bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rice SRO1a Contributes to Xanthomonas TAL Effector-mediated Expression of Host Susceptible Genes
Authors: Yoshimura Satomi , Yoshihisa Ayaka , Okamoto Yusei , Hirano Haruna , Nakai Yuina , Yamaguchi Koji , Kawasaki Tsutomu
Published: May 2024

Xanthomonas species infect many important crops and cause huge yield loss. These pathogens deliver transcription activator-like (TAL) effectors into the cytoplasm of plant cells. TAL effectors move to host nuclei, directly bind to the promoters of host susceptible genes, and activate their transcription. However, the molecular mechanisms by which TAL effectors induce host transcription remain unclear. We herein demonstrated that TAL effectors interacted with the SIMILAR TO RCD ONE (SRO) family proteins OsSRO1a and OsSRO1b in nuclei. A transactivation assay using rice protoplasts indicated that OsSRO1a and OsSRO1b enhanced the activation of the OsSWEET14 promoter by the TAL effector AvrXa7. The AvrXa7-mediated expression of OsSWEET14 was significantly reduced in ossro1a mutants. However, the overexpression of OsSRO1a increased disease resistance by up-regulating the expression of defense-related genes, such as WRKY62 and PBZ1. This was attributed to OsSRO1a and OsSRO1b also enhancing the transcriptional activity of WRKY45, a direct regulator of WRKY62 expression. Therefore, OsSRO1a and OsSRO1b appear to positively contribute to transcription mediated by bacterial TAL effectors and rice transcription factors.
Living at depth: ecophysiological condition of Boreomysis arctica in autumn and winter in the St. Lawrence estuary and gulf
Authors: Winkler Gesche , Cabrol Jory , Tremblay Réjean
Published: May 2024

Mysids, besides krill, play a significant role in energy transfer and carbon sequestration. The ecology of coastal species is better understood than that of deep dwelling species such as Boreomysis arctica. The objectives of this study were to quantify spatiotemporal variations in body condition and the trophic level of B. arctica in autumn and winter, under sea-ice conditions in the St. Lawrence system, using a multimarker approach. We sampled along a 1000 km transect. Mean abundances in winter were higher in the estuary compared to the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Body condition, measured as total lipid content, was higher in winter than in autumn. Lipids of B. arctica were mainly composed of wax esters, thereby B. arctica is richer in energetic lipids compared to the three dominant krill species. We also observed seasonal differences in the trophic level of B. arctica, revealing carnivorous behavior in autumn compared to omnivory in winter. High intra-specific variability in both energetic strategy and feeding behavior was found that is potentially due to opportunistic feeding. Energy rich reserves suggest that B. arctica could act as a valuable prey for both benthic and pelagic consumers and thus playing a key role in bentho-pelagic energy transfer.
Transcriptional factor MdESE3 controls fruit acidity by activating genes regulating malic acid content in apple
Authors: Zheng Litong , Ma Wenfang , Liu Peipei , Song Shujie , Wang Liang , Yang Wei , Ren Hang , Wei Xiaoyu , Zhu Lingcheng , Peng Jiaqing , Ma Fengwang , Li Mingjun , Ma Baiquan
Published: May 2024

Acidity is a key factor controlling fruit flavor and quality. In a previous study, combined transcriptome and methylation analyses identified a P3A-type ATPase from apple (Malus domestica), MdMa11, which regulates vacuolar pH when expressed in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. In this study, the role of MdMa11 in controlling fruit acidity was verified in apple calli, fruits, and plantlets. In addition, we isolated an APETALA2 domain-containing transcription factor, designated MdESE3, based on yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) screening using the MdMa11 promoter as bait. A subcellular localization assay indicated that MdESE3 localized to the nucleus. Analyses of transgenic apple calli, fruits, and plantlets, as well as tomatoes, demonstrated that MdESE3 enhances fruit acidity and organic acid accumulation. Meanwhile, chromatin immunoprecipitation quantitative PCR, luciferase (LUC) transactivation assays, and GUS reporter assays indicated that MdESE3 could bind to the ethylene-responsive element (ERE; 5ʹ-TTTAAAAT-3ʹ) upstream of the MdMa11 transcription start site, thereby activating its expression. Furthermore, MdtDT, MdDTC2, and MdMDH12 expression increased in apple fruits and plantlets overexpressing MdESE3 and decreased in apple fruits and plantlets where MdESE3 was silenced. The ERE was found in MdtDT and MdMDH12 promoters, but not in the MdDTC2 promoter. The Y1H, LUC transactivation assays, and GUS reporter assays indicated that MdESE3 could bind to the MdtDT and MdMDH12 promoters and activate their expression. Our findings provide valuable functional validation of MdESE3 and its role in the transcriptional regulation of MdMa11, MdtDT, and MdMDH12 and malic acid accumulation in apple.
The genome of Lespedeza potaninii reveals biased subgenome evolution and drought adaptation
Authors: Yan Qi , Xu Pan , Xiao Yunyue , Chen Lijun , Wu Fan , Wang Shengsheng , Guo Fukang , Duan Zhen , Zhang Jiyu
Published: May 2024

