bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender and ethnic equity in Aotearoa New Zealand's public service before and since Covid‐19: Toward intersectional inclusion?
Authors: Parker Jane , Sayers Janet , Young‐Hauser Amanda , Barnett Shirley , Loga Patricia , Paea Selu
Published: October 2021

Since its bi‐cultural foundation with Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840 by Māori, the indigenous Polynesian people of Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ), chiefs and representatives of the British Crown), cultural identities have expanded through immigration. While Aotearoa NZ's government seeks to encourage workplace diversity in public service agencies, developments are being disrupted by Covid‐19. Using a typology of equality approaches, this study appraises the “ambition” of equity progress in Aotearoa NZ public service agencies based on content analysis of interviews with sector experts, agency staff and managers. In terms of equity discourses, workplace inequities emerge as more pronounced for Māori and Pasifika (the indigenous peoples of the Pacific), indicating that more “ambitious” equality initiatives, including those which aim for intersectional inclusion, are needed. The study thereby contributes a more nuanced understanding of equity approaches that could meaningfully inform workplace initiatives designed to recognize, value and empower gender diversity. Its relevance for Aotearoa NZ, which has one of the most diverse working‐age populations in the world, is likely to resonate in other countries where workforce diversity is yet to translate into equitable engagement in and experiences of work organizations by all.
Cribriform architecture outperforms Gleason pattern 4 percentage and tertiary Gleason pattern 5 in predicting the outcome of Grade Group 2 prostate cancer patients
Authors: Seyrek Neslisah , Hollemans Eva , Osanto Susanne , Pelger Rob C M , van der Poel Henk G , Bekers Elise , Bangma Chris H , Rietbergen John , Roobol Monique J , Schoots Ivo G , van Leenders Geert J L H
Published: October 2021

Aims

Gleason pattern 4 (GP4) percentage, invasive cribriform and/or intraductal carcinoma (IC/IDC) and the presence of tertiary Gleason pattern 5 (TP5) in radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens all aid in the risk stratification of Grade Group (GG) 2 prostate cancer patients. However, it is unclear to what extent these pathological features are mutually related and what are their individual values if they are investigated simultaneously. The aims of this study were: (i) to determine the mutual relationships of the GP4 percentage, IC/IDC and TP5 in GG2 RP specimens; and (ii) to assess their prognostic value for biochemical recurrence‐free survival (BCRFS).

Methods and results

Of 1064 RP specimens, 472 (44.4%) showed GG2 prostate cancer. Patients with ≥25% GP4 more frequently had IC/IDC (67.0% versus 43.9%; P < 0.001) and TP5 (20.6% versus 5.8%; P < 0.001) than those with <25% GP4. In unadjusted analysis, an increased GP4 percentage [hazard ratio (HR) 1.3; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.0–1.6; P = 0.04] and IC/IDC (log rank P < 0.001) were associated with shorter BCRFS, whereas TP5 (P = 0.12) and a dichotomised (<25%, ≥25%) GP4 percentage (P = 0.10) were not. In multivariable analysis, IC/IDC was an independent prognostic factor (HR 1.9; 95% CI 1.2–2.9; P = 0.005) for BCRFS, whereas a continuous or dichotomised GP4 percentage and TP5 were not independent prognostic factors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a higher GP4 percentage in RP specimens was associated with more frequent IC/IDC and TP5. IC/IDC was an independent predictor for BCRFS, whereas the GP4 percentage and TP5 were not. These findings underscore the importance of routinely including the presence of IC/IDC in RP pathology reports.
Examining the situational antecedents of interview faking behavior: A qualitative study
Authors: Ho Jordan L. , Perossa Andrew , Fancett Rhiannon S. , Powell Deborah M.
Published: October 2021

Over a decade has passed since the development of Levashina and Campion's (2006) Model of Faking Likelihood in Employment Interviews. Although researchers have accumulated considerable knowledge about interview faking, this literature may benefit from a deeper understanding of certain areas such as the situational antecedents of this behavior. As such, we conducted nine focus groups with Canadian participants to explore this research question. An inductive thematic analysis of these focus group data yielded three organizing themes for the situational antecedents of interview faking behavior: Conditions of Need Within Specific Interviews, Scope for Elusion, and Induced External Pressures. Overall, these findings provide novel insights that will help researchers and practitioners to better understand and predict interview faking.
Neutrophil and remnant clearance in immunity and inflammation
Authors: Singhal Apurwa , Kumar Sachin
Published: October 2021

