bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The generation of a multiphase medium in ‘Splash’ bridge systems: towards an understanding of star formation suppression in turbulent galaxy systems
Authors: Yeager Travis R , Struck Curtis , Appleton Phil
Published: September 2024

Cloud–cloud collisions in splash bridges produced in gas-rich disc galaxy collisions offer a brief but interesting environment to study the effects of shocks and turbulence on star formation rates in the diffuse intergalactic medium, far from the significant feedback effects of massive star formation and active galactic nucleus. Expanding on our earlier work, we describe simulated collisions between counter-rotating disc galaxies of relatively similar mass, focusing on the thermal and kinematic effects of relative inclination and disc offset at the closest approach. This includes essential heating and cooling signatures, which go some way towards explaining the luminous power in H$_2$ and [C ii] emission in the Taffy bridge, as well as providing a partial explanation of the turbulent nature of the recently observed compact CO-emitting clouds observed in Taffy by the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA). The models show counter-rotating disc collisions result in swirling, shearing kinematics for the gas in much of the post-collision bridge. Gas with little specific angular momentum due to collisions between counter-rotating streams accumulates near the centre of mass. The disturbances and mixing in the bridge drive continuing cloud collisions, differential shock heating, and cooling throughout. A wide range of relative gas phases and line-of-sight velocity distributions are found in the bridges, depending sensitively on initial disc orientations, and the resulting variety of cloud collision histories. Most cloud collisions can occur promptly or persist for quite a long duration. Cold and hot phases can largely overlap throughout the bridge or can be separated into different parts of the bridge.
Energy equipartition in multiple-population globular clusters
Authors: Livernois Alexander R , Aros F I , Vesperini E , Askar A , Bellini A , Giersz M , Hong J , Hypki A , Libralato M , Ziliotto T
Published: September 2024

We present the results of Monte Carlo simulations aimed at exploring the evolution towards energy equipartition of first- (1G) and second-generation (2G) stars in multiple-population globular clusters and how this evolution is affected by the initial differences between the spatial distributions of the two populations. Our results show that these initial differences have fundamental implications for the evolution towards energy equipartition of the two populations. We find that 2G stars, which are assumed to be initially more centrally concentrated than 1G stars, are generally characterized by a more rapid evolution towards energy equipartition. The evolution towards energy equipartition depends on the velocity dispersion component and is more rapid for the tangential velocity dispersion. The extent of the present-day differences between the degree of energy equipartition of 2G and 1G stars depends on the cluster’s dynamical age and may be more significant in the tangential velocity dispersion and at intermediate distances from the cluster’s centre around the half-mass radius.
Gaia BH1 and BH2 – evolutionary models with overshooting of the black hole progenitors within the present-day binary separation
Authors: Gilkis A , Mazeh T
Published: September 2024

Three black holes (BHs) in wide binaries – Gaia BH1, BH2, and BH3 – were recently discovered. The likely progenitors of the BHs were massive stars that experienced a supergiant phase, reaching radii of $\sim\!\! 1000 \ \mathrm{ R}_{\odot }$, before collapsing to form the BH. Such radii are difficult to accommodate with the present-day orbits of BH1 and BH2 – with semimajor axes of 1.4 and 3.7 au, respectively. In this letter, we show that the maximal radii of the supergiants are not necessarily so large, and realistic stellar evolution models, with some assumed overshooting above the convective core into the radiative stellar envelope, produce substantially smaller maximal radii. The limited expansion of supergiants is consistent with the empirical Humphreys–Davidson limit – the absence of red supergiants above an upper luminosity limit, notably lower than the highest luminosity of main-sequence stars. We propose that the evolution that led to the formation of Gaia BH1 and BH2 simply did not involve an expansion to the cool supergiant phase.
Non–Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and Risk of Chronic Diseases: An Umbrella Review of Meta-analyses of Prospective Cohort Studies
Authors: Beigrezaei Sara , Raeisi-Dehkordi Hamidreza , Hernández Vargas Juliana Alexandra , Amiri Mojgan , Artola Arita Vicente , van der Schouw Yvonne T , Salehi-Abargouei Amin , Muka Taulant , Chatelan Angeline , Franco Oscar H
Published: September 2024

Context

Several effects of non–sugar-sweetened beverage (NSSBs) intake on health outcomes have been reported; however, the evidence on the association between NSSBs intake and chronic diseases and mortality risk is still inconclusive.

Objective

This umbrella review aimed to summarize the evidence on the association between NSSBs intake and the risk of chronic diseases and mortality.

Data Sources

Embase, ISI Web of Science, Cochrane Central, and PubMed were searched up to September 2023 for relevant meta-analyses of observational prospective cohort studies.

Data Extraction

Two groups of researchers independently extracted study data and assessed the risk of bias for meta-analyses and primary studies.

