bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization in Adjunction to Surgical Evacuation for Treatment of Subdural Hematomas: A Nationwide Comparison of Outcomes With Isolated Surgical Evacuation
Authors: Khorasanizadeh Mirhojjat , Maroufi Seyed Farzad , Mukherjee Rajarshi , Sankaranarayanan Madhav , Moore Justin M. , Ogilvy Christopher S.
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Surgical evacuation is the standard treatment for chronic subdural hematomas (CSDHs) but is associated with a high risk of recurrence and readmission. Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) is a novel treatment approach which could be performed upfront or in adjunction to surgical evacuation. MMAE studies are limited by small sample sizes. This study aimed to describe and compare outcomes of MMAE in adjunction to surgery with those of surgery alone on a national level.

METHODS:

The national Vizient Clinical Database was queried by use of a specific validated set ofInternational Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revisioncodes (October 2018-June 2022). Patients with the diagnosis of nontraumatic CSDH who received MMAE and surgical drainage in the same hospitalization were identified, and their outcomes were compared with isolated surgical drainage.

RESULTS:

A total of 606 subjects from 156 institutes and 6340 subjects from 369 institutes were included in the MMAE plus surgery (M&S) and surgery groups, respectively. Average length of stay was significantly longer in the M&S group (9.87 vs 7.53 days;P< .01). There was no significant difference in the in-hospital mortality rate (2.8% vs 2.9%), but the complication rate was significantly higher in the M&S group (8.7% vs 5.5%;P< .01). Complications that were significantly more common in the M&S group included aspiration pneumonia, postoperative sepsis, and anesthesia-related. Mean direct costs were significantly higher in the M&S group (28 834 vs 16 292 US dollars;P< .01). The 30-day readmission rate was significantly lower in the M&S group compared with the surgery group (4.2% vs 8.0%;P< .01).

CONCLUSION:

This analysis of large-scale national data indicates that MMAE performed in adjunction to surgery for treatment of CSDH is associated with higher direct costs, higher complication rates, and longer length of stay but lower readmission rates compared with surgical evacuation alone.
Ιδιότητες ακέραιων λύσεων της εξίσωσης θερμότητας
Authors: Καλλίτση Εύα
Published: June 2023

Η διατριβή ερευνά ιδιότητες ακεραίων μιγαδικών λύσεων της εξίσωσης θερμότητας. Παραθέτει παραδείγματα τέτοιων λύσεων όπως είναι για παράδειγμα η ειδική κλάση των θερμικών πολυωνύμων. Ανακαλύπτει πρωτότυπα αποτελέσματα για μιγαδικές συναρτήσεις δύο μεταβλητών που αποτελούν λύσεις της εξίσωσης θερμότητας, κυριότερα αναφορικά με την τάξη και τον τύπο αυτών. Ερευνά ιδιότητες των σημείων μηδενισμού των λύσεων αυτών και εστιάζει επιπλέον στις περιπτώσεις αρτίων και περιττών λύσεων. Τέλος, συσχετίζει τα αποτελέσματα αυτά με πρόσφατη πρόοδο που έχει πραγματοποιηθεί στην κατεύθυνση της μελέτης της εικασίας του Ρίμαν.
The genome sequence of the Lichen Button, Acleris literana (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Crowley Liam M. , Hammond James ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: June 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Acleris literana (the Lichen Button; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Tortricidae). The genome sequence is 674.9 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 30 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.4 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 12,577 protein coding genes.
Does excessive alcohol consumption contribute to the development of anxiety disorder?
Authors: Pikulicka Agata , Świercz Kamila , Kulbat Mateusz , Majcher Monika , Kulbat Aleksandra , Górska Dominika , Majcher Magdalena , Sierpień Małgorzata , Karwańska Aleksandra , Brzychczy Piotr
Published: June 2023

Introduction
Over past decades the number of patients suffering from psychiatric disorders all around the world is constantly increasing. Thank to general awareness and less stigmatization people seek for specialist’s help more willingly. Recently, one of the most common diagnoses has been anxiety disorder and many of them also tend to abuse alcohol. So far, scientists have focused mostly on alcoholism as a consequence of anxiety disorder, due to patients’ predilection to addictions. However, ethanol can also trigger anxiety itself.
Aim of the study
The aim of this study is to summarize the current state of knowledge on the role of alcohol in anxiety disorder development and its pathomechanisms.
Material and methods
This article is based on available publications in Pubmed and Google Scholar databases.
Conclusions
Excessive alcohol consumption may lead to the development of anxiety disorder in some patients, as well as, many other psychiatric disturbances. However, further research must be done to find out precise pathomechanism responsible for those states.
Phase 5 (Naqada IIIb–IIIc1) in Tell El-Farkha. The Peak of Development or the Beginning of Decline?
Authors: Ciałowicz Krzysztof M.
Published: June 2023

