bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The problem of ‘shadow species’ as illustrated with the taxonomic hotchpotch Cyphoderia ampulla (Rhizaria: Cyphoderiidae)
Authors: Soler-Zamora Carmen , Useros Fernando , González-Miguéns Rubén , Gómez-Rodríguez Pablo , Lara Enrique
Published: July 2023

Accurate species delimitation based on an integrative approach is indispensable for biodiversity evaluation. Accordingly, species that were formerly only described morphologically often need to be split into several evolutionary independent units. However, taxonomic actions often lag behind, even when the required data are already available. As a result, invalid species names are carried over the years, with negative implications on ecology, biogeography, and conservation; we designate these entities as ‘shadow species’. This is particularly common in protists, due to the lack of specialized taxonomists and the difficulties of working with microscopic organisms. Here, we resolve the case of the testate amoeba shadow species Cyphoderia ampulla (Rhizaria: Cercozoa: Euglyphida: Cyphoderiidae), a known polyphyletic taxon. Purposely, we integrated the current ecological, genetic, and morphological data on the family Cyphoderiidae with its described evolutionary history. Subsequently, we took the required taxonomic actions to resolve the taxonomy of the family, erecting four new genera (Psammoderia gen nov., Knarr gen. nov., Ichthyosquama gen. nov., and Oleiformis gen. nov.), emending Cyphoderia and describing four new species (Ichthyosquama sanabriensis sp. nov., Ichthyosquama catoirensis sp. nov., Ichthyosquama loricaria sp. nov., and Oleiformis carmelae sp. nov.). Finally, we discuss the extension and relevance of the ‘shadow species’ issue in eukaryotic taxa, and differentiate it from species complex concept.
Fusarium Species Recovered from Postharvest Hemp Materials from Kentucky Fields
Authors: Szarka D. , Smith H. S. , Dixon E. , Munir M. , Rahnama M. , Gauthier N. A.
Published: July 2023

As hemp becomes established as a commodity in the United States, continued cultivation demands a greater understanding of the pathogens that affect the consumable portions, such as flowers and grain. Four Fusarium spp. have been confirmed to cause Fusarium head blight on hemp in Kentucky. Several Fusarium species, including F. graminearum, that are known to produce mycotoxins have been confirmed pathogenic on hemp. Fusarium mycotoxins are regulated in grains used for human and animal consumption. Determining which Fusarium species infect hemp is the first step to producing safe material. Although field disease is under investigation, there have been no studies regarding stored hemp. Harvested and stored floral material for production of cannabidiol (CBD) were collected from seven Kentucky producers from 2019 and 2020 harvests. The material was screened using a Fusarium-selective medium and DNA sequencing. At least 12 different species were isolated, most from the Incarnatum-equiseti species complex (75.6%). Species from the Sambucinum (16.3%), Oxysporum (0.8%), Fujikuroi (5.7%), and Solani (1.6%) species complexes were also identified. Additional research is essential to determine whether these Fusarium species are pathogenic or saprophytic and whether they can produce toxins dangerous for humans and animals. Such information is crucial to determine how to store hemp, manage infected material, and promote successful production of hemp products.
Transplantation of in vitro prefabricated adipose organoids attenuates skin fibrosis by restoring subcutaneous fat and inducing dermal adipogenesis
Authors: Quan Yuping , Zhang Yuteng , Li Jian , Lu Feng , Cai Junrong
Published: July 2023

Localized scleroderma is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by dermal fibrosis and loss of cutaneous fat. While cytotherapy offers a promising treatment option, stem cell transplantation results in low survival rates and fails in target cell differentiation. In this study, we aimed to prefabricate syngeneic adipose organoids (ad‐organoids) using microvascular fragments (MVFs) via three‐dimensional (3D) culturing and transplant them beneath the fibrotic skin to restore subcutaneous fat and reverse the pathological manifestation of localized scleroderma. We employed 3D culturing of syngeneic MVFs with stepwise angiogenic and adipogenic induction to produce ad‐organoids and evaluated their microstructure and paracrine function in vitro. C57/BL6 mice with induced skin scleroderma were treated with adipose‐derived stem cells (ASCs), adipocytes, ad‐organoids, and Matrigel, and the therapeutic effect was assessed histologically. Our results showed that ad‐organoids derived from MVF contained mature adipocytes and a well‐established vessel network, secreted multiple adipokines, promoted adipogenic differentiation of ASCs, and suppressed proliferation and migration of scleroderma fibroblasts. Subcutaneous transplantation of ad‐organoids reconstructed the subcutaneous fat layer and stimulated dermal adipocyte regeneration in bleomycin‐induced scleroderma skin. It reduced collagen deposition and dermal thickness, attenuating dermal fibrosis. Moreover, ad‐organoids suppressed macrophage infiltration and promoted angiogenesis in the skin lesion. In conclusion, 3D culturing of MVFs with stepwise angiogenic and adipogenic induction is an effective strategy for the fabrication of ad‐organoids, and the transplantation of prefabricated ad‐organoids can improve skin sclerosis by restoring cutaneous fat and attenuating skin fibrosis. These findings offer a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of localized scleroderma.
Definition, Measurement, Precursors, and Outcomes of Trust Within Health Care Teams: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hamilton Ailsa Lauren , Layden Elizabeth A. , Storrar Neill , Skinner Janet , Harden Jeni , Wood Morwenna
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This scoping review aims to map the breadth of the literature examining how trust is defined in health care teams, describe what measurements of trust are used, and investigate the precursors and outcomes of trust.

