bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OGC P56 Preliminary results from the use of a symptom response questionnaire following pyloric dilatation for delayed gastric emptying post-oesophagectomy
Authors: Chevallay Mickael , Barman Sowrav , Evans Orla , Taylor Joanna , Dunn Jason , Baker Cara , Kelly Mark , Knight William , Gossage James , Zeki Sebastian , Davies Andrew
Published: November 2023

Background

Patient symptom burden following oesophago-gastrectomy is high with numerous potential underlying causes which can often overlap. Diagnostic test results and the symptom response to a given intervention may provide important insights, yet there are no validated questionnaires to support the latter. Delayed gastric emptying is a common problem after oesophagectomy, significantly affecting patients' quality of life. The most common treatment option is to perform an endoscopic pyloric dilatation. However, there is no tool available to measure its effect on patient's quality of life. We have developed a symptom response questionnaire to evaluate the impact of the pyloric dilatation procedure.

Methods

With patient involvement, a symptom response to treatment questionnaire was developed based on validated EORTC symptom questions. Although designed to assess symptom response to any intervention, consecutive patients referred for suspected delayed gastric emptying who received an endoscopic pyloric dilatation from a single center were included in this study. Patients were contacted by telephone at two and four weeks after the procedure to complete the symptom response questionnaire. The investigators contacting the patients were neither their surgeon nor the one who performed the endoscopic procedure. We excluded all patients receiving other endoscopic treatment than a pyloric dilatation.

Results

27 patients responded to the questionnaire at 2 and 4 weeks. The main reported symptoms were dysphagia in 15 patients (58%) and reflux in 6 patients (21%). An improvement in symptom frequency was noted in 23 patients (85%) at two weeks. A subsequent worsening in the patient symptom frequency was noted in 3 patients (8.8%) between two and four weeks. Regarding the severity of the symptom, an improvement was observed in 24 out of 27 patients (88%) after two weeks, and no patients reported a worsening of symptom severity at the four-weeks call.

Conclusions

The symptom response questionnaire aimed at evaluating the impact of pyloric dilatation was easily implemented and well-received by the patients for completion. By providing a structured and patient-centred approach, this questionnaire can serve as a basis for monitoring and understanding the effectiveness of endoscopic interventions in improving the quality of life for patients with delayed gastric emptying. An electronic version of the questionnaire has been developed and will be tested in the near future.
OGC P60 Impact of deprivation on treatment of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma across a regional cancer network
Authors: Wholey Joshua , Owen Richard , Ogle Harriet , Day Georgina
Published: November 2023

Background

Oesophageal cancer accounts for 8000 deaths per year in the United Kingdom, and 400,000 deaths globally. There are two main histological subtypes: oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC), with the former accounting for 90% of cases. Oesophageal cancer, particularly OSCC displays a strong correlation with deprivation, with females and males in the most deprived quintile having a corresponding 43% and 50% higher incidence rate compared to the least deprived. This study aims to look at whether deprivation across a regional network also affects treatment choice offered to patients, primarily definitive chemoradiotherapy versus neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.

Methods

A total of 76 patients diagnosed with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma were identified from the regional cancer network database from 2016 to 2019. Patients were ranked into 10 deprivation quintiles using the English indices of deprivation 2019 (IoD2019). Patients were subdivided into two groups based on treatment modality, definitive chemoradiotherapy (dCRT) or neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy with a plan for surgery (nCRT). Statistical analysis was performed using R-statistical software with logistical regression and T-tests performed.

Results

A total of 76 patients were included in the final data set with 52 patients receiving dCRT and 24 receiving nCRT. Deprivation was associated with a statistically significant impact on treatment choice, with patients in higher deprivation quintiles more likely to be offered nCRT (logOR 0.40, 95%CI 0.11-0.75) p-value 0.013. Other important factors were gender, with male patients more likely to be offered dCRT (LogOR -1.8, 95%CI -3.7- -0.30) p-value 0.030. Important cofounders were cancer staging and gender with the dCRT group having a higher number of stage 4 cancers and males compared to the nCRT group.

Conclusions

In conclusion, deprivation had a statistically significant impact on treatment modality of OSCC, with patients in higher deprivation quintiles more likely to be offered nCRT. However, there are important confounders to take into consideration, particularly cancer staging and gender which may explain the results.
OGC P62 Preoperative IVC filter insertion for oesophagogastric cancer surgery patients
Authors: Yee Kuan Jen , Yie Liew Yong , Van Staa Syamsundar , Ahmed Salman , Singh Mohan , Turner Paul , Pursnani Kishore , Ward Jeremy , Ball Christopher , Daya Shetty Vinutha
Published: November 2023

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a life-threatening complication in cancer patients undergoing oesophagogastric surgery. Oesophagogastric cancer patients are at high risk of developing perioperative VTE due to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, prolonged immobilisation, reduced oral intake, and increased risk of dehydration. NICE guideline [NG158] recommends considering an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter for patients with proximal deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) when anticoagulation treatment is contraindicated. This study evaluates the effectiveness and safety of preventing perioperative VTE recurrence via the preoperative insertion of the IVC filter after adopting this as a trust-wide policy in 2012.

