bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prescription of best medical therapy following infrainguinal bypass grafting in Australia and New Zealand: a multicentre Australasian audit
Authors: Farah Sam , Kwok Ricky , Dean Anastasia , Sivakumaran Yogeesan , Khoo Samantha , Joret Maximilian , Jansen Shirley , Aitken Sarah ,   The Australian and New Zealand Vascular Trials Network
Published: January 2021

Background

The benefits of best medical therapy (BMT) for secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with peripheral arterial disease are well established. Guidelines recommend prescription of BMT should consist of anti‐platelet, statins and angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocking therapy, with evidence this regimen reduces cardiovascular mortality following vascular surgery and improves vascular bypass graft patency. This multicentre study examines the BMT prescription on discharge after infrainguinal bypass (IIB) in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ). Primary outcome measure was discharge prescription of three BMT pharmacological agents, defined for study purposes as an anti‐platelet/anti‐coagulant, a lipid‐lowering agent, and an anti‐hypertensive medication if hypertension was diagnosed.

Methods

This study retrospectively examined discharge prescriptions and summaries of all patients discharged following IIB in five ANZ hospitals, between January 2015 and April 2018.

Results

A total of 688 admissions for IIB were included (76.9% male; mean age 67.8 ± 12.0). A total of 72.4% of procedures were for chronic limb ischaemia, compared to acute limb ischaemia (12.6%), and aneurysmal disease (15%). The primary outcome of adherence with complete BMT prescription occurred in 66.9% of admissions. Anti‐thrombotic agents were most frequently prescribed (96.4%), followed by anti‐lipidaemic agents (82.1%). Of the patients with documented hypertension, 43.8% were not prescribed an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocking, while 19.2% were discharged without any anti‐hypertensive medications.

Conclusion

Almost one third of patients were not prescribed complete BMT following IIB. There is potential to improve the outcomes after IIB in ANZ through a focus on risk‐factor control and BMT prescription.
Clinical predictors of response to chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer as an aid to organ preservation
Authors: Fischer Jesse , Eglinton Tim W. , Frizelle Frank A.
Published: January 2021

Aim

Clinical predictors of pathological response to chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer can influence patient management including selection for organ preservation. This study aimed to identify clinical predictors at a tertiary referral hospital.

Methods

A retrospective review of clinical records was undertaken after identifying all patients with stage 1–3 rectal cancer treated with long course chemoradiotherapy and total mesorectal excision from 2013 to 2018. Clinicopathological factors were recorded and multivariate analysis performed to identify predictors of pathological complete response (pCR) and good response (AJCC TRG 0–1).

Results

A total of 470 patients with rectal cancer were identified of which 164 met the inclusion criteria for the study. The pCR rate was 14.6% and good response (TRG 0–1) rate 43.7%. On univariate analysis, lower T stage, older age, node negative status, anterior tumour position and shorter tumour length on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were associated with good response (TRG 0–1). On univariate analysis cN stage, carcinoembryonic antigen <5 and shorter tumour length on MRI were associated with pCR.

On binary logistic regression shorter length on MRI and lower clinical nodal stage were predictive of pCR and lower body mass index, anterior tumour position and higher haemoglobin were predictive of good response (TRG 0–1).

Conclusion

Anterior tumour position is newly identified as an independent predictor of good response (TRG 0–1) to nCRT for rectal cancer and this should be explored in future studies. Higher haemoglobin and lower body mass index were also independent predictors of good response (TRG 0–1) and optimisation of these factors should be considered when using neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer.
Newborn infants who received skin‐to‐skin contact with fathers after Caesarean sections showed stable physiological patterns
Authors: Ayala Ana , Christensson Kyllike , Christensson Eva , Cavada Gabriel , Erlandsson Kerstin , Velandia Marianne
Published: January 2021

Aim

Separating infants and their parents after a Caesarean section is still the routine care worldwide. This study investigated three caregiving models on the wakefulness and physiological parameters of full‐term infants after an elective Caesarean section.

Methods

Newborn infants born in a Chilean public hospital in 2009‐12 were randomised to three groups: cot, fathers' arms or skin‐to‐skin contact with their father. They were assessed at 15‐minute intervals, from 45 to 120 minutes after the Caesarean section. Their physiological parameters were measured, and their wakefulness was assessed using the Neonatal Behavioural Assessment Scale.

Results

We studied 95 infant (53% girls) born at a mean gestational age of 38.9 ± 0.9 weeks. Heart rates were significantly higher in the skin‐to‐skin than cot or fathers' arms groups and showed greater stability over time. Wakefulness was initially higher in the skin‐to‐skin group, but there were no significant differences by the end of the observation. There were no differences between the groups in peripheral oxygen saturation. Skin‐to‐skin contact had no negative impact on the infants.

