bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The valence of harmonic polynomials viewed through the probabilistic lens
Authors: Lundberg Erik
Published: April 2023

We prove the existence of complex polynomials

p
(
z
)

p(z)

of degree

n
n

and

q
(
z
)

q(z)

of degree

m
>
n

m>n

such that the harmonic polynomial

p
(
z
)
+

q
(
z
)

¯

p(z) + \overline {q(z)}

has at least

⌈
n

m

⌉

\lceil n \sqrt {m} \rceil

many zeros. This provides an array of new counterexamples to Wilmshurst’s conjecture that the maximum valence of harmonic polynomials

p
(
z
)
+

q
(
z
)

¯

p(z)+\overline {q(z)}

taken over polynomials

p
p

of degree

n
n

and

q
q

of degree

m
m

is

m
(
m
−
1
)
+
3
n
−
2

m(m-1)+3n-2

. More broadly, these examples show that there does not exist a linear (in

n
n

) bound on the valence with a uniform (in

m
m

) growth rate. The proof of this result uses a probabilistic technique based on estimating the average number of zeros of a certain family of random harmonic polynomials.
Progression and transformation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma and B-cell prolymphocytic leukemia: Report from the 2021 SH/EAHP Workshop
Authors: Czader Magdalena , Amador Catalina , Cook James R , Thakkar Devang , Parker Clay , Dave Sandeep S , Dogan Ahmet , Duffield Amy S , Nejati Reza , Ott German , Xiao Wenbin , Wasik Mariusz , Goodlad John R
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Session 3 of the 2021 Workshop of the Society for Hematopathology/European Association for Haematopathology examined progression and transformation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) and B-cell prolymphocytic leukemia (B-PLL).

Methods

Thirty-one cases were reviewed by the panel. Additional studies such as immunohistochemistry and molecular genetic testing, including whole-exome sequencing and expression profiling, were performed in select cases.

Results

Session 3 included 27 CLL/SLL cases and miscellaneous associated proliferations, 3 cases of B-PLL, and 1 case of small B-cell lymphoma. The criteria for ­accelerated CLL/SLL are established for lymph nodes, but extranodal disease can be diagnostically challenging. Richter transformation (RT) is a broad term and includes true transformation from original CLL/SLL clone(s) and clonally unrelated neoplasms. The morphologic, immunophenotypic, and genetic spectrum is diverse with classical and highly unusual examples. T-cell proliferations can also be encountered in CLL/SLL. B-cell prolymphocytic leukemia is a rare, diagnostically challenging disease due to its overlaps with other lymphoid neoplasms.

Conclusions

The workshop highlighted complexity of progression and transformation in CLL/SLL and B-PLL, as well as diagnostic caveats accompanying heterogeneous presentations of RT and other manifestations of disease progression. Molecular genetic studies are pivotal for diagnosis and determination of clonal relationship, and to predict response to treatment and identify resistance to targeted therapy.
ACDA: implementation of an augmented drug synergy prediction algorithm
Authors: Domanskyi Sergii , Jocoy Emily L , Srivastava Anuj , Bult Carol J
Published: April 2023

Motivation

Drug synergy prediction is approached with machine learning techniques using molecular and pharmacological data. The published Cancer Drug Atlas (CDA) predicts a synergy outcome in cell-line models from drug target information, gene mutations and the models’ monotherapy drug sensitivity. We observed low performance of the CDA, 0.339, measured by Pearson correlation of predicted versus measured sensitivity on DrugComb datasets.

Results

We augmented the approach CDA by applying a random forest regression and optimization via cross-validation hyper-parameter tuning and named it Augmented CDA (ACDA). We benchmarked the ACDA’s performance, which is 68% higher than that of the CDA when trained and validated on the same dataset spanning 10 tissues. We compared the performance of ACDA to one of the winning methods of the DREAM Drug Combination Prediction Challenge, the performance of which was lower than ACDA in 16 out of 19 cases. We further trained the ACDA on Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research PDX encyclopedia data and generated sensitivity predictions for PDX models. Finally, we developed a novel approach to visualize synergy-prediction data.

Availability and implementation

The source code is available at https://github.com/TheJacksonLaboratory/drug-synergy and the software package at PyPI.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics Advances online.
Sources for Christian Bioethics: The Orthodox Discourse on Sin
Authors: Tarabrin Roman , Tarabrina Tatiana
Published: April 2023

