bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cutaneous leiomyosarcoma: a retrospective review of 45 cases
Authors: Khan Sabrina , Asher Ruth , Perkins William , Matin Rubeta N
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Primary cutaneous leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is a rare soft tissue tumour type with two subtypes, dermal and subcutaneous. As deeper tumours confer a worse prognosis, they require a more aggressive approach. Conversely, a more conservative surgical approach for dermal LMS has been suggested. Few studies have comprehensively reported both clinical surgical and histological excision margins. Therefore, we sought to provide margin recommendations based on our experience and review of the existing literature. We undertook a retrospective case-note review (1998–2019) of cutaneous LMS management to establish histological/surgical margins using pathology/electronic patient records. The diagnosis was made and classified by an experienced dermatopathologist according to the World Health Organization classification. In the dermal LMS cohort (n = 35), mean peripheral and deep histological margins were 5.4 mm (range 0.5–20) and 5.6 mm (range 0.1–14.5), respectively. The incomplete excision rate was 31% (11 of 35). There were no recurrences. In the subcutaneous LMS cohort (n = 10), mean peripheral and deep histological margins were 5.7 mm (range 0.2–14) and 1.1 mm (range 0.2–1.7), respectively. The incomplete excision rate was 40% (4 of 10). The recurrence rate was 20% (2 of 10) despite achieving histological clearance after 1 year. One lung metastasis occurred 1 year following an adequately excised primary scalp LMS. Thus, for dermal LMS we propose a clinical margin of 5–10 mm (depending on lesion size) at the initial excision or at scar re-excision following involved/close histological peripheral and/or deep margins (i.e. < 1 mm). For subcutaneous LMS, we suggest a clinical margin of 15–20 mm (depending on lesion size) to achieve a peripheral histological clearance of 10 mm and negative deep margin (i.e. > 1 mm), down to the periosteum/fascia/muscle according to anatomical site. If this is not achieved, a re-excision would be recommended. However, prospective studies are needed for optimal guidance.
A novel Nlrp3 knock-in mouse model with hyperactive inflammasome in development of lethal inflammation
Authors: Zhou Yongting , Yang Xiyue , Zhu Lei
Published: August 2023

NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) is a central protein contributing to human inflammatory disorders, including cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome and sepsis. However, the molecular mechanisms and functions of NLRP3 activation in various diseases remain unknown. Here, we generated gain-of-function knock-in mice associated with Muckle–Wells syndromes using the Cre-LoxP system allowing for the constitutive T346M mutation of NLRP3 to be globally expressed in all cells under the control of tamoxifen. The mice were treated with tamoxifen for 4 days before determining their genotype by PCR and sequence analysis. In vitro, we found that bone marrow-derived macrophage from homozygous T346M mutation mice displayed a robust ability to produce IL-1β in response to lipopolysaccharide exposure. Moreover, ASC specks and oligomerization were observed in the homozygous mutant bone marrow-derived macrophages in the presence of lipopolysaccharides alone. Mechanistically, K+ and Ca2+ depletion and mitochondrial depolarization contribute to the hyperactivation of mutant NLRP3. In vivo, homozygous mice carrying the T346M mutation exhibit weight loss and mild inflammation in the resting state. In the lipopolysaccharide-mediated sepsis model, homozygous mutant mice exhibited higher mortality and increased serum circulating cytokine levels, accompanied by serious liver injury. Furthermore, an increase in myeloid cells in the spleen has been suggested to be a risk factor for inducing sepsis sensitivity. Altogether, we describe a cryopyrin-associated syndrome animal model with the T346M mutation of NLRP3 and suggest that the hyperactivated inflammasome aggregated by the mutant NLRP3 lowers the inflammatory response threshold both in vitro and in vivo.
Lateralization of major white matter tracts during infancy is time-varying and tract-specific
Authors: Ford Aiden , Ammar Zeena , Li Longchuan , Shultz Sarah
Published: August 2023

Lateralization patterns are a major structural feature of brain white matter and have been investigated as a neural architecture that indicates and supports the specialization of cognitive processing and observed behaviors, e.g. language skills. Many neurodevelopmental disorders have been associated with atypical lateralization, reinforcing the need for careful measurement and study of this structural characteristic. Unfortunately, there is little consensus on the direction and magnitude of lateralization in major white matter tracts during the first months and years of life—the period of most rapid postnatal brain growth and cognitive maturation. In addition, no studies have examined white matter lateralization in a longitudinal pediatric sample—preventing confirmation of if and how white matter lateralization changes over time. Using a densely sampled longitudinal data set from neurotypical infants aged 0–6 months, we aim to (i) chart trajectories of white matter lateralization in 9 major tracts and (ii) link variable findings from cross-sectional studies of white matter lateralization in early infancy. We show that patterns of lateralization are time-varying and tract-specific and that differences in lateralization results during this period may reflect the dynamic nature of lateralization through development, which can be missed in cross-sectional studies.
Multilateral Diplomacy and International Law: 19th Century Great Power Concert and the United Nations in a Comparative Perspective
Authors: Orakhelashvili Alexander
Published: August 2023

