bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro and in vivo performance of amorphous solid dispersions of ursolic acid as a function of polymer type and excipient addition
Authors: Zhao Tingting , Gu Chenming , Qi Jianbo , Liu Jingwen , Wang Yajun , Chen Xiaojing , Guo Fujiang , Li Yiming
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The objective of this research was to enhance the bioavailability of ursolic acid (UA) by preparing multielement amorphous solid dispersion (ASD) systems comprising excipients.

Methods

The ASDs were prepared via the solvent evaporation method, characterized by a range of techniques, and investigated with respect to permeability of human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line (Caco-2) cells monolayers and pharmacokinetics, with comparisons made to the physical mixture and the pure drug.

Key findings

The (UA-choline)-Polyethylcaprolactam—polyvinyl acetate—polyethylene glycol grafted copolymer (Soluplus)-Vitamin E polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) ASD demonstrated superior dissolution properties compared to the corresponding binary solid dispersions and ternary solid dispersions (P< .05). The permeability studies of Caco-2 cell monolayers revealed that the ASD exhibited moderate permeability, with an efflux rate that was significantly lower than that of the UA raw material (P< .05). Pharmacokinetic studies in rats demonstrated that the oral bioavailability of the ASD was 19.0 times higher than that of UA (P< .01).

Conclusions

The research indicated that the multielement ASD could be employed as an efficacious drug delivery system for UA. Furthermore, the Soluplus/TPGS/choline combination represents a promising candidate for the fabrication of ASDs that can load weakly acidic and poorly soluble drugs.
Repulsion, chaos, and equilibrium in mixture models
Authors: Cremaschi Andrea , Wertz Timothy M , De Iorio Maria
Published: October 2024

Mixture models are commonly used in applications with heterogeneity and overdispersion in the population, as they allow the identification of subpopulations. In the Bayesian framework, this entails the specification of suitable prior distributions for the weights and locations of the mixture. Despite their popularity, the flexibility of these models often does not translate into the interpretability of the clusters. To overcome this issue, repulsive mixture models have been recently proposed. The basic idea is to include a repulsive term in the distribution of the atoms of the mixture, favouring mixture locations far apart. This approach induces well-separated clusters, aiding the interpretation of the results. However, these models are usually not easy to handle due to unknown normalizing constants. We exploit results from equilibrium statistical mechanics, where the molecular chaos hypothesis implies that nearby particles spread out over time. In particular, we exploit the connection between random matrix theory and statistical mechanics and propose a novel class of repulsive prior distributions based on Gibbs measures associated with joint distributions of eigenvalues of random matrices. The proposed framework greatly simplifies computations thanks to the availability of the normalizing constant in closed form. We investigate the theoretical properties and clustering performance of the proposed distributions.
Correction of lower limb deformity in an adult patient with Ellis-van Creveld syndrome: a rare case report
Authors: Metoki Yukie , Iwase Dai , Ota Ryo , Aikawa Jun , Mukai Manabu , Fukushima Kensuke , Inoue Gen , Takaso Masashi
Published: October 2024

Ellis-van Creveld syndrome (EVC) is a rare disorder with marked valgus knee deformity, and orthopedic surgeons may experience challenges with lower limb treatment. Most previous reports have focused on EVC in childhood and few on its treatment in adulthood. Our patient was a 23-year-old woman with bilateral knee pain and gait abnormalities, with no history of orthopedic treatment. Valgus knee deformities with anterolateral depression of the lateral tibial plateaus and external rotation deformities of the lower legs were observed on radiography. We performed extra-articular osteotomy of the femurs and tibias and soft tissue release. Although the correction of each femur and tibia was good, mild valgus deformity of the lower limbs remained. This may be because the depression of the lateral tibial plateau was not repaired, and no postoperative remodeling was performed. However, 10 years post-surgery, no recurrence of the deformity was observed and walking was stable without pain.
Antimicrobial resistance genes acquisition among Dutch intercontinental travellers: a prospective multicentre study
Authors: Chan Jiyang , van Best Niels , Arcilla Maris , van Hattem Jarne , Melles Damian C , de Jong Menno D , Schultsz Constance , van Genderen Perry J J , Bootsma Martin C J , Goorhuis Abraham , Grobusch Martin P , Oude Lashof Astrid M , Verbrugh Henri A , Penders John ,   COMBAT-Study Consortium, Chan Jiyang , van Best Niels , Arcilla Maris , van Hattem Jarne , Melles Damian C , de Jong Menno D , Schultsz Constance , van Genderen Perry , Bootsma Martin , Goorhuis Abraham , Grobusch Martin , Lashof Astrid Oude , Verbrugh Henri , Penders John
Published: October 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global health threat. People often acquire AMR bacteria during travel and import them into their home countries. This large-scale cohort study among intercontinental travellers identified destination, diarrhoea, antibiotic use, and shellfish consumption during travel as significant risk factors for acquisition of various AMR genes.
The Hague Convention on the Recognition of Divorces and Legal Separations 1970: an effective mechanism for regulating divorce as between the UK and the EU post-Brexit?
Authors: Ní Shúilleabháin Máire , Trimmings Katarina
Published: October 2024

