bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CD70 antibody‐drug conjugate: A potential novel therapeutic agent for ovarian cancer
Authors: Shiomi Mayu , Matsuzaki Shinya , Serada Satoshi , Matsuo Koji , Mizuta‐Odani Chihiro , Jitsumori Mariko , Nakae Ruriko , Matsuzaki Satoko , Nakagawa Satoshi , Hiramatsu Kosuke , Miyoshi Ai , Kobayashi Eiji , Kimura Toshihiro , Ueda Yutaka , Yoshino Kiyoshi , Naka Tetsuji , Kimura Tadashi
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxicity of a cluster of differentiation 70 antibody‐drug conjugate (CD70‐ADC) against ovarian cancer in in vitro and in vivo xenograft models. CD70 expression was assessed in clinical samples by immunohistochemical analysis. Western blotting and fluorescence‐activated cell sorting analyses were used to determine CD70 expression in the ovarian cancer cell lines A2780 and SKOV3, and in the cisplatin‐resistant ovarian cancer cell lines A2780cisR and SKOV3cisR. CD70 expression after cisplatin exposure was determined in A2780 cells transfected with mock‐ or nuclear factor (NF)‐κB‐p65‐small interfering RNA. We developed an ADC with an anti‐CD70 monoclonal antibody linked to monomethyl auristatin F and investigated its cytotoxic effect. We examined 63 ovarian cancer clinical samples; 43 (68.3%) of them expressed CD70. Among patients with advanced stage disease (n = 50), those who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy were more likely to exhibit high CD70 expression compared to those who did not (55.6% [15/27] vs 17.4% [4/23], P < .01). CD70 expression was confirmed in A2780cisR, SKOV3, and SKOV3cisR cells. Notably, CD70 expression was induced after cisplatin treatment in A2780 mock cells but not in A2780‐NF‐κB‐p65‐silenced cells. CD70‐ADC was cytotoxic to A2780cisR, SKOV3, and SKOV3cisR cells, with IC50 values ranging from 0.104 to 0.341 nmol/L. In A2780cisR and SKOV3cisR xenograft models, tumor growth in CD70‐ADC treated mice was significantly inhibited compared to that in the control‐ADC treated mice (A2780cisR: 32.0 vs 1639.0 mm3, P < .01; SKOV3cisR: 232.2 vs 584.9 mm3, P < .01). Platinum treatment induced CD70 expression in ovarian cancer cells. CD70‐ADC may have potential therapeutic implications in the treatment of CD70 expressing ovarian cancer.
The Roles of Privacy and Trust in Children's Evaluations and Explanations of Digital Tracking
Authors: Gelman Susan A. , Cuneo Nicole , Kulkarni Sanika , Snay Sarah , Roberts Steven O.
Published: June 2021

A “digital revolution” has introduced new privacy violations concerning access to information stored on electronic devices. The present two studies assessed how U.S. children ages 5–17 and adults (N = 416; 55% female; 67% white) evaluated those accessing digital information belonging to someone else, either location data (Study 1) or digital photos (Study 2). The trustworthiness of the tracker (Studies 1 and 2) and the privacy of the information (Study 2) were manipulated. At all ages, evaluations were more negative when the tracker was less trustworthy, and when information was private. However, younger children were substantially more positive overall about digital tracking than older participants. These results, yielding primarily medium‐to‐large effect sizes, suggest that with age, children increasingly appreciate digital privacy considerations.
Five‐year results of a prospective, randomised, contralateral eye trial of corneal crosslinking for keratoconus
Authors: Meyer Jay J. , Jordan Charlotte A. , Patel Dipika V. , Gokul Akilesh , Dean Simon J. , Ahmed Suheb , Subbiah Shanu , McGhee Charles N. J.
Published: June 2021

Background

Few studies have evaluated corneal crosslinking (CXL) in a prospective, randomised fashion. This study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of CXL to reduce the progression of keratoconus.

Methods

Prospective, unmasked, randomised, contralateral eye controlled trial at a tertiary eye centre. Participants: Individuals with bilateral progressive keratoconus. One eye from each subject was randomised to CXL and the contralateral, untreated eye acted as the control. Primary outcome measure: change in maximum keratometry. Secondary outcome measures: uncorrected distance visual acuity, spectacle corrected distance visual acuity, spherical equivalent refraction, simulated keratometry, corneal astigmatism, minimum pachymetry and complications.

Results

Thirty‐eight individuals (mean age 21.1 ± 6.7 years) were enrolled with one eye treated with CXL. At 5 years, there was a mean decrease in maximum keratometry of treated eyes (−1.45 ± 2.25 D) compared to an increase among the controls (1.71 ± 2.46 D; p < 0.001). There were significant differences between the treated and control groups in the mean change of Steep SimK (−1.07 ± 1.22 vs. 0.96 ± 1.97 D; p < 0.001), Flat SimK (−0.61 ± 1.34 vs. 0.43 ± 1.12 D; p < 0.001), corneal astigmatism (−0.45 ± 1.31 vs. 0.63 ± 1.52 D; p < 0.01) and minimum pachymetry (−32.49 ± 26.32 vs. −13.57 ± 24.11 μm; p < 0.01). Complications included sterile infiltrates (n = 2), microbial keratitis (n = 1), persistent corneal haze/scarring at 5 years (n = 4) and loss of ≥2 lines of corrected distance visual acuity (n = 3).