The article discusses ways of developing bioethical guidance in the Orthodox Christian discourse. Here, “ethical” refers to what contributes to holiness, “un-ethical” refers to sin as what hinders man’s foundational calling to holiness. To explore the development of guidance for emerging bioethical issues, we use the “therapeutic” understanding of treatment for sin in two senses. (1) It refers to the spiritual means provided by the “hospital” of the Orthodox Church for healing the fallenness of human nature in general; and (2) it helps identify in particular cases both what counts as transgression of unconditional boundaries (defining what is illicit for everyone) and what is advisable in order to help particular persons to choose rightly within the area of the “more or less licit” (or “permissible”). Sources of the Orthodox faith that frame the general understanding of the boundaries between the permissible and the impermissible reflect the work of the Holy Spirit in the Church framing her Sacred (Holy) Tradition. In Holy Tradition, prayers, as communion with God, occupy a central position. This is why Orthodox moral reasoning, and thus also Orthodox bioethics, takes the form of liturgical bioethics. Penalties of excommunication determine hard boundaries that believers should not overstep: when crossing such boundaries, they enter on a spiritually dangerous path that completely distracts them away from God. Many minor sins, by contrast, have not been codified in Canons. They are not taken to remove the sinner completely from contact with the Lord. Within this realm of actions, it depends on a person’s spiritual maturity whether such actions are classified as sinful. Thus, an act can be counted merely as a small offense if committed by a beginner, while that same act can become a grave sin for an advanced believer. Due to acceleration of the technological progress, Orthodox recourse to Holy Tradition encounters ever-new challenges. There are bioethical issues that had not surfaced at the time of the Fathers of the Church. Today, Bishops gathered at a local council can supply the guidance lacking on a newly emerging bioethical problem. Even if ratified only by such local councils, the resulting decrees can also be regarded as the expression of the Holy Spirit working within a local Church and conveying His guidance. The article illustrates this source of Christian bioethics by reference to how the Russian Orthodox Church orients and develops its position on the ethics of reproductive technologies.
Community Types of the Human Gut Virome are Associated with Endoscopic Outcome in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Jansen Daan , Falony Gwen , Vieira-Silva Sara , Simsek Ceren , Marcelis Tine , Caenepeel Clara , Machiels Kathleen , Raes Jeroen , Vermeire Séverine , Matthijnssens Jelle
Published: April 2023

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] is a major debilitating disease. Recently, the gut microbiota has gained attention as an important factor involved in the pathophysiology of IBD. As a complement to the established bacterial ‘enterotypes’ associated with IBD, we focused here on viruses. We investigated the intestinal virome of IBD patients undergoing biological therapy for the presence of virome configurations associated with IBD, and to uncover how those configurations are associated with therapeutic success.

Methods

Viral-like particle enrichment followed by deep sequencing was performed on 432 faecal samples from 181 IBD patients starting biological therapy. Redundancy analysis and Dirichlet Multinomial Mixtures were applied to determine covariates of the virome composition and to condense the gut virota into ‘viral community types’, respectively.

Results

Patients were stratified based on unsupervised clustering into two viral community types. Community type CA showed a low α-diversity and a high relative abundance of Caudoviricetes [non-CrAss] phages and was associated with the dysbiotic Bact2-enterotype. Community type CrM showed a high α-diversity and a high relative abundance of Crassvirales and Malgrandaviricetes phages. During post-interventional analysis, endoscopic outcome was associated with gut virome composition. Remitting UC patients had a high percentage of community type CrM, a high Shannon diversity and a low lysogenic potential. Pre-interventional analyses also identified five novel phages associated with treatment success.

Conclusions

This study proposed two gut virome configurations that may be involved in the pathophysiology of IBD. Interestingly, those viral configurations are further associated with therapeutic success, suggesting a potential clinical relevance.
Larval performance and adult phenotypic variation of Acraea terpsicore (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) on congeneric Passiflora host plants
Authors: Phanthian Chitsanuphong , Chaisuekul Chatchawan
Published: April 2023

The introduction of exotic plants into different habitats can have varied consequences for local herbivorous insects, such as altered the nutrient profiles that induce the host plant shifting or reduced food availability by competition with native plants. Acraea terpsicore (Linnaeus, 1758), a common butterfly in Southeast Asia that uses Passiflora as a host plant, has been studied to compare larval performance and adult phenotypes on one local wild Passiflora plant, P. foetida and 3 exotic congeneric plants, P. edulis, a fruit crop plant, and P. x alata-caerulea and P. x coccinea-caerulea, both hybrid ornamental plants. Laboratory caterpillars that fed on P. edulis and P. x alata-caerulea died within 1–10 days, while caterpillars fed on P. foetida and P. x coccinea-caerulea completed their life cycle in 30.42 ± 0.25 days. Although the caterpillars differed in several food utilization indices, the relative growth rate and consumption index were not affected. Adult butterflies that hatched from caterpillars fed on these experimental plants had different phenotypes, especially wing colors. Therefore, although some congeneric exotic plants may have a negative impact on the butterfly population, some exotic plants can serve as alternative larval host plants and expand the ecological niche of butterflies. Difference in the composition and concentration of nutrients and defensive chemicals in each host plant may exert an impact on the phenotypic traits of butterflies, such as their body size, coloration, and wing shape. Whether butterflies may separate into different subpopulations in the future due to phenotypic variation should be further examined.
SAIL study of stroke, systemic embolism and bleeding outcomes with warfarin anticoagulation in non-valvular atrial fibrillation (S4-BOW-AF)
Authors: Harris Daniel E , Torabi Fatemeh , Mallory Daniel , Akbari Ashley , Thayer Daniel , Wang Ting , Grundy Sarah , Gravenor Mike , Alikhan Raza , Lister Steven , Halcox Julian
Published: April 2023

Aims

In patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) prescribed warfarin, the association between guideline defined international normalised ratio (INR) control and adverse outcomes in unknown. We aimed to (i) determine stroke and systemic embolism (SSE) and bleeding events in NVAF patients prescribed warfarin; and (ii) estimate the increased risk of these adverse events associated with poor INR control in this population.

