bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can behaviour and physiology mitigate effects of warming on ectotherms? A test in urban ants
Authors: Youngsteadt Elsa , Prado Sara Guiti , Keleher Kirsten Joanna , Kirchner Michelle
Published: January 2023

Global climate change is expected to have pervasive effects on the diversity and distribution of species, particularly ectotherms whose body temperatures depend on environmental temperatures. However, these impacts remain difficult to predict, in part because ectotherms may adapt or acclimate to novel conditions or may use behavioural thermoregulation to reduce their exposure to stressful microclimates.

Here we examine the potential for physiological and behavioural changes to mitigate effects of environmental warming on five species of ants in a temperate forest habitat subject to urban warming.

We worked in eight urban and eight non‐urban forest sites in North Carolina, USA; sites experienced a 1.1°C range of mean summer air temperatures. At each site, we documented species‐specific microclimates (ant operative temperatures, Te) and ant activity on a transect of 14 bait stations at three times of day. In the laboratory, we measured upper thermal tolerance (CTmax) and thermal preference (Tpref) for each focal species. We then asked whether thermal traits shifted at hotter sites, and whether ants avoided non‐preferred microclimates in the field.

CTmax and Tpref did not increase at warmer sites, indicating that these populations did not adapt or acclimate to urban warming. Consistent with behavioural thermoregulation, four of the five species were less likely to occupy baits where Te departed from Tpref. Apparent thermoregulation resulted from fixed diel activity patterns that helped ants avoid the most inappropriate temperatures but did not compensate for daily or spatial temperature variation: Hotter sites had hotter ants.

This study uses a novel approach to detect behavioural thermoregulation and sublethal warming in foraging insects. The results suggest that adaptation and behaviour may not protect common temperate forest ants from a warming climate, and highlight the need to evaluate effects of chronic, sublethal warming on small ectotherms.
Evaluation of a protocol for eliciting narrative accounts of pediatric inpatient experiences of care
Authors: Martino Steven C. , Reynolds Kerry A. , Grob Rachel , Palimaru Alina I. , Zelazny Sarah , Slaughter Mary E. , Rybowski Lise , Parker Andrew M. , Toomey Sara L. , Schuster Mark A. , Schlesinger Mark
Published: January 2023

Objective

To evaluate the measurement properties of a set of six items designed to elicit narrative accounts of pediatric inpatient experience.

Data Sources

Data came from 163 participants recruited from a probability‐based online panel of U.S. adults. Participants were family members of a child who had an overnight hospital stay in the past 12 months.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey with follow‐up phone interviews.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Participants completed an online (n = 129) or phone (n = 34) survey about their child's hospitalization experience. The survey contained closed‐ended items from the Child Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (Child HCAHPS) survey, followed by the six narrative items. Approximately 2 weeks after completing the survey, 47 participants additionally completed a one‐hour, semi‐structured phone interview, the results of which served as a “gold standard” for evaluating the fidelity of narrative responses. Qualitative content analysis was used to code narrative and interview responses for domains of patient experience and actionability.

Principal Findings

The average narrative was 248 words (SD = 319). Seventy‐nine percent of narratives mentioned a topic included in the Child HCAHPS survey; 89% mentioned a topic not covered by that survey; and 75% included at least one detailed description of an actionable event. Overall, there was 66% correspondence between narrative and interview responses. Correspondence was higher on the phone than in the online condition (75% vs. 59%).

Conclusions

Narratives elicited from rigorously designed multi‐item sets can provide detailed, substantive information about pediatric inpatient experiences that hospitals could use to improve child and family experiences during pediatric hospitalization. They add context to closed‐ended survey item responses and provide information about experiences of care important to children and families that are not included in quantitative surveys.
Developing a new scoring method to evaluate human decomposition in a humid, continental (Dfb) climate in Quebec
Authors: Ribéreau‐Gayon Agathe , Carter David O. , Forbes Shari
Published: January 2023

The published literature shows a lack of methods to evaluate the patterns and extent of decomposition of human remains and to estimate the post‐mortem interval (PMI) in humid, continental (Dfb) climates such as Quebec. The aim of this study was to address this gap in the current knowledge base by providing the first observations from human corpses studied under controlled conditions in Quebec. A 12‐month study was conducted at the site for Research in Experimental and Social Thanatology; the first human taphonomy facility in Canada. Six human donors with known time of death were deposited across spring (n = 1), summer (n = 3), and autumn (n = 2) 2021. The lack of suitability of the total body score method to evaluate the extent of decomposition at the facility prompted the development of a new scoring system based on the macromorphoscopic changes observed. The scoring system was applied to the donors to evaluate decomposition throughout seasons. All donors followed comparable decomposition trajectories, regardless of the season of deposition. Eighty‐five percent of taphonomic patterns appeared in the first 25 experimental days or 5000 Kelvin accumulated degree days (350 ADD). Extensive desiccation of tissues was observed at a median of 21 experimental days across donors, resulting in a plateau within decomposition with no extensive skeletonization. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first published report of experimentally observed desiccation in such a form in a Dfb climate. This study provides new data on the types of decomposition patterns to expect in forensic investigations in southern Quebec and comparable climates.
Bacterial volatiles elicit differential olfactory responses in insect species from the same and different trophic levels
Authors: van Neerbos Francine Antoinette Cornelus , Dewitte Peter , Wäckers Felix , Wenseleers Tom , Jacquemyn Hans , Lievens Bart
Published: January 2023

