bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CO2 methanation: a bibliometric analysis and review of activated carbon-based materials (2014–24)
Authors: Akpasi Stephen Okiemute , Isa Yusuf Makarfi , Monama Thembisile Patience , Kiambi Sammy Lewis , Ngema Peterson Thokozani
Published: October 2024

This study highlights the significant potential of activated carbon (AC)-based materials in environmental remediation and energy production, particularly in converting carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen (H2) into methane (CH4) and water (H2O) using transition metal-based catalysts. It emphasizes the role of porous AC in waste reduction and resource utilization, examining various applications of CO2 and evaluating environmental impacts. The research explores commercialization opportunities and specifically investigates CO2 methanation using AC-based materials. Using bibliometric analyses of 4196 articles from the Web of Science database, the study identifies a growing research interest in porous AC-related CO2 methanation from 2014 to 2024. The top three journals in this field are Environment Development and Sustainability, Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery, and Journal of Environment Science and Pollution. However, there is limited inter-institutional collaboration in this field, suggesting room for development towards commercializing sustainable CH4 production pathways. CH4 is highlighted as a crucial intermediate in industrial processes, and research directions are identified through co-occurring author keywords analysis. The study suggests the need for a comprehensive approach integrating AC materials into carbon-neutral energy processes while addressing the potential adverse effects of AC nanoparticles on biological and environmental factors. Ultimately, it clarifies the potential uses and commercialization prospects for porous AC materials, especially in conjunction with carbon capture and utilization technologies, promoting sustainable practices in energy production and environmental management.
Tarnish tattoos: localized cutaneous argyria from sterling silver in fresh piercings. A case series
Authors: Madan Vishal
Published: October 2024

Tarnish tattoo is a form of localized cutaneous argyria resulting from the deposition of silver into the skin following exposure to silver jewellery in fresh piercings. This report presents the clinical presentation, diagnosis and management of four female patients with tarnish tattoos on the nose and ear from wearing silver jewellery. All four patients wore silver studs or rings immediately following the piercing. Two of the four patients underwent treatment with nanosecond Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser and Q-switched alexandrite 755-nm lasers, with minimal improvement. Tarnish tattoos are an under-recognized side-effect of wearing silver jewellery in fresh piercings. The blue–grey discoloration from tarnish tattoos can be challenging to treat with nanosecond Q-switched lasers.
2024 Clinical Practice Guideline Update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America on the Management of COVID-19: Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Neutralizing Antibody Pemivibart for Pre-exposure Prophylaxis
Authors: Bhimraj Adarsh , Falck-Ytter Yngve , Kim Arthur Y , Li Jonathan Z , Baden Lindsey R , Johnson Steven , Shafer Robert W , Shoham Shmuel , Tebas Pablo , Bedimo Roger , Cheng Vincent Chi-Chung , Chew Kara W , Chiotos Kathleen , Daar Eric S , Dzierba Amy L , Glidden David V , Hardy Erica J , Martin Greg S , MacBrayne Christine , Nadig Nandita , Nakamura Mari M , Shumaker Amy Hirsch , Tien Phyllis , Loveless Jennifer , Morgan Rebecca L , Gandhi Rajesh T
Published: October 2024

This article provides a focused update to the clinical practice guideline on the treatment and management of patients with coronavirus disease 2019, developed by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. The guideline panel presents a recommendation on the use of the anti–severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 neutralizing antibody pemivibart as pre-exposure prophylaxis. The recommendation is based on evidence derived from a systematic review and adheres to a standardized methodology for rating the certainty of evidence and strength of recommendation according to the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach. Information on pemivibart is included in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Emergency Use Authorization for this agent.
Repeatability of swimming activity of the Patagonian grouper Acanthistius patachonicus based on accelerometry
Authors: Venerus Leonardo A , Domenici Paolo , Marras Stefano , Beltramino Lucas E , Ciancio Javier E
Published: October 2024

The study of repeatability in behaviour and activity level can be used to evaluate inter-individual differences, which are fundamental to assess the resilience of populations to environmental variation. Previous work on repeatability in wild fish populations has largely been based on acoustic telemetry or mark-and-recapture and has revealed repeatable activity patterns over relatively long periods in a number of species. Although accelerometry is a promising tool for investigating the swimming activity of fish in the wild, little is known about the repeatability of accelerometry-based traits in wild fish. Here, we used external accelerometers to investigate the swimming activity of the Patagonian grouper Acanthistius patachonicus, a rocky-reef fish with high site fidelity, which ensures a high recapture rate of accelerometer tags. Accelerometry was used to investigate the short-term repeatability of a number of activity traits, including swimming, hovering, daily median tailbeat frequency, percentage of high tailbeat frequency and total number of tailbeats at different times of the year. We found that all of the variables are repeatable over the daily scale and four out of five variables are repeatable over weekly periods. Overall, our work suggests that these traits are individual-specific for the short time period investigated. In addition, the percentage of time spent in swimming and hovering was greater in the warm season compared to the cold season, suggesting higher activity levels related to higher temperatures. These results suggest that activity traits related to swimming are repeatable and likely related to the physiological state of each individual. Finally, our work shows that accelerometry can be considered a valuable tool to explore inter-individual differences with potential applications for assessing the resilience of wild populations.
Paraconduit hiatus hernia after esophageal cancer surgery: incidence, risk factors, and management
Authors: Ahmed Rakesh , Elliott Jessie A , Blaser Marcelle , Donohoe Claire L , Ravi Narayanasamy , Reynolds John V
Published: October 2024

