bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
proChIPdb: a chromatin immunoprecipitation database for prokaryotic organisms
Authors: Decker Katherine T , Gao Ye , Rychel Kevin , Al Bulushi Tahani , Chauhan Siddharth M , Kim Donghyuk , Cho Byung-Kwan , Palsson Bernhard O
Published: October 2021

The transcriptional regulatory network in prokaryotes controls global gene expression mostly through transcription factors (TFs), which are DNA-binding proteins. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) with DNA sequencing methods can identify TF binding sites across the genome, providing a bottom-up, mechanistic understanding of how gene expression is regulated. ChIP provides indispensable evidence toward the goal of acquiring a comprehensive understanding of cellular adaptation and regulation, including condition-specificity. ChIP-derived data's importance and labor-intensiveness motivate its broad dissemination and reuse, which is currently an unmet need in the prokaryotic domain. To fill this gap, we present proChIPdb (prochipdb.org), an information-rich, interactive web database. This website collects public ChIP-seq/-exo data across several prokaryotes and presents them in dashboards that include curated binding sites, nucleotide-resolution genome viewers, and summary plots such as motif enrichment sequence logos. Users can search for TFs of interest or their target genes, download all data, dashboards, and visuals, and follow external links to understand regulons through biological databases and the literature. This initial release of proChIPdb covers diverse organisms, including most major TFs of Escherichia coli, and can be expanded to support regulon discovery across the prokaryotic domain.
PDBe-KB: collaboratively defining the biological context of structural data
Authors:   PDBe-KB consortium, Varadi Mihaly , Anyango Stephen , Armstrong David , Berrisford John , Choudhary Preeti , Deshpande Mandar , Nadzirin Nurul , Nair Sreenath S , Pravda Lukas , Tanweer Ahsan , Al-Lazikani Bissan , Andreini Claudia , Barton Geoffrey J , Bednar David , Berka Karel , Blundell Tom , Brock Kelly P , Carazo Jose Maria , Damborsky Jiri , David Alessia , Dey Sucharita , Dunbrack Roland , Recio Juan Fernandez , Fraternali Franca , Gibson Toby , Helmer-Citterich Manuela , Hoksza David , Hopf Thomas , Jakubec David , Kannan Natarajan , Krivak Radoslav , Kumar Manjeet , Levy Emmanuel D , London Nir , Macias Jose Ramon , Srivatsan Madhusudhan M , Marks Debora S , Martens Lennart , McGowan Stuart A , McGreig Jake E , Modi Vivek , Parra R Gonzalo , Pepe Gerardo , Piovesan Damiano , Prilusky Jaime , Putignano Valeria , Radusky Leandro G , Ramasamy Pathmanaban , Rausch Atilio O , Reuter Nathalie , Rodriguez Luis A , Rollins Nathan J , Rosato Antonio , Rubach Paweł , Serrano Luis , Singh Gulzar , Skoda Petr , Sorzano Carlos Oscar S , Stourac Jan , Sulkowska Joanna I , Svobodova Radka , Tichshenko Natalia , Tosatto Silvio C E , Vranken Wim , Wass Mark N , Xue Dandan , Zaidman Daniel , Thornton Janet , Sternberg Michael , Orengo Christine , Velankar Sameer
Published: October 2021

The Protein Data Bank in Europe – Knowledge Base (PDBe-KB, https://pdbe-kb.org) is an open collaboration between world-leading specialist data resources contributing functional and biophysical annotations derived from or relevant to the Protein Data Bank (PDB). The goal of PDBe-KB is to place macromolecular structure data in their biological context by developing standardised data exchange formats and integrating functional annotations from the contributing partner resources into a knowledge graph that can provide valuable biological insights. Since we described PDBe-KB in 2019, there have been significant improvements in the variety of available annotation data sets and user functionality. Here, we provide an overview of the consortium, highlighting the addition of annotations such as predicted covalent binders, phosphorylation sites, effects of mutations on the protein structure and energetic local frustration. In addition, we describe a library of reusable web-based visualisation components and introduce new features such as a bulk download data service and a novel superposition service that generates clusters of superposed protein chains weekly for the whole PDB archive.
Tumour Treating Fields in Glioblastoma: Is the treatment tolerable, effective, and practical in UK Patients?
Authors: Olubajo Farouk , Thorpe Antonia , Davis Charles , Crofton Anna , Mills Samantha J , Jenkisnon Michael , Watts Colin , Price Stephen , Brodbelt Andrew
Published: October 2021

Aims

Tumour Treating Fields (TTF) in combination with standard therapy, prolongs survival in patients with Glioblastoma (GBM). The aim of the current study was to assess the feasibility of integrating TTF into a standard UK neuro-oncology service with a focus on patient tolerability, compliance, and treatment delivery.

Method

A prospective study was performed of UK patients with IDH 1 Wild Type, MGMT Unmethylated GBM treated with TTF, in conjunction with conventional therapy. Patient compliance data, device-specific tolerability questions, and an evaluation of disease progression and survival were collected. Monthly quality of life (QoL) questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-C30 with BN-20) examined the trend of global health, psychosocial function and symptom progression.