Neutrophil‐centred inflammation and flawed clearance of neutrophils cause and exuberate multiple pathological conditions. These most abundant leukocytes exhibit very high daily turnover in steady‐state and stress conditions. Various armours including oxidative burst, NETs and proteases function against pathogens, but also dispose neutrophils to spawn pro‐inflammatory responses. Neutrophils undergo death through different pathways upon ageing, infection, executing the intruder's elimination. These include non‐lytic apoptosis and other lytic deaths including NETosis, necroptosis and pyroptosis with distinct disintegration of the cellular membrane. This causes release and presence of different intracellular cytotoxic, and tissue‐damaging content as cell remnants in the extracellular environment. The apoptotic cells and apoptotic bodies get cleared with non‐inflammatory outcomes, while lytic deaths associated remnants including histones and cell‐free DNA cause pro‐inflammatory responses. Indeed, the enhanced frequencies of neutrophil‐associated proteases, cell‐free DNA and autoantibodies in diverse pathologies including sepsis, asthma, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, imply disturbed neutrophil resolution programmes in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Thus, the clearance mechanisms of neutrophils and associated remnants are vital for therapeutics. Though studies focused on clearance mechanisms of senescent or apoptotic neutrophils so far generated a good understanding of the same, clearance of neutrophils undergoing distinct lytic deaths, including NETs, are being the subjects of intense investigations. Here, in this review, we are providing the current updates in the clearance mechanisms of apoptotic neutrophils and focusing on not so well‐defined recognition, uptake and degradation of neutrophils undergoing lytic death and associated remnants that may provide new therapeutic approaches in inflammation and autoimmunity.
Egg yolk immunoglobulin (IgY) targeting SARS-CoV-2 S1 as potential virus entry blocker
Authors: Bao Lirong , Zhang Cheng , Lyu Jinglu , Yi Ping , Shen Xin , Tang Boyu , Zhao Hang , Ren Biao , Kuang Yu , Zhou Linlin , Li Yan
Published: October 2021

Aims

COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has become a public health crisis worldwide. In this study, we aimed at demonstrating the neutralizing potential of the IgY produced after immunizing chicken with a recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein S1 subunit.

Methods and Results

E. coli BL21 carrying plasmid pET28a-S1 was induced with IPTG for the expression of SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein. The recombinant His-tagged S1 was purified and verified by SDS-PAGE, Western blot and biolayer interferometry (BLI) assay. Then S1 protein emulsified with Freund's adjuvant was used to immunize layer chickens. Specific IgY against S1 (S1-IgY) produced from egg yolks of these chickens exhibited a high titer (1:25,600) and a strong binding affinity to S1 (KD = 318 nmol L−1). The neutralizing ability of S1-IgY was quantified by a SARS-CoV-2 pseudotyped virus-based neutralization assay with an IC50 value of 0.99 mg ml−1. In addition, S1-IgY exhibited a strong ability in blocking the binding of SARS-CoV-2 S1 to hACE2, and it could partially compete with hACE2 for the binding sites on S1 by BLI assays.

Conclusions

We demonstrated here that after immunization of chickens with our recombinant S1 protein, IgY neutralizing antibodies were generated against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein S1 subunit; therefore, showing the potential use of IgY to block the entry of this virus.

Significance and Impact of the Study

IgY targeting S1 subunit of SARS-CoV-2 could be a promising candidate for pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis or treatment of COVID-19. Administration of IgY-based oral preparation, oral or nasal spray may have profound implications for blocking SARS-CoV-2.
Actionable processes of care important to patients and family who experienced a prolonged intensive care unit stay: Qualitative interview study
Authors: Rose Louise , Allum Laura J. , Istanboulian Laura , Dale Craig
Published: October 2021

Aim

To use positive deviance to identify actionable processes of care that may improve outcomes and experience from the perspectives of prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) stay survivors and family members.

Design

Prospective qualitative interview study in two geographically distant settings: Canada (2018/19) and the United Kingdom (2019/20).

Methods

Patient and family participant inclusion criteria comprised: aged over 18 years, ICU stay in last 2 years of over 7 days, able to recall ICU stay and provided informed consent. We conducted semi‐structured in‐person or telephone interviews. Data were analysed using a positive deviance approach.

Results

We recruited 29 participants (15 Canadian; 14 UK). Of these, 11 were survivors of prolonged ICU stay and 18 family members. We identified 22 actionable processes (16 common to Canadian and UK participants, 4 Canadian only and 2 UK only). We grouped processes under three themes: physical and functional recovery (nine processes), patient psychological well‐being (seven processes) and family relations (six processes). Most commonly identified physical/functional processes were regular physiotherapy, and fundamental hygiene and elimination care. For patient psychological well‐being: normalizing the environment and routines, and alleviating boredom and loneliness. For family relations: proactive communication, flexible family visiting and presence with facilities for family. Our positive deviance analysis approach revealed that incorporation of these actionable processes into clinical practice was the exception as opposed to the norm perceived driven by individual acts of kindness and empathy as opposed to standardized processes.

Conclusion

Actionable processes of care important to prolonged ICU stay survivors and family members differ from those frequently used in ICU quality improvement (QI) tools.

Impact

Our study emphasizes the need to develop QI tools that standardize delivery of actionable processes important to patients and families experiencing a prolonged ICU stay. As the largest healthcare professional group, nurses can play an essential role in leading this.
Diet quality among people with intellectual disabilities and borderline intellectual functioning
Authors: Gast David A. A. , de Wit Gabriela L. C. , van Hoof Amber , de Vries Jeanne H. M. , van Hemert Bert , Didden Robert , Giltay Erik J.
Published: October 2021

Background

We sought to assess diet quality among people with intellectual disabilities or borderline intellectual functioning, living in residential facilities or receiving day care.