In parallel with improved operative and oncologic outcomes for esophageal cancer, paraconduit hiatus hernia (PHH) is an increasingly recognized entity, both in the early postoperative phase and in long-term follow-up. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of and risk factors for PHH, and to describe management approaches in a tertiary referral center. All patients undergoing surgery with curative intent for esophageal cancer from 2008 to 2022 at a single center were included. Early PHH was defined as occurring within three months of index surgery, with all other cases defined as late PHH. Surveillance computed tomography scans were undertaken among all disease-free patients to 5 years postoperatively. Kaplan Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to determine independent risk factors for PHH. Overall, 897 patients were studied. Totally, 62 patients (6.9%) developed PHH during follow-up. The 5-year survival-adjusted incidence of PHH was 9.7%. PHH was an asymptomatic radiologic finding in 45.5% of early and 84.3% of late cases (P = 0.070). Surgical intervention was required in 16 cases (25.8%), more commonly following early (63.6%) as compared with late PHH (17.6%, P < 0.01). Younger age (P < 0.039), initial transhiatal operative approach (P < 0.006) and extended resection of the crura (P < 0.001) were independently associated with increased risk of PHH on multivariable analysis. PHH was identified in almost 1 in 10 patients using surveillance imaging in long-term follow-up, independently associated with the transhiatal surgical approach and resection of crura, which raises consideration of prevention strategies. Surgical intervention is often required for patients with PHH presenting early after surgery, but many patients presenting with late PHH may be managed expectantly.
Maternal mitochondrial DNA copy number and methylation as possible predictors of pregnancy outcomes in a Michigan pregnancy cohort
Authors: Cinzori Maria E , Nicol Megan , Dewald Alisa L , Goodrich Jaclyn M , Zhou Zheng , Gardiner Joseph C , Kerver Jean M , Dolinoy Dana C , Talge Nicole , Strakovsky Rita S
Published: October 2024

Little is understood about the roles of mitochondria in pregnancy-related adaptations. Therefore, we evaluated associations of maternal early-to-mid pregnancy mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) and mtDNA methylation with birth size and gestational length. Michigan women (n = 396) provided venous bloodspots at median 11 weeks gestation to quantify mtDNAcn marker NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase chain 1 (ND1) using real-time quantitative PCR and mtDNA methylation at several regions within four mitochondria-specific genes using pyrosequencing: MTTF (mitochondrially encoded tRNA phenylalanine), DLOOP (D-loop promoter region, heavy strand), CYTB (cytochrome b), and LDLR (D-loop promoter region, light strand). We abstracted gestational length and birthweight from birth certificates and calculated birthweight z-scores using published references. We used multivariable linear regression to evaluate associations of mtDNAcn and mtDNA methylation with birthweight and birthweight z-scores. Cox Proportional Hazards Models (PHMs) and quantile regression characterized associations of mitochondrial measures with gestational length. We also considered differences by fetal sex. Using linear regression and Cox PHMs, mtDNAcn was not associated with birth outcomes, whereas associations of mtDNA methylation with birth outcomes were inconsistent. However, using quantile regression, mtDNAcn was associated with shorter gestation in female newborns at the upper quantiles of gestational length, but with longer gestational length in males at the lower quantiles of gestational length. Maternal LDLR, DLOOP, and MTTF methylation was associated with longer gestational length in females at the upper quantiles and in males at lower gestational length quantiles. Maternal mtDNAcn and mtDNA methylation were associated with gestational length in babies born comparatively early or late, which could reflect adaptations in mitochondrial processes that regulate the length of gestation.
Challenges posed by climate hazards to cardiovascular health and cardiac intensive care: implications for mitigation and adaptation
Authors: Münzel Thomas , Khraishah Haitham , Schneider Alexandra , Lelieveld Jos , Daiber Andreas , Rajagopalan Sanjay
Published: October 2024

