bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
81 Examination of Undergraduate and Graduate Student Experiences in an Undergraduate Research Course
Authors: Greene Maslyn A , Duckett Susan K
Published: May 2023

Mentored undergraduate research experiences have been identified as beneficial to students for persistence in STEM disciplines and increased grade point averages. Participation in research is impactful for both STEM and non-STEM students. Additionally, undergraduate research experiences have a positive effect on subsequent student performance in graduate and professional school as evidenced by students with previous research experience having superior communication skills at the start of their first year and after. Undergraduate research courses tend to be heavily hands-on experiences and structured classroom teaching may not be large portions of the course content. Online material has become increasingly common in the post COVID-19 learning environment. Courses that can have difficulty with online instruction or the inclusion of online content tend to be courses with a heavy focus of hands-on learning or hands-on skill development. The use of a flipped classroom can facilitate student learning in a digital way in addition to in person class meeting. The incorporation of online lecture content to broaden undergraduate student understanding of the application of the scientific method was used to enhance the research experience. Student experiences were evaluated with the Undergraduate Research Student Self-Assessment survey. Significant positive correlation was found between student feelings of “project responsibility” and “Workshops on science writing and presentation” during the semester that online lectures were incorporated. Additionally, graduate student training is a variable and highly individualized experience for each trainee. Most programs focus strongly on cognitive skill training, advanced knowledge of the discipline, conducting research, and preparing manuscripts for publication. Professional development is a component of graduate training that can be easily overlooked or undervalued. The development of soft skills such as time management, personnel management, and leadership and mentoring qualities are vital for trainee success post-graduation. Some current thinking is that devoting time to professional development will result in a slower progression by the trainee, however this is shown to be untrue and students who participate in career growth maintained the same level of productivity measured by time to degree completion and manuscript output. Graduate student experiences with mentoring undergraduates were shown to develop soft skills while also being noted as “an influential experience” when making future career decisions. Development of an undergraduate research program that incorporates more than simply hands on skill development that also significantly incorporates graduate students benefits both student groups and leads to improved outcomes for both student groups post-graduation.
6 Comparison of Ammonia Concentrations Between Flush and Pull-Plug Waste Management Systems in Wean-Finish Swine Barns
Authors: Kittle Olivia J , Leonard Suzanne M , Knauer Mark , Almond Glen
Published: May 2023

Pig manure contains a wide variety of corrosion-inducing chemicals such as ammonia. Ammonia production and its release are influenced by temperature and moisture in the barn environment. Increased concentrations of ammonia can negatively affect pig health and growth, as well as pose a risk to human health. Additionally, even at decreased concentrations, ammonia reacts with humidity and causes premature corrosion of barn equipment and is a threat to the structural integrity of livestock buildings. In this study, ammonia concentrations were monitored and compared between two 880 head wean-finish swine facilities with different types of waste management systems. Both facilities had shallow manure pits, one containing a flush system and one containing a pull plug system to remove manure from the barns into the lagoon. Ammonia, dry-bulb air temperature, and relative humidity levels were measured every0 min for an entire wean-finish cycle (approximately 20 weeks). Data will be compared between the facilities to evaluate the impact of the waste management systems on indoor air quality conditions. Potential implications for pig health and growth and facility maintenance will be explored. Results will provide information on best management strategies for swine facilities.
4 Survey of Mycoplasma Wenyonii Infection in a Texas Beef Cattle Herd
Authors: Bloch Nicole A , Lambert Barry , Brady Jeff A , Wellmann Kimberly B , Reed Dennis , Runyan Cheyenne L
Published: May 2023

Mycoplasma wenyonii is hemotrophic bacteria known to cause mild anemia, localized edema, and pyrexia in infected cattle. It has been previously detected in cattle herds across the world, including United States beef herd. Mode of transmission, prevalence, and a full profile of symptoms associated with this species of bacteria have not been established. This case study aimed to elucidate the percentage of infected cattle in a local Erath County beef herd and determine which groups of cattle may have the greatest infection rates. Groups were determined based on sex and age, bull, cow, or unsexed calf. Blood was collected from 4 bulls, 61 cows, and 55 calves from the same producer on the same day. A blood extraction kit that utilized spin column-based nucleic acid purification was used to extract DNA from blood samples. Primers were constructed to be highly specific to the m. wenyonii sequence to avoid confusion with other common mycoplasma species. Extracted m. weyonii DNA was quantified using qPCR. Melt curve analysis was performed to verify the amplicon product size. Standard deviation of the melting point was calculated and selection was made within 2 standard deviations of the control. Animals with any detectable amount of m. wenyonii DNA present in their blood were considered positive for infection for the purposes of this case study. This survey yielded positive results for 2 of the 4 bulls, 19 of the 61 cows, and 0 calves. The lack of positive samples in the calf population suggests that the placenta functions as a barrier to infection. This study provides perspective on the prevalence of this microorganism in Texas cattle populations and serves as a basis for future studies. More investigation is needed to better understand the impact of this bacterial infection on Texas beef cattle producers.
12 The Efficacy of a Natural Fungus (Duddingtonia Flagrans) in Controlling Gastrointestinal Nematodes in Lactating Meat Goat Does
Authors: Davis Javin , O’Brien Dahlia , Matthews Kwame , Wildeus Stephan , Whitley Niki C , Schoenian Susan
Published: May 2023

