bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental research infrastructures are not (yet) ready to address ecosystem conservation challenge
Authors: Bonet-García Francisco J , Pando Francisco , Suárez-Muñoz María , Cabello Javier
Published: July 2023

Research infrastructures (RIs) are tools intended to be a fundamental pillar in producing knowledge regarding the functioning of Earth’s vital systems. However, it is unclear to what extent these instruments can help to deal with global biodiversity challenges. This paper presents the first assessment of the alignment between the services provided by environmental RIs, and the knowledge requested to address three specific Global Challenges concerning biodiversity loss at a global level: threatened species, alien species and ecosystem conservation. We characterized the specific needs and Subchallenges behind each Global Challenge. We also collected the services provided by 44 relevant environmental RIs in a standardized form. Then, we assessed to what extent those services are useful to address the challenges’ needs. Our results show that RIs, as a whole, are better suited to respond to species-related challenges than to challenges involving whole ecosystems. Nevertheless, the overlap among challenges’ needs is quite significant. Nearly half of the identified needs are shared between the ‘threatened species’ and the ‘ecosystem conservation’ challenges. Most of the assessed RIs work with multiple Earth System’s compartments at the same time (e.g. terrestrial + marine, terrestrial + freshwater, etc). Regarding the spatial extent of the studied RIs, most of the ecosystem-based RIs focus on the country scale, while most of the RIs specialized in species-related challenges work at a global scale. Considering the needs required to address the studied challenges, we have found that the RIs assessed in this study do not cover several of them. These gaps comprise complex data combinations that the studied RIs do not provide. Most of these gaps can be attributed to the ‘ecosystem conservation’ challenge. We consider that RIs were generally built to support pure basic research, which hampers their contribution to combat biodiversity loss. Because of the urgency to address global biodiversity challenges, we suggest adding new functionalities to make RIs work as problem-oriented facilities.
A “Bandwidth” in cortical representations of multiple faces
Authors: Ai Hailin , Cui Yuwei , Chen Nihong
Published: July 2023

The human ability to process multiple items simultaneously can be constrained by the extent to which those items are represented by distinct neural populations. In the current study, we used fMRI to investigate the cortical representation of multiple faces. We found that the addition of a second face to occupy both visual hemifields led to an increased response, whereas a further addition of faces within the same visual hemifield resulted in a decreased response. This pattern was widely observed in the occipital visual cortex, the intraparietal sulcus, and extended to the posterior inferotemporal cortex. A parallel trend was found in a behavioral change-detection task, revealing a perceptual “bandwidth” of multiface processing. The sensitivity to face clutter gradually decreased along the ventral pathway, supporting the notion of a buildup of clutter-tolerance representation. These cortical response patterns to face clutters suggest that adding signals with nonoverlapping cortical representation enhanced perception, while adding signals that competed for representation resources impaired perception.
Duplex perception reveals brainstem auditory representations are modulated by listeners’ ongoing percept for speech
Authors: Rizzi Rose , Bidelman Gavin M
Published: July 2023

So-called duplex speech stimuli with perceptually ambiguous spectral cues to one ear and isolated low- versus high-frequency third formant “chirp” to the opposite ear yield a coherent percept supporting their phonetic categorization. Critically, such dichotic sounds are only perceived categorically upon binaural integration. Here, we used frequency-following responses (FFRs), scalp-recorded potentials reflecting phase-locked subcortical activity, to investigate brainstem responses to fused speech percepts and to determine whether FFRs reflect binaurally integrated category-level representations. We recorded FFRs to diotic and dichotic stop-consonants (/da/, /ga/) that either did or did not require binaural fusion to properly label along with perceptually ambiguous sounds without clear phonetic identity. Behaviorally, listeners showed clear categorization of dichotic speech tokens confirming they were heard with a fused, phonetic percept. Neurally, we found FFRs were stronger for categorically perceived speech relative to category-ambiguous tokens but also differentiated phonetic categories for both diotically and dichotically presented speech sounds. Correlations between neural and behavioral data further showed FFR latency predicted the degree to which listeners labeled tokens as “da” versus “ga.” The presence of binaurally integrated, category-level information in FFRs suggests human brainstem processing reflects a surprisingly abstract level of the speech code typically circumscribed to much later cortical processing.
Fast and furious: the rise of environmental impact reporting in food systems
Authors: Deconinck Koen , Jansen Marion , Barisone Carla
Published: July 2023

Powerful long-term drivers are increasing both the demand and supply of quantified environmental impact information in food systems. The trend is fast (with many initiatives underway) and furious (presenting a confusing landscape) but has so far received little attention from economists. Better information can inform public and private efforts to reduce environmental pressures. However, the use of different methodologies and reporting requirements could lead to a fragmented landscape. Moreover, there is a risk that poor producers will be disproportionately affected. We discuss the trend, its drivers, impacts and potential pitfalls, as well as the many open research and policy questions.
Revaccination for Hepatitis B in Previous Nonresponders Following Hepatitis C Eradication
Authors: Powell Jesse G , Goble Spencer R , Debes Jose D
Published: July 2023

Background

Patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) do not respond to hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination as efficiently as the general population. We assessed if revaccination after HCV treatment resulted in improved response.

