gastrointestinal (GI) tract of healthy bumble bees.

We test the hypothesis that fungicides impact bee health by disrupting bee–fungi interactions. We examined the interactive effects of the fungicide propiconazole and fungal supplementation on the survival, reproduction and microbiome composition of microcolonies (queenless colonies) using two species,Bombus vosnesenskiiandB. impatiens.

We found that inB. vosnesenskii, fungicide exposure decreased survival, while fungal supplementation mitigated fungicide effects. ForB. impatiens, fungicide application had no effect, but fungal supplementation improved survival and offspring production.

Fungicides reduced fungal abundance inB. vosnesenskiimicrocolonies, but not inB. impatiens, where instead fungal addition decreased fungal abundance (ITS copy number). Fungal composition varied between treatments but differently between bee species. InB. impatiens, fungal addition increased microbiome diversity. InB. vosnesenskii, the abundance of the pathogenAscosphaerawas negatively associated with survival, while the yeastZygosaccharomyceswas positively associated with survival.

Our results highlight that bumble bee species differ in response to fungicides and in the nature of bee‐fungi associations. Fungicides can alter bee–fungi interactions with consequences for bee survival and reproduction, and exploring the mechanisms of such interactions, including interactions among fungi in the bee GI tract, may offer insights into bumble bee biology and conservation strategies.
Apolipoprotein E polymorphism ε4‐stratified longitudinal association between daytime naps, sleep apnea and mild cognitive impairment: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Duan Huilian , Sun Yue , Liu Qian , Fu Jingzhu , Huang Ling , Wang Zehao , Zhao Jing , Li Zhenshu , Li Wen , Liu Huan , Ma Fei , Chen Yongjie , Sun Changqing , Wang Guangshun , Du Yue , Huang Guowei
Published: February 2022

Background and purpose

Sleep characteristics, including taking a nap and sleep apnea, have been proven to have effects on cognitive function, and apolipoprotein E polymorphism ε4 (APOEε4) has been confirmed to be a risk factor for mild cognitive impairment (MCI), but epidemiological studies linking sleep characteristics and APOEε4 are scarce. We aimed to explore the longitudinal association between sleep characteristics and MCI in an overall cohort, in APOEε4 carriers and in APOEε4 non‐carriers.

Methods

We included 3053 older adults from the Tianjin Elderly Nutrition and Cognition Cohort (TENCC) study, recruited from March 2018 to June 2019, and followed up from March 2021 to June 2021. All participants underwent detailed neuropsychological evaluation that allowed psychometric MCI classification. Information on self‐reported sleep characteristics was gathered via face‐to‐face interviews. Crude and multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using Cox proportional hazard regression models.

Results

In the multivariable‐adjusted models, taking a nap at noon was associated with decreased risk of MCI in all participants (yes vs. no: HR 0.723, 95% CI 0.592, 0.883) and in APOEε4 non‐carriers (yes vs. no: HR 0.719, 95% CI 0.576, 0.897). Sleep apnea was associated with increased risk of MCI in all participants (vs. good: HR 2.213, 95% CI 1.171, 4.180) and in APOEε4 non‐carriers (vs. good: HR 2.217, 95% CI 1.085, 4.529).

Conclusions

This study suggests that taking a nap at noon might be a potential protective factor against development of MCI in APOEε4 non‐carriers, and sleep apnea might be associated with increased incidence of MCI in APOEε4 non‐carriers.
Stratified damage characteristics of high‐water quick‐setting material exposed to sulfate under dry–wet cycles
Authors: Zhou Xianliang , Chen Yulin , Kang Shun , Yuan Xun , Liu Changwu
Published: February 2022

The stability of the grouting material under the coupling effect of sulfate attack and dry–wet cycles is essential to engineering safety. As a novel grouting material, the stability research of high‐water quick‐setting material (HWQSM) under different corrosive environments is in the initial stage. Moreover, the stratified damage characteristics (SDC) of HWQSM under sulfate attack were not fully explored. To this end, the strength degradation and SDC of HWQSM exposed to three kinds of sulfate solutions (i.e., 10% MgSO4solution, 10% Na2SO4solution, and hybrid solution of 5% Na2SO4and 5% MgSO4) and dry–wet cycles were analyzed by using ETM‐C mechanical testing machine, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), XRD, and AFM. The results show that the strength reduction rate, the thickness of the corrosion layer, and roughness between the corrosion layer and the transition layer of HWQSM are all positively correlated with the concentration of Mg2+in the erosion solution for the increase in dry–wet cycles. Under the combined action of ion erosion and carbonization, the pores and cracks of the corrosion layer expand, which would reduce the permeability resistance but increase the erosion damage rate. This research furnishes new views into the SDC of HWQSM under sulfate attack and dry–wet cycles, which would deeper our understanding to this special material undoubtedly; the research results are expected to furnish theoretical guidance of HWQSM resistance to different sulfate solutions.
Not all babies are in the same boat: Exploring the effects of socioeconomic status, parental attitudes, and activities during the 2020 COVID‐19 pandemic on early Executive Functions
Authors: Hendry Alexandra , Gibson Shannon P. , Davies Catherine , Gliga Teodora , McGillion Michelle , Gonzalez‐Gomez Nayeli
Published: February 2022

