bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel frameshift mutation of SOX10 identified in Waardenburg syndrome type 2
Authors: Han Wenqing , Yang Run , Chen Xin , Chen Ying , Zhang Tianyu , Ma Jing
Published: January 2025

Waardenburg syndrome type 2 (WS2) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by congenital sensorineural hearing loss, blue iris, and abnormal pigmentation of the hair and skin. WS2 is genetically heterogeneous, often resulting from pathogenic mutations in SOX10 gene. We identified a novel heterozygous frameshift mutation in SOX10 (NM_006941.4: c.22delT, p.S8Rfs*5) in a two-generation Chinese family with WS2 through whole exome sequencing. This mutation was present in both the proband, who exhibited typical features of hearing loss and pigmentation abnormalities, and his father, who showed only mild facial features. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that the frameshift mutation leads to a reduced expression levels of SOX10 in the peripheral blood of mutation carriers. Our findings expand the spectrum of pathogenic mutations in SOX10 associated with WS2, providing valuable information for prenatal diagnosis and preimplantation screening, and underscore the role of genetic diagnosis in identifying atypical patients.
Inflammation-Induced Th17 Cells Synergize with the Inflammation-Trained Microbiota to Mediate Host Resiliency Against Intestinal Injury
Authors: Golob Jonathan L , Hou Guoqing , Swanson Benjamin J , Berinstein Jeffrey A , Bishu Shreenath , Grasberger Helmut , Zataari Mohamed El , Lee Allen , Kao John Y , Kamada Nobuhiko , Bishu Shrinivas
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

Inflammation can generate pathogenic Th17 cells and cause an inflammatory dysbiosis. In the context of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), these inflammatory Th17 cells and dysbiotic microbiota may perpetuate injury to intestinal epithelial cells. However, many models of IBD like T-cell transfer colitis and IL-10−/− mice rely on the absence of regulatory pathways, so it is difficult to tell if inflammation can also induce protective Th17 cells.

Methods

We subjected C57BL6, RAG1−/−, or JH−/− mice to systemic or gastrointestinal (GI) Citrobacter rodentium (Cr). Mice were then subjected to 2.5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) to cause epithelial injury. Fecal microbiota transfer was performed by bedding transfer and co-housing. Flow cytometry, qPCR, and histology were used to assess mucosal and systemic immune responses, cytokines, and tissue inflammation. 16s sequencing was used to assess gut bacterial taxonomy.

Results

Transient inflammation with GI but not systemic Cr was protective against subsequent intestinal injury. This was replicated with sequential DSS collectively indicating that transient inflammation provides tissue-specific protection. Inflammatory Th17 cells that have a tissue-resident memory (TRM) signature expanded in the intestine. Experiments with reconstituted RAG1−/−, JH−/− mice, and cell trafficking inhibitors showed that inflammation-induced Th17 cells were required for protection. Fecal microbiota transfer showed that the inflammation-trained microbiota was necessary for protection, likely by maintaining protective Th17 cells in situ.

Conclusion

Inflammation can generate protective Th17 cells that synergize with the inflammation-trained microbiota to provide host resiliency against subsequent injury, indicating that inflammation-induced Th17 TRM T cells are heterogenous and contain protective subsets.
Assessing the physicochemical and bioactivity properties of vinegar derived from ‘Phulae’ pineapple fruitlets during inoculated fermentation: A comparative study
Authors: Konsue Nattaya , Suthiluk Phunsiri
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the changes in physicochemical properties and bioactive compounds of vinegar produced from 'Phulae' pineapple waste, a byproduct of fresh-cut pineapple processing in Thailand. A two-stage fermentation process incorporating both alcoholic and acetic acid fermentation was employed. The results showed that acetic acid concentration increased along with the fermentation period to its maximum at 7.84 ± 0.09 g/100 mL over a 16-day period. On the other hand, phenolic acid compositions determined by liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-Q-TOF-MS) were highest after 40 days of fermentation. These were in agreement with the highest antioxidant activity. The fermentation duration significantly influenced the concentrations of flavonoids, fructose, and glucose, while phenolic acids remained consistently abundant throughout the fermentation process. The bioactivities of pineapple vinegar (PAV) were comparable to those of commercial apple cider vinegar (AV) and demonstrated superior activity relative to pineapple juice (PAJ), particularly in inhibiting enzymes, namely α-amylase, α-glucosidase, cholesterol esterase, and pancreatic lipase. Besides, PAV exhibited lower cytotoxicity than AV and displayed significant antibacterial activity against a range of pathogenic microorganisms. This study suggests that acetic acid fermentation of pineapple waste may serve as a promising functional beverage with potential health benefits for diabetes and cholesterol regulation.
Analysis on dynamic characteristics and control strategy of medium structure network converter in new energy medium voltage flexible interconnection project
Authors: Shang Jiaohui , Yang Jian , Xin Shijin , Xu Qing , Guo Mingqiang , Niu Haitao
Published: January 2025

