bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling of deuterium diffusion and thermal desorption in tungsten exposed to high-flux deuterium plasma
Authors: Sun Yi-Wen , Cheng Long , Zhou Hai-Shan , Yuan Yue , Lu Guang-Hong
Published: October 2023

In nuclear fusion, hydrogen isotopes transportation in tungsten has been identified as a crucial process which could affect various key processes in the operation of a fusion device, such as tritium self-sustaining and operational safety. To enhance the understanding of deuterium diffusion and trapping in millimeter-thick tungsten under high-flux plasma conditions, we carried out a systematic simulation investigation on the deuterium plasma exposure and subsequent thermal desorption using the TMAP7 code based on experimental results. The simulation reveals that the defect concentration with a low de-trapping energy , as estimated solely from simulating thermal desorption, is lower than its actual density due to the temperature history of plasma exposure and subsequent cooling processes. Moreover, the growth rate of deuterium mobile concentration exhibits nonmonotonic behavior over time during plasma exposure, which strongly depends on the ratio of defect concentration with a high de-trapping energy to that with a low de-trapping energy. Additionally, we observed that the maximum deuterium diffusion depth does not follow a proportional relationship with the square root of exposure time, which is attributed to the growing number of plasma-induced defects and the reducing injection coefficient with increasing fluences. This work provides valuable insights into the understanding of deuterium transportation in tungsten during high-flux plasma exposure which could contribute to understanding and modelling of hydrogen isotopes recycling in future fusion devices.
Genome size is strongly linked to carbohydrate storage and weakly linked to root sprouting ability in herbs
Authors: Bitomský Martin , Martínková Jana , Lubbe F Curtis , Marešová Iveta , Klimešová Jitka
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

Several lines of evidence indicate that carbohydrate storage in plant below-ground organs might be positively related to genome size because both these plant properties represent resource sinks and can affect cell size, cell cycle time, water-use efficiency and plant growth. However, plants adapted to disturbance, such as root sprouters, could be an exception because their strategy would require higher carbohydrate reserves to fuel biomass production but small genomes to complete their cell cycles faster.

Methods

We used data from a field survey to test the relationship between genome size and the probability of root sprouting ability in 172 Central European herbaceous species. Additionally, we conducted a pot experiment with 19 herbaceous species with different sprouting ability (nine congeneric pairs plus one species), and measured root non-structural carbohydrate concentrations and pools at the end of a growing season.

Key Results

In the Central European flora, the probability of root sprouting ability was lower in large-genome species but this pattern was weak. In the pot experiment, both total non-structural and water-soluble carbohydrates (mainly fructans) were positively and non-linearly related to genome size, regardless of sprouting strategy. The concentrations of mono- and disaccharides and all carbohydrate pools showed no link to genome size, and starch was absent in large-genome species. The link between genome size and carbohydrate storage was less apparent at a small phylogenetic scale because we only observed a higher carbohydrate concentration in species with larger genomes for four of the species pairs.

Conclusions

Root sprouters may have smaller genomes because of their frequent occurrence in dry and open habitats. Large-genome species with presumably large cells and vacuoles could accumulate more water-soluble carbohydrates at the end of the growing season to fuel their growth and perhaps protect vulnerable organs from freezing early in the next season.
The Influence of Patient and Surgeon Characteristics on Press Ganey Provider Ratings in Plastic Surgery
Authors: Sergesketter Amanda R , Shammas Ronnie L , Langdell Hannah C , Yi Victoria N , Geng Yisong , Patel Ashit , Erdmann Detlev
Published: October 2023

Background

Although patient satisfaction ratings are increasingly used as hospital and provider performance metrics, these ratings may be affected by factors extraneous to surgeon performance.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess whether outpatient Press Ganey ratings for plastic surgery providers were tied more to provider or patient characteristics.

Methods

All Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems Clinician & Group Survey (CG-CAHPS) responses for plastic surgery providers from 2017 to 2023 from a single institution were analyzed. Ordered logistic regression models were used to identify characteristics associated with provider ratings.

Results

In total, 6442 surveys from 4594 patients representing 29 plastic surgery providers were analyzed. Across the patient cohort, 23.2% (N = 1492) rated plastic surgery providers lower than a 10/10. After adjustment, provider characteristics including provider gender, patient-provider gender concordance, and years in practice were not associated with overall provider ratings (all P > .05). In contrast, patient characteristics were associated with provider ratings. Older patient age (odds ratio [OR], 1.02; P < .001) was associated with higher ratings. Finally, self-reported overall health and mental health were associated with lower provider ratings (both P < .05); specifically, mental health categories lower than “Excellent” were associated with significantly lower provider ratings (overall mental health “Very Good’: OR, 0.57; “Good”: OR, 0.53; “Fair”: OR, 0.59; “Poor”: OR, 0.55; all P < .05).

