bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uropygial gland size increases isometrically with body size in 35 North American bird species
Authors: Dotta Austin , McNamara Caitlin , Nguyen Mercille , Swayser Brandon , Van Huynh Alex
Published: April 2024

The uropygial gland and the oils it produces have been shown to serve important functions in many bird species including plumage maintenance and chemical communication. Previous species comparisons of uropygial gland size have only been conducted in South American and European birds and have found little to no phylogenetic signal. Here, we document uropygial gland measurements of 34 different passerines, 1 hybrid chickadee population, and 1 Piciformes in eastern Pennsylvania, most of which are reported for the first time. Uropygial gland size is positively related to overall body size, controlling for phylogenetic relatedness. We show a significant phylogenetic signal of relative uropygial gland size and many of the species with the largest gland sizes belong to the Paridae. Overall, females show a nonsignificant but slight trend of larger relative uropygial gland sizes than males. This effect is stronger in some species than others and can also be seasonally dependent. We found no effect of relative total eggshell surface area or nest location on relative uropygial gland size. Together our results provide the first documentation of uropygial gland sizes in many of these North American species and provide interesting insight into factors influencing relative gland size including sex, season, and species.
BnaABF3 and BnaMYB44 regulate the transcription of zeaxanthin epoxidase genes in carotenoid and abscisic acid biosynthesis
Authors: Ye Shenhua , Huang Yingying , Ma Tiantian , Ma Xiaowei , Li Rihui , Shen Jinxiong , Wen Jing
Published: April 2024

Zeaxanthin epoxidase (ZEP) is a key enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of zeaxanthin to violaxanthin in the carotenoid and abscisic acid (ABA) biosynthesis pathways. The rapeseed (Brassica napus) genome has 4 ZEP (BnaZEP) copies that are suspected to have undergone subfunctionalization, yet the 4 genes’ underlying regulatory mechanisms remain unknown. Here, we genetically confirmed the functional divergence of the gene pairs BnaA09.ZEP/BnaC09.ZEP and BnaA07.ZEP/BnaC07.ZEP, which encode enzymes with tissue-specific roles in carotenoid and ABA biosynthesis in flowers and leaves, respectively. Molecular and transgenic experiments demonstrated that each BnaZEP pair is transcriptionally regulated via ABA-responsive element–binding factor 3 s (BnaABF3s) and BnaMYB44s as common and specific regulators, respectively. BnaABF3s directly bound to the promoters of all 4 BnaZEPs and activated their transcription, with overexpression of individual BnaABF3s inducing BnaZEP expression and ABA accumulation under drought stress. Conversely, loss of BnaABF3s function resulted in lower expression of several genes functioning in carotenoid and ABA metabolism and compromised drought tolerance. BnaMYB44s specifically targeted and repressed the expression of BnaA09.ZEP/BnaC09.ZEP but not BnaA07.ZEP/BnaC07.ZEP. Overexpression of BnaA07.MYB44 resulted in increased carotenoid content and an altered carotenoid profile in petals. Additionally, RNA-seq analysis indicated that BnaMYB44s functions as a repressor in phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis. These findings provide clear evidence for the subfunctionalization of duplicated genes and contribute to our understanding of the complex regulatory network involved in carotenoid and ABA biosynthesis in B. napus.
B-Box transcription factor BBX28 requires CONSTITUTIVE PHOTOMORPHOGENESIS1 to induce shade-avoidance response in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Saura-Sánchez Maite , Gomez-Ocampo Gabriel , Pereyra Matías Ezequiel , Barraza Carla Eliana , Rossi Andrés H , Córdoba Juan P , Botto Javier Francisco
Published: April 2024

Shade avoidance syndrome is an important adaptive strategy. Under shade, major transcriptional rearrangements underlie the reallocation of resources to elongate vegetative structures and redefine the plant architecture to compete for photosynthesis. BBX28 is a B-box transcription factor involved in seedling de-etiolation and flowering in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), but its function in shade-avoidance response is completely unknown. Here, we studied the function of BBX28 using two mutant and two transgenic lines of Arabidopsis exposed to white light and simulated shade conditions. We found that BBX28 promotes hypocotyl growth under shade through the phytochrome system by perceiving the reduction of red photons but not the reduction of photosynthetically active radiation or blue photons. We demonstrated that hypocotyl growth under shade is sustained by the protein accumulation of BBX28 in the nuclei in a CONSTITUTIVE PHOTOMORPHOGENESIS1 (COP1)-dependent manner at the end of the photoperiod. BBX28 up-regulates the expression of transcription factor- and auxin-related genes, thereby promoting hypocotyl growth under prolonged shade. Overall, our results suggest the role of BBX28 in COP1 signaling to sustain the shade-avoidance response and extend the well-known participation of other members of BBX transcription factors for fine-tuning plant growth under shade.
Equitable infrastructure: Achieving resilient systems and restorative justice through policy and research innovation
Authors: Giovannettone Jason P , Macey Gregg P , AghaKouchak Amir , Barbato Michele , Capehart William J , Ganguly Auroop R , Hall Mital , Helgeson Jennifer F , Li Si Han , Wu Teng , Yan Guirong , Vahedifard Farshid
Published: April 2024