The research at Tell el-Farkha provides new opportunities to reconstruct the processes of Egyptian state formation. Seven main chronological phases are distinguished. One of the most important periods in the city’s history is phase 4 (Naqada IIIA–Naqada IIIB; ca. 3350–3200 BC). An administrative-cultic centre, a monumental warehouse, and the oldest Egyptian mastaba were created during this time. The inhabitants of Tell el- Farkha owed their prosperity to the trade with the Southern Levant. During phase 5 (Naqada IIIB to Naqada IIIC1; ca. 3200–3000 BC) several phenomena are evident that portended the gradual decline of the city, eventually leading to its abandonment. No evidence of major storage facilities has so far been discovered at Tell el-Farkha from phase 5, and imported pottery is also absent in this period. It seems that at the beginning of the Protodynastic period the Egyptians gradually abandoned the trade routes running through the eastern Delta and used new ones leading via Wadi Tumilat or across the Red Sea. The engravings in Wadi Ameyra (Sinai) with the names of Iry-Hor, Ka, and Narmer suggest that exploration of the natural resources of the Sinai and the maritime routes to Egypt were highly important. In this situation only a few imported products would have reached cities like Tell el-Farkha, which may explain the lack of both central warehouses and imported ceramics. Natural disasters also contributed significantly to the decline of Tell el-Farkha. The abandonment of the Western Kom, at the end of phase 5, clearly followed a major catastrophe caused by natural forces. The collapsed walls may be the result of this cataclysm. Evidence of a natural catastrophe that struck the settlement at the turn of our phases 5 and 6 can be found at the Eastern Kom as well.
La prime testimonianze della metallurgia nei colli albani (Roma, Italia Centrale)
Authors: Altamura Flavio , Angle Micaela , Tomei Noemi
Published: June 2023

The earliest evidence of metallurgy in the Alban Hills (Latium, central Italy), dated between the Eneolithic and the Recent Bronze Age (c. IV – end of II millennium B.C.), is described through a review of the published materials and the study of unpublished finds. The analysis allows to understand the technological capabilities and cultural, social and economic aspects of the local communities in the pre-protohistoric period.
An investigation into the Pottery Flasks at the Sanandaj Archaeological Museum
Authors: Zarei Mohammad Ebrahim , Behnia Ali
Published: June 2023

Pottery has a significant bearing on the reconstruction of ancient regional and transregional interactions. Flasks represent a pottery type that was more ubiquitous in the historical period. The present study examined 16 pottery flasks stored at the Sanandaj Archaeological Museum in order to address three research questions: Which historical period can this pottery be dated to? What is the geographical range over which they were manufactured given the available excavated comparanda? What types are represented in the sample under study in terms of manufacturing technique, surface treatment, decoration, and form? The results showed that the flasks were primarily produced in two varieties, round shouldered and angular shouldered, with their exterior coated in a slip or a buff, turquoise, and light or dark green glaze. Judging by their appearance (surface finish and decorations), they were produced in the Hellenistic and Parthian period. It was found out that they have parallels among assemblages from west and southwest Iran and Mesopotamia. The study adopted the descriptivehistorical and comparative methods.
Video vs direct laryngoscopy for adults undergoing endotracheal intubation
Authors: Bell Steve , Pennington Elspeth , Hill James E
Published: June 2023

The safety and utility of endotracheal intubation by paramedics in the UK is a matter of debate. Considering the controversy surrounding the safety of paramedic-performed endotracheal intubation, any interventions that enhance patient safety should be evaluated for implementation based on solid evidence of their effectiveness. A systematic review performed by Hansel and colleagues (2022) sought to assess and compare video laryngoscopes against direct laryngoscopes in clinical practice. This commentary aims to critically appraise the methods used within the review by Hansel et al (2022) and expand upon the findings in the context of clinical practice.
Reflecting on every case
Authors: Ford Derek
Published: June 2023

As Derek Ford approaches his first full year as an NQP, he reflects on his growth in practice.
Getting connected: celebrating the value of connections and networks
Authors: Hughes Ciaran , Ketola Markus
Published: June 2023

This chapter maps out some of the networks, partnerships and governance spaces that emerged from a succession of policy initiatives. It explores the interviewees’ experiences of participating in multi-actor networks and explores how and why networks and partnerships come into existence. We will see that such networks continue to be an important part of the various strategies for managing issues associated with Northern Ireland’s transition from conflict to relative peace. The chapter shows how the narratives put forward by many interviewees are strikingly similar to the orthodox narratives of multi-actor partnership put forward by UK governments, transnational institutions and local administrators.
Manipulating the supermodes in photonic molecules: prospects for all-optical switching and sensing
Authors: Geints Yury E.
Published: June 2023

A specific photonic structure, a photonic molecule (PM), formed by several ordered resonance microcavities (photonic atoms) supporting high-quality “whispering gallery” eigenmodes (WGMs) is considered theoretically. All PM atoms are bound together by WGM electromagnetic fields and constitute collective supermodes (SMs) of the whole molecule. Usually, the composition of the SM spectrum in a particular PM is determined only by its topology (atomic lattice type, interatomic gap). We propose another way to control the spectral composition of supermodes by using bilateral (double-sided) optical pumping of a PM provided by a variable phase shift between the optical excitation channels. We show that multiatomic PMs made of silicon microcylinders demonstrate more than tenfold amplification/suppression of particular supermode intensity located in the Stokes/anti-Stokes wing of the molecular spectrum. This may be beneficial for the engineering of PM-based intensity-dependent sensors of refractive index changes in optical pumping buses or an all-optical thyristor with high switching range.
Analytical model of optical force on supercavitating plasmonic nanoparticles
Authors: Mandal Amartya , Lee Eungkyu , Luo Tengfei
Published: June 2023

