bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of adjuvant nortriptyline on the efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy: A randomized controlled trial and 1‐year follow‐up
Authors: Pluijms Esther M. , Kamperman Astrid M. , Hoogendijk Witte J. G. , van den Broek Walter W. , Birkenhäger Tom K.
Published: February 2022

Objective

There is limited evidence that adding an antidepressant to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), compared with ECT monotherapy, improves outcomes. We aimed to determine whether the addition of nortriptyline to ECT enhances its efficacy and prevents post‐ECT relapse.

Methods

We conducted a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial (RCT). Patients with major depressive disorder and an indication for ECT received either nortriptyline or placebo during a bilateral ECT course. Outcome measures were mean decrease in Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD) score, response, remission, and time to response and remission. Patients who attained remission participated in a 1‐year follow‐up study with open‐label nortriptyline. Outcome measures were relapse and time to relapse.

Results

We included 47 patients in the RCT. In the nortriptyline group, 83% showed response, 74% attained remission, and the mean decrease in HRSD score was 21.6 points. In the placebo group these figures were, respectively, 81% (p = 0.945), 73% (p = 0.928) and 20.7 points (p = 0.748). Thirty‐one patients participated in the follow‐up study. In patients who had received nortriptyline during the RCT, 47% relapsed at a mean of 34.2 weeks. Patients who had received placebo showed similar treatment results. In both study phases, no statistically significant differences between the nortriptyline and the placebo group were found.

Conclusion

In our sample of severely depressed patients who were often medication resistant and suffering from psychotic depression, the addition of nortriptyline to ECT did not enhance its efficacy or prevent post‐ECT relapse. Encouragingly, even in these patients ECT was highly effective and relapse rates were relatively low.
Antidepressant use during pregnancy and risk of adverse neonatal outcomes: A comprehensive investigation of previously identified associations
Authors: Rommel Anna‐Sophie , Momen Natalie C. , Molenaar Nina Maren , Agerbo Esben , Bergink Veerle , Munk‐Olsen Trine , Liu Xiaoqin
Published: February 2022

Objective

Prenatal antidepressant use is widespread. Observational studies have investigated the neonatal effects of prenatal antidepressant exposure with inconclusive results. We aimed to comprehensively investigate the associations between prenatal antidepressant exposure and the most commonly studied adverse neonatal outcomes: preterm birth, birthweight, poor neonatal adaptation, persistent pulmonary hypertension of the neonate (PPHN), neonatal admission and congenital malformations.

Methods

We included 45,590 singletons (born 1997‐2015) whose mothers used antidepressants within one year before pregnancy. Children were categorised into two groups: continuation (antidepressant use before and during pregnancy) or discontinuation (antidepressant use before but not during pregnancy). We applied random‐effects logistic and linear regressions, adjusting for covariates.

Results

After adjusting for confounders, prenatal antidepressant exposure was associated with a 2.3 day (95% CI −2.9; −2.0) decrease in gestational age and a 51 g (95% CI −62g; −41 g) decrease in birthweight. The continuation group was at increased risk for moderate‐to‐late preterm birth (32–37 weeks) (aOR = 1.43; 95%CI 1.33; 1.55), moderately low birthweight (1500–2499 g) (aOR = 1.28; 95%CI 1.17; 1.41), postnatal adaptation syndrome (aOR = 2.59; 95%CI 1.87; 3.59) and neonatal admission (aOR = 1.52; 95%CI 1.44; 1.60) compared to the discontinuation group.

Conclusion

Prenatal antidepressant exposure was associated with small decreases in gestational age and birthweight, as well as higher risk for moderate‐to‐late preterm birth, moderately low birthweight, neonatal admission and postnatal adaptation syndrome. No differences in risk were found for PPHN, or congenital malformations. The causality of the observed associations cannot be established due to the potential for unmeasured residual confounding linked to the underlying disease.
Temporal changes in sex‐ and age‐specific incidence profiles of mental disorders—A nationwide study from 1970 to 2016
Authors: Plana‐Ripoll Oleguer , Momen Natalie C. , McGrath John J. , Wimberley Theresa , Brikell Isabell , Schendel Diana , Thygesen Malene , Weye Nanna , Pedersen Carsten B. , Mors Ole , Mortensen Preben B. , Dalsgaard Søren
Published: February 2022

Objective

Information on mental disorders over time is critical for documenting changes in population burden, and aiding understanding of potential causal and non‐causal factors. The aim of this study was to provide temporal changes in the sex‐ and age‐specific incidence rates (IR) of mental disorders diagnosed in Danish hospitals during five decades and investigate whether such changes may be attributable to changes in administrative reporting practice.

Methods

This population‐based cohort study included all people living in Denmark between 1970 and 2016. Mental disorders diagnoses were obtained from the Danish Psychiatric Central Research Register. We estimated the IR of each mental disorder (all persons, and sex‐ and age‐specific IRs) and examined the impact of two administrative changes.

Results

Our study included 9 107 157 people, followed for 233.0 million person‐years. During follow‐up, 9.5% were diagnosed with at least one mental disorder. The IR for any mental disorder was 39.0 per 10,000 person‐years. Despite fluctuations, this increased between 1970–84 and 2005–2016, from 28.9 to 63.0 per 10,000 person‐years. Increases were most pronounced for younger age groups. Administrative changes did appear to influence incidence rates.