Global warming, driven by increased greenhouse gas emissions, has led to unprecedented extreme weather events, contributing to higher morbidity and mortality rates from a variety of health conditions, including cardiovascular disease (CVD). The disruption of multiple planetary boundaries has increased the probability of connected, cascading, and catastrophic disasters with magnified health impacts on vulnerable populations. While the impact of climate change can be manifold, non-optimal air temperatures (NOTs) pose significant health risks from cardiovascular events. Vulnerable populations, especially those with pre-existing CVD, face increased risks of acute cardiovascular events during NOT. Factors such as age, socio-economic status, minority populations, and environmental conditions (especially air pollution) amplify these risks. With rising global surface temperatures, the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and cold spells are expected to increase, emphasizing the need to address their health impacts. The World Health Organization recommends implementing heat–health action plans, which include early warning systems, public education on recognizing heat-related symptoms, and guidelines for adjusting medications during heatwaves. Additionally, intensive care units must be prepared to handle increased patient loads and the specific challenges posed by extreme heat. Comprehensive and proactive adaptation and mitigation strategies with health as a primary consideration and measures to enhance resilience are essential to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the health burden associated with NOTs. The current educational review will explore the impact on cardiovascular events, future health projections, pathophysiology, drug interactions, and intensive care challenges and recommend actions for effective patient care.
Prognostic and therapeutic implications of a low aortic valve calcium score in patients with low-gradient aortic stenosis
Authors: Juhász D , Vecsey-Nagy M , Jermendy Á L , Szilveszter B , Simon J , Vattay B , Boussoussou M , Dávid D , Maurovich-Horvát P , Merkely B , Apor A , Molnár L , Dósa E , Rakovics M , Johnson J , Manouras A , Nagy A I
Published: October 2024

Aims

Low-gradient (LG) aortic stenosis (AS) poses a diagnostic challenge. Aortic valve calcium score (AVCS) assessment has emerged as a complementary diagnostic method when echocardiography provides discordant results. However, the diagnostic and prognostic values of AVCS in LGAS have not been thoroughly studied. Our aims in this study were to investigate the prognostic importance of AVCS in LGAS and to assess whether symptomatic patients with LGAS and low AVCS may benefit from aortic valve intervention (AVI).

Methods and results

A total of 327 symptomatic patients (78.5 ± 7.3 years, 51% women) with severe AS defined by the aortic valve area who underwent computed tomography for transcatheter aortic valve intervention (TAVI) planning were enrolled. AVCS was measured. AVCS < 2000AU in men and < 1200 AU in women was considered a low AVCS. A total of 243 patients had high gradient (HG) and 84 had LGAS. A low AVCS was present in 25 (10%) patients with HG and 34 (40%) with LGAS. Over a median follow-up period of 4.9 years, 194 deaths occurred. In multivariate analysis, AVCS was a significant independent predictor of all-cause mortality among patients with HGAS [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 2.317; CI: 1.104–4.861; P = 0.026] but not among those with LGAS (aHR: 0.848; CI: 0.434–1.658; P = 0.630). After propensity score matching between patients who underwent AVI and those who were medically treated, AVI (94% TAVI) was a significant and independent predictor of survival among LGAS patients with a low AVCS even after adjustment for clinical variables (aHR: 0.102, CI: 0.028–0.369; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The prevalence of a low AVCS is much higher in patients with LGAS than in those with HGAS. In patients with symptomatic severe LGAS, a low AVCS does not entail a better prognosis. AVI is equally beneficial in LGAS patients with a high or low AVCS, similarly to those with HGAS.
The Creation of State Anniversaries: James VI and I and the Politics of Thanksgiving
Authors: Williamson Philip , Mears Natalie
Published: October 2024

Religious anniversaries ordered by the state—by the monarch, royal council or parliament—were observed in England and Ireland from the seventeenth to the nineteenth centuries. These have been studied chiefly as occasions for special sermons and popular festivities, the expression of English or Irish Protestant national identity, or the pursuit of party controversies. But examination of both the original establishment of state anniversaries by James VI and I, with three appointed during the short period from 1600 to 1605, and the principal documents published for these occasions, the orders and the forms of prayer, brings different perspectives. The anniversaries were British in scope. The first was originally ordered in Scotland, where James developed a politics of thanksgiving that he subsequently re-applied in England and Wales, with anniversaries which were later duplicated in Ireland. The king’s immediate purposes were to assist the management of political and ecclesiastical difficulties, and to advance a closer union of his Scottish and English kingdoms. His long-term aim was to increase the authority and the godly claims of the Stuart dynasty. This promotion of a divine-right British monarchy remained central to the special English and Irish church services which were conducted each year during the following centuries. In so far as the anniversaries came to be concerned with national identities or party causes, these were in tension with the texts and meanings of their religious services.
Finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics to elucidate the mechanism of distal stent graft-induced new entry after frozen elephant trunk technique
Authors: Morodomi Shinri , Okamura Homare , Ujihara Yoshihiro , Sugita Shukei , Nakamura Masanori
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVES

Distal stent graft-induced new entry (dSINE), a new intimal tear at the distal edge of the frozen elephant trunk (FET), is a complication of FET. Preventive measures for dSINE have not yet been established. This study aimed to clarify the mechanisms underlying the development of dSINE by simulating the mechanical environment at the distal edge of the FET.

METHODS

The stress field in the aortic wall after FET deployment was calculated using finite element analysis. Blood flow in the intraluminal space of the aorta and FET models was simulated using computational fluid dynamics. The simulations were conducted with various oversizing rates of FET ranging from 0 to 30% under the condition of FET with elastic recoil.

