bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adding biomarker change information to the kidney failure risk equation improves predictive ability for dialysis dependency in eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m2
Authors: Okada Akira , Aso Shotaro , Kurakawa Kayo Ikeda , Inoue Reiko , Watanabe Hideaki , Sasabuchi Yusuke , Yamauchi Toshimasa , Yasunaga Hideo , Kadowaki Takashi , Yamaguchi Satoko , Nangaku Masaomi
Published: October 2024

Background

Although the kidney failure risk equation (KFRE), a well-known predictive model for predicting dialysis dependency, is useful, it remains unclear whether the addition of biomarker changes to the KFRE model in patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <30 ml/min/1.73 m2 will improve its predictive value.

Methods

We retrospectively identified adults with eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m2 without dialysis dependency, and available health checkup data for two successive years using a large Japanese claims database (DeSC, Tokyo, Japan). We dichotomized the entire population into a training set (50%) and a validation set (the other half). To assess the incremental value in the predictive ability for dialysis dependency by the addition of changes in eGFR and proteinuria, we calculated the difference in the C-statistics and net reclassification index (NRI).

Results

We identified 4499 individuals and observed 422 individuals (incidence of 45.2 per 1000 person-years) who developed dialysis dependency during the observation period (9343 person-years). Adding biomarker changes to the KFRE model improved C-statistics from 0.862 to 0.921, with an improvement of 0.060 (95% confidence intervals (CI) of 0.043–0.076, P < .001). The corresponding NRI was 0.773 (95% CI: 0.637–0.908), with an NRI for events of 0.544 (95% CI of 0.415–0.672) and NRI for non-events of 0.229 (95% CI of 0.186–0.272).

Conclusions

The KFRE model was improved by incorporating yearly changes in its components. The added information may help clinicians identify high-risk individuals and improve their care.
Captivity conditions matter for the gut microbiota of an endangered obligate hibernator
Authors: van Leeuwen Pauline M L , Mastromonaco Gabriela F , Mykytczuk Nadia , Schulte-Hostedde Albrecht I
Published: October 2024

Conservation breeding programmes include translocations of animals across breeding facilities, both in and ex situ, and to/from their natural habitat. Newly reintroduced Vancouver Island marmots (VIMs) originating from the captive breeding programme are known to experience high winter mortality once reintroduced. Whilst high winter mortality rates amongst reintroduced VIM populations remain a concern of unknown causes, this health issue could potentially be linked to changes in gut microbiota prior to hibernation. Furthermore, captivity is known to impact the gut microbiota of mammals that could be crucial for hibernation. In this study, we explored the diversity of bacterial communities in the gut of captive marmots during the entire active season, both kept in captivity at in situ and ex situ facilities, as well as free-ranging marmots during the summer period. Gut microbial diversity was higher in marmots held in ex situ facilities, outside of their habitat range, compared to captive marmots held within their habitat range, and in the wild, and differences in composition were also observed. In the entire active season, animals kept in the ex situ facility had increased abundance in taxa known to be mucin degraders, sulphate producers and possible cross-feeders, whilst an increase in fibre degraders of in situ and free-ranging marmots is potentially linked to diet variation between facilities. These results confirm the interest to transfer animals held at zoos to an in situ facility before relocation and expand our understanding of microbiota variation according to hibernation cycles in the context of conservation biology.
Older women with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome undergoing invasive or conservative management: an individual patient data meta-analysis
Authors: Rubino Francesca , Pompei Graziella , Mills Gregory B , Kotanidis Christos P , Laudani Claudio , Bendz Bjørn , Berg Erlend S , Hildick-Smith David , Hirlekar Geir , Morici Nuccia , Myat Aung , Tegn Nicolai , Sanchis Forés Juan , Savonitto Stefano , De Servi Stefano , Kunadian Vijay
Published: October 2024

Aims

Women and older patients are underrepresented in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating treatment strategies following acute coronary syndrome. This study aims to evaluate the benefit of invasive vs. conservative strategy of older women with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTEACS).

Methods and results

This analysis from an individual patient data meta-analysis included six RCTs comparing an invasive management with a conservative management in older NSTEACS patients. The primary endpoint was the composite of all-cause mortality or myocardial infarction (MI). Secondary endpoints included all-cause mortality, cardiovascular death, MI, urgent revascularization, and stroke. Follow-up time was censored at 1 year. In total, 717 women [median age 84.0 (interquartile range 81.0–87.0) years] were included. The primary endpoint occurred in 21.0% in the invasive strategy vs. 27.8% in the conservative strategy [hazard ratio (HR) 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.52–1.13, P = 0.160 using random effect] at 1-year follow-up. The invasive management was associated with reduced risk of MI (HR 0.49, 95% CI 0.32–0.73, P < 0.001) and urgent revascularization (HR 0.44, 95% CI 0.20–0.98, P = 0.045). No significant differences were identified in the risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular death, and stroke. Among males, there was no significant association between the treatment strategy and primary or secondary endpoints.

Conclusion

An invasive strategy compared with a conservative strategy did not reduce the composite outcome of all-cause mortality or MI in older NSTEACS women at 1-year follow-up. An invasive strategy reduced the individual risk of MI and urgent revascularization. Our results support the beneficial role of the invasive strategy in older NSTEACS women.

