bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymmetric crime dynamics in and out of lockdowns
Authors: Poblete-Cazenave Rubén
Published: January 2024

This article studies the dynamic impact of a temporary policy restricting social encounters due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on criminal activity in Bihar, India. Using a regression discontinuity design in time and criminal case—level and arrest data, I document an immediate drop in crime of over 35% due to the lockdown. Analysis over a longer timespan shows asymmetric dynamics by crime type. The lockdown was more effective in preventing personal crimes such as murders but was less effective in preventing property crimes, which increased beyond pre-lockdown levels once the lockdown was lifted. The increase in property crimes seems to be driven by temporal crime displacement from “former offenders” and not by “new offenders.” These asymmetric dynamics across crime types provide new insights into criminals’ intertemporal decisions (JEL K14, K42).
E3 ubiquitin ligase CBLB regulates innate immune responses and bacterial dissemination during nontuberculous mycobacteria infection
Authors: Sharma Jaishree , Mudalagiriyappa Srinivasu , Abdelaal Hazem F M , Kelly Thomas C , Choi Woosuk , Ponnuraj Nagendraprabhu , Vieson Miranda D , Talaat Adel M , Nanjappa Som Gowda
Published: January 2024

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are emerging opportunistic pathogens causing pulmonary infection to fatal disseminated disease. NTM infections are steadily increasing in children and adults, and immune-compromised individuals are at a greater risk of fatal infections. The NTM disease's adverse pathology and resistance to antibiotics have further worsened the therapeutic measures. Innate immune regulators are potential targets for therapeutics to NTM, especially in a T cell–suppressed population, and many ubiquitin ligases modulate pathogenesis and innate immunity during infections, including mycobacterial infections. Here, we investigated the role of an E3 ubiquitin ligase, Casitas B-lineage lymphoma proto-oncogene B (CBLB), in immunocompromised mouse models of NTM infection. We found that CBLB is essential to prevent bacterial growth and dissemination. Cblb deficiency debilitated natural killer cells, inflammatory monocytes, and macrophages in vivo. However, Cblb deficiency in macrophages did not wane its ability to inhibit bacterial growth or production of reactive oxygen species or interferon γ production by natural killer cells in vitro. CBLB restricted NTM growth and dissemination by promoting early granuloma formation in vivo. Our study shows that CBLB bolsters innate immune responses and helps prevent the dissemination of NTM during compromised T cell immunity.
Theory of communicative (dis)enfranchisement: introduction, explication, and application
Authors: Hintz Elizabeth A , Scharp Kristina M
Published: January 2024

In this essay, we set forth the theory of communicative (dis)enfranchisement (TCD). The TCD is useful for exploring the ramifications of the hegemonic ideologies which constrain and afford our everyday lives, and which are constructed and reflected in disenfranchising talk (DT). The TCD also asks what communication mechanisms work to reify and resist these hegemonic ideologies. We first introduce the warrant for this theorizing, then overview the assumptions of critical postmodernism and propositions of the TCD. We offer guidance for using the TCD via example research questions, suitable contexts, methodological tools, and conclusions researchers can potentially render. We offer criteria for evaluating the TCD regarding its consistency with critical postmodernism, utility as a heuristic framework, and capacity for claims-making. We respond to potential critiques of the TCD by distinguishing the TCD from six related bodies of communication theorizing, and by addressing the purported opaqueness of critical theorizing. Finally, we offer an example analysis to illustrate the TCD in research practice.
Merging Laggards
Authors: Padilla Jorge , Piccolo Salvatore , Reynolds Paul
Published: January 2024

We argue that mergers among market laggards (new entrants or innovation challengers) should be treated differently than those involving leaders (established players or first-mover innovators). We show that these mergers can be rivalry-enhancing, either by accelerating entry or promoting innovations, leading to lower quality-adjusted prices and higher consumer surplus. This is more likely to happen when entry (or innovation) costs are relatively high, so that entry (or innovation) is profitable only when it is limited to a few players. In these circumstances, if laggards enter, they will do so probabilistically and inefficiently since each of them would have to condition its entry to scenarios in which other laggards stay out, which may not be possible since entry decisions are secret. By removing or mitigating this coordination failure, a merger among laggards may lead to more entry (or innovation). Such a merger will also be more likely to benefit consumers when the products of laggards and leaders are sufficiently differentiated—that is, when competition is not too intense absent the merger. Importantly, we find that in the presence of fixed entry costs and endogenous entry, fixed cost synergies are relevant for assessing the welfare effects of mergers. These efficiencies enhance the social value of mergers among laggards insofar as they make entry into the market for the merged entity less costly, thereby expanding the spectrum of products available to consumer and increasing their welfare.
Fructose aggravates copper-deficiency-induced cardiac remodeling by inhibiting SERCA2a
Authors: Xu Yi , Xu Qiuxia , Zheng Zhirui , Jiang Xin , Shi Yuansen , Huang Yipu , Liu Yun
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Accumulating evidence demonstrates that copper deficiency (CuD) is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, besides, fructose has been strongly linked to the development of cardiovascular diseases. However, how CuD or fructose causes cardiovascular diseases is not clearly delineated. The present study aims to investigate the mechanism of CuD or fructose on cardiac remodeling.