Methods and results

Individual-level population-scale linked patient data were used to investigate the association between INR control and both SSE and bleeding events using (i) the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) criteria of poor INR control [time in therapeutic range (TTR) <65%, two INRs <1.5 or two INRs >5 in a 6-month period or any INR >8]. A total of 35 891 patients were included for SSE and 35 035 for bleeding outcome analyses. Mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 3.5 (SD = 1.7), and the mean follow up was 4.3 years for both analyses. Mean TTR was 71.9%, with 34% of time spent in poor INR control according to NICE criteria.

SSE and bleeding event rates (per 100 patient years) were 1.01 (95%CI 0.95–1.08) and 3.4 (95%CI 3.3–3.5), respectively, during adequate INR control, rising to 1.82 (95%CI 1.70–1.94) and 4.8 (95% CI 4.6–5.0) during poor INR control.

Poor INR control was independently associated with increased risk of both SSE [HR = 1.69 (95%CI = 1.54–1.86), P < 0.001] and bleeding [HR = 1.40 (95%CI 1.33–1.48), P < 0.001] in Cox-multivariable models.

Conclusion

Guideline-defined poor INR control is associated with significantly higher SSE and bleeding event rates, independent of recognised risk factors for stroke or bleeding.
Heterogeneous plaque–lumen geometry is associated with major adverse cardiovascular events
Authors: Gu Sophie Z , Huang Yuan , Costopoulos Charis , Jessney Benn , Bourantas Christos , Teng Zhongzhao , Losdat Sylvain , Maehara Akiko , Räber Lorenz , Stone Gregg W , Bennett Martin R
Published: April 2023

Aims

Prospective studies show that only a minority of plaques with higher risk features develop future major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), indicating the need for more predictive markers. Biomechanical estimates such as plaque structural stress (PSS) improve risk prediction but require expert analysis. In contrast, complex and asymmetric coronary geometry is associated with both unstable presentation and high PSS, and can be estimated quickly from imaging. We examined whether plaque–lumen geometric heterogeneity evaluated from intravascular ultrasound affects MACE and incorporating geometric parameters enhances plaque risk stratification.

Methods and results

We examined plaque–lumen curvature, irregularity, lumen aspect ratio (LAR), roughness, PSS, and their heterogeneity indices (HIs) in 44 non-culprit lesions (NCLs) associated with MACE and 84 propensity-matched no-MACE-NCLs from the PROSPECT study. Plaque geometry HI were increased in MACE-NCLs vs. no-MACE-NCLs across whole plaque and peri-minimal luminal area (MLA) segments (HI curvature: adjusted P = 0.024; HI irregularity: adjusted P = 0.002; HI LAR: adjusted P = 0.002; HI roughness: adjusted P = 0.004). Peri-MLA HI roughness was an independent predictor of MACE (hazard ratio: 3.21, P < 0.001). Inclusion of HI roughness significantly improved the identification of MACE-NCLs in thin-cap fibroatheromas (TCFA, P < 0.001), or with MLA ≤ 4 mm2 (P < 0.001), or plaque burden (PB) ≥ 70% (P < 0.001), and further improved the ability of PSS to identify MACE-NCLs in TCFA (P = 0.008), or with MLA ≤ 4 mm2 (P = 0.047), and PB ≥ 70% (P = 0.003) lesions.

Conclusion

Plaque–lumen geometric heterogeneity is increased in MACE vs. no-MACE-NCLs, and inclusion of geometric heterogeneity improves the ability of imaging to predict MACE. Assessment of geometric parameters may provide a simple method of plaque risk stratification.
Decolonizing classroom discourse: insights from interactional research
Authors: Kimura Daisuke , Tsai Aurora
Published: April 2023

With the goal of contributing to ongoing efforts to decolonize ELT, this article addresses the potential of microanalytic research into classroom interaction in disrupting hegemonic forces of coloniality. Microanalytic research provides a step-by-step, minute examination of interactional discourse, and it has the capacity to reveal gaps between official policies/participants’ beliefs and actual communication practices. To set the scene, we begin the article with a sketch of our experience in Japan and a review of previous studies reporting on teachers’ struggles and responses in confronting coloniality in the ELT classroom. We then turn to microanalytic research to show how this strand of work may complement ongoing efforts towards decolonizing ELT by foregrounding participants’ resourcefulness and agency in rewriting existing norms and structures. In closing, we consider future directions for decolonizing ELT classroom interaction research and pedagogy, emphasizing the affordances of microanalytic insights for pedagogical reflection and practice.
A 6-O-endosulfatase activity assay based on synthetic heparan sulfate oligomers
Authors: Benicky Julius , Sanda Miloslav , Panigrahi Aswini , Liu Jian , Wang Zhangjie , Pagadala Vijayakanth , Su Guowei , Goldman Radoslav
Published: April 2023

