bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring Social Frailty: A Scoping Review of Available Scales and Tools
Authors: Montayre Jed , Kuo Kay , Leung Ka Man Carman , Zhao Ivy
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives

Social frailty is an emerging concept characterized by state of vulnerability due to the lack or absence of social resources that enable health and well-being, particularly among older people. However, there is no consensus on how to accurately measure and assess social frailty, given the broad coverage of social dimensions affecting older individuals. This scoping review aimed to identify the existing tools and scales used to measure social frailty in older people.

Research Design and Methods

A scoping review methodology was employed. Articles published between January 2014 and April 2024 were searched in 6 electronic databases: PubMed, PsycINFO, ProQuest, Scopus, SocIndex, and CINAHL. The scoping review followed a 5-stage process by Arksey and O’Malley and adhered to the guidelines provided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews.

Results

Nine social frailty tools were identified across the 58 papers included in this review. The individual question item commonly used in the scales were classified into main categories based on their conceptual characteristics and intentions. The most common individual questionnaire constructs used to measure social frailty included financial status, social resources, social behaviors and activities, and sense of purpose. The reviewed tools varied in terms of their robustness and the process of scale development.

Discussion and Implications

Our review suggested the development of a standardized, psychometrically tested, and accurate screening tool to screen social frailty status. An accurate social frailty assessment can inform the development of useful interventions, which also has implications in preventing the development of physical frailty.
Beyond the needle: a qualitative exploration of Sierra Leonean healthcare workers’ post COVID-19 vaccination experiences
Authors: David Ifeolu , Tefera Gashaye Melaku , Majee Wilson
Published: August 2024

The global health crisis precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the necessity of swift vaccine development and distribution to curb virus transmission. However, discussions on vaccine acceptance and hesitancy have predominantly focused on pre-vaccination attitudes, often overlooking the significance of post-vaccination experiences in shaping individual and communal attitudes toward vaccines. This oversight is particularly critical among healthcare workers in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), who play a dual role in combating the pandemic and influencing public vaccine sentiment. Using the theory of planned behavior, this study explores the post-vaccination experiences of healthcare workers in Sierra Leone and assesses how these experiences influence their attitudes toward vaccine safety, efficacy and their advocacy for vaccine uptake within their communities. Employing a qualitative design, the study interviewed 24 healthcare workers, 21 of whom were vaccinated against COVID-19. Semi-structured interviews, conducted in English or Krio, were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes. Three themes were identified: positive vaccination experiences exceeding initial expectations, strong belief in the vaccine’s protective benefits and active roles in vaccine advocacy. Despite initial hesitations due to concerns over potential adverse effects, participants reported no significant issues post-vaccination, fostering trust in vaccine safety and effectiveness. Healthcare workers’ positive post-vaccination experiences significantly bolster their vaccine advocacy, influencing their recommendations to patients, friends, families, colleagues and community members. This study highlights the importance of understanding and leveraging healthcare workers’ experiences to enhance public trust and vaccine uptake, crucial for pandemic response efforts in LMICs.
Comparative Efficacy of Biologics and Small Molecule Therapies in Improving Patient-Reported Outcomes in Ulcerative Colitis: Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shehab Mohammad , Hassan Amro , Alrashed Fatema , Abbas Adnan , Ma Christopher , Narula Neeraj , Jairath Vipul , Singh Siddharth , Bessissow Talat
Published: August 2024

Background

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic disorder with a considerable negative impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), which has been recently recognized as an important treatment target. The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of different biologics and small molecule therapies in achieving better patient-reported outcomes and HRQoL in patients with UC.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and network meta-analysis of the EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Central databases from inception until February 1, 2024. The primary endpoint was clinical remission in the patient-reported outcome (PRO-2) score in UC patients who were treated with different biologics or small molecules during induction and maintenance phases. PRO-2 score is the sum of both stool frequency and rectal bleeding subscores. The secondary outcome was improvement of HRQoL defined as an increase in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire score of ≥16 points from baseline or any change in total score from baseline. A random effects model was used, and outcomes were reported as odds ratio with 95% confidence interval. Interventions were ranked per the SUCRA (surface under the cumulative ranking curve) score.

Results

A total of 54 studies were included in the primary outcome analysis and 15 studies were included in the secondary outcome analysis. The primary analysis showed that during the induction phase all of included drugs were better than placebo in improving the PRO-2 score. Interestingly, upadacitinib was found to be superior to most medications in improving PRO-2 scores. The secondary analysis showed that guselkumab ranked first in the improvement of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire score, followed by upadacitinib during the induction phase.

