bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Illness Severity in Adults Hospitalized With Acute Respiratory Tract Infection due to Influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or Human Metapneumovirus
Authors: Falsey Ann R. , Walsh Edward E. , House Stacey L. , Vandendijck Yannick , Stevens Marita , Chan Eric K. H. , Ispas Gabriela
Published: May 2024

Background

Influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) are common respiratory viruses causing similar symptoms. Optimal tools to assess illness severity for these viruses have not been defined. Using the Hospitalized Acute Respiratory Tract Infection (HARTI) study data, we report symptom severity by clinician‐rated clinical severity scores (CSS) in adults with influenza, RSV, or hMPV and correlations between CSS and patient‐reported outcomes (PROs).

Methods

HARTI was a global epidemiologic study in adults hospitalized with acute respiratory tract infections. Patients were assessed at enrollment within 24 h of admission with CSS and twice during hospitalization with CSS, Respiratory Infection Intensity and Impact Questionnaire™ (RiiQ™), and EQ‐5D‐5L. Data were summarized descriptively, stratified by pathogen and baseline and hospitalization characteristics. Domain (general, upper respiratory, and lower respiratory) and sign/symptom subscores are presented for CSS; sign/symptom subscores are presented for RiiQ™ results.

Results

Data from 635 patients with influenza, 248 with RSV, and 107 with hMPV were included. At enrollment, total CSS and general and lower respiratory signs/symptoms (LRS) scores were higher for RSV and hMPV than influenza. Between‐pathogen differences were greatest for LRS scores. Dyspnea, rales/rhonchi, wheezing, and shortness of breath scores trended higher for RSV and hMPV than influenza. RiiQ™ scores for cough, fatigue, and short of breath were strongly correlated with corresponding clinician‐rated symptoms.

Conclusions

These findings support the use of PROs (e.g., the RiiQ™) correlating with clinician assessments to gauge patient well‐being and aid patient management by accurately assessing respiratory illness severity due to RSV, hMPV, or influenza.
The EU’s Transactional Approach to Rule of Law Spending Conditionality in the 2020s
Authors: Thinus Pauline
Published: May 2024

Rule of law spending conditionality marks a turn in the EU’s strategy in the 2020s. The entry of this value into the budgetary sphere represents an economization process, creating room for the development of a transactional approach to rule of law compliance. This article defines this conceptual framework and examines the extent of its application through the case study of three budgetary instruments used during the 2021–2027 cycle: the Recovery and Resilience Facility, the Rule of Law Conditionality Regulation and the horizontal enabling condition of the Charter of Fundamental Rights. Contributing to the recent Europeanization literature, it also emphasizes the change in European governance and in the EU–Member State relationship triggered by the new conditionality culture following the succession of European crises, moving from a traditional politico‐legal enforcement model to a transactional one.
GmNF‐YC4 delays soybean flowering and maturation by directly repressing GmFT2a and GmFT5a expression
Authors: Cai Yupeng , Chen Li , Liu Xiaoqian , Yao Weiwei , Hou Wensheng
Published: May 2024

Flowering time and growth period are key agronomic traits which directly affect soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) adaptation to diverse latitudes and farming systems. The FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) homologs GmFT2a and GmFT5a integrate multiple flowering regulation pathways and significantly advance flowering and maturity in soybean. Pinpointing the genes responsible for regulating GmFT2a and GmFT5a will improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing growth period in soybean. In this study, we identified the Nuclear Factor Y‐C (NFY‐C) protein GmNF‐YC4 as a novel flowering suppressor in soybean under long‐day (LD) conditions. GmNF‐YC4 delays flowering and maturation by directly repressing the expression of GmFT2a and GmFT5a. In addition, we found that a strong selective sweep event occurred in the chromosomal region harboring the GmNF‐YC4 gene during soybean domestication. The GmNF‐YC4Hap3 allele was mainly found in wild soybean (Glycine soja Siebold & Zucc.) and has been eliminated from G. max landraces and improved cultivars, which predominantly contain the GmNF‐YC4Hap1 allele. Furthermore, the Gmnf‐yc4 mutants displayed notably accelerated flowering and maturation under LD conditions. These alleles may prove to be valuable genetic resources for enhancing soybean adaptability to higher latitudes.
Impact of authentic leadership on nurses' well‐being and quality of care in the acute care settings
Authors: Alhalal Eman , Alharbi Johara Fahad , Alharbi Sabah Turyhib , Alotaibi Sarah Saad , Albagami Norah Saleh , Alruwaili Salman Mutarid , Alshammari Saad Aqeel
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Both nurses' well‐being and quality of care are top priorities of the healthcare system. Yet, there is still a gap in understanding the extent and how authentic leadership influences them. This information is needed to inform the development of effective interventions, organizational practices, and policies. Thus, this study aimed to test the mechanism by which nurses' perception of their managers' authentic leadership impacts nurses' well‐being and perception of quality of care, given the role of the nursing practice environment and nurses' psychological capital.

Design

A cross‐sectional design was used.

Methods

This study recruited a random sample of 680 nurses from six hospitals in Saudi Arabia. A final sample of 415 completed the surveys, with a response rate of 61%. Structural equation modeling was performed to test the hypothesized model.