This paper focuses on the comparative analysis of 19th century great power concert and the United Nations Security Council as forms of great power management of international affairs. The analysis is conducted from a cross-disciplinary perspective of international politics and international law. The paper explores historical preconditions for each of those forms of great power management to be formed and come into operation, as well as the way in which each of them became subjected to legal restraints in relation to its activities. These historical preconditions are both those which affirmatively enable great-power cooperation through multilateral crisis management, and ones that furnish risks should they not so cooperate, including the occurrence of a general war between great powers. The inter-disciplinary focus adopted here is meant to demonstrate the legal dimension of the matter as well as lessons that could be learned from the behaviour of statesmen and policy-makers.
Potential Impact of Doxycycline Post-exposure Prophylaxis Prescribing Strategies on Incidence of Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Infections
Authors: Traeger Michael W , Mayer Kenneth H , Krakower Douglas S , Gitin Sy , Jenness Samuel M , Marcus Julia L
Published: August 2023

Background

Doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (doxyPEP) reduces bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) incidence in people with HIV (PWH) or using HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Given concerns about widespread antibiotic use, we identified doxyPEP prescribing strategies to minimize use while maximizing impact on STIs.

Methods

We used electronic health records of gay and bisexual men (GBM), transgender women, and nonbinary people assigned male sex at birth with ≥2 STI tests (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis) at an LGBTQ-focused health center during 2015–2020. We defined 10 hypothetical doxyPEP prescribing strategies based on PrEP use, HIV status, or STI history. We estimated doxyPEP use and STI diagnoses averted in counterfactual scenarios in which people meeting prescribing criteria received doxyPEP, assuming STI rates during use would have been reduced by clinical trial efficacy estimates.

Results

Among 10 546 individuals (94% GBM), rate of any STI was 35.9/100 person-years. Prescribing doxyPEP to all individuals would have averted 71% of STI diagnoses (number needed to treat for one year to avert one STI diagnosis [NNT] = 3.9); prescribing to PrEP users/PWH (52%/12% of individuals) would have averted 60% of STI diagnoses (NNT = 2.9). Prescribing doxyPEP for 12 months after STI diagnosis would have reduced the proportion using doxyPEP to 38% and averted 39% of STI diagnoses (NNT = 2.4). Prescribing after concurrent or repeated STIs maximized efficiency (lowest NNTs) but prevented fewer STIs.

Conclusions

Prescribing doxyPEP to individuals with STIs, particularly concurrent or repeated STIs, could avert a substantial proportion of all STI diagnoses. The most efficient prescribing strategies are based on STI history rather than HIV status or PrEP use.
mRNA as a medicine in nephrology: the future is now
Authors: Granata Simona , Stallone Giovanni , Zaza Gianluigi
Published: August 2023

The successful employment of messenger RNA (mRNA) as vaccine therapy for the prevention of COVID-19 infection has spotlighted the attention of scientific community onto the potential clinical application of these molecules as innovative and alternative therapeutic approaches in different fields of medicine. As therapy, mRNAs may be advantageous due to their unique biological properties of targeting almost any genetic component within the cell, many of which may be unreachable using other pharmacological/therapeutic approaches, and encoding any proteins and peptides without the need for their transport into the nuclei of the target cells. Additionally, these molecules may be rapidly designed/produced and clinically tested. Once the chemistry of the RNA and its delivery system are optimized, the cost of developing novel variants of these medications for new selected clinical disorders is significantly reduced. However, although potentially useful as new therapeutic weapons against several kidney diseases, the complex architecture of kidney and the inability of nanoparticles that accommodate oligonucleotides to cross the integral glomerular filtration barrier have largely decreased their potential employment in nephrology. However, in the next few years, the technical improvements in mRNA that increase translational efficiency, modulate innate and adaptive immunogenicity, and increase their delivery at the site of action will overcome these limitations. Therefore, this review has the scope of summarizing the key strengths of these RNA-based therapies and illustrating potential future directions and challenges of this promising technology for widespread therapeutic use in nephrology.
Coronavirus-related health literacy levels among school administrators and influencing factors
Authors: Öztürk Fatma Özlem , Sönmez Sibel , Soylar Pınar , Okan Orkan , Dadaczynski Kevin
Published: August 2023