Conclusion

Upadacitinib ranked first in PRO-2 clinical remission during the induction and maintenance phases. Guselkumab, mirikizumab, tofacitinib, and upadacitinib were the only novel medications that were superior to placebo in improving HRQoL in UC, with guselkumab ranking the highest, followed by tofacitinib and upadacitinib. During maintenance of remission, tofacitinib ranked highest in improving HRQoL.
Reconstitution of Norovirus-Specific T-Cell Responses Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Patients With Inborn Errors of Immunity and Chronic Norovirus Infection
Authors: Durkee-Shock Jessica , Cohen Ariella , Maghzian Naseem , Pezzella Gloria , Jensen-Wachspress Mariah , Hostal Anna , Barton Karenna , Gangler Krista , Dávila Saldaña Blachy J , Chaimongkol Natthawan , Bollard Catherine M , Sosnovtsev Stanislav V , Cohen Jeffrey , Nagata Bianca M , Alves Derron A , Ghosh Rajarshi , Seifert Bryce A , Freeman Alexandra , Gonzalez Corina , Notarangelo Luigi D , Green Kim Y , Keller Michael D
Published: August 2024

Background

Chronic norovirus infection (CNI) causes significant morbidity in immunocompromised patients. No effective prevention or treatment currently exists.

Methods

Two patients with inborn errors of immunity, X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency (X-SCID) and DOCK8 deficiency, were followed longitudinally for clinical course, immune reconstitution, norovirus-specific T-cell (NST) response, B-cell reconstitution, and norovirus-specific antibody production. Samples were obtained in the peri-hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) setting before and after CNI clearance. The norovirus strain causing CNI was followed longitudinally for norovirus stool viral loads and sequencing.

Results

The noroviruses were identified as GII.4 Sydney[P4 New Orleans] in 1 patient and GII.17[P17] in the other. An exacerbation of diarrhea post-HSCT in the patient with X-SCID was consistent with norovirus infection but not with graft-versus-host disease on pathologic samples. Both patients recovered polyfunctional NSTs in the CD4 and CD8 T-cell compartments that recognized multiple norovirus structural and nonstructural viral antigens. T-cell responses were minimal during active CNI but detectable after resolution. Mapping of NST responses between the patient with DOCK8 deficiency and his matched sibling donor were nearly identical. B-cell reconstitution or new endogenous antibody production for immunoglobulin A or immunoglobulin G was not observed.

Conclusions

This report is the first to demonstrate reconstitution of NST immunity after HSCT closely temporally aligned with clearance of CNI, suggesting that cellular immunity is sufficient for norovirus clearance.
Potentially avoidable hospitalizations and associated factors among older people in French Guiana using the French National Health Data System
Authors: Clarke Loreinzia , Castor-Newton Marie Josiane , Jalles Constanca , Lapeyre-Mestre Maryse , Gardette Virginie
Published: August 2024

Knowing the prevalence of potentially avoidable hospitalizations (PAHs) and the factors associated with them is essential if preventive action is to be taken. Studies on PAHs mainly concern adults, and very few have been carried out in South America. To the best of our knowledge, there has been no study on PAHs in French Guiana, particularly among older adults. This case–control study aimed to estimate the prevalence of PAHs in the Guianese population aged over 65 and to analyze their associated factors. We used the 2017–2019 data from the French National Health Service database (Système National des Données de Santé). The patients were age- and sex-matched 1 : 3 with controls without any PAH in 2019. Factors associated with PAHs were investigated through two conditional logistic regression models [one including the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) and one including each comorbidity of the CCI], with calculation of the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). The PAH incidence was 17.4 per 1000 inhabitants. PAHs represented 6.6% of all hospitalizations (45.6% related to congestive heart failure or hypertension). A higher CCI was associated with PAHs [aOR 2.2 (95% CI: 1.6, 3.0) and aOR 4.8 (95% CI: 2.4, 9.9) for 1–2 and ≥3 comorbidities, respectively, versus 0], as was immigrant health insurance status [aOR 2.3 (95% CI: 1.3, 4.2)]. Connective tissue disease, chronic pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes, and peripheral vascular disease were comorbidities associated with an increased risk of PAHs. While the prevention of PAHs among immigrants is probably beyond the reach of the Guianese authorities, primary care and a public health policy geared toward prevention should be put in place for the French Guianese population suffering from cardiovascular disease in order to reduce PAHs.
Redefining the History and Historiography on American Evangelicalism in the Era of the Religious Right
Authors: Sutton Matthew Avery
Published: August 2024

Writing in the shadow of the religious right, a group of historians beginning in the 1980s crafted a new history of American evangelicalism to counter the politicized, right-wing faith of their era. Rather than focus on the movement as a product of specific historical, cultural, and political contexts, they defined it by a set of abstract theological principles. Then they identified those people from the colonial period to the present who fit their definition and who made positive contributions to North American history. The result was a new, singular, multi-century, “evangelical consensus” in the literature that decoupled the movement from politics, race, class, gender, and sexuality. I assess the historiography they created and then argue that we should drop the use of the term evangelical from our eighteenth- and nineteenth-century histories, and I offer a new definition of postwar evangelicalism that embeds it in its cultural context.
Simultaneous Extraction of Bone Marrow RNA and DNA from Patients with Hematologic Diseases Using a Combined Magnetic Bead Method within 1 Hour
Authors: Mu Huijun , Zou Jian , Zhang Haiping
Published: August 2024

Background

TRIzolTM is widely used for RNA and DNA extraction. However, this method is laborious and time-consuming. The objective of this study was to validate a time-effective and labor-saving protocol.

