bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Etruscan and Italic Offerings in Greek Sanctuaries
Authors: Naso Alessandro
Published: February 2024

Pre-Roman archaeological materials found in Greek places of worship date from the late Bronze Age to the fifth century BCE. The indigenous peoples of Italy and Sicily encountered Greek colonists on the Italian peninsula and absorbed their culture and their customs, thus becoming aware of the sanctuary tradition on the Greek mainland. Italic elites then began to visit international places of worship. Thus, one can ask whether Italic objects found in Greek sanctuaries were votives offered by Greeks returning home, or by visiting Etruscan and Italic people: both are possibilities since literary sources as well as some Greek and Etruscan inscriptions show that Etruscans also offered votive gifts to Greek divinities. This chapter traces the history of Etruscan and Italic offerings in Greek sanctuaries.
Italic Sacred Stories and Greek Connections
Authors: de Grummond Nancy T.
Published: February 2024

The peoples of pre-Roman Italy—Sabine, Praenestine, Umbrian, Latin, and especially Etruscan—shared myths that related to some of the basic needs of religion and ritual, having to do with the archetypal figures of the mother and the hero (often twins), the afterlife, and the founding of cities. Some Greek connections can be observed, but the striking similarities and equally clear variations in the myths from one area to another are probably the result of oral transmission. Many of the sacred stories are closely tied to ritual or cultic needs recognizable in texts and images, so representations in art, evidence in early sanctuaries, votive offerings, and inscriptions are discussed in this chapter.
Demography
Authors: Lo Cascio Elio
Published: February 2024

This chapter revisits the debate between the “high count”—the belief that the population level of Italy had already reached that of the modern age in the first centuries of the imperial age—and the “low count” through a consideration of literary sources and archaeological evidence. Polybius’s comments (2.24) regarding the military forces that Rome was able to field in response to the Gallic invasion of 225 are examined in detail in an effort to arrive at a plausible figure for the population of the Italian peninsula by the first century of the common era; the author concludes with a population estimate of four to seven million.
The Romans
Authors: Cifani Gabriele
Published: February 2024

Archaic Rome appears to have been a frontier city between Latins, Etruscans, and Sabines. Rome in particular seems to have been structured as an urban center as early as the second half of the eighth century. Above all, it was a city of mixed culture—Italic, Etruscan, and Phoenician-Punic—that was also open to the Hellenic world, especially to the Euboean and Corinthian components and their colonial settlements in southern Italy. This chapter outlines the main aspects of the cultural interaction between Rome and the surrounding Italic and Etruscan communities, from the period of the city’s founding (eighth century) to the Latin War (338), through careful consideration of the archaeological and textual evidence.
2-Cys peroxiredoxins contribute to thylakoid lipid unsaturation by affecting ω-3 fatty acid desaturase 8
Authors: Hernández María Luisa , Jiménez-López Julia , Cejudo Francisco Javier , Pérez-Ruiz Juan Manuel
Published: February 2024

Fatty acid unsaturation levels affect chloroplast function and plant acclimation to environmental cues. However, the regulatory mechanism(s) controlling fatty acid unsaturation in thylakoid lipids is poorly understood. Here, we have investigated the connection between chloroplast redox homeostasis and lipid metabolism by focusing on 2-Cys peroxiredoxins (Prxs), which play a central role in balancing the redox state within the organelle. The chloroplast redox network relies on NADPH-dependent thioredoxin reductase C (NTRC), which controls the redox balance of 2-Cys Prxs to maintain the reductive activity of redox-regulated enzymes. Our results show that Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) mutants deficient in 2-Cys Prxs contain decreased levels of trienoic fatty acids, mainly in chloroplast lipids, indicating that these enzymes contribute to thylakoid membrane lipids unsaturation. This function of 2-Cys Prxs is independent of NTRC, the main reductant of these enzymes, hence 2-Cys Prxs operates beyond the classic chloroplast regulatory redox system. Moreover, the effect of 2-Cys Prxs on lipid metabolism is primarily exerted through the prokaryotic pathway of glycerolipid biosynthesis and fatty acid desaturase 8 (FAD8). While 2-Cys Prxs and FAD8 interact in leaf membranes as components of a large protein complex, the levels of FAD8 were markedly decreased when FAD8 is overexpressed in 2-Cys Prxs-deficient mutant backgrounds. These findings reveal a function for 2-Cys Prxs, possibly acting as a scaffold protein, affecting the unsaturation degree of chloroplast membranes.
Curcumin Improves Functional Recovery of Ruptured Tendon by Promoting Tenogenesis via PI3K/Akt Signaling
Authors: Zhang Zhan , Zhang Yiqun , Wang Han , Li Baolong , Cao Rangjuan , Li Yan , Cui Shusen , Zhang Weizhong
Published: February 2024

Objective

In our previous study, we found that local release of curcumin from nanomicelles prevents peritendinous adhesion during Achilles tendon healing. The aim of this study is to further investigate the signaling integrated by curcumin to direct the tenogenetic program of tendon stem cells contributing to tendon healing.