Conclusion

Mental disorder IRs have increased in Denmark since 1970, with age of diagnosis shifting downwards. Both trends were likely impacted by administrative changes, while the latter is likely to be (partly) attributable to earlier detection and increased reporting of child‐onset conditions. Our findings may provide valuable context of the epidemiology of mental disorders across age groups for comparison with other studies and populations.
Antipsychotic utilization trajectories three years after initiating or reinitiating treatment of schizophrenia: A state sequence analysis approach
Authors: Brodeur Sébastien , Vanasse Alain , Courteau Josiane , Courteau Mireille , Stip Emmanuel , Fleury Marie‐Josée , Lesage Alain , Demers Marie‐France , Roy Marc‐André
Published: February 2022

Objective

This study aims to describe the utilization patterns of antipsychotic (AP) medication in patients with schizophrenia (SCZ), three years after initiating or reinitiating a given AP.

Methods

Based on medico‐administrative information on patients living in Quebec (Canada), this retrospective cohort study included 6444 patients with a previous diagnosis of SCZ initiating or reinitiating AP medication between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2014, with continuous coverage by public drug insurance. For each day of follow‐up (1092 days), patient was either exposed to one of the chosen categories of APs, or to none. This patient’s sequence of AP exposure overtime has been referred to as the “antipsychotic utilization trajectory”. These trajectories were analyzed using a State Sequence Analysis, an innovative approach which provides useful visual information on the continuation and discontinuation patterns of use over time.

Results

Clozapine and long‐acting injectable second‐generation APs had the best continuation and discontinuation patterns over 3 years among all other groups, including less switching of APs, while oral first‐generation APs had the poorest patterns. These findings were comparable among incident and non‐incident cohorts. Oral second‐generation antipsychotics, excluding clozapine, had a poorer continuation and discontinuation pattern than long‐acting injectable antipsychotics.

Conclusion

State Sequence Analysis provides a clear representation of treatment adherence in comparison with dichotomous indicators of adherence or discontinuation. Consequently, this innovative method has shed light on the impact of the AP chosen to initiate or reinitiate treatment in SCZ, which has been identified as a key factor for long‐term treatment continuation and discontinuation.
Incidental finding of juvenile angiofibroma from pre‐orthodontic radiographs: two case reports and a literature review
Authors: Rizwan S , Huang TC , Koong B , Bynevelt M , Stamatis J , Goonewardene R
Published: February 2022

This case series presents two asymptomatic cases of juvenile angiofibroma which were initially incidentally identified in pre‐orthodontic radiographs. Juvenile angiofibroma is an uncommon, locally aggressive benign, vascular neoplasm with invasive growth patterns. Due to the hypervascularity of these tumours, there are biopsy associated risks and multi‐slice computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and angiography are usually employed for diagnosis. Early pre‐symptomatic identification of this lesion facilitates early management and limiting potential life‐threatening complications. This highlights the importance of thorough interpretation of dental radiographs, including the evaluation of structures which are not in the primary region of interest. © 2022 Australian Dental Association
Bessel regression and bbreg package to analyse bounded data
Authors: Barreto‐Souza Wagner , Mayrink Vinícius D. , Simas Alexandre B.
Published: February 2022

Beta regression has been extensively used by statisticians and practitioners to model bounded continuous data without a strong competitor having the same main features. A class of normalised inverse‐Gaussian (N‐IG) process was introduced in the literature and has been explored in the Bayesian context as a powerful alternative to the Dirichlet process. Until this moment, no attention has been paid to the univariate N‐IG distribution in the classical inference. In this paper, we propose the bessel regression based on the univariate N‐IG distribution, which is an alternative to the beta model. The estimation of the parameters is done through an expectation–maximisation (EM) algorithm and the paper discusses how to perform inference. A useful and practical discrimination procedure is proposed for model selection between bessel and beta regressions. A newRpackage calledbbregis developed for fitting both bessel and beta regression models based on the EM‐algorithm and further providing graphical tools for model adequacy and model selection as well. Proper documentation for this package is available. The performances of the models are evaluated under misspecification in a simulation study. An empirical illustration is explored to confront results from bessel and beta regressions by using the newRpackagebbreg.
Association of early discharge with increased likelihood of hospital readmission in first four weeks for vaginally delivered neonates
Authors: Pohjanpää Maria , Ojala Riitta , Luukkaala Tiina , Gissler Mika , Tammela Outi
Published: February 2022

Aim

The main aim was to determine whether hospital readmission rates by 28 days of age are elevated with early discharge (ED) in Finland. We sought to identify the causes and predictors of ED, readmission rates, admissions to the intensive care unit (ICU) and death.

Methods

The data of 333,321 infants were retrieved from nationwide registers. Vaginally delivered single infants at gestational ages (GAs) of ≥37+0, born in 2008–2015 and treated in any maternity ward in Finland, were included. ED was defined as discharge on the day of birth or after one night stay on the maternity ward.

