bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple reproductive barriers maintain species boundaries in stone plants of the genus Argyroderma
Authors: Boucher Florian C , Verboom G Anthony , Gallien Laure , Ellis Allan G
Published: November 2023

Measuring the strength of different reproductive barriers across species pairs is key to reveal the mechanisms that have led to evolutionary radiations. Here we study a genus of miniature plants, Argyroderma, which comprises 11 species restricted to a single plain of the Southern African desert. We measure different reproductive barriers to understand how species boundaries are maintained in this genus. Our results show that reproductive isolation is almost complete between all species pairs and relies on three pre-mating barriers: geographic isolation operating at spatial scales of c. 10 km, phenological isolation in flowering time, and habitat isolation operating at spatial scales of just a few metres, which is thought to be due to contrasting edaphic preferences between species. In comparison, post-mating isolation arising before seed formation is weak and does not restrict gene flow much between species. Interestingly, the high levels of both geographic and habitat isolation that we have measured between Argyroderma species might be due to their miniature size, which leads to restricted gene flow across space and to adaptation to spatially restricted micro-habitats.
Viral Suppression Trajectories Destabilized After Coronavirus Disease 2019 Among US People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis
Authors: Spinelli Matthew A , Christopoulos Katerina A , Moreira Carlos V , Jain Jennifer P , Lisha Nadra , Glidden David V , Burkholder Greer A , Crane Heidi M , Shapiro Adrienne E , Jacobson Jeffrey M , Cachay Edward R , Mayer Kenneth H , Napravnik Sonia , Moore Richard D , Gandhi Monica , Johnson Mallory O
Published: November 2023

We examined changes in the proportion of people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) with virologic suppression (VS) in a multisite US cohort before and since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Overall, prior gains in VS slowed during COVID-19, with disproportionate impacts on Black PWH and PWH who inject drugs.
Population data–based federated machine learning improves automated echocardiographic quantification of cardiac structure and function: the Automatisierte Vermessung der Echokardiographie project
Authors: Morbach Caroline , Gelbrich Götz , Schreckenberg Marcus , Hedemann Maike , Pelin Dora , Scholz Nina , Miljukov Olga , Wagner Achim , Theisen Fabian , Hitschrich Niklas , Wiebel Hendrik , Stapf Daniel , Karch Oliver , Frantz Stefan , Heuschmann Peter U , Störk Stefan
Published: November 2023

Aims

Machine-learning (ML)-based automated measurement of echocardiography images emerges as an option to reduce observer variability. The objective of the study is to improve the accuracy of a pre-existing automated reading tool (‘original detector’) by federated ML-based re-training.

Methods and results

Automatisierte Vermessung der Echokardiographie was based on the echocardiography images of n = 4965 participants of the population-based Characteristics and Course of Heart Failure Stages A–B and Determinants of Progression Cohort Study. We implemented federated ML: echocardiography images were read by the Academic Core Lab Ultrasound-based Cardiovascular Imaging at the University Hospital Würzburg (UKW). A random algorithm selected 3226 participants for re-training of the original detector. According to data protection rules, the generation of ground truth and ML training cycles took place within the UKW network. Only non-personal training weights were exchanged with the external cooperation partner for the refinement of ML algorithms. Both the original detectors as the re-trained detector were then applied to the echocardiograms of n = 563 participants not used for training. With regard to the human referent, the re-trained detector revealed (i) superior accuracy when contrasted with the original detector’s performance as it arrived at significantly smaller mean differences in all but one parameter, and a (ii) smaller absolute difference between measurements when compared with a group of different human observers.

Conclusion

Population data–based ML in a federated ML set-up was feasible. The re-trained detector exhibited a much lower measurement variability than human readers. This gain in accuracy and precision strengthens the confidence in automated echocardiographic readings, which carries large potential for applications in various settings.
Transradial intervention in dialysis patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: a Japanese nationwide registry study
Authors: Kuno Toshiki , Yamaji Kyohei , Aikawa Tadao , Sawano Mitsuaki , Ando Tomo , Numasawa Yohei , Wada Hideki , Amano Tetsuya , Kozuma Ken , Kohsaka Shun
Published: November 2023

Aims

Transradial intervention (TRI) for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is used to reduce periprocedural complications. However, its effectiveness and safety for patients on dialysis are not well established. We aimed to investigate the association of TRI with in-hospital complications in dialysis patients undergoing PCI.

Methods and results

We included 44 462 patients on dialysis who underwent PCI using Japanese nationwide PCI registry data (2019–21) regardless of acute or chronic coronary syndrome. Patients were categorized based on access site: TRI, transfemoral intervention (TFI). Periprocedural access site bleeding complication requiring transfusion was the primary outcome and in-hospital death, and other periprocedural complications were the secondary outcomes. Matched weighted analysis was performed for TRI and TFI. Here, 8267 (18.6%) underwent TRI, and 36 195 (81.4%) underwent TFI. Patients who received TRI were older and had lower rates of comorbidities than those who received TFI. Access site bleeding rate and in-hospital death were significantly lower in the TRI group (0.1% vs. 0.7%, P < 0.001; 1.8% vs. 3.2%, P < 0.001, respectively). After adjustment, TRI was associated with a lower risk of access site bleeding (odds ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 0.19 [0.099–0.38]; P < 0.001) and in-hospital death (OR [95% CI]: 0.79 [0.65–0.96]; P = 0.02). Other periprocedural complications between TRI and TFI were not significantly different.

