bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A mixed-methods study among adolescents and teachers in Bogotá, Colombia: adapting the OurFutures Alcohol Program
Authors: Egan Lyra , Ospina-Pinillos Laura , Champion Katrina Elizabeth , Newton Nicola Clare , Ballen Alonso Paula Valentina , Teesson Maree , Gardner Lauren Anne
Published: November 2024

Early onset of alcohol consumption among Colombian adolescents highlights the need for effective and accessible preventive interventions. This project aimed to conduct formative work to inform the adaptation of an effective eHealth alcohol use prevention program originally developed in Australia, the OurFutures Alcohol Module, to the Bogotá context. Twenty-six adolescents and 10 teachers in Bogotá participated in the study. We used a mixed-methods approach comprising interviews, surveys and semi-structured discussions to evaluate the acceptability of OurFutures. Study materials were translated into Spanish before conducting three 1.5-hour focus groups with adolescents (aged 11–15; n = 26), and 1-hour interviews or online surveys with teachers to assess attitudes towards alcohol use and the acceptability of one lesson from the OurFutures Alcohol Module in the Bogotá context. Qualitative data were analysed thematically, and descriptive analyses of quantitative data reported percentage agreement for survey questions. Overall, 96% of students and 89% of teachers expressed strong satisfaction with the OurFutures Alcohol Module lesson. Most students (96%) liked its storyline and character portrayal, and most teachers (80%) said they would use OurFutures with their students. Participants provided feedback for improving program relatability, including adapting scenarios, character names, clothing and language to align with the Bogotá context and resonate with Colombian adolescents. This study marks the first step in informing the adaptation of the OurFutures Alcohol Module to the Bogotá context and highlights key considerations for cultural adaptations of other substance use prevention interventions. This research underscores the importance of place-based end-user involvement in co-designing adolescent prevention interventions.
Big Fish Cannot Jump? Allometry of Terrestrial Jumping in Cyprinodontiform Fishes
Authors: Minicozzi Michael Robert , Finden Alexander , Dias Raquel , Phillips Quentin , Abelson Carly , Gibb Alice Coulter
Published: November 2024

Synopsis

Teleost fishes that emerge onto land must produce effective terrestrial movements to return to the water. Using the Cyprinodontiformes as a model system, we examined a terrestrial behavior termed the tail-flip jump across a size range of individuals representing three species of aquatic killifishes (Gambusia affinis, Poecilia mexicana, and Jordanella floridae) and two species of amphibious killifishes (Kryptolebias marmoratus and Fundulus heteroclitus) to identify potential effects of size (mass) on jumping performance. The ballistic trajectory equation was used to partition the contributions of velocity (determined by acceleration and contact time) and takeoff angle to jump distance. Despite differences in size (over an order of magnitude), all fishes took off from the ground at ∼45°. However, in terms of total displacement, aquatic and amphibious killifish species scaled differently in their ability to perform the tail-flip jump. Aquatic killifishes decrease in total jump distance as mass increases; however, amphibious killifishes increase in total jump distance as mass increases. Aquatic killifishes cannot produce adequate accelerations at larger sizes, but amphibious killifishes produce similar accelerations despite over an order of magnitude size difference. Because of this, amphibious killifish species are able to maintain fast takeoff velocities at large body sizes. Distinct scaling patterns may be generated by differences in body shape. Aquatic killifishes have a fusiform body shape, with most of their body mass in the anterior of the body, while amphibious killifishes have a more uniform body shape that reduces their overall mass present in the anterior body. We hypothesize that reduced mass in the anterior body facilitates raising the head over the tail to prepare for takeoff. In contrast with amphibious species, the negative scaling relationship seen in body size versus displacement in aquatic killifishes implies an upper size limit to producing the tail-flip jump for fish species that infrequently encounter the terrestrial environment.
Rothman diagrams: the geometry of confounding and standardization
Authors: Kenah Eben
Published: November 2024

We outline a geometric perspective on causal inference in cohort studies that can help epidemiologists understand the role of standardization in controlling for confounding. For simplicity, we focus on a binary exposure X, a binary outcome D, and a binary confounder C that is not causally affected by X. Rothman diagrams plot the risk of disease in the unexposed on the x-axis and the risk in the exposed on the y-axis. The crude risks define a point in the unit square, and the stratum-specific risks at each level of C define two other points in the unit square. Standardization produces points along the line segment connecting the stratum-specific points. When there is confounding by C, the crude point is off this line segment. The set of all possible crude points is a rectangle with corners at the stratum-specific points and sides parallel to the axes. When there are more than two strata, standardization produces points in the convex hull of the stratum-specific points, and there is confounding if the crude point is outside this convex hull. We illustrate these ideas using data from a study in Newcastle, United Kingdom, in which the causal effect of smoking on 20-year mortality was confounded by age.
Viral diversity and host associations in microbial electrolysis cells
Authors: Abadikhah Marie , Persson Frank , Farewell Anne , Wilén Britt-Marie , Modin Oskar
Published: November 2024

