bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Natural Language Processing to Visualize Narrative Feedback in a Medical Student Performance Dashboard
Authors: Maimone Christina , Dolan Brigid M. , Green Marianne M. , Sanguino Sandra M. , O’Brien Celia Laird
Published: July 2024

Problem

Clinical competency committees rely on narrative feedback for important insight into learner performance, but reviewing comments can be time-consuming. Techniques such as natural language processing (NLP) could create efficiencies in narrative feedback review. In this study, the authors explored whether using NLP to create a visual dashboard of narrative feedback to preclerkship medical students would improve the competency review efficiency.

Approach

Preclerkship competency review data collected at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine from 2014 to 2021 were used to identify relevant features of narrative data associated with review outcome (ready or not ready) and draft visual summary reports of the findings. A user needs analysis was held with experienced reviewers to better understand work processes in December 2019. Dashboards were designed based on this input to help reviewers efficiently navigate large amounts of narrative data. The dashboards displayed the model’s prediction of the review outcome along with visualizations of how narratives in a student’s portfolio compared with previous students’ narratives. Excerpts of the most relevant comments were also provided. Six faculty reviewers who comprised the competency committee in spring 2023 were surveyed on the dashboard’s utility.

Outcomes

Reviewers found the predictive component of the dashboard most useful. Only 1 of 6 reviewers (17%) agreed that the dashboard improved process efficiency. However, 3 (50%) thought the visuals made them more confident in decisions about competence, and 3 (50%) thought they would use the visual summaries for future reviews. The outcomes highlight limitations of visualizing and summarizing narrative feedback in a comprehensive assessment system.

Next Steps

Future work will explore how to optimize the dashboards to meet reviewer needs. Ongoing advancements in large language models may facilitate these efforts. Opportunities to collaborate with other institutions to apply the model to an external context will also be sought.
Changes in the Objective Vision Quality of Adolescents in a Mesopic Visual Environment After Wearing Orthokeratology Lenses: A Prospective Study
Authors: Cheng Zhi'ang , Meng Jing , Ye Linyu , Wang Xinyu , Gong Yiqiang , Liu Xiaoyong
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

This study aimed to investigate changes in objective vision quality in mesopic environments in teenagers with myopia after wearing orthokeratology (OK) lenses.

Methods:

This prospective clinical study included 45 patients (80 eyes) who received OK lenses at the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University from March 2021 to September 2021. An Optical Path Difference-Scan III refractive power/corneal analyzer was used to determine the corneal topographic parameters (corneal e, corneal Q, surface asymmetry index (SAI), and surface regularity index (SRI)), higher-order aberrations (HOAs), axial length (AL) change, lens decentration, induced astigmatism, target power, and Strehl ratio (SR) in a mesopic visual environment after wearing OK lenses for 6 months. In addition, corneal morphological parameters, HOAs, and SR were analyzed in a mesopic visual environment. Finally, we investigated the correlations among corneal morphology, HOAs, AL change, lens decentration, induced astigmatism, and SR.

Results:

The SAI value was significantly higher (P<0.01), and the corneal e was significantly lower (P<0.01), in a mesopic visual environment after wearing OK lenses for 1 week than baseline. A significant increase was observed in total HOAs and spherical aberrations, compared with before the OK lenses were worn (P<0.01). In addition, SR in the mesopic visual environment decreased significantly after wearing the lenses (P<0.01). No significant differences were observed (P>0.05) among the 1-week, 1-month, 3-month, and 6-month follow-up findings. After 6 months, AL and lens decentration did not differ significantly compared with before (P>0.05), whereas induced astigmatism significantly increased (P<0.05). Negative correlations were observed between corneal Q, SAI, SRI, HOAs, induced astigmatism, and SR, and positive correlations were found between corneal e, AL change, lens decentration, and SR, after wearing OK lenses.

Key Points:

• Wearing orthokeratology lenses significantly altered corneal morphology and HOAs in myopic teenagers within 1 week. • The changes that we observed in the eyes of adolescents with myopia after wearing orthokeratology lenses decreased vision quality in mesopic environments. • Strehl ratio is significantly correlated with multiple parameters, including HOAs, AL change, and lens decentration.

Conclusions:

In teenagers with myopia wearing OK lenses, significant changes in vision quality and corneal morphology were observed, leading to increased aberrations and affecting optical imaging quality. Furthermore, SR is significantly correlated with multiple parameters, including HOAs, AL change, and lens decentration.