Our study aimed to determine the level of coronavirus-related health literacy among school administrators and the factors that influence this. The sample of this cross-sectional study consisted of 402 school administrators serving in primary, secondary and high schools in Ankara. The data were collected between September 2021 and February 2022 using the descriptive characteristics questionnaire and the Coronavirus-Related Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLS-COVID-Q22). It was seen that 64.4% of the participants were male, 34.6% were 40 years old or younger and 35.6% were working in primary schools; 77.6% of the participants had a sufficient, 16.2% had a problematic and 6.2% had an inadequate level of coronavirus-related health literacy. Age, gender, chronic disease status, type of school they work in, level of knowledge about coronavirus, level of confusion due to knowledge about coronavirus, willingness to be vaccinated, believing that vaccines are safe/effective/compatible with their religious beliefs were found to affect coronavirus-related health literacy (p < 0.05). Gender, age, information satisfaction on coronavirus, confusion due to information on coronavirus and ‘Overall, I believe that vaccinations are effective’ explained 24.9% of HLS-COVID-Q22 variance (Adjusted R2 = 0.249, F = 13.080, p < 0.001). This study found the coronavirus-related health literacy level among school administrators to be sufficient. It found that their level of health literacy was affected by gender, age, chronic disease status, type of school they worked at, level of knowledge about coronavirus, level of confusion due to information about coronavirus, desire to be vaccinated and their thoughts about vaccines.
The Multiple Origins of Ebola Disease Outbreaks
Authors: Judson Seth D , Munster Vincent J
Published: August 2023

Background

The origins of Ebola disease outbreaks remain enigmatic. Historically outbreaks have been attributed to spillover events from wildlife. However, recent data suggest that some outbreaks may originate from human-to-human transmission of prior outbreak strains instead of spillover. Clarifying the origins of Ebola disease outbreaks could improve detection and mitigation of future outbreaks.

Methods

We reviewed the origins of all Ebola disease outbreaks from 1976 to 2022 to analyze the earliest cases and characteristics of each outbreak. The epidemiology and phylogenetic relationships of outbreak strains were used to further identify the likely source of each outbreak.

Results

From 1976 to 2022 there were 35 Ebola disease outbreaks with 48 primary/index cases. While the majority of outbreaks were associated with wildlife spillover, resurgence of human-to-human transmission could account for roughly a quarter of outbreaks caused by Ebola virus. Larger outbreaks were more likely to lead to possible resurgence, and nosocomial transmission was associated with the majority of outbreaks.

Conclusions

While spillover from wildlife has been a source for many Ebola disease outbreaks, multiple outbreaks may have originated from flare-ups of prior outbreak strains. Improving access to diagnostics as well as identifying groups at risk for resurgence of ebolaviruses will be crucial to preventing future outbreaks.
SARS-CoV-2 Hybrid Immunity: The Best of Both Worlds
Authors: Lasrado Ninaad , Barouch Dan H
Published: August 2023

Three and a half years into the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the nature and durability of protection against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) still remains unclear. Current COVID-19 mRNA vaccines have been shown to provide minimal protection against infection with XBB variants but substantial protection against severe disease. However, such protection appears to wane quickly. In contrast, protection from the combination of both vaccination and infection, termed “hybrid immunity”, has been shown to be greater in magnitude and durability than that provided by either vaccine immunity or natural immunity alone.
Accomplished women leaders in informatics: insights about successful careers
Authors: Payne Velma L , Partridge Brittany , Bozkurt Selen , Nandwani Anjali , Butler Jorie M
Published: August 2023

We sought to learn from the experiences of women leaders in informatics by interviewing women in Informatics leadership roles. Participants reported career challenges, how they built confidence, advice to their younger selves, and suggestions for attracting and retaining additional women. Respondents were 16 women in leadership roles in academia (n = 9) and industry (n = 7). We conducted a thematic analysis revealing: (1) careers in informatics are serendipitous and nurtured by supportive communities, (2) challenges in leadership were profoundly related to gender issues, (3) “Big wins” in informatics careers were about making a difference, and (4) women leaders highlighted resilience, excellence, and personal authenticity as important for future women leaders. Sexism is undeniably present, although not all participants reported overt gender barriers. Confidence and authenticity in leadership point to the value offered by individual leaders. The next step is to continue to foster an informatics culture that encourages authenticity across the gender spectrum.
Interviewer Effects on the Measurement of Physical Performance in a Cross-National Biosocial Survey
Authors: Waldmann Sophia , Sakshaug Joseph W , Cernat Alexandru
Published: August 2023

Biosocial surveys increasingly use interviewers to collect objective physical health measures (or “biomeasures”) in respondents’ homes. While interviewers play an important role, their high involvement can lead to unintended interviewer effects on the collected measurements. Such interviewer effects add uncertainty to population estimates and have the potential to lead to erroneous inferences. This study examines interviewer effects on the measurement of physical performance in a cross-national and longitudinal setting using data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe. The analyzed biomeasures exhibited moderate-to-large interviewer effects on the measurements, which varied across biomeasure types and across countries. Our findings demonstrate the necessity to better understand the origin of interviewer-related measurement errors in biomeasure collection and account for these errors in statistical analyses of biomeasure data.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon molecules and the 2175Å interstellar extinction bump
Authors: Lin Qi , Yang X J , Li Aigen
Published: August 2023

