bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What rationale for treatment of occupational interstitial lung diseases with the drugs approved for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis?
Authors: Bellani Serena , Spagnolo Paolo
Published: December 2024

Purpose of review

To critically discuss the rationale for the use of drugs approved for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) to treat occupational interstitial lung diseases (OILDs).

Recent findings

Although IPF and OILDs share several clinical, radiological and probably pathogenetic features, currently, OILDs do not have a standard of care. In recent years, our knowledge and understanding of ILDs has improved substantially. Recently, the progressive pulmonary fibrosis (PPF) phenotype, which refers to non-IPF fibrotic ILDs that progress despite appropriate treatment, has been defined. OILDs may also be progressive. Nintedanib, initially approved for treatment of IPF, is also approved in patients with PPF. On the other hand, pirfenidone is approved in IPF but not in PPF, due to the lack of robust evidence of efficacy in this patient subset.

OILDs are a large and highly heterogeneous group of conditions without a proper standard of care. Nintedanib may slow functional decline and disease progression in progressive OILDs, and new clinical trials are ongoing.
Bacteriophage Therapy for Acute Fracture-Related Infections: An Effective Treatment When Compared With Antibiotics in a Canine Model
Authors: Schweser Kyle , Bozynski Chantelle C. , Stoker Aaron M. , Gull Tamara , Duren Dana , Cook James L.
Published: December 2024

OBJECTIVES:

To determine the effectiveness of bacteriophage therapy for the treatment of fracture related infections compared to antibiotic therapy in a preclinical canine model.

Design:

Preclinical controlled large-animal model study.

Outcome and Measures Comparison:

Clearance of bacteria based on CFU/g, callus formation based on radiographs and histomorphometry, callus maturity based on histomorphometry, and biofilm clearance based on semi-quantitative histomorphometry.

METHODS:

A canine model was used for this preclinical study examining bacteriophages specifically cultivated against Staphylococcus aureus (OJ1). Based on sample size calculations and ethical care and use of animals, bilateral 1-cm ulnar defects (n = 32; 16 dogs) were created and stabilized using plate and screw fixation. Implants were incubated in a suspension of biofilm-producing S. aureus (OJ1). After 3 weeks, bone samples from fracture sites were cultured and surgical sites underwent irrigation and debridement (I&D) with retention of hardware, followed by 1 of 4 treatments (n = 8 per group): no additional treatment, 6 weeks of parenteral antibiotics, 7 days of bacteriophage therapy, or combination antibiotic/bacteriophage therapy. At 11 weeks, dogs were humanely euthanatized and bacterial load, callus formation, and histomorphometry for callus maturity and biofilm formation were assessed using quantitative microbial bone cultures, radiography, and semi-quantitative histomorphometry.

RESULTS:

At 3 weeks, all dogs had confirmed infections. At 11 weeks, fractures that received bacteriophage therapy had statistically significant reductions in CFU/g when compared to those that did not receive bacteriophage. Fractures treated with bacteriophages had statistically significantly more robust callus formation on radiographs at 11 weeks, as well as, decreased biofilm formation and statistically significant increase in bone formation on histology/histomorphometry when compared to fractures that did not receive bacteriophages.

CONCLUSIONS:

Seven days of bacteriophage therapy was at least as good as 6 weeks of antibiotic therapy in terms of clearance of acute FRIs. It was superior in terms of reduction in CFU/g, better callus formation, and biofilm clearance.
Nanomedicine: The new trend and future of precision medicine for inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Li Huanyu , Pan Meng , Li Yifan , Liang Hao , Cui Manli , Zhang Mingzhen , Zhang Mingxin
Published: December 2024

Nanomedicine is an interdisciplinary area that utilizes nanoscience and technology in the realm of medicine. Rapid advances in science and technology have propelled the medical sector into a new era. The most commonly used nanotechnology in the field of medicine is nanoparticles. Due to their unique physicochemical properties, nanoparticles offer significant benefits of precision medicine for diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease that cannot be effectively treated by existing approaches. Nanomedicine has emerged as a highly active research field, with extensive scientific and technological studies being carried out, as well as growing international competition in the commercialization of this field. The accumulation of expertise in the key technologies relating to nanomedicine would provide strategic advantages in the development of cutting-edge medical techniques. This review presented a comprehensive analysis of the primary uses of nanoparticles in medicine, including recent advances in their application for the diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. Furthermore, we discussed the challenges and possibilities associated with the application of nanoparticles in clinical settings.
Salt Sensitivity of Blood Pressure and the Role of the Immune System in Hypertension
Authors: Flores Jackeline , Pena Camilo , Nugent Kenneth
Published: December 2024