Data Analysis

Six meta-analyses, reporting 74 summary hazard ratios (HRs) for different outcomes obtained from 50 primary studies, were included. The summary HRs, 95% CIs, and certainty of evidence on the association of NSSBs intake with risk of chronic diseases and mortality were as follows: all-cause mortality (per 355 mL/d: 1.06 [1.01 to 1.10]; moderate certainty); stroke (per 250 mL/d: 1.09 [1.04 to 1.13]; high certainty); coronary heart disease (CHD) (per 250 mL/d: 1.06 [1.02 to 1.11]; high certainty); hypertension (HTN) (high vs low intake: 1.14 [1.09 to 1.18]; moderate certainty); type 2 diabetes (T2D) (high vs low intake: 1.16 [1.08 to 1.26]; low certainty); metabolic syndrome (MetS) (high vs low intake: 1.32 [1.22 to 1.43]; low certainty); colorectal cancer (high vs low intake: 0.78 [0.62 to 0.99]; moderate certainty); and leukemia (high vs low intake: 1.35 [1.03 to 1.77]; moderate certainty). For other outcomes, including the risk of cardiovascular and cancer mortality, chronic kidney diseases, breast cancer, prostate cancer, endometrial cancer, pancreatic cancer, multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, no association was found.

Conclusion

This study provides further evidence that NSSBs are associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality, stroke, CHD, HTN, T2D, MetS, and leukemia. Moreover, a higher intake of NSSBs was associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer. However, it should be noted that the magnitudes of the associations are not large. Further studies are needed to clarify the long-term effects of different NSSBs intakes on health.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO no. CRD42023429981.
Morphometric variation and deteriorating food availability both explain seasonally declining reproductive success of Dicrurus hottentottus (Hair-crested Drongo)
Authors: Liu Chen-Yang , Lv Lei , Li Jianqiang , Liu Yang , Zhang Zhengwang , Komdeur Jan
Published: September 2024

Seasonally declining reproductive performance in avian populations may be attributed to high-quality individuals breeding earlier than low-quality individuals (the quality hypothesis), to deteriorating environmental conditions (the date hypothesis), or both. By comparing the reproductive performance among different perennial pairs, and the same perennial pairs across different years, we tested the influence of timing of breeding on reproductive performance in Dicrurus hottentottus (Hair-crested Drongo) from 2010 to 2022. Breeding pairs that typically laid earlier relative to the population mean (i.e., early-breeding pairs) exhibited a significantly higher fledging rate compared to breeding pairs that often bred later relative to the population mean (i.e., late-breeding pairs). For a given pair, the fledging rate of early-breeding pairs increased when they bred later compared to other years, while the fledging rates of late-breeding pairs were significantly lower in years when they bred later than usual. We found that male morphological traits were associated with both the timing of breeding and the feeding rate. Pairs with long-billed (indicator of high quality) males bred earlier than pairs with short-billed males, and pairs with larger males (indicator of high quality) had a higher feeding rate than pairs with smaller males. Female age had reversed effects on the timing of breeding and fledging rate: older females tended to breed earlier than younger females; but there was a sharp decline in fledging rate after 7 years of age in late-breeding pairs. Finally, our results showed that the feeding rate and the amount of invertebrate biomass decreased with laying date, indicating deteriorating feeding conditions later in the breeding season. Overall, our findings support both the quality hypothesis and the date hypothesis. Low-quality D. hottentottus are likely to be most adversely affected by the phenological mismatches induced by climate change, which, in turn, may affect population dynamics through reduced fecundity.
A complex and dynamic redox network regulates oxygen reduction at photosystem I in Arabidopsis
Authors: Hani Umama , Naranjo Belen , Shimakawa Ginga , Espinasse Christophe , Vanacker Hélène , Sétif Pierre , Rintamäki Eevi , Issakidis-Bourguet Emmanuelle , Krieger-Liszkay Anja
Published: September 2024

Thiol-dependent redox regulation of enzyme activities plays a central role in regulating photosynthesis. Besides the regulation of metabolic pathways, alternative electron transport is subjected to thiol-dependent regulation. We investigated the regulation of O2 reduction at photosystem I. The level of O2 reduction in leaves and isolated thylakoid membranes depends on the photoperiod in which plants are grown. We used a set of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) mutant plants affected in the stromal, membrane, and lumenal thiol network to study the redox protein partners involved in regulating O2 reduction. Light-dependent O2 reduction was determined in leaves and thylakoids of plants grown in short-day and long-day conditions using a spin-trapping electron paramagnetic resonance assay. In wild-type samples from short-day conditions, reactive oxygen species generation was double that of samples from long-day conditions, while this difference was abolished in several redoxin mutants. An in vitro reconstitution assay showed that thioredoxin m, NADPH-thioredoxin reductase C, and NADPH are required for high O2-reduction levels in thylakoids from plants grown in long-day conditions. Using isolated photosystem I, we also showed that reduction of a photosystem I protein is responsible for the increase in O2 reduction. Furthermore, differences in the membrane localization of m-type thioredoxins and 2-Cys peroxiredoxin were detected between thylakoids of short-day and long-day plants. Overall, we propose a model of redox regulation of O2 reduction according to the reduction power of the stroma and the ability of different thiol-containing proteins to form a network of redox interactions.
A mutant allele of the Wx gene encoding granule-bound starch synthase I results in extremely low amylose content in rice
Authors: Lin Lingshang , Li Zheng , Ning Mengyuan , Zou Zihan , Zhang Long , Liu Qiaoquan , Wei Cunxu
Published: September 2024