Conclusion

In patients undergoing dialysis and PCI, TRI had a lower risk of access site bleeding and in-hospital death than TFI. This suggests that TRI may be safer for this patient population.
Intestinal and Renal Adaptations to Changes of Dietary Phosphate Concentrations in Rat
Authors: Lucea Susana , Chopo-Escuin Gema , Guillén Natalia , Sosa Cecilia , Sorribas Víctor
Published: November 2023

We have studied the role of the intestine, kidney, and several hormones when adapting to changes in dietary P concentration. Normal and parathyroidectomized (PTX) rats were fed pH-matched diets containing 0.1%, 0.6%, and 1.2% P concentrations. 32Pi uptake was determined in the jejunum and kidney cortex brush border membrane vesicles. Several hormone and ion concentrations were determined in the blood and urine of rats. Both jejunum and kidney cortex Pi transport was regulated with 5 d of chronic feeding of P diets in normal rats. Acute adaptation was determined by switching foods on day 6, which was only clearly observed in the kidney cortex of normal rats, with more statistical variability in the jejunum. However, no paradoxical increase of Pi uptake in the jejunum was reproduced after the acute switch to the 1.2% P diet. Pi uptake in the jejunum was parathyroid hormone (PTH)-independent, but in the kidney, the chronic adaptation was reduced, and no acute dietary adaptations were observed. The NaPi2a protein was more abundant in the PTX than the sham kidneys, but contrary to the modest or absent changes in Pi uptake adaptation, the transporter was similarly regulated by dietary P, as in the sham rats. PTH and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) were the only hormones regulated by all diet changes, even in fasting animals, which exhibited regulated Pi transport despite similar phosphatemia. Evidence of Pi appetite effects was also observed. In brief, our results show new characteristics of Pi adaptations, including a lack of correlation between Pi transport, NaPi2a expression, and PTH/FGF23 concentrations.
An affordable and convenient diagnostic marker to identify male and female hop plants
Authors: Clare Shaun J , King Ryan M , Tawril Anna L , Havill Joshua S , Muehlbauer Gary J , Carey Sarah B , Harkess Alex , Bassil Nahla , Altendorf Kayla R
Published: November 2023

Hop production utilizes exclusively female plants, whereas male plants only serve to generate novel variation within breeding programs through crossing. Currently, hop lacks a rapid and accurate diagnostic marker to determine whether plants are male or female. Without a diagnostic marker, breeding programs may take 1–2 years to determine the sex of new seedlings. Previous research on sex-linked markers was restricted to specific populations or breeding programs and therefore had limited transferability or suffered from low scalability. A large collection of 765 hop genotypes with known sex phenotypes, genotyping-by-sequencing, and genome-wide association mapping revealed a highly significant marker on the sex chromosome (LOD score = 208.7) that predicted sex within our population with 96.2% accuracy. In this study, we developed a PCR allele competitive extension (PACE) assay for the diagnostic SNP and tested three quick DNA extraction methodologies for rapid, high-throughput genotyping. Additionally, the marker was validated in a separate population of 94 individuals from 15 families from the USDA-ARS hop breeding program in Prosser, WA with 96% accuracy. This diagnostic marker is located in a gene predicted to encode the basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor protein, a family of proteins that have been previously implicated in male sterility in a variety of plant species, which may indicate a role in determining hop sex. The marker is diagnostic, accurate, affordable, and highly scalable and has the potential to improve efficiency in hop breeding.
Subsoil density field reconstruction through 3-D FWI: a systematic comparison between vertical- and horizontal-force seismic sources
Authors: Kawasaki Yusuke , Minato Shohei , Ghose Ranajit
Published: November 2023

Bulk-density (ρ) of soil is an important indicator of soil compaction and type. A knowledge of the spatial variability of in situ soil density is important in geotechnical engineering, hydrology and agriculture. Surface geophysical methods have so far shown limited success in providing an accurate and high-resolution image of 3-D soil-density distribution. In this pursuit, 3-D seismic full-waveform inversion (FWI) is promising, provided the robustness and accuracy of density inversion via this approach can be established in the near-surface scale. However, simultaneous reconstruction of ρ and seismic wave velocities through multiparameter FWI remains a challenging task. Near-surface seismic data are commonly dominated by dispersive surface waves whose velocities are controlled by the value and distribution of shear-wave velocity (VS). One major difficulty in estimating reliably ρ from near-surface seismic data is due to the relatively low sensitivity of the seismic wavefield to ρ compared to seismic velocities. Additionally, the accuracy of the estimated ρ decreases due to error in VS—an issue known as parameter coupling. Parameter coupling makes it difficult to estimate accurately ρ within the framework of conventional gradient-based FWI. More sophisticated optimization approaches (e.g. truncated Newton) can reduce the effect of parameter coupling, but these approaches are commonly not affordable in near-surface applications due to heavy computational burden. In this research, we have investigated how choosing correctly the force direction of the seismic source can contribute to a higher accuracy of ρ estimates through 3-D FWI. Using scattered wavefields, the Hessian, and inversion tests, an in-depth and systematic investigation of data sets corresponding to different force directions has been carried out. A comparison of the scattered wavefields due to a point-localized ρ perturbation for different force directions shows the robustness of the horizontal-force data set to noise compared to the vertical-force data set. Furthermore, for a point-scatterer model, an analysis of the gradients of the misfit function using the Hessian shows that utilizing a horizontal-force source enables one to reconstruct the high-resolution gradient with relatively small parameter coupling. Finally, inversion tests for two different subsoil models demonstrate that 3-D FWI on a horizontal-force-source seismic data set is capable of providing a more accurate 3-D ρ distribution in soil compared to a vertical-force-source data set. Our results show that the use of a horizontal-force source might allow avoiding computationally demanding, costly optimization approaches in 3-D FWI.
Procedural fairness and the resilience of health financing reforms in Ukraine
Authors: Dzhygyr Yuriy , Dale Elina , Voorhoeve Alex , Gopinathan Unni , Maynzyuk Kateryna
Published: November 2023

