bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elucidating microRNA-34a organisation within human Argonaute-2 by dynamic nuclear polarisation-enhanced magic angle spinning NMR
Authors: Dasgupta Rubin , Becker Walter , Petzold Katja
Published: September 2024

Understanding mRNA regulation by microRNA (miR) relies on the structural understanding of the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). Here, we elucidate the structural organisation of miR-34a, which is de-regulated in various cancers, in human Argonaute-2 (hAgo2), the effector protein in RISC. This analysis employs guanosine-specific isotopic labelling and dynamic nuclear polarisation (DNP)-enhanced Magic Angle Spinning (MAS) NMR. Homonuclear correlation experiments revealed that the non-A-form helical conformation of miR-34a increases when incorporated into hAgo2 and subsequently bound to SIRT1 mRNA compared to the free miR-34a or the free mRNA:miR duplex. The C8–C1′ correlation provided a nucleotide-specific distribution of C2′- and C3′-endo sugar puckering, revealing the capture of diverse dynamic conformations upon freezing. Predominantly C3′-endo puckering was observed for the seed region, while C2′-endo conformation was found in the central region, with a mixture of both conformations elsewhere. These observations provide insights into the molecular dynamics underlying miR-mediated mRNA regulation and demonstrate that experiments conducted under cryogenic conditions, such as at 90 K, can capture and reveal frozen dynamic states, using methods like DNP-enhanced MAS NMR or Cryo-Electron Microscopy.
The mutual influences between working memory and empathy for pain: the role of social distance
Authors: Yang Ye , Zhao Jia , Zhang Huijuan , Bi Taiyong , Tian Jiangli , Li Qingqing , Guo Cheng
Published: September 2024

Understanding the mechanisms behind the interaction of empathy for pain (EfP) and working memory (WM), particularly how they are influenced by social factors like perceived social distance (SD), is vital for comprehending how humans dynamically adapt to the complexities of social life. However, there is very little known about these mechanisms. Accordingly, we recruited 116 healthy participants to investigate the bidirectional influence and electrophysiological responses between WM and EfP, including the role of SD. Our research results revealed that the interaction between WM load and SD significantly influenced the processing of EfP. Specifically, high WM load and distant SD facilitated early processing of EfP. Conversely, low WM load and close SD promoted late processing of EfP. Furthermore, the interaction between EfP and SD significantly influenced the performance of ongoing WM tasks. Specifically, the kin’s pain, compared to kin’s nonpain, improved the participant’s performance on low-load WM tasks; however, it diminished the participant’s performance on tasks with high WM load. Overall, these results provide evidence at both behavioral and neural levels for the mutual influence of WM and EfP during the same temporal process, and SD emerged as a crucial moderating factor during these mutual influences.
Becoming a (Better) Muslim: A Connectivist Perspective on Learning Islam in Finland
Authors: Butters Maija , Utriainen Terhi
Published: September 2024

The article explores the multisite learning of Islam by Finnish Muslims from the perspective of the connectivist learning theory, which makes visible the central contemporary ways of learning that emphasize the role of digitalization and collaborative learning with peers. We focus especially on learning in the context of Ramadan because, for many, the holy month is an essential time for apprehending Islamic tenets and practices. Our research indicates that the understanding of Islam among our research participants is a result of a complex set of connections and nodes of information, both online and offline. The research participants’ multisite learning was enriched with an abundance of horizontal (peer-to-peer) and vertical (teacher-to-student) connections, enabling multiple interpretations and reflective learning of Islam. Our research also suggests that in Finland, where Islam is a minority religion, the learning process to become a (better) Muslim contains many aspects shared equally by converts and those born Muslim.
Three-dimensional deformity correction in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients: what are the benefits of hybrid apical sublaminar bands versus all-pedicle screws?
Authors: Noe McKenna C. , Link Robert C. , Warren Jonathan R. , Etebari Cyrus V. , Whitmire Morgan H. , Anderson John T. , Schwend Richard M.
Published: September 2024

The amount of three-dimensional (3D) correction with apical sublaminar band (hybrid-SLB) technique has not been compared to all-pedicle screw instrumentation for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) using detailed axial correction metrics or comparable rod types. Our purpose is to compare 3D improvement in AIS deformities following posterior spinal instrumentation and fusion (PSIF) with hybrid-SLB and segmental correction to all-pedicle screw correction. Patients ages 10–18 years with AIS who underwent PSIF between 2015 and 2022 and had preoperative and postoperative EOS imaging were included. Electronic medical records were reviewed for demographic, Lenke classification, operative technique, and 3D EOS data. Average changes in major and minor Cobb angle, axial rotation, thoracic kyphosis, and lumbar lordosis were compared. Ninety-five patients met inclusion criteria with 55 in the hybrid-SLB group (mean age 14.9 ± 1.9 years) and 40 in all-pedicle screw (mean age 14.7 ± 2.1 years). While all-pedicle screw demonstrated greater correction of major (45.7 ± 13.4 vs 37.9 ± 14.3 degrees; P = 0.008) and minor (28.7 ± 13.1 vs 17.8 ± 12.5 degrees; P = 0.001) Cobb angles, hybrid-SLB showed greater increase in T4–T12 kyphosis (13.3 ± 15.3 vs 5.6 ± 13.5 degrees; P = 0.01). Correction of T1–T12 kyphosis, axial rotation, and lumbar lordosis was similar between groups. 3D EOS analysis of AIS patients before and after PSIF revealed that all-pedicle screw constructs had greater overall coronal plane correction and hybrid-SLB had greater thoracic sagittal plane correction. Axial corrective abilities were similar. Hybrid-SLB may have advantages for correction of thoracic lordosis or hypokyphosis. Level of evidence: Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Spinal Dural Ectasia Spectrum
Authors: De Marco Raffaele , Sgambetterra Silvia , Nasto Luigi Aurelio , Piatelli Gianluca , Pavanello Marco
Published: September 2024