Results

The study showed that nurses' perceptions of authentic leadership in their managers positively and directly affect their perceptions of quality of care but do not directly affect nurses' well‐being. Both the nursing practice environment and psychological capital fully mediated the relationship between authentic leadership and nurses' well‐being. However, the nursing practice environment partially mediated the relationship between authentic leadership and perceptions of quality of care.

Conclusion

The findings contribute to understanding the crucial role of authentic leaders' style in nurses' well‐being and quality of care through its positive impact on the nursing practice environment and psychological capital.

Clinical Relevance

Designing interventions and policies that specifically target nursing managers' authentic leadership style has implications for enhancing nurses' well‐being and the quality of patient care. Institutional measures are needed to help leaders practice an authentic leadership style to create a positive nursing practice environment and cultivate nurses' psychological capital, both of which contribute to nurses' well‐being and attaining a better quality of care. Further work is required to highlight the outcomes of implementing an authentic leadership style relevant to other leadership styles.
Inhalant abuse among street‐involved children and adolescents in India: Case for epistemic recognition and reorientation
Authors: Shaikh Ajazuddin , Sarin Ankur
Published: May 2024

Contextualizing the void of research on inhalant abuse among adolescents as epistemic neglect, in this study, we use mixed‐methods action research to understand inhalant abuse in a specific context in the Global South. Focusing on a large metropolitan city in Western India, we surveyed 158 street‐involved children and adolescents (110 boys and 48 girls, age range from 5 to 17 years) in a group setting along with follow‐up group interviews. Despite finding a high prevalence rate of inhalant abuse, our work suggests an absence of supporting structures and emphasizes the need to revisit our understanding and interpretation of substance‐using behavior of street‐involved youth. Instead of explaining inhalant‐abusing behavior as emerging from pathological deficiencies in individuals or households, we stress the need to critically examine the exploitative environment they are embedded in. In doing so, we join efforts to decolonize conventional ways of understanding “deviant” behavior.
Exploring COVID‐19 census burdens by US hospital characteristics: Implications of quality reporting at rural and critical access hospitals
Authors: Ugwuowo Ugochukwu C. , Meier Sarah K. , Franco Pablo Moreno , Noe Katherine H. , Dowdy Sean C. , Pollock Benjamin D.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

By assessing longitudinal associations between COVID‐19 census burdens and hospital characteristics, such as bed size and critical access status, we can explore whether pandemic‐era hospital quality benchmarking requires risk‐adjustment or stratification for hospital‐level characteristics.

Methods

We used hospital‐level data from the US Department of Health and Human Services including weekly total hospital and COVID‐19 censuses from August 2020 to August 2023 and the 2021 American Hospital Association survey. We calculated weekly percentages of total adult hospital beds containing COVID‐19 patients. We then calculated the number of weeks each hospital spent at Extreme (≥20% of beds occupied by COVID‐19 patients), High (10%–19%), Moderate (5%–9%), and Low (<5%) COVID‐19 stress. We assessed longitudinal hospital‐level COVID‐19 stress, stratified by 15 hospital characteristics including joint commission accreditation, bed size, teaching status, critical access hospital status, and core‐based statistical area (CBSA) rurality.

Findings

Among n = 2582 US hospitals, the median(IQR) weekly percentage of hospital capacity occupied by COVID‐19 patients was 6.7%(3.6%–13.0%). 80,268/213,383 (38%) hospital‐weeks experienced Low COVID‐19 census stress, 28% Moderate stress, 22% High stress, and 12% Extreme stress. COVID‐19 census burdens were similar across most hospital characteristics, but were significantly greater for critical access hospitals.

Conclusions

US hospitals experienced similar COVID‐19 census burdens across multiple institutional characteristics. Evidence‐based inclusion of pandemic‐era outcomes in hospital quality reporting may not require significant hospital‐level risk‐adjustment or stratification, with the exception of rural or critical access hospitals, which experienced differentially greater COVID‐19 census burdens and may merit hospital‐level risk‐adjustment considerations.
Pseudohypoaldosteronism and acquired renal aldosterone resistance with hyperkalemic type IV renal tubular acidosis in 2 cats
Authors: Marino Christina L. , Foster Jonathan D.
Published: May 2024

This report describes the diagnosis and treatment of aldosterone resistance (AR) and acquired hyperkalemic type IV renal tubular acidosis (RTA) in 2 cats comparable to acquired pseudohypoaldosteronism in people. One cat developed AR from chronic kidney disease after an acute kidney injury and was treated with furosemide per os, which resolved the hyperkalemic RTA. The second cat developed transient AR secondary to a bacterial urinary tract infection associated with urethral catheterization, and treatment with antibiotics resolved the hyperkalemic RTA.
Development of a telomere vector‐based approach to overcome limitations caused by lethal phenotypes in the study of essential genes in Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Wirtz Louisa , Casanova Florencia , Schaffrath Ulrich , Wegner Alex
Published: May 2024

