bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of congenital heart disease and neurodevelopmental disorders: an observational and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Zhi-yuan , Wang Qiong-qiong , Pang Xian-yong , Huang Xiao-bi , Yang Gui-ming , Zhao Sheng
Published: April 2024

Background

This study aims to thoroughly study the connection between congenital heart disease (CHD) and neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) through observational and Mendelian randomization (MR) designs.

Methods

This observational study uses data from the National Survey of Children’s Health (2020–2021). Multivariable logistic regression and propensity score matching (PSM) were performed to analyze the association. PSM was used to minimize bias for covariates such as age, race, gender, maternal age, birth weight, concussion or brain injury, preterm birth, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other inherited conditions. In MR analyses, inverse variance-weighted measures, weighted median, and MR-Egger were employed to calculate causal effects.

Results

A total of 85,314 children aged 0–17 were analyzed in this study. In regression analysis, CHD (p = 0.04), the current heart condition (p = 0.03), and the severity of current heart condition (p < 0.05) had a suggestive association with speech or language disorders. The severity of current heart condition (p = 0.08) has a potential statistically significant association with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD). In PSM samples, ADHD(p = 0.003), intellectual disability(p = 0.012), and speech or language disorders(p < 0.001) were all significantly associated with CHD. The severity of current heart condition (p < 0.001) also had a significant association with autism. MR analysis did not find causality between genetically proxied congenital cardiac malformations and the risk of NDDs.

Conclusions

Our study shows that children with CHD have an increased risk of developing NDDs. Heart conditions currently and severity of current heart conditions were also significantly associated with these NDDs. In the future, we need to try more methods to clarify the causal relationship between CHD and NDDs.
Epidemiology of respiratory syncytial virus in a large pediatric hospital in Central Italy and development of a forecasting model to predict the seasonal peak
Authors: Cutrera Renato , Ciofi degli Atti Marta Luisa , Dotta Andrea , D’Amore Carmen , Ravà Lucilla , Perno Carlo Federico , Villani Alberto
Published: April 2024

Background

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is responsible for the majority of acute lower respiratory infections in infants and can affect also older age groups. Restrictions linked to the emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and their subsequent lifting caused a change in the dynamics of RSV circulation. It is therefore fundamental to monitor RSV seasonal trends and to be able to predict its seasonal peak to be prepared to the next RSV epidemics.

Methods

We performed a retrospective descriptive study on laboratory-confirmed RSV infections from Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital in Rome from 1st January 2018 to 31st December 2022. Data on RSV-positive respiratory samples (n = 3,536) and RSV-confirmed hospitalizations (n = 1,895) on patients aged 0–18 years were analyzed. In addition to this, a SARIMA (Seasonal AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average) forecasting model was developed to predict the next peak of RSV.

Results

Findings show that, after the 2020 SARS-CoV-2 pandemic season, where RSV circulation was almost absent, RSV infections presented with an increased and anticipated peak compared to pre-pandemic seasons. While mostly targeting infants below 1 year of age, there was a proportional increase in RSV infections and hospitalizations in older age groups in the post-pandemic period. A forecasting model built using RSV weekly data from 2018 to 2022 predicted the RSV peaks of 2023, showing a reasonable level of accuracy (MAPE 33%). Additional analysis indicated that the peak of RSV cases is expected to be reached after 4–5 weeks from case doubling.

Conclusion

Our study provides epidemiological evidence on the dynamics of RSV circulation before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings highlight the potential of combining surveillance and forecasting to promote preparedness for the next RSV epidemics.
Clinical factors associated with patterns of endocrine therapy adherence in premenopausal breast cancer patients
Authors: Woolpert Kirsten M. , Schmidt Julie A. , Ahern Thomas P. , Hjorth Cathrine F. , Farkas Dóra K. , Ejlertsen Bent , Collin Lindsay J. , Lash Timothy L. , Cronin-Fenton Deirdre P.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Patients with hormone receptor positive breast cancer are recommended at least five years of adjuvant endocrine therapy, but adherence to this treatment is often suboptimal. We investigated longitudinal trends in adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) adherence among premenopausal breast cancer patients and identified clinical characteristics, including baseline comorbidities and non-cancer chronic medication use, associated with AET adherence.

Methods

We included stage I–III premenopausal breast cancer patients diagnosed during 2002–2011 and registered in the Danish Breast Cancer Group clinical database who initiated AET. We used group-based trajectory modeling to describe AET adherence patterns. We also linked patients to Danish population-based registries and fit multinomial logistic models to compute odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) associating clinical characteristics with AET adherence patterns.

Results

We identified three adherence patterns among 4,353 women—high adherers (57%), slow decliners (36%), and rapid decliners (6.9%). Women with stage I disease (vs. stage II; OR: 1.9, 95% CI 1.5, 2.5), without chemotherapy (vs. chemotherapy; OR: 4.3, 95% CI 3.0, 6.1), with prevalent comorbid disease (Charlson Comorbidity Index score ≥ 1 vs. 0; OR: 1.6, 95% CI 1.1, 2.3), and with a history of chronic non-cancer medication use (vs. none; OR: 1.3, 95% CI 1.0, 1.8) were more likely to be rapid decliners compared with high adherers.

