bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of physiological and pathological condensates by molecular chaperones
Authors: Akaree Nadeen , Secco Valentina , Levy‐Adam Flonia , Younis Amal , Carra Serena , Shalgi Reut
Published: January 2025

Biomolecular condensates are dynamic membraneless compartments that regulate a myriad of cellular functions. A particular type of physiological condensate called stress granules (SGs) has gained increasing interest due to its role in the cellular stress response and various diseases. SGs, composed of several hundred RNA‐binding proteins, form transiently in response to stress to protect mRNAs from translation and disassemble when the stress subsides. Interestingly, SGs contain several aggregation‐prone proteins, such as TDP‐43, FUS, hnRNPA1, and others, which are typically found in pathological inclusions seen in autopsy tissues from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) patients. Moreover, mutations in these genes lead to the familial form of ALS and FTD. This has led researchers to propose that pathological aggregation is seeded by aberrant SGs: SGs that fail to properly disassemble, lose their dynamic properties, and become pathological condensates which finally ‘mature’ into aggregates. Here, we discuss the evidence supporting this model for various ALS/FTD‐associated proteins. We further continue to focus on molecular chaperone‐mediated regulation of ALS/FTD‐associated physiological condensates on one hand, and pathological condensates on the other. In addition to SGs, we review ALS/FTD‐relevant nuclear condensates, namely paraspeckles, anisosomes, and nucleolar amyloid bodies, and discuss their emerging regulation by chaperones. As the majority of chaperoning mechanisms regulate physiological condensate disassembly, we highlight parallel themes of physiological and pathological condensation regulation across different chaperone families, underscoring the potential for early disease intervention.
Impact of surgical volume on outcomes of laparoscopic adrenalectomy for benign adrenal tumors: A Japanese nationwide database analysis
Authors: Waseda Yuma , Chen Wei , Yokoyama Minato , Fukuda Shohei , Tanaka Hajime , Yoshida Soichiro , Ai Masumi , Hirakawa Akihiro , Fushimi Kiyohide , Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: January 2025

Objective

To analyze the recent status of laparoscopic adrenalectomy for benign adrenal tumors, focusing on the relationship between the number of surgeries and complication rates per facility.

Methods

Data were obtained from the Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, covering surgeries performed between April 2012 and March 2020. The inclusion criteria were laparoscopic adrenalectomy for benign adrenal tumors. Basic characteristics and outcomes, including anesthesia time, blood transfusion, and medical costs, were analyzed. The facilities were divided into five categories in increments of five adrenalectomies per year. The relationship between the number of surgeries per facility and complication rates was analyzed using the Cochran‐Armitage trend test and chi‐square tests with the Holm method applied for multiple comparisons.

Results

A total of 15 174 laparoscopic adrenalectomies for benign adrenal tumors were performed across 543 facilities during the 9‐year study period. The number of adrenalectomies performed annually was <5, 5–9, 10–14, 15–19, ≥20 in 434 (79.9%), 58 (10.7%), 28 (5.2%), 12 (2.2%), and 11 (2.0%) facilities, respectively, showing that only 51 facilities (9.4%) conducted 10 or more surgeries per year. The overall complication rate was 9.1%. A trend was demonstrated showing that facilities with a higher number of surgeries per year had reduced complication rates. Facilities with 20 or more surgeries per year had the shortest anesthesia times and the lowest medical costs. No significant differences were found in blood transfusion rates or in‐hospital mortality.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for benign adrenal tumors can be performed at lower complication rates in facilities with a higher number of surgeries.
The Effect of Electromagnetic Field Preservation and Frozen Storage on the Quality of Mutton
Authors: Wang Xi , Su Wei , Zhou Rongmei , Mu Yingchun
Published: January 2025

The study aims to explore the quality changes of mutton during different storage processes in order to identify optimal mutton preservation techniques. This research employs frozen storage (FS) and electromagnetic field preservation (EP) to store and preserve Guizhou white mutton (WG) and Qianbei Ma mutton (QG). The results showed that with the extension of storage time, EP treatment was able to inhibit the increase in cooking loss and TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) values in mutton. The TVC (total viable count) and TVB‐N (total volatile salt base nitrogen) values in the EP group for both mutton types did not exceed the safety limits throughout the storage period. Under both storage methods, 75 volatile flavor compounds were detected in WG, and 72 volatile flavor compounds were detected in QG, with alcohols and aldehydes being the most abundant compounds in both types of mutton. Compounds such as hexanol, 1‐octene‐3‐ol, nonanal, octanal, and hexanal were significant volatile compounds showing notable differences between the two mutton types under both storage methods, with the EP group consistently having higher levels of these compounds during storage compared with the FS group. Therefore, EP technology helps maintain the quality of mutton, providing important theoretical support for the application of EP technology in the storage of mutton products.
Leishmania mexicana N‐Acetyltransferease 10 Is Important for Polysome Formation and Cell Cycle Progression
Authors: Maran Suellen Rodrigues , Leite Ariely Barbosa , Alves Gabriela Gomes , Bonifácio Bruno Souza , Alves Carlos Eduardo , Moreira Paulo Otávio Lourenço , Panessa Giovanna Marques , Prado Heloísa Monteiro do Amaral , Klippel Angélica Hollunder , Cussiol José Renato , Massirer Katlin Brauer , Ferreira Tiago Rodrigues , Sacks David , Barbiéri Clara Lúcia , Silva Marcelo Santos da , Monte‐Neto Rubens Lima do , Silvio Moretti Nilmar
Published: January 2025