Optical manipulation of nanoparticles (NPs) in liquid has garnered increasing interest for various applications, ranging from biological systems to nanofabrication. A plane wave as an optical source has recently been shown to be capable of pushing or pulling an NP when the NP is encapsulated by a nanobubble (NB) in water. However, the lack of an accurate model to describe the optical force on NP-in-NB systems hinders a comprehensive understanding of NP motion mechanisms. In this study, we present an analytical model using vector spherical harmonics to accurately capture the optical force and the resultant trajectory of an NP in an NB. We test the developed model using a solid Au NP as an example. By visualizing the vector field line of the optical force, we reveal the possible moving paths of the NP in the NB. This study can provide valuable insights for designing experiments to manipulate supercaviting NPs using plane waves.
Patient groups in Rheumatoid arthritis identified by deep learning respond differently to biologic or targeted synthetic DMARDs
Authors: Kalweit Maria , Burden Andrea M. , Boedecker Joschka , Hügle Thomas , Burkard Theresa
Published: June 2023

Cycling of biologic or targeted synthetic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (b/tsDMARDs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients due to non-response is a problem preventing and delaying disease control. We aimed to assess and validate treatment response of b/tsDMARDs among clusters of RA patients identified by deep learning. We clustered RA patients clusters at first-time b/tsDMARD (cohort entry) in the Swiss Clinical Quality Management in Rheumatic Diseases registry (SCQM) [1999–2018]. We performed comparative effectiveness analyses of b/tsDMARDs (ref. adalimumab) using Cox proportional hazard regression. Within 15 months, we assessed b/tsDMARD stop due to non-response, and separately a ≥20% reduction in DAS28-esr as a response proxy. We validated results through stratified analyses according to most distinctive patient characteristics of clusters. Clusters comprised between 362 and 1481 patients (3516 unique patients). Stratified (validation) analyses confirmed comparative effectiveness results among clusters: Patients with ≥2 conventional synthetic DMARDs and prednisone at b/tsDMARD initiation, male patients, as well as patients with a lower disease burden responded better to tocilizumab than to adalimumab (hazard ratio [HR] 5.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.76–16.94], and HR 8.44 [3.43–20.74], and HR 3.64 [2.04–6.49], respectively). Furthermore, seronegative women without use of prednisone at b/tsDMARD initiation as well as seropositive women with a higher disease burden and longer disease duration had a higher risk of non-response with golimumab (HR 2.36 [1.03–5.40] and HR 5.27 [2.10–13.21], respectively) than with adalimumab. Our results suggest that RA patient clusters identified by deep learning may have different responses to first-line b/tsDMARD. Thus, it may suggest optimal first-line b/tsDMARD for certain RA patients, which is a step forward towards personalizing treatment. However, further research in other cohorts is needed to verify our results.
Risk factors for disruptions in tuberculosis care in Uganda during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Jackson Peter D. , Muyanja Stella Zawedde , Sekitoleko Isaac , Bbuye Mudarshiru , Helwig Madeline , Padalkar Roma , Hammad Mariam , Hopkinson Dennis , Siddharthan Trishul
Published: June 2023

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, TB mortality increased while diagnoses decreased, likely due to care disruption. In March, 2020, Uganda—a country with high TB burden, implemented a COVID-19 lockdown with associated decrease in TB diagnoses. This study aims to examine patient level risk factors for disruption in TB care during the COVID-19 pandemic in Uganda. This retrospective cross-sectional cohort study included six TB clinics in Uganda. Clustered sampling included phases of TB care and three time-periods: pre-lockdown, lockdown and post-lockdown. Characteristics of patients with TB care disruption (TBCD), defined as those with > 2 months of symptoms prior to diagnosis or who missed a TB clinic, and those without TB care disruption (non-TBCD) were analyzed between time-periods. 1,624 charts were reviewed; 1322 were contacted, 672 consented and completed phone interview; pre-lockdown (n = 213), lockdown (n = 189) and post-lockdown (n = 270). TBCD occurred in 57% (385/672) of patients. There was an increase in the proportion of urban patients in the TBCD and non-TBCD groups during post-lockdown (p <0.001). There was no difference in demographics, HIV co-infection, socioeconomic status, or distance to TB clinic between TBCD and non-TBCD groups or within TBCD by time-period. There were few differences amongst TBCD and all TB patients by time-period. The increase in urban patients’ post-lockdown may represent a portion of urban patients who delayed care until post-lockdown. Insignificant trends suggesting more TBCD amongst those who lived further from clinics and those without HIV-coinfection require more investigation.
Current situation of the hospitalization of persons without family in Japan and related medical challenges
Authors: Yamazaki Sayaka , Tamiya Nanako , Muto Kaori , Hashimoto Yuki , Yamagata Zentaro
Published: June 2023

