bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altering Oligomerization of EphA2 via Mutations in the Intracellular Domain
Authors: Lingerak Ryan W , Shi Xiaojun , Bowman Deanna M , Hapiak Vera M , Zheng Ji , Buck Matthias , Wang Bingcheng , Smith Adam
Published: November 2023

Eph receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are the largest subfamily of RTKs known. The protein is activated by membrane‐bound ligands called ephrins. Eph RTKs are divided into two subclasses, each activated by a specific classes of the ligand ephrin. The overexpression of Eph receptors is correlated to cancer cell metastasis in several different types of cancers. Studies with the EphA2 extracellular domain (ECD) and ephrinA1 ligand have shown that upon binding of ephrin to the receptor, EphA2 undergoes increased oligomerization and activation. This indicates that oligomerization is intimately connected to kinase activity. High resolution crystal structures of the EphA2 ECD have revealed some details of these ligand bound oligomers, as well as ligand free clusters. Despite these structures, there is still no comprehensive understanding of the role that each domain plays in ligand‐dependent and ligand‐free EphA2 oligomerization and activation. Here we report our investigation of the role that the intracellular domain (ICD) plays on EphA2 oligomerization. We first deleted the SAM domain from the protein and measured oligomerization with a time‐resolved, fluorescence spectroscopy method with single molecule sensitivity, called fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS). Deleting the SAM domain from the intracellular domain displayed reduced mobility of EphA2, and an increased brightness. From this we concluded that the SAM domain has a role in inhibiting oligomerization of the un‐liganded, full‐length receptor. In future research, our aim is to investigate the role that other motifs play in receptor oligomerization. This work will have clinical applications, especially in cancers where EphA2 is mutated or overexpressed.
MitoQ Supplementation Improves Leg‐Extension Power in Healthy Late Middle‐Aged and Older Adults
Authors: Bispham Nina Z. , Santos‐Parker Jessica R. , Steward Chelsea A.C. , Cuevas Lauren M. , Rosenberg Hannah L. , Murphy Michael P. , Seals Douglas R. , Rossman Matthew J.
Published: November 2023

Aging is associated with a decline in motor function, which is a primary contributor to diminished functional capacity, increased risk of developing mobility limitations, and clinical disability. Multiple subdomains of motor function are reduced with aging including power, strength, balance, and endurance. Of these, declines in power, as assessed by leg‐extension power, occur earlier and more rapidly with aging. As such, leg‐extension power is one of the strongest predictors of overall physical performance and mobility in older adults. The exact mechanisms underlying age‐related changes in motor function are incompletely understood; however, excessive production of reactive oxygen species by mitochondria (mtROS) may play a role. Accordingly, preclinical data from our laboratory indicate that decreasing mtROS with the mitochondria‐targeted antioxidant MitoQ improves multiple subdomains of motor function in old mice (26–28 months). The purpose of the current study was to translate our preclinical findings to humans by conducting a randomized, placebo‐controlled, crossover clinical trial to assess the efficacy of 6 weeks of oral MitoQ (20 mg/day) vs. placebo supplementation for improving motor function (18 healthy late middle‐aged and older adults, 60–79 yrs). Leg‐extension power assessed at 40% of 1‐repetition maximum was 11% higher with MitoQ supplementation vs. placebo (860±63 vs. 803±71 W, P=0.02). Furthermore, there was an inverse relation between the improvement in leg‐extension power with MitoQ and leg‐extension power assessed under placebo conditions (r=−0.45, P=0.03). Leg strength, balance, endurance, and other subdomains of motor function assessed as part of the NIH toolbox motor battery were not different between conditions (all P>0.05). Aerobic exercise capacity (VO2max) and other participant characteristics were not altered with MitoQ (all P>0.05). Our data demonstrate that 6 weeks of supplementation with MitoQ in healthy late middle‐aged and older adults improves leg‐extension power, a critical determinant of mobility and physical function in this population. Moreover, our data suggest greater improvements in leg‐extension power with MitoQ supplementation in individuals with lower baseline function. Collectively, these data indicate that MitoQ and other therapeutic strategies targeting mtROS may hold promise for improving motor function and reducing the risk of clinical disability with aging.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by NIH AG049451, AG053009, AG000279, and an industry contract with MitoQ Limited.
Bio‐incorporation of Amino Acid Analogs into Target Proteins
Authors: Rush Emily Elizabeth
Published: November 2023

The 3D structure of a protein is vital for understanding how it functions in both normal conditions as well as in disease. X‐ray crystallography has been the traditional method of determining protein structure, however, the small atoms that compose amino acids are problematic in this approach. This phase problem can be solved through multi‐wavelength anomalous diffraction (MAD) if a heavy atom exists in the protein. Incorporating telluromethionine (TeMet), which includes a tellurium atom in place of the lighter sulfur atom, into proteins will assist in MAD measurements. This is done by providing only TeMet to an auxotrophic Escherichia coli strain that is unable to produce methionine, causing the synthesized proteins to include TeMet. However, it has been shown that TeMet is toxic to cells, and if the cells die, an insufficient amount of the target protein will be synthesized for crystallization. To reduce the toxic effects of TeMet, the E. coli cells have been cultured in chemically defined media with components necessary for cell growth that seem to be lost with incorporation of TeMet. By measuring the absorbance of the cultures over time, the growth curve of the cells can be constructed. Once the optimum growing conditions have been determined, the target protein, dihydrofolate reductase, will be isolated and characterized. Successful incorporation of TeMet will make solving the 3D structure of proteins more accessible, allowing for enhanced disease treatment and drug design.
ACOI Surgical Site Infections Management Academy (ACOISSIMA)
Authors: Sartelli Massimo , Cortese Francesco , Scatizzi Marco , Labricciosa Francesco Maria , Bartoli Stefano , Nardacchione Francesco , Sganga Gabriele , Cillara Nicola , Luridiana Gianluigi , Murri Rita , Campli Mario , Catarci Marco , Borghi Felice , Di Marzo Francesco , Siquini Walter , Catena Fausto , Coccolini Federico , Armellino Mariano Fortunato , Baldazzi Gianandrea , Basti Massimo , Ciaccio Giovanni , Bottino Vincenzo , Marini Pierluigi
Published: November 2023