Methods

We measured diet quality using the Dutch Healthy Diet Food Frequency Questionnaire (DHD) and compared this between participants with (n = 151) and controls without intellectual disabilities (n = 169). Potential correlates of diet quality were explored.

Results

We found lower mean diet quality among people with intellectual disabilities (M = 80.9) compared to controls (M = 111.2; mean adjusted difference −28.4; 95% CI [−32.3, −24.5]; p < .001). Participants with borderline intellectual functioning and mild intellectual disabilities had lower diet quality and higher body mass index than individuals with severe to profound intellectual disabilities. Being female was a predictor of better diet quality.

Conclusions

Overall, we found that diet quality was low in the sample of people with intellectual disabilities or borderline intellectual functioning.
Pleistocene climate oscillations and habitat connectivity contributed to avian beta‐diversity in the megadiverse Colombian Paramo ecosystems
Authors: Calpa‐Anaguano Edna V. , Graham Catherine H. , da Silva Fernando R.
Published: October 2021

Aim

The role of evolutionary history in shaping the patterns of species distributions is generally explored at coarse spatial extents. However, at small spatial extents, the combined effects of history and ecological processes on local diversity has received less attention. We test the relative importance of historical and ecological factors on the spatial distribution of bird taxonomic (TβD) and phylogenetic (PβD) β‐diversity on Paramo ecosystems.

Location

South‐western Colombia.

Taxon

Andean bird species.

Methods

Using point occurrence data for 175 bird species recorded in 11 Paramos, we calculated TβD and PβD. We used a lineage through time plot to evaluate the association between bird species richness and the time of Andean uplift and Quaternary climatic oscillations. To capture range dynamics associated with past climate oscillations, we delimited paramos using connectivity matrices based on four distance criteria (i.e. paramos connected at 20, 25, 35 and 55 km apart) to compute Moran's eigenvectors maps. Then, we evaluated the relative importance of altitude, past climatic oscillations, current climate and connectivity on the spatial distribution of avian TβD and PβD.

Results

Two‐thirds of the bird species in the paramos are recent and emerged after the late Miocene/early Pliocene. The average TβD was four times higher than the average PβD indicating that paramo assemblages harbour distinct, but closely related, species. We found that distribution of β‐diversity had a spatial structure resulting in two groups of paramos – one in the north of our study area containing four paramos and other in the south with seven paramos. This spatial structure together with past climate conditions explained the variation of both TβD and PβD.

Main conclusions

Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that patterns of β‐diversity reflect the complex history of Andean region including mountain uplift and climatic oscillations in the Pleistocene. We demonstrated that the integration of different facets of β‐diversity into a community ecology framework provides new insights about the historical and ecological factors responsible for generating the patterns of species distribution.
MicroRNA‐150 and its target ETS‐domain transcription factor 1 contribute to inflammation in diabetic photoreceptors
Authors: Yu Fei , Ko Michael L. , Ko Gladys Y.‐P.
Published: October 2021

Obesity‐associated type 2 diabetes (T2D) is on the rise in the United States due to the obesity epidemic, and 60% of T2D patients develop diabetic retinopathy (DR) in their lifetime. Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of obesity and T2D and a well‐accepted major contributor to DR, and retinal photoreceptors are a major source of intraocular inflammation and directly contribute to vascular abnormalities in diabetes. However, how diabetic insults cause photoreceptor inflammation is not well known. In this study, we used a high‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced T2D mouse model and cultured photoreceptors treated with palmitic acid (PA) to decipher major players that mediate high‐fat‐induced photoreceptor inflammation. We found that PA‐elicited microRNA‐150 (miR‐150) decreases with a consistent upregulation of ETS‐domain transcription factor 1 (Elk1), a downstream target of miR‐150, in PA‐elicited photoreceptor inflammation. We compared wild‐type (WT) and miR‐150 null (miR‐150−/−) mice fed with an HFD and found that deletion of miR‐150 exacerbated HFD‐induced photoreceptor inflammation in conjunction with upregulated ELK1. We further delineated the critical cellular localization of phosphorylated ELK1 at serine 383 (pELK1S383) and found that decreased miR‐150 exacerbated the T2D‐induced inflammation in photoreceptors by upregulating ELK1 and pELK1S383, and knockdown of ELK1 alleviated PA‐elicited photoreceptor inflammation.
Increased expression of Filaggrin and Claudin‐1 in the ocular surface of patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Callou T.M.P. , Orfali R.L. , Sotto M.N. , Pereira N.V. , Zaniboni M.C. , Aoki V. , Brito M.P. , Matsuda M. , Santo R.M.
Published: October 2021

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an itchy, chronic and inflammatory skin condition, with dysfunctional immune response and skin barrier defects. Reduction of filaggrin (FLG) and tight junctions (TJ) proteins, such as claudin‐1 (CLDN‐1), expression in cutaneous epithelial barrier is remarkable in AD pathogenesis. Ocular involvement occurs in approximately 40% of AD patients leading to changes in the structure of the conjunctiva.

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the expression of FLG and CLDN‐1 in the ocular surface of adults with AD, analysing bulbar conjunctival cells collected by a novel non‐invasive cellular imprint.

