bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tibial derotation osteotomies are effective in improving pain and function and avoiding hip arthroscopy in patients with hip pain—a short-term follow-up
Authors: Goriainov Vitali , Farook Mohamed , Vanhegan Ivor , Pollard Tom , Andrade Antonio
Published: November 2023

The primary objective was to determine short-term clinical outcomes following distal tibial derotation osteotomy (DTDO) performed to manage hip pain in the presence of tibial maltorsion and to review how co-existing pathomorphology affected the management. All patients undergoing DTDO for hip pain with tibial rotational deformities recognized as the predominant aetiology were included. Normal tibial torsion range was assumed as 0–40°, measured by trans-malleolar line relative to femoral posterior condyles. All patients had a positive hip impingement test Flexion Adduction Internal Rotation test (FADIR). The patients older than 50 years or presenting with degenerative joint changes and neuromuscular conditions were excluded. Associated ipsilateral MRI-defined intra-articular pathomorphology (cam/pincer), non-cam/pincer-related labral tears and abnormal combined femoral/acetabular version (McKibbin index) were noted. Pre-operative and post-operative functional outcomes were analysed. Thirty-two patients underwent DTDO. Mean tibial torsion was 48.8° (41–63°), average age was 27 years (18–44), and average follow-up was 30 months (16–45). Nine patients (28%) had a co-existing cam/pincer, and eight patients (25%) had an excessive McKibbin index (51–76°). Overall, 63% of all patients (including 54% of patients with co-existing pathology) experienced significant hip functional improvement following DTDO alone. Pre-operative vs 12 months post-operative scores were calculated as follows: International Hip Outcome Tool-12—41 vs 67 (P < 0.01); Hip Outcome Score Activities of Daily Living Scale—47 vs 70 (P < 0.05); and Hip Outcome Score Sport Scale—36 vs 64 (P < 0.05). Patients with hip pain frequently present with a combination of tibial and/or femoral rotational deformity and cam/pincer lesions. It is important to consider tibial maltorsion as an aetiology of hip pain. Tibial derotation with DTDO results in significant clinical and functional recovery within 12 months in symptomatic hip impingement patients even in the presence of co-existing pathomorphology.
Beyond externalities: human rights as a foundation of entitlements over energy resources
Authors: Le Moli Ginevra
Published: November 2023

The question of human rights and energy has been traditionally framed as an analysis of limitations on energy transactions arising from substantive and procedural human rights. Whereas the negative externality framing of human rights sets safeguards against the adverse effects of energy transactions and thereby restrains how such transactions are conducted, it overlooks a more fundamental dimension, the conferral of entitlements. Indeed, human rights define entitlements over energy resources, setting competing claims that limit not only how energy transactions are conducted but also the very power to conduct them in the first place. The entitlement dimension of human rights also unveils a wider question, namely the competing claims of a variety of collective subjects against the entitlement of the territorial or coastal States. In other words, such reframing opposes two logics of international law, each based on a different conception of the source from which entitlements flow. This article investigates the externality-avoidance and entitlement function of human rights in the context of international energy transactions. It reviews the most relevant judicial and quasi-judicial practice at the international level to illustrate the implications of framing the function of human rights from one or the other perspective.
Protocol digest of a randomized controlled adaptive Phase II/III trial of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for Japanese patients with oesophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma: Japan Clinical Oncology Group Study JCOG2203 (NEO-JPEG)
Authors: Kita Ryosuke , Yanagimoto Yoshitomo , Imazeki Hiroshi , Booka Eisuke , Tsushima Takahiro , Mizusawa Junki , Sasaki Keita , Fukuda Haruhiko , Kurokawa Yukinori , Takeuchi Hiroya , Kato Ken , Kitagawa Yuko , Boku Narikazu , Yoshikawa Takaki , Terashima Masanori ,   Stomach Cancer Study Group and Japan Esophageal Oncology Group of the Japan Clinical Oncology Group
Published: November 2023

Treatment strategies for oesophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma have not been standardized despite its poor prognosis due to differences in the incidence rates between Western countries and Asia. This randomized Phase II/III trial was initiated in June 2023 to determine which neoadjuvant chemotherapy regimen, docetaxel, oxaliplatin and S-1 or fluorouracil, oxaliplatin and docetaxel, is a more promising treatment in Phase II and confirm the superiority of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with docetaxel, oxaliplatin and S-1 or fluorouracil, oxaliplatin and docetaxel followed by surgery and postoperative chemotherapy over upfront surgery and postoperative chemotherapy in terms of overall survival in patients with Clinical Stage III or IVA oesophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma in Phase III. A total of 460 patients, including 150 patients in Phase II and 310 patients in Phase III, are planned to be enrolled from 85 hospitals in Japan over 5 years. This trial has been registered in the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials as jRCTs031230182 (https://jrct.niph.go.jp/latest-detail/jRCTs031230182).
Dyslipidemia and cardiovascular disease among childhood cancer survivors: a St. Jude Lifetime Cohort report
Authors: Goldberg Jason F , Hyun Geehong , Ness Kirsten K , Dixon Stephanie B , Towbin Jeffrey A , Rhea Isaac B , Ehrhardt Matthew J , Srivastava Deo Kumar , Mulrooney Daniel A , Hudson Melissa M , Robison Leslie L , Jefferies John L , Rohatgi Anand , Armstrong Gregory T
Published: November 2023

Background

Childhood cancer survivors have increased risk of dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and associated cardiovascular risks of specific lipid abnormalities among childhood cancer survivors.