Objective:

To describe 2 cases with pathologic expansion of lumbosacral dura mater exerting compression on lumbosacral nerves treated with placement of lumboperitoneal shunt (LPS). Although dural ectasia (DE) is asymptomatic in most cases, a systematic review of the literature was performed focusing on the management when it causes symptoms.

Methods:

Pubmed/Medline and Embase databases were searched for the surgical management of DE. Both pediatric and adult patients were included. The presence of a cerebrospinal fluid leak was considered an exclusion criterion. An additional search was performed to provide a more complete picture of the DE spectrum considering meningoceles as a severe form of dural expansion.

Results:

Differentiating DE from meningocele, only 20 patients were treated for symptomatic DE. Surgical management varied according to presentation and etiopathogenesis: blood patch or fibrin glue were attempted in case of intracranial hypotension, followed eventually by LPS or marsupialization or dura reduction in cases of failure, whereas LPS or spinal decompression were proposed in cases of radiculopathy or cauda equina syndrome.

Conclusion:

DE is a rare condition mostly associated with connective tissue disorders. The different etiopathogenesis may explain how it causes symptoms in specific conditions. Treatments should be chosen according to this and may be proposed at the appearance of symptoms since dural expansion is a self-sustained mechanism.
Impact of body composition parameters, age, and tumor staging on gastric cancer prognosis
Authors: Li Wei , Zhu Hai , Dong Hai-Zheng , Qin Zheng-Kun , Huang Fu-Ling , Yu Zhu , Liu Shi-Yu , Wang Zhen , Chen Jun-Qiang
Published: September 2024

Background

Research studies on gastric cancer have not investigated the combined impact of body composition, age, and tumor staging on gastric cancer prognosis. To address this gap, we used machine learning methods to develop reliable prediction models for gastric cancer.

Methods

This study included 1,132 gastric cancer patients, with preoperative body composition and clinical parameters recorded, analyzed using Cox regression and machine learning models.

Results

The multivariate analysis revealed that several factors were associated with recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) in gastric cancer. These factors included age (≥65 years), tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) staging, low muscle attenuation (MA), low skeletal muscle index (SMI), and low visceral to subcutaneous adipose tissue area ratios (VSR). The decision tree analysis for RFS identified six subgroups, with the TNM staging I, II combined with high MA subgroup showing the most favorable prognosis and the TNM staging III combined with low MA subgroup exhibiting the poorest prognosis. For OS, the decision tree analysis identified seven subgroups, with the subgroup featuring high MA combined with TNM staging I, II showing the best prognosis and the subgroup with low MA, TNM staging II, III, low SMI, and age ≥65 years associated with the worst prognosis.

Conclusion

Cox regression identified key factors associated with gastric cancer prognosis, and decision tree analysis determined prognoses across different risk factor subgroups. Our study highlights that the combined use of these methods can enhance intervention planning and clinical decision-making in gastric cancer.
A Case of Breast Cancer Recurrence Diagnosed from a Delayed Seroma after Breast Implant Reconstruction
Authors: Nagura Naomi , Kida Kumiko , Yumura Chika , Yamauchi Hideko
Published: September 2024

When a delayed seroma with a low volume is detected more than 1 year after silicone breast implant insertion, aspiration is necessary. However, if the seroma is small and difficult to collect, we may avoid puncturing it, considering the risk of damaging the implant, and the patient may be followed up intensively. Moreover, a delayed seroma is a major symptom of breast implant-associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). We encountered a case in which a delayed seroma around a breast implant was punctured to rule out BIA-ALCL after nipple-sparing mastectomy for breast cancer, which led to the diagnosis of locoregional recurrence in the nipple areola. Based on this experience, we suggest that puncture cytology for fluid around breast implants should be performed when a delayed seroma is observed, as it may indicate breast cancer recurrence as well as BIA-ALCL.
Optimizing Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in Abdominoplasty Incisions: Chevron Modification
Authors: Ali Stephen R. , Swarnkar Parinita , Whitaker Iain S.
Published: September 2024

