bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Universal Republic
Authors: Koenig-Archibugi Mathias
Published: May 2024

Can humanity achieve collective self-government in a highly interdependent world? Catastrophic climate change, biodiversity loss, pandemics, war and displacement, the dangers of nuclear weapons and new technologies, and persistent poverty and inequality are among the global challenges that expose the weaknesses of existing international institutions as well as the profound disparities of power and vulnerability that exist among the world’s people. The Universal Republic: A Realistic Utopia? examines whether a democratic world state is a feasible and desirable solution to the problem of establishing effective and just governance on the planet we share. While this question has haunted thinkers and doers for centuries, this book opens up novel perspectives by putting the powerful methods and rich data of contemporary social science into the service of a systematic analysis of several key dimensions of the broader theme. The first part shows why a democratic world state—a universal republic—is possible: why it can be achieved, and how it can endure without generating a frightful global despotism. The second part of the book shows why the universal republic is desirable, by exploring how it can help bring under our collective control the persistent sources of coercion, harm, and other processes that affect us deeply across national borders. By combining insights from political philosophy and empirical political science, this work sheds new light on a crucial question of our time: how to bring about a more democratic world.
Arguments on desirability
Authors: Koenig-Archibugi Mathias
Published: May 2024

The first section of the chapter draws on the existing philosophical literature to formulate a set of normative postulates and provide a framework for assessing the legitimacy of global political orders. It discusses the types of behaviour that have a problematic impact on autonomy and thus require regulation through democratically approved laws and accountable agencies, and the question of whether autonomy-affecting behaviour requires regulation only when it occurs in reality or also if it could occur potentially. The second section employs the analytical framework to examine various empirical facts about the world, concluding that such facts require a global extension of democratic governance. The third section discusses how the institutions of a democratic world state can be designed to meet that requirement.
Protein language models enable prediction of polyreactivity of monospecific, bispecific, and heavy-chain-only antibodies
Authors: Yu Xin , Vangjeli Kostika , Prakash Anusha , Chhaya Meha , Stanley Samantha J , Cohen Noah , Huang Lili
Published: May 2024

Background

Early assessment of antibody off-target binding is essential for mitigating developability risks such as fast clearance, reduced efficacy, toxicity, and immunogenicity. The baculovirus particle (BVP) binding assay has been widely utilized to evaluate polyreactivity of antibodies. As a complementary approach, computational prediction of polyreactivity is desirable for counter-screening antibodies from in silico discovery campaigns. However, there is a lack of such models.

Methods

Herein, we present the development of an ensemble of three deep learning models based on two pan-protein foundational protein language models (ESM2 and ProtT5) and an antibody-specific protein language model (PLM) (Antiberty). These models were trained in a transfer learning network to predict the outcomes in the BVP assay and the bovine serum albumin binding assay, which was developed as a complement to the BVP assay. The training was conducted on a large dataset of antibody sequences augmented with experimental conditions, which were collected through a highly efficient application system.

Results

The resulting models demonstrated robust performance on canonical mAbs (monospecific with heavy and light chain), bispecific Abs, and single-domain Fc (VHH-Fc). PLMs outperformed a model built using molecular descriptors calculated from AlphaFold 2 predicted structures. Embeddings from the antibody-specific and foundational PLMs resulted in similar performance.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this represents the first application of PLMs to predict assay data on bispecifics and VHH-Fcs.
Surgical and multimodal treatment of metastatic oesophageal cancer: retrospective cohort study
Authors: Knipper Karl , Lemties Julian , Krey Thaddaeus , Lyu Su Ir , Wirsik Naita M , Schiffmann Lars M , Fuchs Hans F , Gebauer Florian , Schröder Wolfgang , Popp Felix C , Quaas Alexander , Schlößer Hans A , Bruns Christiane J , Schmidt Thomas
Published: May 2024

Background

In contrast to the well-established multimodal therapy for localized oesophageal cancer, the metastatic stage is commonly treated only with systemic therapy as current international guidelines recommend. However, evidence suggesting that multimodal therapy including surgery could benefit selected patients with metastasized oesophageal cancer is increasing. The aim of this study was to investigate the survival of patients diagnosed with metastatic oesophageal cancer after different treatment regimens.

Methods

This was a retrospective single-centre study of patients with adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma of the oesophagus with synchronous or metachronous metastases who underwent Ivor Lewis oesophagectomy between 2010 and 2021. Each patient received an individual treatment for their metastatic burden based on an interdisciplinary tumour board conference. Survival differences between different treatments were assessed using the Kaplan–Meier method, as well as univariable and multivariable Cox regression models.

Results

Out of 1791 patients undergoing Ivor Lewis oesophagectomy, 235 patients diagnosed with metastases were included. Of all of the included patients, 42 (17.9%) only underwent surgical resection of their metastatic disease, 37 (15.7%) underwent multimodal therapy including surgery, 78 (33.2%) received chemotherapy alone, 49 (20.9%) received other therapies, and 29 (12.3%) received best supportive care. Patients who underwent resection or multimodal therapy including surgery of their metastatic burden showed superior overall survival compared with chemotherapy alone (median overall survival of 19.0, 18.0, and 11.0 months respectively) (P < 0.001). This was confirmed in subcohorts of patients with metachronous solid-organ metastases and with a single metastasis. In multivariable analyses, resection with or without multimodal therapy was an independent factor for favourable survival.