Conclusions

CXL is an effective and relatively safe intervention to halt or reduce the progression of keratoconus in the majority of eyes for at least 5 years.
Efficacy of bone‐substitute materials use in immediate dental implant placement: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zaki John , Yusuf Nermin , El‐Khadem Ahmed , Scholten Rob J. P. M. , Jenniskens Kevin
Published: June 2021

Objective

To assess the efficacy of using a bone substitute material (BSM) in the fixture–socket gap in patients undergoing tooth extraction and immediate implant placement.

Materials and methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). RCTs were screened for eligibility, and data were extracted by two authors independently. Risk of bias (ROB) was assessed using Cochrane's ROB tool 2.0. Primary outcomes were implant failure, overall complications, and soft‐tissue esthetics. Secondary outcomes were vertical buccal bone resorption, vertical interproximal bone resorption, horizontal buccal bone resorption, and mid‐buccal mucosal recession. Meta‐analysis was performed using random‐effects model with generic inverse variance weighing. GRADE was used to grade the certainty of the evidence.

Results

After screening 19 544 potentially eligible references, 20 RCTs were included in this review, with a total of 848 patients (916 sites). Most included RCTs were deemed of some concerns (53%) or at low (38%) risk of bias, except for overall complications (high ROB). Implant failure did not differ significantly RR = 0.92 (confidence intervals [CI] 0.34 to 2.46) between using a BSM compared with not using a BSM (NoBSM). BSM use resulted in less horizontal buccal bone resorption (MD = −0.52 mm [95% CI −0.74 to −0.30]), a higher esthetic score (MD = 1.49 [95% CI 0.46 to 2.53]), but also more complications (RR = 3.50 [95% CI 1.11 to 11.1] compared with NoBSM. Too few trials compared types of BSMs against each other to allow for pooled analyses. The certainty of the evidence was considered moderate for all outcomes except implant failure (low), overall complications (very low), and vertical interproximal bone resorption (very low).

Conclusion

BSM use during immediate implant placement reduces horizontal buccal bone resorption and improves the periimplant soft‐tissue esthetics. Although BSM use increases the risk of predominantly minor complications.
Gastrostomy as a liberating procedure for parents of children with neurological impairments
Authors: Nimmo Stephanie
Published: June 2021

This commentary is on the original article by Maddison et al. on pages 1099–1106 of this issue.
At what price should Bordeaux wines be released?
Authors: Masset Philippe , Weisskopf Jean‐Philippe
Published: June 2021

This paper models optimal release prices of an experience good recurrently issued on markets. Using a sample of Bordeaux wines, we find that using a minimal number of intrinsic and extrinsic attributes is sufficient to explain a large proportion of release prices. We further observe a significant relationship between primary market prices and secondary market prices and general economic conditions. Release prices can deviate from secondary market prices in the short run but remain aligned over the long run. Finally, an out‐of‐sample analysis indicates that short‐run mispricing directly affects the purchase behavior of customers.
A citizen science project reveals contrasting latitudinal gradients of wing deformity and parasite infection of monarch butterflies in New Zealand
Authors: Lester Philip J. , Bulgarella Mariana
Published: June 2021

1. Host–parasite interactions represent complex relationships among species, often with considerable spatial variation. We examined latitudinal variation in the prevalence of monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) infection by the protozoan parasite Ophryocystis elektroscirrha via a citizen science project in New Zealand. Parasitism by O. elektroscirrha can result in incomplete development causing mortality, or adult butterflies with deformed wings and reduced fitness.

2. We established the existence of counter‐latitudinal clines of wing deformities and parasite prevalence in monarchs, which in New Zealand are non‐migratory. The prevalence of wing deformities increased with increasing latitude, whereas the prevalence of parasite infections decreased with increasing latitude. No parasitism was observed in our highest latitudinal location, while all butterfly samples were infected in the warmest and lowest latitudinal site. The prevalence of parasitism or wing deformity did not vary with the butterfly sex.

3. Cold temperatures appear to independently affect the parasite and host butterfly development, with lower temperatures limiting parasite development and inducing wing deformities in butterflies. Other protozoan parasites display similar latitudinal clines that are thought to be temperature related.

4. Environmental factors appear to independently influence insect populations through different mechanistic pathways. The high prevalence of parasite infections may affect butterfly fitness in warmer regions, but the cooler conditions at higher latitudes manifest as a major fitness cost, deformed wings. Monarch butterflies in New Zealand and around the world may perform better where it is not too hot (and optimal for these parasites), but not cold (where the pupae experience developmental issues).
Percutaneous exposure injuries amongst dental staff and students at a university dental clinic in Australia: A 6‐year retrospective study
Authors: Zachar Jessica Joanna , Reher Peter
Published: June 2021

Purpose/Objectives

Dental care providers are at risk of percutaneous exposure injuries (PEIs) due to the intimate nature of the patient‐dentist environment and the routine use of sharp instruments. They are the most vulnerable to accidental exposure of blood‐borne viruses. The aim of this study was to determine the types of PEIs sustained by staff and students at the Griffith University Dental Clinic over a 6‐year period.