Sulf-2 is an extracellular heparan 6-O-endosulfatase involved in the postsynthetic editing of heparan sulfate (HS), which regulates many important biological processes. The activity of the Sulf-2 and its substrate specificity remain insufficiently characterized in spite of more than two decades of studies of this enzyme. This is due, in part, to the difficulties in the production and isolation of this highly modified protein and due to the lack of well-characterized synthetic substrates for the probing of its catalytic activity. We introduce synthetic HS oligosaccharides to fill this gap, and we use our recombinant Sulf-2 protein to show that a paranitrophenol (pNP)-labeled synthetic oligosaccharide allows a reliable quantification of its enzymatic activity. The substrate and products of the desulfation reaction are separated by ion exchange high-pressure liquid chromatography and quantified by UV absorbance. This simple assay allows the detection of the Sulf-2 activity at high sensitivity (nanograms of the enzyme) and specificity. The method also allowed us to measure the heparan 6-O-endosulfatase activity in biological samples as complex as the secretome of cancer cell lines. Our in vitro measurements show that the N-glycosylation of the Sulf-2 enzyme affects the activity of the enzyme and that phosphate ions substantially decrease the Sulf-2 enzymatic activity. This assay offers an efficient, sensitive, and specific measurement of the heparan 6-O-endosulfatase activity that could open avenues to in vivo activity measurements and improve our understanding of the enzymatic editing of the sulfation of heparan.
502 The effects of removing the requirement for prior reimbursement approval on anticoagulant use in Ireland: A cross sectional study
Authors: Scannell M , Burton E , Kearney P M
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Prior approval for reimbursement is a cost containment policy, aimed at reducing demand (1). It has been used temporarily in the Irish Healthcare system to deal with the initial financial challenges posed by the shift in use towards the Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) (apixaban, rivaroxaban, edoxaban and dabigatran) from warfarin. Improved safety of DOACs use was a secondary aim of this policy. The use of prior approval policies is increasing in Ireland but studies assessing their effectiveness are limited.

Aim

To examine the effect of removing the cost containment policy of prior approval for reimbursement of apixaban and rivaroxaban using a national pharmacy claims database.

Methods

The Health Service Executive-Primary Care Reimbursement Service database in Ireland was used in this cross-sectional study. The prescribing frequencies and associated costs of the oral anticoagulants; ((OACs) apixaban, rivaroxaban, and warfarin) listed in the top 100 most frequently prescribed drugs on the Community Drug Schemes (CDS), between 2018 and 2021 were examined. Levothyroxine was used as a negative control to detect any external deviances in the prescribing data records. Interrupted time series Poisson regression was used to assess the impact of removing the approval requirement of apixaban in September 2019 followed by the other DOACs in November 2020.

Results

The prescribing frequency of OACs increased by almost 20% during the study period. Figure1 shows the prescribing frequencies of apixaban , rivaroxaban , warfarin and levothyroxine on each of the three community drug schemes – General medical scheme (GMS), Drug payments scheme (DPS) and Long term illness scheme (LTI) during the study period.Timelines at September 2019 and November 2020 show the removal of prior approval for apixaban and all DOACs respectively.

This study showed there were significant differences in the proportion of OACs prescribed among the CDS. A statistically significant decreased use of apixaban (<1%, p<0.05) occurred when prior approval was removed for all DOACs.

Conclusion

The removal of prior approval for reimbursement of DOACs in Ireland had a minimal impact on the prescribing frequency trends of the OACs. Future use of these potentially useful policies by healthcare systems requires careful consideration of drug type, approval criteria and length of time the policy remains in place.

References

1. Moreno-Serra R. The impact of cost-containment policies on health expenditure 2014 Available from: https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/content/paper/budget-13-5jxx2wl6lp9p
Reparations for Indigenous Women Subjected to Sexual and Environmental Violence in the Colombian Post-Peace Agreement
Authors: Loperena Ana Iris , Rosas Fabián , Cáceres Paula , Carianil Laura , Santamaria Angela
Published: April 2023

ABSTRACT∞

The peace agreement with the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia involved both gender- and ethnic-based approaches. However, crimes against the sexual freedom and integrity of indigenous women and related territorial rights reparations continue to be problematic. Notably, no in-depth knowledge exists regarding the individual and collective effects of sexual and environmental violence on indigenous women, the obstacles hindering their access to ordinary justice, special indigenous jurisdiction or peace jurisdiction. Therefore, this study aims to analyse the conceptualizations of restorative justice and reparation from the perspective of indigenous Wiwa women. To do so, it focuses on the case of the Marokazo and Teyunke regions, examining some important characteristics of indigenous reparation processes vis-à-vis sexual and environmental violence against this community. It also explores the individual conditions underlying the development of local indigenous reparation processes and the place of biological materials and natural resources in these reparation processes.
Effects of prenatal and postnatal melatonin supplementation on overall performance, male reproductive performance, and testicular hemodynamics in beef cattle
Authors: Reid Dana S , Geary Thomas W , Zezeski Abigail L , Waterman Richard C , Van Emon Megan L , Messman Riley D , Burnett Derris D , Lemley Caleb O
Published: April 2023

