bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Farm strategies and characteristics influencing profitability in Nigerian catfish aquaculture: Lessons on resilience during economic crisis and COVID‐type shock
Authors: Olagunju Olanrewaju Femi , Kristofersson Dadi , Tómasson Tumi , Kristjánsson Theódór
Published: February 2024

Since the early 2000s, aquaculture in Nigeria has grown exponentially. African catfish aquaculture was a major contributor to this expansion. However, a fall in output started in 2015, mostly due to challenging economic conditions which affected farmer's profitability. This challenge has been exacerbated by the COVID‐19 pandemic. Notwithstanding, some catfish farms remained profitable. This study investigates the profitability strategies that aid farmers' resilience in times of both economic distress and COVID‐type shock. Data from 609 randomly sampled farms across the country were verified and included in the study covering 1118 operations for the pre‐COVID and COVID periods. Budgetary analysis was done, and stepwise regression was used to identify factors that most contribute to profitability. These factors were ranked by average profit per kilogram and grouped. The profitability during the periods was influenced by factors within the subcategories of scale of operation, experience, targeted markets, ownership, and pond type. Engagement in other agricultural ventures favored profitability during the COVID period. Profitable and non‐profitable groups were further characterized based on their technical and financial indicators. Explored strategies for profitability, including the operation scale, marketing tactics, cost‐cutting, and innovative production techniques all proved successful during economic distress and the pandemic.
Empathy and attitudes toward protecting migrants from criminal violence
Authors: Bell‐Martin Rebecca , Díaz Domínguez Alejandro
Published: February 2024

Migrants in Latin America are increasingly vulnerable to organized crime violence while en route to their destination. Public opinion regarding how to address this problem varies. While many residents of countries along migration routes support policies protecting migrants from organized crime, others oppose them. What explains this variation? To investigate this situation, we draw on nationally representative survey data from one of Latin America's most important migrant corridors, Mexico, where sustained criminal violence makes migrants vulnerable to criminal predation en route. We integrate insight from theories about helping refugees amid political violence with studies about aiding migrants amid peace to develop and test hypotheses about an understudied research phenomenon, protecting migrants amid large‐scale criminal violence. We argue that attitudes toward protecting migrants are influenced by feelings of empathy. We test hypotheses related to two conduits of empathic perspective taking—crime victimization and imagining one could become a victim in the future. We find these channels of perspective taking are positively associated with support for migrant protective policies among crime victims and nonvictims alike. Our research reveals new information about attitudes toward immigration policy in criminally violent contexts and advances knowledge about the public endorsement of policies to preserve migrant rights and dignity.
Delayed feedback could either help or hurt test‐enhanced learning; it depends
Authors: Nelson Adin
Published: February 2024

Nelson uses mechanisms of memory, Cognitive Load Theory, and Desirable Difficulty Theory to propose a nuanced understanding of Ryan et al’s observations of workplace‐based assessment
A review of hair removal modalities in pediatric patients: Ethical and clinical considerations
Authors: Sanfilippo Eric , Castelo‐Soccio Leslie , Kirkorian Anna Yasmine
Published: February 2024

Unwanted hair is a common concern among patients presenting to pediatric dermatology clinics, and parents and patients alike inquire about the safety of methods employed for elective removal. Various methods of hair removal exist with different levels of invasiveness and permanence, from simple mechanical depilation to light‐based therapies. All methods of hair removal appear to be safe and generally well tolerated in children, and there are no age restrictions to any modality. In this review, we aim to address the available literature on the safety and efficacy of hair removal modalities in pediatric patients and propose guidance on how to manage requests for at‐home and in‐office therapies within an ethical framework.
Associations between the resting EEG aperiodic slope and broad domains of cognitive ability
Authors: Euler Matthew J. , Vehar Julia V. , Guevara Jasmin E. , Geiger Allie R. , Deboeck Pascal R. , Lohse Keith R.
Published: February 2024

Recent studies suggest that the EEG aperiodic exponent (often represented as a slope in log–log space) is sensitive to individual differences in momentary cognitive skills such as selective attention and information processing speed. However, findings are mixed, and most of the studies have focused on just a narrow range of cognitive domains. This study used an archival dataset to help clarify associations between resting aperiodic features and broad domains of cognitive ability, which vary in their demands on momentary processing. Undergraduates (N = 166) of age 18–52 years completed a resting EEG session as well as a standardized, individually administered assessment of cognitive ability that included measures of processing speed, working memory, and higher‐order visuospatial and verbal skills. A subsample (n = 110) also completed a computerized reaction time task with three difficulty levels. Data reduction analyses revealed strong correlations between the aperiodic offset and slope across electrodes, and a single component accounted for ~60% of variance in slopes across the scalp, in both eyes‐closed and eyes‐open conditions. Structural equation models did not support relations between the slope and specific domains tapping momentary processes. However, secondary analyses indicated that the eyes‐open slope was related to higher overall performance, as represented by a single general ability factor. A latent reaction time variable was significantly inversely related to both eyes‐closed and eyes‐open resting exponents, such that faster reaction times were associated with steeper slopes. These findings support and help clarify the relation of the resting EEG exponent to individual differences in cognitive skills.
Detection of Frank's sign in the dental setting: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Rivas‐Mundiña Berta , Fernández‐Ascariz Lucía , García‐Mato Eliane , Diniz‐Freitas Marcio , Gude‐Sampedro Francisco , Abeleira‐Pazos Maite
Published: February 2024

Background

In 1973, Saunders T. Frank described the diagonal earlobe crease (DELC) as a potential marker of cardiovascular disease. However, this anatomical finding is not routinely examined. The aim of this study was to assess the presence of this crease in the general population attending a dental setting and describe its anatomical variations to be able to categorize it as a physical sign.