Salt-sensitive blood pressure is a clinical phenotype defined as exaggerated blood pressure responses to salt loading and salt depletion. This characteristic occurs in 25% of the general population and 50% of patients with hypertension and contributes to the pathogenesis of hypertension in some patients. Hypertension is associated with chronic inflammatory responses and has immune cell accumulation in several hypertensive target organs, including the brain, kidneys, heart, blood vessels, and the perivascular adipose tissue, and these cellular responses likely exacerbate hypertension. The different factors implicated in the pathogenesis of salt-sensitive hypertension include renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system dysfunction, aldosterone-dependent and aldosterone-independent mineralocorticoid receptor signaling, and the sympathetic nervous system dysfunction. Experimental studies have shown an important role of both innate and adaptive immune cells, especially lymphocytes, in angiotensin II-induced hypertension. The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) allows entry of sodium into dendritic cells, and this leads to a sequence of events, including the production of reactive oxygen species, which activates the NLRP3 inflammasome and contributes to salt-sensitive hypertension through the amiloride-sensitive ENaC and isolevuglandin-adduct formation. This review summarizes the general aspects of salt sensitivity, focuses on the immunological/inflammatory factors involved in its development, considers general changes in microvasculature, and discusses management.
Light-adjustable lens in eyes with a history of radial keratotomy
Authors: Webster Madison , Baartman Brandon , Jones Marlee , Terveen Daniel C. , Berdahl John P. , Thompson Vance , Kramer Brent A. , Ferguson Tanner J.
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate visual and refractive outcomes in eyes with a history of radial keratotomy (RK) implanted with the second-generation light-adjustable lens (LAL).

Setting:

Private practice, multiple locations.

Design:

Retrospective, consecutive case series.

Methods:

Eyes with a history of RK that underwent cataract surgery with implantation of the LAL and were targeted for emmetropia before lock-in were included. Data on the type and number of prior refractive surgeries were collected, in addition to the timing and number of postoperative adjustments. The primary outcome measures were uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity, and the percentage (%) of eyes within ±1.00 diopter (D), ±0.50 D, and ±0.25 D and of their refractive target.

Results:

94 eyes from 77 patients were included. 28% (n = 26) were a history of 4-cut RK, 12% (n = 11) were 6-cut RK, 55% (n = 52) were 8-cut RK, and 5% (n = 5) were 16-cut RK. Overall, 82% (n = 77) of all eyes achieved 20/25 UDVA or better, 74% (n = 70) of all eyes achieved UDVA of 20/20 or better, and 94% (n = 88) were correctable to 20/20 or better postoperatively. For refractive outcomes, 98% (n = 92) of eyes were within ±1.00 D of target, 88% (n = 83) were within ±0.50 D, and 69% (n = 65) were within ±0.25 D of preoperative refractive target.

Conclusions:

Patients with a history of RK achieved favorable visual and refractive outcomes with the LAL. Postoperative light adjustments should be delayed to allow for refractive stabilization. The LAL is a promising option for post-RK patients who are motivated to obtain favorable uncorrected acuity after cataract surgery.
Effectiveness and safety of a thermo-mechanical action device versus thermal pulsation device in the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction
Authors: Sadri Ehsan , Verachtert Anthony , Parkhurst Gregory D. , Echegoyen Julio , Klein Ifat , Agmon Yael G. , Berdy Gregg J.
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of thermo-mechanical action (Tixel C, Novoxel) compared with thermal pulsation (LipiFlow, Johnson & Johnson) in meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

Setting:

Private clinics and University clinic, USA

Design:

Prospective, randomized (1:1), evaluator-masked, multicenter study

Methods:

Subjects with Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) between 23 and 79, fluorescein tear break-up time (TBUT) <10 s and Meibomian Gland Score (MGS) ≤12 in each eye received bilateral thermo-mechanical action (TMA) or thermal pulsation (TP). The treatment consisted of three sessions, two weeks apart, for TMA and one session for TP. TBUT, OSDI, MGS, and corneal and conjunctival staining (CCS) were assessed at baseline and at Weeks 4 and 12 post-last treatment session. The primary effectiveness endpoint was change in TBUT at Week 4.

Results:

Among the 106 treated subjects (N=53 per group), TBUT improved significantly (p<0.001) by 3.0±3.2 and 3.1±4.3 seconds after TMA and 2.7±2.7 and 3.3±3.6 seconds after TP, at Week 4 and Week 12, respectively. The change in TBUT for TMA was non-inferior to TP (linear mixed-effects model, p<0.001). OSDI, MGS and CCS significantly improved from baseline (p<0.001), with no significant between-group differences (p>0.05). OSDI improved by 26.4±21.1 and 28.6±22.4 after TMA and 18.8±21.0 and 21.9±18.5 after TP, at Week 4 and Week 12, respectively. No device-related adverse event occurred in either group.

Conclusion:

TMA safely and effectively improved clinical signs and symptoms of evaporative dry eye disease associated with MGD over a 12-week period, comparable to TP.
Reorganization of lateral habenula neuronal connectivity underlies pain-related impairment in spatial memory encoding
Authors: Cardoso-Cruz Helder , Monteiro Clara , Galhardo Vasco
Published: December 2024