Methods

Bulbar conjunctival epithelial cells were collected by cellular imprint technique, and FLG and CLDN‐1 expression were assessed by immunofluorescence (IF) and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

Results

We detected increased expression of FLG and CLDN‐1, as well as their transcript levels in AD patients compared with healthy controls (HC). There was a positive correlation between tear film break‐up time (TBUT) and FLG expression. Fluorescein staining was inversely associated with FLG expression.

Conclusions

Our results may reflect a reactive response of the ocular surface to AD‐related ocular inflammation and associated dry eye disease. Further investigations focusing on the role of FLG and TJ expression in the ocular surface of AD patients may increment the understanding of the pathophysiology of extracutaneous AD and developing future targeted therapies.
Effect of low temperature plasma pretreatment on drying process of vegetables with waxy layer
Authors: Wu Wenfu , Jin Xing , Liu Zhe , Xu Yan , Zhu Fengwu , Zhang Jinsong
Published: October 2021

In this study, low temperature plasma technology was used as an efficient pretreatment method of vegetables with waxy layer before drying. The effects of different low plasma pretreatment power (200, 300, 400, and 500 W), low plasma pretreatment time (30, 40, and 50 s) and drying temperature on the thin layer drying process of vegetables (peppers, lentils, and peas) were investigated. Peppers after plasma pretreatment were dried at 45, 50, and 55°C. Lentils and peas after plasma pretreatment were dried at 65, 70, and 75°C. Results showed that low temperature plasma can effectively improve the drying efficiency, promote the moisture diffusion and shorten the drying time. After pretreatment power of 500 W for 30 s at 55°C, drying time of peppers was shortened by 18.75%, the maximum effective moisture diffusivity is 5.843 × 10−10 m2·s−1, and lower activation energy (Ea) is 69.349 kJ·mol−1 in comparison with 71.118 kJ·mol−1 for the control group. After pretreatment power of 500 W for 30 s at 75°C, drying time of lentils and peas was shortened by 33.33 and 27.27%, respectively. The maximum effective moisture diffusivity of lentils is 2.526 × 10−9 m2·s−1, and lower activation energy (Ea) is 27.359 kJ·mol−1 in comparison with 33.366 kJ·mol−1 for the control group. The maximum effective moisture diffusivity of peas is 1.867 × 10−9 m2·s−1, and lower activation energy (Ea) is 23.583 kJ·mol−1 in comparison with 29.107 kJ·mol−1 for the control group. Results indicate that the higher plasma pretreatment power led to the higher drying efficiency but higher plasma pretreatment time cannot further shorten the drying time.

Practical Applications

Vegetable is important in daily life, but easy to dehydrate in a natural state. The transportation and storage are more convenient after drying. Low temperature plasma technology does not need high pressure and low energy consumption, which can maintain the color and nutrition of vegetables to a large extent. In industry, it can be applied to pretreat fruits, vegetables, and other foods before drying. It can effectively enhance the drying efficiency, and shorten the drying time.
Market segmentation strategies can be used to overcome COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy and other health crises
Authors: Meng Matthew D. , Olsen Mitchell C.
Published: October 2021

As the COVID‐19 pandemic continues to impact everyone to some degree, it has become clear that experts from many disparate fields must work together to overcome such public health crises. Even now, a significant portion of U.S. residents remain hesitant to receive a vaccine. In the quest to safely return to a fully open economy, time is of the essence, as many lives and livelihoods can be saved by even marginal improvements in vaccination rates. To reach widespread immunization sooner, science stands to benefit by using market segmentation strategies with vaccine holdouts, much like brands do with customers. As evidence, we present results from a national survey segmented into four groups of COVID‐19 vaccine holdouts. When viewed and considered as separate segments, important distinctions regarding the nature and strength of reasons behind COVID‐19 vaccine aversion, and the solutions to which people are most open, become clearer.
Impacts of skin disorders associated with facial discoloration on quality of life: Novel insights explaining discordance between life quality scores and willingness to pay
Authors: Yang Ting‐Ting , Lan Cheng‐Che E.
Published: October 2021

Background

How diseases associated with skin discoloration affect the quality of life (QoL) has rarely been examined. In this study, we directly compared the QoL and willingness to pay (WTP) among patients with skin disorders associated with facial discoloration.

Methods

A single‐center, cross‐sectional study consisting of patients seeking treatment for facial discoloration was performed. All patients completed the dermatology life quality index (DLQI) and the short form 36 (SF‐36) health survey questionnaires. Additionally, information regarding monthly income and the WTP for a complete cure of the affected condition was obtained.

Results

Patients with melasma (58), lentigo (56), postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (5), vitiligo (51), acne‐induced erythema (10), and rosacea (31) were enrolled. Vitiligo, acne‐induced erythema, and rosacea patients reported significantly worse QoL compared to lentigines or melasma patients as evaluated by DLQI. Using SF‐36, rosacea patients were affected mentally the most as they reported the worst mental component scores, and the scores were significantly worse than that of melasma patients (rosacea vs. melisma = 46.5 vs. 52.7,p = 0.007). Vitiligo patients had the worst general health scores. Although there were no differences in the WTP among different diseases, the vitiligo group had the highest percentage of patients willing to pay more than 40% of their monthly income for a complete cure.