Conclusion

Surgical resection could be a feasible treatment option for metastasized oesophageal cancer, improving survival in selected patients. Further prospective randomized studies are needed to confirm these findings and define reliable selection criteria.
Using the Age-Friendly Environment Framework to Assess Advance Care Planning Factors Among Older Adults With Limited Income: A Cross-Sectional, Descriptive Survey Study
Authors: Kimpel Christine Cleary , Dietrich Mary S , Lauderdale Jana , Schlundt David G , Maxwell Cathy A
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives

The World Health Organization created the Age-Friendly Environment (AFE) framework to design communities that support healthy aging and equitable decision making. This framework’s resource domains may account for disparately lower advance care planning (ACP) among older adults with limited incomes compared to those with high incomes. We aimed to describe and examine associations of AFE factors with ACP.

Research Design and Methods

We recruited and conducted cross-sectional surveys among older adults with limited incomes in 7 community-based settings in Nashville, TN. ACP and AFE item scales were dichotomized and analyzed with unadjusted phi correlation coefficients.

Results

Survey participants (N = 100) included 59 women, 70 Black/African American, and 70 ≥60 years old. Most participants agreed that their community was age friendly (≥58%) and varied in ACP participation (22%–67%). Participants who perceived easy travel and service access and sufficient social isolation outreach were more likely to have had family or doctor quality-of-life discussions (phi = 0.22–0.29, p < .05). Having a healthcare decision maker was positively associated with age-friendly travel, housing, and meet-up places (phi = 0.20–0.26, p < .05).

Discussion and Implications

The AFE framework is useful for exploring the environmental factors of ACP, but further research is warranted to identify specific and immediate resources to support successful ACP among populations with socioeconomic disadvantage.
Questions About Aging and Later Life on Quora
Authors: Ng Reuben , Indran Nicole
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives

Gerontologists have yet to explore the types of questions individuals have about later life. Analyzing questions offers a unique perspective on how individuals make sense of age-related issues. Specifically, questions require people to articulate specific inquiries or doubts, thus providing an unfiltered glimpse into the public’s concerns and priorities vis-à-vis aging. We conduct a content analysis of questions posted on Quora that pertain to later life.

Research Design and Methods

We compiled 2,950 questions posted across four topics on Quora: “Aging,” “Senior Citizens,” “Elders” and “Older People.” After applying our exclusion criteria, 658 questions were left for content analysis. These questions received more than 250 million views. Both deductive and inductive approaches guided the qualitative analysis.

Results

Five themes emerged from the analysis. The biggest theme (30%; N = 195) dealt with ‘Practical Concerns’ (Theme 1). The next biggest theme (29%; N = 191) was about “Health and Well-Being” (Theme 2). Theme 3 was about the ‘Prolongation of Youth’ (16%; N = 110) and Theme 4 was about the ‘Science of Aging’ (15%; N = 97). Theme 5 covered ‘Existential Concerns’ (10%; N = 65).

Discussion and Implications

There is a need to address concerns that the public has about aging, particularly those involving practical issues and health. Growing old is unavoidable and with the population aging at a rapid pace, assuaging such concerns is of paramount importance. By doing so, individuals can approach the aging process with greater clarity and an elevated sense of empowerment.
Non-commutative Barge-Ghys Quasimorphisms
Authors: Brandenbursky Michael , Verbitsky Misha
Published: May 2024

A (non-commutative) Ulam quasimorphism is a map $q$ from a group $\Gamma $ to a topological group $G$ such that $q(xy)q(y)^{-1}q(x)^{-1}$ belongs to a fixed compact subset of $G$. Generalizing the construction of Barge and Ghys, we build a family of quasimorphisms on a fundamental group of a closed manifold $M$ of negative sectional curvature, taking values in an arbitrary Lie group. This construction, which generalizes the Barge-Ghys quasimorphisms, associates a quasimorphism to any principal $G$-bundle with connection on $M$. Kapovich and Fujiwara have shown that all quasimorphisms taking values in a discrete group can be constructed from group homomorphisms and quasimorphisms taking values in a commutative group. We construct Barge-Ghys type quasimorphisms taking prescribed values on a given subset in $\Gamma $, producing counterexamples to the Kapovich and Fujiwara theorem for quasimorphisms taking values in a Lie group. Our construction also generalizes a result proven by D. Kazhdan in his paper “On $\varepsilon $-representations”. Kazhdan has proved that for any $\varepsilon>0$, there exists an $\varepsilon $-representation of the fundamental group of a Riemann surface of genus 2 which cannot be $1/10$-approximated by a representation. We generalize his result by constructing an $\varepsilon $-representation of the fundamental group of a closed manifold of negative sectional curvature taking values in an arbitrary Lie group.
Democratic Ties That Bind? US–China Conflict and Foreign Policy Opinion in Japan and Korea
Authors: Bae Joonbum , Lim Sijeong
Published: May 2024