Methods

We established a model of CuD- or fructose-induced cardiac hypertrophy in 3-week-old male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats by CuD diet supplemented with or without 30% fructose for 4 weeks. In vitro study was performed by treating cardiomyocytes with tetrathiomolydbate (TM) and fructose. Echocardiography, histology analysis, immunofluorescence, western blotting, and qPCR were performed.

Key findings

Our findings revealed that CuD caused noticeable cardiac hypertrophy either in the presence or absence of fructose supplement. Fructose exacerbated CuD-induced cardiac remodeling and intramyocardial lipid accumulation. Furthermore, we presented that the inhibition of autophagic flux caused by Ca2+ disturbance is the key mechanism by which CuD- or fructose-induced cardiac remodeling. The reduced expression of sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase 2a (SERCA2a) in cardiomyocytes accounts for the elevated cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration.

Conclusions

Collectively, our study suggested that fructose aggravated CuD-induced cardiac remodeling through the blockade of autophagic flux via SERCA2a decreasing-induced Ca2+ imbalance.
Application of a derivative of human defensin 5 to treat ionizing radiation-induced enterogenic infection
Authors: Zhao Gaomei , He Yingjuan , Chen Yin , Jiang Yiyi , Li Chenwenya , Xiong Tainong , Han Songling , He Yongwu , Gao Jining , Su Yongping , Wang Junping , Wang Cheng
Published: January 2024

Enterogenic infection is a common complication for patients with radiation injury and requires efficient therapeutics in the clinic. Herein, we evaluated the promising drug candidate T7E21RHD5, which is a peptide derived from intestinal Paneth cell-secreted human defensin 5. Oral administration of this peptide alleviated the diarrhea symptoms of mice that received total abdominal irradiation (TAI, γ-ray, 12 Gy) and improved survival. Pathologic analysis revealed that T7E21RHD5 elicited an obvious mitigation of ionizing radiation (IR)-induced epithelial damage and ameliorated the reduction in the levels of claudin, zonula occluden 1 and occludin, three tight junction proteins in the ileum. Additionally, T7E21RHD5 regulated the gut microbiota in TAI mice by remodeling β diversity, manifested as a reversal of the inverted proportion of Bacteroidota to Firmicutes caused by IR. T7E21RHD5 treatment also decreased the abundance of pathogenic Escherichia–Shigella but significantly increased the levels of Alloprevotella and Prevotellaceae_NK3B31, two short-chain fatty acid-producing bacterial genera in the gut. Accordingly, the translocation of enterobacteria and lipopolysaccharide to the blood, as well as the infectious inflammatory responses in the intestine after TAI, was all suppressed by T7E21RHD5 administration. Hence, this versatile antimicrobial peptide possesses promising application prospects in the treatment of IR-induced enterogenic infection.
And how do LGB adults rate their orgasms in a relational context?
Authors: Sierra Juan Carlos , Muñoz-García Laura Elvira , Mangas Pablo
Published: January 2024

Background

Subjective orgasm experience (SOE) refers to the perception, assessment, and/or sensation of orgasm on a psychological level, with the particularity that the study of SOE in nonheterosexual populations is currently very scarce.

Aim

The study sought to analyze differences in SOE dimensions, comparing the intensity of each adjective of the Orgasm Rating Scale (ORS) and creating a ranking of the adjectives that better represent it in LGB men and women.

Methods

In a sample of 1475 adults organized into 4 groups according to the type of sexual relationships reported, comparisons were made using multivariate analysis of variance and chi-square tests.

Outcomes

Differences were obtained in the intensity of all the SOE dimensions, and in 23 of the 25 ORS adjectives.

Results

Lesbians and bisexual women reported higher intensity in SOE compared with bisexual and gay men.

Clinical Implications

Because the ORS has been established as a good tool for detecting orgasmic difficulties in nonheterosexual populations, this study could provide LGBT affirmative psychotherapy with evidence on how these individuals evaluate their orgasms in a relational context.

Strengths and Limitations

This study extends prior limited knowledge about how LGB people evaluate their orgasmic experiences in the context of sexual relationships. Despite this, the study poses limitations such as nonprobability sampling or the inclusion of exclusively cisgender and young individuals, making it difficult to generalize the results.

Conclusion

Although significant differences were found between LGB men and women, all groups agree on the adjectives they use to describe the subjective experience of orgasm in the context of sexual relationships; therefore, evidence is provided about how LGB people evaluate their orgasmic experiences in this context.
A HITRAN-formatted UV line list of S2-containing transitions involving X3 Σg-, B3 Σu-, and B″ 3 Πu electronic states
Authors: Gomez Frances M , Hargreaves Robert J , Gordon Iouli E
Published: January 2024