Leishmania presents a complex life cycle that involves both invertebrate and vertebrate hosts. By regulating gene expression, protein synthesis, and metabolism, the parasite can adapt to various environmental conditions. This regulation occurs mainly at the post‐transcriptional level and may involve epitranscriptomic modifications of RNAs. Recent studies have shown that mRNAs in humans undergo a modification known as N4‐acetylcytidine (ac4C) catalyzed by the enzyme N‐acetyltransferase (NAT10), impacting mRNAs stability and translation. Here, we characterized the NAT10 homologue of L. mexicana, finding that the enzyme exhibits all the conserved acetyltransferase domains although failed to functionally complement the Kre33 mutant in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We also discovered that LmexNAT10 is nuclear, and seems essential, as evidenced by unsuccessful attempts to obtain null mutant parasites. Phenotypic characterization of single‐knockout parasites revealed that LmexNAT10 affects the multiplication of procyclic forms and the promastigote‐amastigote differentiation. Additionally, in vivo infection studies using the invertebrate vector Lutzomyia longipalpis showed a delay in the parasite differentiation into metacyclics. Finally, we observed changes in the cell cycle progression and protein synthesis in the mutant parasites. Together, these results suggest that LmexNAT10 might be important for parasite differentiation, potentially by regulating ac4C levels.
A simple cosmology: General relativity not required
Authors: Akridge Russell
Published: July 2002

A pedagogical cosmology illustrates general relativity concepts, without requiring general or special relativity. Topics examined are the existence of a global time scale, proper vs coordinate variables, the variation of light speed in an expanding universe, the look-back paradox, the horizon, the red shift, the age of the universe, and the dynamics of the universe. An Appendix is devoted to space and time in general relativity, but can be skipped by readers unfamiliar with general relativity.
Semiclassical analysis of level widths for one-dimensional potentials
Authors: Ingold Gert-Ludwig , Jalabert Rodolfo A. , Richter Klaus
Published: July 2002

We present a semiclassical study of level widths for a class of one-dimensional potentials in the presence of an ohmic environment. Using a semiclassical approach for the dipole matrix element we obtain the level widths within the golden rule approximation. For potentials with an asymptotic power-law behavior, which may in addition be limited by an infinite wall, we find a universal result: The level widths are proportional to the corresponding quantum number.
A new solution for inflation
Authors: Faraoni Valerio
Published: July 2002

Cosmological inflation is very important for modern cosmology. Many pedagogical introductions of inflation are effective due to the simplicity of the relevant equations. Here an analytic solution of the cosmological equations is presented and used as an example to discuss fundamental aspects of the inflationary paradigm.
Harmonographs. II. Circular design
Authors: Whitaker Robert J.
Published: July 2002

Devices that produce curves by the rotation of circles (or gears) about one another constitute one class of harmonographs. In the simplest case, a point on one of the circles will trace a cycloidal curve. A number of devices of varying degrees of complexity and which make use of gears or pulleys in their operation have been invented over the years to draw various curves. This paper offers a survey of some of these.
Poincaré’s 1911–12 proof of quantum discontinuity interpreted as applying to atoms
Authors: Irons F. E.
Published: July 2002

As part of a study of Planck’s blackbody radiation theory, H. Poincaré (in 1911–12) advanced a theory which analyzed the partition of energy between “resonators” and the kinetic motion of atoms. Resonators (the objects of Poincaré’s theory) facilitate the exchange of energy between radiation and matter, but otherwise their identity has remained unresolved. Poincaré considered resonators characterized by a particular mean energy ε/[exp(ε/kT)−1], which he showed to necessarily imply quantized energies nε (n=0,1,2,…). We additionally consider resonators characterized by a mean energy ε/[exp(ε/kT)+1], which (using Poincaré’s methodology) we show to necessarily imply quantized energies nε (n=0 and 1). Resonators are here identified with transitions between internal quantum states of atoms. This includes normal electronic atoms characterized by possible energies nε (n=0 and 1), as well as atoms populated by subatomic bosons (such as pions) and characterized by multiple occupancy of quantum states and possible energies nε (n=0,1,2,…). We distinguish between Poincaré’s theory and the closely related analysis by P. Ehrenfest of quantization amongst cavity modes.
Reflection of plane waves from a uniformly accelerating mirror
Authors: Van Meter J. R. , Carlip S. , Hartemann F. V.
Published: July 2002

The problem of the reflection of a plane wave at normal incidence to a perfectly conducting mirror with uniform proper acceleration is investigated. The reflected wave is found to be frequency chirped, as expected, but with the somewhat surprising feature that its amplitude decreases rapidly (as z−2) with distance. In order to fully elucidate the underlying physics involved, this result is obtained by two different methods, one employing the Rindler transform and one employing the Lorentz transform.
Materials: An interdisciplinary integrative approach
Authors: Boughton Robert I.
Published: July 2002