Registration Number:

This study is registered with the United States Clinical Trials Registry under registration number NCT04929119.
A cellular mechanism contributing to pain-induced analgesia
Authors: Franciosa Federica , Acuña Mario A. , Nevian Natalie E. , Nevian Thomas
Published: July 2024

The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) plays a crucial role in the perception of pain. It is consistently activated by noxious stimuli and its hyperactivity in chronic pain indicates plasticity in the local neuronal network. However, the way persistent pain effects and modifies different neuronal cell types in the ACC and how this contributes to sensory sensitization is not completely understood. This study confirms the existence of 2 primary subtypes of pyramidal neurons in layer 5 of the rostral, agranular ACC, which we could classify as intratelencephalic (IT) and cortico-subcortical (SC) projecting neurons, similar to other cortical brain areas. Through retrograde labeling, whole-cell patch-clamp recording, and morphological analysis, we thoroughly characterized their different electrophysiological and morphological properties. When examining the effects of peripheral inflammatory pain on these neuronal subtypes, we observed time-dependent plastic changes in excitability. During the acute phase, both subtypes exhibited reduced excitability, which normalized to pre-inflammatory levels after day 7. Daily conditioning with nociceptive stimuli during this period induced an increase in excitability specifically in SC neurons, which was correlated with a decrease in mechanical sensitization. Subsequent inhibition of the activity of SC neurons projecting to the periaqueductal gray with in vivo chemogenetics, resulted in reinstatement of the hypersensitivity. Accordingly, it was sufficient to enhance the excitability of these neurons chemogenetically in the inflammatory pain condition to induce hypoalgesia. These findings suggest a cell type–specific effect on the descending control of nociception and a cellular mechanism for pain-induced analgesia. Furthermore, increased excitability in this neuronal population is hypoalgesic rather than hyperalgesic.
Anticoagulation Can Be Held in Traumatically Injured Patients on Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support
Authors: Niles Erin , Kundi Rishi , Scalea Thomas , Keville Meaghan , Galvagno Samuel M. , Anderson Douglas , Rao Appajosula , Webb James , Peiffer Meredith , Reynolds Tyler , Cantu Jody , Powell Elizabeth K.
Published: July 2024

Traumatic injury is associated with several pulmonary complications, including pulmonary contusion, transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI), and the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). There is a lack of literature on these patients supported with veno-venous extracorporeal oxygenation (VV ECMO). Understanding the safety of using VV ECMO to support trauma patients and the ability to hold anticoagulation is important to broaden utilization. This is a single-center retrospective cohort study of adult trauma patients cannulated for VV ECMO during their initial admission over an 8 year period (2014–2021). We hypothesize that anticoagulation can be held in trauma patients on VV ECMO without increasing mortality or prothrombotic complications. We also describe the coagulopathy of traumatically injured patients on VV ECMO. Withholding anticoagulation was not associated with mortality in our study population, and there were no significant differences in bleeding or clotting complications between patients who did and did not receive systemic anticoagulation. Patients in the nonsurvivor group had increased coagulopathy both pre- and post-cannulation. Our study suggests anticoagulation can be safely withheld in traumatically injured VV ECMO patients without increasing mortality, complication rates, or transfusion requirements. Future, multicenter prospective studies with larger sample sizes are required to confirm our results.
A brief review of current treatment options for osteoarthritis including disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs) and novel therapeutics
Authors: Jiang Peng , Hu Kan , Jin Liang , Luo Zhicheng
Published: July 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic disorder caused by degenerative changes in articular cartilage, which are mainly manifests as degeneration of cartilage, subchondral bone remodeling, as well as synovial inflammation. Over the next few decades, OA and its burden will continue to increase worldwide, posing a major public health challenge for the foreseeable future. Treatment for OA includes non-pharmacological, pharmacological, and surgical treatments. Existing conservative treatments and joint surgery can only alleviate the symptoms and cannot be cured, so new therapies for OA are urgently needed. Since advances in the understanding of OA pathophysiology, researchers have identified some potential therapeutic targets against degeneration of cartilage, subchondral bone remodeling and synovial inflammation, enabling development of the disease-modifying OA drugs (DMOADs). Additionally, a number of new technologies are also being investigated for treating OA, such as RNA interference (RNAi), CRISPR/Cas9 and PROTAC. The goal of this review is to describe the current development status of DMOADs and to discuss the potential of emerging therapeutic approaches for treating OA, thus providing a reference for OA treatments.
Surgical outcomes of glioblastoma multiforme in low and middle-income countries: current state and future directions
Authors: Abdulbasit Opeyemi Muili , Aderinto Nicholas , Akinmeji Ayodeji , Mustapha Fatihi Bamigbola , Mubarak Jolayemi Mustapha , Joshua Ayodele Yusuf , Kuol Piel Panther , Rebecca Opeyemi Adeyemo , Alare Kehinde , Olatunji Gbolahan , Emmanuel Kokori
Published: July 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive and deadly brain tumor. The challenges in managing GBM in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have been underexplored. This review provides a review of surgical management techniques, challenges, outcomes, and future directions for GBM treatment in LMICs. A search of academic databases yielded studies from various LMICs, focusing on surgical management techniques and their outcomes. The data were analyzed in the context of socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural factors. Comparative analyses were performed to highlight disparities between LMICs and high-income countries. GBM management in LMICs faces multi-faceted challenges, including healthcare infrastructure deficiencies, delayed diagnosis, high treatment costs, cultural beliefs, and limited research funding. This adversely affects patient outcomes and survival rates. Surgical excision followed by radiation and chemotherapy remains the standard of care, but LMICs have not significantly benefited from recent advancements in GBM management. Intraoperative neurosurgery ultrasound is identified as an affordable and practical alternative for LMICs. Patient outcomes following GBM surgery in LMICs vary widely, making early detection challenging. Cultural sensitivity and ethical considerations are crucial factors in improving healthcare practices. Surgical management of GBM in LMICs is hindered by complex challenges that require multi-faceted interventions. By addressing socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural factors, LMICs can improve GBM care and outcomes. Raising awareness and advocating for change are crucial steps in this process.
Identification of Drugs and Patient Profiles at Risk for Severe Skin Injuries Due to Extravasation
Authors: Maezawa Mika , Miyasaka Koumi , Hirofuji Sakiko , Wakabayashi Wataru , Iwata Mari , Nakao Satoshi , Akase Tomoko , Iguchi Kazuhiro , Nakamura Mitsuhiro
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to identify risk factors and combinations thereof that are associated with severe skin injuries due to the extravasation of injectable drugs. A cross-sectional study using the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report database was conducted according to the RECORD-PE checklist. Adverse event reports related to necrosis, ulcers, or erosions due to extravasation were considered “with severe skin injury,” and others were considered “without severe skin injury.” Approximately 255 cases “with” and 260 cases “without” severe skin injury were identified. The relationship between the incidence of severe skin injury and age, sex, drugs, and primary disease was evaluated using the χ2 test. Association rule mining was used to evaluate the correlation between each combination of factors and skin injury. Nine factors were identified as independent risk factors for severe skin injury, including age (<10 or ≥70 years), peripheral parenteral nutrition use, and mental disorders. The association rule mining results suggested that a combination of specific patient backgrounds and drug use was associated with the incidence of necrosis or ulcers. The findings of this study reiterate that nurses might consider closely observing patients with the risk factors identified in this study for the prevention and early detection of extravasation-related skin injuries.
Food as Medicine in American Healthcare: Can Food Solve the Crisis It Created?
Authors: Hanauer Jeffrey A. , Thapa Rojina , Moffit Ariana , McKinney Audrey M. , Huang Li-Chu , Uwashimimana Mwiza A. , Savaiano Dennis A.
Published: July 2024

