bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling Graduate Readiness to Respond to Domestic and Family Violence in Australian Social Work Programmes
Authors: Schaffer Krystal L , Martin Neil I , Lawrence Jill E , Bryce India R
Published: March 2024

Social workers trained initially through university education are essential in community responses that seek to address domestic and family violence (DFV). However, research has shown an international shift towards dominant models of thought that individualise or pathologise understandings of DFV in social work practice. This is problematic as it can cultivate a disconnect from the social justice mandates of the profession. Re-centring DFV within the social work curriculum has since become a focal point, but following, there is a dearth in research to measure what change, if any, this has cultured. This is further complicated in the Australian context, where to date the authors acknowledge, few studies have examined the extent of social workers’ exposure to DFV within university curriculum. This project sought to redress this issue, by quantitatively surveying understandings and perceptions about DFV among Australian university social work students and recent graduates. Specifically, the study examines their attitudes, beliefs, knowledge and perceived proficiency about recognising and responding to DFV. The findings suggest that notions of feminist praxis may be diluted in social work curriculum specific to DFV, and as such novel approaches to reinvigorate a structural examination of DFV in Australian university social work curriculum warrant further attention.
Novel chromatic reaction based on the redox reaction between tertiary aromatic amines and gold(Ⅲ) or cerium(Ⅳ)
Authors: Inoue Kento , Inagawa Arinori , Yoshihara Sachio , Uehara Nobuo
Published: March 2024

Herein, a novel chromatic reaction based on the oxidative self-coupling of tertiary aromatic amines and driven by a redox reaction with gold(III) or cerium(IV) is developed. The dimers resulting from the oxidation of tertiary aromatic amines with gold(III) or cerium(IV) show colors depending on their chemical structures. Substituting a hydrogen atom on the aromatic ring with a methyl or methoxy group induces a bathochromic shift in the color developed via oxidation. This redox reaction is highly selective for gold(III) and cerium(IV) because of their high redox potentials and complexation abilities with tertiary aromatic amines, thus suggesting the development of a selective analytical method for gold(III) and cerium(IV). Cyclic voltammograms and ultraviolet–visible light absorption spectra confirm that the oxidative coupling of tertiary aromatic amines develops color. The addition of reductants, such as l-ascorbic acid, degrades the color of the resultant colored species, thus indicating that the quinoid structure of the colored species caused color development. Thus, the developed redox reaction of tertiary aromatic amines with gold(III) or cerium(IV) provides a new chromogenic platform for determining gold(III), cerium(IV), and ascorbic acid.
Adipose mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes promote skin wound healing in diabetic mice by regulating epidermal autophagy
Authors: Ren Haiyue , Su Peng , Zhao Feng , Zhang Qiqi , Huang Xing , He Cai , Wu Quan , Wang Zitong , Ma Jiajie , Wang Zhe
Published: March 2024

Background

Adipose mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (ADSC-Exos) have great potential in the field of tissue repair and regenerative medicine, particularly in cases of refractory diabetic wounds. Interestingly, autophagy plays a role in wound healing, and recent research has demonstrated that exosomes are closely associated with intracellular autophagy in biogenesis and molecular signaling mechanisms. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether ADSC-Exos promote the repair of diabetic wounds by regulating autophagy to provide a new method and theoretical basis for the treatment of diabetic wounds.

Methods

Western blot analysis and autophagy double-labelled adenovirus were used to monitor changes in autophagy flow in human immortalized keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) cells. ADSC-Exos were generated from ADSC supernatants via ultracentrifugation. The effectiveness of ADSC-Exos on HaCaT cells was assessed using a live-cell imaging system, cell counting kit-8 and cell scratch assays. The cells were treated with the autophagy inhibitor bafilomycin A1 to evaluate the effects of autophagy on cell function. The recovery of diabetic wounds after ADSC-Exo treatment was determined by calculating the healing rates and performing histological analysis. High-throughput transcriptome sequencing was used to analyze changes in mRNA expression after the treatment of HaCaT cells with ADSC-Exos.

Results

ADSC-Exos activated autophagy in HaCaT cells, which was inhibited by high glucose levels, and potentiated their cellular functions. Moreover, ADSC-Exos in combination with the autophagy inhibitor bafilomycin A1 showed that autophagy defects further impaired the biological function of epidermal cells under high-glucose conditions and partially weakened the healing effect of ADSC-Exos. Using a diabetes wound model, we found that ADSC-Exos promoted skin wound healing in diabetic mice, as evidenced by increased epidermal autophagy and rapid re-epithelialization. Finally, sequencing results showed that increased expression of autophagy-related genes nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), CD46, vesicle-associated membrane protein 7 (VAMP7), VAMP3 and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 subunit alpha (EIF2S1) may contribute to the underlying mechanism of ADSC-Exo action.