Melatonin has been documented to alleviate compromised pregnancies and enhance livestock performance traits. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of prenatal and postnatal melatonin supplementation on overall calf performance and dam milking traits in relation to calves, molecular factors involved in growth and metabolism of calves, along with testicular physiology and fertility traits in subsequent bulls. On days 190, 220 and 250 of gestation, dams (N = 60) were administered either two subdermal ear melatonin implants (preMEL) or no implants (preCON). After parturition, birth weights were recorded and calves were blocked based on prenatal treatment and sex. Calves received either melatonin implants (posMEL) or none (posCON) on days 0, 30, and 60 of age. On day 60 of lactation, a subset of dams (N = 32) were selected based on age, weight, and calf sex for milk collection and analysis. At weaning, (day 210 postnatally) calf weight, morphometric data, liver samples, and loin samples were collected. At 12 mo of age, bull (N = 30) scrotal circumference, scrotal temperature, and testicular artery measurements were recorded. Milk yield and fat percent from dams tended to decrease in the preMEL group (P < 0.07) compared with preCON group. Prenatal melatonin administration did not affect (P = 0.95) calf birth weight and similarly calf weaning weight was unaffected (P < 0.10) by prenatal or postnatal melatonin supplementation. Blood analysis demonstrated that plasma concentrations of melatonin were not different (P = 0.12) in dams; however, an increase (P < 0.001) in plasma concentrations of melatonin was observed in posMEL vs. posCON calves. A tendency (P < 0.10) for decreased MYF5 and MYOD1 expression in loin muscle was observed in the posMEL calves. Prenatal and postnatal melatonin administration did not affect subsequent bull scrotal measurements or testicular hemodynamics (P ≥ 0.14). Administering supplemental melatonin via implants during the prenatal and postnatal phase did not alter performance characteristics in offspring. In this study, dams were implanted in winter months, whereas calves were implanted in the spring months. Seasonal differences involving photoperiod and ambient temperature might have attributed to a lack of differences in melatonin levels during the prenatal phase. In the postnatal period, the level of developmental plasticity appears to be too low for melatonin properties to be effective.
New York State Tick Blitz: harnessing community-based science to understand range expansion of ticks
Authors: Foley Nicole , Balamurali Siddhi , Lampman Joellen , Gangloff-Kaufman Jody , Eastwood Gillian , Cumbie Alexandra N , Mader Emily M , Harrington Laura C
Published: April 2023

Ticks and tick-borne diseases are an immense public health burden in New York State (NYS), United States. Tick species and associated pathogens are expanding into new areas, shifting threats to human, and animal health across the state. For example, the invasive tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis Neumann (Acari: Ixodidae), was first detected in the United States in 2017 and has since been identified in 17 states, including NYS. In addition, Amblyomma americanum (L.) (Acari: Ixodidae) is a native tick thought to be reestablishing historical populations in NYS. We implemented a community-based science project called the “NYS Tick Blitz” to determine the distribution of A. americanum and H. longicornis in NYS. Community volunteers were recruited, provided with education, training, and materials to conduct active tick sampling during a 2-wk period in June 2021. Fifty-nine volunteers sampled 164 sites across 15 counties, for a total of 179 separate collection events and 3,759 ticks collected. The most frequently collected species was H. longicornis, followed by Dermacentor variabilis Say (Acari: Ixodidae), Ixodes scapularis Say (Acari: Ixodidae), and A. americanum, respectively. Through the NYS Tick Blitz collections, H. longicornis was identified for the first time in Putnam County. We conducted pooled pathogen testing on a subset of specimens, with the highest rates of infection detected for pathogens transmitted by I. scapularis, including Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Babesia microti. Most participants who completed a follow-up survey (n = 23, 71.9%) were promoters of the NYS Tick Blitz and 50% (n = 15) reported that they enjoyed participating in meaningful science.
Identifying suitable habitat forIxodes scapularis(Acari: Ixodidae) infected withAnaplasma phagocytophilum(Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae),Babesia microti(Piroplasmida: Babesiidae), andBorrelia miyamotoi(Spirochaetales: Spirochaetaceae) to guide surveillance efforts in the eastern United States
Authors: Burtis James C , Foster Erik , Parise Christina M , Eisen Rebecca J
Published: April 2023

Understanding the distribution of infected ticks is informative for the estimation of risk for tickborne diseases. The blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae), is the primary vector for 7 medically significant pathogens in United States. However, knowledge of the ranges of these pathogens in host-seeking ticks is incomplete, particularly for those occurring at low prevalence. To aid in prioritizing costly field sampling efforts, we estimated ranges of suitable habitat for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia microti, and Borrelia miyamotoi in the eastern United States based on existing county-level surveillance records. The resulting suitability maps were compared against those developed previously for Bo. burgdorferi s.s., which shares similar ecology but has been detected in a greater number of counties. The overall accuracy of the habitat suitability models was high (AUC ≥ 0.92) for all 4 pathogens. The most important predictors were related to temperature and moisture. The upper midwestern and northeastern states were predicted to be highly suitable for all 4 pathogens. Based on our models, we prioritized sampling in 431, 275, and 539 counties currently lacking pathogen records that our models classified as suitable for A. phagocytophilum, Ba. microti, and Bo. miyamotoi, respectively. As a second-tier priority, we identified 311 (A. phagocytophilum), 590 (Ba. microti), and 252 (Bo. miyamotoi) counties, based on high suitability scores for Bo. burgdorferi. Our models can be used to improve cost-effectiveness of field sampling efforts aimed at improving accuracy and completeness of pathogen distribution maps.
Successful replantation of total scalp amputation due to dog bites in geriatric patient with prolonged tissue ischemia and comorbidities: a case report
Authors: Muzakkie Mufida , Hasbi Hilda Nadhila , Tardha Muhammad Tafdhil
Published: April 2023