Conclusions

Women with stage I cancer, no chemotherapy, higher comorbidity burden, and history of chronic non-cancer medication use were less likely to adhere to AET. Taking steps to promote adherence in these groups of women may reduce their risk of recurrence.
scifi-ATAC-seq: massive-scale single-cell chromatin accessibility sequencing using combinatorial fluidic indexing
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Marand Alexandre P. , Yan Haidong , Schmitz Robert J.
Published: April 2024

Single-cell ATAC-seq has emerged as a powerful approach for revealing candidate cis-regulatory elements genome-wide at cell-type resolution. However, current single-cell methods suffer from limited throughput and high costs. Here, we present a novel technique called scifi-ATAC-seq, single-cell combinatorial fluidic indexing ATAC-sequencing, which combines a barcoded Tn5 pre-indexing step with droplet-based single-cell ATAC-seq using the 10X Genomics platform. With scifi-ATAC-seq, up to 200,000 nuclei across multiple samples can be indexed in a single emulsion reaction, representing an approximately 20-fold increase in throughput compared to the standard 10X Genomics workflow.
A comprehensive benchmark of graph-based genetic variant genotyping algorithms on plant genomes for creating an accurate ensemble pipeline
Authors: Du Ze-Zhen , He Jia-Bao , Jiao Wen-Biao
Published: April 2024

Background

Although sequencing technologies have boosted the measurement of the genomic diversity of plant crops, it remains challenging to accurately genotype millions of genetic variants, especially structural variations, with only short reads. In recent years, many graph-based variation genotyping methods have been developed to address this issue and tested for human genomes. However, their performance in plant genomes remains largely elusive. Furthermore, pipelines integrating the advantages of current genotyping methods might be required, considering the different complexity of plant genomes.

Results

Here we comprehensively evaluate eight such genotypers in different scenarios in terms of variant type and size, sequencing parameters, genomic context, and complexity, as well as graph size, using both simulated and real data sets from representative plant genomes. Our evaluation reveals that there are still great challenges to applying existing methods to plants, such as excessive repeats and variants or high resource consumption. Therefore, we propose a pipeline called Ensemble Variant Genotyper (EVG) that can achieve better genotyping performance in almost all experimental scenarios and comparably higher genotyping recall and precision even using 5× reads. Furthermore, we demonstrate that EVG is more robust with an increasing number of graphed genomes, especially for insertions and deletions.

Conclusions

Our study will provide new insights into the development and application of graph-based genotyping algorithms. We conclude that EVG provides an accurate, unbiased, and cost-effective way for genotyping both small and large variations and will be potentially used in population-scale genotyping for large, repetitive, and heterozygous plant genomes.
Anopheles aquatic development kinetic and adults’ longevity through different seasons in laboratory and semi-field conditions in Burkina Faso
Authors: Djègbè Nicaise D. C. , Da Dari F. , Somé Bernard M. , Paré Lawata Inès G. , Cissé Fatoumata , Mamai Wadaka , Mouline Karine , Sawadogo Simon P. , Challenger Joseph D. , Churcher Thomas S. , Dabiré Roch K.
Published: April 2024

A﻿bstract

Background

Anopheles mosquitoes are ectothermic and involved in numerous pathogen transmissions. Their life history traits are influenced by several environmental factors such as temperature, relative humidity and photoperiodicity. Despite extensive investigations of these environmental conditions on vector population ecology, their impact on the different life stages of Anopheles at different seasons in the year remains poorly explored. This study reports the potential impact of these abiotic factors on the immature and adult stages of Anopheles gambiae sensu lato during different seasons.

Methods

Environmental conditions were simulated in the laboratory using incubators to mimic the environmental conditions of two important periods of the year in Burkina Faso: the peak of rainy season (August) and the onset of dry season (December). Eggs from wild An. coluzzii and An. gambiae s.l. were reared separately under each environmental condition. For Anopheles coluzzii or An. gambiae s.l., eggs were equally divided into two groups assigned to the two experimental conditions. Four replicates were carried out for this experiment. Then, egg hatching rate, pupation rate, larval development time, larva-to-pupae development time, adult emergence dynamics and longevity of Anopheles were evaluated. Also, pupae-to-adult development time from wild L3 and L4 Anopheles larvae was estimated under semi-field conditions in December.

Results

A better egg hatching rate was recorded overall with conditions mimicking the onset of the dry season compared to the peak of the rainy season. Larval development time and longevity of An. gambiae s.l. female were significantly longer at the onset of the dry season compared than at the peak of the rainy season. Adult emergence was spread over 48 and 96 h at the peak of the rainy season and onset of dry season conditions respectively. This 96h duration in the controlled conditions of December was also observed in the semi-field conditions in December.

Conclusions

The impact of temperature and relative humidity on immature stages and longevity of An. gambiae s.l. adult females differed under both conditions. These findings contribute to a better understanding of vector population dynamics throughout different seasons of the year and may facilitate tailoring of control strategies.