Methods

A surgical model of tendon rupture and repair (TRR) was established in rats. Peritendinous adhesion and inflammation, biomechanical function, and expression of β-catenin and epithelial cellular adhesion molecule (EpCAM) were determined. A dataset was analyzed to investigate differentially expressed genes and enriched genes related to the signaling pathways. Tendon stem cells were treated with curcumin to investigate the cellular and molecular events as well as the signaling pathway.

Results

In rat TRR model, curcumin treatment resulted in not only significantly decreased peritendinous inflammatory but also improved tendon functional recovery along with significantly increased expressions of EpCAM and β-catenin. Analysis of the dataset indicated that the enriched genes were positively related to differentiation pathways but negatively related to proliferation pathways. In rat tendon stem cells, curcumin treatment inhibited proliferation but promoted differentiation. Curcumin’s antioxidative activity was associated with tenogenesis. The upregulated expression of tendon lineage-specific markers was dependent on phosphatidylinositol 3ʹ-kinase/Akt (PI3K/Akt) pathway which could be a potential mechanism of tenogenesis of curcumin treatment.

Conclusion

Curcumin could improve tendon functional recovery via promoting tenogenesis in addition to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Curcumin induced differentiation of tendon stem/progenitor cell into tenocytes via PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. This finding provided evidence for the application of curcumin to prevent adhesion during tendon repair.
Characteristics of Spinal Morphology According to the Global Alignment and Proportion (GAP) Score in a Diverse, Asymptomatic Cohort
Authors: Shen Yong , Sardar Zeeshan M. , Malka Matan , Reyes Justin , Katiyar Prerana , Hassan Fthimnir , Le Huec Jean-Charles , Bourret Stephane , Hasegawa Kazuhiro , Wong Hee Kit , Liu Gabriel , Dennis Hey Hwee Weng , Riahi Hend , Kelly Michael , Lombardi Joseph M. , Lenke Lawrence G. ,   Multi-Ethnic Alignment Normative Study Group
Published: February 2024

Study Design.

Multi-Ethnic Alignment Normative Study (MEANS) cohort: prospective, cross-sectional, multicenter.

Objective.

To analyze the distribution of GAP scores in the MEANS cohort and compare the spinal shape via stratification by GAP alignment category, age, and country.

Summary of Background Data.

The GAP score has been used to categorize spinal morphology and prognosticate adult spinal deformity surgical outcomes and mechanical complications. We analyzed a large, multiethnic, asymptomatic cohort to assess the distribution of GAP scores.

Methods.

Four hundred sixty-seven healthy volunteers without spinal disorders were recruited in five countries. Sagittal radiographic parameters were measured via the EOS imaging system. The GAP total and constituent factor scores were calculated for each patient. Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test was performed to compare variables across groups, followed by thepost hocGames-Howell test. Fisher exact test was used to compare categorical variables. The significance level was set toP<0.05.

Results.

In the MEANS cohort, 13.7% (64/467) of volunteers were ≥60 years old, and 86.3% (403/467) were <60 years old. 76.9% (359/467) was proportioned, 19.5% (91/467) was moderately disproportioned, and 3.6% (17/467) was severely disproportioned. There was no significant difference in the frequency of proportioned, moderately, or severely disproportioned GAP between subjects from different countries (P=0.060). Those with severely disproportioned GAP alignment were on average 14.5 years older (P=0.016), had 23.1° lower magnitude lumbar lordosis (LL) (P<0.001), 14.2° higher pelvic tilt (P<0.001), 13.3° lower sacral slope (P<0.001), and 24.1° higher pelvic-incidence (PI)-LL mismatch (P<0.001), 18.2° higher global tilt (P<0.001) than those with proportioned GAP; thoracic kyphosis and PI were not significantly different (P>0.05).

Conclusions.

The GAP system applies to a large, multiethnic, asymptomatic cohort. Spinal alignment should be considered on a spectrum, as 19.5% of the asymptomatic volunteers were classified as moderately disproportioned and 3.6% severely disproportioned. Radiographic malalignment does not always indicate symptoms or pathology.

Level of Evidence.

3.
Correlation between PD-L1 expression status and efficacy of immunotherapy as second-line or later-line therapy in advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Liu Jingya , Man Yingchun , Gao Jianing , Wang Xinxin , Zhang Lijie , Li Mingheng , Yu Jiahan
Published: February 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate the correlation between tumor proportionality scores (TPS) and the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as the second or subsequent line therapies for individuals who received diagnoses of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

The retrospective analysis was conducted on the medical records of a total of 143 patients who received diagnoses of stage IIIB/IV NSCLC and were admitted to our hospital from the beginning of 2019 to the end of September 2022. The follow-up period ended on 01 January 2023. The study used Kaplan–Meier survival curves to assess the progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional risk models were used to analyze the factors associated with the PFS and OS of advanced-stage NSCLC patients who received ICIs as the second or subsequent lines.

Results

Patients diagnosed with NSCLC who had a TPS ≥1% and got treatment with ICIs exhibit notably elevated rates of partial response, objective response rate, disease control rate and extended PFS in comparison to NSCLC patients with a TPS of <1% (P < 0.05). NSCLC patients with TPS within 1–49% [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.372; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.140–0.993;P = 0.048] or ≥50% (HR = 0.276; 95% CI, 0.095–0.796;P = 0.017) were significantly associated with prolonged PFS, which were conducted by multivariate Cox regression analysis.