Small ruminant production in the US is significantly impacted by infections with gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN), especially the blood sucking GIN, Haemonchus contortus. Unfortunately, the indiscriminate use of available drug classes has led to multi-drug resistant GIN that pose significant challenges to parasite control on many farms. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a natural fungus, Duddingtonia flagrans (Bioworma, International Animal Health) in reducing GIN loads in lactating meat does. Thirty eight late gestating Spanish and Myotonic does were dewormed (day 0) approximately 2 weeks before to kidding with a combination of levamisol (Prohibit; 12 mg/kg BW) and moxidectin (Cydectin; 0.4 mg/kg BW) before the start of feeding BioWorma according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. At this time, does were also allocated into two treatment groups (n = 19/group), split into 3 replications per treatment and placed on six pasture paddocks (n = 6/7 per paddock). Does were then fed either a corn and soybean meal supplement at 1.5% of their BW with (BIO) or without (CON) Bioworma daily until weaning and hay was offered throughout the study. Bioworma was added to the ration based on the manufacturer’s recommended dose of 0.066 g/kg BW and on the BW of the heaviest doe. To evaluate the effect of Bioworma treatment, BW, body condition score (BCS), and FAMACHA scores were recorded every 2 weeks for 98 days. Blood and fecal samples were also collected for determination of packed cell volume (PCV) and fecal egg counts (FEC). Pooled (d 28) or pooled treatment group feces (d 42, 56, 70, 84 and 98) were also collected and cultured to determine GIN genera. If blood PCV decreased to below 19%, does were dewormed and removed from the study (n = 2 BIO; n = 2 CON). Data were analyzed using repeated measures in a mixed model, and FEC were log transformed before analysis. Following deworming (d 0), FEC were reduced by 97% by d4. There was a mixed population of GIN throughout the study (averaging 70.3%,7.7%, and2.0% for H. contortus, Tricostrongylus spp., and Oesphagostomum spp., respectively). Bioworma supplementation had no impact on BW, BCS, FAMACHA scores, nor PCV averaging 38.8 ± 0.5 kg, 2.3 ± 0.03, 2.2 ± 0.02, and 29.3 ± 0.3%, respectively. There was also no effect of treatment on FEC (averaging 1,067±254 and 1,107±144 and 987±282 and 847±163 eggs per gram for BIO and CON does on days 0 and 98, respectively. Bioworma supplementation in a highly susceptible group of lactating does, had no influence on GIN indicators. Additional research is needed to confirm the efficacy of Duddingtoni flagrans in controlling GIN and how best to incorporate in current on-farm parasite control strategies.
11 Impact of a Cache Valley Fever Outbreak on Lambing Performance in a Landrace Hair Sheep Flock: A Case Study
Authors: Robertson MacKenzie , Wildeus Stephan , O’Brien Dahlia , Pelzer Kevin
Published: May 2023

Cache Valley Fever (CVF) is a mosquito-born, viral disease endemic to North America. While generally not associated with clinical symptoms in ewes, it affects fetal development during the first trimester of pregnancy resulting in malformations and pregnancy loss. A suspected outbreak of CVF was recorded in a flock of Barbados Blackbelly and St. Croix hair sheep managed under an 8-mo, accelerated mating system with ewes bred in March, July and November. The outbreak was associated with a July breeding, in a summer with unusually high rainfall and standing water in pastures. There had been no previous occurrence of CVF or other abortion storms in the flock (20+ years). Lambing outcome associated with the suspected outbreak of CVF was compared with that of the three prior July matings (CON). Ewes (n = 32-35) were managed in a pasture-based system under rotational grazing. Ewes were mated in two single sire groups of 16 to 18 ewes to like-breed sires each breeding season. Pregnancy was determined by transrectal ultrasound at end and 21 d after the 25-day breeding season. Ewes lambed on pasture, and lambs were tagged, and birth weights recorded within 24 hours. Blood samples were collected from all ewes following the CVF lambing and submitted for CVF antibody testing. All ewes showed CVF antibody titers. Pregnancy rate for the CVF lambing was not different from CON (85.7 vs. 89.8%; P = 0.512), whereas lambing rate was less in CVF for both ewes exposed (74.3 vs. 88.8%; P = 0.039) and ewes lambing (86.7 vs. 98.9%; P = 0.004). Incidence of stillborn and neonatal death of lambs was greater in CVF than CON (37.0 vs.5.6%; P = 0.002), as was the number of malformed lambs (13.0 vs. 0%; P < 0.001). Malformed lambs were associated with breech presentations. Litter size was not different in the CVF lambing (1.77 vs 1.86; P = 0.471), but lamb birth weight tended to be less (2.80 vs. 3.04 kg; P = 0.055) while ewe postpartum weight was not different (45.3 vs. 47.0 kg; P = 0.384). The outbreak of CVF reduced the lambing rate and increased the incidence of neonatal death and malformations. The outbreak occurred during a summer with unusually high rainfall and may be associated with changing weather patterns linked to climate change. Delaying summer breeding may be considered a mitigation strategy if feasible.
Impact of L-Arginine and L-Glutamine supplementation on growth performance and immune status in weanling pigs challenged with Escherichia coli F4
Authors: Wellington Michael O , Hulshof Tetske G , Ernst Kristi , Balemans Anke , Page Greg I , Van Hees Hubèrt M J
Published: May 2023