An amino acid substitution (T506I) in the GT1 domain of granule-bound starch synthase I dramatically reduces amylose content in rice.
Whose knowledge counts? Power dynamics in the co-production of knowledge and innovation in agri-food systems
Authors: Cronin Evelien , Block Thomas , Fosselle Sylvie , Rogge Elke
Published: September 2024

The concept ‘co-production of knowledge and innovation’ (CKI) is gaining prominence. European Union (EU) research and innovation funding programmes like Horizon 2020 (H2020), Horizon Europe, and INTERREG underscore its significance as engaging diverse societal actors is often a requirement. Reality reveals disparities in actor participation in these multinational EU-funded CKI projects. As these projects are perceived as avenues for tackling ‘grand societal challenges’, such as the transition to sustainable agri-food systems, questions arise about whether they ensure equitable inclusion of diverse perspectives, enable genuine participation, and why barriers to entry persist. This study delves into the complexity of multinational CKI projects, shedding light on these questions. One H2020 and one INTERREG project are analysed using the multilevel innovation system framework incorporating a ‘power dynamics’ dimension. By including ‘power dynamics’ in an innovation system-based analysis, we offer a nuanced examination of mechanisms of inclusion and exclusion and a better understanding of potential policy intervention strategies.
MCPIP1 promotes atrial remodeling by exacerbating miR‐26a‐5p/FRAT/Wnt axis–mediated atrial fibrosis in a rat model susceptible to atrial fibrillation
Authors: Li Kai , Sun Huaxin , Bo Yakun , Zhang Wanfeng , Huang Wenchao , Zhao Yang , Yang Hang , Guo Yankai , Zhou Xianhui , Lu Yanmei , Zhang Ling , Tang Baopeng
Published: September 2024

Atrial fibrosis plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). Monocyte chemotactic protein–induced protein‐1 (MCPIP1), recognized as a functional ribonuclease (RNase), exacerbates cardiac remodeling and contributes to a range of cardiovascular diseases. However, the involvement of MCPIP1 in atrial fibrosis and development of AF, along with its underlying biological mechanisms, remains poorly understood. This study demonstrated that knockdown of MCPIP1 significantly reduced AF inducibility, decreased left atrial diameter, and ameliorated atrial fibrosis, coinciding with reduced FRAT1/2/Wnt/β‐catenin signaling. Furthermore, the MCPIP1‐D141N mutation attenuated AF vulnerability and atrial remodeling compared to MCPIP1 overexpression in an acetylcholine and calcium chloride (ACh‐CaCl2)–induced rat model of AF. Conversely, overexpression of FRAT1/2 partially reversed the cardioprotective effects of MCPIP1‐D141N mutation. Using H9C2 cell lines, we observed that MCPIP1 may induce a transcriptional effect that downregulates miR‐26a‐5p expression, and luciferase and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays substantiated the direct interaction between miR‐26a‐5p and FRAT1/2. Moreover, overexpression of miR‐26a‐5p countered MCPIP1‐induced atrial remodeling and attenuated the progression of AF. In conclusion, these findings indicate that MCPIP1 facilitates atrial remodeling and the progression of AF by exacerbating miR‐26a‐5p/FRAT/Wnt axis–mediated atrial fibrosis through its RNase activity in an ACh‐CaCl2–induced rat model of AF.
Social Media and the Crisis of Adolescent Mental Health
Authors: Molyneux Jacob
Published: September 2024

Waking up to a public health emergency
Being a Thick-Skinned Angel
Authors: Boyle Deborah A.
Published: September 2024

The truth behind two contrasting images of nurses
Second-Line Uterotonics for Uterine Atony
Authors: Cole Naida M. , Kim Jimin J. , Lumbreras-Marquez Mario I. , Fields Kara G. , Mendez-Pino Laura , Farber Michaela K. , Carusi Daniela A. , Toledo Paloma , Bateman Brian T.
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the comparative efficacy of two of the most commonly used second-line uterotonics—methylergonovine maleate and carboprost tromethamine.

METHODS:

We conducted a double-blind randomized trial at two large academic perinatal centers in patients undergoing nonemergency cesarean delivery with uterine atony refractory to oxytocin, as diagnosed by the operating obstetrician. The intervention included administration of a single dose of intramuscular methylergonovine or carboprost intraoperatively at diagnosis. The primary outcome, uterine tone on a 0–10 numeric rating scale 10 minutes after study drug administration, was rated by operating obstetricians blinded to the drug administered. Secondary outcomes included uterine tone score at 5 minutes, administration of additional uterotonic agents, other interventions for uterine atony or hemorrhage, quantitative blood loss, urine output, postpartum change in serum hematocrit, transfusion, length of hospital stay, adverse drug or transfusion reactions, and postpartum hemorrhage complications. A sample size of 50 participants per group was planned to detect a 1-point difference (with estimated within-group SD of 1.5) in the mean primary outcome with 80% power at a two-sided α level of 0.05 while accounting for potential protocol violations.