There has been increased use of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) to aid closure of abdominoplasty incisions; this obviates previous complications, including delayed wound healing. We describe a reproducible method of NPWT-assisted wound healing applicable to abdominal wounds. We propose a modified method of NPWT application, specific to the to Avance Solo NPWT system, to achieve optimal wound healing by promoting a suitable environment and decreasing high-tension forces. Postoperatively, this technique enables patient and nursing ease owing to increased durability and drainless follow-up. This is further emphasized by the results of a quantitative analysis of a 100-patient case series measuring clinically relevant objective and patient-satisfaction outcomes, and the cost analysis of use.
Validation of Breast Idea Volume Estimator Application in Transfeminine People
Authors: Angus Lachlan M. , Mikołajczyk Maksym , Cheung Ada S. , Kasielska-Trojan Anna K.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Accurate estimation of breast volume is important as researchers aim to achieve optimal feminization for transfeminine people. The Breast Idea Volume Estimator (BIVE) application allows estimation of breast volume using two-dimensional (2D) photographs but has not been validated in the chests of people who have undergone testosterone-mediated puberty.

Methods:

To estimate breast volume, clinical photographs and 3D scans were collected at baseline and 6 months, as a prespecified secondary outcome of a randomized clinical trial of antiandrogen therapy in transfeminine people commencing hormone therapy. BIVE was used to estimate breast volume by two independent researchers and compared with the gold standard of 3D scan calculated volume at different timepoints. Statistical analysis was performed, including the mean absolute difference, standard error of measurement, and intraclass correlation, to determine accuracy, precision, and interrater agreement.

Results:

Clinical photography and 3D scans were collected from 82 breasts of 41 participants. The median (interquartile range) age of participants was 25 (22–28) years, and the median (interquartile range) body mass index was 24.6 (21.2–28.9) kg/m2. The BIVE sagittal and transverse algorithms demonstrated robust performance, with mean absolute difference less than 20 mL and intraclass correlation greater than 0.87 indicating clinical reliability with high interrater agreement.

Conclusions:

BIVE provided an accurate, precise, and reliable measure of breast volume in the chests of people who have undergone testosterone-mediated puberty, compared with the gold standard of 3D scan.
Brain Abnormalities, Neurodevelopmental Milestones, and Long-term Follow-up in Newborns With Congenital Cytomegalovirus Identified Through a Neonatal Screening Program
Authors: Vila-Bedmar Sara , Martinez de Aragon Calvo Ana , Liebana-Rojas Constanza , Pedrero-Tomas Roberto , Camacho-Salas Ana , NuÑez-Enamorado Noemi , Simon de las Heras Rogelio , de Vergas Gutierrez Joaquin , Zamora Crespo Berta , Vicente Iglesias Marta , Villaverde Serena , Tejada-Palacios Pilar , Cuadrado Perez Irene , Pallas Carmen R. , Soriano-Ramos Maria , Perez-Rivilla Alfredo , Folgueira-Lopez Maria Dolores , Blazquez-Gamero Daniel
Published: September 2024

Objective:

To investigate the spectrum and frequency of abnormalities on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a cohort of newborns diagnosed with congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) through a screening program and evaluate the risk of sensorineural hearing loss, neurodevelopmental disorders, chorioretinitis and epilepsy.

Methods:

A prospective screening for cCMV by CMV viral load in saliva in newborns was performed in 2017–2018 in a tertiary center in Madrid. Neonatal brain MRI was performed without sedation in all newborns with cCMV and evaluated by 2 experienced neuroradiologists. The degree of agreement between the 2 radiologists was analyzed using Cohen’s Kappa coefficient. All infected children were followed up for 6 years and evaluated every 6 months for neurodevelopment, behavioral issues and sensorineural hearing loss by auditory brainstem response.

Results:

Of 3190 newborns evaluated, 15 had cCMV (prevalence 0.47%, 95% CI: 0.29–0.77%) and were included in the study. Cranial ultrasound (US) and neonatal brain MRI were performed. Brain abnormalities were found in 4 US and 10 MRI, being white matter abnormalities (WMAs) the most common finding. Two children were diagnosed with psychomotor delay, and the other 2 with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and all of them presented WMA in the neonatal brain MRI. Children with a normal MRI (5/15) developed normally without long-term sequelae in the follow-up.

Conclusions:

Children with isolated WMA without other clinical symptoms showed overall good outcomes, although more studies with a larger sample and a control group should be performed. Interobserver agreement about the presence of abnormalities in MRI was good.
Evaluation of a Portable Bionic Ankle Prosthesis Under Direct Continuous Electromyography Control for Quiet Standing Tasks
Authors: Stafford Nicole E. , Gonzalez Eddie B. , Ferris Daniel P.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Postural control and balance are necessary for activities of daily living. Passive prostheses that reduce ankle dorsiflexion/plantarflexion control can require different balance strategies compared with able-bodied individuals. Powered prostheses may restore ankle joint control and improve balance compared with passive prostheses. Muscle activity as the prosthetic control input leverages the human neural control system to directly modulate prosthetic dynamics. This study evaluates continuous myoelectric control during quiet standing tasks with an untethered electromechanically actuated bionic ankle prosthesis.