Conclusions

Press Ganey ratings for plastic surgeons are influenced by patient characteristics, including age and mental health. Because satisfaction ratings are increasingly used as performance metrics in plastic surgery, adjusted rating models may be needed to more accurately reflect surgeon performance.
Transposable elements differ between geographic populations of the Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Brevik Kristian , Schoville Sean D , Muszewska Anna , Pélissié Benjamin , Cohen Zachary , Izzo Victor , Chen Yolanda H
Published: October 2023

Agricultural insect herbivores show a remarkable ability to adapt to modern agroecosystems, making them ideal for the study of the mechanisms underlying rapid evolution. The mobilization of transposable elements is one mechanism that may help explain this ability. The Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, is a highly adaptable species, as shown by its wide host range, broad geographic distribution, and tolerance to insecticides. However, beetle populations vary in insecticide tolerance, with Eastern US beetle populations being more adaptable than Western US ones. Here, we use a community ecology approach to examine how the abundance and diversity of transposable elements differs in 88 resequenced genomes of L. decemlineata collected throughout North America. We tested if assemblages and mobilization of transposable elements differed between populations of L. decemlineata based on the beetle’s geography, host plant, and neonicotinoid insecticide resistance. Among populations of North American L. decemlineata, individuals collected in Mexico host more transposable elements than individuals collected in the United States. Transposable element insertion locations differ among geographic populations, reflecting the evolutionary history of this species. Total transposable element diversity between L. decemlineata individuals is enough to distinguish between populations, with more TEs found in beetles collected in Mexico than in the United States. Transposable element diversity does not appear to differ between beetles found on different host plants, or relate to different levels of insecticide resistance.
Intravenous infusion of cardiac progenitor cells in animal models of single ventricular physiology
Authors: Goto Takuya , Ousaka Daiki , Hirai Kenta , Kotani Yasuhiro , Kasahara Shingo
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVES

The goal of this study was to identify the practical applications of intravenous cell therapy for single-ventricle physiology (SVP) by establishing experimental SVP models.

METHODS

An SVP with a three-stage palliation was constructed in an acute swine model without cardiopulmonary bypass. A modified Blalock–Taussig (MBT) shunt was created using an aortopulmonary shunt with the superior and inferior venae cavae (SVC and IVC, respectively) connected to the left atrium (n = 10). A bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt (BCPS) was constructed using a graft between the IVC and the left atrium with an SVC cavopulmonary connection (n = 10). The SVC and the IVC were connected to the pulmonary artery to establish a total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC, n = 10). The survival times of half of the animal models were studied. The other half and the biventricular sham control (n = 5) were injected intravenously with cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs), and the cardiac retention of CDCs was assessed after 2 h.

RESULTS

All SVP models died within 20 h. Perioperative mortality was higher in the BCPS group because of lower oxygen saturation (P < 0.001). Cardiac retention of intravenously delivered CDCs, as detected by magnetic resonance imaging and histologic analysis, was significantly higher in the modified Blalock-Taussig and BCPS groups than in the TCPC group (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Without the total right heart exclusion, stage-specific SVP models can be functionally constructed in pigs with stable outcomes. Intravenous CDC injections may be applicable in patients with SVP before TCPC completion, given that the initial lung trafficking is efficiently bypassed and sufficient systemic blood flow is supplied from the single ventricle.
Heritability of dental arches and occlusal characteristics: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Giri Jamal , Bockmann Michelle , Brook Alan , Farook Taseef Hasan , Meade Maurice , Hughes Toby
Published: October 2023

Background and objective

The genetic basis of dentoalveolar characteristics has been investigated by several studies, however, the findings are equivocal. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the heritability of dental arches and occlusal parameters in different stages of human dentition.

Search methods

Electronic databases PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Dentistry and Oral Science Source were searched up to August 2023 without the restriction of language or publication date.

Selection criteria

Empirical studies investigating the heritability of dentoalveolar parameters among twins and siblings were included in the review.

Data collection and analysis

Study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were performed independently and in duplicate by two authors and a third author resolved conflicts if needed. Joanna Briggs Institute’s critical appraisal tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias among studies and the certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria.

Results

Twenty-eight studies were included in the systematic review, of which 15 studies reporting heritability coefficients in the permanent dentition stages were deemed suitable for the meta-analysis. Random-effects meta-analyses showed high heritability estimates for maxillary intermolar width (0.52), maxillary intercanine width (0.54), mandibular intermolar width (0.55), mandibular intercanine width (0.55), maxillary arch length (0.76), mandibular arch length (0.57), and palatal depth (0.56). The heritability estimates for the occlusal parameters varied considerably, with relatively moderate values for crossbite (0.46) and overbite (0.44) and low values for buccal segment relationship (0.32), overjet (0.22), and rotation and displacement of teeth (0.16). However, the certainty of evidence for most of the outcomes was low according to the GRADE criteria.

Conclusions

Based on the available evidence, it can be concluded that the dental arch dimensions have a high heritability while the occlusal parameters demonstrate a moderate to low heritability.

Registration

PROSPERO (CRD42022358442).
Trends of fall-related and other fatal injuries in older adults in Finland between 1998 and 2020
Authors: Ylitörmänen Tuija , Nuotio Maria S , Kettunen Hanna , Impinen Antti , Koivula Riitta , Haikonen Kari
Published: October 2023

Background

The number of falls and fall-related injuries will likely increase as the number of older adults expands. Increases in total deaths due to falls have been observed over Europe. Less is known about other injuries leading to death.