Recent major investments in infrastructure in the United States and globally present a crucial opportunity to embed equity within the heart of resilient infrastructure decision-making. Yet there is a notable absence of frameworks within the engineering and scientific fields for integrating equity into planning, design, and maintenance of infrastructure. Additionally, whole-of-government approaches to infrastructure, including the Justice40 Initiative, mimic elements of process management that support exploitative rather than exploratory innovation. These and other policies risk creating innovation traps that limit analytical and engineering advances necessary to prioritize equity in decision-making, identification and disruption of mechanisms that cause or contribute to inequities, and remediation of historic harms. Here, we propose a three-tiered framework toward equitable and resilient infrastructure through restorative justice, incremental policy innovation, and exploratory research innovation. This framework aims to ensure equitable access and benefits of infrastructure, minimize risk disparities, and embrace restorative justice to repair historical and systemic inequities. We outline incremental policy innovation and exploratory research action items to address and mitigate risk disparities, emphasizing the need for community-engaged research and the development of equity metrics. Among other action items, we recommend a certification system—referred to as Social, Environmental, and Economic Development (SEED)—to train infrastructure engineers and planners and ensure attentiveness to gaps that exist within and dynamically interact across each tier of the proposed framework. Through the framework and proposed actions, we advocate for a transformative vision for equitable infrastructure that emphasizes the interconnectedness of social, environmental, and technical dimensions in infrastructure planning, design, and maintenance.
Blocking of counter-partisan accounts drives political assortment on Twitter
Authors: Martel Cameron , Mosleh Mohsen , Yang Qi , Zaman Tauhid , Rand David G
Published: April 2024

There is strong political assortment of Americans on social media networks. This is typically attributed to preferential tie formation (i.e. homophily) among those with shared partisanship. Here, we demonstrate an additional factor beyond homophily driving assorted networks: preferential prevention of social ties. In two field experiments on Twitter, we created human-looking bot accounts that identified as Democrats or Republicans, and then randomly assigned users to be followed by one of these accounts. In addition to preferentially following-back copartisans, we found that users were 12 times more likely to block counter-partisan accounts compared to copartisan accounts in the first experiment, and 4 times more likely to block counter-partisan accounts relative to a neutral account or a copartisan account in the second experiment. We then replicated these findings in a survey experiment and found evidence of a key motivation for blocking: wanting to avoid seeing any content posted by the blocked user. Additionally, we found that Democrats preferentially blocked counter-partisans more than Republicans, and that this asymmetry was likely due to blocking accounts who post low-quality or politically slanted content (rather than an asymmetry in identity-based blocking). Our results demonstrate that preferential blocking of counter-partisans is an important phenomenon driving political assortment on social media.
Interactive parallel sex pheromone circuits that promote and suppress courtship behaviors in the cockroach
Authors: Tateishi Kosuke , Watanabe Takayuki , Domae Mana , Ugajin Atsushi , Nishino Hiroshi , Nakagawa Hiroyuki , Mizunami Makoto , Watanabe Hidehiro
Published: April 2024

Many animals use multicomponent sex pheromones for mating, but the specific function and neural processing of each pheromone component remain unclear. The cockroach Periplaneta americana is a model for studying sex pheromone communication, and an adult female emits major and minor sex pheromone components, periplanone-B and -A (PB and PA), respectively. Attraction and courtship behaviors (wing-raising and abdominal extension) are strongly expressed when adult males are exposed to PB but weakly expressed when they are exposed to PA. When major PB is presented together with minor PA, behaviors elicited by PB were impaired, indicating that PA can both promote and suppress courtship behaviors depending on the pheromonal context. In this study, we identified the receptor genes for PA and PB and investigated the effects of knocking down each receptor gene on the activities of PA- and PB-responsive sensory neurons (PA- and PB-SNs), and their postsynaptic interneurons, and as well as effects on courtship behaviors in males. We found that PB strongly and PA weakly activate PB-SNs and their postsynaptic neurons, and activation of the PB-processing pathway is critical for the expression of courtship behaviors. PA also activates PA-SNs and the PA-processing pathway. When PA and PB are simultaneously presented, the PB-processing pathway undergoes inhibitory control by the PA-processing pathway, which weakens the expression of courtship behaviors. Our data indicate that physiological interactions between the PA- and PB-processing pathways positively and negatively mediate the attraction and courtship behaviors elicited by sex pheromones.
Signalling with Private Monitoring
Authors: Cisternas Gonzalo , Kolb Aaron
Published: April 2024

We study dynamic signalling when the sender does not see the signals that her actions generate. The sender then uses her past play to forecast what a receiver believes, in turn forcing the receiver to forecast the previous forecast, and so forth. We identify a class of linear-quadratic-Gaussian games where this endogenous higher-order uncertainty can be handled. The sender’s second-order belief is key: it is a private state that she controls, and it creates a new channel for information transmission. We examine the role of higher-order uncertainty and this new signalling channel in applications to macroeconomics, reputation, and trading: inflationary biases under discretion can be larger; career-concerned agents may benefit from not knowing their reputations; and informed trades can carry more price impact. We also introduce an existence method for boundary value problems that can be used in other dynamic games.
Shared Genetic Determinants of Schizophrenia and Autism Spectrum Disorder Implicate Opposite Risk Patterns: A Genome-Wide Analysis of Common Variants
Authors: Chen Yu , Li Wenqiang , Lv Luxian , Yue Weihua
Published: April 2024

Background and Hypothesis

The synaptic pruning hypothesis posits that schizophrenia (SCZ) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may represent opposite ends of neurodevelopmental disorders: individuals with ASD exhibit an overabundance of synapses and connections while SCZ was characterized by excessive pruning of synapses and a reduction. Given the strong genetic predisposition of both disorders, we propose a shared genetic component, with certain loci having differential regulatory impacts.

