bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex steroids and sex steroid‐binding globulin levels amongst middle‐aged and elderly men and women from general population
Authors: Aribas Elif , Roeters van Lennep Jeanine E. , De Rijke Yolanda B. , Laven Joop S. E. , Ikram Mohammad Arfan , Peeters Robin P. , Kavousi Maryam
Published: August 2022

Background and Aims

Availability of age‐ and sex‐specific reference values for sex steroids and sex steroid‐binding globulin (SHBG) levels allows for appropriate interpretation of research findings and their clinical applications. We report the sex‐specific distribution and reference levels of sex steroids, including total estradiol, total testosterone and (calculated) free androgen index (cFAI), SHBG and other androgens dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) and androstenedione across age.

Methods

Using data from 3291 participants from the prospective population‐based Rotterdam Study (2006–2008), we visualised the distribution of sex steroids and SHBG levels by calculating and depicting the 5th, 25th, 50th, 75th and 95th percentiles per year and per age‐year across 5‐year age bands to provide reference value ranges in men and women. Total estradiol and SHBG were measured using automated immunoassay and androgens using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS).

Result

Mean age was 56.8 (range 45.6–79.9) years in men and 56.9 (range 45.7–79.9) years in women. Amongst men, total estradiol and SHBG showed an increasing trend from 45 years onwards. In women, total estradiol and SHBG showed a decreasing trend from 45 years until the age of 60. From 60 years onwards, SHBG showed an increasing trend. For total testosterone, a clear declining trend was observed amongst men but not women. Other androgens showed a similar decreasing trend in both sexes from 45 years onwards.

Discussion and Conclusion

Our study underlines sex‐specific trends in sex steroids and SHBG levels with ageing. This warrants taking into account sex‐ and age‐specific reference values for sex steroids and SHBG when investigating their impact on health outcomes to prevent controversial results and allow for their appropriate clinical application.
Effectiveness of an educational cartoon animation on the knowledge of children about traumatic dental injuries
Authors: Özveren Neslihan , Yıldırım Sinem
Published: August 2022

Background/Aim

Although children are frequently exposed to traumatic dental injuries (TDIs), their knowledge and attitude regarding the emergency management of TDIs are largely insufficient. The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge of children about TDIs utilizing a questionnaire before and after watching a custom animated instructional video.

Material and Methods

The study was conducted with 332 children aged 8 to 13 years. The children were asked to complete a 3‐part questionnaire that included socio‐demographic data, past experiences related to TDIs, and knowledge of the emergency management of TDIs. An educational video containing evidence‐based information about the management of TDIs was shown to the children. They then completed the questionnaire again immediately after viewing the video and 1 week later. The data were analyzed using Friedman's two‐way ANOVA by ranks test, McNemar's test, and the Mann–Whitney U‐test.

Results

The children's scores increased significantly following the viewing of the video (p = .0001). Prior to watching the animation, children who had previously received dental trauma education had considerably higher scores than their peers (p = .004). The animation was considered to be beneficial by 96.7% of the children. Prior to watching the animation, 49.1% of the children believed they could help their friends in the event of dental trauma, and after viewing the animation, this rate increased to 86.4%, but decreased to 77.1% after 1 week (p < .001).

Conclusions

After watching the video, the children's scores improved dramatically and their self‐confidence in helping their friends in the event of dental trauma increased.
Politicians' complaint response: E‐governance and personal relationships
Authors: O’Brochta William
Published: August 2022

When do politicians respond to individuals' public service complaints? Technological solutions—termed e‐governance—have been shown to help increase responsiveness in some developing nations where they serve to connect individuals, politicians, and bureaucrats for the first time. I argue that in country‐contexts like India, where personal connections to bureaucrats and politicians are common, politicians are less responsive to complaints registered with e‐governance systems than to complaints delivered via personal connections. Using data from public complaints, complaint responses, and field interviews in Delhi, I show that politicians are not responsive when complaints submitted to e‐governance systems increase, but that they are responsive to complaints submitted to them through personal connections. This result suggests that the introduction of an e‐governance system does not necessarily increase government performance. Politicians are incentivized to be more responsive to complaints registered directly with them because those complaints are more likely to generate electoral benefits.
Experimental validation of a computational fluid dynamics model using micro‐particle image velocimetry of the irrigation flow in confluent canals
Authors: Rito Pereira Mário , Silva Goncalo , Semiao Viriato , Silverio Vania , Martins Jorge N. R. , Pascoal‐Faria Paula , Alves Nuno , Dias Juliana R. , Ginjeira António
Published: August 2022

Aim

This study aimed to experimentally validate a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model, using micro‐particle image velocimetry (micro‐PIV) measurements of the irrigation flow velocity field developed in confluent canals during irrigation with a side‐vented needle.

Methodology

A microchip with confluent canals, manufactured in polydimethylsiloxane was used in a micro‐PIV analysis of the irrigation flow using a side‐vented needle placed 3 mm from the end of the confluence of the canals. Velocity fields and profiles were recorded for flow rates of 0.017 and 0.1 ml/s and compared with those predicted in CFD numerical simulations (using a finite volume commercial code – FLUENT) for both laminar and turbulent regimes.