Conclusion

Programmed death protein-1 expression status may be predictive markers of the effectiveness of ICIs as the second or subsequent lines of therapies in advanced NSCLC are influenced by TPS.
Practice-Based Learning in Aesthetic Medicine: Assessing Scientific Literacy Among Cosmetic Practitioners
Authors: Fakhre Fadia , Soares Danny J.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

The field of aesthetic medicine has expanded substantially in the past decade, with significant practitioner diversification and departure from core-specialty supervision. The increased autonomy of nonphysician practitioners in a rapidly evolving field has raised accentuated the importance of scientific literacy and practice-based learning standards in the delivery of aesthetic medical care.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the degree of scientific literacy among aesthetic medicine practitioners of different educational and training backgrounds in the United States and abroad.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional survey of 52 national and international aesthetic medicine practitioners employing a validated, 28-item, scientific literacy tool.

RESULTS

The average score for all participants was 76% (SD = 18%, range = 43%–100%). Physician practitioners scored higher in all competencies compared non-physicians (86% vs 68%, p < 0.001), with a greater discrepancy among US practitioners (95% vs 71%, p < 0.001). Competencies relating to identification of bias/confounding variables, graphical data representation, and statistical inference/correlation showed the lowest proficiency. Practitioners with a doctorate or equivalent degree were significantly more likely to report frequent engagement with medical literature than non-physicians (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

There exists a significant disparity in scientific literacy between physician and nonphysician aesthetic medicine practitioners. This gap underscores the need for enhanced educational programs and continuous professional development to ensure safe and effective patient care in the evolving field of aesthetic medicine.
Toward an Adjustable Blood Pump for Wide-Range Operation: In-Vitro Results of Performance Curve and Hydraulic Efficiency
Authors: Jansen Sebastian Victor , Heinemann Carsten , Schüller Michelle , Schmitz-Rode Thomas , Steinseifer Ulrich
Published: February 2024

Rotary blood pumps in Extracorporeal Life Support (ECLS) applications are optimized for a specific design point. However, in clinical practice, these pumps are usually applied over a wide range of operation points. Studies have shown that a deviation from the design point in a rotary blood pump leads to an unexpected rise of hemolysis with corresponding clinical complications. Adjustable pumps that can adapt geometric parameters to the respective operation point are commonly used in other industrial branches, but yet not applied in blood pumps. We present a novel mechanism to adjust the impeller geometry of a centrifugal blood pump during operation together with in-vitro data of its hydraulic performance and efficiency. Three-dimensionalprinted prototypes of the adjustable impeller and a rigid impeller were manufactured and hydraulic performance and efficiency measured (n = 3). In a flow range of 1.5–9.5 L/min, the adjustable pump increased pump performance up to 47% and hydraulic efficiency by an average of 7.3 percentage points compared with a fixed setting. The adjustable pump allows customization of the pump’s behavior (steepness of performance curve) according to individual needs. Furthermore, the hydraulic efficiency of the pump could be maintained at a high level throughout the complete flow range.
Navigating the Challenges of Candida auris Colonization in Rehabilitation Settings
Authors: Shapiro Lauren T. , Valecillos Adriana Valbuena , McDade Regina , Rosa Rossana M. , Abbo Lilian M.
Published: February 2024

Candida auris is a highly transmissible yeast that is capable of causing invasive and fatal infections, particularly among persons with underlying medical conditions. Its incidence is rising, especially among patients cared for in post-acute care facilities. Individuals colonized with the yeast may be cared for in inpatient rehabilitation settings, without heightened risk for invasive infection and/or transmission to others, as long as appropriate infection control measures are followed. This article reviews key information for rehabilitation nurses caring for persons with C. auris, including risk factors for infection, the need for contact precautions, appropriate disinfection practices for therapy and diagnostic equipment, and critical components of safe transitions in the care of these patients.
Utility of a Benchmarking Report for Balancing Infection Prevention and Antimicrobial Stewardship in Children With Complicated Appendicitis
Authors: Cramm Shannon L. , Graham Dionne A. , Blakely Martin L. , Cowles Robert A. , Kunisaki Shaun M. , Lipskar Aaron M. , Russell Robert T. , Santore Matthew T. , DeFazio Jennifer R. , Griggs Cornelia L. , Aronowitz Danielle I. , Allukian Myron , Campbell Brendan T. , Chandler Nicole M. , Collins Devon T. , Commander Sarah J. , Dukleska Katerina , Echols Justice C. , Esparaz Joseph R. , Feng Christina , Gerall Claire , Hanna David N. , Keane Olivia A. , McLean Sean E. , Pace Elizabeth , Scholz Stefan , Sferra Shelby R. , Tracy Elisabeth T. , Williams Sacha , Zhang Lucy , He Katherine , Rangel Shawn J. ,   On behalf of the Eastern Pediatric Surgery Network
Published: February 2024

Objective:

To develop a severity-adjusted, hospital-level benchmarking comparative performance report for postoperative organ space infection (OSI) and antibiotic utilization in children with complicated appendicitis.