This article examines the potential of the 1970 Hague Convention on the Recognition of Divorces and Legal Separations to act as a replacement for Brussels IIa in regulating international divorce as between the UK and the EU. The article proceeds in two steps: first, there is a doctrinal analysis of the 1970 Hague Convention and of its merits and demerits by comparison with Brussels IIa, and secondly, there is a discussion of empirical research undertaken at the University of Aberdeen in conjunction with partner universities in six EU Member States, examining the practical utility of the Convention in Contracting States, and the treatment of international divorce in non-Contracting States. Insofar, as the 1970 Hague Convention is currently applicable in only 12 out of the 27 EU Member States, the article also discusses the likelihood of EU-wide adoption of the Convention. The article concludes that the 1970 Hague Convention has aged relatively well and, on the whole, offers a satisfactory alternative mechanism for the regulation of international divorce in the UK-EU context; however, the article also acknowledges the liberalism of many existing national laws on divorce recognition, suggesting that EU-wide adoption (if it occurs) might not have a very significant impact.
Feasibility Assessment of Rapid Response EEG in the Identification of Nonconvulsive Seizures During Military Medical Air Transport
Authors: Luster Joshua D , Hoffman William R , Jordan Morgan , Cacic Kelsey , Tchopev Zahari N , Anderson Jess , Gissendanner William , Miranda Elijah , Yuan Tony , Willis Adam
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Traumatic brain injury often requires neurologic care and specialized equipment, not often found downrange. Nonconvulsive seizures (NCSs) and nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) occur in up to 30% of patients with moderate or severe traumatic brain injury and is associated with a 39% morbidity and an 18% mortality. It remains difficult to identify at bedside because of the heterogeneous clinical manifestations. The primary diagnostic tool is an electroencephalogram (EEG) which is large, requires an external power source, and requires a specialized technician and neurologist to collect and interpret the data. Rapid response EEG (rr-EEG) is an FDA-approved device that is pocket sized and battery powered and uses a disposable 10-electrode headset. Prior studies have demonstrated the noninferiority of rr-EEG in the identification of NCSE and NCS as compared to conventional EEG in hospitals. An unanswered question is whether rr-EEG could be used in the identification of NCSE and NCS by medics.

Materials and Methods

In conjunction with the Critical Care Air Transport (CCAT) team, a simulation was created and implemented on a CCAT training mission. The simulation team included a neurology resident, who oversaw the simulation, a pulmonary critical care fellow, an intensive care unit nurse, and a respiratory therapy. A survey was provided before and after the simulation. The team was expected to review the rr-EEG to make clinical decisions during ground transport, takeoff, and landing. The neurology resident monitored and recorded the team’s ability to distinguish between NCS and a normal EEG. In between, the neurology resident monitored the quality of the EEG for potential interference and loss of quality.

Results

The CCAT team was able to efficiently set up the rr-EEG on a patient manikin, correctly identify visual EEG wave forms of a patient in NCS, and utilize the proprietary audio program of a simulated patient in NCS. The team reported that the device was easily set up in the environment, and the data were interpretable despite vibration, aircraft auditory and electrical noise, and the ergonomics of the aircraft medical section.

Conclusions

This pilot study has validated a potentially revolutionary technology in medical transport. The rr-EEG technology is measurably user-friendly and will improve patient outcomes. This device and simulation can reduce time to an EEG by hours to days allowing for immediate treatment and intervention, which can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality.
Comparing dark matter and MOND hyphotheses from the distribution function of A, F, early-G stars in the solar neighbourhood
Authors: Syaifudin M A , Arifyanto M I , Wulandari H R T , Mulki F A M
Published: October 2024

Dark matter is hypothetical matter assumed to address the historically known as missing mass problem in galaxies. However, alternative theories, such as Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND), have been notably successful in explaining the missing mass problem in various astrophysical systems. The vertical distribution function of stars in the solar neighbourhood serves as a proxy to constrain galactic dynamics in accordance to its contents. We employ both the vertical positional and velocity distribution of stars in cylindrical coordinates with a radius of 150 pc and a half-height of 200 pc from the galactic plane. Our tracers consist of main-sequence A, F, and early-G stars from the GAIA, RAVE, APOGEE, GALAH, and LAMOST catalogues. We attempt to solve the missing mass in the solar neighbourhood, interpreting it as either dark matter or MOND. Subsequently, we compare both hypotheses Newtonian gravity with dark matter and MOND, using the Bayes factor (BF) to determine which one is more favoured by the data. We found that the inferred dark matter in the solar neighbourhood is in range of $\sim (0.01 \!-\! 0.07) \, \textrm {M}_{\odot } \, \textrm {pc}^{-3}$. The wide range of inferred dark matter density is caused by the peculiar behaviour of F-type stars, which could be a sign of dynamical disequilibrium. We also determine that the MOND hypothesis’s acceleration parameter $a_0$ is $(1.26 \pm 0.13) \times 10^{-10} \, \textrm {m} \, \textrm {s}^{-2}$ for simple interpolating function. The average of BF for all tracers between the two hypotheses is $\log \textrm {BF}\sim 0.1$, meaning no strong evidence in favour of either the dark matter or MOND hypotheses.
BEBOP VI. Enabling the detection of circumbinary planets orbiting double-lined binaries with the DOLBY method of radial–velocity extraction
Authors: Sairam Lalitha , Baycroft Thomas A , Boisse Isabelle , Heidari Neda , Santerne Alexandre , Triaud Amaury H M J , Coleman Gavin A L , Davis Yasmin T , Deleuil Magali , Hébrard Guillaume , Martin David V , Maxted Pierre F L , Nelson Richard P , Sebastian Daniel , Scutt Owen J , Standing Matthew R
Published: October 2024