Arginine (ARG) and Glutamine (GLN) have been reported to play significant roles in protein metabolism, immunity, and intestinal health in weanling pigs. The present study investigated the independent and interactive effect of supplementing ARG and GLN on pigs immune status and growth performance following an Escherichia coli F4 challenge. A total of 240 mixed-sex pigs (24 ± 2 d old; 7.3 ± 0.1 kg BW) were used in a 42-d experiment after selection for E. coli F4 susceptibility. The pigs were group-housed (3 pigs per pen), and pens were randomly assigned to five experimental treatments (N = 16 pens per treatment). Experimental treatments were: 1) a wheat–barley–soybean meal-based basal diet (CTRL), 2) a basal diet with 2500 mg/kg zinc oxide (ZnO), 3) a basal diet + 0.5% Glutamine (0.5% GLN), 4) basal diet + 0.5% Arginine (0.5% ARG), and 5) basal diet with 0.5% Glutamine + 0.5% Arginine (0.5% GLN + ARG). All Pigs were inoculated with E. coli F4 on days 7, 8, and 9 post-weaning. Rectal swabs were taken from each pig and plated on blood agar plates for E. coli F4 presence. Blood and fecal samples were taken to determine the acute phase response and selected fecal biomarkers for the immune response. Growth performance and fecal scores were recorded. Fecal swabs resulted in no positive pig for E. coli F4 before inoculation and 73.3% positive postinoculation. Diarrhea incidence during days 7 to 14 was significantly lower for the ZnO treatment (P < 0.05). The haptoglobin level on day 3 was lower than days 10 and 20, irrespective of treatment (P < 0.05). The albumin level was lower on day 20 compared to days 3 and 10 (P < 0.05). There was no treatment effect on albumin levels regardless of sampling day (P > 0.05). The PigMAP was lowest on day 3 and highest on day 10 (P < 0.05). We did not observe significant treatment differences (P > 0.05) in myeloperoxidase and calprotectin. Pancreatitis-associated protein was higher in the ZnO (P = 0.001) treatment than in the other treatments. Fecal IgA tended (P = 0.10) to be higher in the ZnO and 0.5% ARG treatments. There were no performance differences, except during days 0 to 7, where the ZnO treatment was lower in average daily gain and average daily feed intake (P < 0.001), while feed efficiency (G:F) FE was similar across treatments. In summary, no improved performance was observed with either ARG, glutamate, or both. The immune response results showed that the E. coli F4 challenge may have exacerbated the acute phase response; hence, the benefits of dietary treatments did not go beyond immune repair and reduction in inflammation.
The impact of surgical weight loss procedures on the risk of metachronous colorectal neoplasia: the differential effect of surgery type, sex, and anatomic location
Authors: Hussan Hisham , Ali Mohamed R , Hussain Shehnaz K , Lyo Victoria , McLaughlin Eric , Chiang ChienWei , Thompson Henry J
Published: May 2023

Patients with prior colorectal polyps are at high risk for metachronous colorectal neoplasia, especially in the presence of obesity. We assessed the impact of 2 common bariatric surgeries, vertical sleeve gastrectomy and roux-n-Y gastric bypass, on the risk of colorectal neoplasia recurrence. This nationally representative analysis included 1183 postbariatric adults and 3193 propensity score–matched controls, who all had prior colonoscopy with polyps and polypectomy. Colorectal polyps reoccurred in 63.8% of bariatric surgery patients and 71.7% of controls at a mean follow-up of 53.1 months from prior colonoscopy. There was a reduced odds of colorectal polyp recurrence after bariatric surgery compared with controls (odds ratio [OR] = 0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.58 to 0.83). This effect was most pronounced in men (OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.42 to 0.79), and post roux-n-Y gastric bypass (OR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.41 to 0.79). However, the risk of rectal polyps or colorectal cancer remained consistent between groups. This study is the first to our knowledge to show a reduction in risk of polyp recurrence following bariatric surgery.
Imaging modalities for measuring body composition in patients with cancer: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Shah Urvi A , Ballinger Tarah J , Bhandari Rusha , Dieli-Conwright Christina M , Guertin Kristin A , Hibler Elizabeth A , Kalam Faiza , Lohmann Ana Elisa , Ippolito Joseph E
Published: May 2023

Body composition assessment (ie, the measurement of muscle and adiposity) impacts several cancer-related outcomes including treatment-related toxicities, treatment responses, complications, and prognosis. Traditional modalities for body composition measurement include body mass index, body circumference, skinfold thickness, and bioelectrical impedance analysis; advanced imaging modalities include dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, computerized tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography. Each modality has its advantages and disadvantages, thus requiring an individualized approach in identifying the most appropriate measure for specific clinical or research situations. Advancements in imaging approaches have led to an abundance of available data, however, the lack of standardized thresholds for classification of abnormal muscle mass or adiposity has been a barrier to adopting these measurements widely in research and clinical care. In this review, we discuss the different modalities in detail and provide guidance on their unique opportunities and challenges.
Skeletal muscle omics signatures in cancer cachexia: perspectives and opportunities
Authors: Gilmore L Anne , Parry Traci L , Thomas Gwendolyn A , Khamoui Andy V
Published: May 2023

