bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two simplified tooth sample preparation methods for conventional laboratory and RapidHIT™ ID workflows
Authors: Eaton Morgan , Woolf M. Shane , Pemmasani Samyuktha , Turner Triniti , Deeb Janina Golob , Dawson Green Tracey
Published: September 2024

Disaster victim identification (DVI) refers to the forensic identification of unknown individuals following a mass disaster event. Human dental structures can contain viable DNA sources when other soft tissues are compromised. However, labor‐intensive sample preparation performed by extensively trained personnel is needed to expose the nuclear material for traditional forensic DNA workflows. With this in mind, we evaluated two simplified sample preparation protocols for processing tooth samples using either a conventional forensic DNA workflow or the Applied Biosystems® RapidHIT™ ID instrument. Briefly, sample sets for both protocols included 10 deciduous teeth that were cleaned prior to either fragmentation with a claw hammer (for RapidHIT™ ID processing) or fine‐powder pulverization with a consumer‐grade coffee grinder (for traditional workflows). The average percentage of expected STR alleles that were detected above analytical threshold for these tooth samples were comparable between methods: RapidHIT™ ID = 99.0% and GlobalFiler™ = 99.8%. Average intralocus heterozygote peak height ratios (PHRs) were comparable: RapidHIT™ ID = 0.80 and GlobalFiler™ = 0.86. Importantly, 9 of 10 samples analyzed via the RapidHIT™ ID required analyst review for flagged artifact peaks and quality issues. Across all profiles, 91% of alleles passed quality metrics for the RapidHIT™ workflow versus 100% for conventional GlobalFiler™ analysis. Collectively, these results suggest that quick, low‐tech tooth sample fragmentation followed by analysis with the RapidHIT™ ID instrument can produce complete STR profiles from aged tooth samples. Future studies should include larger samples sets, more challenging tooth samples, and further simplification of sample preparation to enable field‐forward, on‐scene DVI.
Recommendations for developing a comprehensive point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) program in the emergency department: an Emergency Medicine Ultrasound Group advocacy statement
Authors: Phillips Luke , Maclean Alastair , Monester Josh , Douglas Joanne , Davidson Stacey , King Gabriela
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) use is widespread in EDs and throughout those practising medicine. Between institutions and specialities, there is widespread variety and training. With this comes the risk of patient harm and backlash to a clinically useful modality. Our objective is to form a statement that encompasses current published and unpublished guidance for creating and maintaining robust POCUS programs in EDs.

Methods

Emergency Medicine Ultrasound Group (EMUG) identified this gap and volunteers from the group undertook a literature search of current best practice and institution guidelines relating to POCUS programs. They contacted colleagues from other specialities to find and get access to other countries and colleges' POCUS guidelines. EMUGs regularly run discussion forums (Collab‐labs) and points from these were considered. Recommendations were then formed from these and recurrent unpublished obstacles the group had encountered. The result was reviewed by clinical leaders in ultrasound and POCUS users in Australasia.

Results

The recommendations were organised under five pillars: Infrastructure, Governance, Administration, Education and Quality.

Conclusion

These recommendations complement existing guidelines and are not intended to replace them; however, we hope to promote discussion and provide reference support for those developing POCUS programs. Implementing a comprehensive and robust ED POCUS program will ensure safe, effective and standardised high‐quality POCUS use, with the aim of improving patient care across Australia and New Zealand. Patient safety will be enhanced through effective risk management and quality assurance and there will be consistency in POCUS education, training and credentialing across institutions.
Metabolic versatility of aerobic methane‐oxidizing bacteria under anoxia in aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Li Biao , Mao Zhendu , Xue Jingya , Xing Peng , Wu Qinglong L.
Published: September 2024

The potential positive feedback between global aquatic deoxygenation and methane (CH4) emission emphasizes the importance of understanding CH4 cycling under O2‐limited conditions. Increasing observations for aerobic CH4‐oxidizing bacteria (MOB) under anoxia have updated the prevailing paradigm that MOB are O2‐dependent; thus, clarification on the metabolic mechanisms of MOB under anoxia is critical and timely. Here, we mapped the global distribution of MOB under anoxic aquatic zones and summarized four underlying metabolic strategies for MOB under anoxia: (a) forming a consortium with oxygenic microorganisms; (b) self‐generation/storage of O2 by MOB; (c) forming a consortium with non‐oxygenic heterotrophic bacteria that use other electron acceptors; and (d) utilizing alternative electron acceptors other than O2. Finally, we proposed directions for future research. This study calls for improved understanding of MOB under anoxia, and underscores the importance of this overlooked CH4 sink amidst global aquatic deoxygenation.
Epidemiological study of overall survivability of individuals diagnosed with lung and bronchus cancer in Michigan between the years 1996 and 2017
Authors: Nader Georgette , Sharma Akhil , Abdelsamia Mahmoud , Wang Ling , Atti Lalitsiri , Laird‐Fick Heather
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Lung and bronchus cancer is a leading cause of death in the United States. Compared with the national average, Michigan has an increased mortality rate and low early screening and treatment rates. This study aimed to explore the epidemiological trends and assess overall survival (OS) of patients diagnosed with lung cancer in Michigan from 1996 to 2017.

