bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterizing SARS-CoV-2 Transcription of Subgenomic and Genomic RNAs During Early Human Infection Using Multiplexed Droplet Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Hwang Hyon S , Lo Che-Min , Murphy Michael , Grudda Tanner , Gallagher Nicholas , Luo Chun Huai , Robinson Matthew L , Mirza Agha , Conte Madison , Conte Abigail , Zhou Ruifeng , Vergara Candelaria , Brooke Christopher B , Pekosz Andrew , Mostafa Heba H , Manabe Yukari C , Thio Chloe L , Balagopal Ashwin
Published: December 2022

Background

Control of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission requires understanding SARS-CoV-2 replication dynamics.

Methods

We developed a multiplexed droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) assay to quantify SARS-CoV-2 subgenomic RNAs (sgRNAs), which are only produced during active viral replication, and discriminate them from genomic RNAs (gRNAs). We applied the assay to specimens from 144 people with single nasopharyngeal samples and 27 people with >1 sample. Results were compared to quantitative PCR (qPCR) and viral culture.

Results

sgRNAs were quantifiable across a range of qPCR cycle threshold (Ct) values and correlated with Ct values. The ratio sgRNA:gRNA was stable across a wide range of Ct values, whereas adjusted amounts of N sgRNA to a human housekeeping gene declined with higher Ct values. Adjusted sgRNA and gRNA amounts were quantifiable in culture-negative samples, although levels were significantly lower than in culture-positive samples. Daily testing of 6 persons revealed that sgRNA is concordant with culture results during the first week of infection but may be discordant with culture later in infection. sgRNA:gRNA is constant during infection despite changes in viral culture.

Conclusions

Ct values from qPCR correlate with active viral replication. More work is needed to understand why some cultures are negative despite presence of sgRNA.
Identification of Six Small Heat Shock Protein Genes in Ostrinia furnacalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and Analysis of Their Expression Patterns in Response to Environmental Stressors
Authors: Ruan Hong-Yun , Meng Jian-Yu , Yang Chang-Li , Zhou Lv , Zhang Chang-Yu
Published: December 2022

Ostrinia furnacalis (Guenée) is a major insect pest in maize production that is highly adaptable to the environment. Small heat shock proteins (sHsps) are a class of chaperone proteins that play an important role in insect responses to various environmental stresses. The present study aimed to clarify the responses of six O. furnacalis sHsps to environmental stressors. In particular, we cloned six sHsp genes, namely, OfHsp24.2, OfHsp21.3, OfHsp20.7, OfHsp21.8, OfHsp29.7, and OfHsp19.9, from O. furnacalis. The putative proteins encoded by these genes contained a typical α-crystallin domain. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to analyze the differences in the expression of these genes at different developmental stages, in different tissues of male and female adults, and in O. furnacalis under UV-A and extreme temperature stresses. The six OfsHsp genes were expressed at significantly different levels based on the developmental stage and tissue type in male and female adults. Furthermore, all OfsHsp genes were significantly upregulated in both male and female adults under extreme temperature and UV-A stresses. Thus, O. furnacalis OfsHsp genes play important and unique regulatory roles in the developmental stages of the insect and in response to various environmental stressors.
Gallbladder agenesis a rare and underdiagnosed congenital anomaly: a case report and literature review
Authors: Piltcher-da-Silva Rodrigo , Sasaki Vivian Laís , Felisberto Dóroty Eva Garcia , Bodanese Beatriz Carolina Schuta , Piltcher-Recuero Mariana , Bodanese Bianca Vitória Schuta , Bettini Luiz Francisco Cravo , Aguilera Yan Sacha Hass , da Costa Marco Raeder , Coelho Júlio Cezar Uili
Published: December 2022

Gallbladder agenesis (GA) is a rare congenital anomaly with conflicting epidemiology described in the literature. When present, it is misinterpreted as cholelitiasis, a highly prevalent condition. Nevertheless, surgeons and radiologists must be aware of it since it can lead to unnecessary invasive procedures. Diagnosis of GA is challenging due to the anatomical structures that sometimes resemble a shrunken gallbladder. We report the case of a 55-year-old man with preoperative diagnosis of cholelitiasis and further intraoperative find of GA. Since cholecystectomy is one of the most common surgeries worldwide, it demonstrates how relevant this case is to emphasize the need to recognize this diagnosis and be aware of its management to avoid unnecessary surgery.
Plant host domestication and soil nutrient availability determine positive plant microbial response across the Solanum genus
Authors: Miao Max , Lankau Richard
Published: December 2022

