bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do histopathological features correlate with systemic manifestations in dermatomyositis? Analysis of 42 skin biopsy specimens from 22 patients
Authors: Shakshouk Hadir , Deschaine Maria A. , Wetter David A. , Drage Lisa A. , Ernste Floranne C. , Gibson Lawrence E. , Lehman Julia S.
Published: January 2022

Background

Understanding whether specific histopathologic features on skin biopsy are predictive of systemic associations in dermatomyositis (DM) would be useful to guide clinical screening.

Methods

Through retrospective medical record search, clinical and laboratory findings of patients with DM were documented. Existing skin biopsy slides were re‐reviewed blindly.

Results

Of all biopsy specimens (n = 42), the most frequent histopathological finding was vacuolar interface dermatitis (95%). Other features included perivascular lymphocytic infiltrate (71%), increased dermal mucin (40%), vessel wall thickening (12%), follicular plugging (9.5%), and dermal sclerosis (7%). Neutrophilic infiltrate was observed in three biopsies from a patient with adalimumab‐associated DM. Vasculitis was not observed. There was no statistically significant difference in the presence of any histopathological feature and that of various systemic manifestations (i.e., myopathy, interstitial lung disease [ILD] and malignancy). However, we observed that dense lichenoid infiltrate rather than pauci‐inflammatory changes correlated with severe itching (p < 0.001). Patients with MDA‐5 antibodies were significantly more likely to have vasculopathy than those without (p = 0.029*).

Conclusions

No dermatopathologic feature was reliably predictive of myopathy, ILD, or malignancy. This finding implies that, regardless of histopathologic findings, patients should be screened for associated conditions as clinically indicated.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Classification System categorization and emergency hospital admissions for children with cerebral palsy: A longitudinal, population‐based study
Authors: Horridge Karen A. , Tinker Rory J. , Harvey Carl J. , DeKiewiet Gavin , Munro Sam ,   Sunderland Paediatric Disability Multidisciplinary Team, Fraser Lorna K.
Published: January 2022

Aim

To ascertain the association between Magnetic Resonance Imaging Classification System (MRICS) categorization and burden of acute, emergency hospital admissions amongst children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method

Data in the National Health Service organization’s secure data repository from 1987 to 2016 were interrogated, augmented from medical records, and analysed. Descriptive and multivariate analyses were completed.

Results

Of the 312 children with CP born between 1987 and 2015, 217 shared 1433 acute hospital admissions across 5092 days; 30.4% had no acute admissions, amongst whom Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I to III, absence of tube‐feeding, and MRICS B1 together appeared protective. MRICS A1, B3, and C1 were associated with higher burdens of acute admissions on multivariate analysis. The 24 out of 312 (7.69%) children who died shared 490 out of 1433 (34.19%) acute admissions over 2034 out of 5092 (39.95%) inpatient days amongst all children with CP. The 4 out of 24 with MRICS B3 who died shared 12.63% acute admissions overall and 31.03% of all respiratory admissions in the 5 to less than 10 years age group.

Interpretation

Comprehensive assessment of children with CP, including use of validated scales of function and magnetic resonance imaging findings, can inform discussions with families about potential burden of hospital admissions and possibly also risk of early death. This can provide context for shared decision‐making about interventions. Longitudinal ‘big data’ can illuminate patterns and promote studies into potential causes of change.

What this paper adds

More than one‐third of children with cerebral palsy (CP) in Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I to III required no acute hospital admissions.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Classification System (MRICS) categories A1, B3, and C1 appear to be linked with higher burdens of inpatient days.

MRICS category B1 in children with CP in GMFCS levels I to III appeared to lessen the risk of admissions.

MRICS B3 may be a risk factor for premature death in children with CP, especially aged >5 years with higher rates of acute respiratory admissions.

All children with clinical CP should be offered neuroimaging to inform prognostication.
First record of Dactylonectria macrodidyma: A cause of olive root rot in Iraq
Authors: Najim El‐ddin Shahad , Haleem Raed Abduljabbar
Published: January 2022

The occurrence of Dactylonectria (=Ilyonecteria) macrodidyma associated with olive root rot as detected in Dohuk province, the major olive growing area in the Kurdistan region—Iraq. Fungal colonies growing on PDA had yellow to brown pigmentations with cottony white and beige colony edges. Microconidia were oval with one or no septum (11.5–13.5 × 3.4–4.5 µm). Macroconidia were cylindrical and hyaline with 1–3 septa (24.5–26.5 × 5.2–6.5µm). The chlamydospores were globose, brown to yellowish in colour, with diam. of 10 (−12) µm. Sequences obtained by PCR using primers ITS4/5 and ITS1/4 had 99% homology, with Dactylonectria macrodidyma accessions in GenBank, confirming the identity of the isolate. This is the first time that the existence of Dactylonectria macrodidyma on olive roots has been proven in Iraq. Inoculated seedlings had black, sunken, necrotic lesions on roots, along with foliar chlorosis, necrosis of leaf margins and curling leaf lamina, with a 100% infection rate and (46.70%) disease severity. These infections contributed to large reductions in fresh and dry and wet weights of both aerial tissues and roots.
Resilience of microbial communities in Mediterranean soil after induced drought and manipulated UV radiation
Authors: Bañeras Lluís , Llorens Laura , Díaz‐Guerra Laura , Gispert Maria , Hernández‐del Amo Elena , Massart Sébastien , Verdaguer Dolors
Published: January 2022