In view of the possible voltage and current overshoot problems in the process of new energy grid connection, the dynamic characteristics analysis and control strategy of the network converter in the new medium voltage flexible interconnection project are proposed. Firstly, a synchronous control strategy based on voltage phase and amplitude compensation is proposed. Then, based on the characteristics of new AC-DC hybrid distribution network, the new energy medium voltage flexible interconnection network is analyzed. The simulation experiment reveals the dynamic response characteristics of the new energy grid converter under frequency interference and load change.
Comparison of immune responses to respiratory syncytial virus in infancy, childhood, and adulthood using an in vitro model of human respiratory infection
Authors: Smith Christiana , Curtis Kaili , Bonham Adrianne , Boyer Shea , Lenz Laurel , Weinberg Adriana
Published: January 2025

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in infants. We developed an in vitro model of human respiratory infection to study cellular immune responses to RSV in infants, children, and adults. The model includes human lung epithelial A549 cells or human fetal lung fibroblasts infected with a clinical strain of RSV at a multiplicity of infection of 0.3, cocultured with human cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMCs) or peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Mononuclear cells were collected at multiple ages ranging from birth to adulthood. After 20 h of incubation, flow cytometry was used to measure CBMC/PBMC responses to RSV. A549s were more permissive to RSV and when infected produced more CCL5, CCL11, and CXCL9; less CSF-3, CXCL10, interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1RA, and IL-6; and similar CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, CCL7, CXCL1, CXCL11, IL-1β, IL-7, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor α compared with fibroblasts; A594s were used for subsequent experiments. CBMCs/PBMCs upregulated multiple markers of activation, maturation, and degranulation upon exposure to RSV-infected A549s. Interferon γ expression in natural killer, CD4, and CD8 cells and CD107a expression in natural killer cells showed a gradual increase from infancy to adulthood. IL-12 expression in dendritic cells and monocytes was highest in adult PBMCs. Our in vitro model of human RSV infection recapitulated the expected bias away from T helper 1 and effector responses to RSV infection in infancy and revealed changes in innate and adaptive RSV-specific cellular immune responses over time.
Global prevalence of human intestinal carriage of ESBL-producing E. coli during and after the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ng Rita W Y , Yang Liuyue , Lau Sai Hung , Hawkey Peter , Ip Margaret
Published: January 2025

Background

There is a pressing need for global surveillance of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli due to its health impacts, travel and increased antibiotic use during the COVID-19 pandemic. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize evidence investigating the global prevalence of ESBL E. coli.

Methods

Four databases, including Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed and Web of Science, were searched for quantitative studies that reported prevalence data of faecal carriage of ESBL-producing E. coli published between 23 April 2021 and 22 April 2024. Meta-analysis was performed using the inverse variance heterogeneity model.

Results

Of the 25 studies (13 901 unique participants) included for final analysis, the overall pooled prevalence of ESBL E. coli was 25.4% (95% CI, 19.7%–31.2%). The pooled prevalences of ESBL E. coli in healthy individuals in community settings and inpatients in healthcare settings were 23.4% (95% CI, 14.7%–32.2%) and 27.7% (95% CI, 18.8%–36.7%), respectively. Nearly one-third of the included studies (32%) were from the Western Pacific Region. There was a significant between-group difference for studies with different WHO regions and healthcare contact.

Conclusions

The pooled prevalence of ESBL E. coli remains high and there was a significant between-group difference for different WHO regions, with the highest being in Asian regions. Standardized surveillance of antimicrobial resistance and antibiotic stewardship especially in these regions are needed to enhance the control of this global emergency.
Effects of femoral neck width and hip Axis length on incident hip fracture risk: a registry-based cohort study
Authors: Zarzour Fatima , Aftabi Sajjad , Leslie William D
Published: January 2025

Bone mineral density (BMD) measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is widely used in clinical practice to assess fracture risk and guide management. DXA can also assess hip geometry, including femoral neck width (FNW) and hip axis length (HAL), which have both been associated with increased risk for hip fracture independently from BMD. Our objective was to assess if FNW predicts hip fracture independently from other factors including HAL. We performed a retrospective cohort study using the Province of Manitoba BMD registry. The study population comprised 75 095 individuals (90.8% women), mean age 64.7 years, with baseline hip BMD and hip geometry parameters. Linked health records were used to ascertain subsequent hospitalization with hip fracture as a primary diagnosis. During a mean follow up of 8.3 (SD 5.1) years, 2341 incident hip fractures were recorded. Each SD increase in age- and sex-adjusted FNW was associated with incident hip fracture (HR 1.15, 95% CI 1.10-1.19) which was unchanged after adjustment for height, weight, femoral neck BMD and clinical risk factors. However, FNW showed a significant positive correlation with HAL (r = 0.68). When further adjusted for HAL, FNW was no longer associated with increased risk for hip fracture (HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.94-1.03). A similar pattern was seen for femoral neck, intertrochanteric and non hip fractures. In contrast, increased risk of hip fracture was consistently seen with each SD increase in HAL even after adjustment for all covariates including FNW (HR 1.35, 95% CI 1.28-1.42). In conclusion, FNW is a risk factor for hip fracture before but not after adjustment for HAL. HAL, on the other hand, robustly and independently predicts hip fracture, including both femoral neck and trochanteric fractures.
A multivariable prediction model to stratify risk of 90-day rehospitalization among adults with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Dziegielewski Claudia , Gupta Sarang , Lombardi Julia , Kelly Erin , McCurdy Jeffrey D , Sy Richmond , Saloojee Nav , Ramsay Tim , Pugliese Michael , Begum Jahanara , Benchimol Eric I , Murthy Sanjay K
Published: January 2025