The exact nature of the 2175$\mathring{\rm A}$ extinction bump, the strongest spectroscopic absorption feature superimposed on the interstellar extinction curve, remains unknown ever since its discovery in 1965. Popular candidate carriers for the extinction bump include nano-sized graphitic grains and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) molecules. To quantitatively evaluate PAHs as a possible carrier, we perform quantum chemical computations for the electronic transitions of 30 compact, pericondensed PAH molecules and their cations as well as anions with a wide range of sizes from 16 to 96 C atoms, and a mean size of 43 C atoms. It is found that a mixture of such PAHs, which individually exhibit sharp absorption features, show a smooth and broad absorption band that resembles the 2175$\mathring{\rm A}$ interstellar extinction bump. Arising from π* ← π transitions, the width and intensity of the absorption bump for otherwise randomly selected and uniformly weighted PAH mixtures, do not vary much with PAH sizes and charge states, whereas the position somewhat shifts to longer wavelengths as PAH size increases. While the computed bump position, with the computational uncertainty taken into account, appears to agree with that of the interstellar extinction bump, the computed width is considerably broader than the interstellar bump if the molecules are uniformly weighted. It appears that, to account for the observed bump width, one has to resort to PAH species of specific sizes and structures.
Implications of pulsar timing array observations for LISA detections of massive black hole binaries
Authors: Steinle Nathan , Middleton Hannah , Moore Christopher J , Chen Siyuan , Klein Antoine , Pratten Geraint , Buscicchio Riccardo , Finch Eliot , Vecchio Alberto
Published: August 2023

Pulsar timing arrays (PTAs) and the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) will open complementary observational windows on massive black hole binaries (MBHBs), i.e. with masses in the range ${\sim} 10^6\!-\!10^{10}\, \rm M_{\odot }$. While PTAs may detect a stochastic gravitational wave background from a population of MBHBs, during operation LISA will detect individual merging MBHBs. To demonstrate the profound interplay between LISA and PTAs, we estimate the number of MBHB mergers that one can expect to observe with LISA by extrapolating direct observational constraints on the MBHB merger rate inferred from PTA data. For this, we postulate that the common signal observed by PTAs (and consistent with the increased evidence recently reported) is an astrophysical background sourced by a single MBHB population. We then constrain the LISA detection rate, $\mathcal {R}$, in the mass–redshift space by combining our Bayesian-inferred merger rate with LISA’s sensitivity to spin-aligned, inspiral–merger–ringdown waveforms. Using an astrophysically informed formation model, we predict a $95{{\, \rm per\, cent}}$ upper limit on the detection rate of $\mathcal {R} \lt 134\, {\rm yr}^{-1}$ for binaries with total masses in the range $10^7\!-\!10^8\, \rm M_{\odot }$. For higher masses, i.e. ${\gt} 10^8\, \rm M_{\odot }$, we find $\mathcal {R} \lt 2\, (1)\, \mathrm{yr}^{-1}$ using an astrophysically informed (agnostic) formation model, rising to $11 \, (6)\, \mathrm{yr}^{-1}$ if the LISA sensitivity bandwidth extends down to 10−5 Hz. Forecasts of LISA science potential with PTA background measurements should improve as PTAs continue their search.
EOS-dependent millihertz quasi-periodic oscillation in low-mass X-ray binary
Authors: Liu Helei , Gao Yong , Li Zhaosheng , Dohi Akira , Wang Weiyang , Lü Guoliang , Xu Renxin
Published: August 2023

We studied the frequency and critical mass accretion rate of millihertz quasi-periodic oscillations (mHz QPOs) using a one-zone X-ray burst model. The surface gravity is specified by two kinds of equation of states: neutron star (NS) and strange star (SS). The base flux, Qb, is set in the range of 0–2 MeV nucleon−1. It is found that the frequency of mHz QPO is positively correlated to the surface gravity but negatively to the base heating. The helium mass fraction has a significant influence on the oscillation frequency and luminosity. The observed 7–9 mHz QPOs can be either explained by a heavy NS/light SS with a small base flux or a heavy SS with a large base flux. As base flux increases, the critical mass accretion rate for marginally stable burning is found to be lower. Meanwhile, the impact of metallicity on the properties of mHz QPOs was investigated using one-zone model. It shows that both the frequency and critical mass accretion rate decrease as metallicity increases. An accreted NS/SS with a higher base flux and metallicity, combined with a lower surface gravity and helium mass fraction, could be responsible for the observed critical mass accretion rate ($\dot{m}\simeq 0.3\dot{m}_{\rm Edd}$). The accreted fuel would be in stable burning if base flux is over than ∼2 MeV nucleon−1. This finding suggests that the accreting NSs/SSs in low-mass X-ray binaries showing no type I X-ray bursts possibly have a strong base heating.
Convective dynamos of black widow companions
Authors: Conrad-Burton Jordan , Shabi Alon , Ginzburg Sivan
Published: August 2023

