bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring of myocardial injury by serial measurements of QRS area and T area: The MaastrICCht cohort
Authors: Ghossein M. A. , de Kok J. W. T. M. , Eerenberg F. , van Rosmalen F. , Boereboom R. , Duisberg F. , Verharen K. , Sels J. E. M. , Delnoij T. , Geyik Z. , Mingels A. M. A. , Meex S. J. R. , van Kuijk S. M. J. , van Stipdonk A. M. W. , Ghossein C. , Prinzen F. W. , van der Horst I. C. C. , Vernooy K. , van Bussel B. C. T. , Driessen R. G. H.
Published: September 2024

Background

Manually derived electrocardiographic (ECG) parameters were not associated with mortality in mechanically ventilated COVID‐19 patients in earlier studies, while increased high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin‐T (hs‐cTnT) and N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) were. To provide evidence for vectorcardiography (VCG) measures as potential cardiac monitoring tool, we investigated VCG trajectories during critical illness.

Methods

All mechanically ventilated COVID‐19 patients were included in the Maastricht Intensive Care Covid Cohort between March 2020 and October 2021. Serum hs‐cTnT and NT‐proBNP concentrations were measured daily. Conversion of daily 12‐lead ECGs to VCGs by a MATLAB‐based script provided QRS area, T area, maximal QRS amplitude, and QRS duration. Linear mixed‐effect models investigated trajectories in serum and VCG markers over time between non‐survivors and survivors, adjusted for confounders.

Results

In 322 patients, 5461 hs‐cTnT, 5435 NT‐proBNP concentrations and 3280 ECGs and VCGs were analyzed. Non‐survivors had higher hs‐cTnT concentrations at intubation and both hs‐cTnT and NT‐proBNP significantly increased compared with survivors. In non‐survivors, the following VCG parameters decreased more when compared to survivors: QRS area (−0.27 (95% CI) (−0.37 to −0.16, p < .01) μVs per day), T area (−0.39 (−0.62 to −0.16, p < .01) μVs per day), and maximal QRS amplitude (−0.01 (−0.01 to −0.01, p < .01) mV per day). QRS duration did not differ.

Conclusion

VCG‐derived QRS area and T area decreased in non‐survivors compared with survivors, suggesting that an increase in myocardial damage and tissue loss play a role in the course of critical illness and may drive mortality. These VCG markers may be used to monitor critically ill patients.
Genetic variation and hybridization determine the outcomes of conservation reintroductions
Authors: Feuerstein Colter A. , Kovach Ryan P. , Kruse Carter G. , Jaeger Matt E. , Bell Donovan A. , Robinson Zachary L. , Whiteley Andrew R.
Published: September 2024

The preservation of genetic variation is fundamental in biodiversity conservation, yet its importance for population viability remains contentious. Mixed‐source reintroductions, where individuals are translocated into a single vacant habitat from multiple genetically divergent and often depauperate populations, provide an opportunity to evaluate how genetic variation and hybridization influence individual and relative population fitness. Population genetic theory predicts that individuals with higher genetic variation and hybrids among populations should have higher fitness. We tested these two hypotheses by analyzing individual and population‐scale data for westslope cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi) in four mixed‐source reintroductions. We observed more hybrid and fewer nonhybrid offspring than expected across four independent mixed‐source reintroductions. We also found clear evidence that heterozygosity influenced individual reproductive and relative population fitness. Overall, we found a strong, positive relationship between genetic variation, hybridization, and transplant fitness, emphasizing the importance of genetic variation and population mixing in conservation.
Developing a comprehensive profile of professional development and identity for English language teacher educators
Authors: Ataş Ufuk , Daloğlu Ayşegül
Published: September 2024

Despite the growing interest in researching English language teacher educators' (ELTEs) pedagogy, knowledge base, beliefs, and identity development, there is a lack of comprehensive frameworks that encompass these aspects holistically. This study attempts to develop a professional development profile for English language teacher educators by investigating how they define their profession, what professional characteristics and personality traits they possess, what roles and responsibilities they assume, and what constitutes the domains of a knowledge base. Additionally, it explores how they perceive their identities as educators and engage in professional development. The participants were 84 English language teacher educators from across Türkiye. Data were collected via face‐to‐face semi‐structured interviews and analysed thematically. At the end of this study, an integrated professional profile of English language teacher educators is provided, which includes insights into their professional identities. The profile has implications beyond Türkiye and might contribute to the broader understanding and enhancement of professional development for language teacher educators globally. As the study addresses a gap in the field, its outcomes are expected to contribute to the ongoing discussions and efforts to support teacher educators in their continuous learning and development.
Causal effects of lipid‐lowering drugs on inflammatory skin diseases: Evidence from drug target Mendelian randomisation
Authors: Zang Chenyang , Li Jiaxin , Zhang Ying , Deng Wenyu , Mao Manyun , Zhu Wu , Chen Wangqing
Published: September 2024