Insect communities consist of species from several trophic levels that have to forage for suitable resources among and within larger patches of nonresources. To locate their resources, insects use diverse stimuli, including olfactory, visual, acoustic, tactile and gustatory cues. While most research has focused on cues derived from plants and other insects, there is mounting evidence that insects also respond to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by microorganisms. However, to date little is known about how the olfactory response of insects within and across different trophic levels is affected by bacterial VOCs. In this study, we used Y‐tube bioassays and chemical analysis of VOCs to assess how VOCs emitted by bacteria affect the olfactory response of insects of the same and different trophic levels. Experiments were performed using two aphid species (Amphorophora idaei Börner and Myzus persicae var. nicotianae Blackman), three primary parasitoid species (Aphidius colemani Viereck, A. ervi Haliday, and A. matricariae Viereck), and two hyperparasitoid species (Asaphes suspensus Nees and Dendrocerus aphidum Rondani). Olfactory responses were evaluated for three bacterial strains (Bacillus pumilus ST18.16/133, Curtobacterium sp. ST18.16/085, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus ST18.16/160) that were isolated from the habitat of the insects. Results revealed that insects from all trophic levels responded to bacterial volatiles, but olfactory responses varied between and within trophic levels. All bacteria produced the same set of volatile compounds, but often in different relative concentrations. For 11 of these volatiles we found contrasting correlations between their concentration and the behavior of the primary parasitoids and hyperparasitoids. Furthermore, olfactometer experiments on three of these compounds confirmed the contrasting olfactory responses of primary parasitoids and hyperparasitoids. The potential of these findings for the development of novel semiochemical‐based strategies to improve biological aphid control has been discussed.
Childhood trauma and depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder: A network analysis
Authors: Wrobel Anna L. , Cotton Sue M. , Jayasinghe Anuradhi , Diaz‐Byrd Claudia , Yocum Anastasia K. , Turner Alyna , Dean Olivia M. , Russell Samantha E. , Duval Elizabeth R. , Ehrlich Tobin J. , Marshall David F. , Berk Michael , McInnis Melvin G.
Published: January 2023

Background

Childhood trauma is related to an increased number of depressive episodes and more severe depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder. The evaluation of the networks of depressive symptoms—or the patterns of relationships between individual symptoms—among people with bipolar disorder with and without a history of childhood trauma may assist in further clarifying this complex relationship.

Methods

Data from over 500 participants from the Heinz C. Prechter Longitudinal Study of Bipolar Disorder were used to construct a series of regularised Gaussian Graphical Models. The networks of individual depressive symptoms—self‐reported (Patient Health Questionnaire—9; n = 543) and clinician‐rated (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale—17; n = 529)—among participants with bipolar disorder with and without a history of childhood trauma (Childhood Trauma Questionnaire) were characterised and compared.

Results

Across the sets of networks, depressed mood consistently emerged as a central symptom (as indicated by strength centrality and expected influence); regardless of participants' history of childhood trauma. Additionally, feelings of worthlessness emerged as a key symptom in the network of self‐reported depressive symptoms among participants with—but not without—a history of childhood trauma.

Conclusion

The present analyses—although exploratory—provide nuanced insights into the impact of childhood trauma on the presentation of depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder, which have the potential to aid detection and inform targeted intervention development.
Terrorism, Trust, and Identity: Evidence from a Natural Experiment in Nigeria
Authors: Harding Robin , Nwokolo Arinze
Published: January 2023

We study the effects of terrorism on political trust and national versus ethnic identification. Making use of unexpected attacks by the extremist group Boko Haram in Nigeria, which occurred during the fieldwork of a public opinion survey in 2014, we show that even in a context of weak state institutions and frequent terrorist activities, terror attacks significantly increase political trust. We also find that the attacks significantly reduced the salience of respondents' national identity, instead increasing ethnic identification. These findings run counter to arguments that “rally around the flag” effects following terror attacks result from increased patriotism. The results have important implications for understanding the effects of terrorism in contexts of weak state institutions, frequent political violence, and politically salient ethnic divisions.
Long‐term risk of cancer among the first‐degree relatives of epithelial ovarian cancer patients: A cohort study with 48 years of follow up
Authors: Kotaniemi‐Talonen Laura , Pukkala Eero , Aittomäki Kristiina , Auranen Annika
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The long‐term risk of cancer among first‐degree relatives of ovarian cancer patients, especially their offspring, is of apparent clinical importance. Risks caused by known inherited factors such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 pathogenic variants are well established, but these account for only about 15% of ovarian cancer cases. Less is known about the possible familial risks of sporadic ovarian cancers.