Methods

Previous HBV vaccine nonresponders were prospectively recruited for revaccination after HCV eradication. Hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) testing was performed 1 month after series completion.

Results

Follow-up HBsAb testing was performed in 31 of 34 enrolled patients with 21 (67.7%) reactive results. There were no significant differences in HBsAb reactivity based on age, sex, race, or advanced fibrosis presence.

Conclusions

HBV vaccine nonresponders should be considered for revaccination following HCV cure.
Collective Discussion: Movement and Carceral Spatiality in the Pandemic
Authors: Shindo Reiko , Altan-Olcay Özlem , Balta Evren , van Houtum Henk , van Uden Annelies , Rajaram Prem Kumar , Coward Martin , Pellander Saara , Huysmans Jef
Published: July 2023

Various measures of mobility restrictions were introduced since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. This collective discussion examines them in relation to six different carceral techniques that govern movement: citizenship, nativism, colonialism, infrastructure, gender, and borders. We investigate how these spatializing techniques of carcerality have been modified and strengthened in the pandemic and their implications for how we conceptualize migration. Our conversation revolves around the relationality between movement and confinement to argue that they are not in opposition but work in tandem: Their meanings become interchangeable, and their relationship is reconfigured. In this collective discussion, we are interested in how to analyze movement/migration in ways that do not define the pandemic through temporal boundaries to mark its beginning and ending.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa increases the susceptibility of Candida albicans to amphotericin B in dual-species biofilms
Authors: Alam Farhana , Blackburn Sarah A , Davis Jack , Massar Keely , Correia Joao , Tsai Hung-Ji , Blair Jessica M A , Hall Rebecca A
Published: July 2023

Background

Biofilms are the leading cause of nosocomial infections and are hard to eradicate due to their inherent antimicrobial resistance. Candida albicans is the leading cause of nosocomial fungal infections and is frequently co-isolated with the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa from biofilms in the cystic fibrosis lung and severe burn wounds. The presence of C. albicans in multispecies biofilms is associated with enhanced antibacterial resistance, which is largely mediated through fungal extracellular carbohydrates sequestering the antibiotics. However, significantly less is known regarding the impact of polymicrobial biofilms on antifungal resistance.

Results

Here we show that, in dual-species biofilms, P. aeruginosa enhances the susceptibility of C. albicans to amphotericin B, an effect that was biofilm specific. Transcriptional analysis combined with gene ontology enrichment analysis identified several C. albicans processes associated with oxidative stress to be differentially regulated in dual-species biofilms, suggesting that P. aeruginosa exerts oxidative stress on C. albicans, likely through the secretion of phenazines. However, the mitochondrial superoxide dismutase SOD2 was significantly down-regulated in the presence of P. aeruginosa. Monospecies biofilms of the sod2Δ mutant were more susceptible to amphotericin B, and the susceptibility of these biofilms was further enhanced by exogenous phenazines.

Conclusions

We propose that in dual-species biofilms, P. aeruginosa simultaneously induces mitochondrial oxidative stress, while down-regulating key detoxification enzymes, which prevents C. albicans mounting an appropriate oxidative stress response to amphotericin B, leading to fungal cell death. This work highlights the importance of understanding the impact of polymicrobial interactions on antimicrobial susceptibility.
Soil P solubilization and plant growth promotion by a saline–alkali-tolerant P-solubilizing bacterium, Bacillus sp. DYS211
Authors: Wang Wei , Sun Xiaodan , Huang Wenhao , Men Xiaoting , Yi Shijie , Zheng Fengrong , Zhang Zhaohui , Wang Zongling
Published: July 2023

High total P content but insufficient available P in soil is an obstacle that restricts the efficient utilization of P in saline–alkali soil regions. Although saline–alkali resistant P-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) solubilize insoluble P, few studies have focused on their application in plant growth. We isolated a PSB strain, identified as Bacillus sp. DYS211, from bird droppings in saline–alkali regions and determined its growth characteristics and resistance to salt and alkalis. To investigate the effect of PSB on the germination and growth of plant seeds, we performed a potting experiment using Suaeda salsa with PSB added. The PSB strain grew rapidly in the first 12 h, and the solubilized P content from PSB reached a maximum of 258.22 mg L−1 at 48 h. Saline–alkali tolerance and P-solubilizing ability tests showed that Bacillus sp. DYS211 preferred to dissolve inorganic P, was halophilic, and had a good P-solubilizing effect at 1%–8% salinity (available P > 150 mg L−1). It exhibited good P solubilization abilities when glucose and sucrose were used as C sources or when ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate or yeast extract powder were used as N sources. In the growth promotion test, PSB increased seed germination, particularly under high-salinity stress, with a growth promotion of 8.33%. The PSB also improved the growth of S. salsa, including plant height and biomass (up to three times) under both saline and alkaline conditions, and the stem diameter increased under high-salinity stress. This strain demonstrates potential for vegetation restoration in saline–alkali regions.
Chasing rainbows and ocean glints: Inner working angle constraints for the Habitable Worlds Observatory
Authors: Vaughan Sophia R , Gebhard Timothy D , Bott Kimberly , Casewell Sarah L , Cowan Nicolas B , Doelman David S , Kenworthy Matthew , Mazoyer Johan , Millar-Blanchaer Maxwell A , Trees Victor J H , Stam Daphne M , Absil Olivier , Altinier Lisa , Baudoz Pierre , Belikov Ruslan , Bidot Alexis , Birkby Jayne L , Bonse Markus J , Brandl Bernhard , Carlotti Alexis , Choquet Elodie , van Dam Dirk , Desai Niyati , Fogarty Kevin , Fowler J , van Gorkom Kyle , Gutierrez Yann , Guyon Olivier , Haffert Sebastiaan Y , Herscovici-Schiller Olivier , Hours Adrien , Juanola-Parramon Roser , Kleisioti Evangelia , König Lorenzo , van Kooten Maaike , Krasteva Mariya , Laginja Iva , Landman Rico , Leboulleux Lucie , Mouillet David , N’Diaye Mamadou , Por Emiel H , Pueyo Laurent , Snik Frans
Published: July 2023