Cachexia is a life-threatening complication of cancer that occurs in up to 80% of patients with advanced cancer. Cachexia reflects the systemic consequences of cancer and prominently features unintended weight loss and skeletal muscle wasting. Cachexia impairs cancer treatment tolerance, lowers quality of life, and contributes to cancer-related mortality. Effective treatments for cancer cachexia are lacking despite decades of research. High-throughput omics technologies are increasingly implemented in many fields including cancer cachexia to stimulate discovery of disease biology and inform therapy choice. In this paper, we present selected applications of omics technologies as tools to study skeletal muscle alterations in cancer cachexia. We discuss how comprehensive, omics-derived molecular profiles were used to discern muscle loss in cancer cachexia compared with other muscle-wasting conditions, to distinguish cancer cachexia from treatment-related muscle alterations, and to reveal severity-specific mechanisms during the progression of cancer cachexia from early toward severe disease.
A review of the impact of energy balance on triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Akingbesote Ngozi D , Owusu Dennis , Liu Ryan , Cartmel Brenda , Ferrucci Leah M , Zupa Michelle , Lustberg Maryam B , Sanft Tara , Blenman Kim R M , Irwin Melinda L , Perry Rachel J
Published: May 2023

Cancer cells cannot proliferate without sufficient energy to generate biomass for rapid cell division, as well as to fuel their functions at baseline. For this reason, many recent observational and interventional studies have focused on increasing energy expenditure and/or reducing energy intake during and after cancer treatment. The impact of variance in diet composition and in exercise on cancer outcomes has been detailed extensively elsewhere and is not the primary focus of this review. Instead, in this translational, narrative review we examine studies of how energy balance impacts anticancer immune activation and outcomes in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). We discuss preclinical, clinical observational, and the few clinical interventional studies on energy balance in TNBC. We advocate for the implementation of clinical studies to examine how optimizing energy balance—through changes in diet and/or exercise—may optimize the response to immunotherapy in people with TNBC. It is our conviction that by taking a holistic approach that includes energy balance as a key factor to be considered during and after treatment, cancer care may be optimized, and the detrimental effects of cancer treatment and recovery on overall health may be minimized.
Competencies for Psychology Practice in Pediatric Palliative Care
Authors: Thompson Amanda L , Schaefer Megan R , McCarthy Sarah R , Hildenbrand Aimee K , Cousino Melissa K , Marsac Meghan L , Majeski Jill , Wohlheiter Karen , Kentor Rachel A
Published: May 2023

Objective

Pediatric psychologists have unique expertise to contribute to the care of youth with serious illnesses yet are not routinely integrated into pediatric palliative care (PPC) teams. To better define the role and unique skillset of psychologists practicing in PPC, support their systematic inclusion as part of PPC teams, and advance trainee knowledge of PPC principles and skills, the PPC Psychology Working Group sought to develop core competencies for psychologists in this subspecialty.

Methods

A Working Group of pediatric psychologists with expertise in PPC met monthly to review literature and existing competencies in pediatrics, pediatric and subspecialty psychology, adult palliative care, and PPC subspecialties. Using the modified competency cube framework, the Working Group drafted core competencies for PPC psychologists. Interdisciplinary review was conducted by a diverse group of PPC professionals and parent advocates, and competencies were revised accordingly.

Results

The six competency clusters include Science, Application, Education, Interpersonal, Professionalism, and Systems. Each cluster includes essential competencies (i.e., knowledge, skills, attitudes, roles) and behavioral anchors (i.e., examples of concrete application). Reviewer feedback highlighted clarity and thoroughness of competencies and suggested additional consideration of siblings and caregivers, spirituality, and psychologists’ own positionality.

Conclusions

Newly developed competencies for PPC psychologists highlight unique contributions to PPC patient care and research and provide a framework for highlighting psychology’s value in this emerging subspecialty. Competencies help to advocate for inclusion of psychologists as routine members of PPC teams, standardize best practices among the PPC workforce, and provide optimal care for youth with serious illness and their families.
Commentary: Goldilocks Revisited: Do We Need More Practice Competencies in Pediatric Psychology?
Authors: Robins Paul M , Stancin Terry
Published: May 2023

The publication of the Thompson et al. competencies framework for pediatric palliative care marks a third set of practice guidelines published. There is essential tension between specialist training in clinical child psychology (our “home” discipline) leading to further subspecialty training in pediatric psychology, the desired balance between the two, and impact on teaching, training, and patient care. A purpose of this invited commentary is to stimulate further awareness and subsequent discussion of the integration of more narrow practice skills in a growing and developing field, as the tendency toward greater specialization and siloed practice increases.
Duodenal lipoma: robotic-assisted approach
Authors: Alghanemi Ryan , Tekin Zülküf
Published: May 2023

Lipomas are one of the most common benign tumors of the gastrointestinal tract, typically found in the small and large intestine. While most cases are asymptomatic and discovered incidentally, large duodenal lipomas are rare and present a unique set of diagnostic and management challenges due to their complex anatomic relationships with other vital structures. Endoscopic removal of large lipomas carries a risk of bleeding and can be difficult to access. To address these issues, robotic-assisted surgical approaches have been proposed as a viable alternative to laparoscopy, as demonstrated in this case.
Low Spontaneous Mutation Rate in Complex Multicellular Eukaryotes with a Haploid–Diploid Life Cycle
Authors: Krasovec Marc , Hoshino Masakazu , Zheng Min , Lipinska Agnieszka P , Coelho Susana M
Published: May 2023