In 2017, Ukraine’s Parliament passed legislation establishing a single health benefit package for the entire population called the Programme of Medical Guarantees,‎ financed through general taxes and administered by a single national purchasing agency. This legislation was in line with key principles for financing universal health coverage. However, health professionals and some policymakers have been critical of elements of the reform, including its reliance on general taxes as the source of funding. Using qualitative methods and drawing on deliberative democratic theory and criteria for procedural fairness, this study argues that the acceptance and sustainability of these reforms could have been strengthened by making the decision-making process fairer. It suggests that three factors limited the extent of stakeholders’ participation in this process: first, a perception among reformers that fast-paced decision-making was required because there was only a short political window for much needed reforms; second, a lack of trust among reformers in the motives, representativeness, and knowledge of some stakeholders; and third, an under-appreciation of the importance of dialogic engagement with the public. These findings highlight a profound challenge for policymakers. In retrospect, some of those involved in the reform’s design and implementation believe that a more meaningful engagement with the public and stakeholders who opposed the reform might have strengthened its legitimacy and durability. At the same time, the study shows how difficult it is to have an inclusive process in settings where some actors may be driven by unconstrained self-interest or lack the capacity to be representative or knowledgeable interlocutors. It suggests that investments in deliberative capital (the attitudes and behaviours that facilitate good deliberation) and in civil society capacity may help overcome this difficulty.
Procedural fairness in decision-making for financing a National Health Insurance Scheme: a case study from The Gambia
Authors: Njie Hassan , Dale Elina , Gopinathan Unni
Published: November 2023

Achieving universal health coverage (UHC) involves difficult policy choices, and fair processes are critical for building legitimacy and trust. In 2021, The Gambia passed its National Health Insurance (NHI) Act. We explored decision-making processes shaping the financing of the NHI scheme (NHIS) with respect to procedural fairness criteria. We reviewed policy and strategic documents on The Gambia’s UHC reforms to identify key policy choices and interviewed policymakers, technocrats, lawmakers, hospital chief executive officers, private sector representatives and civil society organizations (CSOs) including key CSOs left out of the NHIS discussions. Ministerial budget discussions and virtual proceedings of the National Assembly’s debate on the NHI Bill were observed. To enhance public scrutiny, Gambians were encouraged to submit views to the National Assembly’s committee; however, the procedures for doing so were unclear, and it was not possible to ascertain how these inputs were used. Despite available funds to undertake countrywide public engagement, the public consultations were mostly limited to government institutions, few trade unions and a handful of urban-based CSOs. While this represented an improved approach to public policy-making, several CSOs representing key constituents and advocating for the expansion of exemption criteria for insurance premiums to include more vulnerable groups felt excluded from the process. Overload of the National Assembly’s legislative schedule and lack of National Assembly committee quorum were cited as reasons for not engaging in countrywide consultations. In conclusion, although there was an intent from the Executive and National Assembly to ensure transparent, participatory and inclusive decision-making, the process fell short in these aspects. These observations should be seen in the context of The Gambia’s ongoing democratic transition where institutions for procedural fairness are expected to progressively improve. Learning from this experience to enhance the procedural fairness of decision-making can promote inclusiveness, ownership and sustainability of the NHIS in The Gambia.
The passage and implementation of a Health Promotion Levy in South Africa as a case study of fair financing procedures
Authors: Kruger Petronell , Goldstein Susan , Hofman Karen
Published: November 2023

Procedural fairness is an accepted requirement for health decision-making. Fair procedures promote the acceptability and quality of health decisions while simultaneously advancing broader goals of participatory democracy. We conducted a case study of the Sugary Beverage Tax in South Africa known as the Health Promotion Levy (HPL), which was legislated in 2018. The case study examines the process around the adoption of the HPL from the perspective of procedural fairness with the view of identifying local gaps and lessons transferable to other local decision-making processes and other jurisdictions. We conducted a desk review of publically available data relating to the passage and implementation of the HPL, including a review of the policy documents, public submissions during the public participation process, response documents from policymakers, review of national legislative committee minutes, legal instruments and academic literature capturing public awareness, stakeholder views and media content. The data collection is novel in terms of the large scope of data considered, as well as the variety of sources. An analytical framework consisting of key criteria for procedural fairness, informed by a scoping review of the literature, guided the analysis of the decision-making process in South Africa. The process of the adoption and passage of the HPL met the majority of the procedural fairness criteria. However, a shortcoming, which impacted several criteria, was the failure to actively source the participation of community representatives and the larger public. Non-governmental organizations did not adequately fulfil this representative role. Industry interests were also disproportionately considered. The case study highlights the overall importance of viewing general members of the public as interested parties in health policies and the dangers of over-involving policy opponents under a mistaken understanding that this constitutes meaningful public engagement in decision-making procedures.
The challenges of modelling and assessing fisheries resources
Authors: Pennino Maria Grazia , Coll Marta , Cerviño Santiago
Published: November 2023