 

To examine the incidence trends of fall-related and other fatal injuries among adults aged 65 or older in Finland.

Methods

We analyzed open data from Statistics Finland’s register on the causes of death of those aged ≥65 collected between 1998 and 2020 yielding a total of 32 150 deaths due to injury using Poisson regression and distributional comparisons chi-squared tests.

Results

The most common injuries leading to death among people aged ≥65 in Finland were fall related. There has been an increase in the absolute number of fall-related and other injuries, but when adjusting for person-years in population, a significant decrease can be observed. The crude rates of deaths from fall-related injuries among males annually increased 1.1–4.4% from 1998 to 2020, while the changes in rates among females ranged between −2% and 1.6%. The crude rates of other injuries ranged between −0.5% to +3.8%. Recently (2018–20), nearly 40% of the cases in males and 25% of cases in females were not fall related but comprised other types of injury mechanisms such as traffic, poisoning and drowning.

Conclusion

Strengthening the implementation of preventive strategies is essential to prevent injuries. To reduce injury-related mortality and disability, improvement of acute and post-acute care for injured older patients is warranted.
Macroecological predictors of evolutionary and plastic potential do not apply at microgeographic scales for a freshwater cladoceran under climate change
Authors: Nadeau Christopher P , Urban Mark C
Published: October 2023

Rapid evolutionary adaptation could reduce the negative impacts of climate change if sufficient heritability of key traits exists under future climate conditions. Plastic responses to climate change could also reduce negative impacts. Understanding which populations are likely to respond via evolution or plasticity could therefore improve estimates of extinction risk. A large body of research suggests that the evolutionary and plastic potential of a population can be predicted by the degree of spatial and temporal climatic variation it experiences. However, we know little about the scale at which these relationships apply. Here, we test if spatial and temporal variation in temperature affects genetic variation and plasticity of fitness and a key thermal tolerance trait (critical thermal maximum; CTmax) at microgeographic scales using a metapopulation of Daphnia magna in freshwater rock pools. Specifically, we ask if (a) there is a microgeographic adaptation of CTmax and fitness to differences in temperature among the pools, (b) pools with greater temporal temperature variation have more genetic variation or plasticity in CTmax or fitness, and (c) increases in temperature affect the heritability of CTmax and fitness. Although we observed genetic variation and plasticity in CTmax and fitness, and differences in fitness among pools, we did not find support for the predicted relationships between temperature variation and genetic variation or plasticity. Furthermore, the genetic variation and plasticity we observed in CTmax are unlikely sufficient to reduce the impacts of climate change. CTmax plasticity was minimal and heritability was 72% lower when D. magna developed at the higher temperatures predicted under climate change. In contrast, the heritability of fitness increased by 53% under warmer temperatures, suggesting an increase in overall evolutionary potential unrelated to CTmax under climate change. More research is needed to understand the evolutionary and plastic potential under climate change and how that potential will be altered in future climates.
Development and prospect of gene-edited fruits and vegetables
Authors: Zhang Siyuan , Zhu Hongliang
Published: October 2023

As global climate change progresses and the demand for nutritional value in food increases, new challenges have been posed for the cultivation of grains, fruits, and vegetables and the functionality of food. Traditional breeding combined with hybridization enhances grain yield, boosts fruit and vegetable production, and augments the beneficial components of food. However, these approaches fail to satisfy the diverse requirements. Gene-editing technology offers new tools like clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), enabling precise modifications of plant or animal genes to enhance their characteristics. Gene-edited foods offer numerous advantages, such as increased crop yields, improved nutritional value, enhanced stress resistance, and disease resistance. However, promoting genetically edited food faces several challenges, such as safety research, international regulatory differences, and public perception and acceptance. To achieve widespread application of gene-edited food, strengthening safety research, harmonizing international regulations, and raising public awareness are essential. This review highlights the development of gene-editing technology and its application in fruits and vegetables, reviews the legal regulations and attitudes of different countries towards gene-edited food, and provides perspectives on the future of gene-edited food.
RIFLE: a Phase II trial of stereotactic ablative radiotherapy combined with fruquintinib and tislelizumab in metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Wang Kun , Chen Yajie , Zhang Zhiyuan , Wu Ruiyan , Zhou Menglong , Yang Wang , Wan Juefeng , Shen Lijun , Zhang Hui , Wang Yan , Han Xu , Wang Jiazhou , Zhang Zhen , Xia Fan
Published: October 2023

Background

Currently, the prognosis for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) still remains poor. The management of mCRC has become manifold because of the varied advances in the systemic and topical treatment approaches. For patients with limited number of metastases, radical local therapy plus systemic therapy can be a good choice to achieve long-term tumor control. In this study, we aimed to explore the efficacy and safety of the combination of fruquintinib, tislelizumab, and stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) in mCRC (RIFLE study).