Background:

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are the most common cause of healthcare-associated infections in surgical patients. Many SSIs may be preventable if simple measures are respected. Despite evidence supporting the effectiveness of evidence-based practices in Infection Prevention and Control, many surgeons fail to implement them.

Methods:

To clarify the key issues in the prevention of SSIs, an expert panel designated by the board of directors of Associazione Chirurghi Ospedalieri Italiani—Italian Surgical Association (ACOI) convened in Rome, Italy, on 16 December 2021, for a consensus conference.

Results:

The expert panel approved 11 evidence-based statements regarding the prevention of SSIs. A article was drafted and reviewed by the expert panel, finally obtaining this document that represents the executive summary of the consensus.

Conclusions:

The document aims to disseminate best practices among Italian surgeons and summarizes the ACOI recommendations for the prevention of SSIs.
The ALIGHIERI survey
Authors: Fransvea Pietro , Botteri Emanuele , Miranda Giuseppe , Pio Evoli Luca , Ortenzi Monica , Giordano Alessio , Argenio Giulio , Sartori Alberto , Azzinnaro Antonio , Marini Pierluigi ,   ACOI Giovani Group
Published: November 2023

Background:

The present survey aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the Italian scenario concerning general surgery during the first wave coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak and evaluate the experiences, trends, attitudes, and possible educational outcomes that this emergency brought to light.

Methods:

A 31-item survey was designed and edited by the scientific board of the Associazione Chirurghi Ospedalieri Italiani (ACOI), addressing the impact of the pandemic outbreak on surgical staff and activity during the period from 9 March to 30 May 2020 (phase 1, lockdown period) and addressing the status of surgical activity, staff, and surgery resumption in the period from 1 June to 30 September 2020 (phase 3, restart). The survey was distributed via email and social media to Italian general surgeon working both in COVID-19 and non–COVID-19 hospitals.

Results:

One thousand two hundred and three valid answers were collected for section 1, and 583 for section 2. Fifty percent of the surgery units involved in the study reported that the pandemic had negatively affected their ability to provide surgical assistance. Elective procedures were suppressed for nononcological diseases in 75% of the cases. Seventy-five percent of respondents prioritized oncological surgery over other procedures. During the restart period, the overall surgical activity was resumed entirely only in the 21% of the involved hospital.

Conclusion:

It will be crucial to organize a “recovery plan” t for all the surgical procedures postponed following a spoke-hub model. When “normal circumstances” will be re-established and a clear need for an organization on a national basis to face the subsequent pandemic outbreaks maintaining surgical activity as steady as possible.
A case of Amyand’s hernia
Authors: Kechoud Elias Samir , De Nobili Giovanni , di Russo Simone , Cinalli Massimiliano , Panaccio Paolo , Cericola Severino , Cotellese Roberto , Selvaggi Federico
Published: November 2023

Amyand’s hernia is a rare and unexpected condition, defined as a variant of inguinal hernia that contains vermiform appendix. Although the status of the appendix in the hernia indicates the type of surgical repair, the operative management is not completely standardized to date. We report a case of a type I Amyand’s hernia in an 84-year-old man who present painful but reducible right inguinal hernia. The diagnosis of Amyand’s hernia is made on-table. According to intraoperative founding, the patient receives tension-free herniorraphy with polypropylene mesh repair without appendectomy. No postoperative complications are reported. This case highlights current considerations in the management of this rare entity and provides evidences based on surgical literature and common clinical practice. The management of Amyand’s hernia reflects the potential variability of clinical presentation, and it is tailored on patient’s condition, type of appendiceal inflammation, and surgical experience.
Cystic duct carcinoma after laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: De Flaviis Mattia , Sacco Luca , Bazzi Piero , Palermo Silvio , Cacciatore Gabriele , Brandolin Denise , Colangelo Ettore
Published: November 2023

Remnant cystic duct carcinoma is a rare condition; only 16 cases are reported in the literature. We report a case of a 74-year-old male patient diagnosed with remnant cystic duct carcinoma 7 years after having undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Onset symptoms were jaundice and cholangitis, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and abdomen-thorax computed tomography scan scan were performed. The patient underwent pancreatoduodenectomy with regional lymphadenectomy. Definitive histological inspection showed in situ/minimally invasive endoluminal papillary carcinoma, without lymph-node metastases pTis/pT1 N0 (0/17) M0. All cases described on Pubmed and Medline archive, based on remnant cystic duct cancer and cystic duct cancer after cholecystectomy keywords, are reported.
ERAS pathway adherence in laparoscopic colorectal surgery
Authors: Pandolfini Lorenzo , Conti Duccio , Ballo Piercarlo , Laessig Romana , Falsetto Alessandro , Paroli Gian Matteo , Genzano Chiara , Cantini Silvio , Pavoni Vittorio , Scatizzi Marco
Published: November 2023

Background:

The purpose of the study was to analyze the adherence to a newly adopted Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program in a nonspecialized center as well as its impact on postoperative outcomes.