Background

Individuals with ulcerative colitis (UC) are frequently re-hospitalized for persistent or recurrent severe disease flares. Accurate prediction of the risk of early re-hospitalization at the time of discharge could promote targeted outpatient interventions to reduce this risk.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study in adults with UC admitted to The Ottawa Hospital between 2009 and 2016 for an acute UC-related indication. We ascertained candidate demographic, clinical, and health services predictors through medical records and administrative health databases. We derived and bootstrap validated a multivariable logistic regression model of 90-day UC-related re-hospitalization risk. We chose a probability cut point that maximized Youden’s index to differentiate high-risk from low-risk individuals and assessed model performance.

Results

Among 248 UC-related hospitalizations, there were 27 (10.9%) re-hospitalizations within 90 days of discharge. Our multivariable model identified gastroenterologist consultation within the prior year (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.11, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.04-0.39), male sex (aOR 3.27, 95% CI, 1.33-8.05), length of stay (OR 0.94, 95% CI, 0.88-1.01), and narcotic prescription at discharge (OR 1.96, 95% CI, 0.73-5.27) as significant predictors of 90-day re-hospitalization. The optimism-corrected c-statistic value was 0.78, and the goodness-of-fit test P-value was .09. The chosen probability cut point produced a sensitivity of 77.8%, specificity of 80.9%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 33.0%, and negative predictive value (NPV) of 96.7% in the derivation cohort.

Conclusions

A limited set of variables accessible at the point of hospital discharge can reasonably discriminate re-hospitalization risk among individuals with UC. Future studies are required to validate our findings.
The Colombian Catholic Church’s Quest for Legitimacy in the Colombian Armed Conflict
Authors: Parisi Piergiuseppe , Ibarra Padilla Adelaida Maria
Published: January 2025

Since the 1960s, Colombia has been the theatre of multiple armed conflicts that, one way or another, have involved all sectors of society. Colombian religious actors, including the Catholic Church, in particular, have historically played an ambivalent role in the conflict. While some Catholic clerics have ideologically supported, aided and abetted, or even joined state and non-state armed actors especially during the first decades of the conflict, since the 1980s the Colombian Catholic Church has progressively been assuming a posture in favour of peace either through action or discourse. Most recently, these praxes have culminated in the participation of the Catholic Church in most of the high-level negotiations between the Colombian state and non-state armed groups (NSAGs). The scholarship exploring the Church’s influential role in these peacebuilding and mediation efforts in Colombia has begun to burgeon only in the past twenty-five years. However, this literature has left largely unaddressed questions around the influence that the Catholic Church has had on the parties to the conflict. Such questions may help explain how the Church, as an institution, was able to garner the legitimacy necessary to become a key mediator between the state and NSAGs. Building on the data gathered and the framework elaborated as part of the Generating Respect Project (GRP), this article explores how the Church’s legitimacy was constructed from the bottom, by both leveraging affinities with armed groups’ ideologies and the impact of local initiatives aimed at protecting the civilian population in the midst of the armed conflict.
Diverse alleles of Photoperiod-H1 directly and indirectly affect barley yield-related traits under contrasting photoperiods and PHYTOCHROME C backgrounds
Authors: Parrado Jorge D , Slafer Gustavo A , Savin Roxana
Published: January 2025

Barley traits that determine grain number are established between jointing and flowering. The timing of flowering is critical for adaptation and yield as it affects the fertility of both the main shoot and tiller spikes. The Photoperiod-H1 (PPD-H1) gene controls flowering time and impacts spike fertility and yield in barley; however, it is not known if these effects are truly pleiotropic or indirect. Recent findings indicated that under extremely long photoperiods, barley near-isogenic lines (NILs) with contrasting PPD-H1 alleles tend to flower simultaneously, allowing any genetic effects to be determined independently of flowering time. We examined the direct impact of PPD-H1 on barley spike fertility and yield in two PHYC genetic backgrounds. Experiments combined (i) two NILs for PPD-H1 alleles (ppd-H1 or Ppd-H1) under two contrasting PHYTOCHROME C genetic backgrounds (PhyC-l and PhyC-e), and (ii) two photoperiod conditions (12 h and 24 h). Under a 24 h photoperiod, the PPD-H1 gene had a minimal impact on flowering time. The ppd-H1 allele increased grain number by enhancing spike fertility, irrespective of the PHYC background, through better resource allocation to juvenile spikes and more efficient production of fertile florets. These findings support a pleiotropic effect of ppd-H1 in determining flowering time and establishment of yield component traits.
Predicting the Galactic population of free-floating planets from realistic initial conditions
Authors: Coleman Gavin A L , DeRocco William
Published: January 2025