Methods

This is a 10-year retrospective study from July 2012-2022. All patients who underwent cardio-oesophagectomy or gastrectomy for oesophagogastric cancers were included. All patients who underwent benign oesophagogastric surgery or local excision of GIST were excluded. The primary outcome includes the incidence of perioperative VTE recurrence following preoperative insertion of an IVC filter. The secondary outcome includes the inpatient and 30-day complications and mortality following the insertion of the IVC filter.

Results

582 patients were included in our study. 37/582 (6.4%) patients developed preoperative VTE, in which 25/37 (67.6%) patients were diagnosed with PE, whereas 12/37 (32.4%) patients had proximal DVT. 30/37 (81.1%) patients underwent preoperative IVC filter insertion, while 7/37 (18.9%) did not. Of these 7 patients, 1 patient developed popliteal DVT 9 months after surgery. There was a statistically significant difference in preventing perioperative VTE recurrence through IVC filter insertion before surgery (p<0.05). IVC filters were safely removed in all patients postoperatively. No inpatient or postprocedural 30-day complications or mortality was identified.

Conclusions

This study has demonstrated that preoperative IVC filter insertion could prevent perioperative VTE recurrence in cancer patients who underwent oesophagogastric surgery. However, the retrospective nature of this study and the relatively small sample size are the main limitations. Preoperative IVC filter insertion is deemed safe, given no postprocedural morbidity or complications were identified.
OGC V01 Robotic salvage oesophagectomy and extended thoraxic lymphadenectomy
Authors: Joel Abraham , Cross Andrea , Brown Joshua , Aradaib Mohammed , Wahed Shajahan , Immanuel Arul
Published: November 2023

Background

One of the options for treating oesophageal squamous cell cancer (SCC) is with definitive chemoradiotherapy, rather than surgery. Although small in number, a subset of these patients develop local recurrence without distant metastases and have no other curative intent treatment option but salvage esophagectomy. However, salvage esophagectomy is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality, but can offer long-term survival. We demonstrate a case of robotic salvage oesophagectomy, performed in a high volume UK centre.

Methods

We detail the steps involved in the procedure, including trocar placement, necessary robotic instruments, and surgical description. 68 year old male patient with a BMI of 24 and performance status of 0, underwent robotic salvage Oesophagectomy for mid oesophageal SCC. Patient was initially treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy, however developed local recurrence, without distant metastasis. Preoperatively staging investigations included endoscopy, endoscopic ultrasound, computerised tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography (PET). Fitness was assessed using cardio-pulmonary exercise testing (CPET). PET identified an avid node in the tracho-oesophageal groove.

Results

Patient was on the high dependency unit as per the units routine practice for less than 24 hours and was transferred to our monitored bed on the ward. Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol was followed. There were no complications and patient was discharged after 10 days.

Conclusions

We demonstrate a safe robotic technique for performing salvage Oesophagectomy in patients who have previously had chemoradiotherapy.
OGC V03 Video Guide to Performing Robotic Oesophago-Gastric Anastomosis
Authors: Walmsley James , Sanders Grant , Chan David S Y
Published: November 2023

Background

The aim of this video is to present our technique for performing a robotic semi-mechanical oesophago-gastric anastomosis.

Methods

The four-minute video was edited from a recording of a 2-stage robotic Ivor Lewis procedure for gastro-oesophageal junction cancer. The thoracic stage shown was performed using the Da-Vinci Xi system. The video focuses on demonstrating our standard semi-mechanical robotic anastomosis. We highlight the techniques involved in ensuring satisfactory join length and placement. Relevant regional anatomy and landmarks are highlighted.

Results

Post procedure the patient was transferred to a level one ward bed. They had an uneventful recovery following our standard enhanced recovery post-oesophagectomy protocol. The patient was discharged on day 7.

Conclusions

This video provides a clear guide to performing our technique for a robotic Oesophago-Gastric anastomosis. It is a useful resource for new robotic and trainee surgeons.
Stuttering associated with a pathogenic variant in the chaperone protein cyclophilin 40
Authors: Morgan Angela T , Scerri Thomas S , Vogel Adam P , Reid Christopher A , Quach Mara , Jackson Victoria E , McKenzie Chaseley , Burrows Emma L , Bennett Mark F , Turner Samantha J , Reilly Sheena , Horton Sarah E , Block Susan , Kefalianos Elaina , Frigerio-Domingues Carlos , Sainz Eduardo , Rigbye Kristin A , Featherby Travis J , Richards Kay L , Kueh Andrew , Herold Marco J , Corbett Mark A , Gecz Jozef , Helbig Ingo , Thompson-Lake Daisy G Y , Liégeois Frédérique J , Morell Robert J , Hung Andrew , Drayna Dennis , Scheffer Ingrid E , Wright David K , Bahlo Melanie , Hildebrand Michael S
Published: November 2023

