bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nasopharyngeal Carriage of Pneumococcus in Children in England up to 10 Years After 13-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine Introduction: Persistence of Serotypes 3 and 19A and Emergence of 7C
Authors: Tiley Karen S , Ratcliffe Helen , Voysey Merryn , Jefferies Kimberley , Sinclair Gemma , Carr Melanie , Colin-Jones Rachel , Smith David , Bowman Jaclyn , Hart Thomas , Kandasamy Rama , Hinds Jason , Gould Katherine , Berbers Guy , Tcherniaeva Irina , Robinson Hannah , Plested Emma , Aley Parvinder , Snape Matthew D
Published: September 2022

Background

Monitoring changes in pharyngeal carriage of pneumococcus in children following 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) introduction in the United Kingdom in 2010 informs understanding of patterns of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) incidence.

Methods

Nasopharyngeal swabs from healthy children vaccinated with PCV13 according to schedule (2, 4, and 12 months) were cultured and serotyped. Results for children aged 13–48 months were compared between 2014–2015 and 2017–2019 and with children aged 6–12 months (2017–2020). Blood was obtained from a subset of children for pneumococcal serotype-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG).

Results

Total pneumococcal carriage at 13–48 months was 47.9% (473/988) in 2014–2015 and 51.8% (412/795) in 2017–2019 (P = .10); at age 6–12 months this value was 44.6% (274/615). In 2017–2019, 2.9% (95% confidence interval, 1.8%–4.3%) of children aged 13–48 months carried PCV13 serotypes (mainly 3 [1.5%] and 19A [0.8%]) and >20% carried the additional 20-valent PCV (PCV20) serotypes. Similar proportions of children had IgG ≥0.35 IU/mL for each serotype in 2014–2015 and 2017–2019. Serotype 7C carriage increased significantly (P < .01) between 2014–2015 and 2017–2019. Carriage of PCV20 serotypes 8 and 12F, both major causes of IPD, was rare.

Conclusions

Introduction of PCV20, if licensed for children, could significantly change the composition of pneumococcal serotypes carried in the pharynx of UK children.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03102840.
Soybean is a Common Nectar Source for Honey Bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in a Midwestern Agricultural Landscape
Authors: Lin Chia-Hua , Suresh Sreelakshmi , Matcham Emma , Monagan Paityn , Curtis Hailey , Richardson Rodney T , Johnson Reed M
Published: September 2022

Large-scale soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cultivation has substantially transformed the Midwestern landscape in recent decades. Floral nectar produced by immense fields of soybeans has the potential to influence foraging ecology and resource accumulation of honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) colonies. In this study, we combined microscopic and molecular pollen analysis of honey samples with waggle dance inference of spatial foraging patterns to demonstrate that honey bees routinely forage on soybeans in Ohio. In analyzing honey samples from across the state, we found ubiquitous presence of soybean pollen in honey collected from agricultural lands during soybean bloom. The abundance of soybean pollen in honey increased with the amount of soybean fields surrounding the apiaries. Honey bee waggle dances recorded during soybean bloom revealed that honey bees preferred soybean fields for foraging over other habitat types. With these results, future research efforts aimed at enhancing mutual interactions between soybeans and honey bees may represent an unexplored pathway for increasing soybean production while supporting honey bees and other pollinators in the surrounding landscape.
Corn Stunt Pathosystem and Its Leafhopper Vector in Brazil
Authors: Pozebon Henrique , Stürmer Glauber Renato , Arnemann Jonas André
Published: September 2022

Direct and indirect injury caused by Dalbulus maidis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) in corn is an ever-increasing concern in Brazil and other corn-producing countries of the Americas. This highly efficient vector transmits corn stunting pathogens and is of economic concern in the Neotropics, including temperate regions where epidemic outbreaks are now common. Despite the progress made so far, Brazilian corn growers continue to struggle with this pest and its associated pathosystem. In this review, we gathered relevant and updated information on the bioecology, population dynamics, and damaging potential of D. maidis. Our goal was to better understand its intimate association and complex interactions with the host crop and transmitted pathogens. Based on available scientific literature, we identified factors which explain the recent increase in D. maidis occurrence in South America, including the cultivation of corn during multiple growing seasons, overlapping of susceptible crops, and widespread use of genetically modified hybrids. The reasons for the overall inefficiency of current suppression strategies aimed at this pest are also summarized. Finally, a management program for D. maidis and corn stunt disease is proposed, combining strategies such as eradicating volunteer corn, reducing the planting period, using tolerant hybrids, and applying chemical and/or fungal insecticides. Prospects regarding the pest’s status are also outlined. Overall, the information presented here will serve as a decision-making guide within Brazilian and South American corn production systems, as well as paving the way for devising novel strategies aimed at suppressing D. maidis populations and limiting the spread of corn stunt disease.
Distribution and Ecology of Phlebotomine Sand Flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) in Endemic and Nonendemic Area of Leishmaniasis in Northern Morocco
Authors: Zarrouk Asmae , Boussaa Samia , Belqat Boutaïna
Published: September 2022