Conclusion

The skin‐to‐skin group showed some advantages over the cot and fathers' arms groups when it came to establishing stable physiological parameters and wakefulness. This approach should be supported during mother‐infant separation.
Comprehensive evaluation of microneedle‐based intradermal adalimumab delivery vs. subcutaneous administration: results of a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Jacobse Justin , ten Voorde Wouter , Tandon Anushka , Romeijn Stefan G. , Grievink Hendrika W. , van der Maaden Koen , van Esdonk Michiel J. , Moes Dirk Jan A.R. , Loeff Floris , Bloem Karien , de Vries Annick , Rispens Theo , Wolbink Gertjan , de Kam Marieke , Ziagkos Dimitrios , Moerland Matthijs , Jiskoot Wim , Bouwstra Joke , Burggraaf Jacobus , Schrier Lenneke , Rissmann Robert , ten Cate Rebecca
Published: January 2021

Aims

To evaluate feasibility of intradermal (i.d.) adalimumab administration using hollow microneedles, and to compare a single i.d. dose of adalimumab using a hollow microneedle with a single subcutaneous (s.c.) dose using a conventional needle.

Methods

In this single‐centre double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, double‐dummy clinical trial in 24 healthy adults we compared 40 mg adalimumab (0.4 mL) administered i.d. using a hollow microneedle with a s.c. dose using a conventional needle. Primary parameters were pain, acceptability and local tolerability; secondary parameters safety, pharmacokinetics and immunogenicity. We explored usability of optical coherence tomography, clinical photography, thermal imaging, and laser speckle contrast imaging to evaluate skin reaction after i.d. injections. In vitro protein analysis was performed to assess compatibility of adalimumab with the hollow microneedle device.

Results

While feasible and safe, injection pain of i.d. adalimumab was higher compared to s.c. adalimumab (35.4 vs. 7.9 on a 100‐point visual analogue scale). Initial absorption rate and relative bioavailability were higher after i.d. adalimumab (time to maximum plasma concentration = 95 h [47–120]; Frel = 129% [6.46%]) compared to s.c. adalimumab (time to maximum plasma concentration = 120 h [96–221]). Anti‐adalimumab antibodies were detected in 50% and 83% of the subjects after i.d. and s.c. adalimumab, respectively. We observed statistically significantly more erythema and skin perfusion after i.d. adalimumab, compared to s.c. adalimumab and placebo injections (P < .0001). Cytokine secretion after whole blood lipopolysaccharide challenge was comparable between administration routes.

Conclusions

Intradermal injection of adalimumab using hollowing microneedles was perceived as more painful and less accepted than s.c. administration, but yields a higher relative bioavailability with similar safety and pharmacodynamic effects.
The State of the Art of Spatial Interfaces for 3D Visualization
Authors: Besançon Lonni , Ynnerman Anders , Keefe Daniel F. , Yu Lingyun , Isenberg Tobias
Published: January 2021

We survey the state of the art of spatial interfaces for 3D visualization. Interaction techniques are crucial to data visualization processes and the visualization research community has been calling for more research on interaction for years. Yet, research papers focusing on interaction techniques, in particular for 3D visualization purposes, are not always published in visualization venues, sometimes making it challenging to synthesize the latest interaction and visualization results. We therefore introduce a taxonomy of interaction technique for 3D visualization. The taxonomy is organized along two axes: the primary source of input on the one hand and the visualization task they support on the other hand. Surveying the state of the art allows us to highlight specific challenges and missed opportunities for research in 3D visualization. In particular, we call for additional research in: (1) controlling 3D visualization widgets to help scientists better understand their data, (2) 3D interaction techniques for dissemination, which are under‐explored yet show great promise for helping museum and science centers in their mission to share recent knowledge, and (3) developing new measures that move beyond traditional time and errors metrics for evaluating visualizations that include spatial interaction.
Embedded in relations—Interactions as a source of agency and life opportunities for care‐experienced young adults
Authors: Gundersen Tonje
Published: January 2021

This paper explores how young people who have been in out‐of‐home care develop a positive agentic capacity. The analyses are based on longitudinal biographical interviews with 24 care experienced young people (age 16–32 years) living in Norway. At the time of the interviews, they were in the education system or working and described themselves as ‘doing well’. Through the application of a relational understanding of agency, this paper provides in‐depth insights into how relations shape the biography, identity and decisions of young people with care backgrounds, scaffold positive possibilities and enhance their life opportunities.
Two worlds of female labour: gender wage inequality in western Europe, 1300–1800†
Authors: de Pleijt Alexandra , van Zanden Jan Luiten
Published: January 2021

Labour market engagement by women is an important determinant of female autonomy that may also affect their demographic behaviour. In order to bring about the conditions for the female autonomy that characterized the European marriage pattern (in which women had a say in the decision about when and whom they marry), women needed to earn a decent wage. This is clearly affected by the gender wage ratio and the possibility of women earning their own living and having the option of remaining single. So far no attempt has been made to compare the wages of women across Europe over the long run. In this article we provide evidence on the wages of unskilled women for seven European countries (represented by cities or regions within these countries) between 1300 and 1800. Our evidence shows that there were two worlds of female labour. In the south of Europe women earned about 50 per cent of the wage of unskilled male labourers, a ratio that seems to have been fixed by custom. In the northern and western parts of Europe this ratio was much higher during late medieval period, but it showed a declining trend between about 1500 and 1800, a change that was caused by market forces.
Predator presence and recent climatic warming raise body temperatures of island lizards
Authors: Landry Yuan Félix , Ito Shun , Tsang Toby P. N. , Kuriyama Takeo , Yamasaki Kaede , Bonebrake Timothy C. , Hasegawa Masami
Published: January 2021