Stuttering is a common speech disorder that interrupts speech fluency and tends to cluster in families. Typically, stuttering is characterized by speech sounds, words or syllables which may be repeated or prolonged and speech that may be further interrupted by hesitations or ‘blocks’. Rare variants in a small number of genes encoding lysosomal pathway proteins have been linked to stuttering. We studied a large four-generation family in which persistent stuttering was inherited in an autosomal dominant manner with disruption of the cortico-basal-ganglia-thalamo-cortical network found on imaging. Exome sequencing of three affected family members revealed the PPID c.808C>T (p.Pro270Ser) variant that segregated with stuttering in the family. We generated a Ppid p.Pro270Ser knock-in mouse model and performed ex vivo imaging to assess for brain changes. Diffusion-weighted MRI in the mouse revealed significant microstructural changes in the left corticospinal tract, as previously implicated in stuttering. Quantitative susceptibility mapping also detected changes in cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical loop tissue composition, consistent with findings in affected family members. This is the first report to implicate a chaperone protein in the pathogenesis of stuttering. The humanized Ppid murine model recapitulates network findings observed in affected family members.
ALDH2 dysfunction and alcohol cooperate in cancer stem cell enrichment
Authors: Flashner Samuel , Shimonosono Masataka , Tomita Yasuto , Matsuura Norihiro , Ohashi Shinya , Muto Manabu , Klein-Szanto Andres J , Alan Diehl J , Chen Che-Hong , Mochly-Rosen Daria , Weinberg Kenneth I , Nakagawa Hiroshi
Published: November 2023

The alcohol metabolite acetaldehyde is a potent human carcinogen linked to esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) initiation and development. Aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) is the primary enzyme that detoxifies acetaldehyde in the mitochondria. Acetaldehyde accumulation causes genotoxic stress in cells expressing the dysfunctional ALDH2E487K dominant negative mutant protein linked to ALDH2*2, the single nucleotide polymorphism highly prevalent among East Asians. Heterozygous ALDH2*2 increases the risk for the development of ESCC and other alcohol-related cancers. Despite its prevalence and link to malignant transformation, how ALDH2 dysfunction influences ESCC pathobiology is incompletely understood. Herein, we characterize how ESCC and preneoplastic cells respond to alcohol exposure using cell lines, three-dimensional organoids and xenograft models. We find that alcohol exposure and ALDH2*2 cooperate to increase putative ESCC cancer stem cells with high CD44 expression (CD44H cells) linked to tumor initiation, repopulation and therapy resistance. Concurrently, ALHD2*2 augmented alcohol-induced reactive oxygen species and DNA damage to promote apoptosis in the non-CD44H cell population. Pharmacological activation of ALDH2 by Alda-1 inhibits this phenotype, suggesting that acetaldehyde is the primary driver of these changes. Additionally, we find that Aldh2 dysfunction affects the response to cisplatin, a chemotherapeutic commonly used for the treatment of ESCC. Aldh2 dysfunction facilitated enrichment of CD44H cells following cisplatin-induced oxidative stress and cell death in murine organoids, highlighting a potential mechanism driving cisplatin resistance. Together, these data provide evidence that ALDH2 dysfunction accelerates ESCC pathogenesis through enrichment of CD44H cells in response to genotoxic stressors such as environmental carcinogens and chemotherapeutic agents.
Defining left behind places: an internationally comparative poset analysis
Authors: Comim Flavio , Abreu Maria , Borges Carolina Guinesi Mattos
Published: November 2023

There is considerable debate in the literature as to the precise definition of ‘left-behind’ places, and the appropriate metrics for identifying them, and for successfully targeting regional policy interventions. We propose an evaluation structure for ‘left-behindness’ based on Amartya Sen’s capability approach, and argue that the diversity of criteria should not be seen as a shortcoming, but rather as a richness to be explored. We show, through the use of ‘posets’ and Hasse diagrams, that there are several distinct ‘structures of left-behindness’ across European NUTS 2 regions, revealing spatial imbalances that do not conform to a ‘one size fits all’ narrative.
The green transition and its potential territorial discontents
Authors: Rodríguez-Pose Andrés , Bartalucci Federico
Published: November 2023

The impacts of climate change are unevenly distributed across territories. Less is known about the potential effects of climate policies aimed at mitigating the negative consequences of climate change while transitioning economies towards low-carbon standards. This paper presents an analytical framework for identifying and assessing the regional impacts of the green transition. We develop a Regional Green Transition Vulnerability Index, a composite measure of the regional vulnerability of European regions to the socio-economic reconfigurations prompted by the green transition. The index brings to light strong regional variations in vulnerability, with less developed, peri-urban and rural regions in Southern and Eastern Europe more exposed to the foreseeable changes brought about by the green transition. We also draw attention to the potential rise of pockets of growing ‘green’ discontent, especially if the green transition contributes, as is likely to be the case, to leaving already left-behind regions further behind.
Assessment of myocardial injuries in ischaemic and non-ischaemic cardiomyopathies using magnetic resonance T1-rho mapping
Authors: Bustin Aurélien , Pineau Xavier , Sridi Soumaya , van Heeswijk Ruud B , Jaïs Pierre , Stuber Matthias , Cochet Hubert
Published: November 2023

Aims

To identify clinical correlates of myocardial T1ρ and to examine how myocardial T1ρ values change under various clinical scenarios.