Domestication of crops has changed how crops shape their associated microbial communities compared with their progenitors. However, studies testing how crop domestication-driven differences in rhizosphere microbial communities affect plant health are limited mostly to specific symbiont pairings. By conducting a soil manipulation greenhouse study, we examined plant growth and yield in response to differences in microbial communities and nutrient availability across a variety of wild, landrace, and commercially available ‘Modern’ potatoes. Coupled with this, we conducted 16S and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) amplicon sequencing to examine plant host- and soil treatment-driven differences in microbial community composition on potato plant roots. We found that the plant response to microbes (PRM) was context dependent. In low nutrient conditions, landraces responded positively to the presence of live soil microbial inocula. Conversely, modern potato varieties responded positively only in high nutrient conditions. Amplicon sequencing found differences in bacterial communities due to environmental and temporal factors. However, potato clade (e.g. Andigenum, Chiletanum, Solanum berthaultii, and ‘Modern’) alone did not lead to differences in microbial communities that accounted for PRM differences. Differences in PRM between landraces and modern potatoes, and the correlation of PRM to microbial diversity, suggest that domestication and subsequent breeding have altered the S. tuberosum response to rhizosphere microbiomes between Andigenum, Chiletanum, and North American potato varieties.
The stability of Uranus Trojans over the age of the Solar system
Authors: Wood Jeremy
Published: December 2022

The stability of eight nominal fictitious Uranus Trojan orbits over the age of the Solar system has been measured. The initial inclinations, i0, were 0°, 5°, 15°, and 30° relative to the ecliptic plane. Initial eccentricities ranged from 0 to 0.1 for i0 = 0° and 5°, and 0 to 0.2 for i0 = 15° and 30°. Half of the orbits were in the L4 swarm, and half were in the L5 swarm. Orbits in the L4 swarm had mean longitudes 8.8° from the nominal L4 Lagrange point, and orbits in the L5 swarm had mean longitudes 18.2° from the nominal L5 point. I integrated 10 000 massless clones per nominal orbit in the six-body problem (Sun, test particle, and four giant planets) for 4.5 Gyr and calculated the half-life for each orbit. A total of 1291 test particles survived for the entire integration time. Of these survivors, 99 per cent were associated with the nominal orbit with i0 = 0° in the L4 swarm. These surviving test particles had initial eccentricities in the range e0 < 0.07. The half-lives associated with L4 orbits were 1258, 286, 56, and 237 Myr for nominal orbits with i0 = 0°, 5°, 15°, and 30°, respectively. The half-lives associated with L5 orbits were 103, 281, 25, and 46 Myr, respectively. The overall results showed that the ecliptic plane is one good place to search for primordial Uranus Trojans.
Scattering variability detected from the circumsource medium of FRB 20190520B
Authors: Ocker Stella Koch , Cordes James M , Chatterjee Shami , Li Di , Niu Chen-Hui , McKee James W , Law Casey J , Anna-Thomas Reshma
Published: December 2022

Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are millisecond-time-scale radio transients, the origins of which are predominantly extragalactic and likely involve highly magnetized compact objects. FRBs undergo multipath propagation, or scattering, from electron density fluctuations on sub-parsec scales in ionized gas along the line of sight. Scattering observations have located plasma structures within FRB host galaxies, probed Galactic and extragalactic turbulence, and constrained FRB redshifts. Scattering also inhibits FRB detection and biases the observed FRB population. We report the detection of scattering times from the repeating FRB 20190520B that vary by up to a factor of 2 or more on minutes to days-long time-scales. In one notable case, the scattering time varied from 7.9 ± 0.4 ms to less than 3.1 ms ($95{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ confidence) over 2.9 min at 1.45 GHz. The scattering times appear to be uncorrelated between bursts or with dispersion and rotation measure variations. Scattering variations are attributable to dynamic, inhomogeneous plasma in the circumsource medium, and analogous variations have been observed from the Crab pulsar. Under such circumstances, the frequency dependence of scattering can deviate from the typical power law used to measure scattering. Similar variations may therefore be detectable from other FRBs, even those with inconspicuous scattering, providing a unique probe of small-scale processes within FRB environments.
MOSEL survey: extremely weak outflows in EoR analogues at z = 3−4
Authors: Gupta Anshu , Tran Kim-Vy , Mendel Trevor , Harshan Anishya , Forrest Ben , Davies R L , Wisnioski Emily , Nanayakkara Themiya , Kacprzak Glenn G , Kewley Lisa J
Published: December 2022

This paper presents deep K-band spectroscopic observations of galaxies at z = 3 − 4 with composite photometric rest-frame H β+[O iii] 5007 equivalent widths (EW0) > 600 Å, comparable to the EW of galaxies observed during the epoch of reionization (EoR, z > 6). The typical spectroscopic [O iii] 5007 EW0 and stellar mass of our targets is ∼700 Å and log (M*/M⊙) = 8.98. By stacking the [O iii] 5007 emission profiles, we find evidence of a weak broad component with $\rm F_{broad}/F_{narrow} \sim 0.2$ and velocity width σbroad ∼ 170 km s−1. The strength and velocity width of the broad component does not change significantly with stellar mass and [O iii] 5007 EW0 of the stacked sample. Assuming similar broad component profiles for [O iii] 5007 and Hα emission, we estimate a mass loading factor ∼0.2, similar to low stellar mass galaxies at z > 1 even if the star formation rates of our sample is 10 times higher. We hypothesize that either the multiphase nature of supernovae driven outflows or the suppression of winds in the extreme star-forming regime is responsible for the weak signature of outflows in the EoR analogues.
The disappearances of six supernova progenitors
Authors: Van Dyk Schuyler D , de Graw Asia , Baer-Way Raphael , Zheng WeiKang , Filippenko Alexei V , Fox Ori D , Smith Nathan , Brink Thomas G , de Jaeger Thomas , Kelly Patrick L , Vasylyev Sergiy S
Published: December 2022