Methods

Six individuals with transtibial amputation conducted four 30-second trials of quiet standing for four standing conditions (Eyes Open, Eyes Closed, Eyes Open Foam, and Eyes Closed Foam) using their passive, prescribed prosthesis and a bionic prosthesis under two types of myoelectric control. One strategy solely used residual gastrocnemius muscle as input (GAS), whereas the second used the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior (GAS+TA). Postural stability was evaluated via Total Excursion, Body Sway Area, and Prediction Ellipse Area center of pressure measures from force plates. We hypothesized that the bionic prosthesis would improve balance control compared with the passive prosthesis. We also quantified weight bearing of prosthetic and sound limbs. Participants completed a preference/sense of stability survey between the prostheses.

Results

We found no significant differences in individual prostheses and controllers across our four standing conditions, or between prostheses and controllers for a single standing condition for all center of pressure measures. Participants tended to increase weight on their sound limb from Eyes Open to Eyes Closed Foam conditions. Participants trended toward preferring myoelectric control, but there were no significant differences among prostheses.

Conclusions

Compared with a passive transtibial prosthesis, a myoelectrically controlled bionic prosthesis did not alter standing balance performance.

Clinical Relevance

Our study did not demonstrate differences between the myoelectrically controlled bionic transtibial prosthesis and the prescribed passive prosthesis in balance control. It is possible that other metrics would be necessary to increase sensitivity in comparisons.
Enhancing Safety in Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation: Laparoscopic Technique for Driveline Tunneling
Authors: Tran Douglas , Frederick Hannah , Griffith Bartley , Shah Aakash
Published: September 2024

Advancements in left ventricular assist device (LVAD) technologies have significantly lowered morbidity and mortality in patients with end-stage heart disease; however, they still carry significant risks. Though infrequent, intraabdominal injury during driveline tunneling can be catastrophic. Laparoscopic visualization can reduce these risks, especially benefiting patients with lower body mass indexes and thin abdominal walls. We present two cases of laparoscopic driveline tunneling. The laparoscopic procedure begins poststernotomy and preheparin administration to mitigate bleeding risks. Supraumbilical port placement is performed for optimal direct visualization of the abdominal space for accurate driveline tunneling. It involves careful management of insufflation pressure to prevent hemodynamic collapse by restricting venous return. This approach ensures that the driveline is positioned correctly without injury to any intraabdominal structures.
Hypoxic burden – definitions, pathophysiological concepts, methods of evaluation, and clinical relevance
Authors: Parekh Ankit
Published: September 2024

Purpose of review

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common chronic condition that affects over a billion people worldwide and is associated with adverse cardio- and cerebrovascular consequences. Currently, the go-to clinical measure that determines the presence and severity of OSA is the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI). The AHI captures the frequency of respiratory events due to changes in ventilation that are associated with either oxygen desaturations or arousal from sleep. The AHI is poorly correlated to adverse outcomes in OSA with poor prognostic ability. To overcome the limitations of AHI and perhaps driven by the ease of acquisition, several studies have suggested characterizing nocturnal hypoxia in OSA, termed as “hypoxic burden”. The purpose of this review is to focus on the hypoxic burden in OSA, its various definitions, and its utility in moving OSA diagnosis beyond the AHI.

Recent findings

Several measures and definitions of hypoxic burden have been proposed and studied that show promise in overcoming limitations of AHI and also have a greater prognostic ability than AHI. More recently, area-based measures that attempt to characterize the depth and duration of oxygen desaturations, i.e., nocturnal hypoxia in OSA, have been shown to better relate to incident cardiovascular disease than AHI. In this review, we delve into the evidence for these novel area-based metrics and also delve into the pathophysiological concepts underlying nocturnal hypoxia while cautioning the reader on interpretation of the recent findings relating hypoxic burden to adverse outcomes in OSA.

In this review on hypoxic burden, we focus on the need that has driven the sudden influx of studies assessing hypoxic burden for various outcomes of OSA, its underlying pathophysiology, the various definitions, and clinical relevance. We hope that the reader can appreciate the nuances underlying hypoxic burden in OSA and suggest the need for a cohesive framework for moving beyond the AHI with hypoxic burden.
Characteristics of lymph node metastasis and short-term outcome of esophageal squamous-cell carcinoma undergoing minimally invasive esophagectomy: a prospective cross-sectional study (with video)
Authors: Nguyen Duy Duc , Pham Binh Van , Tran Manh Dai , Nguyen Thanh Duy , Thai An Duc , Le Ky Van , Kim Vu Van , Nguyen Hung Xuan
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Surgery for esophageal squamous-cell carcinoma (ESCC) presents many potential challenges owing to malignant lymph node metastasis, complex procedures and severe postoperative complications. The appropriate lymphadenectomy for ESCC remains controversial. This study aims to evaluate the characteristics of lymph node metastasis and postoperative complications in patients with ESCC undergoing minimally invasive esophagectomy and extended two-field lymph node dissection.