Results

Nine patients were enrolled with a median age of 47 (7 males; 2 females). Overall, compliance with TTF was 89% (range 16% - 97%). Only one patient failed to comply with treatment. Patients tolerated the device with minimal side effects. Eight patients described mild to moderate skin irritation, whilst all patients were keen to recommend the device to other patients (100%). Most patients found the weight and size of the device to be its biggest drawback (72%). Progression-free survival was 5.5 months and median overall survival 14.9 months.

Conclusion

TTF was well tolerated amongst a small cohort of UK patients, who were able to comply with treatment without any significant complication. QoL questionnaires showed no sustained deterioration in global health, physical and emotional function until the final months of life, when disease burden was greatest.
Physiological responses to acute fasting: implications for intermittent fasting programs
Authors: Stratton Matthew T , Albracht-Schulte Kembra , Harty Patrick S , Siedler Madelin R , Rodriguez Christian , Tinsley Grant M
Published: October 2021

Intermittent fasting (IF) is a dietary strategy that involves alternating periods of abstention from calorie consumption with periods of ad libitum food intake. There is significant interest in the body of literature describing longitudinal adaptations to IF. Less attention has been given to the acute physiological responses that occur during the fasting durations that are commonly employed by IF practitioners. Thus, the purpose of this review was to examine the physiological responses – including alterations in substrate metabolism, systemic hormones, and autophagy – that occur throughout an acute fast. Literature searches were performed to locate relevant research describing physiological responses to acute fasting and short-term starvation. A single fast demonstrated the ability to alter glucose and lipid metabolism within the initial 24 hours, but variations in protein metabolism appeared to be minimal within this time frame. The ability of an acute fast to elicit significant increases in autophagy is still unknown. The information summarized in this review can be used to help contextualize existing research and better inform development of future IF interventions.
Genetic structure in the nonbreeding range ofrufaRed Knots suggests distinct Arctic breeding populations
Authors: Verkuil Yvonne I , Tavares Erika , González Patricia M , Choffe Kristen , Haddrath Oliver , Peck Mark , Niles Lawrence J , Baker Allan J , Piersma Theunis , Conklin Jesse R
Published: October 2021

An understanding of the migratory connectivity between breeding and nonbreeding areas is fundamental to the management of long-distance migrants under pressure from habitat change along their flyways. Here we describe evidence for genetic structure within the nonbreeding range of the endangered Arctic-Canadian rufa subspecies of Red Knots (Calidris canutus). Using blood and tissue samples from the major nonbreeding regions in Argentina (Tierra del Fuego and Río Negro), northern Brazil (Maranhão), and southeastern USA (Florida), we estimated genetic structure in 514 amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) loci, applying cluster assignment analyses in DAPC, assignPOP, and STRUCTURE. Using a priori location information, individuals could be correctly re-assigned to their nonbreeding regions, which validated that the assignment accuracy of the data was sufficient. Without using a priori location information, we detected 3–5 genotype clusters, and posterior assignment probabilities of samples to these genotype clusters varied among the three regions. Lastly a chi-square test confirmed that allele frequencies varied significantly among nonbreeding regions, rejecting the hypothesis that samples were drawn from a single gene pool. Our findings hint at undescribed structure within the Red Knot rufa breeding range in the Canadian Arctic and indicate that each rufa nonbreeding area in this study hosts a different subsample of these breeding populations. The observation that nonbreeding sites of rufa Red Knots contain different genetic pools argues for separate conservation management of these sites.
Democratic Law and the Erosion of Common Law
Authors: Valentine Shiffrin Seana
Published: October 2021

This chapter explores the democratic character of the common law by examining the implied contractual duty of good faith and its dismissive treatment by the US Supreme Court in Northwest v. Ginsberg, a 2014 preemption decision. The decision was mistaken because it failed to recognize law’s morally indispensable role of publicly articulating and interpreting our shared moral commitments, treating law instead as a mere means of resolving disputes. The chapter also celebrates the democratic character of common law, which, although articulated by judges, responds to reasons and problems emerging from the citizenry and attends to moral expectations embodied in customary practices. The chapter underscores the importance of common law (and the doctrine of good faith) in publicly articulating reasons and drawing on the underlying values that law serves, democratic functions that are lost when litigation is replaced by private arbitration and overlooked by a narrow focus on elections.
Thylakoid attachment to the plasma membrane in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 requires the AncM protein
Authors: Ostermeier Matthias , Heinz Steffen , Hamm Julia , Zabret Jure , Rast Anna , Klingl Andreas , Nowaczyk Marc M , Nickelsen Jörg
Published: October 2021