Background:

No benchmarking data exist to aid hospitals in identifying and prioritizing opportunities for infection prevention or antimicrobial stewardship in children with complicated appendicitis.

Methods:

This was a multicenter cohort study using National Surgical Quality Improvement Program–Pediatric data from 16 hospitals participating in a regional research consortium, augmented with antibiotic utilization data obtained through supplemental chart review. Children with complicated appendicitis who underwent appendectomy from July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2020 were included. Thirty-day postoperative OSI rates and cumulative antibiotic utilization were compared between hospitals using observed-to-expected (O/E) ratios after adjusting for disease severity using mixed-effect models. Hospitals were considered outliers if the 95% CI for O/E ratios did not include 1.0.

Results:

A total of 1790 patients were included. Overall, the OSI rate was 15.6% (hospital range: 2.6% to 39.4%) and median cumulative antibiotic utilization was 9.0 days (range: 3.0 to 13.0). Across hospitals, adjusted O/E ratios ranged 5.7-fold for OSI (0.49 to 2.80, P = 0.03) and 2.4-fold for antibiotic utilization (0.59 to 1.45, P < 0.01). Three (19%) hospitals were outliers for OSI (1 high and 2 low performers), and 8 (50%) were outliers for antibiotic utilization (5 high and 3 low utilizers). Ten (63%) hospitals were identified as outliers in one or both measures.

Conclusions:

A comparative performance benchmarking report may help hospitals identify and prioritize quality improvement opportunities for infection prevention and antimicrobial stewardship, as well as identify exemplar performers for dissemination of best practices.
Implementation evaluation of tiered tele-triage pathways for burn center consultations and transfers
Authors: Agoubi Lauren L. , Clark Nina M. , Gibbs Sarah , Stewart Barclay T. , DeGrauw Xinyao G. , Vavilala Monica S. , Rivara Frederick P. , Arbabi Saman , Pham Tam N.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Early transfer to specialized centers improves trauma and burn outcomes; however, overtriage can result in unnecessary burdens to patients, providers, and health systems. Our institution developed novel burn triage pathways in 2016 to improve resource allocation. We evaluated the implementation of these pathways, analyzing trends in adoption, resource optimization, and pathway reliability after implementation.

METHODS

Triage pathways consist of transfer nurses (RNs) triaging calls based on review of burn images and clinical history: green pathway for direct outpatient referral, blue pathway for discussion with the on-call provider, red pathway for confirmation of transfer as requested by referring provider, and black pathway for the rapid transfer of severe burns. We used the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance) framework to evaluate implementation. These pathways affected all acute burn referrals to our center from January 2017 to December 2019 (reach). Outcomes of interest were pathway assignment over time (adoption), changes to burn provider call volume (effectiveness), and the concordance of pathway assignment with final disposition (implementation reliability).

RESULTS

Transfer RNs triaged 5,272 burn referrals between 2017 and 2019. By January 2018, >98% of referrals were assigned a pathway. In 2018–2019, green pathway calls triaged by RNs reduced calls to burn providers by a mean of 40 (SD, 11) per month. Patients in green/blue pathways were less likely to be transferred, with >85% receiving only outpatient follow-up (p < 0.001). Use of the lower acuity pathways increased over time, with a concordant decrease in use of the higher acuity pathways. Younger adults, patients referred from Level III to Level V trauma centers and nontrauma hospitals, and patients referred by APPs were less likely to be triaged to higher acuity pathways.

CONCLUSION

Implementation of highly adopted, reliable triage pathways can optimize existing clinical resources by task-shifting triage of lower acuity burns to nursing teams.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic and Epidemiological; Level III.
Sub-micrometre focusing of intense 100 keV X-rays with multilayer reflective optics
Authors: Koyama Takahisa , Yumoto Hirokatsu , Miura Takanori , Matsuzaki Yasuhisa , Yabashi Makina , Ohashi Haruhiko
Published: February 2024

A high-flux sub-micrometre focusing system was constructed using multilayer focusing mirrors in Kirkpatrick–Baez geometry for 100 keV X-rays. The focusing mirror system had a wide bandwidth of 5% and a high peak reflectivity of 74%. Performance was evaluated at the undulator beamline BL05XU of SPring-8, which produced an intense 100 keV X-ray beam with a bandwidth of 1%. When the light source was focused directly in both vertical and horizontal directions, the beam size was measured to be 0.32 µm (V) × 5.3 µm (H) with a flux of 1 × 1012 photons s−1. However, when a limited horizontal slit was used to form a secondary source, the focusing beam size decreased to 0.25 µm (V) × 0.26 µm (H) with a flux of 6 × 1010 photons s−1. The 200 nm line and space patterns of a Siemens star chart made of tantalum were clearly resolved by the absorption contrast of the focused beam. This 100 keV focusing system is applicable to various fields of nondestructive analyses with sub-micrometre resolutions.
ForMAX – a beamline for multiscale and multimodal structural characterization of hierarchical materials
Authors: Nygård K. , McDonald S. A. , González J. B. , Haghighat V. , Appel C. , Larsson E. , Ghanbari R. , Viljanen M. , Silva J. , Malki S. , Li Y. , Silva V. , Weninger C. , Engelmann F. , Jeppsson T. , Felcsuti G. , Rosén T. , Gordeyeva K. , Söderberg L. D. , Dierks H. , Zhang Y. , Yao Z. , Yang R. , Asimakopoulou E. M. , Rogalinski J. K. , Wallentin J. , Villanueva-Perez P. , Krüger R. , Dreier T. , Bech M. , Liebi M. , Bek M. , Kádár R. , Terry A. E. , Tarawneh H. , Ilinski P. , Malmqvist J. , Cerenius Y.
Published: February 2024