Northern Morocco is endemic for cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis. Our entomological investigations aim to evaluate the risk of Leishmania transmission by determining the species composition, the density, and seasonal fluctuation of sand fly populations in endemic and nonendemic areas of leishmaniasis in Tetouan province (North-Western Morocco). Using Sticky-paper traps, 8,370 specimens were collected between May and November 2015 in two localities: peri-urban area of Tetouan city, where leishmaniasis is endemic and that of the Oued Laou village where no cases of leishmaniasis have been recorded. Six sand fly species were identified. The genus Phebotomus was represented by five species: Phlebotomus ariasi, Phlebotomus. longicuspis, Phlebotomus perniciosus, Phlebotomus kazeruni, and Phlebotomus sergenti, while the genus Sergentomyia was represented by only one species Sergentomyia minuta. Phlebotomus perniciosus was dominant in the nonendemic area (47%) while Phlebotomus sergenti was dominant in the endemic area (51%). The spatio-temporal distribution of sand fly populations is discussed according to biotic and abiotic variables. Seasonal fluctuation in sand fly density showed a bimodal pattern for the subgenus Larroussius and a unimodal pattern for the subgenus Paraphlebotomus in Tetouan city. But, in Oued Laou village, a unimodal density distribution for species of the Larroussius subgenus and a bimodal seasonal distribution for species of the subgenus Paraphlebotomus were identified. We affirm the coexistence, in the study area, of vectors of both cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis, namely P. ariasi, P. longicuspis and P. perniciosus vectors of Leishmania infantum and P. sergenti vector of L. tropica. However, the geographic distribution, the specific abundance, and the activity reveal significant differences between endemic and nonendemic areas in the region.
Phoenixin 14 ameloriates pancreatic injury in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats by alleviating oxidative burden
Authors: Ozdemir-Kumral Zarife Nigâr , Sen Eminenur , Yapici Hasan Basri , Atakul Nurullah , Domruk Omer Faruk , Aldag Yusra , Sen Leyla Semiha , Kanpalta Mustafaoğlu Fatma , Yuksel Meral , Akakin Dilek , Erzik Can , Haklar Goncagul , imeryuz Neşe
Published: September 2022

Phoenixin-14 (PNX) is a neuropeptide that has been shown to prevent oxidative damage and stimulates insulin secretion. We investigated the effects of PNX on pancreatic injury induced by streptozotocin (STZ), and nicotinamide (NAD). Male Sprague-Dawley rats, in control (C) and diabetic (STZ) groups, were treated with either saline, or PNX (0.45 nmol/kg, or 45 nmol/kg) daily for 3 days 1 week after STZ injection. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and gastric emptying rate (GER) were measured. Tissue and blood samples were collected. PNX treatments prevented pancreatic damage and β cell loss. Increased luminol and lucigenin levels in the pancreas, ileum and liver tissues of STZ groups were alleviated by PNX treatment in pancreatic and ileal tissues. PNX0.45 decreased FBG without any change in insulin blood level and pancreatic mRNA. GER increased in all diabetic rats while PNX0.45 delayed GER only in the C group. PNX diminishes pancreatic damage and lowers FBG by reducing oxidative load.
Dengue-related maculopathy
Authors: Richier Quentin , Bataille Noémie , Gauzëre Loraine , Safla Irchad , Villeroy Fréderic , Raffray Loïc
Published: September 2022

Dengue-related maculopathy is an underestimated ocular condition, which could seriously affect patients with long-term scotoma. Here, we report a pedagogical clinical case with optical coherence tomography patterns for clinicians to be aware of this ophthalmological complication. Finally, we discuss the place of this complication in the severity criteria.
High quality mapping of chromatin at or near the nuclear lamina from small numbers of cells reveals cell cycle and developmental changes of chromatin at the nuclear periphery
Authors: Tran Joseph R , Zheng Xiaobin , Adam Stephen A , Goldman Robert D , Zheng Yixian
Published: September 2022

The chromatin associated with the nuclear lamina (NL) is referred to as lamina-associated domains (LADs). Here, we present an adaptation of the tyramide-signal amplification sequencing (TSA-seq) protocol, which we call chromatin pull down-based TSA-seq (cTSA-seq), that can be used to map chromatin regions at or near the NL from as little as 50 000 cells. The cTSA-seq mapped regions are composed of previously defined LADs and smaller chromatin regions that fall within the Hi-C defined B-compartment containing nuclear peripheral heterochromatin. We used cTSA-seq to map chromatin at or near the assembling NL in cultured cells progressing through early G1. cTSA-seq revealed that the distal ends of chromosomes are near or at the reassembling NL during early G1, a feature similar to those found in senescent cells. We expand the use of cTSA-seq to the mapping of chromatin at or near the NL from fixed-frozen mouse cerebellar tissue sections. This mapping reveals a general conservation of NL-associated chromatin and identifies global and local changes during cerebellar development. The cTSA-seq method reported here is useful for analyzing chromatin at or near the NL from small numbers of cells derived from both in vitro and in vivo sources.
RiboTaxa: combined approaches for rRNA genes taxonomic resolution down to the species level from metagenomics data revealing novelties
Authors: Chakoory Oshma , Comtet-Marre Sophie , Peyret Pierre
Published: September 2022