Reverse genetic approaches are common tools in genomics for elucidating gene functions, involving techniques such as gene deletion followed by screening for aberrant phenotypes. If the generation of gene deletion mutants fails, the question arises whether the failure stems from technical issues or because the gene of interest (GOI) is essential, meaning that the deletion causes lethality. In this report, we introduce a novel method for assessing gene essentiality using the phytopathogenic ascomycete Magnaporthe oryzae. The method is based on the observation that telomere vectors are lost in transformants during cultivation without selection pressure. We tested the hypothesis that essential genes can be identified in deletion mutants co‐transformed with a telomere vector. The M. oryzae gene MoPKC, described in literature as essential, was chosen as GOI. Using CRISPR/Cas9 technology transformants with deleted GOI were generated and backed up by a telomere vector carrying a copy of the GOI and conferring fenhexamid resistance. Transformants in which the GOI deletion in the genome was not successful lost the telomere vector on media without fenhexamid. In contrast, transformants with confirmed GOI deletion retained the telomere vector even in absence of fenhexamid selection. In the latter case, the maintenance of the telomere indicates that the GOI is essential for the surveillance of the fungi, as it would have been lost otherwise. The method presented here allows to test for essentiality of genes when no mutants can be obtained from gene deletion approaches, thereby expanding the toolbox for studying gene function in ascomycetes.
Fusarium keratitis in a Brazilian tropical semi‐arid area: Clinical–epidemiological features, molecular identification and antifungal susceptibility
Authors: Milanez Edlâny Pinho Romão , de Souza Pedro de Freitas Santos Manzi , Monteiro Ruan Campos , Pereira Lívia Maria Galdino , Peixoto Paulo Henrique Soares , de Oliveira Denis Francisco Gonçalves , Colares Pedro Paulo Rodrigues , Teixeira Raielly Furtado , Andrade Marília de Freitas Chaves e , Silva Jailton Vieira , Rodrigues Anderson Messias , de Souza Collares Maia Débora Castelo Branco , Cordeiro Rossana de Aguiar
Published: May 2024

Background

Fungal keratitis is a severe eye infection that can result in blindness and visual impairment, particularly in developing countries. Fusarium spp. are the primary causative agents of this condition. Diagnosis of Fusarium keratitis (FK) is challenging, and delayed treatment can lead to serious complications. However, there is limited epidemiological data on FK, especially in tropical areas.

Objectives

This study aimed to describe the clinical, laboratorial and epidemiological characteristics of FK in a tropical semi‐arid region of Brazil.

Patients/Methods

Adult patients with laboratory‐confirmed FK diagnosed between October 2019 and March 2022 were evaluated. Fusarium isolates were characterized at molecular level and evaluated regarding antifungal susceptibility.

Results

A total of 226 clinical samples from patients suspected of keratitis were evaluated; fungal growth was detected in 50 samples (22.12%); out of which 42 were suggestive of Fusarium spp. (84%). Molecular analysis of a randomly selected set of 27 isolates identified F. solani species complex (n = 14); F. fujikuroi sensu lato (n = 6) and F. dimerum sensu lato (n = 7); a total of 10 haplotypes were identified among the strains. All but one Fusarium strains were inhibited by amphotericin B, natamycin and fluconazole. Most patients were male (71.42%; 30 out of 42), aged from 27 to 73 years old. Trauma was the most important risk factor for FK (40.47%; 17 out of 42). Patients were treated with antifungals, corticoids and antibiotics; keratoplasty and eye enucleation were also performed.

Conclusions

The study provided insights into the characteristics of FK in tropical regions and emphasized the importance of enhanced surveillance and management strategies.
Porphyromonas gingivalisOMVs promoting endothelial dysfunction via the STING pathway in periodontitis
Authors: Chen Zhenwei , Cao Ye , Jiang Wenxiu , Yan Zixin , Cai Guanhui , Ye Junjie , Wang Hua , Liu Luwei
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the effects of Porphyromonas gingivalis outer membrane vesicles (Pg‐OMVs) in chronic periodontitis and explore the underlying mechanism involved.

Methods

In vitro, Pg‐OMVs were incubated with Ea.hy926 (vessel endothelial cells, ECs) to evaluate their effects on endothelial functions and to investigate the underlying mechanism. The effects of endothelial dysfunction on MG63 osteoblast‐like cells were verified using an indirect co‐culture method. For in vivo studies, micro‐CT was conducted to identify alveolar bone mass. Immunofluorescence staining was conducted to confirm the levels of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) in the blood vessel and the number of Runx2+ cells around the alveolar bone.

Results

Pg‐OMVs were endocytosed by ECs, leading to endothelial dysfunction. The cGAS‐STING‐TBK1 pathway was activated in ECs, which subsequently inhibited MG63 migration and early osteogenesis differentiation. In vivo, Pg‐OMVs promoted alveolar bone resorption, increased STING levels in the blood vessel, and decreased Runx2+ cells around the alveolar bone.

Conclusions

Pg‐OMVs caused endothelial dysfunction and activated the cGAS‐STING‐TBK1 signal cascade in ECs, thereby impairing ECs‐mediated osteogenesis. Furthermore, Pg‐OMVs aggregated alveolar bone loss and altered the blood vessel‐mediated osteogenesis with elevated STING.
Can Robotic Arm‐assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty Remain Cost‐effective in Volume‐based Procurement System in China? A Markov Model‐based Study
Authors: Zhang Zhuo , Luo Yang , Zhang Jing , Zhang Chong , Wang Xin , Chen Jiying , Chai Wei
Published: May 2024

Objective

The volume based procurement (VBP) program in China was initiated in 2022. The cost‐effectiveness of robotic arm assisted total knee arthroplasty is yet uncertain after the initiation of the program. The objective of the study was to investigate the cost‐effectiveness of robotic arm‐assisted total knee arthroplasty and the influence of the VBP program to its cost‐effectiveness in China.