While the Biden administration has framed US–China relations as part of a broader contest between democracy and autocracy, the potential international repercussions of this stance remain unclear. How will other democracies and, in particular, the citizens of key democratic US allies respond to a world characterized by increasing rivalry between dictatorships and democracies? We seek to answer this question through survey experiments in Japan and South Korea. We randomly assign information to respondents, highlighting the differences in democracy and human rights practices in the US–China relationship. Despite prior research and recent US policy documents suggesting that increasing tension over democracy and human rights in US–China relations will lead to democratic US allies moving even closer to the United States, our findings diverge from this expectation. When provided with information about this tension, the level of support for more cooperation with Washington decreases in both Japan and Korea. Our findings point to the need to revisit an assumption in much of the academic literature: Given a choice between cooperation with authoritarian and democratic countries in conflict, democracies—and their publics—will gravitate toward the latter.
Forum: Introspective Journeys and Lessons Learned: Narratives of Self-Care in Academia
Authors: Ramos Jennifer M , Gokcek Gigi , Deciancio Melisa , Garriga Ana Carolina , Haynes Eboni Nola , Scalera Elliott Jamie , Valença Marcelo , Skonieczny Amy , Fattore Christina
Published: May 2024

Given the realities of external pressures on our daily lives, work-life balance is important now more than ever. Although we often advocate for work-life balance, are we equipped with the appropriate tools and an adequate support network to handle what life might throw at us? How do we continue to be productive when dealing with distressing matters that we seemingly have little control over? Contributors from different areas of the world, with a diversity of voices, offer their perspectives on how to navigate life’s obstacles while continuing to meet the expectations of departments, universities, and the profession to achieve career success and fulfillment. This forum highlights authors at different career stages, who have lived through a myriad of experiences including singleness/dating, marriage, pregnancy, parenting, serving as a caretaker, the death of a loved one, toxic work environment, and personal health to share their experiences and provide insights on how to cope with adversity at any point in one’s academic career.
A randomized controlled trial of the effect of raloxifene plus cholecalciferol versus cholecalciferol alone on bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with osteopenia
Authors: Shin Sungjae , Hong Namki , Rhee Yumie
Published: May 2024

Raloxifene increases lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) and lowers vertebral fracture risk in patients with osteoporosis. However, few prospective clinical trials have studied its efficacy in postmenopausal women with osteopenia. This study investigated the efficacy of raloxifene in postmenopausal women with osteopenia. An investigator-initiated, randomized, open-label, prospective, single-center trial was conducted in 112 postmenopausal women with osteopenia. Osteopenia was defined based on the lowest BMD T-score in the lumbar spine, femoral neck, or total hip (−2.5 < lowest T-score < −1.0). Participants were randomly assigned to receive raloxifene 60 mg/day plus cholecalciferol 800 IU/day (RalD) or cholecalciferol 800 IU/day (VitD) for 48 wk. At baseline, mean age (63.1 ± 6.8 yr) did not differ between the two groups. However, in the RalD group, mean body mass index (BMI) and baseline T-score were lower, while 25-hydroxyvitamin D level was higher. At 48 wk, the RalD group showed a greater increase in lumbar spine BMD (RalD vs. VitD; 2.6% vs. −0.6%, P =.005) and attenuated the total hip BMD loss (−0.3% vs. −2.9%, P = .003). The effect of raloxifene on the lumbar spine remained significant after adjustment for age, BMI, baseline BMD T-score, and other covariates (adjusted β: +3.05 vs. VitD, P =.015). In subgroup analysis, the difference in lumbar spine BMD between the RalD and VitD groups was robust in those with severe osteopenia group (lowest T-score ≤ −2.0). Raloxifene plus cholecalciferol significantly improved lumbar spine BMD and attenuated total hip BMD loss compared with cholecalciferol alone, with a more robust effect in severe osteopenia.

Clinical trial registration: The trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05386784).
Development of silicon-on-insulator direct electron detector with analog memories in pixels for sub-microsecond imaging
Authors: Ishida Takafumi , Sugie Kosei , Miyoshi Toshinobu , Ishida Yuichi , Saitoh Koh , Arai Yasuo , Kuwahara Makoto
Published: May 2024

We have developed a high-speed recordable direct electron detector based on silicon-on-insulator technology. The detector has 16 analog memories in each pixel to record 16 images with sub-microsecond temporal resolution. A dedicated data acquisition system has also been developed to display and record the results on a personal computer. The performance of the direct electron detector as an image sensor is evaluated under electron irradiation with an energy of 30 keV in a low-voltage transmission electron microscope equipped with a photocathode electron gun. We demonstrate that the detector can record images at an exposure time of 100 ns and an interval of 900 ns.
Platelet-rich plasma therapy for postoperative esophageal fistula in a pediatric patient
Authors: Di Mitri Marco , Chiastra Greta , Collautti Edoardo , D’Antonio Simone , Buzzi Marina , Bisanti Cristian , Di Carmine Annalisa , Catania Vincenzo , Libri Michele , Gargano Tommaso , Lima Mario
Published: May 2024