Enhanced UV radiation levels and decreased rainfall in Mediterranean terrestrial ecosystems due to climate change might impact soil bacterial communities, significantly altering their structure and affecting biogeochemical cycles. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of UV‐B and UV‐A radiation on soil bacterial richness, abundance and community composition in a Typic Dystroxerept of Mediterranean shrubland and to determine whether these effects depend on reduced rainfall and/or soil physicochemical properties. Soils were subjected to long‐term UV conditions: UV‐A + UV‐B exclusion (UV0 plots), UV‐B exclusion (UVA plots), or ambient UV‐A + UV‐B exposure (UVAB plots), and combined with two rainfall regimes, natural (NR) and reduced (RR) rainfall. Barcoded amplicon 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to analyse changes in microbial diversity. UV radiation did not affect bacterial richness and diversity indexes and only minor differences in species composition were observed. Unidentified species of the Longimicrobiaceae appeared to be in greater abundance in the UV0 plots than in the UVA and UVAB, especially under natural rainfall, whereas members of the Pyrinomonadaceae and Ktedonobacteraceae were more abundant in UVAB. Rainfall reduction resulted in lower bacterial abundance but higher diversity (Shannon–Weiner and InvSimpson indexes) under UV exclusion. The results pointed to a combined response of soil bacterial communities to UV radiation and rainfall treatments. However, the small changes observed suggest a high resilience of the Mediterranean shrubland soil microbiome to the projected changes in UV and rainfall conditions.

Highlights

Microbial abundance and diversity were analysed in Mediterranean soils exposed to contrasted UV radiation and rainfall treatments

Reduced rainfall exerted a greater effect on soil bacteria than UV radiation exposure.

Limited effects of UV and rainfall changes support a high resilience of soil bacterial communities.
Something strange in the neighborhood: Diverging signals in stock assessment data for Northeast U.S. fish stocks
Authors: Wiedenmann John , Legault Christopher M.
Published: January 2022

In the Northeast U.S., many stock assessments have a history of problematic model diagnostics, with multiple age‐based assessments recently being rejected in the peer review process, and are not suitable for management advice. The role in which diverging signals in the coastwide bottom trawl survey may be contributing to assessment problems was explored here for 18 stocks in the region. Specifically, trends in total mortality (Z) estimated from catch curve analysis and a relative measure of the harvest rate (total catch/survey index; called relative F) were evaluated. Across stocks, relative F has declined over time, on average, since the mid‐1990s, yet Z has not for many stocks. Weak positive or even negative correlations between relative F and Z resulted for 13 stocks. This diverging signal appears to be contributing to assessment model performance, as larger retrospective patterns (a measure of assessment uncertainty) occurred for stocks with negative correlations between relative F and Z. While a variety of mechanisms could be involved in these diverging signals, the available evidence suggests that unreported catch and/or increasing natural mortality likely play a role to varying degrees for each stock.
Demographic composition, not demographic diversity, predicts biomass and turnover across temperate and tropical forests
Authors: Needham Jessica F. , Johnson Daniel J. , Anderson‐Teixeira Kristina J. , Bourg Norman , Bunyavejchewin Sarayudh , Butt Nathalie , Cao Min , Cárdenas Dairon , Chang‐Yang Chia‐Hao , Chen Yu‐Yun , Chuyong George , Dattaraja Handanakere S. , Davies Stuart J. , Duque Alvaro , Ewango Corneille E. N. , Fernando Edwino S. , Fisher Rosie , Fletcher Christine D. , Foster Robin , Hao Zhanqing , Hart Terese , Hsieh Chang‐Fu , Hubbell Stephen P. , Itoh Akira , Kenfack David , Koven Charles D. , Larson Andrew J. , Lutz James A. , McShea William , Makana Jean‐Remy , Malhi Yadvinder , Marthews Toby , Bt. Mohamad Mohizah , Morecroft Michael D. , Norden Natalia , Parker Geoffrey , Shringi Ankur , Sukumar Raman , Suresh Hebbalalu S. , Sun I‐Fang , Tan Sylvester , Thomas Duncan W. , Thompson Jill , Uriarte Maria , Valencia Renato , Yao Tze Leong , Yap Sandra L. , Yuan Zuoqiang , Yuehua Hu , Zimmerman Jess K. , Zuleta Daniel , McMahon Sean M.
Published: January 2022

The growth and survival of individual trees determine the physical structure of a forest with important consequences for forest function. However, given the diversity of tree species and forest biomes, quantifying the multitude of demographic strategies within and across forests and the way that they translate into forest structure and function remains a significant challenge. Here, we quantify the demographic rates of 1961 tree species from temperate and tropical forests and evaluate how demographic diversity (DD) and demographic composition (DC) differ across forests, and how these differences in demography relate to species richness, aboveground biomass (AGB), and carbon residence time. We find wide variation in DD and DC across forest plots, patterns that are not explained by species richness or climate variables alone. There is no evidence that DD has an effect on either AGB or carbon residence time. Rather, the DC of forests, specifically the relative abundance of large statured species, predicted both biomass and carbon residence time. Our results demonstrate the distinct DCs of globally distributed forests, reflecting biogeography, recent history, and current plot conditions. Linking the DC of forests to resilience or vulnerability to climate change, will improve the precision and accuracy of predictions of future forest composition, structure, and function.
Knowledge of bidirectional relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease among diabetes patients: A systematic review
Authors: Maia Melissa Barral , Souza João G. S. , Bertolini Martinna , Costa Raphael C. , Costa Gustavo S. , Torres Silvério de A. S. , Ferreira Efigênia F. , Martins Andrea M. E. B. L.
Published: January 2022