Study Design

Genome-Wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data of European descent from SCZ (N cases = 53 386, N controls = 77 258) and ASD (N cases = 18 381, N controls = 27 969) were analyzed. We used genetic correlation, bivariate causal mixture model, conditional false discovery rate method, colocalization, Transcriptome-Wide Association Study (TWAS), and Phenome-Wide Association Study (PheWAS) to investigate the genetic overlap and gene expression pattern.

Study Results

We found a positive genetic correlation between SCZ and ASD (rg = .26, SE = 0.01, P = 7.87e−14), with 11 genomic loci jointly influencing both conditions (conjFDR <0.05). Functional analysis highlights a significant enrichment of shared genes during early to mid-fetal developmental stages. A notable genetic region on chromosome 17q21.31 (lead SNP rs2696609) showed strong evidence of colocalization (PP.H4.abf = 0.85). This SNP rs2696609 is linked to many imaging-derived brain phenotypes. TWAS indicated opposing gene expression patterns (primarily pseudogenes and long noncoding RNAs [lncRNAs]) for ASD and SCZ in the 17q21.31 region and some genes (LRRC37A4P, LINC02210, and DND1P1) exhibit considerable variation in the cerebellum across the lifespan.

Conclusions

Our findings support a shared genetic basis for SCZ and ASD. A common genetic variant, rs2696609, located in the Chr17q21.31 locus, may exert differential risk regulation on SCZ and ASD by altering brain structure. Future studies should focus on the role of pseudogenes, lncRNAs, and cerebellum in synaptic pruning and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Human Amniotic Epithelial Cell Transplantation is Safe and Well Tolerated in Patients with Compensated Cirrhosis: A First-in-Human Trial
Authors: Lim Rebecca , Hodge Alexander , Warner Sherryne , Moore Gregory T , Correia Jeanne , Krause Mirja , McDonald Hannah , Chan Siow T , Goonetilleke Mihiri , Lyon Stuart M , Sievert William
Published: April 2024

Placenta-derived human amniotic epithelial cells (hAEC) exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects in cirrhosis models. We conducted a first-in-human phase I clinical trial to assess the safety and tolerability of hAEC in adults with compensated cirrhosis. We examined increasing and repeated doses of hAEC in 9 patients in 3 cohorts. Cohort 1 patients received 0.5 × 106/kg hAEC in one IV infusion. Cohort 2 patients received 1 × 106/kg hAEC in one IV infusion. The patients in cohort 3 received 1 × 106/kg hAEC on days 0 and 28. Here, we report follow-up to post-infusion day 56 (D56), during which no serious adverse events occurred. Six patients experienced no study-related adverse events, while 3 patients reported mild (grade 1) headaches that were possibly infusion-related. A transient decrease in serum platelet count occurred in all patients, which returned to baseline screening values by day 5. FIB-4 values to assess fibrosis were significantly lower at D56. Although not statistically significant, serum AST levels and liver stiffness measurements at D56 were lower than those at baseline. The hepatic venous pressure gradient, a measure of portal hypertension, declined in 4 patients, did not change in 3 patients, and increased in 2 patients. In conclusion, intravenous infusion of allogeneic hAEC in patients with compensated cirrhosis at the doses used in this study was safe and well tolerated, with no difference observed between 1 and 2 doses. Decreased hepatic inflammation, liver stiffness, and portal hypertension support larger studies aimed at identifying patients who may benefit from this therapy.

Clinical Trial registration: The trial was prospectively entered on the Australian Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR12616000437460).
Maize Root Exudates Promote Bacillus sp. Za Detoxification of Diphenyl Ether Herbicides by Enhancing Colonization and Biofilm Formation
Authors: Tian Yanning , Zhong Fangya , Shang Na , Yu Houyu , Mao Dongmei , Huang Xing
Published: April 2024

Diphenyl ether herbicides are extensively utilized in agricultural systems, but their residues threaten the health of sensitive rotation crops. Functional microbial strains can degrade diphenyl ether herbicides in the rhizosphere of crops, facilitating the restoration of a healthy agricultural environment. However, the interplay between microorganisms and plants in diphenyl ether herbicides degradation remains unclear. Thus, the herbicide-degrading strain Bacillus sp. Za and the sensitive crop, maize, were employed to uncover the interaction mechanism. The degradation of diphenyl ether herbicides by strain Bacillus sp. Za was promoted by root exudates. The strain induced root exudate re-secretion in diphenyl ether herbicide-polluted maize. We further showed that root exudates enhanced the rhizosphere colonization and the biofilm biomass of strain Za, augmenting its capacity to degrade diphenyl ether herbicide. Root exudates regulated gene fliZ, which is pivotal in biofilm formation. Wild-type strain Za significantly reduced herbicide toxicity to maize compared to the ZaΔ fliZ mutant. Moreover, root exudates promoted strain Za growth and chemotaxis, which was related to biofilm formation. This mutualistic relationship between the microorganisms and the plants demonstrates the significance of plant-microbe interactions in shaping diphenyl ether herbicide degradation in rhizosphere soils.