Results

The overall flow pattern, isovelocity and vector maps as well as velocity profiles showed a close agreement between the micro‐PIV experimental and CFD predicted data. No relevant differences were observed between the results obtained with the laminar and turbulent flow models used.

Conclusions

Results showed that the laminar CFD modelling is reliable to predict the flow in similar domains.
Mechanical and thermal properties of δ‐RE4Hf3O12(RE = Yb, Lu)
Authors: Hu Wanpeng , Zhang Guangheng , Lei Yiming , Sun Luchao , Zhang Jie , Wang Jingyang
Published: August 2022

Rare‐earth (RE) hafnates are promising thermal and environmental barrier coating (TEBC) materials for SiCf/SiC ceramic matrix composites. In this study, pure‐phase and dense δ‐RE4Hf3O12(RE = Yb, Lu) bulk ceramics have been fabricated via a hot‐pressing method. The crystal structure, microstructure, mechanical, and thermal properties of δ‐RE4Hf3O12were systematically investigated in order to probe their potential application as TEBCs. The high‐temperature elastic moduli of δ‐Yb4Hf3O12and δ‐Lu4Hf3O12are measured to be 185 and 188 GPa at 1673 K, respectively, which are over 85% values of room temperature. The coefficients of thermal expansion are 7.64 × 10−6and 7.46 × 10−6 K−1for δ‐Yb4Hf3O12and δ‐Lu4Hf3O12, respectively. The relatively low coefficient of thermal expansion and thermal conductivity as well as their excellent high‐temperature stability endow these hafnates as potential TEBC candidates.
Effect of two‐step sintering on microstructure and mechanical properties of ceria‐stabilized zirconia‐toughened alumina‐added titania (CSZTA–TiO2)
Authors: Eggidi Obulapathi , Pandey Ajoy Kumar
Published: August 2022

Effect of two‐step sintering (TSS) on microstructure and mechanical properties of ceria‐stabilized zirconia‐toughened alumina with added TiO2 (CSZTA–TiO2) was studied. A coprecipitation technique was used to produce the CSZTA–TiO2 powders. The synthesized powders were compacted using a uniaxial hydraulic press and conventionally sintered in air. The phase and microstructure of sintered samples were studied using X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques. Phases were quantified using the Rietveld refinement method. Different TSS schedules were followed to optimize microstructure and mechanical properties. Mechanical properties of the CSZTA‐4TiO2 composite were evaluated and found as follows: Vickers's hardness of 1650 ± 9.6 HV10, indentation fracture toughness of 8.45 ± .14 MPa √m, compressive strength of 2088 MPa, and Young's modulus of 158 GPa.
The effect of solution‐focussed education and counselling on problematic internet usage, sleep quality and school achievement: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Şermet Kaya Şenay , Seviğ Emine Ümit , Zincir Handan
Published: August 2022

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of solution‐focussed education and counselling on problematic internet usage, sleep quality and school achievement.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial was conducted between January ‐ December 2016 with 44 adolescents who participated in a solution‐focussed intervention to address their problematic internet usage and poor sleep quality. After the intervention, the teens were followed up for 6 months to measure problematic Internet usage, sleep quality and school achievement using the Internet Addiction Test, Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index, Parent–Child Internet Addiction Scale and the students' end‐of‐term school grades. Data were analysed in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences programme using Chi‐square test, Independent t test, Man–Whitney U test, Friedman test and Spearman correlation analysis.

Results

The median Internet Addiction Test and Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index scores of the adolescents in the intervention group were significantly lower than those of the controls (P < 0.05), and there was a positive and moderate association between problematic Internet usage and sleep quality in both groups after the follow‐up (r = 0.537, P = 0.010; r = 0.576 P = 0.005).

Conclusion

The education and counselling intervention decreased problematic Internet usage and increased sleep quality. There was also an improvement in school achievement, but the difference was not significant.
Informalization in gig food delivery in the UK: The case of hyper‐flexible and precarious work
Authors: Mendonça Pedro , Kougiannou Nadia K. , Clark Ian
Published: August 2022

This article examines the process of informalization of work in platform food delivery work in the UK. Drawing on qualitative data, this article provides new analytical insight into what drives individual formal couriers to both supply and demand informalized sub‐contracted gig work to undocumented migrants, and how a platform company enables informal work practices through permissive HR practices and technology. In doing so, this article shows how platform companies are enablers of informal labor markets and contribute to the expansion of hyper‐precarious working conditions.
Feasibility and safety of laser balloon pulmonary vein isolation in patients with prior left atrial appendage occlusion device implantation
Authors: Khalil Charl , Vipparthy Sharath C. , Kenigsberg David , Ravi Venkatesh , Lazar Sorin , Doukky Rami , Pietrasik Grzegorz , Wasserlauf Jeremiah , Larsen Timothy , Sharma Parikshit S. , Huang Henry D.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

With the increasing adoption of left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) procedures and the eligibility of patients for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) post device placement, we examined the feasibility and safety of laser balloon (LB) for PVI in patients with prior LAAO.

Methods

We retrospectively examined consecutive patients with paroxysmal or persistent, drug‐resistant atrial fibrillation (AF) who underwent LB PVI, after Watchman FLX device implantation at Rush University Medical Center between January 2020 and December 2021.