Dysfunctional hyperactivity of the lateral habenula nucleus (LHb) has emerged as a critical marker for pain-related mood impairments. Acting as a central hub, the LHb filters and disseminates pertinent information to other brain structures during learning. However, it is not well understood how intra-LHb activity is altered during cognitive demand under neuropathic pain conditions. To address this gap, we implanted an optrode structure to record neuronal activity in adult male CD (rat strain without definition) rats during the execution of a delayed nonmatch-to-sample (DNMS) spatial working memory (WM) task. We selectively modulated intra-LHb network activity by optogenetically inhibiting local LHb CaMKIIα (calcium calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II alpha)-expressing neurons during the delay phase of the DNMS task. Behavioral assessments were conducted using a persistent rodent model of neuropathic pain—spared nerve injury. Our results showed that the induction of neuropathic pain disrupted WM encoding accuracy and intra-LHb functional neuronal connectivity. This disruption was reversed by optogenetic inhibition of LHb CaMKIIα-expressing neurons, which also produced antinociceptive effects. Together, our findings provide insight into how intra-LHb networks reorganize information to support different task contexts, suggesting that the abnormal pain-related intra-LHb dynamic segregation of information may contribute to poor cognitive accuracy in male rodents during pain experiences.
The role of pain expectancy and its confidence in placebo hypoalgesia and nocebo hyperalgesia
Authors: Camerone Eleonora Maria , Tosi Giorgia , Romano Daniele
Published: December 2024

Placebo hypoalgesia and nocebo hyperalgesia, which exemplify the impact of expectations on pain, have recently been conceptualised as Bayesian inferential processes, yet empirical evidence remains limited. Here, we explore whether these phenomena can be unified within the same Bayesian framework by testing the predictive role of expectations and their level of precision (ie, expectation confidence) on pain, with both predictors measured at the metacognitive level. Sixty healthy volunteers underwent a pain test (ie, 8 noxious electrical stimuli) before (Baseline) and after (T0, T1, T2) receiving a sham treatment associated with hypoalgesic (placebo), hyperalgesic (nocebo), or neutral (control) verbal suggestions, depending on group allocation. Trial-by-trial expectations, their precision, and perceived pain were measured. Skin conductance response (SCR) was also recorded as an autonomic response marker. Bayesian linear mixed models analyses revealed that, for both placebo and nocebo, pain was predicted by expectations alone and by their interaction with expectations precision. In addition, the discrepancy between expected and perceived pain was predicted by expectation precision, with greater alignment between expected and perceived pain when precision was higher. This suggests that both placebo and nocebo responses are well described from a Bayesian perspective. A main effect of time for SCR was observed, suggesting habituation to painful stimuli. Our data provide evidence indicating that both placebo hypoalgesia and nocebo hyperalgesia can be unified within the same Bayesian framework in which not only expectations but also their level of precision, both measured at the metacognitive level, are key determinants of the pain inferential process.
An older rehabilitation inpatient with severe neurogenic orthostatic hypotension: a case report
Authors: Ariel Ben , Soloveichik Valerie , Bilek Aaron Jason
Published: December 2024

This case reports the inpatient rehabilitation course of an 81-year-old male patient with a traumatic brain injury resulting from severe neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (OH). Diagnostic workup of OH revealed the coexistence of Parkinson disease, hypocortisolism due to traumatic brain injury, and deconditioning, among other contributing factors. The patient’s lengthy rehabilitation course involved intensive inpatient rehabilitation activities, pharmacological management of OH, and treatment of underlying medical conditions. Over a 90-day period, the patient’s Functional Independence Measure score increased from 53 to 83, and he regained the ability to ambulate. This case is unique in providing a previously unpublished therapeutic approach to diagnosing and treating a severe, multifactorial barrier to rehabilitation commonly seen in older rehabilitation inpatients.
Artificial Intelligence in Dermatology: A Systematized Review
Authors: Biswas Soumi , Achar Unmesh , Hakim Benazir , Achar Arun
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has gaining more and more importance in diagnosis of dermatologic conditions since COVID-19 pandemic. Most of the literature on AI in dermatology focus on melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer detection, with reporting from 81.0%-99.0%. Other commonly studied diseases include psoriasis, acne vulgaris, onychomycosis, atopic dermatitis. While AI has the potential to improve access to dermatologic care, especially in underserved communities, challenges remain in its implementation. Here we review the different application of AI in dermatology and their outcomes, focusing on the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity of different AI algorithm in diagnosis of different skin conditions. This review may provide an organized summary of the various applications of AI in dermatology and their potential outcomes.
New genotypes in the structure of the Russian population of Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Nosov Nikita , Nikonorova Eugenia , Solomka Victoria , Plakhova Ksenia , Shagabieva Yulia , Okhlopkova Olesya , Kubanov Alexey
Published: December 2024

Currently, despite the persistently high incidence of gonococcal infection, the rapid development of Neisseria gonorrhoeae resistance to antimicrobial agents increases the risk of untreatable forms of gonorrhea. Monitoring the spread of antimicrobial-resistant N. gonorrhoeae is a major priority for national surveillance programs. Started in 2021-2022 in Russian Federation, it showed that the trend of the increased sensitivity to penicillins, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, and macrolides was replaced by an increase in the number of strains resistant to these drugs, including multi-resistant ones. Molecular typing of strains revealed changes in the genetic structure of the N. gonorrhoeae population, which was long considered to be very conservative; in particular, a significant increase in strains of the new MLST genogroups, previously rarely seen, was identified. Whole-genome sequencing data showed the formation of a separate clusters consisting of strains within the MLST10314, MLST9363 and MLST8143 genogroups. A large number of single nucleotide polymorphisms in the genes of the mtrCDE and mtrR efflux system were revealed. The obtained results indicate the need to enhance both measures to control the spread of antibiotic-resistant N. gonorrhoeae strains and continue whole-genome sequencing of the Russian N. gonorrhoeae population to identify strains with genetic determinants of antimicrobial resistance.
Epidemiology of Musculoskeletal Injuries in Professional Ballet Dancers at the Opéra de Paris
Authors: Barreau Xavière , Courtin Cyril , Ramos-Pascual Sonia , Kumble Ankitha , Saffarini Mo , Nogier Alexis
Published: December 2024

Objective:

To describe the incidence, location, and type of musculoskeletal injuries in ballet dancers at the Opéra de Paris from 2018 to 2023 and to evaluate the effect of COVID-19 on injury incidence.