Results

During the study period, the ED and hospital readmission rates increased. Low‐risk infants and those born in high population‐density areas were more likely to be discharged early. ED predicted hospital readmission but not ICU admission or death. The most common reason for readmission was jaundice, followed by infection. ED seemed not to predict severe cardiologic problems. Rather than ED, being born at 38+0–38+6 weeks’ GA significantly predicted ICU admission or death.

Conclusion

Early discharge seems to be associated with increased hospital readmission. Birth at 38+0–38+6 weeks’ GA was a significant predictor of ICU admission or death, as opposed to early discharged infants.
A high percentage of hospital‐acquired neonatal bacteraemia but rare resistance to standard antibiotic regimens
Authors: Dabaja‐Younis Halima , Atrash‐Nimri Nili , Diab Shaden , Jubran Huda , Geffen Yuval , Kassis Imad
Published: February 2022

Aim

We examined community and hospital‐acquired bacteraemia, namely bloodstream infections or meningitis, and looked at the clinical features and outcomes of cases.

Methods

The study comprised infants under 3 months of age, who were admitted to a tertiary referral centre in northern Israel with bacteraemia from 2010–2019. Causative pathogens, antibiotic susceptibility and mortality were retrospectively recorded.

Results

We identified 314 infants, 325 episodes of bacteraemia and 344 pathogens. Meningitis was identified in 22 (7.0%) infants. Hospital‐acquired bacteraemia accounted for 84.8% of the 325 episodes. Coagulase‐negative staphylococci (33.9%) was the most prevalent pathogen in the hospital‐acquired cases, while Escherichia coli (37.2%) dominated the community‐acquired cases. The susceptibility of Gram‐negative early‐onset sepsis cases to ampicillin–gentamicin or ampicillin–cefotaxime was 96% and 94.7% for hospital‐acquired cases and 91.7% and 88% for community‐acquired cases, respectively. Susceptibility to piperacillin–tazobactam or amikacin in late‐onset sepsis were 92.8% and 98%, respectively, in hospital‐acquired cases. The 30‐day mortality was 5.7% in infants with hospital‐acquired cases. Risk factors were Arab ethnicity (p < 0.028), haemodynamic instability (<0.001) and Gram‐negative sepsis (0.043).

Conclusion

Most cases of bacteraemia were acquired during hospitalisation and these accounted for the majority of the deaths. Resistance to standard antibiotic regimens was rare.
Muscle endoplasmic reticulum stress in exercise
Authors: Marafon Bruno B. , Pinto Ana P. , Ropelle Eduardo R. , de Moura Leandro P. , Cintra Dennys E. , Pauli José R. , da Silva Adelino S. R.
Published: February 2022

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an organelle responsible for the post‐translational folding and modification of proteins. Under stress conditions, such as physical exercise, there is accumulation of misfolded proteins. The increased load of proteins in the ER results in ER stress, which activates the unfolded protein response (UPR). UPR is comprised of three parallel pathways, responsible for ensuring the quality of secreted proteins. Scientific studies show that resistance or endurance acute physical exercise can induce ER stress and activate the UPR pathways. On the other hand, regular moderate‐intensity exercise can attenuate the responses of genes and proteins related to ER stress. However, these positive adaptations do not occur when exercise intensity and volume increase without adequate rest periods, which is observed in overtraining. The current review discusses the frontier‐of‐knowledge findings on the effects of different acute and chronic physical exercise protocols on skeletal muscle ER stress and its metabolic consequences.
Beyond sustainable livelihoods: A diverse economies approach to rural peasant livelihoods in China's Qinghai Province
Authors: Duojie Caihuan
Published: February 2022

This paper delves into rural peasants' livelihood‐related agrarian changes revolving around their three major livelihood strategies in Qinghai. These strategies include peasant agriculture, seasonal migrant labour and caterpillar fungus harvesting, the latter two of which have been adopted since the mid‐1990s. The research particularly focuses on rural Tibetan peasants' lived experiences in their efforts to achieve sustainable livelihoods through these three strategies in a specific village context. In doing so, the paper highlights resources, qualifications, opportunities, changes and challenges in rural peasants' livelihood realities. The empirical evidence from this paper suggests that rural Tibetan peasants' diverse ways of making livelihoods have a greater potential to imagine and build sustainable and equitable livelihoods. I argue that sustainable livelihoods approaches must be pursued in tandem with a diverse economies framework for analysing rural peasants' present way of making livelihoods. This new and critical way of studying rural peasant livelihoods can particularly highlight non‐capitalist economic relations and practices that are the major contributors to sustainable and equitable livelihoods for Tibetan peasants.
Methyltransferase SETD2 inhibits tumor growth and metastasis via STAT1–IL‐8 signaling‐mediated epithelial–mesenchymal transition in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yang Xin , Chen Rui , Chen Yan , Zhou You , Wu Chen , Li Qing , Wu Jun , Hu Wen‐wei , Zhao Wei‐qing , Wei Wei , Shi Jun‐tao , Ji Mei
Published: February 2022