Methods

The TRIzol method was used to separate the aqueous phase, protein, and phenol layer of bone marrow samples from 12 patients with hematological diseases. Subsequently, RNA and DNA were extracted from the aqueous layer containing RNA and phenol layer containing DNA, respectively, using magnetic bead extraction kits. The quantity and purity of extracted RNA and DNA were examined using a NanoDrop spectrophotometer. Quantitative fluorescence PCR amplification of the ABL1 gene was performed to verify the effectiveness of the extracted RNA and DNA for downstream experiments. RNA and DNA from another 16 bone marrow samples were extracted to compare the performance of the two methods.

Results

Co-extraction of RNA and DNA was completed within 1 h. The data showed that RNA and DNA yield ranged from 13.1 to 204.5 ng/µL and 33.1 to 228.8 ng/µL, respectively. The A260/A280 ratios of RNA and DNA samples ranged from 1.82 to 2.01 and 1.73 to 1.91, respectively. RNA and DNA extracted using this scheme exhibited ideal performance in quantitative fluorescence PCR. The present protocol showed better quality and effectiveness in extracting RNA and DNA compared to the TRIzol method.

Conclusions

This protocol for RNA and DNA co-extraction is fast, labor-saving, and high throughput. It can be adopted for routine molecular biology analyses, particularly for non-reproducible specimens.
Enhancing Repo Market Transparency: The EU Securities Financing Transactions Regulation
Authors: Bassi Claudio , Grill Michael , Hermes Felix , Mirza Harun , O’Donnell Charles , Wedow Michael
Published: August 2024

The introduction of the Securities Financing Transactions Regulation into EU law provides a unique opportunity to obtain an in-depth understanding of repo markets. Based on the transaction-level data reported under the regulation, this article contributes to the literature with key facts about the euro area repo market. We start by providing the regulatory background, as well as highlighting some of its advantages for financial stability analysis. We then go on to present three sets of findings that are highly relevant to financial stability and focus on the dimensions of the different market segments, counterparties, and collateral, including haircut practices. Finally, we outline how the data reported under the regulation can support the policy work of central banks and supervisory authorities and contribute to the existing literature on repo markets. We demonstrate that these data can be used to make several important contributions to enhancing our understanding of the repo market from a financial stability perspective, ultimately assisting international efforts to increase repo market resilience.
X-ray afterglow limits on the viewing angles of short gamma-ray bursts
Authors: O’Connor Brendan , Beniamini Paz , Gill Ramandeep
Published: August 2024

The behaviour of a short gamma-ray burst (sGRB) afterglow light curve can reveal the angular structure of the relativistic jet and constrain the observer’s viewing angle $\theta _\textrm {obs}$. The observed deceleration time of the jet, and, therefore, the time of the afterglow peak, depends on the observer’s viewing angle. A larger viewing angle leads to a later peak of the afterglow and a lower flux at peak. We utilize the earliest afterglow detections of 58 sGRBs detected with the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory X-ray Telescope to constrain the ratio of the viewing angle $\theta _\textrm {obs}$ to the jet’s core $\theta _\textrm {c}$. We adopt a power-law angular jet structure in both energy $E(\theta)\propto \theta ^{-a}$ and Lorentz factor $\Gamma (\theta)\propto \theta ^{-b}$ beyond the core. We find that either sGRBs are viewed within $\theta _\textrm {obs}/\theta _\textrm {c}\lt 1$ or the initial Lorentz factor of material in their jet’s core is extremely high ($\Gamma _0\gt 500$). If we consider tophat jets, we constrain 90 per cent of our sample to be viewed within $\theta _\textrm {obs}/\theta _\textrm {c}\lt 1.06$ and 1.15 for our canonical and conservative afterglow scenarios. For a subset of events with measurements of the jet break, we can constrain $\Gamma _0\theta _\textrm {c}\gtrsim 30$. This confirmation that cosmological sGRBs are viewed either on-axis or very close to their jet’s core has significant implications for the nature of the prompt gamma-ray production mechanism and for the rate of future sGRB detections coincident with gravitational waves, implying that they are extremely rare.
Formation of the AlCl molecule through radiative association of Al with Cl
Authors: Jones (nee Burdakova) Daria , Nyman Gunnar
Published: August 2024

Detection of the AlCl molecule in IRC+10216 has been reported in the literature. We here report calculations of reaction rate constants for formation of AlCl through radiative association of Al and Cl for a temperature interval of 1000 to 14000 K. Potential energy and permanent/transition dipole moment curves were taken from the literature. Quantum mechanical and semiclassical/classical methods were used to obtain the reaction cross-sections and thermal rate constants, accounting for shape resonances with Breit–Wigner theory. Both the A$^1 \Pi \rightarrow$ X$^1 \Sigma ^+$ transition and the X$^1 \Sigma ^+\rightarrow$ X$^1 \Sigma ^+$ transition have been treated, with results showing that the former dominates for the temperatures considered in this study. Our rate constants are a factor of two to three larger than previously calculated values, where the latter were obtained without considering resonances or the X$^1 \Sigma ^+\rightarrow$ X$^1 \Sigma ^+$ transition. Our new values do however not change the previous conclusion that radiative association can only contribute modestly to the formation of AlCl under the given conditions.
Association of human papillomavirus genotype and phylogenic clade with oropharyngeal cancer outcomes
Authors: Wotman Michael T , Ivic-Pavlicic Tara , Westra William H , Gold Brandon , D’Andrea Megan , Genden Eric M , Misiukiewicz Krzysztof , Roof Scott A , Taioli Emanuela , Posner Marshall
Published: August 2024

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV)+ oropharynx cancer (OPC) has a more favorable prognosis than HPV-negative disease, but the impact of specific HPV genotype and phylogenic clade on patient outcomes is not well understood and has profound implications for treatment de-intensification.