Methods

Data were collected regarding PEIs sustained amongst dental staff and students between 2014 and 2019. Data were obtained from the risk incident reporting system (GSafe) and the patient management Software (Titanium), and then analysed using IBM SPSS. The chi‐squared tests and multinomial logistic regressions were performed with significance set at <.05.

Results

Over the 6‐year period, there were 308 PEIs with an incidence rate of 0.109%, with 67 being needle stick injuries (0.023%). These injuries happened more often in restorative procedures, followed by local anaesthesia and oral surgery. Dental students were at a greater risk of sustaining PEIs (65.6%) when compared with professional staff (34.4%). Most common instruments included needles (21.8%), probes (20.5%) and burs (18.2%).

Conclusion

Overall, the incidence of percutaneous injuries at the Griffith University Dental Clinic was low. The most common instruments were needles, probes and burs, and dental students were at greatest risk of sustaining injuries. Prevention of injuries by not recapping needles, immediate removal of burs from handpieces, the use of cassettes and single‐use instruments has effectively decreased PEIs experienced by dental students and staff.
Gross post‐mortem and histological features in 27 horses with confirmed lumbosacral region pain and five control horses: A descriptive cadaveric study
Authors: Quiney Laura , Stewart Jennifer , Routh Jennifer , Dyson Sue
Published: June 2021

Background

There is a lack of understanding of the pathological and/or physiological nature of lumbosacral region pain.

Objectives

To describe the gross variations of the osseous and soft tissues of the lumbosacral region and report the histological findings of sections of nerve tissue in affected and control horses.

Study design

Descriptive post‐mortem case series.

Methods

All horses had undergone full clinical and gait assessment, including ridden exercise. Horses with a substantial response to infiltration of local anaesthetic solution around the sacroiliac joint regions were included in the affected group (n = 27). Horses for which the source(s) of pain was confirmed by diagnostic anaesthesia to be distant to the lumbosacral region were included in the control group (n = 5). The pelvic regions were isolated and the soft tissues were assessed grossly. Sections of the lumbosacral plexus and cranial gluteal, sciatic and obturator nerves were examined histologically. The osseous specimens were evaluated for anatomical variants and abnormalities. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Gross discolouration of the sciatic or obturator nerves was observed in 7 (26%) affected and no control horses. Grade 3/3 histological abnormality scores were assigned in 22% of nerve sections from affected horses compared with 3% from control horses. Several osseous variants (bifid sacral spinous processes, straight‐shaped sacroiliac joint surface, short arrow‐shaped sacral alae, left‐right asymmetry of sacral alae, sacral curvature, absence of the fourth to fifth and ankylosis of the fifth to sixth lumbar articular process joints, left‐right asymmetry of caudocranial position of the fourth to fifth and lumbar‐sacral articular process joints) and abnormalities (sacroiliac enthesopathy, extra ventral sacroiliac joint surface, lumbosacral symphyseal periarticular modelling, lumbosacral intertransverse joint pitting lesions) were more frequently observed in affected horses.

Main limitations

Both control and affected horses may have had preclinical abnormalities.

Conclusions

Lumbosacral region pain may reflect the presence of a number of pathological changes. Neural pain may play an important role in some horses.
Considerations for management strategy evaluation for small pelagic fishes
Authors: Siple Margaret C. , Koehn Laura E. , Johnson Kelli F. , Punt André E. , Canales T. Mariella , Carpi Piera , de Moor Carryn L. , De Oliveira José A. A. , Gao Jin , Jacobsen Nis S. , Lam Mimi E. , Licandeo Roberto , Lindegren Martin , Ma Shuyang , Óskarsson Guðmundur J. , Sanchez‐Maroño Sonia , Smoliński Szymon , Surma Szymon , Tian Yongjun , Tommasi Desiree , Gutiérrez T. Mariano , Trenkel Verena , Zador Stephani G. , Zimmermann Fabian
Published: June 2021

Management strategy evaluation (MSE) is the state‐of‐the‐art approach for testing and comparing management strategies in a way that accounts for multiple sources of uncertainty (e.g. monitoring, estimation, and implementation). Management strategy evaluation can help identify management strategies that are robust to uncertainty about the life history of the target species and its relationship to other species in the food web. Small pelagic fish (e.g. anchovy, herring and sardine) fulfil an important ecological role in marine food webs and present challenges to the use of MSE and other simulation‐based evaluation approaches. This is due to considerable stochastic variation in their ecology and life history, which leads to substantial observation and process uncertainty. Here, we summarize the current state of MSE for small pelagic fishes worldwide. We leverage expert input from ecologists and modellers to draw attention to sources of process and observation uncertainty for small pelagic species, providing examples from geographical regions where these species are ecologically, economically and culturally important. Temporal variation in recruitment and other life‐history rates, spatial structure and movement, and species interactions are key considerations for small pelagic fishes. We discuss tools for building these into the MSE process, with examples from existing fisheries. We argue that model complexity should be informed by management priorities and whether ecosystem information will be used to generate dynamics or to inform reference points. We recommend that our list of considerations be used in the initial phases of the MSE process for small pelagic fishes or to build complexity on existing single‐species models.
tRNA‐like structures and their functions
Authors: Wu Sipeng , Li Xiang , Wang Geng
Published: June 2021

tRNA‐like structures (TLSs) were first identified in the RNA genomes of turnip yellow mosaic virus. Since then, TLSs have been found in many other species including mammals, and the RNAs harboring these structures range from viral genomic RNAs to mRNAs and noncoding RNAs. Some progress has also been made on understanding their functions that include regulation of RNA replication, translation enhancement, RNA–protein interaction, and more. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about the regulations and functions of these TLSs. Possible future directions of the field are also briefly discussed.
Bumblebee resilience to climate change, through plastic and adaptive responses
Authors: Maebe Kevin , Hart Alex F. , Marshall Leon , Vandamme Peter , Vereecken Nicolas J. , Michez Denis , Smagghe Guy
Published: June 2021