Patients and methods:

This prospective, single-center, cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2022 to May 2024. All patients with ESCC who underwent minimally invasive esophagectomy and extended two-field lymph node dissection were selected for this study. Postoperative lymph nodes were divided into upper thoracic, middle thoracic, lower thoracic and abdominal lymph node groups.

Results:

Seventy-four patients with ESCC, including 49 patients who underwent upfront surgery and 25 patients who received preoperative chemoradiotherapy, were selected. The rate of lymph node metastasis in all patients was 39.2%, with 13.6% of patients having upper thoracic metastasis. The factors affecting the rate of lymph node metastasis included preoperative chemoradiotherapy, tumor stage, poor differentiation, lymphovascular/perineural invasion, and tumor size greater than 2 cm, all of which were significantly different (P<0.05). Common postoperative complications included pneumonia (25.7%), recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy (10.8%) and anastomotic leak (4.1%). There were no cases required conversion to open surgery, nor any deaths within 90 days postoperatively.

Conclusion:

Lymph node metastasis in esophageal squamous-cell carcinoma has a high incidence, occurs in the early stages, and is widely distributed in all regions of the mediastinum and abdomen. Minimally invasive esophagectomy and extended two-field lymph node dissection are feasible and safe, with low complication rates.
Takayasu arteritis and interstitial lung disease: a case report and literature review
Authors: Bhandari Kritick , Sharma Prayush , Shah Sanjit K. , Ghimire Sagun , Khanal Dikshya , Shah Avish , Yadav Ramesh K. , Ashish Newton
Published: September 2024

Introduction and importance:

Although pulmonary artery involvement is well recognized, the incidence of interstitial lung disease (ILD) with Takayasu arteritis is very rare. The pathophysiology of ILD in Takayasu is still incompletely understood, in contrast to several studies establishing the relationship between ANCA-associated vasculitis and ILD. The management of this patient involved a multidisciplinary approach with long-term follow-up.

Case presentation:

The authors present a case of HRCT-proven interstitial lung disease in a patient with Takayasu arteritis and heart failure. The patient was on long-term corticosteroids on and off for several years and recently developed progressive dyspnea with a dry cough. After reviewing her history and physical examination, pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) were performed, and interstitial lung disease was diagnosed. The patient was managed by a team of pulmonologists, rheumatologists, and cardiologists and gradually improved after adjustment of medications, including corticosteroids and mycofenolate, and via long-term oxygen therapy.

Clinical discussion:

Takayasu arteritis is a rare form of systemic vasculitis that can involve the pulmonary vasculature, such vasculitis with associated parenchymal involvement is rare. ILDs have been demonstrated with ANCA-associated vasculitis; however, whether the pathophysiology applies to Takayasu is unknown. Since Takayasu can be debilitating to the patient, the association of ILDs can have further prognostic implications. Given that no established guidelines exist to address this association, management is based on clinical expertise.

Conclusion:

The authors report a case of Takayasu arteritis and associated ILD and its pharmacological management. Takayasu arteritis is a very uncommon type of vasculitis, and pulmonary parenchymal involvement further contributes to this case’s rarity. As the management of Takayasu arteritis alone is cumbersome, the addition of another significant comorbidity, such as ILD, can pose several threats to the patient. Given the rarity of this association, no established guidelines exist, making clinical expertise crucial for managing such patients. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and develop evidence-based treatment strategies for this rare combination.
The Departmental Scholarly Index
Authors: James Andrew J. , Popa Nikolas , Reddy Anvith Palla , Torres-Guzman Ricardo A. , Perdikis Galen , Lineaweaver William C.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

While bibliometric ranking systems have been designed to use citations, funding, and alumni productivity, there is a need for a simple metric that objectively evaluates the work of a group or organization. The present study describes a bibliometric tool, the Departmental Scholarly Index (DSI), for this purpose.

Methods

Publications from academic plastic surgery programs in qualifying states of the Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons released in 2022 were collected via PubMed affiliation search. Publications were recorded in a running list alongside the title and 2022 impact factor of their respective journals. The impact factors were averaged by summing the impact factors and dividing by the number of articles to obtain a raw average. Any publication in a journal with an impact factor greater than five multiples of the raw average was removed as an outlier. The remaining impact factors were then summed and give the final numerical value representing the DSI.

Results

A total of 464 articles published in 139 individual journals were returned from PubMed between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022, for the 22 constituent departments. Calculated Spearman's rank coefficients comparing the DSI ranking with both the Doximity and Persad-Paisley rankings yielded values of 0.66 (P < 0.01) and 0.62 (P < 0.01), respectively. Overall, the DSI rankings largely agree with either the Persad-Paisley or Doximity rankings with notable differences seen in the rankings of Mayo Florida and the University of Alabama. A clear academic ranking of Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons programs was generated from these data.