We present the first prediction for the mass distribution function of Galactic free-floating planets (FFPs) that aims to accurately include the relative contributions of multiple formation pathways and stellar populations. We derive our predicted distribution from dedicated simulations of planet birth, growth, migration, and ejection around circumbinary systems and extend these results to also include the contributions from single and wide binary systems. Our resulting FFP mass distribution shows several distinct features, including a strong peak at ${\sim} 8\, {\rm M}_{\oplus }$ arising from the transition between pebble and gas accretion regimes and a trough at ${\sim} 1\, {\rm M}_{\oplus }$ due to the shift in the dominant ejection process from planet–planet scattering to ejection through interactions with stars in circumbinary systems. We find that interactions with the central binary in close circumbinary systems are likely the dominant progenitor for FFPs more massive than Earth, leading to a steep power-law dependence in mass that agrees well with existing observations. In contrast, we find planet–planet scattering events in single and wide binary systems likely produce the majority of planets at Mars mass and below, resulting in a shallower power-law dependence. Our results suggest that existing extrapolations into the sub-terrestrial mass range may significantly overestimate the true FFP abundance. The features we predict in the mass distribution of FFPs will be detectable by upcoming space-based microlensing surveys and, if observed, will provide key insight into the origins of FFPs and the environments in which they form.
On Schemas in Tonal Jazz Repertoire
Authors: Salley Keith
Published: January 2025

Jazz practice involves negotiating schemas at various levels, from general formal types (twelve-bar blues, rhythm changes, 32-bar ABAC) to individual chord symbols. This article discusses a number of common schemas at the sub-phrase level—harmonically associated but further characterized by rhythm, hypermeter, formal function, and sometimes melody—encountered in tonal jazz repertoire.
Phase II Trial of Brain MRI Surveillance in Stage IV Breast Cancer
Authors: Ahmed Kamran A , Kim Youngchul , Armaghani Avan J , Arrington John A , Costa Ricardo L , Czerniecki Brian J , Diaz Roberto , Dowell Robin A , Extermann Martine , Forsyth Peter A , Lee Kimberley T , Loftus Loretta , Mills Matthew N , Phuoc Vania H , Rosa Marilin , Soliman Hatem H , Sam Christine S , Washington Iman R , Soyano Aixa E , Han Hyo S
Published: January 2025

Background

Screening of asymptomatic stage IV breast cancer with brain MRIs is currently not recommended by National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Guidelines. The incidence of asymptomatic brain metastasis is not well documented.

Methods

The study is designed as a single arm, phase II trial, with the goal of investigating surveillance brain MRIs in neurologically asymptomatic patients with metastatic breast cancer. Breast cancer patients were classified into triple negative (TN), HER2+, and hormone receptor (HR)+/HER2-. Patients underwent a surveillance brain MRI and a second brain MRI at 6 months if the baseline MRI was negative. Asymptomatic, stage IV breast cancer patients, ECOG ≤2, and life expectancy ≥6 months were eligible. The primary objective was to determine the frequency of asymptomatic brain metastasis in metastatic breast cancer. Clinical trial information: NCT05115474.

Results

A total of 101 patients completed the surveillance brain MRI including 40 HR+/HER2-, 33 HER2+, and 28 TN patients. The overall frequency of brain metastasis on initial surveillance brain MRI was 14% (n=14) with rates of 18%, 15%, and 10% in TN, HER2+, and HR+/HER2- patients, respectively. Following the 6-month MRI, the cumulative rates of brain metastasis increased to 25% in TN, 24% in HER2+, and 23% in HR+/HER2- patients.

Conclusions

The highest frequency of brain metastases at baseline was in TN and HER2+ breast cancer. Following the 6-month MRI, the cumulative frequency was approximately a quarter across all subtypes. These results warrant confirmatory trials to refine brain MRI surveillance recommendations for neurologically asymptomatic stage IV breast cancer.
BTZ Black Hole in the Nonextensive Generalizations of Gibbs Entropy
Authors: Bhattacharjee Amijit , Phukon Prabwal
Published: January 2025

We study the thermodynamics and thermodynamic geometry of the (2+1)D Banados–Teitelboim–Zanelli (BTZ) black hole within the framework of the nonextensive generalizations of Gibbs entropy. We investigate both the rotating (R-BTZ) and the charged (C-BTZ) BTZ black holes in these nonextensive entropy formalisms. We write down the Bekenstein–Hawking (BH) entropy of the black hole in terms of the nonextensive entropies, namely Kaniadakis entropy, Renyi entropy, and Barrow entropy. We investigate their impact on the thermodynamic phase structure and geometry of the BTZ black holes in both the ensembles, i.e. the fixed $(J)$ and fixed $(\Omega )$ ensembles for the R-BTZ black hole and the fixed $(Q)$ and fixed $(\Phi )$ ensembles for the C-BTZ black hole, where $J$, $\Omega$, $Q$, and $\Phi$ represent the angular momentum, angular velocity, charge, and the electric potential of the respective black holes. We investigate the Ruppeiner and geometrothermodynamic (GTD) geometries of the black hole for all the nonextensive entropy cases. We find that there are both Davies-type and Hawking–Page phase transitions in both the charged and rotating BTZ black holes for the Kaniadakis entropy case in all the above-mentioned thermodynamic ensembles. These phase transitions were not seen in the BH entropy case. We also find that the Ruppeiner and the GTD scalar for the Kaniadakis entropy show curvature singularities corresponding to Davies-type phase transitions in both the rotating and charged BTZ black holes.
How do corporate tax hikes affect investment allocation within multinationals?
Authors: De Vito Antonio , Jacob Martin , Schindler Dirk , Xu Guosong
Published: January 2025