Methods

The objective of this single-institution cohort study was to investigate the association of HPV genotype (16 vs high-risk non-16) and clade (A9 vs A7) with OPC outcomes. The primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS) in patients with M0 disease treated with curative intent.

Results

The cohort included 598 patients (87% HPV16, 98% A9). Compared to those with HPV16 OPC, individuals with non-HPV16 OPC had a higher age, comorbidity index, and proportion of non-whites, HIV+ patients, T4 tumors, and stage IV disease (AJCC 7th edition). Non-HPV16 genotype was associated with worse OS in univariate (HR = 2.17, 95% CI, 1.24-3.80, P = .0066), but not in multivariate analysis (HRadj = 0.84, 95% CI, 0.43-1.62, P = .5921). A7 clade was associated with worse OS in univariate (HR = 4.42, 95% CI, 1.60-12.30, P = .0041), but not in multivariate analysis (HRadj = 2.39, 95% CI, 0.57-9.99, P = .2325). Neither HPV genotype (HR = 1.60, 95% CI, 0.99-2.60, P = .0566) nor phylogenic clade (HR = 2.47, 95% CI, 0.91-6.72, P = .0761) was associated with EFS.

Conclusion

Non-HPV16 genotype and A7 clade were associated with worse OS and trended toward worse EFS in univariate analyses. The survival differences were more pronounced by phylogenic clade than by HPV16 status, suggesting that the former may be a more useful classification for future studies. However, neither HPV16 status nor phylogenic clade was prognostic when adjusting for patient and tumor covariates, raising the question as to whether possible differences in outcomes are related to distinct clinical profiles rather than inherent viral properties.
An intuitionistic interpretation of Bishop’s philosophy
Authors: Bentzen Bruno
Published: August 2024

The constructive mathematics developed by Bishop in Foundations of Constructive Analysis succeeded in gaining the attention of mathematicians, but discussions of its underlying philosophy are still rare in the literature. Commentators seem to conclude, from Bishop’s rejection of choice sequences and his severe criticism of Brouwerian intuitionism, that he is not an intuitionist–broadly understood as someone who maintains that mathematics is a mental creation, mathematics is meaningful and eludes formalization, mathematical objects are mind-dependent constructions given in intuition, and mathematical truths are experienceable. This paper develops and defends an intuitionistic interpretation of Bishop’s philosophical views.
Conserved cis-elements enable NODULES WITH ACTIVATED DEFENSE1 regulation by NODULE INCEPTION during nodulation
Authors: Yu Haixiang , Xiao Aifang , Zou Zhongmin , Wu Qiujin , Chen Lin , Zhang Dandan , Sun Yuzhang , Wang Chao , Cao Jianbo , Zhu Hui , Zhang Zhongming , Cao Yangrong
Published: August 2024

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation within nitrogen-fixing clade (NFC) plants is thought to have arisen from a single gain followed by massive losses in the genomes of ancestral non-nodulating plants. However, molecular evidence supporting this model is limited. Here, we confirm through bioinformatic analysis that NODULES WITH ACTIVATED DEFENSE1 (NAD1) is present only in NFC plants and is thus an NFC-specific gene. Moreover, NAD1 was specifically expressed in nodules. We identified three conserved nodulation-associated cis-regulatory elements (NACE1–3) in the promoter of LjNAD1 from Lotus japonicus that are required for its nodule specific expression. A survey of NFC plants revealed that NACE1 and NACE2 are specific to the Fabales and Papilionoideae, respectively, while NACE3 is present in all NFC plants. Moreover, we found that nodule inception (NIN) directly binds to all three NACEs to activate NAD1 expression. Mutation of L. japonicus LjNAD1 resulted in the formation of abnormal symbiosomes with enlarged symbiosome space and frequent breakdown of bacteroids in nodules, resembling phenotypes reported for Medicago truncatula Mtnad1 and Mtnin mutants. These data point to NIN–NAD1 as an important module regulating rhizobial accommodation in nodules. The regulation of NAD1 by NIN in the NFC ancestor represent an important evolutionary adaptation for nodulation.
Systemic sclerosis and cancer in the UK: an epidemiological analysis using the clinical practice research datalink
Authors: Pauling John D , McHugh Neil J , McGrogan Anita
Published: August 2024

Background

Cancer can cause mortality in systemic sclerosis (SSc). We investigated the association between cancer and SSc using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD).