Traumatic scalp amputation is a rare and life-threatening case causing massive blood loss and serious tissue damage. This report aims to record a successful scalp replantation on a 69-year-old woman with total scalp amputation due to dog bites. The challenges of this case were age, prolonged tissue ischemia and several comorbidities such as high glucose index (uncontrolled diabetes mellitus), hypertension and obesity. After 2 hours of admission, 9 hours of stabilization and 7 hours of revascularization, left superficial temporal artery and vein end-to-end anastomosis was successful, adding to 18 hours total of warm tissue ischemia time. The patient was discharged on Day 8 without signs of reperfusion injury or infection. Elderly patients with comorbidities and long-term tissue ischemia may be at risk for reperfusion injury and infection. However, sufficient vascular anastomosis, good tissue quality and optimal evaluation can achieve a good result.
Giant retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma: a case report
Authors: Hermi Amine , Boussaffa Hamza , Saadi Ahmed , BelHadjKacem Linda , Chakroun Marouene , Slama Riadh Ben
Published: April 2023

Retroperitoneal leiomyosarcomas are rare tumors, mostly malignant. They are silent slow growing, and at the time of diagnosis, they are often of a considerable size. Management necessitates en bloc resection of the mass with adjacent organs, which is often challenging due to large size of the tumor. Herein, we present a case of 59-year-old male patient presenting for surgical management of 190 × 150 × 140 mm retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma.
Small bowel ischemia secondary to gastric pacemaker wires—a case report
Authors: Goyal Vinay , Elshiekh Mohanad , Drinnon Kyle , Puckett Yanna
Published: April 2023

Gastric stimulator has been used as a surgical option for patients with gastroparesis refractory to medical management. Only one previous report of small bowel gangrene secondary to gastric pacemaker wires has been reported in the literature. Our patient was a 38-year-old woman with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus and history of total colectomy who underwent an uneventful open gastric pacemaker placement for idiopathic gastroparesis. Four months after the initial placement of the pacemaker, she presented to the emergency department with acute abdominal pain and was found to have gangrene of 140 cm of small bowel secondary to looping of gastric pacemaker wires around small bowel mesentery. She underwent uneventful small bowel resection and anastomosis with an ileorectal anastomosis. This case highlights the need for a high index of suspicion for this catastrophic complication in patients with gastric pacemakers.
Extensive subcutaneous emphysema and intra-abdominal sepsis following haemorrhoid operation: a rare complication of a novel procedure
Authors: Turco Jennifer D , Trivedi Anand
Published: April 2023

Doppler-guided haemorrhoidal artery ligation and recto anal repair (HAL-RAR) procedure is a relatively new, minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of Grades III and IV haemorrhoids. A 71-year-old female presented with sepsis, abdominal distension and extensive subcutaneous emphysema and was found to have intra- and extraperitoneal rectal perforation requiring repair, laparoscopy and sigmoid colostomy. Suture ligation of the haemorrhoidal artery can inadvertently be above the peritoneal reflection and result in full thickness rectal perforation secondary to ischaemic necrosis. Previous vaginal prolapse mesh repair should be considered as a relative contraindication to HAL-RAR as it can significantly distort the anatomy.
Diverticular perforation of terminal ileum associated with chemotherapy for non-small cell lung carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Kasuga So , Abe Shinya , Nozawa Hiroaki , Sasaki Kazuhito , Murono Koji , Emoto Shigenobu , Matsuzaki Hiroyuki , Yokoyama Yuichiro , Nagai Yuzo , Yoshioka Yuichiro , Shinagawa Takahide , Sonoda Hirofumi , Ushiku Tetsuo , Ishihara Soichiro
Published: April 2023

A 71-year-old man was diagnosed with advanced non-small cell lung carcinoma and treated with chemotherapy developed ileocecal diverticulitis three times over the last 2 months of receiving second-line treatment. During the fourth diverticulitis event, the patient presented with fever and abdominal pain, worsening after 5 days. Abdominal computed tomography showed ascites and intra-abdominal free air, suggesting bowel perforation with acute diffuse peritonitis. We performed emergency surgery; the surgical findings showed diverticulosis with perforated diverticula in the ileocecal region. We performed ileocecal resection, an ileostomy and a mucous fistula of the ascending colon. Histopathological examinations revealed pseudodiverticula at the perforation, where the mucosa was depressed through the muscularis propria. Hence, we diagnosed perforated ileal diverticulitis. Repeated diverticulitis triggered by chemotherapy might have resulted in perforation. Small bowel diverticula are rare, but diverticulitis can occur in patients receiving chemotherapy and with cases of unexplained fever and abdominal pain.
An unusual case report of a subhepatic appendix and an interlobar hepatic bridge in a patient with acute cholecystitis
Authors: McGuin Carissa , Pillay Yagan
Published: April 2023

A subhepatic appendix and an interlobar hepatic bridge are both rare anatomical variants. To find both entities in the same patient at the time of a laparoscopic cholecystectomy makes for a unique case report. Subhepatic appendicitis has a reported incidence of 0.08%, and there have been only published three case reports of an interlobar hepatic bridge. Their lack of involvement in acute cholecystitis facilitated an easier dissection process and prevented serious complications to the liver or the right hemi-colon.
Associations between apolipoprotein B/A1 ratio, lipoprotein(a), and the risk of metabolic-associated fatty liver diseases in a Korean population
Authors: Park Kyoung-Jin
Published: April 2023

Objective

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is new nomenclature for the fatty liver condition associated with metabolic dysfunction. This study aimed to investigate the association between apolipoprotein B/A1 (apo B/A1) ratio, lipoprotein(a), and MAFLD in a Korean population.