Methodology

A study group of 1050 white adults were selected, as participants in the framework of the “A Estrada Study of Glycation and Inflammation” (AEGIS), a cross‐sectional, population‐based descriptive study of a representative sample of the general adult population of the municipality of A Estrada (Pontevedra, Spain). Each participant's age, sex, and preferred head position when sleeping were recorded. Both earlobes were visually inspected and the anatomical variables of the crease were recorded (unilateral or bilateral, length, depth, and presence of secondary creases). The relationship between the study variables was analyzed using the chi‐squared test, Student's t‐test, the analysis of variance (ANOVA), and the nonparametric tests of Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis.

Results

The DELC was observed in 65.2% of the participants. In 71.5% of the cases, the sign was complete (occupying the space from the tragus to the posterior edge of the earlobe); in 56.9% of the cases, the sign was bilateral; in 45.1% of the cases it was deep; and in the 43.6% of the cases, accessory creases were identified. Neither sex nor the habitual head position when sleeping were related to the prevalence or characteristics of the DELC. The prevalence, extent and depth of Frank's sign increased significantly with age (p < .001).

Conclusion

The prevalence of the DELC increases significantly with age, and its morphological characteristics are accentuated. This finding, therefore, gains special relevance as a marker of potential cardiovascular disease when observed in young adults.
Overlapping cancer service areas: Delineation and implications
Authors: Wang Changzhen , Onega Tracy , Wang Fahui
Published: February 2024

Prior research has defined cancer service areas (CSAs) anchored by major cancer centers in the U.S., such as members of the Association of American Cancer Institutes (AACI). Those CSAs have discrete boundaries and may not capture the increasingly interwoven cancer care markets. This is the first attempt to delineate possible overlapping CSAs. Specifically, we integrate the concept of shared memberships and other spatial attributes into the Speaker‐Listener Label Propagation (SLPA) algorithm, termed the spatially constrained SLPA (or ScSLPA), and apply it to six representative areas in the U.S. The results show that overlapping CSAs tend to form in areas that are more urbanized, with higher localization index (LI) values, larger populations, and shorter travel times than discrete CSAs. Two CSAs in Los Angeles and San Diego are consistent with the catchment areas (CAs) of the National Cancer Institute (NCI)‐designated cancer centers, and other CSAs are much smaller than the CAs of their anchoring cancer centers. The study has important implications for public health policy to advance cancer control and prevention efforts.
Current progress towards prevention of Nipah and Hendra disease in humans: A scoping review of vaccine and monoclonal antibody candidates being evaluated in clinical trials
Authors: Rodrigue Valerie , Gravagna Katie , Yao Jacqueline , Nafade Vaidehi , Basta Nicole E.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Nipah and Hendra are deadly zoonotic diseases with pandemic potential. To date, no human vaccine or monoclonal antibody (mAb) has been licensed to prevent disease caused by these pathogens. The aim of this scoping review was to identify and describe all Phase I, II, and III clinical trials of vaccine candidates or mAbs candidates designed to prevent Nipah and Hendra in humans and to compare the characteristics of the vaccine candidates to characteristics outlined in the Target Product Profile drafted by the World Health Organisation as part of the WHO Research & Development Blueprint for Action to Prevent Epidemics.

Methods

We searched 23 clinical trial registries, the Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials, and grey literature up to June 2023 to identify vaccine and mAb candidates being evaluated in registered clinical trials. Vaccine candidate and trial characteristics were double‐extracted for evaluation and the vaccine candidate characteristics were compared with the preferred and critical criteria of the World Health Organisation's Target Product Profile for Nipah virus vaccine.

Results

Three vaccine candidates (Hendra Virus Soluble Glycoprotein Vaccine [HeV‐sG‐V], PHV02, and mRNA‐1215) and one mAb (m102.4) had a registered human clinical trial by June 2023. All trials were phase 1, dose‐ranging trials taking place in the United States of America or Australia and enrolling healthy adults. Although all vaccine candidates meet the dose regimen and route of administration criteria of the Target Product Profile, other criteria such as measures of efficacy and reactogenicity will need to be evaluated in the future as evidence becomes available.

Conclusion

Multiple vaccine candidates and one mAb candidate have reached the stage of human clinical trials and are reviewed here. Monitoring progress during evaluation of these candidates and candidates entering clinical trials in the future can help highlight many of the challenges that remain.
Nasolacrimal sac foreign body extraction using vitreoretinal forceps in 28 dogs
Authors: Jimenez‐Ramos Laura , Ripolles‐Garcia Ana , Caro‐Suarez Miriam , Latre‐Moreno Almudena , Laguna Fernando , Villagrasa Manuel
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To describe a novel technique of nasolacrimal foreign body extraction in dogs by using a 20G vitreoretinal forceps introduced through the superior lacrimal punctum.