Design:

Descriptive Retrospective Study.

Setting:

Primary.

Patients:

Professional ballet dancers registered at the Opéra de Paris across 5 seasons (September 1, 2018–June 30, 2023).

Independent variables:

Demographics (age, body mass index, sex, rank).

Main Outcome Measures:

Injury data (duration, mechanism, location, and type).

Results:

The incidence proportion of musculoskeletal injuries ranged from 47.1% to 72.6% per season between 2018 and 2023. Dancers most commonly sustained foot (49.3%) and ankle (45.1%) injuries, with 75.6% of dancers sustaining a lower limb injury. Compared with the 2018 to 2019 season, the risk of a dancer sustaining an injury was significantly lower in the COVID-19 season (2019–2020) (OR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.21-0.53; P < 0.001), while the risk of an injury resulting in time loss was significantly lower in the 2022 to 2023 season (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.27-0.64; P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

The incidence of musculoskeletal injuries in professional ballet dancers was as high as 72.6% per season between 2018 and 2023, with the most common injury location being the foot and ankle. Compared with that in the 2018 to 2019 season, the risk of a dancer sustaining an injury was significantly lower in the COVID-19 season (2019–2020). These findings can help anticipate musculoskeletal injuries in professional ballet dancers and improve injury prevention programs, by developing targeted training schemes.
Hepatitis C–positive grafts for hepatitis C–negative recipients in liver transplantation: Buried treasure or depleting resource?
Authors: Nakayama Toshihiro , Krist David T. , Akabane Miho , Imaoka Yuki , Esquivel Carlos O. , Kwong Allison J. , Kwo Paul Y. , Melcher Marc L. , Sasaki Kazunari
Published: December 2024

Long-term outcomes of using HCV-positive donors in HCV-negative recipients in liver transplantation (LT) are not well established. Data from the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database between July 1, 2015, and December 31, 2023, were analyzed. The cohort included 44,447 HCV antibody-negative (Ab−) candidates who underwent deceased donor LT. Changes in case numbers and utilization rates of HCV-positive donors, divided into HCV-viremic (NAT+) or Ab+ nonviremic (Ab+/NAT−), were assessed. Kaplan-Meier analysis and propensity score matching were used to evaluate 5-year graft survival. The number of HCV-viremic donation after brain death (DBD) donors and their use in LT for HCV Ab− recipients peaked at 640 donors in 2019 and 289 LTs in 2022. In contrast, Ab+ nonviremic DBD donations are rising, with 536 donors and 284 LTs in 2023. The utilization rate of viremic DBD grafts has continuously decreased despite increased willingness by waitlist candidates to accept them. HCV-positive donation after circulatory death donors were seldom utilized in the study period. The 5-year graft survival rates for HCV-viremic, Ab+ nonviremic, and naïve donors were not significantly different in either DBD (p = 0.56) or donation after circulatory death (p = 0.52). Furthermore, Ishak stage 2 or 3 fibrotic DBD grafts had similar 5-year graft survival to nonfibrotic grafts. The findings suggest that the long-term outcome of using HCV-viremic DBD or donation after circulatory death grafts for HCV-negative recipients is comparable to that of other graft types and that fibrotic grafts have the potential to expand the DBD donor pool.
Endothelial progenitor cells have high predictive value for ventricular remodeling after percutaneous coronary intervention in acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Ma Yongxiang , Niu Lijian , Zhang Jing , Yu Fei , Huang Wenjun
Published: December 2024

Objective

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and the following heart failure are main causes of disability and death across the globe. Endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) levels are linked to AMI. Herein, we assessed the predictive value of EPCs for post-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) ventricular remodeling in AMI patients.

Methods

This study retrospectively analyzed 215 AMI patients receiving PCI, who were then categorized into the VR (n = 66) and N-VR (n = 149) groups as per whether they developed post-PCI ventricular remodeling. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP), and EPCs were measured. The correlations of LVEF and NT-pro-BNP with EPCs, the predictive value of EPCs for post-PCI ventricular remodeling, and the risk of post-PCI ventricular remodeling in AMI patients with different EPC levels were analyzed by Spearman’s analysis, receiver-operating characteristic curve, and Kaplan–Meier curve.

Results

LVEF and EPC levels were lower and NT-pro-BNP level was higher in the VR group than the N-VR group. EPC levels in the class III–IV group were lower than those in the class I–II group. EPC levels in AMI patients correlated positively with LVEF (r = 0.683) and negatively with NT-pro-BNP (r = −0.761). EPCs exhibited high predictive value for post-PCI ventricular remodeling in AMI [area under the curve (AUC) of 0.822] and anterior MI (AUC = 0.941) patients. AMI and anterior MI patients with low EPC levels had a higher risk of post-PCI ventricular remodeling.