Introduction

The bidirectional relationship between diabetes mellitus and periodontal disease has been reported in the literature, suggesting that poor glycemic control is strongly associated with increased risk of developing periodontal disease. Therefore, this systematic review evaluated the level of knowledge of this bidirectional relationship among patients with diabetes.

Methods

This systematic review (protocol CRD42018117902) was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. The following databases were considered: Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Search strategy (April 05th, 2021) considered proper combination of keywords and eligibility criteria. The quality of studies was evaluated using the Appraisal tool for Cross‐Sectional Studies (AXIS).

Results

Among the 328 records identified in the initial search, 24 studies were selected, considering a total of 8,693 patients. All studies used a cross‐sectional design. Among the included studies, only five showed prevalence of knowledge higher than 50%, ranging from 5.8% to 75.9%. Interestingly, 58.0% of patients reported that they brush their teeth at least 1x/day, but only four studies reported that the dentist was the main source of information. In terms of methodology and result quality, just one study clearly showed all information evaluated by the AXIS tool. Most of studies did not report sample size calculations and did not used validated questionnaires to assess patient knowledge.

Conclusion

The results show that less than half of people with diabetes have knowledge about their increased risk for periodontal disease, and often the dentist is not the main source of information to motivate them.
Dogmatic, instrumental and paradoxical frames: A pragmatic research framework for studying organizational sustainability
Authors: Dzhengiz Tulin , Hockerts Kai
Published: January 2022

Our purpose is to develop a comprehensive categorization of organizational sustainability frames. This is necessary because a unified approach that considers the organizational sustainability frames of different organizations (FPOs, NPOs and hybrids) is absent in the extant research. Towards this end, we undertake an integrative review of 158 articles and identify seven frames based on three objective functions: maximization of economic capital, maintaining natural capital and creating social impact. Of the seven, three are dogmatic, each accepting only one objective function as legitimate: economic, natural and social capital; three are instrumental, with one objective function as the ultimate goal and the others as necessary means; and the last one is paradoxical, where tensions between objective functions are accommodated simultaneously rather than eliminated. We contribute to the literature by introducing the ‘dogmatic frame’ category to the ongoing conversation on organizational sustainability frames. We also contribute by demonstrating that instrumental frames exist not only at for‐profit organizations but also at non‐profits and hybrid organizations. Consequently, we link the conversation in these areas with that of organizational sustainability frames. Finally, we problematize the growing attention on the paradoxical frame by discussing its suitability in different contexts and situations.
The onset, development and pathogenesis of severe neutrophilic asthma
Authors: Zhang Xingli , Xu Zixi , Wen Xue , Huang Guoping , Nian Siji , Li Lin , Guo Xiyuan , Ye Yingchun , Yuan Qing
Published: January 2022

Bronchial asthma is divided into Th2 high, Th2 low and mixed types. The Th2 high type is dominated by eosinophils while the Th2 low type is divided into neutrophilic and paucigranulocytic types. Eosinophilic asthma has gained increased attention recently, and its pathogenesis and treatment are well understood. However, severe neutrophilic asthma requires more in‐depth research because its pathogenesis is not well understood, and no effective treatment exists. This review looks at the advances made in asthma research, the pathogenesis of neutrophilic asthma, the mechanisms of progression to severe asthma, risk factors for asthma exacerbations, and biomarkers and treatment of neutrophilic asthma. The pathogenesis of neutrophilic asthma is further discussed from four aspects: Th17‐type inflammatory response, inflammasomes, exosomes and microRNAs. This review provides direction for the mechanistic study, diagnosis and treatment of neutrophilic asthma. The treatment of neutrophilic asthma remains a significant challenge for clinical therapists and is an important area of future clinical research.
Skill acquisition (TVET) and employment in Sarawak
Authors: Ohagwu Onyekachi , Nwanesi Peter Karubi , Bala Poline
Published: January 2022

This paper examines the role of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) as a booster of employment opportunities in Sarawak, highlighting the importance of TVET as a catalyst that promotes individuals’ chances to gain employment, with the ultimate goal of improving their socioeconomic living conditions and overall development. As a case study focusing on Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Sarawak (TEGAS) TVET programmes and applying the qualitative research methodological approach, this paper gathered and analysed raw data from research participants and concluded that (1) TVET plays significant roles in facilitating individuals’ or groups’ employment chances, especially within tech‐based industries, and (2) employments are rewarded with remunerations and thus facilitate individuals' socio‐economic developments.
Exploring factors that influence success when introducing “The Safewards Model” to an acute adolescent ward: A qualitative study of staff perceptions
Authors: Yates Nicholas J. , Lathlean Judith
Published: January 2022

Problem

The Safewards’ model identifies factors that can lead to conflict and addresses these factors, using ten interventions, within inpatient mental health wards aiming to reduce “conflict and containment.” The Department of Health (2014) and Care Quality Commission (2017) supported the use of Safewards to reduce restrictive practice across all mental health settings in the UK, but its application to adolescent mental health remains relatively unexplored. This study therefore aims to address the research question: “What are the factors influencing the success of ten Safewards’ interventions when implemented onto an acute adolescent ward?”

