bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Origin of high dark remnant fractions in Milky Way globular clusters: the crucial role of initial black hole retention
Authors: Rostami-Shirazi Ali , Baumgardt Holger , Zonoozi Akram Hasani , Ghasemi S Mojtaba , Haghi Hosein
Published: November 2024

Comparing the dynamical and stellar masses of Milky Way (MW) globular clusters (GCs) reveals a discrepancy exceeding a factor of 2. Since this substantial invisible mass is concentrated in the cluster centre, it is attributed to stellar remnants. The majority of mass in remnants consists of white dwarfs (WDs). Allocating over half of a GC’s current mass to WDs could significantly restrict the dynamical evolution scenarios governing stellar clusters. As the most massive stars in GCs, black holes (BHs) exert a substantial effect on the escape rate of lower mass stars, such as WDs. This paper aims to identify which scenarios of BH natal kicks can accurately reproduce the notable dark remnant fraction observed in MW GCs. We compare the observed remnant fraction of MW GCs with a comprehensive grid of direct N-body simulations while adjusting the natal kick received by BHs. Our results reveal that simulations employing low natal kicks to BHs are the only ones capable of mirroring the remnant fraction of MW GCs. According to the Spitzer instability, the presence of a BH population prompts the formation of a BH sub-system (BHSub) at the centre of a star cluster. The BHSub serves as an energetic power plant, continually releasing kinetic energy through few-body encounters between single and binary BHs, and transferring the generated energy to the entire stellar population. This energy induces a significant difference in the ejection rate of stellar remnants and luminous stars, ultimately increasing the fraction of dark remnants within the star cluster.
Radio frequency interference from radio navigation satellite systems: simulations and comparison to MeerKAT single-dish data
Authors: Engelbrecht Brandon N , Santos Mario G , Fonseca José , Li Yichao , Wang Jingying , Irfan Melis O , Harper Stuart E , Grainge Keith , Bull Philip , Carucci Isabella P , Cunnington Steven , Pourtsidou Alkistis , Spinelli Marta , Wolz Laura
Published: November 2024

Radio frequency interference (RFI) is emitted from various sources, terrestrial or orbital, and creates a nuisance for ground-based 21-cm experiments. In particular, single-dish observations will be highly susceptible to RFI due to their wide primary beam and sensitivity. This work aimed to simulate the contamination effects from the Radio Navigational Satellite System (RNSS) within the 1100–1350 (MHz) frequency band. The simulation can be divided into two parts: (i) satellite positioning, emission power, and the beam response on the telescope, and (ii) calibration of the satellite signals to data to improve the original model. We utilize previously observed single-dish L-band data from the Meer-Karoo Array Telescope (MeerKAT), which requires special calibration to account for regions contaminated by satellite-based RFI. We find that we can recreate the satellite contamination with high accuracy around its peak frequencies provided the satellite is not too close to the telescope’s pointing direction. The simulation can predict satellite movements and signals for past and future observations, aiding in RFI avoidance and testing novel cleaning methods. The predicted signal sits below the noise in the target cosmology window in the L band (970–1015 MHz) making it difficult to confirm any out-of-band emission from satellites. However, in our simulations, this contamination still overwhelmed the 21-cm auto-power spectrum. Nevertheless, it is possible to detect the signal in cross-correlations after mild foreground cleaning. Whether such out of band contamination does exist will require further characterization of the satellite signals far away from their peak frequencies.
Testing for allocation strategies and evolutionary tradeoffs in the bivalve shell
Authors: Edie Stewart M , Collins Katie S , Jablonski David
Published: November 2024

Tradeoffs are a fundamental aspect of evolution, such that organismal morphologies often reflect a combination of developmental constraints and functional requirements. The net result is a striking variety of allocation strategies—where and how resources are shunted into aspects of the body plan to meet these competing demands. The bivalve shell records aspects of the animal's allocation strategies as the relative investment in the carbonate valves and the internal soft parts, generally reflected by the volume of the internal cavity. The carbonate volume can be further partitioned among different components of the shell, including the sculptural elements thought to evolve partly under ecological controls. Assuming there are general limits to energy acquisition, bivalve individuals may show different allocations between the volumes of the inner cavity and shell, and possibly for the sculpture. Using 3D scans of 385 valves representing 339 extant marine species occurring in the Florida Keys, USA, we find a variety of allocation strategies but that tradeoffs in shell construction are uncommon. Instead, species with relatively high allocations to their shell thickness also have prominent sculpture, suggesting a structural relationship. Neither outer shell mineralogy nor microstructure appears to partition the tradeoff space, suggesting varied pathways to the fabrication of both convergent and divergent shell forms. Framing new morphological and physiological analyses of bivalves by allocation strategies recorded in their well-fossilized shells opens new opportunities for understanding an under-studied, macroevolutionary dynamic: how tradeoffs have shaped the class's 500 million-year evolutionary and ecological history.
EMBL’s European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI) in 2024
Authors: Thakur Matthew , Brooksbank Catherine , Finn Robert D , Firth Helen V , Foreman Julia , Freeberg Mallory , Gurwitz Kim T , Harrison Melissa , Hulcoop David , Hunt Sarah E , R. Leach Andrew , Levchenko Mariia , Marques Diana , McDonagh Ellen M , Mithani Aziz , Parkinson Helen , Perez-Riverol Yasset , Perova Zinaida , Sarkans Ugis , Tirunagari Santosh , Tzampatzopoulou Eleni , Venkatesan Aravind , Vizcaino Juan-Antonio , Wingfield Benjamin , Zdrazil Barbara , McEntyre Johanna
Published: November 2024