Clinical research has revealed that inflammatory skin diseases are associated with dyslipidaemia. Modulating lipids is also a rising potential treatment option. However, there is heterogeneity in the existing evidence and a lack of large‐scale clinical trials. Observational research is prone to bias, making it difficult to determine causality. This study aimed to evaluate the causal association between lipid‐lowering drugs and inflammatory skin diseases. A drug target Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis was conducted. Genetic targets of lipid‐lowering drugs, including proprotein convertase subtilis kexin 9 (PCSK9) and 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐assisted enzyme A reductase (HMGCR) inhibitor, were screened. Common inflammatory skin diseases, including psoriasis, allergic urticaria, rosacea, atopic dermatitis, systemic sclerosis and seborrhoeic dermatitis, were considered as outcomes. Gene‐predicted inhibition of PCSK9 was causally associated with a decreased risk of psoriasis (ORIVW [95%CI] = 0.600 [0.474–0.761], p = 2.48 × 10−5) and atopic dermatitis (ORIVW [95%CI] = 0.781 [0.633–0.964], p = 2.17 × 10−2). Gene‐predicted inhibition of HMGCR decreased the risk of seborrhoeic dermatitis (ORIVW [95%CI] = 0.407 [0.168–0.984], p = 4.61 × 10−2) but increased the risk of allergic urticaria (ORIVW [95%CI] = 3.421 [1.374–8.520], p = 8.24 × 10−3) and rosacea (ORIVW [95%CI] = 3.132 [1.260–7.786], p = 1.40 × 10−2). Among all causal associations, only PCSK9 inhibition demonstrated a robust causal effect on psoriasis after a more rigorous Bonferroni test (p < 4.17 × 10−3, which is 0.05/12). Modulating lipids via PCSK9 inhibition may offer potential therapeutic targets for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Given the potential cutaneous side effects associated with HMGCR inhibitors, PCSK9 inhibitors could be considered viable alternatives in lipid‐lowering medication.
Revisiting and measuring foreign language confidence from a World Englishes perspective: Scale development and validation
Authors: Liu Guangxiang Leon
Published: September 2024

Building on a World Englishes perspective, this article revisits foreign language confidence (FLC) and elaborates on the development and validation of a three‐factor Foreign Language Confidence Scale (FLCS) including Foreign Language Competence, Sense of Linguistic Security, and Sense of Linguistic Ownership. It first critically examines the existing understanding and measurement of FLC. Then it offers a theoretical and empirical justification for the three‐factor proposition in the FLCS. To examine the psychometric quality of the FLCS, two datasets (Sample 1: N = 673, Sample 2: N = 380) were collected from 1053 undergraduate English‐as‐a‐foreign‐language (EFL) learners at a top‐tier university in China. Results of exploratory factor analysis using Sample 1 demonstrated a stable three‐factor structure in the FLCS with sufficient factorial eigenvalues and strong item loadings. The confirmatory factor analysis based on Sample 2 cross‐validated the FLCS's underlying factor structure and substantiated the reliability and validity (e.g., convergent and discriminant validity) of the three‐factor 16‐item FLCS. This article also discusses the psychometric properties of the FLCS and points out its potential use for future teaching and research purposes against the backdrop of decolonizing English language education.
Circular Economy and Sustainability in Luxury Fashion Consumer Behavior: A Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Gasulla Tortajada Elena , Moreira António Carrizo , Duarte Paulo , Silva Susana C.
Published: September 2024