Postoperative management of esophagocutaneous fistulas in pediatric patients is challenging, often resulting in prolonged hospitalization and increased morbidity. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a promising adjunctive treatment for such complications. We present the case of a 7-month-old infant who developed an esophago-cutaneous fistula following esophagocoloplasty for esophageal atresia type A. Despite initial conservative management, the fistula persisted, prompting the application of PRP gel derived from umbilical cord blood. After four applications of PRP, complete closure of the fistula was achieved, leading to both functional and aesthetic results. This case highlights the potential of PRP in managing refractory postoperative esophageal fistulas in pediatric patients and underscores the need for further research to optimize treatment protocols and validate its efficacy for this sort of complications
Giant pleomorphic lipoma in patient with multiple osteochondromatosis
Authors: Thorpe Benjamin , Lage Paloma , Beiras Carolina , Bargas-Osorio Kelly , Canseco Francisco
Published: May 2024

Pleomorphic lipomas are infrequent soft tissue tumours with pseudosarcomatous behaviour. Their polymorphism provides them certain characteristics that may resemble malignancy, which may mislead the initial diagnosis. The presented case report is a 45-year-old man with a giant growing tumour on the left cervicoscapular region initially categorised as a liposarcoma by magnetic resonance with a final confirmed diagnosis of pleomorphic lipoma after the surgical resection and the examination of the pathologist. The patient presented important functional restriction of the upper left extremity, which decreased after surgical resection, improving the quality of life.
G-quadruplex propensity in H. neanderthalensis, H. sapiens and Denisovans mitochondrial genomes
Authors: Brázda Václav , Šislerová Lucie , Cucchiarini Anne , Mergny Jean-Louis
Published: May 2024

Current methods of processing archaeological samples combined with advances in sequencing methods lead to disclosure of a large part of H. neanderthalensis and Denisovans genetic information. It is hardly surprising that the genome variability between modern humans, Denisovans and H. neanderthalensis is relatively limited. Genomic studies may provide insight on the metabolism of extinct human species or lineages. Detailed analysis of G-quadruplex sequences in H. neanderthalensis and Denisovans mitochondrial DNA showed us interesting features. Relatively similar patterns in mitochondrial DNA are found compared to modern humans, with one notable exception for H. neanderthalensis. An interesting difference between H. neanderthalensis and H. sapiens corresponds to a motif found in the D-loop region of mtDNA, which is responsible for mitochondrial DNA replication. This area is directly responsible for the number of mitochondria and consequently for the efficient energy metabolism of cell. H. neanderthalensis harbor a long uninterrupted run of guanines in this region, which may cause problems for replication, in contrast with H. sapiens, for which this run is generally shorter and interrupted. One may propose that the predominant H. sapiens motif provided a selective advantage for modern humans regarding mtDNA replication and function.
Landlord CVAs
Authors: Asimacopoulos Kon , Watterson Adam , Fleming Richard , Kennedy Clare , Butters Dan , Wright Will
Published: May 2024

This chapter focuses on the phases and development of CVAs proposed by companies as a means of modifying or compromising landlord claims. It also discusses the use of tenant companies' CVAs that are part of a listed group, where a parent company's shares are registered on a regulated stock exchange. Due to the Global Financial Crisis and subsequent global recession, traditional retail business models were experiencing the impact of change in the industry in line with the rapid development of internet technologies and digitisation of businesses. Moreover, numerous landlord CVAs successfully implemented by public companies are listed on stock exchanges.
Semileptonic W Decay to the B Meson with Lepton Pairs in Heavy Quark Effective Theory Factorization up to $\mathcal {O}(\alpha _s)$
Authors: Ishaq Saadi , Zafar Sajawal , Rehman Abdur , Ahmed Ishtiaq
Published: May 2024

Motivated by the study of heavy–light meson production within the framework of heavy quark effective theory (HQET) factorization, we extend the factorization formalism for a rather complicated process W+ → B+ℓ+ℓ− in the limit of a nonzero invariant squared mass of the dilepton, q2, at the lowest order in 1/mb up to $\mathcal {O}(\alpha _s)$. The purpose of the current study is to extend the HQET factorization formula for the W+ → B+ℓ+ℓ− process and subsequently compute the form factors for this channel up to next-to-leading-order corrections in αs. We explicitly show that the amplitude of the W+ → B+ℓ+ℓ− process can also be factorized into a convolution between the perturbatively calculable hard-scattering kernel and the nonperturbative yet universal light-cone distribution amplitude (LCDA) defined in HQET. The validity of the HQET factorization depends on the assumed scale hierarchy mW ∼ mb ≫ ΛQCD. Within the HQET framework, we evaluate the form factors associated with the W+ → B+ℓ+ℓ− process, providing insights into its phenomenology. In addition, we also perform an exploratory phenomenological study on W+ → B+ℓ+ℓ− by employing an exponential model for the LCDAs for the B+ meson. Our findings reveal that the branching ratio for W+ → B+ℓ+ℓ− is below 10−10. Although the branching ratios are small, this channel in high-luminosity LHC experiments may serve to further constrain the value of λB.
Should We Prevent Off-Label Drug Prescriptions? Empirical Evidence from France
Authors: Tunçel Tuba
Published: May 2024