The sulfur dimer (S2) is an important molecular constituent in cometary atmospheres and volcanic plumes on Jupiter’s moon Io. It is also expected to play an important role in the photochemistry of exoplanets. The ultraviolet (UV) spectrum of S2 contains transitions between vibronic levels above and below the dissociation limit, giving rise to a distinctive spectral signature. Using spectroscopic information from the literature, and the spectral simulation program PGOPHER, a UV line list of S2 is provided. This line list includes the primary $B\, ^{3}\Sigma ^{-}_{u}-X\, ^{3}\Sigma ^{-}_{g}$ (v′ = 0–27, v″ = 0–10) electronic transition, where vibrational bands with v′≥10 are pre-dissociated. Intensities have been calculated from existing experimental and theoretical oscillator strengths, and semi-empirical strengths for the pre-dissociated bands of S2 have been derived from comparisons with experimental cross-sections. The S2 line list also includes the $B^{\prime \prime }\, ^{3}\Pi _{u}-X\, ^{3}\Sigma ^{-}_{g}$ (v′ = 0–19, v″ = 0–10) vibronic bands due to the strong interaction with the B state. In summary, we present the new HITRAN-formatted S2 line list and its validation against existing laboratory spectra. The extensive line list covers the spectral range 21 700–41 300 cm−1 (∼242–461 nm) and can be used for modelling both absorption and emission.
Heating galaxy clusters with interacting dark matter
Authors: Shoji Yutaro , Kuflik Eric , Birnboim Yuval , Stone Nicholas C
Published: January 2024

The overcooling of cool core clusters is a persistent puzzle in the astrophysics of galaxy clusters. We propose that it may naturally be resolved via interactions between the baryons of the intracluster medium (ICM) and its dark matter (DM). DM–baryon interactions can inject heat into the ICM to offset bremsstrahlung cooling, but these interactions are also strongly constrained by existing experiments and astrophysical observations. We survey existing constraints and combine these with the energetic needs of an observed sample of cool core clusters. We find that a robust parameter space exists for baryon–DM scattering solutions to the cooling flow problem, provided that only a sub-component of DM interacts strongly with the baryons. Interestingly, baryon–DM scattering is a thermally stable heating source so long as the baryon temperature is greater than 1/3 to 1/2 the DM temperature, a condition that seems to be satisfied observationally.
The formation of compact massive relic galaxies in MOND
Authors: Eappen Robin , Kroupa Pavel
Published: January 2024

Compact massive relic galaxies are a class of galaxies that exhibit characteristics suggesting they have remained largely unchanged since their initial formation, making them ‘relics’ of the early Universe. These galaxies represent a distinct class characterized by strongly peaked high-velocity dispersion profiles with large rotational velocities. This study investigates the formation of such galaxies within the framework of Milgromian dynamics (MOND), offering a unique perspective on their origin without invoking the presence of cold or warm dark matter. Our analysis focuses on the collapse dynamics of isolated non-rotating post-big bang gas clouds, revealing kinematic and density profiles comparable to observed compact massive relic galaxies like NGC 1277, Mrk 1216, and PGC 032873. The findings underscore the natural emergence of compact massive relic galaxies within a MOND-based Universe, providing valuable insights into the interplay between gravitational dynamics and galaxy formation.
Avacopan for ANCA-associated vasculitis with hypoxic pulmonary haemorrhage
Authors: Chalkia Aglaia , Flossmann Oliver , Jones Rachel , Nair Jagdish Ramachandran , Simpson Thomas , Smith Rona , Willcocks Lisa , Jayne David
Published: January 2024

Background

Pulmonary haemorrhage with hypoxia caused by anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) has a high early mortality. Avacopan, an oral C5a receptor antagonist, is an approved treatment for AAV, but patients with pulmonary haemorrhage requiring invasive pulmonary ventilation support were excluded from the Avacopan for the Treatment of ANCA-Associated Vasculitis (ADVOCATE) Trial.

Methods

A retrospective, observational, multicentre case series of AAV patients with hypoxic pulmonary haemorrhage, requiring oxygen support or mechanical ventilation, who received avacopan.

Results

Eight patients (62.5% female), median age 64 years (range 17–80), seven with kidney involvement, median estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 11 (range 5–99) mL/min/1.73 m2, were followed for a median of 6 months from presentation. Seven were newly diagnosed (87.5%), five were myeloperoxidase-ANCA and three proteinase 3-ANCA positive. All had hypoxia, four requiring mechanical ventilation (three invasive and one non-invasive). Intensive care unit (ICU) stay for the four patients lasted a median of 9 days (range 6–60). Four received rituximab and cyclophosphamide combination, three rituximab and one cyclophosphamide. Four underwent plasma exchange and one received 2 months of daily extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy. Following the initiation of avacopan after a median of 10 days (range 2–40), pulmonary haemorrhage resolved in all patients, even the two who had 1 month of refractory pulmonary haemorrhage prior to avacopan. Additionally, after 1 month, the median prednisolone dose was 5 mg/day (range 0–50), with three patients successfully discontinuing steroid use. Two patients suffered serious infections, two discontinued avacopan, one permanently due to a rash and one temporarily after 3 months due to neutropenia. All patients survived and no re-hospitalization occurred.

Conclusion

We report the use of avacopan as a component of the treatment for pulmonary haemorrhage with hypoxia in AAV. Despite the life-threatening presentations all patients recovered, but attribution of the positive outcomes to avacopan is limited by the concomitant therapies and retrospective observational design.
Sparsentan is superior to losartan in the gddY mouse model of IgA nephropathy
Authors: Nagasawa Hajime , Ueda Seiji , Suzuki Hitoshi , Jenkinson Celia , Fukao Yusuke , Nakayama Maiko , Otsuka Tomoyuki , Okuma Teruyuki , Clapper Wilmelenne , Liu Kai , Nguyen Mai , Komers Radko , Suzuki Yusuke
Published: January 2024

Background

The mechanism leading to the development of immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) remains to be completely understood. Endothelin-1 (ET-1) as well as angiotensin II (AngII) promote glomerular injury, tubulointerstitial inflammation and fibrosis leading to chronic kidney disease. Sparsentan, a dual endothelin angiotensin receptor antagonist, recently received accelerated approval in the USA for the reduction of proteinuria in adults with IgAN at high risk of disease progression. To elucidate the mechanisms by which sparsentan is efficacious in IgAN, we examined the effect of treatment in gddY mice, a spontaneous IgAN mouse model, versus the monoselective angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) antagonist, losartan, on the development of renal injury at doses resulting in similar blood pressure lowering.

