bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infectious mass debulking in lead-associated endocarditis with a percutaneous aspiration system
Authors: Heck Roland , Pitts Leonard , Kaemmel Julius , Wert Leonhard , Falk Volkmar , Hindricks Gerhard , Starck Christoph
Published: June 2024

Aims

Debulking of infective mass to reduce the burden if infective material is a fundamental principle in the surgical management of infection. The aim of this study was to investigate the validity of this principle in patients undergoing transvenous lead extraction in the context of bloodstream infection (BSI).

Methods and results

We performed an observational single-centre study on patients that underwent transvenous lead extraction due to a BSI, with or without lead-associated vegetations, in combination with a percutaneous aspiration system during the study period 2015–22. One hundred thirty-seven patients were included in the final analysis. In patients with an active BSI at the time of intervention, the use of a percutaneous aspiration system had a significant impact on survival (log-rank: P = 0.0082), while for patients with a suppressed BSI at the time of intervention, the use of a percutaneous aspiration system had no significant impact on survival (log-rank: P = 0.25).

Conclusion

A reduction of the infective burden by percutaneous debulking of lead vegetations might improve survival in patients with an active BSI.
Digest: How environmental light conditions shape the evolution of visual systems in birds
Authors: Washington Tatjana M
Published: June 2024

How do varying environmental light conditions influence the evolution of avian visual systems? Fröhlich et al. (2024) demonstrate that nocturnal birds evolved broader corneas and slightly longer axial lengths than their diurnal counterparts, increasing light capture efficiency. Nocturnal species also tended to maintain or reduce the size of brain regions responsible for vision, i.e., the optic tectum and the visual wulst. These results highlight adaptive trends in nocturnal species, where evolutionary improvement in low-light performance of eyes may be accompanied by compromised brain function.
The rhizosphere microbiome of 51 potato cultivars with diverse plant growth characteristics
Authors: Martins Benoit Renaud , Radl Viviane , Treder Krzysztof , Michałowska Dorota , Pritsch Karin , Schloter Michael
Published: June 2024

Rhizosphere microbial communities play a substantial role in plant productivity. We studied the rhizosphere bacteria and fungi of 51 distinct potato cultivars grown under similar greenhouse conditions using a metabarcoding approach. As expected, individual cultivars were the most important determining factor of the rhizosphere microbial composition; however, differences were also obtained when grouping cultivars according to their growth characteristics. We showed that plant growth characteristics were related to deterministic and stochastic assembly processes of bacterial and fungal communities, respectively. The bacterial genera Arthrobacter and Massilia (known to produce indole acetic acid and siderophores) exhibited greater relative abundance in high- and medium-performing cultivars. Bacterial co-occurrence networks were larger in the rhizosphere of these cultivars and were characterized by a distinctive combination of plant beneficial Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria along with a module of diazotrophs namely Azospira, Azoarcus, and Azohydromonas. Conversely, the network within low-performing cultivars revealed the lowest nodes, hub taxa, edges density, robustness, and the highest average path length resulting in reduced microbial associations, which may potentially limit their effectiveness in promoting plant growth. Our findings established a clear pattern between plant productivity and the rhizosphere microbiome composition and structure for the investigated potato cultivars, offering insights for future management practices.
Effects of lactic acid bacteria on rearing water bacterial community in Eriocheir sinensis culture
Authors: Li Tong , Cheng Yongxu , Yao Zhiyuan , Sun Yunfei , Yang Xiaozhen , Xiao Wenwen , Zhang Demin , Zhang Huajun
Published: June 2024

The Chinese mitten crab (CMC, Eriocheir sinensi) culture in ponds is a unique aquaculture system. Probiotics are commonly used in the maintenance of the health of pond-cultured CMCs. However, the effects of probiotics on the bacterial community of CMC-culturing water remain unclear. This study utilized 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to assess changes in the bacterial community composition, diversity, assembly, and co-occurrence patterns in CMC-culturing water following probiotic application. The results indicate that the α-diversity of the bacterial community in CMC-culturing water varied with time following probiotic application. The addition of probiotics to the water resulted in an increase in the occurrence of new operational taxonomic units (OTUs). The bacterial community assembly in the CMC-culturing water was shaped by a balance between deterministic and stochastic processes, while commercial probiotics enhanced the proportion of heterogeneous selection. In addition, including OTU2953 (Burkholderiaceae) and OTU3005 (Lactobacillaceae), from the commercial probiotics served as keystone species in the bacterial network of CMC-culturing water. Overall, probiotic application had a significant impact on the bacterial ecology of CMC-culturing water.
Bridge Employment or Encore Career? Examining Predictors That Distinguish Later-Life Career Transitions
Authors: Oh Yun taek
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Bridge employment and encore careers are 2 prevalent retirement pathways that have different goals and outcomes. Yet, “changing jobs in later life” is the shared prequel that blurs the distinction between them in empirical studies. This study proposes a set of criteria—voluntariness of career transition and the duration of work in the posttransition job—to distinguish various retirement pathways and investigates the predictors that distinguish the workers’ choice of these pathways.