Many years after the publication of Beverton and Holt’s on the Dynamics of Exploited Fish Populations in 1957, many of the problems that they highlighted remain unsolved. For example, accurately estimating critical biological and fishing processes such as growth, natural mortality, recruitment, and selectivity continues to be challenging. Despite the lack of progress in some areas, there have been advances in our understanding of other areas of fisheries modelling and analysis, including the development of integrative studies of marine resources for the application of an ecosystem-based fisheries management. In this context, ICES Journal of Marine Science solicited contributions to the themed article set (TS) “Advances and challenges in the modelling and assessment of fishery resources”. Here, we summarize the contributions included in this TS that provide examples of emerging tools that are able to account for different issues of a stocks’ assessments and integrated analyses.
Retrospective investigation of >400 patients undergoing thoracic endovascular aortic repair with or without cerebrospinal fluid drainage
Authors: Mutter Charlotte , Benk Julia , Berger Tim , Kondov Stoyan , Chikvatia Salome , Humburger Frank , Rösslein Martin , Ulbrich Felix , Czerny Martin , Rylski Bartosz , Kreibich Maximilian
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyse the risks and benefits of cerebrospinal fluid drainage (CSFD) placement in patients undergoing thoracic endovascular aortic repair.

METHODS

Between 2009 and 2020, 411 patients underwent thoracic endovascular aortic repair in 1 institution where 236 patients (57%) received a preoperative CSFD. Patient and outcome characteristics were retrospectively analysed and compared between patients with and without preoperative CSFD placement.

RESULTS

Preoperative CSFD was performed significantly more frequently in elective patients, especially those undergoing distal stent graft extension following frozen elephant trunk-stent placement (P < 0.001). Significantly fewer CSFD was placed in patients with acute aortic injury (P < 0.001). The incidence of permanent spinal cord ischaemia (SCI) was higher in patients without preoperative CSFD [10 patients (2%) vs 1 patient (0.2%), P = 0.001]. Postoperative CSFD was placed in 3 patients (0.7%). Severe CSFD-associated complications affected 2 patients (0.5%) namely, a subdural spinal haematoma causing permanent paraplegia in one of those 2 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

CSFS placement is associated with low procedural risk and can potentially help to prevent SCI. However, the SCI incidence is most likely also associated with other preoperative factors including the patient’s haemodynamics. Hence, a general recommendation for placing a preoperative CSFD cannot be made when relying on the present evidence.
Impact of Nutritional Status on Antibody Titer After Booster mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine Among Elderly Adults in Japan
Authors: Mori Masahiko , Doi Takashi , Murata Miho , Moriyama Yuichi , Akino Kozo , Moriyama Tadayoshi , Maekawa Takafumi , Doi Nobumasa
Published: November 2023

Background

Published studies on mRNA coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine effects focus on younger individuals, comprising the majority of the workforce. Studies in elderly adults are sparse.

Methods

In total, 107 subjects were recruited (median age 78; interquartile range [IQR], 58.5–90.5; range, 35–105 years). Factors associated with antibody titer after the third mRNA COVID-19 vaccination were compared between 49 elderly (age ≥80; median, 94; IQR, 86–97; range, 80–105 years) and 58 younger (age ≤79; median, 61; IQR, 46–71; range, 35–79 years) adults.

Results

Among body mass index (BMI) categories, the group of underweight elderly adults had a lower antibody titer compared to those with normal weight (P < .01 after 1, 3, and 5 months). Elderly adults were less likely to maintain effective antibody titer (≥4160 AU/mL) compared to younger adults: 76% versus 98%, P < .001 after 1 month, and 45% versus 78%, P < .001 after 3 months. Elderly adults who maintained effective antibody titer for 5 months had a higher BMI (22.9 kg/m2 vs 20.1 kg/m2, P = .02), and were less likely to have underweight BMI (0% vs 31%, P = .02) compared to the subjects who failed to maintain effective antibody titer.

Conclusions

These results highlight the impact of nutritional status and the deleterious effect of underweight BMI on antibody titer and its maintenance among elderly adults following booster mRNA COVID-19 vaccination.
SARS-CoV-2 Infection in the Pediatric Oncology Population: The Definitive Comprehensive Report of the Infectious Diseases Working Group of AIEOP
Authors: Zama Daniele , Zanaroli Andrea , Corbelli Agnese , Lo Vecchio Andrea , Del Bene Margherita , Colombini Antonella , Compagno Francesca , Barone Angelica , Fontanili Ilaria , Rosaria D’Amico Maria , Papa Maria Rosaria , Petris Maria Grazia , Calore Elisabetta , Montalto Shana , Meneghello Linda , Brescia Letizia , Mura Rosamaria , La Spina Milena , Muggeo Paola , Rinieri Simona , Meazza Cristina , Perruccio Katia , Cellini Monica , Spadea Manuela , Mercolini Federico , Petroni Valeria , De Santis Raffaella , Soncini Elena , Provenzi Massimo , Giurici Nagua , Ziino Ottavio , Tridello Gloria , Cesaro Simone
Published: November 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the clinical impact and outcome of the SARS-CoV-2 infection on children with cancer or those who received a hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Methods

AIEOP (Italian Association of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology) performed a nationwide multicenter observational cohort study, including consecutive patients between April 2020 and November 2022.