Conclusions

The DSI represents a novel and simple approach to applying objective value to research with the advantage of using data bound to the most recent publication productivity.
Using Implementation Science in Surgical Care
Authors: Lambert-Kerzner Anne , Myers Quintin W.O. , Mucharsky Ellison , Henderson William G. , Harnke Ben , Stuart Christina M. , Dyas Adam R. , Bronsert Michael R. , Colborn Katherine , Velopulos Catherine G. , Meguid Robert A.
Published: September 2024

Objective:

Improvement of surgical care is dependent upon evidence-based practices (EBPs), policies, procedures, and innovations. The objective of this study was to understand and synthesize the use of implementation science (IS) in surgical care.

Summary Background Data:

This article summarizes the existing literature to identify the frequency and types of EBPs selected for surgical care, IS frameworks that guided the published research, and prominent facilitators and barriers.

Methods:

A modified version of the Arksey and O’Malley framework and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews Checklist were used to provide the guidance and standards to conduct this scoping review. We queried: Ovid MEDLINE; American Psychological Association PsycINFO; Embase; Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature; Web of Science; and Google Scholar for manuscripts published January 2001 - June 2023.

Results:

The initial search found 3,674 citations of which 129 met inclusion criteria. The heterogeneity and volume of innovations within the surgical IS field were vast. The most frequent innovations were in peri-operative care, safety in surgery, and Enhanced Recovery After Surgery. Six constructs were identified as both major facilitators and barriers: support from leadership; surgeon and staff knowledge regarding EBPs; relationship/team building; environmental context; data; and resources.

Conclusion:

Identifying these implementation factors used in the surgical field enables us to determine variables that support and inhibit the adoption and implementation of new practices, support practice change, enhance quality and equity of surgical care, and identify research gaps for future IS in surgical care.
MRI Indices of Glymphatic Function Correlate With Disease Duration in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Authors: Bouffard Marc A. , Avanaki Mahsa Alborzi , Ford Jeremy N. , Jaafar Narjes , Brook Alexander , Abbasi Bardia , Torun Nurhan , Alsop David , Comeau Donnella S. , Chang Yu-Ming
Published: September 2024

Background:

The glymphatic system represents an extravascular network of astrocytic channels responsible for interstitial fluid and solute transit through the brain parenchyma. Its dysfunction has been considered as a possible cause of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH).

Methods:

We enrolled participants with active IIH, treated or cured IIH, and controls. The active IIH group was divided into untreated participants with recently developed (<6 mo) and chronic (6+ mo) disease. Glymphatic function was assessed using diffusion tensor imaging along the paravascular space (DTI-ALPS) to generate an ALPS-index, hypothesized to measure glymphatic function. Participants were imaged before lumbar puncture (LP) if IIH was suspected and following LP when possible.

Results:

ALPS indices were higher in participants with chronically present, active IIH than in those either with recently developed IIH or control participants. ALPS-indices correlated with papilledema but did not correlate significantly with age, BMI, or intracranial pressure (ICP).

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that DTI-ALPS-indices of glymphatic function may be influenced by the chronicity of intracranial hypertension but do not support the hypothesis that glymphatic dysfunction causes IIH. Though these findings are preliminary, glymphatic imaging may be a useful radiographic biomarker in IIH.
Active crocodiles are less sociable
Authors: Baker Cameron J. , Class Barbara , Dwyer Ross G. , Franklin Craig E. , Campbell Hamish A. , Irwin Terri R. , Frère Céline H.
Published: September 2024

How animals move and associate with conspecifics is rarely random, with a population’s spatial structure forming the foundation on which the social behaviours of individuals form. Studies examining the spatial–social interface typically measure averaged behavioural differences between individuals; however, this neglects the inherent variation present within individuals and how it may impact the spatial–social interface. Here, we investigated differences in among-individual (co)variance in sociability, activity and site fidelity in a population of wild estuarine crocodiles,
Crocodylus porosus,
across a 10-year period. By monitoring 118 crocodiles using coded acoustic transmitters and an array of fixed underwater receivers, we discovered that not only did individual crocodiles repeatably differ (among-individual variation) in each behaviour measured but also in how consistently they expressed these behaviours through time (within-individual variation). As expected, crocodile activity and sociability formed a behavioural syndrome, with more active individuals being less sociable. Interestingly, we also found that individuals that were either more sociable or displayed greater site fidelity were also more specialized (lower within-individual variation) in these behaviours. Together, our results provide important empirical evidence for the interplay between spatial, temporal and social individual-level behavioural variation and how these contribute to forming behavioural niches.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘The spatial–social interface: a theoretical and empirical integration’.
A wrap-around movement path randomization method to distinguish social and spatial drivers of animal interactions
Authors: Gahm Kaija , Nguyen Ryan , Acácio Marta , Anglister Nili , Vaadia Gideon , Spiegel Orr , Pinter-Wollman Noa
Published: September 2024