Methods

I conducted multinomial logistic regression to examine the predictors that distinguish between bridge employment, encore career, and direct workforce exit using the longitudinal sample of respondents with full-time career jobs in the Health and Retirement Study 1992–2020 (HRS, N = 2,038). To examine the predictors that distinguish between bridge employment and encore careers, I conducted logistic regression on the subsample of respondents who chose either bridge employment or encore careers (n = 927).

Results

The results show that the accumulated human capital from career jobs, physical and mental health conditions before leaving career jobs, and self-identified retirement status when transitioning to new jobs distinguish the workers’ choices of taking on different retirement pathways.

Discussion

Maintaining the labor force participation of older workers is an important human resource agenda for policymakers. This study suggests that increasing the number of quality jobs for older workers would promote bridge employment and encore careers by raising the benefits of making career transitions as well as improving older workers’ health.
Whole genome resequencing of sablefish at the northern end of their range reveals genetic panmixia and large putative inversions
Authors: Timm Laura E , Larson Wesley A , Jasonowicz Andrew J , Nichols Krista M
Published: June 2024

Sablefish (Anoplopoma fimbria) are a highly mobile species that support important commercial fisheries in the North Pacific Ocean. Information on the genetic stock structure of sablefish is vital for constructing management strategies that ensure the long-term viability of the species. Most previous genetic studies on sablefish have found panmixia throughout the majority of their range, but a recent study suggested that a population structure may exist. Here, we use low-coverage whole genome resequencing to investigate genetic structure in the northern end of the species’ range (from Washington State, USA to the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands, AK, USA). Additionally, we reanalyzed an existing genomic dataset containing 2661 markers to test specific hypotheses about genetic structure by sex. Genome resequencing data from 119 individuals screened at 7 110 228 markers revealed no evidence of population structure, and reanalysis of the existing genomic dataset supported the same conclusion. Differentiation across the genome was largely driven by variation at two putative inversions located ∼1 megabase apart, which did not display any signals of geographic differentiation. Our study further supports the conclusion of genetic panmixia in sablefish throughout its northern range.
Perspectives on using Protected Species Observer (PSO) data to fill knowledge gaps about marine species distributions and habitat use
Authors: Ganley Laura C , Sisson Nicholas B , McKenna Katherine R , Redfern Jessica V
Published: June 2024

Responsible offshore wind energy development requires addressing knowledge gaps of marine mammal distribution and response to wind energy development. Data collected by Protected Species Observers (PSOs) could help fill these gaps if they were used to fit species distribution models. However, because PSO data are not systematically collected, a critical exploration of their potential utility is needed. We reviewed PSO data collected during offshore wind geophysical surveys. Our intention was to compare predictions from two species distribution models—one model fit with systematically collected data and the second model fit with PSO data. However, developing a model using the PSO data was impossible due to data collection and reporting procedures. Therefore, we reframed our question to “What changes would be necessary for PSO data to be used to understand species distributions?” We compared PSO data with data collection fields recommended by US federal agencies and data collection requirements in Marine Mammal Protection Act Incidental Harassment Authorizations. We found PSO data collection fields and monitoring reports need standardization requirements. Our evaluation of PSO data revealed that publicly available PSO data are limited. We recommend making PSO data publicly available. If these recommendations are adopted, PSO data could help to fill knowledge gaps about marine mammal distribution.
From Aspiration to Public Policy: Imprinting UNGP-Aligned Footprints of Corporate Responsibility and Accountability into the Shifting Sands of International Arbitration Practice
Authors: Ong Mevelyn
Published: June 2024

Endorsed more than a decade ago by the UN Human Rights Council, the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) articulate the responsibilities of States and corporations for human rights. Since then, the issue of corporate responsibility for human rights, and also the environment, and how it ought to be recognized and enforced, has attracted increasing attention. In more recent years, States have promulgated a flurried storm of ESG regulations requiring disclosure of human rights or climate risks or mandating human rights due diligence across global supply chain networks, intensified their transition to greener economies, and continued to negotiate treaties infused with dreams of more sustainable investment and development. Against this backdrop, in October 2023, a UN Special Rapporteur presented a report that condemned the international arbitration system for prioritizing the protection of corporate property rights over the protection of international human rights and the environment. In tracing the development of a ‘soft law’ aspiration of corporate responsibility to inscriptions into ‘hard law’ international investment law treaty instruments and then considering how those inscriptions have been interpreted and applied by tribunals, this article finds that despite the nascent recognition of corporate responsibility for human rights and the environment, the enforcement of accountability for that responsibility in international arbitral practice is currently misaligned with the UNGPs and with other fundamental tenets of international law. This article subsequently explores the opportunity, and implications, for imprinting stronger footprints of responsibility and accountability in international arbitral practice, including through the potential recognition of new international public policy upholding corporate responsibility for human rights and the environment, and in doing so, highlights the need for greater cross-industry, multidisciplinary and multilateral dialogue on an issue of not only global significance, but with global impact.
SOFC stack modeling: a hybrid RBF-ANN and flexible Al-Biruni Earth radius optimization approach
Authors: Gong Ziqian , Li Lu , Ghadimi Noradin
Published: June 2024