Lespedeza potaninii, a xerophytic subshrub belonging to the legume family, is native to the Tengger Desert and is highly adapted to drought. It has important ecological value due to its drought adaptability, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we report a 1.24 Gb chromosome-scale assembly of the L. potaninii genome (contig N50 = 15.75 Mb). Our results indicate that L. potaninii underwent an allopolyploid event with 2 subgenomes, A and B, presenting asymmetric evolution and B subgenome dominance. We estimate that the 2 diploid progenitors of L. potaninii diverged around 3.6 million years ago (MYA) and merged around 1.0 MYA. We revealed that the expansion of hub genes associated with drought responses, such as the binding partner 1 of accelerated cell death 11 (ACD11) (BPA1), facilitated environmental adaptations of L. potaninii to desert habitats. We found a novel function of the BPA1 family in abiotic stress tolerance in addition to the known role in regulating the plant immune response, which could improve drought tolerance by positively regulating reactive oxygen species homeostasis in plants. We revealed that bZIP transcription factors could bind to the BPA1 promoter and activate its transcription. Our work fills the genomic data gap in the Lespedeza genus and the tribe Desmodieae, which should provide theoretical support both in the study of drought tolerance and in the molecular breeding of legume crops.
Community social capital, police performance, and trust in the police: Choices of policing styles in China
Authors: Cheng Chen , Ruiting Zhou , Shangxin Chi
Published: May 2024

Recent empirical studies have underscored the crucial link between police performance and trust in the police. Nevertheless, the association between police performance and trust in the police under various conditions deserves more attention. Moreover, the collective meaning of social capital is largely omitted from previous studies on the impact of social capital on trust in the police. The current study explores how police performance impacts public trust across varying levels of community social capital. Using factor analysis and multilevel binary logistic regression on data from a survey of 997 respondents in Xiamen, China, the current study found that both police performance and community social capital significantly enhanced trust in the police, while community social capital moderated the relationship between police performance and trust in the police. As community social capital increases, the importance of procedural fairness in building police trust grows, whereas the impact of outcome effectiveness diminishes. Findings of the current study advocate for a tailored approach to policing: communities rich in social capital benefit from a focus on procedural fairness (process-oriented policing), whereas those with lower social capital prioritize the effectiveness of outcomes (outcome-oriented policing).
Mesenchymal stromal cells protect tissues from Th1 immune responses via IL‐11 secretion
Authors: Cho WonKyung J. , Pulimamidi Vinay K. , Mittal Sharad K. , Chauhan Sunil K.
Published: May 2024

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been shown to modulate the function of various subsets of T cells such as naïve CD4+ T cells and IFNγ+CD4+ Th1 cells; however, mechanisms underlying this regulation have not been fully deciphered. Our in vitro culture assays demonstrate that MSCs suppress the activation and function of CD4+ T cells by secreting interleukin 11, and neutralization of IL11 abrogates MSC‐mediated suppression of CD4+ T cell function. Moreover, delayed‐type, exogenous supplementation of IL11 significantly suppressed IFNγ+ expression by Th1 cells. Th1 and CD8+ cells play central roles in T cell‐mediated tissue damage. Using a murine model of hypersensitivity response to study T cell‐mediated tissue damage, we show that silencing IL11 in MSCs significantly abates the capacity of MSCs to suppress the generation of IFNγ‐secreting CD4+ and CD8+ cells, failing to prevent T cell‐mediated tissue inflammation and tissue damage.
Experienced Adult Cochlear Implant Users Show Improved Speech Recognition When Target Fitting Parameters Are Applied
Authors: de Quillettes Richard , Kaandorp Marre , Merkus Paul , Kramer Sophia E. , Smits Cas
Published: May 2024

Objectives:

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether prediction models built by de Graaff et al. (2020) can be used to improve speech recognition in experienced adult postlingual implanted Cochlear CI users. de Graaff et al. (2020) found relationships between elevated aided thresholds and a not optimal electrical dynamic range (<50 CL or >60 CL), and poorer speech recognition in quiet and in noise. The primary hypothesis of the present study was that speech recognition improves both in quiet and in noise when the sound processor is refitted to match targets derived from the prediction models from de Graaff et al. (2020). A second hypothesis was that subjectively, most of the CI users would find the new setting too loud because of an increase in C levels, and therefore, prefer the old settings.

Design:

A within-participant repeated measures design with 18 adult Cochlear CI users was used. T- and C-levels were changed to “optimized settings,” as predicted by the model of de Graaff et al. (2020). Aided thresholds, speech recognition in quiet, and speech recognition in noise were measured with the old settings and after a 4-week acclimatization period with the optimized settings. Subjective benefit was measured using the Device Oriented Subjective Outcome Scale questionnaire.

Results:

The mean electrical dynamic range changed from 41.1 (SD = 6.6) CL to 48.6 (SD = 3.0) CL. No significant change in aided thresholds was measured. Speech recognition improved for 16 out of 18 participants and remained stable for 2 participants. Average speech recognition scores in quiet significantly improved by 4.9% (SD = 3.8%). No significant change for speech recognition in noise was found. A significant improvement in subjective benefit was found for one of the Device Oriented Subjective Outcome subscales (speech cues) between the old and optimized settings. All participants chose to keep the optimized settings at the end of the study.

