bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcome after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy in Norwood patients before the bidirectional Glenn operation
Authors: Seeber Fabian , Krenner Niklas , Sames-Dolzer Eva , Tulzer Andreas , Srivastava Ishita , Kreuzer Michaela , Mair Roland , Gierlinger Gregor , Nawrozi Mohammad-Paimann , Mair Rudolf
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVES

Patients after the Norwood procedure are prone to postoperative instability. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) can help to overcome short-term organ failure. This retrospective single-centre study examines ECMO weaning, hospital discharge and long-term survival after ECMO therapy between Norwood and bidirectional Glenn palliation as well as risk factors for mortality.

METHODS

In our institution, over 450 Norwood procedures have been performed. Since the introduction of ECMO therapy, 306 Norwood operations took place between 2007 and 2022, involving ECMO in 59 cases before bidirectional Glenn. In 48.3% of cases, ECMO was initiated intraoperatively post-Norwood. Patient outcomes were tracked and mortality risk factors were analysed using uni- and multivariable testing.

RESULTS

ECMO therapy after Norwood (median duration: 5 days; range 0–17 days) saw 31.0% installed under CPR. Weaning was achieved in 46 children (78.0%), with 55.9% discharged home after a median of 45 (36–66) days. Late death occurred in 3 patients after 27, 234 and 1541 days. Currently, 30 children are in a median 4.8 year (3.4–7.7) follow-up. At the time of inquiry, 1 patient awaits bidirectional Glenn, 6 are at stage II palliation, Fontan was completed in 22 and 1 was lost to follow-up post-Norwood. Risk factor analysis revealed dialysis (P < 0.001), cerebral lesions (P = 0.026), longer ECMO duration (P = 0.002), cardiac indication and lower body weight (P = 0.038) as mortality-increasing factors. The 10-year mortality probability after ECMO therapy was 48.5% (95% CI 36.5–62.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

ECMO therapy in critically ill patients after the Norwood operation may significantly improve survival of a patient cohort otherwise forfeited and give the opportunity for successful future-stage operations.
Increased utilization of the hybrid procedure is not associated with improved early survival for newborns with hypoplastic left heart syndrome: a single-centre experience
Authors: Chen Jonathan M , Ittenbach Richard F , Lawrence Kendall M , Hunt Mallory L , Kaplinski Michelle , Mahle Marlene , Fuller Stephanie , Maeda Katsuhide , Nuri Muhammad A K , Gardner Monique M , Mavroudis Constantine D , Mascio Christopher E , Spray Thomas L , Gaynor J William
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVES

The primary objectives were to examine utilization of the Hybrid versus the Norwood procedure for patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome or variants and the impact on hospital mortality. The Hybrid procedure was 1st used at our institution in 2004.

METHODS

Review of all subjects undergoing the Norwood or Hybrid procedure between 1 January 1984 and 31 December 2022. The study period was divided into 8 eras: era 1, 1984–1988; era 2, 1989–1993; era 3, 1994–1998; era 4, 1999–2003; era 5, 2004–2008; era 6, 2009–2014; era 7, 2015–2018 and era 8, 2019–2022. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Mortality rates were computed using standard binomial proportions with 95% confidence intervals. Rates across eras were compared using an ordered logistic regression model with and adjusted using the Tukey–Kramer post-hoc procedure for multiple comparisons. In the risk-modelling phase, logistic regression models were specified and tested.

RESULTS

The Norwood procedure was performed in 1899 subjects, and the Hybrid procedure in 82 subjects. Use of the Hybrid procedure increased in each subsequent era, reaching 30% of subjects in era 8. After adjustment for multiple risk factors, use of the Hybrid procedure was significantly and positively associated with hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the increasing use of the Hybrid procedure, overall mortality for the entire cohort has plateaued. After adjustment for risk factors, use of the Hybrid procedure was significantly and positively associated with mortality compared to the Norwood procedure.
Cardiovascular mortality attributable to dietary risk factors in 54 countries in the WHO European Region from 1990 to 2019: an updated systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study
Authors: Pörschmann Theresa , Meier Toni , Lorkowski Stefan
Published: April 2024

Aims

This study aimed to estimate the association between single dietary risk factors and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in the WHO European Region (WHO ER) by age and sex using the data of the Global Burden of Diseases Study (GBD) from 1990 to 2019.

Methods and results

For this purpose, 13 dietary risks and 13 forms of CVDs were included in the study, and the comparative risk assessment framework of the GBD was used to estimate the deaths attributable to them. The study included four regions, with a total of 54 countries. In 2019, 1.55 million (95 % UI, 1.2-1.9 million) people in the WHO ER died from CVDs attributable to suboptimal diet. Diet-related CVD deaths (DRCDs) accounted for 16.4 % of total deaths and 36.7 % of CVD deaths in 2019. Between 1990 and 2019, there was a DRCDs reduction of 8.1 % and the age-standardized death rate decreased. The deaths were almost equally distributed between women (777 714 deaths) and men (772 519 deaths). The distribution of death numbers between the sexes has changed only slightly over the study period. The largest percentage across the age groups was found in the group 85+ years (32.1 %). Most DRCDs in the WHO ER were caused by a diet low in whole grains (326 755 deaths), followed by a diet low in legumes (232 918 deaths) and a diet high in sodium (193 713 deaths). Overall, 80.3% of deaths were due to ischaemic heart disease, which was the most common cause of death in all countries.