This study aims to determine the approximate number of hospitalizations of persons without family and the medical challenges they encounter in hospitals across Japan. Self-administered questionnaires were mailed to 4,000 randomly selected hospitals nationwide to investigate the actual conditions and problems, decision-making processes, and use of the government-recommended Guidelines for the hospitalization of, and decision-making support for, persons without family. To identify the characteristics of each region and role of hospitals, chi-square tests were used to make separate group comparisons by hospital location and type. Responses were received from 1,271 hospitals (31.2% response rate), of which 952 hospitals provided information regarding the number of admissions of persons without family. The mean (SD) and median number of hospitalizations (approximate number per year) of patients without family was 16 (79) and 5, respectively. Approximately 70% of the target hospitals had experienced the hospitalization of a person without family, and 30% of the hospitals did not. The most common difficulties encountered during the hospitalization were collecting emergency contact information, decision-making related to medical care, and discharge support. In the absence of family members and surrogates, the medical team undertook the decision-making process, which was commonly performed according to manuals and guidelines and by consulting an ethics committee. Regarding the use of the government-recommended Guidelines, approximately 70% of the hospitals that were aware of these Guidelines responded that they had never taken any action based on these Guidelines, with significant differences by region and hospital type. To solve the problems related to the hospitalization of persons without family, the public should be made aware of these Guidelines, and measures should be undertaken to make clinical ethics consultation a sustainable activity within hospitals.
Effects of age on non-communicable disease risk factors among Nepalese adults
Authors: Sapkota Bhim Prasad , Baral Kedar Prasad , Rehfuess Eva A. , Parhofer Klaus G. , Berger Ursula
Published: June 2023

The growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and an increase in the prevalence of the underlying risk factors are creating a challenge to health systems in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In Nepal, deaths attributable to NCDs have been increasing, as has life expectancy. This poses questions with regards to how age and various risk factors interact in affecting NCDs. We analyzed the effects of age on NCD risk factors, using data from the Nepalese STEPs survey 2019, a nationally representative cross-sectional study. Six sociodemographic determinants, four behavioral risk factors, and four biological risk factors were examined. Age effects were analyzed among three age groups: below 35 years (young), 35–59 years (middle aged) and 60 years and above (elderly). The prevalence of selected behavioral risk factors for NCDs, notably smoking, alcohol consumption and insufficient physical activity, and some biological risk factors (hypertension, hyperlipidemia) increases with age. The prevalence of most behavioral risk factors was highest among men and women aged 60 years and above. The prevalence of hypertension and hyperlipidemia was highest among the elderly, but the prevalence of diabetes and overweight/obesity was highest among the middle aged for both sexes. Age interactions in the association between behaviors and biological risk factors were surprisingly weak. However, age interactions were significant in the association between alcohol consumption and -hypertension, -overweight/obesity and -hyperlipidemia among women. While the prevalence of NCD risk factors tends to be higher among elders, the interaction between age and risk factors is complex. Most NCD risk factors are related to behaviors, which originate in young adulthood. It is necessary to diagnose and treat biological risk factors, in younger age groups before they manifest as NCDs. Similarly, behavior change interventions need to target these younger age groups to reduce the risk of NCDs later in life.
DORIS: Personalized course recommendation system based on deep learning
Authors: Ma Yinping , Ouyang Rongbin , Long Xinzheng , Gao Zhitong , Lai Tianping , Fan Chun
Published: June 2023

Course recommendation aims at finding proper and attractive courses from massive candidates for students based on their needs, and it plays a significant role in the curricula-variable system. However, nearly all students nowadays need help selecting appropriate courses from abundant ones. The emergence and application of personalized course recommendations can release students from that cognitive overload problem. However, it still needs to mature and improve its scalability, sparsity, and cold start problems resulting in poor quality recommendations. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel personalized course recommendation system based on deep factorization machine (DeepFM), namelyDeep PersOnalized couRse RecommendatIonSystem (DORIS), which selects the most appropriate courses for students according to their basic information, interests and the details of all courses. The experimental results illustrate that our proposed method outperforms other approaches.
Exploring the potential for children to act on antimicrobial resistance in Nepal: Valuable insights from secondary analysis of qualitative data
Authors: Mitchell Jessica , Cooke Paul , Arjyal Abriti , Baral Sushil , Jones Nichola , Garbovan Lidis , King Rebecca
Published: June 2023

This study explores the perceived roles of children in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in two sites across Nepal. AMR is a global challenge and underpinned by many complex behavioural drivers including how antimicrobial medicines are sourced and used. Because of this social dynamic, several research groups are using community engagement (CE) approaches to understand AMR at community level. However, most data negate the importance of children in behaviours linked to, and potentially driving AMR. In this study, authors apply secondary analysis methods to 10 transcripts representing the views of 23 adults engaged in an AMR-focused film-making project. By focusing on participants’ reference to children, we reveal that antimicrobial usage and adherence to health providers’ messages can be influenced by the age of the patient. Secondly that children are involved in some of the behaviours which are known to drive antimicrobial resistance such as purchasing over-the-counter antibiotic drugs. Finally, community members discuss that, with careful creation of resources, AMR could be meaningfully presented in educational settings with a view to children acting as agents of change around AMR-driving behaviours. Findings suggest that age-inclusive community engagement projects could be effective in tackling AMR at community level in Nepal and other low resource settings.
Protein production from HEK293 cell line-derived stable pools with high protein quality and quantity to support discovery research
Authors: Sun Hong , Wang Songyu , Lu Mei , Tinberg Christine E. , Alba Benjamin M.
Published: June 2023