RESULTS:

A total of 1,040 participants were enrolled, with 100 randomized to receive one of the study interventions. Mean±SD 10-minute uterine tone scores were 7.3±1.7 after methylergonovine and 7.6±2.1 after carboprost, with an adjusted difference in means of −0.1 (95% CI, −0.8 to 0.6, P=.76). Additional second-line uterotonics were required in 30.0% of the methylergonovine arm and 34.0% in the carboprost arm (adjusted odds ratio 0.72, 95% CI, 0.27–1.89, P=.505), and geometric mean quantitative blood loss was 756 mL (95% CI, 636–898) and 708 mL (95% CI, 619–810) (adjusted ratio of geometric means 1.06, 95% CI, 0.86–1.31, P=.588), respectively. No differences were detected in the occurrence of other interventions for uterine atony or postpartum hemorrhage.

CONCLUSION:

No difference was detected in uterine tone scores 10 minutes after administration of either methylergonovine or carboprost for refractory uterine atony, indicating that either agent is acceptable.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION:

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03584854.
Perceptions on Corneal and Eye Donation: Implications for Corneal Donor Programs
Authors: Pshea-Smith Ian A. , Bashshur Mary , Itani Wadad , Mofrad Zeinab (Noora) K. , Stout Elizabeth , Bashshur Ramona
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to review available literature that discusses the attitudes, awareness, and perceptions among individuals and populations regarding corneal and eye donation worldwide, to identify barriers that hinder donor programs from achieving sustainable success.

Methods:

A search was performed in PubMed yielding 800 articles which resulted in a final set of 101 relevant articles for review. Articles were excluded after abstract review if the authors determined the articles did not sufficiently pertain to corneal donation. Information was extracted regarding year of publication, country of origin, income level, World Bank region, study aim, study setting, sample size, and percentage of consented donors. Qualitative information was extracted on barriers to corneal donation and discussions or mentions of eye banks.

Results:

Of the 101 studies, 34% were in South Asia, 26% were in Europe and Central Asia, and 22% were in East Asia and Pacific. Fifty-six percent of the studies were published in upper-middle to high-income countries. Barriers to corneal donation were a common focus of the studies, and discussions of eye banks or eye banking systems appeared in 75% of the data set. Barriers to corneal donation in these studies were categorized as stemming from perceptions and awareness, family and religious factors, and societal factors.

Conclusions:

The unique nature of eye donation emerged as a significant factor affecting willingness to donate. The interactions with trained donation coordinators are essential for the success of eye banking service delivery, and eye banks remain the proven system for ensuring the availability of corneal tissue for transplant.
Sacrificial of unilateral vertebral artery for fragment removal following vertebral artery injury by air rifle pellet gunshot: A case report
Authors: Mahardika Nandha Pratama , Fatih Naufal Muhammad , Wicaksono Pandu , Ranuh I.G.M. Aswin
Published: September 2024

This report demonstrates the safety and efficacy of sacrificing a ruptured vertebral artery (VA) due to an air rifle pellet gunshot injury. A 15-year-old male was admitted with a gunshot wound to the neck. He was initially treated at Madiun General Hospital before referral. He exhibited stable vital signs and no neurological deficits. Imaging revealed a pellet in the right transverse foramen of the fifth cervical vertebra, causing a pseudoaneurysm of the right common carotid artery and occlusion followed by rupture of the right VA, with a patent left VA. Open surgery extracted the pellet, and a coil occlusion of the right VA was performed to control bleeding. The case underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and thorough examination in managing complex injuries, highlighting the safety of sacrificing a ruptured unilateral VA.
Arterial and Venous Doppler in Evaluation of the “At-risk” Fetus
Authors: Turan Sifa , Bucak Mevlut , Turan Ozhan M.
Published: September 2024

Our practice utilizes Doppler ultrasound as one of the most objective and effective methods to assess at-risk pregnancies. This review will discuss the application of arterial and venous Doppler techniques in assessing and managing various diseases and conditions for high-risk fetuses.
Genetic Implications for Cancer Management: The Changing Landscape of Poly (ADP-ribose) Polymerase Inhibitor Indications in the Treatment of Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Walsh Christine
Published: September 2024

Between December 2014 and May 2020, the United States Food and Drug Administration approved 9 indications for poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor use in ovarian cancer. Between June 2022 and September 2022, all 3 indications for PARP inhibitor treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer were withdrawn. Between November 2022 and September 2023, all 3 indications for PARP inhibitor maintenance therapy in recurrent ovarian cancer were restricted. The 3 indications for PARP inhibitor maintenance therapy in newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer are unchanged. This article reviews the timelines and data leading to regulatory changes for PARP inhibitor use in ovarian cancer in the United States.
Temporal Trends and Outcomes of Peripheral Artery Disease and Critical Limb Ischemia in the United States
Authors: Krittanawong Chayakrit , Imoh Kimberly , Ang Song Peng , Qadeer Yusuf Kamran , Virk Hafeez Ul Hassan , Alam Mahboob , Lavie Carl J , Sharma Raman
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a progressive, systemic atherosclerotic disease that is associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), cerebrovascular disease (CVD), and critical limb ischemia (CLI). CLI represents the most severe stage of PAD, characterized by progressive endothelial dysfunction and arterial narrowing. We hypothesized that the incidence of CLI and PAD would increase over the study period and that the rates of in-hospital mortality and major amputations among patients admitted with CLI would rise correspondingly.