“Food as Medicine” (FAM) is a critical link between the foods we consume and our overall health. FAM adopts nutrition-based treatment, with existing healthcare to mitigate “metabolic” diseases. Despite advancements in medicine, healthcare technology, and treatments, chronic diseases affect nearly 50% of Americans and are attributed to 86% of healthcare costs. FAM initiatives have yet to advance beyond pilot programs and remain virtually unavailable to the US population. Pilot programs are producing promising results with healthier outcomes for patients. Economic assessments indicate net cost savings in healthcare expenditures. Three primary interventions are consistently effective in achieving positive health outcomes: medically tailored meals, medically tailored groceries, and prescription food programs. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the US Department of Agriculture are both currently advancing FAM research and pilot programs with the cooperation of the National Institutes of Health Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion and the Office of Nutrition Research. The full potential of FAM can be realized when the federal government is able to successfully incorporate and financially support nationwide FAM treatments, including nutrition education and healthy foods into the existing healthcare system.
Skull Base Aspergillus Infection Mimicking Tumor Recurrence
Authors: Chuang Tzyy-Ling , Wang Yuh-Feng
Published: July 2024

We report a case of recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma postnasopharyngectomy, presenting with headaches. MRI revealed abnormal signals of the clivus with enhancement, and FDG PET/CT indicated intense uptake in the nasopharynx, clivus, and left neck lymph nodes. Bone SPECT/CT showed bony erosion and uptake in bilateral skull base areas. Biopsy confirmed aspergillosis. Despite the challenges in distinguishing tumor invasion from Aspergillus infection on MRI, bone SPECT/CT, and FDG PET/CT, the short postsurgery period and extensive uptake suggested skull base osteomyelitis.
Transcriptome analysis of Candida albicans planktonic cells in response to plasma medicine
Authors: Zhang Xinhua , Liew Kok Jun , Cao Li , Wang Jie , Chang Zhidong , Tan Melvin Chun Yun , Chong Kheng Loong , Chong Chun Shiong
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Cold plasma is frequently utilized for the purpose of eliminating microbial contaminants. Under optimal conditions, it can function as plasma medicine for treating various diseases, including infections caused by Candida albicans, an opportunistic pathogen that can overgrow in individuals with weakened immune system.

Gap Statement. To date, there has been less molecular study on cold plasma-treated C. albicans.

Research Aim. The study aims to fill the gap in understanding the molecular response of C. albicans to cold plasma treatment.

Methodology. This project involved testing a cold plasma generator to determine its antimicrobial effectiveness on C. albicans’ planktonic cells. Additionally, the cells’ transcriptomics responses were investigated using RNA sequencing at various treatment durations (1, 3 and 5 min).