Methods

Four-week-old gddY mice were given control chow, chow containing sparsentan or drinking water containing losartan until 12 or 20 weeks old.

Results

Remarkably, the albumin:creatine ratio (ACR) was attenuated more rapidly and to a greater extent in mice treated with sparsentan than those treated with losartan. The decrease in ACR from baseline after 4 weeks of treatment correlated with beneficial effects of sparsentan on glomerulosclerosis and protection of podocytes and glycocalyx after 16 weeks of treatment across treatment groups; thus, sparsentan treatment delayed development of renal injury to a greater extent than losartan. Expression of mRNA for ET-1, endothelin type A receptor and AT1R and proinflammatory genes was upregulated in 12-week-old gddY mice and was prevented by sparsentan and losartan to a comparable extent.

Conclusions

The results of this study, and in light of the results of the phase 3 PROTECT trial, provide a novel perspective and understanding of the mechanisms by which sparsentan has a beneficial renoprotective effect against IgAN compared with AT1R antagonism alone.
Bioprinting of inorganic-biomaterial/neural-stem-cell constructs for multiple tissue regeneration and functional recovery
Authors: Zhang Hongjian , Qin Chen , Shi Zhe , Xue Jianmin , Hao Jianxin , Huang Jinzhou , Du Lin , Lu Hongxu , Wu Chengtie
Published: January 2024

Tissue regeneration is a complicated process that relies on the coordinated effort of the nervous, vascular and immune systems. While the nervous system plays a crucial role in tissue regeneration, current tissue engineering approaches mainly focus on restoring the function of injury-related cells, neglecting the guidance provided by nerves. This has led to unsatisfactory therapeutic outcomes. Herein, we propose a new generation of engineered neural constructs from the perspective of neural induction, which offers a versatile platform for promoting multiple tissue regeneration. Specifically, neural constructs consist of inorganic biomaterials and neural stem cells (NSCs), where the inorganic biomaterials endows NSCs with enhanced biological activities including proliferation and neural differentiation. Through animal experiments, we show the effectiveness of neural constructs in repairing central nervous system injuries with function recovery. More importantly, neural constructs also stimulate osteogenesis, angiogenesis and neuromuscular junction formation, thus promoting the regeneration of bone and skeletal muscle, exhibiting its versatile therapeutic performance. These findings suggest that the inorganic-biomaterial/NSC-based neural platform represents a promising avenue for inducing the regeneration and function recovery of varying tissues and organs.
Final 192-Week Efficacy and Safety Results of the ADVANCE Trial, Comparing 3 First-line Antiretroviral Regimens
Authors: Sokhela Simiso , Venter Willem D F , Bosch Bronwyn , Woods Joana , McCann Kaitlyn , Akpomiemie Godspower , Chandiwana Nomathemba , Mashabane Nkuli , Tembo Angela , Simmons Bryony , Lalla-Edward Samanta , Siedner Mark J , Sinxadi Phumla , Hermans Lucas , Fairlie Lee , Vos Alinda , Abrams Elaine , Manne-Goehler Jennifer M , Moorhouse Michelle , Clayden Polly , Norris Shane , Qavi Ambar , Chersich Matthew , Masenya Masebole , Arulappan Natasha , Hill Andrew
Published: January 2024

Background

ADVANCE compared 3 World Health Organization–recommended first-line regimens in participants with HIV who were antiretroviral naive.

Methods

This randomized, open-label, noninferiority trial enrolled participants living with HIV with no antiretroviral exposure in the previous 6 months to 1 of the following arms: tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) / emtricitabine (FTC) + dolutegravir (DTG) (2 tablets), tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) / FTC + DTG (2 tablets), or a fixed-dose combination of TDF / FTC / efavirenz (EFV) (1 tablet). We report the final safety and efficacy data up to 192 weeks.

Results

Repeat consent from the original 351 participants randomized to each arm was obtained from 230 participants (66%) in the TAF/FTC + DTG arm, 209 (60%) in the TDF/FTC + DTG arm, and 183 (52%) in the TDF/FTC/EFV arm. At 192 weeks, 213 (61%) of the original 351 participants in the TAF/FTC + DTG arm, 195 (56%) in the TDF/FTC + DTG arm, and 172 (49%) in the TDF/FTC/EFV arm had confirmed RNA <50 copies/mL, with low virologic failure in all groups and no significant integrase inhibitor mutations in any arm. Mean weight gain was 8.9 kg (SD, 7.1) in the TAF/FTC + DTG arm, 5.9 kg (SD, 7.1) in the TDF/FTC + DTG arm, and 3.2 kg (SD, 8.1) in the TDF/FTC/EFV arm at 192 weeks from baseline and was greatest among women, those taking TAF, and those with lower baseline CD4 counts. The weight trajectory slowed after week 96. There were few clinical events and minor laboratory changes and differences among arms after 96 weeks. There were no significant differences in treatment-emergent hypertension or pregnancy outcomes by arm.