After a drug obtains marketing authorisation, the usage depends on the regulation of off-label prescriptions for unapproved indications. We investigate the impact of off-label prescription regulation on physicians’ behaviour, patients’ health, treatment costs, and pharmaceutical firms’ pricing with a structural demand and supply model. Exploiting rich panel data on physicians’ activities and office visits in France over 9 years, we use a model of prescription choice and health outcomes with unobserved patient-level heterogeneity. We identify the demand for on-label and off-label drugs and the effect of prescription choice on health outcomes. On the supply side, we use a Nash-in-Nash bargaining model between the government and the pharmaceutical companies that allows the partial identification of the marginal costs of drugs. Counterfactual simulations show that when we remove off-label drugs from the choice set of physicians, substitution to on-label drugs at constant prices would lead to an increase of 15% in the expenditure on prescription drugs. If we allow bargaining adjustment on drug prices under a ban on off-label prescriptions, the ban would further increase the treatment cost, by 26%, without improving health outcomes.
Evaluating Treatments for the Protection of Grapevine Pruning Wounds from Natural Infection by Trunk Disease Fungi
Authors: Leal Catarina , Bujanda Rebeca , López-Manzanares Beatriz , Ojeda Sonia , Berbegal Mónica , Villa-Llop Ana , Santesteban Luis Gonzaga , Palacios Julian , Gramaje David
Published: May 2024

Infection of grapevines by fungal pathogens causing grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs) primarily arises from annual pruning wounds made during the dormant season. While various studies have showcased the efficacy of products in shielding pruning wounds against GTD infections, most of these investigations hinge on artificial pathogen inoculations, which may not faithfully mirror real field conditions. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of various liquid formulation fungicides (pyraclostrobin + boscalid) and paste treatments, as well as biological control agents (BCA: Trichoderma atroviride SC1, T. atroviride I-1237, and T. asperellum ICC012 + T. gamsii ICC080), for their potential to prevent natural infection of grapevine pruning wounds by trunk disease fungi in two field trials located in Samaniego (Northern Spain) and Madiran (Southern France) over three growing seasons. Wound treatments were applied immediately after pruning in February. One year after pruning, canes were harvested from vines and brought to the laboratory for assessment of Trichoderma spp. and fungal trunk pathogens. More than 1,200 fungal isolates associated with five GTDs (esca, Botryosphaeria, Diaporthe and Eutypa diebacks, and Cytospora canker) were collected from the two vineyards each growing season. Our findings reveal that none of the products under investigation exhibited complete effectiveness against all the GTDs. The efficacy of these products was particularly influenced by the specific year of study. A notable exception was observed with the biocontrol agent T. atroviride I-1237, which consistently demonstrated effectiveness against Botryosphaeria dieback infections throughout each year of the study, irrespective of the location. The remaining products exhibited efficacy in specific years or locations against particular diseases, with the physical barrier (paste) showing the least overall effectiveness. The recovery rates of Trichoderma spp. in treated plants were highly variable, ranging from 17 to 100%, with both strains of T. atroviride yielding the highest isolation rates. This study underscores the importance of customizing treatments for specific diseases, taking into account the influence of environmental factors for BCA applications.
Prevalence and Diversity of Aphid-Vectored Yellow Dwarf Viruses in Oregon Perennial Grass Seed Crops
Authors: Rivedal Hannah M. , Dorman Seth J. , Temple Todd N. , Lockwood Thomas C. , Walenta Darrin L. , Oshiro Chloe , Cruse Casey , Starchvick Robert J. , Woodward Makenna M. , Anderson Nicole P.
Published: May 2024

Oregon produces 70% of the world's cool-season grass seed, many species of which are susceptible to yellow dwarf viruses (YDVs). This virus complex has numerous defined virus species vectored by multiple aphid species. The diversity of YDVs associated with Oregon grass seed production has not been determined and is needed to provide insight to develop a risk prediction framework and improve management guidelines to mitigate disease severity. Commercial grass seed fields ( n = 57) across the Willamette Valley and central and eastern Oregon were surveyed across 2021 and 2022 to determine the incidence and diversity of YDVs associated with crop species (perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass) and the abundance and incidence of YDVs associated with aphid vectors. Virus incidence and diversity were determined using multiple previously published endpoint reverse-transcriptase multiplexes specific for YDV genera and species. Across commercial grass seed crop hosts and growing seasons, 82% of fields had at least one plant sample detection of a luteovirus-type YDV, and 65% had at least one detection of a polerovirus-type YDV. Both perennial ryegrass and tall fescue crops hosted diverse YDV populations, which was especially apparent during the spring sampling season, when similarly diverse YDV communities were found associated with alate aphids. Only polerovirus-type YDVs were detected in Kentucky bluegrass, reflecting a variable landscape compared to Oregon's western Willamette Valley. This study provides a current understanding of the spatial composition and diversity of the aphid–YDV virus–vector system in grasses grown for seed in Oregon.

[Formula: see text] The author(s) have dedicated the work to the public domain under the Creative Commons CC0 “No Rights Reserved” license by waiving all of his or her rights to the work worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law, 2024.
Biological sex differences in pain response and functional outcomes after orthopedic surgery procedures: a scoping review
Authors: Allen Jack , Zumwalt Mimi
Published: May 2024

Background/Objective:

Post-operative pain is frequently experienced by patients following orthopedic surgery procedures despite improved surgical technology and anesthesia techniques. The intensity of postoperative pain is multifactorial and biological sex is a key component of pain analysis. In this review article, the authors examine the impact of biological sex on post-operative pain scores and surgical outcomes following orthopedic surgery procedures.