Method

Five electronic databases (Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Embase, and ASSIA [Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts]) were searched alongside sources of gray literature in February 2021. To be included, studies needed to discuss a health care team directly involved in managing patient care and one aspect of trust as a relational concept. A content count of the definitions of trust and tools used to measure trust and a deductive thematic analysis of the precursors and outcomes of trust in health care teams were conducted.

Results

Ultimately, 157 studies were included after full-text review. Trust was the main focus of 18 (11%) studies and was not routinely defined (38, 24%). Ability appeared to be key to the definition. Trust was measured in 34 (22%) studies, often using a bespoke measure (8/34, 24%). The precursors of trust within health care teams occur at the individual, team, and organizational levels. The outcomes of trust occur at the individual, team, and patient levels. Communication was a broad overarching theme that was present at all levels, both as a precursor and outcome of trust. Respect, as a precursor, influenced trust at the individual, team, and organizational levels, while trust influenced learning, an outcome, across the patient, individual, and team levels.

Conclusions

Trust is a complex, multilevel construct. This scoping review has highlighted gaps in the literature, including exploration of the swift trust model, which may be applicable to health care teams. Furthermore, knowledge from this review may be integrated into future training and health care practices to optimize team processes and teamworking.
Supraventricular Tachycardia in the Setting of Neonatal COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Karamantziani Theoni , Lianou Loukia , Zampouni Dimitra , Koustouki Vasiliki , Lipsou Niki , Bouza Helen
Published: July 2023

Background:

COVID-19 infection, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), may present with a wide range of clinical presentations and a variety of symptoms in neonates. The cardiovascular manifestations that have been described in the setting of COVID-19 infection in neonates are tachycardia and hypotension, but information regarding cardiac arrhythmias is scarce, while the effect of SARS-CoV-2 on myocardial function is still not well established.

Clinical Findings:

We present a case of a neonate admitted with fever and nasal congestion.

Primary Diagnosis:

The neonate was tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) was diagnosed during his hospitalization in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Interventions:

The neonate was under treatment with intravenous fluid repletion, intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics, and continuous hemodynamic monitoring. SVT resolved spontaneously, while the team was preparing application of further supportive measures with a bag of ice on the infant's face.

Outcomes:

The neonate was discharged in good condition on day 14 post-admission, with no further recurrence of SVT. Follow-up visits were scheduled with the cardiologist.

Practice Recommendations:

SVT in full-term or premature neonates can be a clinical manifestation of COVID-19 infection. Both neonatologists and neonatal nurse practitioners should be prepared to deal with cardiological manifestations of COVID-19 infection in neonates.
Update on autoinflammatory diseases
Authors: Ashari Kosar Asna , Hausmann Jonathan S. , Dedeoglu Fatma
Published: July 2023

Purpose of review

Although the concept of systemic autoinflammatory diseases (SAIDs) is still very young, our knowledge about them is exponentially growing. In the current review, we aim to discuss novel SAIDs and autoinflammatory pathways discovered in the last couple of years.

Recent findings

Advances in immunology and genetics have led to the discovery of new pathways involved in autoinflammation, as well as several new SAIDs, including retinal dystrophy, optic nerve edema, splenomegaly, anhidrosis, and migraine headache (ROSAH syndrome), vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X-linked autoinflammatory somatic (VEXAS) syndrome, TBK1 deficiency, NEMO deleted exon 5 autoinflammatory syndrome (NDAS), and disabling pansclerotic morphea. Progress in immunobiology and genetics has also brought forth novel treatments for SAIDs. Personalized medicine has made significant progress in areas such as cytokine-targeted therapies and gene therapies. However, much work remains, especially in measuring and improving the quality of life in patients with SAIDs.

In the current review, we discuss the novelties in the world of SAIDs, including mechanistic pathways of autoinflammation, pathogenesis, and treatment. We hope this review helps rheumatologists to gain an updated understanding of SAIDs.
Update on treatment responses and outcome measure development in chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis
Authors: Ramachandran Shwetha , Zhao Yongdong , Ferguson Polly J.
Published: July 2023

Purpose of review

To review recent trends in treatment and recent progress in developing outcome measures needed for chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO) clinical trials.

Recent findings

CNO is an autoinflammatory bone disease. In a minority of patients, the disease is genetically driven, and diagnosis can be made by DNA sequencing. However, for nonsyndromic CNO there is no diagnostic test. The number of children with CNO appears to be increasing and damage is common. Increases in CNO diagnosis is due to raised awareness, increased availability of whole-body magnetic resonance imaging and rising incidence. Treatment remains empiric and it is unclear which second line treatment is superior. Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) and bisphosphonates continue to be used as second line agents for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) refractory CNO; newer immune modulatory medications are used if this fails. Validated classification criteria, clinical outcome measures and imaging scoring standards are needed for successful clinical trials.