Methods

Data was acquired from the Michigan Cancer Surveillance Program (MCSP). Log‐rank test was used to test OS among the time periods, univariate and multivariate cox regression models were employed to determine factors that significantly affected OS. We hypothesized that the introduction of more inclusive lung cancer screening guidelines in 2013 would improve OS for patients diagnosed after its implementation and that individual characteristics and tumor characteristics would both affect OS.

Results

Notably, 153 742 individuals met inclusion criteria: 54.22% male and 45.78% female. Mean age at diagnosis was 69 years. No significant difference in OS was found among the three time periods (p = 0.99). Univariate analyses identified four individual characteristics associated with reduced OS: age at diagnosis, male sex, American Indian race, and living in rural or urban area. Reduced OS was associated with primary sites tumors at main bronchus, lung base, or within overlapping lobes, and SEER stage 7.

Conclusions

This study highlights several factors that influence OS. Consideration of these factors may be helpful as a community outreach tool to help increase early detection and reduce overall mortality.
Targeting TGF‐β signaling, oxidative stress, and cellular senescence rescues osteoporosis in gerodermia osteodysplastica
Authors: Chan W. L. , Bucher C. H. , Goldes J. , Ma A. C. , Steiner M. , Willie B. M. , Mundlos S. , Kornak U.
Published: September 2024

GORAB is a key regulator of Golgi vesicle transport and protein glycanation. Loss of GORAB function in gerodermia osteodysplastica (GO) causes shortening of glycosaminoglycan chains, leading to extracellular matrix disorganization that results in wrinkled skin, osteoporosis and elevated TGF‐β signaling. In this study, we investigated the role of TGF‐β‐signaling, oxidative stress, and resulting cellular senescence in the osteoporosis phenotype of GO. Treatment of GorabPrx1 conditional knockouts with the TGF‐β neutralizing antibody 1D11 rescued the trabecular bone loss, indicating that TGF‐β overactivation causes osteoporosis in GO. Using an inducible knockout system, we demonstrated that TGF‐β dysregulation was not a cell‐intrinsic effect of GORAB inactivation, but a consequence of a disorganized extracellular matrix. Enhanced TGF‐β signaling caused elevated Nox4 expression in GorabPrx1 mutants and in GO patients' fibroblasts, resulting in overproduction of mitochondrial superoxide. The resulting oxidative stress was detected in GORAB null cells and also in wildtype bystander cells. The same effect was observed in zebrafish after TALEN‐mediated gorab inactivation, indicating that the pathway is evolutionarily conserved. Treating GorabPrx1 mutants with the antioxidant N‐acetylcysteine ameliorated the osteoporosis phenotype. TGF‐β induced oxidative stress coincided with accumulation of DNA damage and elevated expression of senescence markers. Inactivation of Cdkn2a in the GorabPrx1 rescued the osteoporosis phenotype. Reduced colony formation and altered subpopulations of bone marrow stromal cells were normalized upon inactivation of Cdkn2a, thus further demonstrating the relevance of cellular senescence in the pathogenesis. Our results shed light on the causative role of a TGF‐β‐Nox4‐senescence axis and therapeutic strategies for GO.
Sharing endodontic research on social media platforms: Is it effective? A 10‐year timeline analysis
Authors: Hassan Reham , Nasr Maha , Abdelrahman Hams H. , Hassan Mohamed G.
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to analyse the social media activity related to endodontic research over the last 10‐years. All research articles published in endodontic journals listed in Scopus (Sc) published in 2012 and 2018 were included in our study. The Altmetric Attention Score (AAS), Twitter, and Facebook mentions were obtained for each article. Citation counts were extracted using two citation metrics: Google Scholar (GS) and Sc. Correlations between the AAS, the number of social media mentions, and citations were analysed using Spearman's rank order correlation coefficient. A multivariable Poisson log‐linear regression analysis shows that papers mentioned on social media gain about 35% more citations in GS and 31% more citations in Sc. The academic citations per article on GS and Sc were positively correlated with the AAS. Our data suggest an increasing positive correlation between social media mentions and article citations over the years.
Different characteristics of the tumor immune microenvironment among subtypes of salivary gland cancer
Authors: Nagatani Yoshiaki , Kiyota Naomi , Imamura Yoshinori , Koyama Taiji , Funakoshi Yohei , Komatsu Masato , Itoh Tomoo , Teshima Masanori , Nibu Ken‐Ichi , Sakai Kazuko , Nishio Kazuto , Shimomura Manami , Nakatsura Tetsuya , Ikarashi Daiki , Nakayama Takayuki , Kitano Shigehisa , Minami Hironobu
Published: September 2024

Aim

Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPi) for salivary gland cancer (SGC) have been investigated in clinical trials, details of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) remain unclear. This research aimed to elucidate the TIME of SGC and its relationship with tumor mutation burden (TMB) and to explore the rationale for the applicability of ICPi.

Materials and methods

We selected five pathological types, namely adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC); adenocarcinoma, not otherwise specified (ANOS); salivary duct carcinoma (SDC); and low/high‐grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEClow/high). We investigated the TIME and TMB of each pathological type. TIME was evaluated by multiplexed fluorescent immunohistochemistry. TMB was measured by next‐generation sequencing.