In microbial electrolysis cells (MECs), microbial communities catalyze conversions between dissolved organic compounds, electrical energy, and energy carriers such as hydrogen and methane. Bacteria and archaea, which catalyze reactions on the anode and cathode of MECs, interact with phages; however, phage communities have previously not been examined in MECs. In this study, we used metagenomic sequencing to study prokaryotes and phages in nine MECs. A total of 852 prokaryotic draft genomes representing 278 species, and 1476 phage contigs representing 873 phage species were assembled. Among high quality prokaryotic genomes (>95% completion), 55% carried a prophage, and the three Desulfobacterota spp. that dominated the anode communities all carried prophages. Geobacter anodireducens, one of the bacteria dominating the anode communities, carried a CRISPR spacer showing evidence of a previous infection by a Peduoviridae phage present in the liquid of some MECs. Methanobacteriaceae spp. and an Acetobacterium sp., which dominated the cathodes, had several associations with Straboviridae spp. The results of this study show that phage communities in MECs are diverse and interact with functional microorganisms on both the anode and cathode.
Analysis on characteristics and multilocus sequence typing of Clostridium perfringens in western China
Authors: Yanxia Shao , Xuewei Wang , Gang Li , Wei Jia
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study was to identify and analyse the distribution characteristics, toxin genotyping and antimicrobial susceptibility of Clostridium perfringens and to investigate its resistance mechanisms and genetic characteristics.

Methods

The MICs of various antibiotics against C. perfringens were determined using the agar dilution method, and resistance genes and toxin genotypes were detected by PCR. Genetic relationships were analysed using MLST. WGS was conducted on the DNB system and PacBio platforms.

Results

Analysis of 36 strains of C. perfringens revealed that the major toxin types were types C and F, with 86.1% of the strains isolated from bile samples. Of these, 30.6% of the strains exhibited MDR, with resistance rates of 75.0%, 52.8% and 52.8% for penicillin, clindamycin and ampicillin, respectively; however, no resistance to metronidazole and carbapenems was observed. MLST analysis identified 29 STs, including 14 novel types. ST221 and ST498 were the dominant types. The WGS revealed that the most prevalent virulence factors are plc (100.0%), nagH (100.0%), colA (100.0%), nanJ (100.0%), entB (100%), nanH (97.0%), entA (97.0%) and nanI (90.9%). Among these factors, the primary determinants of tetracycline resistance are tetA (66.7%) and tetB (78.8%), which represent the most frequently detected antibiotic resistance genes.

Conclusions

This study indicates that the infection rate of C. perfringens is relatively high, with the majority of isolated strains exhibiting MDR. The observed high levels of antibiotic resistance, combined with the significant genetic diversity of these strains, suggest a potential public health risk.
Addressing ethical issues in healthcare artificial intelligence using a lifecycle-informed process
Authors: Collins Benjamin X , Bélisle-Pipon Jean-Christophe , Evans Barbara J , Ferryman Kadija , Jiang Xiaoqian , Nebeker Camille , Novak Laurie , Roberts Kirk , Were Martin , Yin Zhijun , Ravitsky Vardit , Coco Joseph , Hendricks-Sturrup Rachele , Williams Ishan , Clayton Ellen W , Malin Bradley A ,   Bridge2AI Ethics and Trustworthy AI Working Group
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Artificial intelligence (AI) proceeds through an iterative and evaluative process of development, use, and refinement which may be characterized as a lifecycle. Within this context, stakeholders can vary in their interests and perceptions of the ethical issues associated with this rapidly evolving technology in ways that can fail to identify and avert adverse outcomes. Identifying issues throughout the AI lifecycle in a systematic manner can facilitate better-informed ethical deliberation.

Materials and Methods

We analyzed existing lifecycles from within the current literature for ethical issues of AI in healthcare to identify themes, which we relied upon to create a lifecycle that consolidates these themes into a more comprehensive lifecycle. We then considered the potential benefits and harms of AI through this lifecycle to identify ethical questions that can arise at each step and to identify where conflicts and errors could arise in ethical analysis. We illustrated the approach in 3 case studies that highlight how different ethical dilemmas arise at different points in the lifecycle.

Results, Discussion, and Conclusion

Through case studies, we show how a systematic lifecycle-informed approach to the ethical analysis of AI enables mapping of the effects of AI onto different steps to guide deliberations on benefits and harms. The lifecycle-informed approach has broad applicability to different stakeholders and can facilitate communication on ethical issues for patients, healthcare professionals, research participants, and other stakeholders.
Development of an evidence- and consensus-based Digital Healthcare Equity Framework
Authors: Hatef Elham , Hudson Scholle Sarah , Buckley Bryan , Weiner Jonathan P , Austin John Matthew
Published: November 2024

Objective

To develop an evidence- and consensus-based Digital Healthcare Equity Framework (the Framework) that guides users in intentionally considering equity in healthcare solutions that involve digital technologies.

Materials and Methods

We conducted an environmental scan including a scoping review of the literature and key informant interviews with health equity and digital healthcare technology thought leaders and convened a technical expert panel (TEP).