Methods

Eight healthcare assistants and two nurses who had attended Safewards’ training participated in semi‐structured interviews four months after Safewards was introduced to an acute adolescent ward. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. Data analysis was conducted inductively by developing data‐driven themes.

Findings

Many of the factors influencing Safewards’ success in adolescent mental health (e.g., acuity; dependence on nonregular staffing; lack of leadership and operating procedures) paralleled the evidence found in adult services.

Conclusions

This study contributes new information by implementing “mutual help” and “calm down” principles with adolescents, as well as discussing barriers of operational procedures and benefits of patient involvement.
Correction of an adult Class III malocclusion through regaining of orthodontic space and an implant restoration
Authors: Park Jae Hyun , Oh Ji Young , Lee Su Young , Kook Yoon‐Ah , Han Seong Ho
Published: January 2022

This case report describes the interdisciplinary treatment of a 23‐year‐old female with Class III malocclusion and a missing maxillary left second premolar. Treatment alternatives were discussed, and the selected treatment plan was presented to illustrate a way to gain space for the premolar implant restoration and correct Class III relationship through maxillary molar retraction followed by maxillary total arch protraction with a palatal temporary skeletal anchorage device. Esthetic anterior alignment and functional occlusal rehabilitation was achieved, and facial balance was maintained at the end of treatment.

Clinical Significance

Implant restoration in conjunction with regaining orthodontic space by a team of multidisciplinary dental specialists presents an effective treatment solution to permanent tooth agenesis.

Class III malocclusion can be treated with a combination of maxillary protraction and mandibular retraction using temporary skeletal anchorage devices.

The versatility of modified palatal C‐plates presents greater clinical application when related side effects are controlled with solid understanding of their biomechanics.
The safety and feasibility of endoscopic submucosal dissection using a flexible three‐dimensional endoscope for early gastric cancer and superficial esophageal cancer: A prospective observational study
Authors: Shinmura Kensuke , Yamamoto Yoichi , Inaba Atsushi , Okumura Kei , Nishihara Keiichiro , Kumahara Kana , Sunakawa Hironori , Furue Yasuaki , Ito Renma , Sato Daiki , Minamide Tatsunori , Suyama Masayuki , Takashima Kenji , Nakajo Keiichiro , Murano Tatsuro , Kadota Tomohiro , Yoda Yusuke , Hori Keisuke , Oono Yasuhiro , Ikematsu Hiroaki , Yano Tomonori
Published: January 2022

Background and Aim

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is performed as one of standard treatments for patients with early gastric cancer (EGC) and superficial esophageal squamous cancer (SESCC). A prototype of a flexible endoscope with a 3‐D system has been recently developed. This study aimed to investigate the safety and feasibility of ESD using a 3‐D flexible endoscope (3‐D ESD) for EGC and SESCC.

Methods

This single‐center, prospective, observational study enrolled patients who underwent planned 3‐D ESD. The clinical outcomes, including the incidence of adverse events and treatment results, were analyzed. Visibility and manipulation during 3‐D ESD were evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS). We also evaluated the effect of the 3‐D system on the endoscopist using VAS and the critical flicker fusion frequency (CFFF).

Results

We analyzed 47 EGC and 20 SESCC cases. There are no bleeding cases that required transfusion and perforation during 3‐D ESD in both EGC and SESCC patients. However, the incidence of delayed bleeding and delayed perforation was 1.5% (one case) each. The mean VAS scores for recognizing the submucosal layer during the submucosal dissection, visual perception of blood vessel, and depth perception were 72.7 ± 22.2, 74.7 ± 21.8, and 78.2 ± 19.9, respectively. In contrast, the mean VAS score for manipulation was 25.4 ± 19.7. Among endoscopists, there was no significant difference in the VAS of eyestrain and headache before and after ESD, and there was no significant difference in the CFFF.

Conclusion

The safety and feasibility of 3‐D ESD for EGC and SESCC are acceptable in both patients and endoscopists.
Post‐acute care transitions and outcomes among medicare beneficiaries in assisted living communities
Authors: Wang Jinjiao , Mao Yunjiao , McGarry Brian , Temkin‐Greener Helena
Published: January 2022

Background

Despite the rapid growth of assisted living (AL) and frequent hospitalizations among AL residents, little is known about their patterns of post‐acute care transitions and outcomes. This study examined the post‐acute care transitions among AL residents and their association with outcomes in the first 30 and 60 days after hospital discharge.