NASA is engaged in planning for a Habitable Worlds Observatory (HabWorlds ), a coronagraphic space mission to detect rocky planets in habitable zones and establish their habitability. Surface liquid water is central to the definition of planetary habitability. Photometric and polarimetric phase curves of starlight reflected by an exoplanet can reveal ocean glint, rainbows, and other phenomena caused by scattering by clouds or atmospheric gas. Direct imaging missions are optimized for planets near quadrature, but HabWorlds ’ coronagraph may obscure the phase angles where such optical features are strongest. The range of accessible phase angles for a given exoplanet will depend on the planet’s orbital inclination and/or the coronagraph’s inner working angle (IWA). We use a recently created catalog relevant to HabWorlds of 164 stars to estimate the number of exo-Earths that could be searched for ocean glint, rainbows, and polarization effects due to Rayleigh scattering. We find that the polarimetric Rayleigh scattering peak is accessible in most of the exo-Earth planetary systems. The rainbow due to water clouds at phase angles of ∼20○ − 60○ would be accessible with HabWorlds  for a planet with an Earth equivalent instellation in ∼46 systems, while the ocean glint signature at phase angles of ∼130○ − 170○ would be accessible in ∼16 systems, assuming an IWA = 62 mas (3λ/D). Improving the IWA = 41 mas (2λ/D) increases accessibility to rainbows and glints by factors of approximately 2 and 3, respectively. By observing these scattering features, HabWorlds could detect a surface ocean and water cycle, key indicators of habitability.
Natural variation in the prolyl 4-hydroxylase gene PtoP4H9 contributes to perennial stem growth in Populus
Authors: Xiao Liang , Fang Yuanyuan , Zhang He , Quan Mingyang , Zhou Jiaxuan , Li Peng , Wang Dan , Ji Li , Ingvarsson Pär K , Wu Harry X , El-Kassaby Yousry A , Du Qingzhang , Zhang Deqiang
Published: July 2023

Perennial trees must maintain stem growth throughout their entire lifespan to progressively increase in size as they age. The overarching question of the molecular mechanisms that govern stem perennial growth in trees remains largely unanswered. Here we deciphered the genetic architecture that underlies perennial growth trajectories using genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for measures of growth traits across years in a natural population of Populus tomentosa. By analyzing the stem growth trajectory, we identified PtoP4H9, encoding prolyl 4-hydroxylase 9, which is responsible for the natural variation in the growth rate of diameter at breast height (DBH) across years. Quantifying the dynamic genetic contribution of PtoP4H9 loci to stem growth showed that PtoP4H9 played a pivotal role in stem growth regulation. Spatiotemporal expression analysis showed that PtoP4H9 was highly expressed in cambium tissues of poplars of various ages. Overexpression and knockdown of PtoP4H9 revealed that it altered cell expansion to regulate cell wall modification and mechanical characteristics, thereby promoting stem growth in Populus. We showed that natural variation in PtoP4H9 occurred in a BASIC PENTACYSTEINE transcription factor PtoBPC1-binding promoter element controlling PtoP4H9 expression. The geographic distribution of PtoP4H9 allelic variation was consistent with the modes of selection among populations. Altogether, our study provides important genetic insights into dynamic stem growth in Populus, and we confirmed PtoP4H9 as a potential useful marker for breeding or genetic engineering of poplars.
Diversification, integration, and opening: developments in modelling for policy
Authors: Bauer Anja , Capari Leo , Fuchs Daniela , Udrea Titus
Published: July 2023

Closely-associated with calls for evidence-based policy-making, computer models are increasingly used to support public policies on a wide range of complex and controversial issues, ranging from energy and trade policies to regulating chemicals. In this article, we discuss three trends in modelling for policy and their implications for the authority of models in policy-making. First, we observe the proliferation of models and the differentiation of respective modelling landscapes and communities, resulting in intensified competition for political authority and early path dependencies in their political use. Second, different models are increasingly coupled or integrated into complex model frameworks, raising questions of comprehensibility and accountability. Third, modelling for policy experiences calls for transparency and opening that should serve scientific demands of replicability and verifications as well as political demands of legitimacy. In conclusion, we emphasise the continuous relevance of social scientific analyses of modelling for policy.
Genome Sequence Resource for Paramyrothecium foliicola, an Important Pathogenic Fungus Threatening Crop Production
Authors: Huo Jianfei , Ben Haiyan , Yao Yurong , Yang Lijuan , Ren Wenlai , Yang Xiurong , Wang Wanli , Hao Yongjuan
Published: July 2023

