bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of epidemiological characteristics and development of a nomogram to predict survival in primary ocular adnexal lymphoma
Authors: Peng Fei , Su Wei , Zhang Anqi , Huo Bingyue , Song Tianyu , Wei Zheng , Geng Zhenxi , Wang Liang
Published: June 2022

Background

Studies on the epidemiology and prognosis of primary ocular adnexal lymphoma (POAL) are scarce for its low occurrence. The goal of our research was to assess the epidemiologic characteristics, prognostic variables and survival of POAL patients.

Methods

The Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database was used to collect data on patients identified with POAL from 1975 to 2011 and the incidence rate of POAL from 1975 to 2017. To discover independent predictive markers for overall survival (OS) and disease‐specific survival (DSS), multivariable Cox regression analysis was utilised. The independent prognostic factors found by multivariate Cox regression analysis were used to generate a nomogram.

Results

A total of 2839 patients were diagnosed with POAL, with an average age of 64.1 years. The total incidence of POAL was 2.51/1000000 (according to the overall adjustment of the 2000 American standard) from 1975 to 2017, and the annual percentage change (APC) was 2.47 (95% confidence interval 1.64–3.32, p < 0.05), showing a sharp upward trend. After multivariate Cox regression analysis, age, gender, year of diagnosis, marital status, primary site, laterality, pathological type and treatment strategy were evaluated as independent prognostic factors of OS or DSS (p < 0.05). A nomogram was constructed to forecast the DSS of 1, 3, 5 and 10 years. The concordance index (C‐index) and the calibration plots demonstrated the robustness and accuracy of the nomogram.

Conclusions

Although POAL is sporadic, the incidence has generally increased in the past 36 years. In recent years, survival rates have risen, and radiotherapy can render better OS and DSS. The nomogram specially made for POAL is robust and precise in predicting the DSS of 1, 3, 5 and 10 years.
Has network meta‐analysis resolved the controversies related to bowel preparation in elective colorectal surgery?
Authors: Woodfield John C. , Clifford Kari , Schmidt Barry , Thompson‐Fawcett Mark
Published: June 2022

Aim

There are discrepancies in the guidelines on preparation for colorectal surgery. While intravenous antibiotics (IV) are usually administered, the use of mechanical bowel preparation (MBP) and/or oral antibiotics (OA) is controversial. A recent network meta‐analysis (NMA) demonstrated that the addition of OA reduced incisional surgical site infections (iSSIs) by more than 50%. We aimed to perform a NMA including only the highest quality randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in order to determine the ranking of different treatment strategies and assess these RCTs for methodological problems that may affect the conclusions of the NMAs.

Method

A NMA was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. RCTs of adult patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery with appropriate antibiotic cover and with at least 250 participants recruited, clear definition of endpoints and duration of follow‐up extending beyond discharge from hospital were included. The search included Medline, Embase, Cochrane and SCOPUS databases. Primary outcomes were iSSI and anastomotic leak (AL). Statistical analysis was performed in Stata v.15.1 using frequentist routines.

Results

Ten RCTs including 5107 patients were identified. Treatments compared IV (2218 patients), IV + OA (460 patients), MBP + IV (1405 patients), MBP + IV + OA (538 patients) and OA (486 patients). The likelihood of iSSI was significantly lower for IV + OA (rank 1) and MBP + IVA + OA (rank 2), reducing iSSIs by more than 50%. There were no differences between treatments for AL. Methodological issues included differences in definition, assessment and frequency of primary endpoint infections and the limited number of participants included in some treatment options.

Conclusion

While this NMA supports the addition of OA to IV to reduce iSSI it also highlights unanswered questions and the need for well‐designed pragmatic RCTs.
Predictors of operative difficulty in robotic low anterior resection for rectal cancer
Authors: Yuval Jonathan B. , Thompson Hannah M. , Fiasconaro Megan , Patil Sujata , Wei Iris H. , Pappou Emmanouil P. , Smith J. Joshua , Guillem Jose G. , Nash Garrett M. , Weiser Martin R. , Paty Philip B. , Garcia‐Aguilar Julio , Widmar Maria
Published: June 2022

Aim

This study evaluates the relationship of tumour and anatomical features with operative difficulty in robotic low anterior resection performed by four experienced surgeons in a high‐volume colorectal cancer practice.

Methods

Data from 382 patients who underwent robotic low anterior resection by four expert surgeons between January 2016 and June 2019 were included in the analysis. Operating time was used as a measure of operative difficulty. Univariate and multivariate mixed models were used to identify associations between baseline characteristics and operating time, with surgeon as a random effect, thereby controlling for variability in surgeon speed and proficiency. In an exploratory analysis, operative difficulty was defined as conversion to laparotomy, a positive margin or an incomplete mesorectum.

Results

Median operating time was 4.28 h (range 1.95–11.33 h) but varied by surgeon from 3.45 h (1.95–6.10 h) to 5.93 h (3.33–11.33 h) (P < 0.001). Predictors of longer operating time in multivariate analysis were male sex, higher body mass index, neoadjuvant radiotherapy, low tumour height, greater sacral height and larger mesorectal area at the S5 vertebral level. Conversion occurred in two cases (0.5%), and incomplete mesorectum and positive margins were found in nine (2.4%) and 19 (5.0%) patients, respectively. Neoadjuvant radiotherapy and larger pelvic outlet were the only characteristics associated with the exploratory measure of difficulty.