Thylakoids are the highly specialized internal membrane systems that harbor the photosynthetic electron transport machinery in cyanobacteria and in chloroplasts. In Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, thylakoid membranes (TMs) are arranged in peripheral sheets that occasionally converge on the plasma membrane (PM) to form thylakoid convergence membranes (TCMs). TCMs connect several thylakoid sheets and form local contact sites called thylapses between the two membrane systems, at which the early steps of photosystem II (PSII) assembly occur. The protein CurT is one of the main drivers of TCM formation known so far. Here, we identify, by whole-genome sequencing of a curT− suppressor strain, the protein anchor of convergence membranes (AncM) as a factor required for the attachment of thylakoids to the PM at thylapses. An ancM− mutant is shown to have a photosynthetic phenotype characterized by reductions in oxygen-evolution rate, PSII accumulation, and PS assembly. Moreover, the ancM− strain exhibits an altered thylakoid ultrastructure with additional sheets and TCMs detached from the PM. By combining biochemical studies with fluorescence and correlative light-electron microscopy-based approaches, we show that AncM is an integral membrane protein located in biogenic TCMs that form thylapses. These data suggest an antagonistic function of AncM and CurT in shaping TM ultrastructure.
BETA-AMYLASE9 is a plastidial nonenzymatic regulator of leaf starch degradation
Authors: David Laure C , Lee Sang-Kyu , Bruderer Eduard , Abt Melanie R , Fischer-Stettler Michaela , Tschopp Marie-Aude , Solhaug Erik M , Sanchez Katarzyna , Zeeman Samuel C
Published: October 2021

β-Amylases (BAMs) are key enzymes of transitory starch degradation in chloroplasts, a process that buffers the availability of photosynthetically fixed carbon over the diel cycle to maintain energy levels and plant growth at night. However, during vascular plant evolution, the BAM gene family diversified, giving rise to isoforms with different compartmentation and biological activities. Here, we characterized BETA-AMYLASE 9 (BAM9) of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Among the BAMs, BAM9 is most closely related to BAM4 but is more widely conserved in plants. BAM9 and BAM4 share features including their plastidial localization and lack of measurable α-1,4-glucan hydrolyzing capacity. BAM4 is a regulator of starch degradation, and bam4 mutants display a starch-excess phenotype. Although bam9 single mutants resemble the wild-type (WT), genetic experiments reveal that the loss of BAM9 markedly enhances the starch-excess phenotypes of mutants already impaired in starch degradation. Thus, BAM9 also regulates starch breakdown, but in a different way. Interestingly, BAM9 gene expression is responsive to several environmental changes, while that of BAM4 is not. Furthermore, overexpression of BAM9 in the WT reduced leaf starch content, but overexpression in bam4 failed to complement fully that mutant’s starch-excess phenotype, suggesting that BAM9 and BAM4 are not redundant. We propose that BAM9 activates starch degradation, helping to manage carbohydrate availability in response to fluctuations in environmental conditions. As such, BAM9 represents an interesting gene target to explore in crop species.
Incidence and Outcomes of Life-Threatening Events During Hospitalization: A Retrospective Study of Patients Treated with Naloxone
Authors: Valencia Morales Diana J , Laporta Mariana L , Meehan Anne M , Schroeder Darrell R , Sprung Juraj , Weingarten Toby N
Published: October 2021

Background

We describe the clinical course of medical and surgical patients who received naloxone on general hospital wards for suspected opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD).

Methods

From May 2018 through October 2020, patients who received naloxone on hospital wards were identified and their records reviewed for incidence and clinical course.

Results

There were 86,030 medical and 106,807 surgical admissions. Naloxone was administered to 99 (incidence 11.5 [95% confidence interval 9.4–14.0] per 10,000 admissions) medical and 63 (5.9 [95% confidence interval 4.5–7.5]) surgical patients (P < 0.001). Median oral morphine equivalents administered within 24 hours before naloxone were 32 [15, 64] and 60 [32, 88] mg for medical and surgical patients, respectively (P = 0.002). The rapid response team was activated in 69 (69.7%) vs 42 (66.7%) and critical care transfers in 51 (51.5%) vs 30 (47.6%) medical and surgical patients respectively. The number of in-hospital deaths was 21 (21.2%) vs two (3.2%) and the number of discharges to hospice 12 (12.1%) vs one (1.6%) for medical and surgical patients, respectively (P = 0.001). Naloxone did not reverse OIRD in 38 (23%) patients, and these patients had more transfers to the intensive care unit and a higher 30-day mortality rate.

Conclusion

Medical inpatients are more likely to suffer OIRD than are surgical inpatients despite lower opioid doses. Definitive OIRD was confirmed in 77% of patients because of immediate naloxone response, whereas 23% of patients did not respond, and this subset was more likely to need a higher level of care and had a higher 30-day mortality rate. Careful monitoring of mental and respiratory variables is necessary when opiates are used in hospital.
Being Self-Deceived about One’s Own Mental State
Authors: Lynch Kevin
Published: October 2021