Methods

A retrospective review of the medical records of dogs with dacryocystitis due to nasolacrimal foreign bodies between the years 2001 and 2022 was performed. We recorded the breed, age, affected eye, type and number of foreign bodies, concomitant diseases, and the use of imaging techniques. All animals underwent the same procedure of a 20G vitreoretinal forceps insertion through the upper canaliculus reaching the lacrimal sac and retrograde extraction of the foreign bodies.

Results

A total of 28 dogs were included, 16 males and 12 females, with a mean (±SD) age of 4.7 (±3.2) years. The most common breeds were Wire‐Haired Dachshund (4/28; 14.29%) and Labrador Retriever (3/28; 10.71%). Additional imaging techniques were used, such as orbital ultrasound in 13 cases (13/28; 46.43%) and computed tomography in one case (1/28; 3.57%). The most common type of foreign body retrieved was grass awns, although seeds and plant debris were also found. Dacryocystitis resolved after removal of the foreign body and appropriate medical therapy was ensured in all cases in the 1‐month postprocedure follow‐up.

Conclusion

Extraction of nasolacrimal foreign bodies with vitreoretinal forceps is a novel, noninvasive, and easily applicable technique that, although not successful in all cases, can be attempted before performing more aggressive surgery.
Unintentional human‐vectored dispersal contributes to the spread of high risk weed species
Authors: Ansong Michael
Published: February 2024

Naturalisation risk and the vulnerability of many countries to future plant invasions is predicted to increase with human movement and climate change. Unfortunately, the geographical limitation on studies assessing unintentional human‐vectored dispersal (HVD) has hampered progress in understanding its importance, particularly its probability of introducing species that will become naturalised or invasive. The current paper used an explorative approach to determine if human clothing and vehicles disperse species with higher potential to become invasive globally. The study specifically relies on available database of unintentional human‐vectored seed dispersal and recent studies that considered the outcomes of plant species' interaction with humans around the world. The results indicate that human vehicles and clothing contribute to the spread of many extreme risk and most naturalised species of the world. For example, 55% of the 200 most naturalised species have been reported to be dispersed on vehicle while almost one ‐third (32%) have been reported to be dispersed on clothing. Also, of the 235 extreme risk species 41% have been reported to be dispersed on vehicles and 31% on clothing. The results indicate that graminoids, herbs and species with long‐term seed bank are more dispersed via HVD. Conservation managers and practitioners should consider the role of human‐vectored seed dispersal in the spread of invasive weeds, especially in popular and frequently visited areas. Individuals embracing responsible travel practices and adopting proactive measures and protocols to prevent the accidental transport of seeds can significantly enhance our conservation endeavours in our interconnected global ecosystem.
Self‐improving dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa with a novel heterozygous missense variant in the COL7A1 gene in a Taiwanese family
Authors: Tsai Yi‐Chia , Tu Wei‐Ting , Su Chun‐Lin , Cheng Yu‐Wen , Chi Pei‐Ling , Hsu Chao‐Kai , Chen Yang‐Yi
Published: February 2024

Self‐improving dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) is a genodermatosis that is inherited autosomal dominantly or recessively, and its clinical symptoms may improve or subside spontaneously. Herein, we report a case of self‐improving DEB with COL7A1 p.Gly2025Asp variant. The diagnosis was made through histopathological, electron microscopic examination, and genetic testing. The same variant is also noted on his father, who presents with dystrophic toenails without any blisters. This study highlights that idiopathic nail dystrophy could be linked to congenital or hereditary disease. Furthermore, we conducted a review of the literature on the characteristics of reported cases of self‐improving DEB with a personal or family history of nail dystrophy. The results supported our findings that nail dystrophy may be the sole manifestation in some family members. We suggest that individuals suffering from idiopathic nail dystrophy may seek genetic counselling when planning pregnancy to early evaluate the potential risk of hereditary diseases.
Large Eddy Simulation of Separated Flows on Unconventionally Coarse Grids
Authors: Bin Yuanwei , Park George I. , Lv Yu , Yang Xiang I. A.
Published: February 2024

We examine and benchmark the emerging idea of applying the large eddy simulation (LES) formalism to unconventionally coarse grids where Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) would be considered more appropriate at first glance. We distinguish this idea from very large eddy simulation and detached eddy simulation, which require switching between RANS and LES formalism. LES on RANS grid is appealing because first, it requires minimal changes to a production code; second, it is more cost-effective than LES; third, it converges to LES; and most importantly, it accurately predicts flows with separation. This work quantifies the benefit of LES on RANS-like grids as compared to RANS on the same grids. Three canonical cases are considered: periodic hill, backward-facing step, and jet in cross flow. We conduct direct numerical simulation (DNS), proper LES on LES grids, LES on RANS-quality grids, and RANS. We show that while the LES solutions on the RANS-quality grids are not grid converged, they are twice as accurate as the RANS on the same grids.
Systemic Sirtuin 1 as a Potential Target to Mediate Interactions Between Body Fat and Testosterone Concentration in Master Athletes
Authors: Leite Patricio Lopes de Araújo , Maciel Larissa Alves , da Silva Aguiar Samuel , Sousa Caio Victor , Neves Rodrigo Vanerson Passos , de Sousa Neto Ivo Vieira , Campbell Simões Lucca , Rosa Thiago dos Santos , Simões Herbert Gustavo
Published: February 2024