The European Molecular Biology Laboratory’s European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI) is one of the world’s leading sources of public biomolecular data. Based at the Wellcome Genome Campus in Hinxton, UK, EMBL-EBI is one of six sites of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Europe’s only intergovernmental life sciences organization. This overview summarizes the latest developments in services that EMBL-EBI data resources provide to scientific communities globally (https://www.ebi.ac.uk/services).
CZ CELLxGENE Discover: a single-cell data platform for scalable exploration, analysis and modeling of aggregated data
Authors:   CZI Cell Science Program, Abdulla Shibla , Aevermann Brian , Assis Pedro , Badajoz Seve , Bell Sidney M , Bezzi Emanuele , Cakir Batuhan , Chaffer Jim , Chambers Signe , Cherry J Michael , Chi Tiffany , Chien Jennifer , Dorman Leah , Garcia-Nieto Pablo , Gloria Nayib , Hastie Mim , Hegeman Daniel , Hilton Jason , Huang Timmy , Infeld Amanda , Istrate Ana-Maria , Jelic Ivana , Katsuya Kuni , Kim Yang Joon , Liang Karen , Lin Mike , Lombardo Maximilian , Marshall Bailey , Martin Bruce , McDade Fran , Megill Colin , Patel Nikhil , Predeus Alexander , Raymor Brian , Robatmili Behnam , Rogers Dave , Rutherford Erica , Sadgat Dana , Shin Andrew , Small Corinn , Smith Trent , Sridharan Prathap , Tarashansky Alexander , Tavares Norbert , Thomas Harley , Tolopko Andrew , Urisko Meghan , Yan Joyce , Yeretssian Garabet , Zamanian Jennifer , Mani Arathi , Cool Jonah , Carr Ambrose
Published: November 2024

Hundreds of millions of single cells have been analyzed using high-throughput transcriptomic methods. The cumulative knowledge within these datasets provides an exciting opportunity for unlocking insights into health and disease at the level of single cells. Meta-analyses that span diverse datasets building on recent advances in large language models and other machine-learning approaches pose exciting new directions to model and extract insight from single-cell data. Despite the promise of these and emerging analytical tools for analyzing large amounts of data, the sheer number of datasets, data models and accessibility remains a challenge. Here, we present CZ CELLxGENE Discover (cellxgene.cziscience.com), a data platform that provides curated and interoperable single-cell data. Available via a free-to-use online data portal, CZ CELLxGENE hosts a growing corpus of community-contributed data of over 93 million unique cells. Curated, standardized and associated with consistent cell-level metadata, this collection of single-cell transcriptomic data is the largest of its kind and growing rapidly via community contributions. A suite of tools and features enables accessibility and reusability of the data via both computational and visual interfaces to allow researchers to explore individual datasets, perform cross-corpus analysis, and run meta-analyses of tens of millions of cells across studies and tissues at the resolution of single cells.
Donor-derived cell-free DNA monitoring for early diagnosis of antibody-mediated rejection after kidney transplantation: a randomized trial
Authors: Akifova Aylin , Budde Klemens , Amann Kerstin , Buettner-Herold Maike , Choi Mira , Oellerich Michael , Beck Julia , Bornemann-Kolatzki Kirsten , Schütz Ekkehard , Bachmann Friederike , Halleck Fabian , von Hoerschelmann Ellen , Koch Nadine , Schrezenmeier Eva , Seelow Evelyn , Waiser Johannes , Zukunft Bianca , Eckardt Kai-Uwe , Halbritter Jan , Kettritz Ralph , Del Moral Covadonga López , Lachmann Nils , Stauch Diana , Niemann Matthias , Schmidt Danilo , Halloran Philip F , Osmanodja Bilgin
Published: November 2024

Background

Donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) shows good diagnostic performance for the detection of antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) in kidney transplant recipients (KTR). However, the clinical benefits of dd-cfDNA monitoring need to be established. Early diagnosis of AMR at potentially reversible stages may be increasingly important due to emerging treatment options for AMR. We hypothesized that monitoring dd-cfDNA in KTR with de novo donor-specific anti-HLA antibodies (dnDSA) and performing kidney biopsy in case of increased dd-cfDNA may reduce time to AMR diagnosis in comparison with clinical indication biopsy.

Methods

In this diagnostic, single-center, open-label, randomized clinical trial, we assigned 40 KTR with prevalent dnDSA and estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥20 mL/min/1.73 m2, but without previous biopsy-proven AMR, to either dd-cfDNA-guided biopsy (intervention group) or clinician-guided biopsy (control group) over a 12-month period. In both groups, dd-cfDNA was assessed at inclusion and 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. In the intervention group, dd-cfDNA >50 copies/mL indicated a biopsy. Biopsies for clinical indication could be performed at any point during the study period in both groups. A protocol biopsy was scheduled after 12 months for patients without dd-cfDNA-guided biopsy or clinical indication biopsy until study completion. The primary endpoint was time from study inclusion to diagnosis of active or chronic active AMR.