Results

We grouped similar concepts from the scoping review and key informant interviews, synthesized them into several primary domains and subdomains, and presented the composite list of domains and subdomains to the TEP for their input. From those, we derived the following domains for the Framework: (1) Patient and Community Characteristics, (2) Health System Characteristics, and (3) Health Information Technology Characteristics. We structured the Framework around the following 5 phases of the digital healthcare lifecycle: planning, development, acquisition, implementation/maintenance, and monitoring/improvement/equity assessment.

Discussion

The proposed Framework is designed to specify the aspects that need to be considered in a systematic and intentional approach to ensure digital healthcare solutions improve, and not exacerbate, healthcare inequities.

Conclusion

The proposed Framework serves as a tool to help users and other stakeholders assess whether their healthcare solutions that involve digital technologies are equitable at every phase of the digital healthcare lifecycle.
Influence of Talc in Polypropylene on Total Fluorine Measurements Used as an Indicator of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
Authors: Curtzwiler Greg W , Applegate Sarah A , Early Mark R , Updegraff Katie M , Vorst Keith L
Published: November 2024

Background

Increasing restrictions for chemicals of concern in plastic packaging materials have created an urgent need to accurately detect and quantify these chemicals. Total fluorine measurements have been utilized to screen for highly scrutinized per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS) in food packaging materials. Inorganic contributions to the total fluorine signal can result in false positive signals exceeding regulatory limits.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to develop a method for determining the contribution of talc inorganic filler to the total fluorine signal.

Method

The influence of talc on total fluorine measurements of plastics was evaluated by compounding talc with virgin polypropylene (PP) and then measuring the total fluorine concentration using oxidative pyrohydrolytic combustion ion chromatography. This study provides a framework to predict the contribution of talc in plastic samples to the total fluorine signal.

Results

A near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) method was developed by employing the full width half height (FWHH) of the interstitial fluorine characteristic band of talc. The FWHH signal of the processed puck specimens was determined to be linearly increase with the measured total fluorine difference as a function of talc concentration (R2 = 0.9619).

Conclusions

This study developed a method to predict the contribution of talc fillers to the total fluorine signal of plastic samples. This method is critical for accurately determining the regulatory compliance of talc-filled plastic samples for PFAS using total fluorine.

Highlights

Total fluorine is a common regulatory compliance technique as an indicator of PFAS. Talc is a common plastic filler that contains fluorine as a contaminant. The fluorine in talc contributes to the total fluorine signal, which can falsely elevate the total fluorine signal, potentially resulting in the lack of regulatory compliance. The developed method serves as a framework of how to identify the fluorine contribution of inorganic fillers in plastics.
Approach to determining etiology of hypophosphatemia in a patient with coexisting phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor and fibrous dysplasia
Authors: Patil Madhuri D , Wangsiricharoen Sintawat , Lazar Alexander J , Moon Bryan , Madewell John E , Collins Michael T , Guise Theresa A
Published: November 2024

Dysregulated FGF23 production is a demonstrated cause of hypophosphatemia and osteomalacia. Diseases associated with these conditions include phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor (PMT) causing tumor induced osteomalacia, various forms of rickets, and fibrous dysplasia (FD). Coexistence of 2 conditions that can increase FGF23 concentrations is rare. We report a case of a 79-yr-old man who presented with rib and right flank pain. Imaging revealed bone lesions in the right iliac wing, left supra-acetabular area, and L4 vertebral body. Biopsies showed a right iliac PMT and left supra-acetabular FD. Cryoablation of both lesions resolved the phosphaturia with normalization of phosphorus level. Coexistence of PMT and FD in this patient with hypophosphatemia raised questions about the source of the FGF23, meaning of coexistence of PMT and FD in the same patient and, about the nature of the third lesion in the L4 vertebral body. Using FGF23 mRNA chromogenic in situ hybridization, we identified the PMT, rather than the FD, as the source of FGF23. Lack of GNAS mutation in the PMT suggested it being independent of FD. Assessment by the intact FGF23: total FGF23 ratio as well as gallium-DOTATATE scan suggested that the vertebral body lesion could represent FD. Other than understanding difference in underlying molecular processing of FGF23 in PMT and FD, testing for mutations, imaging studies as well as in situ hybridization helped solve the questions arising from this unique case of coexistence of PMT and FD.
It matters how you google it? Using agent-based testing to assess the impact of user choices in search queries and algorithmic personalization on political Google Search results
Authors: van Hoof Marieke , Trilling Damian , Moeller Judith , Meppelink Corine S
Published: November 2024

Search engines, as key sources of political information, have sparked concerns regarding selective exposure driven by user choices based on political beliefs and filter bubbles created by algorithms. This study focuses on the most influential yet often-overlooked user choice: search queries. We investigate the extent to which user choices (search queries) and algorithmic personalization (search history) lead to divergent search results. Building on research linking immigration- and climate-related search queries to political characteristics, we conduct an experiment on Google Search employing agent-based testing. Using computational methods, we examine variations in search results by source (type) and search result page features. Our findings show that it is the specific search queries made by users, not algorithmic personalization, that lead to substantially divergent information sources in search results. This suggests future research should prioritize user choices in information search rather than control for them.
Risk Perception: Measurement and Aggregation
Authors: Netzer Nick , Robson Arthur , Steiner Jakub , Kocourek Pavel
Published: November 2024