Methods

Comprehensive lipid panel measurements were obtained from 4115 5-year survivors, with 3406 (mean age at evaluation = 35.2 years, SD = 10.4 years) not having previous dyslipidemia diagnosis, as well as 624 age, sex, and race and ethnicity matched community controls.

Results

Previously undiagnosed dyslipidemia with abnormal low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (>160 mg/dL), non–high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (>190 mg/dL), HDL cholesterol (<40 mg/dL for men, <50 mg/dL for women), and triglycerides (>150 mg/dL) were identified in 4%, 6%, 30%, and 17%, respectively. Survivors without previous dyslipidemia diagnosis had higher LDL cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol than community controls. Cranial radiotherapy (relative risk [RR] = 2.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.6 to 3.0 for non-HDL cholesterol) and total body irradiation for hematopoietic cell transplantation (RR = 6.7, 95% CI = 3.5 to 13.0 for non-HDL cholesterol; RR = 9.9, 95% CI = 6.0 to 16.3 for triglycerides) were associated with greater risk of dyslipidemia. Diagnoses of low HDL cholesterol (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.8 to 4.7) and elevated triglycerides (HR = 3.1, 95% CI = 1.9 to 5.1) were associated with increased risk for myocardial infarction, and diagnoses of high LDL cholesterol (HR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.3 to 3.7), high non-HDL cholesterol (HR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.3 to 3.7), low HDL cholesterol (HR = 3.9, 95% CI = 2.8 to 5.4), and elevated triglycerides (HR = 3.8, 95% CI = 2.7 to 5.5) were associated with increased risk for cardiomyopathy.

Conclusions

Previously undiagnosed dyslipidemia among childhood cancer survivors was associated with increased risk for myocardial infarction and cardiomyopathy. Comprehensive dyslipidemia evaluation and treatment are needed to reduce cardiovascular morbidity in this population.
Neoadjuvant BRAF-targeted therapy for ameloblastoma of the mandible: an organ preservation approach
Authors: Grynberg Shirly , Vered Marilena , Shapira-Frommer Ronnie , Asher Nethanel , Ben-Betzalel Guy , Stoff Ronen , Steinberg Yael , Amariglio Ninette , Greenberg Gahl , Barshack Iris , Toren Amos , Yahalom Ran , Schachter Jacob , Rechavi Gideon , Hirschhorn Ariel , Abebe Campino Gadi
Published: November 2023

Background

Ameloblastoma is a rare odontogenic neoplasm frequently located in the mandible. Standard treatment involves radical bone resection and immediate reconstruction, causing functional, aesthetic, and psychological impairments. The BRAF V600E mutation is present in approximately 80% of mandible ameloblastomas, and BRAF inhibitors have demonstrated sustained responses in unresectable cases.

Methods

We identified ameloblastoma patients planned for ablative surgery and screened them for BRAF V600E mutation. Neoadjuvant BRAF inhibitors were offered to facilitate jaw preservation surgery. Retrospective data collection encompassed treatment regimens, tolerability, tumor response, and conversion to mandible preservation surgery.

Results

Between 2017 and 2022, a total of 11 patients received dabrafenib (n = 6) or dabrafenib with trametinib (n = 5). The median age was 19 (range = 10-83) years. Median treatment duration was 10 (range = 3-20) months. All (100%) patients achieved a radiological response. Ten (91%) patients successfully converted to mandible preservation surgery with residual tumor enucleation. One patient attained complete radiological response, and surgery was not performed. Among the 10 surgically treated patients, all exhibited a pathological response, with 4 achieving near complete response and 6 partial response. At a median follow-up of 14 (range = 7-37) months after surgery, 1 case of recurrence was observed. Grade 1-2 adverse effects were reported in 8 (73%) patients, with a single case of grade 3 (hepatitis). Dose modification was necessary for 3 patients, and 4 experienced treatment interruptions, while 1 patient permanently discontinued therapy.

Conclusions

Neoadjuvant BRAF inhibition may offer a safe and effective strategy for organ preservation in mandible ameloblastoma treatment.
Translocator protein (TSPO) expression in neoplastic cells and tumor-associated macrophages in meningiomas
Authors: Blum Nadja , Mirian Christian , Maier Andrea Daniela , Mathiesen Tiit Illimar , Vilhardt Frederik , Haslund-Vinding Jeppe Lohfert
Published: November 2023

Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumors and show extensive infiltration of macrophages. The mitochondrial membrane protein translocator protein (TSPO) has been used as an in vivo marker of microglia and macrophage activation to visualize neuroinflammation. However, it is unknown which cell types express TSPO in meningiomas. Immunohistochemistry of 38 WHO grade 1–3 meningiomas was subjected to segmentation and deep learning classification of TSPO expression to either Iba1-positive tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) or all other (mainly neoplastic) cells. A possible association between clinical data and TSPO expression intensities was also investigated. TAMs accounted for 15.9%–26% of all cells in the meningioma tissue. Mean fluorescence intensity of TSPO was significantly higher in TAMs (p < 0.0001), but the mass of neoplastic cells in the tumors exceeded that of TAMs. Thus, the summed fluorescence intensity of TSPO in meningioma cells was 64.1% higher than in TAMs (p = 0.0003). We observed no correlation between TSPO expression intensity and WHO grade. These results indicate that both macrophage-lineage and neoplastic cells in meningiomas express TSPO and that the SPECT-TSPO signal in meningiomas mainly reflects the latter; TSPO is expressed equally in parenchymal activated and resting macrophage/microglia lineage cells.
Optic inversion of scleral-fixated intraocular lens after vitrectomy with fluid-air exchange: case series and review of the literature
Authors: Cameron Nathaniel W , Karadaghy Amin , Mitchell Mary K , Ajlan Radwan S
Published: November 2023

Lens dislocation is a significant complication after cataract surgery. Scleral fixation of 3-piece intraocular lens provides favorable visual outcome and can spare patients the need for lens exchange. Two patients presented with dislocated 3-piece lenses implanted over 10 years earlier. Both patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy and dropped lens rescue with scleral fixation. Postoperatively, the lens optic was found flipped nearly 90° at the optic-haptic junctions secondary to fluid-air exchange performed during vitrectomy. Both patients underwent intraocular lens exchange with a four point sclera fixated lens. Our study found that air tamponade is better avoided during rescue of old dislocated 3-piece lens implants. Intraocular lens exchange is preferred, when possible, to avoid complications associated with old dislocated lenses. Larger studies are needed to determine the effect of time on dislocated lens implants materials.
‘A great star falls’—cometology in Syriac language and literature
Authors: Rudolf Stefanie
Published: November 2023

The Syriac language has, among all the Aramaic varieties, by far the largest number of terms for ‘comet’ or ‘meteor’. Is there a simple explanation for this fact? The systematic investigation of Syriac technical terminology in the field of astral sciences addresses this question. Such a study also impacts three issues relevant to Semitic studies: (1) The question of the sources and languages the Syriac writers were able to access; (2) the linguistic strategies for the creation of neologisms; (3) the existence of a common Aramaic technical koiné (standard literary Aramaic). This article sets forth the terms for comets and meteors in Syriac as a representative selection of astral terminology, and investigates their value for the questions mentioned above. The two pillars of this investigation are the comparison of the literary genres in which this terminology surfaces with those of other Near Eastern literatures in which this terminology surfaces, and the linguistic analysis of these terms in Syriac.
Unconsummated marriage: a systematic review of etiological factors and clinical management
Authors: Krishnappa Pramod , Manfredi Celeste , Jayaramaiah Sneha , Ditonno Francesco , Matippa Prasanna , Shah Rupin , Moncada Ignacio
Published: November 2023

Background

Unconsummated marriage (UCM) is the inability of the heterosexual married couple to have penovaginal sexual intercourse.

Aim

The study sought to systematically review current evidence regarding the etiological factors and clinical management of UCM.

Methods

A comprehensive bibliographic search on the MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases was performed in June 2023. Studies were selected if they described married couples who never had sexual intercourse in case report or case series evaluating the related causes and/or management and reporting data with qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods. The review was reported according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analyses) statement and registered in PROSPERO with ID CRD42023433040.

Results

A total of 27 studies including 1638 males and 1587 females were selected. Eight (29.6%) articles were case reports involving a single couple and 19 (70.4%) studies were case series. Mean Murad score was 4.1 (range, 1-8) showing low-intermediate overall study quality. All articles had a level of evidence of 4. Most of studies were conducted in Egypt (n = 5 [18.4%]), Israel (n = 4 [14.9%]), and the United States (n = 4 [14.9%]). The mean age of males and females varied between 24.2 and 37.6 years and from 21 to 27.4 years, respectively. The reasons for the medical visit that led to the diagnosis of UCM were inability to consummate in 23 (85.2%) studies, inability to conceive in 1 (3.7%) article, and mixed in 3 (11.1%) articles. The mean duration of UCM varied from 7 days to 3.5 years. Eight studies involving both men and women showed that vaginismus (8.4%-81%) and erectile dysfunction (10.5%-61%) were the most common causes of UCM. Three articles reported that 16.6% to 26% of all UCM cases were due to both male and female factors. Sildenafil, tadalafil, intracavernosal injection, penile plication, female genital reconstructive surgery, vaginal dilators, lubricants, psychosexual therapy, and sex education were the various treatment modalities in 27 studies to achieve consummation rate of 66.6% to 100%.

Strengths & Limitations

A strength is that this is the first systematic review covering the entire spectrum of UCM. Limitations comprised the low quality of most of the included articles and the large percentage of UCM cases probably not published.