As part of a larger completed Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Snapshot program, we observed the sites of six nearby core-collapse supernovae (SNe) at high spatial resolution: SN 2012A, SN 2013ej, SN 2016gkg, SN 2017eaw, SN 2018zd, and SN 2018aoq. These observations were all conducted at sufficiently late times in each SN’s evolution to demonstrate that the massive-star progenitor candidate identified in each case in pre-explosion imaging data had indeed vanished and was therefore most likely the actual progenitor. However, we have determined for SN 2016gkg that the progenitor candidate was most likely a blend of two objects: the progenitor, which itself has likely vanished, and another closely neighbouring star. We thus provide a revised estimate of that progenitor’s properties: a binary system with a hydrogen-stripped primary star at explosion with effective temperature ≈6300–7900 K, bolometric luminosity ≈104.65 L⊙, radius ≈118–154 R⊙, and initial mass 9.5–11 M⊙. Utilizing late-time additional archival HST data nearly contemporaneous with our Snapshots, we also show that SN 2017eaw had a luminous ultraviolet excess, which is best explained as a result of ongoing interaction of the SN shock with pre-existing circumstellar matter. We offer the caveat, particularly in the case of SN 2013ej, that obscuration from SN dust may be compromising our conclusions. This sample adds to the growing list of confirmed or likely core-collapse SN progenitors.
A general relativistic extension to mesh-free methods for hydrodynamics
Authors: Lupi Alessandro
Published: December 2022

The detection of gravitational waves has opened a new era for astronomy, allowing for the combined use of gravitational wave and electromagnetic emissions to directly probe the physics of compact objects, still poorly understood. So far, the theoretical modelling of these sources has mainly relied on standard numerical techniques as grid-based methods or smoothed particle hydrodynamics, with only a few recent attempts at using new techniques as moving-mesh schemes. Here, we introduce a general relativistic extension to the mesh-less hydrodynamic schemes in the code gizmo, which benefits from the use of Riemann solvers and at the same time perfectly conserves angular momentum thanks to a generalized leap-frog integration scheme. We benchmark our implementation against many standard tests for relativistic hydrodynamics, either in one or three dimensions, and also test the ability to preserve the equilibrium solution of a Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff compact star. In all the presented tests, the code performs extremely well, at a level at least comparable to other numerical techniques.
Swift J1728.9−3613 is a black hole X-ray binary: a spectral and timing study usingNICER
Authors: Saha Debasish , Mandal Manoj , Pal Sabyasachi
Published: December 2022

We have studied different timing and spectral properties of the new Galactic X-ray transient Swift J1728.9−3613 using NICER and Swift, discovered by the Burst Alert Telescope on the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. The source went through multiple transitions to different spectral states during the outburst, and the complete evolution created a ‘q’-shaped track in the hardness-intensity diagram. A partial hysteresis is also observed in the RMS-intensity diagram, which is another well-defined feature of black hole transients. In soft intermediate states, power-density spectra were dominated by broad-band noise components, and two type-B quasi-periodic oscillations were detected. We have fitted 1–10 keV energy spectra obtained from NICER observations that were performed during the outburst, and the temporal evolution of spectral parameters is studied. A small-scale reflare happened near MJD 58584.69, resulting in finite changes in spectral parameters, and the 1–10 keV averaged flux also increased. We observed that the innermost radius of the accretion disc was almost constant during the soft state and we have measured the mass of the compact object to be ∼4.6 M⊙, considering a non-spinning black hole binary system. The soft-to-hard transition occurred when the bolometric luminosity was 0.01 times the Eddington luminosity. Based on our combined study of the evolution of the timing and spectral properties, we conclude that the new source Swift J1728.9−3613 is a black hole X-ray binary.
Response regulator PorX coordinates oligonucleotide signalling and gene expression to control the secretion of virulence factors
Authors: Schmitz Claus , Madej Mariusz , Nowakowska Zuzanna , Cuppari Anna , Jacula Anna , Ksiazek Miroslaw , Mikruta Katarzyna , Wisniewski Jerzy , Pudelko-Malik Natalia , Saran Anshu , Zeytuni Natalie , Mlynarz Piotr , Lamont Richard J , Usón Isabel , Siksnys Virginijus , Potempa Jan , Solà Maria
Published: December 2022