Early executive functions (EFs) lay the foundations for academic and social outcomes. In this parent‐report study of 575 UK‐based 8‐ to 36 month olds (218 followed longitudinally), we investigate how variation in the home environment before and during the 2020 pandemic relates to infants’ emerging EFs. Parent‐infant enriching activities were positively associated with infant Cognitive Executive Function (CEF) (encompassing inhibitory control, working memory, cognitive flexibility). During the most‐restrictive UK lockdown—but not subsequently—socioeconomic status (SES) was positively associated with levels of parent‐infant enriching activities. Parents who regard fostering early learning, affection, and attachment as important were more likely to engage in parent‐infant enriching activities, yet there was no significant pathway from parental attitudes or SES to CEF via activities. Infant screen use was negatively associated with CEF and Regulation. Screen use fully mediated the effect of SES on CEF, and partially mediated the effect of SES on regulation. Parental attitudes toward early learning, affection, and attachment did not significantly influence screen use. These results indicate that although parental attitudes influence the development of early EFs, interventions targeting attitudes as a means of increasing enriching activities, and thus EF are likely to be less effective than reducing barriers to engaging in enriching activities.
How to examine external validity within an experiment
Authors: Kowalski Amanda E.
Published: February 2022

A fundamental concern for researchers who analyze and design experiments is that the estimate obtained from the experiment might not be externally valid for other policies of interest. Researchers often attempt to assess external validity by comparing data from an experiment to external data. In this paper, I discuss approaches from the treatment effects literature that researchers can use to begin the examination of external validity internally, within the data from a single experiment. I focus on presenting the approaches simply using stylized examples.
Semiotic Disruption and Negotiations of Authenticity among Argentine Fans of Anglophone Media
Authors: Valentinsson Mary‐Caitlyn
Published: February 2022

This paper investigates how subtitling and dubbing of foreign language media can be interpreted as cases of semiotic disruption, and how this interpretive frame comes to index a cosmopolitan identity among Argentine fans of Anglophone pop culture. The naturalization of voice/body/language assemblages allows fans to frame preferences for subtitles as an obvious consequence of “authentic” fan identity. Discourses of liberal inclusivity and literacy allow them to simultaneously explain others’ preferences for dubbing as consequences of class, education, and maturity. I argue that these stance‐taking strategies are ways of mitigating the economic precarity of being Argentinean in a global/izing world.
Host genetics, phenotype and geography structure the microbiome of a foundational seaweed
Authors: Wood Georgina , Steinberg Peter D. , Campbell Alexandra H. , Vergés Adriana , Coleman Melinda A. , Marzinelli Ezequiel M.
Published: February 2022

Interactions between hosts and their microbiota are vital to the functioning and resilience of macro‐organisms. Critically, for hosts that play foundational roles in communities, understanding what drives host–microbiota interactions is essential for informing ecosystem restoration and conservation. We investigated the relative influence of host traits and the surrounding environment on microbial communities associated with the foundational seaweed Phyllospora comosa. We quantified 16 morphological and functional phenotypic traits, including host genetics (using 354 single nucleotide polymorphisms) and surface‐associated microbial communities (using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing) from 160 individuals sampled from eight sites spanning Phyllospora's entire latitudinal distribution (1,300 km). Combined, these factors explained 54% of the overall variation in Phyllospora's associated microbial community structure, much of which was related to the local environment (~32%). We found that putative “core” microbial taxa (i.e., present on all Phyllospora individuals sampled) exhibited slightly higher associations with host traits when compared to “variable” taxa (not present on all individuals). We identified several key genetic loci and phenotypic traits in Phyllospora that were strongly related to multiple microbial amplicon sequence variants, including taxa with known associations to seaweed defence, disease and tissue degradation. This information on how host‐associated microbial communities vary with host traits and the environment enhances our current understanding of how “holobionts” (hosts plus their microbiota) are structured. Such understanding can be used to inform management strategies of these important and vulnerable habitats.
Increased cuticular wax deposition does not change residual foliar transpiration
Authors: Grünhofer Paul , Herzig Lena , Sent Sophie , Zeisler‐Diehl Viktoria V. , Schreiber Lukas
Published: February 2022