Methods

The study was a Markov model‐based cost‐effectiveness study. Cases of primary total knee arthroplasty from January 2019 to December 2021 were included retrospectively. A Markov model was developed to simulate patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis. Manual and robotic arm‐assisted total knee arthroplasties were compared for cost‐effectiveness before and after the engagement of the VBP program in China. Probability and sensitivity analysis were conducted.

Results

Robotic arm‐assisted total knee arthroplasty showed better recovery and lower revision rates before and after initiation of the VBP program. Robotic arm‐based TKA was superior to manual total knee arthroplasty, with an increased effectiveness of 0.26 (16.87 vs 16.61) before and 0.52 (16.96 vs 16.43) after the application of Volume‐based procurement, respectively. The procedure is more cost‐effective in the new procurement system (17.13 vs 16.89). Costs of manual or robotic arm‐assisted TKA were the most sensitive parameters in our model.

Conclusion

Based on previous and current medical charging systems in China, robotic arm‐assisted total knee arthroplasty is a more cost‐effective procedure compared to traditional manual total knee arthroplasty. As the volume‐based procurement VBP program shows, the procedure can be more cost‐effective.
Avoiding pain during propofol injection in pediatric anesthesia: Hypnoanalgesia of the hand versus intravenous lidocaine
Authors: Polomeni Marie‐Madeleine , Huguet Thomas , Mariotti Maryline , Larcher Claire , Delort François , Minville Vincent , Kern Delphine
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Pain related to injection of propofol during induction of anesthesia decreases from 66.8% without prevention, to 22–31% of cases when lidocaine is associated. Hypnoanalgesia of the hand is currently used for painful procedures in children but has never been evaluated in this indication. The primary aim of this prospective randomized single‐blind study was to evaluate the efficacy of hypnoanalgesia of the hand for the prevention of moderate to severe pain during intravenous injection of propofol alone in comparison to lidocaine admixture. The secondary aim was to compare the global satisfaction of children in both methods.

Patients and Methods

One hundred patients aged 7–14 years, ASA 1‐2, admitted for scheduled surgery under general anesthesia were randomized into two groups. Group L received a mixture of 1% propofol (3 mg/kg) and 1% Lidocaine (0.3 mg/kg). Group H received 1% propofol (3 mg/kg) after hypnoanalgesia of the hand realized by a single experimented operator. A video was made in order to evaluate the pain related to propofol injection by a blinded observer using the 4‐point score of Cameron (painful ≥ 2). The global satisfaction of children was evaluated in postanesthesia care unit and documented if visual analog score was <7/10.

Results

Ninety‐six patients were analyzed. The rate of painful patients did not differ significantly between groups (8.5% in group H [n = 47] vs 6.1% in group L [n = 49], OR= 0.70; 95% CI [0.13–3.35], p = 0.65), nor did the rate of nonsatisfied patients (10.6 in group H vs. 12.2% in group L, OR = 0.85; 95% CI [0.19–3.65], p = 1).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that hypnoanalgesia of the hand alone is effective to prevent the pain related to propofol injection in children. No significant difference was found in comparison with lidocaine admixture nor for pain or satisfaction.
Determination of optimal positive end‐expiratory pressure using electrical impedance tomography in infants under general anesthesia: Comparison between supine and prone positions
Authors: Lee Ji‐Hyun , Kang Pyoyoon , Park Jung‐Bin , Ji Sang‐Hwan , Jang Young‐Eun , Kim Eun‐Hee , Kim Jin‐Tae , Kim Hee‐Soo
Published: May 2024

Aims

This study determined the optimal positive end‐expiratory pressure levels in infants in supine and prone positions under general anesthesia using electrical impedance tomography (EIT).

Methods

This prospective observational single‐centre study included infants scheduled for surgery in the prone position. An electrical impedance tomography sensor was applied after inducing general anesthesia. The optimal positive end‐expiratory pressure in the supine position was determined in a decremental trial based on EIT and compliance. Subsequently, the patient's position was changed to prone. Electrical impedance tomography parameters, including global inhomogeneity index, regional ventilation delay, opening pressure, the centre of ventilation, and pendelluft volume, were continuously obtained up to 1 h after prone positioning. The optimal positive end‐expiratory pressure in the prone position was similarly determined.

Results

Data from 30 infants were analyzed. The mean value of electrical impedance tomography‐based optimal positive end‐expiratory pressure in the prone position was significantly higher than that in the supine position [10.9 (1.6) cmH2O and 6.1 (0.9) cmH2O, respectively (p < .001)]. Significant differences were observed between electrical impedance tomography‐ and compliance‐based optimal positive end‐expiratory pressure. Peak and mean airway, plateau, and driving pressures increased 1 h after prone positioning compared with those in the supine position. In addition, the centre of ventilation for balance in ventilation between the ventral and dorsal regions improved.