Methods and results

A total of 66 patients (26% female, median age 57 years [Q1–Q3, 44–65 years]) with known structural heart disease and 44 controls (50% female, median age 47 years [28–57 years]) underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging at 1.5 T, including T1ρ mapping, T2 mapping, native T1 mapping, late gadolinium enhancement, and extracellular volume (ECV) imaging. In controls, T1ρ positively related with T2 (P = 0.038) and increased from basal to apical levels (P < 0.001). As compared with controls and remote myocardium, T1ρ significantly increased in all patients’ sub-groups and all types of myocardial injuries: acute and chronic injuries, focal and diffuse tissue abnormalities, as well as ischaemic and non-ischaemic aetiologies (P < 0.05). T1ρ was independently associated with T2 in patients with acute injuries (P = 0.004) and with native T1 and ECV in patients with chronic injuries (P < 0.05). Myocardial T1ρ mapping demonstrated good intra- and inter-observer reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.86 and 0.83, respectively).

Conclusion

Myocardial T1ρ mapping appears to be reproducible and equally sensitive to acute and chronic myocardial injuries, whether of ischaemic or non-ischaemic origins. It may thus be a contrast-agent-free biomarker for gaining new and quantitative insight into myocardial structural disorders. These findings highlight the need for further studies through prospective and randomized trials.
Henry of Lancaster’s Revolt (1328–29): Conflict, the Politics of Kingship, and the Political Public in Fourteenth-Century England
Authors: Raven Matt
Published: November 2023

The late medieval period was an important phase in the history of political communication in England, as more people than ever before became involved in debates about royal governance. The first half of the fourteenth century, however, has been relatively under-studied in this regard. This article analyses a set of arguments put forward during a revolt led by Henry, earl of Lancaster, in 1328–29. After outlining the revolt’s historical and historiographical context, the article reveals how three key themes—the provision of advice; the moral responsibilities attached to royal finance; and the state of the king’s peace—were contested in 1328–29. It then turns to the public orientation of these arguments to suggest that this contest reveals a growing need to engage a political public in order to acquire legitimacy when seeking to reform, or to defend, the direction of royal government. In turn, this helped to set out what the most legitimate paths of political action were and what terms needed to be taken up to describe them by those who wished to involve themselves in the politics of kingship. It is argued that Lancaster’s revolt held a significant position in a much broader history of political communication in England, in which political legitimacy in the exercise of royal authority was claimed before, evaluated by, and generated through a critical body of public opinion which interacted with Plantagenet rule.
CAD/CAM-based 3D-printed and PVS indirect bonding jig system accuracy: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and comparative analysis of hard and soft CAD/CAM transfer trays
Authors: Palone Mario , Fazio Massimo , Pellitteri Federica , Guiducci Daniela , Cremonini Francesca , Pozzetti Ilaria , Tola Martina , Lombardo Luca
Published: November 2023

Background

The widespread use of CAD/CAM transfer trays warrants evaluation of their accuracy as compared to PVS transfer trays.

Objectives

To quantify the accuracy of CAD/CAM and PVS transfer trays, investigating any differences between soft and hard trays CAD/CAM transfer trays.

Search methods

Eight different databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, ProQuest, Embase, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov) were searched, without restrictions, up to an end date of February 2023.

Selection criteria

Clinical trials (randomized and non-randomized) and in vitro studies reporting average imprecision values for bracket positioning obtained by digital superimpositions of digitally planned and real positions.

Data collection and analysis

Data eligibility, data extraction, and risk of bias (RoB-2 and ROBINS-I) were conducted independently. The data, where possible, were synthesized and quantitatively analysed (meta-analysis of mean differences with 95% confidence intervals). The Grade of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) analysis of the quality of evidence was performed. The t-test for independent samples was used to compare the transfer accuracy of hard and soft CAD/CAM transfer trays.

Results

Thirteen studies were synthesized in this systematic review, and then eight studies were included in the quantitative meta-analysis. As regards linear measurements, there was a mean transfer error of 0.0752 mm (95%CI: 0.0428, 0.1076) for mesiodistal measures, 0.0943 mm (95%CI: 0.0402, 0.1484) for vertical, and 0.0815 mm (95%CI: 0.0469, 0.1160) for buccolingual. As for angular measurements, there was an average transfer error of 1.2279° (95% CI: 0.6011, 1.8548) for inclination, 0.9397° (95%CI: 0.4672, 1.4123) for angulation, and 0.8721° (95%CI: 0.4257, 1.3185) for rotation. CAD/CAM transfer trays were less accurate than polyvinylsiloxane (PVS) transfer trays, with those made of soft material being more accurate than the hard ones, except for vertical dimension. The GRADE quality of evidence ranged from very low to moderate.

Conclusions and implications

CAD/CAM transfer trays provide high bracket positioning accuracy, with soft transfer trays offering greater precision than rigid ones. Future randomized prospective trials are required to enhance the strength of the available evidence.

Registration

Prospero (CRD42023401278 number)
A response to Joshua Rifkin (‘Singing nuns? More on the story of Verona 761’)
Authors: Stras Laurie
Published: November 2023

A response to Joshua Rifkin’s reconsideration of the early history of Verona, Biblioteca Capitolare, Ms. dcclxi. As well as addressing Rifkin’s objections to my hypotheses, I discuss the motivation behind my scholarship, and some of the choices I make in presenting it.
Use of secondary prevention medications in metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas: an analysis of 41 925 myocardial infarctions in Australia
Authors: Livori Adam C , Ademi Zanfina , Ilomäki Jenni , Pol Derk , Morton Jedidiah I , Bell J Simon
Published: November 2023

Aims

People in remote areas may have more difficulty accessing healthcare following myocardial infarction (MI) than people in metropolitan areas. We determined whether remoteness was associated with initial and 12-month use of secondary prevention medications following MI in Victoria, Australia.

