bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disparities in immune and targeted therapy utilization for older US patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Chow Ryan D , Long Jessica B , Hassan Sirad , Wheeler Stephanie B , Spees Lisa P , Leapman Michael S , Hurwitz Michael E , McManus Hannah D , Gross Cary P , Dinan Michaela A
Published: May 2023

Disparities in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) outcomes persist in the era of oral anticancer agents (OAAs) and immunotherapies (IOs). We examined variation in the utilization of mRCC systemic therapies among US Medicare beneficiaries from 2015 to 2019. Logistic regression models evaluated the association between therapy receipt and demographic covariates including patient race, ethnicity, and sex. In total, 15 407 patients met study criteria. After multivariable adjustment, non-Hispanic Black race and ethnicity was associated with reduced IO (adjusted relative risk ratio [aRRR] = 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.61 to 0.95; P = .015) and OAA receipt (aRRR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.64 to 0.90; P = .002) compared with non-Hispanic White race and ethnicity. Female sex was associated with reduced IO (aRRR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.66 to 0.81; P < .001) and OAA receipt (aRRR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.68 to 0.81; P < .001) compared with male sex. Thus, disparities by race, ethnicity, and sex were observed in mRCC systemic therapy utilization for Medicare beneficiaries from 2015 to 2019.
Colo-cutaneous fistula to the thigh secondary to acute sigmoid diverticulitis: a case report
Authors: Serpa Eduardo , Pacheco Felipe , Pindicura Sundarachalam , Marar Omar
Published: May 2023

Acute diverticulitis is one of the most common gastrointestinal illnesses that requires hospital admission. It has a broad range of presentations from uncomplicated disease to perforation and peritonitis that require emergent surgical exploration. Abscesses are one of the most common complications. We present a case of retroperitoneal abscess with extension to the antero-lateral upper thigh that was successfully treated with open Hartman’s procedure with drainage of psoas abscess and open drainage of thigh abscess.
Perceived and desired outcomes of urban coyote management methods
Authors: Buteau Rebecca J , Urbanek Rachael E , Dumas Christopher
Published: May 2023

Coyote (Canis latrans) management becomes increasingly necessary as the species' range expands, but some methods may be controversial in urban landscapes. Understanding why the public considers certain methods acceptable may help decrease conflict between residents and wildlife managers. We surveyed 4000 registered voters in New Hanover County, North Carolina, to evaluate attitudes toward three coyote management methods: no management, public education and trap/euthanasia. We used the expectancy-value model and multinomial logistic regression models to determine which public beliefs and desires regarding outcomes of each coyote management method predicted acceptance of each method. Attitudes of respondents who accepted a method differed from those who rejected the method. Positive attitudes toward no management were influenced by outcomes involving a natural death for coyotes and family, pet and personal safety. Positive attitudes toward public education were influenced by outcomes involving family safety, public participation, fewer coyotes and for coyotes to avoid an inhumane death. Positive attitudes toward trap/euthanasia were influenced by outcomes for coyotes avoiding an unnatural and inhumane death, pet safety and public participation. Understanding the public's beliefs and desires regarding coyote management methods will help wildlife managers tailor public education programs, resolve controversies regarding alternative management methods and improve future wildlife management decisions.
Metabolomics and molecular docking analysis of antibiotic exposure in Bifidobacterium adolescentis
Authors: Wang Qianyi , Guo Yue , Feng Shisui , Meng Mingwei , Huang Zheng , Qin Jinghua , Guo Bingjian , Zhang Chi , Nong Yunyuan , Feng Linlin , Song Hui , Liang Yonghong , Su Zhiheng
Published: May 2023

Bifidobacterium adolescentis is a probiotic. This research aimed to investigate the mechanism of antibiotics led to decrease in the number of B. adolescentis. The metabolomics approach was employed to explore the effects of amoxicillin on metabolism of B.adolescentis, while MTT assay and scanning electron microscopy were applied to analyse changes in viability and morphology of bacteria. Molecular docking was used to illuminate the mechanism by which amoxicillin acts on a complex molecular network. The results showed that increasing the concentration of amoxicillin led to a gradual decrease in the number of live bacteria. Untargeted metabolomics analysis identified 11 metabolites that change as a result of amoxicillin exposure. Many of these metabolites are involved in arginine and proline metabolism, glutathione metabolism, arginine biosynthesis, cysteine, and methionine metabolism, and tyrosine and phenylalanine metabolism. Molecular docking revealed that amoxicillin had a good binding effect on the proteins AGR1, ODC1, GPX1, GSH, MAT2A, and CBS. Overall, this research provides potential targets for screening probiotic regulatory factors and lays a theoretical foundation for the elucidation of its mechanisms.
The extended solar cycle and asymmetry of the large-scale magnetic field
Authors: Obridko V N , Shibalova A S , Sokoloff D D
Published: May 2023

Traditionally, the solar activity cycle is thought as an interplay of the main dipole component of the solar poloidal magnetic field and the toroidal magnetic field. However, the real picture as presented in the extended solar-cycle models is much more complicated. Here, we develop the concept of the extended solar cycle clarifying what zonal harmonics are responsible for the equatorward and polarward propagating features in the surface activity tracers. We arrive at a conclusion that the zonal harmonics with l = 5 play a crucial role in separating the phenomena of both types, which are associated with the odd zonal harmonics. Another objective of our analysis is the role of even zonal harmonics, which prove to be rather associated with the north–south asymmetry of the solar activity than with its 11-yr solar periodicity.
Current proteomics methods applicable to dissecting the DNA damage response
Authors: Muralidharan Monita , Krogan Nevan J , Bouhaddou Mehdi , Kim Minkyu
Published: May 2023