Results

Seven patients (four persistent and three paroxysmal) with a mean age of 64 ± 11 years, predominantly male sex (86%), were included in the study. Two (29%) patients had prior cryoablation PVI with recurrence of AF. The mean CHA2DS2 VASc is 2.6 ± 0.5 and the mean HAS‐BLED score is 3.4 ± 0.8. The mean follow‐up duration was 10 ± 7 months. The mean duration between Watchman FLX device implantation and LB PVI was 592 days. Acute first pass left pulmonary vein (PV) isolation was achieved in 100% of the procedures. There were no periprocedural complications such as death, pericardial tamponade or effusion, phrenic nerve injury, PV stenosis, device perforation or embolization, or worsening peri‐device leak in any of the patients. None of the patients had AF recurrence after the blanking period.

Conclusion

LB PVI was safe and effective with 100% acute isolation of left‐sided veins in patients with prior LAAO device.
Circular RNAs in peripheral blood mononuclear cells are more stable than linear RNAs upon sample processing delay
Authors: Wen Guoxia , Gu Wanjun
Published: August 2022

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a novel class of RNAs with closed loop structure. Blood circRNAs are widely acknowledged to be more stable than linear mRNAs, which show promising prospect to be liquid biopsy biomarkers for clinical applications. However, accumulating studies have demonstrated that sample processing delays have profound effects on blood transcriptome expression profiles, wherein knowledge remains elusive about the impacts of prolonged sample processing on blood expression profiles of circRNAs. We collected whole blood samples from three donors and isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) at six different incubation time points. We measured total RNA expression profiles using RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) and investigated the differentially expressed circRNAs, mRNAs and lncRNAs upon blood processing delay. Meanwhile, we explored the underlying inducement of aberrant expression of circRNAs against their corresponding mRNA transcripts. Finally, we utilized rMATS‐turbo and CIRI‐AS, respectively, to screen out differential alternative splicing (AS) events in linear mRNAs and circRNAs. Sample incubation at 4°C lasting to 48 hours (h) led to minimal effects to circRNAs' expression. However, it induced extensive alterations for mRNAs and lncRNAs when the incubation time was beyond 12 h. Additionally, only 2 h processing delays may result in profound impacts on AS events of linear mRNAs, while less impact on the equivalence of circRNAs. Our results suggested that PBMC circRNAs are stable upon sample processing delay, which are more suitable to be liquid biopsy biomarkers.
Factors associated with attitudes toward advance directives in nurses and comparisons of the levels between emergency nurses and palliative care nurses
Authors: Yang Jisun , Kim Hee Jung , Heo Seongkum , An Minjeong , Park SeongHu , Ounpraseuth Songthip , Kim JinShil
Published: August 2022

Aim

Little is known about attitudes toward advance directives and factors associated with them among emergency and palliative care nurses who often or daily face end‐of‐life circumstances. Thus, we aimed to compare the levels of attitudes toward advance directives, communication skills, knowledge about end‐of‐life care (knowledge), and awareness of the concept of a good death (good death awareness) between emergency and palliative care nurses, and to examine factors associated with attitudes toward advance directives in the total sample.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional, correlational study, data were collected from 153 nurses (59 emergency and 94 palliative care nurses) at three tertiary hospitals using online or offline surveys and were analyzed using t‐tests and multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

The levels of attitudes, communication skills, knowledge, and good death awareness were moderate in both groups. Attitudes in emergency compared to palliative care nurses were less positive (46.78 vs. 48.38; p = .044), and knowledge was significantly lower (13.64 vs. 15.00; p = .004). Communication skills and good death awareness between the two groups were similar. In the total sample, emergency practice (B = –1.59, p = .024), and lower levels of good death awareness (B = 0.30, p < .001), communication skills (B = 0.18, p = .001), and education (B = –2.84, p = .015) were associated with less positive attitudes (F = 9.52, p < .001; R2 = 0.35).

Conclusions

The findings demonstrate the need for improvements in attitudes, knowledge, communication skills, and good death awareness in both groups, especially emergency nurses. Two modifiable targets of interventions to improve nurses' attitudes were also noted.
Microliposuction and radiofrequency combined with the thread technique as a new method used in lower face lifting
Authors: Yin Bo , Zhang Xinyu , Li Facheng , Han Xuefeng
Published: August 2022

Background

Minimally invasive facial rejuvenation is a popular and well‐established treatment for patients seeking facial lifting.

Objective

The authors combined facial microliposuction, radiofrequency, and thread lifting technology as a comprehensive treatment (LRT) for facial rejuvenation in a case series of 57 patients.

Methods

A total of 76 patients underwent surgery and 75% completed 6 months of follow‐up (57 patients); the patients were aged 26 to 51 (33.6 ± 4.5) years. All patients were followed up for hematoma within 1 week after the operation and for skin numbness and muscle paralysis at 1 week and 3 months postoperatively. Patient satisfaction with the postoperative aesthetic effects was analyzed by Face‐Q™ at 6 months after the operation.

Results

The score for hematoma within 1 week was 1.21 ± 0.33, scores for postoperative skin numbness within 1 week and 3 months were 2.06 ± 0.51 and 1.17 ± 0.32, respectively, and scores for postoperative muscle paralysis within 1 week and 3 months were 1.31 ± 0.55 and 1.00 ± 0, respectively. Fifty‐seven patients completed Face‐Q™ (score: 22.1 ± 1.8, standard score: 82.2 ± 14.8).