RESULTS

The elastic recoil of the FET, which caused its distal edge to push against the greater curvature of the aorta, induced a concentration of circumferential stress and increased wall shear stress (WSS) at the aorta. Elastic recoil also created a discontinuous notch on the lesser curvature of the aorta, causing flow stagnation. An increase in the oversizing rate of the FET widened the large circumferential stress area on the greater curvature and increases the maximum stress. Conversely, a decrease in the oversizing rate of the FET increased the WSS and widened the area with high WSS.

CONCLUSIONS

Circumferential stress concentration due to an oversized FET and high WSS due to an undersized FET can cause a dSINE. The selection of smaller-sized FET alone might not prevent dSINE.
The Elderly Bias of the Spanish Welfare State (1958–2012)
Authors: Souto Guadalupe , Herranz-Loncán Alfonso , Espuelas Sergio , Abio Gemma , Patxot Ció
Published: October 2024

The Spanish welfare state is strongly biased toward sustaining the elderly’s welfare, rather than children’s. We study the evolution of that bias since 1958 through National Transfer Accounts (NTA). NTA disentangle how people produce, consume, and save along their life cycle, and how resources move among generations through different mechanisms (families, markets, and governments). We extend the available NTA (2000–2012) to the past and show that Spanish social policies were biased toward the elderly since their early stages. The gradual increase in social expenditure and the aging of Spanish society have turned such bias into a serious challenge for the economy.
The inflammatory and oxidative phenotype of gestational diabetes is epigenetically transmitted to the offspring: role of methyltransferase MLL1-induced H3K4me3
Authors: Di Pietrantonio Nadia , Sánchez-Ceinos Julia , Shumliakivska Mariana , Rakow Alexander , Mandatori Domitilla , Di Tomo Pamela , Formoso Gloria , Bonfini Tiziana , Baldassarre Maria Pompea Antonia , Sennström Maria , Almahmeed Wael , Pandolfi Assunta , Cosentino Francesco
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Hyperglycaemia during gestational diabetes (GD) predisposes women and their offspring to later cardiometabolic disease. The hyperglycaemia-mediated epigenetic changes remain to be elucidated. Methyltransferase MLL1-induced trimethylation of histone 3 at lysine 4 (H3K4me3) activates inflammatory and oxidative phenotype. This epigenetic mark in GD women and its transmission to the offspring were investigated.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were collected from GD and control (C) women and also from adolescents born to women of both groups. Endothelial human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMC) were from umbilical cords. The NF-κBp65 and NOX4 expressions were investigated by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence (IF). MLL1 and H3K4me3 were investigated by immunoblotting and IF. H3K4me3 on NF-κBp65 and NOX4 promoters was studied by chromatin immunoprecipitation. Superoxide anion generation was measured by electron spin resonance spectroscopy. Plasma cytokines were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. To investigate the role of MLL1, HUVEC were exposed to inhibitor MM102 or siRNA transfection.

Results

PBMC, CBMC, and HUVEC showed an increase of NF-κBp65, IL-6, ICAM-1, MCP-1, and VCAM-1 mRNAs. These findings were associated with H3K4me3 enrichment in the promoter of NF-κBp65. Elevated H3K4me3 and cytokine levels were observed in GD adolescents. MLL1 drives H3K4me3 not only on NF-kB p65, but also on NOX4 promoter. Inhibition of MLL1 blunted NF-κBp65 and NOX4 by modulating inflammatory and oxidative phenotype.

Conclusions

Such proof-of-concept study shows persistence of MLL1-dependent H3K4me3 in offspring born to GD women, suggesting an epigenetic-driven transmission of maternal phenotype. These findings may pave the way for pharmacological reprogramming of adverse histone modifications to mitigate abnormal phenotypes underlying early ASCVD.
Common misconceptions of speciation
Authors: Walker Jonah M , van der Heijden Eva S M , Maulana Arif , Rueda-M Nicol , Näsvall Karin , Salazar Patricio A , Meyer Marco , Meier Joana I
Published: October 2024

Speciation is a complex process that can unfold in many different ways. Speciation researchers sometimes simplify core principles in their writing in a way that implies misconceptions about the speciation process. While we think that these misconceptions are usually inadvertently implied (and not actively believed) by the researchers, they nonetheless risk warping how external readers understand speciation. Here we highlight six misconceptions of speciation that are especially widespread. First, species are implied to be clearly and consistently defined entities in nature, whereas in reality species boundaries are often fuzzy and semipermeable. Second, speciation is often implied to be ‘good’, which is two-fold problematic because it implies both that evolution has a goal and that speciation universally increases the chances of lineage persistence. Third, species-poor clades with species-rich sister clades are considered ‘primitive’ or ‘basal’, falsely implying a ladder of progress. Fourth, the evolution of species is assumed to be strictly tree-like, but genomic findings show widespread hybridization more consistent with network-like evolution. Fifth, a lack of association between a trait and elevated speciation rates in macroevolutionary studies is often interpreted as evidence against its relevance in speciation—even if microevolutionary case studies show that it is relevant. Sixth, obvious trait differences between species are sometimes too readily assumed to be (i) barriers to reproduction, (ii) a stepping-stone to inevitable speciation, or (iii) reflective of the species’ whole divergence history. In conclusion, we call for caution, particularly when communicating science, because miscommunication of these ideas provides fertile ground for misconceptions to spread.
Phylogenomic and anatomical evidence for the Late Cretaceous diversification of African characiform fishes, including a new family, under the influence of the Trans-Saharan Seaway
Authors: Melo Bruno F , Stiassny Melanie L J
Published: October 2024