Methods:

All patients who underwent elective colorectal surgery within ERAS protocol in the study period were enrolled. The sample was divided into group 1 (patients with protocol adherence < 85%) and group 2 (patients with protocol adherence > 85%). Clinical outcomes in terms of postoperative complications, readmission, reoperation rates, and length of stay were evaluated in the two groups.

Results:

A total of 150 patients were included in the study. All procedures were performed laparoscopically (99.3%) except for one case. The overall adherence rate to the ERAS protocol components was 88.0 ± 10.5% and the overall length of stay was 5.9 ± 3.3 days. Group 2 (n = 101) experienced lower length of stay than group 1 (n = 49) (P < 0.028). No differences in postoperative complications, readmission, and reoperation rates were observed between the two groups.

Conclusions:

The implementation methods were effective in achieving relevant adherence rate and the newly adopted ERAS program applicable even in nonspecialized centers.
Mgl2+cDC2s coordinate fungal allergic airway type 2, but not type 17, inflammation
Authors: Cook Peter C , Brown Sheila L. , Houlder Emma L. , Baker Syed , Svedberg Freya R. , Howell Gareth , Bertuzzi Margherita , Boon Louis , Konkel Joanne E. , Allen Judith E. , MacDonald Andrew S.
Published: November 2023

Fungal spores are abundant in the environment and a major cause of asthma. Originally characterised as a type 2 inflammatory disease, allergic airway inflammation that underpins asthma can also involve type 17 inflammation, which can exacerbate disease causing failure of treatments tailored to inhibit type 2 factors. However, the mechanisms that determine the host response to fungi, which can trigger both type 2 and type 17 inflammation in allergic airway disease, remain unclear. We found that CD11c+DCs and CD4+T cells are essential for development of both type 2 and type 17 airway inflammation in mice when repeatedly exposed to inhaled spores. Single cell RNA-sequencing enabled the development of multi-parameter cytometry that identified allergic inflammation dramatically altered the proportion of numerous DC clusters in the lung, but that only two of these (Mgl2+cDC2s and CCR7+DCs) migrated to the dLNs. Targeted removal of several DC subsets revealed that only Mgl2+cDC2 depletion dramatically reduced type 2, but not type 17, anti-fungal allergic airway inflammation. These data highlight distinct DC subsets are potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of pulmonary fungal disease.
Theoretical framework and experimental validation of multiplexed analyte quantification using cross-reactive affinity reagents
Authors: Newman Sharon S. , Hein Linus A. , Adams Alexandra M. , Soh H. Tom
Published: November 2023

Gold standard immunoassays depend on specific affinity reagents for accurate molecular quantification. Any cross-reactivity of affinity reagents, wherein the reagent non-specifically binds to unintended molecules, can create false positive binding signals and result in inaccurate quantification of analytes. Mitigating cross-reactivity represents one of the greatest challenges in molecular diagnostics, and remains an unsolved problem. To instead overcome the effects of cross-reactivity, we present a mathematical framework that uses generalized binding equations and noise estimation to enable the use of multiple cross-reactive reagents for multiplexed molecular quantification. As a proof-of-concept, we experimentally demonstrate accurate quantification of a small molecule for which no specific affinity reagents are available, even at high concentrations of a cross-reactive molecule. Furthermore, this robust schema yields well-defined bounds of quantification that make it easier to assess the quality of assay results and predicts under which conditions assay performance is likely to break down. This work turns cross-reactive affinity reagents, which were previously a liability, into an asset for achieving accurate quantification of analytes.
Evidence for a role of 5-HT-glutamate co-releasing neurons in acute stress mechanisms
Authors: Gullino L. Sophie , Fuller Cara , Dunn Poppy , Collins Helen M. , El Mestikawy Salah , Sharp Trevor
Published: November 2023

The majority of midbrain 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) neurons express the vesicular glutamate transporter 3 (VGLUT3) and co-release 5-HT and glutamate, but the function of this co-release is unclear. Given the strong links between 5-HT and uncontrollable stress, we used a combination of c-Fos immunocytochemistry and conditional gene knock out in mice to test the hypothesis that glutamate co-releasing 5-HT neurons would be activated by stress and involved in stress coping.

Acute, uncontrollable swim stress increased c-Fos immunoreactivity in neurons co-expressing VGLUT3 and the 5-HT marker tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN). This effect was localised in the ventral DRN subregion and prevented by the antidepressant fluoxetine. In contrast, a more controllable stressor, acute social defeat, had no effect on c-Fos immunoreactivity in VGLUT3-TPH2 co-expressing neurons in the DRN.