The spontaneous mutation rate µ is a crucial parameter to understand evolution and biodiversity. Mutation rates are highly variable across species, suggesting that µ is susceptible to selection and drift and that species life cycle and life history may impact its evolution. In particular, asexual reproduction and haploid selection are expected to affect the mutation rate, but very little empirical data are available to test this expectation. Here, we sequence 30 genomes of a parent–offspring pedigree in the model brown alga Ectocarpus sp.7, and 137 genomes of an interspecific cross of the closely related brown alga Scytosiphon to have access to the spontaneous mutation rate of representative organisms of a complex multicellular eukaryotic lineage outside animals and plants, and to evaluate the potential impact of life cycle on the mutation rate. Brown algae alternate between a haploid and a diploid stage, both multicellular and free living, and utilize both sexual and asexual reproduction. They are, therefore, excellent models to empirically test expectations of the effect of asexual reproduction and haploid selection on mutation rate evolution. We estimate that Ectocarpus has a base substitution rate of µbs = 4.07 × 10−10 per site per generation, whereas the Scytosiphon interspecific cross had µbs = 1.22 × 10−9. Overall, our estimations suggest that these brown algae, despite being multicellular complex eukaryotes, have unusually low mutation rates. In Ectocarpus, effective population size (Ne) could not entirely explain the low µbs. We propose that the haploid–diploid life cycle, combined with extensive asexual reproduction, may be additional key drivers of the mutation rate in these organisms.
MSH2-MSH3 promotes DNA end resection during homologous recombination and blocks polymerase theta-mediated end-joining through interaction with SMARCAD1 and EXO1
Authors: Oh Jung-Min , Kang Yujin , Park Jumi , Sung Yubin , Kim Dayoung , Seo Yuri , Lee Eun A , Ra Jae Sun , Amarsanaa Enkhzul , Park Young-Un , Lee Seon Young , Hwang Jung Me , Kim Hongtae , Schärer Orlando , Cho Seung Woo , Lee Changwook , Takata Kei-ichi , Lee Ja Yil , Myung Kyungjae
Published: May 2023

DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair via homologous recombination is initiated by end resection. The extent of DNA end resection determines the choice of the DSB repair pathway. Nucleases for end resection have been extensively studied. However, it is still unclear how the potential DNA structures generated by the initial short resection by MRE11-RAD50-NBS1 are recognized and recruit proteins, such as EXO1, to DSB sites to facilitate long-range resection. We found that the MSH2-MSH3 mismatch repair complex is recruited to DSB sites through interaction with the chromatin remodeling protein SMARCAD1. MSH2-MSH3 facilitates the recruitment of EXO1 for long-range resection and enhances its enzymatic activity. MSH2-MSH3 also inhibits access of POLθ, which promotes polymerase theta-mediated end-joining (TMEJ). Collectively, we present a direct role of MSH2-MSH3 in the initial stages of DSB repair by promoting end resection and influencing the DSB repair pathway by favoring homologous recombination over TMEJ.
Core defense hotspots within Pseudomonas aeruginosa are a consistent and rich source of anti-phage defense systems
Authors: Johnson Matthew C , Laderman Eric , Huiting Erin , Zhang Chi , Davidson Alan , Bondy-Denomy Joseph
Published: May 2023

Bacteria use a diverse arsenal of anti-phage immune systems, including CRISPR-Cas and restriction enzymes. Recent advances in anti-phage system discovery and annotation tools have unearthed many unique systems, often encoded in horizontally transferred defense islands, which can be horizontally transferred. Here, we developed Hidden Markov Models (HMMs) for defense systems and queried microbial genomes on the NCBI database. Out of the 30 species with >200 completely sequenced genomes, our analysis found Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibits the greatest diversity of anti-phage systems, as measured by Shannon entropy. Using network analysis to identify the common neighbors of anti-phage systems, we identified two core defense hotspot loci (cDHS1 and cDHS2). cDHS1 is up to 224 kb (median: 26 kb) with varied arrangements of more than 30 distinct immune systems across isolates, while cDHS2 has 24 distinct systems (median: 6 kb). Both cDHS regions are occupied in a majority of P. aeruginosa isolates. Most cDHS genes are of unknown function potentially representing new anti-phage systems, which we validated by identifying a novel anti-phage system (Shango) commonly encoded in cDHS1. Identifying core genes flanking immune islands could simplify immune system discovery and may represent popular landing spots for diverse MGEs carrying anti-phage systems.
Proksee: in-depth characterization and visualization of bacterial genomes
Authors: Grant Jason R , Enns Eric , Marinier Eric , Mandal Arnab , Herman Emily K , Chen Chih-yu , Graham Morag , Van Domselaar Gary , Stothard Paul
Published: May 2023