Methods:

We utilized the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from year 2016 to 2021 using the ICD-10-CM codes. Patients with a primary or secondary diagnoses of PAD were initially selected and subsequently hospitalization with CLI were appropriately identified. Cochran Armitage test was used to describe the trend of outcomes across the years. All statistical analyses were conducted using the software Stata version 17.0

Results:

From 2016-2021, there were 2,930,639 admissions for critical limb ischemia. 65% of these patients were over the age of 60 and 35.8% of these patients were women. Most of these individuals were white (64.7%), followed by African Americans (15.8%) and Hispanics (12.6%). In-hospital mortality rates varied by revascularization method, with hybrid revascularization showing the highest rate at 2.6%, followed by endovascular revascularization at 1.8%, and surgical revascularization at 1.6%. Additionally, hospitalization costs were highest for patients undergoing hybrid revascularization ($46,257 ± $36,417), compared to endovascular ($36,924 ± $27,945) and surgical revascularization ($35,672 ± $27,127). Endovascular revascularization rates seemed to increase while surgical revascularization rates decreased during this time period.

Conclusion:

PAD is a progressive, systemic atherosclerotic disease that is associated with an increased risk of CAD, CVD, and CLI. Our data showed that the rates of PAD and CLI hospitalizations has remained relatively stable from 2016-2021, but there seems to be a trend towards doing more revascularization via an endovascular approach as compared to a surgical approach.
ANTERIOR SUBTENON TRIAMCINOLONE INJECTION FOR REFRACTORY MACULAR EDEMA
Authors: Felfeli Tina , Park Megan , Gorfinkel Nathan S. , Shwarzman Robert , Papanikolaou John , Shah Paresh , Kiss Alex , Mandelcorn Efrem D.
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate the effectiveness of anterior subtenon triamcinolone (AST) injections in the management of refractory macular edema.

Methods:

This is a retrospective case series of consecutive eyes with refractory macular edema treated with AST at a single vitreoretinal surgeon's practice at Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, Canada in 2018 to 2023. Refractory was defined as persistent macular edema with a central subfield thickness of 250 µm or greater over a 24-week period, receiving at least four intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor injections. Vision outcomes and optical coherence tomography features for all eyes were compared for three visits pre-AST treatment and two visits post-AST treatment.

Results:

Ninety-three patients (119 eyes); diabetic macular edema (26%), and pseudophakic cystoid macular edema (74%), with a mean follow-up duration of 161 days were included. The presence of subretinal fluid (P = 0.0013), central subfield macular thickness (P < 0.0001), cube average thickness (P = 0.0024), and macular cube volume (P = 0.0017) significantly improved from pre-AST to post-AST treatment. Visual acuity also significantly improved from pre-AST treatment to post-AST treatment (P < 0.0001). There was no significant change in the intraocular pressures from pre-AST to post-AST (P = 0.7920), and no complications were noted throughout the follow-up period.

Conclusion:

The findings from this study suggest that AST injections show modest improvement in anatomical and functional outcomes and are safe for the treatment and management of refractory macular edema.
QUANTIFICATION OF CAPILLARY BLOOD FLOW SPEEDS IN DIABETIC RETINOPATHY USING VARIABLE INTERSCAN TIME ANALYSIS OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY
Authors: Hwang Yunchan , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Won Jungeun , Yaghy Antonio , Marmalidou Anna , Kaiser Stephanie M. , Jamil Muhammad Usman , Baumal Caroline R. , Waheed Nadia K. , Fujimoto James G.
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

To investigate retinal capillary plexus capillary flow speed and vessel density in diabetic retinopathy and normal subjects using variable interscan time analysis optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Methods:

High speed swept source OCTA imaging using multiple interscan times was performed over a 5 mm × 5 mm field-of-view with 600 kHz A-scan rate. Second-generation variable interscan time analysis OCTA was used to measure a surrogate marker for capillary blood flow speed, variable interscan time analysis flow speed (VFS), in the superficial and intermediate capillary plexusesVFS, and deep capillary plexusVFS. Vessel density was measured using OCTA.

Results:

Fifty-seven eyes with different diabetic retinopathy severity and 37 normal eyes were analyzed. Variable interscan time analysis OCTA provided diverse blood flow speed information, including pseudo-color OCTA and mean flow speed in different regions. Both deep capillary plexusVFS and deep capillary plexusVFS/(superficial and intermediate capillary plexuses)VFS were higher in diabetic retinopathy compared with normal eyes. Elevated deep capillary plexusVFS correlated with decreased deep capillary plexus vessel density in nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy.

Conclusion:

Variable interscan time analysis OCTA can measure a quantitative biomarker for blood flow speed alterations in diabetic retinopathy and normal eyes as well as the association with vessel density in different capillary plexuses. Variable interscan time analysis OCTA is promising for studies of pathogenesis and early flow alterations, which may precede nonperfusion.
Using first-eye early vault to determine implantable collamer lens size for the second eye: retrospective analysis of bilateral phakic intraocular lens implantation
Authors: Li Honglei , Liu Dongle , Zhang Jinyan , Dai Yunhai , Wu Xiaoming
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate the role of first-eye vault after the implantation of implantable collamer lens (ICL) V4c in selecting ICL size for the second eye and analyze the changing characteristics of the vault.

Setting:

Qingdao Eye Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Qingdao, China.