To test whether activation of glutamate co-releasing 5-HT neurons was causally linked to stress coping, mice with a specific deletion of VGLUT3 in 5-HT neurons were exposed to acute swim stress. Compared to wildtype controls, the mutant mice showed increased climbing behaviour, a measure of active coping. Wildtype mice also showed increased climbing when administered fluoxetine, revealing an interesting parallel between the behavioural effects of genetic loss of VGLUT3 in 5-HT neurons and 5-HT reuptake inhibition.

We conclude that 5-HT-glutamate co-releasing neurons are recruited by exposure to uncontrollable stress. Furthermore, natural variation in the balance of 5-HT and glutamate released at the 5-HT synapse may impact on stress susceptibility.
SAGA1 and SAGA2 promote starch formation around proto-pyrenoids in Arabidopsis chloroplasts
Authors: Atkinson Nicky , Stringer Rhea , Mitchell Stephen R , Seung David , McCormick Alistair J.
Published: November 2023

The pyrenoid is a chloroplastic microcompartment in which most algae and some terrestrial plants condense the primary carboxylase, Rubisco (ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase) as part of a CO2-concentrating mechanism that improves the efficiency of CO2capture. Engineering a pyrenoid-based CO2-concentrating mechanism (pCCM) into C3 crop plants is a promising strategy to enhance yield capacities and resilience to the changing climate. Many pyrenoids are characterized by a sheath of starch plates that is proposed to act as a barrier to limit CO2diffusion. Recently, we have reconstituted a phase-separated ‘proto-pyrenoid’ Rubisco matrix in the model C3 plantArabidopsis thalianausing proteins from the alga with the most well studied pyrenoid,Chlamydomonas reinhardtii(1). Here we describe the impact of introducing the Chlamydomonas proteins StArch Granules Abnormal 1 (SAGA1) and SAGA2, which are associated with the regulation of pyrenoid starch biogenesis and morphology. We show that SAGA1 localizes to the proto-pyrenoid in engineered Arabidopsis plants, which results in the formation of atypical spherical starch granules enclosed within the proto-pyrenoid condensate and adjacent plate-like granules that partially cover the condensate, but without modifying the total amount of chloroplastic starch accrued. Additional expression of SAGA2 further increases the proportion of starch synthesised as adjacent plate-like granules that fully encircle the proto-pyrenoid. Our findings pave the way to assembling a diffusion barrier as part of a functional pCCM in vascular plants, whilst also advancing our understanding of the roles of SAGA1 and SAGA2 in starch sheath formation and opening novel avenues for engineering starch morphology.
Bait, not reward: CO2-enrichedNepenthespitchers secrete toxic nectar
Authors: Lathika Chandni Chandran , Sujatha Gokul Baburaj , Thomas Gintu , Johnson Anil John , Viswanathan Gayathri , Varghese Thania Sara , Mohamed Saleem , Shereefa Lubaina Abdulhadeef , Baby Sabulal
Published: November 2023

Nepenthespitchers are leaf-evolved biological traps holding high levels of CO2within them. Extrafloral nectar (EFN) secreted by these pitchers has long been regarded as the major reward to visiting arthropods, but its chemical constituents and their role in prey capture are least explored. Here we demonstrateNepenthesEFN as a sugar (glucose-fructose-sucrose) mix with high C:N ratio, minimal amino acids, proteins, and vitamin C.Nepenthes khasianaperistome and lid EFNs displayed strong acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition; the naphthoquinone derivative, (+)-isoshinanolone, has been identified as the AChE inhibitor. Plumbagin, the major volatile naphthoquinone inNepenthes, also showed strong AChE inhibition. Direct EFN– and (+)-isoshinanolone-feeding bioassays demonstrated symptoms of cholinergic toxicity in ants. We testify thatNepenthesEFN is a toxic bait which hinders neuronal activity in visiting arthropods. These unique traps adopt various deceptive strategies for prey capture, and our discovery abolishes the notion thatNepenthesEFN is a reward to visiting ants and other arthropods. Moreover, our findings infer elevated CO2within their pitchers as the key factor influencing the growth, metabolism, herbivory, and carnivory inNepenthes.

Highlight

Nepenthesextrafloral nectar has high content of carbohydrates and minimal nitrogenous metabolites. It is laced with (+)-isoshinanolone, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, and acts as a toxic bait, aiding prey capture.
Spatial, temporal and trophic resource partitioning among the four egret species (Aves: Pelecaniformes: Ardeidae) in a tropical wetland ecosystem, India
Authors: Abbasi Faiza , Khan Mohd Shahnawaz
Published: November 2023

The diversity of micro-habitats in tropical wetlands allows the coexistence of several species. These sympatric species interact with each other, either directly or indirectly, to optimally use the available resources. They achieve this through niche separation or minimal overlap to avoid competition. India’s wetland ecosystems are home to various sympatric species, such as the Great Egret Ardea alba (GE), Median Egret Ardea intermedia (IE), Little Egret Egretta garzetta (LE) and Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis (CE). These egret species are closely related, and as a result, have similar niche requirements, which could lead to high intra-specific competition. However, there have been few studies on how these species utilize resources. This study aims to understand the possible mechanisms that enable the coexistence of these species in a tropical wetland. We have examined habitat characteristics, feeding behaviour, timings of seasonal and daily activities, and spacing patterns to evaluate possible models of species coexistence. We discovered that these four sympatric egret species have differences in microhabitat selection, activity patterns, both daily and seasonally, and feeding preferences. The study further indicates that there is a relationship between the niche dimensions, but it is only partially dependent on each other.
Social structure and ecological correlates of Indian Blackbuck Antilope cervicapra (Linnaeus, 1758) (Mammalia: Artiodactyla: Bovidae) sociality at Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary, India
Authors: Arandhara Subhasish , Selvaraj Sathishkumar  , Gupta Sourav , Nagarajan Baskaran
Published: November 2023