Results

Thirty-nine of 40 patients had functioning grafts at study completion. From these, 26 patients underwent biopsy, 13 in each group. AMR was diagnosed earlier in the intervention group than in the control group [median 2.8 months, interquartile range (IQR) 1.7–5.3 vs median 14.5 months, IQR 13.3–16.7, P = .003]. Longitudinal dd-cfDNA monitoring had 77% positive predictive value and 85% negative predictive value for AMR.

Conclusions

Dd-cfDNA-guided biopsy in KTR with prevalent dnDSA can reduce the time to AMR diagnosis and hereby expedite therapy initiation.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04897438.
Smoking Behavior and Social Identity: Correlates of Phantom Smoking Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Other Sexual and Gender Diverse Young Adults
Authors: Guillory Jamie , Crankshaw Erik , Alam Ishrat Z , Curry Laurel , Saunders McKinley , Malterud Andie , Budenz Alex , Hoffman Leah , Ganz Ollie , Alexander Allison
Published: November 2024

Introduction

LGBTQ+ populations and people who smoke face stigma. This may lead to distancing oneself from smoking-related stigma by becoming a phantom smoker (i.e., reporting smoking, but not identifying as a smoker).

Aims and Methods

We explored correlates of phantom cigarette smoking among LGBTQ+ young adults. Participants were US young adults (18–24 years) who identified as LGBTQ+, reported any past 30-day cigarette smoking, and had a valid response for smoker self-identification (unique N = 5545). We incorporated data from participants who completed one or more of the seven surveys from the FDA’s This Free Life campaign evaluation (February 2016–July 2019). Multivariable panel regression models with unweighted data examined phantom smoking correlates.

Results

Over 60% of the sample were phantom smokers. Compared with self-identified smokers, phantom smokers were younger, more likely to be gay men than lesbian/gay women, and more likely to be non-Hispanic White than non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, or non-Hispanic people of other races/ethnicities. Phantom smokers were more likely to have a college plus education (vs. high school or less) and report past 30-day alcohol use. Phantom smokers smoked on fewer of the past 30 days and were less likely to report positive cessation attitudes, nicotine dependence, and current e-cigarette or other tobacco product use.

Conclusions

This is the first known study to explore factors associated with phantom smoking among LGBTQ+ young adults. Over half of young adult smokers were phantom smokers. Tobacco education for LGBTQ+ populations should consider phantom smoking and cessation implications to tailor content for phantom and self-identified smokers.

Implications

We examined predictors of phantom smoking (current smoking but denying smoker identity) among LGBTQ+ young adult smokers, which has not yet been explored among this population. Phantom (vs. self-identified) smokers were less likely to be lesbian/gay women (vs. gay men) or from a racial/ethnic minority group and more likely to report past 30-day alcohol use. Phantom smokers reported less tobacco use, lower nicotine dependence, and less favorable cessation attitudes. Phantom smokers comprised most smokers in our sample. Findings suggest the importance of addressing this unique aspect of LGBTQ+ smoking in research, clinical settings, and tailored tobacco public education messages.
Patients’ psychosocial attributes and aggressiveness of cancer treatments near the end of life
Authors: Restivo Léa , Rochigneux Philippe , Bouhnik Anne-Déborah , Arciszewski Thomas , Bourmaud Aurélie , Capodano Géraldine , Ducoulombier Agnès , Mancini Julien , Duffaud Florence , Gonçalves Anthony , Apostolidis Thémis , Proux Aurélien
Published: November 2024

Background

While the use of chemotherapy near the end of life (EOL) has been identified as a relevant criterion for assessing quality of cancer care and has been estimated as non-beneficial, a trend of aggressiveness in cancer care during the last period of life remains. Both patients’ sociodemographic characteristics and physicians’ practice setting are associated with this use. The role of patients’ psychosocial characteristics has however been understudied. The objectives were to study oncologists’ intention to recommend chemotherapy or therapeutic abstention in an EOL patient’s case and to examine the factors associated with this decision.

Methods

A clinical vignette-based questionnaire survey was conducted. While the case presented to the participating oncologists of a patient with EGFR-mutated lung cancer, progressing after osimertinib, ECOG 3, with leptomeningeal disease (N = 146), was strictly equivalent in terms of medical aspects and age, 4 patients’ non-medical characteristics were manipulated: gender, marital status, parenthood, and psychosocial characteristics (“nice” patients, patients “making strong demands,” or control patients).

Results

77.4% of the oncologists surveyed stated that they would recommend chemotherapy in this situation. Only scenarios with nice patients or patients making strong demands were associated with less recommendation of chemotherapy (70.8% for the nice/making strong demands scenarios together vs 87.7%, for the control scenario P = .017). Medical oncologists with previous experience of similar cases were also less keen to recommend chemotherapy (73% vs 100%, P = .007). Of the 76.7% of respondents declaring that they would think of other therapeutic options, 49.1% mentioned “other treatments” without mentioning palliative care.