A familiar puzzle about self-deception concerns how self-deception is possible in light of the paradoxes generated by a plausible way of defining it. A less familiar puzzle concerns how a certain type of self-deception—being self-deceived about one's own intentional mental state—is possible in light of a plausible way of understanding the nature of self-knowledge. According to this understanding, we ordinarily do not infer our mental states from evidence, but then it's puzzling how this sort of self-deception could occur given that self-deception arises from the mistreatment of evidence. This article argues that to accommodate this kind of self-deception we should accept that sometimes ordinary self-knowledge is inferential, but that this idea needn’t be so unappealing. In particular, by showing that such inferential self-knowledge can be both ‘transparent’ and ‘direct’, the article argues that it need not imply having an abnormal, ‘alienated’ relation to the mental state.
Stressed and Distressed: Potential Underpinnings of Exercise-Related Inspiratory Distress in Adolescent Sport Performers
Authors: Kolnes Liv-Jorunn
Published: October 2021

Many adolescent sport performers present with exercise-related respiratory symptoms consistent with exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction (EILO). The pathogenic underpinnings of EILO are not fully resolved, and existing behavioral management includes therapies targeting laryngeal physiology whereas surgical interventions target laryngeal anatomical anomalies. Recent findings from research and clinical practice indicate that psychological stress and thoracic breathing co-occur with laryngeal tightness in adolescent sport performers with EILO. This Perspective article theorizes on this potential coexistence. It discusses possible underpinnings of respiratory symptoms (including EILO) and thoracic breathing in adolescent sport performers by considering the effects of various stressors to which adolescent sport performers are exposed, and the impact these may have on the breathing, including in terms of laryngeal narrowing. The effect of stress on the breathing is examined in light of the reciprocal communication between the brain and the body and the relationship between psychological stress and stress responses in the respiratory system mediated by the autonomic nervous system. To inform decision-making and clinical awareness in this area, it may be worth expanding the focus from targeting mainly laryngeal structures to also include constrictions of the airways and the effects of thoracic breathing on the larynx during exercise. The importance of considering respiratory distress from a multidimensional perspective, and of incorporating the complexity of sport performers’ psychological and physical experiences in the management of their health and well-being, is emphasized.

Impact

This Perspective adds to the understanding of respiratory distress in populations other than adults, which is important and necessary.

Lay Summary

Adolescent sport performers are exposed to a number of stressors that may affect breathing and laryngeal narrowing, which in turn may have implications for the management of their overall health and well-being.
Holistic Rehabilitation: Biological Embedding of Social Adversity and Its Health Implications
Authors: Snyder-Mackler Noah , Snyder-Mackler Lynn
Published: October 2021

Human health is affected by lived experiences, both past and present. The environments we encounter throughout our lives, therefore, shape how we respond to new challenges, how we maintain a healthy immune system, and even how we respond to treatment and rehabilitation. Early in life and throughout adulthood, social experiences—such as exposure to various forms of adversity—can alter how cells in our body function, with far-reaching consequences for human health, disease, and treatment. This Perspective highlights studies from an ever-growing body of literature on the social determinants of health, with a focus on exposure to social adversities, such as social isolation, discrimination, or low social status, experienced both early in life and adulthood and how they variably impact health. By focusing on recent observational studies in humans and experimental studies on social nonhuman animals, this article details how social adversity can become biologically embedded in our cells at the molecular level. Given that humans are social animals, it is no surprise that social adversity can negatively impact our health, and experimental animal studies have helped us to uncover some of the causal mechanistic pathways underlying the link between social adversity and health outcomes. These molecular consequences can have far-reaching implications and, when combined with our growing knowledge on the social determinants of health, should inform how we approach treatment and rehabilitation.
Very preterm brain at rest: longitudinal social–cognitive network connectivity during childhood
Authors: Mossad Sarah I , Young Julia M , Wong Simeon M , Dunkley Benjamin T , Hunt Benjamin A E , Pang Elizabeth W , Taylor Margot J
Published: October 2021

Very preterm (VPT: ≤32 weeks of gestational age) birth poses an increased risk for social and cognitive morbidities that persist throughout life. Resting-state functional network connectivity studies provide information about the intrinsic capacity for cognitive processing. We studied the following four social–cognitive resting-state networks: the default mode, salience, frontal-parietal and language networks. We examined functional connectivity using magnetoencephalography with individual head localization using each participant’s MRI at 6 (n = 40) and 8 (n = 40) years of age compared to age- and sex-matched full-term (FT) born children (n = 38 at 6 years and n = 43 at 8 years). VPT children showed increased connectivity compared to FT children in the gamma band (30–80 Hz) at 6 years within the default mode network (DMN), and between the DMN and the salience, frontal-parietal and language networks, pointing to more diffuse, less segregated processing across networks at this age. At 8 years, VPT children had more social and academic difficulties. Increased DMN connectivity at 6 years was associated with social and working memory difficulties at 8 years. Therefore, we suggest that increased DMN connectivity contributes to the observed emerging social and cognitive morbidities in school age.
Systems of innovation, diversification, and the R&D trap: A case study of Kuwait
Authors: Arman Husam , Iammarino Simona , Ibarra-Olivo J Eduardo , Lee Neil
Published: October 2021