[Formula: see text] The author(s) have dedicated the work to the public domain under the Creative Commons CC0 “No Rights Reserved” license by waiving all of his or her rights to the work worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law, 2024.
LAMP Assay to Detect Elsinoë necatrix, an Important Eucalyptus Shoot and Leaf Pathogen
Authors: van Heerden Alishia , Pham Nam Q. , Wingfield Brenda D. , Wingfield Michael J. , Muro Abad Jupiter I. , Durán Alvaro , Wilken P. Markus
Published: April 2024

Eucalyptus scab and shoot malformation caused by Elsinoë necatrix is an emerging disease and a serious threat to the global commercial forestry industry. The disease was first discovered in North Sumatra, Indonesia, and now requires a simple and effective method for early pathogen detection. In this study, a rapid and sensitive loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay was developed for E. necatrix. A unique region in a secondary metabolite gene cluster was used as a target for the assay. To test robustness of the assay, LAMP was verified in 15 strains of E. necatrix. A specificity test against 23 closely related Elsinoë species and three fungal species commonly isolated on Eucalyptus showed that the LAMP assay exclusively identified E. necatrix isolates. The assay had a high level of sensitivity, able to detect 0.01 ng (approximately 400 target copies) of pure E. necatrix DNA. Furthermore, using a simple DNA extraction method, it was possible to use this assay to detect E. necatrix in infected Eucalyptus leaves.
How Tea Plant Defends Against Blister Blight Disease: Facts Revealed and Unexplored Horizons
Authors: Mahadevan Niranjan , Sinniah Ganga Devi , Gunasekaram Pradeep , Karunajeewa Dinamithra Gedara Nadeeka Priyadarshanie
Published: April 2024

Tea (Camellia sinensis [L.] O. Kuntze) is cultivated as a beverage crop. Despite being a hardy perennial, the tea plant is susceptible to various biotic stresses. Among them, the foliar disease blister blight (BB) is considered the most serious threat to the tea industry, particularly in Asia. BB caused by Exobasidium vexans (Basidiomycetes) was first reported from Northern India in 1868 and gradually established in other tea-growing countries. The fungus E. vexans attacks young harvestable shoots and causes 20 to 50% crop loss. Over the past 150 years, scientific research has delved into various aspects of BB disease, including pathogen biology, disease cycle, epidemiology, disease forecasting, crop loss assessment, and disease management strategies. In a recent shift in research focus, scientists have begun to investigate the resistance mechanisms of tea plants against BB and apply this knowledge to commercial tea cultivation. Although progress has been significant in understanding the fundamental aspects of BB resistance, the detailed molecular mechanisms driving this resistance remain under investigation. This paper focuses on the current understanding of defense mechanisms employed by tea plants against E. vexans and, conversely, how E. vexans overcomes these defenses. Furthermore, we discuss the application of plant resistance strategies in commercial tea cultivation. Lastly, we identify existing research gaps and propose future research directions in the field.
Age and sex Differences in Pediatric Neuropathic Pain and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Authors: Mesaroli Giulia , Davidge Kristen M. , Davis Aileen M. , Perruccio Anthony V. , Choy Samantha , Walker Suellen M. , Stinson Jennifer N.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Age and sex differences may exist in the frequency (incidence, prevalence) or symptoms of neuropathic pain (NP) and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) due to biopsychosocial factors (e.g., neurodevelopment, physiological and hormonal changes, psychosocial differences) that evolve through childhood and adolescence.2 Age and sex differences may have implications for evaluating screening and diagnostic tools and treatment interventions.

Objective:

To map the existing literature on pediatric NP and CRPS with respect to age and sex distributions, and age and sex differences in symptomology and frequency.

Methods:

A scoping literature review was conducted. Databases were searched from inception to January 2023. Data were collected on study design, setting, demographics, and age and sex differences in frequency and symptoms.

Results:

Eighty-seven studies were included. Distribution of participants with CRPS (n=37 studies) was predominantly early adolescence (10–14 years) and female sex, while NP (n=42 studies) was most commonly reported throughout adolescence (10–19 years) in both sexes. Forty-one studies examined age and sex differences in frequency; 6 studies reported higher frequency in adolescence. Very few studies (n=11) examined differences in symptomology.

Discussion:

Large epidemiological studies are required to further understand age and sex differences in frequency of pediatric NP and CRPS. Age and sex differences must be considered when evaluating screening and diagnostic tools and treatment interventions to ensure relevance and validity to both sexes and across ages. Validated tools will improve understanding of age- and sex-dependent differences in symptoms, pathophysiology, and psychosocial impact of pediatric NP and CRPS.
The Burden of Occupational Noise-Induced Hearing Loss From 1990 to 2019: An Analysis of Global Burden of Disease Data
Authors: Liu Ce , He Li , Shan Xiaobing , Zhang Ling , Ge Erjia , Zhang Kai , Luo Bin
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

The relationship between long-term exposure to occupational noise and hearing loss has been extensively documented. We aimed to assess spatial and temporal changes in the burden of occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL) in 204 countries and territories with varying socio-demographic indexes (SDI) from 1990 to 2019.