A full-year survey-of-materials-science course as offered at Bowling Green State University for the past 5 years is described. The course has several unique features, including a modular, team-taught approach with a laboratory component. The laboratory segment is the most demanding portion of the course to set up, and alternatives are discussed in adapting equipment on hand to the course. The feasibility of offering a course in materials science in a nonengineering setting is discussed and some problems associated with offering the course in the “arts and sciences” context are examined.
Comment on “What quantum mechanics is trying to tell us,” by Ulrich Mohrhoff [Am. J. Phys. 68 (8), 728–745 (2000)]
Authors: Kastner R. E.
Published: July 2002

Mohrhoff proposes using the Aharonov–Bergmann–Lebowitz (ABL) rule for time-symmetric “objective” (meaning nonepistemic) probabilities corresponding to the possible outcomes of not-actually-performed measurements between specified pre- and post-selection measurement outcomes. It is emphasized that the ABL rule was formulated on the assumption that such intervening measurements are actually made and that it does not necessarily apply to counterfactual situations. The exact nature of the application of the ABL rule considered by Mohrhoff is made explicit and is shown to fall short of his stated counterfactual claim.
Objective probabilities, quantum counterfactuals, and the ABL rule—A response to R. E. Kastner
Authors: Mohrhoff Ulrich
Published: July 2002

The ABL rule is derived as a tool of standard quantum mechanics. The ontological significance of the existence of objective probabilities is discussed. Objections by Kastner [Am. J. Phys. 69, 860–863 (2001)] and others to counterfactual uses of the ABL rule are refuted. Metaphysical presumptions leading to such views as Kastner is defending in her Comment are examined and shown to be unwarranted.
The shape of a randomly lying cord
Authors: Lemons Don S. , Lipscombe T. C.
Published: July 2002

We model a cord lying in a random orientation on a horizontal surface, and solve the model stochastic differential equations for the mean and variance of the squared distance between cord ends. The analytical solutions fit the simulation data and measurements made on dropped cords and have a number of applications including the shape of polymers and photon trajectories.
Detailed balance, quantum distribution functions, and equilibrium of mixtures
Authors: Lawrence W. E.
Published: July 2002

We consider systems of nearly free particles (or quasiparticles) interacting by scattering, emission and absorption of radiation, or by physical or chemical transformation. The condition of detailed balance yields the appropriate distribution function for each species, the equality of their temperatures, and a relation for their chemical potentials associated with particle transformations. For example, antiparticles coexisting in equilibrium have opposite chemical potentials, and excitations above the Bose–Einstein condensate have zero chemical potential. For mixtures of classical ideal gases, the law of mass action is obtained.
Interdisciplinary applications of computational statistical physics
Authors: Stauffer Dietrich
Published: July 2002

Biological and financial applications of computational methods in statistical physics are discussed. Examples are given of evolutionary models of sexual reproduction and stock markets.
The observational determination of the age of the universe as a laboratory exercise
Authors: Cadmus Robert R.
Published: July 2002

It is now practical for undergraduate students to carry out a laboratory exercise in which they determine an approximate age for the universe using their own data. Because of the wide availability and excellent performance of charge-coupled device cameras designed for astronomy, a relatively small telescope with a modest spectrograph is sufficient to carry out the necessary observations. The age determination rests on a measurement of the Hubble constant, which, in this experiment, is derived from the measured distance and velocity of recession of a single galaxy. The distance is determined from an image of the galaxy, while the velocity is obtained from a measurement of the redshift of the spectrum of the galaxy. Examples of such observations made at a small college observatory are presented and the extraction of an estimate of the age of the universe from those data is described.
The tautochrone under arbitrary potentials using fractional derivatives
Authors: Flores Eduardo , Osler Thomas J.
Published: July 2002

The classical tautochrone problem involves motion along curves caused by the special potential V(y)=mgy. We use fractional derivatives to find tautochrone curves under arbitrary potentials V(y). We generalize these further to potentials that are functions of two variables V(x,y). An Appendix gives intuitive motivation for the fractional calculus employed.
An unusual feature of charge densities for two-particle bound states
Authors: Crater Horace W.
Published: July 2002

Two oppositely charged particles moving nonrelativistically in a two-particle Coulomb bound state produce a charge distribution that is equivalent to that of two single-particle bound states of opposite charge moving in separate external potentials. With examples, we show that this is unlikely to be true if the binding force is not pure Coulombic.
Resource Letter EPGA-1: The education of physics graduate assistants
Authors: Jossem E. Leonard
Published: July 2002

The intent of this Resource Letter is to provide an introduction to resources for programs for the preparation of physics graduate students for their responsibilities as teachers.
The combination of echolocation emission and ear reception enhances directional spectral cues of the big brown bat, Eptesicus fuscus
Authors: Wotton Janine M. , Jenison Rick L. , Hartley David J.
Published: July 2002