Geological evidence supports the occurrence of an epicontinental Trans-Saharan Seaway bisecting the African continent during the Late Cretaceous to early Palaeogene. The seaway formed a wide saltwater channel connecting the Neotethys with the South Atlantic, yet no previous study has investigated its impact on freshwater fish diversification. Phylogenomic data and time-calibrated trees indicate a Late Cretaceous signature for the appearance of three modern lineages of characiform fishes. Phylogenetic analyses using ultraconserved elements of 83 characiforms reveal that Alestidae, Hepsetus, and Lepidarchidae fam. nov. originated during the Santonian–Campanian of the Late Cretaceous (84–77.5 Mya). Lepidarchidae consists of two monotypic taxa not previously recognized as sister species: the Niger tetra Arnoldichthys endemic to the lower Niger and Ogun rivers of Nigeria, and the dwarf jellybean tetra Lepidarchus from coastal rivers of Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea. Microcomputed tomography scans of 117 characiforms provide three novel morphological characters supporting Hepsetus and Lepidarchidae, four characters for the monophyly of Lepidarchidae, and five for a restricted Alestidae. The Santonian–Campanian divergence indicates allopatric speciation processes influenced by the Trans-Saharan Seaway, partitioning the African ichthyofauna in a west–east orientation. The timing for African characiform cladogenesis aligns with the Cenomanian fossil record and is ~16–23 Myr younger than the earliest characiform-like fossils from Late Cretaceous outcrops of Morocco and Sudan. This study highlights the magnitude of Cretaceous transgression events shaping the freshwater biota and gaps in our understanding of the evolutionary history and palaeobiogeography of ray-finned fishes across the African continent.
Representing the Needs of Rural Caregivers of People Living With Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Through User Personas
Authors: Jolliff Anna , Hill Jordan R , Zuraw Matthew , Elliott Christian , Werner Nicole E
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives

Rural caregivers of people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) face unique caregiving challenges. Current interventions do not address many of the systemic barriers experienced by rural ADRD caregivers, including barriers related to geography, healthcare services access, and financial insecurity. The objective of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of rural ADRD caregivers’ needs, strengths, and strategies in obtaining caregiving support, and to represent these attributes in the form of personas that can be used to design interventions for rural ADRD caregivers.

Research Design and Methods

In this qualitative user-centered design study, we conducted semistructured interviews with self-identified caregivers of people living with ADRD in rural areas. Interview data was copied to a virtual whiteboard, and affinity diagramming was used to confirm a priori attributes and yield inductive attributes relevant to rural ADRD caregivers. Attributes were assigned to personas, which were then validated through team-based discussion, consultation with a study advisory board, and review by rural caregivers and community partners.

Results

Analyses of N = 19 interviews yielded 7 inductive attributes relevant to rural ADRD caregivers of persons living with ADRD and 5 distinct personas: Capable Christine, Connected Connie, Isolated Irene, Learning Larry, and Discerning Dan. Personas differed on inductive attributes including financial security, subjective rurality, attitudes, connectedness, and information behavior, including preferences for traditional versus technology-based information seeking.

Discussion and Implications

The personas identified in the present study can be used as tools to represent and efficiently communicate the intersection and interaction of attributes relevant to designing interventions and technologies to meet the support needs of rural ADRD caregivers.
Fostering collective action for adolescent well-being: citizen science in a Colombian semi-rural area
Authors: Guerra Ana María , De La Vega-Taboada Eduardo , Sarmiento Olga L , Banchoff Ann , King Abby C , Stephens Dionne , Revollo Luis D , Revollo Ana P , Montes Felipe
Published: October 2024

We present findings from the Our Voice in Barú project, examining adolescent engagement in citizen science to address environmental and social factors affecting well-being in a semi-rural Afro-descendant community in Latin America. The project aimed to identify barriers and enablers of well-being, informing adolescent-led actions for sustainable environmental changes relevant to adolescent health. Utilizing the Our Voice citizen science method, which involved technology-enabled walks, participatory cartography workshops and community meetings, we engaged adolescents and other community members. Complex systems framework was employed to analyze results and assess the promotion of collective action and local change. Local enablers of well-being included availability of quality sports and recreational venues as safe spaces, educational settings and cultural aspects, fostering safety, community pride, and personal growth. Conversely, barriers included environmental contamination, deteriorated sports venues and drug addiction, indicating the community’s limited access to services and exposure to harmful substances. Adolescent citizen scientists, in partnership with the research team and relevant community decision-makers, successfully achieved changes aimed at identified barriers, including infrastructural enhancements like the repair of pumps to remove stagnant water, improvements in the quality and safety of recreational venues, and the implementation of community-led initiatives to address substance abuse and promote healthier behaviors. The Our Voice in Barú project empowered adolescents to advocate for change and promoted collective action to tackle barriers identified as significant to their well-being.
Lustrous silk and dark wool: materiality, colour and the refashioning of St. Augustine in the medieval imagination
Authors: Ilko Krisztina
Published: October 2024