The relationship between research and development (R&D) investment and economic development is well established. Yet, at a global scale, the resource-rich countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council are consistent outliers in this relationship, combining rich-world national incomes with R&D expenditure of developing countries. This paper uses a case study on Kuwait to illustrate a particular form of developmental trap, a version of the resource curse, which makes it irrational for private business firms to invest in R&D and innovation. Based on an analysis of the literature and secondary data, focus groups, and an original survey of large manufacturing firms, we argue that a narrow focus on R&D-led diversification of economic activity ignores the systemic problems faced by Kuwait and, particularly, the unsuitable supply of skills and capabilities provided by the national education and training system.
Racial Stratification and School Segregation in the Suburbs: Evidence from Los Angeles County
Authors: Schachner Jared N
Published: October 2021

Suburbanization helped fuel neighborhood and school segregation during the twentieth century, but many American suburbs have dramatically diversified since. How do White suburbanites respond? With residential mobility declining and educational choice increasing, White suburban families may emulate their core-city counterparts, leveraging school enrollment to buffer their children from disadvantaged minorities living nearby. Yet recent research suggests proximate nontraditional school options (e.g., magnet, charter, private) are a key ingredient facilitating this minority avoidance strategy, and they are scarce in the suburbs. I propose that strong racial preferences spur White suburban families living amongst Black and Latino children to enact them even in unfavorable circumstances: by sending children long distances to nonassigned schools. Logistic regressions employing Los Angeles Family and Neighborhood Survey data on over 2,000 children linked to administrative data confirm this expectation. Spatial stratification research should supplement its longstanding focus on city-to-suburb residential flows and core-city educational flows out of traditional public schools with sharper scrutiny of suburban school sorting as a potential third path of segregation. This selection process may reveal racial preferences to be even stronger—and educational opportunity structures more malleable—than often assumed.
Can there be an unintentional estoppel by convention: the UK Supreme Court (incorrectly) says yes
Authors: Nitikman Joel
Published: October 2021

In a previous article, I discussed estoppel by convention. To summarize, that doctrine permits one person (the “estopper”—usually the plaintiff in a cause of action) from stopping another person (the “estoppee”—often the defendant) from asserting the truth of a fact or the correctness of a principle of law. The point I tried to make was that the estoppel is not nullified simply because the parties knew when entering into the contract or transaction that the fact or principle agreed on was not true; it is because they agreed to proceed on the basis of the convention, not the convention’s veracity, that the estoppel applies. In Tinkler, the United Kingdom Supreme Court held that the estoppel applied. In my respectful view, for the reasons discussed in this article, it erred in doing so.
Associations Between Residential Exposure to Volatile Organic Compounds and Liver Injury Markers
Authors: Wahlang Banrida , Gripshover Tyler C , Gao Hong , Krivokhizhina Tatiana , Keith Rachel J , Sithu Israel D , Rai Shesh N , Bhatnagar Aruni , McClain Craig J , Srivastava Sanjay , Cave Mathew C
Published: October 2021

Occupational exposures to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been associated with numerous health complications including steatohepatitis and liver cancer. However, the potential impact of environmental/residential VOC exposures on liver health and function is largely unknown. To address this knowledge gap, the objective of this cross-sectional study is to investigate associations between VOCs and liver injury biomarkers in community residents. Subjects were recruited from six Louisville neighborhoods, and informed consent was obtained. Exposure biomarkers included 16 creatinine-adjusted urinary metabolites corresponding to 12 parent VOCs. Serological disease biomarkers measured included cytokertain-18 (K18 M65 and M30), liver enzymes, and direct bilirubin. Associations between exposure and disease biomarkers were assessed using generalized linear models. Smoking status was confirmed through urinary cotinine levels. The population comprised of approximately 60% females and 40% males; White persons accounted 78% of the population; with more nonsmokers (n = 413) than smokers (n = 250). When compared with nonsmokers, males (45%) and Black persons (26%) were more likely to be smokers. In the overall population, metabolites of acrolein, acrylonitrile, acrylamide, 1,3-butadiene, crotonaldehyde, styrene, and xylene were positively associated with alkaline phosphatase. These associations persisted in smokers, with the exception of crotonaldehyde, and addition of N,N-dimethylformamide and propylene oxide metabolites. Although no positive associations were observed for K18 M30, the benzene metabolite was positively associated with bilirubin, irrespective of smoking status. Taken together, the results demonstrated that selected VOCs were positively associated with liver injury biomarkers. These findings will enable better risk assessment and identification of populations vulnerable to liver disease.
From 13 to 22 in a second stroke: revisiting the European Eumida sanguinea (Phyllodocidae: Annelida) species complex
Authors: Teixeira Marcos A L , Vieira Pedro E , Ravara Ascensão , Costa Filipe O , Nygren Arne
Published: October 2021