The acoustic information used by bats is produced by a combination of the properties of the sound emission and the reception at the eardrum. The potential localization cues used by bats can only be fully revealed when the magnitude spectra of the emission and the external ear are convolved to produce the echolocation combination magnitude spectra. The spatially dependent changes in the magnitude spectra of the echolocation combination of Eptesicus fuscus are described. The emission and external ear magnitude spectra act together to enhance the potential localization cues. In the echolocation combination, the spectral peaks are sharpened and there is greater contrast in intensity between peaks and notches when compared to the spectra of the ear alone. The spectral localization cues in the echolocation combination appear to be restricted to a cone of space of approximately ±30°.
Near-field sensing strategies for the active control of the sound radiated from a plate
Authors: Berry A. , Qiu X. , Hansen C. H.
Published: July 2002

When designing an active control system to globally control the far-field sound radiation from a vibrating surface, a challenging problem is to properly define the near-field acoustic sensing strategy and the type of cost function to be minimized by the controller. The strategy of sensing and minimizing the near-field active intensity at discrete locations in the active control of free field radiation from a vibrating plate is investigated in this paper. The optimal minimization of the sum of the near-field, normal active sound intensities at the error sensor locations using acoustic control sources is derived for this problem, and the results obtained are compared to the minimization of the sum of the near-field squared pressures. Some of the difficulties associated with sound intensity minimization are pointed out.
The force between two parallel rigid plates due to the radiation pressure of phonons
Authors: Bschorr O.
Published: July 2002

Larraza et al. measured the force between two plates in an external high-intensity sound field. In analogy to the conventional “Casimir effect” it was called the “acoustical Casimir effect.” The purpose of this paper is to derive the force between two plates without external sound fields, that is, induced only by thermal-pressure fluctuations, i.e., by phonons in air. For this reason, the approximated Debye method will be used. Thereby, air will be described as a phonon field and the number of modes in free air and between the plates with distance d will be estimated. A deficiency of modes in the d-space results in a deficiency of radiation pressure and therefore leads to an attractive plate pressure f=πkT/18 d3 Pa. In ambient air and for a plate distance d=10−5 m the pressure f=0.7 10−6 Pa follows. In comparison to the Casimir forces due to the zero-point field of the vacuum, the pressure is of the same size and can also be measured.
Polymers as Structured Continua
Authors: Ling C. C. , Allen S. J. , Kline K. A.
Published: July 2002

The ability of microstructure theory to predict the behavior of polymers in transient shear fields is examined. Apparent viscosity and normal stress differences are formed for the cases of shear relaxation and growth using a microstructure model. The results agree qualitatively with experimental results for three different viscoelastic solutions. The analytical results are also compared to those of the Spriggs 4-constant model and found to be in exact agreement for low shear rates. This agreement permits determination of the phenomenological coefficients in terms of the Spriggs constants.
Surgical resection of a solitary fibrous tumour causing refractory hypoglycaemia: Doege-Potter syndrome
Authors: Rosen Ryan D , O'Brien Matthew , Ersala Ramya , Barnwell John M
Published: January 2025

Solitary fibrous tumours (SFTs) are rare soft tissue masses that are often clinically silent until they cause mass effect. A paraneoplastic syndrome manifesting as persistent hypoglycaemia, termed Doege-Potter syndrome (DPS), can be associated with these lesions. Surgical treatment is recommended for the management of these tumours.

A case of a man in his 60s who was admitted for altered mental status and hypoglycaemia is herein described. Physical examination revealed a distended, asymmetric abdomen with a firm palpable mass in the left upper quadrant. Imaging demonstrated a 24 cm abdominal mass, confirmed to be an SFT on pathology. Biochemical evaluation was consistent with DPS. Surgical excision was performed; however, its large size and retroperitoneal location complicated intraoperative visualisation, ultimately requiring aortic reconstruction, multiple extremity fasciotomy, nephrectomy and prolonged intensive care unit stay.

Few publications describe DPS. While tumour excision can be curative, this case report describes challenges that may arise with surgical management.
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis after intrathecal administration of nusinersen
Authors: Calma Aicee Dawn , Tan Irene , Tohidi-Esfahani Ibrahim , Sanders Lauren , Kumar Kishore , Morris Katrina
Published: January 2025

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is an uncommon sequela of low intracranial pressure, which may result from a lumbar puncture (LP). We describe a case of a patient in their 40s presenting with 48 hours of persistent headache following intrathecal administration of nusinersen for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type 3. There were no focal neurological signs or symptoms apart from baseline symmetrical proximal limb weakness attributed to SMA. Initial investigations revealed radiological evidence of an acute cerebral venous sinus thrombus (CVST). The patient was promptly started on anticoagulation. Partial recanalisation was seen as soon as 48 hours after commencement of anticoagulation, with almost full resolution of the thrombus at follow-up in 2 months. Awareness of CVST as a potential complication of intrathecal therapies and diagnostic LP allows for early identification, management and prevention of serious neurological consequences.
Successful pregnancy outcome in a recipient of simultaneous pancreatic kidney transplantation
Authors: Nasika Venkata Kanaka Naga Karthik , Sharma Ashish , Kenwar Deepesh B , Chopra Seema
Published: January 2025