The DNA damage response (DDR) entails reorganization of proteins and protein complexes involved in DNA repair. The coordinated regulation of these proteomic changes maintains genome stability. Traditionally, regulators and mediators of DDR have been investigated individually. However, recent advances in mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics enable us to globally quantify changes in protein abundance, post-translational modifications (PTMs), protein localization, and protein-protein interactions (PPIs) in cells. Furthermore, structural proteomics approaches, such as crosslinking MS (XL-MS), hydrogen/deuterium exchange MS (H/DX-MS), Native MS (nMS), provide large structural information of proteins and protein complexes, complementary to the data collected from conventional methods, and promote integrated structural modeling. In this review, we will overview the current cutting-edge functional and structural proteomics techniques that are being actively utilized and developed to help interrogate proteomic changes that regulate the DDR.
Characterization of cell-type specific circular RNAs associated with colorectal cancer metastasis
Authors: Zhao Sidi , Ly Amy , Mudd Jacqueline L , Rozycki Emily B , Webster Jace , Coonrod Emily , Othoum Ghofran , Luo Jingqin , Dang Ha X , Fields Ryan C , Maher Christopher A
Published: May 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common gastrointestinal malignancy and a leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. More than half of CRC patients develop metastatic disease (mCRC) with an average 5-year survival rate of 13%. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have recently emerged as important tumorigenesis regulators; however, their role in mCRC progression remains poorly characterized. Further, little is known about their cell-type specificity to elucidate their functions in the tumor microenvironment (TME). To address this, we performed total RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) on 30 matched normal, primary and metastatic samples from 14 mCRC patients. Additionally, five CRC cell lines were sequenced to construct a circRNA catalog in CRC. We detected 47 869 circRNAs, with 51% previously unannotated in CRC and 14% novel candidates when compared to existing circRNA databases. We identified 362 circRNAs differentially expressed in primary and/or metastatic tissues, termed circular RNAs associated with metastasis (CRAMS). We performed cell-type deconvolution using published single-cell RNA-seq datasets and applied a non-negative least squares statistical model to estimate cell-type specific circRNA expression. This predicted 667 circRNAs as exclusively expressed in a single cell type. Collectively, this serves as a valuable resource, TMECircDB (accessible at https://www.maherlab.com/tmecircdb-overview), for functional characterization of circRNAs in mCRC, specifically in the TME.
The prevalence and severity of fatigue in meningioma patients and its association with patient-, tumor- and treatment-related factors
Authors: Quach Kwong T , Dirven Linda , Vingerhoed Aliede M , de Bresser Jeroen , Dammers Ruben , Bos Eelke M , Moojen Wouter A , Peul Wilco C , Taphoorn Martin J B , Zamanipoor Najafabadi Amir H , van Furth Wouter R
Published: May 2023

Background

Fatigue is a commonly reported and severe symptom in primary brain tumor patients, but the exact occurrence in meningioma patients is unknown. This study aimed to determine the frequency and severity of fatigue in meningioma patients as well as associations between the level of fatigue and patient-, tumor-, and treatment-related factors.

Methods

In this multicenter cross-sectional study, meningioma patients completed questionnaires on fatigue (MFI-20), sleep (PSQI), anxiety and depression (HADS), tumor-related symptoms (MDASI-BT), and cognitive functioning (MOS-CFS). Multivariable regression models were used to evaluate the independent association between fatigue and each patient-, tumor-, and treatment-related factor separately, corrected for relevant confounders.

Results

Based on predetermined in- and exclusion criteria, 275 patients, on average 5.3 (SD = 2.0) year since diagnosis, were recruited. Most patients had undergone resection (92%). Meningioma patients reported higher scores on all fatigue subscales compared to normative data and 26% were classified as fatigued. Having experienced a complication due to resection (OR 3.6, 95% CI: 1.8–7.0), having received radiotherapy (OR 2.4, 95% CI: 1.2–4.8), a higher number of comorbidities (OR 1.6, 95% CI: 1.3–1.9) and lower educational level (low level as reference; high level OR 0.3, 95% CI: 0.2–0.7) were independently associated with more fatigue.

Conclusions

Fatigue is a frequent problem in meningioma patients even many years after treatment. Both patient- and treatment-related factors were determinants of fatigue, with the treatment-related factors being the most likely target for intervention in this patient population.
Lane-changing trajectory prediction based on multi-task learning
Authors: Meng Xianwei , Tang Jinjun , Yang Fang , Wang Zhe
Published: May 2023