In a model inspired by neuroscience, we study choice between lotteries as a process of encoding and decoding noisy perceptual signals. The implications of this process for behavior depend on the decision-maker’s understanding of risk. When the aggregation of perceptual signals is coarse, encoding and decoding generate behavioral risk attitudes even for vanishing perceptual noise. We show that the optimal encoding of lottery rewards is S-shaped and that low-probability events are optimally oversampled. Taken together, the model can explain adaptive-risk attitudes and probability weighting, as in prospect theory. Furthermore, it predicts that risk attitudes are influenced by the anticipation of risk, time pressure, experience, salience, and availability heuristics.
The effect of foreign investors on local housing markets: evidence from the UK
Authors: Sá Filipa
Published: November 2024

I use administrative data on properties owned by overseas companies to study the effect of foreign investment on house prices, affordability, construction, and vacant properties in England and Wales. To address endogeneity, I construct an instrument for foreign investment based on political conditions abroad. I find that foreign investment increases house prices. This effect is stronger for more expensive homes but is present at all points of the distribution. Foreign investment reduces affordability and the number of vacant dwellings but has no effect on construction. There is no evidence of heterogenous effects across areas with different housing supply elasticities, since construction is unresponsive even in high-elasticity areas.
Preoperative quantitative imaging use in predicting intraoperative decision for hip labral repair versus reconstruction
Authors: Alder Catherine C , Wait Trevor J , Wipf Caleb J , Keeter Carson L , Peszek Adam , Mayer Stephanie W , Ho Charles P , Orahovats Alexandra , Genuario James W
Published: November 2024

Intraoperative assessment of labral quality determines arthroscopic repair versus reconstruction for hip labral tear treatment. T2 mapping technology discriminates between healthy and damaged cartilage. This study investigated if T2 mapping magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can preoperatively predict labral repair versus reconstruction. This retrospective comparative study included patients with preoperative T2 mapping MRI who underwent hip labral repair or reconstruction at a single institution between March 2021 and February 2023. Three reviewers using Syngo.via recorded average T2 mapping values for the labrum, acetabular cartilage, and femoral cartilage on patients’ sagittal cut. Intraclass correlation values estimated rater agreement of T2 values. T2 means were compared using t-tests. Three Bayesian regression models were created, separately analyzing the labrum, acetabular cartilage, and femoral cartilage mapping values. The 95% credible intervals determined the significance of regression coefficients. A total of 63 operations were included: 14 reconstructions and 49 repairs. Participants were 14- to 50-years-old, with 35 females and 28 males. There was excellent agreement among raters for T2 measurements. There was no significant difference in average T2 values between the repair and reconstruction groups. All three models showed that the odds of labral reconstruction were negatively associated with T2 mapping values, positively associated with age, and increased in males. Preoperative T2 mapping values from the labrum, acetabular, and femoral cartilage are negatively associated with the odds of needing a labral reconstruction. Increased age and being male are associated with increased odds of needing a labral reconstruction. This study will allow further evaluation into other variables that predict labral repair versus reconstruction.
A reputational perspective on structural reforms: how media reputations are related to the structural reform likelihood of public agencies
Authors: Boon Jan , Wynen Jan , Verhoest Koen , Daelemans Walter , Lemmens Jens
Published: November 2024

Despite recurrent observations that media reputations of agencies matter to understand their reform experiences, no studies have theorized and tested the role of sentiment. This study uses novel and advanced BERT language models to detect attributions of responsibility for positive/negative outcomes in media coverage towards 14 Flemish (Belgian) agencies between 2000 and 2015 through supervised machine learning, and connects these data to the Belgian State Administration Database on the structural reforms these agencies experienced. Our results reflect an inverted U-shaped relationship: more negative reputations increase the reform likelihood of agencies, yet up to a certain point at which the reform likelihood drops again. Variations in positive and neutral reputational signals do not impact the reform likelihood of agencies. Our study contributes to understanding the role of reputation as an antecedent of structural reforms. Complementing and enriching existing perspectives, the paper shows how the sentiment in reputational signals accumulates and informs political–administrative decision-makers to engage in structural reforms.
Cost-effectiveness of ceftazidime/avibactam for infections due to carbapenem-resistant bacteria: analysis in Ecuadorian context
Authors: Bolaños-Díaz Rafael , Moreno Cristina , Salazar Grace , Fandiño Cecil , Torres Luis-Carlos , Sanabria-Montañez César
Published: November 2024

Aim

To analyze the cost-effectiveness of ceftazidime/avibactam-based therapy (CAZ/AVI) versus colistin-based therapy (COL) for pneumonia/bacteremia caused by carbapenem-resistant enterobacterales adjusted to the Ecuador context.

Methods

A Markov decision model was extrapolated from literature. The analysis had a 5-year time horizon from the Ecuadorian Ministry of Health (MoH) perspective. The model is composed of five health states: (i) Pneumonia/bacteriemia, (ii) Home discharge (iii) Long-term care discharge (LTC), (iv) LTC with chronic dialysis, and (v) Death. The entire hypothetical cohort starts the Markov process in the pneumonia/bacteriemia state; then it can transit through the other health states according to transition probabilities. Patients who survive the acute infection state may develop nephrotoxicity, which could need renal replacement therapy for short- or long-term.