Indian Blackbuck’s social system is fluid and composed of distinct groups. Information on age-sex association, temporal stability, and socio-ecological correlates are scarce. For establishing a baseline information on these, we studied the Blackbuck population at Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary, southern India, aimed at understanding the (i) social structure, (ii) association patterns, temporal stability and (iii) socio-ecological correlates related to predation, season, and anthropogenic covariates. Focal herds were observed following scan sampling during 2017–2019. Female herds and territorial pseudo-harems spread tightly, while mixed herds were spread in different degrees. Bachelor herds were loose or scattered with small herds. Dyadic associations of female herds were stronger and more stable than mixed-sex herds and pseudo-harems, but males were in flux. Both grasslands and habitat openness were associated with higher levels of female sociality, indicating their importance in foraging, sociality, and predator vigilance, to which proliferating invasive Prosopis juliflora poses a detrimental effect. The presense of sympatric invasive species and lower level of anthropogenic activity was another significant covariate that influenced resource choice grouping, fission-fusion, and ultimately association dynamics. To help answer broader questions about the blackbuck’s sociality, and its socio-ecological environment that drive its association patterns, we present here some baseline data on the species from a coastal forest. We suggest control of invasive species and more detailed societal studies to arrive at conservation and management clues through understanding evolutionary and ecological basis of sociability of the antelope species.
Chemical immobilisation of free ranging Tibetan Wolf Canis lupus chanco Gray, 1863 (Mammalia: Carnivora: Canidae) with Ketamine-Xylazine combination in Ladakh, India
Authors: Talukdar Animesh , Raina Pankaj
Published: November 2023

The Tibetan Wolf Canis lupus chanco is one of the two Critically Endangered species of Ladakh, India. Six free-ranging Tibetan wolves were immobilized using ketamine and xylazine mixture as part of the rescue operations. Dose rates of 4.92 ± 0.52 mg/kg body weight and 2.08 ± 0.29 mg/kg body weight for ketamine and xylazine respectively provided good level of anesthesia for carrying out effective capture. Drug induction was recorded at 4.4 ± 1.1 minutes with animal coming into sternal recumbency by 5.6 ± 1.5 minutes and animals were approached at 6.2 ± 1.7 minutes. Duration of anesthesia was 35.25 ± 6.07 minutes. Yohimbine administered for reversal at the dosage of 0.125 mg/kg body weight provided reversal effect with animal standing by 15.5 ± 4.2 minutes. The current information suggests that xylazine and ketamine mixture is effective and safe for capturing the free-ranging Tibetan Wolves for wildlife management interventions.
The arboreal microsnail Insulipupa malayana (Issel, 1874) (Gastropoda: Stylommatophora: Vertiginidae) from West Bengal, India
Authors: Barman Himangshu , Paul Pranesh , Aditya Gautam
Published: November 2023

Studies on occurrence, host plant preference and morphometric features of the arboreal microsnail Insulipupa malayana (Issel, 1874) (Gastropoda: Stylommatophora: Vertiginidae) were carried out from selected sites of West Bengal, India. The snail species use the stem and bark of five plant species (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Mangifera indica, Aegle marmelos, Swietenia macrophylla, and Roseodendron donnell-smithii) as microhabitat, and the most preferred host plant was A. marmelos (Jacobs’ selectivity index Dia= 0.5 ± 0.19). The mean ± SE values of shell height (SH), shell width (SW), aperture length (AL), aperture width (AW), body weight, apical angle (AA) and spire ratio (SR) of the collected specimens were measured as 1.95 ± 0.06 mm, 1.03 ± 0.01 mm, 0.54 ± 0.02 mm, 0.74 ± 0.02 mm, 0.86 ± 0.06 mg, 0.55 ± 0.02, and 1.89 ± 0.06, respectively. The present study will be informative to frame conservation strategies for I. malayana in India and elsewhere.
First photographic record of Hoary-bellied Squirrel Callosciurus pygerythrus (I. Geoffroy Saint Hilaire, 1832) (Mammalia: Rodentia: Sciuridae) from Banke National Park, Nepal
Authors: Rawat Yam Bahadur , Shah Shyam Kumar , Pun Sunjeep , Chad Dristee
Published: November 2023

South Asia’s forest ecosystem is home to a high diversity and endemism of squirrels. The Hoary-bellied Squirrel Callosciurus pygerythrus dwells in patches of dense to moderately dense evergreen forests in mid-canopy temperate, tropical, and subtropical moist habitats including riverine woodland, mixed broad-leaf forest zone, central and eastern Siwalik foothills, Mahabharat range, and modified and altered habitats, settlements as well as farmlands in Nepal. The species is listed under the Least Concern category in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The existing IUCN distribution map does not provide the baseline records or data on the status and distribution of the species in the western part of Nepal. Opportunistic observation was done during anti-poaching field operations and wildlife monitoring work. The current record is the first photographic evidence of the Hoary-bellied Squirrel from Banke National Park.
Trust and confidence in using telehealth in people with chronic kidney disease: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Catapan Soraia de Camargo , Haydon Helen M , Hickman Ingrid J , Webb Lindsey , Isbel Nicole , Johnson David , Campbell Katrina L , Mayr Hannah L , Canfell Oliver , Scuffham Paul , Burton Nicola , Caffery Liam J , Smith Anthony C , Kelly Jaimon T
Published: November 2023