Paramyrothecium foliicola is a species of ascomycete in the family Stachybotryaceae. In recent years, it has been reported as a threat to crop production in different countries. Because of its wide host range and high virulence, this pathogen may present as a major global concern in the near future. Despite its importance, there is no sufficient genomic information for P. foliicola. Our work introduces the initial PacBio-Illumina hybrid draft genome for TJWQPF1, the P. foliicola strain, together with the related annotations. This genome was assembled into 18 contigs, with the largest contig size of 8,042,417 bp. Genome annotation identified 13,330 protein-coding genes. The draft genome data will aid in understanding the pathogenic mechanism of P. foliicola, which is a valuable resource to explore the genetic diversity, pathogenicity, and evolution of this important pathogen.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Detour or New Direction: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Professional Identity Formation of Postgraduate Residents
Authors: Cupido Nathan , Diamond Laura , Kulasegaram Kulamakan , Martimianakis Maria Athina , Forte Milena
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in numerous disruptions to health professions education training programs. Much attention has been given to the impact of these disruptions on formal learning opportunities in training; however, little attention has been given to the impact on professional socialization and professional identity formation. This study explored the impact of the pandemic and resultant curricular changes on the professional identity of family medicine residents.

Method

23 family medicine residents at the University of Toronto were interviewed between September 2020 and September 2022. Using symbolic interactionism as a theoretical framework, thematic analysis explored the meanings residents attributed to both experiences that were disrupted due to the pandemic, and new experiences that resulted from these disruptions.

Results

Participant responses reflected that disruptions in training did not always align with their expectations for family medicine and plans for future practice; however, these new experiences also reinforced their understanding of what it means to be a family physician. While participants felt the pandemic represented a loss of agency and negatively impacted relationships in their training program, it also provided a sense of belonging and membership in their profession. Finally, these new experiences continually blurred the line between professional and personal identities through the impact of the pandemic on participants’ sense of well-being and safety.

Conclusions

The impact of the pandemic on training experiences extends beyond the loss of formal learning opportunities. Participant responses reflect the collective influence of the formal, informal, and hidden curriculum on the professional socialization and professional identity formation of residents—and how these different curricular influences were disrupted due to the pandemic. These training experiences have important implications for the future practice of residents who completed their training during the pandemic and highlight the role of training programs in supporting the professional identity formation of residents.
Digging Deeper, Zooming Out: Reimagining Legacies in Medical Education
Authors: Sukhera Javeed , Ölveczky Daniele , Colbert-Getz Jorie , Fernandez Andres , Ho Ming-Jung , Ryan Michael S. , Young Meredith E.
Published: July 2023

Although the wide-scale disruption precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic has somewhat subsided, there are many questions about the implications of such disruptions for the road ahead. This year’s Research in Medical Education (RIME) supplement may provide a window of insight. Now, more than ever, researchers are poised to question long-held assumptions while reimagining long-established legacies. Themes regarding the boundaries of professional identity, approaches to difficult conversations, challenges of power and hierarchy, intricacies of selection processes, and complexities of learning climates appear to be the most salient and critical to understand. In this commentary, the authors use the relationship between legacies and assumptions as a framework to gain a deeper understanding about the past, present, and future of RIME.
Expanding the Histologic Spectrum of Sudden Conjunctivitis, Lymphopenia, and Rash Combined With Hemodynamic Changes
Authors: Ticknor Iesha L. , Lee Michael P. , Kearns Donovan , Ibraheim Marina K. , Kraus Christina , Elsensohn Ashley
Published: July 2023

Sudden conjunctivitis, lymphopenia, and rash combined with hemodynamic changes (SCoRCH) is a recently described hypersensitivity reaction to trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole. To date, only 1 case of histologic findings in SCoRCH has been reported, revealing a superficial perivascular dermatitis. In this article, we present a 53-year-old woman with a four-day history of a widespread, confluent, erythematous, and dusky rash after exposure to trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole. Histologic examination revealed a vacuolar interface dermatitis with several apoptotic keratinocytes at multiple levels of the epidermis, similar to an erythema multiforme-like presentation. As described in SCoRCH, our patient's clinical findings rapidly improved within 48 hours of presentation without treatment. This case adds to the current literature by identifying a newly described histopathological presentation of SCoRCH.
Outcomes of 60-Degree Nasal Goniotomy for Open Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Espaillat Alejandro
Published: July 2023

Précis:

Sixty-degree nasal sectoral juxtacanalicular space goniotomy with the single-use Espaillat juxtacanalicular space slider device significantly reduced intraocular pressure and the number of required glaucoma hypotensive medications, with sustained reductions over 24 months.

Purpose:

This study analyzed the safety and efficacy of the Espaillat juxtacanalicular space slider during minimally invasive 60-degree nasal sectoral goniotomy for mild-to-moderate open angle glaucoma (OAG).