Best treatment for NSAID refractory CNO remains unclear. Classification criteria, clinical outcomes measures and standardized imaging scoring have been developed or are near completion. This will facilitate robust clinical trials in CNO with the goal of having approved medications for this painful disease.
Quantifying Muscle Size Asymmetry in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Using Three-dimensional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Duncombe Phoebe , Izatt Maree T. , Pivonka Peter , Claus Andrew , Little J. Paige , Tucker Kylie
Published: July 2023

Study Design:

This is a case-control study of prospectively collected data.

Objective:

To quantify paraspinal muscle size asymmetry in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and determine if this asymmetry is i) greater than observed in adolescent controls with symmetrical spines; and ii) positively associated with skeletal maturity using Risser grade, scoliosis severity using the Cobb angle, and chronological age in years.

Summary of Background Data:

AIS is a three-dimensional deformity of the spine which occurs in 2.5-3.7% of the Australian population. There is some evidence of asymmetry in paraspinal-muscle activation and morphology in AIS. Asymmetrical paraspinal muscle forces may facilitate asymmetrical vertebral growth during adolescence.

Methods:

An asymmetryindex [Ln(concave/convex volume)] of i) deep and ii) superficial paraspinal-muscle volumes, at the level of the i) major curve apex (Thoracic 8-9th vertebral level) and ii) lower-end vertebrae (LEV, Thoracic 10-12th vertebral level), was determined from 3D Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of 25 adolescents with AIS (all right thoracic curves), and 22 healthy controls (convex=left); all female, 10-16 years.

Results:

Asymmetryindex of deep paraspinal-muscle volumes was greater in AIS (0.16±0.20) than healthy spine controls (-0.06±0.13) at the level of the apex (P<0.01, linear mixed-effects analysis), but not LEV (P>0.05). Asymmetryindex was positively correlated with Risser grade (r=0.50, P<0.05) and scoliosis Cobb angle (r=0.45, P<0.05), but not age (r=0.34, P>0.05). There was no difference in the asymmetryindex of superficial paraspinal muscle volumes between AIS and controls (P>0.05).

Conclusions:

The asymmetry of deep apical paraspinal-muscle volume in AIS at the scoliosis apex is greater than that observed at equivalent vertebral levels in controls and may play a role in the pathogenesis of AIS.
Experts’ Perspectives on Use of Fast Healthcare Interoperable Resources for Computerized Clinical Decision Support
Authors: Shear Kristen , Horgas Ann L. , Lucero Robert
Published: July 2023

Barriers to improving the US healthcare system include a lack of interoperability across digital health information and delays in seeking preventative and recommended care. Interoperability can be seen as the lynch pin to reducing fragmentation and improving outcomes related to digital health systems. The prevailing standard for information exchange to enable interoperability is the Health Level Seven International Fast Healthcare Interoperable Resources standard. To better understand Fast Healthcare Interoperable Resources within the context of computerized clinical decision support expert interviews of health informaticists were conducted and used to create a modified force field analysis. Current barriers and future recommendations to scale adoption of Fast Healthcare Interoperable Resources were explored through qualitative analysis of expert interviews. Identified barriers included variation in electronic health record implementation, limited electronic health record vendor support, ontology variation, limited workforce knowledge, and testing limitations. Experts recommended research funders require Fast Healthcare Interoperable Resource usage, development of an “app store,” incentives for clinical organizations and electronic health record vendors, and Fast Healthcare Interoperable Resource certification development.
Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage and Cardiac Related Fatality: Who Dies and Why?
Authors: Khan Farzana , Peyvandi Forouhideh , Clare Kevin , Nolan Bridget , Patel Smit , Feldstein Eric , Ogulnick Jonathan V. , Said Azhar , Zeller Sabrina , Bornovski Yarden , Wong Serena , Medicherla Chaitanya B. , Rosenberg Jon , Miller Daniel , Coritsidis George , Prabhakaran Karthik , Mayer Stephan A. , Gandhi Chirag D. , Al-Mufti Fawaz
Published: July 2023

Medical complications are a notable source of in-hospital death following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). However, there is a paucity of literature examining medical complications on a national scale. This study uses a national dataset to analyze the incidence rates, case fatality rates, and risk factors for in-hospital complications and mortality following aSAH. We found that the most common complications in aSAH patients (N = 170, 869) were hydrocephalus (29.3%) and hyponatremia (17.3%). Cardiac arrest was the most common cardiac complication (3.2%) and was associated with the highest case fatality rate overall (82%). Patients with cardiac arrest also had the highest odds of in-hospital mortality [odds ratio (OR), 22.92; 95% confidence interval (CI), 19.24–27.30; P < 0.0001], followed by patients with cardiogenic shock (OR, 2.96; 95% CI, 2.146–4.07; P < 0.0001). Advanced age and National Inpatient Sample-SAH Severity Score were found to be associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality (OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.03–1.03; P < 0.0001 and OR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.65–1.75; P < 0.0001, respectively). Renal and cardiac complications are significant factors to consider in aSAH management, with cardiac arrest being the strongest indicator of case fatality and in-hospital mortality. Further research is needed to characterize factors that have contributed to the decreasing trend in case fatality rates identified for certain complications.
Finerenone: A Novel Third-Generation Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonist
Authors: Gudino Flores Paola , Rodriguez Salazar Juan Diego , Nahar Bryan Lester , Jim Belinda
Published: July 2023