Over the last decade, luxury consumers have become more aware of the adverse environmental impacts associated with their lifestyles and are transitioning toward more responsible consumption patterns. Circular economy and sustainability business strategies have become crucial for this and have attracted the attention of scholars and brands. This paper aims to assess the current state of research concerning the circular economy and sustainability within luxury fashion consumer behavior. It focuses on relevant studies published in leading peer‐reviewed English‐language journals in business, management, and economics, using keywords such as luxury, consumer, circular economy, and sustainability. This review emphasizes the substantial impact of the 9Rs of the circular economy on luxury fashion consumers while also noticing the lack of consumer‐focused research in the areas of the circular economy and sustainability. It presents a critical and thorough assessment, categorization, and analysis of the emerging literature in this field. The authors propose a deeper and more specific research agenda exploring the relationship between the circular economy, sustainability, and luxury fashion. The paper suggests potential directions for future research, emphasizing the need for theoretical, educational, and communication‐oriented studies to address the distinctive circular economy and sustainability issues within luxury fashion consumption.
Improved food habits and anthropometry among primary school children following a novel healthy eating programme
Authors: Seneviratne Sumudu N. , Sachchithananthan Sanathanee , Angulugaha Gamage Pavithra S. , Peiris Renuka , Wickramasinghe Vithanage P. , Somasundaram Noel
Published: September 2024

Objective

Assess longer‐term changes in food habits and anthropometry among Grades 1–2 primary school students from four public schools in Colombo, Sri Lanka, following a 3‐week programme including a classroom‐based motivational storybook discussion and self‐monitoring food diary (FD).

Methods

This follow‐up study assessed changes from baseline (pre‐intervention) BMI z‐scores and food habits (increased healthy food‐item consumption/decreased unhealthy food‐item consumption reflected by an increase in FD score) and parental perceptions (anonymous questionnaires) among 863 students (aged 6–8 years), between 9 and 12 months after completing the programme (November 2019–February 2020).

Results

Food habits showed sustained improvement from baseline mean FD score (baseline vs. follow‐up: 51 ± 23% vs. 67 ± 22%, p < 0.001), with children from all BMI subgroups (underweight [UW], normal weight [NW], overweight [OW] and obesity [OB]) showing a significant increase in FD scores (ranging from 14.1% to 17.2%, p < 0.001). BMI z‐scores increased in children living with UW (−2.85 to −2.21, p < 0.00) and NW (−0.70 to −0.57, p < 0.001), but did not change in children with OW (+1.5 to +1.49, p = 0.83) and OB (+2.85 to +2.21, p = 0.19). Most parents (n = 497, 97.8%) reported satisfaction with programme outcomes.

Conclusion

This programme led to sustained improvement in food habits among young primary school children from all BMI categories, increase in BMI towards the median among children living with UW and NW, and stabilization of BMI in children with OW and OB, suggesting it as a useful tool for improving nutritional status of young children in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC) facing the double burden of under‐ and overnutrition.
Power approximation for pricing American options
Authors: Hassan Noura El , Maddah Bacel
Published: September 2024

American options are one of the most traded instruments in the financial markets. However, pricing them is challenging because of the early exercise possibility. We propose a robust pricing method based on nonlinear regression over a representative set of “exact” pricing instances obtained via a binomial lattice. Our “power approximation” approach is inspired from the literature on the well‐known periodic review inventory system. Our objective is to develop a closed‐form approximation for pricing American options that performs well on accuracy, computational efficiency (speed), and simplicity. Our results include developing a large set of “exact” American option premiums and critical stock price (indicating when to exercise the option) over a carefully designed grid with parameter values, which are common in practice. In addition, we compile the literature for existing American option pricing approximations and identify suitable ones. These approximations serve two purposes: (i) providing a starting point for our approximations and (ii) developing a benchmark for our work. We develop two closed‐form approximations for the critical stock price, and premium of an American put option, which perform very well with a median error below 0.45% for both.
The risk of ultraviolet exposure for melanoma in Fitzpatrick skin types I–IV: A 20‐year systematic review with meta‐analysis for sunburns
Authors: Kwa Michael , Ravi Manisha , Elhage Kareem , Schultz Lonni , Lim Henry W.
Published: September 2024