Methods

RIFLE was designed as a single-center, single-arm, prospective Phase II clinical trial. A total of 68 mCRC patients who have failed the first-line standard treatment will be recruited in the safety run-in phase (n = 6) and the expansion phase (n = 62), respectively. Eligible patients will receive SABR followed by fruquintinib (5 mg, d1–14, once every day) and tislelizumab (200 mg, d1, once every 3 weeks) within 2 weeks from completion of radiation. The expansion phase starts when the safety of the treatment is determined (dose limiting toxicity occur in no more than one-sixth of patients in the run-in phase). The primary end point is the objective response rate. The secondary end points include the disease control rate, duration of response, 3-year progression-free survival rate, 3-year overall survival rate, and toxicity.

Conclusions

The results of this trial will provide a novel insight into SABR in combination with PD-1 antibody and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitor in the systematic treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer, which is expected to provide new therapeutic strategies and improve the prognosis for mCRC patients.

Trial registration

NCT04948034 (ClinicalTrials.gov).
Evolving availability and standardization of patient attributes for matching
Authors: Deng Yu , Gleason Lacey P , Culbertson Adam , Chen Xiaotian , Bernstam Elmer V , Cullen Theresa , Gouripeddi Ramkiran , Harle Christopher , Hesse David F , Kean Jacob , Lee John , Magoc Tanja , Meeker Daniella , Ong Toan , Pathak Jyotishman , Rosenman Marc , Rusie Laura K , Shah Akash J , Shi Lizheng , Thomas Aaron , Trick William E , Grannis Shaun , Kho Abel
Published: October 2023

Variation in availability, format, and standardization of patient attributes across health care organizations impacts patient-matching performance. We report on the changing nature of patient-matching features available from 2010–2020 across diverse care settings. We asked 38 health care provider organizations about their current patient attribute data-collection practices. All sites collected name, date of birth (DOB), address, and phone number. Name, DOB, current address, social security number (SSN), sex, and phone number were most commonly used for cross-provider patient matching. Electronic health record queries for a subset of 20 participating sites revealed that DOB, first name, last name, city, and postal codes were highly available (>90%) across health care organizations and time. SSN declined slightly in the last years of the study period. Birth sex, gender identity, language, country full name, country abbreviation, health insurance number, ethnicity, cell phone number, email address, and weight increased over 50% from 2010 to 2020. Understanding the wide variation in available patient attributes across care settings in the United States can guide selection and standardization efforts for improved patient matching in the United States.
Telomere-to-telomere pear (Pyrus pyrifolia) reference genome reveals segmental and whole genome duplication driving genome evolution
Authors: Sun Manyi , Yao Chenjie , Shu Qun , He Yingyun , Chen Guosong , Yang Guangyan , Xu Shaozhuo , Liu Yueyuan , Xue Zhaolong , Wu Jun
Published: October 2023

Previously released pear genomes contain a plethora of gaps and unanchored genetic regions. Here, we report a telomere-to-telomere (T2T) gap-free genome for the red-skinned pear, ‘Yunhong No. 1’ (YH1; Pyrus pyrifolia), which is mainly cultivated in Yunnan Province (southwest China), the pear’s primary region of origin. The YH1 genome is 501.20 Mb long with a contig N50 length of 29.26 Mb. All 17 chromosomes were assembled to the T2T level with 34 characterized telomeres. The 17 centromeres were predicted and mainly consist of centromeric-specific monomers (CEN198) and long terminal repeat (LTR) Gypsy elements (≥74.73%). By filling all unclosed gaps, the integrity of YH1 is markedly improved over previous P. pyrifolia genomes (‘Cuiguan’ and ‘Nijisseiki’). A total of 1531 segmental duplication (SD) driven duplicated genes were identified and enriched in stress response pathways. Intrachromosomal SDs drove the expansion of disease resistance genes, suggesting the potential of SDs in adaptive pear evolution. A large proportion of duplicated gene pairs exhibit dosage effects or sub-/neo-functionalization, which may affect agronomic traits like stone cell content, sugar content, and fruit skin russet. Furthermore, as core regulators of anthocyanin biosynthesis, we found that MYB10 and MYB114 underwent various gene duplication events. Multiple copies of MYB10 and MYB114 displayed obvious dosage effects, indicating role differentiation in the formation of red-skinned pear fruit. In summary, the T2T gap-free pear genome provides invaluable resources for genome evolution and functional genomics.
Architecture design of grid-connected exploratory photovoltaic power generation based on Internet of Things and construction of power marketing system
Authors: Qian Feng , Wang Zhe , Wang Jinghua
Published: October 2023

Solar energy, as a prominent clean energy source, is increasingly favored by nations worldwide. However, managing numerous photovoltaic (PV) power generation units via wired connections presents a considerable challenge. The advent of the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud service technologies has facilitated the creation of an efficient and convenient PV grid-connected management system. This paper investigates IoT technology and PV grid-connected systems, integrating wireless sensor network technology, cloud computing service platforms and distributed PV grid-connected systems. We propose a Zigbee wireless network featuring ad hoc network functionality and Narrow Band Internet of Things (NB-IoT) smart gateway with multi-protocol and multi-device support. This system enables the collection and uploading of PV grid-connected system data to cloud service platforms, addressing daily operation and maintenance as well as intelligent management of distributed PV power stations. Furthermore, it expedites the aggregation and analysis of PV power generation data, streamlining power marketing across various regions.
Forelimb morphology as an adaptation for burrowing in kangaroo rat species (genus Dipodomys) that inhabit different soil substrates
Authors: Siciliano-Martina Leila , Guerra Daniel A , Veech Joseph A
Published: October 2023