Conclusion

Developing physicians’ awareness of the psychosocial aspects at stake in their medical decisions in these sensitive situations may improve EOL care.
Germline BRCA pathogenic variants and hematologic adverse events in patients with ovarian carcinoma receiving PARP inhibitors: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Valenza Carmine , Nicolò Eleonora , Mongillo Marta , Trapani Dario , Katrini Jalissa , Boldrini Laura , Boscolo Bielo Luca , Castellano Grazia , Guidi Lorenzo , Pellizzari Gloria , Villa Jacopo , Derio Silvia , Lapresa Mariateresa , Gigli Federica , Parma Gabriella , Omodeo Salè Emanuela , Derenzini Enrico , Curigliano Giuseppe , Colombo Nicoletta
Published: November 2024

Background

Patients with a germline BRCA pathogenic variant (gBRCA-PV) and advanced high grade ovarian carcinoma (aHGOC) experience higher hematologic adverse events (HAEs) when receiving platinum salts and ionizing radiations, compared to non-carriers, due to a possible higher susceptibility of the hemopoietic stem cells to DNA targeting agents. However, the incidence of PARP inhibitor (PARPi)-related HAEs according to the gBRCA-PV status is currently unknown.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a single-center retrospective cohort study to describe the occurrence of HAEs in patients with aHGOC receiving ≥8 weeks of maintenance PARPi in any line of therapy, comparing gBRCA-PVs carriers to non-carriers. HAEs were manually identified by searching the patients’ electronic medical records and classified by CTCAE v5.0. The main endpoint was the incidence rate of any HAE (ie, anaemia, neutropenia, or thrombocytopenia) of grade 2 or more (G ≥ 2).

Results

One hundred and sixty-six patients were included; 95 (57%) had a gBRCA-PV. In total, 162 incident cases of G ≥ 2 HAEs were reported over 255.3 person-years. The incidence rates of G ≥ 2 HAEs were 1003/1000 person-years in gBRCA-PV carriers and 993/1000 person-years in non-carriers. No difference in the incidence rate of G ≥ 2 HAEs emerged comparing gBRCA-PV carriers to non-carriers (crude-incidence rate ratio [IRR]: 1.01; 95% CI: 0.72, 1.43; P = .96), even after adjusting for the type of PARPi (Mantel-Haenszel IRR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.67, 1.46).

Conclusion

Patients with aHGOC and a gBRCA-PV do not experience higher PARPi-related HAEs compared to non-gBRCA-PV carriers, unlike platinum salt-related HAEs.
SORTING NEXIN1 facilitates SALT OVERLY SENSITIVE1 protein accumulation to enhance salt tolerance in Arabidopsis
Authors: Song Ru-Feng , Liao Cai-Yi , Wang Lin-Feng , Lu Kai-Kai , Zhang Chi , Wu Run-Xin , Wu Ji-Xiao , Ma Yu-Qing , Kuang Lei , Guo Ning , Yuan Hong-Mei , Liu Wen-Cheng
Published: November 2024

The plasma membrane (PM)-localized Na+/H+ antiporter Salt Overly Sensitive1 (SOS1) is essential for plant salt tolerance through facilitating Na+ efflux; however, how SOS1 localization and protein accumulation is regulated in plants remains elusive. Here, we report that Sorting Nexin 1 (SNX1) is required for plant salt-stress tolerance through affecting endosomal trafficking of SOS1 in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Disruption of SNX1 caused salt hypersensitivity with increased Na+ accumulation and decreased Na+ efflux in Arabidopsis when challenged with high salinity stress. SNX1 co-localized and interacted with SOS1 in endosomes, promoting its PM localization and protein stability in plants under saline conditions. SOS1 overexpression promoted salt tolerance in the wild-type, whereas such effect was greatly compromised in the snx1-2 mutant. Pharmaceutical results showed that SOS1 recycling from the cytosol to the PM was largely blocked while its vacuolar degradation was accelerated in the snx1-2 mutant. Furthermore, salt-induced SOS1 phosphorylation enhanced its interaction and co-localization with SNX1, which is required for SOS1 PM localization in plants. Our study elucidates that SNX1 facilitates SOS1 PM localization and protein accumulation through endosomal trafficking, thereby enhancing salt tolerance in plants.
Interpersonal hope and loving attention
Authors: Rioux Catherine
Published: November 2024

Imagine that your lover or close friend has embraced a difficult long-term goal, such as advancing environmental justice, breaking a bad habit, or striving to become a better person. Which stance should you adopt towards their prospects for success? Does supporting our significant others in the pursuit of valuable goals require ignoring part of our evidence? I argue that we have special reasons––reasons grounded in friendship––to hope that our loved ones succeed in their difficult goals. I further propose that hope is an attitude governed by distinctive norms of epistemic rationality. It has a unique impact on motivation and rational action and a special capacity to be met with uptake in hope. Owing to these features, hope is the central attitudinal dimension of truly amiable support based on ‘just vision’.
Study of Radon Removal Performance of Silver-Ion Exchanged Zeolite from Air for Underground Experiments
Authors: Sone T , Takeuchi Y , Matsukura M , Nakano Y , Ogawa H , Sekiya H , Wakihara T , Hirano S , Taniguchi A
Published: November 2024

Radon is a common background source for underground astroparticle physics experiments and its removal is essential. In this study, we fabricated several prototype silver-ion exchanged zeolites, measured their radon adsorption properties, and evaluated their applicability for radon removal in underground experiments. As a result, we succeeded in producing a prototype silver-ion exchanged zeolite that showed better radon adsorption properties than preceding studies.
Teacher Labor Market Policy and the Theory of the Second Best
Authors: Bates Michael , Dinerstein Michael , Johnston Andrew C , Sorkin Isaac
Published: November 2024