Conclusions:

We were able to improve speech recognition in quiet by optimizing the electrical dynamic range of experienced adult CI users, according to the prediction models built by de Graaff et al. (2020). There was no significant change in aided thresholds nor in speech recognition in noise. The findings of the present study suggest that improved performance for speech recognition in quiet in adult Cochlear CI users can be achieved by setting the dynamic range as close as possible to values between 50 and 60 CL when the volume level is at 10.
Bloodless Cardiac Surgery in Jehovah’s Witness: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Maheta Darshil Kumar , Frishman William H. , Aronow Wilbert S.
Published: May 2024

This article explores the major challenges and specialized strategies involved in managing cardiovascular surgery patients who are Jehovah’s Witnesses and refuse blood transfusions due to their religious beliefs. It delves into preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative approaches aimed at minimizing blood loss and optimizing patient outcomes while respecting their autonomy. Preoperative measures focus on correcting anemia and coagulopathy through targeted interventions, such as iron supplementation and erythropoietin therapy, and meticulous screening for bleeding disorders. Intraoperative techniques include the use of vasoconstrictors, hemostatic agents, and innovative blood conservation methods like acute normovolemic hemodilution and cell salvage. Postoperative care emphasizes infection control, hemostasis, and judicious monitoring to prevent anemia and facilitate recovery. Through a multidisciplinary approach and adherence to evidence-based practices, healthcare providers can effectively meet the needs of Jehovah’s Witness patients, ensuring safe and successful cardiovascular surgery outcomes without the use of blood transfusions.
Hydroxychloroquine and Chloroquine-Induced Cardiac Arrhythmias and Sudden Cardiac Death in Patients With Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nikolic Roko P. A. , Virk Mansimran K. , Buhler Katherine A. , Costenbader Karen H. , Choi May Y. , Weber Brittany N.
Published: May 2024

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and chloroquine (CQ) are foundational treatments for several systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Concerns regarding the risk of cardiac arrhythmia and death have been raised, yet the burden of HCQ and CQ–related cardiac toxicities remains unclear. A systematic literature search was conducted in the MEDLINE and Embase databases for articles published between the earliest date and April 2023 reporting cardiac conduction abnormalities in patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases taking HCQ or CQ. Meta-analysis was performed to calculate the difference in mean corrected QT (QTc) interval and odds ratio of prolonged QTc interval in those taking HCQ or CQ versus not. Of 2673 unique records, 34 met the inclusion criteria, including 70,609 subjects. Thirty-three studies reported outcomes in HCQ and 9 in CQ. Five studies reported outcomes in RA, 11 in SLE, and 18 in populations with mixed rheumatic diseases. Eleven studies reported mean QTc and OR for prolonged QTc for meta-analysis, all reporting outcomes in HCQ. There was a significant increase in mean QTc (10.29 ms, P = 0.458) among HCQ users compared to non-HCQ users in patients with RA. There was no difference in mean QTc between HCQ and non-HCQ users in other systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases. When rheumatic diseases were pooled, HCQ users were more likely to have prolonged QTc compared to non-HCQ users (odds ratio 1.57, 95% CI, 1.19, 2.08). The results of this study suggest that clinicians should be aware of potential adverse cardiac events of HCQ and consider QTc monitoring for patients on HCQ for the treatment of systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases.
Absorbable Biosynthetic Scaffolds in Place of Silicone for Breast Reconstruction: A 9-Year Experience with 53 Patients
Authors: Rehnke Robert D. , Clarke John M. , Goodrum Aaron J. , Badylak Stephen F.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Few series report on using fat grafting as the primary form of breast reconstruction. A 9-year experience with absorbable biosynthetic scaffolds, used in place of silicone implants, for breast reconstruction is reviewed.

Methods:

A clinical quality improvement approach was used to evaluate real-world data on a single plastic surgeon’s experience treating breast reconstruction patients over a 7-year period.

Results:

Fifty-three patients had 74 breasts reconstructed, (following 51 therapeutic mastectomies and 23 prophylactic). Five of the 51 breasts (9.80 %) developed a local recurrence (mean follow-up of 4.5–5.5 years). This compared favorably with the practice’s previous 6 years of silicone reconstructions. The most common complications were benign fat necrosis and oil cysts. More than 100 radiologic examinations were performed without interference by the absorbable implants. By 12–18 months post implantation, very little immune response was seen on histologic examinations of the biosynthetic scaffold constructs. Mature collagen and robust vascularity characterized the “mesh zone,” whereas regenerated adipose tissue was seen in between and on top of the folded sheets of the implants. The average number of fat graft sessions in immediate reconstructions was 2.3, with a mean total fat graft volume of 551 mL, to restore an average mastectomy defect volume of 307 mL. Aesthetic outcomes were much better in the immediate reconstruction of nipple-sparing mastectomy group, which saw 68% achieve an A/B grade; 19%, C grade; and 13%, D/F on subjective grading.