This study introduces a novel hybrid methodology for model identification of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stacks by integrating a radial basis function-based artificial neural network (RBF-ANN) with a flexible Al-Biruni Earth radius optimizer (FA-BERO). The primary objective of the proposed method is to augment the precision and efficiency of SOFC stack modeling by considering the advantages of both RBF-ANN and FA-BERO algorithms. The main purpose of using these two methods is to optimize the structure of the RBF-ANN based on the suggested FA-BERO algorithm. The other contribution of this study is improving the efficiency of the Al-Biruni Earth radius optimizer (A-BERO) by applying two improvements on it, including constriction factor and elimination phase to increase the exploration and exploitation strength of the basic A-BERO. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed model, it is compared with some state-of-the-art models in the field, such as the artificial neural network and multi-armed bandit algorithm (ANN/MABA) and rotor Hopfield neural network and grey wolf optimization (RHNN/GWO). Furthermore, the model is validated by experimental data, and the final results demonstrate the efficacy of the hybrid approach in accurately representing the intricate behavior of SOFC stacks. The proposed model achieves lower error rates (ERs) and root mean squared errors (RMSEs) than the comparative methods across different network arrangements and temperature conditions. The results show that, for instance, for the 2/12/1 network arrangement at 900°C, the proposed model attains an ER of 6.69% and an RMSE of 2.13, while the ANN/MABA and RHNN/GWO methods obtain ERs of 9.67% and 8.54%, as well as RMSE values of 24.48 and 9.23, respectively. The proposed model also exhibits superior accuracy and convergence speed compared to the comparative methods, as shown by the current–voltage curves and the convergence analysis. Consequently, this novel hybrid methodology offers a valuable tool for researchers and engineers working in the domain of fuel cell technology, enabling them to better understand and optimize SOFC stack performance.
Integrating intelligent and sustainable transportation systems in Jeddah: a multidimensional approach for urban mobility enhancement
Authors: Alamoudi Mohammed , Imam Ayman , Majrashi Abdulrahman , Osra Oumr , Hegazy Ibrahim
Published: June 2024

This research examines the transportation system in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, specifically focusing on integrating intelligent and sustainable practices to address its current and emerging challenges. Central to these challenges are the city’s heavy reliance on private vehicles, an underdeveloped public transportation network, and the unique climatic conditions that pose additional complexities. This study adopts a multidimensional approach. It analyzes various factors, including technological advancements in transportation, sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, and the cultural and policy landscapes that shape transportation systems. It draws parallels and contrasts with transportation systems in urban settings similar to Jeddah, such as Dubai and Riyadh, to understand the potential and applicability of various solutions. One of the critical areas explored is the potential for intelligent transportation systems to revolutionize traffic management and enhance the efficiency and safety of the transportation network in Jeddah. The study also delves into the prospects of developing a sustainable public transit system that can reduce the city’s dependence on private vehicles and contribute to environmental conservation. Moreover, the research acknowledges the critical role of cultural influences in shaping transportation preferences and practices in Jeddah. It highlights the importance of culturally sensitive urban planning and policy making, ensuring that the proposed transportation solutions are not only technologically sound and environmentally sustainable but also aligned with the social and cultural fabric of the city. The study’s findings agree that a successful overhaul of Jeddah’s transportation system will require a synergistic blend of technological innovation, comprehensive policy reform, and a deep understanding of cultural nuances. The research underscores the necessity of this integrated approach as a blueprint for transforming urban transportation in Jeddah, setting a precedent for other cities with similar challenges.
Evaluation of maximum access capacity of distributed photovoltaic in distribution networks considering dispatchable potential of 5G base stations
Authors: Ye Gaoxiang , Yang Jie , Xia Fangzhou , Shao Feifan , Xu Jingyou , Chen Ke , Tang Jing , Zhou Yujie
Published: June 2024

A method for assessing the maximum access capacity (MAC) of distributed photovoltaic (PV) in distribution networks (DNs) considering the dispatchable potential of 5G base stations is proposed. First, a 5G base station electricity load demand model is constructed, and the dispatchable potential of self-provided energy storage for 5G base stations is analyzed; then a distributed grid distributed PV MAC assessment model considering the dispatchable potential of 5G base stations is established; second, an auxiliary variable is introduced and the model is subjected to second-order conical relaxation, and a linearized model for distributed PV MAC assessment is constructed. Finally, the improved IEEE 33-node DN was applied to assess the MAC of distributed PV in DN under different scenarios. The results of the analyses of the algorithms show that considering the dispatchable potential of 5G base stations can significantly enhance the MAC of distributed PV in the DN.
Comprehensive insights into Klebsiella pneumoniae: unravelling clinical impact, epidemiological trends and antibiotic-resistance challenges
Authors: Rahmat Ullah Sidra , Jamal Muhsin , Rahman Abdur , Andleeb Saadia
Published: June 2024