We estimate a matching model of teachers and elementary schools with rich data on teachers' applications and principals' ratings from a large, urban district in North Carolina. Both teachers’ and principals’ preferences deviate from those that would maximize the achievement of economically disadvantaged students: teachers prefer schools with fewer disadvantaged students, and principals' ratings are weakly related to teacher effectiveness. In equilibrium, these two deviations combine to produce a surprisingly equitable current allocation, where teacher quality is balanced across advantaged and disadvantaged students. To close achievement gaps, policies that address deviations on one side alone are ineffective or harmful, while policies that address both could substantially increase the achievement of disadvantaged students.
The innovation–inclusion nexus in countries of Latin America: foresight for shaping new policy approaches
Authors: Aguirre-Bastos Carlos , Bortagaray Isabel , Weber K. Matthias
Published: November 2024

Latin America improved poverty and inequity conditions in the past decades. Despite such progress and the adoption of new policies, inclusive development remains a major challenge. To attain inclusive development, it is crucial to advance toward renewed policies that explicitly include transformative innovation and close existing gaps in the innovation–inclusion nexus. Foresight promises to help bridge such gaps, but the practice of literature on addressing this role is scarce. For our analysis, we adopt a three-level conceptual and analytical framework, focusing on (1) the evolution of policies for inclusive development; (2) the evolution of research and innovation policy approaches to inclusive development; and (3) the extent to which foresight has been used in underpinning a more systemic policy approach. Using this framework, we examine the situation of four Latin American countries that adopted different approaches to innovation and inclusive development and discuss the potential of foresight to contribute to policies that effectively address the innovation–inclusion nexus.
Navigating (De)Conversion While Maintaining Social Relations Across Different Religions in Flanders (Belgium)
Authors: Van Praag Lore , Klaver Kaya , Verschraegen Gert , Loobuyck Patrick
Published: November 2024

Religious (de)conversion trajectories often involve shifts in social networks, both within and outside religious communities. This paper explores two key aspects: first, the strategies used by (de)converts in Flanders (Belgium) to communicate their (de)conversion, and second, how they experienced the reactions of their social networks, shaped by the organization of their religious groups. Based on 43 in-depth interviews with individuals who have recently (de)converted from and to Islam, Christianity, Judaism, or a secular worldview, the thematic analysis shows that most participants revealed their (de)conversion gradually, often anticipating reactions. Some led “two lives” to maintain harmony with family and social networks, seeing this as an act of love. While some relationships were disrupted, many were eventually restored. Notably, differences in communication strategies and social reactions were found depending on the structure and nature of the religious groups involved.
Real-world use of the CarestartTM glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase rapid diagnostic test to determine G6PD deficiency in Nigerian neonates
Authors: Orubu Ejiroghene , Satrom Katherine , Ezenwa Beatrice , Fajolu Iretiola , Lund Troy , Obi Abigail , Ezeaka Chinyere , Slusher Tina
Published: November 2024

G6PD deficiency (G6PDd) is the most common X-linked genetic disease worldwide and the most common cause of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (NH) in Nigeria. Screening for G6PDd has been recommended for over thirty years but is still not routinely done in Nigeria. We sought to investigate a low-cost rapid diagnostic test to determine G6PDd in Nigerian neonates. Enrolled neonates were screened using the CareStartTM G6PD point-of-care rapid diagnostic test; and mothers/caregivers of neonates with G6PDd were asked about their cord care product(s); transcutaneous bilirubin levels were done on neonates with G6PDd using the JM 103 meter. One hundred and forty neonates were enrolled between 15 January and 1 July 2022. Eighteen (12.8%) of all neonates enrolled and 13.9% of enrolled males (0% of females) were G6PDd. Seventeen of the mothers/caregivers of the G6PDd neonates were asked about cord care. The majority of mothers/caregivers (15/17, 88%%) reported including methylated spirits in their neonate’s cord care; seven of these used chlorohexidine plus methylated spirits (41.2%) while only one mother/caregiver used chlorohexidine alone. One mother/caregiver used mentholatum alone and another used mentholatum, chlorhexidine gel, and methylated spirits. Maximum bilirubin levels for those infants with G6PDd ranged from 3.2 to 18.8 mg/dl with 16/17 (94.1%) of bilirubin levels exceeding 5.5 mg/dl. This study again highlights the need for large-scale G6PDd screening. Additionally, it highlights the need to correlate the type of cord care with the risk of NH in future studies.
A systematic review of variables associated with snakebite risk in spatial and temporal analyses
Authors: Collinson Shelui , Lamb Thomas , Cardoso Iara A , Diggle Peter J , Lalloo David G
Published: November 2024

Background

Snakebite is a priority neglected tropical disease, but incidence data are lacking; current estimates rely upon incomplete health facility reports or ad hoc surveys. Spatial analysis methods harness statistical associations between case incidence and spatially varying factors to improve estimates. This systematic review aimed to identify variables associated with snakebite risk in spatial and temporal analyses for inclusion in geospatial studies to improve risk estimation accuracy.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Global Health, PubMed and Web of Science in January 2023 for studies published since 1980 assessing snakebite outcomes and spatially varying factors at the setting level. Study quality was assessed using an adapted Joanna Briggs Institute tool. The results are presented by narrative synthesis.

Results

Thirty-five studies were eligible; the majority were from Central and South America (18), then Asia (11). Climate and environment were most frequently assessed, with temperature, humidity and tree cover predominantly positively associated with snakebite risk, drought negatively associated and altitude negative/mixed. Crop and livestock variables mostly showed positive associations; population density and urban residence overwhelmingly displayed negative associations.