Methods

This study used data from 2018 national Medicare enrollment and claims datasets, the Minimum Data Set (MDS), and Medicare Provider Analysis and Review (MedPAR) of 104,497 unique Medicare beneficiaries residing in ALs in the U.S. Post‐acute care referrals, based on hospital discharge status, to skilled nursing facilities (SNF), home with home health care (HHC), home without HHC, and other settings. Outcomes included 30‐day and 60‐day hospital readmissions, emergency department (ED) visits, long‐stay care nursing home placement, and mortality. Multinomial logistic regression analysis and logistic regression analysis were conducted.

Results

The most common post‐acute care referral was to SNF (40%), followed by home without HHC (28%), home with HHC (17%), and others (15%). Compared to discharge home without HHC, discharge to SNF was associated with a lower likelihood of ED visits (Odds Ratio = 0.597, p < 0.01) and hospital readmissions (OR = 0.856, p < 0.001), and higher likelihood of long‐stay nursing home placement (OR = 11.224, p < 0.01) and mortality (OR = 2.025, p < 0.01). Discharge home with HHC was associated with a higher likelihood of hospital readmissions (OR = 1.148, p < 0.01) and a lower likelihood of long‐stay nursing home placement (OR = 0.737, p < 0.05) than discharge home without HHC. The results were similar within the first 30 days as well as 60 days after hospital discharge.

Conclusions

AL residents who are discharged to different post‐acute care settings tend to differ in 30‐day and 60‐day outcomes. At hospital discharge, clinicians and discharge planners should be provided information about the exact type and availability of services at AL to make the most appropriate discharge referrals for AL residents.
Probiotics including Clostridium butyricum, Enterococcus faecium, and Bacillus subtilis may prevent recurrent spontaneous preterm delivery
Authors: Arai Eri N. , Yoneda Satoshi , Yoneda Noriko , Ito Mika , Tsuda Sayaka , Shiozaki Arihiro , Nohira Tomoyoshi , Hyodo Hironobu , Kumazawa Kazumasa , Suzuki Tomo , Nagasaki Sumito , Makino Shintaro , Saito Shigeru
Published: January 2022

Aim

A large cohort study of Japanese women reported that the rate of recurrent spontaneous preterm delivery (sPTD) in the next pregnancy was 22.3%; therefore, it is important to prevent recurrent sPTD. The present study investigated the rate of recurrent sPTD in pregnant women treated with probiotics.

Methods

This was a retrospective study. Fifty‐one pregnant women with a history of sPTD and who had been taking probiotics before 14 weeks of gestation were selected. The rate of sPTD in the next pregnancy among 255 pregnant women with a history of sPTD who had not taken probiotics was compared with that in the probiotics group.

Results

The rate of recurrent sPTD was 9.8% (5/51), which was lower than previously reported values. Furthermore, the rate of recurrent sPTD was significantly lower in the probiotics group (9.8%) than in the nonprobiotics group (31.0% [79/255]; p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Probiotics may reduce the rate of recurrent sPTD.
Surgical tumour margins and their significance in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Brennan Peter A. , Dylgjeri Flavia , Coletta Ricardo D. , Arakeri Gururaj , Goodson Alexander M.
Published: January 2022

There are many prognostic indicators used to predict tumour recurrence and overall prognosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Most of these biological factors cannot be directly influenced by clinicians managing these heterogeneous group of tumours. Excision margins can potentially be increased at the time of surgery by including more normal tissue than the commonly accepted 1 cm resection distance from the macroscopic tumour edge. However, this can lead to poorer quality of life for patients and does not necessarily address microscopic extensions or dicohesive patterns of tumour growth. Surgical margins can be affected by tissue shrinkage immediately following resection and the choice of instrument used for surgery. Currently, most regard a clear resection margin as being >5 mm, a close margin as more than 1 mm but <5 mm and an involved margin <1 mm. In this article, we provide a brief overview of tumour margins in OSCC, including several recently published large meta‐analyses. Based upon these and other studies, there is still conflicting data in the literature about the ideal margin for OSCC. There is a growing body of evidence that suggests a clearance of 1 mm might be adequate for some cancers. However, adequacy of resection should be considered along with the many other prognostic indicators of OSCC when the multi‐disciplinary team considers further treatment for these patients.
Determinants of inefficiency in shrimp aquaculture under environmental impacts: Comparing shrimp production systems in the Mekong, Vietnam
Authors: Le Ngan Thi Thanh , Hestvik Eivind Brækkan , Armstrong Claire W. , Eide Arne
Published: January 2022

Shrimp aquaculture systems vary from primitive (extensive/improved extensive) to more industrialized (intensive/semi‐intensive) farms, and the impacts of environmental shocks may differ between them. This article applies the Cobb–Douglas stochastic production frontier function to evaluate the determinants that impact the inefficiency of these intensive and extensive systems in Vietnam. Data is from a survey of 436 white‐leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) farms in the Mekong Area. Our findings show that farmers with self‐reported experiences of drought have higher production efficiency, while experiences of irregular weather reduce efficiency. In addition, education and feeding practice/stocking density adjustment measures increase extensive efficiency. Furthermore, longer crop duration impacts the two systems differently, increasing intensive farm efficiency but decreasing extensive farm efficiency. Interestingly the efficiency effects differ for the two technologies, with two exceptions; efficiency increases for both locations further from the sea and decreases with disease occurrence.
The probiotic properties and potential of vaginal Lactobacillus spp. isolated from healthy women against some vaginal pathogens
Authors: Asadi A. , Lohrasbi V. , Abdi M. , Mirkalantari S. , Esghaei M. , Kashanian M. , Oshaghi M. , Talebi M.
Published: January 2022