Antibody-based therapeutics and recombinant protein reagents are often produced in mammalian expression systems, which provide human-like post-translational modifications. Among the available mammalian cell lines used for recombinant protein expression, Chinese hamster ovary (CHO)-derived suspension cells are generally utilized because they are easy to culture and tend to produce proteins in high yield. However, some proteins purified from CHO cell overexpression suffer from clipping and display undesired non-human post translational modifications (PTMs). In addition, CHO cell lines are often not suitable for producing proteins with many glycosylation motifs for structural biology studies, as N-linked glycosylation of proteins poses challenges for structure determination by X-ray crystallography. Hence, alternative and complementary cell lines are required to address these issues. Here, we present a robust method for expressing proteins in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293)-derived stable pools, leading to recombinant protein products with much less clipped species compared to those expressed in CHO cells and with higher yield compared to those expressed in transiently-transfected HEK293 cells. Importantly, the stable pool generation protocol is also applicable to HEK293S GnTI- (N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase I–negative) and Expi293F GnTI- suspension cells, facilitating production of high yields of proteins with less complex glycans for use in structural biology projects. Compared to HEK293S GnTI- stable pools, Expi293F GnTI- stable pools consistently produce proteins with similar or higher expression levels. HEK293-derived stable pools can lead to a significant cost reduction and greatly promote the production of high-quality proteins for diverse research projects.
Clostridium butyricum improves cognitive dysfunction in ICV-STZ-induced Alzheimer’s disease mice via suppressing TLR4 signaling pathway through the gut-brain axis
Authors: Su Yunfang , Wang Dahui , Liu Ningning , Yang Jiajia , Sun Ruiqin , Zhang Zhenqiang
Published: June 2023

In recent years, the relationship between gut-brain axis and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) attracted increasing attention. The aim of this study is to investigate the therapeutic effect ofClostridium butyricum(CB) on intraventricular injection of streptozotocin (ICV-STZ)-induced mice and the potential mechanisms. ICV-STZ mice were treated with CB by gavage for 21 consecutive days. The pharmacological effect of CB was assessed by behavior test, brain tissue H&E staining and tau protein phosphorylation levels of hippocampus tissues. The expression levels of TLR4, MYD88, NF-κB p65, TNF-α, iNOS, Occludin and ZO-1 in hippocampal and colonic tissues were detected by Western-blot method. 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis was used to analyze the intestinal microbiota of mice. The results showed that CB improved the cognitive dysfunction of ICV-STZ mice, restored the structure and cell number of hippocampal and cortical neurons, decreased the protein levels of pSer404-tau protein in hippocampal tissues and TLR4, MYD88, NF-κB p65 and iNOS in hippocampal and colonic tissues, and increased the protein levels of Occludin and ZO-1 in colonic tissues. Meanwhile, CB reversed the changes of intestinal microbiota in AD mice. Therefore, the mechanisms of cognitive function and brain pathological changes in AD mice improved by CB may be related to the regulation of TLR4 signaling pathway and intestinal microbiota. This study supports the potential anti-AD effect of CB and initially revealed its pharmacological mechanism of CB, providing a theoretical basis for further clinical application of CB.
Spatial variation and antecedent sea surface temperature conditions influence Hawaiian intertidal community structure
Authors: Ward Rebecca J. , Cox T. Erin , Faucci Anuschka , La Valle Florybeth Flores , Philippoff Joanna , Schaefer Jessica L. B. , Ware Ian M. , Knope Matthew L.
Published: June 2023

Global sea surface temperatures (SSTs) are increasing, and in Hawaiʻi, rates of ocean warming are projected to double by the end of the 21st century. However, current nearshore warming trends and their possible impacts on intertidal communities are not well understood. This study represents the first investigation into the possible effects of rising SST on intertidal algal and invertebrate communities across the Main Hawaiian Islands (MHI). By utilizing citizen-science data coupled with high-resolution, daily SST satellite measurements from 12 intertidal sites across the MHI from 2004–2019, the response of intertidal algal and invertebrate abundance and community diversity to changes in SST was investigated across multiple spatial scales. Results show high rates of SST warming (0.40°C Decade-1) over this study’s timeframe, similar to predicted rates of warming for Hawaiʻi by the end of the 21st century. Changes in abundance and diversity in response to SST were variable among intertidal sites, but differences in antecedent SST among intertidal sites were significantly associated with community dissimilarity. In addition, a statistically significant positive relationship was found between SST and Simpson’s diversity index, and a significant relationship was also found between SST and the abundance of six dominant taxa. For five of these six dominant taxa, antecedent SSTs over the 6–12 months preceding sampling were the most influential for describing changes to abundance. The increase in community diversity in response to higher SSTs was best explained by temperatures in the 10 months preceding sampling, and the resultant decreased abundance of dominant turf algae. These results highlight rapidly warming nearshore SSTs in Hawaiʻi and the longer-term effects of antecedent SSTs as significant drivers of change within Hawaiian intertidal communities. Therefore, we suggest that future research and management should consider the possibility of lagging effects of antecedent SST on intertidal communities in Hawaiʻi and elsewhere.
Elastin-targeted nanoparticles delivering doxycycline mitigate cytokine storm and reduce immune cell infiltration in LPS-mediated lung inflammation
Authors: Arora Shivani , Vyavahare Narendra
Published: June 2023