The ForMAX beamline at the MAX IV Laboratory provides multiscale and multimodal structural characterization of hierarchical materials in the nanometre to millimetre range by combining small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering with full-field microtomography. The modular design of the beamline is optimized for easy switching between different experimental modalities. The beamline has a special focus on the development of novel fibrous materials from forest resources, but it is also well suited for studies within, for example, food science and biomedical research.
DRR pioneer interview with Thea Hilhorst
Authors: Hilhorst Dorothea
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The transcript takes you on a journey of the book mapping vulnerability and the developments thereafter.

Design/methodology/approach

The transcript and video was developed in the context of a United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) project on the History of DRR.

Findings

This interview highlights how DRR is central to conflict settings as well.

Originality/value

The interview provides reflections on DRR in conflict settings.
Mentoring preparation in educational contexts: a review of the literature
Authors: Thornton Kate
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This article aims to contribute to a clearer understanding of the importance of mentor preparation and provide recommendations for effective mentor preparation programmes based on the literature.

Design/methodology/approach

A narrative review of a range of literature focussing on the importance and characteristics of effective mentor practice and preparation.

Findings

Many mentors working in educational contexts lack adequate preparation, and a shift in mentoring practice from a mentor as expert approach, which mentors are likely revert to without training, to a more collaborative relationship in line with educative mentoring is recommended. Relationship building, working collaboratively and encouraging critical reflection are essential mentoring capabilities, and can be supported by participation in effective mentoring preparation programmes. Characteristics of these programmes include: providing time for mentors to reflect on their personal capabilities and attitudes; strengthening their knowledge about mentoring and learning a range of approaches and tools.

Practical implications

Implications for mentor preparation include consideration of curricula that focus on the nature of effective mentoring relationships, provision of effective observation-based feedback and the facilitation of critical reflection. Blended learning models appear to have potential and organisational leaders need to recognise and value mentoring to ensure that it is prioritised.

Originality/value

This article makes a valuable contribution to our understanding of the nature of effective mentor preparation programmes.
Assessing theory of mind and social norms understanding in Indian children: adaptation and validation of Edinburgh social cognition test
Authors: Bhutani Saniya , Singh Kamlesh
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to adapt and validate Edinburgh social cognition test (ESCoT) for Indian children. In addition, exploring the effect of demographics on ESCoT.

Design/methodology/approach

For content validity, 10 practicing psychologists and clinical psychologists gave their feedback about the test scenarios based on which the items were retained. The adaptation process involved 100 participants aged between 6 and 12 years. Informed consent from parents and verbal assent from the participant were taken. Demographics were collected. Measures were individually administered. Data was scored and analyzed.

Findings

Seven out of 10 scenarios were retained in content validity. Convergent validity, internal consistency and interrater reliability were found to be acceptable. Regression analysis indicates that age significantly predicts performance on ESCoT. Age is associated with the cognitive theory of mind, affective theory of mind and interpersonal social norms understanding.

Originality/value

The study provides evidence for validation of ESCoT. Results indicate acceptable psychometric properties of ESCoT. Thus, it is suitable for Indian settings and amongst children.
Myofascial edema of gastrocnemius: A prominent MRI characteristic in dermatomyositis patients with anti‐transcriptional intermediate factor 1‐γ antibody
Authors: Zhen Chao , Zhao Bing , He Jingzhen , Wei Li , Yan Chuanzhu , Dai Tingjun , Hou Ying
Published: February 2024

Aims

This study was designed to evaluate the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) patterns of the lower limb muscles in dermatomyositis (DM) with anti‐transcriptional intermediate factor 1‐γ (anti‐TIF1‐γ) antibody.

Methods

This retrospective, observational, cross‐sectional study enrolled 12 adult DM patients with anti‐TIF1‐γ antibody. Muscles were assessed for fascial edema, subcutaneous‐tissue edema, muscle edema, and fatty replacement. These features were analyzed in relation to clinical characteristics.

Results

All 12 patients underwent hip and thigh MRI, and 8 completed calf MRI. All patients showed myofascial edema, muscle edema, and fatty replacement, and 8 out of 12 further exhibited subcutaneous‐tissue edema. Specifically, myofascial edema of the gastrocnemius was observed in all patients (8/8). The vastus intermedialis and vastus lateralis muscles showed the most severe muscle edema, whereas the caput breve of the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and soleus muscles exhibited the most severe fatty replacement. Although only 1 patient exhibited asymmetric muscle weakness, 9 showed asymmetric muscle edema, and 10 showed asymmetric fatty replacement. Changes in muscle edema positively correlated with creatine kinase (CK) levels.