Conclusion:

This composite strategy, using biosynthetic scaffold and autologous fat grafting, yielded outcomes equivalent to flap reconstructions with the ease of implants.
Utilizing Low-cost Vacuum-assisted Closure as Adjuvant Therapy in Soft Tissue Reconstruction for a Mangled Upper Extremity
Authors: Meirizal Meirizal , Magetsari Rahadyan , Anwar Sumadi Lukman , Chaidir Mohammad Rizal , Muhammad Hilmi , Baskara Anak Agung Ngurah Nata , Pradipta Muhammad Fadhil Wasi , Huwaidi A Faiz
Published: May 2024

Soft tissue reconstruction using flaps in managing mangled injuries is occasionally insufficient due to large defects and low flap viability. Conversely, delaying the closure of the defect can elevate the risk of infection. Adjuvant therapy becomes essential in the management of mangled injuries. We aim to present the use of low-cost vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) as an adjuvant therapy for mangled injuries. We reported the case of a 20-year-old man who sustained a mangled injury to his left forearm in a traffic accident 4 hours before admission. The mangled extremity severity score was 9; however, the patient declined amputation. Although the initial reconstruction was done, the flap could only cover vital structures. VAC was utilized to address the uncovered portion of the defect, to promote optimal granulation and prevent infection. The reconstruction proceeded with a skin graft and wrist arthrodesis. At 1-year follow-up, viable tissue was obtained but contracture occurred at the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints. We intend to perform functional reconstruction at a later stage. Although the benefits of VAC in wound management are well established, reports regarding its advantages in mangled injury management remain relatively scarce. The high cost of VAC is a limiting factor, particularly in developing countries. This prompts the need for an affordable VAC innovation with comparable efficiency to the commercial model. Reverse Aqua Pump VAC, our innovative low-cost VAC, shows satisfactory outcomes in managing patients with mangled injuries with mangled extremity severity score indicating amputation.
Embracing tensions throughout crises: The case of an Italian university hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Bergami Massimo , Bullini Orlandi Ludovico , Giuri Paola , Lipparini Andrea , Manca Claudia , Poggioli Gilberto , Russo Marcello , Viale Pierluigi
Published: May 2024

Background

Previous research has identified some tensions that public organizations may encounter during crises. However, there remains a scarcity of research examining how public health care organizations effectively navigate these tensions to reconcile the diverse interests, needs, and demands from various stakeholders.

Purposes

The study seeks to shed light on the dynamics underlying the tensions experienced by public hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic. It illustrates how different hospitals' actors have navigated these tensions, identifying solutions and approaches that fostered collaborative endeavors among internal and external stakeholders.

Methodology

The study draws on qualitative analyses of 49 semistructured interviews and the notes from two focus groups involving key informants at one of the largest university hospitals in Italy. We also rely on the verbatim transcripts from meetings involving the members of the temporary emergency team constituting the taskforce.

Findings

The results highlight the tensions that emerged throughout the different waves of the COVID-19 pandemic and how various actors have managed them in a way to reconcile opposing forces while unleashing adaptability and creativity.

Practice Implications

Hospital managers would benefit from developing a paradoxical mindset for crisis preparedness, allowing them to embrace existing tensions and devise creative solutions to favor resilience and change.
Enhancing midwives' occupational well-being: Lessons from New Zealand's COVID-19 experience
Authors: Mharapara Tago L. , Ravenswood Katherine , Clemons Janine H. , Kirton Gill , Greenslade-Yeats James
Published: May 2024

Background

The World Health Organization posits that adequate maternity health is possible if midwives are supported, respected, protected, motivated, and equipped to work safely and optimally within interdisciplinary health care teams. Based on qualitative survey data, we argue that the COVID-19 pandemic amplified job demands and resources, professional invisibility, and gender norms to negatively impact midwives' well-being.

Purposes

We aim to develop a refined understanding of the antecedents of well-being in midwifery to equip policymakers, administrators, and professional associations with the knowledge to enhance midwives' well-being postpandemic.

Methodology/Approach

Drawing on the Job Demands–Resources model, we thematically analyzed qualitative survey data (N = 215) from New Zealand midwives to reveal how job demands, resources, and structural factors impacted midwives' well-being.

Results

We identified fear of contracting and spreading COVID-19, financial and legal imperatives (job demands), work-related hypervigilance, sense of professional duty, practical and social support, and appreciation and recognition (job resources) as key antecedents of midwives' well-being. These job demands and resources were influenced by professional invisibility and gender norms.

Conclusion

Policy and practice solutions must address job demands, resources, and structural factors to meaningfully enhance midwives' well-being postpandemic.

Practice Implications

We recommend that policymakers, administrators, and professional associations monitor for signs of overcommitment and perfectionistic strivings and then take appropriate remedial action. We also suggest that midwives receive equitable pay, sick leave, and other related benefits.
Stakeholders' Perspectives on the “Helping Babies Breathe” Program Situation in Nepal Following the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kain Victoria J. , Dhungana Ranjan , Basnet Bidhya , Basnet Lila Bahadur , Budhathoki Shyam Sundar , Fatth Waleed , Sherpa Ang Jangmu
Published: May 2024

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted healthcare systems, including resuscitation training programs such as Helping Babies Breathe (HBB). Nepal, a country with limited healthcare resources, faces challenges in delivering effective HBB training, managing deliveries, and providing neonatal care, particularly in remote areas.