Conclusion

LRT is a minimally invasive method that can achieve a synergistic and satisfactory result for patients with mild to moderate facial skin sagging.
Morph‐dependent nematode infection and its association with host movement in the land snail Cepaea nemoralis (Mollusca, Gastropoda)
Authors: Dahirel M. , Proux M. , Gérard C. , Ansart A.
Published: August 2022

Host behaviour can be influenced by parasitic risk and infection through a variety of direct and indirect mechanisms. We can expect individuals expressing different phenotypes to also differ in the ways their behaviour is altered by parasites. We used the land snail Cepaea nemoralis, a species with various shell colour morphs differing in behaviour and physiology, as a model to study the link between parasite response and individual behaviour variation. We analysed metazoan parasite abundance and its relation to behaviour (movement and food intake) in snails from three shell morphs (from light unbanded to darker five‐banded) and from two neighbouring populations from contrasting environments. Snails were parasitized by mites, trematodes, and nematodes, from rarest to most frequent. We confirm that terrestrial gastropods can defend against infection by trapping parasitic nematodes in their shell. We show that nematodes encapsulated in shells can uncover past infections even when a snail population is currently nematode‐free, possibly due to parasite seasonality. We present new observations suggesting that not only nematodes but also mites might be encapsulated in shells. Infection levels varied between morphs, with darker snails harbouring fewer nematodes. Behaviour (movement and food intake) was linked to the nematode, but not trematode infection. Individuals with higher nematode load ate less, irrespective of morph and population. The most‐infected morph (unbanded snails) showed reduced activity in the nematode‐infected population compared to the one that was nematode‐free at sampling time. As a result, parasites may cancel previously described behavioural differences between morphs. We discuss the possible mechanisms explaining morph‐dependent responses to parasites, and how parasite risk may be an unseen force shaping C. nemoralis morph variation in space and time. We conclude with the possible ecological consequences of the link, mediated by shell colour, and between thermal and immune responses.
Hemoglobin‐to‐platelet ratio in predicting the incidence of trismus after concurrent chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Somay Efsun , Yilmaz Busra , Topkan Erkan , Kucuk Ahmet , Haksoyler Veysel , Pehlivan Berrin , Selek Ugur , Araz Kenan
Published: August 2022

Objective

The significance of pre‐hemoglobin‐to‐platelet ratio (HPR) in predicting the occurrence of radiation‐induced trismus (RIT) in locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients (LA‐NPC) who received concurrent chemoradiotherapy (C‐CRT).

Methods

The records of LA‐NPC patients with oral examination before and after C‐CRT were analyzed. Maximum mouth openings (MMO) were measured before and after C‐CRT to confirm RIT status, with an MMO of ≤35 mm defined as RIT. HPR values were calculated on the first day of C‐CRT. The relationship between the HPR values and RIT status was discovered using the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

A total of 43 patients RIT cases among 198 individuals were diagnosed. The optimal HPR cutoff that stratified the patients into two groups was 0.54. RIT incidence was found to be significantly higher in the HPR ≤0.54 group than its HPR >0.54 counterpart(p < 0.001). Univariately T3‐4 stage, mean masticator apparatus dose>57.2Gy, and pre‐C‐CRT MMO ≤40.7 mm were found as the other significant correlates of increased RIT rates(p < 0.05). All four variables seemed to be independently connected to greater RIT incidence in multivariate analysis (p < 0.05, for each).

Conclusion

The risk of post‐C‐CRT RIT may be significantly increased when pre‐treatment HPR levels are low.
Periodontitis links to concurrent metabolic disorders and abnormal liver function in pregnant women
Authors: Zhang Feng , Zhao Dan , Xu Xiaoyi , Wen Ping , Li Huijun , Yu Rong , Cheng Tianfan , Zheng Zheng , Yang Hong , Yang Chuanzhong , Yao Jilong , Jin Lijian
Published: August 2022

Objective

This cross‐sectional study investigated the association of periodontitis with the metabolic status and hepatic function in pregnant women.

Materials and Methods

Full‐mouth periodontal conditions, metabolic profiles, and hepatic function were assessed in 219 self‐reported healthy pregnant females. The association of periodontal status with the systemic parameters was evaluated by parametric and non‐parametric tests, and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

Overall, periodontal status was positively associated with the metabolic profiles and hepatic function test results. The subjects with periodontitis exhibited higher levels of body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.01) and serum aspartate transaminase (AST) (p < 0.05), elevated diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (p < 0.05), and lower levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (p < 0.05) than those of the counterparts. The periodontitis severity was strongly correlated with BMI and AST levels, and the extent of periodontal inflammation was related to DBP (p < 0.01). The periodontitis patients at 34–36 gestational weeks showed higher blood pressure and AST levels than those of non‐periodontitis subjects (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our findings on the notable links of periodontitis to concurrent metabolic disorders and abnormal liver function in pregnant women highlight the need of proactive integration of regular periodontal screening and healthcare in maternal programs for promoting optimal health and wellbeing of mothers‐to‐be and newborns.
Bidirectional association between fibromyalgia and migraine among probands and unaffected non‐twin siblings: A nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Lin Po‐Chun , Tsai Shih‐Jen , Chen Tzeng‐Ji , Bai Ya‐Mei , Chen Mu‐Hong , Liang Chih‐Sung
Published: August 2022

Objective

This study explored the bidirectional relationship between fibromyalgia and migraine among probands with either of the two disorders and their unaffected siblings.