In ectothermic predator‐prey relationships, evasion of predation by prey depends on physiological and behavioural responses relating to the thermal biology of both predator and prey. On Japan's Izu Islands, we investigated a prey lizard's physiological and thermal responses to the presence of a snake predator over geologic time in addition to recent climatic warming. Foraging lizard body temperatures increased by 1.3 °C from 1981 to 2019 overall, yet were 2.9 °C warmer on snake islands relative to snake‐free islands. We also detected snake predator‐induced selection on hind leg length, which in turn is a major determinant for sprint speed only in lizard populations exposed to predation by snakes. Accordingly, we found that warmer prey body temperatures result in faster sprint speeds by the prey at temperatures suboptimal for the snake predator, and therefore contribute to escaping predation. Given recent climatic change, further warming could irrevocably alter this and other ectothermic predator‐prey relationships.
Inhaled ciclesonide is efficacious and well tolerated in the treatment of severe equine asthma in a large prospective European clinical trial
Authors: Pirie Robert Scott , Mueller Hanns‐Walter , Engel Odilo , Albrecht Balazs , von Salis‐Soglio Marcella
Published: January 2021

Background

Ciclesonide is a glucocorticoid prodrug, already registered for human use. Due to its mode of action and inhaled route of administration, it was considered an appropriate treatment option for horses with severe equine asthma. Although the efficacy of inhaled ciclesonide has been demonstrated in horses with asthma exacerbations under controlled mouldy hay challenge conditions, it has not yet been reported under field conditions.

Objectives

To assess the effectiveness and safety of inhaled ciclesonide for the treatment of severe equine asthma.

Study design

Prospective, multicentre, placebo‐controlled, randomised, double‐blinded study.

Methods

Two‐hundred and twenty‐four client‐owned horses with severe equine asthma were randomised (1:1 ratio) to receive either ciclesonide inhalation (343 µg/actuation) solution or placebo (0 µg/actuation). Treatments (placebo or ciclesonide) were administered with a nonpressurised Soft Mist™ inhaler specifically developed for horses (Aservo®EquiHaler®) at doses of 8 actuations twice daily for the first 5 days and 12 actuations once daily for the following 5 days. Primary outcome was a success/failure analysis with the a priori definition of treatment success as a 30% or greater reduction in weighted clinical score (WCS) between Day 0 and Day 10 (±1).

Results

The treatment success rate (as defined above) in ciclesonide‐treated horses was 73.4% (80/109) after 10 (±1) days of treatment, being significantly higher than in the placebo group with 43.2% (48/111;P < 0.0001). Few systemic and local adverse events of ciclesonide were observed.

Main limitations

The severity of clinical signs of severe equine asthma varies over time; despite the prohibition of environmental management changes during the study, a placebo effect was also identified. This potentially contributed, in part, to the clinical improvement observed in the ciclesonide‐treated group.

Conclusions

Ciclesonide inhalation solution administered by the Aservo®EquiHaler®effectively reduced severity of clinical signs in a majority of horses with severe equine asthma and was well tolerated.
Domains 12 to 16 of tropoelastin promote cell attachment and spreading through interactions with glycosaminoglycan and integrins alphaV and alpha5beta1
Authors: Bochicchio Brigida , Yeo Giselle C. , Lee Pearl , Emul Deniz , Pepe Antonietta , Laezza Antonio , Ciarfaglia Nicola , Quaglino Daniela , Weiss Anthony S.
Published: January 2021

Elastin is an extracellular matrix component with key structural and biological roles in elastic tissues. Interactions between resident cells and tropoelastin, the monomer of elastin, underpin elastin's regulation of cellular processes. However, the nature of tropoelastin–cell interactions and the contributions of individual tropoelastin domains to these interactions are only partly elucidated. In this study, we identified and characterized novel cell‐adhesive sites in the tropoelastin N‐terminal region between domains 12 and 16. We found that this region interacts with αV and α5β1 integrin receptors, which mediate cell attachment and spreading. A peptide sequence from within this region, spanning domains 14 to mid‐domain 16, binds heparan sulfate through electrostatic interactions with peptide lysine residues and induces conformational ordering of the peptide. We propose that domains 14–16 direct initial cell attachment through cell‐surface heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycans, followed by αV and α5β1 integrin‐promoted attachment and spreading on domains 12–16 of tropoelastin. These findings advance our mechanistic understanding of elastin matrix biology, with the potential to enhance tissue regenerative outcomes of elastin‐based materials.
Carry‐over effects of environmental stochasticity of the California Current on body condition and wing length of breeding Black‐vented Shearwaters (Puffinus opisthomelas)
Authors: Soldatini Cecilia , Rosas‐Hernandez Martha Patricia , Albores‐Barajas Yuri V. , Bambini Giulia , Munguia‐Vega Adrian , Giambalvo Giulia , Dell’Omo Giacomo
Published: January 2021