Methods and results

We included all people alive at least 90 days after discharge following MI between July 2012 and June 2017 in Victoria, Australia (n = 41 925). We investigated dispensing of P2Y12 inhibitors (P2Y12i), statins, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ACEIs/ARBs), and beta-blockers within 90 days after discharge. We estimated 12-month medication use using proportion of days covered (PDC). Remoteness was determined using the Accessibility/Remoteness Index of Australia (ARIA). Data were analysed using adjusted parametric regression models stratified by ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-STEMI (NSTEMI). There were 10 819 STEMI admissions and 31 106 NSTEMI admissions. Following adjustment across NSTEMI and STEMI, there were no medication classes dispensed in the 90-day post-discharge that differed in a clinically significant way from the least remote (ARIA = 0) to the most remote (ARIA = 4.8) areas. The largest difference for NSTEMI was ACEI/ARB, with 71% (95% confidence interval 70–72%) vs. 80% (76–83%). For STEMI, it was statins with 89% (88–90%) vs. 95% (91–97%). Predicted PDC for STEMI and NSTEMI was not clinically significant across remoteness, with the largest difference in NSTEMI being P2Y12i with 48% (47–50%) vs. 55% (51–59%), and in STEMI, it was ACEI/ARB with 68% (67–69%) vs. 76% (70–80%).

Conclusion

Remoteness does not appear to be a clinically significant driver for medication use following MI. Possible differences in cardiovascular outcomes in metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas are not likely to be explained by access to secondary prevention medications.
Variation in follow-up for children born very preterm in Europe
Authors: Seppänen Anna-Veera , Barros Henrique , Draper Elizabeth S , Petrou Stavros , Andronis Lazaros , Kim Sungwook , Maier Rolf F , Pedersen Pernille , Gadzinowski Janusz , Pierrat Véronique , Sarrechia Iemke , Lebeer Jo , Ådén Ulrika , Toome Liis , Thiele Nicole , van Heijst Arno , Cuttini Marina , Zeitlin Jennifer ,   The SHIPS Research Group, Lebeer J , Sarrechia I , Van Reempts P , Bruneel E , Cloet E , Oostra A , Ortibus E , Boerch K , Pedersen P , Toome L , Varendi H , Männamaa M , Ancel P Y , Burguet A , Jarreau P H , Pierrat V , Nuytten A , Maier R F , Zemlin M , Misselwitz B , Wohlers L , Cuttini M , Croci I , Carnielli V , Ancora G , Faldella G , Ferrari F , van Heijst A , Koopman-Esseboom C , Gadzinowski J , Mazela J , Montgomery A , Pikuła T , Barros H , Costa R , Rodrigues C , Aden U , Draper E S , Fenton A , Johnson S J , Mader S , Thiele N , Petrou S , Kim S W , Andronis L , Zeitlin J , Aubert A M , Bonnet C , El Rafei R , Seppanen A V
Published: November 2023

Background

Children born very preterm (<32 weeks of gestation) face high risks of neurodevelopmental and health difficulties compared with children born at term. Follow-up after discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit is essential to ensure early detection and intervention, but data on policy approaches are sparse.

Methods

We investigated the characteristics of follow-up policy and programmes in 11 European countries from 2011 to 2022 using healthcare informant questionnaires and the published/grey literature. We further explored how one aspect of follow-up, its recommended duration, may be reflected in the percent of parents reporting that their children are receiving follow-up services at 5 years of age in these countries using data from an area-based cohort of very preterm births in 2011/12 (N = 3635).

Results

Between 2011/12 and 22, the number of countries with follow-up policies or programmes increased from 6 to 11. The policies and programmes were heterogeneous in eligibility criteria, duration and content. In countries that recommended longer follow-up, parent-reported follow-up rates at 5 years of age were higher, especially among the highest risk children, born <28 weeks’ gestation or with birthweight <1000 g: between 42.1% and 70.1%, vs. <20% in most countries without recommendations.

Conclusions

Large variations exist in follow-up policies and programmes for children born very preterm in Europe; differences in recommended duration translate into cross-country disparities in reported follow-up at 5 years of age.
Soil-specific responses in the antibiotic resistome of culturable Acinetobacter spp. and other non-fermentative Gram-negative bacteria following experimental manure application
Authors: Sardar Puspendu , Elhottová Dana , Pérez-Valera Eduardo
Published: November 2023