Results

The base case estimated for CAZ/AVI treatment an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of 10 273 USD per QALY gained, with an average incremental cost of USD 5489 and 0.5343 incremental QALYs for each patient during the 5-year time horizon. This deterministic ICER is equivalent to 1.5 the value of 1 GDP per capita in Ecuador.

Conclusions

CAZ/AVI showed a 92% probability of being cost-effective compared to treatment with COL, considering a maximum payment availability of USD 13 000 in the Ecuadorian context.
Protein phosphatase 2A inhibitors: a possible pharmacotherapy for benzodiazepine dependence
Authors: Kobayashi Chisa , Kitanaka Nobue , Nakai Masanori , Hall F Scott , Tomita Kazuo , Igarashi Kento , Sato Tomoaki , Uhl George R , Kitanaka Junichi
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Benzodiazepines (BZDs) activate the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) subtype A (GABAA) receptors, and thus are widely used medicines for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia. For chronic use, tolerance to BZDs is a major problem. Patients with chronic insomnia that develop tolerance to BZDs lose therapeutic effects but also potentially suffer from BZD dependence resulting in BZD withdrawal. The development of such treatments is important for the appropriate use of BZDs.

Methods

Research articles regarding investigation of BZD dependence were searched on PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases using keywords “benzodiazepine”, “dependence”, “treatment”.

Key findings

When BZDs are taken chronically, continuous GABAA binding results in up-regulation of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-lisoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) glutamate receptor function and release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Released BDNF binds to its specific receptor tropomyosin-related kinase receptor B (TrkB). Enhanced BDNF-TrkB signaling activates protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A). Activated PP2A dephosphorylates GABAA receptors, resulting in the downregulation of the GABAA receptor function. Reduced GABAA receptor function augments long-term potentiation (LTP), AMPA-mediated glutamatergic neuroplasticity, by reducing LTP inhibition by GABAA receptor function. Augmented LTP enhances extreme anxiety, which leads to BZD dependence.

Conclusion

Therefore, iInhibiting dephosphorylation of the GABAA receptor by PP2A, PP2A inhibitors could reduce LTP and anxiety, restoring BZD effectiveness and resulting in possible therapeutic effects for BZD dependence.
Pelvic floor and sexual dysfunctions after genital gender-affirming surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dominoni Mattia , Scatigno Annachiara Licia , Pasquali Marianna Francesca , Bergante Carola , Gariboldi Fulvio , Gardella Barbara
Published: November 2024

Background

Genital gender-affirming surgery has become a crucial step in the transitioning process of numerous transgender people.

Aim

To highlight the consequences of genital gender-affirming surgery on pelvic floor function in transgender people.

Methods

Medical databases (PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library) were consulted according to a combination of keywords. All papers published up to February 29, 2024 were considered. Two reviewers independently screened the abstracts of the selected studies and extracted data from the full-text articles included. Data were subsequently tabulated and compared for consistency. The bias associated with each included study was evaluated according to the Observational Study Quality Evaluation (OSQE) method. This study is registered on PROSPERO number CRD42024522580.

Outcomes

Pelvic floor dysfunctions in individuals who undergo gender-affirming surgery, factors that may be involved in the increased prevalence of these dysfunctions and perspectives of treatment of the complications through pelvic floor physical therapy.

Results

Twenty-five papers were considered for systematic review, while 17 studies were included for meta-analysis. There was significant statistical heterogeneity across the included studies. Among transwomen who had undergone vaginoplasty, pelvic organ prolapse occurred in 1%-7.5% of patients, urinary incontinence affected up to 15% of patients, while urinary irritative symptoms up to 20%. Sexual dysfunctions were reported by 25%-75% of patients. Among transmen who underwent hysterectomy and phalloplasty, pelvic organ prolapse occurred in 3.8% of patients, urinary incontinence affected up to 50% of patients, while urinary irritative symptoms up to 37%. Finally, sexual dysfunctions were reported by 54% of patients.

Clinical Implications

The findings of this study could be helpful for transgender patients pre-operative counselling.

Strengths and Limitations

This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis about pelvic floor dysfunctions in transgender people undergoing genital gender-affirming surgery. The main limitations are the limited number of studies included and their heterogeneity.

Conclusion

Pelvic floor dysfunctions following genital gender-affirming surgery are an emerging issue. Adequate information for each surgical procedure, explicit postoperative instructions, continuity of care, communication with healthcare providers, and recommendation for tailored perioperative pelvic floor physiotherapy are necessary for a better surgical result.
Penile constriction devices: a randomized survey study to compare preferences between two medical-grade devices
Authors: Rendon Daniela Orozco , Saffati Gal , Whitehead Christine , Zuckerman Caroline , Hom Amy , Daily Riley , Khera Mohit , Cheng Philip J
Published: November 2024

Background

Penile constriction devices offer a noninvasive approach to enhance the sexual experience and as the variety of penile constriction devices increases, it is crucial to assess patient preferences and device effectiveness to provide insights into their clinical utility.