Circumbinary planets, orbiting both stars in a binary system, offer the opportunity to study planet formation and orbital migration in an environment different from that around single stars. However, despite the fact that $\gt 90~\% $ of binary systems in the solar neighbourhood are spectrally resolved double-lined binaries, there has been only one detection of a circumbinary planet orbiting a double-lined binary using the radial velocity method so far. Spectrally disentangling binary components is challenging due to blending of spectral lines and inaccuracies in spectral modelling. These inaccuracies add scatter to the measurements, which can hide the weak radial velocity signature of circumbinary exoplanets. We have obtained new high signal-to-noise, high-resolution spectra with the SOPHIE spectrograph, mounted on the 193 cm telescope at Observatoire de Haute-Provence (OHP), for six bright, double-lined binaries for which circumbinary exoplanet detection has been attempted in the past. To extract radial velocities, we use the DOLBY code, a recent method of spectral disentangling using Gaussian processes to model the time-varying components. We analyse the resulting radial velocities with a diffusive nested sampler to seek planets, and compute sensitivity limits. We do not detect any new circumbinary planet. However, we show that the combination of new data, new radial velocity extraction methods, and improved statistical methods to determine a data set’s sensitivity to planets leads to an approximately one order of magnitude improvement compared to previous results. This improvement brings us into the range of known circumbinary exoplanets and paves the way for future observation campaigns targeting double-lined binaries.
Early-type galaxy speciation: elliptical (E) and ellicular (ES) galaxies in the Mbh–M*,sph diagram, and a merger-driven explanation for the origin of ES galaxies, antitruncated stellar discs in lenticular (S0) galaxies, and the Sérsicification of E galaxy light profiles
Authors: Graham Alister W
Published: October 2024

In a recent series of papers, supermassive black holes were used to discern pathways in galaxy evolution. By considering the black holes’ coupling with their host galaxy’s bulge/spheroid, the progression of mass within each component has shed light on the chronological sequence of galaxy speciation. Offsets between the galaxy-morphology-dependent $M_{\rm bh}$–$M_{\rm \star ,sph}$ scaling relations trace a pattern of ‘punctuated equilibrium’ arising from merger-driven transitions between galaxy types, such as from spirals to dust-rich lenticulars and further to ‘ellicular’ and elliptical galaxies. This study delves deeper into the distinction between the ellicular galaxies – characterised by their intermediate-scale discs – and elliptical galaxies. Along the way, it is shown how some antitruncated large-scale discs in lenticular galaxies can arise from the coexistence of a steep intermediate-scale disc and a relatively shallow large-scale disc. This observation undermines application of the popular exponential-disc plus Sérsic-bulge model for lenticular galaxies and suggests some past bulge mass measurements have been overestimated. Furthermore, it is discussed how merger-driven disc-heating and blending likely leads to the spheroidalisation of discs and the conglomeration of multiple discs leads to the (high-n) Sérsicification of light profiles. The ellicular and elliptical galaxy distribution in the $M_{\rm bh}$–$M_{\rm \star ,sph}$ diagram is explored relative to major-merger-built lenticular galaxies and brightest cluster galaxies. The super-quadratic $M_{\rm bh}$–$M_{\rm \star }$ relations, presented herein, for merger-built systems should aid studies of massive black hole collisions and the gravitational wave background. Finally, connections to dwarf compact elliptical and ultracompact dwarf galaxies, with their 100–1000 times higher $M_{\rm bh}/M_{\rm \star ,sph}$ ratios, are presented.
Stochastic and secular anomalies in pulsar braking indices
Authors: Vargas Andrés F , Melatos Andrew
Published: October 2024

Stochastic and secular variations in the spin frequency $\nu$ of a rotation-powered pulsar complicate the interpretation of the measured braking index, n, in terms of a power-law spin-down torque $\propto \nu ^{n_{\rm pl}}$. Both categories of variation can lead to anomalous braking indices, with $\vert n \vert = \vert \nu \ddot{\nu } / \dot{\nu }^2 \vert \gg 1$, where the overdot symbolizes a derivative with respect to time. Here, we quantify the combined effect of stochastic and secular deviations from pure power-law spin-down on measurements of n. Through analytical calculations, Monte Carlo simulations involving synthetic data, and modern Bayesian timing techniques, it is shown that the variance of n satisfies the predictive, falsifiable formula $\langle n^{2} \rangle = (n_{\rm pl}+\dot{K}_{\rm dim})^{2}+\sigma _{\rm dim}^{2}$, where $\dot{K}_{\rm dim}$ is inversely proportional to the time-scale $\tau _K$ over which the proportionality constant of the power-law spin-down torque varies, $\sigma _{\rm dim}$ is proportional to the timing noise amplitude and inversely proportional to the square root of the total observing time, and the average is over an ensemble of random realizations of the timing noise process. The anomalous regime $\langle n^2 \rangle \gg 1$ occurs for $\dot{K}_{\rm dim} \gg 1$, $\sigma _{\rm dim} \gg 1$, or both. The sign of n depends in part on the sign of $\dot{K}_{\rm dim}$, so it is possible to measure unequal numbers of positive and negative n values in a large sample of pulsars. The distinguishable impact of stochastic and secular anomalies on phase residuals is quantified to prepare for extending the analysis of synthetic data to real pulsars.
A Statistical, Photometric, and SED Analysis to Characterize the BSS Populations in Old Open Cluster: Berkeley 39
Authors: Sheikh A H , Medhi Biman J
Published: October 2024