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a major subtype of non–small‐cell lung cancer, which is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. The histone H3K36 methyltransferase SETD2 has been reported to be frequently mutated or deleted in types of human cancer. However, the functions of SETD2 in tumor growth and metastasis in LUAD has not been well illustrated. Here, we found that SETD2 was significantly downregulated in human lung cancer and greatly impaired proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we found that SETD2 overexpression significantly attenuated the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) of LUAD cells. RNA‐seq analysis identified differentially expressed transcripts that showed an elevated level of interleukin 8 (IL‐8) in STED2‐knockdown LUAD cells, which was further verified using qPCR, western blot, and promoter luciferase report assay. Mechanically, SETD2‐mediated H3K36me3 prevented assembly of Stat1 on the IL‐8 promoter and contributed to the inhibition of tumorigenesis in LUAD. Our findings highlight the suppressive role of SETD2/H3K36me3 in cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT during LUAD carcinogenesis, via regulation of the STAT1–IL‐8 signaling pathway. Therefore, our studies on the molecular mechanism of SETD2 will advance our understanding of epigenetic dysregulation at LUAD progression.
Predictions of biodiversity are improved by integrating trait‐based competition with abiotic filtering
Authors: Chalmandrier Loïc , Stouffer Daniel B. , Purcell Adam S. T. , Lee William G. , Tanentzap Andrew J. , Laughlin Daniel C.
Published: February 2022

All organisms must simultaneously tolerate the environment and access limiting resources if they are to persist. Approaches to understanding abiotic filtering and competitive interactions have generally been developed independently. Consequently, integrating those factors to predict species abundances and community structure remains an unresolved challenge. We introduce a new synthetic framework that models both abiotic filtering and competition by using functional traits. First, our framework estimates species carrying capacities along abiotic gradients. Second, it estimates pairwise competitive interactions as a function of species trait differences. Applied to the study of a complex wetland community, our combined approach more than doubles the explained variance of species abundances compared to a model of abiotic tolerances alone. Trait‐based integration of competitive interactions and abiotic filtering improves our ability to predict species abundances, bringing us closer to more accurate predictions of biodiversity structure in a changing world.
Spontaneous remyelination in lesions protects the integrity of surrounding tissues over time in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ricigliano Vito A. G. , Tonietto Matteo , Hamzaoui Mariem , Poirion Émilie , Lazzarotto Andrea , Bottlaender Michel , Gervais Philippe , Maillart Elisabeth , Stankoff Bruno , Bodini Benedetta
Published: February 2022

Background and purpose

Lesion remyelination preserves axonal integrity in animal models of multiple sclerosis (MS), but an in vivo demonstration of its protective effect on surrounding tissues in humans is lacking.

Methods

Nineteen persons with MS were enrolled in a cohort study and underwent two positron emission tomography (PET)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans 1–4 months apart. Voxelwise maps of Pittsburgh compound B distribution volume ratio, reflecting myelin content, were used to calculate an index of baseline demyelination, and of dynamic demyelination and remyelination over the follow‐up in 549 single white matter lesions. Changes in fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity, reflecting microstructural damage, were calculated in the proximal and distal 3‐mm‐thick rings surrounding each lesion, and used to classify perilesional microstructure as “preserved” or “worsening” over the follow‐up. Mixed‐effect linear models and logistic regressions were employed to investigate whether PET‐derived lesional indices were associated with changes in MRI metrics in perilesions, and to identify which of them best predicted the microstructural evolution of perilesions over time.

Results

A higher index of remyelination, and a lower index of baseline and dynamic demyelination in lesions were associated with a less severe microstructural deterioration of the corresponding proximal and distal perilesions over time (p‐value range: <0.001–0.012), but the index of remyelination was the best predicting variable of perilesional fate. For every extra 1% of remyelination within each lesion, the probability of the corresponding perilesional microstructure remaining preserved over time increased by 39% (odds ratio = 6.62, 95% confidence interval = 2.16–20.32, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Intralesional remyelination is associated with the microstructural preservation of surrounding tissues, possibly preventing neuroaxonal damage resulting from Wallerian degeneration.
Nutritional status in patients with advanced‐stage multiple sclerosis
Authors: Teng Maëlys , Bensmail Djamel , Hanachi Mouna , Haddad Rebecca , Hugeron Caroline , Lansaman Thibaud , Levy Jonathan
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Motor and swallowing dysfunctions in multiple sclerosis (MS) unbalance calorie intake and energy expenditure, modifying nutritional status. Only one study has described nutritional status in MS patients at early disease stages (median Expanded Disability Status Scale [EDSS] = 3), but this has never been assessed in the most severe cases. The goal of the present study was to describe nutritional status in advanced‐stage MS.

Methods

The study was a non‐interventional retrospective analysis of a prospective registry. We reviewed medical files of consecutive MS patients admitted for annual follow‐up in a physical and rehabilitation medicine unit between May 2016 and October 2018. Malnutrition for frail people, according to the French Health Authority (Haute Autorité de Santé [HAS]) definition, was our composite primary outcome criterion: body mass index (BMI) <21 kg/m2 and/or albumin<35 g/L. First, we performed a descriptive analysis of the nutritional status. Second, we studied the association between malnutrition and MS characteristics in univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