Background

Evidence suggests a bidirectional association between fibromyalgia and migraine in individuals and in twins. However, whether a bidirectional association between fibromyalgia and migraine also occurs among siblings remains unknown.

Methods

Using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database, we examined the data of 2677 probands with fibromyalgia, 2780 unaffected siblings, and 11,120 matched controls to assess the risk of migraine. In contrast, 1830 probands with migraine, 1936 unaffected siblings, and 7744 matched controls to assess the risk of fibromyalgia.

Results

Logistic regression analyses demonstrated that patients with fibromyalgia (odds ratio [OR]: 3.69; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.87–4.74) and unaffected siblings (OR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.08–2.10) were more likely to develop migraine than the controls during the follow‐up period. Moreover, patients with migraine and unaffected siblings had a 4.86‐fold (95% CI: 3.86–6.09) and 1.59‐fold (95% CI: 1.18–2.12) increased risk of fibromyalgia than the controls.

Conclusion

The bidirectional association between fibromyalgia and migraine among probands and unaffected siblings suggests a familial coaggregation of these two conditions. Additional studies are required to investigate the genetic and environmental etiologies for this coaggregation.
A randomized, observer‐blind, vehicle‐control, multi‐center clinical investigation for assessing the efficacy and tolerability of a 1% ectoine and hyaluronic acid 0.1%‐containing medical device in pediatric patients with mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis
Authors: Alexopoulos Alex , Dakoutrou Maria , Nasi Lamprini , Thanopoulou Ioanna , Kakourou Talia , Kontara Louiza , Douladiris Nikolaos , Galani Maria , Xepapadaki Paraskevi , Doxani Chrysoula , Mprotsis Theodoros , Zintzaras Elias , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G. , Kanaka‐Gantenbein Christina , Chrousos George P.
Published: August 2022

Background

Ectoine is a widespread osmolyte enabling halophilic bacteria to withstand high osmotic stress that has many potential applications ranging from cosmetics to its use as a therapeutic agent.

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and tolerability of ectoine 1% and hyaluronic acid 0.1% containing (EHA) cream with a vehicle cream in children with mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis (AD).

Methods

A randomized, controlled, observer‐blind, multicenter clinical trial was conducted in children aged 2–18 years, diagnosed with mild‐to‐moderate AD (SCORAD ≤20). Patients were randomized to either receiving EHA cream or vehicle cream twice daily for 4 weeks. The primary outcome measure was the mean change in objective SCORAD from baseline to the final visit. The secondary outcome measures included the mean change in Investigator's Global Assessment score, patient's judgment of efficacy and patient's assessment of pruritus. Safety of EHA cream was also assessed.

Results

A total of 70 patients (35 in each group) were randomized and 57 were included in the final analysis set. Based on SCORAD measurements, patients using EHA cream achieved superior clinical improvement compared to the control group at 28 days (p < .001). EHA cream was also superior to the vehicle cream regarding all secondary outcome measures. Eight (23.5%) patients receiving EHA cream and two (5.7%) patients receiving vehicle cream experienced mild cutaneous adverse events (AEs).

Conclusions

In children 2–18 years old with mild‐to‐moderate AD, EHA cream was superior to vehicle cream, with minor AEs.
Exertional heat stroke in sport and the military: epidemiology and mitigation
Authors: Périard Julien D. , DeGroot David , Jay Ollie
Published: August 2022

New Findings

What is the topic of this review?

Exertional heat stroke epidemiology in sport and military settings, along with common risk factors and strategies and policies designed to mitigate its occurrence.

What advances does it highlight?

Individual susceptibility to exertional heat stroke risk is dependent on the interaction of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Heat policies in sport should assess environmental conditions, as well as the characteristics of the athlete, clothing/equipment worn and activity level of the sport. Exertional heat stroke risk reduction in the military should account for factors specific to training and personnel.

Exertional heat illness occurs along a continuum, developing from the relatively mild condition of muscle cramps, to heat exhaustion, and in some cases to the life‐threatening condition of heat stroke. The development of exertional heat stroke (EHS) is associated with an increase in core temperature stemming from inadequate heat dissipation to offset the rate of metabolically generated heat. Susceptibility to EHS is linked to the interaction of several factors including environmental conditions, individual characteristics, health conditions, medication and drug use, behavioural responses, and sport/organisational requirements. Two settings in which EHS is commonly observed are competitive sport and the military. In sport, the exact prevalence of EHS is unclear due to inconsistent exertional heat illness terminology, diagnostic criteria and data reporting. In contrast, exertional heat illness surveillance in the military is facilitated by standardised case definitions, a requirement to report all heat illness cases and a centralised medical record repository. To mitigate EHS risk, several strategies can be implemented by athletes and military personnel, including heat acclimation, ensuring adequate hydration, cold‐water immersion and mandated work‐to‐rest ratios. Organisations may also consider developing sport or military task‐specific heat stress policies that account for the evaporative heat loss requirement of participants, relative to the evaporative capacity of the environment. This review examines the epidemiology of EHS along with the strategies and policies designed to reduce its occurrence in sport and military settings. We highlight the nuances of identifying individuals at risk of EHS and summarise the benefits and shortcomings of various mitigation strategies.
Accurate Prediction of Confined Turbulent Boundary Layer Flashback Through a Critically Strained Flame Model
Authors: Novoselov Alex G. , Ebi Dominik , Noiray Nicolas
Published: August 2022