Eumida sanguinea is a recognized polychaete species complex which, in previous studies, has been reported to have additional undescribed diversity. We detected nine additional lineages by analysing DNA sequence data (mitochondrial: COI, 16S rRNA and nuclear loci: ITS region and 28S rRNA) of E. sanguinea morphotype populations from a broader sampling effort in European marine waters. Traditional morphological features failed to provide consistent differences or unique characters that could be used to distinguish these Eumida species. However, by complementing DNA data with morphometrics, geographic range, colour and pigmentation patterns, we revealed five new species. Two of these undescribed species derived from the previously signalled Eumida lineages S21 and GB22, which are here named as E. schanderi sp. nov. and E. fenwicki sp. nov., respectively. Three other species are based on newly discovered lineages, namely E. fauchaldi sp. nov., E. langenecki sp. nov. and E. pleijeli sp. nov. From the six new lineages remaining, three are represented by fewer than two well-preserved specimens, which prevented further comprehensive analysis. The last three lineages were only distinct when using mitochondrial markers. Integrative taxonomy is essential to elucidate evolutionary phenomena and eventually allow informed use of species complexes exhibiting stasis in biomonitoring or other ecological studies.
Increasing Pediatric Residency Class Diversity to Improve Patient Outcomes and Address Structural Racism
Authors: Escalante Enrique , Smiley Yael , Agrawal Dewesh , Teach Stephen J. , Cora-Bramble Denice , Barber Aisha
Published: October 2021

Problem

The racial and ethnic makeup of physicians in the United States does not reflect that of the communities they serve. Addressing this disparity may improve patient outcomes and combat structural racism.

Approach

Starting in 2014, the pediatric residency program at Children’s National Hospital deliberately worked to assemble residency classes with racial and ethnic diversity that was similar to that of the Washington, DC, community it served. This work consisted of 3 initiatives: the Minority Senior Scholarship Program (MSSP), a pipeline program for rising fourth-year underrepresented in medicine (UIM) medical students to expose them to careers in academic pediatrics; an enhanced applicant recruitment process for UIM applicants; and mechanisms like a diversity dinner series for UIM residents to find the support they need to succeed.

Outcomes

Since its inception in 2015, 73 participants have completed the MSSP, with 26% (19/73) going on to match at Children’s National Hospital. An additional 12 participants are completing the program during the 2022 Match cycle. The MSSP has also increased participants’ self-reported interest in pursuing a career in academic pediatrics, from 70% (14/20) before participation to 95% (19/20) after participation. In addition, the enhanced recruitment efforts have proven fruitful. The percentage of UIM interns at Children’s National Hospital has increased from 5% (2/40) in 2014 to 51% (21/41) in 2021.

Next Steps

The dimensions of diversity included in these initiatives will be expanded to include individuals from other marginalized populations, such as certain individuals of Southeast Asian descent, those who identify as LGBTQ+, and those with disabilities. An antiracism initiative has also been implemented in the residency program in collaboration with the hospital and partner medical schools.
Ambulatory Single-level Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy for Cervical Radiculopathy
Authors: Bovonratwet Patawut , Retzky Julia S. , Chen Aaron Z. , Ondeck Nathaniel T. , Samuel Andre M. , Qureshi Sheeraz A. , Grauer Jonathan N. , Albert Todd J.
Published: October 2021

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort comparison study.

Objective:

The aim was to compare perioperative complications and 30-day readmission between ambulatory and inpatient posterior cervical foraminotomy (PCF) in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database.

Summary of Background Data:

Single-level PCF for cervical radiculopathy is increasingly being performed as an ambulatory procedure. Despite this increase, there is a lack of published literature documenting the safety of ambulatory PCF.

Materials and Methods:

Patients who underwent PCF (through laminotomy or laminectomy) were identified in the 2005–2018 NSQIP database. Ambulatory procedures were defined as cases that had hospital length of stay=0 days. Inpatient procedures were defined as cases that had length of stay=1–4 days. Patient characteristics, comorbidities, and procedural variables (laminotomy or laminectomy performed) were compared between the 2 cohorts. Propensity score matched comparisons were then performed for postoperative complications and 30-day readmissions between the 2 groups.

Results:

In total, 795 ambulatory and 1789 inpatient single-level PCF cases were identified. After matching, there were 795 ambulatory and 795 inpatient cases. Statistical analysis after propensity score matching revealed no significant difference in individual complications including 30-day readmission, thromboembolic events, wound complications, and reoperation, or aggregated complications between ambulatory versus matched inpatient procedures. Overall 30-day readmissions after ambulatory single-level PCF were noted for 2.46% of the study population, and the most common reasons were surgical site infections (46%) and pain control (15%).