Graphical Abstract
Geospatial evaluation of radiologic access in Rwanda
Authors: Liu Rui Han , Lindeborg Michael , Ncogoza Isaie , Nyiraneza Sabine E. , Barrera Keisha J. , Shaye David A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Rwanda has aimed to rebuild its health care system since the Rwandan genocide against the Tutsis in 1994, though one of the challenges has been a scarcity of radiologic resources.

Objective

To assess the location and accessibility of radiologic facilities in Rwanda using geospatial mapping and population-based data.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2023 using location and radiologic modality data provided by the Department of Radiology at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali and the WorldPop database, a publicly available database providing open-access geospatial population data. Radiologic equipment included magnetic resonance (MR), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), radiotherapy, X-ray, mammography, and fluoroscopy machines. Geospatial analysis was performed using ArcGIS Pro 2.8.6 software.

Results

Fifty-six radiologic facilities were identified, including 5 MR, 7 CT, 1 radiotherapy, 52 X-ray, 5 mammography, 5 fluoroscopy, and 0 PET machines. There were 0.4 MR, 0.5 CT, 0 PET, 0.1 radiotherapy, 3.9 X-ray, 0.4 mammography, and 0.4 fluoroscopy units per 1 million people.

Conclusion

Rwanda is one of the countries with the lowest radiologic access in East Africa; however, there is evidence of progress, particularly in more advanced diagnostic imaging techniques such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.

Critical relevance statement

This study provides a 10-year update on current radiologic resources and access in Rwanda, identifying areas of progress and ongoing scarcity, serving as a guide for future direction of growth.

Key points

• As Rwanda works on rebuilding its health care system, this study provides an assessment of the current radiologic resources within the country.

• There is less than one radiologic unit for every million of the Rwandan population for every imaging modality other than X-ray.

• While radiologic access in Rwanda lags behind that of its neighbors, there has been growth focused on advanced imaging modalities and the training of human resources.

Graphical Abstract
Swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus Nsp1 suppresses IFN-λ1 production by degrading IRF1 via ubiquitin–proteasome pathway
Authors: Zhong Chunhui , She Gaoli , Zhao Yukun , Liu Yufang , Li Jingmin , Wei Xiaona , Chen Zexin , Zhao Keyu , Zhao Zhiqing , Xu Zhichao , Zhang Hao , Cao Yongchang , Xue Chunyi
Published: April 2024

Swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV) is a novel porcine enteric coronavirus that causes acute watery diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration in newborn piglets. The type III interferon (IFN-λ) response serves as the primary defense against viruses that replicate in intestinal epithelial cells. However, there is currently no information available on how SADS-CoV modulates the production of IFN-λ. In this study, we utilized IPI-FX cells (a cell line of porcine ileum epithelium) as an in vitro model to investigate the potential immune evasion strategies employed by SADS-CoV against the IFN-λ response. Our results showed that SADS-CoV infection suppressed the production of IFN-λ1 induced by poly(I:C). Through screening SADS-CoV-encoded proteins, nsp1, nsp5, nsp10, nsp12, nsp16, E, S1, and S2 were identified as antagonists of IFN-λ1 production. Specifically, SADS-CoV nsp1 impeded the activation of the IFN-λ1 promoter mediated by MAVS, TBK1, IKKε, and IRF1. Both SADS-CoV and nsp1 obstructed poly(I:C)-induced nuclear translocation of IRF1. Moreover, SADS-CoV nsp1 degraded IRF1 via the ubiquitin-mediated proteasome pathway without interacting with it. Overall, our study provides the first evidence that SADS-CoV inhibits the type III IFN response, shedding light on the molecular mechanisms employed by SADS-CoV to evade the host immune response.
Traffic prediction for diverse edge IoT data using graph network
Authors: Shen Tao , Zhang Lu , Geng Renkang , Li Shuai , Sun Bin
Published: April 2024

More researchers are proposing artificial intelligence algorithms for Internet of Things (IoT) devices and applying them to themes such as smart cities and smart transportation. In recent years, relevant research has mainly focused on data processing and algorithm modeling, and most have shown good prediction results. However, many algorithmic models often adjust parameters for the corresponding datasets, so the robustness of the models is weak. When different types of data face other model parameters, the prediction performance often varies a lot. Thus, this work starts from the perspective of data processing and algorithm models. Taking traffic data as an example, we first propose a new data processing method that processes traffic data with different attributes and characteristics into a dataset that is more common for most models. Then we will compare different types of datasets from the perspective of multiple model parameters, and further analyze the precautions and changing trends of different traffic data in machine learning. Finally, different types of data and ranges of model parameters are explored, together with possible reasons for fluctuations in forecast results when data parameters change.
Patient and pharmacist perspectives on opioid misuse screening and brief interventions in community pharmacies
Authors: Rao Deepika , Ford James H. , Shiyanbola Olayinka O.
Published: April 2024

Background

Pharmacy-based screening and brief interventions (SBI) offer opportunities to identify opioid misuse and opioid safety risks and provide brief interventions that do not overly burden pharmacists. Currently, such interventions are being developed without patient input and in-depth contextual data and insufficient translation into practice. The purpose of this study is to qualitatively explore and compare patient and pharmacist perceptions and needs regarding a pharmacy-based opioid misuse SBI and to identify relevant SBI features and future implementation strategies.