Metagenomic classifiers are widely used for the taxonomic profiling of metagenomics data and estimation of taxa relative abundance. Small subunit rRNA genes are a gold standard for phylogenetic resolution of microbiota, although the power of this marker comes down to its use as full-length. We aimed at identifying the tools that can efficiently lead to taxonomic resolution down to the species level. To reach this goal, we benchmarked the performance and accuracy of rRNA-specialized versus general-purpose read mappers, reference-targeted assemblers and taxonomic classifiers. We then compiled the best tools (BBTools, FastQC, SortMeRNA, MetaRib, EMIRGE, VSEARCH, BBMap and QIIME 2’s Sklearn classifier) to build a pipeline called RiboTaxa. Using metagenomics datasets, RiboTaxa gave the best results compared to other tools (i.e. Kraken2, Centrifuge, METAXA2, phyloFlash, SPINGO, BLCA, MEGAN) with precise taxonomic identification and relative abundance description without false positive detection (F-measure of 100% and 83.7% at genus level and species level, respectively). Using real datasets from various environments (i.e. ocean, soil, human gut) and from different approaches (e.g. metagenomics and gene capture by hybridization), RiboTaxa revealed microbial novelties not discerned by current bioinformatics analysis opening new biological perspectives in human and environmental health.
Association between the fatty liver index and chronic kidney disease: the population-based KORA study
Authors: Cai Xinting , Thorand Barbara , Hohenester Simon , Koenig Wolfgang , Rathmann Wolfgang , Peters Annette , Nano Jana
Published: September 2022

Background

We aimed to evaluate the relationship of fatty liver, estimated by the fatty liver index (FLI), with kidney function and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in a German cohort study, given the lack of prospective evidence in Europeans.

Methods

We included 2920 participants (51.6% women, mean age 56.1 years) from the KORA study, of which 1991 were followed up for an average of 6.5 years (± 0.3). Kidney function was assessed using the glomerular filtration rate estimated by creatinine (eGFR-Cr) or cystatin C (eGFR-cC). We used multiple logistic or linear regressions to evaluate the associations between the FLI, kidney function and CKD (eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2) and mediation analysis to explore the mediation effects of metabolic factors.

Results

The prevalence of FLI ≥60 and CKD was 40.4% and 5.6% at baseline, respectively, and 182 participants developed CKD during the follow-up. Cross-sectionally, FLI was significantly inversely associated with eGFR-cC {β = −1.14 [95% confidence interval (CI) −1.81 to −0.47]} and prevalent CKD based on eGFR-cC [OR 1.28 (95% CI 1.01–1.61)], but not with other markers. After adjusting for lifestyle factors, we found a positive association between FLI and incident CKD defined by eGFR-cC or/eGFR-Cr, which was attenuated after controlling for metabolic risk factors. Mediation analysis showed that the association was completely mediated by inflammation, diabetes and hypertension jointly.

Conclusion

The positive association between FLI and CKD incidence was fully mediated by the joint effect of metabolic risk factors. Future longitudinal studies need to explore the chronological interplay between fatty liver, cardiometabolic risk factors and kidney function with repeated measurements.
The type-B response regulators ARR10, ARR12, and ARR18 specify the central cell in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhu Mingsong , Tao Liang , Zhang Jinghua , Liu Ruini , Tian Hongai , Hu Chong , Zhu Yafen , Li Meizhen , Wei Zhuoyun , Yi Jing , Li Jia , Gou Xiaoping
Published: September 2022

In Arabidopsis thaliana, the female gametophyte consists of two synergid cells, an egg cell, a diploid central cell, and three antipodal cells. CYTOKININ-INDEPENDENT 1 (CKI1), a histidine kinase constitutively activating the cytokinin signaling pathway, specifies the central cell and restricts the egg cell. However, the mechanism regulating CKI1-dependent central cell specification is largely unknown. Here, we showed that the type-B ARABIDOPSIS RESPONSE REGULATORS10, 12, and 18 (ARR10/12/18) localize at the chalazal pole of the female gametophyte. Phenotypic analysis showed that the arr10 12 18 triple mutant is female sterile. We examined the expression patterns of embryo sac marker genes and found that the embryo sac of arr10 12 18 plants had lost central cell identity, a phenotype similar to that of the Arabidopsis cki1 mutant. Genetic analyses demonstrated that ARR10/12/18, CKI1, and ARABIDOPSIS HISTIDINE PHOSPHOTRANSFER PROTEIN2, 3, and 5 (AHP2/3/5) function in a common pathway to regulate female gametophyte development. In addition, constitutively activated ARR10/12/18 in the cki1 embryo sac partially restored the fertility of cki1. Results of transcriptomic analysis supported the conclusion that ARR10/12/18 and CKI1 function together to regulate the identity of the central cell. Our results demonstrated that ARR10/12/18 function downstream of CKI1–AHP2/3/5 as core factors to determine cell fate of the female gametophyte.
Frequent occurrence of mutations in nsp3 and nsp4 of SARS-CoV-2, presumably caused by the inhaled asthma drug ciclesonide
Authors: Doi Akihiro , Tomita Yuriko , Okura Hiyori , Matsuyama Shutoku
Published: September 2022