Patients and Methods:

This prospective, observational case series performed at a private clinical practice and outpatient surgery center assessed the eyes of patients with mild-to-moderate OAG who underwent phacoemulsification cataract surgery with 60-degree nasal sectoral goniotomy using the Espaillat juxtacanalicular space slider. The same surgeon performed all procedures. Intraocular pressure, intraocular pressure-lowering drugs, and adverse effects were assessed over 24 months, and a regression analysis of intraocular pressure reduction was performed. Success was defined as (1) A reduction in the intraocular pressure of at least 20% for at least 12 months, compared with the baseline value, and (2) a decrease in the number of medications by at least one for at least 12 months.

Results:

Among 38 eyes, 27 (72%) had moderate glaucoma, and 11 (28%) had mild glaucoma. Postoperatively, intraocular pressure was decreased by 38% at 12 months (mean 13.7±1.7 mmHg), 35% at 18 months (mean 14.4±1.8 mmHg), and 31% at 24 months (mean 15.2±1.9 mmHg). In addition, the number of topical glaucoma medications used decreased from a mean of 1.6 to 0.4 (P<0.001). The main adverse event was temporary focal corneal edema (29 patients; 76%).

Conclusions:

Using the Espaillat juxtacanalicular space slider during invasive 60-degree nasal sectoral goniotomy for OAG yielded a significant and sustained reduction in intraocular pressure and reduced the need for glaucoma medications with minimal adverse events.
Impact of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic on Surgical Volumes Among Fellowship-Trained Glaucoma Subspecialists
Authors: Hussain Zain S. , Andoh Joana E. , Loya Asad , Yousefi Siamak , Boland Michael V.
Published: July 2023

Précis:

The change in glaucoma surgical volumes due to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic was not uniform across procedure types and was unequal between rural and urban practice locations.

Purpose:

To quantify the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on surgical volumes performed by fellowship-trained glaucoma subspecialists.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective cohort analysis of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Medicare Public Use File extracted all glaucoma surgeries, including microinvasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGSs), trabeculectomy, goniotomy, lasers, and cataract surgery, performed by fellowship-trained glaucoma surgeons in rural and urban areas between 2016 and 2020. Predicted estimates of 2020 surgical volumes were created utilizing linear squares regression. Percentage change between predicted and observed 2020 surgical volume estimates was analyzed. Statistical significance was achieved at P <0.05.

Results:

In 2020, fellowship-trained glaucoma surgeons operated mostly in urban areas (N = 810, 95%). A 29% and 31% decrease in predicted cataract surgery volumes in urban and rural areas, respectively, was observed. Glaucoma surgeries experienced a 36% decrease from predicted estimates (N = 56,781). MIGS experienced an 86% and 75% decrease in rural and urban areas, respectively. Trabeculectomy in rural areas experienced a 16% increase relative to predicted estimates while urban areas experienced a decrease of 3% (P > 0.05). The number of goniotomies decreased by 10% more in rural areas than in urban areas (−22% and −12%, respectively). Laser procedures decreased by 8% more in urban areas than in rural areas (−18% and −10%, respectively).

Conclusions:

Among glaucoma-trained surgeons, glaucoma surgeries experienced a greater volume loss than cataract surgeries. In urban US areas, relative reductions in MIGS and goniotomy volumes in urban areas may have been compensated by greater laser and trabeculectomy volumes. Trabeculectomies in rural areas were the only group exceeding predicted estimates. Glaucoma subspecialists may utilize these findings when planning for future events and in overcoming any remaining unmet need in terms of glaucoma care.
Ocular Surface Changes in Primary Open Angle Glaucoma Patients Treated With Topical Antihypertensive Drugs
Authors: Castro Catarina , Marta Ana , Marques João H. , Ferreira André , José Diana , Sousa Paulo , Neves Isabel , Menéres Maria João , Barbosa Irene
Published: July 2023

Précis:

In this study, patients with glaucoma undergoing topical antihypertensive (TAH) drugs had changes in the ocular surface and more dry eye symptoms than controls. Clinicians should recognize the influence of TAH drops on exacerbating ocular surface disease.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ocular surface of eyes with glaucoma treated with TAH drugs.

Methods:

Cross-sectional study that included eyes undergoing TAH drugs due to primary open angle glaucoma and controls. The parameters evaluated were: the basal tear flow (basic secretion test); the tear film osmolarity (TearLab); and the noninvasive break-up time, blink score, lipid layer thickness, tear meniscus height, and loss area of the meibomian glands, measured with the IDRA Ocular Surface Analyser. Presence of symptoms [Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI)], dry eye disease (DED, TFOS DEWS II criteria), and corneal fluorescein staining were assessed.

Results:

We included 154 eyes (154 patients), 77 undergoing TAH drugs for glaucoma (group 1) and 77 of controls (group 2). The tear film osmolarity (P=0.003) and the loss area of the meibomian glands (P=0.004) were higher in group 1. The noninvasive break-up time (P=0.005), lipid layer thickness (P=0.006), and tear meniscus height (P=0.001) were lower in group 1. The global OSDI score (P<0.001), the proportion of eyes with severe disease (P=0.002), according to the OSDI, and with DED (P<0.001), according to the TFOS DEWS II criteria, were higher in group 1. The proportion of patients with corneal fluorescein staining was higher in group 1 (P<0.001). There were no significant differences in eyes taking TAH drugs with and without preservatives (P>0.127).