Design:

Temporal and spatial trends in age-standardized disability-adjusted life year rates (ASDR) for ONIHL were estimated by sex, age, SDI level, country, and geographic region from 1990 to 2019. We used the Joinpoint model to calculate annual average percentage changes to assess such trends and projected trends in ASDR for ONIHL globally and across different income regions from 2020 to 2044 using an age-period-cohort model. We fitted the relationship between ASDR and SDI, ASDR and healthcare access and quality index, respectively.

Results:

Overall, the global burden of ONIHL has decreased since 1990, especially in middle and lower SDI regions. In 2019, the global ASDR for ONIHL was 84.23 (95% confidence interval: 57.46 to 120.52) per 100,000 population. From 1990 to 2019, the global ASDR for ONIHL decreased by 1.72% (annual average percentage change = −0.05, 95% confidence interval: −0.07 to −0.03). Our projections showed a decreasing trend in the global ONIHL burden until 2044. ASDR and SDI (R = −0.8, p < 0.05), ASDR and healthcare access and quality index (R = −0.75, p < 0.05) showed significant negative correlations.

Conclusions:

The global ONIHL burden has decreased over the past three decades, especially in regions with middle and lower SDI levels. However, the global ONIHL burden still remained severe in 2019, notably among males, the middle-aged and elderly, and regions with lower SDI levels.
Postoperative C5 Palsy after Anterior or Posterior Decompression for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy
Authors: Bak Alex B. , Moghaddamjou Ali , Alvi Mohammed , Ahn Henry , Farhadi H. Francis , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Nassr Ahmad , Mummaneni Praveen , Arnold Paul M. , Jacobs W. Bradley , Riew K. Daniel , Kelly Michael , Brodke Darrel S. , Vaccaro Alexander R. , Hilibrand Alan S. , Wilson Jason , Harrop James S. , Yoon S. Tim , Kim Kee D. , Fourney Daryl R. , Santaguida Carlo , Massicotte Eric M. , Kopjar Branko , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: April 2024

Study Design.

Retrospective cohort study of prospectively accrued data.

Objective.

To evaluate a large, prospective, multicentre dataset of surgically treated degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) cases on the contemporary risk of C5 palsy with surgical approach.

Summary of Background Data.

The influence of surgical technique on postoperative C5 palsy after decompression for DCM is intensely debated. Comprehensive, covariate-adjusted analyses are needed using contemporary data.

Methods.

Patients with moderate to severe DCM were prospectively enrolled in the multicenter, randomized, Phase III CSM-Protect clinical trial and underwent either anterior or posterior decompression between Jan 31, 2012 and May 16, 2017. The primary outcome was the incidence of postoperative C5 palsy, defined as the onset of muscle weakness by at least one grade in manual muscle test at the C5 myotome with slight or absent sensory disruption after cervical surgery. Two comparative cohorts were made based on the anterior or posterior surgical approach. Multivariate hierarchical mixed-effects logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for C5 palsy.

Results.

A total of 283 patients were included, and 53.4% underwent posterior decompression. The total incidence of postoperative C5 palsy was 7.4% and was significantly higher in patients who underwent posterior decompression compared with anterior decompression (11.26% vs. 3.03%, P=0.008). After multivariable regression, the posterior approach was independently associated with greater than four times the likelihood of postoperative C5 palsy (P=0.017). Rates of C5 palsy recovery were comparable between the two surgical approaches.

Conclusion.

The odds of postoperative C5 palsy are significantly higher after posterior decompression compared to anterior decompression for DCM. This may influence surgical decision-making when there is equipoise in deciding between anterior and posterior treatment options for DCM.

Level of Evidence.

Therapeutic Level—II
The Effect of Albumin Administration in Critically Ill Patients: A Retrospective Single-Center Analysis
Authors: Abdelhamid Salim , Achermann Rita , Hollinger Alexa , Hauser Madlaina , Trutmann Maren , Gallacchi Laura , Siegemund Martin
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVES:

The aim of this study was to analyze the development of albumin administration in patients admitted to the adult ICU. In addition, we assessed the impact of albumin administration on serum hemoglobin concentration.

DESIGN:

We conducted a retrospective single-center study including all patients who were admitted to the ICU from January 2013 to December 2021 and stayed at least 24 hours.

SETTING:

The study was conducted in an academic hospital (University Hospital Basel, Switzerland).

PATIENTS:

A total of 20,927 admissions were included, of which 3748 received albumin at least once during their ICU stay. To analyze volume expansion, 2006 admissions met the inclusion criteria, namely at least two hemoglobin measurements within 12 hours, one albumin delivery, and experienced no bleeding, dialysis, or transfusions during this period.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS:

We examined the hemoglobin levels before and after albumin administration and compared them with a matched control group to assess the amount and duration of volume expansion.