Background and purpose

Cytokine storm invoked during acute and chronic lung injury promotes alveolar damage and remodeling. The current study shows that degraded elastin-targeted nanoparticles releasing doxycycline (Doxy NPs) are potent in mitigating cytokines storm, migration of immune cells in the lungs, and inhibiting inflammasome pathways in the LPS mouse model.

Experimental approach

Cytokine storm and lung injury were induced using LPS and elastase in C57BL/6 mice (rodent model for emphysema). The mice were then treated with I.V. Doxy NPs, blank NPs, or Doxy a day before LPS administration. Cytokine levels, immune cell population, and MMP activity were analyzed in broncheo-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF) 4 hours after LPS administration. Additionally, gene expression of IL-6, IL-1beta, MCP-1, NLRP3, Caspase 1 and MMPs were investigated in alveolar cells on day 3 after LPS administration.

Key results

Doxycycline NPs but not Doxycycline significantly decreased IL-6, TNF-α, IL-23 and were significantly more effective in decreasing the percentage of immune cells in the BALF. This is the first in-vivo study to demonstrate that Doxycycline can effectively inhibit inflammasome pathways in the lungs.

Conclusion and implications

IV administration of elastin antibody conjugated Doxycycline-loaded albumin NPs can effectively modulate the local immune environment in the lungs, which is not achieved by IV Doxycycline even at 100-fold higher dose. This novel method of drug delivery can effectively lead to the repurposing of traditional Doxycycline as a potential adjunct treatment for managing the cytokine storm in the lungs in COPD and viral infections.
Long-term mammal herbivory on arthropod assemblages at Kruger National Park, South Africa
Authors: Mukwevho Ludzula , Dalu Tatenda , Chidawanyika Frank
Published: June 2023

Protected savannas are essential reserves for biological diversity, including endangered arthropod species, however, extreme grazing by mammals has cascading impacts on the communities and disrupts the functioning of these ecosystems globally. The current study assessed the abundance, species richness and composition of arthropods at the long-term grazing exclosures of Kruger National Park, South Africa. Pitfall traps and active searches were used to sample arthropods at the ungrazed, moderately, and heavily grazed exclosures. We found that Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Diptera and Araneae were the most abundant orders of arthropods sampled. The abundance of multi-taxon, Diptera and Hymenoptera was significantly different between exclosures. In contrast, Coleoptera had high numbers of morphospecies compared to Hymenoptera, Araneae and Diptera. Species richness for multi-taxon, Diptera and Hymenoptera was significantly high at the heavily grazed compared to moderately grazed and ungrazed exclosures. Up to 22.2%, 41.2%, and 44.4% of the morphospecies were unique to the ungrazed, moderately and heavily grazed exclosures, respectively. A high proportion of morphospecies shared between exclosures were Coleoptera (41.0%) and Hymenoptera (38.5%) compared to Diptera and Araneae with less than 5% recorded across exclosures. Thus, morphospecies within the least abundant orders, namely Diptera and Araneae, were represented by singletons that were unique to particular exclosures compared to the most abundant arthropod orders (e.g., Coleoptera and Hymenoptera). We conclude that long-term mammal grazing enhances species richness and niche composition together with sparse and unique arthropods in the protected savannas. Therefore, managed grazing regimes can serve as a tool for maintaining the integrity of the protected savannas.
The social foundations for re-solving herbicide resistance in Canterbury, New Zealand
Authors: Espig Martin , Henwood Roxanne J. T.
Published: June 2023

Synthetic herbicides have revolutionised agricultural weed control. Herbicide resistance (HR) is a natural process through which weeds evolve to be no longer susceptible to a herbicide. Repeated use of similar herbicides can lead to the proliferation of resistant weed populations, with detrimental on-farm effects. To date, 267 weed species worldwide are resistant to at least one herbicide. Yet, achieving universal uptake of best practice principles to manage HR remains difficult. Historically not a high priority for New Zealand cropping farmers, resistance may be more prevalent than commonly assumed. This article contributes to emerging national management strategies and the international scholarship on the human dimensions of HR. Regarding resistance as a socio-biological challenge, we draw on qualitative social research with agricultural stakeholders in New Zealand’s main cropping region to outline important psychosocial preconditions for effective resistance management. Our findings show that these preconditions include: influencing awareness and attitudes, knowledge and skills; approaching HR as a shared responsibility; and supporting long-term and holistic thinking. We conclude that these preconditions form the social foundations for agricultural stakeholders’ capacity to enact best practice principles to continuously re-solve HR. This novel framing allows analytical differentiation between the capacity and ability to act, with practical recommendations and future research needing to address both components of effective HR management.
Bioinformatics characterization of BcsA-like orphan proteins suggest they form a novel family of pseudomonad cyclic-β-glucan synthases
Authors: Spiers Andrew J. , Dorfmueller Helge C. , Jerdan Robyn , McGregor Jessica , Nicoll Abbie , Steel Kenzie , Cameron Scott
Published: June 2023