Registration

This meta-analysis is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023379819).
Effectiveness of dental arch expansion in the orthodontic treatment with clear aligners: a scoping review
Authors: Aragon Monica Lídia Santos de Castro , Mendes Ribeiro Suelly Maria , Fernandes Fagundes Nathalia Carolina , Normando David
Published: October 2024

Background

The clinical protocol and effectiveness of dental expansion with Clear Aligner Therapy (CAT), especially among adults is still unclear. There is a need to map and explore knowledge gaps of dental expansion with CAT among children and adults.

Objective

This scoping review explores the extent and depth of the available literature regarding the effectiveness and predictability of CAT in performing orthodontic expansion in both children and adults.

Methods

The following databases were consulted as sources of information: PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, LILACS, COCHRANE Library, and ProQuest Dissertations & Thesis, in which the search was limited to studies on children or adults requiring transverse arch expansion and using clear orthodontic aligners. Two independent reviewers assessed the citations and extracted data, which was then synthesized in a narrative format.

Results

Over all, 698 citations were retrieved, and 33 were included. Among these, 3 were systematic reviews, 4 were cohort studies, 2 were case-control studies, and 24 were case series. Eighty-five percent of the included studies were published in the last 5 years. Despite different protocols and measurement methods, aligners were effective for arch expansion in adults and children, and the expansion predictability was greater for the lower arch than for the upper arch. The evidence suggests that arch width increment is more predictable in the premolar region and less predictable in the canine and second molar areas, with high variability across studies.

Conclusions

Orthodontic aligners have demonstrated effectiveness in expanding arches in both adults and children. However, the literature suggests a decrease in arch width toward the posterior region, and there is no evidence of skeletal gains. To provide more conclusive evidence, randomized controlled clinical studies are warranted.

Registration

This review was registered in the Open Science Framework database (DOI: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/6EG8F)
Social networks and distributive conflict: the class divide in social ties and attitudes to income inequality across 29 countries
Authors: Lindh Arvid , Andersson Anton B
Published: October 2024

The theoretical proposition that social networks contribute to class divides in political attitudes has rarely been further developed or empirically scrutinized with individual-level data on a large cross-national scale. In this article, we theorize and empirically examine how the class profiles of personal networks may shape individual attitudes to income inequality from a country-comparative perspective. Using multilevel modeling and data from the ISSP Social Networks and Resources module, covering 29 countries, we find that having more family, friends, and acquaintances in upper-middle-class positions is associated with lower support for reducing inequality, while having more social ties to working-class positions is associated with higher support for reducing inequality. We also assess how these relationships differ across countries depending on the institutional context, finding that both own class location and the class profiles of personal networks are more strongly related to attitudes to income inequality in countries with a higher rate of government redistribution. The study provides new theoretical and empirical insights into the importance of personal networks’ class profiles for shaping individual attitudes and structural ideological divisions linked to economic inequality, while also suggesting that social networks are key to understanding institutionally embedded distributive conflicts from a country-comparative perspective.
Gestational diabetes and future cardiovascular diseases: associations by sex-specific genetic data
Authors: Zhang Yeshen , Yu Shijie , Chen Ziying , Liu Haobin , Li Huixian , Long Xinyang , Ye Fei , Luo Wenzhi , Dai Yining , Tu Shan , Chen Weikun , Kong Siyu , He Yu , Xue Ling , Tan Ning , Liang Huiying , Zhang Zhihui , He Pengcheng , Duan Chongyang , Liu Yuanhui
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Observational studies have highlighted that gestational diabetes mellitus is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, but the causality remains unclear. Herein, the causality between genetic predisposition to gestational diabetes mellitus and the risk of cardiovascular diseases was investigated using sex-specific Mendelian randomization analysis.

Methods

Linkage disequilibrium score regression analysis and two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis were applied to infer the genetic correlation and causality, respectively. Mediation analysis was conducted using a two-step Mendelian randomization approach. Sensitivity analyses were performed to differentiate causality from pleiotropy. The genome-wide association study summary statistics for gestational diabetes mellitus were obtained from FinnGen consortium, while for cardiovascular diseases were generated based on individual-level genetic data from the UK Biobank.