A total of 163 patients with median EDSS = 8 [7; 8.5] were included. Ninety‐three patients (57%) met HAS malnutrition criteria (36% with albumin <35 g/L, 31% with BMI <21 kg/m2 and 10% with both). Malnutrition was associated in univariate analysis with MS severity (EDSS ≥8.5, p = 0.0003), primary progressive type of MS (p = 0.01) and swallowing disorders (p = 0.002). Multivariate analysis showed that low disability status (EDSS <7) was the only independent (protective) factor associated with malnutrition (OR = 0.2, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Malnutrition is frequent in advanced stages of MS and is probably a key point for therapeutics, which has never been demonstrated previously. A standardized evaluation should be developed to improve nutritional therapeutic strategies in this population.
A de novo missense variant in GABRA4 alters receptor function in an epileptic and neurodevelopmental phenotype
Authors: Vogel Florian D. , Krenn Martin , Westphal Dominik S. , Graf Elisabeth , Wagner Matias , Leiz Steffen , Koniuszewski Filip , Augé‐Stock Maximilian , Kramer Georg , Scholze Petra , Ernst Margot
Published: February 2022

Variants in γ‐aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptor genes cause different forms of epilepsy and neurodevelopmental disorders. To date, GABRA4, encoding the α4‐subunit, has not been associated with a monogenic condition. However, preclinical evidence points toward seizure susceptibility. Here, we report a de novo missense variant in GABRA4 (c.899C>T, p.Thr300Ile) in an individual with early‐onset drug‐resistant epilepsy and neurodevelopmental abnormalities. An electrophysiological characterization of the variant, which is located in the pore‐forming domain, shows accelerated desensitization and a lack of seizure‐protective neurosteroid function. In conclusion, our findings strongly suggest an association between de novo variation in GABRA4 and a neurodevelopmental disorder with epilepsy.
Behavioral phenotypes of pediatric temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Schraegle William A. , Tillman Rachael , Ailion Alyssa , Babajani‐Feremi Abbas , Titus Jeffrey B. , DeLeon Rosario C. , Clarke Dave , Hermann Bruce P.
Published: February 2022

Objective

A broad spectrum of emotional‐behavioral problems have been reported in pediatric temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), but with considerable variability in their presence and nature of expression, which hampers precise identification and treatment. The present study aimed to empirically identify latent patterns or behavioral phenotypes and their correlates.

Methods

Data included parental ratings of emotional‐behavioral status on the Behavior Assessment System for Children, 2nd Edition (BASC‐2) of 81 children (mean age = 11.79, standard deviation [SD] = 3.93) with TLE. The nine clinical subscales were subjected to unsupervised machine learning to identify behavioral subgroups. To explore concurrent validity and the underlying composition of the identified clusters, we examined demographic factors, seizure characteristics, psychosocial factors, neuropsychological performance, psychiatric status, and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL).

Results

Three behavioral phenotypes were identified, which included no behavioral concerns (Cluster 1, 43% of sample), externalizing problems (Cluster 2, 41% of sample), and internalizing problems (Cluster 3, 16% of sample). Behavioral phenotypes were characterized by important differences across clinical seizure variables, psychosocial/familial factors, everyday executive functioning, and HRQoL. Cluster 2 was associated with younger child age, lower maternal education, and higher rate of single‐parent households. Cluster 3 was associated with older age at epilepsy onset and higher rates of hippocampal sclerosis and parental psychiatric history. Both Cluster 2 and 3 demonstrated elevated family stress. Concurrent validity was demonstrated through the association of psychiatric (i.e., rate of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM‐5) disorders and psychotropic medication) and parent‐rated HRQoL variables.

Significance

Youth with TLE present with three distinct behavioral phenotypes that correspond with important clinical and sociodemographic markers. The current findings demonstrate the variability of behavioral presentations in youth with TLE and provide a preliminary framework for screening and targeting intervention to enhance support for youth with TLE and their families.
Gene drive escape from resistance depends on mechanism and ecology
Authors: Cook Forest , Bull James J. , Gomulkiewicz Richard
Published: February 2022

Gene drives can potentially be used to suppress pest populations, and the advent of CRISPR technology has made it feasible to engineer them in many species, especially insects. What remains largely unknown for implementations is whether antidrive resistance will evolve to block the population suppression. An especially serious threat to some kinds of drive is mutations in the CRISPR cleavage sequence that block the action of CRISPR, but designs have been proposed to avoid this type of resistance. Various types of resistance at loci away from the cleavage site remain a possibility, which is the focus here. It is known that modest‐effect suppression drives can essentially “outrun” unlinked resistance even when that resistance is present from the start. We demonstrate here how the risk of evolving (unlinked) resistance can be further reduced without compromising overall suppression by introducing multiple suppression drives or by designing drives with specific ecological effects. However, we show that even modest‐effect suppression drives remain vulnerable to the evolution of extreme levels of inbreeding, which halt the spread of the drive without actually interfering with its mechanism. The landscape of resistance evolution against suppression drives is therefore complex, but avenues exist for enhancing gene drive success.
Rapid evaluation of notch stress intensity factors using the peak stress method with 3D tetrahedral finite element models: Comparison of commercial codes
Authors: Meneghetti Giovanni , Campagnolo Alberto , Visentin Alberto , Avalle Massimiliano , Benedetti Matteo , Bighelli Andrea , Castagnetti Davide , Chiocca Andrea , Collini Luca , De Agostinis Massimiliano , De Luca Alessandro , Dragoni Eugenio , Fini Stefano , Fontanari Vigilio , Frendo Francesco , Greco Alessandro , Marannano Giuseppe , Moroni Fabrizio , Pantano Antonio , Pirondi Alessandro , Rebora Alessandro , Scattina Alessandro , Sepe Raffaele , Spaggiari Andrea , Zuccarello Bernardo
Published: February 2022