Results. The results show that our cold plasma effectively eliminates C. albicans. Cold plasma treatment resulted in substantial downregulation of important pathways, such as ‘nucleotide metabolism’, ‘DNA replication and repair’, ‘cell growth’, ‘carbohydrate metabolism’ and ‘amino acid metabolism’. This was an indication of cell cycle arrest of C. albicans to preserve energy consumption under unfavourable conditions. Nevertheless, C. albicans adapted its GSH antioxidant system to cope with the oxidative stress induced by reactive oxygen species, reactive nitrogen species and other free radicals. The treatment likely led to a decrease in cell pathogenicity as many virulence factors were downregulated.

Conclusion. The study demonstrated the major affected pathways in cold plasma-treated C. albicans, providing valuable insights into the molecular response of C. albicans to cold plasma treatment. The findings contribute to the understanding of the antimicrobial efficiency of cold plasma and its potential applications in the field of microbiology.
Number of ICD-10 diagnosis fields required to capture sepsis in administrative data and truncation bias: A nationwide prospective registry study
Authors: Skei Nina Vibeche , Damås Jan Kristian , Gustad Lise Tuset
Published: July 2024

Background

In observational studies that uses administrative data, it is essential to report technical details such as the number of International Classification of Disease (ICD) coding fields extracted. This information is crucial for ensuring comparability between studies and for avoiding truncation bias in estimates, particularly for complex conditions like sepsis. Specific sepsis codes (explicit sepsis) is suggested identified by extracting 15 diagnosis fields, while for implicit sepsis, comprising an infection code combined with an acute organ failure, the number of diagnosis field remains unknown.

Objective

The objective was to explore the necessary number of diagnosis fields to capture explicit and implicit sepsis.

Materials and methods

We conducted a study utilizing The Norwegian Patient Register (NPR), which encompasses all medical ICD-10 codes from specialized health services in Norway. Data was extracted for all adult patients with hospital admissions registered under explicit and implicit sepsis codes from all Norwegian hospitals between 2008 through 2021.

Results

In 317,705 sepsis admissions, we observed that 105,499 ICD-10 codes were identified for explicit sepsis, while implicit sepsis was identified through 270,346 codes for infection in combination with 240,586 codes for acute organ failure. Through our analysis, we found that 55.3%, 37.0%, and 10.0% of the explicit, infection, and acute organ failure codes, respectively, were documented as the main diagnosis. The proportion of explicit and infection codes peaked in main diagnosis field, while for acute organ failure codes this was true in the third diagnosis field. Notably, the cumulative proportion reached 99% in diagnosis field 11 for explicit codes and in diagnosis field 14 for implicit codes.

Conclusion

Expanding the utilization of multiple diagnosis fields can enhance the comparability of data in epidemiological studies, both internationally and within countries. To make truncation bias visible, reporting guidelines should specify the number of diagnosis fields when extracting ICD-10 codes.
A Label-free Optical Biosensor-Based Point-of-Care Test for the Rapid Detection of Monkeypox Virus
Authors: Aslan Mete , Seymour Elif , Brickner Howard , Clark Alex E. , Celebi Iris , Townsend Michael B. , Satheshkumar Panayampalli S. , Riley Megan , Carlin Aaron F. , Ünlü M. Selim , Ray Partha
Published: July 2024

Diagnostic approaches that combine the high sensitivity and specificity of laboratory-based digital detection with the ease of use and affordability of point-of-care (POC) technologies could revolutionize disease diagnostics. This is especially true in infectious disease diagnostics, where rapid and accurate pathogen detection is critical to curbing the spread of disease. We have pioneered an innovative label-free digital detection platform that utilizes Interferometric Reflectance Imaging Sensor (IRIS) technology. IRIS leverages light interference from an optically transparent thin film, eliminating the need for complex optical resonances to enhance the signal by harnessing light interference and the power of signal averaging in shot-noise-limited operation to achieve virtually unlimited sensitivity. In our latest work, we have further improved our previous ‘Single-Particle’ IRIS (SP-IRIS) technology by allowing the construction of the optical signature of target nanoparticles (whole virus) from a single image. This new platform, ‘Pixel-Diversity’ IRIS (PD-IRIS), eliminated the need for z-scan acquisition, required in SP-IRIS, a time-consuming and expensive process, and made our technology more applicable to POC settings. Using PD-IRIS, we quantitatively detected the Monkeypox virus (MPXV), the etiological agent for Monkeypox (Mpox) infection. MPXV was captured by anti-A29 monoclonal antibody (mAb 69-126-3) on Protein G spots on the sensor chips and were detected at a limit-of-detection (LOD) - of 200 PFU/ml (∼3.3 attomolar). PD-IRIS was superior to the laboratory-based ELISA (LOD - 1800 PFU/mL) used as a comparator. The specificity of PD-IRIS in MPXV detection was demonstrated using Herpes simplex virus, type 1 (HSV-1), and Cowpox virus (CPXV). This work establishes the effectiveness of PD-IRIS and opens possibilities for its advancement in clinical diagnostics of Mpox at POC. Moreover, PD-IRIS is a modular technology that can be adapted for the multiplex detection of pathogens for which high-affinity ligands are available that can bind their surface antigens to capture them on the sensor surface.
Resource competition in CRISPRa genetic circuits
Authors: Manoj Krishna , Del Vecchio Domitilla
Published: July 2024