Methods

Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 8 patients and 11 pharmacists, to explore needs and barriers to participating in a pharmacy-based SBI. We recruited a purposive sample of English-speaking patients prescribed opioids for chronic or acute pain and pharmacists practicing in varied pharmacies (small independent, large-chain, specialty retail) settings. We used an inductive content analysis approach to analyze patient interview data. Then through a template analysis approach involving comparison of pharmacist and patient themes, we developed strategies for SBI implementation.

Results

Most patient participants were white, older, described living in suburban areas, and were long-term opioid users. We identified template themes related to individual, interpersonal, intervention, and implementation factors and inferred applications for SBI design or potential SBI implementation strategies. We found that patients needed education on opioid safety and general opioid use, regardless of opioid use behaviors. Pharmacists described needing patient-centered training, protocols, and scripts to provide SBI. A short-self-reported screening and brief interventions including counseling, naloxone, and involving prescribers were discussed by both groups.

Conclusions

Through this implementation-focused qualitative study, we identified patient needs such as opioid safety education delivered in a private and convenient format and pharmacist needs including training, workflow integration, protocols, and a time-efficient intervention for effective pharmacy-based SBI. Alternate formats of SBI using digital health technologies may be needed for effective implementation. Our findings can be used to develop patient-centered pharmacy-based SBI that can be implemented within actual pharmacy practice.
Phase diagram and density of SiO2–H2O fluid across critical conditions
Authors: Gao Hui , Li Guoge , Zhang Zhigang
Published: April 2024

The SiO2–H2O binary system serves as a basis for understanding complex silicate-water systems. In this study, based on limited existing experimental data of solubility, we propose a new thermodynamic model for SiO2–H2O fluid by modifying the traditional non-random two-liquid model with a simplified polymerization reaction. This model is applicable from 773 K to the anhydrous quartz melting temperature and from 0.5 GPa to at least 2 GPa across the critical conditions. It can predict solid–liquid equilibrium and vapor–liquid equilibrium in good agreement with available experiments. The upper critical endpoint of the SiO2–H2O system is predicted to be at ~ 1.14 ± 0.18 GPa and 1344 ± 87 K. With the new model, we obtain a quantitative three-dimensional pressure–temperature–composition phase diagram of the SiO2–H2O fluid, which greatly facilitates the understanding of the complex phase behavior of this binary around the upper critical endpoint. In addition, since the model is based on the Gibbs free energy foundation, we further discuss the derived density variations of SiO2–H2O fluid along with its complex phase changes in typical geochemical processes.
Niche–dependent sponge hologenome expression profiles and the host-microbes interplay: a case of the hawaiian demosponge Mycale Grandis
Authors: Liu Fang , Ryu Taewoo , Ravasi Timothy , Wang Xin , Wang Guangyi , Li Zhiyong
Published: April 2024

Background

Most researches on sponge holobionts focus primarily on symbiotic microbes, yet data at the level of the sponge hologenome are still relatively scarce. Understanding of the sponge host and its microbial gene expression profiles and the host-microbes interplay in different niches represents a key aspect of sponge hologenome. Using the Hawaiian demosponge Mycale grandis in different niches as a model, i.e. on rocks, on the surface of coral Porites compressa, under alga Gracilaria salicornia, we compared the bacterial and fungal community structure, functional gene diversity, expression pattern and the host transcriptome by integrating open-format (deep sequencing) and closed-format (GeoChip microarray) high-throughput techniques.

Results

Little inter-niche variation in bacterial and fungal phylogenetic diversity was detected for M. grandis in different niches, but a clear niche-dependent variability in the functional gene diversity and expression pattern of M. grandis host and its symbiotic microbiota was uncovered by GeoChip microarray and transcriptome analyses. Particularly, sponge host genes related to innate immunity and microbial recognition showed a strong correlation with the microbial symbionts’ functional gene diversity and transcriptional richness in different niches. The cross-niche variability with respect to the symbiont functional gene diversity and the transcriptional richness of M. grandis holobiont putatively reflects the interplay of niche-specific selective pressure and the symbiont functional diversity.

Conclusions

Niche–dependent gene expression profiles of M. grandis hologenome and the host-microbes interplay were suggested though little inter-niche variation in bacterial and fungal diversity was detected, particularly the sponge innate immunity was found to be closely related to the symbiotic microbes. Altogether, these findings provide novel insights into the black box of one sponge holobiont in different niches at the hologenome level.
Sleep and Ultramarathon: Exploring Patterns, Strategies, and Repercussions of 1,154 Mountain Ultramarathons Finishers
Authors: Kishi Anthony , Millet Guillaume Y , Desplan Matthieu , Lemarchand Bruno , Bouscaren Nicolas
Published: April 2024

Background

Sleep and physical performance are strongly related and mutually influence each other. Athletes, particularly in disciplines like offshore sailing and ultra-endurance sports, often suffer from sleep deprivation due to factors like irregular training times, travel, and the extended duration of events like 100-mile mountain races. Despite growing interest in sleep’s role in sports science, few studies have specifically investigated the sleep patterns of ultramarathon runners. This study aimed to investigate sleep patterns and sleep management strategies in ultramarathons, and the repercussions of sleep deprivation during and after races.