The peak stress method (PSM) allows a rapid application of the notch stress intensity factor (NSIF) approach to the fatigue life assessment of welded structures, by employing the linear elastic peak stresses evaluated by FE analyses with coarse meshes. Because of the widespread adoption of 3D modeling of large and complex structures in the industry, the PSM has recently been boosted by including four‐node and ten‐node tetrahedral elements of Ansys FE software, which allows to discretize complex geometries. In this paper, a Round Robin among eleven Italian Universities has been performed to calibrate the PSM with seven different commercial FE software packages. Several 3D mode I, II and III problems have been considered to investigate the influence of (i) FE code, (ii) element type, (iii) mesh pattern, and (iv) procedure to extrapolate stresses at FE nodes. The majority of the adopted FE software packages present similar values of the PSM parameters, the main source of discrepancy being the stress extrapolation method at FE nodes.
Towards improved modeling of SOC decomposition: soil water potential beyond the wilting point
Authors: Liang Junyi , Chen Kangli , Siqintana  , Huo Tianci , Zhang Yaowen , Jing Jingying , Feng Wenting
Published: February 2022

Soils are important carbon (C) reservoirs and play a critical role in regulating the global C cycle. Soil water potential (SWP) measures the energy with which water is retained in the soil and is one of the most vital factors that constrain the decomposition of soil organic C (SOC). The measurements for soil water retention curve (SWRC), on which the estimation of SWP depends, are usually carried out above −1.5 MPa (i.e., the wilting point for many plants). However, the average moisture threshold at which soil microbial activity ceases is usually below −10 MPa in mineral soils. Beyond the measurement range, the SWP estimation has to be derived from extrapolating the SWRC, which violates the statistical principle, resulting in possibly inaccurate SWP estimations. To date, it is unclear to what extent the extrapolated SWP estimation deviates from the “true value” and how it impacts the modeling of SOC decomposition. This study combined SWRC measurements down to −43.7 MPa, a 72‐day soil incubation experiment with four moisture levels, and an SOC decomposition model. In addition to the complete SWRC (SWRCall), we fitted two more SWRCs by using measurements above −0.5 MPa (SWRC0.5) and −1.7 MPa (SWRC1.7), respectively, to quantify the deviations of extrapolated SWPs from the complete SWRC. Results showed that extrapolating the SWRC beyond its measurement range significantly underestimated the SWP. Incorporating the extrapolated SWP in the model significantly underestimated the SOC decomposition under relatively dry conditions. With the extrapolated SWP, the model predicted no SOC decomposition in the driest treatment, while the experiment observed a significant CO2 emission. The results emphasize that accurate SWP estimations beyond the wilting point are critically needed to improve the modeling of SOC decomposition.
Physical therapy within US HTCs: A multicentre survey of utilization, practice patterns and pain management approaches
Authors: Newman Jennifer R. , Durben Nancy , Baumann Kimberly , Lambing Angela Y. , Nichols Cynthia D. , Witkop Michelle , Santaella Maria E. , Buckner Tyler W.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Practice patterns and utilization of physical therapists (PTs) affiliated with Hemophilia Treatment Centers (HTCs) in the United States (US) are not well known.

Aims

Describe utilization, role responsibilities and practice patterns of US HTC PTs. Identify practice patterns specifically focusing on assessment and treatment of pain. Recognize gaps in utilization and role responsibilities of PTs as part of the multidisciplinary team and suggest guidelines for PT involvement within the HTC.

Methods

Respondents were a subset of a convenience sample of healthcare providers who responded to a non‐validated survey developed by a multi‐disciplinary panel of haemophilia experts.

Results

A 33.0% response‐rate (n = 59) representing all regions of US HTCs was achieved. Those working ≥10 hours per week were more likely to provide nutrition education (P = .026) and surgical options education (P < .001). Those who billed insurance for their services during comprehensive visits were more likely to provide education regarding surgical options (P = .046). The majority of PTs (95.0%) evaluated pain regardless of time spent in clinic and felt comfortable treating pain. Fifty‐eight percent used a formal pain measurement tool and more likely to use a formal pain measurement tool if billing insurance (P = .004). Top five non‐pharmacologic treatments recommended for pain management included splints/braces (84.8%), aquatic therapy (74.6%), orthotics (71.2%), surgical options (47.5%) and yoga (32.2%).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated PT utilization across HTC centres varies widely. Gaps in care may be addressed through salary support, funded education, greater regional/national collaboration of PTs specializing in bleeding disorders and advocacy for insurance coverage for appropriate services.
In vitro efficacy of a non‐instrumentation technique to remove intracanal multispecies biofilm
Authors: Ordinola‐Zapata Ronald , Mansour Dina , Saavedra Flavia , Staley Christopher , Chen Ruoqiong , Fok Alex S.
Published: February 2022

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a non‐instrumentation technique to disinfect root canals infected by a human dental plaque‐derived multispecies biofilm.