Mutations in nonstructural protein 3 (nsp3) and nsp4 of SARS-CoV-2, presumably induced by the asthma drug ciclesonide (which also has anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity), were counted 5,851 cases in the GISAID EpiCoV genome database. Sporadic occurrence of mutants not linked to each other in the phylogenetic tree were identified at least 88 times; of which, 58 had one or more descendants in the same branch. Five of these had spread to more than 100 cases, and one had expanded to 4,748 cases, suggesting the mutations are frequent, selected in individual patients, and transmitted to form clusters of cases. Clinical trials of ciclesonide as a treatment for COVID-19 are the presumed cause of the frequent occurrence of mutations between 2020 June and 2021 November. In addition, because ciclesonide is a common treatment for asthma, it can drive mutations in asthmatics suffering from COVID-19. Ciclesonide-resistant mutations, which have unpredictable effects in humans, are likely to continue to emerge because SARS-CoV-2 remains prevalent globally.
Regenerative cerium oxide nanozymes alleviate oxidative stress for efficient dry eye disease treatment
Authors: Zou Haoyu , Wang Haiting , Xu Baoqi , Liang Lin , Shen Liangliang , Lin Quankui
Published: September 2022

Dry eye disease (DED) is the most common eye disease in ophthalmic consultation except for refractive errors. Therefore, an exploration of valid and alternative therapeutic interventions is essential to feed the urgent medical need. It has been demonstrated that oxidative stress causes multiple adverse effects in the pathogenesis of DED, thence alleviating oxidative stress is an effective therapeutic strategy for the DED treatment. Herein, we developed a cerium oxide nanozyme combined with branched poly(ethylene imine)-graft-poly(ethylene glycol) (bPEI-g-PEG). Owing to its stable hydrophilic chains on the surface reducing the cytotoxicity and loads of amines groups that be combined with cerium ions through coordination bonds, the modified nanozymes (referred to as CNP@bPEI-g-PEG) are water soluble and highly biocompatible. Meanwhile, due to its excellent antioxidant activity, CNP@bPEI-g-PEG nanozymes can mimic the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase to scavenge intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Experimental studies firmly demonstrated that the modified nanozymes were auto-regenerative and more active in scavenging excessive ROS and alleviating oxidative stress by cerium-element valence state recycling, recovering the morphology of corneal, conjunctival epithelium and the number of goblet cells. The advanced combination may offer a superior therapeutic strategy to deal with oxidative stress for effective treatment of DED.
Geostatistical modelling of the distribution, risk and burden of podoconiosis in Kenya
Authors: Deribe Kebede , Sultani Hadley Matendechero , Okoyo Collins , Omondi Wyckliff P , Ngere Isaac , Newport Melanie J , Cano Jorge
Published: September 2022

Background

Understanding and accurately predicting the environmental limits, population at risk and burden of podoconiosis are critical for delivering targeted and equitable prevention and treatment services, planning control and elimination programs and implementing tailored case finding and surveillance activities.

Methods

This is secondary analysis of a nationwide podoconiosis mapping survey in Kenya. We combined national representative prevalence survey data of podoconiosis with climate and environmental data, overlayed with population figures in a geostatistical modelling framework, to predict the environmental suitability, population living in at-risk areas and number of cases of podoconiosis in Kenya.

Results

In 2020, the number of people living with podoconiosis in Kenya was estimated to be 9344 (95% uncertainty interval 4222 to 17 962). The distribution of podoconiosis varies by geography and three regions (Eastern, Nyanza and Western) represent >90% of the absolute number of cases. High environmental suitability for podoconiosis was predicted in four regions of Kenya (Coastal, Eastern, Nyanza and Western). In total, 2.2 million people live in at-risk areas and 4.2% of the total landmass of Kenya is environmentally predisposed for podoconiosis.

Conclusions

The burden of podoconiosis is relatively low in Kenya and is mostly restricted to certain small geographical areas. Our results will help guide targeted prevention and treatment approaches through local planning, spatial targeting and tailored surveillance activities.
Melioidosis
Authors: Borton Dorothy
Published: September 2022

Recent cases suggest that melioidosis, an infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is an emerging infectious disease. Nurses have a key role in the care of patients with melioidosis. This article provides an overview of the epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of melioidosis, and discusses unusual, non-travel-related cases of melioidosis.
Unleash your inner author
Authors: Baker Kathy Grimley
Published: September 2022

This article guides nurses through the journal publication process, specifically how to choose a topic, send a query email, establish authorship, avoid predatory journals, and successfully advance on the publication path.
Implementation of Telemedicine Delivery of Medications for Opioid Use Disorder in Pennsylvania Treatment Programs During COVID-19
Authors: Poulsen Melissa N. , Santoro William , Scotti Roseanne , Henderson Catherine , Ruddy Meaghan , Colistra Angela
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Temporary policy changes during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic facilitated rapid expansion of medication for opioid use disorder via telemedicine (tele-MOUD). Evidence for tele-MOUD best practices and its impact on treatment engagement and retention remains limited. This quality improvement initiative compared tele-MOUD implementation among Pennsylvania medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) programs, evaluated sociodemographic characteristics of patients using tele-MOUD, and described trends in tele-MOUD use and patient engagement and retention.

Methods

Five health systems with MOUD programs completed questionnaires regarding their tele-MOUD models and provided aggregated sociodemographic data for MOUD patients with in-person and telemedicine visits in 2020. Three programs provided aggregated monthly appointment data (scheduled, completed, no-show, tele-MOUD visits) over the period in which tele-MOUD scaled up.