Conclusion

Erectile dysfunction and vaginismus are the most reported causes of UCM; however, a strong psychological component certainly underlies a significant number of cases. A multidisciplinary approach based on strategic integration of sex education, medical therapy, psychosexual support, and surgical treatment would seem the most suitable option to manage couples with UCM.
R21/Matrix-M™ malaria vaccine: a new tool to achieve WHO’s goal to eliminate malaria in 30 countries by 2030?
Authors: Genton Blaise
Published: November 2023

A potential breakthrough in the fight against malaria is the availability of a new promising tool, the R21/Matrix-M™ malaria vaccine that has shown an efficacy of 75% to protect young children against clinical malaria in different epidemiological settings. WHO recommends its deployment in addition to RTS,S/ASO1 and other effective interventions.
Amelia B. Edwards and Romantic Egyptology
Authors: Bainbridge William
Published: November 2023

Amelia B. Edwards (1831–1892) was renowned for her profound mastery of Egyptology, possessing a knowledge some said surpassed that of her male counterparts. Her archaeological endeavours in Egypt merged with a vivid narrative approach, evident in seminal works such as A Thousand Miles up the Nile (1877) and her captivating lectures across Britain and America. This harmonious blend of meticulous observation and romantic aesthetics not only carved her niche as a distinguished Egyptologist, but also heralded her as a forerunner in public history, adept at fusing erudite exploration with charming storytelling. Set against the tapestry of the Romantic era, Edwards forged a distinctive narrative, eschewing traditional academic boundaries to imbue her writings with heartfelt sentiment. This article delves into Edwards’ impact on Egyptology’s popularization: from her pivotal 1873 Egyptian sojourn, followed by her compelling lectures, to her personally curated Egyptian collection at home. With an adept fusion of artistic verve and academic rigour, Edwards bridged literature and archaeology. Her legacy signifies a refreshing deviation from orthodox methodologies, presenting a more immersive perspective on ancient Egypt. In stark contrast to the staid styles of her contemporary archaeological peers, she proclaimed herself the only romancer also versed in Egyptology, ardently championing a scientific discourse with broader appeal.
A new spider mite elicitor triggers plant defence and promotes resistance to herbivores
Authors: Cui Jia-Rong , Zhou Bin , Tang Yi-Jing , Zhou Jia-Yi , Ren Lu , Liu Fan , Hoffmann Ary A , Hong Xiao-Yue
Published: November 2023

Herbivore-associated elicitors (HAEs) are active molecules produced by herbivorous insects. Recognition of HAEs by plants induces defence that resist herbivore attacks. We previously demonstrated that the tomato red spider mite Tetranychus evansi triggered defence in Nicotiana benthamiana. However, our knowledge of HAEs from T. evansi remains limited. Here, we characterize a novel HAE, Te16, from T. evansi and dissect its function in mite-plant interactions. We investigate the effects of Te16 on spider mites and plants by heterologous expression, virus-induced gene silencing assay, and RNA interference. Te16 induces cell death, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, callose deposition, and jasmonate (JA)-related responses in N. benthamiana leaves. Te16-mediated cell death requires a calcium signalling pathway, cytoplasmic localization, the plant co-receptor BAK1, and the signalling components SGT1 and HSP90. The active region of Te16-induced cell death is located at amino acids 114–293. Moreover, silencing Te16 gene in T. evansi reduces spider mite survival and hatchability, but expressing Te16 in N. benthamiana leaves enhances plant resistance to herbivores. Finally, Te16 gene is specific to Tetranychidae species and is highly conserved in activating plant immunity. Our findings reveal a novel salivary protein produced by spider mites that elicits plant defence and resistance to insects, providing valuable clues for pest management.
Significant Mitigation of Blast Overpressure Exposure During Training by Adjustment of Body Position as Demonstrated With Field Data
Authors: Wiri Suthee , Wagner Christina , Longwell Jasmyne , Adams Tasha , Whitty Joshua , Massow Todd , Reid James , Dunbar Cyrus , Graves Wallace , Gonzales Andrea , Needham Charles E , Leonessa Fabio , Duckworth Josh L
Published: November 2023

Introduction

During training and deployment, service members (SMs) experience blast exposure, which may potentially negatively impact brain health in the short and long term. This article explores if blast exposure mitigation can be effectively achieved for four different weapon training scenarios that are being monitored as part of the CONQUER (COmbat and traiNing QUeryable Exposure/event Repository) program. The training scenarios considered here are a detonating cord linear (det linear) breaching charge, a water breaching charge, a shoulder-fired weapon, and a 120-mm mortar.

Materials and Methods

This article focuses on the efficacy of modification of position and standoff distance on SMs’ exposure to blast overpressure. Blast overpressure exposures were measured using BlackBox Biometrics (B3) Blast Gauge System (BGS) sensors worn by SMs during normal training. The BGS involves the use of three gauges/sensors, which are worn on the head, chest, and nondominant shoulder to record surface pressures at multiple locations on the SM. For the breaching charges, we compared the level of exposure when the SMs were directly in front of the blast with a breaching blanket to a modified standoff position around a corner from the charge without a breaching blanket. For the shoulder-fired weapon training, the modified approach simply increased the standoff distance of the SM. Finally, for mortars, blast overpressure exposures were compared for different levels of their ducking height (body position) below the mortar tube at the time of firing.

Results

Modification of the position of SMs during training with the det linear breaching charge had the highest measured blast exposure percent reduction, at 79%. Both the water breaching charge and shoulder-fired weapon showed lowered peak overpressures on all gauges. The measured percent reduction for the 120-mm mortar was 35%. When the blast gauges did not trigger at the modified standoff distance, the percent reduction was calculated with the assumption that the new overpressures were below ∼3.4 kPa (0.5 psi) (the lowest trigger threshold for the gauges). A figure summarizes the percent reduction for each subject in the training scenarios.