As a complex driving behaviour, lane-changing (LC) behaviour has a great influence on traffic flow. Improper lane-changing behaviour often leads to traffic accidents. Numerous studies are currently being conducted to predict lane-change trajectories to minimize dangers. However, most of their models focus on how to optimize input variables without considering the interaction between output variables. This study proposes an LC trajectory prediction model based on a multi-task deep learning framework to improve driving safety. Concretely, in this work, the coupling effect of lateral and longitudinal movement is considered in the LC process. Trajectory changes in two directions will be modelled separately, and the information interaction is completed under the multi-task learning framework. In addition, the trajectory fragments are clustered by the driving features, and trajectory type recognition is added to the trajectory prediction framework as an auxiliary task. Finally, the prediction process of lateral and longitudinal trajectory and LC style is completed by long short-term memory (LSTM). The model training and testing are conducted with the data collected by the driving simulator, and the proposed method expresses better performance in LC trajectory prediction compared with several traditional models. The results of this study can enhance the trajectory prediction accuracy of advanced driving assistance systems (ADASs) and reduce the traffic accidents caused by lane changes.
Taxonomic and Phylogenomic Assessment Identifies Phytopathogenicity Potential of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Complex
Authors: Singh Anu , Kumar Sanjeet , Bansal Kanika , Patil Prabhu B.
Published: May 2023

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a versatile bacterium found in plants, water, air, and even hospital settings. Deep taxono phylogenomics studies have revealed that S. maltophilia is a complex of several hidden species that are not differentiated using conventional approaches. In the last two decades, there have been increasing reports of S. maltophilia as a pathogen of diverse plants. Hence, proper taxonogenomic assessment of plant-pathogenic strains and species within the S. maltophilia complex (Smc) is required. In the present study, we formally propose a taxonomic amendment of Pseudomonas hibiscicola and P. beteli, reported as pathogens of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and Betelvine ( Piper betle) plants, respectively, as a misclassified member species of the Smc. Recently, a novel species of the genus, S. cyclobalanopsidis, was reported as a leaf spot pathogen of the oak tree genus Cyclobalanopsis. Interestingly, our investigation also revealed S. cyclobalanopsidis as another plant-pathogenic member species of the Smc lineage. In addition, we provide deep phylo-taxonogenomic evidence that S. maltophilia strain JZL8, reported as a plant pathogen, is a misclassified strain of S. geniculata, making it the fourth member species of the Smc harboring plant-pathogenic strains. Therefore, a proper taxonomic assessment of plant-pathogenic strains and species from the Smc is required for further systematic studies and management.
Caregiver Satisfaction with Emergency Department Care for Pediatric Patients with Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Authors: Heyming Theodore W. , Knudsen-Robbins Chloe , Davis Konnor , Moreno Tatiana , Martin Sarah R. , Shelton Shelby K. , Ehwerhemuepha Louis , Kain Zeev N.
Published: May 2023

Objective:

Children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) often encounter increased adversity when navigating the health care system. In this study, we explored the pediatric emergency department (PED) experience for patients with NDDs and their caregivers compared with that of patients without NDDs.

Methods:

Data for this study were obtained from National Research Corporation patient experience survey questionnaires and electronic medical record (EMR) data for patients presenting to a PED between May 2018 and September 2019. ED satisfaction was determined by the top-box approach; ED ratings of 9/10 or 10/10 were considered to reflect high ED satisfaction. Demographics, Emergency Severity Index, ED length of stay, time from arrival to triage, time to provider assessment, and diagnoses were extracted from the EMR. Patients with NDDs were identified based on International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes; patients with intellectual disabilities, pervasive and specific developmental disorders, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders were included in the NDD cohort. One-to-one propensity score matching between patients with and without NDDs was performed, and a multivariable logistic regression model was built on the matched cohort.

Results:

Patients with NDDs represented over 7% of survey respondents. Matching was successful for 1162 patients with NDDs (99.5%), resulting in a matched cohort sample size of 2324. Caregivers of patients with NDDs had 25% lower odds of reporting high ED satisfaction (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.62–0.91, p = 0.004).

Conclusion:

Caregivers of patients with NDDs make up a significant proportion of survey respondents and are more likely to rate the ED poorly than caregivers of patients without NDDs. This suggests an opportunity for targeted interventions in this population to improve patient care and experience.
Patient Outcomes following Septoplasty in Patients with Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Garoosi Kassra B. , Hale Elijah W. , Getz Anne E. , Kaoutzanis Christodoulos
Published: May 2023

Recent research has indicated that daytime manifestations of sleep-disordered breathing, frequently caused by deviated septum, can mimic many characteristic symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and could indicate intermittent hypoxia or hypercarbia as factors in the development of ADHD. To investigate the differences in outcomes following septoplasty between patients with ADHD and deviated septum, we used a retrospective cohort design to compare outcomes in patients diagnosed with deviated septa between June 1, 2002 and June 1, 2022. We then separated these patients into four total groups based on the presence or absence of ADHD diagnosis and the presence or absence of septoplasty. After matching cohorts to create insignificant differences in age, sex, and race, we analyzed various outcomes associated with ADHD, such as conduct disorders, anxiety disorders, fractures, and substance abuse disorders. Septoplasty reduces the risk for nearly all outcomes in patients with deviated septum, with statistically significant results present in 11 of 15 outcomes in both ADHD and non-ADHD groups. The effect of septoplasty was up to 10 times greater for the ADHD cohort. Patients with ADHD who receive septoplasty display a plethora of beneficial effects, with significantly reduced risk of common sequelae such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, and addictive disorders. The difference in outcomes indicates future prospective studies into outcomes of septoplasty in patients with ADHD.
Frontofacial Features of Unilateral Lambdoid Craniosynostosis: A Multicenter Assessment
Authors: Lee Jonathan , Naran Sanjay , Mazzaferro Daniel , Wes Ari , Anstadt Erin E. , Taylor Jesse , Goldstein Jesse , Bartlett Scott , Losee Joseph
Published: May 2023