Methods

This study consisted of 14,419 subjects in the Korean population. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to analyze the association between apo B/A1 ratio and MAFLD.

Results

The prevalence of MAFLD in the general Korean population was 34.5%. The apo B/A1 ratio (odds ratio: 3.913, P = .019) was independently associated with MAFLD. Lipoprotein(a) was significantly lower in patients with MAFLD with hepatic fibrosis (P < .0001).

Conclusion

Apolipoprotein B/A1 ratio and lipoprotein(a) have opposite associations with MAFLD. This study suggests that lipoprotein(a) should be used with caution as a biomarker for MAFLD, especially in patients with hepatic fibrosis.
An idealized model for collapse of a molecular core within a filament
Authors: Slepian Zachary , Cahn Robert N
Published: April 2023

We present an analytic treatment of the self-similar collapse of a uniform density ellipsoid to linear order in the deviations from sphericity. First we obtain a self-consistent closed-form solution for the evolution of an isolated ellipsoid and then impose the effects of an external forcing. This model describes the evolution under gravity of a pre-stellar core of molecular gas embedded in a much larger and lower-density filament. We compare with numerical solutions for the collapse without the limitation of small deviations. These show how the external perturbing force producing the initial deviation from sphericity is eventually surpassed by the anisotropic forces generated by the collapsing ellipsoid itself. This model should be useful in interpreting the way in which environment shapes the evolution of pre-stellar cores.
Tracing Eastern Wolf Origins From Whole-Genome Data in Context of Extensive Hybridization
Authors: Vilaça Sibelle T , Donaldson Michael E , Benazzo Andrea , Wheeldon Tyler J , Vizzari Maria Teresa , Bertorelle Giorgio , Patterson Brent R , Kyle Christopher J
Published: April 2023

Southeastern Canada is inhabited by an amalgam of hybridizing wolf-like canids, raising fundamental questions regarding their taxonomy, origins, and timing of hybridization events. Eastern wolves (Canis lycaon), specifically, have been the subject of significant controversy, being viewed as either a distinct taxonomic entity of conservation concern or a recent hybrid of coyotes (C. latrans) and grey wolves (C. lupus). Mitochondrial DNA analyses show some evidence of eastern wolves being North American evolved canids. In contrast, nuclear genome studies indicate eastern wolves are best described as a hybrid entity, but with unclear timing of hybridization events. To test hypotheses related to these competing findings we sequenced whole genomes of 25 individuals, representative of extant Canadian wolf-like canid types of known origin and levels of contemporary hybridization. Here we present data describing eastern wolves as a distinct taxonomic entity that evolved separately from grey wolves for the past ∼67,000 years with an admixture event with coyotes ∼37,000 years ago. We show that Great Lakes wolves originated as a product of admixture between grey wolves and eastern wolves after the last glaciation (∼8,000 years ago) while eastern coyotes originated as a product of admixture between “western” coyotes and eastern wolves during the last century. Eastern wolf nuclear genomes appear shaped by historical and contemporary gene flow with grey wolves and coyotes, yet evolutionary uniqueness remains among eastern wolves currently inhabiting a restricted range in southeastern Canada.
Adaptive Evolution of the Spike Protein in Coronaviruses
Authors: Tang Xiaolu , Qian Zhaohui , Lu Xuemei , Lu Jian
Published: April 2023

Coronaviruses are single-stranded, positive-sense RNA viruses that can infect many mammal and avian species. The Spike (S) protein of coronaviruses binds to a receptor on the host cell surface to promote viral entry. The interactions between the S proteins of coronaviruses and receptors of host cells are extraordinarily complex, with coronaviruses from different genera being able to recognize the same receptor and coronaviruses from the same genus able to bind distinct receptors. As the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has developed, many changes in the S protein have been under positive selection by altering the receptor-binding affinity, reducing antibody neutralization activities, or affecting T-cell responses. It is intriguing to determine whether the selection pressure on the S gene differs between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and other coronaviruses due to the host shift from nonhuman animals to humans. Here, we show that the S gene, particularly the S1 region, has experienced positive selection in both SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses. Although the S1 N-terminal domain exhibits signals of positive selection in the pairwise comparisons in all four coronavirus genera, positive selection is primarily detected in the S1 C-terminal domain (the receptor-binding domain) in the ongoing evolution of SARS-CoV-2, possibly owing to the change in host settings and the widespread natural infection and SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in humans.
Integrative Review of Introductory Guitar Teaching Research and Recommendations for Music Therapy Education
Authors: Umeda Livia S , Dvorak Abbey L
Published: April 2023