Material and methods

Using registry data, we conducted a retrospective cohort study with a total of 6501 first‐degree relatives of 559 epithelial ovarian cancer patients. We studied the occurrence of overall cancer and cancer in specific sites known or suspected to be associated with ovarian cancer (breast, cervix, colon, endometrium, lung and trachea, skin melanoma, ovary, pancreas, prostate, rectum, and stomach).

Results

The overall number of cancers was not increased among the first‐degree relatives of epithelial ovarian cancer patients during the up to 48 years of follow up. Among female relatives, the standardized incidence ratio for ovarian cancer was 1.92 (95% CI 1.27–2.79), mostly explained by a 2.30‐fold (95% CI 1.46–3.45) risk among the patients' sisters. There was a decreasing trend in the standardized incidence ratio for ovarian cancer among patients' sisters by increasing age of the index patient.

Conclusions

In our study cohort, we did not observe an increase in the overall cancer risk among the first‐degree relatives of epithelial ovarian cancer patients in comparison with the general population. The risk for ovarian cancer, however, was increased. Current recommendations suggest prophylactic removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries only with identified inherited risk factors. Our results emphasize the role of genetic counseling and testing, particularly in young ovarian cancer patients and their close female relatives.
Breastfeeding rates fell in an Italian baby friendly hospital during the 2020 COVID‐19 pandemic year and difficulties increased
Authors: Cinquetti Mauro , Marchiotto Carolina , Fingerle Michele , Salani Marco , Adami Anna , Dainese Daniela , Magaraggia Silvia , Rigotti Erika , Piacentini Giorgio
Published: January 2023

Aim

Our aim was to evaluate the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on breastfeeding at discharge in a Baby Friendly hospital in 2020.

Methods

This study retrospectively compared healthy neonates born in 2019 with those born in 2020 at the Baby Friendly San Bonifacio Hospital in Verona, Italy. We also compared those born to mothers who tested negative and positive for the virus that causes COVID‐19. Breastfeeding support practices, nationality and type of birth were evaluated. The outcomes were type of breastfeeding at discharge and the presence of breastfeeding difficulties.

Results

We analysed 2171 healthy neonates, which was 83.5% of those born in the hospital in 2019 and 2020, and 20 were born to mothers with the virus. Exclusive breastfeeding rates were 4.6% lower in 2020 than 2019 and breastfeeding difficulties rose by 10.1%. Mixed feeding, at the mother's request, and formula feeding due to medical indications, increased by 5.9% and 18.1% respectively. Most of the Baby Friendly hospital practices were implemented, but prenatal and intrapartum support decreased.

Conclusion

Exclusive breastfeeding fell during the COVID‐19 pandemic in 2020 and breastfeeding difficulties rose. These may have been due to the effect of maternal and healthcare factors during the pandemic.
Metabolic effects of L‐citrulline in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Bagheripour Fatemeh , Jeddi Sajad , Kashfi Khosrow , Ghasemi Asghar
Published: January 2023

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing worldwide. Decreased nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability is involved in the pathophysiology of T2D and its complications. L‐citrulline (Cit), a precursor of NO production, has been suggested as a novel therapeutic agent for T2D. Available data from human and animal studies indicate that Cit supplementation in T2D increases circulating levels of Cit and L‐arginine while decreasing circulating glucose and free fatty acids and improving dyslipidemia. The underlying mechanisms for these beneficial effects of Cit include increased insulin secretion from the pancreatic β cells, increased glucose uptake by the skeletal muscle, as well as increased lipolysis and β‐oxidation, and decreased glyceroneogenesis in the adipose tissue. Thus, Cit has antihyperglycemic, antidyslipidemic, and antioxidant effects and has the potential to be used as a new therapeutic agent in the management of T2D. This review summarizes available literature from human and animal studies to explore the effects of Cit on metabolic parameters in T2D. It also discusses the possible mechanisms underlying Cit‐induced improved metabolic parameters in T2D.
Osteoinductive calcium phosphate with submicron topography as bone graft substitute for maxillary sinus floor augmentation: A translational study
Authors: van Dijk Lukas A. , Janssen Nard G. , Nurmohamed Silke J. , Muradin Marvick S. M. , Longoni Alessia , Bakker Robbert C. , de Groot Florence G. , de Bruijn Joost D. , Gawlitta Debby , Rosenberg Antoine J. W. P.
Published: January 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study was the preclinical and clinical evaluation of osteoinductive calcium phosphate with submicron surface topography as a bone graft substitute for maxillary sinus floor augmentation (MSFA).