Consumer trust and confidence in telehealth is pivotal to successful service implementation and effective consultations. This cross-sectional study measured trust and confidence in telephone and video consultations and associated with experience in telehealth modalities among people with chronic kidney disease at a metropolitan hospital in Australia. Self-report data were collected using validated trust and confidence in telehealth scales and 5-point Likert responses. Non-parametric tests were used to compare trust and confidence in telephone and video consultations (Wilcoxon Matched Pairs) and associations with telehealth experience (Mann–Whitney). Of the 156 survey participants, 96.2% had used telephone consultations and 28.9% had used video. Overall trust and confidence in using telehealth were high. Confidence (range 1–5) in using telephone consultations (mean 3.75 ± 0.71) was significantly higher than video consultation (mean 3.64 ± 0.74), p = 0.039. Trust in telephone consultations (mean 3.93 ± 0.64) was significantly higher than in video consultations (mean 3.67 ± 0.66), p < 0.001. There was a significant association between experience with telephone consultations and reported levels of trust and confidence in telephone consultations. Experience with video was significantly related to trust in video consultations, but not confidence. Given the substantial difference in experience between telehealth modalities, trust and confidence may change as further exposure occurs.
Cost-effectiveness of remote patient monitoring for First Nations peoples living with diabetes in regional Australia
Authors: Snoswell Centaine L , Vitangcol Kathryn J , Haydon Helen M , Gray Leonard C , Leedie Floyd , Smith Anthony C , Caffery Liam J
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was to determine the cost-effectiveness of remote patient monitoring (RPM) with First Nations peoples living with diabetes. This study was set at the Goondir Health Service (GHS), an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community-Controlled Health in South-West Queensland. Electronic medical records and RPM data were provided by the GHS. Clinical effectiveness was determined by comparing mean HbA1c before and after enrolment in the RPM service. Our analysis found no statistically significant effect between the mean HbA1c before and after enrolment, so this analysis focused on net-benefit and return on investment for costs from the perspective of the GHS. The 6-month RPM service for 84 clients cost AUD $67,841 to cover RPM equipment, ongoing technology costs, and a dedicated Virtual Care Manager, equating to $808 per client. There were 199 additional client–clinician interactions in the period after enrolment resulting in an additional $4797 revenue for the GHS. Therefore, the program cost the GHS $63,044 to deliver, representing a return on investment of around 7 cents for every dollar they spent. Whilst the diabetes RPM service was equally effective as usual care and resulted in increased interactions with clients, the cost for the service was substantially more than the additional revenue generated from increased interactions. This evidence highlights the need for alternative funding models for RPM services and demonstrates the need to focus future research on long-term clinical effects and the extra-clinical benefits resulting from services of this type.
The Investigation of an Accident Site With an Atypical Electrocution Exit Wound and Burn in an Unusual Location: A Rare Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Mathew Deepu , Thakral Sahil , Setia Puneet
Published: November 2023

Cases involving electrocution burns are tough to investigate for the clinical forensic practitioner. Burns from high-voltage electrocution might seem like burns from other sources, especially if the victim is in an unconscious state. In this situation, circumstantial evidence in addition to clinical symptoms may be used to exclude other burns. Furthermore, the investigation of accident site results to aid in explaining the pattern of injuries discovered during a clinical evaluation. In this case study, we reported a case of a 33-year-old male who came in contact with a high-voltage transmission wire and was burned over both hands and lower back region. The exit wound was atypical in appearance, with a scorched area of peeling blistering skin, charring, and severe scorching over the lower back region which were correlated with the accident site, and the circumstances that led to electrocution injury.
Correlation Between Neighborhood Built Environment and Leisure Walking Time Around a Riverside Park
Authors: Gong Youngeun , Kim Eun Jung
Published: November 2023

Objectives:

This study aimed to investigate whether the distance to a riverside park and the neighborhood built environment are related to individuals’ leisure walking time by examining the case of the Geumho riverside park in Daegu, South Korea.

Background:

Walking, being an inexpensive means of transportation with numerous health benefits, is influenced by the conditions of neighborhood built environments.

Methods:

A survey was conducted from October 12 to November 8, 2022, including 184 adults aged 18 years or older. The dependent variable was the total weekly minutes of leisure walking, and the independent variables included the neighborhood built environment measured objectively using geographic information systems as well as demographic/individual characteristics and health attitude data. Analysis of variance was conducted to determine whether leisure walking time differed depending on the distance to the riverside park, and regression analysis was conducted to examine the association between leisure walking time and the neighborhood built environment.

Results:

Individuals living within a quarter-mile of the park walked an average of 155 min per week for leisure, which was significantly more than those living further than 1 mile (mean = 85.14 min/week). Moreover, greater access to the park, higher crosswalk density, and a lower road density were associated with more leisure walking time for residents.