Conclusions

This study elucidated the molecular mechanism through which ADCS-Exos regulate autophagy in skin epithelial cells, thereby providing a new theoretical basis for the treatment and repair of skin epithelial damage by ADSC-Exos.
Military Alliances under International Law
Authors: Yip Ka Lok
Published: March 2024

While military alliances have always been an important subject of research in international relations, relatively little study has been conducted on them in international law. Even though military alliances have been featured in the wider discussions on regional orders under international law, little systematic effort has been made to assess the extent to which various actions that are routine for or structured into the design and operation of military alliances are compatible with international law. This article aims to fill this gap by examining the implications of certain activities of military alliances under three areas of international law and is divided into three substantive sections. The first section examines how activities such as military exercises, force concentration and coercive demands, when undertaken by a military alliance, could heighten the risk of their violation of the prohibition of the threat of force under the UN Charter. The second section examines how certain standing arrangements of military alliances pre-dispose them to intervene in civil strife in allies or potential allies in potential violation of the norm against intervention in the domestic affairs of another State. The third section examines how, despite their often-explicit deference to the UN Charter, military alliances operate in tension with the collective security architecture of the UN and suggests ways to harmonise them. The article concludes that the sovereign rights of States to form military alliances do not create a carte blanche for military alliances to operate freely from any restraint of international law and calls for a more proactive approach to maintaining international peace and security in view of the complex nature of certain activities of military alliances under international law.
Pediatric Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs Reduce Antibiotic Use at Combined Adult-Pediatric Hospitals
Authors: Tribble Alison C , Moorthy Ganga S , Vartanian Rebecca J , Smith Michael J
Published: March 2024

Implementation of dedicated pediatric antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) at 2 combined adult-pediatric hospitals with existing ASPs was associated with sustained decreases in pediatric antibiotic use out of proportion to declines seen in adult inpatient units. ASPs in combined hospitals may not detect excessive pediatric antibiotic use without incorporating pediatric expertise.
An iterative spectral algorithm for digraph clustering
Authors: Martin James , Rogers Tim , Zanetti Luca
Published: March 2024

Graph clustering is a fundamental technique in data analysis with applications in many different fields. While there is a large body of work on clustering undirected graphs, the problem of clustering directed graphs is much less understood. The analysis is more complex in the directed graph case for two reasons: the clustering must preserve directional information in the relationships between clusters, and directed graphs have non-Hermitian adjacency matrices whose properties are less conducive to traditional spectral methods. Here, we consider the problem of partitioning the vertex set of a directed graph into k≥2 clusters so that edges between different clusters tend to follow the same direction. We present an iterative algorithm based on spectral methods applied to new Hermitian representations of directed graphs. Our algorithm performs favourably against the state-of-the-art, both on synthetic and real-world data sets. Additionally, it can identify a ‘meta-graph’ of k vertices that represents the higher-order relations between clusters in a directed graph. We showcase this capability on data sets about food webs, biological neural networks, and the online card game Hearthstone.
Revolutionizing contact lens manufacturing: exploring cutting-edge techniques and innovations for enhanced vision and comfort
Authors: Shaker Lina M , Al-Amiery Ahmed , Isahak Wan Nor Roslam Wan
Published: March 2024

This review paper delves into the advancements and innovations revolutionizing contact lens (CL) manufacturing, focusing on techniques and technologies aimed at improving vision quality and wearer comfort. The article begins by tracing the evolution of CL fabrication techniques, paying homage to Leonardo da Vinci’s early contributions. It then discusses traditional methods such as lathe-cutting, spincasting, molded lens fabrication, and the recent advent of 3D printing in CL production. The review further explores advanced CL designs, including spherical, aspheric, toric, and bifocal/multifocal CLs, highlighting their specific applications and benefits. Material innovations in lens manufacturing are examined, with an emphasis on silicone hydrogel CL, hybrid lenses combining different materials, and the development of biocompatible and gas-permeable (GP) materials. Evaluation of optical design efficiency is another crucial aspect covered in this paper, encompassing visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, through-focus curves, reading performance, peripheral refraction, and patient-reported outcomes for quality of vision. Additionally, the role of nanotechnology and surface modifications in enhancing lens properties is explored, along with advances in lens coating and surface treatments, including antimicrobial and UV protection coatings. Nanocomposites of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and TiO2 showed refractive indices between 1.52 and 1.59, while combining TiO2 NPs with poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) yielded values ranging from 1.47 to 1.53. PGMA-TiO2 nanocomposites exhibited refractive indices between 1.47 and 1.50. Furthermore, nanocomposites of PVP-PVA-Ag with silver (Ag) NPs achieved higher refractive indices within the range of 1.45 to 1.49. This article concludes by discussing the challenges and future directions in CL manufacturing, focusing on addressing lens discomfort, improving oxygen permeability and moisture retention, and enhancing manufacturing efficiency and scalability. Overall, this review offers valuable insights into the cutting-edge techniques and innovations transforming CL production and paving the way for improved vision correction and wearer satisfaction.
Theoretical analysis of R1234yf and R1234yf/R125 mixture as replacement of R134a in vapor compression system
Authors: Lin Yongmei , Meng Zhaofeng , Huo Ziheng , Ding Chuangchuang , Wang Song , Wang Longji
Published: March 2024