We present a statistical, photometric, and spectral energy distribution (SED) analysis to characterize the blue straggler stars (BSSs) populations in the Galactic old open cluster Berkeley 39. Berkeley 39 is a 6.16 Gyr old open cluster located at a distance of 3.99 Kpc.Gaia DR3 astrometry data have been used to estimate the membership probabilities using ensemble-based unsupervised machine learning techniques. We identified 21 BSS candidates on the colour–magnitude diagram, with 19 of them being detected in the Swift/UVOT UVW2 filter. We analysed the radial surface density profile and examined the cluster dynamical states and mass segregation effect. The SEDs of 19 BSSs are constructed using multiwavelength data covering UV to IR wavelengths. A single-component SED is fitted successfully for 14 BSS candidates. We discovered hot companions in five BSS candidates. These hot companions have temperatures of approximately 14 000 to 23 000 K, radii ranging from 0.04 to 0.13 R$_{\odot }$, and luminosities ranging from 0.16 to 2.91 L$_{\odot }$. Among these, three are most likely extremely low-mass white dwarfs (WDs) with masses around 0.17 to 0.18 M$_{\odot }$, and two are low-mass WDs with masses around 0.18 to 0.39 M$_{\odot }$. This confirms that they are post-mass transfer (Case A or Case B) systems. We also investigated the variable characteristics of BSSs by analysing their light curves using data from TESS. Our analysis confirms that two BSSs identified as eclipsing binaries in Gaia DR3 are indeed eclipsing binaries. Additionally, one of the two eclipsing binary BSSs shows evidence of having hot companions, as indicated by the multiwavelength SEDs.
Chromosomal integrons are genetically and functionally isolated units of genomes
Authors: Blanco Paula , Trigo da Roza Filipa , Toribio-Celestino Laura , García-Pastor Lucía , Caselli Niccolò , Morón Álvaro , Ojeda Francisco , Darracq Baptiste , Vergara Ester , Amaro Francisco , San Millán Álvaro , Skovgaard Ole , Mazel Didier , Loot Céline , Escudero José Antonio
Published: October 2024

Integrons are genetic elements that increase the evolvability of bacteria by capturing new genes and stockpiling them in arrays. Sedentary chromosomal integrons (SCIs) can be massive and highly stabilized structures encoding hundreds of genes, whose function remains generally unknown. SCIs have co-evolved with the host for aeons and are highly intertwined with their physiology from a mechanistic point of view. But, paradoxically, other aspects, like their variable content and location within the genome, suggest a high genetic and functional independence. In this work, we have explored the connection of SCIs to their host genome using as a model the Superintegron (SI), a 179-cassette long SCI in the genome of Vibrio cholerae N16961. We have relocated and deleted the SI using SeqDelTA, a novel method that allows to counteract the strong stabilization conferred by toxin–antitoxin systems within the array. We have characterized in depth the impact in V. cholerae’s physiology, measuring fitness, chromosome replication dynamics, persistence, transcriptomics, phenomics, natural competence, virulence and resistance against protist grazing. The deletion of the SI did not produce detectable effects in any condition, proving that—despite millions of years of co-evolution—SCIs are genetically and functionally isolated units of genomes.
Comparative Toxicogenomics Database’s 20th anniversary: update 2025
Authors: Davis Allan Peter , Wiegers Thomas C , Sciaky Daniela , Barkalow Fern , Strong Melissa , Wyatt Brent , Wiegers Jolene , McMorran Roy , Abrar Sakib , Mattingly Carolyn J
Published: October 2024

For 20 years, the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD; https://ctdbase.org) has provided high-quality, literature-based curated content describing how environmental chemicals affect human health. Today, CTD includes over 94 million toxicogenomic connections relating chemicals, genes/proteins, phenotypes, anatomical terms, diseases, comparative species, pathways and exposures. In this 20th year anniversary update, we reflect on CTD’s remarkable growth and provide an overview of the increased data content and new features, including enhancements to the curation workflow (e.g. new exposure curation tool and expanded use of natural language processing), added functionality (e.g. improvements to CTD Tetramers and Pathway View tools) and significant upgrades to software and infrastructure. Linking lab-based core curation with real-world human exposure curation via the use of controlled vocabularies facilitates analysis of content across the entire environmental health continuum, from molecular toxicological mechanisms to the population level, and vice versa. The ‘prototype database’ originally described in 2004 has evolved into a premier, sophisticated, highly cited and well-engineered knowledgebase and discoverybase that is utilized by scientists worldwide to design testable hypotheses about environmental health.
Disseminated histoplasmosis diagnosed on a blood smear in a Nigerian patient with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Authors: Benjamin Ofonime O , Riman Omolabake E , Offiong Anthony , Egbara Walter O , Onukak Asukwo , Ogar Aje N , Ekeng Bassey E
Published: October 2024