Aims:

This study assessed HBB skills and knowledge postpandemic through interviews with key stakeholders in Nepal. It aimed to identify strategies, adaptations, and innovations to address training gaps and scale-up HBB.

Methods:

A qualitative approach was used, employing semistructured interviews about HBB program effectiveness, pandemic challenges, stakeholder engagement, and suggestions for improvement.

Results:

The study encompassed interviews with 23 participants, including HBB trainers, birth attendants, officials, and providers. Thematic analysis employed a systematic approach by deducing themes from study aims and theory. Data underwent iterative coding and refinement to synthesize content yielding following 5 themes: (1) pandemic's impact on HBB training; (2) resource accessibility for training postpandemic; (3) reviving HBB training; (4) impacts on the neonatal workforce; and (5) elements influencing HBB training progress.

Conclusion:

Postpandemic, healthcare workers in Nepal encounter challenges accessing essential resources and delivering HBB training, especially in remote areas. Adequate budgeting and strong commitment from healthcare policy levels are essential to reduce neonatal mortality in the future.
How Should We Answer the Preceptor Invitation?
Authors: Korkosz Jennifer
Published: May 2024

When asked to serve as a preceptor, it is not uncommon to wonder: What should I consider when trying to decide if this is the right time for me to be a preceptor? How can it benefit me and my future career? Should I do it? These are some of the questions we are going to answer.
“You and Me Do It for the Love of Teaching”: Exploring the Expansion of Clinical Training Opportunities for Midwives
Authors: Alspaugh Amy , Blumenfeld Julie , Wright Lyndsay V. , Recalde Shanaya , Lindberg Laura D.
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

To better understand the barriers and facilitators to precepting midwifery students from across the healthcare ecosystem in New Jersey.

Background:

Growing the midwifery workforce is a crucial step to alleviating disparately poor perinatal health outcomes and expanding access to care. Difficulty recruiting and retaining preceptors has been identified as a barrier to graduating more midwives.

Methods:

In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 19 individuals involved in different stages of the clinical training process: midwives, physicians, and administrators. Transcripts were coded using the tenets of qualitative description and thematic analysis. Analysis was guided by the Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services framework.

Results:

The following themes were identified and organized within the domains identified by our conceptual framework. Evidence: (mis)understanding the benefits of midwifery care and impacts on patient care. Context: the time and energy it takes to precept and practice considerations. Facilitations: developing the next generation of healthcare providers and the quiet and ever-present role of money in healthcare.

Conclusions:

Findings from this study support the importance of approaching midwifery precepting as a multifaceted endeavor, one that necessitates the full support of individuals within many different roles in an organization.

Implications for practice and research:

Getting buy-in from various levels of the healthcare ecosystem requires a flexible approach but must include a targeted effort toward showing the value of midwifery care in terms of patient outcomes, satisfaction, and cost.
Effects of Nurse Staffing on Missed Breastfeeding Support in Maternity Units With Different Nurse Work Environments
Authors: Clark Rebecca R. S. , Peele Morgan E. , Mason Aleigha , Lake Eileen T.
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

To examine the effect of nurse staffing in varying work environments on missed breastfeeding teaching and support in inpatient maternity units in the United States.

Background:

Breast milk is the optimal food for newborns. Teaching and supporting women in breastfeeding are primarily a nurse's responsibility. Better maternity nurse staffing (fewer patients per nurse) is associated with less missed breastfeeding teaching and support and increased rates of breastfeeding. We examined the extent to which the nursing work environment, staffing, and nurse education were associated with missed breastfeeding care and how the work environment and staffing interacted to impact missed breastfeeding care.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study using the 2015 National Database of Nursing Quality Indicator survey, maternity nurses in hospitals in 48 states and the District of Columbia responded about their workplace and breastfeeding care. Clustered logistic regression models with interactions were used to estimate the effects of the nursing work environment and staffing on missed breastfeeding care.

Results:

There were 19 486 registered nurses in 444 hospitals. Nearly 3 in 10 (28.2%) nurses reported missing breastfeeding care. In adjusted models, an additional patient per nurse was associated with a 39% increased odds of missed breastfeeding care. Furthermore, 1 standard deviation decrease in the work environment was associated with a 65% increased odds of missed breastfeeding care. In an interaction model, staffing only had a significant impact on missed breastfeeding care in poor work environments.

Conclusions:

We found that the work environment is more fundamental than staffing for ensuring that not only breastfeeding care is not missed but also breastfeeding care is sensitive to nurse staffing. Improvements to the work environment support the provision of breastfeeding care.