Conclusions

Myofascial edema of gastrocnemius was a prominent characteristic of anti‐TIF1‐γ‐positive DM. Early detection of muscle edema, as well as CK levels, may be helpful for monitoring disease activity.
Genetic background modulates the effect of glucocorticoids on proliferation, differentiation and myelin formation of oligodendrocyte lineage cells
Authors: Gigliotta Adrien , Mingardi Jessica , Cummings Sarah , Alikhani Vida , Trontti Kalevi , Barbon Alessandro , Kothary Rashmi , Hovatta Iiris
Published: February 2024

Anxiety disorders are prevalent mental disorders. Their predisposition involves a combination of genetic and environmental risk factors, such as psychosocial stress. Myelin plasticity was recently associated with chronic stress in several mouse models. Furthermore, we found that changes in both myelin thickness and node of Ranvier morphology after chronic social defeat stress are influenced by the genetic background of the mouse strain. To understand cellular and molecular effects of stress‐associated myelin plasticity, we established an oligodendrocyte (OL) model consisting of OL primary cell cultures isolated from the C57BL/6NCrl (B6; innately non‐anxious and mostly stress‐resilient strain) and DBA/2NCrl (D2; innately anxious and mostly stress‐susceptible strain) mice. Characterization of naïve cells revealed that D2 cultures contained more pre‐myelinating and mature OLs compared with B6 cultures. However, B6 cultures contained more proliferating oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) than D2 cultures. Acute exposure to corticosterone, the major stress hormone in mice, reduced OPC proliferation and increased OL maturation and myelin production in D2 cultures compared with vehicle treatment, whereas only OL maturation was reduced in B6 cultures. In contrast, prolonged exposure to the synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone reduced OPC proliferation in both D2 and B6 cultures, but only D2 cultures displayed a reduction in OPC differentiation and myelin production. Taken together, our results reveal that genetic factors influence OL sensitivity to glucocorticoids, and this effect is dependent on the cellular maturation stage. Our model provides a novel framework for the identification of cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying stress‐associated myelin plasticity.
Exploring caring collaborations in academia through feminist reflexive dialogues
Authors: Johansson Janet , Gao Grace , Sölvell Ingela , Wigren‐Kristoferson Caroline
Published: February 2024

This study challenges the prevailing collaboration norms within academia, which predominantly adhere to meritocratic principles favoring masculine and individualistic values. These principles often result in a productivity paradigm centered on publications and high research performance. We contend that such collaboration norms perpetuate exclusionary practices, limiting the participation of women and individuals who do not neatly conform to the criteria of high productivity. Drawing inspiration from Long and colleagues' work in 2020, and guided by relational care ethics, we developed the notion that collaboration as a feminist strategy represents a transformative process of reflexive becoming and co‐learning, emphasizing connectedness and generativity through care. Our findings highlight that through the lens of care, we transcended differing viewpoints, transitioning from self‐centeredness to an other‐oriented approach characterized by empathy, mutual understanding, and acceptance. Emotions emerged as embodied forms of knowledge, enriching the process of co‐learning and co‐becoming. Based on this, we propose a new constellation of Feminist Caring Collaboration in the academy, emphasizing the inclusivity of diverse participants and their varied skills and competencies, with full consideration of individuals' needs and future growth opportunities. Furthermore, we advocate for a broader acknowledgment of emotions such as satisfaction, joy, friendship, and pleasure in the knowledge production process, recognizing their significance in individuals' fulfillment in work and various life circumstances.
Exploring wound management in dental pulp: Utilizing single‐cell RNA sequencing for global transcriptomic analysis in healthy and inflamed pulpal tissues
Authors: Gu Nan , Wang Yao , Sun Gengtian , Zou He , Yang Nan , Sun Xin , Liu Zhihui
Published: February 2024

The process of wound healing in the dental pulp is characterized by intricate interplay of signalling cascades, cellular responses, and extracellular matrix (ECM). The objective of this research was to examine the intricate interaction between signalling cascades, cellular responses, and extracellular matrix (ECM) dynamics that comprise the wound healing process of dental pulp. We conducted a controlled laboratory analysis of transcriptomic landscape of dental pulp tissues, including both healthy and inflamed samples, utilizing single‐cell RNA sequencing. We identified significant change in cellular composition under carious conditions by analysing samples from 50 patients. Specifically, the proportion of immune cells increased from 25% to 40%, while the proportion of fibroblasts decreased from 20% to 10%. A transition towards ECM remodelling and fibrosis was indicated by this change. In addition, substantial increase inexpression of critical genes including COL1A1, FN1, IL‐1B, IL‐6 and TNC was detected, indicating that the extracellular matrix (ECM) was actively remodelled and that a robust inflammatory response was present, both of which are vital for tissue repair. Increased cell–cell interactions among B cells, plasma cells, macrophages and MSCs, and fibroblasts were highlighted in our study, demonstrating the intricate cellular dynamics that occur in response to dental pulp injury. The knowledge gained regarding the cellular and molecular processes underlying pulp wound healing contributed to the advancement of knowledge regarding pulp pathology and regeneration. Moreover, it established a foundation for creation of targeted therapeutic interventions that seek to maximize pulp repair and regeneration. This study represented noteworthy achievement in the field of dental surgery, establishing a solid groundwork for subsequent investigations into regenerative medicine, wound healing, and dental tissue restoration.
First clinical evaluation of the safety and efficacy of tarumase for the debridement of venous leg ulcers
Authors: Fairlamb David M. , Szepeshazi Kinga , Goldsmith David , Danos Peter , Lev‐Tov Hadar , Young Nathan , Hanft Jason , Zelen Charles
Published: February 2024