Conclusions

Results show that the modification of the SMs’ position effectively mitigated blast exposures for all considered weapon scenarios. There was at least a 50% overpressure reduction from the initial to modified standoff distances and a 35% reduction from the change in SM body posture. Based on these observations, new locations and body positioning of SMs during training have been suggested for blast mitigation.
A Comparison of Uniformed Services University and Health Professions Scholarship Program Graduates’ First Deployment Readiness
Authors: Cole Rebekah , Dong Ting , Rudinsky Sherri L , Tilley Laura , Reamy Brian V , Durning Steven J
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Military physicians must be prepared to lead health care teams across complex landscapes of war during future small- and large-scale combat operations. This preparation optimally begins in medical school so that early career physicians are fully ready for their first deployment. Past qualitative research has suggested that military physicians who attended civilian medical school are not as well prepared for the operational environment as physicians who attended the Uniformed Services University (USU), our nation’s military medical school. However, there is a lack of larger-scale quantitative research comparing the readiness differences between the two medical school pathways. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to quantify any differences in first deployment preparation between students attending USU and civilian medical schools through the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP).

Materials and Methods

We compared USU and HPSP graduates’ first deployment experiences by distributing a 14-item Likert survey to active duty military physicians in the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Air Force who graduated within the past 10 years from medical school (USU or civilian).

Results

The USU graduates rated themselves significantly higher than the HPSP graduates on their readiness for deployment (3.83 vs. 3.24; P < .001); ability to navigate the operational environment (3.59 vs. 2.99; P < .001); confidence in communicating with their commanding officer (3.59 vs. 2.99; P = .002); navigating the combined role as physician and officer (3.33 vs. 2.84; P = .004); leading a health care team (3.94 vs. 3.43; P = .001); preparation by a medical school (3.78 vs. 2.52; P < .001); and overall readiness compared to peers (4.20 vs. 3.49; P < .001). There was no significant difference between the two pathways regarding their stress level at the beginning of deployment (2.74 vs. 2.68; P = .683); clinical preparation (3.94 vs. 3.76; P = .202); and success of first deployment (3.87 vs. 3.91; P = .792). The largest effect size of the difference between the two pathways was noted on the question “How well did medical school prepare you for your first deployment” (Cohen’s d = 1.02).

Conclusions

While both groups believed that they were prepared for their first deployment, USU graduates consistently reported being more prepared by medical school for their first deployment than HPSP graduates. To close this readiness gap, supplemental military unique curricula may help to optimize HPSP students’ readiness.
Nasal Decolonization in Congregant Settings: Reducing Infection Spread, Cutting Costs, and Improving Operational Readiness
Authors: Pollock Gale S
Published: November 2023

As an Army health care provider for nearly 40 years and former acting Surgeon General of the Army, I know well the critical needs to ensure troop medical readiness and to respond to changing environments. We must use all the tools available to promote the health and well-being of our military personnel. There is one tool we have yet to deploy which I believe we should. Incorporating nasal decolonization strategies in congregant settings using alcohol-based antiseptics, just as several military hospitals have done, is a cost-effective and clinically-proven solution to help mitigate the risk of infections.
The galaxy UV luminosity function at z ≃ 11 from a suite of public JWST ERS, ERO, and Cycle-1 programs
Authors: McLeod D J , Donnan C T , McLure R J , Dunlop J S , Magee D , Begley R , Carnall A C , Cullen F , Ellis R S , Hamadouche M L , Stanton T M
Published: November 2023

We present a new determination of the evolving galaxy ultraviolet (UV) luminosity function (LF) over the redshift range 9.5 < z < 12.5 based on a wide-area (>250 arcmin2) data set of JWST NIRCam near-infrared imaging assembled from 13 public JWST surveys. Our relatively large-area search allows us to uncover a sample of 61 robust z > 9.5 candidates detected at ≥8σ, and hence place new constraints on the intermediate-to-bright end of the UV LF. When combined with our previous JWST + UltraVISTA results, this allows us to measure the form of the LF over a luminosity range corresponding to four magnitudes (M1500). At these early times we find that the galaxy UV LF is best described by a double power-law function, consistent with results obtained from recent ground-based and early JWST studies at similar redshifts. Our measurements provide further evidence for a relative lack of evolution at the bright-end of the UV LF at z = 9–11, but do favour a steep faint-end slope (α ≤ −2). The luminosity-weighted integral of our evolving UV LF provides further evidence for a gradual smooth (exponential) decline in co-moving star-formation rate density (ρSFR) at least out to z ≃ 12, with our determination of ρSFR(z = 11) lying significantly above the predictions of many theoretical models of galaxy evolution.
Scattered disc dynamics: the mapping approach
Authors: Hadden Sam , Tremaine Scott
Published: November 2023

We derive, and discuss the properties of, a symplectic map for the dynamics of bodies on nearly parabolic orbits. The orbits are perturbed by a planet on a circular, coplanar orbit interior to the pericentre of the parabolic orbit. The map shows excellent agreement with direct numerical integrations and elucidates how the dynamics depends on perturber mass and pericentre distance. We also use the map to explore the onset of chaos, statistical descriptions of chaotic transport, and sticking in mean-motion resonances. We discuss implications of our mapping model for the dynamical evolution of the Solar system’s scattered disc and other highly eccentric trans-Neptunian objects.
The dietary acid load is associated with disease severity in psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Öteleş Sümeyra , Ayan Gizem , Ekici Mustafa , Ünal Edibe , Bilgiç Pelin , Kalyoncu Umut
Published: November 2023

Objectives

An acidogenic diet, by disrupting the blood pH equilibrium, can contribute to metabolic acidosis and lead to inflammation. Therefore, we hypothesized that dietary acid load (DAL) increases disease activity and inflammation in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) patients.