Results

Twenty-five Italian centers participated and 455 patients were enrolled. We reported a significant increasing trend of symptomatic cases over the years, while the number of nonmild infections remained stable. Early infection after oncologic diagnosis (<60 days) and severe neutropenia were identified as independent risk factors for developing moderate, severe, or critical infections. The percentage of patients who were asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic and who stopped chemotherapy reduced over the years of the pandemic. Nine patients died, but no death was attributed to SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Conclusions

SARS-CoV-2 infection presented a self-limiting benign course in the Italian pediatric oncohematology population during the pandemic, and its main consequence has been the discontinuation of cancer-directed therapies. The rate of patients who were asymptomatic and stopped chemotherapy reduced over the years, suggesting that the continuation of chemotherapy is a feasible option.
Epidemiology of Rotavirus in Humans, Animals, and the Environment in Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Njifon Hermann Landry Munshili , Kenmoe Sebastien , Ahmed Sharia M , Roussel Takuissu Guy , Ebogo-Belobo Jean Thierry , Njile Daniel Kamga , Bowo-Ngandji Arnol , Mbaga Donatien Serge , Kengne-Nde Cyprien , Mouiche Mohamed Moctar Mouliom , Njouom Richard , Perraut Ronald , Leung Daniel T
Published: November 2023

Background

Globally, rotavirus infections are the most common cause of diarrhea-related deaths, especially among children under 5 years of age. This virus can be transmitted through the fecal-oral route, although zoonotic and environmental contributions to transmission are poorly defined. The purpose of this study is to determine the epidemiology of rotavirus in humans, animals, and the environment in Africa, as well as the impact of vaccination.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Africa Index Medicus, and African Journal Online, identifying 240 prevalence data points from 224 articles between 2009 and 2022.

Results

Human rotavirus prevalence among patients with gastroenteritis was 29.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 28.1%–31.5%; 238 710 participants), with similar estimates in children under 5 years of age, and an estimated case fatality rate of 1.2% (95% CI, .7%–2.0%; 10 440 participants). Prevalence was estimated to be 15.4% and 6.1% in patients with nongastroenteritis illnesses and apparently healthy individuals, respectively. Among animals, prevalence was 9.3% (95% CI, 5.7%–13.7%; 6115 animals), and in the environmental water sources, prevalence was 31.4% (95% CI, 17.7%–46.9%; 2530 samples).

Discussion

Our findings highlight the significant burden of rotavirus infection in Africa, and underscore the need for a One Health approach to limiting the spread of this disease.
Incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) and its impact on patient outcomes among adult hospitalized patients with carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative infections who received targeted treatment with a newer β-lactam or β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor-, polymyxin- or aminoglycoside-containing regimen
Authors: Lodise Thomas P , Yucel Emre , Obi Engels N , Watanabe Alexandre H , Nathanson Brian H
Published: November 2023

Background

Limited comparative data exist on acute kidney injury (AKI) risk and AKI-associated outcomes in hospitalized patients with carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative infections (CR-GNIs) treated with a newer β-lactam/β-lactam-β-lactamase inhibitor (BL/BL-BLI)-, polymyxin (PB)- or aminoglycoside (AG)-containing regimen. This study quantified the risk of AKI and AKI-related outcomes among patients with CR-GNIs treated with a newer BL/BL-BLI-, PB- or AG-containing regimen.

Methods

A multicentre, retrospective, observational study was performed (2016–20). The study included adult hospitalized patients with (i) baseline estimated glomerular filtration rates ≥30 mL/min/1.73 m2; (ii) CR-GN pneumonia, complicated urinary tract infection or bloodstream infection; and (iii) receipt of newer BL/BL-BLI, PG or AG within 7 days of index CR-GN culture for ≥3 days. Outcomes included AKI, in-hospital mortality and hospital costs.

Results

The study included 750 patients and most (48%) received a newer BL/BL-BLI. The median (IQR) treatment duration was 8 (5–11), 5 (4–8) and 7 (4–8) days in the newer BL/BL-BLI group, AG group and PB group, respectively. The PB group had the highest adjusted AKI incidence (95% CI) (PB: 25.1% (15.6%–34.6%) versus AG: 8.9% (5.7%–12.2%) versus newer BL/BL-BLI: 11.9% (8.1%–15.7%); P = 0.001). Patients with AKI had significantly higher in-hospital mortality (AKI: 18.5% versus ‘No AKI’: 5.6%; P = 0.001) and mean hospital costs (AKI: $49 192 versus ‘No AKI’: $38,763; P = 0.043).