Proksee (https://proksee.ca) provides users with a powerful, easy-to-use, and feature-rich system for assembling, annotating, analysing, and visualizing bacterial genomes. Proksee accepts Illumina sequence reads as compressed FASTQ files or pre-assembled contigs in raw, FASTA, or GenBank format. Alternatively, users can supply a GenBank accession or a previously generated Proksee map in JSON format. Proksee then performs assembly (for raw sequence data), generates a graphical map, and provides an interface for customizing the map and launching further analysis jobs. Notable features of Proksee include unique and informative assembly metrics provided via a custom reference database of assemblies; a deeply integrated high-performance genome browser for viewing and comparing analysis results at individual base resolution (developed specifically for Proksee); an ever-growing list of embedded analysis tools whose results can be seamlessly added to the map or searched and explored in other formats; and the option to export graphical maps, analysis results, and log files for data sharing and research reproducibility. All these features are provided via a carefully designed multi-server cloud-based system that can easily scale to meet user demand and that ensures the web server is robust and responsive.
Les recommandations en vigueur pour la prise en charge de l’acidocétose diabétique pédiatrique
Authors: Gripp Karen E , Trottier Evelyne D , Thakore Sidd , Sniderman Jonathan , Lawrence Sarah
Published: May 2023

Pour traiter l’acidocétose diabétique pédiatrique, il faut porter une attention particulière aux liquides et aux électrolytes pour limiter le risque de complications, telles qu’une lésion cérébrale, associée à une morbidité et une mortalité élevées. L’incidence d’œdème cérébral en cas d’acidocétose diabétique n’a pas diminué malgré les protocoles visant la limitation des liquides qui s’appuient sur la restriction de la réanimation liquidienne initiale. Selon de nouvelles données probantes, l’administration précoce de liquides isotoniques n’entraîne pas de risque supplémentaire et peut améliorer les résultats cliniques chez certains patients. Les protocoles et les directives cliniques sont adaptés et axés particulièrement sur la surveillance et le remplacement initiaux et continus des liquides et des électrolytes. Il est maintenant recommandé de commencer par une réanimation à l’aide de liquides isotoniques chez tous les patients dans les 20 à 30 minutes suivant leur arrivée à l’hôpital, suivie par la réplétion du déficit volumique sur une période de 36 heures, en association avec une perfusion d’insuline et des suppléments d’électrolytes, ainsi qu’avec la surveillance et la prise en charge attentives d’une éventuelle lésion cérébrale.
Relational Mechanisms to Explain Collective Performance Data Use
Authors: Kroll Alexander
Published: May 2023

Performance management theory has been largely organizational with a focus on the decision maker, operating within the public-sector hierarchy. But such an understanding misses most contexts that are more horizontal and fall somewhere between intra-organizational team structures and inter-organizational collaborations. To address this gap, this article puts forward the concept of collective performance data use; a group-level construct defined through the lateral, voluntary, and reciprocal negotiations among partners. Drawing on related literatures, it develops a theoretical framework to explain collective data use based on three relational mechanisms (system sensemaking, deliberation routines, and dissent-conflict balancing) and a set of mechanism-activating antecedents, out of which four are featured in greater detail: connectedness, power imbalance, expertise configurations, and distributed leadership. The article argues we need to update extant performance management theory using a relational perspective if we want to better understand the social side of performance practices and related behaviors.
Disturbance of sleep maintenance, but not sleep duration, activates nuclear factor-κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription family proteins in older adults: sex differences
Authors: Piber Dominique , Olmstead Richard , Cho Joshua H , Irwin Michael R
Published: May 2023

Study Objectives

Disturbances of sleep maintenance and sleep duration are common in older adults and associated with an increased risk for age-related mortality and morbidity. Converging evidence implicates inflammation as an underlying mechanism, especially in females. However, it is unknown what specific aspects of sleep disturbance impact inflammatory mechanisms in older adults.

Methods

Using data from community-dwelling older adults who participated in the Sleep Health and Aging Research (SHARE) field study (n = 262, mean age 71.9 ± 8.0 years), we conducted a secondary analysis to examine whether disturbance of sleep maintenance (i.e. greater amount of wake time after sleep onset [WASO]) and sleep duration (i.e. shorter total sleep time [TST]) assessed by sleep diary and actigraphy are associated with greater activation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) family proteins STAT1, STAT3, and STAT5 in peripheral blood monocytic cells. In addition, moderation effects of sex were explored.

Results

Data were available for sleep diary (n = 82), actigraphy (n = 74), and inflammatory signaling and transcriptional measures (n = 132). As assessed by sleep diary, greater amount of WASO (β = 0.39, p < 0.01), but not TST, was associated with higher levels of NF-κB. Whereas diary-assessed sleep measures were not associated with STAT family proteins, a moderation analysis revealed that greater diary-assessed WASO was associated with higher levels of STAT1 (p < 0.05), STAT3 (p < 0.05), and STAT5 (p < 0.01) in females, but not in males. Actigraphy-assessed sleep measures were not associated either with NF-κB or STAT activation.