Methods

This study was conducted with 58 obese/overweight patients, aged 20–65 years. Dietary intake was assessed using a 3-consecutive-day 24-hour recall. The DAL was evaluated through the PRAL (potential renal acid load) and NEAP (net endogenous acid production) and divided into the low and high groups by their median values. The disease activity assessments, anthropometric measurements, dietary data, and blood parameters of patients were recorded and compared at the low and high DAL groups.

Results

We observed that patients in the high NEAP and PRAL groups had worse PsA pattern scores (P < 0.05). Also, PRAL and NEAP scores were positively associated with Disease Activity Index for Psoriatic Arthritis, Health Assessment Questionnaire, and Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease-12 (PSAID-12) scores. After adjusting age, sex, smoking, and body mass index, 1 mEq increase in PRAL and NEAP was associated with an elevation of Disease Activity Index for Psoriatic Arthritis (0.506 and 0.486 points, respectively).

Conclusions

These results showed a close relationship between DAL and PsA symptoms. An acidogenic diet may negatively affect PsA prognosis. Healthy eating recommendations should be part of the management of the disease.
Importance of occupational support for NHS patients with mental illness
Authors: Kamau-Mitchell C , Lopes B
Published: November 2023

Background

Unemployment is a structural inequality which raises the risk of premature deaths among people with mental illness.

Aims

This study examined whether UK National Health Service (NHS) patients with mental illness get support to find or keep a job because reducing unemployment rates can reduce the risk of premature mortality.

Methods

This study analysed recently released data from 54 NHS trusts which randomly sampled patients for a Care Quality Commission survey. This study assessed 11 001 working-age patients with mental illness, of whom 50% are long-term service users (6+ years).

Results

Perceived access to occupational support was poor with 46% of patients who wanted the support saying that they did not get help finding or returning to work. Perceived occupational support for physical co-morbidities needed improvement because 40% of patients with physical co-morbidities did not receive support for physical health needs. Twenty-five per cent said that medication side effects were not discussed, and 24% lacked medication follow-up although 87% of patients found medication beneficial to their mental health. Occupational support significantly benefited overall patient satisfaction to an equivalent extent as the main treatment (i.e. receiving medication and talking therapies), and it was a more consistent predictor of patient satisfaction than talking therapies.

Conclusions

Improved access to schemes which reduce unemployment among NHS patients with mental illness is needed (e.g. individual placement and support programmes), although limited availability might be due to funding constraints. As well as addressing unemployment, occupational support should address other risk factors for premature mortality, for example, poverty, stigma, discrimination and social exclusion.
Blastomycosis Endocarditis: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Murillo Chavez Franco , Filippov Evgenii , Licandro Francesca , Sethi Vishal , Eilertson Brandon
Published: November 2023

We report successful treatment of a case of disseminated blastomycosis originating in the right lung, with involvement of the right pleural space, multiple ribs and vertebral bodies, and the pericardium and mitral valve endocarditis. The 22-year-old patient presented with a 13-month history of right lower lobe pneumonia associated with fevers, night sweats, rib pain, and 27-kg weight loss. Pathology examination revealed Blastomyces from multiple biopsies of inflammatory masses in the right thorax. After a 4-week induction with liposomal amphotericin followed by oral itraconazole, the patient had complete resolution of the clinical and laboratory findings of blastomycosis.
The Text, the Story, and Its Sources
Authors: Tesei Tommaso
Published: November 2023

This first chapter describes the manuscript tradition of the Neṣḥānā d-Aleksandrōs, including the five extant manuscripts in which this work has been transmitted, and briefly delineates the relationship between Neṣḥānā and Syriac Alexander Romance in the manuscript tradition. The chapter presents the Alexander story as narrated in the Syriac work and describes the literary traditions that inspired the author in composing his narrative. The chapter describes earlier sources in which the two motifs of Alexander’s iron gate and of the people of Gog and Magog are certified. Finally, the chapter explores the geography behind the episode of Alexander’s gate, as this is an important element in determining the Syriac author’s historical and political context.
The Story of Alexander’s Gate and the Political Context of the Sixth Century
Authors: Tesei Tommaso
Published: November 2023

This chapter demonstrates that the author of the Neṣḥānā uses the episode of the eschatological gate erected by Alexander to address two major points of controversy between the Byzantine and Sasanian empires at the time of Justinian and Khosrow Anōshirvān: (1) their dispute over the control of the Caucasian mountain passes (traditionally identified as the semi-mythical Caspian Gates); and (2) the war between the two empires for the possession of the kingdom of Lazica. These disputes between the two rival empires provide the political framework for the author’s elaboration of the story of Alexander’s gate. The chapter relates the Neṣḥānā’s engagement with contemporary issues and broader political debates in the Byzantine world during the reign of Justinian, and points out that, while producing a unique representation of thorny political controversies, the Neṣḥānā d-Aleksandrōs reflects concerns and positions that are expressed in the works of several contemporary authors.
Apocalyptic Ideology
Authors: Tesei Tommaso
Published: November 2023