Among burrowing rodents, forelimb morphology frequently shares an intricate relationship with soil substrates. Soils vary widely in texture and density, leading to differences in friability (e.g., the relative ability of particles to be broken apart), which often requires forelimb specializations in digging animals. Kangaroo rats (Dipodomys spp.) dig and occupy burrows, a trait that is essential to their survival. Some Dipodomys species are restricted to particular substrates that presumably require species-specific forelimb traits. Here we examined the forelimb morphology and soil substrates inhabited by range-restricted and widely ranging Dipodomys species to explore the variation in soil usage, forelimb specializations, and the relationship between these traits. We assessed size and shape traits of preserved specimen forelimb bones using traditional and geometric morphometric techniques and extracted soil data associated with the collecting locality of each specimen. We expected species that inhabit dense soil substrates to display specialized forelimb morphology typified by an elongated scapula and robust humerus, radius, and ulna. The species differed substantially in their soil associations and forelimb morphologies. In particular, forelimb traits that enhance mechanical digging ability were detected in D. elator, a range-restricted species that inhabits dense clay-rich soils. These findings suggest that Dipodomys species that inhabit dense substrates may require correspondingly specialized forelimb morphology and that these traits may limit the desirable geographic ranges inhabited by these species. This may provide important information when making conservation decisions given that unlike other habitat features, soil substrates cannot be easily modified to suit the needs of the organism.
Primary Series and Booster Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine Effectiveness in a Cohort of Healthcare Workers in Albania During a BA.1 and BA.2 Variant Period, January–May 2022
Authors: Finci Iris , Rojas Castro Madelyn Yiseth , Hasibra Iris , Sulo Jonilda , Fico Albana , Daja Rovena , Vasili Adela , Kota Majlinda , Preza Iria , Mühlemann Barbara , Drosten Christian , Pebody Richard , Lafond Kathryn E , Kissling Esther , Katz Mark A , Bino Silvia
Published: October 2023

Background

Healthcare workers (HCWs) have experienced high rates of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) morbidity and mortality. We estimated COVID-19 2-dose primary series and monovalent booster vaccine effectiveness (VE) against symptomatic severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron (BA.1 and BA.2) infection among HCWs in 3 Albanian hospitals during January–May 2022.

Methods

Study participants completed weekly symptom questionnaires, underwent polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing when symptomatic, and provided quarterly blood samples for serology. We estimated VE using Cox regression models (1 – hazard ratio), with vaccination status as the time-varying exposure and unvaccinated HCWs as the reference group, adjusting for potential confounders: age, sex, prior SARS-CoV-2 infection (detected by PCR, rapid antigen test, or serology), and household size.

Results

At the start of the analysis period, 76% of 1462 HCWs had received a primary series, 10% had received a booster dose, and 9% were unvaccinated; 1307 (89%) HCWs had evidence of prior infection. Overall, 86% of primary series and 98% of booster doses received were BNT162b2. The median time interval from the second dose and the booster dose to the start of the analysis period was 289 (interquartile range [IQR], 210–292) days and 30 (IQR, 22–46) days, respectively. VE against symptomatic PCR-confirmed infection was 34% (95% confidence interval [CI], −36% to 68%) for the primary series and 88% (95% CI, 39%–98%) for the booster.

Conclusions

Among Albanian HCWs, most of whom had been previously infected, COVID-19 booster dose offered improved VE during a period of Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 circulation. Our findings support promoting booster dose uptake among Albanian HCWs, which, as of January 2023, was only 20%.

Clinical Trials Registration. NCT04811391.
Etiology of Fever and Associated Outcomes Among Adults Receiving Chemotherapy for the Treatment of Solid Tumors in Uganda
Authors: Gulleen Elizabeth A , Holte Sarah , Zhang Yuzheng , Mbarusha Immaculate , Mubiru Dennis , Pedun Bernadette , Keng Michael , Heysell Scott K , Omoding Abrahams , Moore Christopher C , Phipps Warren
Published: October 2023

Background

Little is known about the microbiology and outcomes of chemotherapy-associated febrile illness among patients in sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding the microbiology of febrile illness could improve antibiotic selection and infection-related outcomes.

Methods

From September 2019 through June 2022, we prospectively enrolled adult inpatients at the Uganda Cancer Institute who had solid tumors and developed fever within 30 days of receiving chemotherapy. Evaluation included blood cultures, malaria rapid diagnostic tests, and urinary lipoarabinomannan testing for tuberculosis. Serum cryptococcal antigen was evaluated in participants with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The primary outcome was the mortality rate 40 days after fever onset, which we estimated using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

A total of 104 febrile episodes occurred among 99 participants. Thirty febrile episodes (29%) had ≥1 positive microbiologic result. The most frequently identified causes of infection were tuberculosis (19%) and bacteremia (12%). The prevalence of tuberculosis did not differ by HIV status. The 40-day case fatality ratio was 25%. There was no difference in all-cause mortality based on HIV serostatus, presence of neutropenia, or positive microbiologic results. A universal vital assessment score of >4 was associated with all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 14.5 [95% confidence interval, 5–42.7]).

