bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood transcriptomic biomarkers of alcohol consumption and cardiovascular disease risk factors: the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Ma Jiantao , Huang Allen , Yan Kaiyu , Li Yi , Sun Xianbang , Joehanes Roby , Huan Tianxiao , Levy Daniel , Liu Chunyu
Published: September 2022

Background

The relations of alcohol consumption and gene expression remain to be elucidated.

Materials and Methods

We examined cross-sectional associations between alcohol consumption and whole blood derived gene expression levels and between alcohol-associated genes and obesity, hypertension, and diabetes in 5531 Framingham Heart Study (FHS) participants.

Results

We identified 25 alcohol-associated genes. We further showed cross-sectional associations of 16 alcohol-associated genes with obesity, nine genes with hypertension, and eight genes with diabetes at P < 0.002. For example, we observed decreased expression of PROK2 (β = −0.0018; 95%CI: −0.0021, −0.0007; P = 6.5e − 5) and PAX5 (β = −0.0014; 95%CI: −0.0021, −0.0007; P = 6.5e − 5) per 1 g/day increase in alcohol consumption. Consistent with our previous observation on the inverse association of alcohol consumption with obesity and positive association of alcohol consumption with hypertension, we found that PROK2 was positively associated with obesity (OR = 1.42; 95%CI: 1.17, 1.72; P = 4.5e − 4) and PAX5 was negatively associated with hypertension (OR = 0.73; 95%CI: 0.59, 0.89; P = 1.6e − 3). We also observed that alcohol consumption was positively associated with expression of ABCA13 (β = 0.0012; 95%CI: 0.0007, 0.0017; P = 1.3e − 6) and ABCA13 was positively associated with diabetes (OR = 2.57; 95%CI: 1.73, 3.84; P = 3.5e − 06); this finding, however, was inconsistent with our observation of an inverse association between alcohol consumption and diabetes.

Conclusions

We showed strong cross-sectional associations between alcohol consumption and expression levels of 25 genes in FHS participants. Nonetheless, complex relationships exist between alcohol-associated genes and CVD risk factors.
Out of Obscurity: Local Leadership and Cultural Wealth in the Radical Communities of the West Riding Textile District, 1825–40
Authors: Sanders John
Published: September 2022

This paper revisits the local leadership of the various inter-related campaigns, agitations and oppositional activities that animated many of the communities of the West Riding textile district during the 1825–40 period. After examining different levels and types of leadership, it explores how people became leaders, the attractions and drawbacks of their role, and the challenges they faced. The study argues that the emergence of a generation of leaders who tapped into and contributed to the cultural wealth of their communities helps to explain the vitality of popular radicalism and the easy replenishment of early Chartist leadership in these localities.
Decreased GABA+ Levels in the Medial Prefrontal Cortex of Perimenopausal Women: A 3T 1H-MRS Study
Authors: Tran Kim H , Luki Jessica , Hanstock Sarah , Hanstock Christopher C , Seres Peter , Aitchison Katherine , Shandro Tami , Le Melledo Jean-Michel
Published: September 2022

Objective

Perimenopause is associated with an increased risk of developing a major depressive (MD) episode. A significant number of women develop their first MD episode during perimenopause, suggesting a unique pathophysiology of perimenopausal (PM) depression. Previous research has shown that depression is associated with decreased gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) of MD patients. The objective of this study was to compare MPFC GABA+ levels in healthy reproductive-aged (RD) and PM women.

Methods

A total of 18 healthy PM and 20 RD women were included in the study. MPFC GABA+ levels, which include homocarnosine and macromolecules, were measured via magnetic resonance spectroscopy using a 3 Tesla magnet. MPFC GABA+ levels were referenced to creatine + phosphocreatine (Cr+PCr). Absence of current or past psychiatric diagnosis was confirmed via a structured interview. RD participants were scanned during the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. PM women were scanned outside of ovulatory cycles.

Results

Mean MPFC GABA+ concentrations (relative to Cr+PCr) were decreased in the PM group compared with the RD group (PM mean = 0.08 ± 0.02, RD mean = 0.09 ± 0.02, t = −2.03, df = 36, P = .05) even after correcting for in percentage in gray matter (GM). Because PM women were inherently older than RD women (aged 48.8 ± 3.55 and 31.5 ± 9.66 years, respectively), the age difference between the 2 groups was statistically significant (P < .001). When age was treated as an independent covariate and included in the model, the difference in GABA+ between PM and RD women was no longer significant (P = .092).