Male bodies dressed in brilliant silk clothing conveyed messages of power in late medieval Italy. Previous scholars examined how these glamorous bodies reflected contemporary ideals of gentility and whiteness in a courtly context. This article shifts the attention from secular to religious contexts through examining the fictive materiality of the attire of St. Augustine. Silk and wool were two driving forces of the pre-industrial economy. Yet they are rarely considered together, and the discussion has focussed on production. Much less thought has been put into the social implications. By pulling together the threads of silk and wool, this article illuminates how St. Augustine’s dual silk-woollen attire transformed his body in the medieval imaginary and became a powerful visual tool to communicate messages of leadership, legitimacy and kinship.
HDAC1-mediated regulation of KDM1A in pemphigus vulgaris: unlocking mechanisms on ERK pathway activation and cohesion loss
Authors: Luo Mao , Jiang Ziqi , Wang Ping , Chen Yangmei , Chen Aijun , Wei Bin
Published: October 2024

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune skin disorder characterized by the loss of cell cohesion, with the histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) and lysine demethylase 1A (KDM1A) playing critical roles in its pathogenesis. This study aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms behind PV, focusing on the function of HDAC1 and KDM1A in disease onset and progression. Based on in vitro and in vivo PV models, we observed a significant increase in HDAC1 mRNA and protein levels in skin tissues of PV patients. Inhibition of HDAC1 ameliorated cell damage and reduced the loss of cell cohesion in human epidermal keratinocytes (HEKs) induced by PV-IgG. Our findings suggest that HDAC1 regulates KDM1A expression through deacetylation, with a notable deficiency in KDM1A expression in PV. Overexpression of KDM1A mitigated cell damage and cohesion loss. The extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway serves as a downstream executor of the HDAC1/KDM1A axis. Inhibiting HDAC1 and increasing KDM1A expression suppressed ERK phosphorylation, reducing PV-related apoptosis. These insights provide a new perspective on treating PV, highlighting the therapeutic potential of targeting HDAC1 expression. The regulatory mechanism of the HDAC1/KDM1A/ERK axis offers crucial clues for understanding PV pathogenesis and developing novel treatments.
A novel GFAP frameshift variant identified in a family with optico-retinal dysplasia and vision impairment
Authors: Sarusie Menachem V K , Rönnbäck Cecilia , Jespersgaard Cathrine , Baungaard Sif , Ali Yeasmeen , Kessel Line , Christensen Søren T , Brøndum-Nielsen Karen , Møllgård Kjeld , Rosenberg Thomas , Larsen Lars A , Grønskov Karen
Published: October 2024

Gain-of-function variants in GFAP leads to protein aggregation and is the cause of the severe neurodegenerative disorder Alexander Disease (AxD), while loss of GFAP function has been considered benign. Here, we investigated a six-generation family, where multiple individuals presented with gliosis of the optic nerve head and visual impairment. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) revealed a frameshift variant in GFAP (c.928dup, p.(Met310Asnfs*113)) segregating with disease. Analysis of human embryonic tissues revealed strong expression of GFAP in retinal neural progenitors. A zebrafish model verified that c.928dup does not result in extensive GFAP protein aggregation and zebrafish gfap loss-of-function mutants showed vision impairment and retinal dysplasia, characterized by a significant loss of Müller glia cells and photoreceptor cells. Our findings show how different mutational mechanisms can cause diverging phenotypes and reveal a novel function of GFAP in vertebrate eye development.
Into the spongy-verse: structural differences between leaf and flower mesophyll
Authors: Schreel Jeroen D M , Théroux-Rancourt Guillaume , Diggle Pamela K , Brodersen Craig , Roddy Adam B
Published: October 2024

As the site of almost all terrestrial carbon fixation, the mesophyll tissue is critical to leaf function. However, mesophyll tissue is not restricted only to leaves but also occurs in the laminar, heterotrophic organs of the floral perianth, providing a powerful test of how metabolic differences are linked to differences in tissue structure. Here, we compared mesophyll tissues of leaves and flower perianths of six species using high-resolution X-ray computed microtomography (microCT) imaging. Consistent with previous studies, stomata were nearly absent from flowers, and flowers had a significantly lower vein density compared to leaves. However, mesophyll porosity was significantly higher in flowers than in leaves, and higher mesophyll porosity was associated with more aspherical mesophyll cells. Despite these differences in cell and tissue structure between leaf and flower mesophyll, modeled intercellular airspace conductance did not differ significantly between organs, regardless of differences in stomatal density between organs. These results suggest that in addition to differences between leaves and flowers in vein and stomatal densities, the mesophyll cells and tissues inside these organs also exhibit marked differences that may allow for flowers to be relatively cheaper in terms of biomass investment per unit of flower surface area.
Signed-network-based consensus control for nonlinear multi-agent systems: a dynamic encryption–decryption approach
Authors: Zheng Shaobo , Zhou Lei
Published: October 2024