In this article, in order to reduce the climate hazards caused by global warming, a new environmentally friendly mixed refrigerant, R1234yf/R125 (with a mass ratio of 95:5), is introduced. Alongside R1234yf, the article conducts theoretical research to assess the feasibility of substituting R134a in vapor compression systems. The results show that coefficient of performance (COP) and compressor discharge temperatures of R1234yf and R1234yf/R125 are ~5.5% and 11°C lower than those of R134a, respectively. The volumetric cooling capacity of R1234yf is on average 8% smaller than that of R134a. The volumetric cooling capacity of R1234yf/R125 is similar to that of R134a, making it highly suitable for direct charging. R1234yf/R125 is basically nonflammable, with a minimal temperature glide, ozone depletion potential of 0 and a global warming potential of 144. It adheres to F-gas regulations and serves as an outstanding replacement for R134a.
Hyperglycemia amplifies TLR-mediated inflammatory response of M(IL4) macrophages to dyslipidemic ligands
Authors: Badillo-Garcia Luis Ernesto , Liu Quan , Ziebner Kim , Balduff Michael , Sevastyanova Tatyana , Schmuttermaier Christina , Klüter Harald , Harmsen Martin , Kzhyshkowska Julia
Published: March 2024

Hyperglycemia is critical for initiation of diabetic vascular complications. We systemically addressed the role of hyperglycemia in the regulation of TLRs in primary human macrophages. Expression of TLRs (1–9) was examined in monocyte-derived M(NC), M(IFNγ), and M(IL4) differentiated in normoglycemic and hyperglycemic conditions. Hyperglycemia increased expression of TLR1 and TLR8 in M(NC), TLR2 and TLR6 in M(IFNγ), and TLR4 and TLR5 in M(IL4). The strongest effect of hyperglycemia in M(IL4) was the upregulation of the TLR4 gene and protein expression. Hyperglycemia amplified TLR4-mediated response of M(IL4) to lipopolysaccharide by significantly enhancing IL1β and modestly suppressing IL10 production. In M(IL4), hyperglycemia in combination with synthetic triacylated lipopeptide (TLR1/TLR2 ligand) amplified expression of TLR4 and production of IL1β. In summary, hyperglycemia enhanced the inflammatory potential of homeostatic, inflammatory, and healing macrophages by increasing specific profiles of TLRs. In combination with dyslipidemic ligands, hyperglycemia can stimulate a low-grade inflammatory program in healing macrophages supporting vascular diabetic complications.
The immune status of migrant populations in Europe and implications for vaccine-preventable disease control: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cherri Zeinab , Lau Karen , Nellums Laura B , Himmels Jan , Deal Anna , McGuire Emma , Mounier-Jack Sandra , Norredam Marie , Crawshaw Alison , Carter Jessica , Seedat Farah , Clemente Nuria Sanchez , Bouaddi Oumnia , Friedland Jon S , Edelstein Michael , Hargreaves Sally
Published: March 2024

Background

Ensuring vaccination coverage reaches established herd immunity thresholds (HITs) is the cornerstone of any vaccination programme. Diverse migrant populations in European countries have been associated with cases of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) and outbreaks, yet it is not clear to what extent they are an under-immunized group.

Methods

We did a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesize peer-reviewed published primary research reporting data on the immune status of migrants in EU/EEA countries, the UK and Switzerland, calculating their pooled immunity coverage for measles, mumps, rubella and diphtheria using random-effects models. We searched on Web of Science, Embase, Global Health and MEDLINE (1 January 2000 to 10 June 2022), with no language restrictions. The protocol is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42018103666).

Findings

Of 1103 abstracts screened, 62 met eligibility criteria, of which 39 were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis included 75 089 migrants, predominantly from outside Europe. Pooled immunity coverage among migrant populations was well below the recommended HIT for diphtheria (n = 7, 57.4% [95% confidence interval (CI): 43.1–71.7%] I2 = 99% vs HIT 83–86%), measles (n = 21, 83.7% [95% CI: 79.2–88.2] I2 = 99% vs HIT 93–95%) and mumps (n = 8, 67.1% [95% CI: 50.6–83.6] I2 = 99% vs HIT 88–93%) and midway for rubella (n = 29, 85.6% [95% CI: 83.1–88.1%] I2 = 99% vs HIT 83–94%), with high heterogeneity across studies.