Methods:

A keyword-based search of the National Library of Medicine and the National Center for Biotechnology Information was utilized for this review. Through our literature search we identified 56 articles related to the impact of sex on post-operative pain. These studies were then tabulated and analyzed in detail to provide data for this review article.

Results:

There are a variety of factors that influence surgical outcomes in orthopedics including age, comorbidities, and biological sex. The reviewed studies found that women report higher pain scores in the initial 6 wk post-operative period after total joint arthroplasty, upper extremity surgery, spine surgery, and general orthopedic surgery. Female sex was also associated with higher opioid consumption following surgery. In addition, men tend to have better surgical outcomes following total joint arthroplasty, upper extremity procedures, and spine surgery.

Discussion/Conclusion:

Biological differences including hormones, anatomy, and psychosocial factors influence post-operative pain differences between sexes. Little data is available on orthopedic surgery post-operative pain scores between the sexes and therefore further research is needed. Biological sex must be considered when evaluating patient wellness following orthopedic surgery procedures.
Nanostructured carrier systems facilitating enhanced delivery of 8-(4-Amino-1 methylbutylamino)-6 methoxyquinoline: a narrative review
Authors: Abbas Ghulam H.
Published: May 2024

8-(4-Amino-1-methylbutylamino)-6-methoxyquinoline, an inhibitor of protozoan growth, presents an opportunity to explore nanostructured drug carriers to overcome these challenges. By encapsulating this compound in nanocarriers such as liposomes, dendrimers or polymeric nanoparticles, you can improve its solubility and protect it from degradation, thereby increasing circulation time and accumulation at the target site. This review will explore various nanostructured carriers for 8-(4-Amino-1-methylbutylamino)-6-methoxyquinoline, analyze their properties, and discuss how nanotechnology can enhance the efficacy of this antiparasitic agent. With the prevalence of parasitic diseases around the globe nanomedicine may provide the solution by enabling more effective delivery of compounds like 8-(4-Amino-1-methylbutylamino)-6-methoxyquinoline.
Diagnosis and treatment of syphilitic uveitis: Taiwan experts consensus
Authors: Chen Yen-Chih , Lin Chang-Ping , Yang Chang-Hao , Hwang Yih-Shiou , Cheng Cheng-Kuo , Hwang De-Kuang , Yeh Po-Ting , Hsu Yung-Ray , Sheu Shwu-Jiuan , Chen San-Ni
Published: May 2024

A recent resurgence in the incidence of syphilis has sparked a new interest in this old disease. Syphilitic uveitis remains a challenging disease, among the variable syphilis infections, due to the diagnostic complexity and the wide clinical manifestations. Here, we provide recommendations regarding clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment for patients with syphilitic uveitis in Taiwan based on an expert meeting and consensus from experienced uveitis specialists.
Addressing the Healthcare Needs of Transgender Youth in the Emergency Department
Authors: Mazzawi Malek , Maxwell Angela
Published: May 2024

Transgender is a term that refers to individuals who identify with a gender that is different from the sex assigned to them at birth. In addition to gender dysphoria, many transgender youth experience a number of challenges including homelessness, violence, and mental health problems such as suicidality. Although transgender people represent a growing subset of the population, most providers receive very little training specific to the unique healthcare needs of transgender patients. In this CME review article, we define relevant terminology then discuss best practices for clinical encounters involving transgender youth in the emergency department. Finally, we review gender-affirming care including behavioral modifications, hormones, and surgeries for transfeminine and transmasculine individuals.
A NOVEL CIRC_SUPT3/MIR-185-5P/G3BP2 CERNA NETWORK REGULATES HIGH GLUCOSE–INDUCED INJURY IN MOUSE PODOCYTE MPC5 CELLS
Authors: Li Yuting , Wang Wenyan , Liu Na , Wang Kexie , Ren Fei
Published: May 2024

Background: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a complication of diabetes that is the leading cause of death in diabetic patients. Circular RNA (circRNA) is a hot topic in the research of human diseases. However, the role of circ_Supt3 in DN remains unclear. Methods: High glucose (HG) treatment of mouse podocyte (MPC5) cells to mimic DN cell injury. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect the expression of circ_Supt3, microRNA-185-5p (miR-185-5p), and GTPase-activating protein-binding protein 2 (G3bp2). 5-Ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) and 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assays were used to examine cell proliferation, and flow cytometry was used to detect cell apoptosis. Western blot was used to assess the levels of relative proteins. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay detected the inflammation cytokines. Dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays were used to confirm the interaction of miR-185-5p and circ_Supt3 or G3bp2. Results: Circ_Supt3 and G3bp2 were highly expressed and miR-185-5p expression was diminished in DN mice. HG treatment inhibited cell proliferation and accelerated cell apoptosis and inflammation response, and the knockdown of circ_Supt3 reversed these effects. Bioinformatics predicted that circ_Supt3 contained a binding site for miR-185-5p, and G3bp2 was a direct target of miR-185-5p. Circ_Supt3 regulated G3bp2 expression by miR-185-5p. Moreover, the circ_Supt3/miR-185-5p/G3bp2 axis regulated the cell behavior of HG-induced MPC5 cells. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the knockdown of circ_Supt3 protects mouse MPC5 cells against HG-induced cell injury via the miR-185-5p/G3bp2 axis.
PLASMA DYNAMICS OF NEUTROPHIL EXTRACELLULAR TRAPS AND CELL-FREE DNA IN SEPTIC AND NONSEPTIC VASOPLEGIC SHOCK: A PROSPECTIVE COMPARATIVE OBSERVATIONAL COHORT STUDY
Authors: Coupland Lucy A. , Spiro Calista , Quah Benjamin J-C. , Orlov Anna , Browne Anna , O’Meara Connor H. , Kang Chang-Won , Frost Steve , Schulz Luis , Lombardo Lien , Parish Christopher R. , Aneman Anders
Published: May 2024