Conclusions

The impact on QoL is different among skin diseases associated with facial discoloration. Only vitiligo patients reported worse general health as compared to the general population, explaining the discordance between life quality scores and WTP in these patients.
Non‐cultured epidermal cells suspended in either platelet‐rich plasma or ringer lactate for stable vitiligo: A prospective comparative study
Authors: Albalat Waleed , Elsayed Manal , Salem Amira , Ehab Rana , Fawzy Manal
Published: October 2021

Background

Noncultured epidermal cell suspension (NCES) transplantation is a commonly used surgical treatment for resistant stable vitiligo. The combination of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) with different therapeutic modalities for vitiligo yielded higher repigmentation response, probably due to platelet‐derived growth factors.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of PRP‐suspended NCES compared to NCES suspended in Ringer's lactate (RL) solution in the treatment of stable vitiligo.

Patients and methods

A prospective comparative study was conducted on 40 patients with stable vitiligo. They were divided into two equal groups: group A (treated with RL‐suspended NCES) and group B (treated with PRP‐suspended NCES). All patients were followed‐up for 6 months for assessment of their therapeutic response regarding clinical outcomes and immunohistochemical expression of HMB‐45 in lesional skin.

Results

Patients treated with PRP‐suspended NCES showed a significantly higher repigmentation response compared to those treated with RL‐suspended NCES at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment (p = 0.015, 0.023, 0.029, respectively). The expression of HMB‐45 significantly increased in both groups after therapy, but without a significant difference between the two groups.

Conclusion

The repigmentation response of NCES can be enhanced by suspending the melanocytes in autologous PRP.
Prevalence and perinatal risk factors of parent‐reported colic, abdominal pain and other pain or discomforts in infants until 3 months of age ‐ A prospective cohort study in PreventADALL
Authors: Despriee Åshild Wik , Mägi Caroline‐Aleksi Olsson , Småstuen Milada Cvancarova , Glavin Kari , Nordhagen Live , Jonassen Christine M. , Rehbinder Eva Maria , Nordlund Björn , Söderhäll Cilla , Carlsen Karin Lødrup , Skjerven Håvard Ove
Published: October 2021

Aims and objectives

To estimate the prevalence and perinatal risk factors associated with parent reported colic, abdominal pain and pain or other discomforts in infants until 3 months of age.

Background

Infant colic is a common concern for parents and clinicians. The prevalence varies in different studies and its symptoms overlap with other conditions like abdominal pain and discomfort. Diagnosis criteria are challenging, pathogenesis unclear and risk factors are conflicting.

Design

This was a prospective cohort study.

Methods

The 1852 mother–child pairs from the PreventADALL prospective birth‐cohort answering the 3 months questionnaire were included. Information on perinatal risk factors was collected from the inclusion visit and questionnaires during pregnancy at 18 and 34 weeks, as well as birth charts. STROBE checklist was followed.

Results

The reported prevalence of colic was 3% (59/1852), abdominal pain 22% (415/1852) and pain or other discomfort 6% (119/1852), with a total of 26% (478/1852) infants. Mothers on sick leave in pregnancy and reporting any allergic diseases had a significantly higher odds of reporting infant colic, abdominal pain and pain or other discomforts. Mothers with higher perceived stress in pregnancy exhibited a trend towards higher odds for reporting infant pain. Mothers coming from Sweden were less likely to report infant abdominal pain compared to mothers from Norway.

Conclusions

The prevalence of abdominal pain and pain or other discomforts was higher than the prevalence of colic. Perinatal risk factors connected to maternal health were associated with all three symptoms.

Relevance to clinical practice

Colic and abdominal pain are stressful, symptoms overlap and risk factors for both can be identified in pregnancy. Our study suggests that it is difficult for parents to distinguish among infant colic, abdominal pain and other pain or discomfort and some report two or all three symptoms. Identifying the perinatal risk factors associated with infant pain may help target and support parents.
Vaginal pessary sharpens uterocervical angle in uterine prolapse during pregnancy. A case report
Authors: Matsuda Yoshio , Tagawa Miki , Shirai Yohei , Hattori Minako , Matsumine Miki , Matsumine Hisami
Published: October 2021

A 37‐year‐old multiparous woman complained of uterine prolapse at 14 weeks of gestation. A silicone ring‐shaped middle‐size vaginal pessary (# 62 mm) was placed into the vagina to reduce prolapsed uterus. Because the cervical length became shortened at 25 weeks of gestation, we decided to start intramuscular administration of progesterone (250 mg) weekly. At 33 weeks of gestation, she complained of the vaginal pessary spontaneous falling out, so we inserted a vaginal pessary of the same size again. The uterocervical angle became acute, going from 100° to 60° after placing the vaginal pessary into the vagina. We took the vaginal pessary out at 37 weeks of gestation. The patient gave birth at 39 weeks by spontaneous vaginal delivery to a healthy baby. A vaginal pessary may help continue a pregnancy via the same mechanism as a cervical pessary, which sharpens the uterocervical angle.
Mobile health technologies for the monitoring of menstrual cycle: A systematic review of online stores in Brazil
Authors: Dantas Lucas Ogura , Carvalho Cristiano , Pena Caroline , Breda Carolina Carreira , Driusso Patricia , Ferreira Cristine Homsi Jorge , Bø Kari
Published: October 2021

Aim

To perform a systematic review of available mHealth apps for menstrual cycle monitoring in Brazil.