CRISPR-mediated gene activation (CRISPRa) allows concurrent regulation of transcription of many gene targets and has found widespread applications in genome-wide screening, bioproduction, and therapeutics. In principle, multiple gene targets can be regulated independently by choosing orthogonal scaffold RNA (scRNA); in practice, this is not the case due to competition for dCas9 and activator protein. While prior studies have extensively characterized competition effects in CRISPRi circuits such an investigation in CRISPRa circuits is still lacking. In this paper, we investigate the on-target and off-target effects of competition for the two resources during CRISPRa. We observe a biphasic response in the on-target response of a CRISPRa module, wherein increased expression of scRNA leads to target repression instead of activation. The addition of a competitor further leads to the repression of any other CRISPRa system, showing the lack of modularity of concurrent CRISPRa systems. These effects are significant even when both resources are expressed at their maximum tolerable limit. We finally show that competition can also be used to design the response of a CRISPRa module by reducing leakiness while keeping the same maximal activation. The results from this study can significantly affect the interpretation of data obtained when using multiple CRISPRi/a modules and can be used as a predictive tool to determine how the operation of any such module in a concurrent configuration is different from the one expected in isolation.
Ion and water permeation through Claudin-10b paracellular channels
Authors: Berselli Alessandro , Alberini Giulio , Benfenati Fabio , Maragliano Luca
Published: July 2024

The structural scaffold of epithelial and endothelial tight junctions (TJ) comprises multimeric strands of claudin (Cldn) proteins, which anchor adjacent cells and control the paracellular flux of water and solutes. Based on the permeability properties they confer to the TJs, Cldns are classified as channel- or barrier-forming. Some of them, however, show mixed features. For instance, Cldn10b, expressed in kidneys, lungs, and other tissues, displays high permeability for cations and low permeability for water. Along with its high sequence similarity to the cation- and water-permeable Cldn15, this makes Cldn10b a valuable test case for investigating the molecular determinants of paracellular transport. In lack of high-resolution experimental information on TJ architectures, here we use Molecular Dynamics simulations to study two atomistic models of Cldn10b strands and compare their ion and water transport with those of Cldn15. Our data, based on extensive standard simulations and Free Energy calculations, reveal that both Cldn10b models form cation-permeable pores narrower than Cldn15, which, together with the stable coordination of Na+ions to acidic pore-lining residues (E153, D36, D56), limit the passage of water molecules. By providing a mechanism driving a peculiar case of paracellular transport, these results provide a structural basis for the specific permeability properties of Cldn isoforms that define their physiological role.

Graphical abstract
Conserved loop of a phase modifier endows protein condensates with fluidity
Authors: Kawamukai Honoka , Matsusaki Motonori , Tanimoto Takanari , Watabe Mai , Morishima Ken , Tomita Shunsuke , Shinkai Yoichi , Niwa Tatsuya , Mannen Taro , Kumeta Hiroyuki , Nanaura Hitoki , Kato Kotona , Mabuchi Takuya , Aiba Yuichiro , Uehara Takeru , Isozumi Noriyoshi , Hara Yoshika , Kanemura Shingo , Matsumura Hiroyoshi , Sugie Kazuma , Ishimori Koichiro , Muraoka Takahiro , Sugiyama Masaaki , Okumura Masaki , Mori Eiichiro , Yoshizawa Takuya , Saio Tomohide
Published: July 2024

Dipeptide repeats (DPRs) that are gene products from abnormal hexanucleotide repeat expansion inC9orf72trigger amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) through unknown mechanism. This study highlights, importin Karyopherinβ2 (Kapβ2), which is responsible for nuclear transport and phase modification of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), as a major DPR target. We demonstrate DPR accumulation in the nucleus via Kapβ2-mediated transport, which results in dose-dependent toxicity observed in nematode and yeast models. In vitro interaction studies exploiting chemical probe arrays and biophysical measurements reveal multivalent DPR binding to Kapβ2, including at the conserved acidic loop. Refractive index and fluorescence imaging coupled with biochemical assays unveiled that binding of excess DPRs to the acidic loop turns a phase modifier Kapβ2 into phase disrupter, resulting more condensed and viscous RBP condensates. Our findings provides molecular insight intoC9orf72-ALS related to age and repeat expansion.
Female oviposition decisions are influenced by the microbial environment
Authors: Fowler Emily K. , Friend Lucy A. , Churchill Emily R. , Yu Douglas W. , Archetti Marco , Bourke Andrew F.G. , Bretman Amanda , Chapman Tracey
Published: July 2024