Background: The association between neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and the requirement for vasopressor and inotropic support in vasoplegic shock is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the dynamics of plasma levels of NETs and cell-free DNA (cfDNA) up to 48 h after the admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) for management of vasoplegic shock of infectious (SEPSIS) or noninfectious (following cardiac surgery, CARDIAC) origin. Methods: This is a prospective, observational study of NETs and cfDNA plasma levels at 0H (admission) and then at 12H, 24H, and 48H in SEPSIS and CARDIAC patients. The vasopressor inotropic score (VIS), the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, and time spent with invasive ventilation, in ICU and in hospital, were recorded. Associations between NETs/cfDNA and VIS and SOFA were analyzed by Spearman’s correlation (rho), and between NETs/cfDNA and ventilation/ICU/hospitalization times by generalized linear regression. Results: Both NETs and cfDNA remained elevated over 48 h in SEPSIS (n = 46) and CARDIAC (n = 30) patients, with time-weighted average concentrations greatest in SEPSIS (NETs median difference 0.06 [0.02–0.11], P = 0.005; cfDNA median difference 0.48 [0.20–1.02], P < 0.001). The VIS correlated to NETs (rho = 0.3–0.60 in SEPSIS, P < 0.01, rho = 0.36–0.57 in CARDIAC, P ≤ 0.01) and cfDNA (rho = 0.40–0.56 in SEPSIS, P < 0.01, rho = 0.38–0.47 in CARDIAC, P < 0.05). NETs correlated with SOFA. Neither NETs nor cfDNA were independently associated with ventilator/ICU/hospitalization times. Conclusion: Plasma levels of NETs and cfDNA correlated with the dose of vasopressors and inotropes administered over 48 h in patients with vasoplegic shock from sepsis or following cardiac surgery. NETs levels also correlated with organ dysfunction. These findings suggest that similar mechanisms involving release of NETs are involved in the pathophysiology of vasoplegic shock irrespective of an infectious or noninfectious etiology.
Worth the Risk? Standardized Screening to Identify Substance Use Among Patients Prior to Surgery
Authors: Cooley Samantha , Bicket Mark C , Mohammed Hanan , Lai Yenling , Evilsizer Sarah , Brummett Chad M , Waljee Jennifer F.
Published: May 2024

Objective:

We sought to compare identification of unhealthy substance use before surgery using The Tobacco, Alcohol, Prescription Medication, and Other Substance Use (TAPS), a standardized 4-item instrument, versus routine clinical documentation in the electronic medical record (EHR).

Summary Background Data:

Over 20% of individuals exhibit unhealthy substance use before elective surgery. Routine EHR documentation is often based on non-standard questions that may not fully capture the extent of substance use and is subject to bias. In contrast, brief standardized screening could provide a more efficient and systematic approach.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study among adults (≥18 y) at a preoperative clinic from August to September, 2021. Positive screens for unhealthy substances by TAPS were compared to data from the EHR. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy were reported. Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROCs) were used to assess diagnostic ability. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the predictors of positive screens by TAPS.

Results:

The cohort included 240 surgical patients. TAPS screening identified significantly more positive screens than EHR documentation (43.3% vs. 14.2%). Patients with unhealthy substance use were younger (50.8 vs. 56.7 y; P=0.003), and TAPS revealed alcohol misuse in 30.8% of cases, contrasting with 0% in clinician documentation (P<0.001). Of the 104 TAPS-positive patients, 69.2% were missed by EHR documentation. Sensitivity (31%) and accuracy (AUC=0.65) of clinician documentation for any unhealthy substance use were lower compared to TAPS.

Conclusion:

Standardized TAPS screening detected preoperative unhealthy substance use more frequently than routine clinician documentation, emphasizing the need for integrating standardized measures into surgical practice to ensure safer perioperative care and outcomes.
Treatment adherence rates across different psychiatric disorders and settings: findings from a large patient cohort
Authors: Girone Nicolaja , Cocchi Maddalena , Achilli Francesco , Grechi Edoardo , Vicentini Chiara , Benatti Beatrice , Vismara Matteo , Priori Alberto , Dell’Osso Bernardo
Published: May 2024