Evidence indicates that master athletes have higher concentration of Sirtuin 1 (Sirt1), lower body fat (BF), and greater activity of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis in comparison to untrained peers. However, no published data have demonstrated possible mediation effect of Sirt1 in the interaction of BF and testosterone in this population. Therefore, this study compared and verified possible associations between Sirt1, BF, fat mass index (FMI), testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone/luteinizing hormone (T/LH) ratio in middle-aged master athletes (n = 54; 51.22 ± 7.76 years) and control middle-aged peers (n = 21; 47.76 ± 8.47 years). Venous blood was collected for testosterone, LH, and Sirt1. BF was assessed through skinfold protocol. Although LH concentration did not differ between groups, master athletes presented higher concentration of Sirt1, testosterone, and T/LH ratio, and lower BF and FMI in relation to age-matched nonathletes. Moreover, Sirt1 correlated positively with testosterone and T/LH ratio, negatively with BF, and was not significantly correlated with LH (mediation analysis revealed the effect of BF on testosterone is mediated by Sirt1 and vice versa; R2 = .1776; p = .032). In conclusion, master athletes have higher testosterone, T/LH ratio, and Sirt1, and lower BF and FMI in relation to untrained peers. Furthermore, Sirt1 was negatively associated with BF and positively associated with testosterone and T/LH ratio. These findings suggest that increased circulating Sirt1, possibly due to the master athlete’s training regimens and lifestyle, exhibits a potential mediation effect on the interaction between endocrine function and body composition.
HSP90β controls NLRP3 autoactivation
Authors: Spel Lotte , Hou Cyrielle , Theodoropoulou Katerina , Zaffalon Léa , Wang Zhuo , Bertoni Arinna , Volpi Stefano , Hofer Michaël , Gattorno Marco , Martinon Fabio
Published: February 2024

Gain-of-function mutations in NLRP3 are linked to cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes (CAPS). Although NLRP3 autoinflammasome assembly triggers inflammatory cytokine release, its activation mechanisms are not fully understood. Our study used a functional genetic approach to identify regulators of NLRP3 inflammasome formation. We identified the HSP90β-SGT1 chaperone complex as crucial for autoinflammasome activation in CAPS. A deficiency in HSP90β, but not in HSP90α, impaired the formation of ASC specks without affecting the priming and expression of inflammasome components. Conversely, activating NLRP3 with stimuli such as nigericin or alum bypassed the need for SGT1 and HSP90β, suggesting the existence of alternative inflammasome assembly pathways. The role of HSP90β was further demonstrated in PBMCs derived from CAPS patients. In these samples, the pathological constitutive secretion of IL-1β could be suppressed using a pharmacological inhibitor of HSP90β. This finding underscores the potential of SGT1-HSP90β modulation as a therapeutic strategy in CAPS while preserving NLRP3’s physiological functions.
A functional identification platform reveals frequent, spontaneous neoantigen-specific T cell responses in patients with cancer
Authors: Miller Aaron M. , Koşaloğlu-Yalçın Zeynep , Westernberg Luise , Montero Leslie , Bahmanof Milad , Frentzen Angela , Lanka Manasa , Logandha Ramamoorthy Premlal Ashmitaa , Seumois Gregory , Greenbaum Jason , Brightman Spencer E. , Soria Zavala Karla , Thota Rukman R. , Naradikian Martin S. , Makani Samir S. , Lippman Scott M. , Sette Alessandro , Cohen Ezra E. W. , Peters Bjoern , Schoenberger Stephen P.
Published: February 2024

The clinical impact of tumor-specific neoantigens as both immunotherapeutic targets and biomarkers has been impeded by the lack of efficient methods for their identification and validation from routine samples. We have developed a platform that combines bioinformatic analysis of tumor exomes and transcriptional data with functional testing of autologous peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to simultaneously identify and validate neoantigens recognized by naturally primed CD4
+
and CD8
+
T cell responses across a range of tumor types and mutational burdens. The method features a human leukocyte antigen (HLA)–agnostic bioinformatic algorithm that prioritizes mutations recognized by patient PBMCs at a greater than 40% positive predictive value followed by a short-term in vitro functional assay, which allows interrogation of 50 to 75 expressed mutations from a single 50-ml blood sample. Neoantigens validated by this method include both driver and passenger mutations, and this method identified neoantigens that would not have been otherwise detected using an in silico prediction approach. These findings reveal an efficient approach to systematically validate clinically actionable neoantigens and the T cell receptors that recognize them and demonstrate that patients across a variety of human cancers have a diverse repertoire of neoantigen-specific T cells.
Inflammation and epithelial repair predict mortality, hospital readmission, and growth recovery in complicated severe acute malnutrition
Authors: Sturgeon Jonathan P. , Tome Joice , Dumbura Cherlynn , Majo Florence D. , Ngosa Deophine , Mutasa Kuda , Zyambo Kanekwa , Besa Ellen , Chandwe Kanta , Kapoma Chanda , Mwapenya Benjamin , Nathoo Kusum J. , Bourke Claire D. , Ntozini Robert , Chasekwa Bernard , Smuk Melanie , Bwakura-Dangarembizi Mutsa , Amadi Beatrice , Kelly Paul , Prendergast Andrew J.
Published: February 2024

Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) is the most high-risk form of undernutrition, particularly when children require hospitalization for complications. Complicated SAM is a multisystem disease with high inpatient and postdischarge mortality, especially in children with comorbidities such as HIV; however, the underlying pathogenesis of complicated SAM is poorly understood. Targeted multiplex biomarker analysis in children hospitalized with SAM (
n
= 264) was conducted on plasma samples, and inflammatory markers were assessed on stool samples taken at recruitment, discharge, and 12 to 24 and 48 weeks after discharge from three hospitals in Zimbabwe and Zambia. Compared with adequately nourished controls (
n
= 173), we found that at baseline, complicated SAM was characterized by systemic, endothelial, and intestinal inflammation, which was exacerbated by HIV infection. This persisted over 48 weeks despite nutritional recovery and was associated with children’s outcomes. Baseline plasma concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor, glucagon-like peptide-2, and intestinal fatty acid–binding protein were independently associated with lower mortality or hospital readmission over the following 48 weeks. Following principal components analysis of baseline biomarkers, higher scores of a component representing growth factors was associated with greater weight-for-height
z
score recovery and lower mortality or hospital readmission over the 48 weeks. Conversely, components representing higher gut and systemic inflammation were associated with higher mortality or hospital readmission. These findings highlight the interplay between inflammation, which damages tissues, and growth factors, which mediate endothelial and epithelial regeneration, and support further studies investigating interventions to reduce inflammation and promote epithelial repair as an approach to reducing mortality and improving nutritional recovery.
Rational attenuation of canine distemper virus (CDV) to develop a morbillivirus animal model that mimics measles in humans
Authors: Schmitz Katharina S. , Rennick Linda J. , Tilston-Lunel Natasha L. , Comvalius Anouskha D. , Laksono Brigitta M. , Geers Daryl , van Run Peter , de Vries Rory D. , de Swart Rik L. , Duprex W. Paul
Published: February 2024

Morbilliviruses are members of the family Paramyxoviridae and are known for their ability to cause systemic disease in a variety of mammalian hosts. The prototypic morbillivirus, measles virus (MeV), infects humans and still causes morbidity and mortality in unvaccinated children and young adults. Experimental infection studies in non-human primates have contributed to the understanding of measles pathogenesis. However, ethical restrictions call for the development of new animal models. Canine distemper virus (CDV) infects a wide range of animals, including ferrets, and its pathogenesis shares many features with measles. However, wild-type CDV infection is almost always lethal, while MeV infection is usually self-limiting. Here, we made five recombinant CDVs, predicted to be attenuated, and compared their pathogenesis to the non-attenuated recombinant CDV in a ferret model. Three viruses were insufficiently attenuated based on clinical signs, fatality, and systemic infection, while one virus was too attenuated. The last candidate virus caused a self-limiting infection associated with transient viremia and viral dissemination to all lymphoid tissues, was shed transiently from the upper respiratory tract, and did not result in acute neurological signs. Additionally, an in-depth phenotyping of the infected white blood cells showed lower infection percentages in all lymphocyte subsets when compared to the non-attenuated CDV. In conclusion, infection models using this candidate virus mimic measles and can be used to study pathogenesis-related questions and to test interventions for morbilliviruses in a natural host species.

IMPORTANCE

Morbilliviruses are transmitted via the respiratory route but cause systemic disease. The viruses use two cellular receptors to infect myeloid, lymphoid, and epithelial cells. Measles virus (MeV) remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality in humans, requiring animal models to study pathogenesis or intervention strategies. Experimental MeV infections in non-human primates are restricted by ethical and practical constraints, and animal morbillivirus infections in natural host species have been considered as alternatives. Inoculation of ferrets with wild-type canine distemper virus (CDV) has been used for this purpose, but in most cases, the virus overwhelms the immune system and causes highly lethal disease. Introduction of an additional transcription unit and an additional attenuating point mutation in the polymerase yielded a candidate virus that caused self-limiting disease with transient viremia and virus shedding. This rationally attenuated CDV strain can be used for experimental morbillivirus infections in ferrets that reflect measles in humans.
Supplemental Material: Competing effects of crustal shortening, thermal inheritance, and surface processes explain subsidence anomalies in inverted rift basins
Authors: Oravecz Éva , al. et
Published: February 2024

Details of the applied numerical methods, model configurations, and additional model results. 
Effect of gestational age on cerebral lesions in neonatal encephalopathy
Authors: Binet Lauren , Debillon Thierry , Beck Jonathan , Vilotitch Antoine , Guellec Isabelle , Ego Anne , Chevallier Marie
Published: February 2024

Objective

To determine the risk on brain lesions according to gestational age (GA) in neonates with neonatal encephalopathy.

Design

Secondary analysis of the prospective national French population-based cohort, Long-Term Outcome of NeonataL EncePhALopathy.

Setting

French neonatal intensive care units.

Patients

Neonates with moderate or severe neonatal encephalopathy (NE) born at ≥34 weeks’ GA (wGA) between September 2015 and March 2017.