Conclusions

In older adults, self-reported disturbance of sleep maintenance assessed by sleep diary was uniquely associated with higher levels of NF-κB, along with higher levels of STAT family proteins in females, but not in males. Our data suggest that improvingself-reported sleep maintenance might mitigate age-related increases in inflammatory signaling and transcriptional pathways, possibly more strongly in females, with the potential to reduce mortality risk in older adults.
A revision of the genus Porteria and the phylogeny and biogeography of Porteriinae (Araneae: Desidae)
Authors: Morrill Elizabeth , Crews Sarah , Esposito Lauren , Ramírez Martín J , Griswold Charles
Published: May 2023

We revise the Chilean genus Porteria, including the type species, Porteria albopunctata, and 11 new species: Porteria ajimayo sp. nov., Porteria alopobre sp. nov., Porteria ariasbohartae sp. nov., Porteria bunnyana sp. nov., Porteria contulmo sp. nov., Porteria correcaminos sp. nov., Porteria eddardstarki sp. nov., Porteria faberi sp. nov., Porteria fiura sp. nov., Porteria misbianka sp. nov. and Porteria torobayo sp. nov. A phylogenetic analysis using six genetic markers confirms the monophyly of Porteriinae, including Baiami and the core porteriines, here defined to include the ecribellate genera Cambridgea, Corasoides, Nanocambridgea and Porteria. Core porteriines are diagnosed by a narrowed section of the piriform gland spigot field, the cymbium extended to a narrow tip and lack of a median apophysis. Porteria and Corasoides are sister taxa, united by the behaviour of running atop the sheet of a web and by spinning a regular square mesh in the web platform. According to our results, the diversification of Porteria started about 30 Mya (44–17 Mya). A biogeographic analysis infers that an ancestor of Porteria reached South America via a founder event from Australia or New Zealand, where their close relatives occur.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Antibody Titer Levels in Pregnant Individuals After Infection, Vaccination, or Both
Authors: Marshall Christina L. , Kaplowitz Elianna , Ibroci Erona , Chung Kyle , Gigase Frederieke A. J. , Lieber Molly , Graziani Mara , Ohrn Sophie , Lynch Jezelle , Castro Juliana , Tubassum Rushna , Mutawakil Farida , Jessel Rebecca , Molenaar Nina , Rommel Anna-Sophie , Sperling Rhoda S. , Howell Elizabeth A. , Feldman Hannah , Krammer Florian , Stadlbauer Daniel , de Witte Lotje D. , Bergink Veerle , Stone Joanne , Janevic Teresa , Dolan Siobhan M. , Lieb Whitney
Published: May 2023

We examined differences in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) antibody responses in pregnant individuals with natural, vaccine-induced, or combined immunity. Participants had live or nonlive births between 2020 and 2022, were seropositive (SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, anti-S), and had available mRNA vaccination and infection information (n=260). We compared titer levels among three immunity profiles: 1) natural immunity (n=191), 2) vaccine-induced immunity (n=37), and 3) combined immunity (ie, natural and vaccine-induced immunity; n=32). We applied linear regression to compare anti-S titers between the groups, controlling for age, race and ethnicity, and time between vaccination or infection (whichever came last) and sample collection. Anti-S titers were 57.3% and 94.4% lower among those with vaccine-induced and natural immunity, respectively, compared with those with combined immunity (P<.001, P=.005).
Vaginal Corrosion Due to Insertion of a 9-Volt Battery
Authors: Moore Ellen , Friedman Julie , Christopher Diane
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND:

Batteries are known to cause damage to mucosal surfaces. Unfortunately, the timing of serious sequelae and recommendations for removal of a vaginally inserted battery in a premenopausal patient are not well characterized. This case report aims to detail the timeline of events and complications after vaginal insertion of a 9-volt alkaline battery and to further clarify the recommendation for urgent removal.

CASE:

A 24-year-old nulliparous woman with significant psychiatric and trauma history was admitted for ingestion and insertion of multiple foreign objects, including a 9-volt battery that she inserted into her vagina during her hospital admission. Examination under anesthesia was required for removal of the battery, with cervical and vaginal necrosis and partial-thickness burns noted. Removal occurred approximately 5.5 hours after insertion. Management included vaginal irrigation and topical estrogen.

CONCLUSION:

Given our findings of rapid and severe damage to the vaginal mucosa, urgent removal of a vaginally inserted battery is indicated.
Evolution of a Continuing Professional Development Program Based on a Community of Practice Model for Health Care Professionals in Resource-Limited Settings
Authors: Nguyen Diane , Tupas Kris Denzel , Thammasitboon Satid
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

The Baylor International Pediatric AIDS Initiative (BIPAI) Network supports a network of independent nongovernmental organizations providing health care for children and families in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Using a community of practice (CoP) framework, a continuing professional development (CPD) program was created for health professionals to enhance knowledge and exchange best practices.

Methods:

An online learning platform (Moodle), videoconferencing (Zoom), instant messaging systems (Whatsapp), and email listserv facilitated learning and interaction between program participants. Target participants initially included pharmacy staff and expanded to include other health professionals. Learning modules included asynchronous assignments and review of materials, live discussion sessions, and module pretests and posttests. Evaluation included participants' activities, changes in knowledge, and assignment completion. Participants provided feedback on program quality via surveys and interviews.

Results:

Five of 11 participants in Year 1 earned a certificate of completion, and 17 of 45 participants earned a certificate in Year 2. Most modules showed an increase in module pretest and posttest scores. Ninety-seven percent of participants indicated that the relevance and usefulness of modules were good or outstanding. Ongoing evaluation indicated changes in Year 2 for program improvement, and notable outcomes indicated how CoP added value in developing a true community.