Bacteria produce a variety of polysaccharides with functional roles in cell surface coating, surface and host interactions, and biofilms. We have identified an ‘Orphan’ bacterial cellulose synthase catalytic subunit (BcsA)-like protein found in four model pseudomonads, P. aeruginosa PA01, P. fluorescens SBW25, P. putida KT2440 and P. syringae pv. tomato DC3000. Pairwise alignments indicated that the Orphan and BcsA proteins shared less than 41% sequence identity suggesting they may not have the same structural folds or function. We identified 112 Orphans among soil and plant-associated pseudomonads as well as in phytopathogenic and human opportunistic pathogenic strains. The wide distribution of these highly conserved proteins suggest they form a novel family of synthases producing a different polysaccharide. In silico analysis, including sequence comparisons, secondary structure and topology predictions, and protein structural modelling, revealed a two-domain transmembrane ovoid-like structure for the Orphan protein with a periplasmic glycosyl hydrolase family GH17 domain linked via a transmembrane region to a cytoplasmic glycosyltransferase family GT2 domain. We suggest the GT2 domain synthesises β-(1,3)-glucan that is transferred to the GH17 domain where it is cleaved and cyclised to produce cyclic-β-(1,3)-glucan (CβG). Our structural models are consistent with enzymatic characterisation and recent molecular simulations of the PaPA01 and PpKT2440 GH17 domains. It also provides a functional explanation linking PaPAK and PaPA14 Orphan (also known as NdvB) transposon mutants with CβG production and biofilm-associated antibiotic resistance. Importantly, cyclic glucans are also involved in osmoregulation, plant infection and induced systemic suppression, and our findings suggest this novel family of CβG synthases may provide similar range of adaptive responses for pseudomonads.
The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on UK parent experiences of pregnancy ultrasound scans and parent-fetal bonding: A mixed methods analysis
Authors: Skelton Emily , Smith Alison , Harrison Gill , Rutherford Mary , Ayers Susan , Malamateniou Christina
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Companionship in antenatal care is important for facilitating positive parental experiences. During the COVID-19 pandemic, restrictions on partner attendance at fetal ultrasound scans were introduced nationally to minimise transmission of the virus. This study aimed to explore the effect of these restrictions on maternal and paternal experiences of pregnancy scans and evaluate their potential effect on parent-fetal bonding.

Methods

A UK-wide, anonymous cross-sectional survey was completed by new and expectant parents (n = 714) who had, or were awaiting a pregnancy scan during the COVID-19 pandemic. The CORE-10 and an adapted version of the Prenatal Attachment Inventory were used to evaluate psychological distress and prenatal bonding. Additional survey questions captured parental experiences of scans. Separate statistical and thematic analyses of the data were undertaken. A joint display matrix was used to facilitate integration of quantitative and qualitative claims to generate a comprehensive interpretation of study findings.

Findings

When fathers did not attend the scan, feelings of excitement and satisfaction were significantly reduced (p<0.001) and feelings of anxiety increased (p<0.001) in both parents. Mothers were concerned about receiving unexpected news alone and fathers felt excluded from the scan. Mean paternal bonding (38.22, SD 10.73) was significantly lower compared to mothers (47.01, SD 7.67) although no difference was demonstrated between those who had attended the scan and those who had not. CORE-10 scores suggested low-to-mild levels of psychological distress, although the mean difference between mothers and fathers was not significant. Key themes described both parents’ sense of loss for their desired pregnancy scan experience and reflected on sonographers’ central role in providing parent-centred care during scans.

Conclusion

Restrictions on partner attendance at scans during the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative effect on parental experiences of antenatal imaging. Provision of parent-centred care, which is inclusive of partners, is essential for improved parental experiences.
Under-diagnosis of vector-borne diseases among individuals suspected of having Scrub Typhus in South Korea
Authors: Won Eun Jeong , Kim Seong Hoon , Byeon Kyeong Hwan , Jeon Chae-Hyeon , Kang Seung-Ji , Park Joo-Heon , Kee Seung-Jung , Choi Hyun-Woo
Published: June 2023