In ovipositing animals, egg placement decisions can be key determinants of offspring survival. One oviposition strategy reported across taxa is egg clustering, whereby a female lays multiple eggs next to one another or next to the eggs of other females. The fitness benefits of egg clustering, especially in mixed maternity clusters, are unknown. In some species, mothers provision eggs with diffusible defence compounds, such as antimicrobials, raising the possibility of public good benefits arising from egg clustering. Here we report thatDrosophila melanogasterfemales frequently lay eggs in mixed maternity clusters. We tested two hypotheses for potential drivers of this oviposition behaviour: (i) the microbial environment affects fecundity and egg placement in groups ofD. melanogasterfemales; (ii)D. melanogastereggs exhibit antimicrobial activity. The results partially supported the first hypothesis. Females exposed to environmental microbes that naturally colonised the oviposition substrates in the absence of antimicrobial preservatives reduced their levels of fecundity but did not significantly alter egg clustering. In contrast, the presence of commensal (fly-associated) microbes did not affect oviposition. The second hypothesis was not supported. There was no evidence of antimicrobial activity, either in whole eggs or in soluble surface material extracted from them. In conclusion, while there was no evidence that oviposition decisions are shaped by the opportunity to share antimicrobials, there is evidence that the microbial environment provides cues that females use to make sophisticated decisions on fecundity and egg placement.
Pathophysiology of hypereosinophilia-associated heart disease
Authors: Sunusi Usman , Ziegelmeyer Ben , Osuji Immaculeta , Medvedovic Mario , Todd Haley , Abou-Khalil Joe , Zimmermann Nives
Published: July 2024

Background

Cardiac complications in patients with hypereosinophilia cause significant morbidity and mortality. However, mechanisms of how eosinophilic inflammation causes heart damage are poorly understood.

Methods

We developed a model of hypereosinophilia-associated heart disease by challenging hypereosinophilic mice with peptide from the cardiac myosin heavy chain. Disease outcomes were measured by histology, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and measurement of cells and biomarkers in peripheral blood. Eosinophil dependence was determined by using eosinophil-deficient mice (ΔdblGATA). Single cells from heart were subjected to single cell RNA sequencing to assess cell composition, subtypes and expression profiles.

Results

Mice challenged with myocarditic and control peptide had peripheral blood leukocytosis, but only those challenged with myocarditic peptide had heart inflammation. Heart tissue was infiltrated by eosinophil-rich inflammatory infiltrates associated with cardiomyocyte damage. Disease penetrance and severity were dependent on the presence of eosinophils. Single cell RNA sequencing showed enrichment of myeloid cells, T-cells and granulocytes (neutrophils and eosinophils) in the myocarditic mice. Macrophages were M2 skewed, and eosinophils had an activated phenotype. Gene enrichment analysis identified several pathways potentially involved in pathophysiology of disease.

Conclusion

Eosinophils are required for heart damage in hypereosinophilia-associated heart disease. Additionally, myeloid cells, granulocytes and T-cell cooperatively or independently participate in the pathogenesis of hypereosinophilia-associated heart disease.
Niche-Based Priority Effects Predict Microbe Resistance toErwinia amylovorain Pear Nectar
Authors: McDaniel Christopher S. , Vannette Rachel L. , Arroyo-Flores Alondra , Boundy-Mills Kyria , Crowder David W. , Grilley Michelle M. , Pathak Honey , Schaeffer Robert N.
Published: July 2024

Fire blight is a devastating disease affecting pome fruit trees that is caused byErwinia amylovoraand leads to substantial annual losses worldwide. While antibiotic-based management approaches like streptomycin can be effective, there are concerns over evolved resistance of the pathogen and non-target effects on beneficial microbes and insects. Using microbial biological control agents (mBCAs) to combat fire blight has promise, but variable performance necessitates the discovery of more effective solutions. Here we used a niche-based predictive framework to assess the strength of priority effects exerted by prospective mBCAs, and the mechanisms behind growth suppression in floral nectar. Throughin vitroandin vivoassays, we show that antagonist impacts on nectar pH and sucrose concentration were the primary predictors of priority effects. Surprisingly, overlap in amino acid use, and the degree of phylogenetic relatedness between mBCA andErwiniadid not significantly predict pathogen suppressionin vitro, suggesting that competition for limited shared resources played a lesser role than alterations in the chemical environment created by the initial colonizing species. We also failed to detect an association between our measures ofin vitroandin vivo Erwiniasuppression, suggesting other mechanisms may dictate mBCA establishment and efficacy in flowers, including priming of host defenses.
SARS-CoV-2 vaccination during pregnancy enhances hippocampal neurogenesis and working memory in offspring via IFN-gamma responsive microglia
Authors: Liu Fangfang , Tang Jiaoling , Zou Juntao , Liu Hao , Zuo Zejie , Wang Lingxiao , Wang Na , Li Zhihui , Kumar Ashutosh , Guo Kaihua , Hu Dandan , Yao Zhibin
Published: July 2024