Results

ACC and MEChigh showed the lowest and highest infiltration of immune effector and suppressor cells in both tumor and stroma. ANOS, SDC, and MEClow showed modest infiltration of immune effector cells in tumors. Correlation analysis showed a positive correlation between CD3+CD8+ T cells in tumor and TMB (r = 0.647). CD3+CD8+ T cells in tumors showed a positive correlation with programmed cell death‐ligand 1 expression in tumor cells (r = 0.513) and a weak positive correlation with CD3+CD4+Foxp3+ cells in tumors (r = 0.399). However, no correlation was observed between CD3+CD8+ T cells and CD204+ cells in tumors (r = ‐0.049).

Conclusion

The TIME of ACC was the so‐called immune desert type, which may explain the mechanisms of the poor response to ICPi in previous clinical trials. On the other hand, MEChigh was the immune‐inflamed type, and this may support the rationale of ICPi for this pathological subtype.
An integrated dual process model in predicting e‐cigarette use in undergraduate students
Authors: Phipps Daniel J. , Nott Natasha J. , Hamilton Kyra
Published: September 2024

The use of e‐cigarette or vape devices is a growing concern on an international scale, given the devices' addictive nature and questions regarding their short‐ and long‐term health impacts. Their use is especially an issue in young people, many of whom have little or no previous nicotine use experience. This study tested an integrated dual process model in 363 young Australian undergraduates where prospectively measured e‐cigarette use was predicted by the psychological constructs of the theory of planned behavior, supplemented with risk perception, e‐cigarette dependence, habit, and implicit attitude. Intention to use an e‐cigarette was predicted by affective attitude, subjective norm, and e‐cigarette dependance, but not instrumental attitude, perceived behavioral control, or risk perception. E‐cigarette use was predicted by e‐cigarette dependance, intention, habit, implicit attitude, and previous nicotine use, although perceived behavioral control did not directly predict behavior nor moderate the intention–behavior relationship. Current findings provide evidence for important psychological predictors of e‐cigarette use, signposting potential intervention targets. Specifically, interventions may benefit from using strategies that tap affective or normative beliefs alongside automatic constructs and dependence, while focusing less on beliefs about the health impacts of e‐cigarettes or control over using.
Long‐term assessment of haematological recovery following somatic genetic rescue in a MYSM1‐deficient patient: Implications for in vivo gene therapy
Authors: de Tocqueville Sophie , Martin Emmanuel , Riller Quentin , Kermasson Laëtitia , France Benoit , Magérus Aude , Rieux‐Laucat Frédéric , Delhommeau François , Hirsch Pierre , Touzart Aurore , Echalier Aude , Fischer Alain , Moshous Despina , Revy Patrick
Published: September 2024

MYSM1 deficiency causes inherited bone marrow failure syndrome (IBMFS). We have previously identified an IBMFS patient with a homozygous pathogenic variant in MYSM1 who recovered from cytopenia due to spontaneous correction of one MYSM1 variant in the haematopoietic compartment, an event called somatic genetic rescue (SGR). The study of the genetic and biological aspects of the patient's haematopoietic/lymphopoietic system over a decade after SGR shows that one genetically corrected haematopoietic stem cell (HSC) can restore a healthy and stable haematopoietic system. This supports in vivo gene correction of HSCs as a promising treatment for IBMFS, including MYSM1 deficiency.
Tert‐butylhydroquinone promotes skin flap survival by inhibiting oxidative stress mediated by the Nrf2/HO‐1 signalling pathway
Authors: Wang Kaitao , Wang An , Deng Jiapeng , Yang Jialong , Chen Guodong , Chen Qingyu , Ye Minle , Lin Dingsheng
Published: September 2024

Background and Purpose

Skin flaps are among the most important means of wound repair in clinical settings. However, partial or even total distal necrosis may occur after a flap operation, with severe consequences for both patients and doctors. This study investigated whether tert‐butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), a known agonist of the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), and an antioxidant, could promote skin flap survival.

Experimental Approach

McFarlane skin flap models were established in male Sprague–Dawley rats and then randomly divided into control, low‐dose TBHQ, and high‐dose TBHQ treatment groups. On postoperative day 7, the survival and blood flow of the skin flaps were assessed. Using flap tissue samples, angiogenesis, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy, and Nrf2/haem oxygenase 1 (HO‐1) signalling pathway activity were measured with immunohistochemical techniques and western blotting.

Key Results

TBHQ dose‐dependently stimulated the Nrf2/HO‐1 signalling pathway, inducing autophagy through the up‐regulation of LC3B and beclin 1 and concurrently suppressing p62 expression. Additionally, TBHQ hindered apoptosis by enhancing Bcl‐2 expression while inhibiting the expression of Bax. It suppressed inflammation by inhibiting the expression of interleukin 1β, interleukin 6, and tumour necrosis factor‐α and enhanced angiogenesis by promoting the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor.

Conclusion and Implications

In summary, TBHQ promoted flap survival in rats by up‐regulating the Nrf2/HO‐1 signalling pathway. As TBHQ is already widely used as a food additive, it could offer an acceptable means of improving clinical outcomes following skin flap surgery in patients.
Naturally Occurring Food Chemical Components and Extraintestinal and Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cooke Zoe , Lynam Kathryn , Tuck Caroline , Trakman Gina Louise
Published: September 2024

Objective

This systematic review aims to synthesise existing literature to examine the relationship between natural food chemical components and reported symptoms.