Due to environmental and ecological changes and suitable habitats, the occurrence of vector-borne diseases is increasing. We investigated the seroprevalence of four major vector-borne pathogens in human patients with febrile illness who were clinically suspected of having Scrub Typhus (ST) caused byOrientia tsutsugamushi. A total of 187 samples (182 patient whole blood and sera samples, including 5 follow-up) were collected. Antibodies toAnaplasma phagocytophilum,Ehrlichia chaffeensis,Borrelia burgdorferi, andBartonella henselaewere tested by using indirect immunofluorescence assays. Molecular diagnoses were performed using real-time PCR. Of the 182 cases, 37 (20.3%) cases were designated as confirmed cases of ST, and the remaining 145 (79.7%) cases as other febrile diseases (OFDs). The seroprevalence ofA.phagocytophilum,E.chaffeensis,B.burgdorferi, andB.henselaewas 51.4% (19/37), 10.8% (4/37), 86.5% (32/37), and 10.8% (4/37) among the ST group, and 42.8% (62/145), 10.4% (19/145), 57.7% (105/145), and 15.9% (29/145) among the OFD group, respectively. There were no significant differences in the seroprevalence between the ST and the OFD groups. Considering the co-occurrence, 89.0% (162/182) had at least one antibody to tick-borne pathogens, 37.0% (60/162) were positive for two pathogens, 17.3% (28/162) for three pathogens, and 6.2% (10/162) for four pathogens. In real-time PCR,O.tsutsugamushiwas positive in 16 cases [15 (40.5%) in ST group and 1 (2.2%) in OFD group], and the four other pathogens were negative in all cases except one confirmed as anaplasmosis. In evaluating the five follow-up samples, the appearance of new antibodies or an increase in the pre-existing antibody titers was detected. Our data highlighted that acute febrile illness and manifestations suggestive of a vector-borne infection must be recognized and further considered for coinfections in clinical practice and the laboratory.
Psychological factors associated with COVID-19 related anxiety and depression in young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lee Ye Eun , Seo Jun Ho , Kim Shin Tae , Jeon Sumoa , Park Chun Il , Kim Se Joo , Kang Jee In
Published: June 2023

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the corresponding lockdown have drastically changed our lives and led to high psychological distress and mental health problems. This study examined whether psychological factors such as loneliness, perfectionism, and health anxiety are associated with COVID-19 related anxiety and depression during the pandemic in young Korean adults, after controlling for various socio-demographic factors and early life stress.

Methods

A total of 189 participants (58.2% women) completed a cross-sectional online survey including the Fear of COVID-19 Scale, Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, 3-item Revised UCLA Loneliness Scale, Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, and Whiteley Index-6. Hierarchical linear regression analyses with three blocks were employed to identify the factors that contributed to COVID-19 related anxiety and depressive symptoms.

Results

Hierarchical regression analyses showed that higher health anxiety was significantly associated with more severe COVID-19 related anxiety (standardized regression coefficient, β = 0.599,p< 0.001). Additionally, higher levels of loneliness (β = 0.482,p< 0.001), perfectionism (β = 0.124,p= 0.035), and health anxiety (β = 0.228,p< 0.001) were significantly associated with higher depression scores. The three psychological factors explained 32.8% of the total variance in depressive symptom scores, after taking all covariates into account.

Conclusion

The results showed that health anxiety was a risk factor for both COVID-19 related anxiety and depression in young adults. Loneliness was the strongest predictor of depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings highlight the importance of identifying vulnerable individuals and encouraging psychological counselling and social connections to reduce the burden of psychiatric disorders during the pandemic.
A quality management system aiming to ensure regulatory-grade data quality in a glaucoma registry
Authors: Wada Shinsuke , Tsuda Satoru , Abe Maiko , Nakazawa Toru , Urushihara Hisashi
Published: June 2023

Background

Disease/patient registries are underutilized despite their multiple advantages over clinical trials in the clinical evaluation of drugs, such as the capacity for long-term curation, provision of patient outcome data in routine clinical practice, and provision of benchmark data for comparison. Ensuring the fit-for-purpose quality of data generated from such registries is important to informing regulatory decision making. Here, we report the construction of a quality management system aiming to ensure regulatory-grade data quality for a registry of Japanese patients with glaucoma to evaluate long-term patient outcomes.

Methods

The quality management system was established by reference to the risk-based approach in the ICH-E6 (R2) recommendations. The following three-component approach was taken: establishment of governance, computerized system validation (CSV), and implementation of risk assessment and control. Compliance of the system with the recommendations of regulatory guidelines relevant to use of the registry was assessed.

Results

Governance by academic collaboration was established. This was followed by the development of a total of 15 standard operating procedures, including CSV, data management, monitoring, audit, and management of imaging data. The data management system was constructed based on a data management plan, which specified data/paper flow and data management procedures. The electronic data capture (EDC) system was audited by an external vendor, and configured and validated using the V-model framework as recommended in the GAMP5 guideline. Informed consent, eligibility assessment and major ophthalmology measurements were determined as Critical to Quality (CTQ) factors. A total of 22 risk items were identified and classified into three categories, and operationalized in the form of a risk control plan, which included training sessions and risk-based monitoring. The glaucoma registry addressed most quality recommendations in official guidelines issued by multiple health authorities, although two recommendations were not met.

Conclusions

We established and configured a quality management system for a glaucoma registry to ensure fit-for-purpose data quality for regulatory use, and to curate long-term follow-up data of glaucoma patients in a prospective manner.