MAIN RESULTS:

From 2013 to 2021 the proportion of critically ill patients treated with albumin rose from 5.0% to 32.5%. An overproportioned increase in albumin use could be seen in surgical patients (4.7–47.2%) and in those receiving RBC transfusion (13.7–72.6%). In those patients receiving albumin, a significant drop in hemoglobin of around 5 g/L on average could be observed following treatment with albumin.

CONCLUSION:

Hemodilution was observable for at least 12 hours after albumin administration and may have caused a decrease in hemoglobin concentration of greater than 8 g/L when isooncotic albumin solution (5%, 25 g in 500 mL) was administered. This makes albumin, especially in its isooncotic form, an ideal colloid to achieve long-lasting volume expansion. However, RBC transfusions may increase under albumin therapy, as transfusion thresholds may be undershot after albumin administration.
Plasticity, heterogeneity, and multifunctionality of hepatic stellate cells in liver pathophysiology
Authors: Du Kuo , Jun Ji Hye , Dutta Rajesh K. , Diehl Anna Mae
Published: April 2024

HSCs, the resident pericytes of the liver, have consistently been at the forefront of liver research due to their crucial roles in various hepatic pathological processes. Prior literature often depicted HSCs in a binary framework, categorizing them as either quiescent or activated. However, recent advances in HSC research, particularly the advent of single-cell RNA-sequencing, have revolutionized our understanding of these cells. This sophisticated technique offers an unparalleled, high-resolution insight into HSC populations, uncovering a spectrum of diversity and functional heterogeneity across various physiological states of the liver, ranging from liver development to the liver aging process. The single-cell RNA-sequencing revelations have also highlighted the intrinsic plasticity of HSCs and underscored their complex roles in a myriad of pathophysiological processes, including liver injury, repair, and carcinogenesis. This review aims to integrate and clarify these recent discoveries, focusing on how the inherent plasticity of HSCs is central to their dynamic roles both in maintaining liver homeostasis and orchestrating responses to liver injury. Future research will clarify whether findings from rodent models can be translated to human livers and guide how these insights are harnessed to develop targeted therapeutic interventions.
Perfluorocarbon Liquid-Silicone Oil Exchange: The Simplicity and Reliability of the Single Port Technique and a Review of Literature
Authors: Silpa-archa Sukhum , Nganthavee Variya
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

To report the “Single Port Technique” for perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL)-silicone oil (SO) exchange for the management of giant retinal tear detachments (GRTD).

Methods:

The previously reported techniques of direct PFCL-SO exchange used 2 ports to achieve the influx and outflux of fluid. The term 'Single Port' refers to the use of only one port as the exclusive port for the inflow of SO and the outflow of fluid meniscus and PFCL, performed alternately. This technique is proposed, with illustrated instructions and a surgical video.

Results:

The newly proposed “Single Port Technique” offers a straightforward step using a switch between active aspiration by the vitreous cutter and active silicone oil injection through a single port without the need for assistance. This method has been performed by the authors on 29 patients, including 22 GRTD patients and 7 patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment caused by dialysis, and it has demonstrated its simplicity and reliability for use with only standard vitrectomy tools and machine settings.

Conclusion:

The Single Port Technique for PFCL-SO exchange for the management of GRTD and rhegmatogenous retinal detachment caused by dialysis has been tried and tested, and it is a valuable tool that can be easily used by any vitreoretinal surgeon.
The Significance of Screening Family Members in Glaucoma: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Bhargava Siddharth , Mason Lauren , Okeke Constance
Published: April 2024

Precis:

This article delves into the imperative of screening family members of patients with glaucoma due to the disease’s hereditary nature. It discusses the significant risks faced by first-degree relatives, approaches for identification, and challenges in implementing effective screening strategies. Emphasizing education, targeted campaigns, community involvement, and collaborative healthcare approaches, the article highlights the potential for mitigating undiagnosed glaucoma cases through strategic interventions targeting high-risk individuals.

Purpose:

This article underscores the importance of screening family members of glaucoma patients, emphasizing the hereditary nature of the disease and the potential for screening to allow for early intervention to help prevent unnecessary vision loss.

Methods/Results:

Glaucoma, affecting over 111.8 million by 2040, is relatively asymptomatic until late in the disease. Genetics predispose to glaucoma, with up to 70% heritability. High-risk individuals, particularly first-degree relatives, exhibit substantially elevated glaucoma risks—up to 22% compared with 2.3% in controls. Family history also correlates with greater disease severity. Identifying high-risk family members through cascade screenings for causative genes or direct examinations during proband visits emerges as efficient strategies. Challenges persist, including slow progression, healthcare accessibility, and ethical dilemmas in implementing family member screening. Challenges extend to the healthcare system, socioeconomic barriers, and familial communication issues. Efforts to educate probands and the public on the hereditary nature of glaucoma are pivotal. Tailored education campaigns, leveraging clinic visits, and community screenings, complemented by optometrist collaboration, form essential strategies.