Background:

Unilateral lambdoid craniosynostosis is differentiated from deformational plagiocephaly primarily by assessing the cranium from posterior and bird’s-eye views. Findings include posterior displacement of the ipsilateral ear, ipsilateral occipitomastoid bossing, ipsilateral occipitoparietal flattening, contralateral parietal bossing, and contralateral frontal bossing. Diagnosis based off facial morphology may be an easier approach because the face is less obstructed by hair and head-coverings, and can easily be assessed when supine. However, frontofacial characteristics of unilateral lambdoid craniosynostosis are not well described.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort review of patients with isolated, unilateral lambdoid craniosynostosis from the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia was performed. Preoperative frontal and profile photographs were reviewed for salient characteristics.

Results:

Nineteen patients met inclusion criteria. Eleven patients had left lambdoid craniosynostosis, and eight had right lambdoid craniosynostosis. All patients were nonsyndromic. Patients demonstrated contralateral parietal bossing and greater visibility of the ipsilateral ear. Contralateral frontal bossing was mild. The orbits were tall and turricephaly was present in varying severity. Facial scoliosis as a C-shaped deformity was present in varying severity. The nasal root and chin pointed to the contralateral side.

Conclusions:

The combination of greater visibility of the ipsilateral ear, contralateral parietal bossing, and C-shaped convex ipsilateral facial scoliosis are hallmark frontofacial features of unilateral lambdoid craniosynostosis. Although the ipsilateral ear is more posterior, the greater visibility may be attributed to lateral displacement from the mastoid bulge. Evaluation of long-term postoperative results is needed to assess if this pathognomonic facial morphology is corrected following posterior vault reconstruction.
Effectiveness of HCC surveillance programs using multitarget blood test: A modeling study
Authors: Chhatwal Jagpreet , Samur Sumeyye , Yang Ju Dong , Roberts Lewis R. , Nguyen Mindie H. , Ozbay A. Burak , Ayer Turgay , Parikh Neehar D. , Singal Amit G.
Published: May 2023

Background:

The effectiveness of ultrasound-based surveillance for HCC in patients with cirrhosis is limited by suboptimal sensitivity for early tumor detection and poor adherence. Emerging blood-based biomarkers have been proposed as an alternative surveillance strategy. We aimed to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of a multitarget HCC blood test (mt-HBT)—with and without improved adherence—against ultrasound-based HCC surveillance.

Methods:

We developed a Markov-based mathematical model that simulated a virtual trial in patients with compensated cirrhosis comparing potential surveillance strategies: biannual surveillance using ultrasound, ultrasound plus AFP, and mt-HBT with or without improved adherence (+10% increase). We used published data to inform underlying liver disease progression rates, HCC tumor growth patterns, performance characteristics of surveillance modalities, and efficacy of treatments. Primary outcomes of interest were the number of early-stage HCCs detected and life years gained.

Results:

Per 100,000 patients with cirrhosis, mt-HBT detected 1680 more early-stage HCCs than ultrasound alone and 350 more early-stage HCCs than ultrasound + AFP, yielding an additional 5720 and 1000 life years, respectively. mt-HBT with improved adherence detected 2200 more early-stage HCCs than ultrasound and 880 more early-stage HCCs than ultrasound + AFP, yielding an additional 8140 and 3420 life years, respectively. The number of screening tests needed to detect one HCC case was 139 with ultrasound, 122 with ultrasound + AFP, 119 with mt-HBT, and 124 with mt-HBT with improved adherence.

Conclusions:

mt-HBT is a promising alternative to ultrasound-based HCC surveillance, particularly given anticipated improved adherence with blood-based biomarkers could increase HCC surveillance effectiveness.
Pyroptotic MAITs link microbial translocation with severity of alcohol-associated liver disease
Authors: Zhang Li-Ping , Wang Hui-Fang , Zhai Xing-Ran , Zhou Chun-Bao , Yuan Jin-Hong , Ma Ye-Nv , Yao Zeng-Tao , Huang Shuo , Li Wei-Zhe , Jiao Yan-Mei , Wang Fu-Sheng , Zou Zheng-Sheng , Zhang Ji-Yuan , Zeng Qing-Lei
Published: May 2023

Background:

Mucosal-associated invariant T cells (MAITs) are markedly reduced in patients with alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD); however, the potential mechanism underlying MAITs’ loss remains elusive. Hence, we aimed to explore what induced MAITs’ loss and its clinical significance.

Methods:

The characteristics of pyroptotic MAITs were evaluated in a cohort of patients with ALD, including 41 patients with alcohol-associated liver cirrhosis (ALC) and 21 patients with ALC complicated with severe alcoholic hepatitis (ALC + SAH).