Finerenone is a novel third-generation, selective nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) that was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in July of 2021 for its use in adults with chronic kidney disease and Type II diabetes mellitus. Randomized controlled trials The Finerenone in Reducing Kidney Failure and Disease Progression in Diabetic Kidney Disease and Finerenone in Reducing Cardiovascular Mortality and Morbidity in Diabetic Kidney Disease showed decreased adverse kidney and cardiovascular outcomes, respectively, in this population. The incidence of hyperkalemia, while higher in the study versus placebo group, was lower than older generations of MRAs (spironolactone and eplerenone) and proved to be an infrequent cause for drug discontinuation. The incidences of other adverse effects such as gynecomastia and acute kidney injury were similar in both the study and the placebo groups. This is the first third-generation MRA authorized to use to reduce the burden of cardiorenal disease.
Giant Pilomatrix Carcinoma of the Thorax: An Uncommon and Clinically Misdiagnosed Tumor
Authors: Nikolaidou Eirini , Papadopoulou Sophia , Tzimorota Zoi , Pipinia Argiro , Stampou Panagiota , Karagergou Eleni
Published: July 2023

Pilomatrix carcinoma is an unusual and aggressive malignant tumor deriving from follicular matrix cells and exhibiting a metastatic potential to lungs and regional lymph nodes in 10% of cases. We report the case of a 54-year-old male patient who presented with a biopsy-proven malignant pilomatrixoma of the thoracic region, which recurred multiple times after previous excisions. Due to the size of the tumor (28 by 22 cm), wide excision and axillary lymphadenectomy of levels I and II were performed, followed by reconstruction with a free deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap and adjuvant radiotherapy. Owing to its rarity, this tumor can initially be misdiagnosed, resulting in delayed treatment and recurrences if inadequately excised. Also, large tumor size is correlated with a higher incidence of metastasis. High index of clinical suspicion and wide excision are recommended, along with the need of establishing oncological guidelines for better prognosis.
Postinjury Alcohol Use Is Associated With Prolonged Recovery After Concussion in NCAA Athletes
Authors: Chang Roger C. , Singleton Michael , Chrisman Sara P. D. , Giza Christopher C. , Cuneo Ami Z. , Murinova Natalia , Broglio Steven P. , McCrea Michael , McAllister Thomas W. , Sharma Tara L. ,   For the CARE Consortium Investigators
Published: July 2023

Objective:

To determine whether alcohol use leads to prolonged clinical recovery or increased severity of concussion symptoms in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) athletes.

Design:

Prospective observational study.

Setting:

Clinical institutions.

Participants:

Athletes from the NCAA Concussion Assessment Research and Education consortium who sustained a concussion from 2014 to 2021.

Interventions:

Athletes were divided into 2 groups, those reporting alcohol use postinjury and those reporting no alcohol use postinjury.

Main Outcome Measures:

Symptom recovery was evaluated as time (in days) from injury to clearance to return to unrestricted play (days until URTP). Severity of concussion symptoms was assessed using the Standardized Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT3) symptom severity, headache severity, difficulty concentrating, and difficulty remembering scores. These scores were taken a median of 6.6 [interquartile range (IQR) = 4.0-10] and 6 (IQR = 4.0-9.0) days after injury for those who did and did not consume alcohol postinjury respectively and compared with baseline SCAT3 scores.

Results:

Four hundred eighty four athletes from the data set had complete data for exposure and outcome. The adjusted mean number of days until URTP for athletes reporting alcohol use postinjury [23.3; 95% confidence interval (CI), 20.0-27.2; days] was incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1.32 (95% CI, 1.12-1.55;P< 0.001) times higher than for athletes who reported no alcohol use postinjury [17.7 (95% CI, 16.1-19.3) days]. Postinjury alcohol was not associated with severity of concussion symptoms (P's < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Self-reported postinjury alcohol use is associated with prolonged recovery but not severity of concussion symptoms in collegiate athletes. This may inform future clinical recommendations regarding alcohol consumption after concussion.
Effects of Motor Control Exercises in Patients With Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Capel-Alcaraz Ana M. , Castro-Sánchez Adelaida M. , Matarán-Peñarrocha Guillermo A. , Antequera-Soler Eduardo , Lara-Palomo Inmaculada C.
Published: July 2023

Objective:

The primary objective of this systematic review is to assess whether motor control exercises consisting of the methodology described by Richardson and Hodges improve the pain and disability of patients with nonspecific low back pain.

Design:

Systematic review and a meta-analysis.