Within the last two decades, no studies have comprehensively reviewed the risk of varying types of ultraviolet (UV) exposure on melanoma in fairer skinned individuals. Our research objective was to determine whether or not there was a change in the risk of UV exposure with development of melanoma in Fitzpatrick skin types I–IV based on more recent data over the past 20 years. We performed a systematic review from January 2002 to December 2021 analysing UV exposure and melanoma risk in Fitzpatrick type I–IV individuals. Out of 19,852 studies, 26 met inclusion criteria. Data spanned subjects from national and multinational cohorts (USA, Europe, Australia, Asia and South America). Twenty studies (77%, 20/26) identified a significant association between UV exposure and melanoma incidence. Sunburn was the most commonly assessed risk factor. Sunburn studies encompassed 3417 melanoma and found positive significant odds ratios (OR [95% CI]) in 11 out of 13 studies, ranging from 1.23 [1.01–1.49] to 8.48 [4.35–16.54]. Pooled analysis of the risk of melanoma with sunburn history found an unadjusted odds ratio of 1.66 [1.40–1.97] and adjusted odds ratio of 1.23 [1.04–1.46]. Cumulative sun exposure, measured as number of hours of sun exposure or calculated UV flux, was the second most common risk factor, encompassing 913 melanomas with positive significant ORs ranging from 1.1 [1.0–1.2] to 5.2 [2.1–12.5]. For other forms of UV exposure, a majority of studies showed an association with UV index (6/9), outdoor leisure activity (3/3) and left‐sided laterality (1/1). Overall, UV exposure should continue to be considered a modifiable risk factor for melanoma in individuals of fairer skin.
Sink or swim? Managerial ability and trade credit
Authors: Hasan Md Mahmudul , Sarkar Sayan , Spieler Andrew C.
Published: September 2024

In this article, we examine the relation between managerial ability and the use of supplier‐provided trade credit. The literature documents the positive effects of high‐ability managers, including more accurate earnings forecasts, improved earnings quality, and overall improvement in corporate disclosure policies. We argue that customers (those seeking trade credit) with high‐ability managers are better able to negotiate with suppliers, provide more transparent disclosure, and maintain strong relationships. Likewise, suppliers are willing to provide more trade credit to customers with high‐ability managers because of reduced information asymmetry, creating an environment of trust and transparency. Our empirical results show that suppliers extend more trade credit to customers with high‐ability managers and that this relation is more pronounced for financially constrained firms.
When ethnic minorities hit the headlines: The longitudinal associations between news features and adolescents' ethnic prejudice
Authors: Bobba Beatrice , Miniati Adele , Crocetti Elisabetta
Published: September 2024

Ethnic prejudice poses great challenges to adolescents' adjustment to multicultural societies. However, little is known about the role of the media in influencing attitudes in adolescence. Combining information environment and ecological development theories, the current study examined the longitudinal associations between the quantity, valence (i.e., neutral, positive, and negative), and target (i.e., migrant, refugee, and foreigner) of the news about ethnic minority groups and youth's affective and cognitive prejudice. In total, 962 adolescents (Mage = 15.67, 48.13% females) completed questionnaires at two time points, and news data were gathered from a national newspaper. While news quantity did not matter, positive and negative news were respectively associated with reduced and increased levels of cognitive, but not affective, prejudice. Nuanced associations emerged when accounting for the news target. Results were replicated regardless of adolescents' direct consumption of newspapers. These findings highlight the role of the information environment and suggest the need to account for it in planning interventions.
Legislative capacity limits interest group influence: Evidence from California's Proposition 140
Authors: Garlick Alex , Kroeger Mary , Pellaton Paige
Published: September 2024

Reformers assert that lobbyists take advantage of legislators who lack adequate staffing and research to win policy outcomes for their interest group clients. However, in the United States, legislators usually determine their own levels of staff. This paper exploits the 1990 passage of California's Proposition 140 to test a situation when the legislature's capacity dropped. Proposition 140 immediately lowered legislative expenditures for the 1991–1992 session by 38%, which decimated the policy staff, particularly in the state's Assembly. Using bill analyses that identify which outside groups served as the source of legislation, we shows that group sponsored bills became more likely to pass than non‐group bills in the wake of Proposition 140. This effect is concentrated in bills introduced in the Assembly. We account for other factors that could explain this relationship, particularly direct and indirect effects of the term limits wrought by Proposition 140, but find they did not alter legislator relationships with outside groups.
Exploring the relationship between child temperament, maternal psychiatric symptoms, family environment and infant feeding
Authors: McCorkle Ginger , Andres Aline , Sims Clark R. , Casey Patrick H. , Sorensen Seth T. , Durey Trevor , Bellando Jayne
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Infant temperament is assumed to be primarily innate. However, newer research suggests that maternal affection impacts ratings of temperament and environmental factors, including feeding method, can also influence infant temperament. This study investigates child temperament and its relationships with maternal psychiatric symptoms, environmental variables and feeding method longitudinally in a cohort of children followed from 6 to 72 months. Differences in temperament by feeding group are also investigated. We hypothesized that maternal psychiatric symptoms, environmental stressors, and impaired family dynamics would have negative impact on child temperament, whereas breastfeeding would have a positive impact on child temperament.