Results:

In patients with ALD, blood MAITs were significantly decreased, hyperactivated, and displayed enhanced cell death through pyroptosis. The frequencies of pyroptotic MAITs increased with disease severity in patients with ALC and patients with ALC + SAH. These frequencies were negatively associated with the frequencies of MAITs and positively correlated with the levels of MAITs’ activation, plasma levels of intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (a marker of intestinal enterocyte damage), soluble CD14, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein, and peptidoglycan recognition proteins (surrogate markers of microbial translocation). Pyroptotic MAITs were also found in the liver of patients with ALD. Interestingly, MAITs underwent further activation and pyroptosis in vitro under stimulation by Escherichia coli or direct bilirubin. Notably, blocking IL-18 signaling reduced the activation and frequencies of pyroptotic MAITs.

Conclusions:

The loss of MAITs in patients with ALD is, at least in part, due to cell death from pyroptosis and is associated with the severity of ALD. Such increased pyroptosis may be affected by dysregulated inflammatory responses to intestinal microbial translocation or direct bilirubin.
Recurrent Tuberculosis Treatment Episodes in Children Presenting With Presumptive Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Mckenzie Carla , Schaaf H. Simon , Croucamp Rolanda , Palmer Megan , Bosch Corné , Goussard Pierre , Rabie Helena , Whitelaw Andrew , Hesseling Anneke C. , van Niekerk Margaret , van der Zalm Marieke M. , Ghimenton-Walters Elisabetta
Published: May 2023

Background:

Limited data are available on tuberculosis (TB) recurrence in children. The aim of this study was to explore the burden of and risk factors for recurrent TB treatment in children.

Methods:

A prospective, observational cohort study of children (0–13 years) presenting with presumptive pulmonary TB in Cape Town, South Africa from March 2012 to March 2017. Recurrent TB was defined as more than 1 episode of TB treatment (microbiologically confirmed and unconfirmed).

Results:

Of 620 children enrolled with presumptive pulmonary TB, data of 608 children were reviewed for TB recurrence after exclusions. The median age was 16.7 [interquartile range (IQR) 9.5–33.3] months, 324 (53.3%) were male and 72 (11.8%) children living with HIV (CLHIV). TB was diagnosed in 297 of 608 (48.8%), of whom 26 had previously received TB treatment, giving a prevalence of 8.8% recurrence: 22 (84.6%) had 1 and 4 (15.4%) had 2 prior TB treatment episodes. The median age of children with recurrent TB was 47.5 (IQR: 20.8–82.5) months at the current episode: 19 of 26 (73.1%) were CLHIV, of whom 12 of 19 (63.2%) were on antiretroviral therapy for a median 43.1 months and all 12 for longer than 6 months. None of the 9 children on antiretroviral treatment with available viral load (VL) data were virally suppressed (median VL, 22,983 copies/ml). Three of 26 (11.6%) children had documented microbiologically confirmed TB at 2 episodes. Four children (15.4%) received drug-resistant TB treatment at recurrence.

Conclusions:

There was a high rate of recurrent treatment for TB in this cohort of young children, with CLHIV at the highest risk.
Spontaneous extensive spinal epidural methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) abscess at the level of the cervical and thoracic area in a 21-year-old female: A case report
Authors: Barredo Manuelito L. , Diaz Joselito B. , Corrales-Joson Ma. Lourdes
Published: May 2023

Spinal epidural abscess is a rare but potentially devastating condition. It usually spans 3 to 4 spinal levels and is associated with patients in an immunocompromised state. We report a case of a 21-year-old Filipino female who presented with high-grade fever, severe nuchal, and upper back pain later associated with progressive ascending numbness and weakness of the lower extremities and bladder and bowel disturbance, related to a furuncle in the right elbow. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging showed peripherally enhancing fluid collections in the cervicothoracic paraspinal regions consistent with an extensive epidural abscess. Blood and paravertebral tissue culture were positive for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. She underwent a T1-T3 and T5 laminectomy with the evacuation of the abscess followed by an 8-week antibiotic regimen which provide improvement in symptoms. Currently, she is undergoing physical and occupational therapy. To our awareness and with consideration for its rarity, this is the first Filipino case of extensive spinal epidural methicillin-resistant S aureus abscess in an HIV seronegative individual.
Variability in Swallowed Topical Corticosteroid Practice Patterns for Treatment of Pediatric Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Authors: Syverson Erin Phillips , Tobin Michelle , Patton Tiffany , Franciosi James P. , Gupta Sandeep K. , Venkatesh Rajitha D.
Published: May 2023

Given the variety of preparations and lack of standardization of swallowed topical corticosteroids (STC) for treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), we sought to better understand STC prescribing practices of pediatric gastroenterologists. A 12-question survey was distributed to members of North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disease Special Interest Group and responses were analyzed. Forty-two of 68 physicians responded. Oral viscous budesonide (OVB) was overall first choice STC in 31 (74%) survey respondents, with OVB most frequently utilized in patients under 5 years old and fluticasone propionate in patients 13–18 years old. Nineteen types of mixing vehicles were used for OVB preparation, the 3 most frequent being sucralose, honey, and artificial maple syrup. Insurance coverage, cost, and patient compliance were most frequently cited barriers to STC use. Highly variable STC prescribing practices reported by this group highlights the need for standardization of STC treatment in EoE.
Development and Effectiveness of an End-of-Life Care Program for Faculty in the Critical Care Field
Authors: Tamura Yoko , Nishiyama Chika , Takenouchi Sayaka , Sato Ryuhei , Kiyohara Kosuke , Nin Kazuko
Published: May 2023