Conclusions:

DED, in patients with glaucoma, is a multifactorial disease, with a strong contribution from TAH drugs. These eyes had changes in almost every measured parameter, translating into the presence of more dry eye symptoms and corneal damage when compared with controls.
Changes in Anterior Segment Parameters After Laser Peripheral Iridotomy in Caucasian Eyes With Different Primary Angle Closure Mechanisms
Authors: Tun Tin A. , Sawicki Andrzej , Wilkos-Kuc Agnieszka , Aung Tin , Zarnowski Tomasz
Published: July 2023

Précis:

Subgrouping of angle closure mechanisms based on the swept-source optical coherence tomography images may help to identify the predominant underlying anatomic mechanism, evaluate personal treatment, and improve the better outcomes.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in anterior segment parameters in Caucasian eyes with different angle closure mechanisms before and after laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI).

Methods:

Sixty-six subjects underwent swept-source optical coherence tomography (CASIA, Tomey Corporation) angle imaging in the dark before and 7 days after LPI. On the basis of the baseline swept-source optical coherence tomography images, the eyes were categorized into 4 angle closure mechanisms, namely pupillary block (PB), plateau iris configuration (PIC), thick peripheral iris (TPI), and large lens vault (LLV). Sixteen out of 128 cross-sectional images (11.25 degrees apart) per volume scan were selected for analysis. We used a generalized estimating equation to compare quantitative parameters among angle closure mechanisms and between before and after LPI after adjusting the intereye correlation.

Results:

The mean age of subjects was 67.7±9.2 years, with the majority being female (82.2%). One hundred twenty-nine eyes (67 primary angle closure suspects, 34 primary angle closure, and 28 primary angle closure glaucoma) were categorized into PB (n=71, 55%), PIC (n=40, 31%), TPI (n=14, 10.9%), and LLV (n=4, 3.1%). Anterior chamber depth was the shallowest in the LLV, followed by TPI, PB, and PIC group at baseline. Widening of the angle and reduction of the iris curvature (IC) due to LPI were observed in all groups (all P<0.01). When compared to the PB group, the LPI-induced angle widening in the TPI group was significantly less even though the iris curvature reduction in the TPI group was greater (all P<0.05).

Conclusions:

In patients with angle closure, anterior segment morphology and LPI-induced angle widening were different among the various angle closure mechanisms.
Persistent Mydriasis Following Gonioscopy-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy
Authors: Hallaj Shahin , Wong Jae-Chiang , Shalaby Wesam Shamseldin , Ayres Brandon D. , Moster Marlene R.
Published: July 2023

Herein we describe 2 cases of persistent mydriasis after gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy for open angle glaucoma. Both surgeries were uneventful, but the patients experienced postoperative hyphema and intraocular pressure elevation. They then developed persistent fixed and dilated pupils resistant to pilocarpine that led to intolerable photosensitivity and glare. An iris cerclage pupilloplasty was performed with adequate relief of symptoms in one case.
Infectious and Noninfectious Complications After Gluteal Augmentation Surgery
Authors: Kang Richard D. , Shah Heeya N. , Greene John N.
Published: July 2023

Public demand for gluteal autologous fat grafting, also known as a “Brazilian butt lift,” has increased over time, but these surgeries are not without risk of complications. Surgical infections range from 1.9% to 5% of the total complication rate for gluteal augmentation, including both superficial and deep infections. We present a case of Staphylococcus lugdunensis infection after gluteal autologous fat grafting and review the literature to discuss pertinent infectious and noninfectious complications of this procedure. Staphylococcus lugdunensis is a common cause of skin and soft tissue infections and is probably underrated by many doctors and laboratories. Hence, S lugdunensis should be accepted as a significant pathogen in skin and soft tissue infections and should be looked for in all routine bacteriological examinations, and clinicians should be able to be acquainted with the name and the pathology of the bacterium. With increasing popularity of fat grafting for buttock augmentation, it is more important than ever to continue researching and learning to safeguard the satisfaction and safety of our patients.
The use of commercial wrist-worn technology to track physiological outcomes in behavioral interventions
Authors: Artese Ashley L. , Rawat Rahul , Sung Anthony D.
Published: July 2023

Purpose of review

The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the use of commercial wrist-worn mobile health devices to track and monitor physiological outcomes in behavioral interventions as well as discuss considerations for selecting the optimal device.

Recent findings

Wearable technology can enhance intervention design and implementation. The use of wrist-worn wearables provides the opportunity for tracking physiological outcomes, thus providing a unique approach for assessment and delivery of remote interventions. Recent findings support the utility, acceptability, and benefits of commercial wrist-worn wearables in interventions, and they can be used to continuously monitor outcomes, remotely administer assessments, track adherence, and personalize interventions. Wrist-worn devices show acceptable accuracy when measuring heart rate, blood pressure, step counts, and physical activity; however, accuracy is dependent on activity type, intensity, and device brand. These factors should be considered when designing behavioral interventions that utilize wearable technology.