This article studies how corporate tax hikes transmit across countries through multinationals’ internal networks of subsidiaries. We build a parsimonious multicountry model to highlight two opposing spillover effects: while tax competition between countries generates positive investment spillover, intra-firm production linkages predict negative spillover. Using subsidiary-level data and exogenous corporate tax hikes, we find that local business units cut investment by 0.5 percent for a 1 percent increase in foreign corporate tax. This result highlights the importance of production linkages in propagating foreign tax shocks, as the supply-chain-induced negative spillover dominates the positive spillover effect suggested by the conventional wisdom of tax competition.
The 2024 SSSP Presidential Address “Every Damn Day in America”: Racism and the Politics of Gun Violence
Authors: Bernstein Mary
Published: January 2025

This presidential address disrupts common misperceptions about what gun violence in the United States looks like, who is most affected, and how we should think about reducing the scourge of gun violence. I draw on seven years of ethnographic and interview-based research on gun violence prevention activism in Connecticut and nationally. Focusing on community gun violence and mass shootings, I demonstrate that structural racism and racist discourse distort what we know about gun violence, the experience of gun violence, and how we respond to and organize to reduce gun violence. Theoretically, I take a multi-institutional politics approach to understanding gun violence, examining how racist meaning systems as well as structural and institutional power shape discussions of gun violence. I conclude with a call for policy approaches that support intervention and prevention organizations, while simultaneously addressing the underlying causes of community gun violence that stem from the legacy of systemic racism: disenfranchisement, segregation, crumbling infrastructure, despair, warrior policing, lack of well-paying jobs and affordable housing, and lack of activities for youth.
Resolvin D2 restores monocyte anisocytosis and mediates a shift toward classical monocytes ex vivo in blood samples from patients after major burns
Authors: Nazemidashtarjandi Saeed , Supple Matthew D. , Yonker Lael M. , Sheridan Robert L. , Ryan Colleen M. , Karabacak Murat N. , Goverman Jeremy , Yarmush Martin L. , Irimia Daniel
Published: January 2025

Circulating monocytes contribute to the defense against pathogens and play a crucial role in maintaining immune homeostasis. While there is substantial evidence regarding the triggers of monocyte activation, our understanding of how monocyte function is restored toward homeostasis after activation remains limited. Here, we assessed the changes in monocyte anisocytosis upon activation in blood, measured by monocyte distribution width (MDW), a biomarker for sepsis. We determined that the increase in MDW post‐lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in the blood can be reversed promptly by adding resolvin D2 (RvD2), and we measured a decrease in interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β) in blood, and a decrease in the size of the population of intermediate monocyte subsets. Moreover, the ex vivo addition of RvD2 to blood samples from burn patients with high MDW restored normal MDW values. Further studies are needed to probe the potential therapeutic role of RvD2 in the context of burn injuries.
Using the Experience of Novice Reviewers to Inform Journal Peer Reviewer Development
Authors: Gazza Elizabeth A. , Matthias April D. , Atkins Megan
Published: January 2025

AIM

The aim of this study was to uncover what it is like to be a novice peer reviewer for journals that publish articles that can influence nursing education and/or practice.

BACKGROUND

Comprehensive and effective approaches to reviewer development, based on reviewer experience, were not reported in the literature.

METHOD

The study followed a hermeneutic phenomenological approach. Data were collected via personal interviews and a demographic questionnaire.

RESULTS

Eleven novice reviewers, who had reviewed no more than five journal manuscripts, participated in the study. Thematic analysis uncovered five themes: sitting at the grown-up’s table, building and using the toolbox, putting in the human factor, assuming this is what you’re looking for, and appreciating the experience.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to uncover the experience of being a novice journal peer reviewer. Findings can inform the creation of comprehensive development programs to support new and continuing journal peer reviewers.
Competency Development for E-Mentors of Undergraduate Nursing Students Using E-Delphi Method
Authors: Villarante Delwin Millan , Schuler Ethan , Rincon Teresa , O’Donoghue Sharon C.
Published: January 2025

Background

The supply of future registered nurses successfully matriculating from undergraduate nursing programs is critical to address the national nursing shortage. Mentoring in higher education increases recruitment and retention within nursing programs. E-mentoring is an innovative approach to mentorship within nursing education that can optimize undergraduate nursing graduation rates. Establishing E-Mentor Competencies (EMCs) for nurses may ultimately address the nursing shortage gap.

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to develop EMCs for mentors of undergraduate nursing students through expert group consensus via e-Delphi methodology.

Methodology

The EMC survey was developed by a subject matter expert group and electronically distributed to an expert participant group. Items were ranked using a 5-point Likert scale for importance and relevance during iterative survey rounds to reach consensus.

Results

Sixteen EMCs were identified and categorized as knowledge, skill, or attitude. This research study identified 16 competencies required of an e-mentor for undergraduate nursing students. The 3 most important competencies identified were relationship building (4.71), cultural competence (4.88), and empathy and support (4.55).