Conclusion

Perimenopause is associated with decreased MPFC GABA+/Cr+PCr levels, which may contribute to the increased risk of experiencing a MD episode during PM.
What is the Preferred Educational Background of Forensic Scientists?
Authors: Marohl Mark , Jensen Grace , Barkholtz Heather
Published: September 2022

Forensic science is a broad and rapidly developing field where fundamental scientific principles and techniques are used to investigate crimes. As the field evolves, universities offering forensic science degrees are increasing in both number and diversity of curricula. Paramount to any discussion around forensic science education is an assessment of what educational degrees are preferred by those hiring both entry- and supervisory-level forensic scientists. Quantification of degree preference through surveys of hiring officials occurred in 1986 and 1996. Since then, the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission was established and has flourished, potentially enhancing the desirability of forensic science degrees. An updated survey was conducted to identify current educational background preferences within the field. The survey was distributed to members of the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors and members of the Society of Forensic Toxicologists in hiring or leadership roles, yielding 221 responses. Results indicated a continued preference for a degree combination of master’s in forensic science and a bachelor’s degree in physical or biological sciences for both entry- and supervisory-level candidates. Holding only a bachelor’s in the physical or biological sciences was also preferred for entry-level candidates whereas the preference for supervisory-level candidates was strongly influenced by the respondents’ terminal degree.
The Significance of Data-Sharing Policy
Authors: Askarov Zohid , Doucouliagos Anthony , Doucouliagos Hristos , Stanley T D
Published: September 2022

We assess the impact of mandating data-sharing in economics journals on two dimensions of research credibility: statistical significance and excess statistical significance (ESS). ESS is a necessary condition for publication selection bias. Quasi-experimental difference-in-differences analysis of 20,121 estimates published in 24 general interest and leading field journals shows that data-sharing policies have reduced reported statistical significance and the associated t-values. The magnitude of this reduction is large and of practical significance. We also find suggestive evidence that mandatory data-sharing reduces ESS and hence decreases publication bias.
The Marquess and Marchioness of Buckingham, Sir Joshua Reynolds, and the eighteenth-century context for Rembrandt’s Bellona in the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Authors: Morgan Andrea
Published: September 2022

Rembrandt’s style has often been seen as antithetical to the aesthetics of classicism. Yet, in the eighteenth century – a period that saw a revival of those very principles – the English enthusiastically collected works attributed to the Dutch master. This paper considers George and Mary Nugent-Temple-Grenville, 1st Marquess and Marchioness of Buckingham, and their acquisition of Rembrandt’s imagined portrait of the goddess Bellona. Their artistic taste, like that of many of their contemporaries, has been described as strictly classical, hence the reasons for their interest in Rembrandt are examined here. In fact, Bellona was recommended to the Marquess and Marchioness by Sir Joshua Reynolds, himself well known for his affinity with the artist. The relationship between Reynolds and the Temple-Grenville family of this painting is explored and the acquisition situated within an eighteenth-century context and the vogue for portraying contemporary women in the guise of mythological figures, just as Rembrandt did in his depiction of Bellona.
Assessment of Physician Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice for Lyme Disease in a Low-Incidence State
Authors: Brummitt Sharon I , Harvey Danielle J , Smith Woutrina A , Barker Christopher M , Kjemtrup Anne M
Published: September 2022

Lyme disease (LD), caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is transmitted to humans in California through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks (Ixodes pacificus). Overall, the incidence of LD in California is low: approximately 0.2 confirmed cases per 100,000 population. However, California’s unique ecological diversity results in wide variation in local risk, including regions with local foci at elevated risk of human disease. The diagnosis of LD can be challenging in California because the prior probability of infection for individual patients is generally low. Combined with nonspecific symptoms and complicated laboratory testing, California physicians need a high level of awareness of LD in California to recognize and diagnose LD efficiently. This research addresses an under-studied area of physicians’ knowledge and practice of the testing and treatment of LD in a low-incidence state. We assessed knowledge and practices related to LD diagnosis using an electronic survey distributed to physicians practicing in California through mixed sampling methods. Overall, responding physicians in California had a general awareness of Lyme disease and were knowledgeable regarding diagnosis and treatment. However, we found that physicians in California could benefit from further education to improve test-ordering practices, test interpretation, and awareness of California’s disease ecology with elevated levels of focal endemicity, to improve recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of LD in California patients.
Advanced observation of brain and nerve cells using two-photon microscopy with novel techniques
Authors: Ishii Hirokazu , Takahashi Taiga , Yamaguchi Kazushi , Nemoto Tomomi
Published: September 2022

Two-photon excitation fluorescence microscopy [two-photon microscopy (2PM)] is a robust technique for understanding physiological phenomena from the cellular to tissue level, attributable to the nonlinear excitation process induced by near-infrared ultrashort laser light pulses. Recently, we have been promoting the use of semiconductor lasers, adaptive optics, vector beams and nanomaterials to improve the observation depth or spatial resolution. The developed semiconductor-based laser light source successfully visualized the structure of the enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (EYFP)-expressing neurons at the hippocampal dentate gyrus without resecting the neocortex and neuronal activity in the hippocampal cornu ammonis (CA1) region in anesthetized mice at video rates. We also proposed using fluoropolymer nanosheets of 100-nm thickness for in vivo imaging and realized a wide field of view during anesthetized mouse brain imaging of 1-mm depth. Furthermore, the developed adaptive optical 2PM visualized single dendritic spines of EYFP-expressing neurons in cortical layer V of the secondary motor cortex, which had been difficult to observe due to the curvature of the brain surface. In addition, we combined 2PM and stimulated emission depletion microscopy to improve spatial resolution. This combined microscopy is noninvasive and has a superior spatial resolution, exceeding the diffraction limit of the conventional light. In this review, we describe our recent results and discuss the future of 2PM.
Improving biobehavioral health in younger breast cancer survivors: Pathways to Wellness trial secondary outcomes
Authors: Bower Julienne E , Partridge Ann H , Wolff Antonio C , Cole Steve W , Irwin Michael R , Thorner Elissa D , Joffe Hadine , Petersen Laura , Crespi Catherine M , Ganz Patricia A
Published: September 2022