Conclusion

The prone position required higher positive end‐expiratory pressure than the supine position in mechanically ventilated infants under general anesthesia. EIT is a promising tool to find the optimal positive end‐expiratory pressure, which needs to be individualized.
The age of leadership: Meta‐analytic findings on the relationship between leader age and perceived leadership style and the moderating role of culture and industry type
Authors: Tomova Shakur Teodora K. , North Michael S. , Berson Yair , Oreg Shaul
Published: May 2024

Managers' leadership style has a substantial impact on employee and organizational outcomes. In the present study, we consider the role of leaders’ chronological age in predicting followers’ perceptions of their leadership style. Whereas ample research uncovers relationships between individuals’ age and how these individuals are perceived by others, little is known about how leaders’ chronological age impacts others’ perceptions of their style. Even less is known about how such relationships vary across cultures and industries. We conducted a meta‐analysis (164 unique studies; N = 397,456 observations) to explore these relationships, using the Full‐Range leadership model. We found that leader age was negatively related to perceptions of transformational and transactional leadership, and positively related to perceptions of passive leadership. Further, some of these effects varied on several cultural dimensions: The negative relationship between leader age and transformational leadership was weaker in collectivistic cultures, while the negative relationship with transactional leadership was stronger in high power distance cultures. Industry type also mattered: the relationship between leader age and both transformational and contingent reward leadership styles was amplified in the public sector. Lastly, perceptions of older leaders were more negative when ratings were provided by followers rather than the leaders themselves. Our findings offer both theoretical and practical implications for leading in an increasingly age‐diverse workforce, such as better informing the workforce of present age stereotypes and their imminent effect on organizations.
Mobile phones, income diversification, and poverty reduction in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Matsuura‐Kannari Masanori , Islam Abu Hayat Md. Saiful , Tauseef Salauddin
Published: May 2024

The widespread adoption of mobile phones (MPs) presents the possibility of creating employment and self‐employment opportunities. Although several studies have documented the impact of MPs on income, the link between MP ownership and poverty reduction channeled by income diversification has not been fully explored. This paper aims to examine this relationship using nationally representative panel data and fixed effect models to account for confounding factors and unobserved heterogeneity. Results indicate that MP ownership is associated with increased income diversification, particularly through on‐farm and off‐farm self‐employment, as well as non‐earned income. This relationship is more pronounced in households with lower levels of education and deprived areas. In addition, owning a MP is also found to decrease poverty via income diversification. Therefore, policies aimed at enhancing access to mobile technologies could create a resilient income portfolio by decreasing transaction costs and improving market efficiency, ultimately mitigating poverty in rural regions.
Establishment and application of perceived age prediction model for the periocular aging research of Chinese Han women
Authors: Wang Qianqian , Li Nihong , Wang Mingyu , Jin Yuting , Ye Rui , Du Le , Hu Fan
Published: May 2024

Background

The assessment of skin aging through skin measurements faces limitations, making perceived age evaluation a more valuable and direct tool for assessing skin aging. Given that the aging process markedly affects the appearance of the eye contour, characterizing the eye region could be beneficial for perceived age assessment. This study aimed to analyze age‐correlated changes in the eye contour within the Chinese Han female population and to develop, validate, and apply a multiple linear regression model for predicting perceived age.

Materials and methods

A naïve panel of 107 Chinese women assessed the perceived ages of 212 Chinese Han women. Instrumental analysis evaluated periorbital parameters, including palpebral fissure width (PFW), palpebral fissure height (PFH), acclivity of palpebral fissure (AX), angle of inner canthal (AEN), and angle of outer canthal (AEX). These parameters were used to construct a multiple linear regression model for predicting the perceived ages of Chinese Han women. A combined treatment using Fotona 4D and an anti‐aging eye cream, formulated with plant extracts, peptides, and antioxidants, was conducted to verify the cream's anti‐aging efficacy and safety. This eye cream was then tested in a large‐scale clinical trial involving 101 participants. The prediction model was employed in this trial to assess the perceived ages of the women after an 8‐week application of the eye cream.

Results

All parameters were observed to decrease with age. An intergroup comparison indicated that eyelid aging in Chinese Han women accelerates beyond the age of 50. Consequently, a linear regression model was constructed and validated, with the perceived age being calculated as 183.159 ‐ 1.078 * AEN ‐ 4.487 * PFW + 6.061 * PFH ‐ 1.003 * AX ‐ 0.328 * AEX. The anti‐aging efficacy and safety of the eye cream were confirmed through combined treatment with Fotona 4D, showing improvements in wrinkles, elasticity, and dark circles under the eyes. In a large‐scale clinical evaluation using this eye cream, a perceived age prediction model was applied, suggesting that 8 weeks of use made participants appear 2.25 years younger.

Conclusion

Our study developed and validated a multiple linear regression model to predict the perceived age of Chinese Han women. This model was successfully utilized in a large‐scale clinical evaluation of anti‐aging eye cream, revealing that 8 weeks of usage made participants appear 2.25 years younger. This method effectively bridges the gap between clinical research and consumer perceptions, explores the complex factors influencing perceived age, and aims to improve anti‐aging formulations.
The HLA‐DRB1*12:92 and HLA‐DRB1*12:101 alleles were identified by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: He Yanmin , Wu Zhipan , He Ji , Zhang Wei , Zhu Faming
Published: May 2024

Compared with HLA‐DRB1*12:02, the alleles HLA‐DRB1*12:92 and HLA‐DRB1*12:101 each show one nucleotide substitution respectively.
How to … navigate entry into the field of clinical education research and scholarship
Authors: Harvey Bluemel Anna , Gillespie Hannah , Asif Aqua , Samuriwo Ray
Published: May 2024