Design

A systematic literature review was completed. Databases CINAHL (Ebscohost), Medline (Ovid), Scopus, Informit Health and Google Scholar were searched to identify relevant articles. The population included human studies of adults (≥17 years) and excluded those with IgE‐mediate food allergies. Studies examining food chemical components or ‘food chemical elimination diets’ and symptoms were included. Data was synthesised based on clinical conditions and specific food chemical components examined. The risk of bias was assessed using the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics ‘Quality Criteria Checklist: Primary Research’.

Results

Of the 1659 articles retrieved, 21 met inclusion criteria. This included eight randomised controlled trials, four non‐randomised controlled trials, four cohort studies with placebo‐controlled challenge, one prospective cohort study, three cross sectional cohort studies, one case–controlled study. Available studies support the role of a low‐histamine diet for symptoms in chronic urticaria and low‐salicylate diet for reducing sino‐nasal symptoms in aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease and chronic rhinosinusitis and/or asthma. While further evidence is needed to verify the role of glutamate in respiratory, pain, asthma and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Conclusions

Food chemical elimination diets may improve condition‐specific symptoms across the adult cohorts outlined within this review, with the strongest evidence to support the role of a low‐histamine diet for management of symptoms in chronic urticaria and a low‐salicylate diet in aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease and/or asthma. Further well‐designed trials are needed to elucidate the effect of specific natural food chemical components on symptoms.

Trial Registration

Systematic review number: CRD42022322511.
Amelanotic melanoma arising from a giant congenital melanocytic nevus – A novel entity diagnosed by fine needle aspiration
Authors: Gangadaran Nandhini , Narayanan Arunachalam , Ravi Soundarya , Gochhait Debasis , Chandrashekar Laxmisha
Published: September 2024

Giant congenital melanocytic nevi (GCMN) are rare benign congenital melanocytic proliferations. Malignant transformation of these lesions is even rarer. This case report might be the first to describe the cytomorphological features of amelanotic melanoma of the lumbosacral region arising from GCMN in infancy, diagnosed by fine needle aspiration, highlighting the diagnostic challenges and technical difficulties encountered.
Malignant melanoma diagnosed by fine‐needle aspiration in cases presenting with parotid mass
Authors: Turcan Didem , Yilmaz Evrim , Acu Berat , Acikalin Mustafa Fuat
Published: September 2024

Background

One of the most common malignancies that metastasize to the parotid glands and associated lymph nodes is cutaneous melanoma. Although fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) is well established for diagnosing primary salivary gland tumours, there is limited literature on its role in diagnosing metastatic lesions.

Aims and Objectives

This study aims to investigate the cytomorphological features of malignant melanoma diagnosed by FNA in cases presenting with a parotid mass.

Materials and Methods

We present the clinical and cytomorphological findings of four cases. Conventional FNA biopsy smears and cell blocks were performed using standard techniques and for the differential diagnosis, a panel of immunohistochemical markers was used.

Results

The patients included three females and one male, aged 54 to 77. FNA biopsies revealed atypical cells with large, hyperchromatic, pleomorphic nuclei, some of which exhibited prominent nucleoli. Plasmacytoid and oncocytic morphologies were also observed. Numerous mitotic figures were noted. Immunohistochemical staining showed HMB‐45, S100 positivity in all cases. SOX10, MART‐1 and MITF positivity were also observed. Three of the four patients had no history or suspected lesions of melanoma at the time of FNA diagnosis. The absence of melanin pigment complicated the diagnosis, but immunostains confirmed malignant melanoma.

Conclusion

Diagnosing malignant melanoma by FNA can be challenging, especially when the melanoma is in an unusual site, cytological findings are ambiguous, and there is no history of cutaneous melanoma. Accurate diagnosis requires a high level of suspicion and the use of appropriate immunohistochemistry.
The Impact of Minimum Wages on Employment: Evidence From a Lower Middle‐Income Country
Authors: Nguyen Cuong Viet
Published: September 2024

In this study, we examine the impact of minimum wages in Vietnam using individual‐level data from the annual Labor Force Surveys (2012–20). During this period, the average real minimum wage increased by around 4% per year. Overall, we do not find significant effects from minimum wages on employment and monthly wage earnings. However, we find a considerable negative effect on workers' total working hours. Working hours per week are reduced by 0.38% for a 1% increase in the minimum wage. Since total wages remain unchanged, a reduction in working hours results in an increase in hourly earnings. A 1% increase in the minimum wage leads to a 0.32% increase in hourly earnings.
Copper homeostasis and cuproptosis‐related genes: Therapeutic perspectives in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Tan Wangjing , Zhang Junli , Chen Li , Wang Yayuan , Chen Rui , Zhang Haiming , Liang Fengxia
Published: September 2024

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease, has become the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. Recently, the discovery of cuproptosis, a newly identified mode of cell death, further highlighted the importance of copper in maintaining metabolic homeostasis. An increasing number of studies have confirmed that liver copper metabolism is closely related to the pathogenesis of NAFLD. However, the relationship between NAFLD and copper metabolism, especially cuproptosis, remains unclear. In this review, we aim to summarize the current understanding of copper metabolism and its dysregulation, particularly the role of copper metabolism dysregulation in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. More importantly, this review emphasizes potential gene‐targeted therapeutic strategies, challenges and the future of cuproptosis‐related genes in the treatment of NAFLD. This review aims to provide innovative therapeutic strategies for NAFLD.
Generating real‐world evidence on diabetes technology using the CareLink Personal data management system
Authors: van den Heuvel Tim , Castañeda Javier , Arrieta Arcelia , Voelker Benedikt , Cohen Ohad , Liu Margaret , Diaz Garelli Franck , Shin John
Published: September 2024

Aim

To establish trust in real‐world evidence (RWE) derived from CareLink Personal (CP), Medtronic's data management system for MiniMed system users, we show that this database and its analyses strictly adhere to the principles of RWE.