Methods

This cross-sectional study using e-survey was conducted on 1154 runners from two ultramarathons (a 165 km race with 9,576 m positive elevation; 2018 finish time [23:18:48–66:04:00], and a 111 km race with 6,433 m elevation; [15:34:56 − 41:54:16]).

Results

The results revealed that 58% of the runners reported implementing sleep management strategies before or during the race. Most runners began the race with some level of sleep debt (-50 min a week before the race). During the races, 77% of runners slept, with the cumulative sleep duration varying based on race duration and the number of nights spent on the race (76 min at 165 km and 27 min at 111 km). Short naps lasting less than 30 min were the most popular strategy. The prevalence of symptoms attributed to sleep deprivation during the race was high (80%), with reported falls and hallucinations. After the race, runners reported recovering a normal state of wakefulness relatively quickly (within two days); 22% believed that sleep deprivation during the race increased the risk of accidents in everyday life.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into sleep patterns and strategies in ultramarathon running and emphasizes the importance of adequate sleep management for performance and post-race recovery.
Extreme connectedness between cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens: portfolio implications
Authors: Mensi Waild , Gubareva Mariya , Al-Yahyaee Khamis Hamed , Teplova Tamara , Kang Sang Hoon
Published: April 2024

We analyze the connectedness between major cryptocurrencies and nonfungible tokens (NFTs) for different quantiles employing a time-varying parameter vector autoregression approach. We find that lower and upper quantile spillovers are higher than those at the median, meaning that connectedness augments at extremes. For normal, bearish, and bullish markets, Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin consistently remain net transmitters, while NFTs receive innovations. However, spillover topology at both extremes becomes simpler—from cryptocurrencies to NFTs. We find no markets useful for mitigating BTC risks, whereas BTC is capable of reducing the risk of other digital assets, which is a valuable insight for market players and investors.
Human and AI collaboration in the higher education environment: opportunities and concerns
Authors: Atchley Paul , Pannell Hannah , Wofford Kaelyn , Hopkins Michael , Atchley Ruth Ann
Published: April 2024

In service of the goal of examining how cognitive science can facilitate human–computer interactions in complex systems, we explore how cognitive psychology research might help educators better utilize artificial intelligence and AI supported tools as facilitatory to learning, rather than see these emerging technologies as a threat. We also aim to provide historical perspective, both on how automation and technology has generated unnecessary apprehension over time, and how generative AI technologies such as ChatGPT are a product of the discipline of cognitive science. We introduce a model for how higher education instruction can adapt to the age of AI by fully capitalizing on the role that metacognition knowledge and skills play in determining learning effectiveness. Finally, we urge educators to consider how AI can be seen as a critical collaborator to be utilized in our efforts to educate around the critical workforce skills of effective communication and collaboration.
A rare and late complication of lung cancer: bronchial rupture
Authors: Afsin Emine , Koşcu Özge , Küçük Furkan , Haktanır Muhammed Yavuz , Özer Hamza , Kılıçgün Hacıali
Published: April 2024

Background

Tracheobronchial injuries generally occur due to iatrogenic or traumatic causes. Although bronchial rupture due to teratoma and germ cell tumors has been reported in the literature, no cases related to lung cancer have been determined. Our case is presented because of the refusal to be examined for the mass in the lung and the detection of bronchial rupture afterward when he presented with massive hemoptysis.

Case presentation

A 65-year-old male patient was admitted to the emergency department with the complaint of massive hemoptysis. Six months ago, bronchoscopy was recommended due to the 8 × 7 cm cavitary lesion obliterating the bronchus in the anterior upper lobe of the right lung on chest computed tomography, but the patient refused. The sputum sample, requested 3 times, was negative for acid-resistant bacteria, and no growth was detected in the mycobacterial culture. In the new pulmonary CT angiography, a progressive cavitary lesion invading the right main bronchus, carina, and vena cava superior was observed. Following tranexamic acid treatment and bronchial artery embolization, hemoptysis significantly decreased in the follow-up. In the flexible bronchoscopy performed for diagnostic purposes, the carina was pushed to the left and invaded, and there was damage to the right main bronchus. A biopsy was not performed due to the risk of bleeding, and lavage was performed. Lavage was negative for ARB, there was no growth in the mycobacteria culture, and cytology did not reveal malignant cells. The patient, diagnosed with right main bronchial rupture, was considered inoperable and died 1 month later due to respiratory failure.