Clinical education research (ClinEdR) is a growing field that aims to ensure the way healthcare professionals are taught and learn is evidence‐based. There is growing interest in how this evidence is generated in a robust, timely and cost‐effective fashion. In this ‘How to …’ paper, we draw on relevant literature and our own experiences to offer suggestions on how novice researchers can navigate entry into the field of ClinEdR. We summarise key resources for those at the earliest stages of their interest in ClinEdR and scholarship and provide personal experiences of networking, collaborating and balancing research with a clinical or teaching role. This paper will be of interest to those at any stage in their clinical career with little to no experience of ClinEdR, but the enthusiasm to get started.
Clinicopathologic conference: Bloodstream infection in an allogeneic hamatopoietic cell transplant: Thinking beyond the usual
Authors: Yeoh Kim , Lass‐Flörl Cornelia , Lamoth Frédéric , Slavin Monica A , Williams Eloise , Neofytos Dionysios
Published: May 2024

This case involves a 53‐year‐old female with concurrent acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and multiple myeloma. She underwent cytarabine and daunorubicin (7+3) induction chemotherapy followed by cytarabine (HiDAC) consolidation, with an early AML relapse requiring azacitidine and venetoclax therapy. She achieved complete remission and incomplete count recovery. Following fludarabine, melphalan, and thymoglobulin induction chemotherapy, she underwent an allogeneic stem cell transplant with failure to engraft, requiring autologous stem cell rescue, buffy coat, and granulocyte transfusions, eventually presenting with a diffuse skin rash consistent with Steven‐Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, persistent neutropenic fevers and positive blood cultures.
Researching Philippine Englishes
Authors: Cruz Priscilla Angela T. , Martin Isabel Pefianco
Published: May 2024

This article achieves two ends. First, it surveys recent research on the English language in the Philippines, and, second, introduces the research articles from the contributors to the special issue on Philippine Englishes. The special issue is divided into five sections, namely, linguistic description, sociolinguistics, educational linguistics, critical linguistics and bilingual creativity. The diversity of these topics thus provides a direct illustration of the vibrant nature of research on Philippine English.
Atomic physics on a 50-nm scale: Realization of a bilayer system of dipolar atoms
Authors: Du Li , Barral Pierre , Cantara Michael , de Hond Julius , Lu Yu-Kun , Ketterle Wolfgang
Published: May 2024

Controlling ultracold atoms with laser light has greatly advanced quantum science. The wavelength of light sets a typical length scale for most experiments to the order of 500 nanometers (nm) or greater. In this work, we implemented a super-resolution technique that localizes and arranges atoms on a sub–50-nm scale, without any fundamental limit in resolution. We demonstrate this technique by creating a bilayer of dysprosium atoms and observing dipolar interactions between two physically separated layers through interlayer sympathetic cooling and coupled collective excitations. At 50-nm distance, dipolar interactions are 1000 times stronger than at 500 nm. For two atoms in optical tweezers, this should enable purely magnetic dipolar gates with kilohertz speed.
Locally narrow droplet size distributions are ubiquitous in stratocumulus clouds
Authors: Allwayin Nithin , Larsen Michael L. , Glienke Susanne , Shaw Raymond A.
Published: May 2024

Marine stratocumulus clouds are the “global reflectors,” sharply contrasting with the underlying dark ocean surface and exerting a net cooling on Earth’s climate. The magnitude of this cooling remains uncertain in part owing to the averaged representation of microphysical processes, such as the droplet-to-drizzle transition in global climate models (GCMs). Current GCMs parameterize cloud droplet size distributions as broad, cloud-averaged gammas. Using digital holographic measurements of discrete stratocumulus cloud volumes, we found cloud droplet size distributions to be narrower at the centimeter scale, never resembling the cloud average. These local distributions tended to form pockets of similar-looking cloud regions, each characterized by a size distribution shape that is diluted to varying degrees. These observations open the way for new modeling representations of microphysical processes.
Unsettled science on longer-run effects of early education
Authors: Burchina Margaret , Whitaker Anamarie , Jenkins Jade , Bailey Drew , Watts Tyler , Duncan Greg , Hart Emma
Published: May 2024

More rigorous research is needed on how to design programs
Zombie malaria parasites
Authors: Carlton Jane M. , Cunnington Aubrey J.
Published: May 2024

Natural infections are distinct from those of laboratory—or zombie—strains
Conductive hydrogels put electrons in charge
Authors: Gao Dace , Fabiano Simone
Published: May 2024

Semiconductor hydrogels enable active bioelectronics
Can pollution-heavy steel manufacturing go green?
Authors: Cornwall Warren
Published: May 2024

Department of Energy funds research to take carbon out of iron and steel production
KSHV genome harbors both constitutive and lytically induced enhancers
Authors: Roy Chowdhury Nilabja , Gurevich Vyacheslav , Shamay Meir
Published: May 2024

Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) belongs to the gamma-herpesvirus family and is a well-known human oncogenic virus. In infected cells, the viral genome of 165 kbp is circular DNA wrapped in chromatin. The tight control of gene expression is critical for latency, the transition into the lytic phase, and the development of viral-associated malignancies. Distal
cis
-regulatory elements, such as enhancers and silencers, can regulate gene expression in a position- and orientation-independent manner. Open chromatin is another characteristic feature of enhancers. To systematically search for enhancers, we cloned all the open chromatin regions in the KSHV genome downstream of the luciferase gene and tested their enhancer activity in infected and uninfected cells. A silencer was detected upstream of the latency-associated nuclear antigen promoter. Two constitutive enhancers were identified in the K12p-OriLyt-R and ORF29 Intron regions, where ORF29 Intron is a tissue-specific enhancer. The following promoters: OriLyt-L, PANp, ALTp, and the terminal repeats (TRs) acted as lytically induced enhancers. The expression of the replication and transcription activator (RTA), the master regulator of the lytic cycle, was sufficient to induce the activity of lytic enhancers in uninfected cells. We propose that the TRs that span about 24 kbp region serve as a “viral super-enhancer” that integrates the repressive effect of the latency-associated nuclear antigen (LANA) with the activating effect of RTA. Utilizing CRISPR activation and interference techniques, we determined the connections between these enhancers and their regulated genes. The silencer and enhancers described here provide an additional layer to the complex gene regulation of herpesviruses.

IMPORTANCE

In this study, we performed a systematic functional assay to identify
cis
-regulatory elements within the genome of the oncogenic herpesvirus, Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). Similar to other herpesviruses, KSHV presents both latent and lytic phases. Therefore, our assays were performed in uninfected cells, during latent infection, and under lytic conditions. We identified two constitutive enhancers, one of which seems to be a tissue-specific enhancer. In addition, four lytically induced enhancers, which are all responsive to the replication and transcription activator (RTA), were identified. Furthermore, a silencer was identified between the major latency promoter and the lytic gene locus. Utilizing CRISPR activation and interference techniques, we determined the connections between these enhancers and their regulated genes. The terminal repeats, spanning a region of about 24 kbp, seem like a “viral super-enhancer” that integrates the repressive effect of the latency-associated nuclear antigen (LANA) with the activating effect of RTA to regulate latency to lytic transition.
Supplemental Material: Oligocene and Miocene blowtorch volcanism within the California Borderland and its influence on the plate-boundary transition
Authors: Balbas A. , al. et
Published: May 2024

Supplemental document 1: additional methods, model, and data descriptions. Tables S2–S5: geochemical results.  
Corticosteroid-induced hyperammonaemic encephalopathy in a woman with late-onset ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency
Authors: McCormick Benjamin Joseph , Ritchie Leanna V , Porter Ivan E
Published: May 2024

Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD) is a rare, X linked disorder that can manifest in late adulthood in heterozygous females as severe hyperammonaemia following environmental stressors. We present a case of hyperammonaemic encephalopathy that was triggered by glucocorticoid administration in an adult woman with heterozygous OTCD with clinical response to haemodialysis, ammonia scavengers and a high-calorie, low-protein diet.
Compliance status of tobacco control laws in the university setting of Bangladesh: an analytical study followed a mixed-method approach
Authors: Akter Nasrin , Banu Bilkis , Chowdhury Sujana Haque , Tabassum Tahsin Tasneem , Hossain Sarder Mahmud
Published: May 2024

Background

Implementation of National Tobacco Control Laws (NTCLs) in university settings was found to be worse in Bangladesh.

Objectives

This study aimed to depict the compliance status of tobacco control laws (TCLs) and the associated factors following the university setting approach in Bangladesh.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted with a mixed-method approach among the 385 students (quantitative method), 10 teachers and 10 administrative staff (qualitative method) of Northern University Bangladesh. Data were collected through mobile phone calling (quantitative) and in-depth interviews method (qualitative). Appropriate ethical issues were addressed. Logistic regression analysis was performed to find out the determinants. The study revealed non-satisfactory compliance with TCLs among 56.4% of study subjects which was strongly supported by the outcome of the qualitative approach. Predominant non-satisfactory compliance was found through the explorations of the conditions of buying and selling tobacco (78.4%), pasting no-smoking signage (3.2%), antitobacco advertisement within the university (34.8%) and specific university policy to implement NTCL. Non-satisfactory compliance was found significant among the younger aged (≤21 years: COR/p=2.74/0.01; 95% CI 1.27 to 5.92) from the first-year group (adjusted odds ratio (AOR)/p=2.28/0.02; 95% CI 1.15 to 4.49) who had moderate nicotine dependency (AOR/p=4.04/0.01; 95% CI 1.28 to 12.74), poor knowledge on TCLs (AOR/p=3.57/0.02; 95% CI 1.28 to 9.95) and the respondents who suggested family guidance (AOR/p=1.77/0.06; 95% CI 0.97 to 3.22) might be a sustainable way to minimise tobacco consumption in the university setting.

Conclusions

The study revealed some crucial factors for the non-satisfactory compliance status towards TCLs in the university setting. This empirical outcome and evaluation strategy can guide to plan of future large-scale studies, which may lead to implementing effective intervention programmes focusing on the development of a tobacco-free environment in the university setting.
Determinants of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis among adults undergoing treatment for tuberculosis in Tigray Region, Ethiopia: a case–control study
Authors: Zereabruk Kidane , Kahsay Tensay , Teklemichael Hiyab , Aberhe Woldu , Hailay Abrha , Mebrahtom Guesh , Bezabh Gebrewahd
Published: May 2024

Background

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis is a type of tuberculosis that is resistant to at least the first-line antituberculosis drugs namely, rifampicin and isoniazid. However, most of these studies were limited only to a single hospital. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the determinants of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis among adults undergoing treatment for tuberculosis in the Tigray region of Ethiopia.