We report the first clinical evaluation of a new enzymatic wound debridement product containing tarumase in venous leg ulcer patients. As a first‐in‐human study, this was a prospective, open‐label, multi‐centre, dose escalation study across five dose cohorts and involving a total of 43 patients treated three times weekly for up to 4 weeks (12 applications). The primary and secondary endpoints of the study were to assess the systemic safety, local tolerability, and early proof of concept both for wound debridement and healing. Results indicated that the tarumase enzyme was well tolerated when applied topically to wounds, with no indications of systemic absorption, no evidence of antibody generation, and no systemic effects on coagulation pathways. Locally, there was no evidence of pain on application, no local itching, no increases in erythema, oedema, exudate or bleeding and only a few treatment emergent adverse events were reported. As the concentration of tarumase was escalated, trends towards faster and improved effectiveness of wound debridement were observed, especially in patients with significant slough at baseline. Trends towards faster rates of healing were also noted based on observations of increased granulation tissue, increased linear healing and reduction in surface area over the 4‐week treatment period.
Remote visits to address loneliness for people living with dementia in care homes: A descriptive qualitative study of visitors' perceptions
Authors: Barsan Kelti , Swindle Jennifer , Boscart Veronique M. , Chacinsky Dorothy , Hoben Matthias , Hopper Tammy , McGilton Katherine , O'Rourke Hannah M.
Published: February 2024

Aims

To assess visitors' perceptions of the benefits and challenges related to engaging in a remote visit intervention, which was designed to address the loneliness of people living with moderate to severe dementia in care homes.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

Twenty‐four people living with dementia in care homes in Canada and their family and friends (i.e., remote visitors) took part in facilitated remote visits in 2021. Each person living with dementia received scheduled visits for 30–60 min per week for 6 weeks. Participants chose to complete one longer visit, or multiple shorter visits, per week. Twenty remote visitors participated in semi‐structured interviews after six weeks to discuss their perspectives on the effectiveness, benefits and challenges of the program in relation to addressing experiences of loneliness of the person living with dementia. Conventional content analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results

We describe three themes and several sub‐themes. Themes support the use of remote visits to enhance, rather than replace, in‐person visits; the benefits of remote visits for the person living with dementia and their remote visitors; and the conditions that lead to a successful remote visit.

Conclusion

Remote visitors reported that facilitated visits had positive effects for both visitors and people living with dementia with respect to loneliness, communication, relationships, and social connection.

Implications for Patient Care

Clinicians can consider the factors that contributed to positive experiences of remote visits. The factors include individualized, facilitated visits that were flexible, and the use of reliable technology in a supportive, distraction‐free environment.

Impact

Loneliness and social isolation are growing health concerns. When experienced by people living with dementia residing in long‐term care homes, loneliness and social isolation can result in lower levels of quality of life and well‐being, and higher levels of anxiety and responsive behaviours.

Remote visitors perceived that facilitated remote visits have the potential to address loneliness and improve quality of life for people living with dementia and also offer social support to remote visitors.

The findings can impact clinician practice by guiding the use of remote visits in care homes, and inform future intervention research to evaluate the effectiveness of remote visits for people living with dementia and their remote visitors.

Reporting Method

This manuscript adheres to the relevant EQUATOR guidelines (the Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research or COREQ).

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
The impact of supraventricular arrhythmias on the outcomes of guideline‐compliant implantable cardioverter defibrillator programming
Authors: Teerawongsakul Padoemwut , Ananwattanasuk Teetouch , Chokesuwattanaskul Ronpichai , Shah Muazzum , Lathkar‐Pradhan Sangeeta , Barham Waseem , Oral Hakan , Thakur Ranjan K. , Jongnarangsin Krit , Tanawuttiwat Tanyanan
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Several implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD) programming strategies are applied to minimize ICD therapy, especially unnecessary therapies from supraventricular arrhythmias (SVA). However, it remains unknown whether these optimal programming recommendations only benefit those with SVAs or have any detrimental effects from delayed therapy on those without SVAs. This study aims to assess the impact of SVA on the outcomes of ICD programming based on 2015 HRS/EHRA/APHRS/SOLAECE expert consensus statement and 2019 focused update on optimal ICD programming and testing guidelines.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent ICD insertion for primary prevention were classified into four groups based on SVA status and ICD programming: (1) guideline‐concordant group (GC) with SVA, (2) GC without SVA, (3) nonguideline concordant group (NGC) with SVA, and (4) NGC without SVA. Cox proportional hazard models were analyzed for freedom from ICD therapies, shock, and mortality.