Disseminated histoplasmosis is rarely reported in patients living with cancers in Nigeria. We report a 40-year-old woman who presented with left neck swelling and abdominal pain of two weeks duration. Clinical examination and radiological findings showed pallor, epigastric tenderness, generalized lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly. An initial diagnosis of sepsis and micronutrient deficiency was made following findings of macrocytosis, hypersegmented neutrophils and toxic granulations on blood smear. Intervention with antibiotics did not improve symptoms rather her clinical presentation worsened with the onset of fever, dizziness, easy fatiguability and generalized weakness. Histology of lymph node biopsy reported a diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. A repeat examination of the blood smear revealed budding yeast cells morphologically similar to Histoplasma capsulatum. This case emphasizes the need for a high index of suspicion of histoplasmosis in this at-risk population and the usefulness of a blood smear in diagnosing histoplasmosis.
Convergent Emergence of Glucomannan β-Galactosyltransferase Activity in Asterids and Rosids
Authors: Ishida Konan , Penner Matthew , Fukushima Kenji , Yoshimi Yoshihisa , Wilson Louis F L , Echevarría-Poza Alberto , Yu Li , Dupree Paul
Published: October 2024

β-Galactoglucomannan (β-GGM) is a primary cell wall polysaccharide in rosids and asterids. The β-GGM polymer has a backbone of repeating β-(1,4)-glucosyl and mannosyl residues, usually with mono-α-(1,6)-galactosyl substitution or β-(1,2)-galactosyl α-galactosyl disaccharide side chains on the mannosyl residues. Mannan β-galactosyltransferases (MBGTs) are therefore required for β-GGM synthesis. The single MBGT identified so far, AtMBGT1, lies in glycosyltransferase family 47A subclade VII and was identified in Arabidopsis. However, despite the presence of β-GGM, an orthologous gene is absent in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), a model asterid. In this study, we screened candidate MBGT genes from the tomato genome, functionally tested the activities of encoded proteins and identified the tomato MBGT (SlMBGT1) in GT47A-III. Interestingly therefore, AtMBGT1 and SlMBGT1 are located in different GT47A subclades. Furthermore, phylogenetic and glucomannan structural analysis from different species raised the possibility that various asterids possess conserved MBGTs in an asterid-specific subclade of GT47A-III, indicating that MBGT activity has been acquired convergently among asterids and rosids. The present study highlights the promiscuous emergence of donor and acceptor preference in GT47A enzymes. The independent acquisition of the activity also suggests an adaptive advantage for eudicots to acquire β-GGM β-galactosylation and hence also suggests that the disaccharide side chains are important for β-GGM function.
Citrus yellow vein clearing virus infection triggers phloem remobilization of iron- and zinc-nicotianamine in citrus
Authors: Jiang Tianchi , Chen Jiuzhou , Xu Kuan , Sharon Bone , Li Luxi , Guo Jiansheng , Liu Lianghui , Ge Jun , Lin Haizhong , Tian Shengke , Lu Lingli
Published: October 2024

Citrus yellow vein clearing virus (CYVCV) is a worldwide and highly destructive disease of citrus, but the mechanisms involved in CYVCV-inhibited plant growth are not well understood. This study examined nutrient levels and their cellular distribution in different organs of healthy and CYVCV-affected citrus (Citrus reticulata ‘Kanpei’) plants. We found that CYVCV-infected plants exhibit characteristic symptoms, including a significant reduction in iron (Fe) and other elemental nutrients in the shoots. Our data suggest that CYVCV-induced chlorosis in citrus leaf veins is primarily due to iron deficiency, leading to reduced chlorophyll synthesis. Further analysis revealed a marked decrease in iron concentration within the pith and xylem of citrus petioles post-CYVCV infection, contrasting with increased Fe and zinc (Zn) concentrations in the phloem. Moreover, a substantial accumulation of starch granules was observed in the pith, xylem, and phloem vessels of infected plants, with vessel blockage due to starch accumulation reaching up to 81%, thus significantly obstructing Fe transport in the xylem. Additionally, our study detected an upregulation of genes associated with nicotinamide metabolism and Fe and Zn transport following CYVCV infection, leading to increased levels of nicotinamide metabolites. This suggests that CYVCV-infected citrus plants may induce nicotinamide synthesis in response to Fe deficiency stress, facilitating the transport of Fe and Zn in the phloem as nicotinamide-bound complexes. Overall, our findings provide insight into the mechanisms of long-distance Fe and Zn transport in citrus plants in response to CYVCV infection and highlight the role of nutritional management in mitigating the adverse effects of CYVCV, offering potential strategies for cultivating CYVCV-resistant citrus varieties.
Lower Extremity Osseointegration Postoperative Rehabilitation Protocols: A Scoping Review
Authors: Grunfeld Matan , Reif Taylor J , Rozbruch S Robert , Hoellwarth Jason S
Published: October 2024

Objective

Lower-extremity transcutaneous osseointegration is a rehabilitation alternative to socket-suspended prostheses. The rehabilitation process, philosophies, and routines remain under-described. This review, primarily, identifies commonalities and differences among protocols. Secondarily, strategies are proposed to streamline future research of post-osseointegration surgery rehabilitation.

Methods

Two differently-phrased queries of Google Scholar, Pubmed, Embase, and Web of Science were performed. First using either “osseointegration” or “osseointegrated” or “bone anchored prosthesis” AND [last name]. Second, replacing author name with “physical therapy” or “rehabilitation”. Six hundred eighty-eight articles were identified describing lower-extremity rehabilitation following osseointegration. Following software-based deduplication, manual abstract and full-text review, article reference evaluation, and use of Google Scholar’s “Cited by” feature, 35 studies were fully analyzed. First, a consolidated summary was made of protocols focusing on stages, timing, and other descriptions of postoperative rehabilitation. Subsequently, strengths and limitations of protocols were considered to propose potential strategies to investigate and optimize postoperative rehabilitation.