This paper is concerned with the bipartite secure control issue for a class of discrete-time nonlinear multi-agent systems under a dynamic encryption–decryption approach. First, the coupling relationships between agents are portrayed through a signed graph topology containing the edges of positive and negative connection weights. Next, the information transmissions between agents and their neighbors are executed via a shared communication network. The dynamic encryption–decryption approach is implemented to transform original signals into ciphertexts. Under the assumption that the signed graph is structurally balanced, a signed-network-based bipartite secure controller is designed to achieve the desired state control for the nonlinear multi-agent system and sufficient conditions are obtained for the existence of the desired signed-network-based state controller. Furthermore, a precise definition of the minimum channel capacity is proposed to understand the factors affecting the minimum channel capacity. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed approach is illustrated by two simulation examples.
Community pharmacists’ knowledge and practices towards antimicrobial stewardship: findings and implications
Authors: Mufwambi Webrod , Musuku Kunda , Hangoma Jimmy , Muzondo Ngoni Veddie , Mweetwa Larry , Mudenda Steward
Published: October 2024

Background

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programmes have been implemented around the world to optimally manage antimicrobial use to attenuate antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study assessed the knowledge and practices of community pharmacists towards AMS strategies in the Lusaka District, Zambia.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 194 community pharmacists in the Lusaka district using a structured questionnaire from August 2022 to September 2022. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 22.0.

Results

Of the 194 participants, 86% of the community pharmacists had good knowledge of AMS. The present study found that 83.5% were aware of AMS strategies used in community pharmacy practice. Further, 83.5% of the CPs were familiar with the goals of AMS and 89.2% believed that AMS was necessary for their pharmacy practice. Furthermore, 66.7% of the participants exhibited good practice towards the AMS strategies. Finally, 61.3% frequently avoided the use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials that were not necessary.

Conclusions

According to the findings of this study, the majority of community pharmacists had good knowledge of the AMS strategies that were employed to combat AMR; nonetheless, some of them had poor practices. Therefore, there is a need for community pharmacists to have access to sufficient ongoing professional development programmes and educational activities through AMS programmes to address AMR.
Artificial Intelligence–based Software for Breast Arterial Calcification Detection on Mammograms
Authors: Watanabe Alyssa T , Dib Valerie , Wang Junhao , Mantey Richard , Daughton William , Chim Chi Yung , Eckel Gregory , Moss Caroline , Goel Vinay , Nerlekar Nitesh
Published: October 2024

Objective

The performance of a commercially available artificial intelligence (AI)–based software that detects breast arterial calcifications (BACs) on mammograms is presented.

Methods

This retrospective study was exempt from IRB approval and adhered to the HIPAA regulations. Breast arterial calcification detection using AI was assessed in 253 patients who underwent 314 digital mammography (DM) examinations and 143 patients who underwent 277 digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) examinations between October 2004 and September 2022. Artificial intelligence performance for binary BAC detection was compared with ground truth (GT) determined by the majority consensus of breast imaging radiologists. Area under the receiver operating curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value (NPV), accuracy, and BAC prevalence rates of the AI algorithm were compared.

Results

The case-level AUCs of AI were 0.96 (0.93-0.98) for DM and 0.95 (0.92-0.98) for DBT. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 87% (79%-93%), 92% (88%-96%), and 91% (87%-94%) for DM and 88% (80%-94%), 90% (84%-94%), and 89% (85%-92%) for DBT. Positive predictive value and NPV were 82% (72%-89%) and 95% (92%-97%) for DM and 84% (76%-90%) and 92% (88%-96%) for DBT, respectively. Results are 95% confidence intervals. Breast arterial calcification prevalence was similar for both AI and GT assessments.

Conclusion

Breast AI software for detection of BAC presence on mammograms showed promising performance for both DM and DBT examinations. Artificial intelligence has potential to aid radiologists in detection and reporting of BAC on mammograms, which is a known cardiovascular risk marker specific to women.
The uremic toxin indoxyl sulfate decreases osteocyte RANKL/OPG and increases Wnt inhibitor RNA expression that is reversed by PTH
Authors: Chen Neal X , O’Neill Kalisha D , Wilson Hannah E , Srinivasan Shruthi , Bonewald Lynda , Moe Sharon M
Published: October 2024