Conclusions:

Although challenges hinder family member screening, educating probands, targeted patient education, collaborative healthcare approaches, and community involvement offer promising avenues to combat undiagnosed glaucoma cases.
The Purpose, Process, and Advancement of Forensic Nursing Standards
Authors: Williams Joyce P. , Downing Nancy , Miyamoto Sheridan
Published: April 2024

Background

To strengthen the nation's use of forensic science and advance professional practice, forensic practitioners and scientists in the Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) develop standards in forensic science. The Forensic Nursing Subcommittee was created by OSAC in 2021 to develop standards that improve patient outcomes through delivery of consistent practice guidelines, evidence-based techniques for preservation of evidence, and accurate representation of practice and examination findings.

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to relate the history of forensic science standard development in the United States, discuss the rationale for forensic nursing standards, and describe the standards development process. In this article, we provide an overview of OSAC and the OSAC Forensic Nursing Subcommittee. We discuss how forensic nurses can be involved in the development and advancement of standards that define minimum requirements, best practices, and evidence-based protocols to ensure reliable and reproducible outcomes.

Implications for Forensic Nurses

The development of forensic nursing standards is an important step in advancing the profession. It is critical that forensic nurses are actively involved in the standards development process, which includes volunteering to serve on the OSAC Forensic Nursing Subcommittee or a forensic nursing standards development organization, providing input into standards drafts during the public comment period, and implementing approved standards into practice.
Association between the initial physical activity and functional recovery after 1 month of inpatient rehabilitation for subacute stroke: stratified analysis by nutritional status
Authors: Kimura Yosuke , Suzuki Yoshiki , Abe Marie
Published: April 2024

Objectively measured physical activity volume serves as a predictive factor for functional recovery in patients with stroke. Malnutrition, a frequent complication of stroke, may influence the relationship between physical activity and functional recovery. This study aimed to examine the association between physical activity volume and functional recovery in patients with stroke, stratified by their nutritional status. This multicenter prospective observational study included 209 patients with stroke admitted to two Japanese convalescent rehabilitation hospitals. Participants were categorized based on the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) at admission [≥92, high GNRI group (n = 133); <92, low GNRI group (n = 76)]. Physical activity levels were measured as the duration of total physical activity (TPA), which is the sum of light-intensity physical activity and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, using a triaxial accelerometer during the first 7 days after admission. Outcome measures are represented as the relative gain of the motor score on functional independence measure (M-FIM effectiveness) during the first month after admission. The multiple regression analysis, adjusting for age, sex, comorbidity, onset to admission intervals, motor paralysis, initial M-FIM, and cognitive FIM, showed that the duration of TPA in the first 7 days was significantly associated with the M-FIM effectiveness over the first month in both low GNRI [B = 0.12, 95% confidential intervals (CI) = 0.01; 0.24, P = 0.049] and high GNRI group (B = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.01; 0.21, P = 0.027). This study demonstrates a positive predictive association between early TPA level and functional recovery in stroke patients, irrespective of their nutritional status.
The role of peer support and patient navigation for empowerment in breast cancer survivors: implications for community cancer control
Authors: Sleiman Marcelo M. , Yockel Mary Rose , Fleischmann Adina , Silber Elana , Liu Mingqian , Young Olivia , Arumani Sahana , Tercyak Kenneth P.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Community-based organizations (CBO) offer support, including patient navigation (PN), to women at-risk for (eg, those with BRCA pathogenic variants) and surviving with breast cancer. However, the impacts of CBO efforts on survivors' empowerment (eg, control, self-confidence, knowledge/skills, coping) are largely unknown.

Methods:

As part of a quality improvement initiative (N = 2,247) focused on PN, care satisfaction, peer support, and quality of life (QoL), we conducted a secondary analysis of a CBO care delivery model on women's empowerment.

Results:

Under CBO led cancer control, empowerment was high: most survivors felt confident in (71.2%) and knowledgeable about (66.4%) managing their care. Perceived care quality was also high (91%): it was recommendable to others (93.9%), helpful (92.7%), informative (92.6%), timely (92.2%), reliable (91.5%), supportive (91.3%), and effective (88.7%). Regarding CBO care satisfaction, survivors felt supported by abundant resources (92.8%) and programs (91.2%), understood (92.0%), and helped (91.6%). Peer support (offered to >25%) demonstrated high engagement (>85%). Regarding QoL, 25.3% were in fair/poor health and 25.6% endorsed frequent mental distress (M = 7.2 physically unhealthy days, M = 7.8 mentally unhealthy days, and M = 6.4 activity-limited days within the past month). Disparities in empowerment were observed as a function of survivors' QoL: lowest among those with more frequent mental distress (t = −2.13, P < .05), mentally unhealthy days (r = −0.083, P < .05), and activity-limited days (r = −0.058, P < .05)). These burdens may have influenced survivors' feelings of empowerment, especially among those without peer support (t = 3.77, P < .001), who downgraded the quality of PN (t = 0.60, P < .01), and were least satisfied with CBO cancer control (t = 0.57, P < .01). In a multivariable model adjusting for mental distress, both perceived PN quality (B = 0.16, SE = 0.01, P < .001) and peer support (B = 0.24, SE = 0.13, P = .05) were positively associated with empowerment: survivors who rated their PN higher, and offered peer support, felt more empowered.