During the last decade, probiotic research has progressed considerably and significant advances have been made in the selection and characterization of specific probiotic strains. The most studied probiotics belong to the genus Lactobacillus. In this study, 80 Lactobacillus spp. isolated from healthy women tolerated low pH and were able to grow in the presence of bile salts. RAPD PCR technique resulted in the identification of 38 different types. These isolates were then evaluated based on adhesion capacity, antibiotic susceptibility and tolerance in simulated gastrointestinal tract. Species-specific PCR and detection of bacteriocin-related genes were also surveyed. Among the isolates, five strains—Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus NO21, Lacticaseibacillus casei NO1, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum NO4, Lactobacillus acidophilus NO7 and Lactobacillus gasseri NO38—presented acceptable antibiotic susceptibility pattern. Further analysis showed antimicrobial activity of Lacticaseibacillus culture against various bacterial pathogens and real-time PCR showed all five strains were able to prevent the colonization of bacterial pathogens. All five selected strains produced organic acids, hydrogen peroxide and were resistant to the spermicide. In addition, they lacked haemolytic activity with the ability of hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation and co-aggregation with pathogens. These results suggest that the vaginal microbiome could be a good source for the isolation of probiotics and the strains of this study may be considered as good probiotic candidates.
Community dynamics of soil‐borne fungal communities along elevation gradients in neotropical and palaeotropical forests
Authors: Geml József , Arnold Anne Elizabeth , Semenova‐Nelsen Tatiana A. , Nouhra Eduardo R. , Drechsler‐Santos Elisandro R. , Góes‐Neto Aristóteles , Morgado Luis N. , Ódor Péter , Hegyi Balázs , Oriol Grau , Ibáñez Alicia , Tedersoo Leho , Lutzoni François
Published: January 2022

Because of their steep gradients in abiotic and biotic factors, mountains offer an ideal setting to illuminate the mechanisms that underlie patterns of species distributions and community assembly. We compared the composition of taxonomically and functionally diverse fungal communities in soils along five elevational gradients in mountains of the Neo‐ and Palaeotropics (northern Argentina, southern Brazil, Panama, Malaysian Borneo and Papua New Guinea). Both the richness and composition of soil fungal communities reflect environmental factors, particularly temperature and soil pH, with some shared patterns among neotropical and palaeotropical regions. Community dynamics are characterized by replacement of species along elevation gradients, implying a relatively narrow elevation range for most fungi, which appears to be driven by contrasting environmental preferences among both functional and taxonomic groups. For functional groups dependent on symbioses with plants (especially ectomycorrhizal fungi), the distribution of host plants drives richness and community composition, resulting in important differences in elevational patterns between neotropical and palaeotropical montane communities. The pronounced compositional and functional turnover along elevation gradients implies that tropical montane forest fungi will be sensitive to climate change, resulting in shifts in composition and functionality over time.
Seascape genomics identify adaptive barriers correlated to tidal amplitude in the shore crabCarcinus maenas
Authors: Jahnke Marlene , Moknes Per‐Olav , Le Moan Alan , Martens Gerrit A. , Jonsson Per R.
Published: January 2022

Most marine invertebrates disperse during a planktonic larval stage that may drift for weeks with ocean currents. A challenge for larvae of coastal species is to return to coastal nursery habitats. Shore crab (Carcinus maenasL.) larvae are known to show tidal rhythmicity in vertical migration in tidal areas and circadian rhythmicity in microtidal areas, which seems to increase successful coastal settlement. We studied genome‐wide differentiation based on 24,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms of 12 native populations of shore crab sampled from a large tidal amplitude gradient from macrotidal (~8 m) to microtidal (~0.2 m). Dispersal and recruitment success of larvae was assessed with a Lagrangian biophysical model, which showed a strong effect of larval behaviour on long‐term connectivity, and dispersal barriers that partly coincided with different tidal environments. The genetic population structure showed a subdivision of the samples into three clusters, which represent micro‐, meso‐ and macrotidal areas. The genetic differentiation was mostly driven by 0.5% outlier loci, which showed strong allelic clines located at the limits between the three tidal areas. Demographic modelling suggested that the two genetic barriers have different origins. Differential gene expression of two clock genes (cycandpdp1) further highlighted phenotypic differences among genetic clusters that are potentially linked to the differences in larval behaviour. Taken together, our seascape genomic study suggests that tidal regime acts as a strong selection force on shore crab population structure, consistent with larval behaviour affecting dispersal and recruitment success.
Strangers in a strange land: The experience of physicians undergoing remediation
Authors: Bourgeois‐Law Gisèle , Regehr Glenn , Teunissen Pim W. , Varpio Lara
Published: January 2022

Introduction

The experience of remediation in practising physicians has not been widely studied. Remediatees frequently present negative emotions, but observers can only infer the underlying reasons behind these. Understanding remediatees' perspectives may help those mandating and organising remediation to structure the process in ways that improve the experience for all concerned parties and maximise chances of a successful outcome for remediatees.