Aim

We aimed to compare the preferences for and effectiveness of two medical-grade penile constriction devices: Eddie by Giddy and FirmTech.

Methods

Between May and July of 2023, males were recruited via social media and prospectively enrolled into an Institutional Review Board-approved, randomized, questionnaire-based study. Upon enrollment, the participants completed the Sexual Health Inventory for Men and Androgen Deficiency in Aging Males questionnaires. Participants were randomized to which device they received first. They used the device twice either during masturbation or intercourse in a two-week timeframe. Once utilized, the participants completed a 17-question, Likert scale, device satisfaction questionnaire, in which lower numbers indicated positive responses. The process was repeated with the second device. T-test and Chi-Square Analysis were run for statistical analysis.

Outcomes

The primary outcomes of this study were patient-reported device satisfaction and efficacy and the secondary outcome was the device preference for patients with and without erectile dysfunction.

Results

Fifty men were enrolled and 49 completed the study. The average age was 40 years old. Of the participants, 80% recommend the FirmTech device compared to 53% who recommend the Eddie by Giddy device (P = 0.0026). The FirmTech device was overall easier to put on both flaccid and erect (P = 0.0308 and 0.0002), was more comfortable, had better stretch, and was easier to adjust (P = 0.087, <0.0001, and 0.0119, respectively). The FirmTech device had a better overall impression amongst the participants (P = 0.0249). Eddie by Giddy was felt to improve erectile firmness more in those with ED than in those without (P = 0.0178).

Clinical Implications

This study adds to the current literature on penile constriction devices that better guide providers as they counsel patients on these devices to enhance sexual function.

Strengths and Limitations

The strength of this study is that this is a prospective randomized crossover study. The limitations of this study are that this is a single center study based on patient reported outcomes.

Conclusion

The FirmTech device performed better than the Eddie by Giddy with respect to overall impression of the device, likelihood of using the device in the future, and recommending the device to a friend, while the Eddie by Giddy device performed better at improving erectile firmness.

Clinical Trial Registration Number

NCT05853822.
Antemortem diagnostic tests for the detection of Aspergillus infection in birds: A systematic review
Authors: Vieu Sabrina , Guillot Jacques , Beaudeau François
Published: November 2024

Aspergillosis remains a common and life-threatening disease in captive and wild birds all over the world. The diagnosis is currently based on clinical signs or lesions, diagnostic imaging, and a variety of biological tests. This systematic review aimed to compare the accuracy of antemortem diagnostic tests for Aspergillus infection in birds. According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CAB until January 2024. The methodological quality was assessed with QUADAS 2 risk of bias tool. The 13 studies, selected for the review, included results from a wide variety of birds (mainly Spheniciformes but also Falconiformes, Psittaciformes, and Galliformes) from wildlife rehabilitation centers, zoological parks, or veterinary practices. Aspergillus infection was mainly confirmed by fungal culture and/or histopathology. Serum markers included Aspergillus components (galactomannan, β-d-glucan, mannoproteins, and gliotoxin), anti-Aspergillus antibodies, 3-hydroxybutyrate, as well as protein electrophoresis and acute phase molecules. Sensitivity and specificity displayed a large amount of variation despite threshold arrangement. Disparities in the number of individuals per study did not allow for reliable comparison. Platelia Ag Assay (Bio-Rad), the most commonly used test in the studies, demonstrated moderate specificity and low sensitivity. Overall, non-specific tests demonstrated more consistent performance, whereas specific tests showed greater variability. Based on current knowledge, none of these tests provide sufficient accuracy to reliably detect Aspergillus infection in birds in clinical practice.
Optical monitoring in southern blazars. Analysis of variability and spectral colour behaviours
Authors: Zibecchi L , Andruchow I , Marchesini E J , Cellone S A , Combi J A
Published: November 2024

We present the results of the optical monitoring of 18 southern blazars in the V and R Johnson–Cousins bands. Our main objective is to study the variations in the optical flux and their relationship with the colour and spectral variabilities. The optical observations were acquired with the 2.15 m ‘Jorge Sahade’ telescope, CASLEO, Argentina. The whole campaign comprised from 2014 April to 2019 September. In addition, X-ray data were taken from the Chandra X-ray Observatory and the Swift/XRT databases, and $\gamma$-ray data were taken from the Fermi-Large Area Telescope 3FGL catalogue. From the total of 18 blazars, we found variability in each one of the time-scales considered for 6 blazars (PKS 0208–512, PKS 1116–46, PKS 1440–389, PKS 1510–089, PKS 2005–489, and PKS 2155–304). In particular, from the colour–magnitude and the multiwavelength analysis, we found that PKS 1510-089 (flat-spectrum radio quasar) is undergoing an activity phase. For the case of PKS 2005–489 (BL Lac), this blazar is in a quiescent state, in which it has been for more than a decade, and it is compatible with its bluer-when-brighter moderate tendency, possibly due to the presence of shocks within the jet.
Bilingual language model for protein sequence and structure
Authors: Heinzinger Michael , Weissenow Konstantin , Sanchez Joaquin Gomez , Henkel Adrian , Mirdita Milot , Steinegger Martin , Rost Burkhard
Published: November 2024