In Japan, end-of-life care education in the critical care field is still insufficient. Therefore, this study developed and verified the effectiveness of an end-of-life care program for faculty in the critical care field in Japan through a randomized controlled trial. The study was implemented from September 2016 to March 2017. Participants were 82 college teaching staff and nurses working in the critical care field. Six months after the program, data of 37 members (84.1%) of the intervention and 39 members (88.6%) of the control group were analyzed. The results demonstrated that the primary end point—“confidence in teaching” 6 months after program completion—differed significantly between the 2 groups (2.5 [0.69] in the intervention group vs 1.8 [0.46] in the control group,P< .001). It is suggested that attending this program will give faculty in the field of critical care continued confidence in their end-of-life care teaching, as well as allow them to implement end-of-life care teaching in their field.
Improvement or Worsening of Disease Activity After Switch to Sarilumab in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis With a Partial Response to Adalimumab
Authors: Curtis Jeffrey R. , Aletaha Daniel , Burmester Gerd , Ford Kerri , van Hoogstraten Hubert , Praestgaard Amy , Bykerk Vivian P. ,   on Behalf of the MONARCH Investigators
Published: May 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of switching from adalimumab to sarilumab monotherapy in partial responders with rheumatoid arthritis from the MONARCH randomized trial and its open-label extension (OLE).

Methods

Partial response was defined as improvement in Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) of 12 or 6 units (baseline score: >22 or >10 and ≤22, respectively). Proportions of adalimumab partial responders with meaningful worsening or improvement at OLE weeks 12 and 24 were evaluated using 2 CDAI thresholds (≥6 and ≥12 points), 28-joint Disease Activity Score using erythrocyte sedimentation rate (≥0.6 and ≥1.2 points), Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (≥0.22 and ≥0.30 points), Simple Disease Activity Index (≥7 and ≥13 points), physician and patient global assessments (≥10 and ≥20), and 28-joint swollen and tender joint counts (≥1 and ≥2 joints). Outcomes were analyzed using mixed-effect models with repeated measures for observed cases. The p values were produced using Wilcoxon tests.

Results

Of 369 enrolled patients, 320 (87%) entered the OLE and 155 switched from adalimumab to sarilumab; 59% (91/155) were partial responders. At week 24, 4%–17% and 2%–12% of partial responders experienced a worsening using the lower and higher thresholds, respectively, whereas 47%–78% and 27%–66% experienced improvement.

Conclusions

Partial responders to adalimumab who switched to sarilumab had a low likelihood of experiencing meaningful worsening, with most patients showing meaningful improvement or no change in disease activity. This may help alleviate patients' fears of worsening when considering switching to a treatment with a different mechanism of action.
Physiological and genomic analyses of cobalamin (vitamin B12)-auxotrophy of Lysobacter auxotrophicus sp. nov., a methionine-auxotrophic chitinolytic bacterium isolated from chitin-treated soil
Authors: Saito Akihiro , Dohra Hideo , Hamada Moriyuki , Moriuchi Ryota , Kotsuchibashi Yohei , Mori Koji
Published: May 2023

A novel bacterium, designated 5-21aT, isolated from chitin-treated upland soil, exhibits methionine (Met) auxotrophy and chitinolytic activity. A physiological experiment revealed the cobalamin (synonym, vitamin B12)(Cbl)-auxotrophic property of strain 5-21aT. The newly determined complete genomic sequence indicated that strain 5-21aT possesses only the putative gene for Cbl-dependent Met synthase (MetH) and lacks that for the Cbl-independent one (MetE), which implies the requirement of Cbl for Met-synthesis in strain 5-21aT. The set of genes for the upstream (corrin ring synthesis) pathway of Cbl synthesis is absent in the genome of strain 5-21aT, which explains the Cbl-auxotrophy of 5-21aT. This strain was characterized via a polyphasic approach to determine its taxonomic position. The nucleotide sequences of two copies of the 16S rRNA gene of strain 5-21aT indicated the highest similarities to

Lysobacter soli

DCY21T(99.8 and 99.9 %) and

Lysobacter panacisoli

CJ29T(98.7 and 98.8 %, respectively), whose Cbl-auxotrophic properties were revealed in this study. The principal respiratory quinone was Q-8. The predominant cellular fatty acids were iso-C15:0, iso-C16:0 and iso-C17:1
ω9c. The complete genome sequence of strain 5-21aT revealed that the genome size was 4 155 451 bp long and the G+C content was 67.87 mol%. The average nucleotide identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between strain 5-21aT and its most closely phylogenetic relative

L. soli

DCY21T were 88.8 and 36.5%, respectively. Based on genomic, chemotaxonomic, phenotypic and phylogenetic data, strain 5-21aT represents a novel species in the genus

Lysobacter

, for which the name Lyobacter auxotrophicus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 5-21aT (=NBRC 115507T=LMG 32660T).
Longevity-associated SMAD3 non-coding centenarian variant impairs a cell-type specific enhancer to reduce inflammation
Authors: Yang Jiping , Tare Archana , Zhang Lei , Kim Seungsoo , Ryu Seungjin , Guo Qinghua , Zhu Yizhou , Wang Xizhe , Wang Xifan , Hudgins Adam , Guan Di , Jin Chen , Chang Hyun-Kyung , Atzmon Gil , Milman Sofiya , Barzilai Nir , Vijg Jan , Niedernhofer Laura , Robbins Paul D. , Suh Yousin
Published: May 2023