Methods

Seventeen physicians who had undergone remediation for clinical competence concerns were interviewed via telephone. Participant data were first iteratively analysed thematically and then reanalysed using a narrative mode of analysis for each participant in order to understand the stories as wholes. Figured worlds (FW) theory was used as a lens for analysing the data for this constructivist research study.

Results

Participants entering the FW of remediation perceived that their position as a ‘good doctor’ was threatened. Lacking experience with this world and with little available support to help them navigate it, participants used their agency to draw on various discursive threads within the FW to construct a narrative account of their remediation. In their narratives, participants tended to position themselves either as victims of regulatory bodies or as resilient individuals who could make the best of a difficult situation. In both cases, the chosen discursive threads enabled them to maintain their self‐identity as ‘good doctor’.

Conclusion

Remediation poses a threat to a physician's professional and personal identity. Focusing mainly on the educational aspect of remediation—that is, the improvement in knowledge and skills—risks missing its impact on physician identity. We need to ensure not only that we support physicians in dealing with this identity threat but that our assessment and remediation processes do not inadvertently encourage remediatees to draw on discursive threads that lead them to see themselves as victims.
Association between nurse aide staffing and patient mortality after major cancer surgeries in acute care settings: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hirose Naoki , Morita Kojiro , Matsui Hiroki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: January 2022

This study examined the association between adding nurse aides and patient mortality in acute care settings. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using a national healthcare administrative claims database. We identified patients who underwent planned surgery for six types of cancer from 2010 to 2017. Multivariable logistic analyses were used to examine the association between the nurse aide staffing level and patient outcomes. The primary outcomes were failure to rescue and 30‐day hospital mortality. We examined 330 666 in‐hospital patients. The median number of nurse aides per 100 occupied beds was 6.60 (interquartile range, 4.61–8.43). In the multivariable analysis, nurse aide staffing level was not significantly associated with failure to rescue or 30‐day hospital mortality. The Japanese government provides economic incentives to hospitals that hire more nurse aides, expecting that a higher nurse aide staffing level will help licensed nurses concentrate on the tasks that need their specialties. However, our findings suggest that adding nurse aides may not be associated with lower rates of failure to rescue or 30‐day hospital mortality in acute care settings.
Academic outcomes of children with orofacial clefts: A review of the literature and recommendations for future research
Authors: Constantin Joanne , Wehby George L.
Published: January 2022

This paper summarizes the main findings of population‐based studies of the academic outcomes of children with isolated orofacial clefts compared to peers, general samples, or siblings, published over the past decade. Most of the reviewed papers report that children with orofacial clefts, particularly children with cleft palate only or in some studies children with cleft lip and palate, may have on average lower achievement on certain outcomes like test scores when comparing to non‐siblings. However, there are important differences across studies including designs, populations, outcome measures, and findings. The paper also offers recommendations for future research priorities including controlling for confounding, examining mechanisms and potential heterogeneity across family sociodemographic and contextual factors, and understanding outcomes in less developed settings.
Graduating nurse students’ interest in older people nursing—A cross‐sectional survey in six European countries
Authors: Koskinen Sanna , Burke Eimear , Fatkulina Natalja , Fuster Pilar , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Salminen Leena , Stubner Juliane , Thorsteinsson Hrund Scheving , Leino‐Kilpi Helena ,   the ProCompNurse Consortium
Published: January 2022

Background

Countries vary in the number of qualified nurses employed in older adult services. Moreover, students’ views of older people nursing as a career differ internationally. Studying future nurses and their career intentions for the field is warranted to meet the increased nurse workforce expectations in terms of quantity and competence.

Aim

To analyse graduating nurse students’ interest in older people nursing and the factors associated with it.

Methods

A cross‐sectional multicountry survey design was applied. Data were collected between May 2018 and March 2019 from several educational institutions in Finland, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Lithuania and Spain. Non‐probability convenience sampling was used to recruit graduating nurse students (n = 1796). The data were collected with a structured questionnaire comprising background factors and the Willingness sub‐scale (six items) of the Students’ Interest in Nursing Older People Scale. Data were analysed using a linear mixed model including relevant background variables.

Results

Overall, students’ interest in older people nursing was low (score 20.5, on a 0‒100 scale). Among the studied countries, Spanish students scored the highest (38.8) and German students the lowest (3.6). Students’ interest in older people nursing was associated with country (p < .001), the length of work experience (p = .006), plans for further study (p = .007), competence (p < .001) and the extent that nursing is valued by society (p < .001). The students who were most interested in older people nursing had higher self‐reported competence level (p < .001).

Conclusion

In the studied sample of future nurse professionals, interest in older people nursing is low at a time when the field suffers from workforce shortage. As for quality workforce, it was promising that the students who considered working in the field also evaluated themselves as competent.