Acinetobacter spp. and other non-fermenting Gram-negative bacteria (NFGNB) represent an important group of opportunistic pathogens due to their propensity for multiple, intrinsic, or acquired antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Antimicrobial resistant bacteria and their genes can spread to the environment through livestock manure. This study investigated the effects of fresh manure from dairy cows under antibiotic prophylaxis on the antibiotic resistome and AMR hosts in microcosms using pasture soil. We specifically focused on culturable Acinetobacter spp. and other NFGNB using CHROMagar Acinetobacter. We conducted two 28-days incubation experiments to simulate natural deposition of fresh manure on pasture soil and evaluated the effects on antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and bacterial hosts through shotgun metagenomics. We found that manure application altered the abundance and composition of ARGs and their bacterial hosts, and that the effects depended on the soil source. Manure enriched the antibiotic resistome of bacteria only in the soil where native bacteria had a low abundance of ARGs. Our study highlights the role of native soil bacteria in modulating the consequences of manure deposition on soil and confirms the potential of culturable Acinetobacter spp. and other NFGNB to accumulate AMR in pasture soil receiving fresh manure.
Fifty-years of theory-driven research in HCR: prominence, progress, and opportunities
Authors: Shue Carolyn Karmon , O’Hara Laura L S , Stamp Glen
Published: November 2023

We reviewed Human Communication Research (HCR) articles that included named theories in the: (a) abstract, (b) keywords, or (c) section headers to determine theory trends, identifying 592 instances of named theories in 447 articles. We conducted a follow-up analysis of 76 articles to illustrate how HCR researchers have contributed to theory development. Our review demonstrated systematic growth in theory use; the number of named theories in our sample doubled from the first 10 years to the last. There remains the propensity for theory shopping in the discipline with over 50% of theories in each decade cited only once. We also analyzed theory development strategies. There was evidence of theorizing that: (a) extended the range of theories and (b) explored effects. There was less theory synthesis that might provide frameworks for organizing related but distinct theories. We concluded by offering recommendations for how researchers can contribute to future theoretical development.
Coordinating external assistance for UHC: Pakistan’s early experience of the SDG3 GAP
Authors: Khalid Faraz , Afzal Sabeen , Shirazi Ali , Quick Isadora , Mataria Awad
Published: November 2023

Pakistan is a lower middle-income setting. External assistance for health and development partners play an important role in health sector development. The federal system and health care delivery as a devolved provincial subject warrant regular and effective coordination among federating units and partners. Pakistan was selected as a priority country in 2019 for the implementation of the Global Action Plan for Healthy Lives and Well-being for All (SDG3 GAP). Given the ongoing universal health coverage (UHC) reforms, the country prioritized two SDG3 GAP accelerators, related to primary health care (PHC) and sustainable financing for health (SFH). Eight partner agencies representing PHC and SFH accelerators jointly planned and conducted a ‘PHC for UHC mission’ to Pakistan in 2021. This mission paved the way for setting up an SDG3 GAP Coordination Committee and a ‘PHC Service Delivery and Financing working group’, which have been regularly coming together through in-person and virtual meetings; the latter was relatively uncommon previously and this new way of working provided a chance to build rapport, share workplans, identify duplications in technical assistance and jointly gauge governments’ priorities. This has shifted the focus of reforms deliberations from ‘what’ to ‘how’, enabling joint strategic planning and implementation. The joint work by SDG3 GAP partners with the Ministry of National Health Services Regulation & Coordination linked discussions on health financing and service delivery reforms for the first time, and has contributed to advocacy, analysis, strategic policy dialogue, institutional strengthening and implementation of UHC reforms, with a focus on PHC. Even though joint work by SDG3 GAP partners undoubtedly shows the potential for better alignment and collaboration, translation of the commitment to better collaboration into concrete impact has been the result of committed and engaged staff members, rather than institutionalized change, which will require strong incentives for collaboration.
Gap-free genome assembly andCYP450gene family analysis reveal the biosynthesis of anthocyanins inScutellaria baicalensis
Authors: Pei Tianlin , Zhu Sanming , Liao Weizhi , Fang Yumin , Liu Jie , Kong Yu , Yan Mengxiao , Cui Mengying , Zhao Qing
Published: November 2023

Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, a member of the Lamiaceae family, is a widely utilized medicinal plant. The flavones extracted from S. baicalensis contribute to numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-tumor activities. However, the incomplete genome assembly hinders biological studies on S. baicalensis. This study presents the first telomere-to-telomere (T2T) gap-free genome assembly of S. baicalensis through the integration of Pacbio HiFi, Nanopore ultra-long and Hi-C technologies. A total of 384.59 Mb of genome size with a contig N50 of 42.44 Mb was obtained, and all sequences were anchored into nine pseudochromosomes without any gap or mismatch. In addition, we analysed the major cyanidin- and delphinidin-based anthocyanins involved in the determination of blue-purple flower using a widely-targeted metabolome approach. Based on the genome-wide identification of Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) gene family, three genes (SbFBH1, 2, and 5) encoding flavonoid 3′-hydroxylases (F3′Hs) and one gene (SbFBH7) encoding flavonoid 3′5′-hydroxylase (F3′5′H) were found to hydroxylate the B-ring of flavonoids. Our studies enrich the genomic information available for the Lamiaceae family and provide a toolkit for discovering CYP450 genes involved in the flavonoid decoration.
The Crohn’s Disease Exclusion Diet: A Comprehensive Review of Evidence, Implementation Strategies, Practical Guidance, and Future Directions
Authors: Sigall Boneh Rotem , Westoby Catherine , Oseran Ilan , Sarbagili-Shabat Chen , Albenberg Lindsey G , Lionetti Paolo , Manuel Navas-López Víctor , Martín-de-Carpi Javier , Yanai Henit , Maharshak Nitsan , Van Limbergen Johan , Wine Eytan
Published: November 2023