Background

The Pathways to Wellness trial tested the efficacy of 2 interventions for younger breast cancer survivors: mindful awareness practices (MAPs) and survivorship education (SE). This planned secondary analysis examines intervention effects on stress, positive psychological outcomes, and inflammation (Clincaltrials.gov NCT03025139).

Methods

Women diagnosed with breast cancer at or before age 50 years who had completed treatment and had elevated depressive symptoms were randomly assigned to 6 weeks of MAPs, SE, or wait-list control (WLC). Assessments conducted at pre- and postintervention and at 3- and 6-month follow-up measured general stress perceptions, cancer-related intrusive thoughts and worry, positive affect, meaning and peace in life, altruism and empathy, and markers of inflammation. Analyses compared change in outcomes over time in each intervention group relative to WLC using linear mixed models.

Results

A total 247 women were randomly assigned to MAPs (n = 85), SE (n = 81), or WLC (n = 81). MAPs statistically significantly decreased intrusive thoughts and worry at postintervention and 3-month follow-up relative to WLC (P < .027) and statistically significantly increased positive affect and meaning and peace at postintervention, with positive affect persisting at 3-month follow-up (P < .027). SE statistically significantly decreased intrusive thoughts at 3-month follow-up and statistically significantly increased positive affect at 6-month follow-up relative to WLC (P < .01). Proinflammatory gene expression increased in WLC relative to MAPs (P = .016) but did not differ from SE. There were no intervention effects on other outcomes.

Conclusion

MAPs had beneficial effects on psychological and immune outcomes in younger breast cancer survivors and is a promising approach for enhancing biobehavioral health.
Exploring the relationship between nursing work environment and medical error reporting among Jordanian nurses: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Dalky Alaa , Alolayyan Main , Abuzaid Sajeda , Abuhammad Sawsan
Published: September 2022

Objectives

This study was conducted to explore the relationship between the nursing work environment and medical error reporting practices among Jordanian nurses.

Methods

This study was a cross-sectional survey of 334 participants who were conveniently selected from three types of hospitals (private, teaching and public) in Amman city, Jordan. The data were collected using a standardized questionnaire which was adopted from previous studies and consisted of three main sections including demographics, nursing work environment (The Practice Environment Scale-Nursing Work Index) and medical error reporting practices (incident reporting practice scale). SPSS version 26 was used for data analysis.

Key findings

The study findings detected a strong positive relationship between the nursing work environment and medical error reporting practices. ‘Nurse’s participation in hospital affairs’ showed the highest impact on medical error reporting practices among nurses. Based on the regression model, the nursing work environment explained 65.1% of variations in nurses’ medical error reporting practices. It was found that medical error reporting practices were statistically different across marital status and hospital type.

Conclusions

Based on data analysis findings, the nursing work environment was statistically strongly correlated to medical error reporting practices. To improve medical error reporting practices among nurses, decision-makers and hospital administrators should redesign their nursing work environment to create a more positive and favourable work environment.
Jejunojejunal intussusception of a sutured enterotomy site after takedown and primary repair of persistent enterocutaneous fistula: a case report
Authors: Marlor Derek , Noor Sibat , Beck Justin , Taghlabi Khaled M , Al-Kasspooles Mazin
Published: September 2022

Enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) is a common complication of many abdominal surgeries. Although most ECF resolve spontaneously, there are many factors that can lead to persistence of the fistula. Management of persistent enterocutaneous fistula usually involves surgery with recurrence of fistula being the most common complication. Here we describe a case of 67-year-old female who presented with intussusception following repair of a persistent enterocutaneous. Given the rare finding of intussusception in adults, this case report presents an interesting complication.
Monkeypox and ring vaccination during the FIFA world cup 2022 in Qatar: a call for action
Authors: Farahat Ramadan Abdelmoez , Essar Mohammad Yasir , Memish Ziad A
Published: September 2022

Given the potential spread of monkeypox (MPX) during the FIFA world cup 2022 in Qatar, appropriate precautions should be taken for early containment. Ring vaccination is an appropriate measure in this regard due to its ability not only to break the MPX transmission chain but also to prevent its progression.
The merger fraction of post-starburst galaxies in UNIONS
Authors: Wilkinson Scott , Ellison Sara L , Bottrell Connor , Bickley Robert W , Gwyn Stephen , Cuillandre Jean-Charles , Wild Vivienne
Published: September 2022