Recent climatic variation has led to a change in size or mass in some species. The Black‐vented Shearwater Puffinus opisthomelas is endemic to the California Current System, a highly variable system, giving us cues as to the effects of interannual variability on predators. Here, we report the results of a comparison of biometrics measurement in the short term, 4 years, with different environmental conditions. We found that environmental variability has a direct effect on the body condition of the species, affecting not only body mass but also wing length, with shorter wings as a carry‐over effect of adverse conditions.
Failure to replicate a robust Down syndrome advantage for maternal well‐being
Authors: Jess M. , Flynn S. , Bailey T. , Hastings R. P. , Totsika V.
Published: January 2021

Background

Family members caring for children with intellectual disability (ID) routinely report heightened levels of psychological distress. However, families of children with Down syndrome typically report better outcomes (known as the Down syndrome advantage). We examined whether the Down syndrome advantage would be present for maternal psychological distress, impact of caregiving, life satisfaction and perceived positive impact of the child with ID when controlling for external variables.

Methods

Mothers of children with Down syndrome (n = 111) and mothers of children with ID of mixed aetiologies (n = 196) completed measures about their own mental health, perceived impact of caregiving, life satisfaction and perceived positive impact of their child on themselves and the family unit.

Results

A series of group comparisons revealed small to moderate differences supporting the presence of a putative Down syndrome advantage in relation to personal maternal well‐being outcomes. However, when child‐related characteristics and external variables were controlled, the Down syndrome advantage was no longer present, with reduced, small effect sizes observed for all maternal outcomes.

Conclusions

Initial group differences in psychological distress and life satisfaction were largely associated with family poverty, indicating that the Down syndrome advantage may be less robust than previously thought. Future research should seek to move beyond examining the existence of the putative Down syndrome advantage and focus on how families of children with Down syndrome experience family life, including longitudinal research exploring responses to life cycle and transition challenges.
A rare case of atrophic dermatofibroma with dermoscopic findings
Authors: Aktaş Karabay Ezgi , Demir Damla , Gürsoy Fatıma , Zindancı İlkin
Published: January 2021

Background

Dermatofibroma, also known as cutaneous benign fibrous histiocytoma, is a common skin tumour.

Aim

The aim of this paper was to present a rare variant of dermatofibroma, atrophic dermatofibroma, emphasizing histopathological and dermoscopic features.

Patients/Methods

A case of atrophic dermatofibroma in a female patient with the characteristic histopathological features and newly demonstrated dermoscopic findings is presented.

Results

A 54‐year‐old female presented with a depressed reddish lesion on the back showing histopathological findings of atrophic dermatofibroma. The dermoscopy of the lesion revealed a peripheral pigment network surrounding a pink‐reddish colouration around a central whitish scar‐like patch with white‐yellow scales which was not an exact match with the description in the literature.

Conclusion

Atrophic dermatofibroma is a rare variant that presents as an atrophic, depressed skin lesion which can easily be overlooked. Atrophic dermatofibroma should be considered in the differential diagnoses of atrophic, depressed lesions on the upper body of middle‐aged women. The case of atrophic dermatofibroma presented here showed typical histopathologic findings with atypical dermoscopic features.
Identification of predictive factors for the probability of pregnancy following ovulation stimulation‐intra‐uterine insemination cycles in terms of female and male
Authors: Ozcan Pinar , Takmaz Taha
Published: January 2021

Aim

To identify which positive prognostic parameters contribute to successful treatment outcomes and the probability of pregnancy by analyzing the results of infertile couples underwent ovulation stimulation (OS) and intra‐uterine insemination (IUI) in our clinic.

Methods

Five hundred and nineteen couples who underwent OS‐IUI treatment because of a mild–moderate male factor, unexplained infertility, or anovulation were retrospectively analyzed. The data collected included patient demographics, cycle characteristic, sperm parameters and pregnancy rates. The main outcome measure was pregnancy rate (PR).

Results

Our overall PR was 17.72% (n = 92). In women who did not achieve pregnancy, age, BMI and duration of infertility were significantly higher (P < 0.001, P < 0.001 and P = 0.03, respectively). The IUI indications of higher PR were unexplained infertility (P = 0.018) and primary infertility (P = 0.003). AFC was significantly lower and the total dosage of gonadotropins was significantly higher in women who did not achieve pregnancy (P = 0.001 and P = 0.017, respectively). The number of progressive motile spermatozoa inseminated and the morphology were significantly higher in women who did not achieve pregnancy (P = 0.056 and P = 0.001, respectively). Female age ≤ 30 (OR = 0.87; 95% CI: 0.81–0.95; P < 0.01), BMI ≤23.3 kg/m2 (OR = 0.87; 95% CI: 0.80–0.95; P = 0.002) and AFC > 9 (OR = 1.07; 95% CI: 1–1.15; P = 0.034) increase the pregnancy.

Conclusion

Younger women, especially those with unexplained infertility, primary infertility, shorter duration of infertility, normal ovarian reserve, higher motile spermatozoa inseminated and sperm morphology, could benefit from OS‐IUI.
Early description of amniotomy in medieval Persia
Authors: Vazani Yasaman , Feyzabadi Zohre , Ghorbani Fariba , Daneshfard Babak
Published: January 2021

Aim

Artificial rupture of the amniotic membranes during the labor, which is called amniotomy, is a common procedure in modern obstetric and midwifery protocols. There is no definite agreement regarding the timing of amniotomy in a delayed labor. In this study, we have discussed the history of amniotomy in medieval Persia mentioning the Persian medicine recommendations in this regard.