Bumblebees are ubiquitous, cold‐adapted eusocial bees found worldwide from subarctic to tropical regions of the world. They are key pollinators in most temperate and boreal ecosystems, and both wild and managed populations are significant contributors to agricultural pollination services. Despite their broad ecological niche at the genus level, bumblebee species are threatened by climate change, particularly by rising average temperatures, intensifying seasonality and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. While some temperature extremes may be offset at the individual or colony level through temperature regulation, most bumblebees are expected to exhibit specific plastic responses, selection in various key traits, and/or range contractions under even the mildest climate change. In this review, we provide an in‐depth and up‐to‐date review on the various ways by which bumblebees overcome the threats associated with current and future global change. We use examples relevant to the fields of bumblebee physiology, morphology, behaviour, phenology, and dispersal to illustrate and discuss the contours of this new theoretical framework. Furthermore, we speculate on the extent to which adaptive responses to climate change may be influenced by bumblebees’ capacity to disperse and track suitable climate conditions. Closing the knowledge gap and improving our understanding of bumblebees’ adaptability or avoidance behaviour to different climatic circumstances will be necessary to improve current species climate response models. These models are essential to make correct predictions of species vulnerability in the face of future climate change and human‐induced environmental changes to unfold appropriate future conservation strategies.
A “Dirty” Footprint: Macroinvertebrate diversity in Amazonian Anthropic Soils
Authors: Demetrio Wilian C. , Conrado Ana C. , Acioli Agno N. S. , Ferreira Alexandre C. , Bartz Marie L. C. , James Samuel W. , da Silva Elodie , Maia Lilianne S. , Martins Gilvan C. , Macedo Rodrigo S. , Stanton David W. G. , Lavelle Patrick , Velasquez Elena , Zangerlé Anne , Barbosa Rafaella , Tapia‐Coral Sandra C. , Muniz Aleksander W. , Santos Alessandra , Ferreira Talita , Segalla Rodrigo F. , Decaëns Thibaud , Nadolny Herlon S. , Peña‐Venegas Clara P. , Maia Cláudia M. B. F. , Pasini Amarildo , Mota André F. , Taube Júnior Paulo S. , Silva Telma A. C. , Rebellato Lilian , de Oliveira Júnior Raimundo C. , Neves Eduardo G. , Lima Helena P. , Feitosa Rodrigo M. , Vidal Torrado Pablo , McKey Doyle , Clement Charles R. , Shock Myrtle P. , Teixeira Wenceslau G. , Motta Antônio C. V. , Melo Vander F. , Dieckow Jeferson , Garrastazu Marilice C. , Chubatsu Leda S. ,   TPI Network, Kille Peter , Brown George G. , Cunha Luís
Published: June 2021

Amazonian rainforests, once thought to be pristine wilderness, are increasingly known to have been widely inhabited, modified, and managed prior to European arrival, by human populations with diverse cultural backgrounds. Amazonian Dark Earths (ADEs) are fertile soils found throughout the Amazon Basin, created by pre‐Columbian societies with sedentary habits. Much is known about the chemistry of these soils, yet their zoology has been neglected. Hence, we characterized soil fertility, macroinvertebrate communities, and their activity at nine archeological sites in three Amazonian regions in ADEs and adjacent reference soils under native forest (young and old) and agricultural systems. We found 673 morphospecies and, despite similar richness in ADEs (385 spp.) and reference soils (399 spp.), we identified a tenacious pre‐Columbian footprint, with 49% of morphospecies found exclusively in ADEs. Termite and total macroinvertebrate abundance were higher in reference soils, while soil fertility and macroinvertebrate activity were higher in the ADEs, and associated with larger earthworm quantities and biomass. We show that ADE habitats have a unique pool of species, but that modern land use of ADEs decreases their populations, diversity, and contributions to soil functioning. These findings support the idea that humans created and sustained high‐fertility ecosystems that persist today, altering biodiversity patterns in Amazonia.
Lithium Isotopic Ratios by Single‐Collector ICP‐SFMS: A Critical Evaluation Using Reference Materials
Authors: Navarro Margareth S. , Paula‐Santos Gustavo M. , Marteleto Thaís de P. , Enzweiler Jacinta
Published: June 2021