There is limited information available regarding post-simultaneous pancreatic kidney transplantation (SPKT) pregnancies. The present case describes a woman in her early 30s with first pregnancy who conceived spontaneously 4 years after SPKT. Her pancreatic and kidney graft function remained stable throughout the pregnancy. Creatinine was 0.6–0.7 mg/dL and Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) was 5.1%. There was no pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, rejection or infection. There was gestational thrombocytopenia, which was managed conservatively. Tacrolimus levels fell during the antenatal period and subsequently rose post partum. Mycophenolate was discontinued and switched to azathioprine 6 weeks prior. Caesarean section was done at 36 weeks because of oligohydramnios and vaginal warts delivering a healthy, live, full-term baby. Her graft function was stable on follow-up and the baby was doing well. High-risk pregnancies occur in female SPKT recipients. A multidisciplinary team should closely monitor the course of pregnancy events and immunosuppression.
Spigelian hernia and cryptorchidism syndrome: open spigelian hernia repair and laparoscopic one-stage orchiopexy for ectopic testis
Authors: Ablatt Saniya , Escobar Mauricio Antonio
Published: January 2025

Spigelian hernia and cryptorchidism syndrome in children is increasingly reported in the literature. A variety of phenotypes have been reported, so diagnostic approaches and operative techniques remain poorly defined. The case of an infant male who presented with a left spigelian hernia and ipsilateral cryptorchidism who was initially misdiagnosed with an ectopic inguinal testis is presented. He underwent diagnostic laparoscopy which revealed an ectopic left testis within the spigelian hernia defect with a gubernaculum present. Collaborative decision making between paediatric surgery and paediatric urology resulted in the final operative repair entailing laparoscopic orchiopexy, open left spigelian and inguinal hernia repair, right inguinal hernia repair and umbilical hernia repair. We conclude that a laparoscopic orchiopexy of an ectopic testis within a spigelian hernia is a safe method to address this rare phenomenon, but collaborative multidisciplinary discussion is ideal to weigh operative strategies and management.
Orbital apex syndrome secondary to Sweet syndrome
Authors: Tsoutsanis Panagiotis , Kapantais Dimitrios
Published: January 2025

Sweet syndrome (SS), or acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis, is a dermatologic, auto-inflammatory disorder of unclear origin, often accompanied by systemic inflammation affecting various tissues, including the eyes. Common ocular manifestations include conjunctivitis but can extend to other ocular tissues. Orbital apex syndrome (OAS) involves damage to several cranial nerves transversing the orbital apex, leading to ophthalmoplegia and vision loss. This case report describes a rare case of OAS secondary to SS. A woman in her 50s with a history of SS presented with right eye loss of vision and ophthalmoplegia. Following treatment with high-dose systemic corticosteroids, her vision and ocular motility were restored. This case highlights the importance of recognising SS as a potential cause of OAS, especially when OAS is accompanied by the characteristic skin lesions noted in SS and that high-dose corticosteroids can treat this condition rapidly and effectively.
Severe childhood SLE with refractory autoimmune hemolytic anemia—a therapeutic challenge
Authors: Saini Kartik , Kansal Naveen Kumar , Phulware Ravi Hari , Bhatia Riti
Published: January 2025

Paediatric Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) constitutes 10 to 20% of cases of SLE with more severe disease and higher mortality. We report a case of an adolescent girl with SLE with multisystem involvement who was started on hydroxychloroquine and oral prednisolone. However, due to persistent worsening of skin lesions and falling cell counts, pulsed dexamethasone was initiated which showed improvement in the skin lesions, cell counts, proteinuria and pleural effusion but there was a persistent fall in the haemoglobin. The patient was diagnosed with refractory autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and treated with Rituximab which showed marked improvement in AIHA. Therefore, Rituximab can be considered in managing childhood SLE with refractory AIHA.
Dasatinib-induced colitis in a patient with chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Gluch Alexander Edmund , Subhaharan Deloshaan , Pillai Sooraj , Ramaswamy Pradeep Kakkadasam
Published: January 2025

Dasatinib is a common treatment for chronic myeloid leukaemia with numerous side effects including gastrointestinal. We report a woman in her 50s who presented with haematochezia, weight loss and a positive faecal occult blood test. She was being treated for chronic myeloid leukaemia with dasatinib without the use of any concurrent medications, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Initial colonoscopy demonstrated moderate patchy left-sided inflammation, with biopsies revealing mild chronic inflammation and prominent eosinophilia. Dasatinib was subsequently ceased, and a repeat colonoscopy 3 months later demonstrated completely resolved inflammation both endoscopically and histologically.
Alternative healthcare delivery arrangements in Nepal: a systematic review of comparative effectiveness, safety and cost-effectiveness studies
Authors: Rai Pramila , O’Connor Denise A , Ackerman Ilana , Budhathoki Shyam Sundar , Buchbinder Rachelle
Published: January 2025

Background

The way that healthcare services are organised and delivered (termed ‘healthcare delivery arrangements’) is a key aspect of a health system. Changing the way health care is delivered, for example, task shifting that delivers the same care at lower cost, may be one way of improving healthcare system sustainability. We synthesised the existing randomised trial evidence to compare the effects of alternative healthcare delivery arrangements versus usual care in Nepal.