Methods

A search for menstrual cycle mHealth apps from the Google Play Store and AppStore in Brazil was performed by two independent reviewers on October 2020, and the quality of eligible mHealth apps was assessed using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS).

Results

Our review identified 2400 potentially relevant mHealth apps, of which 56 were eligible for inclusion. The majority of the apps offered tools to track menstruation symptoms (63%) and educational content for users (32%). The mean ( ±SD) MARS app quality score for the 28 evaluated apps in Android was 3.5 ± 0.6 on a 0–5 scale. For the 28 evaluated apps in iOS, the mean app quality score was 3.8 ± 0.4. Most of the included apps, for both systems, scored average for credibility, user interface, and engagement.

Conclusion

The majority of available tools in Brazil are of moderate quality and limited functionality for menstrual cycle monitoring. This study highlights the top three mHealth apps available on each online store for individuals seeking menstrual cycle monitoring options.
Health‐related out‐of‐pocket expenses for children living with rare diseases ‐ tuberous sclerosis and mitochondrial disorders: A prospective pilot study in Australian families
Authors: Deverell Marie , Phu Amy , Elliott Elizabeth J , Teutsch Suzy M , Eslick Guy D , Stuart Clare , Murray Sean , Davis Rebecca , Dalkeith Troy , Christodoulou John , Zurynski Yvonne A
Published: October 2021

Aim

We aimed to describe health‐related out‐of‐pocket (OOP) expenses incurred by Australian families living with children with chronic and complex diseases.

Methods

A prospective pilot study of OOP expenses in families with children with tuberous sclerosis (TS) or mitochondrial disorders (MD) in 2016–2017. An initial survey assessed the family's financial situation, child's health functioning and estimated previous 6 months' and lifetime OOP expenses. Thereafter, families completed a survey each month for 6 months, prospectively tracking OOP expenses.

Results

Initial surveys were completed by 13 families with 15 children; median age 7 years (range: 1–12); 5 with MD, 10 with TS. All families reported OOP expenses: 38% paid $2000 per annum, more than double the annual per‐capita OOP costs reported for Australia by the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development. Eight families estimated $5000–$25 000 in OOP expenses over their child's lifetime and 62% of mothers reduced or stopped work due to caring responsibilities. Eleven families paid annual private health insurance premiums of $2000–$5122, but 72% said this was poor value‐for‐money. Prospective tracking by eight families (9 children) identified the median OOP expenditure was $863 (range $55–$1398) per family for 6 months. OOP spending was associated with visits to allied health professionals, non‐prescription medicines, special foods, supplements and disposable items. Eight families paid for 91 prescription medications over 6 months.

Conclusion

All families caring for children with TS or MD reported OOP expenses. A larger study is needed to explore the affordability of health care for children living with a broader range of chronic diseases.
Geographical Networks in the Divergence of Australian Positive Behavior Support Policy
Authors: Hayward Brent A. , McKay‐Brown Lisa , Poed Shiralee
Published: October 2021

Positive behavior support (PBS) is an example of a disability policy that has gained international acceptance through its promotion as a means of improving personal outcomes, reducing restrictive practices, and upholding human rights. We take the situation of devolution of responsibility for restrictive practices in the Australian National Disability Insurance Scheme to examine how policies for PBS have diverged. We use references in PBS policies to study the influence of geography and interpersonal relationships in policymaking. Using a variety of network science methods, we explore what has led to the development of divergent PBS policy. The results show that only a small number of co‐cited references were used, the majority of which are not PBS‐specific, are not from Australia, and are not freely available online. Geographical patterns of reference use are evident, and brokers can be identified. This geographical divergence may have negative outcomes for people with disability, particularly those with ID who are at greater risk of not having their needs met. The methodology can be applied internationally in a variety of policy contexts to demonstrate local influences on policy development and identify opportunities to strategically effect changes.
Cystectomy for patients with Hunner‐type interstitial cystitis at a tertiary referral center in Japan
Authors: Akiyama Yoshiyuki , Niimi Aya , Igawa Yasuhiko , Nomiya Akira , Yamada Yuta , Sato Yusuke , Kawai Taketo , Yamada Daisuke , Kume Haruki , Homma Yukio
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the outcomes of partial and total cystectomy in patients with refractory Hunner‐type interstitial cystitis (HIC).

Methods

Patients with end‐stage HIC who underwent supratrigonal partial cystectomy with augmentation ileocystoplasty (PC‐CP) or total cystectomy with ileal conduit (TC‐IC) were identified retrospectively. Changes in the 11‐point numerical rating scale of bladder pain and in 7‐grade quality of life (QOL) scores were evaluated. Changes in the O'Leary and Sant's Symptom Index (OSSI) and O'Leary and Sant's Problem Index (OSPI) were analyzed in patients with PC‐CP. Peri‐ and postoperative complications and patient satisfaction with overall outcomes were examined.