This chapter is dedicated to the apocalyptic ideology presented in the Neṣḥānā d-Aleksandrōs and its relationship to pro- and anti-imperial sentiments in earlier literature. It highlights the Syriac author’s unprecedented emphasis on the eschatological role of the Roman Empire and on his innovative conceptualization of Byzantium as a kingdom destined to establish a Christian cosmocracy in preparation for the return of the Messiah and the establishment of God’s Kingdom. At the same time, it emphasizes the connection between the apocalyptic vision articulated in the Neṣḥānā and that outlined two centuries earlier in Aphrahat’s Demonstrations. It argues that the author of the Neṣḥānā expanded upon the anti-Sasanian character of Aphrahat’s reading of Daniel not only as a consequence of the renewed hostilities between the two empires, but also in reaction to increasing rapprochement between the Sasanian crown and the Church of the East. This reading of sixth-century sources indicates that contemporary Persian Christians developed an understanding of Daniel’s apocalyptic visions that sought to confer upon the Sasanian Empire a special role in sacred history and a dignity equal to that attributed to the Roman Empire by Byzantine authors. In reaction to these trends current among Persian Christians, the author of the Neṣḥānā developed his highly politicized and militant hermeneutic of Daniel 2, 7, and 8—which predicts the collapse of the Sasanian kingdom.
The Crown, the Throne, and the Last Roman Emperor
Authors: Tesei Tommaso
Published: November 2023

This final chapter treats the second part of Alexander’s prayer, specifically the king’s surrender of his crown and throne as a ceremonial act prior to the return of the Messiah. The chapter compares this motif to the well-known Last Roman Emperor legend, and compares the passage in the Neṣḥānā with sections from the Apocalypse of Ps.-Methodius and the so-called Tiburtine Sibyl where the Last Emperor theme appears. The chapter argues that the Neṣḥānā contains the first recorded version—although in an embryonical stage—of this legend, and connects the scene of the surrender of the crown and throne in the Neṣḥānā to late antique allegorical representations of the idea of translatio imperii, by means of the symbols of the heavenly crown and the throne of the kosmokrator. The chapter argues that the Syriac author draws upon this semiotic universe to again express the idea that Rome was destined to become a cosmocratic power with the goal to rebut representations of Persian dynasts as universal kings.
Volatile Compounds Emitted by Plant Growth–Promoting Fungus Tolypocladium inflatum GT22 Alleviate Copper and Pathogen Stress
Authors: Chiang Chih-Yun , Chang Ching-Han , Tseng Tzu-Yun , Nguyen Van-Anh Thi , Su Pei-Yu , Truong Tu-Trinh Thi , Chen Jing-Yu , Huang Chung-Chih , Huang Hao-Jen
Published: November 2023

Previous studies on the intricate interactions between plants and microorganisms have revealed that fungal volatile compounds (VCs) can affect plant growth and development. However, the precise mechanisms underlying these actions remain to be delineated. In this study, we discovered that VCs from the soilborne fungus Tolypocladium inflatum GT22 enhance the growth of Arabidopsis. Remarkably, priming Arabidopsis with GT22 VCs caused the plant to display an enhanced immune response and mitigated the detrimental effects of both pathogenic infections and copper stress. Transcriptomic analyses of Arabidopsis seedlings treated with GT22 VCs for 3, 24 and 48 h revealed that 90, 83 and 137 genes were differentially expressed, respectively. The responsive genes are known to be involved in growth, hormone regulation, defense mechanisms and signaling pathways. Furthermore, we observed the induction of genes related to innate immunity, hypoxia, salicylic acid biosynthesis and camalexin biosynthesis by GT22 VCs. Among the VCs emitted by GT22, exposure of Arabidopsis seedlings to limonene promoted plant growth and attenuated copper stress. Thus, limonene appears to be a key mediator of the interaction between GT22 and plants. Overall, our findings provide evidence that fungal VCs can promote plant growth and enhance both biotic and abiotic tolerance. As such, our study suggests that exposure of seedlings to T. inflatum GT22 VCs may be a means of improving crop productivity. This study describes a beneficial interaction between T. inflatun GT22 and Arabidopsis. Our investigation of microorganism function in terms of VC activities allowed us to overcome the limitations of traditional microbial application methods. The importance of this study lies in the discovery of T. inflatun GT22 as a beneficial microorganism. This soilborne fungus emits VCs with plant growth–promoting effects and the ability to alleviate both copper and pathogenic stress. Furthermore, our study offers a valuable approach to tracking the activities of fungal VC components via transcriptomic analysis and sheds light on the mechanisms through which VCs promote plant growth and induce resistance. This research significantly advances our knowledge of VC applications and provides an example for further investigations within this field.
Bottom-up effects of variable winter weather conditions on phytoplankton dynamics in an enclosed bay: implications for ecological responses to climate change
Authors: Suzuki Keita W , Dinh Hanh T
Published: November 2023