Conclusions

The AKI incidence was highest among PB patients and patients with AKI had worse outcomes. Healthcare systems should consider minimizing the use of antibiotics that augment AKI risk as a measure to improve outcomes in patients with CR-GNIs.
Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli is a predominant pathotype in healthy pigs in Hubei Province of China
Authors: Zhuo Wenxiao , Zhao Yang , Zhao Xianglin , Yao Zhiming , Qiu Xiuxiu , Huang Yaxue , Li Huaixia , Shen Jing , Zhu Zhihao , Li Tingting , Li Shaowen , Huang Qi , Zhou Rui
Published: November 2023

Aim

This study aims to investigate the prevalence of intestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (InPEC) in healthy pig-related samples and evaluate the potential virulence of the InPEC strains.

Methods and results

A multiplex PCR method was established to identify different pathotypes of InPEC. A total of 800 rectal swab samples and 296 pork samples were collected from pig farms and slaughterhouses in Hubei province, China. From these samples, a total of 21 InPEC strains were isolated, including 19 enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) and 2 shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) strains. By whole-genome sequencing and in silico typing, it was shown that the sequence types and serotypes were diverse among the strains. Antimicrobial susceptibility assays showed that 90.48% of the strains were multi-drug resistant. The virulence of the strains was first evaluated using the Galleria mellonella larvae model, which showed that most of the strains possessed medium to high pathogenicity. A moderately virulent EPEC isolate was further selected to characterize its pathogenicity using a mouse model, which suggested that it could cause significant diarrhea. Bioluminescence imaging (BLI) was then used to investigate the colonization dynamics of this EPEC isolate, which showed that the EPEC strain could colonize the mouse cecum for up to 5 days.
‘The collar never comes off’: A qualitative study of clergy professionalism
Authors: Beaty R Ryan , Biwa Valerie , Millender Lauren
Published: November 2023

In this study, we examine clergy use of verbal and nonverbal communicative behaviors of professionalism within the pastor–parishioner dyad. In doing so, we interviewed 21 clergy from disparate Christian denominations—The Episcopal Church, USA, and The Assemblies of God, and analyzed data via modified constant comparative analysis. Findings, conceptualized through Uhl-Bien’s Relational Leadership Theory (RLT), produced answers as to why clergy members employ professionalism-based behaviors, which behaviors they frequently employ, and the benefit of professionalism to the pastor–parishioner leadership dyad. Findings theoretically contribute (1) an introduction toward the development of a clergy framework of professionalism, (2) an expansion on the understanding of professionalism, (3) a mechanism of influence and control inside RLT—professionalism, and (4) demonstrates that co-construction within a leadership relationship is guided by underlying assumptions of power within the dyad. The authors conclude with pragmatic implications for all leaders.
Rho of Plants patterning: linking mathematical models and molecular diversity
Authors: Deinum Eva E , Jacobs Bas
Published: November 2023

ROPs (Rho of Plants) are plant specific small GTPases involved in many membrane patterning processes and play important roles in the establishment and communication of cell polarity. These small GTPases can produce a wide variety of patterns, ranging from a single cluster in tip-growing root hairs and pollen tubes to an oriented stripe pattern controlling protoxylem cell wall deposition. For an understanding of what controls these various patterns, models are indispensable. Consequently, many modelling studies on small GTPase patterning exist, often focusing on yeast or animal cells. Multiple patterns occurring in plants, however, require the stable co-existence of multiple active ROP clusters, which does not occur with the most common yeast/animal models. The possibility of such patterns critically depends on the precise model formulation. Additionally, different small GTPases are usually treated interchangeably in models, even though plants possess two types of ROPs with distinct molecular properties, one of which is unique to plants. Furthermore, the shape and even the type of ROP patterns may be affected by the cortical cytoskeleton, and cortex composition and anisotropy differ dramatically between plants and animals. Here, we review insights into ROP patterning from modelling efforts across kingdoms, as well as some outstanding questions arising from these models and recent experimental findings.
The combination of manogepix and itraconazole is synergistic and inhibits the growth of Madurella mycetomatis in vitro but not in vivo
Authors: Konings Mickey , Eadie Kimberly , Strepis Nikolaos , Nyuykonge Bertrand , Fahal Ahmed H , Verbon Annelies , van de Sande Wendy W J
Published: November 2023

Mycetoma is a neglected tropical disease commonly caused by the fungus Madurella mycetomatis. Standard treatment consists of extensive treatment with itraconazole in combination with surgical excision of the infected tissue, but has a low success rate. To improve treatment outcomes, novel treatment strategies are needed. Here, we determined the potential of manogepix, a novel antifungal agent that targets the GPI-anchor biosynthesis pathway by inhibition of the GWT1 enzyme. Manogepix was evaluated by determining the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) according to the CLSI-based in vitro susceptibility assay for 22 M. mycetomatis strains and by in silico protein comparison of the target protein. The synergy between manogepix and itraconazole was determined using a checkerboard assay. The efficacy of clinically relevant dosages was assessed in an in vivo grain model in Galleria mellonella larvae. MICs for manogepix ranged from <0.008 to >8 mg/l and 16/22 M. mycetomatis strains had an MIC ≥4 mg/ml. Differences in MICs were not related to differences observed in the GWT1 protein sequence. For 70% of the tested isolates, synergism was found between manogepix and itraconazole in vitro. In vivo, enhanced survival was not observed upon admission of 8.6 mg/kg manogepix, nor in combination treatment with 5.7 mg/kg itraconazole. MICs of manogepix were high, but the in vitro antifungal activity of itraconazole was enhanced in combination therapy. However, no efficacy of manogepix was found in an in vivo grain model using clinically relevant dosages. Therefore, the therapeutic potential of manogepix in mycetoma caused by M. mycetomatis seems limited.
The large-scale velocity field from the Cosmicflows-4 data
Authors: Hoffman Yehuda , Valade Aurelien , Libeskind Noam I , Sorce Jenny G , Tully R Brent , Pfeifer Simon , Gottlöber Stefan , Pomarède Daniel
Published: November 2023