Methods

A validated case-ascertainment strategy identified SSc patients in the CPRD. A cohort study design examined cancer occurrence following SSc, with SSc patients matched to six non-SSc comparators by age, sex and GP practice. Prevalent and incident cases of SSc were analysed separately. Descriptive statistics and Cox analyses determined hazard ratios for cancer occurrence. A case-control study (matched 1:6) examined cancer occurrence prior to SSc.

Results

From 10.1 million individuals in CPRD, 1588 of cases of SSc were identified. Two hundred and six cancers followed SSc diagnosis (116 in prevalent and 90 in incident cohort). Commonest cancers were mucocutaneous (4.5%), lung (2.1%) and breast (1.9%). The proportion of SSc patients developing cancer was significantly higher than non-SSc in both incident (11.2% vs 9.7%, P = 0.02) and prevalent cohorts (14.8% vs 12.1%, P = 0.03); particularly for lung cancer (2.6% vs 0.9% in prevalent cohort, P < 0.001). Overall incidence of cancer in the SSc groups was 17.6/1000 person years, compared with 13.9/1000 person years in the non-SSc group. The adjusted hazard ratios for cancer were 1.41 (95% CI 1.14–1.75) and 1.32 (95% CI 1.04–1.67) for prevalent and incident SSc, respectively. No increased risk of cancer prior to SSc diagnosis was identified in the case-control study.

Conclusion

We have identified an increased risk of cancer diagnosis following, but not before, SSc diagnosis. Our findings could support screening recommendations for cancer in SSc.
Amphetamine-Induced Dopamine Release Predicts 1-Year Outcome in First-Episode Psychosis: A Naturalistic Observation
Authors: Weidenauer Ana , Sauerzopf Ulrich , Bauer Martin , Bum Carina , Diendorfer Cornelia , Dajic Irena , Bartova Lucie , Kastner Alina , Bamminger Karsten , Nics Lukas , Philippe Cecile , Hacker Marcus , Rujescu Dan , Wadsak Wolfgang , Praschak-Rieder Nicole , Willeit Matthäus
Published: August 2024

Background and Hypothesis

The dopamine theory of schizophrenia suggests that antipsychotics alleviate symptoms by blocking dopamine D2/3 receptors, yet a significant subset of patients does not respond adequately to treatment. To investigate potential predictors, we evaluated d-amphetamine-induced dopamine release and 1-year clinical outcomes in 21 antipsychotic-naive patients with first-episode schizophrenia.

Study Design

Twenty-one antipsychotic-naive patients (6 female) underwent dopamine D2/3 receptor radioligand [11C]-(+)-PHNO positron emission tomography. For estimating dopamine release, scans were performed with and without d-amphetamine pretreatment. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale was performed at regular intervals over 1 year while receiving treatment in a naturalistic setting (Clinical Trial Registry: EUDRACT 2010-019586-29).

Study Results

A group analysis revealed no significant differences in d-amphetamine-induced dopamine release between patients with or without clinically significant improvement. However, d-amphetamine-induced dopamine release in ventral striatum was significantly associated with reductions in positive symptoms (r = 0.54, P = .04; uncorrected P-values); release in globus pallidus correlated with a decrease in PANSS negative (r = 0.58, P = .02), general (r = 0.53, P = .04), and total symptom scores (r = 0.063, P = .01). Higher dopamine release in substantia nigra/ventral tegmental area predicted larger reductions in general symptoms (r = 0.51, P = .05). Post-amphetamine binding in putamen correlated positively with negative symptom scores at baseline (r = 0.66, P = .005) and throughout all follow-up visits.

Conclusions

These exploratory results support a relationship between d-amphetamine-induced dopamine release and the severity and persistence of symptoms during the first year of psychosis.
Regulatory agencies as innovation enablers: a conceptualization
Authors: Bonnin Roca Jaime
Published: August 2024

Regulatory agencies are usually tasked with a dual mission of assessing the benefits and risks posed by products reaching the market, and ensuring the competitiveness of the industries they oversee. Although literature usually presents regulators as agents hampering innovation, that is not always the case. The purpose of this paper is to discuss, under which conditions, and why, regulatory agencies may enable innovation. I propose a conceptual framework to connect the literatures on regulatory processes and innovation processes. Based on this framework, I analyse three connections between the innovation and regulatory processes, which create opportunities for agencies’ innovation intermediation. I provide real-life examples of three different mechanisms through which such intermediation may take place, and propose four modes of intermediation which are characteristic of regulatory agencies.
Impact of historical disease conditions on mortality and life expectancy in patients with advanced schistosomiasis in Hunan Province, China
Authors: Jiang Honglin , Zhou Jie , Cai Xinting , Hu Benjiao , Wang Huilan , Fu Chen , Xu Ning , Gong Yanfeng , Tong Yixin , Yin Jiangfan , Huang Junhui , Wang Jiamin , Jiang Qingwu , Liang Songyue , Zhou Yibiao
Published: August 2024

Background

Although the prognosis of advanced schistosomiasis patients has significantly improved, the impact of historical disease conditions on life expectancy remains unclear.