Conclusions

The 40-day mortality rate among Ugandan patients with solid tumors who developed chemotherapy-associated febrile illness was high, and few had an identified source of infection. Tuberculosis and bacterial bloodstream infections were the leading diagnoses associated with fever. Tuberculosis should be included in the differential diagnosis for patients who develop fever after receiving chemotherapy in tuberculosis-endemic settings, regardless of HIV serostatus.
Complementing model species with model clades
Authors: Mabry Makenzie E , Abrahams R Shawn , Al-Shehbaz Ihsan A , Baker William J , Barak Simon , Barker Michael S , Barrett Russell L , Beric Aleksandra , Bhattacharya Samik , Carey Sarah B , Conant Gavin C , Conran John G , Dassanayake Maheshi , Edger Patrick P , Hall Jocelyn C , Hao Yue , Hendriks Kasper P , Hibberd Julian M , King Graham J , Kliebenstein Daniel J , Koch Marcus A , Leitch Ilia J , Lens Frederic , Lysak Martin A , McAlvay Alex C , McKibben Michael T W , Mercati Francesco , Moore Richard C , Mummenhoff Klaus , Murphy Daniel J , Nikolov Lachezar A , Pisias Michael , Roalson Eric H , Schranz M Eric , Thomas Shawn K , Yu Qingyi , Yocca Alan , Pires J Chris , Harkess Alex E
Published: October 2023

Model species continue to underpin groundbreaking plant science research. At the same time, the phylogenetic resolution of the land plant tree of life continues to improve. The intersection of these 2 research paths creates a unique opportunity to further extend the usefulness of model species across larger taxonomic groups. Here we promote the utility of the Arabidopsis thaliana model species, especially the ability to connect its genetic and functional resources, to species across the entire Brassicales order. We focus on the utility of using genomics and phylogenomics to bridge the evolution and diversification of several traits across the Brassicales to the resources in Arabidopsis, thereby extending scope from a model species by establishing a “model clade.” These Brassicales-wide traits are discussed in the context of both the model species Arabidopsis and the family Brassicaceae. We promote the utility of such a “model clade” and make suggestions for building global networks to support future studies in the model order Brassicales.
How Much Does the Food Insecurity Experience Scale Overlap with Poor Food Consumption and Monetary Poverty? Evidence from West Africa
Authors: Lain Jonathan , Tandon Sharad , Vishwanath Tara
Published: October 2023

The Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES), which combines three food-access dimensions into a single indicator, is rapidly being incorporated into national statistical systems. However, there is no prediction about how one of the incorporated dimensions—subjective experiences associated with food insecurity—overlaps with poor food consumption. Using data from West Africa, this study illustrates that in 4 out of 10 countries, there is a similar prevalence of food insecurity according to the FIES among segments of the population that are likely undernourished and segments that are likely not undernourished. And in 5 out of 10 countries, there is a relatively large prevalence of food insecurity according to the FIES in the segments of the population that are least likely to be undernourished. Combined, the results offer guidance to policymakers when choosing food-access indicators and illustrate the importance of using the FIES along with other food-access measures.
ADAMTS12 is a stromal modulator in chronic liver disease
Authors: Dekky Bassil , Azar Fida , Bonnier Dominique , Monseur Christine , Kalebić Chiara , Arpigny Esther , Colige Alain , Legagneux Vincent , Théret Nathalie
Published: October 2023

Adamalysins, a family of metalloproteinases containing a disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs) and ADAM with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTSs), belong to the matrisome and play important roles in various biological and pathological processes, such as development, immunity and cancer. Using a liver cancer dataset from the International Cancer Genome Consortium, we developed an extensive in silico screening that identified a cluster of adamalysins co‐expressed in livers from patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Within this cluster, ADAMTS12 expression was highly associated with recurrence risk and poorly differentiated HCC signatures. We showed that ADAMTS12 was expressed in the stromal cells of the tumor and adjacent fibrotic tissues of HCC patients, and more specifically in activated stellate cells. Using a mouse model of carbon tetrachloride‐induced liver injury, we showed that Adamts12 was strongly and transiently expressed after a 24 h acute treatment, and that fibrosis was exacerbated in Adamts12‐null mice submitted to carbon tetrachloride‐induced chronic liver injury. Using the HSC‐derived LX‐2 cell line, we showed that silencing of ADAMTS12 resulted in profound changes of the gene expression program. In particular, genes previously reported to be induced upon HSC activation, such as PAI‐1, were mostly down‐regulated following ADAMTS12 knock‐down. The phenotype of these cells was changed to a less differentiated state, showing an altered actin network and decreased nuclear spreading. These phenotypic changes, together with the down‐regulation of PAI‐1, were offset by TGF‐β treatment. The present study thus identifies ADAMTS12 as a modulator of HSC differentiation, and a new player in chronic liver disease.
MAP‐2:CD55 chimeric construct effectively modulates complement activation
Authors: González‐del‐Barrio Lydia , Pérez‐Alós Laura , Cyranka Leon , Rosbjerg Anne , Nagy Simon , Prohászka Zoltán , Garred Peter , Bayarri‐Olmos Rafael
Published: October 2023