Black widows and redbacks are binary millisecond pulsars with close low-mass companions that are irradiated and gradually ablated by the pulsar’s high-energy luminosity Lirr. These binaries evolve primarily through magnetic braking, which extracts orbital angular momentum and pushes the companion to overflow its Roche lobe. Here, we use the stellar evolution code mesa to examine how the irradiation modifies the companion’s structure. Strong Lirr inhibits convection to the extent that otherwise fully convective stars become almost fully radiative. By computing the convective velocities and assuming a dynamo mechanism, we find that the thin convective envelopes of such strongly irradiated companions ($L_{\rm irr}\gtrsim 3\, {\rm L}_\odot$) generate much weaker magnetic fields than previously thought – halting binary evolution. With our improved magnetic braking model, we explain most observed black widow and redback companions as remnants of main-sequence stars. We also apply our model (with Lirr) to evolved companions that overflow their Roche lobe close to the end of their main-sequence phase. The evolutionary tracks of such companions bifurcate, explaining the shortest period systems (which are potential gravitational wave sources) as well as the longest period ones (which are the progenitors of common pulsar–white dwarf binaries). The variety of black widow structures and evolutionary trajectories may be utilized to calibrate the dependence of magnetic braking on the size of the convective layer and on the existence of a radiative–convective boundary, with implications for single stars as well as other binaries, such as cataclysmic variables and AM Canum Venaticorum stars.
The redshift difference in gravitational lensed systems: a novel probe of cosmology
Authors: Wang Chengyi , Bolejko Krzysztof , Lewis Geraint F
Published: August 2023

The exploration of the redshift drift, a direct measurement of cosmological expansion, is expected to take several decades of observation with stable, sensitive instruments. We introduced a new method to probe cosmology that bypasses the long-period observation by observing the redshift difference, an accumulation of the redshift drift, in multiple-image gravitational lens systems. With this, the photons observed in each image will have traversed through different paths between the source and the observer, and so the lensed images will show different redshifts when observed at the same instance. Here, we consider the impact of the underlying cosmology on the observed redshift difference in gravitational lens systems, generating synthetic data for realistic lens models and exploring the accuracy of determined cosmological parameters. We show that, while the redshift difference is sensitive to the densities of matter and dark energy within a universe, it is independent of the Hubble constant. Finally, we determine the observational considerations for using the redshift difference as a cosmological probe, finding that one thousand lensed sources are enough to make robust determinations of the underlying cosmological parameters. Upcoming cluster lens surveys, such as the Euclid, are expected to detect a sufficient number of such systems.
Speckle imaging of γ2 Velorum: the inner wind possibly resolved
Authors: Shara Michael M , Howell Steve B , Furlan Elise , Garland James T , Moffat Anthony F J , Zurek David
Published: August 2023

Accurately quantifying the rates dM/dt at which massive stars lose mass is essential to any understanding of their evolution. All dM/dt estimates to date assume wind clumping factors; not allowing for clumping leads to overestimates of dM/dt and underestimates of lifetimes and masses when these stars explode as supernovae. Mid-infrared spectroscopy suggested that the wind of the nearest Wolf–Rayet (WR) star, γ2 Vel, is resolved with a full width at 10 per cent intensity of 0.5 arcsec, or 171 au at the 342 pc distance of the star. As the Zorro speckle imager on Gemini South is capable of ∼0.02 arcsec resolution, we have used it to image γ2 Vel at two orbital phases (0.30 and 0.44) with two narrow-band and two intermediate-band filters in an attempt to resolve its wind. Our observations demonstrate that γ2 Vel’s wind may be resolved as a ∼0.07 arcsec westward elongation through an 832 nm filter at orbital phase 0.3. If confirmed, this is the smallest scale (∼24 au) at which a WR star wind asymmetry has been directly imaged. Similar imaging at multiple phases is needed to determine if the asymmetry is due to stochastic wind clumping, co-rotating interaction regions or colliding-wind, cone-shaped shocks.
Structure-specific roles for PolG2–DNA complexes in maintenance and replication of mitochondrial DNA
Authors: Wojtaszek Jessica L , Hoff Kirsten E , Longley Matthew J , Kaur Parminder , Andres Sara N , Wang Hong , Williams R Scott , Copeland William C
Published: August 2023

The homodimeric PolG2 accessory subunit of the mitochondrial DNA polymerase gamma (Pol γ) enhances DNA binding and processive DNA synthesis by the PolG catalytic subunit. PolG2 also directly binds DNA, although the underlying molecular basis and functional significance are unknown. Here, data from Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and X-ray structures of PolG2–DNA complexes define dimeric and hexameric PolG2 DNA binding modes. Targeted disruption of PolG2 DNA-binding interfaces impairs processive DNA synthesis without diminishing Pol γ subunit affinities. In addition, a structure-specific DNA-binding role for PolG2 oligomers is supported by X-ray structures and AFM showing that oligomeric PolG2 localizes to DNA crossings and targets forked DNA structures resembling the mitochondrial D-loop. Overall, data indicate that PolG2 DNA binding has both PolG-dependent and -independent functions in mitochondrial DNA replication and maintenance, which provide new insight into molecular defects associated with PolG2 disruption in mitochondrial disease.
Diplomacy
Authors: Frey Linda , Frey Marsha
Published: August 2023