Conclusion

Predicting operative difficulty based on easy to identify, preoperative radiological and clinical variables is feasible in robotic anterior resection.
Cutaneous reactive B‐cell lymphoid proliferations
Authors: Khalil Shadi , Donthi Deepak , Gru Alejandro A.
Published: June 2022

Cutaneous lymphoid hyperplasia (CLH), also known as cutaneous pseudolymphoma, is a spectrum of benign conditions characterized by reactive B‐ and T‐cell cutaneous lymphocytic infiltrates. B‐cell lymphoid proliferations are a heterogenous group of non‐neoplastic cutaneous diseases that must be histopathologically distinguished from cutaneous B‐cell lymphomas. These proliferations can be observed as reactive phenomena to infections, medications, allergens, neoplasms, and more. Furthermore, there are many inflammatory conditions that present with reactive B‐cell infiltrates, including actinic prurigo, Zoon balanitis, Rosai‐Dorfman disease, and cutaneous plasmacytosis. This review summarizes multiple cutaneous B‐cell lymphoid proliferations within the major categories of reactive and disease‐associated CLH. Further we discuss major discriminating features of atypical CLH and malignancy. Understanding the specific patterns of B‐cell CLH is essential for the proper diagnosis and treatment of patients presenting with such lesions.
S1 Guidelines for the Kaposi Sarcoma
Authors: Esser Stefan , Schöfer Helmut , Hoffmann Christian , Claßen Johannes , Kreuter Alexander , Leiter Ulrike , Oette Mark , Becker Jürgen C. , Ziemer Mirjana , Mosthaf Franz , Sirokay Judith , Ugurel Selma , Potthoff Anja , Helbig Doris , Bierhoff Erhard , Schulz Thomas F. , Brockmeyer Norbert H. , Grabbe Stephan
Published: June 2022

Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) is a rare, malignant, multilocular vascular disease originating from lymphatic endothelial cells that can primarily affect the skin and mucous membranes, but also the lymphatic system and internal organs such as the gastrointestinal tract, lungs or liver. Five epidemiological subtypes of KS with variable clinical course and prognosis are distinguished, with increased incidence in specific populations: (1) Classical KS, (2) Iatrogenic KS in immunosuppression, (3) Endemic (African) lymphadenopathic KS, (4) Epidemic, HIV‐associated KS and KS associated with immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), and (5) KS in men who have sex with men (MSM) without HIV infection. This interdisciplinary guideline summarizes current practice‐relevant recommendations on diangostics and therapy of the different forms of KS. The recommendations mentioned in this short guideline are elaborated in more detail in the extended version of the guideline (online format of the JDDG).
Efficacy of peroral endoscopic myotomy for esophageal motility disorders after gastric surgery: Japan Achalasia Multicenter Study
Authors: Nakamura Jun , Sato Hiroki , Onimaru Manabu , Abe Hirofumi , Shiwaku Hironari , Shiota Junya , Sato Chiaki , Sakae Hiroyuki , Ominami Masaki , Hata Yoshitaka , Fukuda Hisashi , Ogawa Ryo , Tatsuta Tetsuya , Ikebuchi Yuichiro , Yokomichi Hiroshi , Takuto Hikichi , Inoue Haruhiro
Published: June 2022

Objectives

Patients with esophageal motility disorders (EMDs) including achalasia after gastric surgery have not been thoroughly characterized. Furthermore, the efficacy of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in this population should be clarified.

Methods

In this retrospective multicenter study of 3707 patients with EMDs, 31 patients (0.8%) had a history of gastric surgery. Patient characteristics and POEM efficacy were compared between patients with and without previous gastric surgery.

Results

In patients with EMD after gastric surgery, age at EMD diagnosis was higher (72.0 years), male sex was predominant (90.3%), and the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status score was higher (≥II, 48.4%). High‐resolution manometry (HRM) findings did not reveal significant differences. In patients who underwent gastric surgery, atrophic gastritis was common (80.6%), and gastric cancer was the primary surgical indication (32.3%). Distal gastrectomy was performed in 28 patients (90.3%). POEM was effective (3.3% adverse events; 100% treatment success). The incidence rates of reflux esophagitis (RE) and symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were 60.0% and 16.7%, respectively, without significant intergroup differences, and severe RE was not observed in the long‐term follow‐up. Extended gastric myotomy was a risk factor for RE.