Setting:

A literature review was conducted using PubMed, PEDro, Scielo, CINAHL, Web of Science, Dialnet, Scopus, and MEDLINE from inception to November 2021.

Patients:

Patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.

Interventions:

Randomized controlled trials assessing motor control exercises versus inactive control, placebo or minimal intervention, and other exercises.

Main Outcome Measures:

Pain intensity, disability, and physical activity were considered as primary outcomes.

Results:

Eighteen studies with 1356 patients were finally included in the systematic review, of which only 13 randomized clinical trials could be meta-analyzed. Statistically significant results were found in favor of the motor control group for the comparison with other exercises in disability at postintervention term (Mean Difference, 95% Confidence Interval [CI], −3.13 [−5.87 to −0.38],P= 0.03); for the comparison with inactive control, placebo, or minimal intervention in pain at postintervention term (MD, 95% CI, −18.10 [−30.79 to −5.41],P= 0.008); and for comparison with general exercises (MD, 95% CI, −12.70 [−20.80 to −4.60],P= 0.002).

Conclusions:

Moderate-quality evidence regarding the effectiveness of motor control exercises to reduce pain intensity and disability exists, but the reduction should be interpreted with caution.
Clinimetric evaluation of five clinically feasible measures of the leg extensor muscle strength in neurological rehabilitation settings
Authors: Sutherland Edwina J. , Kahn Michelle B. , Williams Gavin P.
Published: July 2023

A gold-standard clinical measure of leg muscle strength has not been established. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate clinimetric properties of five clinically feasible measures of lower-limb extensor muscle strength in neurological rehabilitation settings. This was a cross-sectional observational study of 36 participants with leg weakness as a result of a neurological condition/injury. Participants were recruited across a range of walking abilities, from non- to independently ambulant. Each was assessed using each of the following five measures: manual muscle test (MMT), hand-held dynamometry (HHD), seated single leg press one repetition maximum (1RM), functional sit-to-stand (STS) test and seated single leg press measured with a load cell. Each clinical measure was evaluated for its discriminative ability, floor/ceiling effects, test-retest reliability and clinical utility. The load cell and HHD were the most discriminative of the tests and were also resistant to floor/ceiling effects; however, the load cell was superior to the HHD when compared for its clinical utility. The MMT/STS tests received perfect scores for clinical utility, although similar to the 1RM test, they were susceptible to floor and ceiling effects. The load cell leg press test was the only measure of lower limb strength to satisfy all four clinimetric properties. Implications for clinical practice include, firstly, that strength tests available to clinicians vary in their clinimetric properties. Secondly, the functional status of the person will determine selection of the best clinical strength test. And lastly, load cell device technology should be considered for clinical strength assessments.
Factors Related to Functional Capacity Deterioration in Surgical Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Xu Xinyi , Liu Xiaohang , Ho Mu-Hsing , Chau Pui Hing , Cheung Denise Shuk Ting , Lin Chia-Chin
Published: July 2023

Background

A decline in functional capacity is anticipated after lung resection. However, the factors related to functional capacity deterioration in surgical lung cancer patients have not been systematically reviewed.

Objective

To investigate the factors related to functional capacity deterioration and the trajectory of functional capacity after lung cancer surgery.

Methods

PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus were searched between January 2010 and July 2022. Two reviewers conducted a critical appraisal of individual sources. Twenty-one studies met the inclusion criteria.

Results

This review presents evidence for risk factors related to functional capacity deterioration after lung cancer surgery, including patient characteristics (age), preoperative clinical factors (vital capacity, quadriceps force, B-type natriuretic peptide level), surgery-related factors (surgical procedure, duration of chest tube drainage, postoperative complications), and postoperative clinical factor (C-reactive protein level). Most patients had a significant decline in functional capacity in the short term (≤1 month from surgery). In the medium term (1 to ≤6 months from surgery), although the functional capacity did not return to the preoperative level, the decline became insignificant.

Conclusions

This study is the first to review factors related to functional capacity in lung cancer patients. The findings can help clinicians to better identify patients at risk of functional capacity decline and allocate clinical resources more efficiently.

Implications for Practice

The risk factors related to the functional capacity decline in surgical lung cancer patients should be evaluated routinely during perioperative nursing assessments. Preoperative and postoperative nursing interventions can potentially improve modifiable risk factors and prevent functional capacity deterioration.
Serum and urethral antibody response in Mycoplasma genitalium-infected men
Authors: Kim Caroline M. , Manhart Lisa E. , Wood Gwendolyn E.
Published: July 2023

The antibody response to Mycoplasma genitalium in serum and urethral secretions of men with non-gonococcal urethritis was examined longitudinally. Serum and urethral antibodies reacted primarily with the MgpB and MgpC adhesins. Serum antibodies persisted throughout follow-up while urethral antibodies waned despite organism persistence. Declining antibodies may facilitate chronic infection.
Factors associated with consenting to receive an automated email summary following a sexual health clinic visit
Authors: Huang Felicity , Fairley Christopher K. , Lee David M. , Rahman Rashidur , Ong Jason J. , Bradshaw Catriona S. , Chen Marcus Y. , Phillips Tiffany R. , Chow Eric P.F.
Published: July 2023

Background

Electronic health records allow for inexpensive communication with patients. In March 2021, the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC) implemented an automated email summary (“Sexual Health Automated Visit Email” (SHAVE)) of a client’s visit. This study evaluates the proportion of attendees at a sexual health service who opted in or out of SHAVE.