Diplomacy, defined as the art of negotiation, was traditionally represented by Hermes, who served as the messenger of the gods. Often portrayed with a winged hat or winged sandals, he is usually seen with a staff, the caduceus with the entwined serpents; a symbol of negotiation because of Hermes’ association with eloquence and deception. Negotiation through individuals later dubbed diplomats was as indispensable for ancient societies as for modern ones. It was undergirded by inviolability, which guaranteed the security for those individuals to maintain communication, to sign alliances, to arrange a truce, and/or to conclude a peace. The role of those diplomats was defined by the international system within which they operated but the diplomats themselves also helped define the system. This chapter reviews the historical development and variety of diplomatic practice from its earliest beginnings to the modern period.
Race and Racism
Authors: Manchanda Nivi
Published: August 2023

This chapter looks at the genealogy of practices of racism and anti-racism. It critically interrogates the history of the discipline of International Relations (IR) to explore what narratives (of racism) persist and what stories (of anti-racism) are marginalized or written out of its remit. The chapter is organized as follows: first, the chapter posits tentative definitions of ‘race’ and ‘racism’; it then moves on to analyse the narrative history of IR to show how pivotal the question of race was to some of the discipline’s founding figures—including contemporaries Woodrow Wilson and W. E. B. Du Bois—and how different visions of race gave way to certain practices of racialization; third and finally, the chapter attends to the implications of the whitewashing of the discipline, and what an IR that is sensitive to questions of race and racism might look like, charting some potential avenues for future research.
Revolution
Authors: Selbin Eric
Published: August 2023

In this chapter, revolution is understood as an essentially modernist formulation fundamentally predicated on the marriage of macro-, even meta-level thinking—how can we change the world—with a profoundly micro approach: the granularity of actions people take to change the world. This essay considers how and where current academic thinking about revolution might be situated and where, if anywhere, it might be going. Revolution is (re)considered in an entangled, figurative, zone of awkward engagement(s) as both (deeply) engrained in a useful ‘generational’ analysis and how our analyses might be evolving outside of that or beyond definitions at all.
The Pre-Colonial African State System
Authors: Pella John Anthony
Published: August 2023

This chapter explores the dynamics of the African state system before the en masse arrival of Europeans in the fifteenth century. It firstly examines the different types of political organizations found across the continent, and secondly, how trade, war, slavery, and kinship served to connect these states despite organizational differences. The argument drawn from this research is twofold. First, the chapter presents the idea that International Relations scholars can meaningfully talk of a unique, coherent African state system that existed prior to European contact. Second, it is suggested that the characteristics of this system would ultimately have a profound impact upon the system’s relationship with its European counterpart beginning in the fifteenth century.
The Berlin and Hague Conferences
Authors: Vergerio Claire
Published: August 2023

The Berlin Conference of 1884–85 and the Hague Conferences of 1899 and 1907 occupy prominent positions in histories of international relations. The Hague Conferences are celebrated as a beacon of progressive thinking, embodying the attempt to limit the horrors of warfare through international law. The Berlin Conference, by contrast, is depicted as the epitome of European imperialism and of international law’s role in it. As such, these conferences represent two conflicting understandings of the role of international law in the development of our modern world: one progressive and humanitarian, the other brutal and imperialistic. However, despite a widening body of works on these conferences, scholars have yet to meaningfully examine the links between the two. This chapter begins to do so, outlining where the scholarly debate currently stands with regards to both Berlin and The Hague before providing a preliminary foray into the various ways in which these conferences overlapped.
Postcolonial Histories of International Relations
Authors: Capan Zeynep Gulsah
Published: August 2023

The chapter aims to present an overview of debates with respect to postcolonial history by examining how bodies of knowledge are constructed and who the subject of history is. The first section will focus on the way postcolonial history has addressed the questions of (i) how bodies of knowledge are constructed in the study of History and of (ii) who the subjects of such histories are. The second section will look at these same two questions yet in the discipline of International Relations (IR). This second part will begin by discussing how the ‘postcolonial’ has been approached within the field and it will then analytically distinguish the array of discussions on history and postcolonial approaches with respect to how they address the two questions above-mentioned.
Does a progressive wealth tax reduce top wealth inequality? Evidence from Switzerland
Authors: Marti Samira , Martínez Isabel Z , Scheuer Florian
Published: August 2023

Like in many other countries, wealth inequality has increased in Switzerland over the last 50 years. By providing new evidence on cantonal top wealth shares for each of the 26 cantons since 1969, we show that the overall trend masks striking differences across cantons, both in levels and trends. Combining this with variation in cantonal wealth taxes, we then estimate an event study model to identify the dynamic effects of reforms to top wealth tax rates on the subsequent evolution of wealth concentration. Our results imply that a reduction in the top marginal wealth tax rate by 0.1 percentage points increases the top 1 per cent (0.1 per cent) wealth share by 0.9 (1.2) percentage points 5 years after the reform. This suggests that wealth tax cuts over the last 50 years explain roughly 18 per cent (25 per cent) of the increase in wealth concentration among the top 1 per cent (0.1 per cent).
How much tax do the rich really pay? Evidence from the UK
Authors: Advani Arun , Hughson Helen , Summers Andy
Published: August 2023