To investigate phytoplankton dynamics in response to variable winter weather conditions along the Sea of Japan, we conducted daily sampling in enclosed Maizuru Bay in five winters and found distinctive differences between 2016/2017 and 2018/2019. A clear diatom bloom occurred through the water column in moderately cold/snowy 2016/2017, whereas in exceptionally warm/snow-free 2018/2019 a small peak of dinoflagellates occurred only in the subsurface. Nutrient concentrations changed drastically depending on freshwater discharge and diatom growth in 2016/2017, showing a contrast with constant nutrient concentrations in 2018/2019. Copepod densities were ~10 times higher in 2016/2017 than in 2018/2019, indicating bottom-up effects in 2016/2017. As the absence of a diatom bloom from 2018/2019 can be attributed neither to nutrient limitation nor to grazing pressure, we hypothesize that wind mixing is a key factor triggering a diatom bloom. Within the five winters, clear diatom blooms were found only after strong winds and heavy precipitation including snowfall. Wind mixing would possibly promote the germination/rejuvenation of viable resting stage cells as inocula for a diatom bloom, while the growth and maintenance are supported by nutrient supply through freshwater discharge. In Maizuru Bay, winter production is likely activated by harsh weather conditions characteristic of this region.
Corals and sponges are hotspots of reactive oxygen species in the deep sea
Authors: Taenzer Lina , Wankel Scott D , Kapit Jason , Pardis William A , Herrera Santiago , Auscavitch Steven , Grabb Kalina C , Cordes Erik , Hansel Colleen M
Published: November 2023

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are central to diverse biological processes through which organisms respond to and interact with their surroundings. Yet, a lack of direct measurements limits our understanding of the distribution of ROS in the ocean. Using a recently developed in situ sensor, we show that deep-sea corals and sponges produce the ROS superoxide, revealing that benthic organisms can be sources and hotspots of ROS production in these environments. These findings confirm previous contentions that extracellular superoxide production by corals can be independent of the activity of photosynthetic symbionts. The discovery of deep-sea corals and sponges as sources of ROS has implications for the physiology and ecology of benthic organisms and introduces a previously overlooked suite of redox reactants at depth.
Electroconductivity, a regenerative engineering approach to reverse rotator cuff muscle degeneration
Authors: Saveh-Shemshaki Nikoo , Barajaa Mohammed A , Otsuka Takayoshi , Mirdamadi Elnaz S , Nair Lakshmi S , Laurencin Cato T
Published: November 2023

Muscle degeneration is one the main factors that lead to the high rate of retear after a successful repair of rotator cuff (RC) tears. The current surgical practices have failed to treat patients with chronic massive rotator cuff tears (RCTs). Therefore, regenerative engineering approaches are being studied to address the challenges. Recent studies showed the promising outcomes of electroactive materials (EAMs) on the regeneration of electrically excitable tissues such as skeletal muscle. Here, we review the most important biological mechanism of RC muscle degeneration. Further, the review covers the recent studies on EAMs for muscle regeneration including RC muscle. Finally, we will discuss the future direction toward the application of EAMs for the augmentation of RCTs.
Dental-derived stem cells in tissue engineering: the role of biomaterials and host response
Authors: Yuan Weihao , Ferreira Luiza de Almeida Queiroz , Yu Bo , Ansari Sahar , Moshaverinia Alireza
Published: November 2023

Dental-derived stem cells (DSCs) are attractive cell sources due to their easy access, superior growth capacity and low immunogenicity. They can respond to multiple extracellular matrix signals, which provide biophysical and biochemical cues to regulate the fate of residing cells. However, the direct transplantation of DSCs suffers from poor proliferation and differentiation toward functional cells and low survival rates due to local inflammation. Recently, elegant advances in the design of novel biomaterials have been made to give promise to the use of biomimetic biomaterials to regulate various cell behaviors, including proliferation, differentiation and migration. Biomaterials could be tailored with multiple functionalities, e.g., stimuli-responsiveness. There is an emerging need to summarize recent advances in engineered biomaterials-mediated delivery and therapy of DSCs and their potential applications. Herein, we outlined the design of biomaterials for supporting DSCs and the host response to the transplantation.
Defining Rochester’s Canon in the Eighteenth Century: The Role of Bragge and Curll
Authors: Fisher Nicholas
Published: November 2023

Benjamin Bragge and Edmund Curll published one of the most popular poetry collections of the eighteenth century: The Miscellaneous Works of the Right Honourable the late Earls of Rochester and Roscommon. Originally produced by Bragge in 1706, then reissued the following year under Curll’s imprint, its first part initiated what David Vieth termed the C series of Rochester’s collected poems that enjoyed at least 25 iterations until c.1798. The inaccuracy of the title—no place was found for Rochester’s play Valentinian, his letters, his lyrics or the Alexander Bendo advertisement—was compounded not only by the absence of any texts scholars now perceive to be authoritative but by incorrect attributions for three-quarters of its predominantly libertine and satiric matter, the majority of which, surprisingly, had already been printed under Rochester’s name. Curll published two further editions which continued Bragge’s emphasis and increased the publications’ attraction for the unsophisticated reader. From 1718 the miscellany was published anonymously, perhaps initially under Curll’s direction, and the now settled contents formed the basis on which Rochester’s poetry was understood and appreciated. Despite Vieth’s accurate definition of the canon in 1968, the record of the Bragge-Curll misattributions continues to impede an accurate public perception of Rochester’s poetic achievement.