A novel boundary layer flashback model is developed based on previous measurements that showed flashback limits may be related to strained premixed flame extinction. According to the model, flashback occurs at the equivalence ratio where the strained extinction limit flame speed matches the mean axial flow velocity one thermal distance from the wall. The model is validated by comparison with experimental measurements of flashback of confined nonswirling turbulent hydrogen-air flames. This comparison shows that the proposed model is capable of predicting confined turbulent boundary layer flashback across a large range of wall velocity gradients and preheat temperatures. The model is extended to methane-hydrogen-air flames in a swirling configuration using information about a single flashback event and shows good agreement with experimental measurements as a function of both hydrogen mole fraction in the fuel and pressure. In addition, inclusion of a mean nonreacting velocity field computed via large Eddy simulation allows for a significant increase in the accuracy of the model when applied to swirling flows. Ultimately, this model provides a new pathway for the design of flashback resistant gas turbines, even with the addition of fuels like hydrogen.
Modeling and Optimization of a Hospital Gas Turbine-Based Cogeneration System
Authors: Zini Marco , Sodini Roberto , Carcasci Carlo
Published: August 2022

Hospitals are among the most energy-intensive commercial buildings in the service industry. Their energy demand is characterized by specific features, being operative 24 h a day, 365 days a year. Several activities performed inside the building require strict control of the indoor climate conditions to ensure comfort and security standards. They present complex HVAC systems, needing various energy forms like electricity and heat in the form of hot water, chilled water, and steam. Consequently, hospitals are ideal applications to exploit the cogeneration systems potential. Indeed, the number of hospitals using combined heat and power (CHP) systems has grown steadily in past years. Hospitals that use CHP take advantage of favorable rate structures and protect themselves from rising electricity prices. Since CHP uses waste heat to produce thermal energy for heating and cooling, hospitals using CHP systems are more energy-efficient, leading to a reduction in the global emissions connected to the hospital activity. The present study involves the development of a numerical model of the gas turbine-based cogeneration system installed in a hospital facility. The realized model has been used to define the system management strategies that enabled two achievements. The minimization of the main global emissions parameters of the system as CO and NOx and the maximization of operational CHP parameters as total efficiency and primary energy saving (PES). The present work describes in detail the realized model and its exploitation, leading to defining the optimal system management strategy based on control parameters applicable to the real test case management system.
Does Reactive Neuromuscular Training Increase Gluteal Musculature Activation During Squatting Movements? A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Brewer Ian , Zimmerman Josh , Fyock-Martin Marcie , Cortes Nelson , Martin Joel
Published: August 2022

Clinical Question: Does reactive neuromuscular training (RNT) increase gluteal muscle activation during squatting movements? Clinical Bottom Line: The current best evidence suggests RNT may result in acute increases of gluteus maximus and gluteus medius muscle activation when performing the barbell back squat exercise; however, the findings were inconsistent and unclear for other types of squatting movements. Grades B and D evidence exists on the effects of RNT to increase gluteus maximus and medius muscle activation, respectively, during squatting movements. Given the methodological differences and mixed findings reported in this critically appraised topic, practitioners should carefully consider whether using RNT would be appropriate for a given clinical scenario.
Addition of Fructose to a Carbohydrate-Rich Breakfast Improves Cycling Endurance Capacity in Trained Cyclists
Authors: Podlogar Tim , Cirnski Simon , Bokal Špela , Verdel Nina , Gonzalez Javier T.
Published: August 2022

It was previously demonstrated that postexercise ingestion of fructose–glucose mixtures can lead to superior liver and equal muscle glycogen synthesis as compared with glucose-based carbohydrates (CHOs) only. After an overnight fast, liver glycogen stores are reduced, and based on this we hypothesized that addition of fructose to a glucose-based breakfast would lead to improved subsequent endurance exercise capacity. In this double-blind cross-over randomized study (eight males, peak oxygen uptake: 62.2 ± 5.4 ml·kg−1·min−1), participants completed two experimental trials consisting of two exercise bouts. In the afternoon of Day 1, they completed a cycling interval training session to normalize glycogen stores after which a standardized high-CHO diet was provided for 4 hr. On Day 2, in the morning, participants received 2 g/kg of CHOs in the form of glucose and rice or fructose and rice, both in a CHO ratio of 1:2. Two hours later they commenced cycling exercise session at the intensity of the first ventilatory threshold until task failure. Exercise capacity was higher in fructose and rice (137.0 ± 22.7 min) as compared with glucose and rice (130.06 ± 19.87 min; p = .046). Blood glucose and blood lactate did not differ between the trials (p > .05) and neither did CHO and fat oxidation rates (p > .05). However, due to the duration of exercise, total CHO oxidation was higher in fructose and rice (326 ± 60 g vs. 298 ± 61 g, p = .009). Present data demonstrate that addition of fructose to a glucose-based CHO source at breakfast improves endurance exercise capacity. Further studies are required to determine the mechanisms and optimal dose and ratio.
Physical Activity in People With Dementia Living in Long-Term Care Facilities and the Connection With Environmental Factors and Behavior
Authors: Portegijs Suzanne , van Beek Sandra , van Tuyl Lilian H.D. , Wagner Cordula
Published: August 2022