Methods

We studied main Persian medicine textbooks such as Canon of Medicine by Avicenna to investigate the history of labor management and amniotomy indications. In addition, amniotomy in current literature was studied using PubMed and Google Scholar databases.

Results

Persian medicine has recommended artificial rupture of membranes for labor augmentation based on its own theories. Methods for facilitation of the labor have been divided into two groups: one group before and the other during the labor. Avicenna has carefully explained the indication of amniotomy. He has recommended artificial rupture of membranes in cases of intact membranes with cervical dilatation and fetal descent. A needle or a kind of surgical knife called Mabzaa had been introduced for this procedure.

Conclusions

It seems that Iranian physicians are the first scholars who have introduced the amniotomy for labor management in the 11th century. Persian medicine recommendations for labor facilitation should be considered in future studies.
Overview of nontuberculous mycobacterial disease in children
Authors: Ford Timothy J , Silcock Robyn A , Holland Steven M
Published: January 2021

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are ubiquitous organisms in our surrounding environment. Four distinct clinical syndromes associated with NTM infection have been described: skin and soft tissue disease, lymphadenitis, disseminated disease and pulmonary disease. In children, lymphadenitis is the most common NTM clinical entity, particularly affecting those aged 1–5 years who have no known risk factors for disease. Optimal management of NTM lymphadenitis is not entirely clear, although surgical intervention is likely a definitive therapy. Disseminated NTM disease is uncommon and only seen in the setting of immunocompromise. In previously well children, this presentation should always lead to consideration of an underlying immune defect, such as Mendelian susceptibility to mycobacterial disease. Identification of the underlying cause enables more targeted therapy and better prognostic understanding. Pulmonary NTM disease is fundamentally different to the other clinical syndromes, presenting in different hosts, who have different comorbidities, and follow a different clinical course.
A real‐time sleep scoring framework for closed‐loop sleep manipulation in mice
Authors: Huffman Dillon , Ajwad Asma'a , Yaghouby Farid , O’Hara Bruce F , Sunderam Sridhar
Published: January 2021

Subtle changes in sleep architecture can accompany and be symptomatic of many diseases or disorders. In order to probe and understand the complex interactions between sleep and health, the ability to model, track, and modulate sleep in preclinical animal models is vital. While various methods have been described for scoring experimental sleep recordings, few are designed to work in real time – a prerequisite for closed‐loop sleep manipulation. In the present study, we have developed algorithms and software to classify sleep in real time and validated it on C57BL/6 mice (n = 8). Hidden Markov models of baseline sleep dynamics were fitted using an unsupervised algorithm to electroencephalogram (EEG) and electromyogram (EMG) data for each mouse, and were able to classify sleep in a manner highly concordant with manual scoring (Cohen’s Kappa >75%) up to 3 weeks after model construction. This approach produced reasonably accurate estimates of common sleep metrics (proportion, mean duration, and number of bouts). After construction, the models were used to track sleep in real time and accomplish selective rapid eye movement (REM) sleep restriction by triggering non‐invasive somatosensory stimulation. During REM restriction trials, REM bout duration was significantly reduced, and the classifier continued to perform satisfactorily despite the disrupted sleep patterns. The software can easily be tailored for use with other commercial or customised methods of sleep disruption (e.g. stir bar, optogenetic stimulation, etc.) and could serve as a robust platform to facilitate closed‐loop experimentation. The source code and documentation are freely available upon request from the authors.
Effect of complementary feeding behaviour change communication delivered through community‐level actors on infant growth and morbidity in rural communities of West Gojjam Zone, Northwest Ethiopia: A cluster‐randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ayalew Chalachew Abiyu , Belachew Tefera
Published: January 2021

Attaining the recommended level of adequacy of the infants' diet remains a serious challenge in developing countries. On the other hand, the incidence of growth faltering and morbidity increases significantly at 6 months of age when complementary foods are being introduced. This trial aimed to evaluate the effect of complementary feeding behaviour change communication delivered through community‐level actors on infant growth and morbidity. We conducted a cluster‐randomized controlled trial in rural communities of Ethiopia. Trial participants in the intervention clusters (eight clusters) received complementary feeding behaviour change communication for 9 months, whereas those in the control clusters (eight clusters) received only the usual care. A pre‐tested, structured interviewer‐administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Generalized estimating equations regression analyses adjusted for baseline covariates and clustering were used to test the effects of the intervention on infant growth and morbidity. Infants in the intervention group had significantly higher weight gain (MD: 0.46 kg; 95% CI: 0.36–0.56) and length gain (MD: 0.96 cm; 95% CI: 0.56–1.36) as compared with those in the control group. The intervention also significantly reduced the rate of infant stunting by 7.5 percentage points (26.5% vs. 34%, RR = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.47–0.98) and underweight by 8.2 percentage points (17% vs. 25.2%; RR = 0.55; 95% CI: 0.35–0.87). Complementary feeding behaviour change communication delivered through community‐level actors significantly improved infant weight and length gains and reduced the rate of stunting and underweight.
Symmetrical glial hyperplasia in the brainstem of fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva
Authors: Mori Shinichiro , Suzuki Satoshi O. , Honda Hiroyuki , Hamasaki Hideomi , Sakae Nobutaka , Sasagasako Naokazu , Furuya Hirokazu , Iwaki Toru
Published: January 2021