Discussion

The EMCs identified by expert participant group consensus will provide a standard level of knowledge, skills, and attitudes for e-mentorship of undergraduate nursing students. Results may lead to an enhanced e-mentorship experience for both mentee and mentor and support existing and future e-mentor programs.
Health and Health Care Utilization Outcomes for Individuals With Traumatic Brain Injury: A 1-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Waltzman Dana , Miller Gabrielle F. , Xu Likang , Haarbauer-Krupa Juliet , Hammond Flora M.
Published: January 2025

Objective: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result in new onset of comorbidities and limited studies suggest health care utilization following TBI may be high. Setting, Participants, Mean Measures, and Design: This study used 2018 and 2019 MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters data to examine differences in longitudinal health outcomes (health care utilization and new diagnoses) by various demographic factors (age, sex, U.S. region, intent/mechanism of injury, urbanicity, and insurance status) among individuals with and without a TBI in the year following an index health care encounter. Results: Results show that within 1 year of the initial encounter, a higher percentage of patients with TBI versus without TBI had at least one outpatient visit (96.7% vs 86.1%), emergency department (ED) visit (28.5% vs 13.1%), or hospital admission (6.4% vs 2.6%). Both children (33.8% vs 23.4%) and adults (43.8% vs 31.4%) who sustained a TBI had a higher percentage of new diagnoses within 1 year compared to the non-TBI group. Additionally, individuals with a TBI had greater health care utilization across all types of health care settings (outpatient and inpatient), visits (ED visits and hospital admissions), and across all demographic factors (P < .001). Conclusion: These results may inform future research around the development of systems of care to improve longer-term outcomes in individuals with TBI.
The Effect of Cataract Surgery on Stereoacuity, Balance, and Falls in Patients With Senile Cataract
Authors: Özer Ömer , Dursun Özer , Eroz Pınar , Guclu Emin Serbülent
Published: January 2025

Objectives:

To investigate the effect of cataract surgery on visual acuity, stereoacuity, balance, and falls in patients with senile cataract.

Methods:

Prospective, cross-sectional study. The patients were divided into group 1 if the first surgery was performed on the dominant eye and group 2 on the nondominant eye. After a complete ophthalmologic examination, all patients underwent stereoacuity tests (Titmus and TNO test); Berg Balance Scale and the number of falls in the last 36 months were recorded. All assessments were performed at three time points: the preoperative period, 6 months after the first surgery (primary endpoint), and 24 months after the second surgery (secondary endpoint).

Results:

The mean number of falls was 4.95±2.6/year in the preoperative period and 1.43±0.59/year in the postoperative period. The incidence of falls after the second surgery decreased by 53.15% compared with the preoperative period. The number of falls and preoperative stereoacuity were negatively and moderately correlated (r=−0.546) (P=0.033). In univariate and multivariate analysis, only low preoperative corrected distance visual acuity in the dominant eye was associated with poor stereoacuity (P=0.001) and a high number of falls (P<0.001) in the preoperative period.

Conclusion:

Cataract surgery in patients with senile cataracts not only improves visual acuity but also increases stereoacuity level, improves balance, and decreases falls. These effects should be further studied in multicenter, large-participant studies.
Growth and Survival of a Cohort of Congenital Zika Virus Syndrome Children Born With Microcephaly and Children Who Developed With Microcephaly After Birth
Authors: Arrais Nivia M. R. , Maia Claudia R. S. , Jerômino Selma M. B. , Neri João I. C. F. , Melo Áurea N. , Bezerra Mylena T. A. L. , de Moraes-Pinto Maria Isabel
Published: January 2025

Background and objectives:

Little is known about the clinical course of children born with congenital Zika virus syndrome (CZS). This article aimed to analyze the growth and survival of children with CZS born with microcephaly and children who developed with microcephaly after birth in the 36-month period.

Methods:

This is a cohort of children diagnosed with CZS who were monitored in a series of outpatient appointments, with clinical and demographic information and anthropometric measurements collected. The Mann-Kendall test evaluated the trend of the mean Z-score of head circumference (HC) for age and the Kaplan-Meier model described the time to low weight and short length according to the classification of HC at birth.

Results:

Children born without microcephaly had a reduction in HC growth velocity (P = 0.019) and took longer to reach low weight (P = 0.036) and short length (P = 0.034) when compared with those born with microcephaly. Seven (10%) deaths were reported, and the probability of survival after 36 months of age was 88%. In children with arthrogryposis, the risk of death was 7 times as high as in those without this condition (adjusted hazard ratio: 6.49; 95% confidence interval: 1.31–32.20; P = 0.022).

Conclusions:

In this cohort of children with CZS, 20% were born without microcephaly and all of them presented a reduction in HC growth velocity, which led to microcephaly. Progression to low weight and short length occurred in the first years of life, and that was faster in those born with microcephaly. Healthcare providers should be aware of these conditions that pose a risk of unfavorable anthropometric measurements and death.
Maternal-Newborn ABO Blood Group Congruence Among Consecutive Births and Risk of Serious Neonatal Infection: Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ray Joel G. , Butler Emily Ana , Grandi Sonia M. , Cohen Eyal
Published: January 2025

Background:

Differing ABO blood groups between a mother and her fetus may confer a lower risk of serious neonatal infection. How sensitization in the first pregnancy influences this phenomenon in a subsequent pregnancy is unclear. Accordingly, this study determined whether maternal-newborn ABO blood group incongruence in a first pregnancy further modifies the risk of serious infection in a subsequent pregnancy marked by ABO incongruency.