With the continuous advancement in technology and frequent product upgrades, the capabilities of commercial wrist-worn devices will continue to expand, thus increasing their potential use in intervention research. Continued research is needed to examine and validate the most recent devices on the market to better inform intervention design and implementation.
The Prognostic Role of Serine Racemase in Patients With Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Lan Chuan , Yamashita Yo-ichi , Tsukamoto Masayo , Hayashi Hiromitsu , Nakagawa Shigeki , Liu Zhao , Wu Xiyu , Imai Katsunori , Mima Kosuke , Kaida Takayoshi , Baba Hideo
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Serine racemase (SRR) participates in serine metabolism in central nervous systems. Serine racemase is only studied in colorectal cancer, and its role in pancreatic cancer (PC) is unknown. This study aims to investigate the role of SRR in PC.

Methods

Totally 182 patients with PC were enrolled in this study. Slices from patients were stained for SRR and CD8+ T cells. Kaplan-Meier methods were used to do survival analysis according to SRR expression from immunohistochemical staining. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to clarify the independent prognostic value of SRR. Bioinformatic tools were used to explore and validate the expression, prognostic value, possible mechanism, and immune interaction of SRR in PC.

Results

The expression of SRR was lower in tumor tissue than normal tissue, also potentially decreased with the increasing tumor grade. Low SRR expression was an independent risk factor for overall survival (hazards ratio, 1.875; 95% confidence interval, 1.175–2.990; P = 0.008) in patients with PC. Serine racemase was positively correlated with CD8+ T cells infiltration and possibly associated with CCL14 and CXCL12 expression.

Conclusions

Serine racemase plays a prognostic role in PC and may be a potentially therapeutic target.
The Association Between Serum Riboflavin and Flavin Mononucleotide With Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Paragomi Pedram , Wang Renwei , Huang Joyce Y. , Midttun Øivind , Ulvik Arve , Ueland Per M. , Koh Woon-Puay , Yuan Jian-Min , Luu Hung N.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) has a prime role in metabolic reactions imperative to cell cycle and proliferation. We investigated the associations between serum concentrations of riboflavin flavin mononucleotide with the risk of pancreatic cancer in a nested case-control study involving 58 cases and 104 matched controls.

Methods

The Singapore Chinese Health Study, an ongoing prospective cohort study of 63,257 Chinese Singaporeans. Conditional logistic regression method was used to evaluate these associations with adjustment for potential confounders including the level of education, body mass index, smoking status, alcohol consumption, history of diabetes, serum cotinine and pyridoxal 5′-phosphate, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and total methyl donors (ie, the sum of serum choline, betaine, and methionine).

Results

The risk of pancreatic cancer increased with increasing level of serum riboflavin in a dose-dependent manner, especially in men (P
trend = 0.003). The odds ratio (95% confidence intervals) of pancreatic cancer for the second and third tertiles of serum riboflavin, compared with the lowest tertile, were 9.92 (1.65–59.77) and 25.59 (3.09–212.00), respectively. This positive association was stronger in individuals with a longer follow-up period (≥7 years).

Conclusions

The findings suggest a potential role of riboflavin in the development of pancreatic cancer, especially in men.
Growth Kinetics of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms by Histopathologic Grade
Authors: Cao Jennie J. , Shen Luyao , Visser Brendan C. , Yoon Luke , Kamaya Aya , Tse Justin R.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

The aims of the study are to describe the growth kinetics of pathologically proven, treatment-naive pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (panNENs) at imaging surveillance and to determine their association with histopathologic grade and Ki-67.

Methods

This study included 100 panNENs from 95 patients who received pancreas protocol computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging from January 2005 to July 2022. All masses were treatment-naive, had histopathologic correlation, and were imaged with at least 2 computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging at least 90 days apart. Growth kinetics was assessed using linear and specific growth rate, stratified by grade and Ki-67. Masses were also assessed qualitatively to determine other possible imaging predictors of grade.

Results

There were 76 grade 1 masses, 17 grade 2 masses, and 7 grade 3 masses. Median (interquartile range) linear growth rates were 0.06 cm/y (0–0.20), 0.40 cm/y (0.22–1.06), and 2.70 cm/y (0.41–3.89) for grade 1, 2, and 3 masses, respectively (P < 0.001). Linear growth rate correlated with Ki-67 with r
2 of 0.623 (P < 0.001). At multivariate analyses, linear growth rate was the only imaging feature significantly associated with grade (P = 0.009).

Conclusions

Growth kinetics correlate with Ki-67 and grade. Grade 1 panNENs grow slowly versus grade 2–3 panNENs.
Factors Associated With Quality of Life Among Posttreatment Cancer Survivors in Korea
Authors: Kim Soo Hyun , Choe Yu Hyeon , Choi Jingyeong , Park Ji Young , Yi Eun
Published: July 2023

Background

Identification of factors associated with quality of life (QOL) among cancer survivors is crucial for identifying potential targets for intervention.