Conclusion

Patients with gastric surgery often present severe disease manifestations; the surgical indication is mainly gastric cancer. HRM findings can be similarly used for diagnosis in patients with and without gastric surgery. POEM maintains safety and efficacy with acceptable RE and symptomatic GERD rates. To prevent RE, extended myotomy should be avoided.
An Actor‐Partner interdependence model of parenting difficulties over time in stepfamilies
Authors: Crapo J. Scott , Turner Joshua J. , Bradford Kay , Higginbotham Brian J.
Published: June 2022

Little research has examined the potential spillover of parenting difficulties in the coparental stepfamily subsystem. Using family systems theory as a guide, we longitudinally examined: (a) whether early parenting difficulties within stepfamilies persist 1 year later and (b) whether the parenting difficulties experienced by one partner impact the parenting difficulties of the other partner within remarriages. Copies of marriage licenses were used to identify remarried individuals. Surveys were mailed out, with follow‐up surveys mailed a year later, resulting in a sample of 676 remarried couples (the majority of which were White and college educated). The sample was split into three groups, according to stepfamily constellation: (a) families with a stepfather and biological mother; (b) families with a biological father and a stepmother; and (c) families with both stepfathers and stepmothers. We estimated three different actor‐partner interdependence models (APIM), one for each group. Consistent with family systems theory, our findings showed that parenting and stepparenting difficulties were interrelated, though gendered in effect. All parenting and stepparenting difficulties displayed actor effects, suggesting that parenting difficulties persist 1 year later. However, the only cross‐spouse influences (partner effects) were such that the mother's parenting difficulties (of her own biological children) were predicted by the father's parenting and stepparenting difficulties, and these differed by stepfamily constellation. Implications regarding gendered expectations, the importance of the coparenting subsystem in stepfamilies, early establishment of parental boundaries, and the (potentially important) inclusion of the stepfather in the parenting dynamics are discussed.
The division of housework and re‐partnering in Europe: Is there a West/East divide?
Authors: Lozano Mariona , Garcia‐Roman Joan
Published: June 2022

Objective

This paper explores if re‐partnering leads to less traditional divisions of domestic work by comparing men and women in different European countries.

Background

Divorce and re‐partnering have become more common, and we question if they are opening the scope for more gender‐balanced arrangements at home and new theoretical approaches.

Method

Using the two available waves of the Gender and Generation Survey for Western (France, Germany, and Austria) and Eastern European countries (Bulgaria, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic) for dual‐earner couples, we ran a series of logistic regressions to measure the probability of having traditional divisions of housework.

Results

We found less traditional arrangements among re‐partnered individuals, although we observed different patterns in each country. Respondents in Western Europe were less likely to have traditional divisions after separation than those who never experienced a breakup, suggesting that men's and women's successive unions differ from the previous ones in terms of housework sharing. However, in Eastern Europe, this association was only significant for men and not for women.

Conclusions

We provided empirical support for a less traditional division of housework among re‐partnered individuals, but the West/East divide was only observed among females.

Implications

Our results support the three classic theories that attempted to explain the division of housework between men and women. Nonetheless, they also suggest that among re‐partnered couples, we can consider the additional hypothesis of adaptative strategy, especially among men. This has implications for gender equality and family theories, as it opens the door to consider new theoretical perspectives to explain gender dynamics after union dissolution.
Determining the incidence of postpartum haemorrhage among Ontario women with and without inherited bleeding disorders: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Hews‐Girard Julia C. , Galica Jacqueline , Goldie Catherine , James Paula , Tranmer Joan
Published: June 2022

Introduction

At a population level, there is a poor understanding of the incidence and pre‐disposing risk factors of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) among women with inherited bleeding disorders (IBD).

Aim

To determine the incidence of PPH, and identify maternal factors associated with risk of PPH among women with IBD.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using data housed within ICES (formerly known as the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences). The cohort included women with an in‐hospital, live or stillborn delivery, between January 2014 and December 2019. The primary outcome was PPH (identified by ICD‐10 code O72). PPH incidence and risk factors were compared between women with and without IBD. Temporal trends were assessed using the Cochrane‐Armitage test. Between group differences were assessed using standardised differences (std. difference).

Results

Total 601,773 women were included; 2002 (.33%) had an IBD diagnosis. PPH incidence was 1.5 times higher (7.3 vs. 4.9 cases/100 deliveries, std. difference .1) among women with IBD compared to women without. Women with IBD were slightly older (31.7 vs. 30.7 years), had higher rates of hypertension, previous PPH, and induction of labour. Women with IBD were more frequently diagnosed with anaemia (4.8% vs. 1.8%; std difference .17) and had lower haemoglobin levels at admission for delivery compared to women without IBD.

Conclusions

This study contributes to the literature regarding obstetric bleeding among women with IBD, showing that anaemia at delivery may be an important risk factor for PPH. Given their predisposition to anaemia, clarifying this relationship will optimise management and outcomes.
Retos de seguridad y salud en el trabajo para la gente de mar en actividades esenciales durante la pandemia mundial de COVID‐19
Authors: SHAN Desai
Published: June 2022

La pandemia de COVID‐19 ha transformado el mundo del trabajo, pero el comercio mundial sigue considerándose una esfera de actividad esencial y el transporte marítimo, como motor de la globalización, no puede detenerse. En este contexto, pocos Gobiernos han permitido a la gente de mar —que transporta más del 90 por ciento de las mercancías mundiales— abandonar sus barcos y regresar a casa. Las restricciones de viaje relacionadas con la COVID‐19 han provocado una crisis de seguridad y salud en el trabajo marítimo. Este artículo, basado en 29 entrevistas, explora los retos de SST que ha afrontado la gente de mar de todo el mundo durante la pandemia.
Unique aspects of IFN‐γ/STAT1 signaling in neurons
Authors: Clark Danielle N. , Begg Lauren R. , Filiano Anthony J.
Published: June 2022