Post-starburst galaxies (PSBs) are defined as having experienced a recent burst of star formation, followed by a prompt truncation in further activity. Identifying the mechanism(s) causing a galaxy to experience a post-starburst phase therefore provides integral insight into the causes of rapid quenching. Galaxy mergers have long been proposed as a possible post-starburst trigger. Effectively testing this hypothesis requires a large spectroscopic galaxy survey to identify the rare PSBs as well as high-quality imaging and robust morphology metrics to identify mergers. We bring together these critical elements by selecting PSBs from the overlap of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey and the Canada–France Imaging Survey and applying a suite of classification methods: non-parametric morphology metrics such as asymmetry and Gini-M20, a convolutional neural network trained to identify post-merger galaxies, and visual classification. This work is therefore the largest and most comprehensive assessment of the merger fraction of PSBs to date. We find that the merger fraction of PSBs ranges from 19 per cent to 42 per cent depending on the merger identification method and details of the PSB sample selection. These merger fractions represent an excess of 3–46× relative to non-PSB control samples. Our results demonstrate that mergers play a significant role in generating PSBs, but that other mechanisms are also required. However, applying our merger identification metrics to known post-mergers in the IllustrisTNG simulation shows that 70 per cent of recent post-mergers (≲200 Myr) would not be detected. Thus, we cannot exclude the possibility that nearly all PSBs have undergone a merger in their recent past.
Magnetic fields on FIRE: Comparing B-fields in the multiphase ISM and CGM of simulated L* galaxies to observations
Authors: Ponnada Sam B , Panopoulou Georgia V , Butsky Iryna S , Hopkins Philip F , Loebman Sarah R , Hummels Cameron , Ji Suoqing , Wetzel Andrew , Faucher-Giguère Claude-André , Hayward Christopher C
Published: September 2022

The physics of magnetic fields (B) and cosmic rays (CRs) have recently been included in simulations of galaxy formation. However, significant uncertainties remain in how these components affect galaxy evolution. To understand their common observational tracers, we analyse the magnetic fields in a set of high-resolution, magnetohydrodynamic, cosmological simulations of Milky-Way-like galaxies from the FIRE-2 project. We compare mock observables of magnetic field tracers for simulations with and without CRs to observations of Zeeman splitting and rotation/dispersion measures. We find reasonable agreement between simulations and observations in both the neutral and the ionized interstellar medium (ISM). We find that the simulated galaxies with CRs show weaker ISM |B| fields on average compared to their magnetic-field-only counterparts. This is a manifestation of the effects of CRs in the diffuse, low density inner circumgalactic medium (CGM). We find that equipartition between magnetic and cosmic ray energy densities may be valid at large (> 1 kpc) scales for typical ISM densities of Milky-Way-like galaxies, but not in their haloes. Within the ISM, the magnetic fields in our simulated galaxies follow a power-law scaling with gas density. The scaling extends down to neutral hydrogen number densities < 300 cm−3, in contrast to observationally derived models, but consistent with the observational measurements. Finally, we generate synthetic rotation measure (RM) profiles for projections of the simulated galaxies and compare to observational constraints in the CGM. While consistent with upper limits, improved data are needed to detect the predicted CGM RMs at 10–200 kpc and better constrain theoretical predictions.
AstroSat view of ‘Clocked’ burster GS 1826-238: broad-band spectral nature of persistent and burst emission during soft state
Authors: Agrawal Vivek K , Nandi Anuj , Katoch Tilak
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we have carried out a detailed study of the ‘Clocked’ burster GS 1826 − 238 using ∼ 90 ks broad-band (0.7–60.0 keV) data obtained with AstroSat observatory. The source was observed during a soft spectral state and traced a ‘banana’ type track in the colour–colour diagram (CCD). We find that a combination of thermal component (multi-colour disc/bbodyrad) and Comptonized component is statistically good description for all the sections of the track in the CCD. The corona becomes optically thick (τ increases from ∼ 5 to 21) and cooler (kTe decreases from ∼ 4.8 to 2.2 keV) as the source moves up in the ‘banana’ branch. Probably cooling is caused by increase in the supply of soft-seed photons from the disc/boundary-layer. Reflection signature is observed at upper ‘banana’ branch of the source. Two type-I X-ray bursts are detected during the AstroSat observations. During the bursts, hard X-rays increased unlike previous observations where a reduction in hard X-rays is observed during the bursts. Decrease in the electron temperature and increase in the optical depth are observed during the bursts. The power spectral density of all the sections of the CCD can be represented by a pure power-law component. The strength of this component increases from ∼ 1 per cent to 4.5 per cent as the source moves up in the ‘banana’ track. Search for burst oscillations gave a null result. We discuss the implications of our results in the context of previous findings.
Integrated analysis of multimodal single-cell data with structural similarity
Authors: Cao Yingxin , Fu Laiyi , Wu Jie , Peng Qinke , Nie Qing , Zhang Jing , Xie Xiaohui
Published: September 2022