Conclusion

In terms of CVD deaths in the WHO ER, more than every third death is attributable to an unbalanced diet, making the diet one of the most important factors in preventing premature CVD death in the WHO ER.
Physiological and morphological plasticity in response to nitrogen availability of a yeast widely distributed in the open ocean
Authors: Diver Poppy , Ward Ben A , Cunliffe Michael
Published: April 2024

Yeasts are prevalent in the open ocean, yet we have limited understanding of their ecophysiological adaptations, including their response to nitrogen availability, which can have a major role in determining the ecological potential of other planktonic microbes. In this study, we characterized the nitrogen uptake capabilities and growth responses of marine-occurring yeasts. Yeast isolates from the North Atlantic Ocean were screened for growth on diverse nitrogen substrates, and across a concentration gradient of three environmentally relevant nitrogen substrates: nitrate, ammonium, and urea. Three strains grew with enriched nitrate while two did not, demonstrating that nitrate utilization is present but not universal in marine yeasts, consistent with existing knowledge of nonmarine yeast strains. Naganishia diffluens MBA_F0213 modified the key functional trait of cell size in response to nitrogen concentration, suggesting yeast cell morphology changes along chemical gradients in the marine environment. Meta-analysis of the reference DNA barcode in public databases revealed that the genus Naganishia has a global ocean distribution, strengthening the environmental applicability of the culture-based observations. This study provides novel quantitative understanding of the ecophysiological and morphological responses of marine-derived yeasts to variable nitrogen availability in vitro, providing insight into the functional ecology of yeasts within pelagic open ocean environments.
Peripheral Blood Cells From Older Adults Exhibit Sex-Associated Differences in Mitochondrial Function
Authors: Mahapatra Gargi , Gao Zhengrong , Bateman James R , Lockhart Samuel Neal , Bergstrom Jaclyn , Piloso Jemima Elizabeth , Craft Suzanne , Molina Anthony J A
Published: April 2024

Blood-based mitochondrial bioenergetic profiling is a feasible, economical, and minimally invasive approach that can be used to examine mitochondrial function and energy metabolism in human subjects. In this study, we use 2 complementary respirometric techniques to evaluate mitochondrial bioenergetics in both intact and permeabilized peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and platelets to examine sex dimorphism in mitochondrial function among older adults. Employing equal numbers of PBMCs and platelets to assess mitochondrial bioenergetics, we observe significantly higher respiration rates in female compared to male participants. Mitochondrial bioenergetic differences remain significant after controlling for independent parameters including demographic parameters (age, years of education), and cognitive parameters (mPACC5, COGDX). Our study illustrates that circulating blood cells, immune cells in particular, have distinctly different mitochondrial bioenergetic profiles between females and males. These differences should be taken into account as blood-based bioenergetic profiling is now commonly used to understand the role of mitochondrial bioenergetics in human health and aging.
Efficient purging of deleterious mutations contributes to the survival of a rare conifer
Authors: Wang Yi , Yang Yongzhi , Han Zhitong , Li Jialiang , Luo Jian , Yang Heng , Kuang Jingge , Wu Dayu , Wang Shiyang , Tso Sonam , Ju Tsam , Liu Jianquan , Renner Susanne S , Kangshan Mao
Published: April 2024

Cupressaceae is a conifer family rich in plants of horticultural importance, including Cupressus, Chamaecyparis, Juniperus, and Thuja, yet genomic surveys are lacking for this family. Cupressus gigantea, one of the many rare conifers that are threatened by climate change and anthropogenic habitat fragmentation, plays an ever-increasing role in ecotourism in Tibet. To infer how past climate change has shaped the population evolution of this species, we generated a de novo chromosome-scale genome (10.92 Gb) and compared the species’ population history and genetic load with that of a widespread close relative, C. duclouxiana. Our demographic analyses, based on 83 re-sequenced individuals from multiple populations of the two species, revealed a sharp decline of population sizes during the first part of the Quaternary. However, populations of C. duclouxiana then started to recover, while C. gigantea populations continued to decrease until recently. The total genomic diversity of C. gigantea is smaller than that of C. duclouxiana, but contrary to expectations, C. gigantea has fewer highly and mildly deleterious mutations than C. duclouxiana, and simulations and statistical tests support purifying selection during prolonged inbreeding as the explanation. Our results highlight the evolutionary consequences of decreased population size on the genetic burden of a long-lived endangered conifer with large genome size and suggest that genetic purging deserves more attention in conservation management.
Adventures in Lollard Street: An Experimental London Playground, 1955–60
Authors: Highmore Ben
Published: April 2024