The reconstruction of the large-scale velocity field from the grouped Cosmicflows-4 (CF4) database is presented. The lognormal bias of the inferred distances and velocities data is corrected by the Bias Gaussianization correction scheme, and the linear density and velocity fields are reconstructed by means of the Wiener filter and constrained realizations (CRs) algorithm. These tools are tested against a suite of random and constrained Cosmicflows-3-like mock data. The CF4 data consist of three main subsamples – the 6dFGS and the SDSS data – and the ‘others’. The individual contributions of the subsamples have been studied. The quantitative analysis of the velocity field is done mostly by the mean overdensity (ΔL(R)) and the bulk velocity (Vbulk(R)) profiles of the velocity field out to $300\, {{h^{-1}\, {\rm Mpc}}}$.

The Vbulk(R) and ΔL(R) profiles of the CF4 data without its 6dFGS component are consistent with the cosmic variance to within 1σ. The 6dFGS sample dominates the Vbulk (ΔL) profile beyond $\sim 120\, {{h^{-1}\, {\rm Mpc}}}$, and drives it to roughly a 3.4σ (−1.9σ) excess (deficiency) relative to the cosmic variance at $R\sim 250\ (190)\ \, {{h^{-1}\, {\rm Mpc}}}$. The excess in the amplitude of Vbulk is dominated by its Supergalactic X component, roughly in the direction of the Shapley Concentration. The amplitude and alignment of the inferred velocity field from the CF4 data are at $\sim (2{-}3)\, \sigma$ discrepancy with respect to the Lambda cold dark matter model. Namely, it is somewhat atypical but yet there is no compelling tension with the model.
Spatial distribution of NH2D in massive star-forming regions
Authors: Li Yuqiang , Wang Junzhi , Li Juan , Liu Shu , Yang Kai , Zheng Siqi , Lu Zhe
Published: November 2023

To understand the relation between NH2D and its physical environment, we mapped ortho-NH2D $1_{11}^s-1_{01}^a$ at 85.9 GHz toward 24 Galactic late-stage massive star-forming regions with Institut de Radioastronomie Millim${\rm \acute{e}}$trique (IRAM) 30-m telescope. Ortho-NH2D $1_{11}^s-1_{01}^a$ was detected in 18 of 24 sources. Comparing with the distribution of H13CN 1-0 as a dense gas tracer and radio recombination line H42α, ortho-NH2D $1_{11}^s-1_{01}^a$ present complex and diverse spatial distribution in these targets. 11 of the 18 targets, present a different distribution between ortho-NH2D $1_{11}^s-1_{01}^a$ and H13CN 1-0, while no significant difference between these two lines can be found in other 7 sources, mainly due to limited spatial resolution and sensitivity. Moreover, with H42α tracing massive young stellar objects, ortho-NH2D $1_{11}^s-1_{01}^a$ seems to show a relatively weak emission near the massive young stellar objects.
Host galaxies of ultra-strong Mg ii absorbers at z ∼ 0.7
Authors: Guha Labanya K , Srianand Raghunathan , Petitjean Patrick
Published: November 2023

We report spectroscopic identification of the host galaxies of 18 ultra-strong Mg ii systems (USMg ii) at 0.6 ≤ z ≤ 0.8. We created the largest sample by merging these with 20 host galaxies from our previous survey within 0.4 ≤ z ≤ 0.6. Using this sample, we confirm that the measured impact parameters ($\rm 6.3\leqslant D[kpc] \leqslant 120$ with a median of 19 kpc) are much larger than expected, and the USMg ii host galaxies do not follow the canonical $\rm {\it W}_{2796}-{\it D}$ anticorrelation. We show that the presence and significance of this anticorrelation may depend on the sample selection. The $\rm {\it W}_{2796}-{\it D}$ anticorrelation seen for the general Mg ii absorbers show a mild evolution at low $\rm W_{2796}$ end over the redshift range 0.4 ≤ z ≤ 1.5 with an increase of the impact parameters. Compared to the host galaxies of normal Mg ii absorbers, USMg ii host galaxies are brighter and more massive for a given impact parameter. While the USMg ii systems preferentially pick star-forming galaxies, they exhibit slightly lower ongoing star-forming rates compared to main sequence galaxies with the same stellar mass, suggesting a transition from star-forming to quiescent states. For a limiting magnitude of mr < 23.6, at least 29  per cent of the USMg ii host galaxies are isolated, and the width of the Mg ii absorption in these cases may originate from gas flows (infall/outflow) in isolated haloes of massive star forming but not starbursting galaxies. We associate more than one galaxy with the absorber in $\ge 21~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ cases, where interactions may cause wide velocity spread.
The dominant mechanism(s) for populating the outskirts of star clusters with neutron star binaries
Authors: Leigh Nathan W C , Ye Claire S , Grondin Steffani M , Fragione Giacomo , Webb Jeremy J , Heinke Craig O
Published: November 2023