The IFN‐γ/STAT1 immune signaling pathway impacts many homeostatic and pathological aspects of neurons, beyond its canonical role in controlling intracellular pathogens. Well known for its potent pro‐inflammatory and anti‐viral functions in the periphery, the IFN‐γ/STAT1 pathway is rapidly activated then deactivated to prevent excessive inflammation; however, neurons utilize unique IFN‐γ/STAT1 activation patterns, which may contribute to the non‐canonical neuron‐specific downstream effects. Though it is now well‐established that the immune system interacts and supports the CNS in health and disease, many aspects regarding IFN‐γ production in the CNS and how neurons respond to IFN‐γ are unclear. Additionally, it is not well understood how the diversity of the IFN‐γ/STAT1 pathway is regulated in neurons to control homeostatic functions, support immune surveillance, and prevent pathologies. In this review, we discuss the neuron‐specific mechanisms and kinetics of IFN‐γ/STAT1 activation, the potential sources and entry sites of IFN‐γ in the CNS, and the diverse set of homeostatic and pathological effects IFN‐γ/STAT1 signaling in neurons has on CNS health and disease. We will also highlight the different contexts and conditions under which IFN‐γ‐induced STAT1 activation has been studied in neurons, and how various factors might contribute to the vast array of downstream effects observed.
Life Below Water: How Can Creative Practice Nurture Personal Agency and Global Citizenship in Primary Education?
Authors: Pulley Robert
Published: June 2022

‘Life Below Water’ aims to establish how creative practice can provide an effective way to nurture self‐efficacy and self‐regulation in primary education. A constructionist approach was developed to help children explore UN Global Goal 14, through drawing, prototyping and storytelling as collaborative activities. Working in duets and quartets, a group of eight Key Stage 2 children were set the task of ‘inventing’ sea creatures with magical healing powers. The children evaluated their progress through pre and post‐workshop questionnaires, and through discussions with their peers, teachers and parents. Workshop outcomes illustrate how nurturing skills in making can help foster creative agency and metacognition. Co‐operating as a design team encouraged symmetrical reciprocity, self‐regulation and a ‘care‐full’ approach to environmental protection. The study provides guiding knowledge for prospective developments, based upon tentative findings. The time required to assess the impact of ‘Life Below Water’ is extended to enable future research efforts, by teachers and practitioners, to inform context‐specific interpretations through whole‐class workshops and international exchanges.
Lack of ambition or lack of support? Diverging career experiences of men and women explain the persistence of gender bias
Authors: Faniko Klea , Ellemers Naomi , Derks Belle
Published: June 2022

In this study we explore possible causes for the differential career success of women in academia. We do this by testing the content of organizational narratives about plausible reasons why women are less likely than men to advance in their academic careers, against the self‐reported experiences and career choices of women and men in the organization. We compared content‐coded narratives (N = 84) with quantitative self‐report (N = 661) data. Both data sets were collected around the same time, taking care that different members of the organization contributed to each of these two data sources. First, we report the qualitative data (Study 1). These revealed the organizational narrative about gender differences in academic careers. On the one hand, people in the university acknowledged the sexist treatment of women, but on the other hand, they failed to note that this “chilly climate” might adversely impact the careers of women in the organization. We report the quantitative data in Study 2. This revealed no support for the validity of this narrative, which maintains the pervasive belief that women are less interested in, and prefer to “opt out” from, an academic career. Notably, we found no actual differences between female and male academics in their self‐reported motivations. However, women did report having made more difficult life choices and having received less support from the organization for their careers. Together, these findings reveal blind spots in organizational narratives and point to additional measures that can be taken to ensure equal career opportunities for all employees.
LECT2: A pleiotropic and promising hepatokine, from bench to bedside
Authors: Xie Yuan , Fan Kai‐Wei , Guan Shi‐Xing , Hu Yang , Gao Yi , Zhou Wei‐Jie
Published: June 2022

LECT2 (leucocyte cell‐derived chemotaxin 2) is a 16‐kDa protein mainly produced by hepatocytes. It was first isolated in PHA‐activated human T‐cell leukaemia SKW‐3 cells and originally identified as a novel neutrophil chemotactic factor. However, many lines of studies suggested that LECT2 was a pleiotropic protein, it not only functioned as a cytokine to exhibit chemotactic property, but also played multifunctional roles in some physiological conditions and pathological abnormalities, involving liver regeneration, neuronal development, HSC(haematopoietic stem cells) homeostasis, liver injury, liver fibrosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, metabolic disorders, inflammatory arthritides, systemic sepsis and systemic amyloidosis. Among the above studies, it was discovered that LECT2 could be a promising molecular biomarker and therapeutic target. This review summarizes LECT2‐related receptors and pathways, basic and clinical researches, primarily in mice and human, for a better comprehension and management of these diseases in the future.
Reducing flood risk by effective use of flood‐peak polders: A case study of the Tisza River
Authors: Ungvári Gábor , Kis András
Published: June 2022