Methods

For eligible studies published since 2005, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL, Scopus, the WHO clinical trials registry and NepJOL on 31 October 2024. Two authors independently assessed studies for eligibility, extracted data and evaluated the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and certainty of evidence using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations. We calculated risk ratios (RRs), mean differences (MDs) and percentage points (PPs) with 95% CIs for the outcomes and performed meta-analysis where appropriate.

Results

Four studies met the inclusion criteria. One evaluated task shifting, two information and communication technology, and one care coordination. No meta-analyses were performed. Low certainty evidence indicates task shifting of medical abortion by doctors to midlevel providers may result in equivalent complete abortion (RR: 2.55, 95% CI: 0.82 to 4.27). Similarly, the use of a mobile phone call reminder may improve on-time medicine collection among patients with HIV compared with usual care (RR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.12 to 1.48), while the integration of postpartum family planning and postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device (PPIUCD) insertion with maternity services may improve PPIUCD uptake compared with usual care (PP: 0.173, 95% CI: 0.098 to 0.246).

Conclusion

More evaluation is needed for alternative delivery arrangements due to limited low-certainty evidence from current trials. There was insufficient evidence on outcomes such as cost, safety, and patient and provider perspectives.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022327298.
Influencing basic behavioral mechanisms of action while targeting daily walking in sedentary adults at risk for cardiovascular disease: randomised factorial design protocol
Authors: Goodwin Ashley M , Gordon Samantha , Sahni Ravneet , Vicari Frank , Accardi Kaitlyn , Crusco Salvatore , Duer-Hefele Joan , Friel Ciaran , Suls Jerry , Cheung Ying Kuen , Vrany Elizabeth A , Davidson Karina W
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality worldwide, though it may be prevented by increasing physical activity (PA). When behaviour change techniques (BCTs) are bundled together, they increase PA, though which individual BCTs increase PA (and the behavioural mechanism of action (MoA) responsible for said increase) have not been studied. The aim of this study is to conduct a randomised factorial experiment to determine which of four BCTs significantly engage the proposed MoA—self-efficacy for PA—in adults at risk for CVD.

Methods and analysis

Eight hundred and twenty sedentary adults (18–74 years old) at risk for CVD will be recruited between September 2022 and June 2025 to a fully remote, 24-week randomised BCT intervention. To identify those who might benefit from this intervention, we define self-reported walking <7500 steps per day as ‘sedentary'. Following a 4-week run-in period to confirm sedentary behaviour and adherence to the study protocol, 624 eligible participants will be randomised to an 8-week intervention period. A full factorial randomised experiment will be conducted with 16 possible conditions: one will receive no BCTs (no-BCT condition), another will receive all four, and 14 will receive a unique combination of BCTs. During the intervention, participants will receive their randomised daily BCT(s) via text message. Daily steps will be continuously measured using an activity tracker. Self-efficacy for PA will be assessed bi-weekly via the Self-Efficacy for Walking Scale–Duration. Participants will complete a 12-week post-intervention follow-up period where steps will be monitored despite no BCTs being delivered. BCT(s) associated with increased daily step counts and increased self-efficacy for PA between run-in and study completion (week 12 of follow-up) will be determined alongside whether or not self-efficacy for PA mediates the association between each BCT and increased walking.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial was approved by the Northwell Health Institutional Review Board. The full factorial experimental trial results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. Data from this clinical trial will be made available on reasonable request.

Trial registration number

clinicaltrials.gov; Identifier:NCT05425641, 06/21/2022
Match and training injury epidemiology in elite UK netball: a prospective cohort study over one season
Authors: Horne Sara , Shaheen Aliah F , Baltzopoulos Bill , Hills Laura
Published: January 2025

Objective

To describe the incidence and characteristics of match and training injuries in the UK Vitality Netball Superleague (VNSL).

Methods

Ninety players were observed over one 14-month VNSL season (2021), including pre-, in- and post-season periods. Team physiotherapists recorded injuries using an online surveillance system, classifying them by location, type, mode, mechanism and impact, including severity (time-loss days, TL) and medical attention days (MA). Injury incidence (I) and TL/MA injury burden were calculated per 1000 player hours. χ2analysis compared match and training differences.

Results

Thirty-nine players sustained 70 injuries (n=35 match, 35 training). Match incidence exceeded training (I=41.12 vs 1.10 injuries). Acute injuries were higher in matches (27 vs 17), while overuse injuries were higher in training (18 vs 3; p=0.001). Contact injuries were higher in matches (21 vs 7), and non-contact injuries were higher in training (10 vs 6; p=0.028). Acute ankle ligament injuries in matches caused substantial TL burden (411.7 days lost), while overuse lower leg injuries in training led to high MA burden (13.8). Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries were infrequent but burdensome (TL 496). The centre position sustained the most injuries (41%).