Implications for Research and Practice:

Both nurse staffing and the work environment are important for improving breastfeeding rates, but the work environment is foundational.
Fundamentals of Competency-Based Education in Physical Therapy
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jean A. , Jensen Gail M. , Chesbro Steven B.
Published: May 2024

Competency-based education in physical therapy (CBEPT) is an approach to educational design where learner professional progression occurs only when competency is demonstrated. While much of the early focus has been within medicine, CBEPT applies to all health professionals. CBEPT assumes a set of standard defined learning performance outcomes for any level of professional practice—students, residents, or practicing physical therapists. The authors discuss the differences between traditional educational models and a CBEPT educational model, review some key terms for a shared language related to CBEPT, and discuss that while competencies and EPAs are different, they are interrelated. This foundational information and shared language will be helpful for educators to begin to prepare for a shift in physical therapy education toward a CBEPT framework.
Fostering Resilience and Well-Being Among New Graduate Nurses
Authors: Franqueiro Tammy
Published: May 2024

Nearly one third of the U.S. nursing workforce is considering leaving their current job, with millennials new to the role most likely to leave. Newly licensed registered nurses (NLRNs) often feel unprepared and overwhelmed, contributing to the risk of turnover in this workforce segment and amplifying unstable healthcare environments. This evidence-based quality improvement project integrated a resilience and well-being program into a nurse residency program, improving resilience and well-being in NLRNs transitioning to professional practice.
Implementation and Clinical Outcomes of Blood Flow Restriction Training on Adults With Cerebral Palsy: A Case Series
Authors: Joyce Christopher , Aylward Brendan , Rolnick Nicholas , Lachowski Steven
Published: May 2024

Background and Purpose:

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a congenital neurological disorder that causes musculoskeletal weakness and biomechanical dysfunctions. Strength training guidelines recommend at least 70% of 1-repetition maximum to increase muscle strength and mass. However, individuals with CP may not tolerate such high exercise intensity. Blood flow restriction (BFR) can induce similar gains in strength and muscle mass using loads as low as 20% to 30% 1-repetition maximum. This case series described the safety, feasibility, and acceptability of BFR in adults with CP and examined changes in muscle mass and strength.

Case Description:

Three male participants with gross motor function classification system level 3 CP underwent strength training using a periodized 8-week BFR protocol. Outcomes included: Safety via blood pressure during and post-BFR exercises in addition to adverse event tracking; Feasibility via number of support people and time-duration of BFR exercises; Acceptability via rate of perceived discomfort (0-10) and qualitative interviews; Muscle Mass via ultrasonographic cross-sectional area of the quadriceps and hamstring; and Strength via (1) 3-repetition maximum in the leg press and knee extension, (2) isometric knee flexor and extensor muscle force measured with a hand-held dynamometer, and (3) 30-second sit-to-stand test.

Intervention:

Participants replaced 2 exercises from their current regimen with seated knee extension and leg press exercises using progressively higher limb occlusion pressure and exercise intensity. Limb occlusion pressure started at 60%, by week 4 progressed to 80%, and then remained constant. The exercise repetition scheme progressed from fixed nonfailure repetition sets to failure-based repetition sets.

Outcomes:

Blood pressure never exceeded safety threshold, and no adverse events were reported. The BFR training was time-consuming and resource-intensive, but well-tolerated by participants (rate of perceived discomfort with a mean value of 5.8, 100% protocol adherence). Strength, as measured by 3-repetition maximum testing and 30-second sit-to-stand test, increased, but isometric muscle force and muscle mass changes were inconsistent.

Discussion:

Blood flow restriction may be an effective means to increase strength in adults with CP who cannot tolerate high-intensity resistance training. Future research should compare BFR to traditional strength training and investigate mediators of strength changes in this population.

Video Abstract available

for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A473).
The Draft genome sequence of Bacillus subtilis strain S2 Isolated from fermented bamboo drink.
Authors: Jain Priyanshi Mahendrakumar , Cheruvari Athira , Jenifer Helga Maria Tamilselvan , Kammara Rajagopal
Published: May 2024

This work reports the draft genome sequence of the fermented food probiotic Bacillus subtilis strain S2, which has antibacterial activity against Vibrio harveyi, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Streptococcus mutans. From the de novo assembly, a chromosome with 4,438 open reading frames and an approximate size of 4,208,679 bp was obtained. Phylogenetically, B. subtilis S2 and B. subtilis SRCM103571 are closely related. The organism is known to produce two bacteriocins (uniqueness), Sublancin and Subtilosin A, according to investigations done with the use of antiSMASH and BAGEL-4 tools and whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis. Subsequent analysis showed that this organism's genome, with only one complete copy and eight incomplete copies, contains the fewest rRNA operons of the ten genomes examined.
Delving deep into the draft genome of Mangrovibacter sp. SLW1, isolated from Sundarbans mangrove
Authors: Roy Arindam , Ghosh Anwesha , Bhadury Punyasloke
Published: May 2024

Mangrovibacter sp. SLW1, a gram-negative, aerobic, motile bacterium was isolated from mangrove litterfall in Sundarbans mangrove. The draft genome is 5.5 Mbp in size with 49.45 mol% GC content. The linear chromosome of the bacterium consists of 27 contigs with 7339 coding sequences. The genome investigation of Mangrovibacter sp. SLW1 through in depth insilico studies, provide various ecological information. The genome is a reservoir for multiple heavy metals and metalloids resistance gene clusters as well as exhibit metabolic capabilities to utilize a wide range of carbohydrates. It also encodes for tris-catecholate siderophore and this can regulate uptake of iron and plant growth such as for mangrove vegetation.
Prevalence of ABO and Rhesus blood groups in Blood donors: A retrospective study from a tertiary care blood bank in Pondicherry
Authors: Simon Kingsley , Rahul Jain S , Manjineesha S
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The ABO blood group system was the first human blood group system discovered by Austrian scientist Karl Landsteiner in 1901. The ABO blood group system is divided into four blood types on the basis of presence or absence of A and B surface antigens A and B antibodies presence in the plasma. Positive and Negative of the blood group determines by presence or absence of the D antigen..