Interpretation

Migrants in Europe are an under-immunized group for a range of important VPDs, with this study reinforcing the importance of engaging children, adolescents and adults in ‘catch-up’ vaccination initiatives on arrival for vaccines, doses and boosters they may have missed in their home countries. Co-designing strategies to strengthen catch-up vaccination across the life course in under-immunized groups is an important next step if we are to meet European and global targets for VPD elimination and control and ensure vaccine equity.
Conserved structures and dynamics in 5′-proximal regions of Betacoronavirus RNA genomes
Authors: de Moura Tales Rocha , Purta Elżbieta , Bernat Agata , Martín-Cuevas Eva M , Kurkowska Małgorzata , Baulin Eugene F , Mukherjee Sunandan , Nowak Jakub , Biela Artur P , Rawski Michał , Glatt Sebastian , Moreno-Herrero Fernando , Bujnicki Janusz M
Published: March 2024

Betacoronaviruses are a genus within the Coronaviridae family of RNA viruses. They are capable of infecting vertebrates and causing epidemics as well as global pandemics in humans. Mitigating the threat posed by Betacoronaviruses requires an understanding of their molecular diversity. The development of novel antivirals hinges on understanding the key regulatory elements within the viral RNA genomes, in particular the 5′-proximal region, which is pivotal for viral protein synthesis. Using a combination of cryo-electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, chemical probing, and computational modeling, we determined the structures of 5′-proximal regions in RNA genomes of Betacoronaviruses from four subgenera: OC43-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, MERS-CoV, and Rousettus bat-CoV. We obtained cryo-electron microscopy maps and determined atomic-resolution models for the stem-loop-5 (SL5) region at the translation start site and found that despite low sequence similarity and variable length of the helical elements it exhibits a remarkable structural conservation. Atomic force microscopy imaging revealed a common domain organization and a dynamic arrangement of structural elements connected with flexible linkers across all four Betacoronavirus subgenera. Together, these results reveal common features of a critical regulatory region shared between different Betacoronavirus RNA genomes, which may allow targeting of these RNAs by broad-spectrum antiviral therapeutics.
Hyperkalemia treatment standard
Authors: Palmer Biff F , Clegg Deborah J
Published: February 2024

Hyperkalemia is a common electrolyte disturbance in both inpatient and outpatient clinical practice. The severity and associated risk depends on the underlying cause and rate of potassium (K+) increase. Acute hyperkalemia requires immediate attention due to potentially life-threatening manifestations resulting from the rapid increase in plasma K+ concentration. Treatment is initially focused on stabilizing the cardiac membrane, followed by maneuvers to shift K+ into the cells, and ultimately initiating strategies to decrease total body K+ content. Chronic hyperkalemia develops over a more extended period of time and manifestations tend to be less severe. Nevertheless, the disorder is not benign since chronic hyperkalemia is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The approach to patients with chronic hyperkalemia begins with a review of medications potentially responsible for the disorder, ensuring effective diuretic therapy and correcting metabolic acidosis if present. The practice of restricting foods high in K+ to manage hyperkalemia is being reassessed since the evidence supporting the effectiveness of this strategy is lacking. Rather, dietary restriction should be more nuanced, focusing on reducing the intake of nonplant sources of K+. Down-titration and/or discontinuation of renin–angiotensin–aldosterone inhibitors should be discouraged since these drugs improve outcomes in patients with heart failure and proteinuric kidney disease. In addition to other conservative measures, K+ binding drugs and sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors can assist in maintaining the use of these drugs.
On a class of nonlinear isotropic Thermo-elastic body that is non-green elastic: applications to large elastic deformations
Authors: Bustamante R , Shariff M H B M
Published: March 2024

A new class of constitutive equation is proposed for isotropic thermoelastic solids, wherein the Hencky strain tensor is assumed to be a function of the Cauchy stress tensor, via a Gibbs potential. The solid is assumed to be incompressible in the referential state, but the volume can change due to differences in the temperature relative to a reference temperature. The change in volume only depends on temperature. Some restrictions are found for the Gibbs potential, resulting in a constitutive equation for isotropic solids, wherein the volume depends on temperature. Using the resulting constitutive equation, some boundary value problems are studied, considering some relatively simple distributions for the temperature, deformations and stresses.
Proprietary claims by constructive trustees
Authors: Adams Paul
Published: March 2024

If a fraudster obtains money by deceit, breach of trust or breach of fiduciary duty and seeks to launder that money by passing it through a chain of companies, the victim of the fraud will generally have an equitable proprietary claim to the proceeds in the hands of the ultimate recipient. But what of the companies involved in laundering the money? If they are put into liquidation, can they, by their liquidators, also make a proprietary claim to the proceeds? The answer to this question may be important, particularly in complex fraud litigation where the identity of the claimant can have far-reaching substantive, jurisdictional and tactical consequences.
The Impact of Intersectional Discrimination and Stigma on HIV Care for African, Caribbean, and Black Women Living With HIV During the COVID-19 Pandemic in British Columbia: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Ojukwu Emmanuela , Hirani Saima , Sotindjo Tatiana , McKay Emily , Okedo-Alex Ijeoma , Magagula Patience , Pashaei Ava , Agudosi Ginikachukwu Marylinda
Published: March 2024