Methods

This study was conducted at MSHC in Australia between March 2021 and June 2022. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine the client characteristics associated with consenting to SHAVE.

Results

There were 18,528 clients (men: 12,700, women: 5,828) included in the final analysis and 55.2% (n = 10,233) consented to receiving SHAVE. Comparing to those who did not have a new STI diagnosis, clients with a new diagnosis of an STI, but not HIV, had lower odds of consenting to receiving SHAVE (chlamydia [aOR: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.57-0.72]; gonorrhoea [aOR: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.62-0.82]; syphilis [aOR: 0.75; 95% CI: 0.59-0.96]). Men had lower odds of consenting when compared to women (MSW [aOR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.71-0.84] and MSM [aOR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.62-0.75]). Comparing to those born in Australia or Oceania, clients born in Europe had lower odds of consenting (aOR: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.70-0.94) , whilst those born in Latin America or Caribbean had higher odds of consenting (aOR: 1.25; 95% CI: 1.04-1.51).

Conclusion

Email summaries may serve as a valuable strategy to improve health communication and record keeping for clients. Understanding the client characteristics associated with consenting SHAVE will allow for the implementation of strategies to better communicate with clients.
Are prior sexual risk behaviors associated with adherence to COVID-19 preventative behaviors among young Black men?
Authors: Ratnayake Aneeka , Campbell Mary Beth , Gomes Gérard , Kissinger Patricia J.
Published: July 2023

Background

Behavioral clustering is a phenomenon in which several risk or protective behaviors co-occur in an individual. We sought to determine if prior sexual risk behaviors among young Black men who have sex with women (MSW) could predict subsequent non-adherence to COVID-19 prevention behaviors.

Methods

Young Black MSW aged 15-24 previously enrolled in a community-based Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) screening program were enrolled in a sub-study between May-June 2020 and asked about adherence to four COVID-19 recommended non-pharmaceutical prevention behaviors (hand washing, mask wearing, social distancing, and following stay at home orders). Data from the original study was used to elicit the follow pre-pandemic behaviors including: having multiple sex partners, inconsistent condom use, prior STI testing behaviors and substance use. Wilcoxon rank sum tests were used to assess the association between historic risk behaviors and COVID-19 behavior score.

Results

There were 109 men included in the analysis, with a mean age of 20.5 years (S.D. 2.0). Inconsistent condom use, multiple sex partners, and prior HIV/STI testing status were not associated with fewer COVID-19 preventive behaviors but men who used any non-prescription drugs (p = 0.001) or marijuana only (p = 0.028) had a lower median COVID-19 preventative score compared to those who did not engage in those activities.

Conclusion

While none of the sexual risk behavior variables were associated, self-reported non-prescription drug and marijuana use were both significant predictors of lower adherence to COVID-19 preventative behaviors among young Black men. Young men who use drugs may need additional support to promote COVID-19 preventative behavior uptake.
Double Arterialized Scapular Tip Free Flap for Mandibular Reconstruction
Authors: Arcuri Francesco , Laganà Francesco , Bianchi Bernardo , Ferrari Silvano , Ferri Andrea
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

Scapular tip free flap (STFF) has become today one of the workhorse flaps for maxillary reconstruction; recently, the possibility of extending the vascular supply by adding to the angular branch of the circumflex pedicle up to its periosteal entrance in the lateral border of the scapula has been proposed as a reliable technique to improve the length of perfused bone when STFF is used for mandibular reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the patients who had received microvascular reconstruction of the mandible with STFF vascularized by both the circumflex scapular artery via the periosteal branch and the thoracodorsal artery via the angular artery.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was conducted for all patients who underwent reconstruction with an STFF for mandibular defect between January 2016 and December 2020 at the University Hospital of Parma. The outcome was evaluated by assessing dietary intake (unrestricted, soft, liquid, and tube feed) and speech (normal, intelligible, partially intelligible, and unintelligible).

Results:

The final study sample included 9 patients (5 men and 4 women). The average patient age was 68.9 years (range, 59.9–74.8 y) at the time of surgery. There was no flap loss. A 1-year postoperative computed tomography scan revealed full osteointegration of the flap.