Material and Methods

A preclinical sheep model of MSFA was used to compare a calcium phosphate with submicron needle‐shaped topography (BCPN, MagnetOs Granules, Kuros Biosciences BV) to a calcium phosphate with submicron grain‐shaped topography (BCPG) and autologous bone graft (ABG) as controls. Secondly, a 10‐patient, prospective, randomized, controlled trial was performed to compare BCPN to ABG in MSFA with two‐stage implant placement.

Results

The pre‐clinical study demonstrated that both BCPN and BCPG were highly biocompatible, supported bony ingrowth with direct bone apposition against the material, and exhibited bone formation as early as 3 weeks post‐implantation. However, BCPN demonstrated significantly more bone formation than BCPG at the study endpoint of 12 weeks. Only BCPN reached an equivalent amount of bone formation in the available space and a greater proportion of calcified material (bone + graft material) in the maxillary sinus compared to the “gold standard” ABG after 12 weeks. These results were validated in a small prospective clinical study, in which BCPN was found comparable to ABG in implant stability, bone height, new bone formation in trephine core biopsies, and overall clinical outcome.

Conclusion

This translational work demonstrates that osteoinductive calcium phosphates are promising bone graft substitutes for MSFA, whereas their bone‐forming potential depends on the design of their surface features.

Netherlands Trial Register, NL6436.
Characteristics, treatment outcomes and direct costs of tooth avulsion in children treated at a major hospital
Authors: DiPaolo Madeleine , Townsend Janice , Peng Jin , McTigue Dennis J. , Azadani Ehsan N.
Published: January 2023

Background/Aims

Avulsion of a permanent tooth is one of the most severe traumatic dental injuries, comprising an estimated 0.5%–16% of all dental injuries. The aim of this study was to estimate the direct financial costs of tooth avulsion in children based on stage of root maturity and the occurrence of ankylosis and to report patients' characteristics and outcomes of treatment.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective review of the dental records of children ages 6–18 who sustained a permanent tooth avulsion from 2010 to 2020 was completed. Relative Value Units (RVUs) were used to calculate the estimated cost of dental trauma care over the 2‐year post‐injury period for five different scenarios of avulsed teeth based on the stage of root maturity, the occurrence of ankylosis and whether the tooth was replanted.

Results

There were 452 avulsed permanent teeth in 348 patients. Of those, 157 teeth were included in the cost analysis. Overall, the average direct dental cost of avulsion was 46.4 RVUs equal to $1619 USD based on the 2021 conversion rate ($34.89 per RVU). Direct costs ranged between 40 RVUs ($1396) and 52.8 RVUs ($1842) depending on the root maturation and ankylosis status or whether the tooth was replanted; however, ANOVA test did not show any statistically significant differences between the mean RVUs of different groups (p = .85). Patients returned 9.5 times on average over the 2‐year study period for dental trauma care after avulsion.

Conclusion

The average direct cost of tooth avulsion within the limits of this study was $1619 USD. On average, patients returned for 9.5 follow‐up visits after the avulsion. The stage of root maturity, the occurrence of ankylosis and whether the tooth was replanted or not were not significantly associated with the direct cost of dental care.
A viewpoint on the genetic determinants of generalised pustular psoriasis
Authors: Capon Francesca
Published: January 2023

Generalised pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a rare and severe neutrophilic skin disorder, manifesting with acute episodes of pustulation and systemic upset. The discovery of recessive IL36RN mutations associated with GPP has transformed our understanding of disease drivers, paving the way for the development of targeted anti‐IL36 therapeutics. In the light of these remarkable successes, this viewpoint reviews the significance of IL36RN mutations in GPP, their functional impact and their correlation with clinical phenotypes. It then covers the discovery of further genetic determinants (recessive MPO mutations) and risk factors (AP1S3 and CARD14 low‐frequency variants) for the disease. It discusses the growing evidence for genetic complexity in GPP and concludes by outlining collaborative strategies that may be adopted to overcome the challenges ahead.
Programmed cell death‐1 blockade therapy in melanoma: Resistance mechanisms and combination strategies
Authors: Zou Yixin , Yaguchi Tomonori
Published: January 2023