Studying the spatial–social interface requires tools that distinguish between social and spatial drivers of interactions. Testing hypotheses about the factors determining animal interactions often involves comparing observed interactions with reference or ‘null’ models. One approach to accounting for spatial drivers of social interactions in reference models is randomizing animal movement paths to decouple spatial and social phenotypes while maintaining environmental effects on movements. Here, we update a reference model that detects social attraction above the effect of spatial constraints. We explore the use of our ‘wrap-around’ method and compare its performance to the previous approach using agent-based simulations. The wrap-around method provides reference models that are more similar to the original tracking data, while still distinguishing between social and spatial drivers. Furthermore, the wrap-around approach results in fewer false-positives than its predecessor, especially when animals do not return to one place each night but change movement foci, either locally or directionally. Finally, we show that interactions among GPS-tracked griffon vultures (
Gyps fulvus
) emerge from social attraction rather than from spatial constraints on their movements. We conclude by highlighting the biological situations in which the updated method might be most suitable for testing hypotheses about the underlying causes of social interactions.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘The spatial–social interface: a theoretical and empirical integration’.
Phenol as a breath marker for hemodialysis of chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: Eickel Isabell , Zygmunt Anne-Christine , Streit Frank , Tampe Björn , Kunze-Szikszay Nils , Perl Thorsten
Published: September 2024

Background

We aimed to identify biomarkers in breath analysis with MCC-IMS to monitor the haemodialysis for CKD patients fast and non-invasive.

Material & methods

Six patients’ breath was analysed via MCC-IMS before and after dialysis and compared to blood plasma samples analysed via UPLC-FLD for potential renal failure biomarkers. Additionally, breath from six healthy control persons was analysed.

Results

Phenol was found as a breath marker for CKD. For three patients the phenol concentration in breath and plasma was elevated before and decreased during dialysis and reached values in the range of healthy control persons.

Conclusion

This study shows that the measurement of phenol via breath analysis could be used to monitor the haemodialysis for CKD-patients and might also be usable for the calculation of haemodialysis dose in the future.
A Cross-Sectional Study on HPV Vaccine Awareness, Vaccination Willingness and Associated Factors among Male Healthcare Workers in Ethnic Minority-populated Areas in Southern China
Authors: Qin Chunlin , Jiang Nian , Tang Guorong , Zhou Yun , Liang Qingqing
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) with a very high prevalence in the male population, resulting in an increasing burden of HPV-related diseases. HPV vaccines are the most effective measure to control HPV infection. However, male HPV vaccine has not been approved for mainland China.

Objective

To assess awareness, willingness and associated factors of the HPV vaccine among male healthcare workers in ethnic minority-populated areas in southern China. To provide a reference basis for the formulation of promotion strategy for male HPV vaccine after its approval in mainland China.

Methods

A web-based questionnaire survey on the awareness and willingness to receive HPV vaccine among male healthcare workers in the surveyed areas was conducted using a convenience sampling method, and chi-square test or Fisher’ s exact test and logistic regression analyses were used to analyze and explore the associated factors.

Results

Respondents’ HPV vaccine awareness and willingness to vaccinate were 74.55% (1,066/1,430) and 80.94% (1,087/1,343, exclusion of vaccinated respondents) respectively. Respondents aged 30∼44 and ≥ 45, intermediate title, and per capita monthly household income of CNY 3,000∼4,000 were discovered to have a correlation with awareness of HPV vaccine (allp<0.05). While, technicians and other occupations (excluding doctors and nurses), with a position, senior title, and ware of HPV vaccine were discovered to have a correlation with willingness to vaccinate (allp<0.05). The belief that the vaccine can prevent HPV infection was the main reason for participants’ willing to get HPV vaccine (91.48% 1,074/1,174). while, believing that they are not at risk of contracting HPV and the high price of HPV vaccine are major barriers to increasing willingness to vaccinate. The most important motivation that could promote receiving the vaccine was the provision of information on the efficacy and safety of the HPV vaccine.

Conclusions

Male healthcare workers have a high awareness of HPV vaccine and a high willingness of for HPV vaccination in the surveyed areas. Strengthening health education, including HPV vaccine in immunization programmes or health insurance subsidies, and lowing the cost of vaccination will help increase their willingness for HPV vaccination.
Detection of Common Deletion Mutations (− α3.7and − α4.2kb) inHBAgene and Genotype-Phenotype Correlation
Authors: Basu Satarupta , Gupta Soma , De Rajib , Baul Shuvra Neel , Sen Aditi , Dasgupta Shreyashi , Biswas Arindam
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives

Microcytic hypochromic anemia is the most common feature of alpha-thalassemia and depends on the number of alpha genes deleted. Therefore, in this study, we aim to determine the most common deletion mutations among microcytic anemia cases of West Bengal and correlate them with different biochemical parameters and endophenotypes.

Methods

Two hundred and sixty patients with microcytic anemia were recruited. The GAP-PCR technique was adopted to identify the 3.7 kb and 4.2 kb deletion mutation in theHBAgene.

Results

Forty patients were found to have either 3.7 kb or 4.2 kb deletion mutations which represents ~15.38% of the microcytic anemia patient population. A statistically significant lowering of MCH values (P = 0.02) and elevated levels of Total Bilirubin (P = 0.0001), direct bilirubin (P = 0.0004), unconjugated bilirubin (P = 0.0001), SGPT (P = 0.005), SGOT (P = 0.005), ALP (P = 0.008), RBC count (P = 0.01) and Hemoglobin level (P = 0.02) were observed among the alpha-thalassemia mutation carriers than non-mutant. The study failed to show any correlation between mutation status disease severity and gender bias.