Conclusion

Low EPC levels have high predictive value for post-PCI ventricular remodeling, and increase the risk of post-PCI ventricular remodeling in AMI patients.
Online Education to Improve Palliative Care Professionals’ Knowledge of Sleep Management
Authors: Zadeh Rana Sagha , Capezuti Elizabeth , Brigham Michael Ames , Dias Brooke Ana , Kim Benjamin Chanhee , Lengetti Evie , Krieger Ana C.
Published: December 2024

Inadequate sleep is a common problem among those receiving palliative care services, yet there is limited knowledge regarding nonpharmacological sleep interventions among staff. An educational online program was developed to address this deficit. This study assessed the extent of knowledge acquired following the online educational sleep program and determined the feasibility of using this intervention with palliative care professionals. Thirty-one participants (54.8% licensed nurses) completed the educational program. Most worked in either inpatient residential (38.7%) or home-based (35.5%) settings and had considerable experience working in palliative care. The total average pretest score was 67.5% (SD, 6.5%; range, 56.3%-79.2%) compared with the total average posttest score of 93.1% (SD, 6.0; range, 78.7%-100%). There was a significant mean difference in the scores as documented by a paired-sample t test (t
30 = −21.9, P < .0001). The results did not differ between the disciplines and those working in each setting or by years of experience. The study had a 51.6% recruitment rate and an 88.6% retention rate. The significant increase in the palliative care professionals’ knowledge following the educational program suggests it is a useful tool for nurses, aides, social workers, and managers to improve direct care.
Nurses' Voices in Media
Authors: Mason Diana J. , Glickstein Barbara , Begley Robyn , Hancock Beverly J. , Drenkard Karen , Ricciardi Richard
Published: December 2024

Nurses comprise the largest group of health professionals yet are underrepresented in health news media, depriving the public of important perspectives on health and healthcare and undermining the public's perceptions of nurses as experts. The George Washington University School of Nursing's Center for Health Policy and Media Engagement partnered with the American Organization for Nursing Leadership to invite a small group of chief nursing officers to participate in a workshop aimed at building an organization-specific strategy for sharing nurses' expertise with the public through media engagement. Participants completed a preworkshop survey, participated in two 4-hour workshops to explore the factors that contribute to nurses' invisibility as media sources, and developed a strategic plan for ensuring that their healthcare organizations are able to recognize and share their nurses' expertise with media. This article describes the initiative, its outcomes, and the implications for nurse leaders.
Brief Report: Associations Between Gender and Solicited Adverse Events After Passive Infusion of VRC01 or Placebo in HVTN 704/HPTN 085
Authors: Theodore Deborah A. , Neradilek Moni , Gillespie Kevin , Edupuganti Srilatha , Hinojosa Juan Carlos , Lama Javier R. , De La Grecca Robert , Wu Yi H. , Davis Annet , Mangini Daniel , Andrew Philip , Marovich Mary A. , Zwerski Sheryl , Broder Gail , Andrasik Michele P. , Castor Delivette , Roxby Alison C. , Cohen Myron , Huang Yunda , Karuna Shelly T. , Sobieszczyk Magdalena E.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Realizing the potential of HIV prevention options requires understanding product tolerability across diverse groups vulnerable to HIV acquisition. Gender minority (GM) individuals are understudied in clinical trials.

Setting:

HVTN 704/HIV Prevention Trials Network 085, a phase 2b randomized HIV prevention trial, enrolled MSM and transgender participants from Brazil, Peru, Switzerland, and the United States to receive an infusion every 8 weeks (10 total) of VRC01 30 mg/kg, VRC01 10 mg/kg, or placebo. Solicited adverse events (AEs) were recorded for 3 days after each infusion.

Methods:

Gender was defined by self-report and sex assigned-at-birth. Multivariate mixed logistic models were used to estimate the association between gender (cisgender men [CM] vs. GM participants [transgender women, transgender men, or another gender]) and solicited AE frequency and severity.

Results:

GM participants reported more solicited AEs than CM among all participants (adjusted OR 1.59, 95% CI: 1.20 to 2.10, P = 0.001) and among placebo recipients (1.72, 1.05 to 2.81, P = 0.031). The severity of solicited AEs (occurrence of grade 2 and higher event) did not significantly differ overall (1.83, 0.79 to 4.20, P = 0.174) or among placebo recipients (3.05, 0.76 to 12.32, P = 0.112). Grade 2 events were reported after 1% and 2% of total infusions among CM and GM participants, respectively. Grade 3–4 events were rare overall (<0.1%). Completion of 10 infusions was high (78.6%) and slightly higher in CM (79.2%) than GM participants (73%).