Methods:

This population-based retrospective cohort study used linked patient-level datasets in Ontario, Canada, from 2008 to 2022. Included were mothers with 2 consecutive live births, with recorded maternal and newborn ABO blood group data. The exposure considered both first- and second-born siblings’ ABO blood group congruency with their mother. The outcome was a serious neonatal infection within 27 days after birth. Logistic regression models generated adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusted for gestational age at birth.

Results:

Included were 14,739 mother-infant triads. Relative to maternal-newborn congruency in the second pregnancy, incongruent ABO blood groups in the second pregnancy were associated with an aOR of 0.72 (95% CI, 0.53–0.97) for a serious neonatal infection arising in the second-born infant. However, if the first and second siblings each had incongruent ABO blood groups with their mother, the aOR of serious infection in the second-born infant was not significantly lower [0.74 (95% CI, 0.52–1.06)].

Conclusions:

Second-born infants whose ABO blood group was incongruent with that of their mother had a lower risk of serious neonatal infection. However, ABO incongruence from a prior birth did not modify that relation.
TWENTY-THREE PEDIATRIC CASES OF CITROBACTER KOSERI MENINGITIS IN THE LAST 20 YEARS: STILL A DRAMATIC PROGNOSIS
Authors: Geslain Guillaume , Benhadid Brahmi Yasmine , Biran Valérie , Levy Corinne , Pinquier Didier , Boyer Sophie , Béchet Stéphane , Cohen Robert , Cotillon Marie , Birgy André , Bonacorsi Stéphane
Published: January 2025

Among 7578 cases of pediatric bacterial meningitis recorded in France (2001–2021), including 1313 neonatal cases, 23/7578 (0.3%) and 18/1313 (1.4%) were due to Citrobacter koseri. Median age was 11 days. About 63.6% of patients were hospitalized in intensive care unit. Cerebral abscesses were observed in 77.8% and the mortality rate was 22.7%.
Early Predictive Value of Laboratory Inflammatory Markers in Evaluating Both Lung Involvement and Progression in Hospitalized Patients With COVID-19
Authors: Barzegari Atefeh , Kamyab Amirhossein , Halvani Abdolhasan , Poor Seyed Mostafa Baghaei
Published: January 2025

Background

The new coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2, first discovered in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, rapidly spread over the globe. It has created many challenges for the world's health and treatment systems. Due to the outspread of this virus and the limited treatment facilities, one of the important issues is the early diagnosis of patients who may continue to suffer from a severe type of disease. This study aims to determine the relationship between hospitalized COVID-19 patients' computed tomography (CT) scan results and laboratory results such as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR).

Methods

We created this retrospective study to investigate the relationship between the CT scan results of COVID-19 patients and laboratory results such as NLR and PLR ratios. We randomly sampled individuals whose hospitalization records from Shahada Kargar Hospital in Yazd in 2021 showed a positive COVID-19 test diagnosis.

Results

During this investigation, 17% of patients were hospitalized in the intensive care unit, and around 7% of patients passed away. These prognostic values have had a significant relationship with the mean NLR and (P = 0.004). In addition, this NLR laboratory index indicated a considerable positive correlation coefficient with the CT scan score (P = 0.014).

Conclusions

Our results reflect the significant predictive ability of NLR and PLR ratios regarding the prognosis of hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Imaging findings use the CT scan score as an indicator to predict the amount of NLR. In this way, the results of preliminary laboratory tests and imaging can determine the affected patient's progress to a large extent.
Three Strikes
Authors: Gelfand Michael S. , Hobbs Athena L.V. , Cleveland Kerry O.
Published: January 2025

A 56-year-old female patient presented with severe abdominal pain and intra-abdominal/retroperitoneal fluid collections growing Escherichia coli and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium; oral linezolid and cefdinir were prescibed. Pancreatic enzymes, lactate, serum chemistry studies, and blood glucose were unremarkable during initial hospitalization. The patient remained afebrile and leukocytosis resolved with antibiotics. On day 37 of linezolid therapy, serum glucose was 56 mg/dL and serum bicarbonate was 17 mEq/L (normal 23–30 mEq/L). As the patient was asymptomatic, infectious disease consultants recommended cessation of antibiotics, but they were unfortunately continued on transfer to a rehabilitation facility. On day 41 of treatment, the patient became lethargic, with serial serum glucose levels 33–34 mg/dL. Serum bicarbonate was 6 mEq/L, lactate was >15 mmol/L, and blood pressure was 80/36 mm Hg. Admission blood cultures were negative. Supportive care was instituted, but the patient continued to clinically deteriorate. Computed tomography scan of the abdomen showed hepatic steatosis and no residual fluid collections or pancreatic abnormalities. The patient expired on the third day of hospitalization.
Assessment of simulation training efficacy in improving microsurgical skills: a retrospective analysis
Authors: He Xuecheng , Gao Tao , Tang Jianfei , Jiang Zengxin , Zhang Zeng , Lin E. , Yuan Hengfeng
Published: January 2025

Background:

Microsurgery demands an intensive period of skill acquisition due to its inherent complexity. The development and implementation of innovative training methods are essential for enhancing microsurgical outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a simulation training program on the clinical results of fingertip replantation surgeries.