Results

Linkage disequilibrium score regression analyses revealed that gestational diabetes mellitus had a significant genetic correlation with coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction after Benjamini–Hochberg correction in ever-pregnant women. In Mendelian randomization analyses, odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction were 1.09 (1.01–1.17) and 1.12 (.96–1.31) per unit increase in the log-odds of genetic predisposition to gestational diabetes mellitus in ever-pregnant women, respectively. Further, Type 2 diabetes and hypertension were identified as mediators for the causality of genetic predisposition to gestational diabetes mellitus on coronary artery disease. In sensitivity analyses, the direction of odds ratio for the association between instrumental variables with gestational diabetes mellitus-predominant effects and the risk of coronary artery disease was consistent with the primary results in ever-pregnant women, although not statistically significant.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated a suggestive causal relationship between genetic predisposition to gestational diabetes mellitus and the risk of coronary artery disease, which was mainly mediated by Type 2 diabetes and hypertension. These findings highlight targeting modifiable cardiometabolic risk factors may reduce the risk of coronary artery disease in women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus.
NAT10 promotes vascular remodelling via mRNA ac4C acetylation
Authors: Yu Cheng , Chen Yue , Luo Hao , Lin Weihong , Lin Xin , Jiang Qiong , Liu Hongjin , Liu Wenkun , Yang Jing , Huang Yu , Fang Jun , He Duofen , Han Yu , Zheng Shuo , Ren Hongmei , Xia Xuewei , Yu Junyi , Chen Lianglong , Zeng Chunyu
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotype switching is a pathological hallmark in various cardiovascular diseases. N4-acetylcytidine (ac4C) catalyzed by N-acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10) is well conserved in the enzymatic modification of ribonucleic acid (RNA). NAT10-mediated ac4C acetylation is involved in various physiological and pathological processes, including cardiac remodelling. However, the biological functions and underlying regulatory mechanisms of mRNA ac4C modifications in vascular diseases remain elusive.

Methods

By combining in-vitro and in-vivo vascular injury models, NAT10 was identified as a crucial protein involved in the promotion of post-injury neointima formation, as well as VSMC phenotype switching. The potential mechanisms of NAT10 in the vascular neointima formation were clarified by RNA sequence (RNA-seq), acetylated mRNA immunoprecipitation sequence (acRIP-seq), and RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation sequence (RIP-seq).

Results

NAT10 and ac4C modifications were upregulated in injured human and rodent arteries. Deletion of NAT10 in VSMCs effectively reduced post-injury neointima formation and VSMC phenotype switching. Further RNA-seq, RIP-seq, and acRIP-seq revealed that NAT10, by its ac4C modification, directly interacts with genes, including integrin-β1 (ITGB1) and collagen type I alpha 2 chain (Col1a2) mRNAs. Taking ITGB1 as one example, it showed that NAT10-mediated ac4C consequently increased ITGB1 mRNA stability and its downstream focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling, directly influencing the proliferation of VSMCs and vascular remodelling. The regulation of NAT10 on the VSMC phenotype is of translational significance because the administration of Remodelin, a NAT10 inhibitor, effectively prevents neointima formation by suppressing VSMC proliferation and downregulating ITGB1 expression and deactivating its FAK signaling.

Conclusions

This study reveals that NAT10 promotes vascular remodelling via mRNA ac4C acetylation, which may be a promising therapeutic target against vascular remodelling.
Artificial subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems and gas storage in deep subsurface
Authors: Ranchou-Peyruse Anthony
Published: October 2024

Over the next few years, it is planned to convert all or part of the underground gas storage (UGS) facilities used for natural gas (salt caverns, depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs, and deep aquifers) into underground dihydrogen (H2) storage reservoirs. These deep environments host microbial communities, some of which are hydrogenotrophic (sulfate reducers, acetogens, and methanogens). The current state of microbiological knowledge is thus presented for the three types of UGS facilities. In the mid-1990s, the concept of anaerobic subsurface lithoautotrophic microbial ecosystems, or SLiMEs, emerged. It is expected that the large-scale injection of H2 into subsurface environments will generate new microbial ecosystems called artificial SLiMEs, which could persist over time. These artificial SLiMEs could lead to H2 loss, an intense methanogenic activity, a degradation of gas quality and a risk to installations through sulfide production. However, recent studies on salt caverns and deep aquifers suggest that hydrogenotrophic microbial activity also leads to alkalinization (up to pH 10), which can constrain hydrogenotrophy. Therefore, studying and understanding these artificial SLiMEs is both a necessity for the development of the H2 industry and presents an opportunity for ecologists to monitor the evolution of deep environments in real time.
Reflection coefficients for non-welded interface between orthorhombic half-spaces under initial stress
Authors: Fan Zihang , Zong Zhaoyun , Chen Fubin , Qin Dewen
Published: October 2024

Complex oil and gas reservoirs represented by orthorhombic shale usually have the characteristics of strong anisotropy, wide distribution of non-welded interfaces (i.e. particular boundaries caused by horizontal bedding or fracture development), and ubiquitous initial stress effects. The knowledge of their seismic response characteristics plays an essential role in hydrocarbon exploration in stressed shale reservoirs. However, seismic wave reflection in the orthorhombic media under initial stress remains unclear. To address this issue, we used the theories of acoustoelasticity and elastic anisotropy to derive a stress-dependent effective elastic stiffness tensor. At the same time, we obtain the wave velocity and polarization characteristics directly by solving the Christoffel equation. According to the linear slip theory, we further constructed the exact reflection and transmission coefficient equations for the non-welded interface between isotropic and orthorhombic half-spaces under the initial stress. The effects of the non-welded interface on seismic wave velocity and reflection and transmission coefficients were systematically analysed. Meanwhile, we characterize the law of P-wave reflection coefficient effected by elastic coefficients. Our equations and results potentially lay an equation foundation for orthorhombic reservoirs in high-stress fields and are essential in orthorhombic reservoirs in high-stress geophysical exploration.
Measurement error and information bias in causal diagrams: mapping epidemiological concepts and graphical structures
Authors: Wardle Melissa T , Reavis Kelly M , Snowden Jonathan M
Published: October 2024