Results

Four patients (one female) underwent PC‐CP and 13 (nine females) underwent TC‐IC. Bladder pain persisted in three PC‐CP patients, but resolved completely in all TC‐IC patients. Pain scale and QOL scores improved significantly in patients with TC‐IC (P < .01), but not in those with PC‐CP. OSSI/OSPI scores did not improve significantly in patients with PC‐CP. Three PC‐CP patients required clean intermittent catheterization due to voiding dysfunction or persistent pain. Two TC‐IC patients developed stricture of the ureteroileal anastomosis, resulting in permanent placement of a ureteral stent in one case and nephrostomy in the other. Satisfaction rate was higher in the TC‐IC than in the PC‐CP group (76.9% vs 25.0%, P < .05).

Conclusions

TC‐IC provided reliable pain relief and improved QOL in patients with end‐stage HIC, but the small case number and limited methodology restrict interpretation of the results. Further studies are needed to identify appropriate candidates and optimal surgical procedures.
Population genetics as a tool to elucidate pathogen reservoirs: Lessons fromPseudogymnoascus destructans, the causative agent of White‐Nose disease in bats
Authors: Fischer Nicola M. , Altewischer Andrea , Ranpal Surendra , Dool Serena , Kerth Gerald , Puechmaille Sebastien J.
Published: October 2021

Emerging infectious diseases pose a major threat to human, animal, and plant health. The risk of species‐extinctions increases when pathogens can survive in the absence of the host. Environmental reservoirs can facilitate this. However, identifying such reservoirs and modes of infection is often highly challenging. In this study, we investigated the presence and nature of an environmental reservoir for the ascomycete fungusPseudogymnoascus destructans, the causative agent of White‐Nose disease. Using 18 microsatellite markers, we determined the genotypic differentiation between 1497P.destructansisolates collected from nine closely situated underground sites where bats hibernate (i.e., hibernacula) in Northeastern Germany. This approach was unique in that it ensured that every isolate and resulting multilocus genotype was not only present, but also viable and therefore theoretically capable of infecting a bat. The distinct distribution of multilocus genotypes across hibernacula demonstrates that each hibernaculum has an essentially unique fungal population. This would be expected if bats become infected in their hibernaculum (i.e., the site they spend winter in to hibernate) rather than in other sites visited before they start hibernating. In one hibernaculum, both the walls and the hibernating bats were sampled at regular intervals over five consecutive winter seasons (1062 isolates), revealing higher genotypic richness on walls compared to bats and a stable frequency of multilocus genotypes over multiple winters. This clearly implicates hibernacula walls as the main environmental reservoir of the pathogen, from which bats become reinfected annually during the autumn.
Modern Philosophy and Origen
Authors: Edwards Mark J.
Published: October 2021

This essay asks in what ways modern (i.e. twentieth‐century) philosophy can either make use of Origen or inform our reading of him. It argues in the first section that the predominantly exegetic method of Origen makes it difficult for analytic philosophy to accommodate his reasoning. In the second section it examines the comparisons drawn by John Lyons between Origen and Teilhard de Chardin, which also suggest affinities with Henri Bergson, but concludes that the disparity between modern evolutionary thinking and Origen’s timeless approach to the truth of scripture is not easily overcome. The rest of the article suggests that it would be more illuminating to note affinities between Origen and modern theorists who pursue their arguments in dialogue with canonical texts. In particular, Origen’s ubiquitous search for Christ in the text of scripture, without clear evidence of authorial intent, might be more intelligible in modern eyes if Christ were seen as a Derridean pharmakos or Girardean scapegoat.
Subtle interplay between trichome development and cuticle formation in plants
Authors: Berhin Alice , Nawrath Christiane , Hachez Charles
Published: October 2021

Trichomes and cuticles are key protective epidermal specializations. This review highlights the genetic interplay existing between trichome and cuticle formation in a variety of species. Controlling trichome development, the biosynthesis of trichome‐derived specialized metabolites as well as cuticle biosynthesis and deposition can be viewed as different aspects of a common defensive strategy adopted by plants to protect themselves from environmental stresses. Existence of such interplay is based on the mining of published transcriptomic data as well as on phenotypic observations in trichome or cuticle mutants where the morphology of both structures often appear to be concomitantly altered. Given the existence of several trichome developmental pathways depending on the plant species and the types of trichomes, genetic interactions between cuticle formation and trichome development are complex to decipher and not easy to generalize. Based on our review of the literature, a schematic overview of the gene network mediating this transcriptional interplay is presented for two model plant species: Arabidopsis thaliana and Solanum lycopersicum. In addition to fundamental new insights on the regulation of these processes, identifying key transcriptional switches controlling both processes could also facilitate more applied investigations aiming at improving much desired agronomical traits in plants.
Prevalence and risk factors for myopia and high myopia: A cross‐sectional study among Han and Uyghur students in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Jing Sili , Yi Xianglong , Lei Yaolong , Hu Lumei , Cheng Wenbo , Wen Tao , Liu Xiaoxiao , Luo Mei
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors for myopia and high myopia among Han and Uyghur students in Xinjiang, China.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study with a multistage, stratified cluster sampling method was completed in Xinjiang, China. Visual acuity and noncycloplegic refraction were measured. The crude and sex‐ and age‐adjusted prevalence of myopia and high myopia in Han and Uyghur students were compared. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to identify risk factors associated with myopia and high myopia.