Results

All articles describe rehabilitation having this same order of goal progression: from surgery to gradual weight bearing and final goal of independent ambulation. The most impactful difference influencing the stated final goal of independent ambulation was whether one or two surgical stages were performed. No articles reported patient success rate achieving proposed goals and timing, or challenges during rehabilitation. Therefore, the first research suggestion is to investigate actual success rates achieving proposed goals and timing. Second, to further explore rehabilitation of performance deficits, beyond unaided ambulation. Finally, to incorporate technology such as mobility trackers to more objectively understand prosthesis use and mobility.

Conclusion

All lower-extremity osseointegration rehabilitation literature recommends identical goal progression order. No studies evaluate patient challenges or variation. Understanding and addressing such challenges may enhance postoperative rehabilitation.

Impact

This article consolidates published rehabilitation protocols post-osseointegration surgery. Specific analysis and experimentation of the protocols may enhance the uniformity and potential of patient rehabilitation.
Prospective associations between sleep, sensation-seeking, and mature screen usage in early adolescents: findings from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study
Authors: Zhang Linhao , Oshri Assaf , Carvalho Cory , Uddin Lucina Q , Geier Charles , Nagata Jason M , Cummins Kevin , Hoffman Elizabeth A , Tomko Rachel L , Chaarani Bader , Squeglia Lindsay M , Wing David , Mason Michael J , Fuemmeler Bernard , Lisdahl Krista , Tapert Susan F , Baker Fiona C , Kiss Orsolya
Published: October 2024

Study Objectives

Early exposure to mature content is linked to high-risk behaviors. This study aims to prospectively investigate how sleep and sensation-seeking behaviors influence the consumption of mature video games and R-rated movies in early adolescents. A secondary analysis examines the bidirectional relationships between sleep patterns and mature screen usage.

Methods

Data were obtained from a subsample of 3687 early adolescents (49.2% female; mean age: 11.96 years) participating in the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development study. At year 2 follow-up, participants wore Fitbit wearables for up to 21 nights to assess objective sleep measures and completed a scale about sensation-seeking traits. At year 3 follow-up, they answered questions about mature screen usage.

Results

Of the sample, 41.8% of the sample reported playing mature-rated video games and 49% reported watching R-rated movies. Sensation-seeking traits were associated with R-rated movie watching 1 year later. Shorter sleep duration, later bedtime, more bedtime variability, and more social jetlag (discrepancy between the mid-sleep on weekdays and weekends) were associated with mature-rated video gaming and R-rated movie watching 1 year later. Sleep duration variability was associated with mature-rated video gaming. There was also an interaction effect: those with higher sensation-seeking scores and shorter sleep duration reported more frequent R-rated movie usage than those with longer sleep duration. Secondary analyses showed bidirectional associations between later bedtimes, more variability in bedtimes, and more social jetlag with mature screen usage.

Conclusions

Early adolescents with sensation-seeking traits and poorer sleep health were more likely to engage in mature screen usage.
Ephedrine attenuates LPS-induced M1 polarization of alveolar macrophages via the PKM2-mediated glycolysis
Authors: Xiang Yijin , Jiang Zaifeng , Yang Zhigang , Gong Shaomin , Niu Weiran
Published: October 2024

Background

Asthma is one of chronic inflammatory lung diseases in world. The important role of macrophage polarization and glycolysis in lung inflammation has attracted considerable attention. Ephedrine (EP) is a compound isolated from Ephedra and plays a regulatory role in inflammatory response, but its role in asthma and mechanism involved are not clear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanism and effect of EP on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced alveolar macrophage polarization and glycolysis.

Methods

We investigated the expression of Tnf-a, Nos2, Il10, and Arg1 using RT-PCR, as well as PKM2 and LDHA protein expression with Western blot. A CCK-8 assay was performed to determine the viability of the cells. The extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), ATP and lactate level were detected using commercial kits.

Results

The results revealed that EP alleviated LPS-induced NR8383 cell glycolysis and M1 polarization. Further studies found that EP enhanced the effect of 2-DG on NR8383 cell glycolysis and M1 polarization. More importantly, PKM2 inhibitor alleviated LPS-induced NR8383 cell glycolysis and M1 polarization. In addition, EP alleviated LPS-induced NR8383 cell glycolysis and M1 polarization by targeting PKM2.

Conclusion

It is suggested that EP alleviates LPS-induced glycolysis and M1 polarization in NR8383 cells by regulating PKM2, thereby alleviating lung injury, suggesting the involvment of alveolar macrophage polarization and glycolysis in the role of EP in asthma.
Lagged effects of climate factors on bacillary dysentery in western China
Authors: Li Rui , Liu Dongpeng , Wang Tingrong , Li Donghua , Shi Tianshan , Zhao Xin , Zheng Hongmiao , Ren Xiaowei
Published: October 2024

Background

Evidence has shown that the incidence of bacillary dysentery (BD) is associated with climatic factors. However, the lagged effects of climatic factors on BD are still unclear, especially lacking research evidence from arid and semi-arid regions. Therefore, this study aims to add new insights into this research field.