This essay situates the emergence of the adventure playground movement in Britain within social and intellectual contexts. It provides a detailed account of the Lollard Adventure Playground, London, which lasted from 1955 to 1960, and describes the general ecology of the playground including indoor activities, the administration of the playground, and its mediation through pamphlets and journalism. It argues that the playground combined a Christian ethos evident in the early playground movement with the growing permissiveness of autonomous play, and shows how adventure playgrounds were a locus for tensions around class and gender.
Asymmetric Segregation of Maternal mRNAs and Germline-related Determinants in Cephalochordate Embryos: Implications for the Evolution of Early Patterning Events in Chordates
Authors: Yu Jr-Kai , Peng Li-Ying , Chen Chen-Yi , Lu Tsai-Ming , Holland Nicholas D , Holland Linda Z
Published: April 2024

Synopsis

How animal embryos determine their early cell fates is an important question in developmental biology. In various model animals, asymmetrically localized maternal transcripts play important roles in axial patterning and cell fate specification. Cephalochordates (amphioxus), which have three living genera (Asymmetron, Epigonichthys, and Branchiostoma), are an early branching chordate lineage and thus occupy a key phylogenetic position for understanding the evolution of chordate developmental mechanisms. It has been shown that in the zygote of Branchiostoma amphioxus, which possesses bilateral gonads flanking both sides of their trunk region, maternal transcripts of germline determinants form a compact granule. During early embryogenesis, this granule is inherited by a single blastomere, which subsequently gives rise to a cluster of cells displaying typical characteristics of primordial germ cells (PGC). These PGCs then come to lie in the tailbud region and proliferate during posterior elongation of the larvae to join in the gonad anlagen at the ventral tip of the developing myomeres in amphioxus larvae. However, in Asymmetron and Epigonichthys amphioxus, whose gonads are present only on the right side of their bodies, nothing is known about their PGC development or the cellular/morphogenetic processes resulting in the asymmetric distribution of gonads. Using conserved germline determinants as markers, we show that similarly to Branchiostoma amphioxus, Asymmetron also employs a preformation mechanism to specify their PGCs, suggesting that this mechanism represents an ancient trait dating back to the common ancestor of Cephalochordates. Surprisingly, we found that Asymmetron PGCs are initially deposited on both sides of the body during early larval development; however, the left-side PGCs cease to exist in young juveniles, suggesting that PGCs are eliminated from the left body side during larval development or following metamorphosis. This is reminiscent of the PGC development in the sea urchin embryo, and we discuss the implications of this observation for the evolution of developmental mechanisms.
Contralateral pneumothorax with postpneumonectomy syndrome: report of 18-year-old case
Authors: Sato Takaya , Minegishi Kentaro , Endo Shunsuke , Tsubochi Hiroyoshi
Published: April 2024

We herein report a case of an 18-year-old male with left postpneumonectomy syndrome who underwent a bullectomy for right pneumothorax. The patient underwent a left pneumonectomy at the age of 1 year. At the age of 18 years, he developed right pneumothorax, and radiological findings revealed apical bullae in the right pleural cavity extending into the left atrophic thoracic cavity beyond the upper mediastinum. The right thoracoscopic bullectomy was successful. Modifications of selective lobar ventilation during surgery and thoracoscope position were described.
The Moving Spirit of Settler Colonialism: Temsula Ao, Counter-Sovereignty, and the Politics of Intervention in the Borderlands of India
Authors: Manchanda Nivi
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates the incursions, or more accurately, the interventions of the Indian state into what are often called its “Northeast borderlands.” It grapples with the specific space occupied by those who belong to this minoritized region in India. Theoretically, it works through conceptions of “sovereignty” and “intervention” to underscore what is at stake for those who lie within the remit of recognized state sovereignty but are nonetheless subject to brutal and invasive “intervention.” The article engages Naga author Temsula Ao’s writing on questions of “tribal” identity, globalization, and borders to situate India as a postcolonial “settler” state. Finally, it puts her work in conversation with Manu Karuka’s notion of “counter-sovereignty” to highlight the ways in which even critical International Relations (IR) theory risks falling into the trap of reifying “sovereignty” and unwittingly giving credence to Westphalian and Euro-centric understandings of sovereignty at the expense of alternative and prior imaginaries.
The Transit Fix—Border Externalization and the Interplay of Capital and Race in the Transit “Migration” State
Authors: Landherr Timor
Published: April 2024

What happens after border externalization? States and regional organizations of the Global North increasingly engage in transnational migration management that seeks to prevent potential irregular migration beyond their territory. Despite the impressive financial and political resources the involved actors mobilize to reach this goal, little is known about the effects of this strategy on their target states and populations. This paper conceptualizes border externalization as a spatial intervention that absorbs contingent migrant flows into an interplay of capital and race. It argues that the immobilization and differential integration produced through externalization can serve as a spatial fix for labor shortages in transit “migration” states. This differential integration disempowers the targeted migrant population and aggravates racial antagonisms. Hence, border externalization is not just a (by-)product of racist ideology and policy, but also intensifies racial hierarchies in the space it intervenes into. The paper studies this through the case of the “EU-Turkey Deal” and Turkey’s Syrian refugee population, building on document analysis and primary interview data with industry representatives, farmers, NGO workers, and government officials. On a theoretical level, the paper thereby contributes to the recent trend that reinserts the border into global processes of racialized capital accumulation.
Retrospective Review of Outcomes Related to Early Therapy Intervention Following Application of Cultured Epidermal Autografts in Severely Burned Patients
Authors: Sabbatini Sarah , Velamuri Sai R , Hill David M
Published: April 2024