Melanoma is a highly aggressive tumor derived from melanocytes. In recent years, the incidence and mortality of melanoma have gradually increased, seriously threatening human health. Classic treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy show very limited efficacy. Due to the high immunogenicity of melanoma cells, immune checkpoint inhibitors have received considerable attention as melanoma treatments. One such therapy is blockade of programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1), which is one of the most important negative immune regulators and is mainly expressed on activated T cells. Disruption of the interactions between PD‐1 and its ligands, programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) or programmed death‐ligand 2 (PD‐L2) rejuvenates exhausted T cells and enhances antitumor immunity. Although PD‐1 blockade therapy is widely used in melanoma, a substantial proportion of patients still show no response or short durations of remission. Recent researches have focused on revealing the underlying mechanisms for resistance to this treatment and improving its efficacy through combination therapy. Here, we will introduce the resistance mechanisms associated with PD‐1 blockade therapy in melanoma and review the combination therapies available.
Latitudinally distinct stocks of Atlantic cod face fundamentally different biophysical challenges under on‐going climate change
Authors: Kjesbu Olav Sigurd , Alix Maud , Sandø Anne Britt , Strand Espen , Wright Peter J. , Johns David G. , Thorsen Anders , Marshall C. Tara , Bakkeplass Kjell Gunnar , Vikebø Frode B. , Skuggedal Myksvoll Mari , Ottersen Geir , Allan Bridie J. M. , Fossheim Maria , Stiansen Jan Erik , Huse Geir , Sundby Svein
Published: January 2023

The reproductive success of marine ectotherms is especially vulnerable in warming oceans due to alterations in adult physiology, as well as embryonic and larval survival prospects. These vital responses may, however, differ considerably across the species' geographical distribution. Here we investigated the life history, focusing on reproductive ecology, of three spatially distant populations (stocks) of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua, Gadidae) (50–80° N), in the Irish/Celtic Seas‐English Channel Complex, North and Barents Seas, under past and projected climate. First, experimental tracking of spawning behaviour evidenced that the ovulation cycle is highly distressed at ≥9.6 (±0.25)°C (Tup). This knife‐edge threshold resulted in erratic spawning frequencies, whereas vitellogenin sequestration remained unaffected, indicating endocrine rather than aerobic scope constraints. Cod in the Celtic Sea‐English Channel are, therefore, expected to show critical stock depensation over the next decades as spawning grounds warm above Tup, with Irish Sea cod subsequently at risk. Second, in the relatively cooler North Sea, the northward retraction of Calanus finmarchicus (Calanidae) and Para‐Pseudocalanus spp. (Clausocalanidae) (1958–2017) limit cod larvae feeding opportunities, particularly in the southernmost subarea. However, the contrasting increase in Calanus helgolandicus (Calanidae) does not counteract this negative effect, likely because cod larvae hatch ahead of its abundance peaks. Overfishing again comes as a twin effect. Third, in the still relatively cold Barents Sea, the sustainably harvested cod benefit from improved food conditions in the recent ice‐free polar region but at the energetic cost of lengthier and faster spawning migrations. Consequently, under climate change local stocks are stressed by different mechanistic factors of varying management severity.
Understanding Population Decline Trajectories in Spain using Sequence Analysis
Authors: González‐Leonardo Miguel , Newsham Niall , Rowe Francisco
Published: January 2023

Population decline is a key contemporary demographic challenge. Previous work has measured the national extent of population decline, and we know that it is more acute in Japan and Eastern Europe and is set to accelerate across many industrialized countries. Yet, little is known about the population trajectories leading to current trends of depopulation and their underpinning demographic and contextual factors. To address this gap, we aim to identify and characterize the different trajectories of depopulation in Spain from 2000 to 2020 at the small area level using sequence analysis, spatial autocorrelation analysis, decomposition techniques, and multinomial logistic modeling. We show that while Spain recorded an overall 17.2% national population growth between 2000 and 2020, 63% of municipalities experienced depopulation. We identify six trajectories of population decline, with a well‐defined northwest‐south divide. These trajectories include mostly rural municipalities, but also certain small‐ and medium‐sized cities. Natural decline comprises the main demographic component underpinning differences in the extent of depopulation across trajectories, and international migration plays an important role in explaining transitions to decline since the financial crisis of 2008. Small and old populations, and, to a lesser extent, remoteness from cities are key features characterizing areas of high decline.
Groundwater Microbiology of an Urban Open‐Loop Ground Source Heat Pump with High Methane
Authors: J. Barnett Megan , J. Farr Gareth , Shen Jianxun , Gregory Simon
Published: January 2023

Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) are low‐carbon alternatives to gas boilers for decarbonizing heating. Open‐loop GSHP systems abstract groundwater, pass it through a heat exchanger, and return it to ground or surface water. Groundwater samples from the top and base of an abstraction and a recharge borehole of an open‐loop GSHP system in Cardiff, UK were assessed, and compared to two local boreholes in the same aquifer. Groundwater samples were taken when the GSHP system was active (once) and inactive (twice) and analyzed for changes in geochemistry, viable cell counts, and microbial community (16S rRNA gene sequencing). The GSHP had a distinct geochemistry and microbial community compared to the control boreholes, and the abstraction borehole showed greater variability than the recharge borehole. The microbial community of the GSHP system showed an increase in relative abundance of genera involved in oxidation of methane and methylated compounds, of which Methylotenera was the most abundant (up to 83.9% of 16S rRNA gene sequences). There were also changes in genera associated with nitrification (Nitrospira, Nitrosomonas) and those with potential for sulfur and iron cycling (Rhodoferax). Methane concentration was analyzed after identification of methylotrophs and found that methane concentrations were up to 2855 μg L−1, thus likely having had a significant impact on the bacterial communities present. Understanding the microbiology and biogeochemistry of GSHP systems provides insight into potential issues with local infrastructure and long‐term system performance, and supports modeling to maximize efficient and sustainable use of the subsurface.
Transmission routes and patterns of helicobacter pylori
Authors: Duan Miao , Li Yueyue , Liu Jing , Zhang Wenlin , Dong Yi , Han Zhongxue , Wan Meng , Lin Minjuan , Lin Boshen , Kong Qingzhou , Ding Yuming , Yang Xiaoyun , Zuo Xiuli , Li Yanqing
Published: January 2023

Background and objective

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a gram‐negative bacterium that colonizes the stomach, can cause chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers, as well as gastric cancer as a Class I carcinogen. However, the modes of H. pylori transmission are not clear. This review aims to clarify the transmission routes and patterns of H. pylori and identify efficacious prevention measures.

Methods

Studies of H. pylori transmission were identified using PubMed, the Web of Science, and Cochrane Central; the retrieval deadline was October 2022.

Results

The transmission routes of H. pylori are discussed, focusing on the five primary transmission routes, namely fecal–oral, oral–oral, gastric–oral, anal–oral, and genital–oral. We propose that H. pylori is contracted through multiple transmission routes. Additionally, we summarize the key transmission patterns of H. pylori, including person‐to‐person and animal‐to‐human transmission, as well as foodborne and occupational exposure.

Conclusion

Fecal–oral appears to be the most common H. pylori transmission routes. Although the oral–oral pathway is also important, the evidence does not support that this route of transmission is universal. The gastric–oral route occurs primarily in children and patients who are prone to vomiting. Meanwhile, the anal–oral and genital–oral routes remain hypothetical. Person‐to‐person and foodborne infections represent the predominant transmission patterns of H. pylori, whereas strong environmental and occupational limitations are associated with animal‐to‐human and occupational exposure.
Network meta‐analysis of different dosages of esomeprazole and rabeprazole for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Wang Yujiao , Dai Xiaosong , Gao Caiping , Yang Xue
Published: January 2023

Background

The optimal dosage of new generation proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in increasing cure rate of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection remains unclear. This network meta‐analysis aimed to comprehensively evaluate the comparative efficacy and safety of different dosages of esomeprazole and rabeprazole in treating H. pylori infection.

Materials and Methods

We searched PubMed, Cochrane Central Registry for Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and EMBASE for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving esomeprazole and rabeprazole with different dosages from their inception through 31 March, 2022. After data extraction and risk of bias assessment, network meta‐analyses were conducted using STATA 14.0. We calculated the surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) to rank all regimens.

Results

Thirteen studies including 14 reports were included. Six dosages including rabeprazole 10 mg (R10bid), 20 mg (R20bid), and 40 mg (R40bid) twice daily and esomeprazole 20 mg (E20bid) and 40 mg (E40bid) twice daily as well as 40 mg once daily (E40qd) were identified. Network meta‐analysis suggested that R40bid ranked highest in the cure rate (83.8%), followed by E40bid (82.6%), E20bid (54.5%), R20bid (34.2%), R10bid (22.8%), and E40qd (22.0%); however, E40qd ranked highest in adverse events (91.1%), followed by R20bid (57.8), R10bid (57.6%), E20bid (38.9%), E40bid (34.2%), and R40bid (20.4%). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of these results.

Conclusions

Based on the available evidence, R40bid and E40bid might be the optimum dosage to increase the cure rate; however, E40qd was superior for adverse events. Nevertheless, future studies should validate the results from this network meta‐analysis.
Involving patients and carers in patient safety in primary care: A qualitative study of a co‐designed patient safety guide
Authors: Morris Rebecca L. , Giles Sally , Campbell Stephen
Published: January 2023

Background

Involving patients is a key premise of national and international policies on patient safety, which requires understanding how patients or carers want to be involved and developing resources to support this. This paper examines patients' and carers' views of being involved in patient safety in primary care and their views of potentially using a co‐designed patient safety guide for primary care (PSG‐PC) to foster both involvement and their safety.

Methods

A qualitative study using semistructured face‐to‐face interviews with 18 patients and/or carers in primary care. Interviews were transcribed and analysis was conducted using an inductive thematic approach.