Conclusions:

Our results show that the STFF is a valuable reconstructive option, especially in patients with complex head and neck defects requiring soft and hard tissues.
Pharyngeal Flap Versus Sphincter Pharyngoplasty for the Treatment of Velopharyngeal Insufficiency in 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome: Preliminary Findings From a Systematic Review
Authors: Camargo Yitzella , Kellogg Brian , Kollara Lakshmi
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine and compare surgical and speech outcomes of the posterior pharyngeal flap and sphincter pharyngoplasty following surgical management of velopharyngeal insufficiency in patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS). This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses checklist and guidelines. Selected studies were chosen using a 3-step screening process. The 2 primary outcomes of interest were speech improvement and surgical complications. Preliminary findings based on included studies suggest a slightly higher rate of postoperative complications with the posterior pharyngeal flap in patients with 22q11.2DS but a lower percentage of patients needing additional surgery compared with the sphincter pharyngoplasty group. The most reported postoperative complication was obstructive sleep apnea. Results from this study provide some insight into speech and surgical outcomes following pharyngeal flap and sphincter pharyngoplasty in patients with 22q11.2DS. However, these results should be interpreted with caution due to inconsistencies in speech methodology and lack of detail regarding surgical technique in the current literature. There is a significant need for standardization of speech assessments and outcomes to help optimize surgical management of velopharyngeal insufficiency in individuals with 22q11.2DS.
The Effect of Different Types of Collagen Membranes on Peri-Implant Dehiscence Defects
Authors: Dogan Kaplan Aylin , Cinar Ihsan Caglar , Gultekin Bahattin Alper , Avci Kupeli Zehra , Ozfirat Eren Can , Yalcin Serdar
Published: July 2023

Aim:

This experimental study aimed to compare the bone-implant contact (BIC) following guided bone regeneration with 3 bioabsorbable collagen membranes on peri-implant dehiscence defects.

Methods:

Forty-eight standard dehiscence defects were created in the sheep iliac bone crest, and dental implants were placed into the defects. With the guided bone regeneration technique, the autogenous graft was placed into the defect and covered with different types of membranes: Geistlich Bio-Gide, Ossix Plus, and Symbios Prehydrated were covered. One group was left without a membrane as the control group (C) by applying only an autogenous graft. After recovery periods of 3 and 6 weeks, the experimental animals were sacrificed. Histologic sections were prepared by a nondecalcified method, and BIC was examined.

Results:

There was no statistically important difference between groups in the third week (P>0.05). A statistically significant difference between groups was found in the sixth week (P<0.01). Bone-implant contact values of the C group were significantly lower than those of the Geistlich Bio-Gide and Ossix Plus groups (P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between control and Symbios Prehydrated groups (P>0.05). In all sections, osseointegration was observed, with no signs of inflammation, necrosis, or foreign body reaction.

Conclusion:

In our study, it has been concluded that the resorbable collagen membranes used in treating peri-implant dehiscence defects might affect the BIC, and the success varies according to the type of membrane used.
An integrative literature review examining the key elements of bereavement follow-up interventions in critical care
Authors: Labram Aileen H. , Johnston Bridget , McGuire Margaret
Published: July 2023

Purpose of review

The aim of this review is to examine bereavement follow-up intervention studies in critical care, with the purpose of integrating results on the timing, content, aims and outcomes of interventions. The impact of a death in critical care is well documented, and bereavement follow-up is recognised as an important topic, but there is limited research with little consensus on the content and structure of interventions.

Recent findings

A total of 18 papers were selected; 11 are intervention studies, with only one randomised control trial. Six papers were from national surveys and are not the focus of this review. Bereavement follow-up mainly consisted of information giving, condolence interventions, telephone calls and meetings with families. The timing, content, aims and outcomes depended on the intervention and were influenced by the design of the study.

Overall, bereavement follow-up is acceptable for relatives but outcomes are mixed. Calls for more research are valid, but how do we utilise the current research to better inform the critical care community? Researchers suggest that bereavement follow-up interventions need to be designed with specific aims and outcomes, in collaboration with bereaved families that are appropriate to the intervention.
Hidden bugs in a newly opened hospital: the distribution of skin microbiota among healthcare workers in a newly opened teaching hospital
Authors: Kamala Nathan Manggaiyakarasi , Jasni Azmiza Syawani , Zakariah Siti Zulaikha , Tengku Jamaluddin Tengku Zetty Maztura , Mohd Isa Muhammad , Ibrahim Rosni
Published: July 2023

Background. Skin is a reservoir for millions of micro-organisms, all of which make up the skin microbiota. Hospitals have been identified as a favourable environment for transmitting micro-organisms and thus, it is important to know the distribution of skin microbiota among healthcare workers (HCWs), as such findings may provide baseline information for the distribution of skin microbiota in hospitals.

Hypothesis. There is no significant association between the factors (age, gender, type of skin microenvironment, hand hygiene practices, usage of skin care products, current healthcare practices and previous workplace) and the distribution of the skin microbiota among HCWs.

Aim. The study aims to identify type of skin microbiota and associated factors (age, gender, type of skin microenvironment, hand hygiene practices, use of skincare products, current healthcare practice, and previous workplace) that influence the growth of skin microbiota.

Method. About 102 bacterial isolates were obtained from the skin of 63 healthcare workers in a newly opened teaching hospital, namely Hospital Pengajar Universiti Putra Malaysia (HPUPM). All isolated bacteria were subjected to phenotypic identification according to standard microbiological procedures.

Results. The most common isolated skin microbiota were Gram-positive bacteria (84.3%), followed by Gram-negative bacteria (15.7%). A Chi-square test of independence was used to analyse the above factors and there was a significant association between the type of skin microenvironment and the distribution of skin microbiota (P=0.03) (type of skin microenvironment influences the distribution of skin microbiota).