Results

Differences in tele-MOUD protocols related to provision of tele-MOUD inductions, patient eligibility for tele-MOUD, and operationalization of remote drug testing. Across programs, 88% of prescribers conducted tele-MOUD appointments, and 50% of patients used tele-MOUD in 2020. We observed sociodemographic differences, with a greater proportion of female, White, and non-Hispanic patients using tele-MOUD. Across programs with appointment data, overall patient enrollment increased, and new patient enrollment remained relatively constant. Engagement trends suggested a temporary decline in no-show appointments that aligned with the escalation of tele-MOUD in one program.

Conclusions

Tele-MOUD protocol differences indicate a need for research to inform evidence-based guidance. Findings suggest that patients largely remained engaged and retained in MOUD as tele-MOUD was implemented but reveal inequities in tele-MOUD use, highlighting the need for efforts to overcome technology access barriers and avoid exacerbating disparities in MOUD access.
Risk Stratification Index 3.0, a Broad Set of Models for Predicting Adverse Events during and after Hospital Admission
Authors: Greenwald Scott , Chamoun George F. , Chamoun Nassib G. , Clain David , Hong Zhenyu , Jordan Richard , Manberg Paul J. , Maheshwari Kamal , Sessler Daniel I.
Published: September 2022

Background

Risk stratification helps guide appropriate clinical care. Our goal was to develop and validate a broad suite of predictive tools based on International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, diagnostic and procedural codes for predicting adverse events and care utilization outcomes for hospitalized patients.

Methods

Endpoints included unplanned hospital admissions, discharge status, excess length of stay, in-hospital and 90-day mortality, acute kidney injury, sepsis, pneumonia, respiratory failure, and a composite of major cardiac complications. Patient demographic and coding history in the year before admission provided features used to predict utilization and adverse events through 90 days after admission. Models were trained and refined on 2017 to 2018 Medicare admissions data using an 80 to 20 learn to test split sample. Models were then prospectively tested on 2019 out-of-sample Medicare admissions. Predictions based on logistic regression were compared with those from five commonly used machine learning methods using a limited dataset.

Results

The 2017 to 2018 development set included 9,085,968 patients who had 18,899,224 inpatient admissions, and there were 5,336,265 patients who had 9,205,835 inpatient admissions in the 2019 validation dataset. Model performance on the validation set had an average area under the curve of 0.76 (range, 0.70 to 0.82). Model calibration was strong with an average R 
2 for the 99% of patients at lowest risk of 1.00. Excess length of stay had a root-mean-square error of 0.19 and R 
2 of 0.99. The mean sensitivity for the highest 5% risk population was 19.2% (range, 11.6 to 30.1); for positive predictive value, it was 37.2% (14.6 to 87.7); and for lift (enrichment ratio), it was 3.8 (2.3 to 6.1). Predictive accuracies from regression and machine learning techniques were generally similar.

Conclusions

Predictive analytical modeling based on administrative claims history can provide individualized risk profiles at hospital admission that may help guide patient management. Similar results from six different modeling approaches suggest that we have identified both the value and ceiling for predictive information derived from medical claims history.

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Skeletally Immature Patients With Classic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Bone Bruise Patterns Have a Higher Likelihood of Having an Intact Anterior Cruciate Ligament Compared With Skeletally Mature Patients
Authors: Baessler Aaron M. , Buchman Jessica M. , Witte Dexter A. , Spence David D. , Throckmorton Thomas W. , Brolin Tyler J. , Azar Frederick M. , Bernholt David L.
Published: September 2022

Background:

The incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears in skeletally immature patients with an ACL bone contusion pattern has been sparsely investigated. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether physeal status has an influence on the likelihood of sustaining an ACL tear when classic bipolar ACL bone bruising pattern is present.

Methods:

Magnetic resonance imaging reports were queried for “contusion” on all patients between 6 and 22 years between 2015 and 2019. Images were reviewed to denote all intra-articular pathology and the physeal status of the femur and tibia. The primary outcome was the incidence of ACL tears in patients with the presence of bipolar bone contusions. Fischer exact testing was used to determine associations.

Results:

Of 499 patients included, 269 of those had bipolar bone contusions. Patients with bipolar bone contusions and ACL tears had a shorter duration between injury and imaging date compared with patients with ACL tears without bipolar bone contusions (6.9 vs. 38.6 d, P=0.05). Patients with an open femoral physis had a higher likelihood of having an intact ACL despite the presence of bipolar bone contusions than patients with a closed femoral physis (10.8% vs. 1.0%, P<0.001). Of patients with bipolar bone contusions, those with an intact ACL were younger than patients with an ACL tear (14.6 vs. 16.4, P=0.017).

Conclusions:

Although bipolar bone contusions of the central lateral femoral condyle and posterior lateral tibial plateau are typically found after ACL injury, these bipolar contusions can be found concomitantly with an intact ACL and were more often found in relatively younger patients. Patients who have an open femoral physis have a higher likelihood to have an intact ACL despite the presence of bipolar bone contusions compared with patients who have a closed femoral physis.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—cross-sectional.
Effects of Glucose Fluctuations on Electrocardiogram Readings and the Development of Ventricular Arrhythmia in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Wu Li-Da , Li Feng , Wang Chao , Dang Shi-Peng , Xiao Feng , Zhang Zhen-Ye , Zhang Jie , Zhang Yu-Min , Lu Cun-Yu , Liu Ying , Zhong Guo-Qiang , Qian Ling-Ling , Wang Ru-Xing
Published: September 2022

Objective:

Many studies have shown that blood glucose fluctuations (GFs) are more harmful to patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) than sustained hyperglycemia. However, the effect of GF on electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters and vulnerability to ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation (VT/VF) remains poorly characterized. This study aimed to assess the effect of GF on ECG parameters and induction of VT/VF in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic Sprague-Dawley rats.