Methods

Hospital-based unmatched case–control study was conducted from 1 April 2019 to 30 June 2019. A simple random sampling method was used to select the required sample size. Variables at a p value less than 0.25 in bivariate analysis were entered into a multivariable analysis to identify the determinant factors of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. Finally, the level of significance was declared at p<0.05.

Results

Rural residence (adjusted OR (AOR) 2.54; 95% CI 1.34 to 4.83), HIV (AOR 4.5; 95% CI 1.4 to 14.2), relapse (AOR 3.86; 95% CI 1.98 to 7.5), return after lost follow-up (AOR 6.29; 95% CI 1.64 to 24.2), treatment failure (AOR 5.87; 95% CI 1.39 to 24.8) were among the determinants of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.

Conclusion

Rural residence, HIV, relapses, return after lost follow-up and treatment failure were the identified determinant factors of multidrug-resistance tuberculosis.
TLR8 agonist selgantolimod regulates Kupffer cell differentiation status and impairs HBV entry into hepatocytes via an IL-6-dependent mechanism
Authors: Roca Suarez Armando Andres , Plissonnier Marie-Laure , Grand Xavier , Michelet Maud , Giraud Guillaume , Saez-Palma Maria , Dubois Anaëlle , Heintz Sarah , Diederichs Audrey , Van Renne Nicolaas , Vanwolleghem Thomas , Daffis Stephane , Li Li , Kolhatkar Nikita , Hsu Yao-Chun , Wallin Jeffrey J , Lau Audrey H , Fletcher Simon P , Rivoire Michel , Levrero Massimo , Testoni Barbara , Zoulim Fabien
Published: May 2024

Objective

Achieving HBV cure will require novel combination therapies of direct-acting antivirals and immunomodulatory agents. In this context, the toll-like receptor 8 (TLR8) agonist selgantolimod (SLGN) has been investigated in preclinical models and clinical trials for chronic hepatitis B (CHB). However, little is known regarding its action on immune effectors within the liver. Our aim was to characterise the transcriptomic changes and intercellular communication events induced by SLGN in the hepatic microenvironment.

Design

We identifiedTLR8-expressing cell types in the human liver using publicly available single-cell RNA-seq data and established a method to isolate Kupffer cells (KCs). We characterised transcriptomic and cytokine KC profiles in response to SLGN. SLGN’s indirect effect was evaluated by RNA-seq in hepatocytes treated with SLGN-conditioned media (CM) and quantification of HBV parameters following infection. Pathways mediating SLGN’s effect were validated using transcriptomic data from HBV-infected patients.

Results

HepaticTLR8expression takes place in the myeloid compartment. SLGN treatment of KCs upregulated monocyte markers (eg,S100A12) and downregulated genes associated with the KC identity (eg,SPIC). Treatment of hepatocytes with SLGN-CM downregulatedNTCPand impaired HBV entry. Cotreatment with an interleukin 6-neutralising antibody reverted the HBV entry inhibition.

Conclusion

Our transcriptomic characterisation of SLGN sheds light into the programmes regulating KC activation. Furthermore, in addition to its previously described effect on established HBV infection and adaptive immunity, we show that SLGN impairs HBV entry. Altogether, SLGN may contribute through KCs to remodelling the intrahepatic immune microenvironment and may thus represent an important component of future combinations to cure HBV infection.
Interpreting results, impacts and implications from WHO FCTC tobacco control investment cases in 21 low-income and middle-income countries
Authors: Mann Nathan , Spencer Garrison , Hutchinson Brian , Ngongo Carrie , Tarlton Dudley , Webb Douglas , Grafton Daniel , Nugent Rachel
Published: May 2024

Background

Tobacco control investment cases analyse the health and socioeconomic costs of tobacco use and the benefits that can be achieved from implementing measures outlined in the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). They are intended to provide policy-makers and other stakeholders with country-level evidence that is relevant, useful and responsive to national priorities and policy context.

Methods

This paper synthesises findings from investment cases conducted in Armenia, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Chad, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Eswatini, Georgia, Ghana, Jordan, Laos, Madagascar, Myanmar, Nepal, Samoa, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Tunisia and Zambia. We examine annual socioeconomic costs associated with tobacco use, focusing on smoking-related healthcare expenditures, the value of lives lost due to tobacco-related mortality and workplace productivity losses due to smoking. We explore potential benefits associated with WHO FCTC tobacco demand-reduction measures.

Results

Tobacco use results in average annual socioeconomic losses of US$95 million, US$610 million and US$1.6 billion among the low-income (n=3), lower-middle-income (n=12) and upper-middle-income countries (n=6) included in this analysis, respectively. These losses are equal to 1.1%, 1.8% and 2.9% of average annual national gross domestic product, respectively. Implementation and enforcement of WHO FCTC tobacco demand-reduction measures would lead to reduced tobacco use, fewer tobacco-related deaths and reduced socioeconomic losses.

Conclusions

WHO FCTC tobacco control measures would provide a positive return on investment in every country analysed.