Materials and methods:

A total of 276 replanted digits from 232 patients were included in this study, with a follow-up period of 6 months. Surgeons were identified and divided into trained and control groups, with the trained group receiving the rat tail training program. Primary outcomes included survival rates, replantation duration for each fingertip, degrees of flexion, Semmes–Weinstein monofilament test results, static two-point discrimination scores, Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) scores, and the incidence rates of complications such as arterial insufficiency and pulp atrophy.

Results:

Out of 1191 patients screened, 232 met the criteria for analysis. The average patient age was 41.3 years, predominantly male (87.1%). Trained microsurgeons performing Zone 1A replantation had higher success rates, shorter surgery durations, and fewer arterial complications compared to their untrained counterparts. For Zone 1B, they also showed improved operation times, decreased venous congestion and pulp atrophy, and better sensation outcomes. The results of trained group remained consistent across both single and multiple replantation, while the control group’s outcomes varied in multiple replantation with less favorable results. The trained group reported better scores on the MHQ at 6-month follow-ups, particularly regarding work performance, pain levels, aesthetics, and satisfaction.

Conclusions:

The simulation training program using a rat tail model has proven effective in enhancing the skills necessary for improved fingertip replantation. Participants in the program performed surgeries more efficiently and achieved better clinical outcomes. The structure of the training has demonstrated benefits, which may lead to improvements in various microsurgical procedures, positively impacting trainee surgeons, patient care, and the broader medical community.
Construction of a prognostic signature based on T-helper 17 cells differentiation–related genes for predicting survival and tumor microenvironment in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Chen Shiqin , Wei Pingcun , Wang Gang , Wu Fan , Zou Jianjun
Published: January 2025

T-helper 17 (Th17) cells significantly influence the onset and advancement of malignancies. This study endeavor focused on delineating molecular classifications and developing a prognostic signature grounded in Th17 cell differentiation–related genes (TCDRGs) using machine learning algorithms in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). A consensus clustering approach was applied to The Cancer Genome Atlas-HNSCC cohort based on TCDRGs, followed by an examination of differential gene expression using the limma package. Machine learning techniques were utilized for feature selection and model construction, with validation performed using the GSE41613 cohort. The interplay between the predictive marker, immune landscape, immunotherapy response, drug sensitivity, and clinical outcomes was assessed, and a nomogram was constructed. Functional evaluations of TCDRGs were conducted through colony formation, transwell invasion, and wound healing assays. Two distinct HNSCC subtypes with significant differences in prognosis were identified based on 87 TCDRGs, indicating different levels of Th17 cell differentiation. Thirteen differentially expressed TCDRGs were selected and used to create a risk signature, T17I, using the random survival forest algorithm. This signature was associated with grade, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, T stage, and somatic mutations. It was revealed that there were differences in the immune response–related pathways between the high- and low-risk groups. Inflammatory pathways were significantly activated in the low-risk group. The T17I signature was associated with immune infiltration. Specifically, there was a higher infiltration of immune activation cells in the low-risk group, whereas the high-risk group had a higher infiltration of M2 macrophages. In addition, the T17I signature was significantly associated with drug sensitivity. A nomogram combining age, radiotherapy, and the T17I signature accurately predicted the prognosis of patients with HNSCC. Finally, in vitro experiments confirmed that knockdown of LAT gene expression promotes proliferation, metastasis, and invasion of HNSCC cells. In conclusion, this study successfully identified molecular subtypes and constructed a prognostic signature and nomogram based on TCDRGs in HNSCC, which may aid in personalized treatment strategies.
Pan-neurofascin autoimmune nodoparanodopathy: A case report and literature review
Authors: Krim Elsa , Masri Alexandre , Delmont Emilien , Le Masson Gwendal , Boucraut Joseph , Mathis Stéphane
Published: January 2025

Rationale:

Locked-in syndrome (and its variant, completely locked-in state) generally has a high mortality rate in the acute setting; however, when induced by conditions such as acute inflammatory polyradiculoneuropathy, it may well be curable such that an attempt at cure should be systematically sought by clinicians.

Patient concerns:

A 52-year-old man presented with acute tetraparesia and areflexia, initially diagnosed as Guillain–Barré syndrome. Despite appropriate treatment, his condition deteriorated, evolving into a completely locked-in state.

Diagnoses:

The detection of anti-pan-neurofascin antibodies led to the correct diagnosis, acute pan-neurofascin autoimmune nodoparanodopathy.

Interventions:

Immunosuppressive treatment (rituximab) and plasma exchanges were performed.

Outcomes:

After several months, the patient’s neurological symptoms almost completely subsided, without any major sequelae.

Lessons:

In patients with locked-in syndrome (or its variant), neurologists and intensive care physicians must be aware of, and look for, the main etiologies (including pan-neurofascin autoimmune nodoparanodopathy), to allow the prompt initiation of treatment and thus a rapid recovery for these ultimately curable conditions. Despite causing major disability, pan-neurofascin autoimmune nodoparanodopathy is curable if the appropriate treatment is given.