This study is conducted in order to gain a better understanding of the relationship between physical activity and agitated behavior among older people with dementia, and physical activity and characteristics of long-term care wards. Data were collected among people with dementia living in long-term care facilities (N = 76) by conducting observations at the wards and distributing questionnaires among professional caregivers. The results show that participants are largely inactive (82.8%) and a significant relation was found between the degree of physical activity and characteristics of the ward such as “taking sufficient time,” which relates to the time caregivers take when interacting with residents. This study supports the existing knowledge about the degree of physical activity among people with dementia in long-term care and adds information about the potential influence of organizational factors that could be valuable for daily practice.
Skill-Based Differences in the Detection and Utilization of Opponent Action Preferences Following Increasing Exposure and Changes in Tendencies
Authors: Thomas Joseph L. , Broadbent David P. , Gredin N. Viktor , Fawver Bradley J. , Williams A. Mark
Published: August 2022

We examined skill-based differences in the detection and utilization of contextual information over a period of increasing exposure to an opponent’s action preferences in soccer. Moreover, we investigated the ability of athletes to adapt to changes in these action preferences over time. In an initial detection phase, the attacking opponent demonstrated a proclivity to either pass or dribble, with these preferences being reversed in a subsequent adaptation phase of the same length. Skilled soccer players showed superior anticipation accuracy across both phases compared with less-skilled counterparts. The skilled participants significantly enhanced their performance over both phases, despite a significant drop in performance immediately following the change in opponent action preferences. In contrast, the less-skilled group only improved over the detection phase. Gaze data revealed that the skilled participants fixated more on kinematically relevant areas, compared with the less-skilled group, and increased the time spent fixating the player “off the ball” following greater volumes of exposure. Our novel findings elaborate on how skilled performers use both action preferences and motion information to anticipate an opponent’s impending actions in sport.
Discovery and Genomic Characterization of a Novel Henipavirus, Angavokely Virus, from Fruit Bats in Madagascar
Authors: Madera Sharline , Kistler Amy , Ranaivoson Hafaliana C. , Ahyong Vida , Andrianiaina Angelo , Andry Santino , Raharinosy Vololoniaina , Randriambolamanantsoa Tsiry H. , Ravelomanantsoa Ny Anjara Fifi , Tato Cristina M. , DeRisi Joseph L. , Aguilar Hector C. , Lacoste Vincent , Dussart Philippe , Heraud Jean-Michel , Brook Cara E.
Published: August 2022

Henipaviruses include highly pathogenic emerging zoonotic viruses, derived from bat, rodent, and shrew reservoirs. Bat-borne Hendra (HeV) and Nipah (NiV) are the most well-known henipaviruses, for which no effective antivirals or vaccines for humans have been described.
TurboID Identification of Evolutionarily Divergent Components of the Nuclear Pore Complex in the Malaria Model Plasmodium berghei
Authors: Ambekar Sushma V. , Beck Josh R. , Mair Gunnar R.
Published: August 2022

The nuclear pore complex (NPC) is a platform for constant evolution and has been used to study the evolutionary patterns of early-branching eukaryotes. The
Plasmodium
NPC is poorly defined due to its evolutionary divergent nature making it impossible to characterize it via homology searches.
Dysbiotic Oral and Gut Viromes in Untreated and Treated Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Guo Ruochun , Li Shenghui , Zhang Yu , Zhang Yue , Wang Guangyang , Ullah Hayan , Ma Yufang , Yan Qiulong
Published: August 2022

Our results demonstrated community variation among dental plaque, saliva, and fecal viromes. In oral and gut samples from untreated and treated RA patients, the perturbance of viral composition and the correlation network of microbes and RA-associated clinical indices might be involved in the pathogenicity of RA.
Unconformity-bounded rift sequences in Terreneuvian‒Miaolingian strata of the Caledonian Highlands, Atlantic Canada
Authors: Álvaro J. Javier , Johnson Susan C. , Barr Sandra M. , Jensen Sören , Palacios Teodoro , van Rooyen Deanne , White Chris E.
Published: August 2022