Methods:

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with STZ and randomly divided into 3 treatment groups: controlled STZ-induced diabetic rats (C-STZ) (n = 10); uncontrolled STZ-induced diabetic rats (U-STZ) (n = 10); and STZ-induced diabetic rats with glucose fluctuations (GF-STZ) (n = 10). After 12 weeks, baseline ECG recordings were taken and a VT/VF test was performed with the administration of caffeine and dobutamine. Hematoxylin & eosin and masson staining were used to evaluate pathological cardiac changes after intervention.

Results:

No significant difference in heart rate, RR interval, P wave (duration and height), PR segment, PR interval, QRS wave duration, and T wave height was observed among the 3 groups (P > 0.05). Compared with the C-STZ group, the U-STZ and GF-STZ groups both had a longer T wave duration ((62.41 ± 2.38) ms vs. (78.37 ± 4.64) ms and (96.06 ± 4.60) ms, P < 0.05), QT interval ((83.66 ± 2.31) ms vs. (101.75 ± 4.56) ms and (119.14 ± 4.88) ms, P < 0.05), and QTc interval ((77.45 ± 1.36) ms vs. (91.36 ± 3.49) ms and (104.55 ± 3.01) ms, P < 0.05), all of which were longest in the GF-STZ group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the GF-STZ group had the highest VT/VF occurrence and duration and the highest arrhythmia score.

Conclusion:

This study revealed GF can significantly prolong the QT interval, QTc interval, and T wave duration, as well as increase vulnerability to VT/VF in rats, which may be an important electrophysiological mechanism of GF-related ventricular arrhythmia.
Drug Therapy for Hypertriglyceridemia and Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome: Focus on Volnesorsen
Authors: Gesner Matthew , Frishman William H.
Published: September 2022

Volanesorsen is a new medication that may soon be used in the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia and familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS). Volanesorsen works via binding to Apo C-III mRNA and degrading that mRNA, thus decreasing the synthesis of Apo C-III. This decreased synthesis of Apo C-III will increase the binding of triglycerides to LDL receptors and decrease triglyceride plasma levels. It is important to note that currently there are 3 other medication classes available for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia, including niacin, fish oil/omega-3-fatty acids, and fibrates. However, there are no Food and Drug Administration-approved medications to treat FCS. Recently, volanesorsen was approved in the European Union for the treatment of FCS, but that indication was denied in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration. This was due to the side effects of the drug. Volanesorsen may cause a decrease in platelet count, renal toxicity, and elevate liver enzymes. The current drug regimen for volanesorsen consists of 285 mg once a week by subcutaneous injection, with a recommendation to immediately stop the medication if any of these side effects are noted, to prevent long-term complications. With these side effects reported, fish oil/omega-3-fatty acids seem likely the best choice when it comes to treating hypertriglyceridemia. If FCS is debilitating or greatly affecting the patient’s life, then one could recommend volanesorsen. Otherwise, at this time, the side effects of volanesorsen may be too severe to justify its use for mild episodes of FCS or hypertriglyceridemia.
A Pilot Study of the Safety and Effectiveness of a Novel Device in Subjects With Axillary Hyperhidrosis
Authors: Kaufman Joely , Green Jeremy B. , Cazzaniga Alex , Canty David J. , Tims Erin , Waugh Jacob
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

One-third of U.S. adults are bothered by excessive sweating and 5% suffer from hyperhidrosis, both of which negatively affect quality-of-life (QoL). A single-use disposable patch using the novel targeted alkali thermolysis (TAT) technology is being developed to address this condition.

OBJECTIVE

Assess the efficacy and safety of the TAT patch for the treatment of excessive sweating using a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled study design.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adults with Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS) scores of 3 or 4 (n = 16) were treated with an active or sham patch for up to 3 minutes (as established in a previous unpublished feasibility study) and evaluated weekly for 6 weeks post-treatment. The primary effectiveness measure was improved HDSS at Week-4.

RESULTS

The study met its objective. For the primary efficacy measure, 83% of TAT-treated subjects reported HDSS scores of 1 or 2 at Week-4 versus 0% of sham-treated subjects (p = .0032). Furthermore, 67% of TAT-treated subjects had a 2-point improvement in HDSS scores versus 0% of sham-treated subjects (p = .0123). Quality-of-life improvement correlated with HDSS. The TAT patch seemed to be well-tolerated; one transient moderate adverse event that resolved without sequelae was reported.

CONCLUSION

The TAT patch successfully demonstrated efficacy and was well-tolerated.
Techniques and Innovations in Flap Engineering: A Review
Authors: Kouniavski Elizaveta , Egozi Dana , Wolf Yoram
Published: September 2022

Background:

Currently, the gold standard for complex defect reconstruction is autologous tissue flaps, with vascularized composite allografts as its highest level. Good clinical results are obtained despite considerable obstacles, such as limited donor sites, donor site morbidity, and complex operations. Researchers in the field of tissue engineering are trying to generate novel tissue flaps requiring small or no donor site sacrifice. At the base of existing technologies is the tissue’s potential for regeneration and neovascularization.