Approximately 50% of patients with psychiatric disorders do not fully adhere to the prescribed psychopharmacological therapy, significantly impacting the progression of the disorder and the patient’s quality of life. The present study aimed to assess potential differences in terms of rates and clinical features of treatment adherence in a large cohort of psychiatric patients with different diagnoses attending various psychiatric services. The study included 307 psychiatric patients diagnosed with a primary major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, schizophrenic spectrum disorder, or personality disorder. Patient’s adherence to treatment was evaluated using the Clinician Rating Scale, with a cutoff of at least five defining adherence subgroups. One-third of the sample reported poor medication adherence. A lower rate of adherence emerged among patients with schizophrenic spectrum disorder and bipolar disorder. Subjects with poor adherence were more frequently inpatients and showed higher current substance use, a greater number of previous hospitalizations, and more severe scores at psychopathological assessment compared with patients with positive adherence. Poor adherence was associated with symptom severity and increased rates of relapses and rehospitalizations. In addition, substance use appears to be an unfavorable transdiagnostic factor for treatment adherence.
Genome sequence of the plant-growth-promoting bacterium Bacillus velezensis EU07
Authors: Baysal Ömür , Studholme David J. , Jimenez-Quiros Catherine , Tör Mahmut
Published: May 2024

Many Gram-positive spore-forming rhizobacteria of the genus Bacillus show potential as biocontrol biopesticides that promise improved sustainability and ecological safety in agriculture. Here, we present a draft-quality genome sequence for Bacillus velezensis EU07, which shows growth-promotion in tomato plants and biocontrol against Fusarium head blight. We found that the genome of EU07 is almost identical to that of the commercially used strain QST713, but identified 46 single-nucleotide differences that distinguish these strains from each other. The availability of this genome sequence will facilitate future efforts to unravel the genetic and molecular basis for EU07's beneficial properties.
Cytoduction preserves genetic diversity following plasmid transfer into pooled yeast libraries
Authors: Jhuang Han-Ying , Aggeli Dimitra , Lang Gregory I.
Published: May 2024

Much of our understanding of functional genomics derives from insights gained from large strain libraries including the yeast deletion collection, the GFP and TAP-tagged libraries, QTL mapping populations, among others [1-5]. A limitation of these libraries is that it is not easy to introduce reporters or make genetic perturbations to all strains in these collections. Tools such as Synthetic Genetic Arrays allow for the genetic manipulation of these libraries but are labor intensive and require specialized equipment for high throughput pinning [6]. Manipulating a diverse libraryen masswithout losing diversity remains challenging. Ultimately, this limitation stems from the inefficiency of transformation, which is the standard method for genetic manipulation in yeast. Here, we develop a method that uses cytoduction (mating without nuclear fusion) to transfer plasmids directionally from a “Donor” to a diverse pool of “Recipient” strains. Because cytoduction uses mating, it is a natural process and is orders-of-magnitude more efficient than transformation, enabling the introduction of plasmids into high-diversity libraries with minimal impact on the diversity of the population.
Computer simulations reveal mechanisms of spatio-temporal regulation of DNA replication
Authors: Yousefi Razie , Rowicka Maga
Published: May 2024

The dynamics of DNA replication, activation of replication origins and elongation rate, depend on dNTP in ways that remain poorly understood. Here, we present RepliSim, a probabilistic computer model of DNA replication simulation, which is capable of simulating DNA replication not only in normal conditions, but also during perturbations (e.g. HU treatment) and in mutant cells (here checkpoint deficient yeast cells). We show that different mutations in checkpoint genes, affect the origin activation differently by modulating the stochasticity of firing time and efficiency, regardless of the dNTP levels. The origin activation is less affected by increase in dNTP levels, however it declined drastically during the S phase when the dNTP levels decreased compared to G1 phase. Additionally, we show that the distribution of distances covered by replication forks is influenced not only by average fork progression speed, but also by firing time and fork progression speed stochasticity, while the latter has been neglected in most of the proposed models for DNA replication. These together, opens up new insight to the studies about the dynamics of replication and how it is coordinated during the S-phase.
Unravelling an Efficient O2/Reductant-Dependent Catalytic Route in Heme Peroxygenases for Sustainable Applications
Authors: Deng Di , Jiang Zhihui , Kang Lixin , Liao Langxing , Zhang Xiaodong , Qiao Yuben , Wang Binju , Li Aitao
Published: May 2024

Heme peroxygenases are attractive biocatalysts for incorporating oxygen into the organic molecules using H2O2 as oxygen source under mild conditions. However, their practical applications are hindered by irreversible oxidative inactivation caused by exogenous H2O2 usage. Herein, we report a novel catalytic pathway in heme peroxygenases that relies on O2 and small-molecule reductants such as ascorbate acid (AscA), dehydroascorbic acid (DHA), gallic acid (GA), or pyrogallol (PA) to drive reactions. For reactions of unspecific peroxygenase (UPO) with either AscA or DHA, experimental and computational studies revealed that DHAA (the hydrated form of DHA) is the actual co-substrate responsible for activating oxygen to generate oxyferryl heme (compound I, Cpd I) as the oxygenation species. Subsequently, we demonstrate the universality of this O2/reductant-dependent route across various heme peroxygenases, highlighting its biological significance as monooxygenases. Compared to the conventional H2O2-dependent process, this innovative route can efficiently eliminate the excessive production of H2O2, thereby preventing the heme destruction and related enzyme inactivation. Finally, scale-up reactions were performed for the preparations of chiral, value-added products with unprecedented productivity, underscoring the great synthetic capabilities of the developed peroxygenase technology, which paves the way for sustainable and practical applications in various chemical transformations.