Methodology

Twenty‐two mandibular incisors were accessed, autoclaved and inoculated with dental plaque. The Center for Disease Control biofilm reactor was used to promote contamination of the root canal space. In the conventional technique (control), the specimens were instrumented until size 35/04 and irrigated with 6% NaOCl. In the non‐instrumentation technique, a glide path was established using K‐files size 10–20 and specimens were immediately cleaned with the GentleWave System. Samples were obtained for culture and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Differences in abundances of genera were evaluated using Kruskal–Wallis test, and differences in alpha diversity were compared using anova. Alpha and beta diversity indices were calculated using mothur. The Shannon and Chao1 indices were used to measure alpha diversity. The Bray–Curtis dissimilarity was used to measure beta diversity. Differences in community composition were evaluated using analysis of similarity with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons.

Results

The total numbers of reads in biological samples ranged from 126 to 45 286. Significantly fewer reads were obtained from samples following cleaning by either method (p < .0001), and significantly fewer reads were obtained in post‐cleaning samples following conventional versus non‐instrumentation cleaning regiment (p = .002). Communities in pre‐treatment samples were similar in both groups; however, significantly greater relative abundances of Streptococcus, Veillonella and Campylobacter were observed following cleaning using non‐instrumentation technique (Kruskal–Wallis p = .009, .033, and .001, respectively). Whilst no significant differences were observed in Shannon alpha diversity, the Chao1 index was significantly lower in post‐cleaning samples.

Conclusions

Significant shifts in composition were observed following cleaning by using both regimens, but the impact of this change was greater following a conventional cleaning technique.
Etching behavior of ground fused silica and light enhancement modulated by surface/subsurface cracks
Authors: Ye Hui , Li Xiaofeng , Jiang Chen
Published: February 2022

The mechanical defects (scratches/cracks) originated from grinding processing need to be dislodged so that improving the optical performance of fused silica. In this paper, HF‐based (HF represents hydrofluoride acid) etchant was used as a subsequent fabrication for loose‐abrasive ground fused silica, and the surface morphology and characteristics of samples were evaluated, meanwhile, the electric/light field distribution around treated cracks was simulated using the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method. The results show that sufficient material removal amount blunts the cracks to be a series of parabolic‐shaped and smooth craters fused with each other, whose diameter and depth grow as a power function with etched depth. Triple subsurface defect depth should be removed so as to mitigate surface roughness to be ∼2.46 µm and promote transmission from initial 22.55%–54.02%. FDTD simulation results reveal that deep etching alleviates the light intensification factor (LIF) of craters within 1.8 as the diameter‐to‐depth ratio of craters is increased over 10. Moreover, a thickness removal model of ground fused silica involving the cracks distribution characteristics, cracks etching behavior as well as the LIF variation of craters is established, in which the supposed etched depth is determined to promote the manufacturing efficiency and laser damage resistance of the material.
Effects of lotus rhizome root powder made by different levels and drying methods on the physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity of regular‐fat model sausages
Authors: Qiu Zhuang Zhuang , Chin Koo Bok
Published: February 2022

The effects on physicochemical properties and shelf‐life of regular‐fat model sausages (RFMSs) added with oven‐dried or freeze‐dried lotus rhizome root powder (LRRP, ≤150 µm) at two different concentrations (0.5% or 1%) were investigated in this study. RFMSs added with LRRP showed decreased lightness (L*), reduced microbial counts, and thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS), but increased redness (a*), yellowness (b*), hardness, and cohesiveness. The changes in L*, a*, and b* of RFMSs treated with 1% oven‐dried LRRP were the largest. Furthermore, addition of 1% oven‐dried LRRP to the RFMSs minimised the TBARS value and the microbial count. RFMSs treated with LRRP had a denser and more compact microstructure than RFMSs without LRRP based on low‐vacuum scanning electron microscopy analysis. Therefore, LRRP improved the shelf‐life of RFMSs, especially 1% oven‐dried LRRP inhibited the maximum lipid oxidation and microbial growth.
Effects of ultrasound power on the properties of non‐salt chicken myofibrillar protein emulsions
Authors: Fu Qing‐quan , Shi Hai‐bo , Zhou Lei , Li Pan‐pan , Wang Rong‐rong
Published: February 2022

The present study was designed to investigate the effects of different ultrasonic powers (0–600 W) on the storage stability, rheological properties and microstructure of non‐salt chicken myofibrillar protein (MP) emulsions. The Turbiscan stability index (TSI) values, storage modulus (G′) values, loss modulus (G″) values, viscosity values and droplet size of the MP emulsions first increased and then decreased with an increase in ultrasonic power. The results of the creaming index and TSI values showed that ultrasonic treatment effectively improved the storage stability of the emulsions compared with non‐ultrasonic treatment. Meanwhile, sonication decreased the oil droplet size and the contact angles accompanied by an increase in G′ and G″ values and the viscosity. The oil droplets became smaller and more uniform distribution observed through the different kinds of microscopic analysis. The physical stability of non‐salt MP emulsions treated with different ultrasonic powers was significantly enhanced, and ultrasonic treatment with 450 W power had the optimal efficiency for the stability of the emulsions.
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose‐modified whey protein concentrate microcapsules for the encapsulation of tangeretin
Authors: Hu Yan , Lu Hang , Liu Fei , Liu Yongling
Published: February 2022