Methods

The methodology is applicable to all MiniMed iterations. We described every step from raw data to predefined outcomes. In addition, we showed CP's fitness‐for‐research by the below metrics (using last year's MiniMed 780G system data as a case study): representative population, relevant endpoints, appropriate granularity, high data completeness, high data representativity and consistency in results.

Results

The process from raw data to outcomes has been validated, and metrics/logics adhere to established definitions. Over 95% of users have a CP account; with 96% providing consent, this allows the use of >91% of the census population. There is no rationale for an over‐representation of a specific phenotype among users not included. CP includes >50 endpoints, including ‘International Consensus on Time in Range’ based metrics. Data are recorded at 5‐min intervals (maximum 288 per day), and on average there were 263 data points per person per day. Ninety‐nine per cent of uploads were automated. For the last year, only 1 in 6 users had a data gap >1 day, and 1 in 50 had a gap >1 week. The time in range from in‐silico studies was similar to that of real‐world studies from different geographies and with ever growing populations.

Conclusion

RWE from CP adheres to the principles of RWE and can serve as robust evidence on the performance and safety of MiniMed systems.
Hopelessness for family members of individuals with borderline personality disorder
Authors: Joyce Mary , Kells Mary , Boylan Emily , Corcoran Paul , Power Bláthín , Wall Stephanie , Flynn Daniel
Published: September 2024

Family members and loved ones of individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) can experience high levels of distress. Types of distress reported by family members include burden, grief, depression, guilt, and powerlessness. Hopelessness is a construct that has received little attention despite its potential relevance for this group. This study sought to examine, and assess potential change in, hopelessness among individuals attending a 12‐week Family Connections (FC) program. Participants were 75 family members, 29 men and 46 women. Most participants were parents (n = 43; 57%). Data were collected at four time‐points and outcomes included hopelessness, burden, and grief. The majority of participants (82%) reported scores within the ‘minimal’ or ‘mild’ ranges of hopelessness before the FC program. A greater proportion of participants in the 60–70 year age group reported scores in the ‘moderate/severe’ category when compared with younger age groups. The mean hopelessness score for all participants before FC was 4.61 which is considered mild. There was no significant difference in hopelessness scores after program completion. Although mean scores increased at both 3‐month and 12‐month follow‐ups, they continued to remain in the ‘mild’ category. Hopelessness scores in the current study are similar to those reported in previous studies, although no significant change was found after FC completion. Concepts of personal vs. situational hopelessness should be considered, as well as the relevance of assessing personal hopelessness for this participant group. Further research is needed to determine the relationship between family member hopelessness and index client wellbeing.
Methane fluxes in tidal marshes of the conterminous United States
Authors: Arias‐Ortiz Ariane , Wolfe Jaxine , Bridgham Scott D. , Knox Sara , McNicol Gavin , Needelman Brian A. , Shahan Julie , Stuart‐Haëntjens Ellen J. , Windham‐Myers Lisamarie , Oikawa Patty Y. , Baldocchi Dennis D. , Caplan Joshua S. , Capooci Margaret , Czapla Kenneth M. , Derby R. Kyle , Diefenderfer Heida L. , Forbrich Inke , Groseclose Gina , Keller Jason K. , Kelley Cheryl , Keshta Amr E. , Kleiner Helena S. , Krauss Ken W. , Lane Robert R. , Mack Sarah , Moseman‐Valtierra Serena , Mozdzer Thomas J. , Mueller Peter , Neubauer Scott C. , Noyce Genevieve , Schäfer Karina V. R. , Sanders‐DeMott Rebecca , Schutte Charles A. , Vargas Rodrigo , Weston Nathaniel B. , Wilson Benjamin , Megonigal J. Patrick , Holmquist James R.
Published: September 2024

Methane (CH4) is a potent greenhouse gas (GHG) with atmospheric concentrations that have nearly tripled since pre‐industrial times. Wetlands account for a large share of global CH4 emissions, yet the magnitude and factors controlling CH4 fluxes in tidal wetlands remain uncertain. We synthesized CH4 flux data from 100 chamber and 9 eddy covariance (EC) sites across tidal marshes in the conterminous United States to assess controlling factors and improve predictions of CH4 emissions. This effort included creating an open‐source database of chamber‐based GHG fluxes (https://doi.org/10.25573/serc.14227085). Annual fluxes across chamber and EC sites averaged 26 ± 53 g CH4 m−2 year−1, with a median of 3.9 g CH4 m−2 year−1, and only 25% of sites exceeding 18 g CH4 m−2 year−1. The highest fluxes were observed at fresh‐oligohaline sites with daily maximum temperature normals (MATmax) above 25.6°C. These were followed by frequently inundated low and mid‐fresh‐oligohaline marshes with MATmax ≤25.6°C, and mesohaline sites with MATmax >19°C. Quantile regressions of paired chamber CH4 flux and porewater biogeochemistry revealed that the 90th percentile of fluxes fell below 5 ± 3 nmol m−2 s−1 at sulfate concentrations >4.7 ± 0.6 mM, porewater salinity >21 ± 2 psu, or surface water salinity >15 ± 3 psu. Across sites, salinity was the dominant predictor of annual CH4 fluxes, while within sites, temperature, gross primary productivity (GPP), and tidal height controlled variability at diel and seasonal scales. At the diel scale, GPP preceded temperature in importance for predicting CH4 flux changes, while the opposite was observed at the seasonal scale. Water levels influenced the timing and pathway of diel CH4 fluxes, with pulsed releases of stored CH4 at low to rising tide. This study provides data and methods to improve tidal marsh CH4 emission estimates, support blue carbon assessments, and refine national and global GHG inventories.
Identifying mesonephric‐like adenocarcinoma of the endometrium by combining SOX17 and PAX8 immunohistochemistry
Authors: Tahir Maryam , Xing Deyin , Ding Qingqing , Wang Yihong , Singh Kamaljeet , Suarez Adrian A , Parwani Anil , Li Zaibo
Published: September 2024