Using anonymized administrative data on the population of UK taxpayers, we show that—in line with high-profile anecdotes about the tax affairs of the rich—effective average tax rates (EATRs) decline at the top of the distribution of income and capital gains. We also document substantial variation in EATRs within remuneration level: a quarter of those in the top 1 per cent pay headline rates, while another quarter pay at least 9pp less than the headline rate. Most of this effect is driven by the composition of remuneration, with investment income having lower tax rates and capital gains having lower rates still. If all individuals with income above £100,000 paid the headline rates, this would raise tax revenue on income and gains by £23 billion on a static basis, an increase of 27 per cent in the tax paid by this group.
Enzymes in 3D: Synthesis, remodelling, and hydrolysis of cell wall (1,3;1,4)-β-glucans
Authors: Hrmova Maria , Zimmer Jochen , Bulone Vincent , Fincher Geoffrey B
Published: August 2023

Recent breakthroughs in structural biology have provided valuable new insights into enzymes involved in plant cell wall metabolism. More specifically, the molecular mechanism of synthesis of (1,3;1,4)-β-glucans, which are widespread in cell walls of commercially important cereals and grasses, has been the topic of debate and intense research activity for decades. However, an inability to purify these integral membrane enzymes or apply transgenic approaches without interpretative problems associated with pleiotropic effects has presented barriers to attempts to define their synthetic mechanisms. Following the demonstration that some members of the CslF sub-family of GT2 family enzymes mediate (1,3;1,4)-β-glucan synthesis, the expression of the corresponding genes in a heterologous system that is free of background complications has now been achieved. Biochemical analyses of the (1,3;1,4)-β-glucan synthesized in vitro, combined with 3-dimensional (3D) cryogenic-electron microscopy and AlphaFold protein structure predictions, have demonstrated how a single CslF6 enzyme, without exogenous primers, can incorporate both (1,3)- and (1,4)-β-linkages into the nascent polysaccharide chain. Similarly, 3D structures of xyloglucan endo-transglycosylases and (1,3;1,4)-β-glucan endo- and exohydrolases have allowed the mechanisms of (1,3;1,4)-β-glucan modification and degradation to be defined. X-ray crystallography and multi-scale modeling of a broad specificity GH3 β-glucan exohydrolase recently revealed a previously unknown and remarkable molecular mechanism with reactant trajectories through which a polysaccharide exohydrolase can act with a processive action pattern. The availability of high-quality protein 3D structural predictions should prove invaluable for defining structures, dynamics, and functions of other enzymes involved in plant cell wall metabolism in the immediate future.
Role of IL-6 and IL-6 targeted therapy in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Nepal Desh , Gazeley David
Published: August 2023

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is one of the cytokines implicated in murine and human SLE. Only a few small studies have investigated IL-6 inhibition in human SLE. Currently, there are no studies registered in clinicaltrials.gov to assess the IL-6 targeted therapy in SLE, yet its role in the future remains to be defined. This narrative review analyses these and potential areas of future studies with IL-6 targeted therapy in SLE.
Pregnancy outcomes in patients with familial Mediterranean fever: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hirahara Yuhya , Yamaguchi Midori , Takase-Minegishi Kaoru , Kirino Yohei , Aoki Shigeru , Hirahara Lisa , Obata Soichiro , Kasai Michi , Maeda Ayaka , Tsuchida Naomi , Yoshimi Ryusuke , Horita Nobuyuki , Nakajima Hideaki , Miyagi Etsuko
Published: August 2023

Objective

The relationship between FMF and pregnancy outcomes remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to clarify this association.

Methods

Electronic databases—PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and EMBASE—were searched on 20 December 2022, using specific search terms. Case–control, cohort, and randomized clinical trial studies comparing patients with FMF and healthy controls were considered eligible. We excluded systematic reviews, meta-analyses, case series with fewer than five cases, republished articles without new findings on pregnancy outcomes, studies targeting paternal FMF, and those not published in English. The results were summarized in the form of odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs, using a random-effects model. This study was registered in the University hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (Japan) as UMIN000049827.

Results

The initial electronic search identified 611 records, of which 9 were included in this meta-analysis (177 735 pregnancies, 1242 with FMF, and 176 493 healthy controls). FMF was significantly associated with increased odds of preterm deliveries (OR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.05–2.67; I2 = 22%) and insignificantly associated with increased odds of fetal growth restriction (OR, 1.45; 95% CI, 0.90–2.34; I2 = 0%) and hypertensive disorders during pregnancy (OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 0.87–1.87; I2 = 0%).

Conclusion

FMF was significantly associated with preterm delivery and insignificantly associated with fetal growth restriction and hypertensive disorders. All of the included studies were observational studies. Treatment characteristics were not fully collected from the articles, and further analysis of treatments for FMF in pregnancy is still warranted.
Racism as a Public Health Issue for Nurses of Color in Clinical and Academic Settings: Ten Nurses Tell Their Stories
Authors: Green Cheryl Ann
Published: August 2023

AIM

The aim of this study was to bring awareness to how racism and discrimination, accompanied by bullying and incivility, negatively impact the health of nurses of color.