Conclusions:

The perioperative outcomes assessed in this study support the conclusion that single-level PCF for cervical radiculopathy can be performed for correctly selected patients in the ambulatory setting without increased rates of 30-day perioperative complications or readmissions compared with inpatient procedures.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Performing Lumbosacral Transdiscal Fixation
Authors: Pinter Zachariah W. , Sebastian Arjun S. , Bou Monsef Jad , Elder Benjamin , Fogelson Jeremy
Published: October 2021

Transdiscal screw fixation through the Boachie screw technique at the lumbosacral junction is a well-accepted procedure in the treatment of high-grade spondylolisthesis. This technique allows for partial reduction of the spondylolisthesis, decompression of the neural elements, and reliable posterior lumbosacral fixation. When performed properly, this procedure produces reliable results and high rates of arthrodesis with relief of preoperative neurological symptoms.
Lung cancer screening: a critical appraisal
Authors: Kian Waleed , Zemel Melanie , Levitas Dina , Alguayn Wafeek , Remilah Areen A. , Rahman Nader Abdel , Peled Nir
Published: October 2021

Purpose of review

The recently published large-scale NELSON trial showed a reduction in lung cancer (LC) mortality with the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) in high-risk patients. This is the first such European-based trial to mirror the results of the US National Lung Screening Trial (NLST). The NLST was responsible for nationwide implementation of LC screening protocols which has shown a decrease in LC mortality. However, the implementation of such screening in Europe has been challenging. With the findings from the NELSON trial, implementation of LC screening throughout Europe should once again be evaluated.

Recent findings

This review article further elaborates on the advantages of LDCT in LC screening. It also discusses promising future approaches that can supplement the current LC screening guidelines.

Implementation of LC screening with LDCT should again be evaluated throughout Europe as it could substantially decrease LC-related mortality.
The Effect of Reiki on Pain, Fatigue, and Quality of Life in Adolescents With Dysmenorrhea
Authors: Koçoğlu Ferdane , Zincir Handan
Published: October 2021

This randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Reiki applications on pain, fatigue, and quality of life in adolescents with dysmenorrhea. There were 38 patients in the Reiki group and 37 in the placebo-controlled group. Reiki was found to be effective on pain and fatigue in adolescents with dysmenorrhea but with no effect on the quality of life.
Implementing Holistic Care in Isolated Patients During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Allande-Cussó Regina , Fernández-García Elena , Barrientos-Trigo Sergio , Rapela-Sánchez-Campa María Ángeles , Porcel-Gálvez Ana María
Published: October 2021

The most effective strategy against SARS-Cov-2 virus spread is therapeutic isolation. Consequences of this measure are the presence of anxiety and depression. Therefore, it is the nurse's responsibility to identify strategies to implement humanized and holistic care in order to avoid physical and mental consequences of isolation.
The Challenges of Nurses Who Care for COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Çakıcı Nilay , Avşar Gülçin , Çalışkan Nurcan
Published: October 2021

This study, which had a qualitative research design, was conducted to identify the challenges experienced by nurses who care for patients diagnosed with COVID-19. The nurses providing one-to-one care to patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in various hospitals in Turkey constituted the population of this study. The maximum variation sampling method was used to determine the sample in the research. In the sample selection, the provinces and hospitals were selected by drawing lots. The sample of the study consisted of 15 nurses who worked in different hospitals in different regions of Turkey, performed one-to-one care of patients diagnosed with COVID-19 between March and April 2020, volunteered to participate in the study, and agreed to be interviewed by the researcher. SRQR guidelines were followed in reporting the study. As a result of the study, 7 difficulties, or 7 themes, were identified. These themes include anxiety and fear of being infected, change in the family order, performing patient care with fear, perception of stigma in society, questioning the nurse's place within the health system, difficulty working with personal protective equipment, and physical damage caused by equipment.
“Everything Old Is New Again”
Authors: Hoffman Jenni L.
Published: October 2021

Complementary and alternative medicine therapies can be used as adjuvant or preventive therapy, and have newer applications: cryotherapy, halotherapy, floatation therapy, and compression therapy. Nurse practitioners need to know about these therapies and their applicability to patient populations. Appropriate integration of these therapies is part of holistic care, which they strive to provide.
The Effect of the Affordable Care Act on Women’s Postpartum Insurance and Depression in 5 States That Did Not Expand Medicaid, 2012–2015
Authors: Schuster Anne L.R. , Perraillon Marcelo C. , Paul Jennifer J. , Leiferman Jenn A. , Battaglia Catherine , Morrato Elaine H.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Before the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most women who gained pregnancy-related Medicaid were not eligible for Medicaid as parents postpartum. The ACA aimed to expand health insurance coverage, in part, by expanding Medicaid; introducing mandates; reforming regulations; and establishing exchanges with federal subsidies. Federal subsidies offer a means to coverage for individuals with income at 100%–400% of the federal poverty level who do not qualify for Medicaid.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to identify the effects of the ACA’s non-Medicaid provisions on women’s postpartum insurance coverage and depressive symptoms in nonexpansion states with low parental Medicaid thresholds.

Participants:

Women with incomes at 100%–400% of the federal poverty level who had prenatal insurance and completed the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (2012–2015).

Setting:

Five non-Medicaid expansion states with Medicaid parental eligibility thresholds below the federal poverty level.

Design:

Interrupted time-series analyses were conducted to examine changes between pre-ACA (January 2012–November 2013) and post-ACA (December 2013–December 2015) trends for self-reported loss of postpartum insurance and symptoms of postpartum depression.