The oral bioavailability of tangeretin is limited by its low water solubility and high crystallisation. In the present study, tangeretin was entrapped in whey protein concentrate (WPC)‐stabilised emulsions to enhance its bioaccessibility. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) was added to modify the interface of the emulsion droplets, and Ca2+‐crosslinking was used to induce the gel formation. Spray drying of the emulsions or gels enabled to produce microcapsules. The physicochemical characteristics and in vitro digestion behavior of the microcapsules were investigated. Results indicated that HPMC modification and Ca2+‐crosslinking increased the average particle size, altered the microstructure, ameliorated the quality of the WPC‐based microcapsules and improved the encapsulation efficiency of tangeretin. Furthermore, the in vitro studies showed that HPMC modified and Ca2+‐added microcapsules could control the release of free fatty acid. HPMC greatly increased the bioaccessibility of tangeretin from around 28% to 80%. Overall, these results confirmed that HPMC‐modified WPC microcapsules could be a promising carrier to protect hydrophobic functional ingredients and improve their oral bioavailability.
Nursing engagement in genetics and genomics: A developing country's perspective
Authors: Abad Peter James B. , Sur Aster Lynn D.
Published: February 2022

Aim

To review how nursing is engaged with genetics/genomics developments in the Philippines’ healthcare system.

Background

There is an increasing demand for genetics services. However, the number of genetics professionals is lagging with this demand. Nurses play pivotal roles in mainstreaming genetics/genomics across healthcare settings.

Sources of evidence

Published and gray literature on genetics/genomics services in the Philippines and roles of nurses and the experiences of the authors.

Discussion

Nurses involved in genetics in the Philippines work in specialty genetics clinics and in newborn screening (NBS). Several issues hinder maximizing roles of nurses in genetics, such as the absence of competency standards, inadequate educational preparation, absence of a specialty organization, and increased workload of nurses.

Conclusion

The engagement of nursing with genetics/genomics is limited. Increasing awareness on the impact of nursing in genetics/genomics, adopting competency standards, and curricular integration are key if nurses’ roles in genetic healthcare are to be realized.

Implications for nursing practice

Introducing genetics/genomics systematically in practice environments is crucial. Tools such as the Method for Introducing New Competency Genomics can be used as a guide. Existing population‐based genetics programs such as NBS and rare disease offer a good context to introduce genetics in existing courses in the curriculum.

Implications for nursing policy

Nursing leaders need to be aware and recognize the relationship between nursing and genetics/genomics. A local specialty group in genetics and collaboration with international organizations are crucial to advocate the inclusion of genetics/genomics in nursing. Existing genetics/genomics competency standards can be validated in the local context to inform curricular integration.
Breathing out dental fear: A feasibility crossover study on the effectiveness of diaphragmatic breathing in children sitting on the dentist's chair
Authors: Levi Martina , Bossù Maurizio , Luzzi Valeria , Semprini Federica , Salaris Andrea , Ottaviani Cristina , Violani Cristiano , Polimeni Antonella
Published: February 2022

Background

Anxiety related to the dental context is a clinically significant challenge. In children, dental fear is often accompanied by disruptive and uncooperative behaviours that can render treatment difficult. Although techniques to reduce children's anxiety exist, many have not been formally evaluated.

Design

Diaphragmatic breathing has been shown to reduce fear and anxiety, but few investigations have evaluated whether it can reduce dental anxiety in children. This crossover study tested the effectiveness and feasibility of diaphragmatic breathing in twenty children undergoing dental care.

Results

Compared with the treatment as usual, such a simple technique had significant benefits on mood, self‐reported pain and autonomic balance, thus reducing sympathetic activation.

Conclusion

Diaphragmatic breathing is a low‐cost, easy–to‐implement technique suitable for daily dental practice, and is a promising tool for reducing negative effect and physiological distress in children with dental anxiety that results in more cooperative behaviours and reduced visit time.
Protocol for selecting exemplary silicate deposit compositions for evaluating thermal and environmental barrier coatings
Authors: Ericks Andrew R. , Zok Frank W. , Poerschke David L. , Levi Carlos G.
Published: February 2022

A protocol for selecting representative silicate compositions for comparative testing of gas turbine coating materials is presented. It begins with a curated dataset of compositions of engine deposits and naturally occurring siliceous debris including volcanic ashes, sands, and dusts. The compositions are first reduced to the five major oxides—those of Ca, Mg, Fe, Al, and Si—and then distilled further using principal component analysis and k‐means clustering. The process ultimately yields four classes of possible deposits with common chemical characteristics. Each class is represented by a composition centroid and a range in Ca:Si ratios. Key thermophysical properties of the possible deposits are calculated and related to the glass network connectivity, characterized by the Si:O ratio. Finally, deposits from each of these classes are compared in terms of their reactions with prototypical thermal and environmental barrier oxides, with due consideration of the effects of composition variations within each deposit class. The protocol is, in principle, adaptable to datasets compiled by OEMs and researchers in gas turbine coatings.