Conclusions:

This is the first report of associations between gender and solicited AEs after monoclonal antibody infusion. GM participants reported more events; severity was low. HIV prevention trials must engage and support GM individuals to best evaluate tolerability of novel agents.
A Rare Case of Submandibular Neurilemmoma Inducing Submandibular Gland Sialolithiasis
Authors: Guo Xin-Ran , Guan Ji-Dong , Cai Heng-Xing , Fang Wei
Published: December 2024

Most sialolithiasis occurs in the submandibular glands, which are highly related to the anatomy and secretory function of the submandibular glands. The authors report an 18-year-old patient with multiple submandibular gland duct stones combined with submandibular neurilemmoma. The course of diagnosis and treatment is highlighted, and the causes of the formation of multiple stones in this patient are analyzed.
A Novel Genetic Variation Identified in Patients With Orofacial Clefts
Authors: Yu Li-Ling , Zeng Qi , Yu Bao-Fu , Wei Jiao , Dai Chuan-Chang
Published: December 2024

Background:

Orofacial clefts represent the most prevalent form of craniomaxillofacial deformity. Genetic factors are particularly significant in the development of orofacial clefts. This study was to investigate genetic variation in patients with orofacial clefts.

Methods:

This is a retrospective descriptive study. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was conducted to identify mutated genes and mutation loci in patients with orofacial clefts. The identified mutation was validated through Sanger sequencing. Furthermore, functional analysis of the mutated gene was performed by utilizing a comprehensive database.

Results:

The results of WES showed IRF6 was mutated, and the variant locus was IRF6: NM_006147.4, IRF6 c.174+1delG chr1-209974583-ac-a. The variant locus was detected in the patient’s mother with orofacial clefts by Sanger sequencing. The Human Gene Database for variant gene shows that the IRF6 gene may be associated with craniomaxillofacial developmental abnormalities.

Conclusion:

The authors identified a novel locus within the IRF6 gene in a family with orofacial clefts that has not been previously reported. Functional analysis of the mutated gene suggests that this newly discovered mutation site may be associated with the genetic etiology of orofacial clefts in these patients. The findings will provide valuable data for elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying orofacial clefts.

Level of evidence:

IV.
Bacterial skin infection caused by a plant pathogen Kosakonia cowanii - Identification with the MALDI Biotyper Sirius one and susceptibility testing

Authors: Merlino John , Pillay Kiora , Rizzo Sophia , Baskar Sai Rupa , Seed Daniel , Siarakas Steven , Hettiarachchi Ravin , McKew Genevieve , Gray Timothy
Published: December 2024

Kosakonia cowanii is a Gram-negative bacillus belonging to the order Enterobacterales. Kosakonia cowanii is a plant pathogen, we report the isolation of this organism from a gardening puncture injury from a plant. Pus examined from the site of infection showed the infecting organism as Kosakonia cowanii by MALDI-TOF MS Biotyper Sirius one and 16s rRNA analysis. The organism failed to be identified biochemically by the Vitek 2 XL identification system as Kosakonia spp.. The Gram-negative bacilli on the system was biochemically identified as Pantoea spp.. Difficulties in species identification biochemically suggests that potentially, Kosakonia cowanii might represent an underestimated opportunistic human pathogen in skin infections associated with plant injuries. The MALDI-TOF MS Biotyper Sirius one software was found to be a fast and reliable identification of the organism. The isolate was found to be susceptible to first generation cephalosporins, both to cefalexin and cefazolin by disc diffusion and Vitek 2 XL even though antibiotic breakpoints currently do not exist using EUCAST or CLSI guidelines for this organism.
Draft Genome of Halorubrum amylolyticum CSM52: A Halophilic Archaea from Triassic Salt in Northern Ireland
Authors: Thompson Thomas P , Megaw Julianne , Fakhoury Asma A. , Kelly Stephen A. , Gilmore Brendan F.
Published: December 2024

The draft genome of Halorubrum amylolyticum CSM52, an archaeal strain exhibiting distinctive cross-domain signaling capabilities, was isolated from a Triassic halite deposit in Northern Ireland and has been sequenced and analysed. Identified as closely related to Halorubrum amylolyticum based on 16S rRNA sequence identity, this genome spans approximately 3.9 Mb, with a GC content of 57.3%, comprising 3657 coding sequences.
High and low current perceived stress associated with enhanced emotional mnemonic discrimination
Authors: Vas Rishi , Phillips Taylor , Ferguson Lorena A. , Harikumar Amritha , Castro Madelyn , Leal Stephanie L.
Published: December 2024

Stress can have profound impacts on memory. However, the directionality of stress effects on memory varies widely across studies, some showing enhancement while others showing impairment. This variability has been attributed to the Yerkes-Dodson Law, which proposes a U-shaped pattern such that too little or too much stress may be associated with cognitive dysfunction. The impact of stress on memory may also depend on what aspects of memory are being measured (e.g., emotional content, gist vs. detail) and how stress is measured (e.g., physiological measures, self-report). Here, we aimed to examine how self-reported perceived stress in the current moment was associated with memory performance. We used an emotional memory task designed to tap into potential gist versus detail trade-offs of stress impacting memory (e.g., target recognition, lure discrimination). Participants (ages 18-35) reported their current level of perceived stress. We replicated prior work showing impaired emotional relative to neutral lure discrimination in young adults in support of a gist versus detail trade-off in emotional memory. However, those with low and high current perceived stress showed better emotional lure discrimination compared to those with moderate current perceived stress. These results are in line with the Yerkes-Dodson Law but suggest that the directionality of the impact of stress on memory may depend on the type of memory measured. Low and high current perceived stress was associated with greater detailed memory, especially for emotional information, which may be maladaptive given gist vs. detail trade-offs in emotional memory.
Observation of the
J≤7/2
low-spin states in
Fr213
populated in the electron capture of the
1/2−
ground state of
Ra213
Authors: Clisu C. , Andreyev A. N. , Nita C. R. , Lica R. , Naïdja H. , Andel B. , Antalic S. , Berry T. A. , Borge M. J. G. , Cocolios T. E. , Costache C. , Cubiss J. G. , De Witte H. , Fraile L. M. , Fynbo H. , Gadelshin V. M. , Granados C. , Greenlees P. , Heinke R. , Huyse M. , Lazarus I. , Leimbach D. , Marginean N. , Marginean R. , Marsh B. A. , Mihai C. , Mosat P. , Nacher E. , Negret A. , Ovejas J. D. , Page R. D. , Pascu S. , Perea A. , Podolyak Zs. , Pucknell V. , Rahkila P. , Rezynkina K. , Rossel R. E. , Sotty C. O. , Stan L. , Studer D. , Tengblad O. , Van Duppen P. , Vedia V. , Warr N. ,   The IDS Collaboration
Published: December 2024