The effect of contrasting environmental growth conditions (in vitro tissue culture, ex vitro acclimatisation, climate chamber, greenhouse and outdoor) on leaf development, cuticular wax composition, and foliar transpiration of detached leaves of the Populus × canescens clone 84 K were investigated. Our results show that total amounts of cuticular wax increased more than 10‐fold when cultivated in different growth conditions, whereas qualitative wax composition did not change. With exception of plants directly taken from tissue culture showing rapid dehydration, rates of water loss (residual foliar transpiration) of intact but detached leaves were constant and independent from growth conditions and thus independent from increasing wax amounts. Since cuticular transpiration measured with isolated astomatous P. × canescens cuticles was identical to residual foliar transpiration rates of detached leaves, our results confirm that cuticular transpiration of P. × canescens leaves can be predicted with high accuracy from residual transpiration of detached leaves after stomatal closure. Our results convincingly show that more than 10‐fold increased wax amounts in P. × canescens cuticles do not lead to decreased rates of residual (cuticular) transpiration.
It is all about peri‐implant tissue health
Authors: Schwarz Frank , Ramanauskaite Ausra
Published: February 2022

Healthy peri‐implant tissues have become synonymous with implant success and a major challenge in contemporary implant dentistry. Numerous local and systemic factors, as well as iatrogenic and other hitherto underappreciated factors of potential clinical relevance may influence the outcome of implant therapy. In this volume of Periodontology 2000, a group of outstanding experts has elaborated on the latest insights on the prevention and management of major surgical, biological and technical complications, to facilitate the establishment and maintenance of peri‐implant health. This volume focusses on factors affecting early and late implant loss and the potential role of systemic diseases and local conditions. It comprehensively discusses the implementation of guided implant surgery to facilitate the cleansibility of implant‐supported restorations, as well as iatrogenic factors related to bone augmentation/sinus grafting procedures. The challenges associated with soft‐tissue grafting and the prevention of esthetic complications are also reviewed as the paradigm of success in implant dentistry shifts from implant survival towards a greater focus on patient‐reported outcomes. Prosthetic failures remain a significant challenge and are discussed in light of new evidence, as is the relevance of the structural dimensions of the peri‐implant mucosa. The volume closes with detailed and well‐illustrated appraisals of the surgical management of peri‐implantitis, the management and sequelae of dental implant removal, and the latest evidence for the oral health related quality of life in patients treated with dental implants.
Complications in sinus lifting procedures: Classification and management
Authors: Molina Ana , Sanz‐Sánchez Ignacio , Sanz‐Martín Ignacio , Ortiz‐Vigón Alberto , Sanz Mariano
Published: February 2022

Open and closed sinus lifting procedures are predictable methods to augment the bone needed for appropriate implant placement in the posterior maxilla in cases where available bone is limited. However, these techniques may give rise to complications and associated comorbidities. In the case of open sinus lifting, perforation of the Schneiderian membrane during osteotomy is the most common complication, with an incidence rate of around 20%‐25%. Apart from those complications associated with oral surgery in general (such as swelling or hematoma), there are specific complications of open sinus lifting procedures that may arise less frequently (chronic rhinosinusitis, hemorrhage, or ostium blockage by overfilling) but which may nevertheless compromise the viability of the graft and/or the implants and cause substantial discomfort to the patient. Closed sinus lifting is a less invasive approach that allows transcrestal placement of the implants in cases where there is sufficient residual bone height. However, it may also be associated with specific complications, including membrane perforation, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, and implant displacement to the sinus cavity. New technologies have been proposed to reduce these complications and comorbidities associated with conventional sinus lifting procedures, such as the use of piezoelectric devices and hydraulic sinus lift or reamer burs. The evidence supporting their effectiveness and safety, however, is still lacking. A detailed medical history together with a thorough radiographic and clinical examination are essential prior to any kind of bone regenerative augmentation involving the maxillary sinus. Moreover, it is recommended to employ the most appropriate surgical technique for the specific characteristics of the case and, at the same time, accommodating the experience and skills of the surgeon.
Decision‐first modeling should guide decision making for emerging risks
Authors: Morgan Kara , Collier Zachary A. , Gilmore Elisabeth , Schmitt Ketra
Published: February 2022