Renal osteodystrophy (ROD) leads to increased fractures, potentially due to underlying low bone turnover in chronic kidney disease (CKD). We hypothesized that indoxyl sulfate (IS), a circulating toxin elevated in CKD and a ligand for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), may target the osteocytes leading to bone cell uncoupling in ROD. The IDG-SW3 osteocytes were cultured for 14 days (early) and 35 days (mature osteocytes) and incubated with 500 μM of IS after dose finding studies to confirm AhR activation. Long-term incubation of IS for 14 days led to decreased expression of Tnfsf11/Tnfrsf11b ratio (RANKL/OPG), which would increase osteoclast activity, and increased expression of Wnt inhibitors Sost and Dkk1, which would decrease bone formation in addition to decreased mineralization and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. When osteocytes were incubated with IS and the AhR translocation inhibitor CH223191, mineralization and ALP activity were restored. However, the Tnfsf11/Tnfrsf11b ratio and Sost, Dkk1 expression were not altered compared with IS alone, suggesting more complex signaling. In both early and mature osteocytes, co-culture with parathyroid hormone (PTH) and IS reversed the IS-induced upregulation of Sost and Dkk1, and IS enhanced the PTH-induced increase of the Tnfsf11/Tnfrsf11b ratio. Co-culture of IS with PTH additively enhanced the AhR activity assessed by Cyp1a1 and Cyp1b1 expression. In summary, IS in the absence of PTH increased osteocyte messenger RNA (mRNA) Wnt inhibitor expression in both early and mature osteocytes, decreased mRNA expression ofTnfsf11/Tnfrsf11b ratio and decreased mineralization in early osteocytes. These changes would lead to decreased resorption and formation resulting in low bone remodeling. These data suggest IS may be important in the underlying low turnover bone disease observed in CKD when PTH is not elevated. In addition, when PTH is elevated, IS interacts to further increase Tnfsf11/Tnfrsf11b ratio for osteoclast activity in both early and mature osteocytes, which would worsen bone resorption.
Practice patterns for eosinophilic esophagitis vary widely among Canadian gastroenterologists: a nationwide survey
Authors: Fetz Andrew , Hemy Alexander R , Kim Hyun Jae , Moosavi Sarvee
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic allergic, type 2, immune-mediated condition of the oesophagus, resulting in dysmotility and oesophageal stricturing. This study aims to identify practice variation among Canadian gastroenterologists treating adults with EoE.

Methods

A cross-sectional, web-based survey was distributed to Canadian gastroenterologists through the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology and administrations of Canadian universities.

Results

Seventy gastroenterologists completed the survey, with 59% working in academic practice or research. Overall, 90% of gastroenterologists require histological evidence of EoE to establish a diagnosis of EoE, while 50% require clinical symptoms of oesophageal dysfunction; 39% of gastroenterologists take less than 5 biopsies when assessing for EoE, with variability in biopsy location. Only 51% of respondents took biopsies in every case presenting with acute food bolus. Proton pump inhibitors

were the initial therapy of 70% of gastroenterologists, with 11% using topical steroids. The preferred dietary approach was the 6-food elimination diet in 36%, followed by the 2-food elimination diet in 26%. Overall, 27% of participants did not use histologic improvement and 63% did not use endoscopic improvement to evaluate treatment response. Use of EoE Endoscopic Reference Score (EREFS) is low, with 56% being either unaware of what EREFS is or never using it. Most respondents feel Canadian guidelines would be helpful in their practice.

Conclusions

Eosinophilic esophagitis practice patterns among Canadian gastroenterologists are variable and differ from consensus guidelines. The development of Canadian guidelines and continuing medical education content can be considered to improve the management of EoE in Canada.
Treatment patterns for advanced therapies in Canadians with moderate-to-severe inflammatory bowel disease: a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Targownik Laura , Afif Waqqas , Singh Sunny , Siffledeen Jesse , Ma Christopher , McHugh Kevin , Charbonneau Julie , Rioux Louis-Charles
Published: October 2024

Many patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) show an inadequate response or experience a loss of response to advanced therapies. Guidelines recommend dose optimization and switching among therapies until an optimal treatment response is attained. With several advanced treatments available, we aimed to evaluate the persistence of different therapeutic sequences in IBD.

The RECORDED study was a retrospective cohort study of Canadians with moderate-to-severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn’s disease (CD) who had been exposed to more than 1 advanced therapy between May 2015 and April 2021 for UC, and May 2016 and April 2021 for CD. The primary endpoint was time to permanent discontinuation of the first advanced treatment.

Overall, 330 patients had CD and 344 had UC. The most common first-line treatments for CD and UC were adalimumab and infliximab, respectively. The median (95% CI) time to permanent discontinuation of first-line treatment was 12.3 (10.9, 13.6) months in patients with CD and 9.2 (8.2, 10.8) months for those with UC. The most common reason for treatment change across both diseases was lack of efficacy. First-line advanced treatments were optimized in 191 (58.1%) CD patients and 202 (59.1%) UC patients prior to permanent discontinuation. Second-line therapy was typically from a different class compared with the first-line treatment choice.

The RECORDED study provides insights into the real-world sequencing and optimization patterns of advanced treatments in patients with moderate-to-severe IBD in Canada. Lack of efficacy was the most cited reason for switching to a different therapy.