Given the pro and anti-geronic roles of the TGF-β superfamily in aging, we hypothesized that human longevity involves genetic variation in TGF-β signaling genes. Here we utilized a candidate functional genomic approach to identify and characterize functional variants in TGF- β signaling associated with human longevity. Targeted sequencing of 113 genes involved in aging- associated TGF- β signaling in an Ashkenazi Jewish centenarian cohort identified genetic variants robustly associated with human longevity. In particular, a centenarian-enriched intronic variant residing in a cell-type specific enhancer in SMAD3, a critical receptor-regulated TGF- β signal transducer, was identified. This non-coding SMAD3 variant (rs8040709) altered binding of ELK1, a member of the ETS family of transcription factor important for enhancer activity in certain cell types, resulting in reduced SMAD3 expression. Analysis of the variant in cell types derived from gene edited iPSCs demonstrated the variant reduced SMAD3 expression, senescence and inflammation in endothelial cells. In addition, heterozygosity in SMAD3 improved healthspan and reduced senescence in theErcc1-/Δprogeroid mouse model of accelerated aging. Taken together, these experiments demonstrate that variants in a cell type specific enhancer of SMAD3 resulted in reduced expression, senescence and inflammation and contributes to human longevity. Thus, SMAD3 represents a validated targeted for drug development for extending human healthspan.
Cognitive change over one year among older adults with HIV and a low nadir CD4 cell count
Authors: Brouillette Marie-Josée , Forcellino Laurence , Goulet-Stock Sybil , Fellows Lesley K , Koski Lisa , Klein Marina B. , Mayo Nancy E.
Published: May 2023

Background

Evidence regarding the risk of cognitive decline conferred by a low nadir CD4 cell count and increasing age in people living with HIV is mixed. The objective of this study was to assess the change in cognition over one year among older adults with well-controlled HIV infection and a history of low nadir CD4 cell count compared with the change in a matched non-HIV sample.

Methods

We recruited 50 HIV+ aviremic individuals 40 years or older, on stable antiretroviral treatment and with a nadir CD4 < 200 cells/μL, and seventeen matched HIV-negative individuals. Neuropsychological testing was performed twice, one year apart; an NPZ was computed by averaging all z-scores and five existing algorithms for a diagnosis of HAND were applied. Change was defined as making a reliable change on the NPZ or a change in HAND category (impaired vs not).

Results

Change in NPZ over one year was more often in the direction of an improvement, and not different between HIV+ and HIV-individuals. Among the HIV+, the proportion meeting criteria for HAND at baseline ranged from 34-80% depending on the classification algorithm. A reliable change in NPZ was demonstrated in a single HIV+ participant. In contrast, a transition between HAND category at one year was common.

Conclusion

Among aviremic HIV+ older adults with a history of low nadir CD4 cell count, change in NPZ over 1 year was comparable to that seen among demographically matched HIV-individuals and did not represent a reliable change while transition across HAND category was common. Rates of HAND were very dependent on the classification algorithm applied. These findings provide some explanation for the inconsistent findings from existing studies and highlight the importance of exercising caution when pooling results in the field of neuroHIV.
Maximum Likelihood Estimators For Colony Forming Units
Authors: Martini K. Michael , Boddu Satya Spandana , Nemenman Ilya , Vega Nic
Published: May 2023

There is a recognized need to measure the abundance of microbes in hospital environments, in the sanitation industry, and in food preparation. Doctors, microbiologists, and food safety experts have been addressing this need by using serial dilution methods to grow bacterial colonies in small enough numbers to count and, from these counts, to infer bacterial concentrations measured in Colony Forming Units (CFUs). There are two primary types of such methods: plating bacteria on a growth medium and counting their resulting colonies or counting the number of tubes at a given dilution that have growth. Traditionally, these types of data have been analyzed separately using different analytic methods. Here we build a direct correspondence between these approaches, which allows one to extend the use of the Most Probable Number (MPN) method from the liquid tubes experiments, for which it was developed, to the growth plates. We also discuss how to combine measurements taken at different dilutions, and we review several ways of analyzing colony counts, including the Poison and truncated Poison methods. For all methods, we discuss their relevant error bounds, assumptions, strengths, and weaknesses. We provide an online calculator for these estimators.
Lactylation-driven FTO-mediated m6A modification of CDK2 aggravates diabetic microvascular anomalies
Authors: Chen Xue , Sun Ru-Xu , Wang Jia-Nan , Zhang Ye-Ran , Qin Bing , Zhang Yi-Chen , Dai Yuan-Xin , Zhu Hong-Jing , Wang Ying , Zhao Jin-Xiang , Zhang Wei-Wei , Ji Jiang-Dong , Yuan Song-Tao , Shen Qun-Dong , Liu Qing-Huai
Published: May 2023