Main outcome measures

The results of MRI performed within the first 12 days were classified in seven injured brain regions: basal ganglia and thalami, white matter (WM), cortex, posterior limb internal capsule, corpus callosum, brainstem and cerebellum. A given infant could have several brain structures affected. Risk of brain lesion according to GA was estimated by crude and adjusted ORs (aOR).

Results

MRI was available for 626 (78.8%) of the 794 included infants with NE. WM lesions predominated in preterm compared with term infants. Compared with 39–40 wGA neonates, those born at 34–35 wGA and 37–38 wGA had greater risk of WM lesions after adjusting for perinatal factors (aOR 4.0, 95% CI (1.5 to 10.7) and ORa 2.0, 95% CI (1.1 to 3.5), respectively).

Conclusion

WM is the main brain structure affected in late-preterm and early-term infants with NE, with fewer WM lesions as GA increases. This finding could help clinicians to estimate prognosis and improve the understanding of the pathophysiology of NE.

Trial registration number

NCT02676063, ClinicalTrials.gov.
Rapidly growing intramuscular lipoma: a unique entity of benign lipomas in children
Authors: Tamura Ryo , Hirotani Taichi , Yasui Yoshitomo , Okajima Hideaki
Published: February 2024

This report presents a case of an intramuscular lipoma observed in the left back of a healthy female toddler. It was resected after 3 months of observation because of rapid enlargement, raising suspicion of malignancy. Histopathological examination confirmed a diagnosis of intramuscular lipoma without malignant and blastemal components. Intramuscular lipomas are benign neoplasms that mostly appear as a rapidly growing tumour. Several hypotheses regarding the pathogenesis of this characteristic growth pattern have been proposed, including atrophy of the surrounding muscle, reactive adipocytic neoformation and multiple contractive interactions between the lipoma and the surrounding muscle.
Benign paraspinal ganglioneuroma with paraneoplastic opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome
Authors: Prabaharan Haritha , Chandrasekaran Suryakala , Shetty Niharika , Nayak K Praveen
Published: February 2024

Opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome (OMAS) is a rare immune-mediated movement disorder occurring as a paraneoplastic manifestation of neuroblastic tumours (NTs), especially neuroblastoma in infancy. Ganglioneuroma (GN), the benign tumour in the spectrum, is rarely associated with OMAS. We report the case of a child in her second year of life presenting with acute onset of progressive paraplegia and OMAS. MRI showed diffuse and infiltrating left paraspinal mass from T3–T9 levels with differentials of neuroblastoma or ganglioneuroblastoma. Histopathological and immunohistochemistry examination of the excised tumour showed maturing GN. The OMAS was managed with intravenous immunoglobulin and steroids. In the 6-month follow-up, the child has a residual motor weakness with myelomalacia in neuroimaging. The case report substantiates the occurrence of OMAS as paraneoplastic manifestation in NTs, including benign, in children younger than 2 years with a female predilection.
Water beads ingestion presenting with repeated bowel obstruction in an infant
Authors: Awolaran Olugbenga , Brennan Kirsty , Yardley Iain , Thakkar Hemanshoo
Published: February 2024

An infant presented repeatedly with features of transient bowel obstruction 72 hours after unwitnessed ingestion of water beads. At the third presentation 5 days later, he underwent laparotomy and jejunal enterotomy for retrieval of obstructing water bead in the duodenum. Four other water beads were retrieved. Due to persistent obstructive symptoms, he had a relaparotomy on fourth postoperative day. A further obstructing bead at the duodenojejunal flexure was retrieved. Antegrade upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and retrograde endoscopy through the enterotomy were performed to ensure no further retained water beads. The patient progressed well postoperatively and was discharged home 5 days later. This case highlights the challenges involved in the diagnosis and management of water bead ingestion in children. Children under 2 years are at a higher risk of complications and most require intervention. Palpation alone can miss residual water beads at surgery. Endoscopy including intraoperative enteroscopy could be a useful adjunct.
Multiple cutaneous and uterine leiomyomatosis: Reed’s syndrome
Authors: Bhanja Dibyendu Bikash , Sil Abheek , Sikder Bartika , Chandra Atanu
Published: February 2024

Reed’s syndrome (RS) is a rare autosomal-dominant disorder characterised by multiple cutaneous and uterine leiomyomas, with a strong tendency for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) development. A woman in her 50s, who had previously undergone total abdominal hysterectomy due to multiple uterine leiomyomas, presented with painful nodules on her trunk and right arm for the past 6 years. These nodules were confirmed as leiomyomas through histopathology. Diagnosis of RS was established through clinicopathological correlation and positive family history, particularly her mother’s. Early-onset uterine leiomyomas in patients with a similar family history should raise suspicion for RS, necessitating vigilant long-term follow-up. RCC detection requires mandatory renal imaging. Screening family members and providing genetic counselling are crucial.
Reconstructive endovascular treatment of petrous ICA pseudoaneurysm in skull base osteomyelitis: a hidden catastrophe
Authors: Charan Bheru Dan , Thanneru Sindhura , Sebastian Leve Joseph Devarajan , Jain Savyasachi
Published: February 2024