Results:

The sample included 9,472 women. Results showed significant post-ACA improvements where the: (1) trend for loss of postpartum insurance reversed (change of −0.26 percentage points per month, P=0.047) and (2) level of postpartum depressive symptoms decreased (change of −3.5 percentage points, P=0.042).

Conclusions:

In these 5 states, the ACA’s non-Medicaid provisions were associated with large increases in retention of postpartum insurance and reductions in postpartum depressive symptoms, although depressive symptoms findings are sensitive to model specification.
Colour me blue: chromoendoscopy and advanced detection methods in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Kiesslich Ralf
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Surveillance colonoscopy is recommended in patients with long standing ulcerative colitis or Crohn's colitis. Chromoendoscopy is the main technique for increased detection of colitis-associated dysplasia. However, the recommendation was made on the basis of studies using standard definition colonoscopes.

Purpose of review

This review highlights randomized controlled trials and meta-analysis, which were published between 2018 and 2021 with the focus of conventional chromoendoscopy, virtual chromoendoscopy and high-definition imaging. In addition, studies investigating the value of random biopsies were also evaluated.

Recent findings

Chromoendoscopy increases the total number of colitis-associated dysplasia even by using high-definition colonoscopes. However, the procedure time is prolonged and there is no significant difference in the diagnostic yield of high definition alone and high definition with chromoendoscopy. Virtual chromoendoscopy seems not to develop a role for surveillance in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients.

High-definition colonoscopy and conventional chromoendoscopy are key techniques for surveillance in IBD.
Exploratory study of optimal parameters of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for neuropathic pain in the lower extremities
Authors: Mori Nobuhiko , Hosomi Koichi , Nishi Asaya , Matsugi Akiyoshi , Dong Dong , Oshino Satoru , Kishima Haruhiko , Saitoh Youichi
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Pain relief from repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over the primary motor cortex (M1) is particularly poor in patients with leg pain. The optimal parameters for relieving leg pain remain poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to explore the optimal stimulation parameters of M1-rTMS for patients with leg pain.

Methods:

Eleven patients with neuropathic pain in the leg randomly underwent 6 conditions of M1-rTMS with different stimulation intensities, sites, and coil directions, including sham stimulation. The 5 active conditions were as follows: 90% or 110% of the resting motor threshold (RMT) on the M1 hand with an anteroposterior coil direction, 90% or 110% RMT on the M1 foot in the anteroposterior direction, and 90% RMT on the M1 foot in the mediolateral direction. Each condition was administered for 3 days. Pain intensity was evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale and Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire 2 at baseline and up to 7 days after each intervention.

Results:

Visual Analogue Scale scores were significantly reduced after the following active rTMS conditions: 90% RMT on the M1 hand, 90% RMT on the M1 foot with any coil direction, and 110% RMT on the M1 foot. The Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire 2 results were similar to those obtained using the Visual Analogue Scale. The analgesic effect of rTMS with stimulus intensity above the RMT was not superior to that below the RMT.

Conclusion:

We suggest that the optimal stimulation parameters of rTMS for patients with neuropathic pain in the leg may target the M1 foot or M1 hand with an intensity below the RMT.
Safety and efficacy of remote electrical neuromodulation for the acute treatment of chronic migraine: an open-label study
Authors: Grosberg Brian , Rabany Liron , Lin Tamar , Harris Dagan , Vizel Maya , Ironi Alon , O'Carroll Christopher P. , Schim Jack
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Remote electrical neuromodulation (REN) is an acute treatment of migraine. The results from several studies in patients with episodic migraine suggest that REN is an effective and safe acute treatment of migraine. A recent pilot study provided initial support that REN is effective in patients with chronic migraine as well.

Objectives:

The current study aimed to validate and provide further evidence for the safety and efficacy of REN in a large sample of patients impacted by chronic migraine.

Methods:

In this open-label, single-arm study, patients with chronic migraine treated their headaches with the REN device (Nerivio, Theranica Bio-Electronics Ltd, Israel) for 4 weeks. Participants used an electronic diary to record their symptoms at treatment initiation, 2 hours after treatment, and 24 hours after treatment. The primary end point was the percentage of subjects who achieved pain relief at 2 hours posttreatment. Secondary end points included pain freedom and improvement of associated symptoms and functional disability.

Results:

One hundred twenty-six subjects were enrolled into the study, of which 91 subjects had an evaluable treatment with REN. Pain relief and pain disappearance at 2 hours were achieved by 59.3% (54/91) and 20.9% (19/91) of modified intent-to-treat subjects, respectively (with worst-case sensitivity analysis indicating 54.5% and 19.2%, respectively). Sustained pain relief at 24 hours was observed in 64.4% (29/45) of those who achieved pain relief at 2 hours (with worst-case sensitivity analysis indicating 45.6%). The findings of the study show that REN has a favorable effect on nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia and improves functional ability. One device-related adverse event was reported.

Conclusions:

Remote electrical neuromodulation treatments results in the relief of migraine headaches and associated symptoms, thus offering a drug-free acute treatment option for people with chronic migraine.

Trial registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04194008.