Conclusions

High viral suppression was seen across arms, with no resistance to DTG. Weight gain continued but slowed after 96 weeks, with few clinical events or laboratory changes.
Social prescribing: Moving pediatric care upstream to improve child health and wellbeing and address child health inequities
Authors: Muhl Caitlin , Bennett Susan , Fragman Stéphanie , Racine Nicole
Published: January 2024

Social prescribing is a means for trusted individuals in clinical and community settings to connect people who have non-medical, health-related social needs to non-clinical supports and services within the community through a non-medical prescription. Evaluations of social prescribing programs for the pediatric population have demonstrated statistically significant improvements in participants’ mental, physical, and social wellbeing and reductions in healthcare demand and costs. Experts have pointed to the particularly powerful impact of social prescribing on children’s mental health, suggesting that it may help to alleviate the strain on the overburdened mental health system. Social prescribing shows promise as a tool to move pediatric care upstream by addressing non-medical, health-related social needs, hence why there is an urgent need to direct more attention towards the pediatric population in social prescribing research, policy, and practice. This demands rapid action by researchers, policymakers, and child health professionals to support advancements in this area.
ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 5a modulates FLOWERING LOCUS T2 and gibberellin levels to control dormancy and bud break in poplar
Authors: Gao Yongfeng , Chen Zihao , Feng Qian , Long Tao , Ding Jihua , Shu Peng , Deng Heng , Yu Peizhi , Tan Wenrong , Liu Siqin , Rodriguez Lucas Gutierrez , Wang Lijun , Resco de Dios Víctor , Yao Yinan
Published: January 2024

Photoperiod is a crucial environmental cue for phenological responses, including growth cessation and winter dormancy in perennial woody plants. Two regulatory modules within the photoperiod pathway explain bud dormancy induction in poplar (Populus spp.): the circadian oscillator LATE ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 2 (LHY2) and GIGANTEA-like genes (GIs) both regulate the key target for winter dormancy induction FLOWERING LOCUS T2 (FT2). However, modification of LHY2 and GIs cannot completely prevent growth cessation and bud set under short-day (SD) conditions, indicating that additional regulatory modules are likely involved. We identified PtoHY5a, an orthologs of the photomorphogenesis regulatory factor ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 5 (HY5) in poplar (Populus tomentosa), that directly activates PtoFT2 expression and represses the circadian oscillation of LHY2, indirectly activating PtoFT2 expression. Thus, PtoHY5a suppresses SD-induced growth cessation and bud set. Accordingly, PtoHY5a knockout facilitates dormancy induction. PtoHY5a also inhibits bud-break in poplar by controlling gibberellic acid (GA) levels in apical buds. Additionally, PtoHY5a regulates the photoperiodic control of seasonal growth downstream of phytochrome PHYB2. Thus, PtoHY5a modulates seasonal growth in poplar by regulating the PtoPHYB2–PtoHY5a–PtoFT2 module to determine the onset of winter dormancy, and by fine-tuning GA levels to control bud-break.
Arabidopsis leucine-rich repeat malectin receptor–like kinases regulate pollen–stigma interactions
Authors: Lee Hyun Kyung , Canales Sanchez Laura E , Bordeleau Stephen J , Goring Daphne R
Published: January 2024

Flowering plants contain tightly controlled pollen–pistil interactions required for promoting intraspecific fertilization and preventing interspecific hybridizations. In Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), several receptor kinases (RKs) are known to regulate the later stages of intraspecific pollen tube growth and ovular reception in the pistil, but less is known about RK regulation of the earlier stages. The Arabidopsis RECEPTOR-LIKE KINASE IN FLOWERS1 (RKF1)/RKF1-LIKE (RKFL) 1-3 cluster of 4 leucine-rich repeat malectin (LRR-MAL) RKs was previously found to function in the stigma to promote intraspecific pollen hydration. In this study, we tested additional combinations of up to 7 Arabidopsis LRR-MAL RK knockout mutants, including RKF1, RKFL1-3, LysM RLK1-INTERACTING KINASE1, REMORIN-INTERACTING RECEPTOR1, and NEMATODE-INDUCED LRR-RLK2. These LRR-MAL RKs were discovered to function in the female stigma to support intraspecific Arabidopsis pollen tube growth and to establish a prezygotic interspecific barrier against Capsella rubella pollen. Thus, this study uncovered additional biological functions for this poorly understood group of RKs in regulating the early stages of Arabidopsis sexual reproduction.
Efficacy of topical curcumin on mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome: a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Sharifi Razavi Athena , Mohajerani Fatemeh , Niksolat Fatemeh , Karimi Narges
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Recently, there has been a renewed interest in traditional medicine for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Curcumin has been reported as an agent with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective attributes. This study is one of the first investigations to assess the effect of curcumin gel on CTS.

Methods

This study is a prospective, 8-week, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group clinical trial. A total of 70 patients with CTS were analyzed. The intervention group (n = 35) received a topical curcumin gel and a night wrist splint and the control group (n = 35) received a placebo gel and a night wrist splint for 8 weeks. The primary outcome was the assessment of the symptom severity scale (SSS) and functional status scale (FSS) of the participants using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) after 8 weeks. In addition, all participants were evaluated by electrodiagnostic (EDX) test at baseline and after 8 weeks.