Aims

Mesonephric‐like adenocarcinoma (MLA) of the endometrium or ovary is a rare but distinct endometrial carcinoma which has a combination of characteristic morphological, immunohistochemical (IHC) and molecular features. SOX17 has been recently identified as a highly sensitive and specific marker for endometrial and ovarian carcinomas. In this study, we aimed to investigate SOX17 expression in MLA together with other IHCs to differentiate MLAs from other endometrial carcinomas.

Methods

Seventeen previously diagnosed endometrial/ovarian MLAs were collected, and multiple IHCs were performed. Additionally, we performed SOX17, PAX8 and ER on tissue microarrays (TMAs) composed of 652 endometrial carcinomas from 2012 to 2015 when MLA diagnostic criteria were not established.

Results

All 17 MLAs showed diffuse strong positive PAX8, negative ER and variable TTF1/GATA3 staining. Notably, all MLAs showed negative (n = 10) or focal weak/moderate (n = 7) staining for SOX17, which is more diffuse and stronger than PAX8 in other endometrial carcinoma subtypes. This finding prompted us to screen TMAs with 652 endometrial carcinomas diagnosed before MLA by an approach of combined SOX17 and PAX8 IHCs, and 14 cases with positive PAX8 but negative/focal weak SOX17 were identified. We further studied the 14 cases by examining morphology and performing additional IHCs (TTF1, GATA3, ER and CD10) and would classify seven (50%) of them as MLAs based on morphological features and positive CD10, TTF1 and/or GATA3 staining.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that a combination of SOX17 and PAX8 IHCs would aid in diagnosing MLA if the results show strong positive PAX8, but negative SOX17.
The effectiveness of double dorsal dartos flap for urethroplasty coverage in distal hypospadias repair: A single surgeon approach to preventing urethrocutaneous fistula
Authors: Mekki Mongi , Fredj Myriam Ben , Messaoud Marwa , Youssef Sabrine Ben , Salah Radhouane Ben , Toumi Afef , Sfar Sami , Mosbahi Sana , Ksiaa Amine , Belghith Mohsen , Chakroun Sawssen , Sahnoun Lassaad
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The concept of interposing double dorsal preputial flaps to cover the urethroplasty was introduced in 2005 to reduce the risk of urethrocutaneous fistula (UCF). Our study aims to compare the postoperative outcomes of urethroplasty for distal hypospadias between two groups: one receiving single preputial flap coverage and another receiving double flap coverage.

Materials and methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis study of boys with primary distal hypospadias who underwent surgery by the same experienced surgeon, at our department between 2010 and 2021. The study population was divided into two groups: Group A, which underwent urethroplasty coverage with single dorsal preputial flap, and Group B, which underwent coverage with double flap. Postoperative complications were compared between the two groups.

Results

We collected 105 cases, comprising 51 in Group A and 54 cases in Group B. The mean age at surgery was 29 months in Group A and 24 months in Group B. Post‐operative follow‐up period ranged from 6 months to 8 years. Functional and cosmetic outcomes were judged excellent in 88.7%. Only 10 boys experienced complications requiring reoperation. UCF occurred in 5 patients from Group A, while no cases were reported in Group B (p = 0.024). Meatal stenosis was identified in three patients in Group A and in two patients in Group B (p = 1). No other complications, such as glans dehiscence or penile torsion, were noted.

Conclusion

Double dorsal dartos flap is an effective method for covering the new urethra and can be recommended in the treatment of patients with virgin distal hypospadias.
Smart food‐sharing platforms for social sustainability: a heuristic algorithm approach
Authors: Maleki Vishkaei Behzad , De Giovanni Pietro
Published: September 2024

This study examines how smart food‐sharing platforms (SFSP) can help reduce food waste and suggests a method for using smart contracts to share extra food among different partners effectively. For smart contracts to work automatically and prevent food wastage, artificial intelligence systems can recognize how smart clauses should be executed. This will involve analyzing several factors like the selling price, expiration dates, offers from other partners, transport costs, wholesale price, shelf life, donation rates, and demand rates. The findings indicate that adopting an SFSP is an efficient solution for preemptively adopting redistribution strategies and improving social outcomes through donations as well as achieving positive environmental outcomes through reduced waste. However, we also identify cases in which reducing food waste to achieve social sustainability may negatively impact economic performance.
Research on the status and influencing factors of maternal health literacy among postpartum women in urban villages
Authors: Chen Shanxia , Lin Xiaoli , Wang Minyi , Gu Zhimin , Wang Meiyu , Ji Yuting , Yang Ming
Published: September 2024

Aim

To comprehensively identify the status and influencing factors on maternal health literacy among postpartum women in Guangzhou urban villages.