Multimodal single-cell sequencing technologies provide unprecedented information on cellular heterogeneity from multiple layers of genomic readouts. However, joint analysis of two modalities without properly handling the noise often leads to overfitting of one modality by the other and worse clustering results than vanilla single-modality analysis. How to efficiently utilize the extra information from single cell multi-omics to delineate cell states and identify meaningful signal remains as a significant computational challenge. In this work, we propose a deep learning framework, named SAILERX, for efficient, robust, and flexible analysis of multi-modal single-cell data. SAILERX consists of a variational autoencoder with invariant representation learning to correct technical noises from sequencing process, and a multimodal data alignment mechanism to integrate information from different modalities. Instead of performing hard alignment by projecting both modalities to a shared latent space, SAILERX encourages the local structures of two modalities measured by pairwise similarities to be similar. This strategy is more robust against overfitting of noises, which facilitates various downstream analysis such as clustering, imputation, and marker gene detection. Furthermore, the invariant representation learning part enables SAILERX to perform integrative analysis on both multi- and single-modal datasets, making it an applicable and scalable tool for more general scenarios.
HTCA: a database with an in-depth characterization of the single-cell human transcriptome
Authors: Pan Lu , Shan Shaobo , Tremmel Roman , Li Weiyuan , Liao Zehuan , Shi Hangyu , Chen Qishuang , Zhang Xiaolu , Li Xuexin
Published: September 2022

Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) is one of the most used single-cell omics in recent decades. The exponential growth of single-cell data has immense potential for large-scale integration and in-depth explorations that are more representative of the study population. Efforts have been made to consolidate published data, yet extensive characterization is still lacking. Many focused on raw-data database constructions while others concentrate mainly on gene expression queries. Hereby, we present HTCA (www.htcatlas.org), an interactive database constructed based on ∼2.3 million high-quality cells from ∼3000 scRNA-seq samples and comprised in-depth phenotype profiles of 19 healthy adult and matching fetal tissues. HTCA provides a one-stop interactive query to gene signatures, transcription factor (TF) activities, TF motifs, receptor–ligand interactions, enriched gene ontology (GO) terms, etc. across cell types in adult and fetal tissues. At the same time, HTCA encompasses single-cell splicing variant profiles of 16 adult and fetal tissues, spatial transcriptomics profiles of 11 adult and fetal tissues, and single-cell ATAC-sequencing (scATAC-seq) profiles of 27 adult and fetal tissues. Besides, HTCA provides online analysis tools to perform major steps in a typical scRNA-seq analysis. Altogether, HTCA allows real-time explorations of multi-omics adult and fetal phenotypic profiles and provides tools for a flexible scRNA-seq analysis.
Switching G-quadruplex to parallel duplex by molecular rotor clustering
Authors: Xu Qiuda , Yang Mujing , Chang Yun , Peng Shuzhen , Wang Dandan , Zhou Xiaoshun , Shao Yong
Published: September 2022

Switching of G-quadruplex (G4) structures between variant types of folding has been proved to be a versatile tool for regulation of genomic expression and development of nucleic acid-based constructs. Various specific ligands have been developed to target G4s in K+ solution with therapeutic prospects. Although G4 structures have been reported to be converted by sequence modification or a unimolecular ligand binding event in K+-deficient conditions, switching G4s towards non-G4 folding continues to be a great challenge due to the stability of G4 in physiological K+ conditions. Herein, we first observed the G4 switching towards parallel-stranded duplex (psDNA) by multimolecular ligand binding (namely ligand clustering) to overcome the switching barrier in K+. Purine-rich sequences (e.g. those from the KRAS promoter region) can be converted from G4 structures to dimeric psDNAs using molecular rotors (e.g. thioflavin T and thiazole orange) as initiators. The formed psDNAs provided multiple binding sites for molecular rotor clustering to favor subsequent structures with stability higher than the corresponding G4 folding. Our finding provides a clue to designing ligands with the competency of molecular rotor clustering to implement an efficient G4 switching.
Facebook Intervention to Connect Alaska Native People With Resources and Support to Quit Smoking: CAN Quit Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Patten Christi A , Koller Kathryn R , Sinicrope Pamela S , Prochaska Judith J , Young Colleen , Resnicow Kenneth , Decker Paul A , Hughes Christine A , Merritt Zoe T , McConnell Clara R , Huang Ming , Thomas Timothy K
Published: September 2022

Introduction

There is some evidence that social media interventions can promote smoking cessation. This randomized controlled pilot study is the first to evaluate the feasibility and potential efficacy of a Facebook smoking cessation intervention among Alaska Native (AN) adults.

Aims and Methods

Recruitment and data collection occurred from December 2019 to March 2021. Participants were recruited statewide in Alaska using Facebook advertisements with a targeted sample of 60 enrolled. Participants were stratified by gender, age, and rural or urban residence and randomly assigned to receive referral resources on evidence-based cessation treatments (EBCTs) (control, n = 30) or these resources plus a 3-month, closed (private), culturally tailored, Facebook group (intervention, n = 31) that connected participants to EBCT resources and was moderated by two Alaska Native Trained Tobacco Specialists. Assessments were conducted online post-randomization at 1, 3, and 6 months. Outcomes were feasibility (recruitment, retention, and intervention engagement), self-reported use of EBCTs, and biochemically confirmed seven-day point-prevalence smoking abstinence.