Design:

Retrospective case series.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, 509 patients (1018 eyes) receiving bilateral ICL V4c implants were evaluated. The surgical management method was as follows: The vault was measured at 2 hours after the first-eye surgery, and we selected ICL size for the second eye based on the vault of the first eye. The bilateral vault was measured and evaluated between different periods of follow-up.

Results:

The rate of ICL realignment or exchange due to abnormal vault was 1.47% (15/1018), with the second eye showing a significantly lower incidence (0.39%) compared with the first eye (2.55%) (P < .01). Patients were categorized into 4 groups based on the vault value obtained at 2 hours postoperatively (baseline). There was significant difference in the value of vault decrease among the 4 groups at 1-day, 1-week, 1-month, and 3-month follow-ups (all P < .01). There was a significant positive correlation between the decrease in the vault and the baseline vault (all P < .01).

Conclusions:

Selecting the ICL size for the second eye based on the first eye's vault measurement 2 hours postoperatively can effectively minimize the need for further surgeries. Notably, eyes with a higher initial vault experienced a more pronounced decrease.
Prenatal and Postnatal Opinions and Experiences of Women With Multiple Sclerosis: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: MORANTE-HERRERA María Magdalena , MARTÍNEZ-LINARES Jose Manuel , LÓPEZ-MEDINA Isabel María
Published: September 2024

Background

Multiple sclerosis is an irreversible autoimmune disease with significant physical, psychological, and social impacts. Understanding the lived experiences of pregnant women with multiple sclerosis is vital for healthcare professionals to provide better care to these women.

Purpose

This study was designed to explore the lived experiences of pregnant women with multiple sclerosis.

Methods

A descriptive phenomenological study was conducted at the University of Jaén and included 17 women from different Spanish provinces who were recruited using intentional and snowball sampling methods via national patient associations and social networks. In-depth interviews were conducted, audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using Martins' three steps. The ATLAS.ti 7.0 program was used for data analysis.

Results

Two themes and seven subthemes were identified that highlighted the experiences of women in pregnancy with multiple sclerosis: (a) the influence of the disease on the decision to be a mother, with subthemes “The disease determines when to be a mother” and “Considering alternatives to spontaneous pregnancy,” and (b) the vision of motherhood with multiple sclerosis, with subthemes “Worry about how the disease can affect the pregnancy,” “Worry about how the pregnancy can affect the disease,” “Concerns about childbirth,” “Difficulty with breastfeeding,” and “Worry about the transmission of the disease.”

Conclusions/Implications for Practice

Women with multiple sclerosis often face a difficult decision regarding whether to become pregnant. The period of pregnancy and puerperium can be fraught with anxiety, especially in terms of concerns about their ability to raise children. In light of the limited scientific evidence regarding the relationship between multiple sclerosis and pregnancy and the conflicting advice often given to these women, the findings of this study may be used to help improve the quality of the care provided to this population.
The Effect of Baby Friendly Neonatal Intensive Care Initiative on Exclusive Breastfeeding Rates following Discharge in Very Preterm Infants
Authors: Karaçağlar N. Bengü , Kadıoğlu Şimşek Gülsüm , Canpolat Fuat Emre , Elbayiyev Sarkhan , Kanmaz Kutman H. Gözde
Published: September 2024

Aim:

We aimed to investigate the effect of “Baby Friendly NICU” practice on exclusive breastfeeding rates following discharge in very preterm infants.

Background:

The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is a global program launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF.

Methods:

The feeding technique, type of nutrition (breastfeeding, formula, mixed) and anthropometric measurements of the very preterm infants (≤32 gestational weeks) were recorded for every month following discharge up to corrected 6 months of age. Exclusive breastfeeding rates were compared between 2 periods before “Baby Friendly NICU” practice (group 1) and after (group 2).

Results:

Data of 252 infants, 135 in group 1 and 117 in group 2 were analyzed. Exclusive formula feeding rates decreased by 6 months age in group 2 (46 vs. 32%, P = .02); however, exclusively breastfeeding rates did not changed significantly (20% vs. 29%, P = .14).

Conclusion:

Baby friendly NICU practices significantly decreased formula feeding rates at 6 months; however, it did not have an effect on exclusive breastfeeding rates at any time point during follow-up probably due to small sample size.
Pediatric Primary Dural Lymphoblastic B-cell Lymphoma Presenting as Hematoma in the Frontoparietal Region: A Case Report
Authors: Ören Ayşe Ceyda , Pekpak Şahinoğlu Esra , Cangi Sibel , Alptekin Mehmet , Korkmaz Vezir , Akbayram Sinan
Published: September 2024

Lymphomas originating from the meninges without brain or systemic involvement represent an extremely rare type of primary central nervous system lymphomas. Here, we report a case of primary dural lymphoma in a 3-year-old boy who was brought to the hospital due to headache, nausea, and vomiting episodes ongoing for several days. An acute hematoma in the right frontoparietal region was detected on a brain CT scan. The patient underwent surgery to remove the hematoma, which was then sent for pathologic examination. The pathology report revealed lymphoblastic B-cell lymphoma with a Ki-67 proliferation index of 80%. Radiologic and FDG-PET/CT imaging, as well as bone marrow examination, did not reveal any systemic disease. The NHL BFM 2012 lymphoblastic lymphoma treatment protocol was started and successfully completed. The patient has been followed for ~2 years and is still alive and disease-free. This is the first case of pediatric primary dural lymphoblastic B-cell lymphoma ever reported in the literature.
Methotrexate
Authors: Huddleston Edward M. , Saag Kenneth G.
Published: September 2024