Conclusions:

The findings of this study indicate that good access to riverside parks and pedestrian-centered neighborhood environments may be related to leisure walking among residents. These findings hold significance for urban planning and the formulation of public health policies.
Book review: Sajal Nag, ed., The Mughals and the North-East: Encounter and Assimilation in Medieval India
Authors: Rezavi Syed Ali Nadeem
Published: November 2023

Sajal Nag, ed., The Mughals and the North-East: Encounter and Assimilation in Medieval India (New Delhi: Manohar Publisher and Distributors), 2023, 535 pp., ₹2,695 (Hb).
Treatment of sheep prior to movement: its contribution to an effective scab (psoroptic mange) management strategy
Authors: Lihou Katie , Wall Richard , Nixon Emily
Published: November 2023

Background

Ovine psoroptic mange (sheep scab) is an important disease of sheep worldwide caused by the parasitic mite, Psoroptes ovis. It has a negative impact on animal welfare and leads to significant economic losses for the sheep industry. Effective and targeted management is required to limit its transmission.

Methods

A stochastic metapopulation model of sheep scab transmission is used to investigate the contribution of the treatment of sheep prior to movements to sales, gatherings (predominantly markets) and away grazing to the reduction of prevalence of farms with scab in Great Britain.

Results

Treatment prior to movement to gatherings resulted in an 86% reduction in the overall prevalence of farms with scab and was more effective at reducing the overall prevalence of farms with scab than treatment before other categories of movements. The relative risk of farms having scab infection was inversely related to the percentage of farms which treated, but this relationship was not linear, with the biggest declines in the prevalence of farms with scab being achieved by small percentages of farms treating; a 50% relative reduction in the farm prevalence was achieved with only 15% of farms treating prior to gathering movements.

Conclusions

The results suggest that pre-movement treatment of sheep could make an important contribution to national scab control and, in practice, the approach could be more highly targeted if used in conjunction with known geographic and management risk factors for scab.

Graphical Abstract
Higher plasma aldosterone concentrations in patients with aortic diseases and hypertension: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Pu Yuting , Yang Guifang , Pan Xiaogao , Zhou Yang , Zhong Aifang , Ding Ning , Su Yingjie , Peng Wen , Zeng Mengping , Guo Tuo , Chai Xiangping
Published: November 2023

Background

Aortic diseases remain a highly perilous macrovascular condition. The relationship between circulating aldosterone and aortic diseases is rarely explored, thus we investigated the difference in plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) between patients with and without aortic disease in hypertensive people.

Methods

We analyzed 926 patients with hypertension, ranging in age from 18 to 89 years, who had their PAC measured from the hospital's electronic database. The case group and control group were defined based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The analysis included general information, clinical data, biochemical data, and medical imaging examination results as covariates. To further evaluate the difference in PAC between primary hypertension patients with aortic disease and those without, we used multivariate logistic regression analysis and also employed propensity score matching to minimize the influence of confounding factors.

Results

In total, 394 participants were included in the analysis, with 66 individuals diagnosed with aortic diseases and 328 in the control group. The participants were predominantly male (64.5%) and over the age of 50 (68.5%), with an average PAC of 19.95 ng/dL. After controlling for confounding factors, the results showed hypertension patients with aortic disease were more likely to have high PAC levels than those without aortic disease (OR = 1.138, 95% CI [1.062 to 1.238]). Subgroup analysis revealed consistent relationship between PAC and primary hypertensive patients with aortic disease across the different stratification variables. Additionally, hypertensive patients with aortic disease still have a risk of higher PAC levels than those without aortic disease, even after propensity score matching.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that primary hypertensive patients with aortic diseases have elevated levels of PAC, but the causal relationship between PAC and aortic disease requires further study.
Pets as family members: Conflicting practices in the use of third-person pronouns to refer to companion animals in written biographical stories in Finnish
Authors: Priiki Katri
Published: November 2023

In many languages, the category of ‘humans’ is linguistically separate from other animals. In Standard Finnish, for example, separate pronouns are used. Companion animals in modern societies, in a way, falls between humans and animals, since people often consider them as distinct persons and family members. The article examines how Finnish writers waver between these two pronouns in references to pets in biographical stories. Although the writers aim at following Standard Finnish norms in most other aspects, one out of three writers uses personal pronouns to refer to animals. Many writers humanize pets in other ways but do not deviate from the pronoun norm. For them, the idea of standard language seems to override the possibility of expressing attitudes towards animals with pronoun choice. Others adopt pronoun variation as a stylistic effect, or the colloquial system with perspective taking as the reason for pronoun variation conveyed to the texts.

Kokkuvõte. Katri Priiki: Lemmikloomad nagu pereliikmed: lemmikloomadele viitavate pronoomenite vastuoluline kasutamine soomekeelsetes elulugudes. Paljudes keeltes eristatakse inimesi ja loomi grammatiliselt. Soome standardkeeles kasutatakse inimeste ja loomade kohta erinevaid pronoomeneid. Artiklis uuritakse, kuidas mitteprofessionaalsed soome keeles kirjutajad vahetavad biograafilistes tekstides lemmikloomadele viitavaid pronoomeneid. Kaasaegses ühiskonnas jäävad lemmikloomad mõnes mõttes inimese ja teiste loomade vahele, sest inimesed peavad neid sageli omaette isikuks ja oma pere liikmeks. Kuigi kirjutajad järgivad üldiselt soome keele standardnorme, kasutab üks kolmest kirjutajast lemmikloomadele viitamiseks isikulist asesõna. Ülejäänud humaniseerivad lemmikloomi muul viisil ega kaldu pronoomenite kasutusnormidest kõrvale. Isikuliste asesõnade hän ’tema’ ja he ’nad’ kasutamine tekstides on mõjutatud mitmetest teguritest: soome kõnekeelest, võõrkeeltest, eriti inglise keelest, ja lemmikloomade muutuvast staatusest.
Selection of key criteria for assessment tools for patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Nogas Anzhela , Grygus Igor
Published: November 2023