Methods

Utilizing data from an advanced schistosomiasis cohort (n=10 362) from 2008 to 2019 in Hunan, China, we examined five historical disease conditions: times of praziquantel treatment, the history of ascites, splenectomy, upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) and hepatic coma. Using latent class analysis, participants were categorized into three groups: Group 1 (characterized by no risk conditions), Group 2 (had ≤3 times of praziquantel treatment without UGIB history) and Group 3 (had UGIB history). Life expectancies were calculated using the life table method.

Results

At the age of 45 y, patients with ≤3 times of praziquantel treatment, a history of ascites, UGIB, hepatic coma and those without splenectomy exhibited lower life expectancies. Groups 1, 2 and 3 had estimated life expectancies of 32.32, 26.76 and 25.38 y, respectively. Compared with Group 1, women in Group 3 experienced greater life expectancy loss than those in Group 2, with the difference narrowing with age.

Conclusions

Based on the consideration of overall physical conditions, tailored treatment and healthcare, along with public health interventions targeting diverse populations, could mitigate the prevalence of poor disease conditions and premature deaths.
Analysis of Rice Blast Fungus Genetic Diversity and Identification of a Novel Blast Resistance OsDRq12 Gene
Authors: Zhao Dan-Dan , Chung Hyunjung , Jang Yoon-Hee , Farooq Muhammad , Choi Soo Yeon , Du Xiao-Xuan , Kim Kyung-Min
Published: August 2024

The rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae poses a significant challenge to maintaining rice production. Developing rice varieties with resistance to this disease is crucial for its effective control. To understand the genetic variability of blast isolates collected between 2015 and 2017, the 27 monogenic rice lines that carry specific resistance genes were used to evaluate blast disease reactions. Based on criteria such as viability, virulence, and reactions to resistance genes, 20 blast isolates were selected as representative strains. To identify novel resistance genes, a quantitative trait locus analysis was carried out utilizing a mixture of the 20 representative rice blast isolates and a rice population derived from crossing the blast-resistant cultivar ‘Cheongcheong’ with the blast-susceptible cultivar ‘Nagdong’. This analysis revealed a significant locus, RM1227-RM1261 on chromosome 12, that is associated with rice blast resistance. Within this locus, 12 disease resistance-associated protein genes were identified. Among them, OsDRq12, a member of the nucleotide-binding, leucine-rich repeat disease resistance family, was chosen as the target gene for additional computational investigation. The findings of this study have significant implications for enhancing rice production and ensuring food security by controlling rice blast and developing resistant rice cultivars.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Perceptions of Key Responsibilities and Professional Development Interests of Senior Educational Leaders: A Needs Assessment
Authors: Bidwell Duane R. , Samuel Anita , Cervero Ronald M. , Durning Steven J. , Stephan Sherri L. , Patel Erin L. , Bowman Marjorie A. , Meyer Holly S.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

High-ranking educational leaders in academic medicine oversee multiple clinical programs. This requires them to prioritize dozens of emergent tasks and responsibilities daily, from educational policy and strategy to staff management, financial planning, onboarding of trainees, and facility planning and management. Identifying their key responsibilities and frequently used skills and competencies may clarify the educational needs of senior educational leaders and facilitate targeted professional development to promote effective and efficient performance.

Method

In August 2022, researchers interviewed 12 designated education officers (DEOs) from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Veterans Health Administration medical centers about their daily work and most challenging responsibilities. Content analysis of interview transcripts identified key responsibilities and activities identified by participants and prioritization of the perceived skills needed to complete them.

Results

Participants emphasized 4 key areas of responsibility: fiscal, administrative, affiliate partnership, and educational duties. They identified 12 skills as baseline requirements for effective performance for which additional professional development would be useful and suggested that both new and more established educational leaders receive targeted professional development and mentoring to foster these capacities.

Conclusions

The key skills participants identified by area of perceived responsibility are relevant to VA DEOs, designated institutional officers, and senior academic leaders who develop health professions education programs, oversee clinical training, and manage educational change. Structured orientation programs and ongoing professional development for senior educational leaders could emphasize these areas of responsibility, potentially enriching DEOs’ performance and reducing burnout.
Chronic consequences of accidental dural puncture and postdural puncture headache in obstetric anaesthesia – sieving through the evidence
Authors: Armstrong Sarah , Fernando Roshan
Published: August 2024

Purpose of review

Accidental dural puncture (ADP) and postdural puncture headache (PDPH) are relatively common complications of neuraxial anaesthesia and analgesia in obstetrics. Both may result in acute and chronic morbidity. This review intends to discuss the chronic implications of ADP and PDPH and raise awareness of severe and potentially life-threatening conditions associated with them.

Recent findings

ADP may be associated with a high rate of PDPH, prolonged hospitalization and increased readmissions. Studies have shown that PDPH may lead to chronic complications such as post-partum depression (PPD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic headache, backache and reduced breastfeeding rates. There are many case reports indicating that major, severe, life-threatening neurologic complications may follow PDPH in obstetric patients including subdural haematoma and cerebral venous thrombosis.