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare autosomal dominant disease, characterized by the progressive ossification of skeletal muscles, fascia, tendons, and ligaments. In most cases, the great toes of patients show symmetrical congenital malformations. The causative gene for FOP has been identified as the activin A receptor, type 1 (ACVR1) gene (ACVR1). The ACVR1 R206H mutation is the most common mutation among FOP patients, and the ACVR1 G356D mutation has been identified as a rare mutation in a Japanese FOP patient with slow progression. In addition to musculoskeletal abnormalities, a series of autopsy studies described one FOP case, without genetic testing to identify ACVR1 mutation, showing nodular heterotopia at the edge of the fourth ventricle. Here, we report the general autopsy findings for a 75‐year‐old man with FOP, caused by the ACVR1 G356D mutation, including the precise examination of brainstem lesions. Postmortem examination revealed unique symmetrical glial hyperplasia of the pons and medulla oblongata. Microscopically, lesions of the pons involving residual neurons and lesions of the medulla oblongata consisted of subependymal cells. Immunohistochemical analysis of these lesions revealed developmental anomalies, with different cellular components. In this report, for the first time, we present the neuropathological description of a patient with genetically confirmed FOP and symmetrical glial hyperplasia of the pons and medulla oblongata. The presented pathological findings, in conjunction with previous reports implying that the glial hyperplasia of the brainstem is common in FOP, suggest that ACVR1 may play an unclarified developmental role in the human brainstem.
A qualitative analysis of nursing students' tweets during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: De Gagne Jennie C. , Cho Eunji , Park Hyeyoung K. , Nam Jeehae D. , Jung Dukyoo
Published: January 2021

The COVID‐19 outbreak has profoundly changed daily life and the ways in which students learn and interact. This study explores the nature and content of tweets posted by students enrolled in nursing programs (hereafter nursing students) in the United Kingdom, the United States, and South Korea during the COVID‐19 pandemic between March 4 and April 7, 2020. A total of 8856 tweets from the Twitter accounts of 95 self‐identified nursing students were included in our qualitative analysis. The findings revealed five categories of tweet content: (i) reactions to COVID‐19; (ii) everyday life; (iii) role as a student; (iv) social connections; and (v) sociopolitical issues. Students shared concerns about the impact of COVID‐19 on their education, discussed their experiences as nursing students, tweeted details of their daily lives, and sought social connections for support as well as for information sharing. The findings of this study can inform nurse educators to better understand their students' responses to and sentiments about the COVID‐19 pandemic. Nurse educators should incorporate this understanding into curricula for pandemic preparedness and response efforts.
Women's experiences of an enhanced recovery after surgery program: A qualitative study
Authors: Rydmark Kersley Åsa , Berterö Carina
Published: January 2021

The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Program aims to transfer much of the responsibility for postoperative recovery to the patient and their next of kin. The aim of the study was to identify and describe women's experiences of care within this program in relation to gynecological abdominal surgery. A qualitative approach was used where 16 women were interviewed within 1 to 2 weeks of their surgery. A thematic analysis focusing on interpretation of latent content was performed. Three themes were identified: Empowerment, Self‐care, and Participation. Empowerment represents aspects of the recovery program that strengthen self‐efficacy, such as being seen, being given information, and continuity of care. Self‐care identifies the practical implications of empowerment, namely internal resources, knowledge, and external resources. These two themes were identified as separate but interlinked through the theme Participation. Preoperative information, postoperative encouragement, and follow‐up empowered the women in their recovery. Early discharge from hospital was beneficial for recovery if accompanied by social support and sufficient self‐care ability. A desire for a person‐centered approach in the preoperative meeting and in postoperative care was identified.
Prevalence of food addiction in children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yekaninejad Mir Saeed , Badrooj Negin , Vosoughi Fardis , Lin Chung‐Ying , Potenza Mac N. , Pakpour Amir H.
Published: January 2021

Food addiction (FA) has been as a construct that is associated with childhood obesity. However, relatively little is known regarding the prevalence of FA among children and adolescents. An instrument designed to assess FA among youth, the Yale Food Addiction Scale for Children and Adolescents (YFAS‐C), has been developed and used to estimate FA prevalence among pediatric populations. The present systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to synthesize the results of FA prevalence among youth. Using keywords related to FA and children to search PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science, we identified and analyzed 22 cross‐sectional studies. No longitudinal studies were identified in the search. Meta‐analysis with Freeman‐Tukey Double Arcsine transformation was conducted to estimate FA prevalence. Meta‐regression was applied to understand whether weight status (i.e., data from community samples vs. overweight/obese samples) is associated with FA. Eligible studies (N = 22) were analyzed using 6,996 participants. The estimated FA prevalence was 15% (95% CI 11–19%) for all samples, 12% (95% CI 8–17%) for community samples, and 19% (95% CI 14–26%) for overweight/obese samples. Meta‐regression indicated that weight status was associated with FA severity (p = 0.002) and marginally with FA prevalence (p = 0.056). Healthcare providers should consider and address the high FA prevalence among pediatric population.
What does self‐selection of dietary proteins in rats tell us about protein requirements and body weight control?
Authors: Even Patrick C. , Gehring Joséphine , Tomé Daniel
Published: January 2021