Cultured epidermal autografts (CEA) have since become more prevalent in the treatment of burn-injured patients with limited available donor sites for adequate wound closure, resulting in decreased mortality rates and an increased number of these patients requiring burn therapy services to achieve optimal functional outcomes at discharge. However, the use and postoperative management of CEA continue to be controversial due large to the physiological fragility and expense of CEA, leading to variable postoperative treatment practices across burn centers. As such, minimal research is available regarding patient outcomes following CEA application, specifically related to burn therapy intervention. Thus, a retrospective chart review was conducted on a series of 10 patients, 18 years of age or older, admitted to a single, American Burn Association verified burn center, between April 2015 and April 2023, who required CEA and received pre- and postoperative treatment by burn therapists in accordance with center-specific burn rehabilitation guidelines. The resulting patient outcomes, in response to early implementation of therapy interventions post-CEA surgery, demonstrated optimal functional status for patients upon discharge and positive long-term implications.
Association Between Burn Location and Psychological Distress: A Burn Model System National Database Study
Authors: Brown Nathan H , Rajo Erika M , Danos Denise , Petell Jennifer , Teachout Hailey , Mercante Andrew , Phelan Herb A
Published: April 2024

Burn injuries often lead to psychological distress, from depression and anxiety to adjustment concerns and posttraumatic stress. There is some evidence that the anatomical location of burn injuries (eg, head/neck, feet) has a specific negative effect on psychological functioning. The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between burn injury location and emotional distress. First, we administered self-report questionnaires to burn survivors with ≤ 5% TBSA at a single adult outpatient burn clinic. Second, we used a cross-sectional analysis of the Burn Model System National Database. The mean values of each measure of psychological distress (ie, quality of life, self-esteem, depression, posttraumatic stress, anxiety, and, for contrast, posttraumatic growth) were examined for each anatomical location for those participants with a burn in those anatomical areas against those with burn in other areas. Using Kruskal–Wallis tests to compare psychological distress, we found no significant differences in outcome measures in either sample analyzed in our study. These findings contrast with prior literature indicating the negative psychological effect of burn injuries on certain locations in the body. Further research should explore whether larger burns (ie, < 5% TBSA) affecting critical areas of the body may be associated with psychological distress.
Does selection favour the maintenance of porous species boundaries?
Authors: Barraclough Timothy G
Published: April 2024

The endpoint of speciation has been viewed as complete isolation and the absence of gene flow between species. If the influx of genes from another species is maladaptive because species have different adaptations and genetic backgrounds, selection should favour the closing of species boundaries and zero gene flow, a process known as reinforcement. Recently, numerous cases of gene flow between species have been identified, many of which involved adaptive introgression of beneficial alleles. These cases could reflect transient states on the way to closed species boundaries or the result of declining strength or efficacy of selection for reinforcement as the level of gene flow approaches zero. An alternative hypothesis, however, is that selection favours porous species boundaries that allow beneficial alleles to cross, especially in changing environments. This perspective evaluates the conditions that would be needed for selection to favour porous species boundaries and the evidence for them. A contrast is made between hybridization in sexual eukaryotes and gene transfer via homologous recombination in bacteria. Current evidence is inconclusive on whether non-zero gene flow is favoured by selection. Studies are needed that quantify selection gradients on rates of gene flow and test for evolution towards intermediate values, especially experiments that manipulate conditions and track evolution for multiple generations. Estimation of gene flow networks for more clades and regional assemblages using emerging genome data will also allow the evolutionary determinants of interspecific gene flow to be better understood.
Preharvest insect pests of peanuts and associated aflatoxin contaminants in Georgia, USA
Authors: Danso James K , Mbata George N , Holton Raegan L
Published: April 2024