Measurement error and information bias are ubiquitous in epidemiology, yet directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) are infrequently used to represent them, in contrast with confounding and selection bias. This represents a missed opportunity to leverage the full utility of DAGs to depict associations between the variables we actually analyse in practice: empirically measured variables, which are necessarily measured with error. In this article, we focus on applying causal diagrams to depict the data-generating mechanisms that give rise to the data we analyse, including measurement error. We begin by considering empirical data considerations using a general example, and then build up to a specific worked example from the clinical epidemiology of hearing health. Throughout, our goal is to highlight both the challenges and the benefits of using DAGs to depict measurement error. In addition to the application of DAGs to conceptual causal questions (which pertain to unmeasured constructs free from measurement error), which is common, we highlight the advantages associated with applying DAGs to also include empirically measured variables and—potentially—information bias. We also highlight the implications implied by this use of DAGs, particularly regarding the unblocked backdoor path causal structure. Ultimately, we seek to help increase the clarity with which epidemiologists can map traditional epidemiological concepts (such as information bias and confounding) onto causal graphical structures.
Elevated Levels of PDGF-BB and VEGF Are Associated With a Decreased Risk of Readmission or Death in Children With Severe Malarial Anemia
Authors: Slaughter Mary G , Bhumbra Samina , Mellencamp Kagan A , Namazzi Ruth , Opoka Robert O , John Chandy C
Published: October 2024

Background

Children with severe malarial anemia (SMA) typically have low in-hospital mortality but have a high risk of postdischarge readmission or death. We hypothesized that the dysregulation of hematopoiesis, vascular growth factors, and endothelial function that occurs in SMA might affect risk of readmission or death.

Methods

Plasma was obtained from children 18 months to 12 years old with SMA (n = 145) in Kampala, Uganda on admission, and outcomes were assessed over 12-month follow-up. Admission plasma levels of 10 biomarkers of vascular growth, hematopoiesis, and endothelial function were compared to risk of readmission or death over 12-month follow-up.

Results

Over 12-month follow-up, 19 of 145 children with SMA were either readmitted or died: 15 children were readmitted (13 with malaria) and 4 children died. In multivariable analyses adjusted for age and sex, elevated plasma levels of platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on admission were independently associated with a decreased risk of all-cause readmission or death (adjusted hazard ratios [95% confidence intervals], 0.28 [.16–.51] and 0.19 [.08–.48], respectively) and a decreased risk of readmission due to severe malaria (0.27 [.15–.51] and 0.16 [.05–.47]) but not with risk of uncomplicated malaria (1.01 [.53–1.95] and 2.07 [.93–4.64]).

Conclusions

In children with severe malarial anemia, elevated plasma levels of PDGF-BB and VEGF, 2 factors that promote angiogenesis, are associated with a decreased risk of readmission or death in the year following admission, primarily driven by a decrease in the risk of recurrent severe malaria.
Identification of vancomycin exposure target in neonates: how much is enough?
Authors: Gao Yuan , Wu Tong , Pu Libin , Ji Xingfang , Wang Zhipeng , Wang Fan , Wang Chang , Song Xia , Qiu Wen
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Vancomycin is commonly used in neonates with the same pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) target as adults. However, no evidence supports this practice, and the association between trough concentrations and treatment outcomes has been widely questioned. This study aimed to identify the optimal PK/PD predictor and assess the correlation between AUC/MIC, trough concentration and the vancomycin efficacy in neonates.

Methods

This study retrospectively collected neonates who used vancomycin and constructed a population pharmacokinetic (PPK) model to estimate the AUC. Logistic analyses were used to identify the variables related to efficacy. Classification and regression tree analysis was used to explore thresholds. The correlation between trough concentration and AUC/MIC on the first day was analysed using a linear regression model.

Results

PPK modelling involved 131 neonates. Postmenstrual age and current weight were included in the covariate analysis. Forty-eight patients were included in the efficacy analysis, 13 of whom were infected with MRSA. The best-performance PK/PD target for efficacy was AUC0–24h/MIC ≥ 331. The trough concentration was correlated with AUC0–24h/MIC (r2 = 0.32), but individual differences existed. AUC0–24h/MIC ranged up to 2.5-fold for a given trough concentration.

Conclusions

AUC0–24h/MIC ≥ 331 was the optimal target of vancomycin efficacy in neonates. The trough concentration was not a reliable predictor of efficacy and AUC0–24h/MIC. AUC-guided dosage adjustments are more valuable in clinical applications.
Antimicrobial activity of ceftibuten/polymyxin B combination against polymyxin/carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Sturaro Mariana Carvalho , de Souza Gleyce Hellen de Almeida , Damaceno Nathalia da Silva , Silva Osmar Nascimento , de Aquino Thiago Mendonça , Freire Nathalia Monteiro Lins , Alcântara Marcone Gomes dos Santos , Monteiro Kadja Luana Chagas , Martins Aline Andrade , Rossato Luana , Fraga Thiago Leite , Borsuk Sibele , Dellagostin Odir Antônio , Simionatto Simone
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the synergistic effect of a ceftibuten and polymyxin B combination and to determine its capacity to overcome polymyxin B resistance in polymyxin/carbapenem-resistant (PC-R) Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Methods

To investigate the combination’s antibacterial efficacy, antimicrobial susceptibility tests using broth microdilution methods, chequerboard assays and time–kill testing were performed. Antibiofilm activity was also assessed. The treatment’s effect on the bacterial cell membrane was examined by quantifying intracellular protein leakage and conducting scanning electron microscopy. Haemocompatibility tests were conducted to evaluate toxicity. Additionally, an infection model was established using Swiss mice to assess in vivo antimicrobial activity.