The PglZ family of proteins belongs to the alkaline phosphatase superfamily, which consists of metallohydrolases with limited sequence identity but similar metal-coordination architectures in otherwise divergent active sites. Proteins with a well-defined PglZ domain are ubiquitous among prokaryotes as essential components of BREX phage defence systems and two-component systems (TCSs). Whereas other members of the alkaline phosphatase superfamily are well characterized, the activity, structure and biological function of PglZ family proteins remain unclear. We therefore investigated the structure and function of PorX, an orphan response regulator of the Porphyromonas gingivalis TCS containing a putative PglZ effector domain. The crystal structure of PorX revealed a canonical receiver domain, a helical bundle, and an unprecedented PglZ domain, similar to the general organization of the phylogenetically related BREX-PglZ proteins. The PglZ domain of PorX features an active site cleft suitable for large substrates. An extensive search for substrates revealed that PorX is a phosphodiesterase that acts on cyclic and linear oligonucleotides, including signalling molecules such as cyclic oligoadenylates. These results, combined with mutagenesis, biophysical and enzymatic analysis, suggest that PorX coordinates oligonucleotide signalling pathways and indirectly regulates gene expression to control the secretion of virulence factors.
Nephrosclerosis in young patients with malignant hypertension
Authors: Bureau Côme , Jamme Matthieu , Schurder Juliet , Bobot Mickaël , Robert Thomas , Couturier Aymeric , Karras Alexandre , Halimi Jean-Michel , Bellenfant Xavier , Rondeau Eric , Mesnard Laurent
Published: December 2022

Background

Nephrosclerosis is one of the histopathological consequences of severe or malignant hypertension (MH), some of the pathophysiology of which has been extrapolated from essential polygenetic arterial hypertension. Despite our recent description of unsuspected ciliopathies with MH, causes of MH in young patients with severe renal impairment are poorly understood.

Methods

To refine and better describe the MH phenotype, we studied clinical and prognostic factors in young patients receiving a kidney biopsy following their first episode of MH. Patients were identified retrospectively and prospectively from eight centres over a 35-year period (1985–2020). Keywords were used to retrospectively enrol patients irrespective of lesions found on renal biopsy.

Results

A total of 114 patients were included, 77 (67%) of whom were men, average age 34 years, 35% Caucasian and 34% African origin. An isolated clinical diagnosis of severe nephrosclerosis was suggested in only 52% of cases, with 24% primary glomerulopathies. Only 7% of patients had normal renal function at diagnosis, 25% required emergency dialysis and 21% were eventually transplanted. Mortality was 1% at the last follow-up. Independent prognostic factors significantly associated with renal prognosis (6-month dialysis) and predictive of end-stage renal disease were serum creatinine on admission {odds ratio [OR] 1.56 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.34–1.96], P < .001} and renal fibrosis >30% [OR 10.70 (95% CI 1.53–112.03), P = .03]. Astonishingly, the presence of any thrombotic microangiopathy lesion on renal biopsy was an independent, protective factor [OR 0.14 (95% CI 0.02–0.60), P = .01]. The histopathological hallmark of nephrosclerosis was found alone in only 52% of study patients, regardless of ethnicity.

Conclusions

This suggests that kidney biopsy might be beneficial in young patients with MH.
Development of Dependence in Smokers and Rodents With Voluntary Nicotine Intake: Similarities and Differences
Authors: Chellian Ranjithkumar , Behnood-Rod Azin , Bruijnzeel Adriaan W
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Smoking and vaping throughout adolescence and early adulthood lead to nicotine dependence. Nicotine withdrawal is associated with somatic and affective withdrawal symptoms that contribute to smoking and relapse. Affective nicotine withdrawal symptoms in humans include craving for cigarettes, depression, anxiety, trouble sleeping, and cognitive deficits.

Methods

Herein, we review clinical studies that investigated nicotine dependence in people who smoke or vape. We also discuss studies that investigated the development of dependence in animals with oral nicotine intake, nicotine aerosol self-administration, and intravenous nicotine self-administration.

Results

Clinical studies report that adolescents who smoke daily develop nicotine dependence before those who smoke infrequently, but ultimately all smokers become dependent in adulthood. Preclinical studies indicate that rats that self-administer nicotine also become dependent. Rats that self-administer nicotine display somatic withdrawal signs and affective withdrawal signs, including increased anxiety and depressive-like behavior, cognitive deficits, and allodynia. Most nicotine withdrawal signs were observed in rodents with daily (7 days/week) or intermittent long access (23-hour) to nicotine. Clinical smoking studies report symptoms of nicotine dependence in adolescents of both sexes, but virtually all preclinical nicotine self-administration studies have been done with adult male rats.

Conclusions

The role of sex and age in the development of dependence in nicotine self-administration studies remains under-investigated. However, the role of sex and age in nicotine withdrawal has been thoroughly evaluated in studies in which nicotine was administered noncontingently. We discuss the need for volitional nicotine self-administration studies that explore the gradual development of dependence during adolescence and adulthood in rodents of both sexes.

Implications

The reviewed clinical studies investigated the development of nicotine dependence in male and female adolescent and young adult smokers and vapers. These studies indicate that most adolescent smokers and vapers gradually become nicotine dependent. Preclinical studies with rodents show that nicotine intake in widely used self-administration models also leads to dependence. However, almost all animal studies that investigated the development of nicotine dependence have been conducted with adult male rats. To better model smoking and vaping, it is important that nicotine intake in rats or mice starts during adolescence and that both sexes are included.
Ultrasound-guided Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression (PLDD) with Fluoroscopic Validation for the Treatment of Cervical Disc Herniation: Technical Note
Authors: Gazzeri Roberto , Tribuzi Susanna , Galarza Marcelo , Leoni Matteo Luigi Giuseppe , Occhigrossi Felice
Published: December 2022

Objective

Percutaneous laser disc decompression (PLDD) has been regarded as an effective alternative for the treatment of cervical soft disc herniations. Repeated X-Ray scanning is essential when performing this technique.