Conclusions

Examinations should be initiated as soon as malignancy is suspected. When diagnosis and treatment are delayed, complications that would be challenging to intervene may develop.
Meta-QTL analysis reveals the important genomics regions for biotic stresses, nutritional quality and yield related traits in pearl millet
Authors: Gupta Shreshth , Rangari Sagar Krushnaji , Sahu Aakash , Naik Yogesh Dashrath , Satayavathi C. Tara , Punnuri Somashekhar , Thudi Mahendar
Published: April 2024

Pearl millet (
Cenchrus americanus
) is the sixth most significant cereal crop cultivated on 30 million ha and a staple diet for 90 million poor people across the globe. Besides abiotic stresses several biotic stresses have been limiting production of pearl millet in the semi-arid and arid regions. Although, the Quantitative Trait Loci (QTLs) associated with key diseases like blast, rust and downy mildew resistance and nutritional content has been reported, the use of these QTLs is limited in breeding programs. To identify highly stable consensus genomic regions, we conducted Meta-QTL analysis using 191 QTLs reported in 12 independent studies over the last two decades. As a result, we report 34 Meta-QTLs regions on a consensus genetic map comprising of 692 markers and spanning 2070.7 cM. The confidence interval of Meta-QTLs was reduced by 3.63 folds (0.18–7.49 cM), in contrast to projected QTLs interval of 1.11–60.63 cM. Further, a total of 1198 genes were identified in 34 Meta-QTL regions. Among 34 Meta-QTL regions, Meta-QTL1.1 is found to be region of significant importance as it harbours genes for enhanced biotic stress tolerance, plant growth and development as well as genes related with enhanced seed development. Meta-QTL2.4 has highest number of genes with a significant role in disease resistance which contains basic leucine zipper domain, zinc family, leucine rich repeat regions. Meta-QTL3.1 has ABC transporter like activity coupled with the ATPase activity which has a role in Fe and Zn uptake in leaves and root tissues. These Meta-QTL regions can be used in genomics-assisted breeding for enhancing the blast, rust downy mildew resistance as well as yield and nutritional traits.
Ciprofol as compared to propofol for sedation and general anesthesia: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Currò Jessica M. , Santonocito Cristina , Merola Federica , Messina Simone , Sanfilippo Marco , Brancati Serena , Drago Filippo , Sanfilippo Filippo
Published: April 2024

Background

Propofol is the most commonly used hypnotic agent used during sedation and general anesthesia (GA) practice, offering faster recovery compared to benzodiazepines. However, cardiovascular impact of propofol and pain at injection are commonly encountered side effects. Ciprofol is a novel disubstituted phenol derivative, and there is growing evidence regarding its clinical use.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search (updated on 23 July 2023) to evaluate safety and efficacy of ciprofol in comparison to propofol in patients undergoing procedures under sedation or GA. We focused on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) only, extrapolating data on onset and offset, and on the side effects and the pain at injection.

Results

The search revealed 14 RCTs, all conducted in China. Eight RCTs studied patients undergoing sedation, and six focused on GA. Bolus of ciprofol for sedation or induction of GA varied from 0.2 to 0.5 mg/kg. In four studies using ciprofol for maintenance of GA, it was 0.8–2.4 mg/kg/h. Ciprofol pharmacokinetics seemed characterized by slower onset and offset as compared to propofol. Pain during injection was less frequent in the ciprofol group in all the 13 studies reporting it. Eight studies reported “adverse events” as a pooled outcome, and in five cases, the incidence was higher in the propofol group, not different in the remaining ones. Occurrence of hypotension was the most commonly investigated side effects, and it seemed less frequent with ciprofol.

Conclusion

Ciprofol for sedation or GA may be safer than propofol, though its pharmacokinetics may be less advantageous.

Graphical Abstract
A seismic ambient noise data classification method based on waveform and frequency-wavenumber analysis: Application to reliable geological interpretation adjacent to Well Songke-2, Northeast China
Authors: Jin Zhong-Yuan , Lu Zhan-Wu , Fu Wei , Hou He-Sheng
Published: April 2024

Passive seismic interferometry techniques enable the retrieval of virtual shot gathers at receiver locations. However, it is difficult to distinguish body waves from surface waves in seismic ambient noise data, which leads to failed dispersion measurements, artificial deep reflections, and misleading geologic interpretations. We develop a new method that uses the waveforms and their corresponding f- k spectra to identify body waves and surface waves. Our technique functions as a data classification procedure before wavefield retrieval and subsequent imaging. A field data example is conducted to test the feasibility of this technique. The field data results demonstrate that our technique can reconstruct satisfactory high signal-to-noise-ratio wavefields for reliable imaging and interpretation purposes. The method can also serve as a validation tool for identifying surface wave-related artificial events in the obtained virtual source reflection image. The marker boundaries of the Songliao Basin in Northeast China are interpreted in the obtained profile and are in agreement with the well-logging data. In addition, two normal faults are detected, which correspond to the extensional rift environment during the early Cretaceous.
The new Foundation Programme Mental Health Curriculum: foundation doctors’ perceptions of its importance and their competency: pre–post psychiatric placement evaluation study
Authors: Varvari Ioana , Dewhurst Thomas , Jones Corinne , Haslam Richard
Published: April 2024

Aims and method

The new 2021 UK Foundation Programme Curriculum mandates foundation doctors to acquire mental health competencies. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of psychiatry placements in facilitating competency attainment, foundation doctors’ perceived importance of acquiring these and their preferred teaching methods. Utilising Kirkpatrick's evaluation framework, the study employed a pre–post intervention design assessing the impact of psychiatry placements on 135 foundation doctors across three cohorts from August 2021 to March 2022.