Results

The ceftibuten/polymyxin B combination demonstrated synergistic effects against several PC-R strains of K. pneumoniae, as determined by the FIC index (FICI) values, which ranged from 0.15 to 0.37. This combination was efficacious, exhibiting bactericidal activity at twice the MIC. Ceftibuten/polymyxin B also demonstrated antibiofilm activity. Additionally, ceftibuten/polymyxin B neither damaged the bacterial membrane nor exhibited haemolytic activity. Based on these findings, the in vivo therapeutic potential was investigated and it was found that ceftibuten/polymyxin B significantly decreased the bacterial load in the peritoneal lavage fluid of mice, revealing its effectiveness in treating infections caused by PC-R K. pneumoniae.

Conclusions

The ceftibuten/polymyxin B combination exhibited synergistic effects in vitro and in vivo, and thus might be a promising therapeutic alternative for treating PC-R K. pneumoniae infections. As the combination was efficacious in preclinical models, researchers may further investigate its potential in clinical studies.
Evaluating the costs of Escherichia coli bloodstream infections: a population-based cohort study in a large metropolitan Canadian region
Authors: King Teagan L , Rennert-May Elissa , Somayaji Ranjani , Leal Jenine , Black Jason E , Conly John M , Gregson Daniel
Published: October 2024

Objectives

We evaluated the costs of susceptible and resistant Escherichia coli bloodstream infections (BSIs) in adults. Secondary outcomes were the impact of BSI on length of stay (LOS), readmissions and death.

Methods

We examined a population-based retrospective cohort of blood cultures from 2011 to 2018 in Calgary, Canada, linked to microcosting and gross costing data. Propensity score matching was completed, and costs were compared between no BSI and E. coli BSI over 90 days using linear regression.

Results

A total of 4581 BSIs in 89 673 adults experienced E. coli bacteraemia during the study period. The mean cost of an E. coli BSI at 90 days was $39 072 (SD: $95 747) in adults. Ceftriaxone-resistant (CRO-R) E. coli, resistant to fluoroquinolones (FQ) and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, compared with susceptible E. coli BSI resulted in the greatest mean cost at $53 899 and the highest odds of readmission, increased LOS, and death.

Conclusions

E. coli BSI is associated with substantial costs. Total cost differences were highest in those with CRO-R E. coli with resistance to FQ and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. Over the study period, bacteraemia secondary to these strains alone, added over $9 million to costs for healthcare in the Calgary Zone.
Screening of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates reveals the spread of strong biofilm formers and class 1 integrons
Authors: Saha Ujjayni , Jadhav Savita V , Pathak Ketaki N , Saroj Sunil D
Published: October 2024

Aims

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a Gram-negative bacterium that can colonize, penetrate, and cause infections at several human anatomical locations. The emergence of hypervirulent K. pneumoniae and its ability to evade the immune system and develop antibiotic resistance has made it a key concern in the healthcare industry. The hypervirulent variants are increasingly involved in community-acquired infections. Therefore, it is pertinent to understand the biofilm formation potential among the clinical isolates.

Methods and results

We acquired 225 isolates of K. pneumoniae from the Department of Microbiology, Symbiosis University Hospital and Research Centre (SUHRC), Pune, India, over 1 year from March 2022 to March 2023, and evaluated antimicrobial susceptibility, hypermucoviscous phenotype, virulence, and antimicrobial-resistant gene distribution in K. pneumoniae isolates and established a correlation between antimicrobial resistance and integrons. Most isolates were strong biofilm formers (76%). The isolates harbored one or more carbapenemase/beta-lactamase-encoding gene combinations. Hypermucoviscous (HMKP) isolates had considerably greater positive rates for iutA, magA, K2 serotype, rmpA, and rmpA2 than non-HMKP isolates. Isolates carrying integrons (43%) showed significantly more antibiotic resistance.

Conclusion

The study reveals spread of strong biofilm formers with extensive virulence and antimicrobial-resistant genes, and integrons responsible for multidrug resistance among the clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae in Pune, India, posing a threat to the public health and necessitating close surveillance, accurate diagnosis, control, and therapeutic management of infections.
Evaluation of the toxicity of translaminar insecticides against the soybean tentiform leafminer (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), a potential new pest of soybean
Authors: Führ Fábio M , Ribeiro Arthur V , Menger James P , Koch Robert L
Published: October 2024