Between 1998 and 2006 a series of extreme flood events took place on the Tisza River and its tributaries. In Hungary, this triggered the development of flood‐peak polders as a more cost‐efficient solution of defense compared to raising the dikes. The recent analysis applies Monte‐Carlo simulation‐based quantified risk calculations with a cost–benefit type comparison. Results indicate that compared to the originally planned, 100‐year return frequency flood that threats to topple the levees, lower flood levels already provide economic justification for polder use. Apart from the optimal timing of opening the floodgates, the controlled inundation of polders requires the consideration of its cost–benefit effects as well. The development of the economic decision‐support system for the controlled use of the flood‐peak polders along the Tisza River provides an insight into the efficiency gains that a more informed, quantitative economic analysis can offer in risk reduction. The analysis reveals the potential for more efficient management of flood polders. The decision support of controlled polder inundation includes all the necessary information elements for the cross‐sectoral comparability of impacts that is the foundation for any multi‐purpose land management scheme that enables nature‐based solutions.
Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis recovery after treatment of Cushing's syndrome
Authors: Balasko Annemarie , Zibar Tomsic Karin , Kastelan Darko , Dusek Tina
Published: June 2022

After successful treatment for Cushing's syndrome (CS), secondary adrenal insufficiency develops as a result of the prior suppression of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis by excess cortisol in the body. Until the recovery of the HPA axis, glucocorticoid replacement therapy is required to enable normal functioning of the body and prevent adrenal crisis. Significant variation in the median time of recovery of the HPA axis is found in various cohorts of CS patients ranging from several weeks to years. Despite the use of physiological glucocorticoid replacement, after cure for CS, patients often experience symptoms of glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome (GWS). The optimal glucocorticoid regimen to reduce GWS needs to be established and requires an individualized approach aiming to avoid overtreatment at one side and minimize the risk of undertreatment and possible adrenal crisis and GWS on the other side.
Migrant informal caregiver perceptions and experiences of caring for a family member with dementia: A systematic review and thematic synthesis
Authors: Stenberg Jenny , Hjelm Katarina
Published: June 2022

Aims and objectives

To describe migrant family caregivers' experiences and perceptions of caring for a family member with dementia.

Background

There are demographic trends of aging populations and increased migration between countries. Age‐associated diseases, such as dementia, are expected to increase, with migrants being at significantly increased risk. Knowledge of how dementia care is provided within migrant families is scarce.

Design

Systematic review and thematic synthesis of qualitative research were performed to inform the development of interventions that can acknowledge and respond to the needs, concerns and preferences of migrant family caregivers.

Methods

Searches were performed in PubMed, PsycINFO and CINAHL and reference lists in published articles were reviewed for the period 2000–October 2020. The CASP checklist for qualitative research was used to assess evidence quality, and the ENTREQ framework was used as a guide for study reporting.

Results

Twenty‐six articles from 10 Western countries, including 360 informal migrant caregivers from more than 30 countries of origin, were eligible. Within four areas of construct—perceptions of dementia and initial help‐seeking; barriers to accessing and using formal dementia care; caregiver burden and coping and resilience—12 descriptive themes were identified. Several concepts cut across the themes, such as language difficulties; the role of the family in relation to care and support; cultural perceptions of dementia and care; stigma, pride and shame; the importance of religion and the importance of trust.

Conclusions

The review revealed commonalities among migrant family caregivers that resulted in reduced understanding of dementia and the importance of diagnosis and treatment.

Relevance to clinical practice

To prevent a negative trajectory in caregiving, with perceived demands causing high levels of stress and strain, several barriers to migrants accessing and using formal care need to be assessed and addressed.
Consequences of warming and acidification for the temperate articulated coralline alga, Calliarthron tuberculosum (Florideophyceae, Rhodophyta)
Authors: Donham Emily M. , Hamilton Scott L. , Aiello Ivano , Price Nichole N. , Smith Jennifer E.
Published: June 2022

Global climate changes, such as warming and ocean acidification (OA), are likely to negatively impact calcifying marine taxa. Abundant and ecologically important coralline algae may be particularly susceptible to OA; however, multi‐stressor studies and those on articulated morphotypes are lacking. Here, we use field observations and laboratory experiments to elucidate the impacts of warming and acidification on growth, calcification, mineralogy, and photophysiology of the temperate articulated coralline alga, Calliarthron tuberculosum. We conducted a 4‐week fully factorial mesocosm experiment exposing individuals from a southern CA kelp forest to current and future temperature and pH/pCO2 conditions (+2°C, −0.5 pH units). Calcification was reduced under warming (70%) and further reduced by high pCO2 or high pCO2 x warming (~150%). Growth (change in linear extension and surface area) was reduced by warming (40% and 50%, respectively), high pCO2 (20% and 40%, respectively), and high pCO2 x warming (50% and 75%, respectively). The maximum photosynthetic rate (Pmax) increased by 100% under high pCO2 conditions, but we did not detect an effect of pCO2 or warming on photosynthetic efficiency (α). We also did not detect the effect of warming or pCO2 on mineralogy. However, variation in Mg incorporation in cell walls of different cell types (i.e., higher mol % Mg in cortical vs. medullary) was documented for the first time in this species. These results support findings from a growing body of literature suggesting that coralline algae are often more negatively impacted by warming than OA, with the potential for antagonistic effects when factors are combined.
Posttreatment nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis scores for predicting liver‐related complications in patients with chronic hepatitis C receiving direct‐acting antiviral agents
Authors: Hsu Wei‐Fan , Lai Hsueh‐Chou , Chuang Po‐Heng , Su Wen‐Pang , Chen Sheng‐Hung , Chen Hung‐Yao , Wang Hung‐Wei , Huang Guan‐Tarn , Peng Cheng‐Yuan
Published: June 2022

Patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) have a higher prevalence of hepatic steatosis and dyslipidaemia than healthy individuals. We analysed noninvasive fibrosis assessments, especially nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)‐related noninvasive fibrosis tests, for predicting liver‐related complications and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurrence in patients with CHC. This retrospective study enrolled 590 consecutive patients with CHC having a sustained virologic response (SVR) to direct‐acting antiviral agent (DAA) therapy. The NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS) exhibiting the highest value of area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was selected for comparison with the fibrosis‐4 index (FIB‐4). Of the 590 patients, 188 had metabolic syndrome. A multivariate Cox regression analysis identified total bilirubin at 3 or 6 months after DAA therapy (PW12), NFS at PW12 (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.125, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.058–4.267, p = .034) and alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) at PW12 (HR: 1.071, 95% CI: 1.005–1.142, p = .034) as the independent predictors of liver‐related complications in all patients. In patients with metabolic syndrome, NFS and AFP values at PW12 were independent predictors of liver‐related complications and HCC occurrence. Time‐dependent NFS AUROC values at PW12 for 1‐, 2‐ and 3‐year liver‐related complications were higher than NFS values at baseline in patients with metabolic syndrome. NFS at baseline or PW12 is a more effective predictor of liver‐related complications than FIB‐4 values in all patients. NFS at PW12 may be a useful predictor of liver‐related complications and HCC development in patients with CHC with an SVR to DAA therapy, especially in those with metabolic syndrome.
Sustainable and equivalent improvements in symptoms and functional well‐being following viral cure from ledipasvir/sofosbuvir versus elbasvir/grazoprevir for chronic hepatitis C infection: Findings from the randomized PRIORITIZE trial
Authors: Evon Donna M. , Dong Meichen , Reeve Bryce B. , Peter Joy , Michael Larry , Lok Anna S. , Nelson David R. , Stewart Paul W.
Published: June 2022

The PRIORITIZE trial (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02786537) was the first comparative effectiveness study to directly compare ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF) and elbasvir/grazoprevir (EBR/GZR) for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV). A secondary aim of this study was to compare LDV/SOF and EBR/GZR on sustainable changes in several HCV‐associated symptoms and functional well‐being in patients who achieved sustained virological response (SVR). PRIORITIZE, a randomized controlled trial conducted between 2016 and 2020, evaluated change in six PROMIS® symptom scores (fatigue, sleep disturbance, cognitive disturbance, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain) and functional well‐being using the disease‐specific HCV‐PRO instrument. Survey assessments were administered at baseline, early post‐treatment (median = 6 months) and late post‐treatment (median = 21 months). Constrained longitudinal linear mixed‐effects models were used to evaluate within‐treatment change and between‐treatment differences. Data from 793 participants (average 55 years old, 57% male, 44% black, 17% with cirrhosis) were analysed. From baseline to early post‐treatment, 5 out of 6 symptoms and functional well‐being significantly improved (all p's < .05). In the LDV/SOF arm, mean changes ranged from −3.73 for nausea to −6.41 for fatigue and in the EBR/GZR, mean changes ranged from −2.19 for cognitive impairment to −4.67 for fatigue. Change of >3 points was consider clinically meaningful. Improvements in most symptoms slightly favoured LDV/SOF, although the magnitude of differences between the regimens were small. Both regimens demonstrated significant improvements in symptoms and functional well‐being that were sustained during the late post‐treatment phase. EBR/GZR and LDV/SOF regimens had clinically equivalent and durable improvements in HCV symptoms and functional well‐being up to two years after SVR.
International multicenter validation of GES score for HCC risk stratification in chronic hepatitis C patients
Authors: Shiha Gamal , Soliman Reham , Mikhail Nabiel N. H. , Carrat Fabrice , Azzi Jessica , Nathalie Ganne‐Carrié , Toyoda Hidenori , Uojima Haruki , Nozaki Akito , Takaguchi Koichi , Hiraoka Atsushi , Atsukawa Masanori , Abe Hiroshi , Matsuura Kentaro , Mikami Shigeru , Watanabe Tsunamasa , Tsuji Kunihiko , Ishikawa Toru , Suri Vithika , Osinusi Anu , Ni Liyun , Zou Jun , Sarin Shiv Kumar , Kumar Manoj , Jalal Prasun Kumar , Hashim Mahmoud A. , Hassan Manal , Lopez Sonia Alonso , Bañares Rafael , Ahumada Adriana M. , Mousa Nasser Hamed , Eslam Mohammed , Waked Imam
Published: June 2022