Design

Technical note.

Methods

We present a new method for the treatment of cervical disc herniation using ultrasound to guide the needle entry to the cervical disc, to avoid excess of radiation exposure during the surgical procedure. We evaluated the efficacy of this cervical approach. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of 14 cases who underwent a PLDD under ultrasound guidance for the treatment of contained cervical disc herniation using a 1,470 Nm diode laser. The lower cervical discs (C5–C6 and C6–C7) were the most affected sites, accounting for 78.6% of surgical discs. A significant NRS reduction between baseline and 1 month (P = .0002) and between baseline and 12 months (P = .0007) was observed.

Conclusions

Our results support the conclusion that ultrasound guided PLDD with fluoroscopic validation is a minimally invasive technique for patients affected by herniated cervical discs, but proper choice of patients is critical. This approach should not be performed except after adequate training under close supervision of surgeons experienced in this procedure and in interventional US.
Back to our roots or sowing new seeds: thinking anew on the paradigms of health, harm and disease
Authors: van Schalkwyk May C I , Zenone Marco , Maani Nason , Petticrew Mark , McKee Martin
Published: December 2022

Health, harms and disease are intimately linked, and their promotion and distribution are determined by the social, political and physical worlds in which people live. Yet, the popular narrative on health is still dominated by a biological model that focuses on a disease-causing ‘pathogen’ or ‘agent’ that leads to pathology which is diagnosable and amenable to intervention at the individual level via measures delivered through the health care and public health systems. This model generally rests on understanding populations as a collection of individuals, with the pattern of disease seen as the sum of a series of risk factors acting on each of them. Too little attention is paid to the ways in which health, harm, disease, causation and risk are conceptualized and used as guiding concepts in research, policy debates and other fora. We often overlook the distribution of health and the regulatory regimes, norms, values and rights that promote or undermine health. By challenging our ways of thinking about health, harms and disease, we can start to appreciate with greater depth the ways in which health can be threatened and what should be seen as harmful, and conversely, opportunities for moving our systems towards promoting and protecting health.
The Faculty of Public Health: past, present and future
Authors: Trethewey Samuel P
Published: December 2022

This year we celebrate 50 years of the UK Faculty of Public Health (FPH). This commentary serves as a reflection on the history of the FPH, considering the origins of public health in the UK and the role of the FPH in shaping public health practice and policy. The genesis and evolution of the FPH are discussed, drawing upon reflections from past presidents and the wider literature. Historical shifts in the identity and roles of public health practitioners are also explored in the context of an increasingly complex and dynamic health and social care system. Key changes in public health practice are described, including the development of a multidisciplinary public health workforce and an increased focus on health inequalities over recent decades. Building upon this is a discussion of the current purpose of the FPH and perspectives on the future of the FPH amidst a changing public health landscape.
Public health and military health
Authors: Falconer Hall Thomas , Bricknell MCM , Ross DA
Published: December 2022

This paper summarizes the role of Public Health specialists within the UK Defence Medical Services (DMS). The armed forces have a need for expert advice on health improvement, health protection and healthcare public health. The first professor of military hygiene, Dr Edmund Parkes, was a leading pioneer in the public health movement of the late 19th century. Since then, the armed forces have evolved the term ‘hygiene’, though ‘health’, to ‘well-being’. Military doctors with an interest in medical administration and the health of populations have longstanding links with their civilian peers, through the Society of Medical Officers of Health and its successor the Faculty of Public Health. The specialty of Public Health in the armed forces is multidisciplinary, following the same educational pathway as civilian peers. The speciality has made important contributions during global health emergencies including the Ebola outbreak in 2014 and the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Although a small cadre, within the DMS and in the UK Public Health workforce, they have an important role in keeping our armed forces ready for operations. We celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Faculty of Public Health and expect that the DMS will contribute to the further development of the specialty.
Small Rebalanced Portfolios Often Beat the Market over Long Horizons
Authors: Farago Adam , Hjalmarsson Erik
Published: December 2022

The distribution of long-run compound returns to portfolio strategies is greatly affected by periodic rebalancing. Over time, buy-and-hold portfolios gradually lose diversification as extreme long-run skewness in individual stock returns leads to increasingly concentrated holdings. For long investment horizons, small rebalanced portfolios holding only a fraction of all stocks therefore achieve better diversification than much larger marketwide buy-and-hold portfolios. Consequently, over long horizons, rebalanced portfolios tend to outperform buy-and-hold portfolios, and risk-averse investors prefer the former. Empirical results strongly support the theoretical predictions and add further evidence to the strong empirical performance of (small) equal-weighted portfolios. (JEL G10, G11)

Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
Watch What They Do, Not What They Say: Estimating Regulatory Costs from Revealed Preferences
Authors: Alvero Adrien , Ando Sakai , Xiao Kairong
Published: December 2022

We show that distortion in the size distribution of banks around regulatory thresholds can be used to identify costs of bank regulation. We build a structural model in which banks can strategically bunch their assets below regulatory thresholds to avoid regulations. The resultant distortion in the size distribution of banks reveals the magnitude of regulatory costs. Using U.S. bank data, we estimate the regulatory costs imposed by the Dodd-Frank Act. Although the estimated regulatory costs are substantial, they are significantly lower than banks’ self-reported estimates.

Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
Cumulative disease damage and anti-PM/Scl antibodies are associated with a heavy burden of calcinosis in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Richardson Carrie , Perin Jamie , Zeger Scott , Wigley Fredrick M , Hummers Laura K , Casciola-Rosen Livia , Rosen Antony , Shah Ami A
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Ectopic calcification (calcinosis) is a common complication of SSc, but a subset of SSc patients has a heavy burden of calcinosis. We examined whether there are unique risk factors for a heavy burden of calcinosis, as compared with a light burden or no calcinosis.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of all patients in the Johns Hopkins Scleroderma Center Research Registry with calcinosis to quantify calcinosis burden using pre-specified definitions. We performed latent class analysis to identify SSc phenotypic classes. We used multinomial logistic regression to determine whether latent phenotypic classes and autoantibodies were independent risk factors for calcinosis burden.

Results

Of all patients, 29.4% (997/3388) had calcinosis, and 13.5% (130/963) of those with calcinosis had a heavy burden. The latent phenotypic class with predominantly diffuse skin disease and higher disease severity (characterized by pulmonary hypertension, interstitial lung disease, cardiomyopathy, severe RP, gastrointestinal involvement, renal crisis, myopathy and/or tendon friction rubs) was associated with an increased risk of both a heavy burden [odds ratio (OR) 6.92, 95% CI 3.66, 13.08; P < 0.001] and a light burden (OR 2.88, 95% CI 2.11, 3.95; P < 0.001) of calcinosis compared with the phenotypic class with predominantly limited skin disease. Autoantibodies to PM/Scl were strongly associated with a heavy burden of calcinosis (OR 17.31, 95% CI 7.72, 38.81; P < 0.001) and to a lesser degree a light burden of calcinosis (OR 3.59, 95% CI 1.84, 7.00; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Calcinosis burden is associated with cumulative SSc-related tissue damage. Independent of disease severity, autoantibodies to PM/Scl are also associated with a heavy burden of calcinosis.
Data-driven technology of fault diagnosis in railway point machines: review and challenges
Authors: Hu Xiaoxi , Cao Yuan , Tang Tao , Sun Yongkui
Published: December 2022

Safety and reliability are absolutely vital for sophisticated Railway Point Machines (RPMs). Hence, various kinds of sensors and transducers are deployed on RPMs as much as possible to monitor their behaviour for detection of incipient faults and anticipation using data-driven technology. This paper firstly analyses and summarizes six RPMs’ characteristics and then reviews the data-driven algorithms applied to fault diagnosis in RPMs during the past decade. It provides not only the process and evaluation metrics but also the pros and cons of these different methods. Ultimately, regarding the characteristics of RPMs and the existing studies, eight challenging problems and promising research directions are pointed out.
An Evaluation of Seasonal Maternal-Neonatal Morbidity Related to Trainee Cycles
Authors: Oben Ayamo , McGee Paula , Grobman William A. , Bailit Jennifer L. , Wapner Ronald J. , Varner Michael W. , Thorp John M. , Caritis Steve N. , Prasad Mona , Saade George R. , Rouse Dwight J. , Blackwell Sean C.
Published: December 2022

(Abstracted from Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2022;4:100583)

The “July phenomenon” is the concept that the arrival of new physicians into clinical practice around July corresponds with the deterioration of patient outcomes. In addition, around this same time frame, those in residency also gain new levels of responsibility that require training.
Navigating Loss of Abortion Services—A Large Academic Medical Center Prepares for the Overturn of Roe v. Wade
Authors: Harris Lisa H.
Published: December 2022

(Abstracted from N Engl J Med 2022;386:2061–2064)

As abortion is now intensely politicized in the United States, public discourse obscures its nature as an issue of health and health care. Preparation for the wide impact of criminalized abortion is paramount.
Evaluation of Long-Term Outcomes Associated With Preterm Exposure to Antenatal Corticosteroids: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Ninan Kiran , Liyanage Sugee K. , Murphy Kellie E. , Asztalos Elizabeth V. , McDonald Sarah D.
Published: December 2022

(Abstracted from JAMA Pediatr 2022;176:e220483)

Pregnancies at risk for preterm birth are treated with antenatal corticosteroids, which have been found to lower the morbidity and mortality of preterm babies. Clinical guidelines advocate for the use of antenatal corticosteroids, although studies in animals have found an association between exposure to antenatal corticosteroids and harmful neurological outcomes, including diminished cortical surface, alterations to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, decreased blood flow in specific brain areas, and loss of essential synaptic proteins.
A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Association Between Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Coronary Artery Calcification
Authors: Osibogun Olatokunbo , Ogunmoroti Oluseye , Kolade Olamide B. , Hays Allison G. , Okunrintemi Victor , Minhas Anum S. , Gulati Martha , Michos Erin D.
Published: December 2022