Skull base osteomyelitis can be more life-threatening in immunocompromised patients and patients with diabetes. Here, we present a case of a petrous internal carotid artery pseudoaneurysm resulting from skull base osteomyelitis in a diabetic male in his 50s. This case report highlights the need to be conscious of the various complications associated with skull base osteomyelitis, be proficient in detecting them and treat them as early as possible for better outcomes. After adequate control of the disease process with medical treatment, immediate management of the aneurysm with balloon angioplasty and stenting was done. Acknowledging the trivial nasal and ear bleed, radiological evaluation is necessary to rule out rare complications like pseudoaneurysms in a diagnosed case of skull base osteomyelitis. In the discussion, we have cited the various treatment methods and similar cases of pseudoaneurysm caused by osteomyelitis. Currently, the patient continues to live a disease and disability-free life.
Vasculitic rash and cerebral emboli in an adolescent with left atrial myxoma
Authors: An Kevin R , Marshall Terrel C , Cusimano Robert J
Published: February 2024

A previously healthy woman in late adolescence presented to the emergency department with stroke-like symptoms following a two-month history of bilateral foot pain and oedema, accompanied by a macular rash and progressive lower extremity weakness. On further investigation, she was found to have multiple cerebral emboli and a left atrial myxoma fixed to the interatrial septum. The patient subsequently underwent urgent surgical excision of the myxoma. On follow-up, her cutaneous and neurological symptoms were significantly improved. This case suggests that, in the presence of a vasculitic rash without evident or obvious cause, cardiac myxoma should be included in the differential diagnosis.
Spinal intramedullary uterine carcinosarcoma metastasis
Authors: Solis Waldo , Youssef Andrew M , Shaw Richard , Li Yingda
Published: February 2024

Intramedullary spinal cord metastases (ISCM) are a rare and challenging manifestation of metastatic cancer that have devastating impacts on the individual’s neurological function, survival expectancy and overall quality of life. Given the rarity and poor prognosis, there is a lack of consensus in management. Uterine carcinosarcoma itself is a rare cancer, accounting for less than 3% of all uterine cancers. It carries a poor prognosis, with only one-third of patients surviving beyond 5 years. There are no previous reports of uterine carcinosarcoma metastases to the spinal cord. Here, we present the case of a woman in her late 70s with a uterine carcinosarcoma intramedullary metastasis that was refractory to radiotherapy treatment and responded favourably to surgical debulking.
Efficacy of epidural esketamine on postoperative sleep quality after laparoscopic and robotic lower abdominal surgeries: a study protocol for randomised, double-blind, controlled trial
Authors: Yang Yuecheng , Zhang Yunkui , Zhou Guoxia , Yang Zaixian , Yan Han , Zhang Jun
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Postoperative sleep disturbances significantly impair postoperative recovery. The administration of intravenous esketamine has been shown to potentially improve postoperative sleep quality. However, the effectiveness of epidural esketamine in improving postoperative sleep quality remains to be elucidated. This study aims to explore the impact of both intraoperative and postoperative use of epidural esketamine on the postoperative sleep quality of patients undergoing minimally invasive lower abdominal surgeries.

Methods and analysis

This randomised, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trial will be conducted at the Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Centre. A total of 128 adults undergoing minimally invasive lower abdominal surgeries will be randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to either the esketamine group or the placebo group. In the esketamine group, epidural esketamine will be administered intraoperatively (0.2 mg/kg) and postoperatively (25 mg). Postoperatively, all patients will receive epidural analgesia. The primary outcome of the study is the incidence of poor sleep quality on the third day after surgery. The sleep quality assessment will be conducted using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and a Numeric Rating Scale of sleep. The main secondary outcomes include postoperative pain and anxiety and depression scores. The postoperative pain, both rest pain and movement pain, will be assessed using a Numerical Rating Scale within 5 days after surgery. Anxiety and depression scores will be evaluated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale both before and after the surgery. Safety outcomes will include delirium, fidgeting, hallucinations, dizziness and nightmares. The analyses will be performed in accordance with intention-to-treat principle

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Shanghai Cancer Centre (2309281-9). Prior to participation, all patients will provide written informed consent. The results of the trial are intended to be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2300076862.
Sociocultural environmental factors and childhood stunting: qualitative studies – a protocol for the Shared Values theme of the UKRI GCRF Action Against Stunting Hub
Authors: Odii Benita Chinenye , Harder Marie K , Huang Yanyan , Chapman Annabel , Sougou Ndèye Marième , Kolopaking Risatianti , Gavaravarapu SubbaRao , Diallo Amadou H , Anggorowati Rita , Fernandez Rao Sylvia , Heffernan Claire
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Stunting is a significant and growing global problem that is resisting scientific attempts to understand it in terms of direct nutrition-related determinants. In recent years, research included more complex, indirect and multifactorial determinants and expanded to include multisectoral and lifestyle-related approaches. The United Kingdom Research Initiative Global Challenges Research Fund's (UKRI GCRF) Action Against Stunting Hub starts on the premise that dominant factors of stunting may vary between contexts and life phases of the child. Thus, the construction of a typology of clustered factors will be more useful to design effective programmes to alleviate it.

The Shared Values theme seeks to build a bottom-up holistic picture of interlinked cultural contextual factors that might contribute to child stunting locally, by first eliciting shared values of the groups closest to the problem and then enquiring about details of their relevant daily activities and practices, to reveal links between the two. We define shared values as what groups consider ‘valuable, worthwhile and meaningful’ to them.