Conclusion

This study underpinned implementing the first injury surveillance system in the elite UK netball competition, revealing match injury rates ~40 times higher than in training, with distinct injury characteristics. Findings suggest that prevention should target acute lower limb injuries and overuse conditions. Further research should assess the impact of playing with overuse injuries.
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation complexity score
Authors: Abdelrahman Amr , Bamford Paul , Aktaa Suleman , Hall Rowan , Arockiam Sacchin , Blackman Daniel J , Malkin Christopher , Cunnington Michael , Ali Noman
Published: January 2025

Background

Increasing demand for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) places greater emphasis on the efficiency of pathways and services. A significant limitation to increasing TAVI capacity is the availability of cardiac catheterisation laboratory time. We have developed a novel complexity scoring system (TAVI ComplEXity; TEX score) which can aid in planning lists with appropriate case selection. To validate the TEX score, we have undertaken a retrospective analysis of TAVI cases. The hypothesis is that increasing TEX score correlates with increased procedural duration and reduced valve academic research consortium (VARC) 3 technical and device success.

Methods

The TEX score assigns patients to a complexity level of 1 (low), 2 (intermediate) or 3 (high) based on the presence of specific clinical and anatomical variables. For validation purposes, comparisons were made between patients in the three complexity levels with respect to procedural duration as well as VARC-3 technical success, device success and early safety.

Results

The validation study included 1034 consecutive patients who underwent TAVI between June 2021 and October 2023. Of these, 582 (56.3%) were classified as level 1 complexity, 377 (36.5%) level 2 and 75 (7.3%) level 3. Significant differences were observed between the three groups with respect to procedural duration (73.7 min vs 85.6 min vs 136 min; p<0.001), VARC-3 technical success (97.9% vs 96.6% vs 92%; p<0.05) and VARC-3 device success (96.2% vs 92.3% vs 86.6%; p<0.001).

Conclusion

The TEX score is a simple tool which allows stratification of patients into three levels of complexity. Increasing complexity levels correlate with increasing procedural duration and reduced VARC-3 technical and device success. This is potentially useful for scheduling patients onto appropriate lists.
The Palaearctic types of Chrysididae (Insecta, Hymenoptera) deposited in the Linsenmaier collection. Part 5. Elampini: genus Holopyga Dahlbom, 1845
Authors: ROSA PAOLO , FELSNER CHRISTIAN , HEIM RENÉ , GREEFF MICHAEL , MICHEZ DENIS , BERNASCONI MARCO VALERIO
Published: January 2025

An illustrated catalogue of the Palaearctic types of species and subspecies of Holopyga Dahlbom, 1845 described by Walter Linsenmaier is presented. Linsenmaier described 48 species and subspecies of Holopyga and most of the primary types are deposited in the collection of the Natur-Museum in Luzern, Switzerland, with the exception of five holotypes which are deposited in other public and private collections. This catalogue includes the list of the described species, photographs of 41 holotypes and a synthesis of the recent changes in the taxonomy of Holopyga to update Linsenmaier’s classification. New synonymies are proposed for the subgenus Chamaeholopyga Linsenmaier, 1987 syn. nov. of Pseudolopyga Krombein, 1969 and for two species: Holopyga unitasculpta Linsenmaier, 1968 syn. nov. of H. solskyi (Radoszkowski, 1877) and H. jurinei Chevrier, 1862 syn. nov. of H. lucida (Lepeletier, 1806). Additionally, a new species, Holopyga dichroica Rosa sp. nov., formally referred to as H. jurinei sensu Linsenmaier 1959a is described.
Fixation Methods, Complications, and Outcomes After Primary Fixation of Isolated Chondral Fragments in the Knee: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tartibi Sina , Jackson Garrett R. , Boghosian Tanya , Brophy Robert H. , Smith Matthew V. , Matava Matthew J. , Knapik Derrick M.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Knee injuries resulting in purely cartilaginous defects are rare, and controversy remains regarding the reliability of chondral-only fixation.

Purpose:

To systematically review the literature for fixation methods and outcomes after primary fixation of chondral-only defects within the knee.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 5.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted following the 2020 PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines using keywords and Boolean phrases in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Scopus on October 10, 2023. Human studies reporting fixation methods and outcomes after primary fixation of chondral-only defects within the knee were included in this systematic review. Studies reporting subchondral bone involvement were excluded. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool. Postoperative outcomes, reoperations, and return to sport/activity were evaluated. Failure was defined as chondral fragment dislodgement or failure of healing postoperatively.

Results:

A total of 18 studies (N = 93 patients) were identified. The mean patient age was 16 years (mean range, 11-32 years), with a mean final follow-up of 42.4 months (mean range, 5-61.2 months). Men comprised 81% (n = 59/73) of patients. Bioabsorbable implants (n = 13 studies) were the most commonly reported fixation method. Complications related to fixation of the chondral fragment occurred in 10.8% of patients (n = 10/93), with all other complications occurring in 9.8% (n = 9/93) of patients. Revision surgery directly associated with the chondral fragment was reported in 10.8% (n = 10/93) of patients. Successful return to sport/activity was observed in 90% (n = 60/67) of patients. Intact fixation was reported in 85% (n = 75/88) of patients undergoing postoperative magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, or second-look arthroscopy.