Design

An explanatory sequential mixed‐method research was conducted from November 2021 to July 2022.

Methods

The quantitative survey was conducted among postpartum women in Guangzhou urban villages using the convenience sampling principle, and a questionnaire survey was used to reflect the status and influencing factors on maternal health literacy. The qualitative interview conducted purposive sampling based on the survey and semi‐structured interviews with women to supplement the non‐quantifiable influencing factors.

Results

The quantitative survey showed that the maternal health literacy score of 501 women was 193.84 ± 22.23. The quantitative results suggested that ethnicity, education, income, household registration, delivery mode and social support were important influencing factors (p < .15). The qualitative interviews were conducted with 16 women and revealed three themes and eight sub‐themes, including demographic factors (ethnicity, education, income, occupation and family history), pregnancy factors (delivery mode and pregnancy complications) and social factors (social support), which influenced maternal health literacy through three routes: women's motivation, access and ability in screening health information.

Conclusion

Maternal health literacy among postpartum women in urban villages needs to be improved, especially critical health literacy. Maternal and infant workers need to guide women to develop appropriate health information concepts and consider the realistic knowledge needs of women in different socio‐cultural and economic backgrounds. They should also construct a comprehensive social support system for women to better improve maternal health literacy.

Impact

Highlights the positive benefits of maternal health literacy among postpartum women, as preparation for providing accurate and effective maternal and child health education services.

Patient or Public Contribution

The information on maternal health literacy in this study was based on an interview with postpartum women in Guangzhou urban villages during the study period.
Suture‐based techniques versus manual compression for femoral venous haemostasis after electrophysiology procedures
Authors: Mills Mark T. , Calvert Peter , Snowdon Richard , Mahida Saagar , Waktare Johan , Borbas Zoltan , Ashrafi Reza , Todd Derick , Modi Simon , Luther Vishal , Gupta Dhiraj
Published: September 2024

Background and aims

Methods for femoral venous haemostasis following electrophysiology (EP) procedures include manual compression (MC) and suture‐based techniques such as a figure‐of‐eight suture secured with a hand‐tied knot (Fo8HT) or a modified figure‐of‐eight suture secured with a 3‐way stopcock (Fo8MOD). We hypothesised that short‐term bleeding outcomes using the Fo8MOD approach would be superior to MC. We additionally compared outcomes between Fo8MOD and Fo8HT approaches.

Methods

We studied consecutive patients undergoing EP procedures at our institution between March and December 2023. Patients were categorised into three haemostasis groups: MC, Fo8HT and Fo8MOD. Access site complications were classified as major (requiring intervention or blood transfusion, delaying discharge or resulting in death) or minor (bleeding/haematoma requiring additional compression).

Results

1089 patients were included: MC 718 (65.9%); Fo8HT 105 (9.6%); Fo8MOD 266 (24.4%). Procedures were most commonly for atrial fibrillation (52.4%), atrial flutter (10.9%), and atrioventricular nodal re‐entrant tachycardia (10.1%). In patients receiving periprocedural anticoagulation (865, 79.4%), Fo8MOD associated with fewer complications than MC or Fo8HT (major: MC 2.2%, Fo8HT 6.0%, Fo8MOD 0.8%, p = .01; minor: MC 16.5%, Fo8HT 12.0%, Fo8MOD 7.4%, p = .002). In patients not receiving periprocedural anticoagulation, complications did not differ between haemostasis methods (total major and minor complications 5.8%, p = .729 for between groups rates). On multivariable logistic regression, Fo8MOD was associated with a significantly lower risk of access site complications (OR 0.29 [95% CI 0.17–0.48], p < .001), whilst intraprocedural heparinisation (OR 5.25 [2.88–9.69], p < .001) and larger maximal sheath size (OR 1.06 [1.00–1.11], p = .04) were associated with a higher risk of complications.

Conclusion

Femoral haemostasis with Fo8MOD associates with fewer access site complications than MC and Fo8HT following EP procedures that need periprocedural anticoagulation.
Commentary on association of glycemic index and glycemic load with type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all‐cause mortality
Authors: Hsieh Yi‐Ting , Chou Ting‐An , Jiang Yi‐Der
Published: September 2024

High glycemic index/load is associated with type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and total mortality. The impact on the Asian population may be higher.
Factors influencing food‐related quality of life in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review
Authors: Zhu Wenli , Zhang Yan , Wang Linda Dong‐Ling , Li Jiajia , Hou Sicong
Published: September 2024

Background

People diagnosed with Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often have severe dietary restrictions and avoidance due to the uncertainty of intestinal symptoms. Inadequate dietary intake may increase the risk of malnutrition and result in impaired food‐related quality of life (FRQoL). Few studies investigated factors influencing FRQoL in patients with IBD. This study aimed to synthesize the existing evidence regarding FRQoL among patients with IBD, including the current situation, measurement instruments, and related influencing factors.

Method

The comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Cochrane Library, as well as the most commonly used Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang and CBM). Studies published between January 2015 and December 2023 on FRQoL in patients with IBD were included. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist was utilized to evaluate the methodological quality of the selected studies.