African, Caribbean, and Black women living with HIV (ACB WWH) in British Columbia experience discrimination on the basis of their race, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, and HIV status. The various forms of stigma that ACB WWH experience intersect to create a uniquely marginalized experience that has negative consequences for quality of life and overall well-being. Eighteen semistructured interviews were completed with ACB WWH in British Columbia. Interviews were conducted by phone, Zoom, or in-person at the participant's request. Participants consistently reported experiences of various forms of discrimination. There was additional stigmatization due to COVID-19 pandemic that negatively influenced the lives of ACB WWH. Interventions and resources are needed to support ACB WWH in navigating how to work through the multifaceted impacts of intersectional stigmatization. Efforts are needed to identify ways to continue the delivery of resources like social support groups throughout future pandemics.
Recent developments in occupational asthma
Authors: Blouin Claudia , Lemière Catherine
Published: February 2024

Purpose of review

Occupational asthma (OA) is a complex condition that can be difficult to diagnose. The purpose of this review is to describe some recent findings regarding the epidemiology of OA, the occupational sensitizing agents, the prognosis of OA, and its primary prevention.

Recent findings

The risk of developing OA varies according to the geographic localization of the worker, the type of industry and the type of sensitizing agents. New findings have been reported for several known sensitizing agents, such as isocyanates, seafood & cleaning agents, and their related industries, such as hairdressing salons and schools. Moreover, a few new sensitizing agents, such as cannabis, have been identified in the past few years. The prognosis of OA seems worse than that of nonwork-related asthma. It is mainly determined by the duration and the level of exposure. Primary prevention is crucial to reduce the number of new cases of OA. Complete avoidance of exposure to the causal agent remains the optimal treatment of sensitizer-induced OA.

Improving our knowledge regarding OA and its causative agents is key to enable an early recognition of this condition and improve its prognosis. Further research is still needed to improve primary prevention.
Effect of increasing age and ureteral stent implantation on urinary tract infections after kidney transplantation – update of recent literature
Authors: Omic Haris , Eder Michael
Published: March 2024

Purpose of review

This review aims to present the recent literature regarding effects of aging and ureteral stent implantation (UrS) on the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in kidney transplant (KTX) recipients.

Recent findings

UTIs in kidney transplant recipients remain a clinical challenge and represent a leading cause of morbidity, hospitalization rates, and mortality. Higher age was described as a significant risk factor for UTIs in several studies including a recent Brazilian analysis, indicating a 3.6%/years of age increase in UTI risk. Subsequently, a large meta-analysis, published in 2023, confirmed the correlation between older age and elevated UTI risk. The Swiss Transplant Cohort Study in 2022, largest of its kind, similarly confirmed a link between advanced age and heightened risk of recurrent UTIs in KTX. A recent prospective study highlighted UrS placement as a modifiable risk factor, emphasizing the need for careful consideration and antibiotic prophylaxis. Additionally, the type of stents played a crucial role, with external stents associated with a 1.69 times higher UTI risk. The challenge of determining optimal UrS removal timing further complicates posttransplant care, with insufficient evidence to guide practices.

The aging population of KTX recipients requires a personalized approach to effectively reduce and manage UTIs as one of the most important complications following KTX. Prophylactic stent implantation is successful in lowering ureteral complications, however, is associated with an increased incidence of UTIs. To reduce the increased risk of UTIs, the length of stent insertion requires strict supervision and maintenance.
An unusual association between Burkitt’s lymphoma and a Carcinoid tumor in a Syrian boy: a rare case report
Authors: Kherbek Haidara , Hinawi Marah , Layka Khedr , Hleibieh Yana , Jaber Khawla , Jaber Roukaya , Alshehabi Zuheir
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Burkitt’s lymphoma (BL), an aggressive kind of non-Hodgkin’s B-cell lymphoma. On the other hand, appendiceal carcinoid tumors are uncommon neuroendocrine neoplasms.

Case presentation:

The authors report a case of a 15-year-old Syrian adolescent who was admitted to our hospital due to a persistent, severe generalized abdomen pain accompanied by nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and inability to pass stool or gas. An abdominal radiograph revealed dilated intestinal loops with air-fluid levels. The patient underwent emergency surgery through which a retroperitoneal mass was removed as well as part of the ileum and the appendix. The final diagnosis was consistent with intestinal BL associated with an appendiceal carcinoid tumor.

Discussion:

The correlation between gastrointestinal carcinoids and other types of tumors was frequently reported. However, there have been few reports of carcinoid tumors being associated with lymphoreticular system cancers. BLs were classified into three variants: endemic, sporadic, and acquired immunodeficiency-associated BL while appendiceal neuroendocrine tumors were classified as the following: well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors with benign or uncertain malignant potential; well-differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma with low malignant potential; and mixed exocrine-neuroendocrine carcinoma.

Conclusion:

Our article demonstrates an unusual association between BL and an appendiceal carcinoid tumor that highlights the significant role of histological and immunohistochemical staining in confirming the diagnosis, as well as the role of surgery in treating the complications of intestinal BLs.
Pseudoulnar palsy with concurrent wrist drop: case report
Authors: Hershfeld Benjamin , Wolin Sydney , Echevarria Alexandra C. , Dauer Jan H.
Published: March 2024

Introduction and Importance:

Pseudoulnar palsy, characterized by weakness in the 4th and 5th digits, is a condition typically attributed to infarction of the medial aspect of the precentral gyrus’s “hand knob.” This anatomical site is located in the primary motor cortex of the brain, in the posterior lobe of the frontal cortex. This report presents a novel case of pseudoulnar nerve palsy in conjunction with wrist drop stemming from an infarction of the hand knob gyrus.