Klebsiella pneumoniae, a challenging opportunistic bacterium, became a notable global health concern owing to its clinical impact, widespread epidemiology and escalating antibiotic resistance. This comprehensive review delves into the multifaceted dimensions of K. pneumoniae, with a focus on its clinical implications, epidemiological patterns and the critical issue of antibiotic resistance. The review also emphasizes the implications of K. pneumoniae in the context of antimicrobial stewardship and infection control. Epidemiological aspects are scrutinized, shedding light on the global distribution and prevalence of K. pneumoniae. Factors influencing its transmission and persistence in healthcare facilities and communities are examined, with patient demographics, healthcare practices and geographical variations. The review centres on antibiotic resistance, a critical issue in the era of bacteria displaying resistance to multiple drugs. The mechanisms of resistance used by K. pneumoniae against various classes of antibiotics are elucidated, along with the alarming rise of carbapenem-resistant strains. It also highlights ongoing research efforts and innovative strategies aimed at addressing this critical public health issue. This comprehensive review offers a holistic understanding of K. pneumoniae, emphasizing its clinical significance, global epidemiology and the immediate necessity for effective strategies to combat antibiotic resistance. It serves as a valuable resource for healthcare practitioners, researchers and policymakers seeking to manage better and mitigate the impact of this pathogen on public health.
Developmental priorities shift with ontogeny during the early life stages of the American lobster Homarus americanus H. Milne Edwards, 1837 (Decapoda: Astacidea: Nephropidae)
Authors: Jane Aubrey , Rasher Douglas B , Waller Jesica , Annis Eric , Frederich Markus
Published: June 2024

The American lobster (Homarus americanusMilne Edwards, 1837) is an ecologically and economically valuable invertebrate in the Northwest Atlantic. Its geographic range is shifting northward due to ocean warming. While extensive research on the thermal tolerance of this species has been performed on adults and postlarvae, there have been few studies focused on its multiple early developmental stages. We applied transcriptomics to investigate transcriptional changes in laboratory-reared American lobster developmental stages I through V. Changes in gene expression were contextualized in the ontogenetic shifts in distribution that these different life history stages experience, with highly active stage IV exhibiting increased cellular metabolism and shell-building processes. We identified differential expression of transcripts related to thermal and UV stress in planktonic stages I-IV compared to benthic stage V, which suggests innate molecular defenses against these stressors. Together, these findings further our understanding of crustacean development in the context of climate change and can be used to inform population distribution modeling efforts. They also provide evidence for the need to investigate the potential trade-offs associated with responding to a changing environment on a stage-by-stage basis.
Effects of short-term high temperature at different life stages on reproductive fitness in Mythimna separata (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Lv Weixiang , Shu Ya , Wang Fang
Published: June 2024

Extreme heat events commonly occur under climate warming. All life stages of insects may experience the occurrence of extremely high temperatures. However, the effects of short-term extreme heat events on life-history traits remain unclear in most migratory pests. Here, we investigated the biological effects of short-term heat exposure (35 °C for 4 h) at different life stages on Mythimna separata Walker (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), a typical migratory pest. We found that the reproductive sensitivity of pupae and adults was higher than that of 3rd-instar larvae. Increasing the frequency of heat exposure decreased the reproductive performance of M. separata at all life stages. Parental short-term heat exposures could cause transgenerational damage to offspring survival and reproductive fitness when the exposure frequency reached 3 times. Our results suggest that short-term exposure to extreme temperatures could impact reproductive fitness across different life stages in M. separata. This should be taken into consideration in the population prediction of migratory pests under climate change.
Upregulation of granzyme B and C-X3-C motif receptor 1 in circulating plasmablasts was negatively regulated by Notch signal in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Zhang Zhonghui , Yuan Zihang , Wang Yiying , Zhang Ya-Hui , Li Qi , Zeng Xingyue , Guan Zhao , Bahabayi Ayibaota , Wang Pingzhang , Liu Chen
Published: June 2024

As one molecule related to cytotoxicity, surface expression of C-X3-C motif receptor 1 (CX3CR1) was highly correlated with intracellular granzyme B (GZMB) in natural killer and cytolytic T cells. However, the expression of CX3CR1 and GZMB in B cells has not been clarified, and their clinical significance in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify the changes and clinical significance of peripheral blood B cells expressing GZMB and/or CX3CR1 in SLE. Peripheral blood was collected from 39 patients with SLE and 48 healthy controls. We found that GZMB and CX3CR1 expression varied in different B-cell subsets, with plasmablasts possessing the highest positive percentages, consistent with bioinformatics prediction. GZMB+ and CX3CR1+ percentages in circulating B cells and plasmablasts were increased in patients with SLE. CX3CR1 was upregulated on B cells after in vitro stimulation. Notch intracellular domain expression was significantly decreased in plasmablasts of patients with SLE, and CX3CR1 in plasmablasts was downregulated with the addition of JAG1. In conclusion, GZMB and CX3CR1 were increased in B cells and in plasmablasts of patients with SLE and CX3CR1 was negatively regulated by Notch signal in plasmablasts, which may be involved in SLE pathogenesis.
Endemism and regionalization of Neotropical mammals: a multi-taxon analysis
Authors: Machado Valéria Ribeiro , Pereira Maria João Ramos , Tirelli Flávia Pereira , Bennet David , Ferrari Augusto
Published: June 2024