Implications for practice

Multidimensional actions are required to promote interest in the field, including continued development of competence in both undergraduate education and workplaces, and investing in various career pathways to envisage potential opportunities.
Controversies in the treatment of mild asthma. What novelties and practical implications?
Authors: Tosca Maria Angela , Di Cicco Maria Elisa , Leone Maddalena , Scavone Maria , Licari Amelia
Published: January 2022

Mild asthma is prevalent in childhood and causes as many as 30%–40% asthma exacerbations requiring emergency visits. The management of "intermittent" and "mild persistent" asthma phenotypes is still a matter of debate, even if the role of inhaled corticosteroids, both continuous and intermittent, is a cornerstone in this field. Recent updates of the guidelines on the strategies to manage these patients are coming, since the role of inflammation in these asthma phenotypes is crucial, as well as the potential side effect and risks of short‐acting beta 2 agonists overuse, prescribed as the only "as‐needed" treatments. In this paper, we overview the new (r)evolution regarding intermittent and mild persistent asthma management.
Safety of allergen‐specific immunotherapy in children
Authors: De Filippo Maria , Votto Martina , Caminiti Lucia , Panasiti Ilenia , Carella Francesco , De Castro Giovanna , Landi Massimo , Olcese Roberta , Vernich Mario , Marseglia Gian Luigi , Ciprandi Giorgio , Barberi Salvatore
Published: January 2022

Allergic respiratory diseases, such as asthma and allergic rhinitis, are global health issues and have had an increasing prevalence in the last decades. Allergen‐specific immunotherapy (AIT) is the only curative treatment for allergic rhinitis and asthma, as it has a disease‐modifying effect. AIT is generally administered by two routes: subcutaneous (SCIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). Local side effects are common, but usually well‐tolerated and self‐limited. However, systemic side effects are rare, and associated with uncontrolled asthma and bronchial obstruction, or related to errors in administration. Physicians should constantly assess potential risk factors for not only reporting systemic reactions and fatalities but also implementing other therapies to improve AIT safety. This paper highlights recent evidence on local and systemic reactions related to SCIT and SLIT in children.
Nutritional status in eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders: A pediatric case‐control study
Authors: Votto Martina , Bonitatibus Giacomo , De Filippo Maria , Pitigalage Kurera Serena Anjali , Brambilla Ilaria , Guarracino Carmen , De Amici Mara , Marseglia Gian Luigi , Licari Amelia
Published: January 2022

Eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGIDs) represent an emerging group of heterogeneous diseases associated with failure to thrive, weight loss, protein‐losing enteropathy, and malnutrition. To date, no studies have assessed the nutritional status, vitamin D, and other vitamin levels in patients with non‐esophageal EGIDs. We aim to evaluate the nutritional profile of a cohort of children and adolescents with EGIDs. We performed a case‐control study, enrolling a total of 98 patients, 38 (39%) patients with EoE, 22 (22%) patients with non‐esophageal EGIDs, and 38 (39%) patients with non‐allergic controls. Children with EGIDs had both mean ferritin and mean hemoglobin levels, together with other values such as folates and vitamin B12, within normal range and therefore did not have anemia. Albumin and prealbumin levels were within normal limits. Patients with EGIDs have mean vitamin D values slightly higher than non‐allergic controls. Although this study is retrospective and referred to only one pediatric center, we found that Italian children and adolescents with EGIDs are neither malnourished nor deficient in vitamin D compared with controls.
The history of the drug‐induced enterocolitis syndrome
Authors: Novembre Elio , Barni Simona , Saretta Francesca , Castagnoli Riccardo , Arasi Stefania , Mastrorilli Carla , Pecoraro Luca , Liotti Lucia , Caminiti Lucia , Giovannini Mattia , Mori Francesca ,   the Rare Allergic Diseases Commission of the Italian Society of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology (SIAIP)
Published: January 2022

The diagnosis of drug‐induced enterocolitis syndrome (DIES), resembling the typical findings of a well‐known disease, the food protein‐induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES), was acknowledged in the first publication on the topic in 2014. Ten cases of DIES have been described so far. Unanswered questions concerning DIES include its pathogenetic mechanism, natural history, the possible presence of predisposing genetic factors, and the potential existence of its atypical forms. DIES is a recently defined and intriguing clinical entity, similar to FPIES but triggered by drugs. It seems well‐defined from the clinical point of view, but its pathogenetic mechanisms are not known. DIES deserves more attention among allergists, especially among the professionals who work with children, and all efforts should be conceived to improve its correct recognition and accurate management.
Primary atopic disorders and chronic skin disease
Authors: Cinicola Bianca Laura , Corrente Stefania , Castagnoli Riccardo , Lougaris Vassilios , Giardino Giuliana , Leonardi Lucia , Volpi Stefano , La Torre Francesco , Federici Silvia , Soresina Annarosa , Cancrini Caterina , Marseglia Gian Luigi , Cardinale Fabio ,   the Immunology Task Force of the Italian Society of Pediatric Allergy, Immunology (SIAIP)
Published: January 2022

Primary atopic disorders (PADs) are monogenic diseases characterized by allergy or atopy‐related symptoms as fundamental features. In patients with PADs, primary immune deficiency and immune dysregulation symptoms are usually coexist. Chronic skin disease, manifesting with erythroderma, severe atopic dermatitis or eczema, and urticaria, is one of the main features observed in PADs, such as hyper‐IgE syndromes, Omenn syndrome, Wiskott‐Aldrich syndrome, IPEX‐linked syndrome, skin barrier disorders, as well as some autoinflammatory diseases. The recognition of PADs in the context of an allergic phenotype is crucial to ensure prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. This article provides an overview of the main PADs with skin involvement.