It has been argued that heavy binaries composed of neutron stars (NSs) and millisecond pulsars (MSPs) can end up in the outskirts of star clusters via an interaction with a massive black hole (BH) binary expelling them from the core. We argue here, however, that this mechanism will rarely account for such observed objects. Only for primary masses ≲100 M⊙ and a narrow range of orbital separations should a BH–BH binary be both dynamically hard and produce a sufficiently low recoil velocity to retain the NS binary in the cluster. Hence, BH binaries are in general likely to eject NSs from clusters. We explore several alternative mechanisms that would cause NS/MSP binaries to be observed in the outskirts of their host clusters after a Hubble time. The most likely mechanism is a three-body interaction involving the NS/MSP binary and a normal star. We compare to Monte Carlo simulations of cluster evolution for the globular clusters NGC 6752 and 47 Tuc, and show that the models not only confirm that normal three-body interactions involving all stellar-mass objects are the dominant mechanism for putting NS/MSP binaries into the cluster outskirts, but also reproduce the observed NS/MSP binary radial distributions without needing to invoke the presence of a massive BH binary. Higher central densities and an episode of core collapse can broaden the radial distributions of NSs/MSPs and NS/MSP binaries due to three-body interactions, making these clusters more likely to host NSs in the cluster outskirts.
On the plerionic rectangular supernova remnants of static progenitors
Authors: Meyer D M-A , Meliani Z , Velázquez P F , Pohl M , Torres D F
Published: November 2023

Pulsar wind nebulae are a possible final stage of the circumstellar evolution of massive stars, where a fast-rotating, magnetized neutron star produces a powerful wind that interacts with the supernova ejecta. The shape of these so-called plerionic supernova remnants is influenced by the distribution of circumstellar matter at the time of the explosion, itself impacted by the magnetic field of the ambient medium, responsible for the expansion of the circumstellar bubble of the progenitor star. To understand the effects of magnetization on the circumstellar medium and resulting pulsar nebulae, we conduct 2D magnetohydrodynamic simulations. Our models explore the impact of the interstellar medium’s (ISM) magnetic field on the morphology of a supernova remnant and pulsar wind nebula that develop in the circumstellar medium of massive star progenitor in the warm phase of the Milky Way’s ISM. Our simulations reveal that the jet-like structures formed on both sides perpendicularly to the equatorial plane of the pulsar, creating complex radio synthetic synchrotron emissions. This morphology is characterized by a rectangular-like remnant, which is typical of the circumstellar medium of massive stars in a magnetized medium, along with the appearance of a spinning top structure within the projected rectangle. We suggest that this mechanism may be partially responsible for the complex morphologies observed in pulsar wind nebulae that do not conform to the typical torus/jet or bow shock/tail shapes observed in most cases.
On the core-collapse supernova explanation for LAMOST J1010 + 2358
Authors: Jeena S K , Banerjee Projjwal , Heger Alexander
Published: November 2023

Low-metallicity very massive stars with an initial mass of ∼140–$260\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$ are expected to end their lives as pair-instability supernovae (PISNe). The abundance pattern resulting from a PISN differs drastically from regular core-collapse supernova (CCSN) models and is expected to be seen in very metal-poor (VMP) stars of [Fe/H] ≲ −2. Despite the routine discovery of many VMP stars, the unique abundance pattern expected from PISNe has not been unambiguously detected. The recently discovered VMP star LAMOST J1010 + 2358, however, shows a peculiar abundance pattern that is remarkably well fit by a PISN, indicating the potential first discovery of a bonafide star born from gas polluted by a PISN. In this paper, we study the detailed nucleosynthesis in a large set of models of CCSN of Pop III and Pop II star of metallicity [Fe/H] = −3 with masses ranging from 12 to $30\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$. We find that the observed abundance pattern in LAMOST J1010 + 2358 can be fit at least equally well by CCSN models of ∼12–$14\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$ that undergo negligible fallback following the explosion. The best-fitting CCSN models provide a fit that is even marginally better than the best-fitting PISN model. We conclude the measured abundance pattern in LAMOST J1010 + 2358 could have originated from a CCSN and therefore cannot be unambiguously identified with a PISN given the set of elements measured in it to date. We identify key elements that need to be measured in future detections in stars like LAMOST J1010 + 2358 that can differentiate between CCSN and PISN origin.
Correlation structure in flux-density calibrator models
Authors: Molteno Timothy C A
Published: November 2023

Astronomical radio-interferometric imaging typically uses published observations of standard flux-calibrator sources to calibrate the spectral response of the instrument. The spectra of standard flux-calibrator sources are usually provided as polynomial models of flux-density as a function of frequency. In this paper we show that there is significant covariance in these polynomial coefficients, and that failing to take this into account leads to significantly larger variance when sampling from the polynomial models. This paper presents polynomial models of calibrator sources that include the covariance structure of the coefficients which are computed using Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampling. In addition a data-free inference technique is presented that can be used to estimate the covariance structure from a simple polynomial model when access to the original data is not available. This data-free technique is compared with estimates of covariance calculated from original observation data. The data-free technique is shown to provide reasonable agreement with covariances calculated from source data. A python package is described that implements this inference, and a catalogue of common flux-calibrator models including covariance is provided. We suggest that when polynomial models of flux-calibrators are used as priors in a Bayesian context, then taking this correlation structure into account will lead to significantly reduced posterior variance.