In the face of severe adverse outcomes of pandemic Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, vaccines proved potently immunogenic and safe in humans and are today strongly recommended in pregnancy. This study investigates, in offspring mice, the effect of maternal COVID-19 vaccination on postnatal physical development, behavior and neurogenesis. After inoculation with inactivated COVID-19 vaccine (Vero Cell) at gestational day 14.5, antibodies to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) were detected in serum of both dams and pups. At one month of age, pups born to vaccinated dams, but not the offspring of non-vaccinated dams, exhibited greater working memory and more neural cell proliferation, neuroblast formation, neuronal stem cell activity and larger numbers of mature neurons within the dentate gyrus (DG). Luminex multiplex assay revealed elevated levels of hippocampal cytokines/chemokines critical to neurogenesis and memory function, namely interferon-γ [IFN-γ] and CX3C motif chemokine ligand 1 [CX3CL1]. Conditional knockout technology implicated microglial IFN-γ receptor 1 (IFNγR1) and CX3C motif chemokine receptor 1 (CX3CR1) as crucial intercellular participants in the neuronal developmental process, via regulating microglial activation and chemotaxis, respectively. We propose that, rather than posing risk for neurodevelopmental abnormalities, maternal SARS-CoV-2 vaccination transiently enhances hippocampal neurogenesis and working memory in offspring.
Structural models predict a significantly higher binding affinity between the NblA protein of cyanophage Ma-LMM01 and the phycocyanin ofMicrocystis aeruginosaNIES-298 compared to the host homolog
Authors: Meza-Padilla Isaac , McConkey Brendan J. , Nissimov Jozef I.
Published: July 2024

Horizontal gene transfer events between viruses and hosts are widespread across the virosphere. In cyanophage-host systems, such events often involve the transfer of genes involved in photosynthetic processes. The genome of the lytic cyanomyovirus Ma-LMM01 infecting the toxic, bloom-forming, freshwaterMicrocystis aeruginosaNIES-298 contains a homolog of thenon-bleaching A(nblA) gene, which was probably acquired from its host. The function of the NblA protein is to disassemble phycobilisomes, cyanobacterial light harvesting complexes that can comprise up to half of the cellular soluble protein content. NblA thus plays an essential dual role in cyanobacteria: it protects the cell from high light intensities and increases the intracellular nitrogen pool under nutrient limitation. NblA has previously been shown to interact with phycocyanin, one of the main components of phycobilisomes. Using structural modeling and protein-protein docking, we show that the NblA dimer of Ma-LMM01 is predicted to have a significantly higher binding affinity forM. aeruginosaNIES-298 phycocyanin (αβ)6hexamers, compared to the host homolog. Protein-protein docking suggests that the viral NblA structural model is able to bind deeper into the phycocyanin groove. The main structural difference between the virus and host NblA appears to be an additional α-helix near the N-terminus of the viral NblA, which could be partly responsible for the deeper binding into phycocyanin. This unique helical region, absent in the cellular NblA, would be expected to constitute a viral evolutionary innovation. We propose that a higher binding affinity of NblA to the host phycocyanin may represent a selective advantage for the virus, whose rapid infection cycle requires an increased phycobilisome degradation rate that is not fulfilled by the NblA of the host.
Risk and outcomes of healthcare-associated infections in three hospitals in Bobo Dioulasso, 2022 (Burkina Faso): a longitudinal study
Authors: Hema Arsène , Some Satouro Arsène , Kaboré Odilon , Sanou Soufiane , Poda Armel , Meda Ziemlé Clément , Ouedraogo Abdoul Salam , Savadogo Léon.
Published: July 2024

Background

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are one of the most common adverse events in healthcare and represent a major public health problem. However, 40% to 70% of HAIs are considered to be preventable. The present study was conducted to analyze the incidence, etiological factors, and outcomes of HAIs through active surveillance in three hospitals in the city of Bobo Dioulasso.

Methods

A prospective, longitudinal, multicenter study was conducted from May 1thto November 30rd, 2022, in two district hospitals (DO and Dafra) and the Sourô Sanou Teaching Hospital (CHUSS). Consenting patients hospitalized for reasons other than infection, cancer, immunosuppression in the postoperative care ward of DO or of Dafra district hospitals, intensive care unit (ICU)/CHUSS, neonatal ward/CHUSS, and gynecology and obstetrics postoperative care ward/CHUSS during a 2-month inclusion period in district hospitals and 4 months for CHUSS wards. For this study, we used the operational definitions of the French Technical Committee for Nosocomial Infections and Healthcare-associated Infections, with slight modifications. Logistic regression was used to analyze predictors of HAIs.

Results

Of the 664 patients enrolled, 166 experienced an HAI, with a cumulative incidence rate of 25% (CI: 21.7%-28.3%) or an incidence density rate of 36.7 per 1000 patient-days (CI: 31.7-42.9). Surgical site infections (SSI) (44%), followed by neonatal infections (42%) were the most common HAIs. Enterobacteriaceae represented 60% of the bacteria identified in HAIs, and 38.9% of them were extended spectrum β-lactamase (EBLSE) producers. Factors associated with HAIs were admission in the neonatal ward (aOR=7.4; CI:1.3-42.7), ICU (aOR=3.7; CI:1.4-9.5), hospital stay longer than 2 days (aOR=2.1; CI:1.2-3.4), or male sex (aOR=1.8; CI:1.1-3.1). In addition, HAIs were associated with longer follow-up, hospitalization, and mortality (18.1%; 95% CI:12.1 - 24.4). Deaths were only recorded in the ICU and neonatal ward, with case fatality rates of 45.4% (95% CI: 27.5 - 63.4) and 21.4% (95% CI: 11.6 - 31.3), respectively, p=0.019.