Results

Seven hundred and seventy‐two patients (median age, 64 years) were enrolled. ICD therapies were the most frequent in NGC with SVA (24.0%), followed by NGC without SVA (19.9%), GC without SVA (11.6%), and GC with SVA (8.1%). Guideline concordant programming was associated with 68% ICD therapy reduction (HR 0.32, p = .007) and 67% ICD shock reduction (HR 0.33, p = .030) in SVA patients and 44% ICD therapy reduction in those without SVA (HR 0.56, p = .030).

Conclusion

Programming ICDs in primary prevention patients based on current guidelines reduces therapy burden without increasing mortality in both SVA and non‐SVA patients. A greater magnitude of reduced ICD therapy was found in those with supraventricular arrhythmias.
The Impact of Military Trauma Exposures on Servicewomen's Pregnancy Outcomes: A Scoping Review
Authors: Manzo Laura L. , Dindinger Rebeccah A. , Batten Janene , Combellick Joan L. , Basile‐Ibrahim Bridget
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Active‐duty servicewomen and veterans make up nearly 20% of the United States military and may experience trauma specific to military service. Military‐specific trauma includes combat deployment and military sexual trauma, exposure to which may result in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The purpose of this scoping review is to examine the extent to which military trauma exposures impact the pregnancy outcomes of active‐duty servicewomen and women veterans.

Methods

A systematic search of OVID MEDLINE, OVID Embase, and OVID PsycINFO from inception to September 25, 2023, identified studies examining associations between military trauma exposures and perinatal outcomes. Of the 614 studies identified, 464 were reviewed for relevance, with 16 meeting inclusion criteria.

Results

Of the 16 included studies, 14 found associations between military trauma exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes including preterm birth, gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, low birth weight, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. The risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes increased with the severity of PTSD, the recency of combat deployment, and repetitive deployment.

Discussion

This scoping review strengthens the link between trauma exposures and adverse pregnancy outcomes for current and former military servicewomen. A gap in the literature persists regarding trauma exposure among active‐duty servicewomen, which differs significantly from women veterans. As mental health conditions are the leading underlying cause of maternal mortality, standardized screening during the perinatal period for military‐specific trauma exposures and PTSD is recommended for this population. Black servicewomen of junior enlisted rank carry disproportionate burdens of PTSD diagnosis and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Comprehensive prenatal and postpartum management may improve perinatal and neonatal outcomes for military servicewomen and provide an innovative approach to reducing existing racial disparities.
Alterations in the multilayer network in patients with rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder
Authors: Lee Dong Ah , Lee Won Hee , Lee Ho‐Joon , Park Kang Min
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to reveal the pathophysiology of isolated rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder (RBD) in patients using multilayer network analysis. Participants eligible for isolated RBD were included and verified via polysomnography. Both iRBD patients and healthy controls underwent brain MRI, including T1‐weighted imaging and diffusion tensor imaging. Grey matter matrix was derived from T1‐weighted images using a morphometric similarity network. White matter matrix was formed from diffusion tensor imaging‐based structural connectivity. Multilayer network analysis of grey and white matter was performed using graph theory. We studied 29 isolated RBD patients and 30 healthy controls. Patients exhibited a higher average overlap degree (27.921 vs. 23.734, p = 0.002) and average multilayer clustering coefficient (0.474 vs. 0.413, p = 0.002) compared with controls. Additionally, several regions showed significant differences in the degree of overlap and multilayer clustering coefficient between patients with isolated RBD and healthy controls at the nodal level. The degree of overlap in the left medial orbitofrontal, left posterior cingulate, and right paracentral nodes and the multilayer clustering coefficients in the left lateral occipital, left rostral middle frontal, right fusiform, right inferior posterior parietal, and right parahippocampal nodes were higher in patients with isolated RBD than in healthy controls. We found alterations in the multilayer network at the global and nodal levels in patients with isolated RBD, and these changes may be associated with the pathophysiology of isolated RBD. Multilayer network analysis can be used widely to explore the mechanisms underlying various neurological disorders.
Structural performance‐based anomaly detection for velocity pulse
Authors: Han Lu , Tao Zhengru
Published: February 2024

Pulse‐like ground motion can cause extreme damage to long‐period structures. An automatic algorithm is proposed to identify pulse‐like ground motions, in which improved anomaly detection is applied and the structural performance is considered. To characterize the intrinsic pulse‐like features, the distance‐based anomaly detection algorithm is improved, and the relative cumulative energy is added to the Manhattan distance. The first application of the anomaly detection algorithm performs well in pulse‐like motion identification. The pulse‐like ground motions are identified according to the performance of typical long‐period engineering structures in Hazus by the improved capacity spectrum method. The method is applied to 214 strong ground motions in the Next Generation Attenuation West 2 database. Comprehensive comparisons of the proposed approach with the wavelet analysis and the energy method are presented to illustrate the significance of the structural performance on the pulse‐like identification method.