Macrosaccus morrisella (Fitch) (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) is a leaf-mining microlepidopteran native to North America recently reported feeding on soybean in the United States and Canada. Control methods for the management of this pest remain unknown. The insecticides Agri-Mek SC (abamectin) and Endigo ZXC (lambda-cyhalothrin + thiamethoxam) were evaluated for: (i) effects against immature stages of M. morrisella in potted soybean plants; (ii) effects against adults of M. morrisella through different routes of exposure; and (iii) efficacy of field applications against M. morrisella. In the experiment with immature stages, when either insecticide was applied to potted plants with M. morrisella in serpentine or blotch mines, significantly fewer adults emerged compared to the untreated plants. In contrast, adult emergence from potted plants treated with either insecticide when M. morrisella was in tentiform mines did not differ from untreated plants. In the experiment with adults, the survival of M. morrisella exposed to either insecticide through oral exposure or residual contact + oral exposure was significantly lower than that for residual contact exposure alone, which in turn was lower than the untreated control. Within each exposure route, the response to the 2 insecticides did not differ. In the field experiment, at 21 days after insecticide application, the mean percentage of leaf area mined was significantly lower in plots treated with Endigo ZCX compared to plots treated with Agri-Mek SC or those left untreated. These results suggest that Endigo ZXC and to a lesser extent Agri-Mek SC may have potential for management of M. morrisella.
Multi-year evaluation of an attract-and-kill strategy for apple maggot fly (Diptera: Tephritidae) in New England commercial apple orchards
Authors: Piñero Jaime C , Godoy-Hernandez Heriberto , Leskey Tracy C
Published: October 2024

Previously developed behavioral approaches for controlling the apple maggot fly, Rhagoletis pomonella (Walsh) (Diptera: Tephritidae), include attract-and-kill (AK) systems such as perimeter trapping using either, odor-baited red sticky spheres or odor-baited, sticky-free attracticidal spheres with contoured tops that ensure the sustained release of both insecticide and feeding stimulant. Here, over a 3-year span in 26 commercial apple orchards across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, we evaluated the effectiveness of a novel AK strategy for R. pomonella management. Synthetic apple blend lures were deployed on perimeter-row trees to attract the pest, while perimeter-row insecticide sprays blended with 2% sugar, a known phagostimulant, served as the lethal component. Comparatively, grower standard (GS) blocks received full-block insecticide sprays devoid of sugar and lures. Monitoring revealed that red sticky spheres in AK blocks captured significantly more R. pomonella adults than unbaited monitoring spheres in GS blocks. Penetration of R. pomonella into block interiors remained consistently low and statistically similar for both AK and GS blocks. Whole-block infestation levels showed no significant difference between the 2 management approaches. Notably, insecticide application in AK blocks was reduced by 75%, 64.7%, and 64.2% in 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively, compared with GS blocks. This grower-friendly AK approach could be integral to a reduced insecticide spray-based strategy for apple cultivation in the northeastern United States.
Transcriptional and physiological plasticity of the green peach aphid (Hemiptera: Aphididae) to cabbage and pepper plants
Authors: Wu Jun , Zhang Zhan-feng , Cao He-He , Liu Tong-Xian
Published: October 2024

Defensive metabolites and nutrient restriction of host plants are 2 major obstacles to the colonization of insect herbivores. The green peach aphid (GPA) Myzus persicae (Sulzer) broadly colonizes plants with diverse nutritional and defensive traits. However, how GPA adapts to nutritional and defensive traits within different plants remains largely unknown. To elucidate this, we first investigated the performances and transcriptomes of GPA feeding on cabbage Brassica oleracea and pepper Capsicum annuum. The green peach aphid had lower weight and fecundity when feeding on cabbage than on pepper. The transcriptomic analysis found 824 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and 13 of the top 20 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways are related to nutrient metabolism, energy metabolism, and detoxification. Specifically, we found 160 DEGs associated with the metabolism of protein and amino acids, sugar and lipids, and xenobiotic substances, 86 upregulated in cabbage-fed GPA. Fourteen cathepsin B genes were strongly upregulated in cabbage-fed GPA, and were enriched in lysosome pathway and 2 dominated gene ontology terms peptidase activity and proteolysis. In addition, cabbage-fed GPA upregulated sugar and lipid digestion, while downregulated lipid biosynthesis processes. Furthermore, 55 metabolic detoxification enzyme genes were differentially expressed between GPA on 2 hosts, and detoxification enzyme activities of GPA indeed changed accordingly to the host. Then, we found that cabbage has lower amino acids nutrition quality for GPA compared to pepper. Our results suggested that adjustment of nitrogen nutrient metabolism, sugar and lipid metabolism, and metabolic detoxification in a host-specific manner play crucial roles in the adaptations of GPA to different host plants.
Neutrophil extracellular traps: potential thrombotic markers and therapeutic targets in colorectal cancer
Authors: Huang Xianye , He Rongquan , Jiang Yanfeng , Tang Jing , Xu Xiaoyu , Laoguo Shixue , Chen Gang , Ma Jie
Published: October 2024