Conclusion. Coagulase-negative

Staphylococcus

spp. was the most common bacteria isolated from the skin of the healthcare workers. Even though coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are low pathogenic bacteria, but it may cause serious infection in high risk group of patients. Therefore, it is important to emphasize on the good hand hygiene practices and implement strict infection control measures to minimize the risk of HAI in newly opened hospitals.
The VanS sensor histidine kinase from type-B VRE recognizes vancomycin directly
Authors: Maciunas Lina J. , Rotsides Photis , D’Lauro Elizabeth J. , Brady Samantha , Beld Joris , Loll Patrick J.
Published: July 2023

Vancomycin-resistantenterococci (VRE) are among the most common causes of nosocomial infections and have been prioritized as targets for new therapeutic development. Many genetically distinct types of VRE have been identified; however, they all share a common suite of resistance genes that function together to confer resistance to vancomycin. Expression of the resistance phenotype is controlled by the VanRS two-component system. This system senses the presence of the antibiotic, and responds by initiating transcription of resistance genes. VanS is a transmembrane sensor histidine kinase, and plays a fundamental role in antibiotic resistance by detecting vancomycin or its effects; it then transduces this signal to the VanR transcription factor, thereby alerting the organism to the presence of the antibiotic. Despite the critical role played by VanS, fundamental questions remain about its function, and in particular about how it senses vancomycin. Here, we focus on a purified VanRS system from one of the most clinically prevalent forms of VRE, type B. We show that in a native-like membrane environment, the autokinase activity of type-B VanS is strongly stimulated by vancomycin. We additionally demonstrate that this effect is mediated by a direct physical interaction between the antibiotic and the type-B VanS protein, and localize the interacting region to the protein’s periplasmic domain. This represents the first time that a direct sensing mechanism has been confirmed for any VanS protein.

Significance Statement

Whenvancomycin-resistantenterococci (VRE) sense the presence of vancomycin, they remodel their cell walls to block antibiotic binding. This resistance phenotype is controlled by the VanS protein, a histidine kinase that senses the antibiotic or its effects and signals for transcription of resistance genes. However, the mechanism by which VanS detects the antibiotic has remained unclear, with no consensus emerging as to whether the protein interacts directly with vancomycin, or instead detects some downstream consequence of vancomycin’s action. Here, we show that for one of the most clinically relevant types of VRE, type B, VanS is activated by direct binding of the antibiotic. Such mechanistic insights will likely prove useful in circumventing vancomycin resistance.
Trabectedin derails transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair to induce DNA breaks in highly transcribed genes
Authors: Son Kook , Takhaveev Vakil , Mor Visesato , Yu Hobin , Dillier Emma , Zilio Nicola , Püllen Nikolai J.L. , Ivanov Dmitri , Ulrich Helle D. , Sturla Shana J. , Schärer Orlando D.
Published: July 2023

Most genotoxic anticancer agents fail in tumors with intact DNA repair. Therefore, trabectedin, a unique agent more toxic to cells with active DNA repair, specifically transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair (TC-NER), provides new therapeutic opportunities. To unlock the potential of trabectedin and inform its application in precision oncology, a full mechanistic understanding of the drug’s TC-NER-dependent toxicity is needed. Here, we determined that abortive TC-NER of trabectedin-DNA adducts forms persistent single-strand breaks (SSBs) as the adducts block the second of the two sequential NER incisions. We mapped the 3’-hydroxyl groups of SSBs originating from the first NER incision at trabectedin lesions, recording TC-NER on a genome-wide scale. We showed that trabectedin-induced SSBs primarily occur in transcribed strands of active genes and peak near transcription start sites. Frequent SSBs were also found outside gene bodies, connecting TC-NER to divergent transcription from promoters. This work advances the use trabectedin for precision oncology and for studying TC-NER and transcription.
Where in the brain do internally generated and externally presented visual information interact?
Authors: Alho Jussi , Gotsopoulos Athanasios , Silvanto Juha
Published: July 2023

Conscious experiences normally result from the flow of external input into our sensory systems. However, we can also create conscious percepts independently of sensory stimulation. These internally generated percepts are referred to as mental images, and they have many similarities with real visual percepts. Consequently, mental imagery is often referred to as “seeing in the mind’s eye”. While the neural basis of imagery has been widely studied, the interaction between internal and external sources of visual information has received little interest. Here we examined this question by using fMRI to record brain activity of healthy human volunteers while they were performing visual imagery that was distracted with a concurrent presentation of a visual stimulus. Multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) was used to identify the brain basis of this interaction. Visual imagery was reflected in several brain areas in ventral temporal, lateral occipitotemporal, and posterior frontal cortices, with a left-hemisphere dominance. The key finding was that imagery content representations in the left lateral occipitotemporal cortex were disrupted when a visual distractor was presented during imagery. Our results thus demonstrate that the representations of internal and external visual information interact in brain areas associated with the encoding of visual objects and shapes.