Results

Of intervention participants, 90% engaged (eg posted, commented) more than once. Study retention was 57% at 6 months (no group differences). The proportion utilizing EBCTs was about double for intervention compared with the control group participants at 3 and 6 months. Smoking abstinence was higher for intervention than control participants at 3 months (6.5% vs. 0%, p = .16) but comparable at 6 months (6.4% vs. 6.7%, p = .97).

Conclusions

While additional research is needed to promote long-term cessation, this pilot trial supports recruitment feasibility during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, consumer uptake, and a signal for intervention efficacy on the uptake of cessation treatment and short-term smoking abstinence.

Implications

This study is the first evaluation of a social media intervention for smoking cessation among Indigenous people. We learned that statewide Facebook recruitment of AN adults who smoke was feasible and there was a signal for the efficacy of a Facebook intervention on the uptake of EBCT and short-term (3 months) biochemically verified smoking abstinence. Clinically, social media platforms may complement current care models by connecting AN individuals and others living in hard-to-reach communities to cessation treatment resources.
Pharmacokinetic Analysis and In Vitro Synergy Evaluation of Cefiderocol, Sulbactam, and Tigecycline in an Extensively Drug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Pneumonia Patient Receiving Continuous Venovenous Hemodiafiltration
Authors: Kobic Emir , Abouelhassan Yasmeen , Singaravelu Kumara , Nicolau David P
Published: September 2022

Antimicrobial treatments for extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (XDR-AB) infections have proven lackluster, while dosing challenges in patients receiving continuous renal replacement therapy continue. We describe a patient receiving cefiderocol, ampicillin/sulbactam, and tigecycline for XDR-AB while undergoing continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration. The clinical course, cefiderocol and sulbactam pharmacokinetics, and synergy assessments are described.
The tobacco-free fallacy: What paediatricians should know about herbal smoking products
Authors: Khorasani Arianne , Chadi Nicholas
Published: September 2022

While e-cigarette and combustible cigarette use remains more common among youth, herbal smoking products are gaining interest and popularity among children and adolescents. Herbal smoking products are often touted as a safer alternative to tobacco smoking or nicotine vaping; however, research suggests that they emit significant levels of toxicants and carcinogens posing risks to child and adolescent health. The low perceived risk coupled with youth-friendly flavours and easy access may entice youth to use herbal smoking products and increase the risk of subsequent tobacco and substance use. We discuss what is known about the use, health effects, and regulations of herbal smoking products and present strategies for policymakers and paediatric providers to reduce the risks associated with these products for Canadian youth.
Genetic variation underlying differential ammonium and nitrate responses in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Katz Ella , Knapp Anna , Lensink Mariele , Keller Caroline Kaley , Stefani Jordan , Li Jia-Jie , Shane Emily , Tuermer-Lee Kaelyn , Bloom Arnold J , Kliebenstein Daniel J
Published: September 2022

Nitrogen is an essential element required for plant growth and productivity. Understanding the mechanisms and natural genetic variation underlying nitrogen use in plants will facilitate the engineering of plant nitrogen use to maximize crop productivity while minimizing environmental costs. To understand the scope of natural variation that may influence nitrogen use, we grew 1,135 Arabidopsis thaliana natural genotypes on two nitrogen sources, nitrate and ammonium, and measured both developmental and defense metabolite traits. By using different environments and focusing on multiple traits, we identified a wide array of different nitrogen responses. These responses are associated with numerous genes, most of which were not previously associated with nitrogen responses. Only a small portion of these genes appear to be shared between environments or traits, while most are predominantly specific to a developmental or defense trait under a specific nitrogen source. Finally, by using a large population, we were able to identify unique nitrogen responses, such as preferring ammonium or nitrate, which appear to be generated by combinations of loci rather than a few large-effect loci. This suggests that it may be possible to obtain novel phenotypes in complex nitrogen responses by manipulating sets of genes with small effects rather than solely focusing on large-effect single gene manipulations.
Ethylene response factor ERF.D7 activates auxin response factor 2 paralogs to regulate tomato fruit ripening
Authors: Gambhir Priya , Singh Vijendra , Parida Adwaita , Raghuvanshi Utkarsh , Kumar Rahul , Sharma Arun Kumar
Published: September 2022