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are promising promoters in venous thromboembolism (VTE). In the present study, we have investigated the potential thrombogenic role of NETs in colorectal cancer (CRC). A total of 583 patients with gastrointestinal malignancies who were diagnosed with or without VTE by extremities arteriovenous ultrasound and computed tomography were enrolled. The incidence of VTE in CRC was as high as 17.53%. In serological ELISA experiments, Cit-H3, myeloperoxidase, and cfDNA were significantly overexpressed in CRC patients with VTE compared with CRC patients without VTE and healthy individuals. Neutrophils from CRC patients with VTE produced appreciable amounts of NETs after stimulation with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate, which were lacking in CRC patients without VTE and healthy individuals. CfDNA was positively correlated with plasmin-α2-antiplasmin complex and tissue plasmin activator inhibitor-1 complex, and Cit-H3 was positively correlated with plasmin-α2-antiplasmin complex, suggesting that NETs are associated with increased fibrinolytic activity. We screened some NETs-related genes by analyzing several high-throughput sequencing datasets of VTE and NETs. FCGR1A was identified as the optimal target gene by pan-cancer expression analysis and survival analysis. FCGR1A was significantly overexpressed in the peripheral blood of CRC patients without VTE compared with healthy individuals and showed a positive correlation with cfDNA. Neutrophil-derived NETs were significantly reduced by FCGR1A inhibitor exposure. These findings indicate that NETs are actively involved in VTE in CRC. NETs are promising thrombotic marker and therapeutic target in CRC to prevent the thrombotic consequences of cancer.
Assessing the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on 1-year cancer survival in the United States
Authors: Hong Yoon Duk , Howlader Nadia , Noone Anne-Michelle , Mariotto Angela B
Published: October 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic had a substantial impact on health-care delivery. We used the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data to assess changes in 1-year relative survival and competing risk probabilities of cancer and non-cancer death for patients diagnosed in 2018 Q2 (pre-pandemic) and 2020 Q2 (pandemic). For all cancer sites combined, 1-year relative survival declined from 82.3% in 2018 Q2 to 77.5% in 2020 Q2, with the steepest declines seen in stomach, leukemia, and liver cancers. However, survival improved nearing pre-pandemic levels during 2020 Q3. Competing risk survival measures revealed that the decline in 1-year survival was driven by increases in both the probability of dying of cancer (rising from 15.4% to 19.2%) and of other causes, including COVID-19 (rising from 3.8% to 5.2%). The pandemic led to substantial declines in survival and increased mortality from both cancer and other causes for patients diagnosed in 2020 Q2.
Non-Possessory Security
Authors: Bridge Michael , Gullifer Louise , Lomnicka Eva
Published: October 2024

This chapter examines non-possessory security, both consensual and non-consensual. The concepts of mortgage and charge are discussed, as are the differences between the two, and the significance of the distinction; the difference between a legal and equitable mortgage is also examined. The concept of ‘equity of redemption’ is also discussed, as is the effect of including future property in the scope of the mortgage or charge. The law’s approach to contractual terms (‘clogs’) affecting the equity of redemption is critically discussed, and the right of use in relation to financial collateral. The history, purpose, theories, and operation of the floating charge are discussed, as is the concept of crystallization and its practical significance. The chapter examines significance of the distinction between a fixed and a floating charge, and the impact of that significance on the approach of the courts to characterization. The chapter argues for as clear a test as possible to determine whether a charge is fixed or floating, and discusses the contours of the test laid down in In re Spectrum Plus in the light of this argument, taking into account the more nuanced test suggests in the case of In re Avanti Communications. The equitable lien (the main non-consensual non-possessory security interest) is analysed, and the situations in which it arises discussed both in general and in specific terms, focusing on the many situations in which an equitable lien arises. Recent Supreme Court decisions on solicitors’ liens and trustees’ liens are examined. There is a brief discussion of maritime liens.
Authorized Dispositions
Authors: Bridge Michael , Gullifer Louise , Lomnicka Eva
Published: October 2024

This chapter discusses permitted dispositions by a chargor, and the priority consequences of whether a disposition is permitted by the chargee or not. It examines a number of potential priority contests between a fixed charge and a floating charge, and two floating charges, including the effect of the inclusion of a negative pledge clause in a floating charge and the position where one or more floating charges have crystallized. The difficult question of what it means to say that a disponee takes subject to a floating charge is discussed, taking into account the different theoretical analyses of the floating charge.
Criticism and Reform Proposals
Authors: Bridge Michael , Gullifer Louise , Lomnicka Eva
Published: October 2024

This chapter recounts in detail the measures that have been taken, as well as the measures proposed and not taken, to reform the English law of security over the last fifty years or so. In considering these proposals, particular attention is dedicated to the radical reforms that have been enacted in the United States and Commonwealth jurisdictions. A particular case study concerns the failed attempt to reform the archaic and unsatisfactory law concerning bills of sale. The chapter concludes by pointing to certain aspects of the current law that might call for further attention on the part of the legislature.
The International Protection of Adults after Brexit
Authors: Franzina Pietro , Kruger Thalia
Published: October 2024

The International Protection of Adults is the subject of the 2000 Hague Adults Convention. This Convention is in force in a part of the European Union (EU) (13 of 27 countries) and in a part of the UK (only Scotland). The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities seeks to guarantee human rights. The EU is in the process of legislating on the cross-border protection of adults. The article discusses forms of protection and their cross-border effect. This includes the appointment by adults of representatives for when they might need them later, ex lege representatives and court-ordered measures. The legal patchwork is at the moment not optimal, but if all EU Member States and the entire UK adopt the Hague Adults Convention, the cross-border continuation of protection will be enhanced.
Paederus Dermatitis: Two Outbreaks of an Entomologic Disease in Austere Expeditionary Care
Authors: Brindle Allison N , Ballo Garrett C , Caley Charles M , Mason Michael J , Bennett V William N
Published: October 2024