Adapting language models to protein sequences spawned the development of powerful protein language models (pLMs). Concurrently, AlphaFold2 broke through in protein structure prediction. Now we can systematically and comprehensively explore the dual nature of proteins that act and exist as three-dimensional (3D) machines and evolve as linear strings of one-dimensional (1D) sequences. Here, we leverage pLMs to simultaneously model both modalities in a single model. We encode protein structures as token sequences using the 3Di-alphabet introduced by the 3D-alignment method Foldseek. For training, we built a non-redundant dataset from AlphaFoldDB and fine-tuned an existing pLM (ProtT5) to translate between 3Di and amino acid sequences. As a proof-of-concept for our novel approach, dubbed Protein ‘structure-sequence’ T5 (ProstT5), we showed improved performance for subsequent, structure-related prediction tasks, leading to three orders of magnitude speedup for deriving 3Di. This will be crucial for future applications trying to search metagenomic sequence databases at the sensitivity of structure comparisons. Our work showcased the potential of pLMs to tap into the information-rich protein structure revolution fueled by AlphaFold2. ProstT5 paves the way to develop new tools integrating the vast resource of 3D predictions and opens new research avenues in the post-AlphaFold2 era.
Pymportx: facilitating next-generation transcriptomics analysis in Python
Authors: González Paula Pena , Lozano-Paredes Dafne , Rojo-Álvarez José Luis , Bote-Curiel Luis , Sánchez-Arévalo Lobo Víctor Javier
Published: November 2024

The efficient importation of quantified gene expression data is pivotal in transcriptomics. Historically, the R package Tximport addressed this need by enabling seamless data integration from various quantification tools. However, the Python community lacked a corresponding tool, restricting cross-platform bioinformatics interoperability. We introduce Pymportx, a Python adaptation of Tximport, which replicates and extends the original package’s functionalities. Pymportx maintains the integrity and accuracy of gene expression data while improving processing speed and integration within the Python ecosystem. It supports new data formats and includes tools for enhanced data exploration and analysis. Available under the MIT license, Pymportx integrates smoothly with Python’s bioinformatics tools, facilitating a unified and efficient workflow across the R and Python ecosystems. This advancement not only broadens access to Python’s extensive toolset but also fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and the development of cutting-edge bioinformatics analyses.
Prevalence and symptoms of Long Covid-19 in the workplace
Authors: Mohd Yusoff H , Yew S Q , Mohammed Nawi A , Htwe O , Mohd Tohit N , Mohamed Z , Muhamad Noordin M A , Che Mohamed N , Mohd F H
Published: November 2024

Background

The symptoms of Long coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) are heterogeneous, creating uncertainty for employers regarding the diagnosis. The prevalence of Long Covid-19 in the workforce is also unknown. Furthermore, workers affected by Long Covid-19 encounter considerable difficulties in ensuring work safety and returning to their jobs due to this condition.

Aims

This review is aimed to identify the prevalence of Long Covid-19 in the workplace and to determine the various symptoms of Long Covid-19 experienced by the workers.

Methods

A meta-analysis was conducted to calculate the pooled estimates for the prevalence of Long Covid-19. Heterogeneity among the estimates was evaluated using the I² statistic.

Results

The pooled prevalence of Long Covid-19 among workers across the 11 studies was 38% (95% CI 23–56). A total of 43 symptoms associated with Long Covid-19 were identified in the workplace, with the top five symptoms being dyspnoea at moderate activity (51%, 95% CI 39–62), mental symptoms (38%, 95% CI 6–87), dyspnoea at mild activity (35%, 95% CI 25–47), fatigue (26%, 95% CI 3–78) and effort intolerance (24%, 95% CI 15–35).

Conclusions

The review indicates a significant burden of long-lasting symptoms within the workforce. The top five reported symptoms of Long Covid-19 were dyspnoea during mild and moderate activities, mental symptoms, fatigue and effort intolerance.
The digital health landscape at children’s hospitals in Canada
Authors: Le Cathie-Kim , Mousseau Sarah , Zipursky Amy R , Jessa Karim , Rosenfield Daniel , Yarahuan Julia , Parsons Chase , Yan Adam P
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Canadian hospitals have historically lagged behind peer nations in terms of adoption of digital health tools. The aim of this study was to assess the current state of adoption of digital health tools at children’s hospitals in Canada.

Methods

We conducted an online survey of Canadian pediatric tertiary-care hospitals between January and July 2023. The 35-item questionnaire was administered in English and French. Hospital characteristics, informatics infrastructure data and electronic health record (EHR) functionality data were summarized using descriptive statistics.

Results

The survey was completed by 15 of the 17 (88.2%) pediatric hospitals in Canada. All institutions had an EHR with 10 (66.6%) being fully digitized and five (33.3%) being partially digitized. Funding and availability of clinicians with expertise in clinical informatics were cited as barriers to implementing digital health tools. The availability of core EHR functionalities ranged from 53.3% for medication to 100% for the presence of a laboratory and radiology information system. Only five (33.3%) institutions reported that they had a patient portal.