Omnivores are able to correctly select adequate amounts of macronutrients from natural foods as well as purified macronutrients. In the rat model, the selected protein levels are often well above the requirements estimated from the nitrogen balance. These high intake levels were initially interpreted as reflecting poor control of protein intake, but the selected levels were later found to be precisely controlled for changes in dietary protein quality and adjusted for cold, exercise, pregnancy, lactation, age, etc. and therefore met physiological requirements. Several authors have also suggested that instead of a given level of protein intake, rodents regulate a ratio of protein to dietary carbohydrates in order to achieve metabolic benefits such as reduced insulin levels, improved blood glucose control, and, in the long term, reduced weight and fat gain. The objective of this review was to analyze the most significant results of studies carried out on rats and mice since the beginning of the 20th century, to consider what these results can bring us to interpret the current causes of the obesity pandemic and to anticipate the possible consequences of policies aimed at reducing the contribution of animal proteins in the human diet.
Low luminance visual acuity as a clinical measure and clinical trial outcome measure: a scoping review
Authors: Wood Laura J , Jolly Jasleen K , Buckley Thomas MW , Josan Amandeep S , MacLaren Robert E
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The measurement of standard visual acuity (VA) is the most well‐known part of any ophthalmic examination to indicate visual function. Despite this, it is insensitive in detecting early disease changes. Therefore, other visual function tests have been developed including low luminance VA (LLVA) and low luminance deficit (LLD). This scoping literature review aims to summarise the current published applications of LLVA and LLD assessments to evaluate their utility as clinical markers and research outcome measures in a variety of ophthalmic conditions.

Recent findings

Sixty‐five peer‐reviewed publications were included. LLVA was pioneered for use in geographic atrophy, a subtype of age‐related macular degeneration, which remains the mainstay of its clinical application. However, other studies have reported additional useful applications in inherited retinal diseases including rare maculopathies and rod‐cone dystrophies. Although there are some variations in testing methodology, use of the standard Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) chart with a 2.0 log unit neutral density filter is the most popular approach. The optimal testing luminance is still to be defined.

Overall, LLVA is an earlier clinical marker of change in central retinal function than standard VA. It has been shown to be a risk factor for disease progression and a better indicator of a patient’s level of everyday visual function. It is inexpensive and simple to implement using readily available standard ophthalmic equipment.
Nodular fasciitis on the cheek of a child
Authors: Patel Deep , Samson Thomas D. , Cochran Eric L. , Zaenglein Andrea L.
Published: January 2021

Nodular fasciitis is a benign proliferation of myofibroblastic cells affecting subcutaneous tissue, muscles, and fascia. This rare disorder is most commonly observed on the upper extremity of adults. We present a case of nodular fasciitis of the cheek of a 12‐year‐old girl.
A sex‐reversing factor: insulin‐like androgenic gland hormone in decapods
Authors: Sun Rong , Li Yanhe
Published: January 2021

A large number of decapod crustaceans with sexual dimorphism in body size, most of which, are important economic animals. Besides, some of them such as the red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii possess strong invasive ability and would damage ecosystem environment. Thereby, monosex culture of decapods would contribute to not only increasing yield and profits, but also reducing the risks of biological invasion. Insulin‐like androgenic gland hormone was reported to be a key regulator in sex differentiation. All‐male populations in Macrobrachium rosenbergii were successfully produced through insulin‐like androgenic gland hormone manipulation. In addition to sex differentiation, insulin‐like androgenic gland hormone was reported to be involved in male secondary sex characteristics maintenance, growth, metabolism, morphology change, ovary development and other functions. Considering its important application value for decapods, insulin‐like androgenic gland hormone has attracted much attention in recent years. This hormone was reported to have the structure and function similar to androgenic gland hormone of isopods. In this study, the origin of name of androgenic gland hormone and insulin‐like androgenic gland hormone was investigated, and the recent research on structure, function, application and molecular regulation mechanism of insulin‐like androgenic gland hormone of decapods was reviewed.
Melatonin and CIDR improved the follicular and luteal haemodynamics, uterine and ovarian arteries vascular perfusion, ovarian hormones and nitric oxide in cyclic cows
Authors: Abdelnaby Elshymaa A. , Abo El‐Maaty Amal M.
Published: January 2021