Conclusion:

Primary fixation of chondral-only defects can lead to low rates of failure and revision surgery with a high return to sport/activity in young patients, even with relatively large lesions. Bioabsorbable implants and absorbable sutures were the most common fixation methods, primarily performed via open arthrotomy after diagnostic arthroscopy. Failure of fixation and implant irritation were the most commonly reported complications related to fixation, with reoperations directly related to fragment fixation performed in 10.8% of patients. Healing of the chondral fragment as evaluated using postoperative magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, or second-look arthroscopy was reported in 85% of patients.
No Association Between Donor Variables and Clinically Significant Outcomes, Reoperations, and Failure After Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation
Authors: Hevesi Mario , Wagner Kyle R. , Quigley Ryan A. , Meeker Zach D. , Yazdi Allen A. , Weissman Alexander C. , Muth Sara A. , Cohen Nate S. , Yanke Adam B. , Cole Brian J.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Mismatch between osteochondral allograft (OCA) donor and recipient sex has been shown to negatively affect outcomes. This study accounts for additional donor variables and clinically relevant outcomes.

Purpose:

To evaluate whether donor sex, age, donor-recipient sex mismatch, and duration of graft storage affect clinical outcomes and failure rates after knee OCA transplantation.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients undergoing knee OCA transplantation between 2003 and 2018 were prospectively followed. Inclusion criteria consisted of primary OCA transplantation and minimum 2-year follow-up. Patient descriptive data and allograft donor sex, age, and graft storage time before implantation were collected. Patients were evaluated for reoperation, failure, and achievement of clinically significant outcomes for International Knee Documentation Committee scores. Reoperation was defined as subsequent surgical intervention of the transplanted allograft, including second-look arthroscopy for graft evaluation, debridement, and loose body removal. Failure was defined as revision of the primary OCA transplantation or conversion to arthroplasty. A Kaplan-Meier curve determined cumulative survivability of OCA transplantations, and log-rank testing was used to compare survivorship between groups. Stepwise regression analysis was utilized to evaluate associations between donor variables and achievement of clinically significant outcomes, reoperation, and failure.

Results:

A total of 372 patients undergoing OCA transplantation were included and followed for a mean 5.4 years (SD, 2.7; range, 2.0-16.3). Isolated OCA transplantation was performed in 45% of cases (169/372). A mismatch in donor and recipient sex was present for more female patients (90%) than male patients (10%; P < .001). Those who had a sex-mismatched graft more frequently underwent concomitant tibial tubercle osteotomy ( P = .034). When controlling for patient sex, no other differences were seen between groups matched and mismatched by sex. Univariable and multivariable analysis found no significant difference in survival free from reoperation or failure on the basis of donor-recipient sex mismatch, donor age, or graft storage time before implantation.

Conclusion:

In contrast to previous historical data, no donor variables were associated with inferior clinical outcomes in patients who underwent OCA transplantation. These data can help inform graft selection, expedient recipient selection, and outcome optimization after OCA transplantation.
Screening approaches and potential of isolated lactic acid bacteria for improving fermentation of Saccharina latissima
Authors: Zioga Evangelia , Holdt Susan Løvstad , Gröndahl Fredrik , Bang-Berthelsen Claus Heiner
Published: January 2025

Background

With the growing interest in applying fermentation to seaweed biomasses, there is a need for fast and efficient selection of microbial strains that have the ability to 1) acidify quickly, 2) utilize seaweed constituents and c) exhibit some proteolytic activity. The present study aims to provide a fast methodology to screen large bacterial collections for potential applications in optimized seaweed fermentations, as well as investigate and assess the performance of a selected bacterial collection of the National Food Institute Culture Collection (NFICC) in seaweed fermentation. This approach is directed toward high-throughput (HT) methodologies, employing microwell assays for different phenotypical characteristics of lactic acid bacteria isolated from different sources. The overarching aim is the deeper understanding of the selection criteria when designing starter cultures for seaweed fermentation.

Results

By employing high-throughput analytical workflows, the screening processing time is minimized, and among the different strains from a well-characterized strain collection, it was possible to distinguish between strong acidifiers and to replicate similar results when the volumes were scaled from 96-well plates to lab-scale fermentations (40 mL) of whole seaweed. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei and, to a lesser extent, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus were among the fastest strains to reach the lowest endpoint pH values (< 4.5) in less than 48 h. Although the results regarding proteolytic capacity were not sufficient to prove that the candidates can also provide some flavor generation by the cleavage of proteins, NFICC1746 and NFICC2041 exhibited potential in releasing free alanine, glutamate and asparate as free amino acids.

Conclusions

With the described methodology, a large number of terrestrial lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolates were screened for their performance and possible application for fermentation of brown sewaeeds. With a a fast conversion of sugars to organic acids, three potential new plant-isolated strains from NFICC, specifically Lactiplantibacillus plantarum ssp. argentoratensis (NFICC983), Lacticaseibacillus paracasei (NFICC1746) and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (NFICC2041), were identified as promising candidates for future synthetic consortia aimed at application in bioprocessed seaweed. The combination of such strains will be the future focus to further optimize robust seaweed fermentations.