Guitar is a primary clinical instrument for many music therapists; however, minimal research focuses on effective guitar teaching methods (GTMs) in music therapy education. The purpose of this integrative review was to synthesize and critically evaluate the existing literature on GTMs to develop recommendations for music therapy guitar education. The research questions included: (a) What are the characteristics (i.e. participants, study design, teaching method, course type, dosage) of studies using GTMs in music therapy education and training? (b) What are the measures, outcomes, and de/limitations from GTMs studies in music therapy education? Three studies met the criteria. These studies included GTMs of behavioral contracting, audio and video modeling, and learning music “by ear.” Studies indicated that (a) playing “by ear” may improve student musicianship, (b) experienced instructor modeling improves learning, (c) evaluation could include accuracy behavioral markers, and (d) experiential and social learning benefit students in introductory guitar courses. Implications for music therapy education and training and recommendations for further research are discussed.
The Voice Essential: Exploring Oral Traditions in the Study of Vocal Improvisation
Authors: Mondanaro John , Nicholas-Curnutte Emily
Published: April 2023

The voice—from the utility of oral traditions to the pedagogy of singing as performance—is essential to the human experience, yet its use of it has become the narrow purview of those privileged enough to study or make a career out of teaching or performing. In this article, the authors lend unique perspectives on the voice as an instrument of tremendous capacity by providing a lens on its utility in oral traditions. Lullaby, chants, work songs, and vendor songs as specific oral traditions offer entry points to understanding vocal utility that synthesizes both practicalities with aesthetics. Their study within the context of vocal improvisation offers much value to those seeking an understanding of the voice’s potential and for those whose access and comfort with their own voice has been diminished. Such liberation afforded by the exploration of these oral traditions can inform the work of music therapists, voice coaches, students, and everyday singers.
Factors Associated With Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine Uptake Among Pregnant Women and Nonpregnant Women of Reproductive Age in Jamaica
Authors: Pinkney Jodian A , Bogart Laura M , Carroll Kamali N , Bryan Lenroy , Witter Givana , Ashour Dina , Shebl Fatma M , Hurtado Rocio M , Goldfarb Ilona T , Hyle Emily P , Psaros Christina , Ojikutu Bisola O
Published: April 2023

Background

Despite high rates of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related maternal mortality, Jamaica currently has little data on COVID-19 vaccine uptake among pregnant women.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional, web-based survey of 192 reproductive-aged women in Jamaica from February 1 to 8, 2022. Participants were recruited from a convenience sample of patients, providers, and staff at a teaching hospital. We assessed self-reported COVID-19 vaccination status and COVID-19-related medical mistrust (operationalized as vaccine confidence, government mistrust, and race-based mistrust). We used multivariable modified Poisson regression to test the association between vaccine uptake and pregnancy.

Results

Of 192 respondents, 72 (38%) were pregnant. Most (93%) were Black. Vaccine uptake was 35% in pregnant women versus 75% in nonpregnant women. Pregnant women were more likely to cite healthcare providers versus the government as trustworthy sources of COVID-19 vaccine information (65% vs 28%). Pregnancy, low vaccine confidence, and government mistrust were associated with a lower likelihood of COVID-19 vaccination (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 0.68 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .49–.95], aPR = 0.61 [95% CI, .40–.95], and aPR = 0.68 [95% CI, .52–.89], respectively). Race-based mistrust was not associated with COVID-19 vaccination in the final model.

Conclusions

Pregnancy, low vaccine confidence, and government mistrust were associated with a lower likelihood of COVID-19 vaccination among reproductive-aged women in Jamaica. Future studies should evaluate the efficacy of strategies proven to improve maternal vaccination coverage, including standing “opt-out” vaccination orders and collaborative provider and patient-led educational videos tailored for pregnant individuals. Strategies that decouple vaccine messaging from government agencies also warrant evaluation.
Capturing Resilience: Utilizing the Brief Child and Youth Resilience Measure with Sexual and Gender Minority Youth
Authors: Craig Shelley L , Eaton Andrew D , Leung Vivian W Y
Published: April 2023

This study explores the relevance of the brief Child and Youth Resilience Measure (CYRM-12) for sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY) aged 14–23 (N = 4,810), compares their patterns of resilience with general youth populations, and explores distinctions between key subgroups of SGMY. SGMY reported significantly lower scores, indicating poorer outcomes, than non-SGMY in several CYRM-12 items, especially those addressing familial and community support. Older SGMY (aged 19–23) reported significantly higher CYRM-12 scores than younger SGMY (aged 14–18; t = 11.00, p < .001). Compared with their non-SGMY counterparts, SGMY reported significantly lower scores regarding supportive parental relationships, connection to offline community, and school belongingness yet reported higher scores regarding the importance of education. Three factors contributed to SGMY resilience: (1) peer and community belonging, (2) familial and cultural support, and (3) youth’s personal attributes and self-efficacy. The results of this study also suggest that measuring resilience in SGMY should incorporate online as well as offline sources. Recommendations to enhance the CYRM-12 to capture the experiences of SGMY for social work research and practice are provided.