Methods and analysis

We will recruit 12–25 local stakeholder groups in each site (in India, Indonesia and Senegal) involved in children’s food and early learning environments, such as mothers, fathers, grandmothers, teachers, market vendors and health workers. The WeValue InSitu process will be used to assist them to collectively elicit, negotiate and self-articulate their own shared values through exploration of shared tacit knowledge. Focus group discussions held immediately subsequently will ask about daily activities relevant to the children’s environment. These contain many examples of cultural contextual factors potentially influencing stunting locally, and intrinsically linked to shared values articulated in the previous session.
TGFβ-specific T cells induced by a TGFβ-derived immune modulatory vaccine both directly and indirectly modulate the phenotype of tumor-associated macrophages and fibroblasts
Authors: Perez-Penco Maria , Lara de la Torre Lucia , Lecoq Inés , Martinenaite Evelina , Andersen Mads Hald
Published: February 2024

The tumor microenvironment (TME) of pancreatic cancer is highly immunosuppressive. We recently developed a transforming growth factor (TGF)β-based immune modulatory vaccine that controlled tumor growth in a murine model of pancreatic cancer by targeting immunosuppression and desmoplasia in the TME. We found that treatment with the TGFβ vaccine not only reduced the percentage of M2-like tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor but polarized CAFs away from the myofibroblast-like phenotype. However, whether the immune modulatory properties of the TGFβ vaccine on TAM and CAF phenotypes are a direct consequence of the recognition and subsequent targeting of these subsets by TGFβ-specific T cells or an indirect consequence of the overall modulation induced within the TME remains unknown. Recognition of M2 macrophages and fibroblast by TGFβ-specific T cells was assessed by ELISpot and flow cytometry. The indirect and direct effects of the TGFβ vaccine on these cell subsets were evaluated by culturing M2 macrophages or fibroblasts with tumor-conditioned media or with T cells isolated from the spleen of mice treated with the TGFβ vaccine or a control vaccine, respectively. Changes in phenotype were assessed by flow cytometry and Bio-Plex multiplex system (Luminex). We found that TGFβ-specific T cells induced by the TGFβ vaccine can recognize M2 macrophages and fibroblasts. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the phenotype of M2 macrophages and CAFs can be directly modulated by TGFβ-specific T cells induced by the TGFβ vaccine, as well as indirectly modulated as a result of the immune-modulatory effects of the vaccine within the TME. TAMs tend to have tumor-promoting functions, harbor an immunosuppressive phenotype and are linked to decreased overall survival in pancreatic cancer when they harbor an M2-like phenotype. In addition, myofibroblast-like CAFs create a stiff extracellular matrix that restricts T cell infiltration, impeding the effectiveness of immune therapies in desmoplastic tumors, such as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Reducing immunosuppression and immune exclusion in pancreatic tumors by targeting TAMs and CAFs with the TGFβ-based immune modulatory vaccine emerges as an innovative strategy for the generation of a more favorable environment for immune-based therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of cresols found in maskwio'mi (birch bark extract)
Authors: Lyczywek Viktor , Kaliaperumal Rajendran , Zuieva Volodymyra , Titcombe Sarah , Bierenstiel Matthias
Published: February 2024

Maskwio'mi (Mi'kmaw language for “oil made from birch bark”) is a traditional topical skin medicine of the Mi'kmaq people of Atlantic Canada and is produced in a torrefaction process by heating birch bark ( Betula papyrifera, paper birch) inside a metal container in a fire. The resulting viscous, oily mixture is traditionally mixed with goose fat or bear grease to create a topical salve that is subsequently applied to affected skin areas. When birch bark is exposed to high temperatures, pyrolytic chemical processes produce a complex mixture of pharmacologically active compounds, including potentially harmful side products such as ortho-, meta-, and para-cresol. This study discusses the qualitative and quantitative GC-MS analysis of cresols found in maskwio'mi and the challenges of the complex organic matrix. Using caffeine as an internal standard, ortho-, meta-, and para-cresol in birch bark extract were determined to be in the approximate order of 50–1500 ppm range with 3.24 ± 0.09 × 102 ng mg−1 (324 ppm), 8.7 ± 1.0 × 102 ng mg−1 (87 ppm), and 12.4 ± 1.6 × 102 ng mg−1 (1240 ppm), respectively, and thus suitable by Health Canada and FDA cosmetics regulation standards when the extract is co-formulated in creams to concentrations of 0.1–5 wt.% for topical use.
An improved quantum payment protocol based on group signature without entanglement
Authors: Jiang Wenhua , Zhuang Jincheng
Published: February 2024

With the popularization of E-payment, more and more electronic payment protocols have been proposed. In 2021, Lin et al. proposed a trusted third-party E-Payment protocol based on a set of three-particle local indistinguishable orthogonal product (X-LIOP) states. In this paper, we first point out that there is a security flaw where the merchant can forge the purchase goods information to sell something that the customer does not want to buy in Lin et al. protocol. Besides, the X-LIOP states used by Lin are not orthogonal and can be discriminated by Local Operation and Classical Communication (LOCC). Second, we propose a new electronic payment protocol that combines group signature and the three-particle X-LIOP states. Compared with Lin et al. protocol, customers can purchase goods anonymously in our protocol and the unforgeability of messages and signatures is guaranteed.