Case Presentation:

A 78-year-old female with hypertension and hyperlipidemia experienced sudden right wrist weakness and impaired mobility in her 4th and 5th digits. Clinical examinations, including neuroimaging, supported the diagnosis of an infarction in the medial precentral gyrus. Brain MRI confirmed the diagnosis of an acute infarction in the medial precentral gyrus. The patient was treated with enoxaparin, aspirin, and dexamethasone, and was discharged after symptom improvement.

Clinical Discussion:

Unlike the classical presentations, this case highlights the co-occurrence of ulnar and radial deficits following a unique infarction pattern. The distinct presentation of right pseudoulnar palsy with wrist drop was caused by an infarction at the level of the medial aspect of the hand knob.

Conclusion:

This case underscores the importance of considering the central causes of peripheral-like deficits, especially in older individuals with vascular risk factors, emphasizing the significance of early intervention in mitigating potential long-term consequences. This report contributes to the evolving understanding of central neurological presentations, and serves as a reminder of the need for a comprehensive diagnostic approach.
Endovascular management of residual intracranial aneurysm after neurosurgical clipping: A case report
Authors: Phuyal Prakash , Shrestha Saloni , Phuyal Subash , Dhakal Bishal , Gautam Ashima , Yogi Nikunj
Published: March 2024

Introduction and Importance:

Endovascular coiling can be used to treat residual intracranial aneurysms with prior neurosurgical clipping in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is a rare subtype of stroke which can be life-threatening.

Case Presentation:

We herein report a case of successful management by endovascular coiling of residual intracranial aneurysm post-surgical clipping in a 60-year-old male who was previously diagnosed as diffuse Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) Fisher grade 4. On examination, He had a Glasgow Coma Scale 14/15 with verbal confusion present and was hypertensive.

Clinical Discussion:

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is a rare and serious type of stroke and may result in dependency. Endovascular coiling can be used to treat residual intracranial aneurysms with prior neurosurgical clipping. It further helps in decreasing dependency and mortality.

Conclusion:

Endovascular coiling is a good treatment option for patients who have undergone neurosurgical clipping as their prior surgical attempt in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. An endovascular approach may further lead to a better prognosis.
Barriers and Facilitators of Vestibular Rehabilitation: Patients and Physiotherapists’ Perspectives
Authors: Kalderon Liran , Kaplan Azriel , Wolfovitz Amit , Levy-Tzedek Shelly , Gimmon Yoav
Published: March 2024

Background and Purpose:

Poor adherence to vestibular rehabilitation protocols is a known barrier to optimal care. Vestibular clinicians’ comprehensive understanding of the barriers and facilitators to vestibular home exercise programs (VHEP) is a key element to achieving optimal care in the context of vestibular rehabilitation. The aims of this study are as follows: (1) to identify primary barriers and facilitators to VHEP from the perspective of patients with vestibular dysfunction and vestibular physical therapists (PTs); and (2) to provide strategies for clinicians to improve adherence and outcomes of VHEP.

Methods:

A qualitative research with single-session focus groups conducted separately for: (1) patients with vestibular disorders and (2) vestibular PTs. Six focus groups were conducted, 3 for each population, with a total of 39 participants. An online survey was conducted to evaluate the estimates of adherence rates, followed by a structured discussion over barriers and facilitators to VHEP as perceived by patients and PTs. Thematic data analyses were performed using a mixed deductive-inductive approach.

Results:

Eighteen patients with vestibular disorders and 21 experienced vestibular PTs participated in this study. Six barrier categories and 5 facilitator categories were identified. Barriers included motivation aspects, provocation of symptoms, time management, associated impairments, missing guidance and feedback, and psychosocial factors. Facilitators included motivation aspects, time management, patient education and exercise instructions, exercise setting, and associated symptom management.

Discussion and Conclusions:

Clinicians who prescribe home exercise to patients with vestibular disorders can use this information about common barriers and facilitators for patient education and to provide optimal care and improve rehabilitation outcomes.

Video Abstract available

for more insights from the authors (see the video, Supplemental Digital Content, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A467).
A Systematically Optimized Miniaturized Mesoscope (SOMM) for large-scale calcium imaging in freely moving mice
Authors: Zhang Yuanlong , Yuan Lekang , Wu Jiamin , Nöbauer Tobias , Zhang Rujin , Xiao Guihua , Wang Mingrui , Xie Hao , Dai Qionghai , Vaziri Alipasha
Published: March 2024

Understanding how neuronal dynamics gives rise to ethologically relevant behavior requires recording of neuronal population activity via technologies that are compatible with unconstrained animal behavior. However, realizations of cellular resolution head-mounted microscopes for mice have been based on conventional microscope designs that feature various forms of ad-hoc miniaturization and weight reduction measures necessary for compatibility with the weight-limits for free animal behavior. As a result, they have typically remained limited to a small field of view (FOV) or low resolution, a shallow depth range and often remain susceptible to motion-induced artifacts.