Results

The mean scores of SSS demonstrated a significant decrease in the curcumin group compared to the placebo group; P-value= 0.021. The mean change score of SSS after the intervention was 12.45 ± 8.18 in curcumin and 3.28 ± 7.06 in the placebo group; P-value = 0.0001 and the mean change score of FSS were 6.24 ± 4.91 and 2.31 ± 4.95 in curcumin and placebo groups, respectively; P-value = 0.002. However, the EDX study showed no significant changes in both groups.

Conclusions

It seems that curcumin gel could be effective in the improvement of the symptom severity and daily activity of patients with CTS.
Biphasic effects of cannabis and cannabinoid therapy on pain severity, anxiety, and sleep disturbance: a scoping review
Authors: Shustorovich Alexander , Corroon Jamie , Wallace Mark S , Sexton Michelle
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Cannabinoids are being used by patients to help with chronic pain management and to address the 2 primary chronic pain comorbidities of anxiety and sleep disturbance. It is necessary to understand the biphasic effects of cannabinoids to improve treatment of this symptom triad.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted to identify whether biphasic effects of cannabinoids on pain severity, anxiolysis, and sleep disturbance have been reported. The search included the Embase, Biosis, and Medline databases of clinical literature published between 1970 and 2021. The inclusion criteria were (1) adults more than 18 years of age, (2) data or discussion of dose effects associated with U-shaped or linear dose responses, and (3) measurements of pain and/or anxiety and/or sleep disturbance. Data were extracted by 2 independent reviewers (with a third reviewer used as a tiebreaker) and subjected to a thematic analysis.

Results

After the database search and study eligibility assessment, 44 publications met the final criteria for review. Eighteen publications that specifically provided information on dose response were included in the final synthesis: 9 related to pain outcomes, 7 measuring anxiety, and 2 reporting sleep effects.

Conclusions

This scoping review reports on biphasic effects of cannabinoids related to pain, sleep, and anxiety. Dose–response relationships are present, but we found gaps in the current literature with regard to biphasic effects of cannabinoids in humans. There is a lack of prospective research in humans exploring this specific relationship.
Efficiency of research in various fields: Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Hermanu Adhi Indra , Sari Diana , Muzakir Muhammad Athar Ismail , Aliyanti Kurnia
Published: January 2024

This research was carried out to analyze the efficiency of research in Indonesian universities and explore performance differences between knowledge areas. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was used to evaluate the efficiency based on the data of 47 universities in the Mandiri cluster between 2014 and 2018 and 11 research fields including 10 National Research Priority in Indonesia and one field of mathematics and natural sciences. For this assessment, a total of two inputs and five different outputs were defined. The results showed that the maritime sector consistently had an efficiency value below 1. In addition, the variable, number of employees had more influence on the efficiency value than budget. A significant degree of variety was observed in the difference between the lowest and highest efficiency for each research subject at the Decision-Making Unit (DMU) level.
Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Improve Lung Function in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Rat Model Through Regulating Lung Microbiota
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Hu Ting , Yu Xinjuan , Wang Tianying , Jiang Lei , Sun Lixin , Han Wei
Published: January 2024

Background

The use of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) has shown promise in improving the pathophysiological characteristics of rats with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, more research is needed to understand the exact mechanism behind their therapeutic effects and their impact on lung microbiota.

Methods

To investigate this, rats were randomly assigned to one of 3 groups: Control, COPD + vehicle, and COPD + UC-MSCs group. Lung function changes after UC-MSCs therapy were evaluated weekly for 6 weeks. Additionally, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), TNF (tumor necrosis factor)-α, IL (interleukin)-6, and IL-1β level in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were analyzed. Arterial blood gas and weight were recorded. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was used to examine lung pathology, while changes in the lung microbiota were evaluated through 16S rRNA sequencing.

Results

The administration of UC-MSCs in rats led to a progressive amelioration of COPD, as demonstrated by enhanced lung function and reduced inflammatory response. UC-MSCs treatment significantly altered the structure and diversity of the lung microbiota, effectively preventing microbiota dysbiosis. This was achieved by increasing the abundance of Bacteroidetes and reducing the levels of Proteobacteria. Additionally, treatment with UC-MSCs reduced the activation of pathways associated with COPD, including microbial metabolism, ABC transporters, and Quorum sensing. The group of UC-MSCs showed increased metabolic pathways, such as amino acid biosynthesis, purine metabolism, starch and sucrose metabolism, and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, compared to the COPD group.