Despite the obligatory role of ethylene in climacteric fruit ripening and the identification of 77 ethylene response factors (ERFs) in the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) genome, the role of few ERFs has been validated in the ripening process. Here, using a comprehensive morpho-physiological, molecular, and biochemical approach, we demonstrate the regulatory role of ERF D7 (SlERF.D7) in tomato fruit ripening. SlERF.D7 expression positively responded to exogenous ethylene and auxin treatments, most likely in a ripening inhibitor-independent manner. SlERF.D7 overexpression (OE) promoted ripening, and its silencing had the opposite effect. Alterations in its expression modulated ethylene production, pigment accumulation, and fruit firmness. Consistently, genes involved in ethylene biosynthesis and signaling, lycopene biosynthesis, and cell wall loosening were upregulated in the OE lines and downregulated in RNAi lines. These transgenic lines also accumulated altered levels of indole-3-acetic acid at late-breaker stages. A positive association between auxin response factor 2 (ARF2) paralog’s transcripts and SlERF.D7 mRNA levels and that SlARF2A and SlARF2B are direct targets of SlERF.D7 underpinned the perturbed auxin–ethylene crosstalk for the altered ripening program observed in the transgenic fruits. Overall, this study uncovers that SlERF.D7 positively regulates SlARF2A/B abundance to amalgamate auxin and ethylene signaling pathways for controlling tomato fruit ripening.
Brodalumab, an anti–interleukin-17 receptor A monoclonal antibody, in axial spondyloarthritis: 68-week results from a phase 3 study
Authors: Kim Tae-Hwan , Kishimoto Mitsumasa , Wei James Cheng-Chung , Jeong Haeyoun , Nozaki Akiyo , Kobayashi Shigeto
Published: September 2022

Objective

To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of brodalumab, a fully human anti–interleukin-17 receptor A monoclonal antibody, in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).

Methods

Patients receiving subcutaneous brodalumab 210 mg during the 16-week double-blind period of this multicentre, phase 3 study conducted across Japan, Korea and Taiwan continued the same during the 52-week open-label extension, whereas patients receiving placebo switched to brodalumab 210 mg at week 16. Efficacy [Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society (ASAS) 40 and ASAS 20 response rates; change from baseline in AS Disease Activity Score using CRP (ASDAS-CRP)] and safety were evaluated.

Results

Overall, 145 patients (brodalumab, n = 77; placebo, n = 68) received brodalumab during the open-label extension. ASAS 40 response rates (95% CI) of 56.3% (44.7%, 67.3%) and 57.4% (44.1%, 70.0%) were achieved in the brodalumab and placebo groups, respectively, at week 68. ASAS 20 response rates (95% CI) achieved at week 68 in both treatment groups were similar [brodalumab, 71.3% (60.0%, 80.8%); placebo, 78.7% (66.3%, 88.1%)]. The least squares mean change (95% CI) in ASDAS-CRP at week 68 suggested a clinically important improvement (change, ≥1.1) in both treatment groups [brodalumab, –1.528 (–1.737, –1.319); placebo, –1.586 (–1.815, –1.357)]. The exposure-adjusted event rates (per 100 patient-years) for treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and drug-related TEAEs were 255.9 and 147.9, respectively; nasopharyngitis (35.6) and upper respiratory tract infection (14.7) were the most common TEAEs.

Conclusions

Brodalumab demonstrated sustained efficacy and a consistent safety profile in patients with axSpA over 68 weeks.

Study registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, https://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02985983
Nursing Government Affairs Advocacy Fellow
Authors: Muetzel Lori , Dye Mallory , O'brien Colleen , Milburn Stephanie , Rosselet Robin
Published: September 2022

The Nursing Government Affairs Advocacy (NGAA) Fellowship is an interdisciplinary collaboration between the Department of Nursing and the Office of Government Affairs at a university in the Midwestern region of the US. This article discusses the history of the NGAA Fellowship, the Fellow accomplishments, and the future of the Fellowship.
Digital health
Authors: Grys Crystal A.
Published: September 2022

Healthcare delivery models have evolved from fee-for-service to incentivized care like patient-centered medical homes and accountable care organizations. This article discusses the evolution of healthcare delivery models and presents a vision for digital health.
Readmission and Resource Utilization in Patients From Socioeconomically Distressed Communities Following Lumbar Fusion
Authors: Siegel Nicholas , Lambrechts Mark J. , Karamian Brian A. , Carter Michael , Magnuson Justin A. , Toci Gregory R. , Krueger Chad A. , Canseco Jose A. , Woods Barrett I. , Kaye David , Hilibrand Alan S. , Kepler Christopher K. , Vaccaro Alexander R. , Schroeder Gregory D.
Published: September 2022

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

To determine whether: (1) patients from communities of socioeconomic distress have higher readmission rates or postoperative healthcare resource utilization and (2) there are differences in patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) based on socioeconomic distress.

Summary of Background Data:

Socioeconomic disparities affect health outcomes, but little evidence exists demonstrating the impact of socioeconomic distress on postoperative resource utilization or PROMs.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed on patients who underwent lumbar fusion at a single tertiary academic center from January 1, 2011 to June 30, 2021. Patients were classified according to the distressed communities index. Hospital readmission, postoperative prescriptions, patient telephone calls, follow-up office visits, and PROMs were recorded. Multivariate analysis with logistic, negative binomial regression or Poisson regression were used to investigate the effects of distressed communities index on postoperative resource utilization. Alpha was set at P<0.05.