Dietary therapy is increasingly recognized for the management of Crohn’s disease (CD) over recent years, including the use of exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) as first-line therapy for pediatric CD according to current guidelines. The Crohn’s disease exclusion diet (CDED) is a whole-food diet designed to reduce exposure to dietary components that are potentially pro-inflammatory, mediated by negative effects on the gut microbiota, immune response, and the intestinal barrier. The CDED has emerged as a valid alternative to EEN with cumulative evidence, including randomized controlled trials, supporting use for induction of remission and possibly maintenance in children and adults. We gathered a group of multidisciplinary experts, including pediatric and adult gastroenterologists, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) expert dietitians, and a psychologist to discuss the evidence, identify gaps, and provide insights into improving the use of CDED based on a comprehensive review of CDED literature and professional experience. This article reviews the management of CDED in both children and adults, long-term aspects of CDED, indications and contraindications, selecting the best candidates, identifying challenges with CDED, globalization, the role of the multidisciplinary team, especially of dietitian, and future directions. We concluded that CDED is an established dietary therapy that could serve as an alternative to EEN in many pediatric and adult cases, especially with mild to moderate disease. In severe disease, complicated phenotypes, or with extraintestinal involvement, CDED should be considered on a case-by-case basis, according to physician and dietitians’ discretion. More studies are warranted to assess the efficacy of CDED in different scenarios.
Does the Label Matter? Examining the Effects of “Vaccine Passport” Versus “Vaccine Verification” on Subsequent Audience Frames and Policy Attitudes
Authors: Hubner Austin Y , Dixon Graham
Published: November 2023

Using a nationally representative sample of Democrats and Republicans (n = 1,000), we conducted an online survey wording experiment to examine the presence of a labeling effect when a vaccine verification system is referred to as either “vaccine passports” or “vaccine verification.” Critically, we use both close-ended and open-ended responses in order to understand how the different labels influence the level of support as well as individual thoughts. While our findings show slightly higher public support when a vaccine program is labeled as “vaccine verification” as compared to “vaccine passport,” deep partisan divides still exist. Indeed, Republicans show less support for a vaccine program, regardless of the label used. We dig into these partisan differences using the open-ended thought listing exercise we provided to respondents. We discuss the benefits of supplementing open-ended responses as an enhancement to close-ended measures in experimental research.
Planktonic and biofilm states of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from bone and joint infections and the in vitro effect of orally available antibiotics
Authors: Perez-Alba Eduardo , Flores-Treviño Samantha , Villarreal-Salazar Verónica , Bocanegra-Ibarias Paola , Vilchez-Cavazos Félix , Camacho-Ortiz Adrián
Published: November 2023

Aims

To demonstrate the in vitro activity of orally available antibiotics against Staphylococcus aureus isolated from bone or orthopedic implant materials. The biofilm eradication of the combination of three antibiotics was also assessed.

Methods and results

Clinical isolates from orthopedic infection samples were collected, and S. aureus isolates were classified according to their biofilm production and composition. Almost all S. aureus isolates (n = 36, 97.3%) produced biofilm and the major biofilm components were polysaccharides. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined in planktonic (minimal inhibitory concentration; MIC) and biofilm cells (minimal biofilm eradication concentration; MBEC) using the MBEC Calgary Device. Overall, the MBEC ranged higher than the MIC. When combined at borderline-susceptible concentrations, moxifloxacin–rifampin and doxycycline–rifampin were both able to eradicate biofilms in a third of the strains whereas the doxycycline–moxifloxacin combination proved ineffective at eradicating biofilm, inhibiting it only in three strains.

Conclusions

We propose rifampin in combination with moxifloxacin or doxycycline for the design of clinical trials of bone and/or orthopedic device infection without proper debridement or material retention.
Methoxetamine and its metabolites: Postmortem determination in body fluids of human cadaver
Authors: Bursová Miroslava , Hložek Tomáš , Sokol Miloš , Židková Monika , Čabala Radomír
Published: November 2023

We report the forensic case of a 42-year-old man, a known drug user, who died at home and whose body was only discovered 2 months later. Autopsy was performed on a corpse in the late postmortem stage where no apparent cause of death was found. A toxicological screening of biological materials (blood, urine and gastric content) using liquid chromatography with different types of mass detection (ion trap and high-resolution) revealed the presence of methoxetamine (MXE), a ketamine analog, and its metabolites. MXE and a number of its metabolites (e.g., O-desmethyl, N-desethyl, hydroxy, glucuronides and sulfates) were identified in urine. Based on the results, a method using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry was developed and validated for the determination of MXE concentration in biological materials. The following values of MXE concentration were found: blood—3.6 ng/mL, urine—70.5 ng/mL and gastric content—18.0 ng/mL. Given the absence of other drugs, medications and poisons, it can be inferred that despite relatively low blood concentrations, MXE contributed to the victim’s death. The present case demonstrates that even after 2 months, MXE and its several metabolites can be detected and determined in the human cadaver at a relatively advanced stage of decomposition.
Burn Injury-related Growth Factor Expressions and Their Potential Roles in Burn-related Neuropathies
Authors: Chaker Sara C , Saad Mariam , Mayes Taylor , Lineaweaver William C
Published: November 2023