Many clinicians still believe that ADP and PDPH are benign and self-limiting conditions whereas there may be serious and devastating consequences of both. It is imperative that all women with ADP and PDPH are appropriately diagnosed and treated.
Dimensions of posttraumatic stress disorder and menopause-related health in midlife women veterans
Authors: Thomas Jordan L. , Blanken Anna E. , Huang Alison J. , Maguen Shira , Gibson Carolyn J. , Sumner Jennifer A.
Published: August 2024

Objective

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been linked with menopause symptoms (eg, vasomotor, urinary) and their sequelae (eg, sexual difficulties). However, PTSD is a heterogeneous disorder, and less is known about which aspects may be most associated with menopause-related health.

Methods

Using confirmatory factor analyses, we evaluated five structural models of PTSD symptoms in 208 predominately postmenopausal women veterans (aged 45-64 years). We investigated associations between PTSD—operationalized as a probable diagnosis and symptom dimensions of the best-fitting model—and common menopause-related health concerns, including (1) vasomotor, urinary, and vaginal symptoms; (2) vasomotor symptom interference; and (3) sexual functioning.

Results

A six-factor anhedonia model—comprising re-experiencing, avoidance, negative affect, anhedonia, anxious arousal, and dysphoric arousal—provided optimal fit. Both probable PTSD and greater symptoms across all dimensions were linked with presence of urinary and vasomotor, but not vaginal, symptoms. Comparing dimensions revealed that negative affect and dysphoric arousal were particularly associated with urinary symptoms, whereas dysphoric arousal was the factor most strongly related to vasomotor symptom interference. Associations between PTSD and sexual dysfunction were mixed; whereas there was no relation with probable diagnosis, all dimensions were linked with adverse sexual sequelae.

Conclusions

PTSD—considered categorically and dimensionally—was relevant to menopause-related health in midlife women veterans. Further, symptoms of negative affect and dysphoric arousal were particularly related to urinary and vasomotor symptoms. These specific symptoms may drive associations between PTSD and these aspects of menopause-related health. Clinical interventions targeting these symptoms may promote midlife women's health.
Sex differences in all-cause mortality and life span between women with premature menopause and men: propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Xing Zailing , Kirby Russell S.
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study investigated sex differences in all-cause mortality and life span between women undergoing premature menopause and men using propensity score matching analysis.

Methods

Data were from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999‐2018) and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III (1988‐1994). We included 3,214 women experiencing premature menopause and 23,067 men. The participants were all older than 40 years. Propensity score matching analysis created matched cohorts of women and men using a 1:1 ratio. We employed Cox proportional hazard models to estimate unadjusted and adjusted hazard ratios (HR) (95% confidence interval [CI]) for the association between sex and both all-cause mortality and survival up to the 75th percentile of life span. A subgroup analysis examined the effects of hormone therapy on mortality and life span.

Results

Compared with men in the matched cohorts, the adjusted HR values (95% CI) for all-cause mortality in women with age at menopause at <35, 35 to 39, and <40 years were 0.65 (0.54-0.78), 0.72 (0.59-0.87), and 0.67 (0.60-0.76), respectively. However, the adjusted HR values (95% CI) for women and men to survive to the 75th percentile of life span were not statistically significant. Besides, there was no significant difference in the mean life span between deceased women and men in the matched cohorts. In the subgroup analysis, the mean life span did not differ significantly between deceased women taking hormone therapy and men. However, the average life span of women never using hormone therapy was significantly longer than that of men (78.3 ± 11.6 vs 76.6 ± 11.9 years, P = 0.0154).

Conclusions

Women experiencing premature menopause had lower risks of all-cause mortality than men, but the advantage that women had in terms of life span was insignificant.
Effectiveness of 0.3% Hyaluronic Acid Eye Drops for Benign Essential Blepharospasm and Hemifacial Spasm with Botulinum Toxin–induced Dry Eye
Authors: Poonyathalang Anuchit , Tiraset Nanida , Rattanathamsakul Natthapon
Published: August 2024

Background:

This study evaluates the effectiveness of 0.3% hyaluronic acid (HA) eye drops in patients receiving concurrent botulinum toxin (BoNT) injections for benign essential blepharospasm (BEB) or hemifacial spasm (HFS).

Methods:

This randomized controlled cross-over trial study involved 14 patients with BEB and 33 patients with HFS randomized into two groups (early treatment and deferred treatment) for 3 months of treatment with 0.3% HA eye drops. Data collected at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months included Blepharospasm Severity Scale (BSS) score in patients with BEB; Samsung Medical Class Grading Scale score in patients with HFS; and dry eye symptoms, lower eyelid tear meniscus height (TMH), tear breakup time (TBUT), and corneal fluorescein staining in both groups.