An emerging risk is characterized by scant published data, rapidly changing information, and an absence of existing models that can be directly used for prediction. Analysis may be further complicated by quickly evolving decision‐maker priorities and the potential need to make decisions quickly as new information comes available. To provide a forum to discuss these challenges, a virtual conference, “Decision Making for Emerging Risks,” was held on June 22–23, 2021, sponsored jointly by the Decision Analysis Society of the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences and the Decision Analysis and Risk specialty group in the Society for Risk Analysis. Speakers reflected on the work to support decision‐makers related to the COVID‐19 pandemic as well as experiences in emerging risks across domains from cybersecurity, infrastructure, transportation, energy, food safety, national security, and climate change. Here, we distill the key findings to propose a set of best practice principles for a “decision‐first” approach for emerging risks. These discussions underscore the importance of scoping the decision context and the shared responsibility for the development and implementation of the analysis between the analyst and the decision‐maker when the context can evolve rapidly. Emerging risks may also favor simpler analytical approaches that increase transparency, ease of explanation, and ability to conduct new analyses quickly. Continued dialogue by the decision and risk analysis communities on the use and development of models for emerging risks will enhance the credibility and usefulness of these approaches.
Protein-PAINT: Superresolution microscopy with signaling proteins
Authors: Farrell Megan V. , Nunez Andrea C. , Yang Zhengmin , Pérez-Ferreros Pablo , Gaus Katharina , Goyette Jesse
Published: February 2022

Superresolution techniques have advanced our understanding of complex cellular structures and processes but require the attachment of fluorophores to targets through tags or antibodies, which can be bulky and result in underlabeling. To overcome these limitations, we developed a technique to visualize the nanoscale binding locations of signaling proteins by taking advantage of their native interaction domains. Here, we demonstrated that pPAINT (protein point accumulation in nanoscale topography) is a new, single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) technique and used it to investigate T cell signaling by visualizing the Src homology 2 (SH2) domain, which is common in signaling molecules. When SH2 domain–containing proteins relocate to the plasma membrane, the domains selectively, transiently, and reversibly bind to preferred phosphorylated tyrosine residues on receptors. This transient binding yields the stochastic blinking events necessary for SMLM when observed with total internal reflection microscopy and enables quantification of binding coefficients in intact cells. We used pPAINT to reveal the binding sites of several T cell receptor–proximal signaling molecules, including Zap70, PI3K, Grb2, Syk, Eat2, and SHP2, and showed that the probes could be multiplexed. We showed that the binding half-life of the tandem SH2 domain of PI3K correlated with binding site cluster size at the immunological synapses of T cells, but that longer binding lifetimes were associated with smaller clusters for the monovalent SH2 domain of Eat2. These results demonstrate the potential of pPAINT for investigating phosphotyrosine-mediated signaling processes at the plasma membrane.
The Staphylococcus aureus CidA and LrgA Proteins Are Functional Holins Involved in the Transport of By-Products of Carbohydrate Metabolism
Authors: Endres Jennifer L. , Chaudhari Sujata S. , Zhang Xinyan , Prahlad Janani , Wang Shu-Qi , Foley Lily A. , Luca Sorin , Bose Jeffrey L. , Thomas Vinai C. , Bayles Kenneth W.
Published: February 2022

The
Staphylococcus aureus
cidABC
and
lrgAB
operons represent the founding members of a large, highly conserved family of genes that span multiple kingdoms of life. Despite the fact that they have been shown to be involved in bacterial PCD during biofilm development, very little is known about the molecular/biochemical functions of the proteins they encode.
Enoyl-Coenzyme A Respiration via Formate Cycling in Syntrophic Bacteria
Authors: Agne Michael , Appel Lena , Seelmann Carola , Boll Matthias
Published: February 2022

The syntrophic interaction of fermenting bacteria and methanogenic archaea is important for the global carbon cycle. As an example, it accomplishes the conversion of biomass-derived saturated fatty acid fermentation intermediates into methane.
Effects of prenatal nutrient supplementation and early life exposures on neurodevelopment at age 10: a randomised controlled trial - the COPSYCH study protocol
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Parisa , Rosenberg Julie Bøjstrup , Vinding Rebecca , Møllegaard Jepsen Jens Richardt , Lindberg Ulrich , Følsgaard Nilo , Erlang Sørensen Mikkel , Sulaiman Daban , Bilenberg Niels , Mitta Raghava Jayachandra , Fagerlund Birgitte , Vestergaard Mark , Pantelis Christos , Stokholm Jakob , Chawes Bo , Larsson Henrik , Glenthøj Birte Yding , Bønnelykke Klaus , Ebdrup Bjørn H , Bisgaard Hans
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Nutrient deficiency and immune and inflammatory disturbances in early life may compromise neurodevelopment and be implicated in the aetiology of psychiatric disorders. However, current evidence is limited by its predominantly observational nature. COpenhagen Prospective Study on Neuro-PSYCHiatric Development (COPSYCH) is a research alliance between Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood (COPSAC) and Center for Clinical Intervention and Neuropsychiatric Schizophrenia Research with the overall aim to investigate effects of prenatal and early life exposures on neurodevelopment at 10 years. COPSYCH will investigate the impact of prenatal n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFA) and high-dose vitamin D supplementation on neurodevelopment reflected by brain development, neurocognition and psychopathology. Moreover, the neurodevelopmental impact of early life exposures such as infections, low grade inflammation and the gut microbiome will be scrutinised.