Conclusions

This review identifies key variables that should be considered in future snakebite risk research. Limitations include low research availability from the highest risk regions. There is an evident need for greater research into snakebite risk variation, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
What’s new in wrist arthroscopy: A review of the literature from 2018 to 2023
Authors: Cheng Christopher , Poirier Sarah E. , Moses Michael J. , Chepla Kyle J.
Published: November 2024

Since its first description in 1979, wrist arthroscopy has gained traction in its application in the diagnosis and treatment of various intra-articular hand and wrist pathologies. Over the past five years this technology has evolved with new techniques in the management of degenerative and traumatic injuries, alongside maturation of classic descriptions with the publication of mid- and long-term outcomes. A careful review of the literature is valuable in providing a summation of the current state, limits, and potential of wrist arthroscopy to help shape the daily practice of hand surgeons.
Is Vertebral Artery Injury After Blunt Cervical Spine Trauma an Incidental Finding?
Authors: Shah Romil , Rossano Ayane , Singh Devender , Truumees Eeric
Published: November 2024

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives:

To understand the associations between vertebral artery injury (VAI) and adverse events in patients sustaining blunt cervical spine trauma.

Summary of Background Data:

To date, the impact of VAI on adverse events, and by extension, clinical outcomes has been extracted from small patient cohorts and have not allowed definitive conclusions.

Methods:

Adult patients with cervical vertebral, ligamentous, or neurological trauma in the National Trauma Data Bank from 2016 to 2017 were included in the study. Demographic information (age, sex, and race), injury-specific information (mechanism, severity), patient health information, and presence of a VAI were collected as explanatory variables. Response variables included development of adverse events [DVT/PE, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, hemorrhage, or neurological deficit] length of stay (LOS) and unplanned ICU admission or surgical procedure. Multivariable regression was used to calculate the risk-adjusted effect of vertebral artery injury on the presence of adverse and unplanned events as well as its relationship with LOS.

Results:

Totally, 128,908 patients with cervical trauma were reviewed, of which 5300 had VAI. Of the patients with VAI, 187 (3.5%) patients had a MI, 156 (2.9%) had a PE/DVT, 196 (3.7%) had a stroke, 1392 (26.3%) had neurological injury, and 443 (8.4%) had an unplanned operative procedure or ICU admission. After risk-adjustment, VAI was associated with a >2-fold increased risk of increased LOS and ICU LOS (P<0.001), as well as greater than a 2-fold increased risk of MI, PE/DVT, stroke, and neurological injury (P<0.001).

Conclusions:

Our study documented a higher rate of concomitant VAI in blunt cervical trauma than previously reported. VAI is a hallmark of a more severe or higher energy mechanism of injury and is associated with increased adverse events and LOS in the hospital/ICU. In addition, these data suggest that, in older patients, concomitant VAI is associated with adverse outcomes independent of mechanism of injury.

Level of Evidence:

Step II—diagnostic study.
Impact of gut microbiota and its metabolites on immunometabolism in colorectal cancer
Authors: Flory Madison , Bravo Paloma , Alam Ashfaqul
Published: November 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is highly prevalent, accounting for approximately one-tenth of cancer cases and deaths globally. It stands as the second most deadly and third most common cancer type. Although the gut microbiota has been implicated in CRC carcinogenesis for the last several decades, it remains one of the least understood risk factors for CRC development, as the gut microbiota is highly diverse and variable. Many studies have uncovered unique microbial signatures in CRC patients compared with healthy matched controls, with variations dependent on patient age, disease stage, and location. In addition, mechanistic studies revealed that tumor-associated bacteria produce diverse metabolites, proteins, and macromolecules during tumor development and progression in the colon, which impact both cancer cells and immune cells. Here, we summarize microbiota’s role in tumor development and progression, then we discuss how the metabolic alterations in CRC tumor cells, immune cells, and the tumor microenvironment result in the reprogramming of activation, differentiation, functions, and phenotypes of immune cells within the tumor. Tumor-associated microbiota also undergoes metabolic adaptation to survive within the tumor environment, leading to immune evasion, accumulation of mutations, and impairment of immune cells. Finally, we conclude with a discussion on the interplay between gut microbiota, immunometabolism, and CRC, highlighting a complex interaction that influences cancer development, progression, and cancer therapy efficacy.
Variants of physiological FDG vascular activity on digital PET
Authors: Yin Phillip , Maliha Peter G. , Ebrahim Anwar , Ben-Ezra Noah , Azoulay Laurent , Vladovsky Michael , Probst Stephan , Abikhzer Gad
Published: November 2024

Objective

Fluorodeoxyglucose PET/computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) is effective in detecting large vessel vasculitis. Digital PET cameras have improved spatial resolution compared with analog PET, resulting in more prominent physiological uptake in arterial walls. This study’s goal was to define qualitative normal variants of arterial activity on digital PET/CT.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 126 oncological PET/CT studies. Exclusion criteria included history of vasculitis, immunosuppressant therapy, hyperglycemia, or altered FDG biodistribution. Qualitative vessel wall activity (common carotid, brachiocephalic, subclavian, aorta, and femoral) was visually graded by two nuclear physicians with guideline-proposed criteria: 0: ≤mediastinum, 1: liver, where grade 3 is compatible, 2 is possible, and <2 is negative for vasculitis. Cranial artery uptake was visually graded as follows: grade 0: ≤surrounding tissues, grade 1: just above surrounding tissues, and grade 2: significantly above surrounding tissues, with grades 1 and 2 considered positive for cranial artery vasculitis.