Results

Finally, only five studies met the inclusion criteria were reviewed, including three cross‐sectional studies and two case‐control studies. The Food‐related quality of life‐29 Scale (FR‐QoL‐29) with a total core of 145 was the most used instrument measuring FRQoL in patients with IBD. The mean scores of FRQoL ranged from 69.9 to 102.3 in adult patients with IBD and 94.3 in children. A diverse range of factors were associated with FRQoL, including socio‐demographic, clinical, psychological, diet‐related, and nutrient intake factors.

Conclusions

The main influencing factors of FRQoL among patients with IBD included disease activity status, severe symptoms, history of IBD surgery, negative emotion reaction, and restrictive eating behaviour. Clinicians should work in concert with dietitians, keeping an eye on the disease status, nutrition intake, and restrictive eating habits, assessing FRQoL and providing personalized dietary recommendation for the patients with IBD.
A single‐nucleus transcriptomic atlas characterizes cell types and their molecular features in the ovary of adult Nile tilapia
Authors: Yao Zhi Lei , Wang Xiao , Hu Chun Lei , Chen Fu Xiao , Chen Hong Ju , Jiang Shi‐Jin , Zhao Yan , Ji Xiang Shan
Published: September 2024

In fish species, there is limited analysis of signature transcriptome profiles at the single‐cell level in gonadal cells. Here, the molecular signatures of distinct ovarian cell categories in adult Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) were analysed using single‐nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA‐seq). We identified four cell types (oogonia, oocytes, granulosa cell, and thecal cell) based on their specifically expressed genes and biological functions. Similarly, we found some key pathways involved in ovarian development that may affect germline–somatic interactions. A cell‐to‐cell communication network between the distinct cell types was constructed. We found that the bidirectional communication is mandatory for the development of germ cells and somatic cells in fish ovaries, and the granulosa cells and thecal cells play a central regulating role in the cell network in fish ovary. Additionally, we identified some novel candidate marker genes for various types of ovarian cells and also validated them using in situ hybridization. Our work reveals an ovarian atlas at the cellular and molecular levels and contributes to providing insights into oogenesis and gonad development in fish.
Diversification of flood risk management in the Netherlands: Implications for boundary judgement practices
Authors: Vinke‐de Kruijf Joanne , Groefsema Lisette , Snel Karin A. W.
Published: September 2024

Climate change urges water managers in low‐lying deltas to diversify their flood risk management (FRM) strategies. To reduce residual risks, they increasingly need to incorporate spatial and other measures. This has implications for the boundary judgements made by water authorities, that is, the implicit and explicit decisions about who and what is relevant to include and consider. To understand these implications, we assess the boundary judgements made by a Dutch regional water authority in two diversification‐oriented frontrunner projects. We distinguish between three categories of judgements: (1) substantive: the scale, domains, time horizon and solutions that are considered; (2) participation: who is involved, to what extent and when; and (3) planning and decision: the flexibility of responsibilities, financing, planning and decision‐making. Our results show that, in both projects, most of the boundary judgements became wider over time as a result of pressure from or interactions with actors from outside the water sector. Hence, despite its ambition to diversify flood risk strategies, the water authority continued to draw boundaries that were too tight to allow for meaningful collaboration with actors outside the water sector. Considering the importance of reconfiguring practices in transforming FRM, we recommend more engaged research into practices.
CCL25 contributes to the pathogenesis of D‐Gal/LPS‐induced acute liver failure
Authors: Sun Fei , Wang Jingwei , Ji Xiangfen , Wang Zhenli , Gao Shuai , Wang Kai
Published: September 2024

Background and Aim

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a fatal clinical syndrome of severe hepatic dysfunction. Chemokines promote liver diseases by recruiting and activating immune cells. We aimed to investigate the role of C–C chemokine ligand 25 (CCL25) in ALF.

Methods

An ALF mouse model induced by D‐galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide was evaluated through liver hematoxylin and eosin staining and serum transaminase and cytokine measurement. CCL25 expression in serum was analyzed by ELISA and in liver by immunohistochemical staining and western blot. C–C chemokine receptor 9 (CCR9)‐expressing cells in the liver were identified by immunofluorescence staining. The effects of anti‐CCL25 on ALF were evaluated in vivo. Cytokine expression and migration of CCL25‐stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages were studied. We also investigated the role of anti‐CCL25 and BMS‐345541, an NF‐κB signaling inhibitor, in vitro. NF‐κB activation was assessed via western blot, and p65 nuclear translocation was detected using cellular immunofluorescence.

Results

ALF mice showed severe histological damage and high serum levels of aminotransferase and inflammatory cytokines. Elevated CCL25 and NF‐κB activation was observed in vivo. CCR9 was expressed on macrophages in ALF mouse liver. ALF was suppressed after anti‐CCL25 treatment, with significant NF‐κB inhibition. In vitro, CCL25 induced strong migration and cytokine release in RAW264.7 macrophages, which were eliminated by anti‐CCL25 and BMS‐345541. Furthermore, the NF‐κB activation and p65 nuclear translocation induced by CCL25 were also inhibited by anti‐CCL25 and BMS‐345541.

Conclusion

CCL25 contributes to ALF development by inducing macrophage‐mediated inflammation via activation of the NF‐κB signaling.