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss in working-age populations. FTO is an N6-methyladenosine (m6A) demethylase that participates in various biological events, while its role in DR remains elusive. Herein, we detected elevated FTO expression in retinal proliferative membranes of DR patients. FTO promoted endothelial cell (EC) cell cycle progression and tip cell formation to facilitate angiogenesisin vitro, in mice and in zebrafish. FTO also regulated EC-pericyte crosstalk to trigger diabetic microvascular leakage, and mediated EC-microglia interactions to induce retinal inflammation and neurodegenerationin vivoandin vitro. Mechanistically, FTO affected EC features via modulatingCDK2mRNA stability in an m6A-YTHDF2-dependent manner. FTO up-regulation under diabetic conditions was driven by lactate mediated histone lactylation. FB23-2, an inhibitor to FTO’s m6A demethylase activity, suppressed angiogenic phenotypesin vivoandin vitro. Noteworthy, we developed a nanoplatform encapsulating FB23-2 for systemic administration, and confirmed its targeting and therapeutic efficiencies in mice. Collectively, our study demonstrated that FTO coordinates EC biology and retinal homeostasis in DR, providing a promising nanotherapeutic approach for DR.
Consumers’ innovativeness and acceptance towards use of financial technology in Pakistan: extension of the UTAUT model
Authors: Shaikh Imran Mehboob , Amin Hanudin
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the factors that influence bank customers’ acceptance towards FinTech using the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was carried out, and a judgemental sampling method was used. Moreover, over 200 responses were gathered from individuals that were bank account holders. Besides, the literature on the factors that influence an individual acceptance towards FinTech using the UTAUT model was also reviewed as an effort to contribute towards the factors that are significant in predicting the acceptance of FinTech services.

Findings

The results of the study revealed that performance expectancy and effort expectancy are the main factors in determining the acceptance of FinTech services. Moreover, consumer innovativeness plays an important role in the acceptance of FinTech by bank users. In contrast, social influence and facilitating conditions were not the determinants of FinTech acceptance in Pakistan.

Research limitations/implications

This study not only contributed to the theoretical extensions but also to practical implications, which would benefit the community of FinTech service providers in Pakistan.

Practical implications

The limitations of this study were two but are not limited to, firstly, the respondents which were taken among bank customers in Pakistan, confining its contribution to the narrowed perspective of Pakistan. Besides, this study also considers its contributions towards the use of the UTAUT in which the factors examined were specific, which may elucidate that the generalization of the findings only includes FinTech, where the UTAUT comes into play. This study is an eye-opener for the merging perspective of both the UTAUT and FinTech.

Originality/value

UTAUT is extended in the context of FinTech. Consumer innovativeness is incorporated in the context of the UTAUT model. Consumer innovativeness is yet to be tested and for that this study is a useful reference for academicians, policymakers and future researchers.
How to generate loyalty in mobile payment services? An integrative dual SEM-ANN analysis
Authors: Dang Tri-Quan , Tan Garry Wei-Han , Aw Eugene Cheng-Xi , Ooi Keng-Boon , Metri Bhimaraya , Dwivedi Yogesh K.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The surging entrance of new mobile payment merchants into the growing market has prompted the need for an in-depth understanding of loyalty formation to retain customers. This study examines customers' loyalty generation process in mobile payment services by exploring the serial effect of cognitive drivers (i.e. brand awareness, perceived quality, brand image, perceived value and layout) on affective response, satisfaction and loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey using self-administered questionnaires was conducted. The data was collected from 370 consumers who have experience using mobile payment services in Vietnam. The data were submitted to partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and artificial neural networks (ANN) analysis.

Findings

The results indicated that all the proposed cognitive drivers show significant impacts on affective response, which, in turn, translates into satisfaction and loyalty. The post-hoc analysis revealed enjoyment as the vital affective response in determining satisfaction. Moreover, the multigroup analysis indicated that the relationship between affective response and satisfaction is stronger for the female group. In addition, the ANN's nonlinear result revealed complementary insight into the importance of cognitive drivers.

Originality

The current study revealed both linear and nonlinear mechanisms that explicate the roles of cognitive drivers and affective responses in fostering loyalty toward mobile payment merchants. The findings add to the existing literature that emphasizes consumers' initial mobile payment adoption.
Objective and subjective evaluations of quilted mattress ticking fabrics for their thermal comfort performances
Authors: Kaplan Sibel , Tokgoz Havva
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Sleep quality, a crucial parameter for health and life performance, is affected by mattress components; particularly mechanical and thermal comfort management ability of the upper layers. The aim of this study is to investigate effects of quilted mattress ticking fabric material (polyester, polypropylene, viscose, lyocell and their blends) on thermal comfort of the bedding system by objective and subjective measurements.

Design/methodology/approach

The permeability (air and water vapour), heat transfer, water absorption, transfer and drying behaviours of knitted quilted fabrics which influence the thermal comfort of the bedding system were investigated. Subjective coolness and dampness evaluations were gathered by forearm and hand-palm tests to provide more realistic discussion in light of fabric characteristics.

Findings

According to the results, polypropylene can be suggested for winter use with its higher air and water vapour permeabilities, lower thermal absorption and conductivities and warmer evaluation results. Lyocell can be suggested for summer use with also high permeabilities, higher thermal absorption and conductivities and cooler evaluation results. Polyester and viscose may also be considered for winter and summer in turn as a result of thermal feelings they create.

Originality/value

In addition to fabric thermal, permeability, liquid absorption and transfer properties, this study also includes subjective coolness and dampness evaluations which can provide realistic results regarding the coolness-to-touch and liquid transfer performances of mattress ticking fabrics. The relationships among objective and subjective data were investigated and the proposed subjective evaluation techniques can be used for different products.