Conclusions

The incidence of HAIs was relatively high in the three hospitals in Bobo Dioulasso. A national strategy to reduce HAIs should be implemented to achieve better control of HAIs.
G-quadruplex formation in long non-coding RNAs dysregulated in colorectal cancer
Authors: Sharma Shubham , Shukla Chinmayee , Mitteaux Jérémie , Pipier Angélique , Pirrotta Marc , Penouilh Marie-José , Monchaud David , Datta Bhaskar
Published: July 2024

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in human cells do not lead to protein synthesis and constitute a substantial portion of the transcriptome. Human long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) orchestrate critical cellular functions influencing development, differentiation, and metabolism. Dysregulation of lncRNAs has been correlated with several pathological conditions such as neurodegenerative and autoimmune disorders, diabetes, and cancer. Recent reports have suggested the involvement of G4s in lncRNAs to regulate colorectal cancer (CRC) carcinogenesis. In this study, we investigate the occurrence and distribution of G4s in theLINC01589,MELTF-AS1,andUXT-AS1lncRNAs, which have been reported to be dysregulated in CRC. Using a combination ofin silicotools andin vitrobiophysical techniques, we show that these lncRNAs form stable, parallel, and intramolecular G4s. Furthermore, we establish the formation of G4s within these lncRNAs in CRC using cell-based assays, including RNA G4-Immuno-FISH and G4RP-RT-qPCR. This is the first systematic study of G4s in lncRNAs dysregulated in CRC, and our findings highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of G4s in CRC.
Examining the issues related to consumer co-created value: from policy perspective
Authors: Agrawal Amit Kumar , Rahman Zillur , Hussain Zahid , Chatterjee Sheshadri
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This research article investigates the legal issues related to consumer co-created value (CCV) especially from the business law perspective. This study also aims to investigate how the active participation of consumers, firms and fellow consumers influences consumer CCV from the policy perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

A research model has been developed to explore the connections between various constructs through an extensive examination of prior literature. There are ten hypotheses which were framed and were tested using structural equation modelling technique.

Findings

The results indicated that CCV mediates the relationship between customer satisfaction and antecedents of CCV. This has a ramification from the business law perspective. It was found that enhanced, benefit laden, experientially rich and interactive value is the key driver behind consumer participation and improving satisfaction level of the participating consumers and has policy implications.

Research limitations/implications

This study examines the co-creation related issues from the business law standpoint. This study suggests that value co-creation can be used as a strategy to achieve competitive advantage by inviting active consumer participation which can be key to achieve satisfaction of consumers. Legal fraternity and policymakers can use the findings to improve value creation and delivery to their consumers.

Originality/value

This study holds value both for legal fraternity, researchers and business law practitioners as emergence of internet has changed the way in which banking industry used to operate and has opened vistas for the organisations to allow customers to be part of value creation and enhancing their experience and satisfaction multifield time. Therefore, management researchers and policymakers would be intrigued with processes and tools through which consumers and fellow consumers can mutually benefit and also exchange value with each other with organisations acting as catalyst to the process from policy standpoint.
Student accommodation characteristics, perceived overall satisfaction and academic performance: evidence from six Scottish universities
Authors: Zaman Fahim Uz , Hosain Md Sajjad
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The aim of this empirical study is to identify the relationship between student accommodation characteristics (SACs) and academic performance (AP). SACs, considered as the single independent variable, were divided into three further constructs: perceived location advantage (PLA), perceived facilities (PFs) and perceived safety and security (PSS). This study also intends to uncover the mediating role of perceived overall satisfaction (POS) over the direct relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a cross-sectional quantitative survey methodology to investigate the hypothesized relationships based on 384 sample responses (n) selected using purposive sampling techniques from six Scottish universities. The study used IBM SPSS version 29 and partial least squares-structural equation modeling version 4 for descriptive statistics and for testing the hypotheses, respectively.

Findings

Based on survey responses and the application of proper statistical measures, this study found that all three independent constructs (PLA, PFs and PSS) have a significant positive association with the dependent variable, AP. The mediator (POS) was also found to be positively correlated with AP. Furthermore, this study identified that POS can partially mediate all three direct relationships.

Originality/value

By extending and validating current theories such as satisfaction frameworks, student engagement models and servicescape psychology, this study can significantly advance the current state of the literature. It highlights how crucial holistic satisfaction can mediate the association between academic achievement and the features of student housing. The results provide theoretical justification for incorporating accommodations into planning and policy for education. Additionally, by emphasizing on the crucial elements that enhance students’ well-being and academic achievement, such as location, safety, aesthetics and extensive support services, the study offers significant management insights.