A detailed level scheme of Fr126213 following the EC/β+ decay of the 1/2−Ra213 parent ground state was built in an experiment performed at the ISOLDE Decay Station, CERN. The fragmented total β decay strength favours the direct population of several low-spin (J≤7/2) excited states. The analysis of the γ-singles spectrum and γ−γ coincidences allowed us to identify many new γ-ray transitions and excited states in Fr213 up to about 3.6 MeV excitation energy. The spins and parities of the newly established levels, on top of the (7/21−) state, were mainly assigned based on the systematics of the N=126 isotones and further compared with shell-model calculations. The level scheme displays a structural pattern, with several groups of states with negative parity, emerging from the well-defined, simple, π(h9/25), π(h9/24f7/21) configurations or from their configuration mixing. The strength of the 2 transitions within the multiplets is compared with shell-model theoretical calculations performed with the and 208 effective interactions. A new (3/2−) isomer with a half-life of 26(3) ns has been identified. An upper limit of 35 ps was determined for the half-life of the first excited state,

7

/

2

−

. The possibility of a mixed M1+E2 character is discussed for the 7/21−→9/2gs− decay in Fr213, which leads to an l-forbidden nature of the πf7/2→πh9/2 transition.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Spin polarization of fermions at local equilibrium: Second-order gradient expansion
Authors: Sheng Xin-Li , Becattini Francesco , Huang Xu-Guang , Zhang Zhong-Hua
Published: December 2024

We present a calculation of the spin polarization of spin-1/2 fermions in a relativistic fluid at local thermodynamic equilibrium at the second order in the gradient expansion, including second-order derivatives. The second-order derivative terms vanish if the local equilibrium hypersurface is the hyperplane t=const in the collision center-of-mass frame. However, since the freeze-out hypersurface has a nontrivial space-time structure, these terms may result in a nonvanishing contribution to the spin polarization, whose magnitude needs to be assessed with numerical computations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Search for QCD axion dark matter with transmon qubits and quantum circuit
Authors: Chen Shion , Fukuda Hajime , Inada Toshiaki , Moroi Takeo , Nitta Tatsumi , Sichanugrist Thanaporn
Published: December 2024

We propose a direct axion dark matter (DM) search using superconducting transmon quantum bits (qubits) as quantum sensors. With an external magnetic field applied, axion DM generates an oscillating electric field, which causes the excitation of the qubit. Such an excitation can be regarded as a signal of the axion DM. We provide a theoretical consideration of the excitation process of the qubits, taking into account the effects of the shielding cavity surrounding the qubits, and estimate the signal rate for the axion DM detection. We also discuss the enhancement of the DM signal by using cavity resonance and entangled quantum sensors realized by a quantum circuit. Combining these two effects, we can reach the parameter region suggested by QCD axion models.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Geodesics in Carrollian Reissner-Nordström black holes
Authors: Chen Bin , Sun Haowei , Xu Jie
Published: December 2024

In this work, we study the geodesics in different Carrollian limits of RN (Reissner-Nordström) black holes, considering the motions of both neutral and charged particles. We use the geodesic equations in the weak Carrollian structure and analyze the corresponding trajectories projected onto the absolute space, and find that the geodesics are well defined. In particular, we examine the electric-electric and magnetic-electric limit of the RN black hole, focusing on their geodesic structures. We find that the global structures of the usual RN black holes get squeezed under the ultrarelativistic limit. More precisely, the nonextreme magnetic-electric RN spacetime has two different asymptotic flat patches while the extreme black hole spacetime consists of only one patch. For the magnetic-electric RN spacetime, the Carrollian extremal surfaces (CESs) divide the spacetime into several geodesically complete regions, and the geodesics can only travel in one of these regions. For the charged particles, we extend the analysis by considering their interactions with the electromagnetic field in the Carrollian RN spacetimes and find that their trajectories are significantly different from the neutral geodesics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Dislocation dynamics in Ni: Parameterizing dislocation trajectories from atomistic simulations
Authors: Anis Geraldine , Hudson Thomas , Brommer Peter
Published: December 2024