Methods and analysis

COPSYCH is based on the prospective and ongoing COPSAC2010birth cohort of 700 mother–child pairs. Randomised controlled trials of supplementation with n-3 LCPUFA and/or high-dose vitamin D or placebo in the third trimester were embedded in a factorial 2×2 design (ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT01233297 andNCT00856947). This unique cohort provides deep phenotyping data from 14 previous clinical follow-up visits and exposure assessments since birth. The ongoing 10-year visit is a 2-day visit. Day 1 includes a comprehensive neurocognitive examination, and assessment of psychopathological dimensions, and assessment of categorical psychopathology. Day 2 includes acquisition of brain structural, diffusion and functional sequences using 3 Tesla MRI. Study outcomes are neurocognitive, psychopathological and MRI measures.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Danish National Committee on Health Research Ethics and The Danish Data Protection Agency. The study is conducted in accordance with the guiding principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Parents gave written informed consent before enrolment.
Community pharmacists’ perception and exposure to drug promotion in Pakistan: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gillani Ali Hassan , Zhao Mingyue , Hussain Azzah Khadim , Munir Kiran , Masood Shamaila , Saeed Amna , Fang Yu
Published: February 2022

Objective

Drug promotion is a factor that promotes the irrational use of drugs and sometimes negatively influences the prescribing/dispensing pattern. So there was a need to assess the views about accepting gifts and attitudes/influence towards drug promotion among community pharmacists in Punjab, Pakistan.

Setting

Adopting a preused questionnaire, we conducted a cross-sectional multiple-site survey study. We distributed questionnaires to pharmacists in the community pharmacies to investigate the exposure, scepticism and acceptance to drug promotion as well as their perception about the appropriateness of gifts and to check if they had been taught about dealing with medical representatives. Data were analysed in simple percentages, and the χ2 test was used to evaluate association with demographics. All the analysis was done using SPSS V.23.0.

Results

A total 86.9% (463/533) pharmacists completed the survey. One out of four pharmacists reported being taught about the ethics of drug promotion (26.8%) and about how to interpret drug promotional material (25.0%) and were significantly associated with higher age (age 31%–35 years, 81.9%; p<0.05). More than two-thirds of the respondents found it appropriate to accept stationery (73.4%) and textbooks (70.6%) as gifts, and only 17.5% felt it was appropriate to accept direct money. Less than half of the pharmacists (47.3%) perceived drug companies were useful for gaining knowledge about new drugs. Majority (76.2%) thought these drug promotions play a role in the irrational prescribing of antibiotics and 18.6% dispensed antibiotics due to these promotions.

Conclusion

The majority of pharmacists participating in this study felt it was appropriate to receive small value gifts from pharmaceutical companies. Only a small proportion of the respondents was given ethical training and education about drug promotion. Improving the syllabus and updating the pharmacist’s knowledge after graduation, as part of continued pharmacy education, will eventually improve the healthcare professionals’ capability to act for the patients’ welfare.
Characteristics of eye injuries, medical cost and return-to-work status among industrial workers: a retrospective study
Authors: Omar Rokiah , Anan Nur Syamilah , Azri Izmel Azim , Majumder Chiranjib , Knight Victor Feizal
Published: February 2022

Objective

The aim of this study is to determine the characteristics of eye injuries, medical costs and return-to-work status among industrial workers to provide better vision rehabilitative services.

Setting

Nationwide data from the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) of Malaysia.

Participants

A stratified random sample of workers registered with the SOCSO of Malaysia with documentation of eye injury.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Characteristics of eye injuries and medical costs related to eye injury (primary) and return-to-work status (secondary).

Results

A total of 884 from 8861 case files workplace accidents involving eye injury registered with Social Security Services (SOCSO) were identified. The mean age was 35±10 years and the highest incidence of work-related eye injury occurred in the age group 30–39 years and among Malay ethnics. Males are affected more than females’ workers. The highest cause of eye injury was the impact from a moving object excluding falling objects (89.2%) and anterior segment injuries occurred more than posterior segment injuries. The total direct and Indirect medical cost was RM1 108 098.00 (US$316 599.40) and RM4 150 140.00 (US$1 185 754.20) for 884 cases.