Methods:

A review was conducted identifying relevant published articles in PubMed on the subject of flap engineering, with the focus on plastic surgery. This review article surveys contemporary technologies in flap engineering, including cell sheet technology, prefabricated flaps, and tissue engineering chambers.

Conclusions:

Some of the described procedures, though not yet ready for clinical use, are certainly ready for trial in large animal models and even human studies. Tissue engineering is a promising field for the handling of large and complex tissue defects.
End-diastolic velocity mediates the relationship between renal resistive index and the risk of death
Authors: Halimi Jean-Michel , Vernier Louis-Marie , Gueguen Juliette , Goin Nicolas , Gatault Philippe , Sautenet Bénédicte , Barbet Christelle , Longuet Hélène , Roumy Jérôme , Buchler Matthias , Blacher Jacques , de Freminville Jean-Baptiste
Published: September 2022

Objective:

Renal resistive index predicts the risk of death in many populations but the mechanism linking renal resistive index and death remains elusive. Renal resistive index is derived from end-diastolic velocity (EDV) and peak systolic velocity (PSV). However, the predictive value of EDV or PSV considered alone is unknown.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 2362 consecutive patients who received a kidney transplant from 1985 to 2017. EDV and PSV were measured at 3 months after transplantation, renal resistive index was calculated, and the risk of death was assessed [median follow-up: 6.25 years (0.25–29.15); total observation period: 13 201 patient-years].

Results:

Doppler indices were available in 1721 of 2362 (78.9%) patients (exclusions: 113 who died or returned to dialysis before, 427 with no Doppler studies, 27 with renal artery stenosis, 74 missing values). Among them, 279 (16.4%) had diabetes before transplantation. Mean age was 51.5 ± 14.7, 1097 (63.7%) were male. During follow-up, 217 of 1721 (12.6%) patients died. Renal resistive index and EDV shared many determinants (notably systolic, diastolic and pulse pressure, recipient age and diabetes) unlike renal resistive index and PSV. EDV used as a binary [lowest tertile vs. higher values: (hazard ratio: 2.57 (1.96–3.36), P < 0.001)] and as a continuous (the lower EDV, the greater the risk of death) variable was significantly associated with the risk of death. This finding was confirmed in multivariable analyses. Prediction of similar magnitude was found for renal resistive index. No association was found between PSV used as a binary or a continuous variable and the risk of death.

Conclusion:

Low EDV explains high renal resistive index, and the mechanism-linking renal resistive index to the risk of death is through low EDV.
Utilizing 3D printing to facilitate surgical in-situ paediatric renal artery aneurysm repair for refractory hypertension
Authors: Chandak Pankaj , Kessaris Nicos , Karunanithy Narayan , Byrne Nick , Newton Joanna , Bharadwaj R. , Assia-Zamora Sergio , Shenoy Mohan , Sallam Morad , Sinha Manish D.
Published: September 2022

Renal artery aneurysmal (RAA) disease is a rare, but potentially life-threatening cause of renovascular disease presenting with hypertension. Conventional management involves aneurysmal excision followed by renal auto-transplantation. We present the management of a 13-year-old girl with complex multiple saccular aneurysmal disease of the left renal artery with hilar extension and symptomatic hypertension. We used 3D printing to print a patient-specific model that was not implanted in the patient but was used for surgical planning and discussion with the patient and their family. Endovascular options were precluded due to anatomical complexities. Following multi-disciplinary review and patient-specific 3D printing, she underwent successful in-situ RAA repair with intraoperative cooling, without the need for auto-transplantation. 3D printing enabled appreciation of aneurysmal spatial configuration and dimensions that also helped plan the interposition graft length needed following aneurysmal excision. The models provided informed multidisciplinary communications and proved valuable during the consent process with the family for this high-risk procedure. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case utilizing 3D printing to facilitate in-situ complex repair of RAA with intra-hilar extension for paediatric renovascular disease.
Impact of local anesthesia block on pain medication use and length of hospital stay in elderly indigenous patients in Alaska hospitalized for fragility fracture
Authors: Young Aimee , Robinson Renee , Nguyen Elaine , Stewart Eric , Lin Ai-Ling , Locke Michelle , Hurrell Rowan
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Fragility fractures (low-energy, minimal-trauma fractures) are common in the aging population and can lead to decreased function, increased mortality, and long-lasting pain. Although opioids are helpful in reducing acute postoperative pain, they present risks that may lead to increased morbidity and mortality.

Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective review of medical records of all Alaska Native and American Indian people older than 50 years, who received surgery for hip fracture repair between January 2018 and June 2019 (n = 128).

Results: We found that receipt of a peripheral nerve block (PNB) is a predictor for decreased length of hospital stay. However, receipt of PNB did not predict a reduction in postoperative morphine milligram equivalents opioid doses.