Paederus dermatitis, also known as dermatitis linearis, is an acute cutaneous condition caused by contact with the potent vesicant toxin paederin, produced by endosymbiotic Pseudomonas-like bacteria within Paederus spp. beetles. Paederin is a protein synthesis inhibitor that halts cell division, leading to vesiculation and necrotic breakdown of the epidermis. The resultant damage facilitates secondary infection, especially in austere conditions. Between October 2022 and July 2023, several US special operations teams forward deployed to various countries in East Africa reported over 17 cases of painful, blistering skin eruptions consistent with Paederus dermatitis, 2 of which are summarized in this report. To confirm the best treatment approach, 1 team’s medic reached back to a deployed infectious disease physician in the same Combatant Command as well as through the DoD ADVISOR line to a dermatologist in the United States. All cases were managed with irrigation, followed by a combination of topical steroid and antibacterial ointments, with resolution occurring after 3 to 7 days, whereas 38% of the cases in July 2023 developed secondary cellulitis by day 7, requiring oral antibiotic treatment. Strict preventative measures were implemented to limit exposure while carefully observing each case, as this was critical to optimize medical readiness of the team. Ultimately, we seek to highlight the identification of beetles specific to East Africa, seasonal prevalence, and the importance of preventative measures as they vary depending on specific beetle characteristics. Additionally, we reiterate classic presentation features that help avoid misdiagnosis for cases that occur outside of the typical epidemiologic criteria.
Physical properties of five near-Earth asteroids within the NEOROCKS project
Authors: Medeiros H , Licandro J , Popescu M , de León J , Simion N G , Alarcon M R , Pinilla-Alonso N , Serra-Ricart M , Marshall S E , Naidu S P , Virkki A , Venditti F C F , Hickson D C , Zambrano-Marín L F , Taylor P A , Bonsall A , Ghigo F
Published: October 2024

We present photometric data of five near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) obtained in the framework of the NEO Rapid Observation, Characterization, and Key Simulations (NEOROCKS) project. The selected asteroids are (351545) 2005 TE15, (438908) 2009 XO, (501647) 2014 SD224, 2015 FC35, and 2016 CO247. Light curves were obtained for all the asteroids using the 0.46-m TAR2 telescope at the Teide Observatory (OT), and spectrophotometric data in g, r, i, z$_s$ filters were obtained for asteroids (438908) 2009 XO and (501647) 2014 SD224 using the MuSCAT-2 instrument attached to the 1.52-m Carlos Sanchez Telescope also at the OT. We derived the rotational period of the five NEAs using Fourier series analysis of the rotational light curves. We found $P = 10.6035 \pm 0.0010$ h for (351545) 2005 TE15, $7.9140 \pm 0.006$ h for (501647) 2014 SD224, $3.4211 \pm 0.0075$ h for 2015 FC35, and $4.800 \pm 0.005$ h for 2016 CO247. We observed two periodic variations for (438908) 2009 XO, a long one with two possible periods of $P_1 = 157.2 \pm 0.4$ h and $P_2 = 304.0 \pm 0.4$ h and a large amplitude of 0.881 mag, and a short one with a period of $P = 13.448 \pm 0.008$ h. Radar data suggest that (438908) 2009 XO could be a contact binary and its double period points towards a non-principal axis rotator. Finally, we used the spectrophotometric data to obtain colours and taxonomic classification for (438908) 2009 XO and (501657) 2014 SD224, concluding that both NEAs are S-type objects.
Hidden cooling flows − IV. More details on Centaurus and the efficiency of AGN feedback in clusters
Authors: Fabian A C , Ferland G J , Sanders J S , Russell H R , McNamara B R , Pinto C , Hlavacek-Larrondo J , Walker S A , Ivey L R , McDonald M
Published: October 2024

Cooling flows are common in galaxy clusters which have cool cores. The soft X-ray emission below 1 keV from the flows is mostly absorbed by cold dusty gas within the central cooling sites. Further evidence for this process is presented here through a more detailed analysis of the nearby Centaurus cluster and some additional clusters. Predictions of JWST near and mid-infrared spectra from cooling gas are presented. [Ne vi] emission at $7.65\,\mu$m should be an important diagnostic of gas cooling between 6 and $1.5\times 10^5{\rm \, K}$. The emerging overall picture of hidden cooling flows is explored. The efficiency of active galactic nucleus feedback in reducing the total cooling rate in cool cores is shown to be above 50 per cent for many clusters but is rarely above 90 per cent. The reduction is mostly in outer gas. Cooling dominates in elliptical galaxies and galaxy groups that have mass flow rates below about $15{{\rm \, {\rm M}_{\odot }}{\rm \, yr}^{-1}\, }$ and in some massive clusters where rates can exceed $1000{{\rm \, {\rm M}_{\odot }}{\rm \, yr}^{-1}\, }.$