The distribution pattern of a taxon is a consequence of historical and contemporary processes—specifically ecological and evolutionary processes—which tend to result in distributional congruence among species that respond similarly to the same processes. This congruence leads to the establishment of areas of endemism that are important for delimiting biogeographic regions. In the Neotropical region, different definitions of area of endemism have been proposed based on the distributional patterns of mammal species, each according to different methods and assumptions. In this study, we aimed to identify areas of endemism of Neotropical mammals, represented by 361 species of Placentalia (Xenarthra, Chiroptera, and Carnivora) and Marsupialia (Didelphimorphia and Paucituberculata), using an endemicity analysis implemented by the software NDM (eNDeMism software) and a hierarchical cluster analysis based on Simpson’s beta dissimilarity metric (βsim). The results suggest alternative spatial configurations within northern and southern parts of the Neotropics along transition zones. Additionally, there are indications of more restricted areas of endemism throughout the Neotropical region and with more species supporting the areas, such 1 area located in the region corresponding to the Atlantic forest and 2 areas corresponding to Mexican transition zone. The study enhances our understanding of Neotropical mammal biogeography and underscores the importance of using primary distribution data. Previous studies found 82 endemic species based on range maps, whereas our analyses identified 172 endemic species, including 125 that are newly proposed as such, and also confirmed the existence of 47 previously reported endemic species.
Future patterns in burden and incidence of squamous cell carcinoma of the anus in the United States, 2001-2035
Authors: Garg Ashvita , Damgacioglu Haluk , Sigel Keith , Nyitray Alan G , Clifford Gary M , Curran Thomas , Lazenby Gweneth , Meissner Eric G , Sterba Katherine , Sonawane Kalyani , Deshmukh Ashish A
Published: June 2024

Squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) incidence has been rising in the United States, particularly among older adults (≥65 years). We estimated the impact of this rise on future burden (through 2035) using age-period-cohort modeling. The SCCA burden (cases/year) is expected to rise, reaching approximately 2700 among men and approximately 7000 among women in 2031-2035 (burden during 2016-2020 among men and women was approximately 2150 and approximately 4600), with most cases 65 years of age or older (61% in men and 70% in women in 2031-2035; from 40% and 46% in 2016-2020). SCCA incidence (per 100 000) is projected to rise among older men aged 65-74, 75-84, and 85 years or older (5.0, 4.9, and 4.3 in 2031-2035 vs 3.7, 3.8, and 3.4 in 2016-2020, respectively) and women (11.2, 12.6, and 8.0 in 2031-2035 vs 8.2, 6.8, and 5.2 in 2016-2020, respectively). The projected rise in SCCA burden among older adults is troubling and highlights the importance of improving early detection and clinical care.
Global cancer stigma research: a U.S. National Cancer Institute workshop report
Authors: Heley Kathryn , Vanderpool Robin C , Vedham Vidya
Published: June 2024

Stigma is a social process characterized by negative beliefs, attitudes, and stereotypes associated with a specific attribute or characteristic that leads to discrimination and social exclusion. Stigma manifests across the cancer control continuum and remains a key challenge for cancer prevention and control worldwide. In this commentary, we provide an overview of the U.S. National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) Global Cancer Stigma Research Workshop, a multi-disciplinary international conference held virtually in September 2022, which focused on the intersection of cancer and stigma. The meeting was unique in its convening of researchers, advocates, clinicians, and non-governmental and governmental organizations, who—as a collective—provided overarching topics, cross-cutting considerations, and future directions for the cancer stigma research community to consider, which we describe herein. In summary, studying cancer stigma comprehensively requires a holistic, adaptive, and multifaceted approach—and should consider interrelated factors and their intersection within diverse cultural and social contexts worldwide. Collectively, there was a call for: an inclusive approach, encouraging researchers and practitioners to identify and measure cancer stigma as a driver for cancer health inequities globally; an expansion of existing research methodology to include diversity of experiences, contexts, and perspectives; and collaborations among diverse stakeholders to develop more effective strategies for reducing stigma and improving cancer outcomes. Such efforts are essential to cultivating effective and equitable approaches to preventing and treating cancer worldwide.
A “What Matters Most” approach to investigating intersectional stigma toward HIV and cancer in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Eschliman Evan L , Hoang Dung , Khoshnam Nasim , Ye Vivian , Kokaze Haruka , Ji Yatong , Zhong Yining , Morumganti Aditi , Xi Wenyu , Huang Sijia , Choe Karen , Poku Ohemaa B , Alvarez Gloria , Nguyen Trang , Nguyen Nam Truong , Shelley Donna , Yang Lawrence H
Published: June 2024