On-farm losses of peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L., Fabales: Fabaceae) pose a persistent threat to the sustainable production and value of peanuts in the United States. This study presents empirical data on the spatial distribution of subterranean insect pests and various quality aspects of peanuts. Surveys were conducted in 20 randomly selected peanut fields in 10 counties in Northeast, Southeast, and Southwest Georgia. The primary insect pests found in Georgia’s peanut production counties were Pangaeus bilineatus (Say), Elasmopalpus lignosellus (Zeller), and Diabrotica undecimpunctata Howardi. In the northeast counties, a high prevalence of P. bilineatus led to a significant increase in insect-damaged pods (%IDP), insect-damaged kernels (%IDK), discolored kernels (%DK), pod weight loss (%PWL), and kernel weight loss (%KWL). Similarly, southeast counties had a high %DK, cracked pods (%CP), and E. lignosellus infestation. In southwest counties, predominantly high D. undecimpunctata infestations resulted in the highest %IDP. Moisture content (%MC) was excessively high in all the counties (22.19%–23.17%). Preharvest aflatoxin contamination in peanuts was prevalent across all studied locations, particularly in counties with a high incidence of P. bilineatus and may cause increased risk in aflatoxin levels along the supply chain. Nevertheless, the diverse regional abundance of insect pests and the widespread presence of aflatoxins in Georgia’s peanut fields offer valuable insights for developing integrated pest management strategies targeting subterranean insect pests. This is especially crucial in addressing the impact of P. bilineatus, E. lignosellus, and D. undecimpunctata on aflatoxins content of peanuts and determining the pathway for mitigation of aflatoxin contaminations in peanuts at harvest.
Feasibility and potential of intraoperative ultrasound in arthroscopy of femoroacetabular impingement
Authors: Lin Zhuohua , Cui Ligang , Xu Yan , Fu Qiang , Sun Youjing
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using ultrasound for monitoring osteochondroplasty intraoperatively, determine the factors that interfere with ultrasound imaging and assess its influence on surgeon performance.

Intraoperative ultrasonography was performed during osteochondroplasty in 39 cases of arthroscopy. The femoral head–neck junction (FHNJ) was evaluated using ultrasonography. Another 39 cases, which underwent conventional arthroscopy, were included in the control group. The C-arm was used in this group at the end of osteochondroplasty to confirm that no residual cam lesion remained. Pre- and postoperative Dunn radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scans were analyzed to determine the feasibility of ultrasound.

Residual cam deformity was noted in eight cases under ultrasound. The FHNJ was not detected owing to ultrasound interference by air in three cases. No difference in the α angle measured in Dunn radiographs and the residual cam deformity rate of CT at the 1:00, 2:00 or 3:00 position was found between both groups. However, the α angle at the 3:00 position was greater in the ultrasound group than in the control group (44.4 ± 4.3° versus 41.3 ± 5.1°, P < 0.05), suggesting that more bone was preserved at 3:00 in the ultrasound group. No difference was found in the mean operation time. None of the patients experienced complications, such as wounds or intra-articular infections.

Ultrasound is a safe method for assessing FHNJ during arthroscopy. It did not change the risk of residual cam deformity but positively affected the surgeon’s performance by reducing unnecessary bone removal.
Reliability and validity of the Japanese version of the Parenting Concerns Questionnaire
Authors: Yanai Misa , Aoyama Maho , Kosugi Kazuhiro , Tsumura Akemi , Nakanishi Erika , Miyashita Mitsunori
Published: April 2024

Objective

Cancer patients with children are increasing; however, few studies have quantitatively assessed the parenting concerns of cancer patients with children. The Parenting Concerns Questionnaire was developed in the USA in 2012 and is the only instrument to measure the parenting concerns of cancer patients with children. This study aimed to develop a Japanese version of the Parenting Concerns Questionnaire and evaluate its reliability and validity.

Methods

An Internet survey was conducted among cancer patients registered with ‘Cancer Parents’, an Internet community site for cancer patients, who have children aged <18 years, and 174 responses were recorded. Two weeks later, a retest was conducted, and responses were obtained from 87 patients.

Results

Based on confirmatory factor analysis of the factor structure proposed by the authors of the original version, factors ‘I. The impact of my illness on the child’s daily life (five items)’, ‘II. The impact of my illness on the child’s feelings (five items)’ and ‘III. Concerns about my parenting partner (five items)’ were consistent with the original version. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients for all items and by factors were 0.86, 0.79, 0.86 and 0.86. The Parenting Concerns Questionnaire total scores correlated with Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (r = 0.52), the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy General (r = −0.56), Family Assessment Device-General Functioning (r = 0.51) and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (r = −0.47). The intraclass correlation coefficients for all items and by factors were 0.81, 0.71, 0.77 and 0.85.

Conclusions

The Japanese version of the Parenting Concerns Questionnaire has satisfactory reliability and validity.
Heat and health of occupational workers: a short summary of literature
Authors: N Sai Venkata Sarath Chandra , Xu Zhiwei
Published: April 2024

Globally, occupational workers suffer various health impacts due to extreme heat. In this short review, we examine the literature discussing health impacts of heat on occupational workers, and then discuss certain individual and institutional measures needed to address the problem. Though the available literature in the recent decade discusses health impacts of heat on workers as various heat-related illnesses, we found very few studies examining how occupational workers suffer from issues concerning cardiovascular health, neurological health, respiratory health, and mental health. In this regard, we highlight the need for more studies to examine how occupational workers exposed to extreme heat conditions suffer from fatal health issues like cardiovascular attack, brain stroke, and other ailments impacting vital organs of the body. Occupational workers across the world should be made aware of measures to protect themselves from extreme heat. Further, countries should develop occupational heat safety guidelines with statutory effect.
Achyranthes bidentata Blume (Amaranthaceae): a review of its botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology
Authors: Chen Yue-Ru , Niu Ying-shuo , Zhou Hong-Lei
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Achyranthes bidentata Blume (A. bidentata) is a plant of Amaranthaceae family, and its root is the main medicinal part, named “Huai-Niu-Xi.” It is used to expel blood stasis through menstruation, tonify liver and kidney, strengthen muscles and bones, and induce diuresis. This review aimed to provide a systematic summary of botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of A. bidentata.