The complement system is a complex, tightly regulated protein cascade involved in pathogen defense and the pathogenesis of several diseases. Thus, the development of complement modulators has risen as a potential treatment for complement‐driven inflammatory pathologies. The enzymatically inactive MAP‐2 has been reported to inhibit the lectin pathway by competing with its homologous serine protease MASP‐2. The membrane‐bound complement inhibitor CD55 acts on the C3/C5 convertase level. Here, we fused MAP‐2 to the four N‐terminal domains of CD55 generating a targeted chimeric inhibitor to modulate complement activation at two different levels of the complement cascade. Its biological properties were compared in vitro with the parent molecules. While MAP‐2 and CD55 alone showed a minor inhibition of the three complement pathways when co‐incubated with serum (IC50MAP‐2+CD551‐4 = 60.98, 36.10, and 97.01 nM on the classical, lectin, and alternative pathways, respectively), MAP‐2:CD551‐4 demonstrated a potent inhibitory activity (IC50MAP‐2:CD551‐4 = 2.94, 1.76, and 12.86 nM, respectively). This inhibitory activity was substantially enhanced when pre‐complexes were formed with the lectin pathway recognition molecule mannose‐binding lectin (IC50MAP‐2:CD551‐4 = 0.14 nM). MAP‐2:CD551‐4 was also effective at protecting sensitized sheep erythrocytes in a classical hemolytic assay (CH50 = 13.35 nM). Finally, the chimeric inhibitor reduced neutrophil activation in full blood after stimulation with Aspergillus fumigatus conidia, as well as phagocytosis of conidia by isolated activated neutrophils. Our results demonstrate that MAP‐2:CD551‐4 is a potent complement inhibitor reinforcing the idea that engineered fusion proteins are a promising design strategy for identifying and developing drug candidates to treat complement‐mediated diseases.
Hyperoside alleviates photoreceptor degeneration by preventing cell senescence through AMPK‐ULK1 signaling
Authors: Liang Jia , Yao Fei , Fang Dong , Chen Lu , Zou Zhenhua , Feng Lujia , Zhuang Yijing , Xie Ting , Wei Pengxue , Li Pengfeng , Zhang Shaochong
Published: October 2023

Vision loss and blindness are frequently caused by photoreceptor degeneration, for example in age‐related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. However, there is no effective medicine to treat these photoreceptor degeneration‐related diseases. Cell senescence is a common phenotype in many diseases; however, few studies have reported whether it occurs in photoreceptor degeneration diseases. Herein, we identified that cell senescence is associated with photoreceptor degeneration induced by N‐methyl‐N‐nitrosourea (MNU, a commonly used photoreceptor degeneration model), presented as increased senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase activity, DNA damage, oxidative stress and inflammation‐related cytokine Interleukin 6 (IL6), and upregulation of cyclin p21 or p16. These results suggested that visual function might be protected using anti‐aging treatment. Furthermore, Hyperoside is reported to help prevent aging in various organs. In this study, we showed that Hyperoside, delivered intravitreally, alleviated photoreceptor cell senescence and ameliorated the functional and morphological degeneration of the retina in vivo and in vitro. Importantly, Hyperoside attenuated the MNU‐induced injury and aging of photoreceptors via AMPK‐ULK1 signaling inhibition. Taken together, our results demonstrated that Hyperoside can prevent MNU‐induced photoreceptor degeneration by inhibiting cell senescence via the AMPK‐ULK1 pathway.
Single‐cell transcriptome analysis of the germ cells and somatic cells during mitotic quiescence stage in goats
Authors: Chen Min , Wang Nan , Yang Hang , Liu Dongjun , Gao Yuan , Duo Lei , Cui Xiuhong , Hao Fei , Ye Jing , Gao Fei , Tu Qiang , Gui Yaoting
Published: October 2023

The mitotic quiescence of prospermatogonia is the event known to occur during genesis of the male germline and is tied to the development of the spermatogenic lineage. The regulatory mechanisms and the functional importance of this process have been demonstrated in mice; however, regulation of this process in human and domestic animal is still largely unknown. In this study, we employed single‐cell RNA sequencing to identify transcriptional signatures of prospermatogonia and major somatic cell types in testes of goats at E85, E105, and E125. We identified both common and specific Gene Ontology categories, transcription factor regulatory networks, and cell–cell interactions in cell types from goat testis. We also analyzed the transcriptional dynamic changes in prospermatogonia, Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and interstitial cells. Our datasets provide a useful resource for the study of domestic animal germline development.
Performance Data Advocacy for Continuing Professional Development in Health Professions
Authors: Tavares Walter , Sockalingam Sanjeev , Valanci Sofia , Giuliani Meredith , Davis David , Campbell Craig , Silver Ivan , Charow Rebecca , Jeyakumar Tharshini , Younus Sarah , Wiljer David
Published: October 2023