Results

Overall participants expressed enthusiasm for the PSG‐PC as a tool to support patients and carers to be involved in patient safety in primary care. However, for some participants being involved in patient safety was seen as taking on the role of General Practitioner and had the potential to add an additional workload for patients. Participants' willingness or ability to be involved in patient safety was influenced by a range of factors including an invisible, often underacknowledged role of everyday safety for patients' interactions with primary care; the levels of involvement that patients wanted in their care and safety and the work of embedding the PSG‐PC for patients into their routine interactions with primary care. Participants identified components of the PSG‐PC that would be useful to them, in particular, if they had a responsibility for caring for a family member if they had more complex care or long‐term conditions.

Conclusion

Involving patients and carers in patient safety needs a tailored and personalized approach that enables patients and carers to use resources like the PSG‐PC routinely and helps challenge assumptions about their willingness and ability to be involved in patient safety. Doing so would raise awareness of opportunities to be involved in safety in line with personal preference.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patient and public involvement were central to the research study. This included working in partnership to develop the PSG‐PC with patients and carers and throughout our study including in the design of the study, recruiting participants, interpretation of findings.
Rational stability of choice functions
Authors: Peris Josep E. , Subiza Begoña
Published: January 2023

Two independent approaches have been used to analyze choices. A prominent notion is rationalizability: individuals choose maximizing binary relations. An alternative is to analyze choices in terms of standards of behavior with the notion of von Neumann–Morgenstern (vNM)‐stability. We introduce a new concept (stability) that in turn extends the notion of stability and rationality. Our main result establishes that every rationalizable choice function is stable and every vNM‐stable choice has an stable selection. An appealing property of stability is that well‐known solution concepts (top cycle, uncovered set, …) are stable, while they are neither rationalizable nor vNM‐stable.
Prenatal attachment, foetal health locus of control and influencing factors in pregnancy
Authors: Bay Habibe , Akyüz Mahide Demirelöz , Hadımlı Aytül Pelik , Kazandi Mert
Published: January 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine prenatal attachment and foetal health locus of control in pregnant women and factors affecting these parameters.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted with 156 pregnant women (77 low‐risk and 79 high‐risk pregnancies). The study was carried out between August 2015 and February 2016. The data collection instruments included a Participant Information Form, the Prenatal Attachment Inventory and the Foetal Health Locus of Control Scale.

Results

Pregnant women's education and foetal health locus of control levels had positive and significant effects on prenatal attachment, and education had an effect on foetal health locus of control. Foetal health locus of control explained 6.3% of the total variance in prenatal attachment levels.

Conclusion

As the educational statuses of pregnant women affected their prenatal attachment and foetal health locus of control, information, counselling and care should be prioritized for women with low education levels, in line with their needs. This is particularly important in terms of improving the control of pregnant women with lower prenatal attachment levels or internal locus of control over foetal health.
There is something about oppression: Allies' perspectives on challenges in relationships with experts by experience
Authors: Happell Brenda , Gordon Sarah , Sharrock Julie , Donovan Aine O' , Kenny Nuala , Warner Terri
Published: January 2023

The genuine and meaningful involvement of Experts by Experience in the education of health professionals has consistently demonstrated positive attitudinal change in students. These changes are essential if policy goals for recovery‐oriented services and service user participation in mental health services are to be realized. To date academic roles for Experts by Experience have often relied on the support of allies. Despite the important role allies play, research investigating their experiences is limited. The aim of this research was to explore allies' views on supporting implementation of the academic positions for Experts by Experience. A qualitative exploratory study was undertaken involving in‐depth interviews with 16 allies. Data were analysed thematically. Challenges that can exist between allies and Experts by Experience was one theme identified from the data. Allies described occasional difficulties in their relationships with Experts by Experience where they felt they were perceived as representative of members of their broader profession with whom Experts by Experience had negative experiences. The perspectives of allies are presented in four subthemes: relationships imbedded in history; consequences of interpersonal stigma; supportive, protective or paternalistic?; and the passion remains, which describes allies' ongoing commitment to supporting Expert by Experience involvement. Understanding the challenges can assist allies to respond appropriately in a non‐judgemental and supportive manner. Trauma informed practice may provide a useful framework to address conflicts and facilitate more positive relationships between allies and Experts by Experience. These positive relationships are essential to maximize the positive benefits of Experts by Experience on future clinicians.
Periodontal health and patient‐reported outcomes: A longitudinal analysis of data from non‐specialist practice settings
Authors: Sharma Praveen , Kristunas Caroline , Chapple Iain L. , Dietrich Thomas
Published: January 2023

Aim

To explore the associations between periodontal health and patient‐reported outcomes (PROs), accounting for changes over time, in a large, non‐specialist dental practice patient cohort.

Materials and Methods

This longitudinal study used data from 13,162 dentate patients, collected by 162 dentists at routine appointments between May 2013 and April 2020, in 238 non‐specialist dental practices across the United Kingdom. Dentists collected data, as part of routine clinical care, on periodontal probing pocket depths, alveolar bone loss, bleeding on probing, as well as a range of covariates. Patients inputted data on outcomes (oral pain/discomfort, dietary restrictions, and dental appearance). Mixed‐effects logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the associations between periodontal health and PROs. Models accounted for clustering at the patient and dentist level and were adjusted for time and variables which were thought to confound these associations.