Results:

After 3 months of 0.3% HA instillation, patients with BEB in both groups showed significant improvement in BSS, TMH, TBUT, and the amelioration of subjective dry eye symptoms and corneal staining (P < 0.05). However, discontinuation of 0.3% HA eye drops worsened BSS, TMH, and TBUT. Patients with HFS also experienced significant improvement in Samsung Medical Class score, subjective dry eye symptoms, and objective corneal findings (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Treatment with 0.3% HA eye drops led to significant improvement in spasm severity, and dry eye parameters, after 3 months of instillation in patients with BEB or HFS during concurrent treatment with BoNT injections. The 0.3% HA eye drops were safe and might serve as an add-on treatment for symptom improvement.
Sexual Health Implications of Return Migration for Women and Their Partners in Rural Mexico: A Critical Ethnography
Authors: Fernandez-Sanchez Higinio , Rocha-Fernandez Minerva , Salma Jordana , Santa Maria Diane M. , Benavides-Torres Raquel A. , Salami Bukola
Published: August 2024

The return of a migrant partner can negatively impact the sexual health of women who stayed in their communities. Understanding their sexual health needs is crucial for developing targeted interventions and support systems. Our study used a critical ethnographic approach in Agua Dulce, a rural community in Mexico, involving 50 key informants: women who stayed behind (n = 20), returnees (n = 12), community leaders (n = 12), and health care professionals (n = 6). We used participant observation, policy analysis, and interviews, using purposeful and snowball sampling methods. A gender-based thematic analysis revealed economic hardships and early separations affect the sexual well-being of women who stay behind. Infidelity, discovered through social media or calls, causes emotional distress and family disruptions. Male migrants spend an average of 8.85 years abroad, leading to fears of risky sexual behaviors. Our study highlights the urgent need for specialized support centers and comprehensive health interventions.
Viral infection after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Ljungman Per
Published: August 2024

Purpose of review

Viral infections are important complications after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. New infections develop such as SARS-CoV-2 with the potential for severe consequences. In this review, newly published information regarding management of viral infections is discussed.

Recent findings

Letermovir and maribavir are antiviral agents that have positively impacted the management of cytomegalovirus infections. These should today be included in treatment algorithms. The first antiviral cellular therapy for anti-CD20 refractory EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disease is now licensed and available. Vaccination as well as introduction of antiviral agents, mAbs and possibly the development of different viral strains have reduced mortality in COVID-19 in this patient population. Well designed studies have shown the improved immunogenicity of high-dose influenza vaccines. There is still an unmet medical need for patients infected with human metapneumovirus and parainfluenza viruses.

Although improvements in patient management for several important posttransplantation viral infections have been reported, an unmet medical need still exists for other viruses occurring in this high-risk population.
An algerian three-month-old infant with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia and noonan syndrome: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Nora Boukouira , Sabrinel Ferrache Wiam , Yassamine Ouerdane , Touri Nabila Souad , Samira Guemghar , Abdulrazzak Mohammed , Jobran Afnan W. M. , Keiji Leila
Published: August 2024

Introduction and Importance:

Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a rare childhood malignancy. Noonan syndrome (NS), a genetic disorder, is occasionally associated with an increased risk of JMML. Mutations in the Ras signaling pathway are implicated in both conditions.

Case Presentation:

We report a case of a 3-month-old infant diagnosed with JMML. The infant displayed features suggestive of NS. Using the WHO 2016 criteria the diagnosis of JMML was made. Despite initial concerns, the infant exhibited a marked clinical response without specific anti-leukemic therapy, with significant improvement in symptoms and blood counts.

Clinical Discussion:

This case highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for JMML in infants with NS features, particularly monocytosis and splenomegaly. It also underscores the potential for variable presentations of JMML, including cases with a more indolent course. While genetic confirmation was unavailable, the clinical picture suggests a possible link between the underlying Ras pathway mutations and the infant’s favorable response.

Conclusion:

In the patients exhibit NS features, monocytosis, and splenomegaly, clinicians should keep an eye out for juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML). Given that both illnesses may be influenced by similar underlying mutations in the Ras pathway.
Automated Standardization of Melanin Bleaching Procedures of Heavily Pigmented Melanocytic Lesions With Low-Concentration Hydrogen Peroxide on an Automated Platform
Authors: Yeh Chih-Ching , Li Yi-Jing , Liang Jang-Shian , Liao Jia-Bin
Published: August 2024

Melanin is a natural pigment in the human body that is primarily found in the skin and hair. It protects the skin from damage by ultraviolet radiation. Although this pigment plays a crucial role in protecting the human body, it represents a challenge for pathologists to evaluate highly pigmented tissue samples from melanoma or pigmented skin lesions. Abundant melanin may obscure tissue morphology, which makes it very difficult for pathologists to make a differential diagnosis. Melanin pigment is brown-to-black and granular, and its distribution is often uneven in tissues. The presence of these pigments can complicate the analysis of immunohistochemistry (IHC) for 2 reasons. First, they have a direct physical masking effect on antigen-antibody interactions. Second, 3,3-diaminobenzidine, the most commonly used chromogen, has a brown color that is difficult to distinguish from melanin pigment. Therefore, melanin bleaching has become a crucial step in handling pigmented melanocytic lesions. Bleaching techniques aid pathologists in histopathologic examination of melanin-rich tissue. In this study, we integrated melanin bleaching and IHC on an automated IHC platform to set up a rapid and fully automated procedure. Bleaching steps were performed before antigen retrieval. Samples were treated with 1% hydrogen peroxide solution in Tris-HCl buffer (pH 10) at 80°C for 8 minutes, achieving optimal conditions for melanin bleaching while preserving tissue morphology and antigenicity. This rapid, effective, fully automated, and standardized workflow can be applied to routine staining procedures in clinical laboratories, thereby improving the quality of pathological diagnosis.