Methotrexate is one of the most frequently used medications for the treatment of rheumatic diseases. Although initially developed for use as chemotherapy for both solid and hematologic malignancies, it was used as early as the 1960s with success for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis, ultimately being approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of RA in 1988. Beyond RA and psoriatic arthritis, methotrexate is used in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, and other inflammatory conditions. Methotrexate is cytotoxic to the trophoblast and has been used to treat both ectopic pregnancy and gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, leading to studies in the early 1990s that showed it was effective and safe for early abortion in combination with prostaglandin E1 analog misoprostol. Methotrexate is also a teratogen, causing serious birth defects in 6%–10% of patients taking it while pregnant. Additionally, women are more likely to be affected by both RA at SLE, as compared with males, thus worsening the burden of these adverse effects. Both methotrexate's history of use as an abortifacient and its teratogenic properties make its use more complicated in the current era of abortion policy in the United States following the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization ruling. Recently published data suggest that this ruling has affected both provider perspectives and patient experiences as it relates to methotrexate use. In the post-Dobbs era, the role of the rheumatologist as it relates to patients' sexual and reproductive health is likely to expand.
The Effectiveness of Ascorbic Acid or Ascorbic Acid–Containing Food Intervention in the Treatment of Existing Xerostomia in the Adult Population
Authors: Steiner Lea , Radler Diane Rigasso , Patusco Rachael
Published: September 2024

The objective of this review was to assess the efficacy of vitamin C or vitamin C–containing foods in adults with existing xerostomia. Vitamin C and food containing vitamin C could significantly improve xerostomia, which is important since there is an association between xerostomia, inadequate oral intake, and malnutrition. After a literature review, a total of 202 articles were screened. Two randomized controlled trials and 2 nonrandomized crossover trials met inclusion criteria. Limited evidence indicated improved quality of life, oral intake, and markers of xerostomia. Vitamin C was safe and well tolerated. Additional studies are needed to determine clinical efficacy.
Turkish Validation Study of the MEDFICTS Dietary Assessment Questionnaire in Adults
Authors: Mermer Meltem , Yildiran Hilal , Mercan Kıvanç
Published: September 2024

The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) has published the MEDFICTS (Meats, Eggs, Dairy, Frying foods, In baked goods, Convenience foods, Table fats, Snacks) dietary assessment questionnaire to quickly assess the dietary fat and cholesterol intake levels of individuals. In this study, we aimed to translate the MEDFICTS diet assessment questionnaire into Turkish and evaluate its validity according to the American Heart Association dietary recommendations. The MEDFICTS was administered by researchers to 360 healthy individuals. Three-day food records were obtained from individuals participating in the study, and average daily energy, fat, and cholesterol intakes were calculated. The MEDFICTS, which can quickly evaluate the diet of adults concerning heart disease risk, can be an effective tool that can be used in clinics or research.
Seasonal variation in the stomach microbiota of two sympatrically breeding Pygoscelis penguin species at Signy Island, South Orkney Islands
Authors: Yew Wen Chyin , Adlard Stacey , Dunn Michael James , Alias Siti Aisyah , Pearce David Anthony , Abu Samah Azizan , Convey Peter
Published: September 2024

The gut microbiomes of Antarctic penguins are important for the fitness of the host birds and their chicks. The compositions of microbial communities in Antarctic penguin guts are strongly associated with the birds’ diet, physiological adaptation and phylogeny. Whilst seasonal changes in food resources, distribution and population parameters of Antarctic penguins have been well addressed, little research is available on the stability or variability of penguin stomach microbiomes over time. Here, we focused on two Pygoscelis penguin species breeding sympatrically in the maritime Antarctic and analysed their stomach contents to assess whether penguin gut microbiota differed over three austral summer breeding seasons. We used a high-throughput DNA sequencing approach to study bacterial diversity in stomach regurgitates of Adélie (Pygoscelis adeliae) and chinstrap (Pygoscelis antarctica) penguins that have a similar foraging regime on Signy Island (South Orkney Islands). Our data revealed significant differences in bacterial alpha and beta diversity between the study seasons. We also identified bacterial genera that were significantly associated with specific breeding seasons, diet compositions, chick-rearing stages and sampling events. This study provides a baseline for establishing future monitoring of penguin gut microbiomes in a rapidly changing environment.
Mitochondrial oxidation of the carbohydrate fuel driven by pyruvate dehydrogenase robustly enhances stemness of older and geriatric Intestinal Stem Cells
Authors: Ahmed Syed , Awwad Aasem , Eddy Nerise , Weber Garrett , Shahid Zrar , Sethi Zubin , Labampa Jonathan , Murphy Robert , Roth Eric W. , Gustafson Kyle , Shah Hardik , Sundaresan Sinju
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

Aging impairs Intestinal Stem Cell (ISC) function and attenuates their regenerative capacity. Although the transcriptional landscape governing ISC fate during aging has been described, almost nothing is known about how metabolite handling regulates ISC renewal and maintains stemness. We investigated how mitochondrial metabolism of glucose and fatty acid-derived carbons, regulated by the gatekeeper, pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) rescues ISC stemness in older and geriatric mice and humans.