Results

Large vessel uptake was grade 3 in 0 subjects, grade 2 in four subjects (3%), grade 1 in 87 subjects (69%), and grade 0 in 35 subjects (28%). In studies acquired ≥75 min post-injection, 1/15 subjects had grade 2 uptake. Four subjects (3%) had grade 1 vertebral artery uptake. No subjects had temporal, maxillary, or occipital artery uptake.

Conclusion

A minority of our subjects presented with grade 2 large vessel uptake, which was associated with longer uptake times, or grade 1 cranial artery uptake, which was associated with higher age and glycemia. These findings should be interpreted with caution in patients referred for suspected vasculitis, as they may represent normal variants on digital PET.
Recent developments in olfactory neuroblastoma research
Authors: Ghanem Anthony , Finlay John B. , Jang David W. , Goldstein Bradley J. , Abi Hachem Ralph
Published: November 2024

Purpose of review

Olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) is a rare malignancy originating from olfactory neuroepithelial cells. Given its uncommon nature and complex clinical presentation, this comprehensive review highlights recent findings and treatment approaches for advancing clinical practice and research.

Recent findings

Recent literature emphasizes significant advancements in the genomic profiling and molecular classification of ONB. Emerging targeted therapies include somatostatin analogs and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors. In addition, the development of genetically engineered mouse models has provided valuable platforms for testing new treatment strategies, revealing similarities between ONB and small cell lung cancer, which may inform future therapeutic approaches.

These findings have profound implications on clinical practice. Improved diagnostic accuracy through advanced imaging and genomic profiling in addition to identifying specific mutations for targeted therapy can lead to personalized treatments of patients with ONB. Developments in genetically engineered mouse models and multiinstitutional collaborative efforts are vital for advancing research and standardizing molecular testing. The integration of advanced imaging techniques, genomic profiling, and targeted therapies holds promise for improving patient outcomes and understanding this rare malignancy.
The changing landscape of nonobstructive azoospermia
Authors: Garabed Laurianne Rita , Flannigan Ryan
Published: November 2024

Purpose of review

This article aims to describe new developments in the field of nonobstructive azoospermia biology, diagnostics, biomarkers, and therapeutic strategies.

Recent findings

Recent studies have investigated the molecular underpinnings of cellular dysfunction that is contributing to spermatogenic dysfunction and findings suggest abnormalities across both somatic and germ cells. Biomarkers to predict the chances of sperm retrieval are being explored utilizing cell free (cf) DNA and RNA from various body fluids, in addition to a full range of transcripts and epigenetics within seminal fluid. Various approaches are being explored to optimize sperm identification from surgical specimens including microfluidic and machine learning approaches. Finally, approaches to regenerating sperm production from males with nonobstructive azoospermia are evolving to include various 3-dimensional culture techniques with integration of computational modeling.

The landscape of nonobstructive azoospermia biomarkers, molecular underpinnings, technological approaches to more reliably identify sperm and novel regenerative therapeutic strategies are likely to transform the field of male reproduction in years to come.
Standardizing Initial Inpatient Palliative Care Consultations for Patients Receiving Left Ventricular Assist Devices at a Large Urban Hospital
Authors: Szeto Deborah A. , Whitney Robin L. , Alcantara Dulce E.
Published: November 2024

Left ventricular assist devices can improve survival rates and quality of life for individuals with advanced heart failure. However, complications and repeated hospitalizations are common. Palliative care involvement is required before and after left ventricular assist device placement. However, limited guidance on the objectives and structure of palliative care consultation in the left ventricular assist device context has led to variation in how these consultations are conducted and confusion around the consultations' objectives and structure. We piloted and modified an evidence-based, semistructured script to guide pre–left ventricular assist device palliative care consultations. Palliative care clinicians were trained on use of the script. Presurvey and postsurvey were used to examine changes in clinician confidence and assess script acceptability. Script use did not result in changes to clinicians' confidence. Clinicians felt the script provided valuable structure and guidance but suggested improvements to script structure and flow, emphasizing the need for a standardized workflow and closer collaboration between palliative care and heart failure teams.
Does climate change threaten delivery of HIV care in resource-limited settings?
Authors: Orievulu Kingsley Stephen , Buczkowska Matylda , Iwuji Collins C.
Published: November 2024

Purpose of review

Extreme weather events (EWEs) pose a challenge to achieving UNAIDS goal of eliminating HIV as a public health threat by 2030. This review summarizes recent findings describing the disruption of HIV services by EWEs and discusses strategies for a resilient HIV care programme in resource-limited settings.

Recent findings

EWEs impact each component of the continuum of care – HIV testing, linkage to treatment, viral suppression and other HIV prevention services. EWEs disrupt healthcare provision either through impacting the ability of the healthcare system to deliver care because of infrastructure damage and increased workload or by limiting people's ability to seek healthcare because of access challenges and forced displacements. This culminates in disengagement from care, poor treatment adherence and increase in HIV disease progression with more vulnerable groups such as women and young people being more adversely impacted.