We deployed a procedure to measure Li isotope ratios on a single‐collector sector field inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP‐SFMS) operated with a desolvation system and a high‐sensitivity skimmer cone. Under optimised instrumental acquisition conditions, chromatographically separated analyte solutions containing 1 ng g−1 of Li provided adequate sensitivity using analogue mode detection for both isotopes, without adverse memory effect. Unprecedented for this isotopic system, we estimated the expanded uncertainty (U; k = 2) associated with the obtained δ7Li values to validate the procedure. Were considered as potential contributors to the combined uncertainty estimation (uc) the measurement intermediate precision, sample digestion and homogeneity, chromatographic separation, procedural blanks and homogeneity of the bracketing measurement standard (IRMM‐016). The estimated U was on average (from results obtained with reference materials) 1.2‰ (k = 2). This is about twice the intermediate measurement precision (2s) of our data, highlighting the importance of evaluating other measurement uncertainty sources. The δ7Li values obtained for nineteen silicate rocks and one natural water agree with published values. We also provide the first δ7Li = (1.7 ± 1.2; 0.7)‰ (mean value ± U (k = 2); intermediate precision (2s); n = 13) for basalt RM BRP‐1.
Increased risk of short‐term depressive disorder after Helicobacterpylori eradication: A population‐based nested cohort study
Authors: Tsai Chia‐Fen , Chen Mu‐Hong , Wang Yen‐Po , Liu Pei‐Yi , Hou Ming‐Chih , Lee Fa‐Yauh , Lu Ching‐Liang
Published: June 2021

Background

Depressive disorder is a major psychiatric illness, and a disturbed brain‐gut‐microbiome axis may contribute to its pathophysiology. Chronic Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections are common in the general population and using multiple antibiotics is required for its eradication, which is associated with gut dysbiosis and may lead to depression. We aimed to evaluate the risk of psychiatrist‐diagnosed depression in patients with peptic ulcer diseases (PUD) receiving anti‐H. pylori therapy.

Materials and methods

We collected data from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) in Taiwan on PUD patients undergoing antibiotic treatment for H. pylori infection; patients and controls were matched for age, sex, income, level of urbanization, and comorbidities.

Results

Of the 1 million beneficiaries in the NHIRD, we identified 7087 patients for inclusion in the eradication cohort and 7087 matched non‐eradication controls with PUD. Antibiotic therapy is associated with a short‐term (<30 days) increase in the incidence of psychiatrist‐diagnosed depressive disorder (p = 0.009, after multiple comparisons with Bonferroni correction) in the eradication cohort compared with the controls. Female (OR: 4.55, 95% CI: 1.53–13.48) PUD patients were more likely to display an increased risk of depression within 30 days after eradication therapy. Clarithromycin use was related to an elevated likelihood (OR: 3.14, 95% CI: 1.45–6.80) of subsequent depressive disorder within 30 days after eradication therapy.

Conclusions

Antibiotic eradication treatment for H. pylori infection is associated with a significant short‐term (less than 30 days) increase in the incidence of psychiatrist‐diagnosed depressive disorder, which can be overlooked by gastroenterologists and general practitioners.
CRISPR‐based detection of Helicobacter pylori in stool samples
Authors: Qiu Enming , Jin Shaoqin , Xiao Zhuo , Chen Qianyun , Wang Qiaohui , Liu Huayong , Xie Chanfang , Chen Chong , Li Zhou , Han Shuai
Published: June 2021

Background

Noninvasive detection of Helicobacter pylori plays an important role in clinical practice. However, few noninvasive methods have been applied in epidemiological studies due to the requirement for expensive equipment and complicated processes. The aim of this study was to establish a reliable, fast, and inexpensive noninvasive method based on CRISPR‐Cas12a technology for the detection of Helicobacter pylori in stool specimens.

Method

A novel detection method based on CRISPR‐Cas12a technology was established and validated with 41 stool specimens collected from Zhujiang Hospital and compared with reliable Helicobacter pylori detection assays, such as the rapid urease test and urea breath test.

Result

A CRISPR‐Cas12a system‐based method was established, and its sensitivity and specificity were evaluated. Utilizing a lateral flow biosensor, the limit of detection was 5 copies/μl, and our method could successfully distinguish Helicobacter pylori from other pathogens, suggesting no cross‐reactivity with other pathogens. Furthermore, lateral flow biosensor strips were utilized to test stool specimens, which could display the detection results in an accessible way.

Conclusion

Our CRISPR‐Cas12a system‐based method successfully detected Helicobacter pylori in stool specimens. It is a rapid, simple, and inexpensive method for the detection and screening of Helicobacter pylori, which makes it a very promising supplemental test. However, its sensitivity and specificity compared with those of the gold standard test still need to be examined.
Ensuring patient and public involvement in the transition to AI‐assisted mental health care: A systematic scoping review and agenda for design justice
Authors: Zidaru Teodor , Morrow Elizabeth M. , Stockley Rich
Published: June 2021

Background

Machine‐learning algorithms and big data analytics, popularly known as ‘artificial intelligence’ (AI), are being developed and taken up globally. Patient and public involvement (PPI) in the transition to AI‐assisted health care is essential for design justice based on diverse patient needs.

Objective

To inform the future development of PPI in AI‐assisted health care by exploring public engagement in the conceptualization, design, development, testing, implementation, use and evaluation of AI technologies for mental health.

Methods

Systematic scoping review drawing on design justice principles, and (i) structured searches of Web of Science (all databases) and Ovid (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Global Health and Embase); (ii) handsearching (reference and citation tracking); (iii) grey literature; and (iv) inductive thematic analysis, tested at a workshop with health researchers.