We have recently demonstrated the ability of a simple predictive model (GES) score to determine the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after using direct‐acting antivirals. However, our results were restricted to Egyptian patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 4. Therefore, we studied a large, independent cohort of multiethnic populations through our international collaborative activity. Depending on their GES scores, patients are stratified into low risk (≤ 6/12.5), intermediate risk (> 6–7.5/12.5), and high risk (> 7.5/12.5) for HCC. A total of 12,038 patients with chronic HCV were analyzed in this study, of whom 11,202 were recruited from 54 centers in France, Japan, India, the U.S., and Spain, and the remaining 836 were selected from the Gilead‐sponsored randomized controlled trial conducted across the U.S., Europe, Canada, and Australia. Descriptive statistics and log‐rank tests. The performance of the GES score was evaluated using Harrell's C‐index (HCI). The GES score proved successful at stratifying all patients into 3 risk groups, namely low‐risk, intermediate‐risk, and high‐risk. It also displayed significant predictive value for HCC development in all participants (p < .0001), with HCI ranging from 0.55 to 0.76 among all cohorts after adjusting for HCV genotypes and patient ethnicities. The GES score can be used to stratify HCV patients into 3 categories of risk for HCC, namely low‐risk, intermediate‐risk, and high‐risk, irrespective of their ethnicities or HCV genotypes. This international multicenter validation may allow the use of GES score in individualized HCC risk‐based surveillance programs.
Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the physical and psychological health of female college students in Japan
Authors: Washio Sae , Sai Akira , Yamauchi Taro
Published: June 2022

The spread of COVID‐19 has dramatically changed our lives. This study aimed to examine the lifestyles of female college students, focusing on physical activity, sleep status, and anxiety status during the pandemic (while under a state of emergency) in Japan. A total of 184 female college students completed two questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, and daily activity logs and diet records, in groups of 115 and 69 participants recruited before and during the pandemic, respectively. Findings showed a significant decrease in physical activity: Physical activity levels fell from “normal” to “low” and the daily step counts decreased by nearly half, from 8671 to 4640. In addition, the results from the questionnaires revealed that half of the participants were at risk of having sleep disturbances, and their sleep cycles became more nocturnal, which may have caused higher anxiety states and lower sleep quality during the pandemic. Furthermore, anxiety states worsened, with 100% of the participants experiencing high anxiety during the pandemic. Monitoring lifestyle disturbances during the pandemic is needed for the development of interventions to improve health among young women.
Genomic consequences of artificial selection during early domestication of a wood fibre crop
Authors: Mostert‐O'Neill Marja M. , Tate Hannah , Reynolds S. Melissa , Mphahlele Makobatjatji M. , van den Berg Gert , Verryn Steve D. , Acosta Juan J. , Borevitz Justin O. , Myburg Alexander A.
Published: June 2022

From its origins in Australia, Eucalyptus grandis has spread to every continent, except Antarctica, as a wood crop. It has been cultivated and bred for over 100 yr in places such as South Africa. Unlike most annual crops and fruit trees, domestication of E. grandis is still in its infancy, representing a unique opportunity to interrogate the genomic consequences of artificial selection early in the domestication process.

To determine how a century of artificial selection has changed the genome of E. grandis, we generated single nucleotide polymorphism genotypes for 1080 individuals from three advanced South African breeding programmes using the EUChip60K chip, and investigated population structure and genome‐wide differentiation patterns relative to wild progenitors.

Breeding and wild populations appeared genetically distinct. We found genomic evidence of evolutionary processes known to have occurred in other plant domesticates, including interspecific introgression and intraspecific infusion from wild material. Furthermore, we found genomic regions with increased linkage disequilibrium and genetic differentiation, putatively representing early soft sweeps of selection.

This is, to our knowledge, the first study of genomic signatures of domestication in a timber species looking beyond the first few generations of cultivation. Our findings highlight the importance of intra‐ and interspecific hybridization during early domestication.
Effect of the In Situ Screw Implantation Region and Angle on the Stability of Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Finite Element Study
Authors: Zhu Guangye , Wu Zhihua , Fang Zhichao , Zhang Peng , He Jiahui , Yu Xiang , Ge Zhilin , Tang Kai , Liang De , Jiang Xiaobing , Liang Ziyang , Cui Jianchao
Published: June 2022

Objective

To investigate the effect of the in situ screw implantation region and angle on the stability of lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) from a biomechanical perspective.

Methods

A validated L2‐4 finite element (FE) model was modified for simulation. The L3‐4 fused segment undergoing LLIF surgery was modeled. The area between the superior and inferior edges and the anterior and posterior edges of the vertebral body (VB) is divided into four zones by three parallel lines in coronal and horizontal planes. In situ screw implantation methods with different angles based on the three parallel lines in coronal plane were applied in Models A, B, and C (A: parallel to inferior line; B: from inferior line to midline; C: from inferior line to superior line). In addition, four implantation methods with different regions based on the three parallel lines in horizontal plane were simulated as types 1–2, 1–3, 2–2, and 2–3 (1–2: from anterior line to midline; 1–3: from anterior line to posterior line; 2–2: parallel to midline; 2–3: from midline to posterior line). L3‐4 ROM, interbody cage stress, screw‐bone interface stress, and L4 superior endplate stress were tracked and calculated for comparisons among these models.

Results

The L3‐4 ROM of Models A, B, and C decreased with the extent ranging from 47.9% (flexion‐extension) to 62.4% (lateral bending) with no significant differences under any loading condition. Types 2–2 and 2–3 had 45% restriction, while types 1–2 and 1–3 had 51% restriction in ROM under flexion‐extension conditions. Under lateral bending, types 2–2 and 2–3 had 70.6% restriction, while types 1–2 and 1–3 had 61.2% restriction in ROM. Under axial rotation, types 2–2 and 2–3 had 65.2% restriction, while types 1–2 and 1–3 had 59.3% restriction in ROM. The stress of the cage in types 2–2 and 2–3 was approximately 20% lower than that in types 1–2 and 1–3 under all loading conditions in all models. The peak stresses at the screw‐bone interface in types 2–2 and 2–3 were much lower (approximately 35%) than those in types 1–2 and 1–3 under lateral bending, while no significant differences were observed under flexion‐extension and axial rotation. The peak stress on the L4 superior endplate was approximately 30 MPa and was not significantly different in all models under any loading condition.