Methods

The present review covers the literature survey. The data have been collected from various journals, books, and some of the electronic search via Internet-based information such as Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, Google patents, CNKI, SpringerLink, online electronic journals, and ScienceDirect.

Key findings

So far, more than 270 metabolites have been isolated from A. bidentata, including terpenoids, steroids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and so on. Among them, terpenoids and steroids are the main metabolites. The extract and metabolites exert multiple pharmacological activities such as alleviating osteoarthritis effect, antiosteoporosis activity, neuroprotective effect, antidiabetic activity-associated complications, immunoregulatory activity, and so on.

Some traditional uses of A. bidentata need further in-depth studies to confirm. Similarly, the separation and screening of active compounds, as well as the corresponding molecular mechanisms of action of compounds, are also needed to be studied.
Outcome of lung transplantation in patients with pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis in the era of COVID-19 infection
Authors: Raavi Lekhya , Garg Pankaj , Alomari Mohammad , Celik Nafiye B , Makey Ian A , Thomas Mathew , Nassar Aziza , Sareyyupoglu Basar , Jacob Samuel , Pham Si M , El-Sayed Ahmed Magdy M
Published: April 2024

Lung transplant recipients are at higher risk of developing COVID-19 infection compared to other solid organ transplants. The risk further increases in the unvaccinated patients. We present a case of a 43-year-old male who underwent bilateral sequential lung transplantation for pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) and had an uneventful recovery. However, two years post-transplantation, the patient developed chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) with bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome and two episodes of COVID-19 infection. During the second episode of COVID-19 infection, the patient developed sepsis and multi-organ dysfunction ultimately resulting in death. Our case report highlights the increased susceptibility of PAM patients’ post-lung transplant to COVID-19 infection. Continuous follow-up of PAM patients’ post-lung transplantation is necessary to prevent unfavorable outcomes.
Complex presentation of a left Fronto-zygomatic Dermoid cyst; a case report
Authors: Ayasa Laith A , Rahhal Sara , Najjar Alaa Khaled , Aliwaiai Mohammed , Aldarawish Asad , Bakri Izzeddin
Published: April 2024

We present a case of craniofacial dermoid cyst in a 50-year-old female. The patient's complaint was persistent refractory headaches with no other significant neurological symptoms. Diagnostic imaging revealed the presence of a lesion in the left fronto-zygomatic region. Surgical intervention involved a craniotomy that led to a successful excision of the dermoid cyst. The diagnosis was subsequently confirmed by histopathological analysis. This case underscored the importance of considering DC as a potential diagnosis for any craniofacial lesion, given their diverse presentations and associated complications.
Vesicle trafficking pathways in defence-related cell wall modifications: papillae and encasements
Authors: Nielsen Mads Eggert
Published: April 2024

Filamentous pathogens that cause plant diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, anthracnose, and late blight continue to represent an enormous challenge for farmers worldwide. Interestingly, these pathogens, although phylogenetically distant, initiate pathogenesis in a very similar way by penetrating the cell wall and establishing a feeding structure inside the plant host cell. To prevent pathogen ingress, the host cell responds by forming defence structures known as papillae and encasements that are thought to mediate pre- and post-invasive immunity, respectively. This form of defence is evolutionarily conserved in land plants and is highly effective and durable against a broad selection of non-adapted filamentous pathogens. As most pathogens have evolved strategies to overcome the defences of only a limited range of host plants, the papilla/encasement response could hold the potential to become an optimal transfer of resistance from one plant species to another. In this review I lay out current knowledge of the involvement of membrane trafficking that forms these important defence structures and highlight some of the questions that still need to be resolved.
Glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine prevents copper- and zinc-induced protein aggregation and central nervous system cell death in vitro
Authors: Min Jin-Hong , Sarlus Heela , Harris Robert A
Published: April 2024

Common features of neurodegenerative diseases are oxidative and inflammatory imbalances as well as the misfolding of proteins. An excess of free metal ions can be pathological and contribute to cell death, but only copper and zinc strongly promote protein aggregation. Herein we demonstrate that the endogenous copper-binding tripeptide glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine (GHK) has the ability to bind to and reduce copper redox activity and to prevent copper- and zinc-induced cell death in vitro. In addition, GHK prevents copper- and zinc-induced bovine serum albumin aggregation and reverses aggregation through resolubilizing the protein. We further demonstrate the enhanced toxicity of copper during inflammation and the ability of GHK to attenuate this toxicity. Finally, we investigated the effects of copper on enhancing paraquat toxicity and report a protective effect of GHK. We therefore conclude that GHK has potential as a cytoprotective compound with regard to copper and zinc toxicity, with positive effects on protein solubility and aggregation that warrant further investigation in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Radiation hydrodynamics in a moving plasma with Compton scattering: Frequency-dependent solutions
Authors: Fukue Jun
Published: April 2024