Results

The review identified 144 articles that met inclusion criteria. Three main themes reflect the challenges and opportunities associated with PPI in AI‐assisted mental health care: (a) applications of AI technologies in mental health care; (b) ethics of public engagement in AI‐assisted care; and (c) public engagement in the planning, development, implementation, evaluation and diffusion of AI technologies.

Conclusion

The new data‐rich health landscape creates multiple ethical issues and opportunities for the development of PPI in relation to AI technologies. Further research is needed to understand effective modes of public engagement in the context of AI technologies, to examine pressing ethical and safety issues and to develop new methods of PPI at every stage, from concept design to the final review of technology in practice. Principles of design justice can guide this agenda.
Patient‐centred e‐health supports value cocreation and quality of medical care in Taiwan
Authors: Yan Yu‐Hua , Yang Chen‐Wei , Fang Shih‐Chieh
Published: June 2021

Background

Patient‐centred e‐health (PCEH) focusses on the interaction between patients and physicians. However, only a limited number of studies have focussed on the design of physician–patient value cocreation mechanisms in the PCEH context. Thus, we extend Grönroos’ concept of value cocreation to understand how PCEH might improve the quality of care.

Objectives

This study proposes a theoretical framework to embody PCEH‐supported value cocreation and presents some empirical validation. We expect that PCEH‐supported value cocreation should comprise capabilities for patient empowerment, intention for information sharing, complementation for checking and verifying information, and interaction for shared understanding.

Methods

This study surveyed a small group of patients that have used PCEH, ‘My Health Bank’ in Taiwan. The questionnaires were delivered to patients in hospitals (n = 167 questionnaires, 98% response rate).

Results

Results indicate that certain PCEH‐supported value cocreation mechanisms—capabilities for patient empowerment and interaction for shared understanding—affect the perceived quality of medical care.

Limitations

The survey only considered patient perceptions of value cocreation.

Conclusion

This study shows the patient perception of value cocreation in patient‐centred e‐Health. Further research needs to validate the framework for health professionals and in other e‐Health record information sharing settings.
A hungry Histiocyte, altered immunity and myriad of problems: Diagnostic challenges for Pediatric HLH
Authors: Gera Akriti , Misra Aroonima , Tiwari Aditi , Singh Amitabh , Mehndiratta Sumit
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is an immune deregulation disorder with varied clinical presentation which clinically overlaps with widespread tropical infections.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of children diagnosed with HLH at our center from February‐2017 to October‐2020.

Results

Out of the nine diagnosed patients, genetic predisposition was present in three children; two had identified infectious triggers. The mean age of presentation was 30 months with male predominance. The most common clinical findings were fever, organomegaly, and pancytopenia. The median value of fibrinogen was‐156 mg/dL, ferritin‐12 957 ng/mL and for triglycerides‐349 mg/dL, respectively. In children with identified genetic predisposition, serum ferritin levels were usually more than 10 000 ng/mL. The majority of our patients had evidence of hemophagocytosis on bone marrow examination. In our experience, although nonspecific, very high ferritin and serum triglycerides with low fibrinogen in a patient with bi‐cytopenia, pancytopenia was the most suggestive evidence of HLH. Genetic evaluation in our series identified three children, one with primary HLH genetic mutation and two with underlying immune deficiency syndrome. The presence of HLH in the accelerated phase of Chediak‐Higashi and AD Hyper IgE syndrome with HLH is extremely rare. Leishmaniasis (in nonendemic area) and Ebstein‐Barr virus (EBV) was identified as an infectious trigger in two cases. Most of our cases received treatment as per HLH 2004 protocol. Three children died during the initial diagnosis and treatment. HLH with subcutaneous panniculitis‐like T‐cell lymphoma recovered well.

Conclusion

HLH remains a life‐threatening disorder associated with a variety of underlying illnesses as highlighted by our case series.
Using an economic evaluation approach to support specialist nursing services for people with Parkinson's in a regional community
Authors: Bramble Marguerite , Wong Alfred , Carroll Vincent , Schwebel Debbie , Rossiter Rachel
Published: June 2021

Aim

This study aims to provide economic evidence of the cost‐effectiveness of employing specialist Parkinson's nurses in a regional community in Australia.

Study design

This retrospective study utilized hospital service usage data to compare outcomes for people with Parkinson's disease before and after the employment of a specialist Parkinson's nurse in a regional community.

Methods

A representative sample was drawn from the target population of people with a diagnosis of Parkinson's admitted to a regional hospital over a 4‐year period (2013–2014 and 2016–2017). A multiple regression approach and cost–benefit analysis were used to examine hospital costs related to length of stay based on hospital records. All costs were attributed to resource allocation according to service category and the national funding system. Quantitative data were analysed using Strata Analytics.

Results

Statistical findings demonstrated a reduction in hospital length of stay ranging from 0.37 (AUD$1924) to 0.755 day (AUD$3926) after the establishment of the specialist Parkinson's nurse. The cost–benefit analysis showed a net dollar benefit, or savings in hospital costs, of up to $8600.00 per person over a 3‐year period, as a result of the specialist Parkinson's nurse intervention.