The Cambrian syn-rift strata preserved in western Avalonia provide a distinctive example of how unconformity-bounded sequences are diachronous throughout proximal to marginal rift branches. Terreneuvian‒Miaolingian third-order sequences of the Caledonian Highlands, New Brunswick, Canada, reflect a complex interplay among syn-rift tectonic events, denudation pulses, and sea-level fluctuations. Unconformably overlying the early, rift-related volcanosedimentary Coldbrook Group (ca. 560‒550 Ma), the Ratcliffe Brook, Glen Falls, Hanford Brook, and Forest Hills Formations can be subdivided into two transgressive systems tract (TST)‒highstand systems tract (HST) sequences (each ∼10 m.y.) and an incomplete TST sequence that are separated by stratigraphic gaps. They reflect uplift and tilting events affecting the basement, transgressive and drowning surfaces, and condensed sections. Arid to semi-arid climatic episodes are supported by the excellent preservation of mafic to felsic volcanic clasts in non-marine breccias and conglomerates, which are derived from the Ediacaran basement, and the local precipitation of marine gypsum through the evaporation of pore fluids. Early Miaolingian episodes of microbial/shelly carbonate production preserved precipitates of coeval evaporite (gypsum pseudomorphs after drusy mosaics of calcite) and ikaite (glendonitic, star-shaped aggregates and crusts). Both minerals, traditionally considered to be indicators of contrasting climate conditions, potentially co-occur in temperate-water substrates recording high rates of microbial activity. The early rift phases preserved in the western Avalonian rift transect comprise stepwise uplift and unroofing of rift shoulders, which are related to diachronous, angular discordances and paraconformities bounded by syntectonic slope-apron deposits. Facies homogenization was attained during Miaolingian times as a result of generalized flooding, sealing of paleotopographies, and blanketing with monotonous offshore-dominant shales.
Editing of Phage Genomes—Recombineering-assisted SpCas9 Modification of Model Coliphages T7, T5, and T3
Authors: Isaev A. , Andriianov A. , Znobishcheva E. , Zorin E. , Morozova N. , Severinov K.
Published: August 2022

Bacteriophages—viruses that infect bacterial cells—are the most abundant biological entities on Earth. The use of phages in fundamental research and industry requires tools for precise manipulation of their genomes. Yet, compared to bacterial genome engineering, modification of phage genomes is challenging because of the lack of selective markers and thus requires laborious screenings of recombinant/mutated phage variants. The development of the CRISPR-Cas technologies allowed to solve this issue by the implementation of negative selection that eliminates the parental phage genomes. In this manuscript, we summarize current methods of phage genome engineering and their coupling with CRISPR-Cas technologies. We also provide examples of our successful application of these methods for introduction of specific insertions, deletions, and point mutations in the genomes of model Escherichia coli lytic phages T7, T5, and T3.
Conservative management of gastric pneumatosis following left gastric artery embolisation
Authors: Bloom Matthew D , Ladna Michael
Published: August 2022

Gastric pneumatosis, the presence of air within the stomach wall, is a very rare occurrence with poor outcomes. One of the most common mechanisms for gastric pneumatosis is gastric ischaemia, also a rare entity. Although patients with gastric ischaemia may require surgical intervention, they can often be treated with conservative measures such as a proton pump inhibitor, broad-spectrum antibiotics, nasogastric tube decompression, fluid resuscitation and total parenteral nutrition. We report a rare case of gastric ischaemia and pneumatosis following therapeutic left gastric artery argon plasma coagulation that was treated with conservative measures.
Patterns of tobacco use in low and middle income countries by tobacco product and sociodemographic characteristics: nationally representative survey data from 82 countries
Authors: Theilmann Michaela , Lemp Julia M , Winkler Volker , Manne-Goehler Jennifer , Marcus Maja E. , Probst Charlotte , Lopez-Arboleda William A , Ebert Cara , Bommer Christian , Mathur Maya , Andall-Brereton Glennis , Bahendeka Silver K , Bovet Pascal , Farzadfar Farshad , Ghasemi Erfan , Mayige Mary T , Saeedi Moghaddam Sahar , Mwangi Kibachio J , Naderimagham Shohreh , Sturua Lela , Atun Rifat , Davies Justine I , Bärnighausen Till , Vollmer Sebastian , Geldsetzer Pascal
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and frequency of using any tobacco product and each of a detailed set of tobacco products, how tobacco use and use frequency vary across countries, world regions, and World Bank country income groups, and the socioeconomic and demographic gradients of tobacco use and use frequency within countries.

Design

Secondary analysis of nationally representative household survey data from 82 low and middle income countries collected between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2020.

Setting

Population based survey data.

Participants

1 231 068 individuals aged 15 years and older were included in the analysis.

Main outcome measures

Self-reported current smoking, current daily smoking, current smokeless tobacco use, current daily smokeless tobacco use, pack years, and current use and use frequencies of each tobacco product. The products were any type of cigarette, manufactured cigarette, hand rolled cigarette, water pipe, cigar, oral snuff, nasal snuff, chewing tobacco, and betel nut (with and without tobacco).

Results

The smoking prevalence in our sample was 16.5% (95% confidence interval 16.1 to 16.9%) and ranged from 1.1% (0.9% to 1.3%) in Ghana to 50.6% (45.2% to 56.1%) in Kiribati. The smokeless tobacco use prevalence was 7.7% (7.5% to 8.0%) and prevalence was highest in Papua New Guinea (daily use prevalence of 65.4% (63.3% to 67.5%)). Although variation was wide between countries and by tobacco product, for many low and middle income countries, the highest prevalence and cigarette smoking frequency was reported in men, those with lower education, less household wealth, living in rural areas, and higher age.

Conclusions

This study can inform the design and targeting of efforts to reduce tobacco use in low and middle income countries and serve as a benchmark for monitoring progress towards national and international goals.