Objectives

This study was carried out to determine the distribution pattern of blood groups among blood donors at a tertiary care hospital of Puducherry

Materials and Methods

It is a retrospective study done a period of 5 years from May 2017 to May 2022 that includes the 9062 blood donors. Blood group done as per the standard operative procedure. Data on the ABO and Rh blood group type of all blood donors was collected and analysed.

Result

The most common ABO blood group type was Group O (38%) followed by group B (33.5%), group A (21.6%) and group AB (6.9%) and one Bombay blood group. The distribution of Rh(D) blood group type revealed 92.5% as Rh-positive and 7.5% as Rh-negative.

Conclusion

The most common ABO blood group type in our region (Puducherry) is Group O followed by B and A while, AB and Bombay groups are the least common type. Knowledge of the blood group distribution pattern is essential for the effective delivery of blood banking services.
Cystic Fibrosis Australia and Phage Australia survey: Understanding clinical needs and attitudes towards phage therapy in the CF community
Authors: Lynch Stephanie , Sinclair Holly , Khatami Ameneh , Mileham Nicki , Sacher Jessica C , Zheng Jan , Lin Ruby CY , Iredell Jonathan
Published: May 2024

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most prevalent serious inherited disease in Australia, imposing significant health risks. CF is characterised by chronic lung inflammation and recurrent pulmonary infections that increase morbidity and premature mortality rates. The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) places further challenges on the treatment and management of CF, necessitating research into alternative strategies for treatment of bacterial infections. Bacteriophage therapy, involving bacterial-specific viruses, is a potential avenue for AMR infections in patients with CF. Existing literature supports the feasibility of phage therapy in CF but there has been a gap in investigating attitudes of the CF community including affected individuals and their caregivers, regarding phage therapy. Understanding perspectives and needs of the CF community is essential for successful implementation and acceptance of novel therapies including phage therapy.

We conducted a survey that encompasses responses from 112 consumers from across Australia, comprising people living with CF (38.4%), parents of affected children (49.6%), carers (6.4%), and family members (3%). The findings showed a significant reliance on antibiotics with 51.4% requiring oral, 43.4% nebulised, and 11.4% intravenous (IV) antibiotics within the preceding 2 weeks. Respondents highlighted the availability of new treatments, duration of hospitalisations and costs associated with treatment as important priorities to address. Despite an awareness of phage therapy among 62.4% of respondents, 86.4% expressed interest in obtaining more information, primarily from medical staff (66.7%). Notably, 96.0% of respondents expressed willingness to participate in phage therapy trials. The results of this survey highlighted the CF community’s strong interest in advanced therapeutic approaches, specifically phage therapy. The findings reveal a notable recognition and acceptance of phage therapy as a viable treatment option for pulmonary infections associated with CF.
High-throughput Phenotyping of Soybean Biomass: Conventional Trait Estimation and Novel Latent Feature Extraction Using UAV Remote Sensing and Deep Learning Models
Authors: Okada Mashiro , Barras Clément , Toda Yusuke , Hamazaki Kosuke , Ohmori Yoshihiro , Yamasaki Yuji , Takahashi Hirokazu , Takanashi Hideki , Tsuda Mai , Yokota Hirai Masami , Tsujimoto Hisashi , Kaga Akito , Nakazono Mikio , Fujiwara Toru , Iwata Hiroyoshi
Published: May 2024

High throughput phenotyping serves as a framework to reduce chronological costs and accelerate breeding cycles. In this study, we developed models to estimate the phenotypes of biomass-related traits in soybean (Glycine max) using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) remote sensing and deep learning models. In 2018, a field experiment was conducted using 198 soybean germplasm accessions with known whole genome sequences under two irrigation conditions: drought and control. We used a convolutional neural network (CNN) as a model to estimate the phenotypic values of five conventional biomass-related traits: dry weight, main stem length, numbers of nodes and branches, and plant height. We utilized manually measured phenotypes of conventional traits along with RGB images and digital surface models from UAV remote sensing to train our CNN models. The accuracy of the developed models was assessed through 10-fold cross-validation, which demonstrated their ability to accurately estimate the phenotypes of all conventional traits simultaneously. Deep learning enabled us to extract features that exhibited strong correlations with the output (i.e., phenotypes of the target traits) and accurately estimate the values of the features from the input data. We considered the extracted low-dimensional features as phenotypes in the latent space and attempted to annotate them based on the phenotypes of conventional traits. Furthermore, we validated whether these low-dimensional latent features were genetically controlled by assessing the accuracy of genomic predictions. The results revealed the potential utility of these low-dimensional latent features in actual breeding scenarios.
Arabidopsis thaliana ACTIN DEPOLYMERIZING FACTORs play a role in leaf senescence regulation
Authors: Matsumoto Tomoko , Kobayashi Koichi , Inada Noriko
Published: May 2024