Most people affected by or at risk of HIV reside in resource-poor settings which are the region with the least capacity to adapt to climate change. Few recent studies with very limited geographical coverage show that EWEs affect the delivery of HIV care in this setting. Climate adaptation and mitigation policies are required to protect health in resource-limited settings.
Thyroid eye disease and ocular myasthenia gravis
Authors: Shabto Julie M. , Stevens Shanlee , Kazim Michael
Published: November 2024

Purpose of review

An overview of two ocular diseases, which significantly impact quality of life: thyroid eye disease (TED) and ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG). Additionally, we describe the clinical challenge when they occur simultaneously. We will describe the pathophysiology of both conditions, the currently available diagnostic tools, and the therapies available.

Recent findings

Recent literature has described newer diagnostic modalities, predictors of disease severity and co-occurrence of TED and OMG, and novel therapies. There is also critical analysis of current therapeutics and risk factors.

The findings from this review suggest a need for heightened clinical awareness and early detection strategies for TED and OMG due to their overlapping clinical presentation. Emerging therapies and diagnostic techniques should be integrated into practice. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term safety and efficacy of novel treatments and the potential genetic links between these conditions.
Phytochemical screening and in vitro antibacterial evaluation of Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour) spreng against selected four pathogenic bacteria
Authors: Adame Abdisha Abrahim , Desta Mulugeta Desta , Yus Zekariya Yusuf , Ume Yusuf Umer , Chavula Petros Chavula
Published: November 2024

Background

Traditional medicine is still utilized around the globe, particularly in developing countries such as Ethiopia, where the majority of people maintain their health through the use of plant medicines. The primary challenges that needed to be addressed were the requirement for scientific backing for adequate documentation and drug development. The current study intended to screen phytochemical and antibacterial activities of Plectranthus amboinicus crude extracts, against selected pathogenic bacteria.

Methods

The study were designed in Complete Randomized Design based on laboratory bioassay with three replications involves a 2x2x3x4x3 (2 sources i.e. leaf and stem; 2 solvent, i.e. Ethanol, and aqueous water; 3 concentration levels, i.e. 100mg/ml, 120 mg/ml and 150mg/ml; 4 bacterial species; and 3 replications). Qualitative analysis or susceptibility was carried out using standard protocol and phytochemical and antimicrobial activities were determined by disc diffusion and broth dilution method.

Result

According of study indicated the presence of six phytochemical compounds among the tested compounds, while, Saponin and Terpenoid were absent in ethanol extract and present in water extract. Phlobotanin possess negative at all in both ethanol and water extract. Based on observed susceptibility test the highest inhibition zone 14.6mm was recorded against S. Pyogenes at a concentration of 150 mg/ml, while 9.1 mm inhibition zone was observed against E. coli in concentration of 100 mg/ml. Minimum inhibitory concentration values, in the range 25 mg/mL to 100 mg /ml gram positive and gram negative, minimum bactericidal concentration values ranged 50 mg/ml to 100 mg/ml respectively recorded.

Conclusion

Plectranthus amboincus plant showed presence of secondary metabolites, possesses bio-active compounds against selected human pathogenic bacterial species, thereby justifying the application of their crude extracts as medicinal plants. Further studies are required against more bacteria and fungus pathogens.
Fluoride and gallein regulate polyphosphate accumulation in dental caries-associated Lacticaseibacillus
Authors: Mandal Subhrangshu , Flood Beverly E. , Lunzer Mark , Kumar Dhiraj , Bailey Jake V.
Published: November 2024

Inorganic polyphosphates (polyPs) are energy-storing biopolymers synthesized by all three domains of life. PolyP accumulation has been well studied with respect to its role in stress response, but its role in dental disease has received less attention. Dental decay can be promoted by changes in pH as well as the chemical activity of ions such as phosphate in oral fluids at the enamel interface. Previous work has shown that the drawdown of phosphate from biofilm fluids can alter the saturation state of oral fluids to thermodynamically favour mineral dissolution. The members of the Lactobacillaceae are known to accumulate polyP and play a role in early-stage and late-stage dental caries. In this study, we examined the effects of potential metabolic inhibitors on polyP accumulation in Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus. We observed that two inhibitors of the enzyme responsible for polyP synthesis, gallein and fluoride, inhibited polyP accumulation in a balanced medium. However, fluoride and gallein treatments amended with either glucose or lactate were found to enhance polyP accumulation. These results illustrate the potential complexity of polyP metabolism in the oral environment.
Farming practices in the landscape have an impact on grassland arthropods, in addition to local conditions and land cover
Authors: Brusse Théo , Thénard Jodie , Marrec Ronan , Caro Gaël
Published: November 2024

Arthropods deliver vital ecosystem services in agricultural landscapes, but their diversity is threatened by intensified farming and landscape simplification. Despite this, the relative impacts of farming practices at the landscape level remain underexplored compared to local and land cover effects. In this study, we dissect the influence of local and landscape factors, including farming practices, on arthropod communities. By sampling 18 grasslands in northeastern France during spring and autumn 2021, we collected 14 arthropod families, identifying all species of carabids and spiders. We conducted surveys of farming practices to estimate their intensity at landscape level. Our results highlight that environmental factors affect arthropod communities differently between seasons. Intensity of farming practices at landscape level was less explanatory of arthropod communities, but this impact is additional to that of local conditions and land cover. Our study underscores the critical need to integrate farming practices into landscape-level management strategies to safeguard arthropod diversity.