Background

Vietnam is experiencing a growing burden of cancer, including among people living with HIV. Stigma acts as a sociocultural barrier to the prevention and treatment of both conditions. This study investigates how cultural notions of “respected personhood” (or “what matters most”) influence manifestations of HIV-related stigma and cancer stigma in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Methods

Thirty in-depth interviews were conducted with people living with HIV in Hanoi, Vietnam. Transcripts were thematically coded via a directed content analysis using the What Matters Most conceptual framework. Coding was done individually and discussed in pairs, and any discrepancies were reconciled in full-team meetings.

Results

Analyses elucidated that having chữ tín—a value reflecting social involvement, conscientiousness, and trustworthiness—and being successful (eg, in career, academics, or one’s personal life) are characteristics of respected people in this local cultural context. Living with HIV and having cancer were seen as stigmatized and interfering with these values and capabilities. Intersectional stigma toward having both conditions was seen to interplay with these values in some ways that had distinctions compared with stigma toward either condition alone. Participants also articulated how cultural values like chữ tín are broadly protective against stigmatization and how getting treatment and maintaining employment can help individuals resist stigmatization’s most acute impacts.

Conclusions

HIV-related and cancer stigma each interfere with important cultural values and capabilities in Vietnam. Understanding these cultural manifestations of these stigmas separately and intersectionally can allow for greater ability to measure and respond to these stigmas through culturally tailored intervention.
Intraperitoneal laparoscopic single-site lymph node dissection in modified supine position during laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy
Authors: Xiong Ming , Zhou Menghao , Luo Yi , Jiang Huiling , Kazobinka Gallina , Xiao Yajun , Hou Teng
Published: June 2024

Technique modifications that aim to improve ergonomics of the surgical procedure without repositioning the upper tract urothelial carcinoma patients remain a challenge to urologists. We offer a novel technique to perform intraperitoneal laparoscopic single-site radical nephroureterectomy and pelvic lymph nodes dissection/retroperitoneal lymph nodes dissection in a supine position. Our novel technique is feasible and offers a significant improvement in operative efficiency, particularly in patients with locally advanced disease.
Von Willebrand’s disease in breast surgery: case report
Authors: Rodríguez Lina , Monroy Martha , Guerrero Marco E , Villarroya Natalia
Published: June 2024

Von Willebrand disease is an inherited disorder characterized by deficiency of von Willebrand factor, which contributes to platelet adhesion to the endothelium. Patients with coagulation disorders present a challenge at the time of surgery due to the high risk of presenting heavy bleeding within the procedure or postoperative hematomas. We present a case of a 56-year-old woman with Type 1 von Willebrand’s disease who was scheduled for breast explantation with autologous reconstruction, due to the presence of long-standing breast implants. The case was satisfactorily managed by a multidisciplinary team formed by plastic surgery, hematology, and anesthesiology, individualizing the management for the patient’s case, obtaining good results and a safe procedure.
Primary pulmonary meningioma: a case report
Authors: Pannu Manjinder Kaur , Ehrsam Jonas Peter , Schöb Othmar Markus , Inci Ilhan
Published: June 2024

An asymptomatic 68-year-old woman, with a history of breast cancer 19 years ago, was unexpectedly found to have primary pulmonary meningioma during medical evaluation. This discovery is exceedingly rare, with only about 70 cases reported worldwide. Following uncomplicated surgical removal of the mass, the patient was discharged in good health on the third day after the procedure. Notably, initial analysis of a frozen tissue sample indicated hamartoma, but subsequent immune-histochemical pathological examination confirmed the presence of meningioma. Given the uncommon nature of this tumor, it is essential to report such cases to raise awareness about pulmonary meningioma as a potential cause of solitary lung nodules. This awareness can help prevent unnecessary chemotherapy or surgical interventions.
A Scoping Review of Military Culture, Military Identity, and Mental Health Outcomes in Military Personnel
Authors: Heward Carolyn , Li Wendy , Chun Tie Ylona , Waterworth Pippa
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The military is a unique cultural institution that significantly influences its members, contributing to the development and transformation of their identities. Despite growing interest in identity research in the military, challenges persist in the conceptualization of military identity, including understanding how it forms, assessing the influence of military culture on identity development, and evaluating the implications for mental health. The primary objective of this scoping review was to map the complexities of military culture’s impact on military identity and its effects on mental health.

Materials and Methods

A scoping review of the literature was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute Scoping Review Methodology. Studies were included if they described military culture, military identity, and mental health, resulting in 65 eligible studies. The extracted data were thematically analyzed to identify how military culture impacts military identity and mental health and well-being.