Discussion: Further study is required to determine whether one PNB method is superior to others based on individual-level characteristics.
Malignant Mesothelioma of Tunica Vaginalis Testis: Update for 2022
Authors: Iczkowski Kenneth A.
Published: September 2022

Malignant mesothelioma of the testicular tunics is rare. About one third of cases are metastatic and carry a poor prognosis. This paper reviews the epidemiology, clinicopathologic features, treatment, and outcome of this entity.
Reconstructing radial stem size changes of trees with machine learning
Authors: Luković Mirko , Zweifel Roman , Thiry Guillaume , Zhang Ce , Schubert Mark
Published: September 2022

Like many scientists, ecologists depend heavily on continuous uninterrupted data in order to understand better the object of their study. Although this might be straightforward to achieve under controlled laboratory conditions, the situation is easily complicated under field conditions where sensors and data transmission are affected by harsh weather, living organisms, changes in atmospheric conditions etc. This often results in parts of the data being corrupted or missing altogether. We propose the use of the most recent machine-learning techniques to reverse such data losses in multi-channel time series. In particular, we focus on tree stem growth data obtained from the TreeNet project, which monitors the changes in stem radius and environmental conditions of a few hundred trees across Switzerland. In the first part of the study, we test the performance of five architectures based on encoders and recurrent and convolutional neural networks, and we show that a deep neural network combining long short-term memory with one-dimensional convolutional layers performs the best. In the second part, we adopt this model to reconstruct the original TreeNet dataset, which we then use in a separate classification problem to show the effect of the proposed gap-filling procedure.
Numerical investigation of the rider's head injury in typical single-electric self-balancing scooter accident scenarios
Authors: Wang Fang , Huang Jiaxian , Hu Lin , Hu Shenghui , Wang Mingliang , Yin Jiajie , Zou Tiefang , Li Qiqi
Published: September 2022

As the use of electric self-balancing scooters (ESSs) increases, so does the number of related traffic accidents. Because of the special control method, mechanical structure and driving posture, ESSs are prone to various single-vehicle accidents, such as collisions with fixed obstacles and falls due to mechanical failures. In various ESS accident scenarios, the rider's head injury is the most frequent injury type. In this study, several typical single-ESS accident scenarios are reconstructed via computational methods, and the risk of riders' head/brain injury is assessed in depth using various injury criteria. Results showed that two types of ESSs (solo- and two-wheeler) do not have clear differences in head kinematics and head injury risks; the head kinematics (or falling posture) and ESS accident scenario exhibit a distinct effect on the head injury responses; half of the analysed ESS riders have a 50% probability of skull fracture, a few riders have a 50% risk of abbreviated injury scale (AIS) 4+ brain injury, and none has a diffuse axonal injury; the ESS speed plays an important role in producing the head/brain injury in ESS riders, and generally, higher ESS speed generates higher level of predicted head injury parameters. These findings will provide theoretical support for preventing head injury among ESS riders and data support for developing and legislating ESSs.
Metal complexes of benzimidazole-derived as potential anti-cancer agents: synthesis, characterization, combined experimental and computational studies
Authors: Nguyen Van-Thanh , Huynh Thi-Kim-Chi , Ho Gia-Thien-Thanh , Nguyen Thi-Hong-An , Le Anh Nguyen Thi , Dao Duy Quang , Mai Tam V. T. , Huynh Lam K. , Hoang Thi-Kim-Dung
Published: September 2022

In this study, a series of 14 Cu (II), Zn (II), Ni (II) and Ag (I) complexes containing bis-benzimidazole derivatives were successfully designed and synthesized from 2-(1
H
-benzimidazole-2-yl)-phenol derivatives and corresponding metal salt solutions. The compound structures were identified by FT-IR,
1
H-NMR, powder X-ray diffraction and ESI-MS analyses, and the presence of the metal in the complexes was confirmed by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and ICP optical emission spectrometry. Electronic structure calculations were also carried out to describe the detailed structures in addition to the electronic absorption spectra of the ligands. The cytotoxic activity of the complexes was evaluated against three human cancer cell lines: lung (A549), breast (MDA-MB-231) and prostate (PC3) cancer cells. All complexes inhibited anti-proliferative cancer cells better than free ligands, especially Zn (II) and Ag (I) complexes, which are most sensitive to MDA-MB-231 cells. In addition, showing the growth inhibition of three cancer cell lines with IC
50
< 10.4 µM, complexes

C
1

,

C
3

and

C
14

could be considered potential multi-targeted anti-cancer agents.
First evidence for fin whale migration into the Pacific from Antarctic feeding grounds at Elephant Island
Authors: Herr H. , Hickmott L. , Viquerat S. , Panigada S.
Published: September 2022

This study presents the first long-distance tracks of fin whales (
Balaenoptera physalus
) equipped with satellite transmitters off the Antarctic Peninsula. Southern Hemisphere fin whales were severely depleted by twentieth century industrial whaling, yet recently, they have returned to historical feeding grounds off the northern Antarctic Peninsula, forming large aggregations in austral summers. To date, our knowledge only extended to summer behaviour, while information regarding migration routes and the location of breeding and wintering grounds are lacking. During the austral autumn of 2021, we deployed nsatellite transmitters on four fin whales at Elephant Island. Two transmitters stopped working while the animals were still at the feeding grounds, while two continued to transmit during the transition from feeding activity to migration. Both migrating animals left the feeding ground on 15 April 2021, travelling northward into the Pacific and up along the Chilean coast. The most northerly position received before all tags stopped transmitting on 1 May 2021 was at 48°S. These tracks provide initial evidence of seasonal migratory routes and a first indication toward possible locations of winter destinations. This information, even if preliminary, is critical for investigations of population connectivity, population structure and the identification of breeding grounds of Southern Hemisphere fin whales.