Conclusion

The majority of workers suffered from the low level of eye injury. A significant relationship was found between the severity of eye injury and employee work status. The indirect cost of medical and vision rehabilitation was higher than the direct cost. Awareness and vision rehabilitation programmes at the workplace need to be addressed for better prevention and rehabilitative service.
What treatments work for anxiety and depression in children and adolescents with chronic fatigue syndrome? An updated systematic review
Authors: Clery Philippa , Royston Alexander , Driver Katie , Bailey Jasmine , Crawley Esther , Loades Maria
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Children with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) experience a higher prevalence of depression and anxiety compared with age-matched controls. Our previous systematic reviews in 2015/16 found little evidence for effective treatment for children with CFS/ME with comorbid depression and/or anxiety. This review updates these findings.

Design

A systematic review. We searched Cochrane library, Medline, Embase and PsycINFO databases from 2015 to 2020. We combined the updated results with our previous reviews in a narrative synthesis.

Participants

Inclusion criteria: <18 years old; diagnosed with CFS/ME (using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence or Oxford criteria); validated measures of depression and/or anxiety.

Interventions

Observational studies or randomised controlled trials.

Comparison

Any or none.

Outcomes

Studies with outcome measures of anxiety, depression or fatigue.

Results

The updated review identified two studies. This brings the total number of paediatric CFS/ME studies with a measure of anxiety and/or depression since 1991 to 16. None of the studies specifically targeted depression, nor anxiety. One new study showed the Lightning Process (in addition to specialist care) was more effective at reducing depressive and anxiety symptoms compared with specialist care alone. Previous studies evaluated cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT); pharmacological interventions and behavioural approaches. CBT-type interventions had most evidence for improving comorbid anxiety and/or depressive symptoms but varied in delivery and modality. Other interventions showed promise but studies were small and have not been replicated.

Conclusion

Very few paediatric CFS/ME intervention studies have been conducted. This review update does not significantly add to what is known from previous reviews. The evidence is of poor quality and insufficient to conclude which interventions are effective at treating comorbid anxiety and/or depression in paediatric CFS/ME.

PROSPERO registration numbers

CRD42016043488 and CRD42015016813.
Development of a clinical prediction model to inform clinical decision making for classification of patients with sciatica, based on their clinical characteristics, in the Greek health system: protocol for a prospective predictive exploratory study
Authors: Kontakiotis Nikolaos , Rushton Alison B , Billis Evdokia , Papathanasiou George , Gioftsos George
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Sciatica is one of the most common reasons for seeking healthcare for musculoskeletal pain. Sciatica is primarily considered as neuropathic in nature when neural tissue in the low back is compromised, but sometimes other non-neural structures may be involved. Appropriate assessment and management are important for patients with sciatica. Therapists use several outcome measures to assess patients to inform selection of the most suitable treatment. There is limited evidence for the best treatment of sciatica, and this is likely contributed to by having no reliable algorithm to categorise patients based on their clinical characteristics to inform physiotherapy treatment. The purpose of this study is to develop a clinical prediction model to categorise patients with sciatica, in terms of early clinical outcome, based on their initial clinical characteristics.

Methods and analysis

A prospective observational multicentre design will recruit consecutive patients (n=467) with sciatica referred for physiotherapy. Each patient will be evaluated to determine whether or not they will be accepted into the study by answering some questions that will confirm the study’s eligibility criteria. Patients’ basic characteristics, patient-reported outcome measures and performance-based measures will be collected at baseline from multiple sites in the Greek territory using this same protocol, prior to commencement of treatment. The main researcher of this study will be responsible for data collection in all sites. On completion of the standard referred physiotherapy treatment after 3 weeks’ time, participants will be asked by telephone to evaluate their outcome using the Global Perceived Effect Scale. For the descriptive statistical analysis, the continuous variables will be expressed in the form of ‘mean’ and ‘SD’. In order to assess the prognostic value of each predictor, in terms of the level of improvement or worsening of the symptoms, multiple variable regression analysis will be used.

Ethics and dissemination

Τhis study is approved from the Ethics and Deontology Committee of the University of West Attica, Athens, Greece, protocol number: 38313-09/06/2020, 10226-10/02/2021. The study’s findings will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated at national and international conferences and through social media.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020168467.
Validation of a three-dimensional printed dry lab pancreaticojejunostomy model in surgical assessment: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yu Hao , Yu Tunan , Wang Jiulong , Wei Fangqiang , Gong Haibo , Dong Haiying , He Xinzhong , Wang Zhifei , Yang Jin
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Until now, there have been few tools to evaluate whether a surgeon was technically ready to perform a safe pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ). In the current study, we aimed to evaluate whether a three-dimensional model could mimic a real surgical situation and distinguish between surgeons of different levels of experiences.