Conclusion

The statistical results show significant cost benefits associated with reduced length of hospital stay following introduction of the specialist Parkinson's nurse. These findings support advocacy for sustainable specialist Parkinson's nurse positions and have the potential to inform and influence policy and systemic changes within the health care system.

Impact

The benefits of embedding specialist nursing services for people with Parkinson's disease in primary health settings include the direct impact on the potential to avoid hospital admissions due to worsening symptoms, improving quality of life for the person with Parkinson's and slowing the trajectory of the disease. Additional benefits are increased access to specialist services and reduced family caregiver burden.
Peripheral intravenous catheter management in childbirth (PICMIC): A multi‐centre, prospective cohort study
Authors: Kearney Lauren , Craswell Alison , Massey Debbie , Marsh Nicole , Nugent Rachael , Alexander Catherine , Smitheram Carmel , McLoughlin Anthea , Ullman Amanda
Published: June 2021

Background

Childbirth is a normal, physiological process, yet intervention is common. Arguably the most common intervention is the insertion of a peripheral intravenous catheter; however, there are few studies guiding best practice. This study aimed to describe current intravenous catheter insertion practice, explore clinician decision‐making during insertion and perceptions of women.

Methods

This prospective, observational cohort study recruited 101 women and clinicians from two Australian regional hospitals. Data collection incorporated non‐participant observation, brief interview and chart review. Variables measured included pain score, insertion attempts, catheter gauge and dwell time.

Results

Childbearing women were, on average, aged 31 with body mass index (BMI) above 28. Women reported a mean pain score of 3.3/10 at 24 h for catheter insertion and 12% reported bruising. An 18‐gauge catheter was considered more painful than a 16‐gauge, and multiple attempts did not increase perceived average pain score. Association between failed first attempts and higher BMI was not established. Participant clinicians were predominantly midwives, who selected and placed 18‐gauge catheters mostly in hand or wrist (66%). Decision‐making about site, catheter gauge, dressing and attempts varied. Thirty‐four per cent attempted two to three times, despite regular practise. Confidence to reliably insert determined catheter gauge and almost half clinician participants cited hospital policy and preferred non‐dominant arm as key reasons for the location of PIVC.

Conclusions

Regular use of a large‐gauge catheter is counter intuitive when placed in the small veins of the hand with extension tubing. More research is needed to promote best practice around gauge selection, site and women's experience.
The association of triglyceride and glucose index, and triglyceride to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio with prehypertension and hypertension in normoglycemic subjects: A large cross‐sectional population study
Authors: Zhang Fomin , Zhang Yingyi , Guo Zhigang , Yang Hua , Ren Min , Xing Xiaomeng , Cong Hongliang
Published: June 2021

Insulin resistance (IR) plays an important role in the development of hypertension. Triglyceride and glucose index (TyG index), and triglyceride to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (TG/HDL‐c) as effective IR surrogate indexes have been verified in numerous studies. Therefore, the authors conducted a large cross‐sectional study to explore the association of TyG index and TG/HDL‐c with prehypertension and hypertension in the same normoglycemic subjects from Tianjin, China. A total of 32 124 adults were eligible for this study. According to the level of blood pressure, the enrolled individuals were divided into three groups, which were normotension, prehypertension, and hypertension. In multiple logistic regression analysis, there was associated with prehypertension and hypertension when comparing the highest TyG index to the lowest TyG index and corresponding ORs were 1.795 (1.638, 1.968) and 2.439 (2.205, 2.698), respectively. For TG/HDL‐c, the corresponding ORs were 1.514 (1.382, 1.658) and 1.934 (1.751, 2.137), respectively. Furthermore, when comparing the fourth quartile to the first quartile of TyG index and TG/HDL‐c, respectively, both corresponding ORs of hypertension were higher than prehypertension. Elevated TyG index and TG/HDL‐c levels were associated with prehypertension and hypertension in normoglycemic individuals. Moreover, the TyG index was more significant than TG/HDL‐c in distinguishing hypertension. They have the potential to become cost‐effective monitors in the hierarchical management of prehypertension and hypertension.
Pseudolaric acid B ameliorates synovial inflammation and vessel formation by stabilizing PPARγ to inhibit NF‐κB signalling pathway
Authors: Lu Jiansen , Guan Hong , Wu Dan , Hu Zhiqiang , Zhang Hongbo , Jiang Huaji , Yu Jingyao , Zeng Ke , Li Hongyu , Zhang Haiyan , Pan Chenglong , Cai Daozhang , Yu Xiao
Published: June 2021

Synovial macrophage polarization and inflammation are essential for osteoarthritis (OA) development, yet the molecular mechanisms and regulation responsible for the pathogenesis are still poorly understood. Here, we report that pseudolaric acid B (PAB) attenuated articular cartilage degeneration and synovitis during OA. PAB, a diterpene acid, specifically inhibited NF‐κB signalling and reduced the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, which further decreased M1 polarization and vessel formation. We further provide in vivo and in vitro evidences that PAB suppressed NF‐κB signalling by stabilizing PPARγ. Using PPARγ antagonist could abolish anti‐inflammatory effect of PAB and rescue the activation of NF‐κB signalling during OA. Our findings identify a previously unrecognized role of PAB in the regulation of OA and provide mechanisms by which PAB regulates NF‐κB signalling through PPARγ, which further suggest targeting synovial inflammation or inhibiting vessel formation at early stage could be an effective preventive strategy for OA.
RNAi in fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae): Successes and challenges
Authors: C. Maktura Grazielle , J. Paranhos Beatriz , Marques‐Souza Henrique
Published: June 2021

Fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) are among the most economically important pests worldwide, causing direct damage to fruit crops through female oviposition and larval feeding. Currently, the most widely disseminated methods of control of fruit flies involve the adoption of cultural and biological techniques, like the sterile insect technique, and the use of agrochemicals. However, the latter depend on the concomitant use of other techniques, especially chemical ones, which are the most successful, but also related to resistance, off‐target effects and pollution, showing the need for new methods. RNA interference (RNAi) is a biotechnological tool that is capable of inducing post‐transcriptional gene silencing using double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA). The mechanism could be exploited in pest control associated with integrated pest management, by targeting essential genes or by increasing the susceptibility of insects to insecticides. Here, we discuss the RNAi machinery and the uptake genes of the main Tephritidae species and their differences in comparison with other insects. Then, we investigate the international literature on the application of this tool to improve the sterile insect technique, enhance the insects’ susceptibility to insecticides and modulate their growth and development, demonstrating the sensibility of Tephritidae species to RNAi. Finally, we discuss the main challenges to the future use of RNAi as a method to control Tephritidae, such as delivery procedures, degradation and production of dsRNA, off‐target effects, occurrence of refractoriness, and perspectives and shortages associated with its adoption that need to be considered.
The effects of vitamin D supplementation on types of falls
Authors: Wanigatunga Amal A. , Sternberg Alice L. , Blackford Amanda L. , Cai Yurun , Mitchell Christine M. , Roth David L. , Miller Edgar R. , Szanton Sarah L. , Juraschek Stephen P. , Michos Erin D. , Schrack Jennifer A. , Appel Lawrence J. ,   for the STURDY Collaborative Research Group
Published: June 2021

Background/objectives

To assess whether vitamin D supplementation prevents specific fall subtypes and sequelae (e.g., fracture).

Design

Secondary analyses of STURDY (Study to Understand Fall Reduction and Vitamin D in You)—a response‐adaptive, randomized clinical trial.

Setting

Two community‐based research units.

Participants

Six hundred and eighty‐eight participants ≥70 years old with elevated fall risk and baseline serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels of 10–29 ng/ml.

Intervention

200 IU/day (control), 1000 IU/day, 2000 IU/day, or 4000 IU/day of vitamin D3.

Measurements

Outcomes included repeat falls and falls that were consequential, were injurious, resulted in emergency care, resulted in fracture, and occurred either indoors or outdoors.

Results

After adjustment for multiple comparisons, the risk of fall‐related fracture was greater in the pooled higher doses (≥1000 IU/day) group compared with the control (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.66; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.18–6.00). Although not statistically significant after multiple comparisons adjustment, time to first outdoor fall appeared to differ between the four dose groups (unadjusted p for overall difference = 0.013; adjusted p = 0.222), with risk of a first‐time outdoor fall 39% lower in the 1000 IU/day group (HR = 0.61; 95% CI: 0.38–0.97; unadjusted p = 0.036; adjusted p = 0.222) and 40% lower in the 2000 IU/day group (HR = 0.60; 95%CI 0.38–0.97; p = 0.037; adjusted p = 0.222), each versus control.

Conclusion

Vitamin D supplementation doses ≥1000 IU/day might have differential effects on fall risk based on fall location and fracture risk, with the most robust finding that vitamin D doses between 1000 and 4000 IU/day might increase the risk of first time falls with fractures. Replication is warranted, given the possibility of type 1 error.
Effect of the rheological properties of the liquid carrier on the in vitro swallowing of solid oral dosage forms
Authors: Lavoisier Anaïs , Shreeram Sathyavageeswaran , Jedwab Michael , Ramaioli Marco
Published: June 2021

Solid oral dosage forms (SODF) are the most popular oral drug delivery forms, but they can be difficult to swallow, especially for patients suffering from swallowing disorders. This study investigated the dynamics of different combinations of liquid carriers and SODF during the oral phase of swallowing using an in vitro model. The rheological properties of the carriers were characterized using shear and extensional rheometry, and their effect on bolus velocity, bolus shape, post‐swallow residues, and SODF position within the bolus was evaluated. The latter has been identified as a novel and promising variable to discriminate between alternative formulations. When swallowed with water, capsules and tablets did not impact significantly the velocity of the bolus, but they lagged behind the liquid bolus, suggesting that low viscosity Newtonian fluids are not efficient carriers for SODF. Increasing the viscosity of the carrier at high shear rates improved the ability of the liquid to transport the SODF but also increased the amount of post‐swallow residues. At equivalent shear viscosity, elastic and extensional properties of carriers influenced positively the position of the SODF in the bolus. Capsules and tablets were transported toward the front of these boluses, during the oral phase of swallowing, which is considered beneficial to avoid SODF sticking to the mucosa in the following stages of swallowing. Thin elastic liquids appear as an interesting option to promote safe swallowing of capsules and tablets. Clinical studies are, however, necessary to confirm this positive effect in healthy and dysphagic patients.