We present a methodology using Differential Evolution Monte Carlo (DE-MC) to fit the parameters of an equation of motion to molecular dynamics (MD) trajectories of an a2〈110〉{111} edge dislocation in pure face-centered cubic (FCC) Ni, which is used as a model system. The motion of the edge dislocation under shear was observed using MD simulations with a classical effective potential, and the dislocation position was extracted. The parameters of interest were the effective mass, drag coefficient, and force experienced by the dislocation. Using DE-MC within a Bayesian framework, we estimated the joint posterior distribution of the parameters from the accepted samples produced by the DE-MC algorithm. The obtained distribution was then used to propagate the parameter uncertainties through the model, the equation of motion, which was used to predict the dislocation positions and velocities at the simulation timesteps as well as the uncertainty in the predictions. The mean fit was found to match the MD dislocation position data with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.2nm. We demonstrate how parameter distributions determined using the proposed methodology can be applied to obtain a mobility law for the class of dislocations studied with quantified uncertainties. This work is part of a longer-term study aiming to develop a surrogate model for precipitation strengthening, specifically dislocation-precipitate interactions, in Ni-based superalloys with uncertainty quantification. Accordingly, we also discuss the limitations of the selected model within this context and the necessary model extensions to overcome them.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Livestock production and poverty among rural farming households in Ethiopia
Authors: Umeokeke Nneji Ifeyinwa , Emokpae Osayi Precious , Adewale Ayoola A.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study assessed the impact of livestock production on the poverty of rural households in Ethiopia.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from the Ethiopia Living Standard Measurement Survey 2021/2022 was employed. The study assessed poverty using additional poverty aversion parameters (skewness and kurtosis) in the Foster–Greer–Thorbecke (FGT) and the conditional mixed process (CMP) model.

Findings

The result shows that 49% of the livestock farming households are poor. The poverty skewness and kurtosis indices show that the bulk of the population is far from the poverty line and poverty extremities exist. The CMP estimates show that age, household size, marital status, distance to market and capital region, income and agroecology influenced tropical livestock units. Also, an additional increase in tropical livestock significantly increases the household per capita expenditure.

Social implications

Although livestock production positively contributed to household expenditure, poverty still exists in all regions in Ethiopia. Interventions should consider local conditions and community needs in the value chain approach.

Originality/value

This study examined rural household poverty beyond the conventional headcount, gap and severity by including poverty skewness and kurtosis.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-05-2024-0415.
Upper-level leaders’ perceptions of integrating health and social care services after the structural reform in Finland: a qualitative study
Authors: Paatela Satu , Karreinen Soila , Huhtakangas Moona , Tynkkynen Liina-Kaisa
Published: December 2024

Purpose

In Finland, a major health and social service system reform was implemented in 2023. The reform introduced macro-level organizational integration of health and social services as the responsibility for organizing the services was transferred from c. 300 municipalities to 22 well-being services counties which get their funding from the state. The purpose of this study is to describe different leadership actions to promote integration at the meso- and micro-levels of the service system after the macro-level organizational reform.

Design/methodology/approach

The qualitative study utilized semi-structured interviews (n = 25) collected from the upper-level leaders of the well-being services counties. The study participants represented 11 well-being services counties in Finland. The data were collected in May–August 2023. Inductive content analysis was used for data analysis.

Findings

Four leadership actions to promote integration at the meso- and micro-levels of the service system were identified: (1) service user-based leadership actions, (2) partnership-based leadership actions, (3) service system-based leadership actions and (4) knowledge-based leadership actions. Most of the interviewees combined several different leadership actions in their recount.

Originality/value

The study highlights important information of the focus points set for leading integration in the unique context of reforming health and social services. With this paper, we provide a new way of comprehending integration from the leadership point of view. The conceptualization through the different leadership actions may facilitate forming a shared vision for integration among leaders and managers.
“What is done and what is left to be done?” An investigation of YouTube as knowledge resource for Islamic endowment funds (cash waqf) in Indonesia
Authors: Pusparini Martini Dwi , Sukmana Raditya , Napitupulu Rodame Monitorir
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aimed at exploring to what extent social media has educated and shaped public opinion regarding cash waqf. This research comprehensively analyzed the social media content to find the most discussed topic and highlighted the trends in cash waqf literacy.

Design/methodology/approach

Twenty-nine videos discussing cash waqf in Indonesia from the YouTube platform were analyzed using NVivo R1 with a content analysis approach.

Findings

The research findings revealed that YouTube videos addressing cash waqf were categorized into four distinct clusters: government, ulama/influencers/professionals, nadzir (waqf manager) and TV stations, with the government cluster producing a higher number of videos (n = 11) than the other clusters. The findings also highlighted the limited involvement of nadzir in educating the public about cash waqf, as evidenced by a smaller number of videos (n = 5). Among these videos, the most frequently discussed topics included the utilization of cash waqf (n = 20), promotion of cash waqf (n = 14) and risk management (n = 13). Negative sentiment (n = 262) was observed to exceed positive sentiment (n = 107).

Practical implications

The findings of this study contribute to the fundraising aspect of cash waqf because the inclusivity of digital content in cash waqf campaigns is crucial to raise awareness of the public. In addition, these findings may help waqf managers (nadzir) assess the extent of educational content about cash waqf on YouTube and the public’s response to this content.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to analyze the social media content, particularly from YouTube platforms, and public sentiment against cash waqf.