Design

A three-dimensional PJ dry laboratory model was printed. Eight experienced pancreatic surgeons were tasked to evaluate the appearance and tactile sensation of the model. Proficiency was scored based on 15 surgeons with various levels of pancreatic experience performing a PJ on the three-dimensional model. Additionally, the time of manipulation and NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) scores were recorded for each operation.

Setting

Our study was conducted in multimedical centre in China.

Results

Compared with real surgical situations, this model had similar appearance (3.96±0.55 out of five points) and tactile sensation (3.85±0.46 out of five points) according to the expert evaluation. Additionally, the chief surgeon group scored the best in proficiency (based on NASA-TLX scores and operative time), and there were statistical differences for performances among surgeons of various levels (p<0.05).

Conclusion

The three-dimensional PJ model could mimic a real surgical situation and can distinguish between surgeons of different levels of experiences.
Clinical efficacy of diquafosol sodium 3% versus hyaluronic acid 0.1% in patients with dry eye disease after cataract surgery: a protocol for a single-centre, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Miura Maria , Inomata Takenori , Nojiri Shuko , Sung Jaemyoung , Nagao Masashi , Shimazaki Jun , Midorikawa-Inomata Akie , Okumura Yuichi , Fujio Kenta , Akasaki Yasutsugu , Kuwahara Mizu , Huang Tianxiang , Nakamura Masahiro , Iwagami Masao , Hirosawa Kunihiko , Fujimoto Keiichi , Murakami Akira
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The number of cataract surgeries, the most common ophthalmic surgery, is expected to increase due to ageing populations. Dry eye disease (DED) is a frequent side effect of cataract surgery, contributing to lower postoperative patient satisfaction and suboptimal quality of vision. It is unclear which eye-drops commonly used in these patients should be recommended for postoperative DED treatment. This study aims to compare the efficacy of topical administration of diquafosol sodium 3% vs hyaluronic acid 0.1% eye-drops in patients with DED after cataract surgery.

Methods and analysis

The study is designed as a single-blind randomised controlled trial. The participants will be randomly (1:1) allocated to either the diquafosol sodium 3% topical administration group (n=21) or the hyaluronic acid 0.1% topical administration group (n=21). Each group will receive its assigned eye-drop intervention over a 12-week period. The primary outcome will be measured using the total score of the Japanese version of the Ocular Surface Disease Index during the visit 5 weeks postoperatively. Both groups will be followed up after their respective eye-drop application for 12 weeks according to the intervention regimens. Secondary outcome measures including meibomian gland function assessment, tear film break-up time, keratoconjunctival staining score, maximum blink interval and tear secretion volume using Schirmer’s test I will be assessed at 1, 5, 9, 13 and 25 weeks postoperatively.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Juntendo Hospital Certified Review Board, Tokyo, Japan (Approved protocol V.7.0 dated 7 May 2021. Approval number: J20-018) and has been registered with the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials. Written informed consent will be collected from every patient prior to study participation. The results of this trial will be presented at local and international meetings and submitted to peer-reviewed journals for publication.

Trial registration number

jRCT1031210018.
Primary care service utilisation and outcomes in type 2 diabetes: a longitudinal cohort analysis
Authors: Hodgson Sam , Morgan-Harrisskitt Jeffrey , Hounkpatin Hilda , Stuart Beth , Dambha-Miller Hajira
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To describe primary care utilisation patterns among adults with type 2 diabetes and to quantify the association between utilisation and long-term health outcomes.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

168 primary care practices in Southern England within the Electronic Care and Health Information Analytics database between 2013 and 2020.

Participants

110 240 adults with Quality and Outcomes Framework read code of type 2 diabetes diagnosis; age greater than 18 years; linked and continuous records available from April 2013 until April 2020 (or death).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

(1) Rates of service utilisation (total number of primary care contacts per quarter) across the study period; (2) participant characteristics associated with higher and lower rates of service utilisation; and (3) associations between service utilisation and (A) cardiovascular disease (CVD events) and (B) all-cause mortality.

Results

Mean (SD) number of primary care attendances per quarter in the cohort of 110 240 went from 2.49 (2.01) in 2013 to 2.78 (2.06) in 2020. Patients in the highest usage tertile were more likely to be female, older, more frail, white, from the least deprived quintile and to have five or more comorbidities. In adjusted models, higher rates of service utilisation (per consultation) were associated with higher rates of CVD events (OR 1.0058; 95% CI 1.0053 to 1.0062; p<0.001) and mortality (OR 1.0057; 95% CI 1.0051 to 1.0064; p<0.001).