Radiation hydrodynamical equations with Compton scattering are generally difficult to solve analytically, and usually examined numerically, even if in the subrelativistic regime. We examine the equations available in the subrelativistic regime of kBT$/$(mec2) ≲ 0.1, hν$/$(mec2) ≲ 0.1, and v$/$c ≲ 0.1, where T is the electron temperature, ν the photon frequency, and v the fluid bulk velocity. For simplicity, we ignore the induced scattering terms. We then seek and obtain analytical solutions of frequency-dependent radiative moment equations of a hot plasma with bulk motions for several situations in the subrelativistic regime. For example, in the static case of a plane-parallel atmosphere without bulk motions, where equations involve the generalized Kompaneets equation with subrelativistic corrections, we find the Wien-type solution, which reduces to the usual Milne–Eddington solution in the nonrelativistic limit, as well as the power-law-type one, which has a form of [hν$/$(kBT)]−4. In the moving case of an accelerating one-dimensional flow with bulk motions, we also find the Wien-type and the power-law-type solutions affected by the bulk Compton effect. Particularly, in the Wien-type solutions, due to the bulk Compton effect, the radiation fields gain momentum from the hot plasma in the low-frequency regime of hν < 3kBT, while they lose it in the high-frequency regime of hν > 3kBT.
Temporal control in shell–core structured nanofilm for tracheal cartilage regeneration: synergistic optimization of anti-inflammation and chondrogenesis
Authors: Zhao Wen , Xu Fanglan , Shen Yumei , Ding Qifeng , Wang Yifei , Liang Leilei , Dai Wufei , Chen Yongbing
Published: April 2024

Cartilage tissue engineering offers hope for tracheal cartilage defect repair. Establishing an anti-inflammatory microenvironment stands as a prerequisite for successful tracheal cartilage restoration, especially in immunocompetent animals. Hence, scaffolds inducing an anti-inflammatory response before chondrogenesis are crucial for effectively addressing tracheal cartilage defects. Herein, we develop a shell–core structured PLGA@ICA-GT@KGN nanofilm using poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and icariin (ICA, an anti-inflammatory drug) as the shell layer and gelatin (GT) and kartogenin (KGN, a chondrogenic factor) as the core via coaxial electrospinning technology. The resultant PLGA@ICA-GT@KGN nanofilm exhibited a characteristic fibrous structure and demonstrated high biocompatibility. Notably, it showcased sustained release characteristics, releasing ICA within the initial 0 to 15 days and gradually releasing KGN between 11 and 29 days. Subsequent in vitro analysis revealed the potent anti-inflammatory capabilities of the released ICA from the shell layer, while the KGN released from the core layer effectively induced chondrogenic differentiation of bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs). Following this, the synthesized PLGA@ICA-GT@KGN nanofilms were loaded with BMSCs and stacked layer by layer, adhering to a ‘sandwich model’ to form a composite sandwich construct. This construct was then utilized to repair circular tracheal defects in a rabbit model. The sequential release of ICA and KGN facilitated by the PLGA@ICA-GT@KGN nanofilm established an anti-inflammatory microenvironment before initiating chondrogenic induction, leading to effective tracheal cartilage restoration. This study underscores the significance of shell–core structured nanofilms in temporally regulating anti-inflammation and chondrogenesis. This approach offers a novel perspective for addressing tracheal cartilage defects, potentially revolutionizing their treatment methodologies.
Gender and Parenthood Differences in Job Mobility and Pay Progression in the UK
Authors: Avram Silvia , Harkness Susan , Popova Daria
Published: April 2024

Understanding disparities in the rates at which men and women’s wages grow over the life course is critical to explaining the gender pay gap. Using panel data from 2009 to 2019 for the United Kingdom, we examine how differences in the rates and types of job mobility of men and women—with and without children—influence the evolution of wages. We contrast the rates and wage returns associated with different types of job moves, including moving employer for family reason, moving for wage or career-related reasons, and changing jobs but remaining with the same employer. We find important gender and parenthood differences in the types of mobility experience, with mothers most likely to switch employers for family-related reasons and least likely to move for wage or career reasons, or to change jobs with the same employer. While job changes with the same employer and career related employer changes had large positive wage returns, changing employers for family-related reasons was associated with significant wage losses. We show that differences in job mobility between mothers and other workers are largest for young employees (under 30), the period over which wages also grow most rapidly in response to career related external, or internal, job moves. These mobility differences play an important role in explaining the rapid growth in the motherhood wage gap in the years after birth.
The response of gut and fecal bacterial communities of the European sea bass (Dicentrachus labrax) fed a low fish-plant meal and yeast protein supplementation diet
Authors: Meziti Alexandra , Nikouli Eleni , Papaharisis Leonidas , Ar. Kormas Konstantinos , Mente Elena
Published: April 2024