ACTIN DEPOLYMERIZING FACTORs (ADFs) regulate the organization and dynamics of actin microfilaments (AFs) by cleavage and depolymerization of AFs. TheArabidopsis thalianagenome encodes 11ADFgenes grouped into four subclasses. Subclass IADFs,ADF1,-2,-3, and-4, are expressed in all vegetative tissues and are reportedly involved in the regulation of plant growth, and biotic and abiotic stress responses. Furthermore, the nuclear localization of ADF4 is seemingly important in disease responses. Here, we present data that indicate a previously unknown regulatory role of subclass I ADFs in leaf senescence.ADF4knockout mutants (adf4) and transgenic lines in which the expression of all members of subclass IADFs was downregulated (ADF1-4Ri) showed acceleration of both dark-induced and age-dependent leaf senescence. Among the eightACTINgenes encoded inA. thaliana,ACT2,-7, and-8are expressed in vegetative tissues. In contrast toadf4andADF1-4Ri, neitherACT2andACT8double mutant (act2/8), norACT7knockout mutant (act7), showed accelerated leaf senescence. Upregulation of the expression of senescence-associated genes occurred earlier inadf4andADF1-4Rilines than in wild type. Examination of the expression of subclass IADFs genes during senescence revealed a reduced expression ofADF4but not of other subclass I members. Additionally, we showed that nuclear localization of ADF4 was important for regulating leaf senescence. Altogether, our data indicate that subclass I ADFs, particularly ADF4, play an important role in the regulation of leaf senescence.
An epilepsy-associated CILK1 variant compromises KATNIP regulation and impairs primary cilia and Hedgehog signaling
Authors: Limerick Ana , McCabe Ellie A. , Turner Jacob S. , Kuang Kevin W. , Brautigan David L. , Hao Yi , Chu Cherry , Fu Sean H. , Ahmadi Sean , Xu Wenhao , Fu Zheng
Published: May 2024

Mutations in humanCILK1(ciliogenesis associated kinase 1) are linked to ciliopathies and epilepsy. Homozygous point and nonsense mutations that extinguish kinase activity impair primary cilia function, whereas mutations outside the kinase domain are not well understood. Here, we produced a knock-in mouse equivalent of the humanCILK1A615T variant identified in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME). This residue is in the C-terminal region of CILK1 separate from the kinase domain. Mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEF) with either heterozygous or homozygous A612T mutant alleles exhibited a higher ciliation rate, shorter individual cilia and up-regulation of ciliary Hedgehog signaling. Thus, a single A612T mutant allele was sufficient to impair primary cilia and ciliary signaling in MEFs. Gene expression profiles of wild type versus mutant MEFs revealed profound changes in cilia-related molecular functions and biological processes. CILK1 A615T mutant protein was not increased to the same level as the wild type protein when co-expressed with scaffold protein KATNIP (katanin-interacting protein). Our data show that KATNIP regulation of a JME-associated single residue variant of CILK1 is compromised and this impairs the maintenance of primary cilia and Hedgehog signaling.
From gene to structure: Unraveling genomic dark matter inCa. Accumulibacter
Authors: Xie Xiaojing , Deng Xuhan , Chen Liping , Yuan Jing , Chen Hang , Wei Chaohai , Feng Chunhua , Liu Xianghui , Qiu Guanglei
Published: May 2024

CandidatusAccumulibacter is a unique and pivotal genus of polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (PAOs) prevalent in wastewater treatment plants, and plays mainstay roles in the global phosphorus cycle. Whereas, the efforts toward a complete understanding of their genetic and metabolic characteristics are largely hindered by major limitations in existing sequence-based annotation methods, leaving more than half of their protein-encoding genes unannotated. To address the challenge, we developed a comprehensive approach integrating pangenome analysis, gene-based protein structure and function prediction, and metatranscriptomic analysis, extending beyond the constraints of sequence-centric methodologies. The application toCa. Accumulibacter allowed the establishment of the pan-Ca. Accumulibacter proteome structure database, providing references for >200,000 proteins.

Benchmarking on 28Ca. Accumulibacter genomes showed major increases in the average annotation coverage from 51% to 83%. Genetic and metabolic characteristics that had eluded exploration via conventional methods were unraveled. For instance, the identification of a previously unknown phosphofructokinase gene suggests that allCa.Accumulibacter encoded a complete Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas pathway. A previously defined homolog of phosphate-specific transport system accessory protein (PhoU) was actually an inorganic phosphate transport (Pit) accessory protein, regulating Pit instead of the high-affinity phosphate transport (Pst), a key to the emergence of the polyphosphate-accumulating trait ofCa.Accumulibacter. Additional lineage members were found encoding complete denitrification pathways. This study offers a readily usable and transferable tool for the establishment of high-coverage annotation reference databases for diverse cultured and uncultured bacteria, facilitating the exploration and understanding of genomic dark matter in the bacterial domain.

Synopsis

A integrated and advanced approach unraveling key genomic dark matter inCa. Accumulibacter and readily applicable to diverse bacteria for customerized high-coverage annotation reference database establishment