Results:

A total of 4472 patients were included for analysis. Readmission risk was higher in distressed communities (odds ratio, 1.75; 95% confidence interval, 1.06–2.87; P=0.028). Patients from distressed communities (odds ratio, 3.94; 95% confidence interval, 1.60–9.72; P=0.003) were also more likely to be readmitted for medical, but not surgical causes (P=0.514), and distressed patients had worse preoperative (visual analog-scale Back, P<0.001) and postoperative (Oswestry disability index, P=0.048; visual analog-scale Leg, P=0.013) PROMs, while maintaining similar magnitudes of clinical improvement. Patients from distressed communities were more likely to be discharged to a nursing facility and inpatient rehabilitation unit (25.5%, P=0.032). The race was not independently associated with readmissions (P=0.228).

Conclusion:

Socioeconomic distress is associated with increased postoperative health resource utilization. Patients from distressed communities have worse preoperative PROMs, but the overall magnitude of improvement is similar across all classes.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV.
Impact of Lumbar Disk Herniation on Performance Outcomes and New Contracts in the National Football League
Authors: Dupont Marcel M. , Fourman Mitchell S. , Iyer Sravisht , Qureshi Sheeraz A. , Sheha Evan D. , Rhie-Lee Julia , Dowdell James
Published: September 2022

Study Design:

This was a retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

To determine performance outcomes and the contract-signing ability for the most recent cohort of professional football players treated for lumbar disk herniation (LDH).

Summary of Background Data:

LDH can have a significant impact on the career of a National Football League (NFL) player. Previous studies have found favorable return to play (RTP) and performance outcomes for players with LDH, but the impact on the ability to sign new contracts (an important surrogate to assess continued success) has not previously been studied.

Materials and Methods:

NFL players treated for LDH from 2000 to 2020 were identified from a public records search. Age, position, type of treatment, and RTP measures were collected. Pro Football Focus (PFF) performance grade and contract values were compared before the injury and after treatment. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors associated with the ability to RTP and sign high-value contracts.

Results:

One hundred one players were treated for an LDH, of which 75 returned to play. Posttreatment performance as measured by PFF was similar to preinjury levels (P=0.2). However, both total and guaranteed contract values were significantly reduced (P<0.01). In multivariable analysis, both lower age and higher preinjury PFF grade were independent predictors of RTP and ability to sign a new contract. A preinjury contract that contained a high proportion of guaranteed money was found to be an independent predictor of the ability to sign a contract that was >20% guaranteed.

Conclusion:

Although the majority of players were able to RTP at preserved performance levels following LDH treatment, their contract values were significantly reduced. RTP and contract-signing ability were not associated with the type of treatment, but rather baseline factors such as the player’s age, performance, and preinjury compensation.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV.
Corticosteroid-resistant Sweet’s syndrome as the first manifestation of myelodysplastic/ myeloproliferative neoplasm-unclassifiable: a case report
Authors: Pan Lina , Zhang Jingru , Li Peng , Zhao Chuanli , Zang Shaolei , Ji Min , Lu Fei , Ye Jingjing , Zhang Chunqing , Ji Chunyan
Published: September 2022

A middle-aged man was diagnosed with myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm-unclassifiable (MDS/MPN-U), with severe and extensive corticosteroid-resistant Sweet’s syndrome (SS) as the first manifestation, with evidence of clinical manifestations, pathological description, and laboratory evaluation. The skin lesions continued to spread despite treatment with systemic corticosteroids but were successfully treated with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).
Optimizing Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Pregnant Women: A Critical Literature Review
Authors: Moreira Fernanda de Lima , Benzi Jhohann Richard de Lima , Pinto Leonardo , Thomaz Matheus de Lucca , Duarte Geraldo , Lanchote Vera Lucia
Published: September 2022

Background:

More than 90% of pregnant women take at least one drug during pregnancy. Drug dose adjustments during pregnancy are sometimes necessary due to various pregnancy-induced physiological alterations frequently associated with lower plasma concentrations. However, the clinical relevance or benefits of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in pregnant women have not been specifically studied. Clinical pharmacokinetic studies in pregnant women are incredibly challenging for many reasons. Despite this, regulatory agencies have made efforts to encourage the inclusion of this population in clinical trials to achieve more information on the pharmacotherapy of pregnant women. This review aims to provide support for TDM recommendations and dose adjustments in pregnant women.

Methods:

The search was conducted after a predetermined strategy on PubMed and Scopus databases using the MeSH term “pregnancy” alongside other terms such as “Pregnancy and dose adjustment,” “Pregnancy and therapeutic drug monitoring,” “Pregnancy and PBPK,” “Pregnancy and pharmacokinetics,” and “Pregnancy and physiological changes.”

Results:

The main information on TDM in pregnant women is available for antiepileptics, antipsychotics, antidepressants, antibiotics, antimalarials, and oncologic and immunosuppressive drugs.

Conclusions:

More data are needed to support informed benefit–risk decision making for the administration of drugs to pregnant women. TDM and/or pharmacokinetic studies could ensure that pregnant women receive an adequate dosage of an active drug. Mechanistic modeling approaches potentially could increase our knowledge about the pharmacotherapy of this special population, and they could be used to better design dosage regimens.