Methods

Spatial autocorrelation, time series analysis and spatiotemporal scans were used to perform descriptive analyses of BD cases from 2009 to 2019. On the basis of monthly data from 2015 to 2019, multivariable distributed lag non-linear models were used to investigate the lagged effects of climatic factors on BD.

Results

The hot spots for BD incidence are gradually decreasing and becoming increasingly concentrated in the southern part of Gansu Province. The maximum cumulative relative risks for monthly average temperature, sunshine duration, average relative humidity and precipitation were 3.21, 1.64, 1.55 and 1.41, respectively. The lagged effects peaked either in the current month or with a 1-month lag, and the shape of the exposure–response curve changed with the increase in maximum lag time. After stratification by per capita gross domestic product, there were differences in the effects.

Conclusions

Climatic factors can influence the incidence of BD, with effects varying across different lag times. It is imperative to vigilantly track the disparities in the incidence of BD attributable to economic factors.
More Than Body Parts: A New Ethos of Anatomy Education
Authors: Hildebrandt Sabine , Cornwall Jon , Champney Thomas H.
Published: October 2024

A new ethos of anatomy education goes beyond the learning of body parts in the traditional curriculum. In the traditional curriculum, the focus of only providing information on the structure of the human body left certain learning opportunities overlooked, marginalized, or dismissed as irrelevant; thus, opportunities to foster and shape professional attributes in health care learners were lost. Furthermore, changes in curricula structures and reductions in anatomy teaching hours have necessitated a transformation in how anatomy education is perceived and delivered. This article presents an examination of a contemporary ethos of anatomy education that draws together concepts from teaching theory, educational trends, and emerging research to maximize the anatomy learning experience with body donors. Social constructivism, the spiral curriculum, and the hidden curriculum can be leveraged to facilitate a unique educational experience. Furthermore, contemporary perspectives on the ethics and history of anatomy that support contextual learning indicate how these subjects are well suited to authenticate and consolidate learning, while supporting the relational and humanistic delivery of health care education. When anatomy education is conceptualized as a first clinical experience in a health care curriculum, it provides the opportunity to develop and enhance professional identity formation at a foundational stage. By embracing and incorporating a wider range of considerations into educational practice, a new ethos for anatomy education fosters history-informed professional identity formation that offers transformative learning opportunities for an ethical practice in the art of healing.
Pulmonary Artery Denervation: An Emerging Treatment for Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: McMaster Matthew W. , Shah Avisha , Hassid Yosef , Garg Jasmine , Frishman William H. , Aronow Wilbert S.
Published: October 2024

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a debilitating disease with a poor overall prognosis. Pulmonary artery denervation (PADN) has emerged as a promising new treatment which has been shown to improve hemodynamics, functionality, and REVEAL scores for patients with PH. This article reviews notable updates in the management of PH since the 6th World Symposium on PH, the pathophysiology of PH, how PADN may work given the pathophysiology of PH, and focuses on evidence from the eleven studies supporting the use of PADN from trials that include human participants.
Association Between the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and in-Stent Neoatherosclerosis and Plaque Vulnerability: An Optical Coherence Tomography Study
Authors: Gu Ning , Chen Panke , Wang Xi , Shen Changyin , Deng Yi , Chen Jianling , Ma Yi , Ma Shuai , Hu Xingwei , Zhao Ranzun , Shi Bei
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between in-stent neoatherosclerosis (ISNA) and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients with in-stent restenosis (ISR) following drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation. We divided 216 patients into 3 groups based on the NLR tertile. We performed a comparative analysis of baseline, angiographic, and features of optical coherence tomography (OCT) between the NLR groups and performed univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to assess the association of the NLR with ISNA and in-stent thin-cap fibroatheroma (TCFA). Patients in the third tertile NLR group had a higher incidence of ISNA and in-stent TCFA compared with those in the first tertile. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for ISNA and TCFA were 2.673 (1.257–5.684; P = 0.038) and 4.272 (1.740–10.488; P = 0.004), respectively, for patients in the highest tertile compared with those in the lowest tertile. Our study showed that an increased NLR was associated with ISNA and in-stent plaque fragility in patients with ISR following DES implantation.
Salvage Operation of Head and Neck Reconstruction Using a Pedicled Latissimus Dorsi Myocutaneous Flap with Distally Positioned Skin Paddle
Authors: Kojima Tsubasa , Motomura Hisashi , Nochi Deguchi Ayaka , Maeda Shusaku , Kang Songsu
Published: October 2024

Background:

There are many situations in head and neck reconstruction where a pedicled flap must be chosen over free flaps. In such situations, one of our options is a pedicled latissimus dorsi (LD) myocutaneous flap with distally positioned skin paddle with a more distal skin flap design.

Methods:

We performed 22 reconstruction cases using a distally positioned pedicled LD myocutaneous flap. When designing the skin paddle more distally than usual, it is important to include the lateral cutaneous branch of the 10th posterior intercostal artery. By splitting the skin paddle sections, the LD flap is flexible for use in complex head and neck defects. It can also be used for mandibular reconstruction by harvesting the flap with costal bone.

Results:

In all cases, the skin flaps survived, with a salvage rate of 100%.