Objectives

We aimed to provide evidence of factors associated with the QOL among posttreatment cancer survivors in Korea.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature search from January 2000 to September 2022 using PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Korean databases (RISS, SCIENCEON). We evaluated study quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute Quality Appraisal Checklists for Analytical Cross-sectional Studies and performed statistical analysis using the R 3.0 software (R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria) package. We analyzed the pooled effect sizes of potential QOL correlates by the random-effects model.

Results

This meta-analysis included 31 studies with 8934 participants. The pooled estimates were significantly large for economic status (r = −0.53); significantly medium for fatigue (r = −0.39), anxiety (r = −0.29), depression (r = −0.42), self-efficacy (r = 0.37), and social support (r = 0.30); and significantly small for education level (r = −0.18), job status (r = −0.09), cancer stage (r = −0.20), and time since diagnosis (r = −0.26).

Conclusions

Low education level, having no job, low economic status, advanced cancer stage, short disease period, fatigue, anxiety, and depression were significantly associated with worse QOL, whereas self-efficacy and social support were significantly associated with better QOL.

Implications for Practice

The findings have potential implications for identifying “at-risk survivors” of deteriorated QOL and for suggesting powerful strategies (eg, enhancing self-efficacy or social support) for improving QOL.
Referrals for Pediatric Appendicitis to a Tertiary Care Children's Hospital
Authors: McNulty Ellie , Greene Alicia , Boehmer Susan J. , Tsai Anthony , Olympia Robert P.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to analyze pediatric referrals for definite or possible appendicitis, to compare clinical predictors and laboratory values between patients with and without a final diagnosis of appendicitis, and to determine the accuracy of prereferral diagnostic interpretations of computed tomography scans, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging modalities.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of pediatric patients referred from 2015 to 2019 to a tertiary care children's emergency department with definitive or possible appendicitis. Data abstracted included patient demographics, clinical symptoms, physical examination findings, laboratory results, and diagnostic imaging findings (by the referring center and the pediatric radiologist at the accepting center). An Alvarado and Appendicitis Inflammatory Response (AIR) score was calculated for each patient.

Results

Analysis was performed on 381 patients; 226 (59%) had a final diagnosis of appendicitis. Patients with appendicitis were more likely to have symptoms of nausea (P < 0.0001) and vomiting (P < 0.0001), have a higher mean temperature (P = 0.025), right lower quadrant abdominal pain to palpation (P = <0.0001), rebound tenderness (P < 0.0001), a higher mean Alvarado score [5.35 vs 3.45 (P < 0.0001)], and a higher mean AIR score [4.02 vs 2.17 (P < 0.0001)]. Of the 97 diagnostic images initially interpreted as appendicitis by the referring center, 10 (10.3%) were read as no evidence of appendicitis. Of the 62 diagnostic images initially interpreted as “possible appendicitis” by the referring center, 34 (54.8%) were read as no evidence of appendicitis. Of those diagnostic images initially interpreted as “appendicitis” or “possible appendicitis” by the referring center, 24/89 (27.0%) of computed tomography scans, 17/62 (27.4%) of ultrasounds, and 3/8 (37.5%) of magnetic resonance imaging results were read as no evidence of appendicitis.

Conclusions

Usage of established scoring algorithms, such as Alvarado and AIR, may decrease the unnecessary cost of diagnostic imaging and transfer to tertiary care. Virtual radiology consultations may be 1 potential solution to improve the referral process for pediatric appendicitis if initial interpretation is uncertain.
Application of a Novel Versatile Mini Posterior Nasoseptal Graft in Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Pituitary Adenoma Surgery
Authors: Liu Jianfeng , Li Rui , Zhao Jianhui , Zhao Yu , Wang Yibei , Yang Dazhang , Yu Yanbing
Published: July 2023

Background:

Skull base reconstruction is a key technique in patients undergoing endoscopic transnasal skull base surgery. Although a pedicled nasoseptal flap (PNSF) is often used to repair large skull base defects with high-flow cerebrospinal fluid leakage, bone exposure of the donor site of the PNSF can result in long-term crusting.

Objective:

To design a novel and versatile mini posterior nasoseptal graft for the reconstruction of defects in the sellar floor or PNSF or pedicled nasoseptal rescue flap (PNSRF) donor site in patients undergoing pituitary adenoma surgery.

Methods:

Patients who underwent pituitary adenoma removal through an endoscopic endonasal approach and repair of a sellar defect or PNSF/PNSRF donor site using the mini posterior nasoseptal graft technique from January 2019 to January 2020 were retrospectively evaluated. Pituitary adenomas were removed using a binostril 4-hand technique through a transnasal transsphenoidal transsellar approach or an expanded transsellar approach.

Results:

Mini posterior nasoseptal grafts were successfully used in 70 patients who underwent pituitary adenoma removal through an endoscopic transsphenoidal sellar approach. Mini posterior nasoseptal grafts repaired sellar defects in 40 patients and donor site defects of the contralateral PNSF/PNSRF in 30 patients. None of these patients experienced cerebrospinal fluid leakage or major complications.

Conclusions:

A mini posterior nasoseptal graft is a safe and effective technique for repairing sellar defects after endoscopic transnasal pituitary adenoma surgery. This technique can also be used to repair defects in PNSF/PNSRF donor sites.