The article discusses the main criteria for assessment tools for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, analyses the methods and questionnaires most commonly used in medical and rehabilitation practice, in particular, taking into account the International Functioning Qualification and the recommendations of the Ukrainian Association of Rheumatologists on the treatment of the disease. The purpose of the paper is to analyse and identify the main criteria for assessment tools for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Materials and methods: analysis and synthesis of scientific data in the modern scientific and methodological literature and selection of the main assessment tools for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Results. The examination of a patient with rheumatoid arthritis is based on determining the objective condition of all organs and systems, the condition of the affected joints, which is the key to establishing a diagnosis, planning and predicting a physical therapy programme. In the course of the study, we found that researchers use different criteria and methodological approaches to the rehabilitation examination of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Usually, examination of a patient with rheumatoid arthritis is based on generally accepted methods, which include: finding out the patient's complaints; careful collection of anamnesis (history) of the disease; objective assessment of vital body systems; objective examination, palpation of affected joints; use of additional research methods. Conclusion. As a result of the analysis of scientific achievements in the modern scientific and methodological literature, we have identified the following main criteria for the assessment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis: determination of motor and functional disorders, VAS, Ketle index, MMT, goniometry, dynamometry, BCTQ, Sollerman hand function test, DASH, HADS, Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire, and the EuroQol-5D-5L.
TÜRKLERDE MÜZİKLE TEDAVİ MERKEZLERİNİN GÜNÜMÜZ TEMSİLCİSİ: TÜRK MUSİKİSİNİ ARAŞTIRMA VE TANITMA GRUBU
Authors: SEZEN Saide , CAN Ümit Kubilay
Published: November 2023

TÜMATA (Türk Musikisini Araştırma ve Tanıtma) grubu Türklerde müzikle tedavi geleneğinin temsilcilerinden biridir. Geleneksel tedavi yöntemi ve müziği bir araya getiren bir anlayışı benimsemiştir. 1976 yılında Türk Musikisini Araştırma ve Tanıtma Grubu olarak kurulan bu grubun amacı 6000 yıllık bir geçmişe sahip olan Eski Türklerde müziğin tedavi amaçlı kullanıldığı bilinmekte ve günümüzde de bu kültürün yaşatılması amaçlanmaktadır. TÜMATA grubu ile çok derinlere giden köklerimizin devamı olan repertuar, icra şekilleri, danslar, kıyafetler ve buna benzer modern tıpta yeniden keşfedilen müzik terapinin uygulama malzemeleri faaliyet konuları içindedir. TÜMATA grubunun bu çalışmalar içinde yaptığı Baksı Dansı, Arşetipikal Hareketler, İmaj Terapi, Makam Müziği ile Reseptif Terapi ve Pentatonik Müzik ile Reseptif Terapi uygulamalarıdır. Bu çalışmada TÜMATA grubunun faaliyet ve çalışmaları ile ilgili yaptıkları çalışmaların kuruluşundan bugüne derinlemesine incelenmesi amaçlanmaktadır. Durumun tespit edilmesinde TÜMATA grubu kurum yöneticisinin görüşüne ihtiyaç duyulmuştur. Nitel yaklaşımla yürütülen çalışmada derinlemesine görüşme tekniği kullanılmıştır. 12 adet açık uçlu sorunun olduğu bir görüşme formu hazırlanmıştır. Görüşmelerden elde edilen veriler neticesinde; TÜMATA grubunun Türk halkının kültür mirasını keşfetmeye ve korumaya çalıştığı, Dr. Güvenç’in modern tıp ile Antik Doğu Müziği ve Hareket Terapisinin uyumuna odaklandığı çalışmalar gerçekleştirdiği, kurum bünyesinde çalışan eğitmenlerin farklı meslek gruplarında uzmanlığı olan kişilerden oluştuğu, eğitim ve tedavilerde, insan sesinin ve geleneksel Türk çalgılarının ağırlıklı olarak kullanıldığı, danışanların başvuru nedenlerinin ağırlıklı olarak stres, kronik ağrı ve duygusal problemleri olduğu, danışanlara verilen terapinin etkisinin ölçülmesinde bir takım cihazların kullanıldığı, Danışanların terapi sonrası geri dönütlerinde esenlik duygusuna bağlı olarak rahatladıkları ve öz farkındalıklarının değiştiği, eğitimcilerin uzmanlık alanı ne ise ona göre uygulamalar yapıldığı ve bu uygulamalardan bir bilgi veri tabanı oluşturulduğu, TÜMATA grubunun yaptığı çalışmalar ile artık uluslararası düzeyde de tanındığı sonuçlarına ulaşılmıştır. TÜMATA grubunun çalışma ve etkinliklerin yaygınlaştırılmasında, etkinliklerini arttırmalı ve toplumla daha iş birliği olan çalışmalara yer vermelidir.