Efforts to optimize continuing professional development (CPD) are ongoing and include advocacy for the use of clinician performance data. Several educational and quality-based frameworks support the use of performance data to achieve intended improvement outcomes. Although intuitively appealing, the role of performance data for CPD has been uncertain and its utility mainly assumed. In this Scholarly Perspective, the authors briefly review and trace arguments that have led to the conclusion that performance data are essential for CPD. In addition, they summarize and synthesize a recent and ongoing research program exploring the relationship physicians have with performance data. They draw on Collins, Onwuegbuzie, and Johnson’s legitimacy model and Dixon-Woods’ integrative approach to generate inferences and ways of moving forward. This interpretive approach encourages questioning or raising of assumptions about related concepts and draws on the perspectives (i.e., interpretive work) of the research team to identify the most salient points to guide future work. The authors identify 6 stimuli for future programs of research intended to support broader and better integration of performance data for CPD. Their aims are to contribute to the discourse on data advocacy for CPD by linking conceptual, methodologic, and analytic processes and to stimulate discussion on how to proceed on the issue of performance data for CPD purposes. They hope to move the field from a discussion on the utility of data for CPD to deeper integration of relevant conceptual frameworks.
Warming Prior to Heel Stick
Authors: Toennesen Ulla List , Kierkegaard Helene , Kofoed Poul-Erik , Madsen Jonna Skov , Fenger-Gron Jesper , Noergaard Betty , Soerensen Patricia Diana
Published: October 2023

Background:

Capillary blood sampling (heel stick) in infants is commonly performed in neonatal care units. Before the procedure, warming the infant's heel is often a customary practice, but no consensus exists on the most effective heel-warming method.

Purpose:

To compare the effects of routinely used warming methods (glove, gel pack, or blanket) applied prior to heel stick on blood sample quality and infant's comfort.

Methods:

This prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial conducted in the neonatal intensive care unit included infants (postmenstrual age of ≥28 + 0 weeks and ≤43 + 6 weeks) who were computer-randomized to 1 of 3 warming methods.

The primary outcome was blood flow velocity at sampling. Secondary outcomes were hemolysis index, infant COMFORTneo score, and frequency of postprocedure skin injuries. In addition, irrespective of the warming method used, the correlation between heel skin temperature and postprocedure heel skin injury was analyzed.

Results:

A total of 176 heel warmings were successfully randomized, and 173 were analyzed. Despite a significant difference in obtained heel skin temperature after warming between the 3 warming methods (P = .001), no difference in blood flow velocity (P = .91), hemolysis index (P = .99), or COMFORTneo score (P = .76) was found. Baseline skin temperatures above 37.0°C were associated with higher incidences of skin injury, and skin temperatures after warming were significantly higher in skin-injured heels (P = .038).

Implications for Practice and Research:

All 3 warming methods had similar effects on blood sample quality and infant's comfort. However, excessive warming of the heel should be avoided to prevent skin injuries.
Prepregnancy Healthy Lifestyle and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Wang Siwen , Mitsunami Makiko , Ortiz-Panozo Eduardo , Leung Cindy W. , Manson JoAnn E. , Rich-Edwards Janet W. , Chvarro Jorge E.
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the association of healthy lifestyle factors before pregnancy (body mass index [BMI] 18.5–24.9, nonsmoking, 150 min/wk or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, healthy eating [top 40% of Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension score], no or low-to-moderate alcohol intake [less than 15 g/d], and use of multivitamins) with risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

METHODS:

We conducted a secondary analysis of prospectively collected data for women without chronic diseases who are participating in an ongoing cohort in the United States (the NHSII [Nurses' Health Study II]). Healthy lifestyle factors preceding pregnancy were prospectively assessed every 2–4 years from 1991 to 2009 with validated measures. Reproductive history was self-reported in 2001 and 2009. A composite outcome of adverse pregnancy outcomes that included miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, preterm birth, stillbirth, or low birth weight was assessed.

RESULTS:

Overall, 15,509 women with 27,135 pregnancies were included. The mean maternal age was 35.1±4.2 years. Approximately one in three pregnancies (n=9,702, 35.8%) was complicated by one or more adverse pregnancy outcomes. The combination of six low-risk factors was inversely associated with risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in a dose-dependent manner (P for trend <.001). Compared with women who had zero or one healthy lifestyle factor, those with six had a 37% lower risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes (relative risk 0.63, 95% CI 0.55–0.72), driven primarily by lower risks of gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, and low birth weight. All prepregnancy healthy lifestyle factors, except avoiding harmful alcohol consumption and regular physical activity, were independently associated with lower risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes after mutual adjustment for each other. Healthy BMI, high-quality diet, and multivitamin supplementation showed the strongest inverse associations with adverse pregnancy outcomes. If the observed relationships were causal, 19% of adverse pregnancy outcomes could have been prevented by the adoption of all six healthy lifestyle factors (population attributable risk 19%, 95% CI 13–26%).

CONCLUSION:

Prepregnancy healthy lifestyle is associated with a substantially lower risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and could be an effective intervention for the prevention of adverse pregnancy outcomes.