Results

Multiple identities were evident within the military population, with 2 overarching identities, loyalty and military, overall conferring positive mental health outcomes. Where these identities were hidden or disrupted, poorer mental health outcomes were observed.

Conclusions

The scoping review conducted in this study challenges the notion of military identity as a singular concept promoting positive mental health outcomes. It highlights its multifaceted nature, revealing that individuals may face identity concealment and disruptions during periods of transition or adjustment, resulting in adverse mental health outcomes. To capture the complexity of military identity, the authors developed the Military Identity Model (MIM). Military leaders, policymakers, and health care professionals are encouraged to recognize the complex nature of military identity and its impact on mental health and well-being. We recommend using the Military Identity Model to explore military identity and adjustment-related difficulties.
Patterns of Use and Barriers to STI Point-of-care Tests for Military Obstetrician Gynecologists
Authors: Brown Jill E , Hudson Kayla M , Rompalo Anne M , Gaydos Charlotte A
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are commonly reported in military populations. Point-of-care tests (POCTs) are commercially available, but their use is variable in the civilian sector. Their use among military providers has not been evaluated. We sought to identify the pattern of use and barriers to using STI POCTs for military obstetrician/gynecologists (OBGYNs).

Materials and Methods

We adapted a survey of civilian OBGYNs on patterns of use and barriers to STI POCTs for military OBGYNs. We sent an online questionnaire to 479 military OBGYNs via Army, Air Force, and Navy specialty leaders in May 2023. The questionnaire included 14 demographic questions and up to 52 questions regarding availability, use, and barriers to STI POCTs. The USU Institutional Review Board deemed the study exempt from Institutional Review Board review.

Results

Of the 479 solicited, 117 participated in the survey (24.4%). Of respondents, 64.1% were women and 79.5% non-Hispanic white. Sexually transmitted infections were detected once to twice weekly by 13.0% of respondents and once or twice monthly by 52.8%. The most available STI-related POCTs were wet mount prep (68.7%), rapid HIV (43.3%), and urine dipstick (38.6%). Gram stain was available for 30.3%, the Affirm VPIII (Becton, Dickinson and Company, Franklin Lakes, NJ) for 24.5%, and stat RPR for 16.3%. Economic barriers to using POCTs included cost of the test from manufacturer/distributor (57.9%) and military funding/stocking decisions (10.3%). The greatest barriers to use were the purchasing of an instrument (60.8%) and the interruption to workflow in clinic (57.8%).

Conclusions

Military OBGYNs rely on several STI-related POCTs. Economic factors and interruption to workflow were cited as the most significant barriers to using POCTs for military OBGYNs. Test cost and impact on workflow should be considered in future development and procurement of POCTs for the Military Health System.
Three-dimensional GRMHD simulations of rapidly rotating stellar core collapse
Authors: Shibagaki Shota , Kuroda Takami , Kotake Kei , Takiwaki Tomoya , Fischer Tobias
Published: June 2024

We present results from fully general relativistic (GR), three-dimensional (3D), neutrino-radiation magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) simulations of stellar core collapse of a 20 M⊙ star with spectral neutrino transport. Our focus is to study the gravitational-wave (GW) signatures from the magnetorotationally (MR)-driven models. By parametrically changing the initial angular velocity and the strength of the magnetic fields in the core, we compute four models. Among our models, only those with cores having an initial magnetic field strength of 1012 G and rotation rates of 1 or 2 rad s−1 produce MHD jets. Seen from the direction perpendicular to the rotational axis, a characteristic waveform is obtained exhibiting a monotonic time increase in the wave amplitude. As previously identified, this stems from the propagating MHD outflows along the axis. We show that the GW amplitude from anisotropic neutrino emission becomes more than one order-of-magnitude bigger than that from the matter contribution, whereas seen from the rotational axis, both of the two components are in the same order-of-magnitudes. Due to the memory effect, the frequency of the neutrino GW from our full-fledged 3D-MHD models is in the range less than ∼10 Hz. Toward the future GW detection for a Galactic core-collapse supernova, if driven by the MR mechanism, the planned next-generation detector as DECIGO is urgently needed to catch the low-frequency signals.
A pan-TE map highlights transposable elements underlying domestication and agronomic traits in Asian rice
Authors: Li Xiaoxia , Dai Xiaofan , He Huiying , Lv Yang , Yang Longbo , He Wenchuang , Liu Congcong , Wei Hua , Liu Xiangpei , Yuan Qiaoling , Wang Xianmeng , Wang Tianyi , Zhang Bintao , Zhang Hong , Chen Wu , Leng Yue , Yu Xiaoman , Qian Hongge , Zhang Bin , Guo Mingliang , Zhang Zhipeng , Shi Chuanlin , Zhang Qianqian , Cui Yan , Xu Qiang , Cao Xinglan , Chen Dandan , Zhou Yongfeng , Qian Qian , Shang Lianguang
Published: June 2024