Here, we present a systematically optimized miniaturized mesoscope (SOMM), a widefield, head-mounted fluorescent mesoscope based on a principled optimization approach that allows for mesoscale, cellular resolution imaging of neuroactivity while offering robustness against motion-induced artifacts. This is achieved by co-optimization of a compact diffractive optical element and the associated computational algorithm under form-factor and weight constraints while maximizing the obtainable FOV, depth of field (DOF), and resolution. SOMM enables recordings of neuronal population activity at up to 16 Hz within a FOV of 3.6 × 3.6 mm2in the cortex of freely moving mice while featuring 4-µm resolution, a DOF of 300 µm at a weight of less than 2.5 g. We show SOMM’s performance of recording large-scale neuronal population activity during social interactions, during conditioning-type experiments and by investigating neurovascular coupling using dual-color imaging.
Fifty Years After: The N1 Effect Travels Down to the Brainstem
Authors: Strauss Daniel J. , Corona-Strauss Farah I. , Mai Adrian , Hillyard Steven A.
Published: February 2024

Fifty years ago, it was reported that selective attention affects the N1 wave in auditory event–related potentials. We revisited the original study design but integrated the state of the art knowledge on short auditory stimuli and neural signal processing. In particular, one series of tone bursts has been replaced by chirp stimuli which are optimized to evoke consistent brainstem potentials at low and medium stimulation levels. Auditory selective attention affected the chirp– evoked response in subcortical structures, even at level of the inferior colliculi. A single–trial time–frequency analysis of the full–range (0–250ms) event–related potentials showed that selective attention increases the spectrotemporal consistency across trials in the corticofugal auditory pathway, at least from the N1 wave down to the auditory brainstem response.
A single-cell atlas of the murine pancreatic ductal tree identifies novel cell populations with potential implications in pancreas regeneration and exocrine pathogenesis
Authors: Fernández Ángel , Casamitjana Joan , Holguín-Horcajo Adrián , Coolens Katarina , Mularoni Loris , Pasquali Lorenzo , Bailey-Lundberg Jennifer M. , Rooman Ilse , Wang Yue J. , Rovira Meritxell
Published: March 2024

Background and aims

Pancreatic ducts form an intricate network of tubules that secrete bicarbonate and drive acinar secretions into the duodenum. This network is formed by centroacinar cells, terminal, intercalated, intracalated ducts, and the main pancreatic duct. Ductal heterogeneity at the single-cell level has been poorly characterized; therefore, our understanding of the role of ductal cells in pancreas regeneration and exocrine pathogenesis has been hampered by the limited knowledge and unexplained diversity within the ductal network.

Methods

We used scRNA-seq to comprehensively characterize mouse ductal heterogeneity at single-cell resolution of the entire ductal epithelium from centroacinar cells to the main duct. Moreover, we used organoid cultures, injury models and pancreatic tumor samples to interrogate the role of novel ductal populations in pancreas regeneration and exocrine pathogenesis.

Results

We have identified the coexistence of 15 ductal populations within the healthy pancreas and characterized their organoid formation capacity and endocrine differentiation potential. Cluster isolation and subsequent culturing let us identify ductal cell populations with high organoid formation capacity and endocrine and exocrine differentiation potentialin vitro, including Wnt-responsive-population, ciliated-population and FLRT3+cells. Moreover, we have characterized the location of these novel ductal populations in healthy pancreas, chronic pancreatitis, and tumor samples, highlighting a putative role of WNT-responsive, IFN-responsive and EMT-populations in pancreatic exocrine pathogenesis as their expression increases in chronic pancreatitis and PanIN lesions.

Conclusions

In light of our discovery of previously unidentified ductal populations, we unmask the potential roles of specific ductal populations in pancreas regeneration and exocrine pathogenesis.
scConfluence : single-cell diagonal integration with regularized Inverse Optimal Transport on weakly connected features
Authors: Samaran Jules , Peyré Gabriel , Cantini Laura
Published: March 2024

The abundance of unpaired multimodal single-cell data has motivated a growing body of research into the development of diagonal integration methods. However, the state-of-the-art suffers from the loss of biological information due to feature conversion and struggles with modality-specific populations. To overcome these crucial limitations, we here introduced scConfluence, a novel method for single-cell diagonal integration. scConfluence combines uncoupled autoencoders on the complete set of features with regularized Inverse Optimal Transport on weakly connected features. We extensively benchmark scConfluence in several single-cell integration scenarios proving that it outperforms the state-of-the-art. We then demonstrate the biological relevance of scConfluence in three applications. We predict spatial patterns forScgn, SynprandOlahin scRNA-smFISH integration. We improve the classification of B cells and Monocytes in highly heterogeneous scRNA-scATAC-CyTOF integration. Finally, we reveal the joint contribution ofFezf2and apical dendrite morphology in Intra Telencephalic neurons, based on morphological images and scRNA.
Gut microbes of the cecum versus the colon drive more severe lethality and multi-organ damage
Authors: Xu Kejia , Tan Juan , Lin Dongyang , Chu Yimin , Zhou Luting , Zhang Junjie , Lu Yinzhong
Published: March 2024