Conclusions:

CBO cancer control can uplift most survivors: addressing socially determined disparities, through programs such as peer support, may enhance their effectiveness and particularly among those with poor mental health.
Tracking Fat Grafts by Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A Comparative Study of Adolescent and Adult Patients with Stable Localized Scleroderma
Authors: Ma Xuda , Wang Liquan , Li Tianhao , Li Ziming , Chen Yu , Wang Tianjiao , Long Xiao , Huang Jiuzuo , Wang Xiaojun
Published: April 2024

Background:

The optimal timing of reconstruction for patients with facial localized scleroderma is uncertain. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of autologous fat transplantation in adolescent and adult patients with stable localized scleroderma.

Methods:

Adolescent (age 10 to 19 years) and adult (age >19 years) patients with no previous surgery were enrolled (n = 10, each group). Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging, blood tests, and dermatological assessments were used to assess disease activity. All patients underwent autologous fat transplantation for anatomic facial fat restoration with preoperative magnetic resonance imaging planning. Preoperative, immediate, and 1-year postoperative 3-dimensional Dixon magnetic resonance imaging scans, with image registration and fusion techniques, were used to track fat grafts. Patient satisfaction was assessed with a 5-point Likert scale.

Results:

There was no significant difference in sex, body mass index, disease severity, or volume of injected fat between the 2 groups (P > 0.05), except for age (P < 0.05). The 1-year postoperative fat graft retention rate was not significantly different, with 36.6% ± 2.4% (range, 25.3% to 49.3%) in the adolescent group and 32.9% ± 1.7% (range, 27.3% to 40.1%) in the adult group (P > 0.05). Surgical outcomes were favorable in all patients, with satisfaction scores of 3.8 ± 0.2 points in the adolescent group and 3.6 ± 0.2 points in the adult group (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

In patients with stable localized scleroderma, the initial autologous fat transplantation was equally effective in improving facial contour deformity, with no significant difference in fat graft retention or patient satisfaction.
Effect of the ischial support on muscle force estimation during transfemoral walking
Authors: Fougeron Nolwenn , Bonnet Xavier , Panhelleux Brieuc , Rose Jean-Loïc , Rohan Pierre-Yves , Pillet Hélène
Published: April 2024

Background:

Transmission of loads between the prosthetic socket and the residual limb is critical for the comfort and walking ability of people with transfemoral amputation. This transmission is mainly determined by the socket tightening, muscle forces, and socket ischial support. However, numerical investigations of the amputated gait, using modeling approaches such as MusculoSkeletal (MSK) modeling, ignore the weight-bearing role of the ischial support. This simplification may lead to errors in the muscle force estimation.

Objective:

This study aims to propose a MSK model of the amputated gait that accounts for the interaction between the body and the ischial support for the estimation of the muscle forces of 13 subjects with unilateral transfemoral amputation.

Methods:

Contrary to previous studies on the amputated gait which ignored the interaction with the ischial support, here, the contact on the ischial support was included in the external loads acting on the pelvis in a MSK model of the amputated gait.

Results:

Including the ischial support induced an increase in the activity of the main abductor muscles, while adductor muscles' activity was reduced. These results suggest that neglecting the interaction with the ischial support leads to erroneous muscle force distribution considering the gait of people with transfemoral amputation. Although subjects with various bone geometries, particularly femur lengths, were included in the study, similar results were obtained for all subjects.

Conclusions:

Eventually, the estimation of muscle forces from MSK models could be used in combination with finite element models to provide quantitative data for the design of prosthetic sockets.
Long-Term Follow-up of Patients With Autonomous Thyroid Nodules Treated With Radioiodine
Authors: Moroto Débora , Torquato-Vieira Isabel C. O. , Fiorin Lia B. , Camacho Cléber P. , Castiglioni Mário Luiz V. , Maciel Rui M. B. , Furlanetto Reinaldo P. , Matsumura Luiza K. , Janovsky Carolina C. P. S. , Lindsey Susan C. , Martins João Roberto M.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This article aims to describe the presentation of Plummer disease and its evolution after radioiodine treatment and determine factors that may influence treatment efficacy.

Patients and Methods

The sample included retrospective medical records of 165 adult patients with toxic nodular goiter treated with radioiodine between 1997 and 2017, followed up at a single thyroid center.

Results

The efficacy of treatment with a single dose of radioiodine was higher than 90%. The mean radioiodine activity was 28.9 ± 3.4 mCi. The mean time between radioiodine performance and hyperthyroidism resolution was 3.6 ± 3.0 months, ranging from 1–12 months. After the first year, 33.9% of the patients were under hypothyroidism, 59.4% under euthyroidism, and 6.7% under hyperthyroidism. Among the nonresponders, the variables that showed statistical difference were the presence of multinodular goiter and the radioiodine activity (mean, 25.5 ± 6.5 mCi; median, 30 [15–30 mCi]). The cumulative rate of hypothyroidism was 48.9% over 20 years of follow-up.

Conclusions

Radioiodine therapy is an effective and safe treatment. In Plummer disease, high rates of euthyroidism are expected after the radioiodine treatment. Therapeutic failure was observed mainly in patients with larger multinodular goiters treated with lower doses of radioiodine. The evolution to hypothyroidism was mostly observed in younger patients with larger and uninodular goiters.