Conclusions:

Because elevation of this flap is relatively easy, safe, and quick, this flap selection is considered practical in salvage cases after flap necrosis, and in cases after multiple procedures.
Evaluating Compliance of Randomized Controlled Trial Abstracts in Plastic Surgery Journals with CONSORT Guidelines Using GPT-4 AI
Authors: Al Qurashi Abdullah A. , Hajja Amro , Alabdul Razzak Ghazi F. , Alkuwaity Dana Waleed , Chaudhri Eman Naeem , Alharbi Ruba Ibrahim , Al Dwehji Adnan M. Osama , Almusa Hala Abdullah , Asaad Alanoud Hammam , Alobaidi Hussain Amin , Halawani Ibrahim R. , Gelidan Adnan G.
Published: October 2024

Background:

The quality of reporting in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is crucial for accurate interpretation and synthesis of evidence. The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guidelines provide a standardized framework for reporting RCT abstracts. This study aimed to evaluate the adherence of RCT abstracts published in three major plastic surgery journals to the CONSORT tool guideline for reporting abstracts, utilizing Generative Pre-trained Transformer 4 artificial intelligence (GPT-4 AI) technology.

Methods:

Abstracts of RCTs published between 2010 and 2023 were collected. The GPT-4 AI model was utilized to assess the abstracts based on the CONSORT criteria. Descriptive statistics were used to report the compliance scores and identify areas where abstracts lacked compliance.

Results:

Of the initially identified 500 abstracts, a total of 371 RCT abstracts met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. The mean CONSORT score was 10.05 (±2.22), with a median score of 10.72. Specific areas where abstracts lacked compliance included trial design (39.6%), participant details (28.8%), intervention descriptions (15.6%), randomization process (25.3%), and the number of participants analyzed (33.4%). Trial registration (18.3%) and funding information (15.1%) were also frequently missing.

Conclusions:

Our study’s innovative use of the GPT-4 AI model for analysis demonstrated the potential of AI technology in streamlining and enhancing the evaluation of research compliance. We advocate for heightened awareness and more rigorous application of CONSORT guidelines among authors, reviewers, and journal editors. Emphasizing the role of AI technology in the evaluative process can further improve the reporting quality of future RCTs in plastic surgery, contributing to more reliable and transparent research in the field.
A Case Report of Proximal Palm Giant Lipoma Leading to Double Nerve Compression, with a Brief Literature Review
Authors: Alelyani Rakan H. , Rasheed Faryal S. , Alazzmi Hana A. , Alfadhel Emad A. , Alaqil Sultan N. , Alobaidi Hussain A. , Alkadi Danah Y. , Assad Majd A. , Hanawi Maha D. , Nawwab Eyad A.
Published: October 2024

Lipomas are frequently found as benign neoplasms in humans, mainly in the head, neck, and upper limb regions. Because of their rare occurrence in hands and digits, such cases attract researchers’ attention. A case description of a 28-year-old Saudi male patient is presented with a large-size lipoma at the distal forearm, carpal tunnel, and Guyon canal area, with numbness of the central three digits and grip strength weakness of his left hand. The nature of the lesion was a benign, subcutaneous, multilobulated lipoma, removed surgically to prevent malignant transformation and deterioration in neuropathy.
Intramural myomas and fertility: To operate or not?
Authors: Makrakis Evangelos , Despotidi Athanasia , Krokos Panagiotis
Published: October 2024

Intramural uterine myomas are very common among women of reproductive age, but their impact on natural and assisted fertility remains controversial. Although international federation of gynecology and obstretrics type 3 myomas may have the most negative impact on receptivity, available data are still not convincing. Surgical removal of these myomas is encouraged when they are symptomatic, but myomectomy for fertility-only reasons cannot be offered in daily clinical practice before in vitro fertilization treatment, as data are still inconclusive. Moreover, myomectomy is strongly associated with short and long-term complications, some of which may also affect the fertility outcome. A better understanding of the association between intramural myomas and fertility may open up new perspectives for the individualized management of infertile women with uterine myomatous masses.
The impact of a pediatric malnutrition telehealth clinic on anthropometric measurements in children aged 6–59 months in rural Guatemala
Authors: Sobczak Bernadette , Jennings Gregory , Henderson Rochelle , Lyerla Frank
Published: October 2024

Background:

Guatemala, a country with high rates of pediatric malnutrition, has significant challenges including food and potable water insecurity and a lack of health care providers.

Purpose:

This study examined the impact of telehealth clinic attendance on pediatric malnutrition scores.

Methodology:

A sample of 42 Guatemalan children aged 6–59 months with malnutrition were recruited to participate in eight clinic events, including two in-person and six telehealth clinics. Six telehealth clinics were held at 4- to 6-week intervals, bookended by an initial and concluding in-person event. Nonparametric tests were used to analyze changes between baseline and last visit z-scores for height, weight for length, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), and body mass index (BMI) and to examine the relationship between the number of telehealth visits and z-score measurements at baseline and last visit.

Results:

The number of children with severe malnutrition at baseline by weight for length, BMI, and MUAC decreased by the last visit. A decrease occurred in the number of children with stunted height. Changes in z-scores for height, weight for length, BMI, and MUAC between study onset and last visit did not reach statistical significance. Statistically significant relationships existed between clinic attendance and baseline and last visit weight for height/length z-scores and baseline MUAC z-scores.

Conclusions:

Positive improvements in nutritional status occurred, especially among children with severe malnutrition. Children with severe malnutrition had significantly better telehealth attendance.

Implications:

Studies with larger sample sizes are needed. Study results indicate that telehealth may be a tool to battle global pediatric malnutrition.