Conclusions

People with type 2 diabetes are using primary care services more frequently, but increased volume of clinical care does not correlate with better outcomes, although this finding may be driven by more unwell patients contacting services more frequently. Further research on the nature and content of contacts is required to understand how to tailor services to deliver effective care to those at greatest risk of complications.
Specchio-COVID19 cohort study: a longitudinal follow-up of SARS-CoV-2 serosurvey participants in the canton of Geneva, Switzerland
Authors: Baysson Helene , Pennacchio Francesco , Wisniak Ania , Zaballa Maria Eugenia , Pullen Nick , Collombet Prune , Lorthe Elsa , Joost Stéphane , Balavoine Jean-Francois , Bachmann Delphine , Azman Andrew , Pittet Didier , Chappuis François , Kherad Omar , Kaiser Laurent , Guessous Idris , Stringhini Silvia
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected billions of people around the world both directly through the infection itself and indirectly through its economic, social and sanitary impact. Collecting data over time is essential for the understanding of the disease spread, the incidence of COVID-19-like symptoms, the level and dynamics of immunity, as well as the long-term impact of the pandemic. The objective of the study was to set up a longitudinal follow-up of adult participants of serosurveys carried out in the canton of Geneva, Switzerland, during the COVID-19 pandemic. This follow-up aims at monitoring COVID-19 related symptoms and SARS-CoV-2 seroconversion, as well as the overall impact of the pandemic on several dimensions of health and on socioeconomic factors over a period of at least 2 years.

Methods and analysis

Serosurvey participants were invited to create an account on the dedicated digital platform Specchio-COVID19 (https://www.specchio-covid19.ch/). On registration, an initial questionnaire assessed sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics (including housing conditions, physical activity, diet, alcohol and tobacco consumption), anthropometry, general health and experience related to COVID-19 (symptoms, COVID-19 test results, quarantines, hospitalisations). Weekly, participants were invited to fill in a short questionnaire with updates on self-reported COVID-19-compatible symptoms, SARS-CoV-2 infection testing and vaccination. A more detailed questionnaire about mental health, well-being, risk perception and changes in working conditions was proposed monthly. Supplementary questionnaires were proposed at regular intervals to assess more in depth the impact of the pandemic on physical and mental health, vaccination adherence, healthcare consumption and changes in health behaviours. At baseline, serology testing allowed to assess the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection among the general population and subgroups of workers. Additionally, seropositive participants and a sample of randomly selected participants were invited for serologic testing at regular intervals in order to monitor both the seropersistance of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and the seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the population of the canton of Geneva.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Cantonal Research Ethics Commission of Geneva, Switzerland (CCER Project ID 2020-00881). Results will be disseminated in a variety of ways, via the Specchio-COVID-19 platform, social media posts, press releases and through regular scientific dissemination methods (open-access articles, conferences).
Prevalence of autoimmune thyroid disease in patients with psoriasis: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiaochao , Zhang Suhan , Wu Ruifang , Li Siying , Su Yuwen , Zhang Peng
Published: February 2022

Objective

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease with autoimmune aetiology. A possible link between psoriasis and autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) has been suggested in some studies with inconsistent findings. This meta-analysis aims to determine the association between psoriasis and AITD.

Design

A meta-analysis of observational studies.

Data sources

PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus and the Cochrane Library were searched up to 1 November 2021.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

We included non-randomised studies, each with over 50 cases in every group, focusing on the rate of comorbidity between psoriasis and AITD.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two independent reviewers screened the articles and extracted data. The restricted maximum-likelihood was applied to perform the meta-analysis. OR and 95% CIs were pooled to compare the prevalence of AITD in psoriasis and control groups. Heterogeneity was assessed with I2 statistic. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality were applied for quality assessment. The risk of bias was assessed with Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies-of Interventions (ROBINS-I).

Results

Eleven available studies with data on 253 313 patients with psoriasis and 1 376 533 controls were included. Meta-analysis showed that patients with psoriasis had a higher prevalence of AITD (OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.35 to 2.28, Z=4.25, p<0.01), especially loss-of-function disorder of the thyroid gland. Both thyroglobulin antibodies positive rate (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.27 to 3.10, Z=3.00, p<0.01) and thyroid peroxidase antibodies positive rate (OR 2.15, 95% CI 1.31 to 3.52, Z=3.05, p<0.01) were also increased in the psoriasis group compared with the control group.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that the rate of co-occurring AITD was significantly increased in patients with psoriasis. It suggests that the increased risk of AITD should be concerned in patients with psoriasis.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020206005.