An intestinal perforation or puncture leads to a high risk of sepsis-associated morbidity. A perforation initiates the transfer of the intestinal contents (ICs) to the peritoneal cavity, leading to abdominal infections and varying with different prognoses. However, the mechanisms associated with different perforations in the cecum and colon remain unknown. We sought to examine how different gut flora contribute to prognoses in different intestinal perforation sites. We compared the microbiome of the ICs in the cecum and colon in a fecal-induced peritonitis mouse model. The results showed that cecum ICs developed more severe sepsis than colon ICs, including a shorter median survival time, increased biochemical indicators, more pathological changes in multiple organs and overwhelmed systematic inflammation. Moreover, our results demonstrated that cecum ICs hold more bacterial burden in unit weight than colon ICs, and the microbial communities differed between the ICs from the cecum and colon. A more detailed comparison of the two microbiome groups showed that the abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria increased in the cecum ICs. Our data suggest that the sepsis severity developed by perforation was associated with bacterial burden and increased abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria in the cecum. Our findings first compared the differences in the lethality associated with the ICs of the cecum and colon, which pointed out that the site of perforation could help providers predict the severity of sepsis.
Retrograde tracing of breast cancer-associated sensory neurons
Authors: Kallogjerovic Svetllana , Velázquez-Quesada Inés , Hadap Rutva , Gligorijevic Bojana
Published: March 2024

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality among women. The tumor microenvironment, consisting of host cells and extracellular matrix, has been increasingly studied for its interplay with cancer cells, and the resulting effect on tumor progression. While the breast is one of the most innervated organs in the body, the role of neurons, and specifically sensory neurons, has been understudied, mostly for technical reasons. One of the reasons is the anatomy of sensory neurons: sensory neuron somas are located in the spine, and their axons can extend longer than a meter across the body to provide innervation in the breast. Next, neurons are challenging to culture, and there are no cell lines adequately representing the diversity of sensory neurons. Finally, sensory neurons are responsible for transporting several different types of signals to the brain, and there are many different subtypes of sensory neurons. The subtypes of sensory neurons which innervate and interact with breast tumors are unknown. To establish the tools for labeling and subtyping neurons that interact with breast cancer cells, we utilized two retrograde tracer’s standards in neuroscience, wheat-germ agglutinin (WGA) and cholera toxin subunit B (CTB).In vitro, we employed primary sensory neurons isolated from mouse dorsal root ganglia, cultured in a custom-built microfluidic device DACIT, that mimics the anatomical compartmentalization of the sensory neuron’s soma and axons.In vivo, we utilized both syngeneic and transgenic mouse models of mammary carcinoma. We show that CTB and WGA trace different but overlapping sensory neuronal subpopulations: while WGA is more efficient in labeling CGRP+ neurons, CTB is superior in labeling the NF200+ neurons. Surprisingly, both tracers are also taken up by a significant population of breast cancer cells, bothin vitroandin vivo. In summary, we have established methodologies for retrograde tracing of sensory neurons interacting with breast cancer cells. Our tools will be useful for future studies of breast tumor innervation, and development of therapies targeting breast cancer-associated neuron subpopulations of sensory neurons.
Xylazine does not enhance fentanyl reinforcement in rats: a behavioral economic analysis
Authors: St. Onge Celsey M. , Canfield Jeremy R. , Ortiz Allison , Sprague Jon E. , Banks Matthew L.
Published: March 2024

The adulteration of illicit fentanyl with the alpha-2 agonist xylazine has been designated an emerging public health threat. The clinical rationale for combining fentanyl with xylazine is currently unclear, and the inability to study fentanyl/xylazine interactions in humans warrants the need for preclinical research. We studied fentanyl and xylazine pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic interactions in male and female rats using drug self-administration behavioral economic methods. Fentanyl, but not xylazine, functioned as a reinforcer under both fixed-ratio and progressive-ratio drug self-administration procedures. Xylazine combined with fentanyl at three fixed dose-proportion mixtures did not significantly alter fentanyl reinforcement as measured using behavioral economic analyses. Xylazine produced a proportion-dependent decrease in the behavioral economic Q0endpoint compared to fentanyl alone. However, xylazine did not significantly alter fentanyl self-administration at FR1. Fentanyl and xylazine co-administration did not result in changes to pharmacokinetic endpoints. The present results demonstrate that xylazine does not enhance the addictive effects of fentanyl or alter fentanyl plasma concentrations. The premise for why illicitly manufacture fentanyl has been adulterated with xylazine remains to be determined.