Results

Initially, foundation doctors assigned high importance to mental health competencies. Post-placements, this perceived importance improved slightly, whereas that of clinical skills scenarios slightly decreased. Significant confidence increases were observed in recognising and assessing specific psychiatric disorders. Foundation doctors favoured small seminar groups and on-the-job ad hoc teaching. Qualitative insights underscored the need for context-specific teaching.

Clinical implications

Psychiatry placements enhance foundation doctors’ confidence and perceived importance of mental health competencies as specified by the curriculum. Addressing clinical scenario gaps through context-specific teaching and transferable skills development is essential. Customised teaching approaches, especially small seminars and ad hoc teaching, hold promise for effective mental health training.
A Case Report of Fluoroscopically Guided Epidural Catheter Placement in a Parturient with History of Tethered Cord, Super-Morbid Obesity, and Risk for Difficult Airway
Authors: Thomas Caroline L. , Montes Mariana , Malik Tariq , Sandeep Ram Bhuvaneswari , Smith Carrie L. , Scavone Barbara M. , Cole Naida M.
Published: April 2024

Tethered cord syndrome results from adherence of the conus medullaris to the sacrum and may be associated with high complication rates from neuraxial anesthesia. We present the case of a 32-year-old gravida 2 para 0 patient with a history of lipomyelomeningocele (one of several types of spina bifida) and tethered cord status post repair, residual low-lying conus medullaris, supermorbid obesity (body mass index of 58), and Mallampati IV airway, who underwent successful fluoroscopically guided epidural catheter placement for vaginal delivery. Risks and benefits of epidural catheter utilization and methods of placement are reviewed.
The Theological Metaphors of Marx
Authors: Dussel Enrique , Pérez-Bustillo Camilo , Mendieta Eduardo
Published: April 2024

In The Theological Metaphors of Marx, Enrique Dussel provides a groundbreaking combination of Marxology, theology, and ethical theory. Dussel shows that Marx unveils the theology of capitalism in his critique of commodity fetishization. Capitalism constitutes an idolatry of the commodity that undergirds the capitalist expropriation of labor. Dussel examines Marx’s early writings on religion and fetishism and proceeds through what Dussel refers to as the four major drafts of Capital, ultimately situating Marx’s philosophical, economic, ethical, and historical insights in relation to the theological problems of his time. Dussel notes a shift in Marx’s underlying theological schema from a political critique of the state to an economic critique of the commodity fetish as the Devil, or anti-God, of modernity. Marx’s thought, impact, and influence cannot be fully understood without Dussel’s historic reinterpretation of the theological origins and implications of Marx’s critiques of political economy and politics.
A Primer for Teaching Indian Ocean World History
Authors: Alpers Edward A. , McDow Thomas F.
Published: April 2024

A Primer for Teaching Indian Ocean World History is a guide for college and high school educators who are teaching Indian Ocean histories for the first time or who want to reinvigorate their courses. It can also serve those who are training future teachers to prepare their own syllabi as well as those who want to incorporate Indian Ocean histories into their world history courses. Edward A. Alpers and Thomas F. McDow offer course design principles that will help students navigate topics ranging from empire, geography, slavery, and trade to mobility, disease, and the environment. In addition to exploring non-European sources and diverse historical methodologies, they discuss classroom pedagogy and provide curriculum possibilities that will help instructors at any level enrich and deepen standard approaches to world history. Alpers and McDow draw readers into strategically designing courses that will challenge students to think critically about a vast area with which many of them are almost entirely unfamiliar.
Health Care Industry Payments to Editorial Board Members of Major Neurosurgery Journals Between 2017 and 2022
Authors: Harlianto Netanja I. , Harlianto Zaneta N.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Financial conflicts of interest between editorial board members and industry could lead to biases and impartial editorial decisions. We aimed to evaluate the frequency, amount, and characteristics of payments to editorial board members of neurosurgery journals over a 6-year period.

METHODS:

In this cross-sectional study, editorial board members were derived from the top 10 neurosurgery journals based on Google Scholar metrics. The Open Payments database by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services was accessed to evaluate industry payments to editorial board members from 2017to 2022. Descriptive analyses were performed on payment data, adjusted for inflation using the consumer price indices.

RESULTS:

We included 805 editorial board members. After excluding duplicate names, 342 (53.9%) of 634 had received payments between 2017 and 2022. Eight of 10 journals had more than 50% of editorial board members listed in the Open Payments database. Between 2017 and 2022, the total number of payments to editorial board members was $143 732 057, encompassing $1 323 936 in research payments, $69 122 067 in associated research funding, $5 380 926 in ownership and investment interests, and $67 905 128 in general payments. General payments decreased from $13 676 382 in 2017 to $8 528 003 in 2022. Royalties ($43 393 697) and consulting ($13 157 934) contributed the most to general payments between 2017 and 2022. Four journals had a percentage increase in total payments, whereas general payments decreased for 6 journals.