Results

The odds of all PROs tended to increase with worsening periodontal parameters. For example, the odds of reporting pain in the worst periodontal health category were 1.99 (95% confidence interval: 1.57–2.53) times higher than in the best periodontal health category.

Conclusions

This study confirms, using a large longitudinal dataset from a unique non‐specialist setting, the associations between poorer periodontal health and poorer PROs.
Long‐term comparison of root coverage procedures at single RT2 maxillary gingival recessions: Ten‐year extension results from a randomized, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Cairo Francesco , Cortellini Pierpaolo , Barbato Luigi , Masseti Lorenzo , Mervelt Jana , Nieri Michele , Pini Prato Giovan Paolo , Tonetti Maurizio S.
Published: January 2023

Aim

The purpose of the present study was to assess root coverage outcomes 10 years after connective tissue graft plus coronally advanced flap (CTG + CAF) or CAF alone, at single RT2 maxillary gingival recession.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐one of the original 29 patients (11 treated with CAF + CTG and 10 with CAF alone) were available for the 10‐year follow‐up. A blinded and calibrated examiner performed all the measurements. Outcome measures included complete root coverage (CRC), recession reduction (RecRed), root coverage aesthetic score (RES), and keratinized tissue (KT) gain. A visual analogue scale was used to evaluate patient satisfaction.

Results

CRC was maintained in 63% of the test group and 20% of the control group after 10 years, with a significant difference favouring CAF + CTG (p = .030). Furthermore, the addition of CTG was associated with greater KT gain (p = .0002) and greater papilla tip recession (p = .023) than with CAF at the last follow‐up. No difference was detected regarding RecRed, RES, and patient satisfaction.

Conclusions

Adding CTG under CAF improved the probability of maintaining complete root coverage 10 years after single maxillary RT2 recession treatment.
Mechanisms underlying corruption of working memory in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Fallon Sean James , van Rhee Chevonne , Kienast Annika , Manohar Sanjay G. , Husain Masud
Published: January 2023

Working memory (WM) impairments are reported to occur in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the mechanisms are unclear. Here, we investigate several putative factors that might drive poor performance, by examining the precision of recall, the order in which items are recalled and whether memories are corrupted by random guessing (attentional lapses). We used two separate tasks that examined the quality of WM recall under different loads and retention periods, as well as a traditional digit span test. Firstly, on a simple measure of WM recall, where patients were asked to reproduce the orientation of a centrally presented arrow, overall recall was not significantly impaired. However, there was some evidence for increased guessing (attentional lapses). On a new analogue version of the Corsi‐span task, where participants had to reproduce on a touchscreen the exact spatial pattern of presented stimuli in the order and locations in which they appeared, there was a reduction in the precision of spatial WM at higher loads. This deficit was due to misremembering item order. At the highest load, there was reduced recall precision, whereas increased guessing was only observed at intermediate set sizes. Finally, PD patients had impaired backward, but not forward, digit spans. Overall, these results reveal the task‐ and load‐dependent nature of WM deficits in PD. On simple low‐load tasks, attentional lapses predominate, whereas at higher loads, in the spatial domain, the corruption of mnemonic information—both order item and precision—emerge as the main driver of impairment.
“I am busy enough…”: Navigating challenges experienced by Medicaid providers serving pregnant people living with substance use disorders in Alabama
Authors: Horan Holly , Mobley Emmily , Lavender Catherine , Thompson Alyssa , Bryant Wesley , McDaniel Justin , Robertson Ellen , McIntosh Shanna , Albright David L.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Perinatal substance use is a clinical and public health concern. The purpose of the study was to understand the perspectives and experiences of perinatal healthcare providers serving pregnant people who receive Medicaid and are living with a substance use disorder.

Design and methods

We conducted a secondary data analysis of the responses from perinatal healthcare providers who completed a survey to assess the state of Alabama’s capability to effectively identify and treat individuals with substance use disorder. We analyzed short answer responses using consensus coding.

Findings

Nine‐hundred and ninety‐five Medicaid providers completed the survey, 36 of the respondents identified that they were employed in an obstetric practice. Health insurance limitations, a lack of time and resources, and limited treatment options were the primary barriers indicated in the participants' responses.

Conclusions

Structural and health system barriers negatively impact the capacity of perinatal healthcare providers in Alabama to serve pregnant people who receive Medicaid and are living with a substance use disorder.

Clinical relevance

Perinatal healthcare providers need educational opportunities, training, and up‐to‐date resources to provide supportive, comprehensive care programming for perinatal populations with substance use disorders.