Discussion

While all hospitals in this study had an EHR, functionalities varied greatly between centers. Canada lags behind the United States in terms of adoption of digital health tools such as patient portals likely due to governmental mandates and incentives, and a focus on cultivating a physician informatics workforce.

Conclusion

Canadian pediatric hospitals lag behind peer institutions in digital maturity. This study highlights the perceived need from hospitals for policies, funding, and resources from the Canadian government to help increase the uptake of comprehensive EHRs.
Ecological role of a cosmopolitan testate rhizopod, Paulinella ovalis, in the microbial food web of a eutrophic estuary
Authors: Townsend Luke , Hall Nathan S
Published: November 2024

Paulinella ovalis is a heterotrophic, nanoplanktonic rhizopod that is poorly studied yet cosmopolitan and abundant in coastal waters. Heterotrophic nanoplankton ecology has focused primarily on heterotrophic nanoflagellates that are important picoplankton consumers and prey for larger heterotroph–recycling nutrients and transferring energy to higher trophic levels. We hypothesized a similar role for P. ovalis and assessed it by examining P. ovalis’s spatial and seasonal distribution relative to picocyanobacterial prey and potential microzooplankton predators in the Neuse River Estuary (North Carolina, USA), measuring its growth rate and estimating its potential grazing pressure on picocyanobacteria. P. ovalis abundance paralleled picocyanobacteria with higher abundance in warmer, saltier waters. Negative temporal correlations between P. ovalis and ciliate abundance and significant P. ovalis mortality at high ciliate biomass suggested that ciliates are important predators of P. ovalis. Based on an ~11 000 cells mL−1 average summertime abundance, estimated 0.37 d−1 growth rate and assumed growth efficiency of 0.3, P. ovalis potentially consumes ~60% of the picocyanobacteria and ~30% of total primary production in the summer per day. Results demonstrate P. ovalis’s potential importance within the microbial food web and should motivate future studies of grazing rates by and on P. ovalis to assess its role more quantitatively.
Strong long ties facilitate epidemic containment on mobility networks
Authors: Mou Jianhong , Tan Suoyi , Zhang Juanjuan , Sai Bin , Wang Mengning , Dai Bitao , Ming Bo-Wen , Liu Shan , Jin Zhen , Sun Guiquan , Yu Hongjie , Lu Xin
Published: November 2024

The analysis of connection strengths and distances in the mobility network is pivotal for delineating critical pathways, particularly in the context of epidemic propagation. Local connections that link proximate districts typically exhibit strong weights. However, ties that bridge distant regions with high levels of interaction intensity, termed strong long (SL) ties, warrant increased scrutiny due to their potential to foster satellite epidemic clusters and extend the duration of pandemics. In this study, SL ties are identified as outliers on the joint distribution of distance and flow in the mobility network of Shanghai constructed from 1 km × 1 km high-resolution mobility data. We propose a grid-joint isolation strategy alongside a reaction–diffusion transmission model to assess the impact of SL ties on epidemic propagation. The findings indicate that regions connected by SL ties exhibit a small spatial autocorrelation and display a temporal similarity pattern in disease transmission. Grid-joint isolation based on SL ties reduces cumulative infections by an average of 17.1% compared with other types of ties. This work highlights the necessity of identifying and targeting potentially infected remote areas for spatially focused interventions, thereby enriching our comprehension and management of epidemic dynamics.
In vivo functional significance of direct physical interaction between Period and Cryptochrome in mammalian circadian rhythm generation
Authors: Kawabe Junko , Kajihara Kohhei , Matsuyama Yohei , Mori Yukiya , Hamano Teruki , Mimaki Mai , Kitamura Yukari , Matsumura Ritsuko , Matsuyama Makoto , Sato Masahiro , Ohtsuka Masato , Node Koichi , Akashi Makoto
Published: November 2024

In the current model, the auto-negative feedback action of Period (Per) and Cryptochrome (Cry) on their own transcription is the hallmark mechanism driving cell-autonomous circadian rhythms. Although this model likely makes sense even if Per and Cry undertake this action in a mutually independent manner, many studies have suggested the functional significance of direct physical interaction between Per and Cry. However, even though the interaction is a biochemical process that pertains to the fundamentals of the circadian oscillator, its in vivo contribution to circadian rhythm generation remains undefined. To answer this question, we focused on zinc coordination between Per and Cry, whose contribution to circadian rhythm generation remains undefined. Specifically, we aimed to impair endogenous Per–Cry association by introducing an amino acid substitution to zinc-coordinating residues located at the Per1 and Per2 C-terminal facing Cry in mice. These mice did not show severe impairment in the Per–Cry physical interaction, but rather a shortened period and decreased robustness in circadian rhythms at the tissue-autonomous and whole-body levels. Furthermore, these mice also showed a decrease in Per half-life, suggesting that impaired fine-tuning of Per half-life caused abnormal circadian period and robustness in vivo. We also found a minor but significant impact of a reindeer-specific Per2 mutation located in the Per–Cry interface on circadian rhythms in vivo. These lines of evidence indicate that only partial impairment of the Per–Cry physical interaction produces a substantial effect on circadian period and robustness, supporting the in vivo functional significance of the interaction.