In the context of burn injury, growth factors (GFs) play a significant role in mediating the complex local and systematic processes that occur. Among the many systemic complications that arise following a burn injury, peripheral neuropathy remains one of the most common. Despite the broad understanding of the effects GFs have on multiple tissues, their potential implications in both wound healing and neuropathy remain largely unexplored. Therefore, this review aims to investigate the expression patterns of GFs prominent during the burn wound healing process and explore the potential contributions these GFs have on the development of burn-related peripheral neuropathy.
Testing the heat treatment dose for Agrilus planipennis (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) prepupae using the Humble water bath
Authors: Noseworthy Meghan K , Souque Tyranna J , MacQuarrie Chris J K , John Esme P , Gray Meghan , Roberts Josie , Allen Eric A
Published: November 2023

The lethal heat treatment dose (time and temperature) for the prepupal life stage of Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), emerald ash borer (EAB), was determined through an in vitro application using a carefully calibrated heat treatment apparatus. The lethal and sublethal effects of heat on A. planipennis prepupae were assessed through a ramped heat delivery application, simulating industrial kilns and conventional heat chamber operations, for treatments combining target temperatures of 54 °C, 55 °C, and 56 °C, and exposure durations of 0 min (i.e., kiln temperature ramp only), 15 min, or 30 min. Prepupal EAB larvae did not survive exposure to 56 °C for 15 min or longer, or to 55 °C for 30 min. Sublethal effects were observed for all other treatments. Sublethal effects included delayed development and failure to complete the pupal and adult life stages.
Pressure and rate distribution performance of a multiple-fractured well with multi-wing fracture in low-permeability gas reservoirs
Authors: Zhang Chengwei , Zhang Yunjun , Zhang Haotian , Bai Wenpeng
Published: November 2023

In this work, a new mathematical model of a fractured well considering multiple factors (permeability stress sensitivity, multiple well interference, and multiple fracture interference) is established to simulate wellbore pressure performance and rate distribution in tight gas reservoirs. The new fracture discrete coupling mathematical model is established. The wellbore pressure solution can be obtained by pressure drop superposition and Stehfest numerical inversion. Seven flow stages are observed according to the characteristics of the pressure derivative curve. The influence of several significant parameters, including rate ratio, fracture half-length, well spacing, and stress sensitivity are discussed. Based on the developed model, we demonstrated a field case to verify model accuracy. This work provides new supplementary knowledge to improve pressure data interpretation for multi-well groups in tight gas reservoirs.
Systematic Review of Biological, Chemical, Ergonomic, Physical, and Psychosocial Hazards Impacting Occupational Health of United States Forestry Workers
Authors: Knecht Heidi , Balanay Jo Anne G , Langley Ricky , Tutor Marcom Robin , Richards Stephanie L
Published: November 2023

Forestry is one of the most hazardous occupations, due in part to the biological, chemical, ergonomic, physical, and psychosocial aspects of the job. Here, we review health risks in forestry occupations, including those in professional and technical forestry, logging, and forestry support, from the standpoint of biological (e.g., insects/arachnids, plants), chemical (e.g., diesel exhaust), ergonomic (e.g., awkward postures, forceful motions), physical (temperature, noise, vibrations, radiation), and psychosocial (e.g., workplace factors that cause stress, strain, or interpersonal problems for the worker) issues. We conducted a systematic review over a 10-year period (2011–2021) to assess health hazards identified in studies conducted on these occupations and reveal knowledge gaps for future studies to address. This study focuses on occupational health rather than occupational safety. Other forestry worker occupational health and safety studies have focused on analyzing injuries and deaths directly relating to transportation and/or contact with objects such as trees or logs and equipment; however, the areas of occupational health highlighted here have been understudied. Future work should focus on these areas, with an emphasis on intervention strategies that eliminate or mitigate the deleterious health effects of occupational exposures.

Study Implications: Forestry workers are exposed to occupational health hazards in their outdoor workplace. This review analyzes published work for a 10-year period (2011–2021) with broader implications such as (1) greater understanding of gaps in the literature for key occupational health hazards facing United States forestry workers and (2) better information on the need for more in-depth studies to collect information about exposure assessments to improve worker protection. This literature review can help forestry workers, managers, and scientists mitigate exposures and protect health.
Assessing Public Attitudes toward Random versus Symbolic Terrorist Targets: Survey Experimental Evidence
Authors: Gift Thomas , Norman Julie M , Davidson Rob
Published: November 2023

Do citizens react more adversely to terrorism that strikes random or symbolic targets? Despite the relative neglect of this question by conflict scholars, few attributes of terrorist attacks are more scrutinized by the public. In this article, we field a pair of preregistered, national survey experiments in the United Kingdom that measure the impact of random and symbolic targeting on public demands for armed retaliation. We find that results appear to vary depending on the level of stylization with which the attack is presented. In the abstract, citizens support more retaliation for terrorism directed at random targets. Yet when more concrete details are presented, citizens become similarly defensive of national symbols. We attempt to reconcile this apparent discrepancy by drawing on insights from political psychology, which lead us to propose that changes to the stylization of stimuli may induce citizens to emphasize different cognitive and emotional responses related to random and symbolic targeting. Our results call for more study into how the presentation of terrorist attacks affects public reactions.