BACKGROUND

Racism and discrimination encountered in the daily lives of nurses of color present risk for psychological and physiological damage to their health. Repeated exposure to racism and discrimination leads to cumulative stress that may pose a negative impact on the health status of affected nurses.

METHODS

Phenomenology served as the methodology for this research study. The principal investigator transcribed and coded data from 10 nurse participants.

RESULTS

Data illustrate a pattern of nurses of color experiencing discrimination and racism, with racism being a potential public health issue. Their stories may empower others to make positive, productive decisions and persevere.

CONCLUSION

Long-term exposure to racism and its related potential effects on nurses’ health presents a grave concern for nurses of color.
Evaluation of Sleep Practices and Knowledge in Neonatal Healthcare
Authors: de Groot Eline R. , Ryan Mary-Anne , Sam Chanel , Verschuren Olaf , Alderliesten Thomas , Dudink Jeroen , van den Hoogen Agnes
Published: August 2023

Background:

Developmental care is designed to optimize early brain maturation by integrating procedures that support a healing environment. Protecting preterm sleep is important in developmental care. However, it is unclear to what extent healthcare professionals are aware of the importance of sleep and how sleep is currently implemented in the day-to-day care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Purpose:

Identifying the current state of knowledge among healthcare professionals regarding neonatal sleep and how this is transferred to practice.

Methods:

A survey was distributed among Dutch healthcare professionals. Three categories of data were sought, including (1) demographics of respondents; (2) questions relating to sleep practices; and (3) objective knowledge questions relating to sleep physiology and importance of sleep. Data were analyzed using Spearman's rho test and Cramer's V test. Furthermore, frequency tables and qualitative analyses were employed.

Results:

The survey was completed by 427 participants from 34 hospitals in 25 Dutch cities. While healthcare professionals reported sleep to be especially important for neonates admitted in the NICU, low scores were achieved in the area of knowledge of sleep physiology. Most healthcare professionals (91.8%) adapted the timing of elective care procedures to sleep. However, sleep assessments were not based on scientific knowledge. Therefore, the difference between active sleep and wakefulness may often be wrongly assessed. Finally, sleep is rarely discussed between colleagues (27.4% regularly/always) and during rounds (7.5%-14.3% often/always).

Implications:

Knowledge about sleep physiology should be increased through education among neonatal healthcare professionals. Furthermore, sleep should be considered more often during rounds and handovers.
Effect of an Online Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Intervention on Postpandemic Era Nurses' Subjective Well-being, Job Burnout, and Psychological Adaptation
Authors: Liu LiHua , Tian Li , Jiang Jing , Zhang Yanqi , Chi Xinyu , Liu Weike , Zhao Yun-Hua , Sun Ping
Published: August 2023

This study explores the effects of an online mindfulness-based stress reduction intervention on postpandemic era nurses' subjective well-being, job burnout, and psychological adaptation. Previous studies on the psychological adaptability of nurses mainly focused on investigation rather than intervention. Ninety nurses were randomly classified into an intervention or control group. The intervention group received weekly online mindfulness-based stress reduction training for 8 weeks. The Subjective Well-being, Job Burnout, and Psychological Use scales were administered pre- and postintervention. Postintervention, nurses' positive emotions and life satisfaction significantly improved. Nurses' psychological adaptation was significantly higher postintervention than preintervention. The total scores for negative emotion, low personal accomplishment, and job burnout were significantly lower postintervention than preintervention. The scores for positive emotion and life satisfaction in the intervention group were significantly higher than those in the control group, and the scores for low personal accomplishment in the intervention group were significantly lower than those in the control group. Online mindfulness-based stress reduction interventions can improve nurses' subjective well-being, reduce job burnout, and improve their level of psychological adaptability. Moreover, it could promote nurses' ability to communicate mindfully with patients and their families. This intervention could help promote the development of mindfulness in the nursing field.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients Infected With Conventional Strains and the Alpha Variant of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2
Authors: Onishi Hidenori , Yamamura Osamu , Sakamaki Ippei , Fujita Ryousuke , Miyashita Hirofumi , Iwasaki Hiromichi
Published: August 2023

Background

There is concern that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants may have higher infectivity and virulence than does the original strain. We compared disease severity between patients infected with conventional strains of SARS-CoV-2 and those infected with the alpha variant.

Methods

The study included patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed in Fukui Prefecture between March 12, 2020, and May 12, 2021. They were grouped into 4 phases based on fluctuations in the number of notifications. Data analysis was performed using EZR version 1.41 and BellCurve for Excel version 3.20.

Results

The analysis included 963 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, 346 of whom were infected with the alpha variant. In stratified analyses, patients infected with the alpha variant did not differ significantly from patients infected with conventional strains in terms of disease severity or mortality. Among individuals with SARS-CoV-2 infection, risk factors for pneumonia included infection with the alpha variant, older age, and male sex.

Conclusions

Infection with the alpha variant was associated with a higher frequency of pneumonia, but not with increased disease severity or mortality.