Conclusion

The two common deletion mutations (−3.7 kb or -4.2 kb) in theHBAgene are most commonly found in microcytic anemia cases of West Bengal and can be correlated with several biochemical parameters.
HeterozygousRPA2variant as a novel genetic cause of telomere biology disorders
Authors: Kochman Rima , Ba Ibrahima , Yates Maïlyn , Pirabakaran Vithura , Gourmelon Florian , Churikov Dmitri , Lafaille Marc , Kermasson Laëtitia , Hamelin Coline , Marois Isabelle , Jourquin Frédéric , Braud Laura , Bechara Marianne , Lainey Elodie , Nunes Hilario , Breton Philippe , Penhouet Morgane , David Pierre , Géli Vincent , Lachaud Christophe , Maréchal Alexandre , Revy Patrick , Kannengiesser Caroline , Saintomé Carole , Coulon Stéphane
Published: September 2024

Premature telomere shortening or telomere instability is associated with a group of rare and heterogeneous diseases collectively known as telomere biology disorders (TBDs). Here we identified two unrelated individuals with clinical manifestations of TBDs and short telomeres associated with the identical monoallelic variant c.767A>G; Y256C inRPA2. Although the replication protein A2 (RPA2) mutant did not affect ssDNA binding and G-quadruplex-unfolding properties of RPA, the mutation reduced the affinity of RPA2 with the ubiquitin ligase RFWD3 and reduced RPA ubiquitination. Using engineered knock-in cell lines, we found an accumulation of RPA at telomeres that did not trigger ATR activation but caused short and dysfunctional telomeres. Finally, both patients acquired, in a subset of blood cells, somatic genetic rescue events in eitherPOT1genes orTERTpromoters known to counteract the accelerated telomere shortening. Collectively, our study indicates that variants inRPA2represent a novel genetic cause of TBDs. Our results further support the fundamental role of the RPA complex in regulating telomere length and stability in humans.
Anticipating critical transitions in multidimensional systems driven by time- and state-dependent noise
Authors: Morr Andreas , Riechers Keno , Gorjão Leonardo Rydin , Boers Niklas
Published: September 2024

Anticipating bifurcation-induced transitions in dynamical systems has gained relevance in various fields of the natural, social, and economic sciences. Before the annihilation of a system's equilibrium point by means of a bifurcation, the system's internal feedbacks that stabilize the initial state weaken and eventually vanish, a process referred to as critical slowing down (CSD). In one-dimensional systems, this motivates the use of variance and lag-1 autocorrelation as indicators of CSD. However, the applicability of variance is limited to time- and state-independent driving noise, strongly constraining the generality of this CSD indicator. In multidimensional systems, the use of these indicators is often preceded by a dimension reduction in order to obtain a one-dimensional time series. Many common techniques for such an extraction of a one-dimensional time series generally incur the risk of missing CSD in practice. Here, we propose a data-driven approach based on estimating a multidimensional Langevin equation to detect local stability changes and anticipate bifurcation-induced transitions in systems with generally time- and state-dependent noise. Our approach substantially generalizes the conditions under which CSD can reliably be detected, as demonstrated in a suite of examples. In contrast to existing approaches, changes in deterministic dynamics can be clearly discriminated from changes in the driving noise using our method. This substantially reduces the risk of false or missed alarms of conventional CSD indicators in settings with time-dependent or multiplicative noise. In multidimensional systems, our method can greatly advance the understanding of the coupling between system components and can avoid risks of missing CSD due to dimension reduction, which existing approaches suffer from.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Linking absorptive capacity with innovation performance of artisan entrepreneurs: examining mediating role of strategic orientation
Authors: Nika Abid Suhail , Singh Ramjit , Bashir Neda Ul
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This research aims to investigate how absorptive capacity impacts artisan businesses' innovation performance in Jammu and Kashmir, India. Additionally, the study examines the role of strategic orientation (customer and technological orientation) as a mediator.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analysed data from 408 artisan entrepreneurs using partial least squares structural equation modelling. The research model was built on the “Dynamic-Capability Theory” of absorptive capacity and the “Resource-Based Theory” of performance.

Findings

The study’s findings suggest that both realised and potential absorptive capacity positively and significantly impact innovation performance. Moreover, customer and technology orientations positively and strongly influence innovation performance. Additionally, potential and realised absorptive capacity has a favourable impact on customer and technology orientation. The mediation analysis results indicate that customer and technological orientation have complementary partial mediation between potential absorptive capacity and innovation performance. Finally, mediating variables like customer and technological orientation show complementary partial mediation for realised absorptive capacity.

Originality/value

The research model would enrich the existing literature and offer an improved understanding of how absorptive capacity enhances the innovation performance among artisan entrepreneurs and concurrently validates the theory of “Dynamic-Capability Theory” of absorptive capacity and the “Resource Based Theory” of innovation performance of a firm.