Methods

Proximal small intestinal organoids (enteroids) generated from pinch biopsy specimens obtained from young (21-25y) and older individuals (64-75y), and GFP-sorted single ISCs from Lgr5-EGFP mice (2-24 months) were used to examine hallmarks of ISC stemness. Mitochondrial morphology was evaluated using transmission electron microscopy. Mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate (OCR), ATP (mitoATP), and glycolytic ATP production were measured in the presence of full and single metabolic substrates (pyruvate, glutamate, and fatty acids) in whole cell and isolated mitochondria using the high throughput Seahorse XF technology. Carbon flux through TCA cycle was determined by13C6-glucose tracing and measuring13C enrichment in TCA cycle intermediates using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry.

Results

Age induced decline in ISC stemness is driven by a dramatic decrease in PDH activity that shuttles pyruvate away from the TCA cycle. Restoring PDH activity by inhibition of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4) drives glucose-derived carbon entry into TCA cycle and subsequently increases mitochondrial OCR and mitoATP, collectively rescuing the decline in stemness in aging ISCs. The observed shift in fuel preference from fatty acids to glucose is unaltered by PDK4 inhibition.

Conclusion

PDH upregulation rescues age-induced decline in ISC stemness in humans and mice via directing glucose derived carbons to TCA cycle and increasing mitoATP production.
Oxidative Phosphorylation Inhibition in Different Prostate Cancer Models and the Interplay with Androgen Receptor Signaling
Authors: Sakellakis Minas , Ramachandran Sumankalai , Jain Priyanshu , Titus Mark A.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In prostate cancer (PCa), androgen receptor signaling stimulates both glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos). Early-stage prostate cancer is particularly reliant on OxPhos for its bioenergetic needs. OxPhos inhibitors have entered clinical trials. Here we investigated their interplay with androgens in different PCa cell lines.

Methods

We investigated the effects on PCa cell viability of an ATPase inhibitor (oligomycin) and a complex 1 inhibitor (IACS-010759) in the presence or absence of low testosterone concentrations in vitro. Both androgen-sensitive and insensitive PCa cell lines were used. The effects were assessed using MTT assay, flow cytometry and cell morphology.

Results

Treatment with oligomycin resulted in massive apoptotic death of VCAP cells in castrate conditions within 48 hours, but the simultaneous addition of low testosterone levels restored VCAP cell viability. However, complex 1 inhibition with IACS-010759 increased cell viability, which was further promoted in the presence of testosterone. Both oligomycin and IACS-010759 dramatically decreased viability in LNCaP cells, while testosterone had a small but statistically non-significant effect. The antitumor effect of OxPhos inhibitors was smaller in LNCaP-C4-2B compared to LNCaP cells. OxPhos inhibitors slightly decreased proliferation rates in androgen-independent PC3 cells and HEK293 cells. Oligomycin on LNCaP-C4-2B and PC3 cells resulted in an increased number of cells in G0-G1 phase and decreased in S-phase and G2M phase, rather than massive apoptosis.

Conclusion

There is an interplay between androgen signaling and OxPhos in androgen-dependent PCa cells. Complex 1 inhibitors should be used with caution, given potential pro-tumorigenic effects in subsets of PCa cells.
High diversity ofEscherichia colicausing invasive disease in neonates in Malawi poses challenges for O-antigen based vaccine approach
Authors: Pearse Oliver , Zuza Allan , Tewesa Edith , Siyabuh Patricia , Fraser Alice J , Cornick Jennifer , Kawaza Kondwani , Musicha Patrick , Thomson Nicholas R , Feasey Nicholas A , Heinz Eva
Published: September 2024

Escherichia coliis an important cause of neonatal sepsis and the third most prevalent cause of neonatal infection in sub-Saharan Africa, often with negative outcomes. Development of maternally administered vaccines is under consideration, but to provide adequate protection, an understanding of serotypes causing invasive disease in this population is essential. We describe the genomic characteristics of a collection of neonatalE. coliisolates from a tertiary hospital in Blantyre, Malawi, with specific reference to potential protection by vaccines under development. Neonatal blood or cerebrospinal fluid cultures from 2012-2021 identified 205E. coliisolates, and 170 could be recovered for sequencing. There was very high diversity in sequence types, LPS O-antigen-type and fimbrial H-type, which all showed temporal fluctuations and previously undescribed diversity, including ten putative novel O-types. Vaccines in clinical trials target the O-antigen but would only protect against one third (33.7%) of neonatal sepsis cases in this population (EXPEC9V, in clinical trials). An O-antigen based vaccine would require 30 different O-types to protect against 80% of infections. Vaccines against neonatal sepsis in Africa are of considerable potential value, but their development requires larger studies to establish the diversity and stability over time of relevant O-types for this population.

Data summary

All sequencing data is freely available under the sequencing project IDs ERP120687 (short read data; accessions in Supplementary Table 1) and PRJNA1121524 (long-read data; accessions in Supplementary Table 2), detailed per-isolate information is provided in Supplementary Table 3. Blood culture and CSF data used to show the trends and numbers ofE. colicases per year is available in Supplementary Table 4.