This study hypothesizes that melatonin with exogenous progesterone (CIDR) can improve follicular, luteal, ovarian and uterine haemodynamic of heat‐stressed cows. Holstein cows (N = 12) studied for two spontaneous oestrous cycles during winter then divided equally during summer into the CIDR group received CIDR for 7 days and the melatonin group (Mel) received three injections of melatonin (75 mg/head) at the CIDR insertion, removal and ovulation days. Blood samples were collected to assay oestradiol (E2), progesterone (P4) and nitric oxide (NO). On day 0 (Ovulation), Mel had more small follicles (p < .05), higher ipsilateral and contralateral ovarian arteries (Ov.A.) peak systolic velocity (PSV), higher ipsilateral uterine artery (Ut.A.) PSV (p = .031) and blood flow volume (BFV), also Mel elevated contralateral Ut.A. PSV and BFV (p < .0001) but lowered contra Ut.A. pulsatility index (PI, p < .0001), E2 (p < .01) and NO (p < .0001). Mel increased the corpus luteum diameter (CL, p < .001), coloured area (p < .007) and P4 (p < .0001) on day 5 and reduced them (p < .05; p < .01) on Day 14. On day 10, Mel obtained CL diameter (p < .03) and coloured area (p < .002) of spontaneous that was higher than CIDR and decreased P4 (p < .003). Mel increased CL diameter, area and coloured area and decreased them thereafter. Mel increased the ipsilateral ovarian and uterine arteries PSV and BFV before ovulation and until day 8. Mel increased P4 and decreased NO until days 6 and 14. In conclusion, the improvement in follicular, luteal, ovarian and uterine haemodynamic and the decrease of NO production proved our hypothesis Melatonin doses higher than 75 mg/head is recommended to improve the heat‐stressed cow's fertility.
The Revised German Raw Materials Strategy in the Light of Global Political and Market Developments
Authors: Schmid Marc
Published: January 2021

Raw material markets have proven to be challenging in recent years. The so‐called critical raw materials (CRMs), which are required for green technology, have particularly high environmental and supply risks. The revised German raw materials strategy attempts to address challenges of production and supply of CRMs and other mineral‐based raw materials. This contribution analyzes the motivation, measures, goals, and challenges of the German raw materials strategy in the light of global economic and political developments, applying the qualitative method GABEK®. Results show that the revised strategy is more ambitious and reaches farther than the initial strategy of 2010. Challenges that remain include the lack of willingness of the German industry to engage in mine production and the more pro‐active political approaches demonstrated elsewhere. As all major economic powerhouses outside of Europe pursue a hands‐on approach, it remains questionable if the revised German raw materials strategy will fundamentally be able to sustainably secure raw material supply for the German industry.
Analysis of brain functional response to cutaneous prickling stimulation by single fiber
Authors: Wang Qicai , Tao Yuan , Sun Tao , Sun Fengxin , Jiang Zhaohui , Jia Zhao , Ding Zuowei , Sun Jie
Published: January 2021

Background

It is now well understood that, as an uncomfortable sensation evoked by special fabric, prickle derives from the mechanical stimulation of protruding hairiness from fabric surface against the human skin, in which some nociceptors are easy to be triggered by stiff fiber ends. However, up to now, the neural mechanism of the brain for perceiving fabric‐evoked prickle is still unclear.

Materials and Methods

In this work, A type of single‐fiber stimulus made from nylon filament was used to repetitively prick the skin of volar forearm at a specific frequency, and the technology of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was adopted to detect the brain response synchronously.

Results

The results show that repetitive prickling stimulation from the single fiber applied to the volar forearm aroused distributed activation in several brain regions, such as primary somatosensory cortex, secondary somatosensory cortex, motor cortex, bilateral occipital lobe, insular cortex, and ipsilateral limbic lobe. Although the brain activation distribution is similar to pain, the single fiber–evoked prickle sensation possesses unique activation characteristics in several brain regions.

Conclusion

It is suggested that the sensation evoked by cutaneous prickling stimulation from single fiber belongs to a kind of multidimensional experience involving somatosensory, motor, emotional, cognitive, etc Our study constitutes an important step toward identifying the brain mechanism of fabric‐evoked prickle.
Stiffness of a type II external skeletal fixator and locking compression plate in a fracture gap model
Authors: Muro Noelle M. , Gilley Robert S. , Kemper Andrew R. , Benitez Marian E. , Barry Sabrina L. , McNally Craig
Published: January 2021

Objective

To compare the stiffness of constructs fixed with a type II external skeletal fixator (ESF) or a 3.5‐mm locking compression plate (LCP) in axial compression and bending with a fracture gap model.

Study design

Quasi‐static four‐point bending and axial compression tests.

Sample population

Ten LCP and 10 ESF immobilizing epoxy cylinders with a 40‐mm fracture gap.

Methods

Five constructs of each type were tested in nondestructive mediolateral (ML) four‐point bending and then rotated and tested in nondestructive craniocaudal (CC) four‐point bending. Five additional constructs of each type were tested in nondestructive axial compression. Stiffness was compared between loading modes by construct type and between construct types by loading mode.

Results

Type II ESF were stiffer than LCP in ML bending (difference, 1474 N/mm, P < .0001) and in axial compression (difference, 458 N/mm, P = .008) but not in CC bending (P = .1673). Type II ESF were stiffer in ML bending than in CC bending (difference, 999 N/m, P < .0001), while LCP were stiffer in CC bending than in ML bending (difference, 634 N/mm, P < .0001).

Conclusion

Type II ESF generated stiffer constructs compared with LCP in ML bending and in axial compression without a difference in CC bending. External skeletal fixator and LCP bending stiffness varied by loading direction.

Clinical significance

A type II ESF should be considered in a comminuted fracture requiring increased stability in ML and axial directions.