Discussion:

Using a CoP framework allowed participants to improve their personal knowledge and become part of a learning community and network of interdisciplinary health care professionals. Lessons learned included expanding program evaluation to capture potential value creation of the community of practice in addition to individual-level development; providing briefer, more focused programs to better serve busy working professionals; and optimizing use of technological platforms to improve participant engagement.
Mucinous adenocarcinoma of the urachus: a practical overview of a broad differential diagnosis: case report
Authors: Sánchez Germán J. , Guevara Raúl , Riscanevo Bobadilla Angie C. , Hernández Mayra A. , Duarte Ricardo , Balaguera Alberto
Published: May 2023

Background:

Mucinous urachal neoplasms presenting with pseudomyxoma peritonei are rare pathologies, which usually manifest with abdominal pain, mucosuria, and imaging findings of an infraumbilical midline mass and bladder dome. Cytoreduction complemented with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a treatment strategy associated with better survival rates, disease-free time, and better quality of life compared with systemic chemotherapy.

Case Description:

We describe an unusual case of a patient with peritoneal pseudomyxoma secondary to mucinous adenocarcinoma of the urachus, who underwent complete macroscopic cytoreduction and intraoperative HIPEC with an adequate response to HIPEC, without imaging or clinical evidence of relapse at 24 months of follow-up.

Conclusion:

Cytoreductive surgery associated with HIPEC can be considered a treatment strategy for mucinous urachal neoplasms presenting with peritoneal pseudomyxoma.
Effectiveness of Therapeutic Community Program on Resilience and Change in Lifestyle in People With Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Song Eun Ae , Kim Hee Kyung , Lee Mihyoung
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a therapeutic community program on resilience and positive change of lifestyle in people with alcohol use disorder. This study used a quasi-experimental study design. The Therapeutic Community Program was conducted daily for 12 weeks from June 2017 to May 2018. Subjects were selected from the Therapeutic Community and a hospital. Of the 38 subjects, 19 subjects belonged to the experimental group and 19 subjects belonged to the control group. Our findings were that the Therapeutic Community Program has improved resilience and promoted global lifestyle changes in the experimental group compared with the control group.
The Impact of Individual Counseling on Treatment for Opioid Use
Authors: Mariolis Tara , Wilson Amanda , Chiodo Lisa M.
Published: May 2023

In 2018, more than 67,000 people died because of drug overdoses, and of that number, approximately 69.5% involved an opioid, making it a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally concerning is that 40 states have reported increased overdose deaths and opioid-related deaths since the start of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Presently, many insurance companies and healthcare providers require patients to receive counseling during medication treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD), despite the lack of evidence that it is necessary for all patients. To inform policy and improve quality of treatment, this nonexperimental, correlational study examined the relationship between individual counseling status and treatment outcomes in patients receiving medication treatment for OUD. Treatment outcome variables (treatment utilization, medication use, and opioid use) were extracted from the electronic health records of 669 adults who received treatment between January 2016 and January 2018. Study findings suggest women in our sample were more likely to test positive for benzodiazepines (t = −4.3, p < .001) and amphetamines (t = −4.4, p < .001), whereas men used alcohol at higher rates than women (t = 2.2, p = .026). In addition, women were more likely to report having experienced Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder/trauma (χ2 = 16.5, p < .001) and anxiety (χ2 = 9.4, p = .002). Regression analyses revealed concurrent counseling was unrelated to medication utilization and ongoing opioid use. Patients who had prior counseling utilized buprenorphine more frequently (β = 0.13, p < .001) and used opioids less often (β = −0.14, p < .001); however, both relationships were weak. These data do not provide evidence that counseling during OUD outpatient has a significant impact on treatment outcomes. These findings provide further evidence that barriers to medication treatment such as mandatory counseling can and should be removed.
The Complexity of Educating Acute Care Nurses on Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Ginther Jane , Chipps Esther , Landers Timothy , Sinnott Loraine , Overcash Janine
Published: May 2023

Background

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a public health crisis, yet most acute care nurses are not educated to deliver evidence-based OUD care. Hospitalization provides a unique opportunity to initiate and coordinate OUD care in people presenting for other medical–surgical reasons. The aim of this quality improvement project was to determine the impact of an educational program on self-reported competencies of medical–surgical nurses caring for people with OUD at a large academic medical center in the Midwestern United States.

Method

Data were collected from two time points using a quality survey examining self-reported nurse competencies related to (a) assessment, (b) intervention, (c) treatment recommendation, (d) resource use, (e) beliefs, and (f) attitudes toward caring for people with OUD.

Results

Nurses surveyed before education (T1G1, N = 123) and, after education, those who received the intervention (T2G2, N = 17) and those who did not (T2G3, N = 65) were included. Resource use subscores increased over time (T1G1: x = 3.83, T2G3: x = 4.07, p = .006). Results from the two measurement points found no difference in mean total scores (T1G1: x = 3.53, T2G3: x = 3.63, p = .09). Comparison of mean total scores of nurses who directly received the educational program with those who did not during the second time point showed no improvement (T2G2: x = 3.52, T2G3: x = 3.63, p = .30).

Conclusions

Education alone was insufficient in improving self-reported competencies of medical–surgical nurses caring for people with OUD. Findings can be used to inform efforts to increase nurse knowledge and understanding of OUD and to decrease negative attitudes, stigma, and discriminatory behaviors perpetuating care.