Conclusions

The use of UC-MSCs was found to reduce inflammation and improve lung function in rats with COPD. The mechanism may be related to the lung microbiota, as UC-MSCs improved the communities of lung microbiota and regulated dysregulated metabolic pathways.
Long-Read Sequencing Genome Assembly of Ceratocystis fimbriata Enables Development of Molecular Diagnostics for Sweetpotato Black Rot
Authors: Stahr M. N. , Parada-Rojas C. , Childs K. L. , Alfenas R. F. , Fernandes F. M. , Avila K. , Quesada-Ocampo L. M.
Published: January 2024

Ceratocystis fimbriata is a destructive fungal pathogen of sweetpotato ( Ipomoea batatas) that leads to losses at all stages of sweetpotato production. Accurate detection of C. fimbriata would allow for more efficient deployment of management tactics in sweetpotato production. To develop a diagnostic assay, a hybrid genome assembly of C. fimbriata isolate AS236 was generated. The resulting 31.7-MB assembly was near-chromosome level, with 18 contigs, 6,481 predicted genes, and a BUSCO completion score of 98.4% when compared with the fungus-specific lineage database. Additional Illumina DNA reads from C. manginecans, C. platani, and a second C. fimbriata isolate (C1421) were then mapped to the assembled genome using BOWTIE2 and counted using HTSeq, which identified 148 genes present only within C. fimbriata as molecular diagnostic candidates; 6 single-copy and 35 highly multi-copy (>40 BLAST hits), as determined through a self-BLAST-P alignment. Primers for PCR were designed in the 200-bp flanking region of the first exon for each candidate, and the candidates were validated against a diverse DNA panel containing Ceratocystis species, sweetpotato pathogens, and plants. After validation, two diagnostic candidates amplified only C. fimbriata DNA and were considered to be highly specific to the species. These genetic markers will serve as valuable diagnostic tools with multiple applications including the detection of C. fimbriata in seed, soil, and wash water in sweetpotato production.
Blunt cardiac injury in the hemodynamically stable patient
Authors: Calzone Mollie R. , Grossman Michael D.
Published: January 2024

Blunt cardiac injury (BCI) describes a spectrum of problems including severe, potentially life-threatening injuries from trauma. Pericardial effusion is an example of a BCI that has generally been assumed to imply serious underlying injury to the heart and should be considered hemopericardium until proven otherwise. A standard of care has been established to screen for BCI and treat hemodynamically unstable patients with an acute pericardial effusion presumably related to BCI. Less agreement exists on definitive treatment for hemodynamically stable patients with pericardial effusion after blunt cardiac trauma. This case study explores a new treatment for small to moderate hemopericardium in a stable patient after BCI.
The Nursing Educational Paradigm Puzzle
Authors: Brewer Tracy L.
Published: January 2024

A need for standardized teaching about the EBP and QI processes
Sesame seed allergy
Authors: Cockerell Kimber L. , Sawyer Brandi M. , Thornton Kendra
Published: January 2024

In the US, sesame was recognized as the ninth major food allergen in 2021, underscoring the importance of updated allergen labeling to facilitate effective prevention plans and anaphylaxis response. This article discusses the prevalence of sesame seed allergy among children in the US and outlines strategies for nurses to understand the assessment, treatment, and education of patients regarding this allergen.
Obesity bias awareness decreases nursing students' bias toward patients with obesity
Authors: Dunham Marguerite
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

To determine if obesity bias scores among nursing students changed after education was delivered and to what degree body mass index (BMI) was associated with a personal experience of bias during a student's healthcare history.

Methods:

A quantitative, quasi-experimental design was used to analyze sociodemographic information and Implicit Association Test scores of junior, senior, and full-time accelerated coursework track nursing students.

Results:

Generally, obesity bias declined among the group. However, bias increased regarding increasing BMI.

Conclusion:

Obesity bias awareness and obesity education can decrease obesity bias among nursing students.
Trends in Cardiovascular Health Counseling Among Postpartum Individuals
Authors: Cameron Natalie A. , Yee Lynn M. , Dolan Brigid M. , O’Brien Matthew J. , Greenland Philip , Khan Sadiya S.
Published: January 2024

(Abstracted from JAMA 2023;330(4):359–367)

Cardiovascular (CV) disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. In particular, it has been increasing in its contribution to the deaths of women; one area of care that is critical but sometimes overlooked is CV health postpartum.
The Utility of Pelvic Ultrasounds in Adolescents Presenting to the Emergency Department With Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Authors: Rosen Monica W. , Compton Sarah D. , Weyand Angela C. , Quint Elisabeth H.
Published: January 2024

(Abstracted from J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2023;36:455–458)

Urgent medical intervention may be required for abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) in adolescents presenting to the emergency department (ED). Currently existing guidelines sometimes evaluate AUB first with pelvic ultrasound (PUS); even the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists defers PUS-ordering decisions to provider discretion.
The Reciprocal Relationship Between Lumbar Intervertebral Disk Degeneration and the MRI-based Vertebral Bone Quality Score
Authors: Moser Manuel , Adl Amini Dominik , Albertini Sanchez Leonardo , Oezel Lisa , Zhu Jiaqi , Nevzati Edin , Carrino John A. , Shue Jennifer , Sama Andrew A. , Cammisa Frank P. , Girardi Federico P. , Hughes Alexander P.
Published: January 2024

Study Design.

Retrospective longitudinal study.

Objective.

To investigate the association between lumbar intervertebral disk degeneration (DD) and the vertebral bone quality (VBQ) score.

Background.

The VBQ score that is based on magnetic resonance imaging has been proposed as a measure of lumbar spine bone quality and is a significant predictor of healthy versus osteoporotic bone. However, the role of segmental contributing factors on VBQ is unknown.

Methods.