As aquaculture is nowadays the major fish-food production sector, continuous research is undergoing for aquafeeds that could replace conventional fishmeal in order to enhance its environmental and economic sustainability. Fish gut microorganisms might be involved in nutrient assimilation and thus they are crucial for their hosts’ well-being. In this study, the bacterial diversity was investigated by16S rRNA gene metabarcoding in order to investigate changes in midgut (M) and feces (F) microbiota of sea bass Dicentrachus labrax fed with conventional (C) and innovative-low fish meal diet (I), aiming at discovering microbiota that could be associated with the enhancement of host's health and productivity. Our results indicated that Proteobacteria (Pseudomonadota) prevailed in all samples followed by Firmicutes (Bacillota) or Bacteroidota (mostly in feces), while fecal communities were richer. Taxonomic distributions at the operational taxonomic unit level in midgut samples revealed differentially abundant fermentative species that prevailed in individuals fed with the innovative diet. Especially Staphylococcus was more abundant in MI samples implying enhancement from ingredients present only in the innovative diet and implying that this feed shapes rather favorable microbiota, which could support the digestion and good growth performance in aquaculture.
Differences between the glans and shaft of the penis: a review
Authors: Wei Letian , Zheng Lei , Jiang Hui , Jiang Tao
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The penis serves as a vital receptor in men, playing a significant role in sexual intercourse. While there are discernible disparities between the glans penis and the penile shaft, a comprehensive and detailed analysis of these distinctions is currently lacking.

Objectives

This study aimed to review the existing literature on the variances between the glans penis and the penile shaft, providing a systematic examination of their anatomical and histological dissimilarities.

Methods

Our investigation encompassed a thorough search of the published literature, including original articles, reviews, letters to the editor, and case reports focused on the penis. We conducted a comprehensive review of the anatomical and histological dissimilarities between the glans penis and the penile shaft.

Results

The following key differences were identified. First, regarding innervation, the glans penis and the penile shaft possess distinct neural pathways. The glans penis exhibits a 3-dimensional structure, while the penile shaft exhibits a 2-dimensional distribution. Notably, the nerves of the penile shaft extend penetrating branches into the corpus cavernosum. Furthermore, there are variations in nerve-specific antibodies between the 2 regions. Second, regarding composition, the glans penis and the penile shaft consist of dissimilar cavernous bodies. The glans penis contains unique epithelial structures and receptors, setting it apart from the penile shaft. Third, regarding the veins, there are disparities in the venous systems of the glans penis and the penile shaft. Fourth, regarding biothesiometry, variances in biothesiometry research have been observed between the 2 regions.

Conclusion

There are differences between the glans and the shaft. To further advance our understanding, future research should delve deeper into the discrepancies between the glans penis and the penile shaft. Additionally, a more specialized subdivision of the glans penis and the penile shaft would facilitate more precise and tailored treatments.
Ameliorative anti-coagulant, anti-oxidative and anti-ferroptotic activities of nanocurcumin and donepezil on coagulation, oxidation and ferroptosis in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Nawar Nagat F , Beltagy Doha M , Mohamed Tarek M , Tousson Ehab , El-Keey Mai M
Published: April 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (ad) is a neurological condition that worsens over time and is characterized by the buildup of amyloid (Aβ) plaques in the brain parenchyma. Neuroprotection and cholinesterase inhibition have been the two primary techniques used in the creation of medications to date. In ad, a novel sort of programmed cell death known as ferroptosis takes place along with iron buildup, lipid peroxidation, and glutathione deficiency. The objective of the current investigation was to examine the neuroprotective and anti-ferroptotic role of nanocurcumin and Donepezil against model of aluminum chloride AlCl3 and D-galactose induced ad. The experiment was performed on 70 rats divided into (G1: control, G2: NCMN, G3: Donepezil, G4: ad-model, G5: Donepezil co-treatment, G6: NCMN co-treatment and G7: NCMN+Donepezil co-treatment). Hematological parameters and biochemical investigations as oxidative stress, liver function, kidney function, iron profile and plasma fibrinogen were evaluated. Treatment with Nanocurcumin alone or in combination with Donepezil improved oxidative stress, liver functions, and kidney functions, improve iron profile and decreased plasma fibrinogen.
Mechanisms underlying aryl hydrocarbon receptor-driven divergent macrophage function
Authors: Malany Keegan , Li Xiaohan , Vogel Christoph F A , Ehrlich Allison K
Published: April 2024

Macrophages play an essential role in the innate immune system by differentiating into functionally diverse subsets in order to fight infection, repair damaged tissues, and regulate inappropriate immune responses. This functional diversity stems from their ability to adapt and respond to signals in the environment, which is in part mediated through aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR)-signaling. AHR, an environmental sensor, can be activated by various ligands, ranging from environmental contaminants to microbially derived tryptophan metabolites. This review discusses what is currently known about how AHR-signaling influences macrophage differentiation, polarization, and function. By discussing studies that are both consistent and divergent, our goal is to highlight the need for future research on the mechanisms by which AHR acts as an immunological switch in macrophages. Ultimately, understanding the contexts in which AHR-signaling promotes and/or inhibits differentiation, proinflammatory functions, and immunoregulatory functions, will help uncover functional predictions of immunotoxicity following exposure to environmental chemicals as well as better design AHR-targeted immunotherapies.