Conclusions

Different regions of entry‐exit screws induced multiple screw trajectories and influenced the stability and mechanical responses. However, different implantation angles did not. Considering the difficulty of implantation, the ipsilateral‐contralateral trajectory in the lateral middle region of the VB can be optimal for in situ screw implantation in LLIF surgery.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy Using a Double‐Cannula Guide Tube for Large Lumbar Disc Herniation
Authors: Wang Hongwei , Yuan Hong , Yu Hailong , Li Changqing , Zhou Yue , Xiang Liangbi
Published: June 2022

Objective

To compare the effect of percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) using a double‐cannula guide tube (DGT), traditional PELD, and open lumbar discectomy (OLD) to treat large lumbar disc herniations (LLDHs).

Methods

Seventy patients who presented with LLDH without cauda equina syndrome and were treated with surgery in our hospital from October 2015 to October 2017 were included. The detailed index included the visual analog scale (VAS) for back and radicular leg pain and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) in the immediate preoperative period and at the final follow‐up. The operation time, radiation exposure time, surgical satisfaction rate, and modified MacNab criteria score were also recorded.

Results

The leg and back pain of the patients in these groups improved significantly in the postoperative period. No significant differences were observed in leg pain improvement between the other two groups; however, patients in the PELD group (with or without DGT) presented with significantly higher improvement in back pain than the OLD group (t = 9.965, p < 0.001). The final ODI scores were 12.1 ± 4.9, 11.2 ± 2.9, and 16.4 ± 3.6 in the PELD, PELD‐DGT, and OLD groups, respectively. Patients in the PELD and PELD‐DGT groups presented with significantly lower postoperative ODI scores than those in the OLD group (t = 20.834, p < 0.001). The mean postoperative hospital stays were significantly shorter in the PELD group and PELD with DGT group than in the OLD group (t = 46.688, p < 0.001). The mean operation time was significantly shorter in the PELD‐DGT group than those in the PELD group (t = 25.281, p = 0.001). No perioperative complications were observed in either group. Based on the modified MacNab criteria, excellent and good outcomes were achieved in 20 out of 21 patients (95.2%) in the PELD group, 23 out of 24 patients (95.8%) in the PELD‐DGT group, and 22 out of 25 patients (88.0%) in the OLD group. The rates of excellent and good outcomes were higher in the PELD and PELD‐DGT groups than in the OLD group, but there were no significant differences (χ2 = 1.454, p = 0.835).

Conclusions

PELD using DGT is a safe and effective option for LLDH and features advantages such as improvements in back pain, a lower hospitalization cost than OLD, a shorter operation time, and less fluoroscopy than traditional PELD.
Environmental influences on childhood allergies and asthma — The Farm effect
Authors: Frei Remo , Heye Kristina , Roduit Caroline
Published: June 2022

Asthma and allergies are major health problems and exert an enormous socioeconomic burden. Besides genetic predisposition, environmental factors play a crucial role in the development of these diseases in childhood. Multiple worldwide epidemiological studies have shown that children growing up on farms are immune to allergic diseases and asthma. Farm‐related exposures shape children's immune homeostasis, via mediators such as N‐glycolylneuraminic acid or arabinogalactan, or by diverse environmental microbes. Moreover, nutritional factors, such as breastfeeding or farm milk and food diversity, inducing short‐chain fatty acids‐producing bacteria in the intestine, contribute to farm‐related effects. All farm‐related exposures induce an anti‐inflammatory response of the innate immunity and increase the differentiation of regulatory T cells and T helper cell type 1. A better understanding of the components of the farm environment, that are protective to the development of allergy and asthma, and their underlying mechanisms, will help to develop new strategies for the prevention of allergy and asthma.
Inclusive restoration: ten recommendations to supportLGBTQ+ researchers in restoration science
Authors: Toone Trevyn A. , Ahler Sam J. , Larson Julie E. , Luong Justin C. , Martínez‐Baena Francisco , Ordóñez‐Parra Carlos A. , Silva Mateus C. , van der Ouderaa Isabelle B. C.
Published: June 2022

Scientists who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or members of other marginalized sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+) face serious disparities compared to their non‐LGBTQ+ peers. Restoration science presents additional risks for LGBTQ+ researchers, including extensive time in the field—sometimes in locations that are hostile to LGBTQ+ people or create discomfort around gender expression and sexual orientation. At the same time, restoration science is uniquely positioned to create change: the same principles that shape ecosystem restoration also provide a blueprint for cultivating inclusion in science. We present 10 recommendations for LGBTQ+ inclusion based on four guiding restoration principles: (1) Context is key; (2) Healthy environments require support; (3) Success needs to be defined; and (4) A diverse future is worth striving for. We provide concrete actions that individuals and institutions can take and emphasize the positive outcomes that LGBTQ+ inclusion can generate for a healthier restoration community.