CONCLUSION:

Around 54% of editorial board members of neurosurgical journals received industry payments between 2017 and 2022. We identified journal-specific trends in industry payments and highlighted the importance of transparency and disclosure of financial conflicts of interests for neurosurgery journals.
GTPBP8 modulates mitochondrial fission through a Drp1-dependent process
Authors: He Xiumei , Wang Liang , Tsang Hoi Ying , Liu Xiaonan , Yang Xiaofeng , Pu Shiming , Guo Ziqi , Yang Cheng , Wu Qiong , Zhou Zuping , Cen Xiaobo , Zhao Hongxia
Published: April 2024

Mitochondrial fission is a tightly regulated process involving multiple proteins and cell signaling. Despite extensive studies on mitochondrial fission factors, our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms remains limited. This study shows the critical role of a mitochondrial GTPase, GTPBP8, in orchestrating mitochondrial fission in mammalian cells. Depletion of GTPBP8 resulted in drastic elongation and interconnectedness of mitochondria. Conversely, overexpression of GTPBP8 shifted mitochondrial morphology from tubular to fragmented. Notably, the induced mitochondrial fragmentation from GTPBP8 overexpression was inhibited in cells either depleted of the mitochondrial fission protein Drp1 (also known as DNM1L) or carrying mutated forms of Drp1. Importantly, downregulation of GTPBP8 caused an increase in oxidative stress, modulating cell signaling involved in the increased phosphorylation of Drp1 at Ser637. This phosphorylation hindered the recruitment of Drp1 to mitochondria, leading to mitochondrial fission defects. By contrast, GTPBP8 overexpression triggered enhanced recruitment and assembly of Drp1 at mitochondria. In summary, our study illuminates the cellular function of GTPBP8 as a pivotal modulator of the mitochondrial division apparatus, inherently reliant on its influence on Drp1.
Caskin2 is a novel talin- and Abi1-binding protein that promotes cell motility
Authors: Wang Wei , Atherton Paul , Kreft Maaike , te Molder Lisa , van der Poel Sabine , Hoekman Liesbeth , Celie Patrick , Joosten Robbie P. , Fässler Reinhard , Perrakis Anastassis , Sonnenberg Arnoud
Published: April 2024

Talin (herein referring collectively to talin 1 and 2) couples the actomyosin cytoskeleton to integrins and transmits tension to the extracellular matrix. Talin also interacts with numerous additional proteins capable of modulating the actin-integrin linkage and thus downstream mechanosignaling cascades. Here, we demonstrate that the scaffold protein Caskin2 interacts directly with the R8 domain of talin through its C-terminal LD motif. Caskin2 also associates with the WAVE regulatory complex to promote cell migration in an Abi1-dependent manner. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the Caskin2–Abi1 interaction is regulated by growth factor-induced phosphorylation of Caskin2 on serine 878. In MCF7 and UACC893 cells, which contain an amplification of CASKIN2, Caskin2 localizes in plasma membrane-associated plaques and around focal adhesions in cortical microtubule stabilization complexes. Taken together, our results identify Caskin2 as a novel talin-binding protein that might not only connect integrin-mediated adhesion to actin polymerization but could also play a role in crosstalk between integrins and microtubules.
Adding LIT to HIIT: Is Low-Intensity Training Vital for Endurance-Trained Athletes during a 7-day HIIT Shock Microcycle?
Authors: STREPP TILMANN , BLUMKAITIS JULIA C. , HALLER NILS , STÖGGL THOMAS LEONHARD
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 7-d high-intensity interval training shock microcycle (HIIT-SM) with or without additional low-intensity training (LIT) on aerobic fitness and endurance performance compared with a control group (CG).

Methods

Thirty-three endurance-trained athletes (7 women, 26 men, mean ± SD: age, 30.2 ± 6.9 yr; maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max), 59.8 ± 4.9 mL·min−1·kg−1) performed exercise testing at T1 and were randomly assigned to one of three groups: i) HSM, 10 running-based HIIT sessions (5 × 4 min at 90%–95% maximal heart rate) over 7 d; ii) HSM + LIT, equal to HSM with additional 30 min of LIT after each HIIT; iii) CG, regular training. Exercise testing was repeated 3 d (T2), 7 d (T3), and 14 d (T4) after the intervention. A 5-km time trial (TT5km) was performed 3–4 d before T1 and 10–11 d after the intervention. Data were analyzed by two-way repeated-measures ANOVA.

Results

No interaction effect was found for V̇O2max (P = 0.170, p
η
2 = 0.09), peak power output (P = 0.734, p
η
2 = 0.04), and work economy (P = 0.804, p
η
2 = 0.03). There was an interaction for velocity at lactate threshold (P = 0.006, p
η
2 = 0.18) with increased velocity in HSM at T2 (3.2%, P = 0.030), T3 (4%, P = 0.006), T4 (4%, P = 0.003), as well as in HSM + LIT for T2 (3.2%, P = 0.011), whereas CG showed no change. There was an interaction for TT5km (P = 0.044, p
η
2 = 0.19), with HSM improving 2.7% (P = 0.003) and HSM + LIT 2.3% (P = 0.010), whereas CG was, on average, −0.3% (P = 0.821) slower.

Conclusions

HIIT-SM with or without additional LIT has negligible effects on V̇O2max but improves other key endurance variables in endurance-trained athletes. No superiority of either intervention group was demonstrated. Therefore, additional LIT during HIIT-SM is not beneficial.