(Abstracted from J Womens Health 2022;31:762–771)

One of the most common endocrine pathologies occurring in women of reproductive age is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The prevalence of PCOS in the general population ranges from 5% to 13%.
Diagnostic Routes and Time Intervals for Ovarian Cancer in Nine International Jurisdictions; Findings From the International Cancer Benchmarking Partnership (ICBP)
Authors: Menon Usha , Weller David , Falborg Alina Zalounina , Jensen Henry , Butler John , Barisic Andriana , Knudsen Anne Kari , Bergin Rebecca J. , Brewster David H. , Cairnduff Victoria , Fourkala Evangelia Ourania , Gavin Anna T. , Grunfeld Eva , Harland Elizabeth , Kalsi Jatinderpal , Law Rebecca-Jane , Lin Yulan , Turner Donna , Neal Richard D. , White Victoria , Harrison Samantha , Reguilon Irene , Lynch Charlotte , Vedsted Peter
Published: December 2022

(Abstracted from Br J Cancer 2022;127:844–854)

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the gynecological malignancy with the highest mortality, partially attributable to the lack of effective screening for early-stage disease. Despite inadequate screening methods, there exists significant international variation in the proportion diagnosed at late stage and in OC survival across all stages.
Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Patients: Sedation, Monitoring, and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes
Authors: Lee Jennifer J. , Jaconia Giselle D. , Sun Lena S. , Biagas Katherine V. , Naim Maryam Y. , Beers Sue R. , Mintz C. David , Smith Heidi A.B.
Published: December 2022

The design and conduct of pediatric sedation studies in critically ill patients have historically been challenging due to the complexity of the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) environment and the difficulty of establishing equipoise. Clinical trials, for instance, represent 1 important means of advancing our knowledge in this field, but there is a paucity of such studies in the literature. Accounting for ground-level factors in planning for each trial phase (eg, enrollment, intervention, assessment, and follow-up) and the presence of broader system limitations is of key importance. In addition, there is a need for early planning, coordination, and obtaining buy-in from individual study sites and staff to ensure success, particularly for multicenter studies. This review synthesizes the current state of pediatric sedation research and the myriad of challenges in designing and conducting successful trials in this particular area. The review poses consideration for future research directions, including novel study designs, and discusses electroencephalography monitoring and neurodevelopmental outcomes of PICU survivors.
Care of Patients with Service or Therapy Animals
Authors: Taft Lyla
Published: December 2022

Animals have long been used in the service of people with various disabilities and provide more than companionship. This article synthesizes current literature and recommendations regarding service and therapy animals in healthcare settings and explains how nurses can help accommodate care of service or therapy animals during outpatient care and acute inpatient admissions.
Components, Implementation, and Outcomes of a Nursing Professional Practice Model
Authors: Hamilton Wendy , Javed Mariyam , Orina Judy , Pierce Taylor , Campbell Caitlin Marley , Williams Kathy , Foots Lozay , Levenson Jonathan , Robins Katherine , Hodson Patricia , McCarthy Mary , Patrician Patrician A. , Swiger Pauline A.
Published: December 2022

Nursing professional practice models (PPMs) are known to have beneficial effects on nurse and patient outcomes. Determining what components should be present in a PPM, how to implement a PPM, and evaluating the outcomes associated with a PPM is less certain. Therefore, as part of a larger project to develop a nursing PPM for use within the United States Military Health System, this study aimed to conduct a systematic literature review on nursing PPMs. Specifically, the review sought to investigate components, implementation, and outcomes of PPMs in current literature. A total of 37 articles were included in the review. The literature supported the development of 12 recommendations for creating, implementing, and evaluating a nursing PPM. As health care facilities develop their own PPMs or reassess their current PPMs, findings from this review may assist hospital leadership by providing the most recent evidence on the strategic value of nursing PPMs in contemporary health care.
The Postpandemic Nursing Workforce
Authors: Rocchio Betty Jo , Seys Jill D. , Williams Denise L. , Vancil Barbara J. , McNett Molly M.
Published: December 2022

Inequities between nursing workforce supply and demand continue to challenge nurse executives in creating the vision for a postpandemic nursing workforce. Health system's workforce redesign strategies must prioritize the changing needs of the multigenerational workforce to maximize the available supply of nurses willing to remain in the workforce. A test of a newly designed flexible workforce framework, aimed to meet the needs of the multigenerational workforce, resulted in increased fill rates and decreased costs of labor.
Safe Newborn Sleep Practices on a Large Volume Maternity Service
Authors: Stone Gabrielle , Chase Allison , Vidrine Dana C. , Singleton Wendy W. , Kitto Laurel , Laborde Kelly , Harper Jeannie , Sutton Elizabeth F.
Published: December 2022

Purpose:

Reinforcing safe infant sleep conditions in the hospital setting supports continuation of safe sleep practices after hospital discharge and should be considered the first line of defense for reducing risk for sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) at home. The purpose of this study is to determine knowledge of perinatal nurses, nursing assistants, physicians, and ancillary personnel about safe sleep recommendations and implementation of safe sleep practices on the mother–baby unit.