Results

In total, 84,033 participants were included in the final analysis, comprising 64,110 Han and 19,923 Uyghur participants. The overall age‐ and sex‐adjusted prevalence of myopia and high myopia were 47.70% (95% CI: 47.67–47.74) and 2.55% (95% CI: 2.54–2.56), respectively. Compared to the Uyghur population, the Han population had a higher prevalence of myopia (63.59% vs. 21.34%, p < 0.0001) and high myopia (4.68% vs. 0.6%, p < 0.0001). Han ethnicity, age, female sex, higher education level and living in urban areas were found to be positively associated with myopia and high myopia. Living in northern Xinjiang was found to be positively associated with myopia but negatively associated with high myopia.

Conclusions

Our study investigated the prevalence of myopia and high myopia among Han and Uyghur students aged 4–23 years in Xinjiang, China. The Han population had a higher prevalence of myopia and high myopia than the Uyghur population. However, the prevalence of myopia among the Uyghur population showed a more remarkable increasing trend than that among the Han population in Xinjiang.
Problems and prospects for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)
Authors: Bishwakarma Jham Kumar , Hu Zongshan
Published: October 2021

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was established to enlighten self‐interest based on a common desire to supersede conflict with cooperation, to displace mistrust with harmony, and to eradicate poverty with economic integration in this region. Nonetheless, it could not achieve these goals completely due to a lack of cooperation among member states. Specifically, SAARC has been crippled by the shadow of power politics between two nuclear powers: India and Pakistan. Its agendas, policies, and programs have remained unfulfilled as a result. The prospect of the rejuvenation of SAARC is not a Herculean matter. It could be achieved by introducing new ideas and plans; that is, restructuring within it or expanding its membership. In this regard, this article argues that SAARC can be rejuvenated by including China as a full member. China's presence in SAARC would maintain a balance of power in this region, it would also boost the South Asian economy through trade, investment, and infrastructural development.

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Prostatic fluid composition and semen quality in dogs with benign prostatic hyperplasia undergoing treatment with osaterone acetate
Authors: Ferré‐Dolcet Lluis , Frigotto Lisa , Contiero Barbara , Bedin Silvia , Romagnoli Stefano
Published: October 2021

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may alter prostatic fluid biochemical composition causing reduced fertility. Osaterone acetate (OA) is an androgen receptor antagonist marketed for treatment of canine BPH. Little information exists on effects of OA administration on biochemical composition of canine prostatic fluid and its role on fertility. The aim of this research was to study biochemical composition of prostatic fluid and its role on semen quality in dogs with BPH undergoing treatment with OA. Eight intact, 5–11‐year‐old dogs with benign prostatic hyperplasia were treated orally with OA at a dose of 0.25–0.5 mg/kg once daily for seven days. Prostatic volume, semen evaluation and a biochemical analysis of prostatic fluid were performed on the day before treatment (D0), D60, D120, D180 and D240. A significant reduction (57% and 61%) of prostatic volume was observed at D60 and D120, respectively, and a significant reduction (20%) of normal spermatozoa was observed at D60 coincident with a significant increase of sperm tail defects, which disappeared during the course of the treatment. Prostatic fluid composition did not vary during the OA treatment except for zinc (Zn2+) with a significant increase at D120 and D180 correlated with the return to normal sperm values. In conclusion, canine Zn2+ prostatic fluid concentrations decrease during development of BPH and return to normal during treatment with OA. Zn2+ is an important electrolyte for semen quality, suggesting that oral Zn2+ supplementation might be considered a treatment to improve semen quality.
Modeling of Farmers’ Vegetable Safety Production Based on Identification of Key Risk Factors From Beijing, China
Authors: Yin Zhengqing , Li Bo , Gu Dongyue , Huang Jian , Zhang Lingxian
Published: October 2021

Food safety emphasizes risk control in the production process, and has attracted much attention from food regulators and consumers in recent years. The objectives of this study were to conduct early key risk factors identification and risk modeling for vegetable safety production. To achieve these objectives, this article quantitatively identified the key direct and indirect risk factors in vegetable safety production through questionnaire surveys and a multivariate linear model, and modeled the effects of key risk factors affecting vegetable safety production based on the catastrophe progression method. Based on 973 valid farmers’ questionnaires from Beijing, China, the results showed that key direct risk factors are production violation, farmland biological control, pesticide and fertilizer use criteria, and agricultural consumable handling; key indirect risk factors included cooperative participation, planting years, prohibited pesticide knowledge, production recording, and product type. Through the empirical analysis, it can be seen that there are regional differences in the production risk of vegetable farmers in Beijing. The production risks of Changping, Huairou, and Shunyi are the most serious; from a city‐wide perspective, the risk of farmland biological control is greatest, followed by risk aversion ability. The findings of this research have important implications for safe vegetable production and farmers’ production risk control.