Transposable elements (TEs) are ubiquitous genomic components and hard to study due to being highly repetitive. Here we assembled 232 chromosome-level genomes based on long-read sequencing data. Coupling the 232 genomes with 15 existing assemblies, we developed a pan-TE map comprising both cultivated and wild Asian rice. We detected 177 084 high-quality TE variations and inferred their derived state using outgroups. We found TEs were one source of phenotypic variation during rice domestication and differentiation. We identified 1246 genes whose expression variation was associated with TEs but not single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), such as OsRbohB, and validated OsRbohB’s relative expression activity using a dual-Luciferase (LUC) reporter assays system. Our pan-TE map allowed us to detect multiple novel loci associated with agronomic traits. Collectively, our findings highlight the contributions of TEs to domestication, differentiation and agronomic traits in rice, and there is massive potential for gene cloning and molecular breeding by the high-quality Asian pan-TE map we generated.
Dolutegravir Resistance in African Programmatic Settings Among Patients With Failure of Dolutegravir-based ART
Authors: Murphy Richard A , Bedesi Pradeep H , Perumal Nirmala , Gosnell Bernadett I , Hatlen Timothy J , Brijkumar Jaysingh
Published: June 2024

Dolutegravir resistance is emerging in routine clinical contexts in southern Africa, primarily in patients with prior treatment experience failing dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy (ART). This potential issue was raised by The Nucleosides and Darunavir/Dolutegravir in Africa trial that compared dolutegravir and boosted protease inhibitor–based therapy as second-line ART, in which new dolutegravir resistance was observed at failure. However, recent data suggest that also at risk are patients who were transitioned to dolutegravir from non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor–based ART while viremic. Identifying patients experiencing failure of dolutegravir with resistance will be difficult given current gaps in viral load monitoring and limited capacity for genotypic resistance testing. As a result, in the short term, most patients affected will go unrecognized, with particularly important implications for patients affected who have advanced HIV or who are pregnant/breastfeeding. Prospective research is needed to understand the scope of the problem, identify additional risk factors, and determine best management. In the short term, for most patients with dolutegravir resistance and prior non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor exposure, the best option will be a timely switch to a regimen anchored by a boosted protease inhibitor, with a high genetic barrier to resistance.
Metastatic extraneural glioblastoma diagnosed with molecular testing
Authors: Majd Nazanin K , Vo Henry Hiep , Moran Cesar A , Weathers Shiao-Pei , Song I-Wen , Williford Garret L , Rodon Jordi , Fu Siqing , Tsimberidou Apostolia-Maria
Published: June 2024

Glioblastoma, the most common malignant brain tumor in adults, is associated with a median overall survival duration of less than 2 years. Extraneural metastases occur in less than 1% of all patients with glioblastoma. The mechanism of extraneural metastasis is unclear. We present a case of extensive extraneural, extraosseous, epidural, and soft-tissue metastasis of glioblastoma. The diagnosis of metastatic glioblastoma was made only after next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the metastatic paraspinal lesions was completed. The CDK4, pTERT, PTEN, and TP53 molecular alterations seen in the initial intracranial glioblastoma were found in the paraspinal tumor, along with the addition of MYC, which is implicated in angiogenesis and epidermal-to-mesenchymal transition. Immunohistochemical stains showed that neoplastic cells were negative for GFAP. In conclusion, this case raises awareness about the role of NGS in the diagnosis of extraneural glioblastoma. This diagnosis was not possible with histology alone and only became evident after molecular profiling of the metastatic lesions and its comparison to the original tumor.
Development of a rapamycin-inducible protein-knockdown system in the unicellular red alga Cyanidioschyzon merolae
Authors: Fujiwara Takayuki , Hirooka Shunsuke , Yamashita Shota , Yagisawa Fumi , Miyagishima Shin-ya
Published: June 2024

An inducible protein-knockdown system is highly effective for investigating the functions of proteins and mechanisms essential for the survival and growth of organisms. However, this technique is not available in photosynthetic eukaryotes. The unicellular red alga Cyanidioschyzon merolae possesses a very simple cellular and genomic architecture and is genetically tractable but lacks RNA interference machinery. In this study, we developed a protein-knockdown system in this alga. The constitutive system utilizes the destabilizing activity of the FK506-binding protein 12 (FKBP12)-rapamycin-binding (FRB) domain of human target of rapamycin kinase or its derivatives to knock down target proteins. In the inducible system, rapamycin treatment induces the heterodimerization of the human FRB domain fused to the target proteins with the human FKBP fused to S-phase kinase-associated protein 1 or Cullin 1, subunits of the SCF E3 ubiquitin ligase. This results in the rapid degradation of the target proteins through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. With this system, we successfully degraded endogenous essential proteins such as the chloroplast division protein dynamin-related protein 5B and E2 transcription factor, a regulator of the G1/S transition, within 2 to 3 h after rapamycin administration, enabling the assessment of resulting phenotypes. This rapamycin-inducible protein-knockdown system contributes to the functional analysis of genes whose disruption leads to lethality.