Study Design and Methods:

Nurses and other members of the perinatal health care team in a level III maternity service were invited to participate in a survey about safe sleep knowledge and practices. An audit for safe sleep adherence was conducted on the mother–baby unit for 120 mother–baby couplets over 1 year as a process improvement project.

Results:

N = 144 surveys were completed; most participants (86%) were nurses. They had high levels of knowledge about safe sleep recommendations and 74% reported making at least one safe sleep adjustment during one shift per week. The most common modifications at least once per week were removing baby from a sleeping caregiver (30%) and removing items from baby's bassinet (26%). Safe sleep audit findings revealed 32 out of 120 couplets were not fully following safe sleep recommendations, with most common unsafe sleep practice metrics being items in the baby's bassinet (18%) and bassinets propped up (8%).

Clinical Implications:

During the hospitalization for childbirth, new parents can learn about safe sleep practices from the perinatal health care team. Sharing information and role modeling safe sleep practices can promote continuation of safe sleep practices for the newborn at home after hospital discharge.
Group B Streptococcus and Pregnancy: Critical Concepts and Management Nuances
Authors: Dotters-Katz Sarah K. , Kuller Jeffrey , Heine R. Phillips , Wheeler Sarahn M.
Published: December 2022

Importance

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a common pathogen with an effective treatment. However, it remains a significant cause of neonatal sepsis, morbidity, and mortality. The screening and management of this infection are some of the first concepts learned during medical training in obstetrics. However, effective screening and evidence-based management of GBS are nuanced with many critical caveats.

Objective

The objectives of this review are to discuss the essential aspects of GBS screening and management and to highlight recent changes to recommendations and guidelines.

Evidence Acquisition

Original research articles, review articles, and guidelines on GBS were reviewed.

Results

The following recommendations are based on review of the evidence and professional society guidelines. Screening for GBS should occur between 36 weeks and the end of the 37th week. The culture swab should go 2 cm into the vagina and 1 cm into the anus. Patients can perform their own swabs as well. Penicillin allergy testing has been shown to be safe in pregnancy. Patients with GBS in the urine should be treated at term with antibiotic prophylaxis, independent of the colony count of the culture. Patients who are GBS-positive with preterm and prelabor rupture of membranes after 34 weeks are not candidates for expectant management, as this population has higher rates of neonatal infectious complications. Patients with a history of GBS colonization in prior pregnancy who are GBS-unknown in this current pregnancy and present with labor should receive intrapartum prophylaxis. Work on the GBS vaccine continues.

Conclusions

Although all of the efforts and focus on neonatal early-onset GBS infection have led to lower rates of disease, GBS still remains a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality requiring continued vigilance from obstetric providers.

Target Audience

Obstetricians and gynecologists, family physicians.

Learning Objectives

After participating in this activity, the provider should be better able to explain updates to GBS screening recommendations; identify indications for the GBS prophylaxis in common antepartum and intrapartum scenarios; and describe the correct method for performing the GBS swab.
Medicaid Expansion and 2-Year Survival in Women With Gynecologic Cancer: A Difference-in-Difference Analysis
Authors: Huepenbecker Sarah P. , Fu Shuangshuang , Sun Charlotte C. , Zhao Hui , Primm Kristin M. , Giordano Sharon H. , Meyer Larissa A.
Published: December 2022

(Abstracted from Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022;227:482.e1–482.e15)

In 2014, the Affordable Care Act gave the option for states to expand Medicaid to provide health care coverage to adults with incomes below 138% of the federal poverty level. This expansion was unequally adopted, and multiple studies have demonstrated expansion to be associated with improved insurance coverage, early-stage diagnosis, and timely treatment of women with gynecologic malignancies.
Effect of Time of Year on Surgical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Minimally Invasive Sacral Colpopexy or Uterosacral Ligament Suspension
Authors: Renkosiak Kaitlin , Bradley Megan , Dubinskaya Alexandra , Shepherd Jonathan P.
Published: December 2022

(Abstracted from Urogynecology 2022;28:561–566)

Research across many fields of medicine suggests the existence of the “July effect,” or increased morbidity and mortality at medical teaching institutions due to the influx of new students and trainees (as much as a 10% increase of fatal medication errors). However, other studies suggest similar mortality rates in both teaching and nonteaching hospitals from the months of May to July, which negates the potential existence of the July effect.
Barriers and Promotors to Health Service Utilization for Pelvic Floor Disorders in the United States: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Qualitative and Quantitative Studies
Authors: Mou Tsung , Gonzalez Javier , Gupta Ankita , O'Shea Michele , Thibault Mary Duarte , Gray Elizabeth L. , Beestrum Molly , Brown Oluwateniola , Cichowski Sara
Published: December 2022

(Abstracted from Urogynecology 2022;28:574–581)

Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs), such as pelvic organ prolapse (POP), anal incontinence (AI), and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs), affect approximately 1 in 4 women in the United States. Many women endure PFD symptoms without seeking care.