Nonsurgical patients who underwent repeated lumbar magnetic resonance imaging scans, at least three years apart primarily for low back pain were retrospectively included. VBQ was assessed as previously described. DD was assessed using the Pfirrmann grading (PFG) scale. PFG grades were summarized as PFGL1-4for the upper three lumbar disk levels, as PFGL4-S1for the lower two lumbar disc levels, and as PFGL1-S1for all lumbar disc levels. Multivariable linear mixed models were used with adjustments for age, sex, race, body mass index, and the clustering of repeated measurements.

Results.

A total of 350 patients (54.6% female, 85.4% White) were included in the final analysis, with a median age at baseline of 60.1 years and a body mass index of 25.8 kg/m2. VBQ significantly increased from 2.28 at baseline to 2.36 at follow-up (P= 0.001). In the unadjusted analysis, a significant positive correlation was found between PFGL1-4, PFGL1-S1, and VBQ at baseline (P< 0.05) that increased over time (P< 0.005). In the adjusted multivariable analysis, PFGL1-4(β= −0.0195;P= 0.021), PFGL4-S1(β= −0.0310;P= 0.007), and PFGL1-S1(β= −0.0160;P= 0.012) were independently and negatively associated with VBQ.

Conclusions.

More advanced and long-lasting DD is associated with lower VBQ indicating less bone marrow fat content and potentially stronger bone. VBQ score as a marker of bone quality seems affected by DD.
Immune cells in the B-cell lymphoma microenvironment: From basic research to clinical applications
Authors: Zhang Wenli , Liu Mengmeng , Li Wei , Song Yongping
Published: January 2024

B-cell lymphoma is a group of hematological malignancies characterized by variable genetic and biological features and clinical behaviors. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex network in tumors, which consists of surrounding blood vessels, extracellular matrix, immune and non-immune cells, and signaling molecules. Increasing evidence has shown that the TME, especially immune cells within, is a double-edged sword, acting either as a tumor killer or as a promoter of tumor progression. These pro-tumor activities are driven by subpopulations of immune cells that express typical markers but have unique transcriptional characteristics, making tumor-associated immune cells good targets for human anti-cancer therapy by ablating immunosuppressive cells or enhancing immune-activated cells. Thus, exploring the role of immune cells in the TME provides distinct insights for immunotherapy in B-cell lymphoma. In this review, we elucidated the interaction between immune cells and tumor cells and their function in the initiation, progression, and prognosis of B-cell lymphoma, from preclinical experiments to clinical trials. Furthermore, we outlined potential therapeutic approaches and discussed the potential clinical value and future perspectives of targeting immune cells in patients with B-cell lymphoma.
Misuse of the P Value
Authors: Reynolds Staci S. , Waldrop Julee
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Quantitative research and quality improvement (QI) both seek to improve care provided to patients. However, clinicians often blur the lines between how to appropriately analyze data from these methodologies. Clinicians may inappropriately use statistical analyses for QI initiatives, rather than using run and statistical process control (SPC) charts to analyze improvements in outcomes.

Objective

The purpose of this article was to address the analytic methods used for QI initiatives in the clinical setting in an effort to show clinicians how to identify meaningful improvements in clinical practice.

Methods

In this article, we provide an example comparing the same evidence-based practice/QI initiative (chlorhexidine gluconate bathing in a medical intensive care unit) using a quasi-experimental pretest/posttest research design with statistical analyses completed with t tests with analyses using run and SPC charts to show the data trended over time. Using a pretest/posttest design, chlorhexidine gluconate bathing compliance improved from 63% to 65%, a nonsignificant change, P = .075. These same data plotted on run and SPC charts, however, show a shift and a trend, indicating clinically significant improvements per QI methodologies.

Conclusion

The example in this article highlights the pitfall of relying only on statistical analyses and P values to determine the importance of a clinical project, and provides a practical example for how run or SPC charts can be used to identify improvements over time.
The Relationship Between Uncertainty and Psychological Distress Among Family Caregivers of Patients With Delirium in Intensive Care Units
Authors: Haji Assa Amal , Cao Xueyuan , Boehm Leanne M. , Umberger Reba A. , Carter Michael A.
Published: January 2024

Background

Although family caregivers experienced negative psychological symptoms associated with witnessing intensive care unit delirium in their loved ones, there is a lack of clear understanding of how delirium is associated with family caregiver psychological distress. Uncertainty could be a factor contributed to this association.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between uncertainty and psychological distress among family caregivers of patients with delirium in intensive care units.

Methods

A cross-sectional correlational design was used for this observational study of adult family caregivers of patients admitted to the intensive care unit and who reported witnessing delirium symptoms in their loved ones. Family caregivers completed an electronic survey in January 2022 that consisted of a family caregiver and patient demographic form, the Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale-Family Member, and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale. Descriptive, correlational, and regression statistical analyses were applied.

Results

One hundred twenty-one adult family caregivers were enrolled. Family caregivers reported substantial uncertainty (mean, 106.15, on a scale of 31-155) and moderate to severe psychological distress (mean, 31.37, on a scale of 10-50) regarding their witnessing of delirium episodes in their loved ones. Uncertainty was significantly correlated with psychological distress among family caregivers (r
s = 0.52, P < .001). Uncertainty significantly predicted psychological distress among family caregivers (regression coefficient, 0.27; P < .001).

Discussion

Family caregiver uncertainty was positively associated with psychological distress. This distress can interfere with family caregiver involvement in patient delirium care. These findings are essential to increase critical care nurse awareness and inform the development of nursing interventions to alleviate possible uncertainty and distress.