Method

Mothers' ratings of child's temperament, own psychiatric symptomatology, environmental stresses and family cohesion were obtained in 504 mother‐infant dyads via rating scales completed by mothers. Infants were breastfeed (BF), fed soy‐based infant formula (SF) or dairy‐based infant formula (MF). Linear mixed effect models investigated the relationship of variables on child's temperament while controlling for significant covariates and repeated measurements.

Results

Mothers in this study did not endorse clinical‐level psychiatric symptomatology; however, when adjusted for significant covariates, higher psychiatric symptomatology significantly correlated with environmental stressors, impaired family dynamics and elevations in temperament ratings of infants' adaptability and mood. There were no lasting differences for temperament between feeding groups. However, some significant transient increases in rhythmicity and adaptability were found between SF and BF children.

Conclusion

Positive relationships between family environment stressors and maternal psychiatric ratings were found. Transient differences were found in child temperament based upon feeding method.
ALK‐positive histiocytosis: Report of a rare case with exclusive involvement of the central nervous system in an adult woman
Authors: Luo Yuting , Wang Pingling , Zhan Qinru , Luo Jiao , Luo Baohong
Published: September 2024

ALK‐positive histiocytosis is a rare histiocytic disease characterized by ALK positivity. It was first described in 2008 as a systemic disease in infants. The disease often shows positivity for CD68 and CD163 on immunohistochemistry, and genomic analysis frequently reveals KIF5B::ALK fusions. ALK‐positive histiocytosis typically follows an indolent course and has a promising prognosis, with conventional treatments usually being effective. Here, we report a rare case of ALK‐positive histiocytosis with exclusive involvement of the central nervous system in a 33‐year‐old Asian adult woman. Although cranial MRI suggested a meningioma, immunohistochemical workup showed that the ALK‐positive tumor cells expressed macrophage/histiocyte markers such as CD163 and CD68. Additionally, second‐generation sequencing revealed a KIF5B::ALK fusion. Our case highlights the importance of the differential diagnosis in adult central nervous system tumors, emphasizing the combination of morphology, immunophenotype, and molecular approach with ALK status evaluation to confirm a diagnosis of ALK‐positive histiocytosis. This case also expands the clinicopathologic spectrum of ALK‐positive histiocytosis.
Left–right political orientations are not systematically related to conspiracism
Authors: Enders Adam , Klofstad Casey , Littrell Shane , Miller Joanne , Theocharis Yannis , Uscinski Joseph , Zilinsky Jan
Published: September 2024

Researchers have long sought to make generalizable conclusions about the relationship between conspiracism and political identities. However, this literature remains deeply conflicted. The “extremity hypothesis” argues that, due to the psychology of extremism, individuals who identify as extremely left or right wing should display higher levels of conspiracism than centrists. But the “asymmetry hypothesis” argues that, due to the psychology of conservatism, individuals who self‐identify as right wing should display higher levels of conspiracism than those identifying as centrists or left wing. Here, we attempt to reconcile these competing hypotheses and the empirical findings supporting them. First, we demonstrate that the inconsistent findings stem from research designs that cannot support generalizable conclusions about the relationship between conspiracism and political identities. Second, we reexamine the most prominent studies supporting the extremity and asymmetry hypotheses. We find that they suffer from inappropriate measurement and modeling strategies, rendering their conclusions suspect. We then test the extremity and asymmetry hypotheses by reexamining 18 U.S. surveys (2012–21; n = 32,056) and examining new surveys from 18 countries (2022; n = 18,033). In total, our 77 samples spanning a decade and 27 countries (n = 161,492) provide only weak support for either hypothesis. The wide variability in our findings suggests that differences in the relationship between conspiracism and political identities across political and temporal contexts do not stem from sampling variability, but rather from systematic forces that impact ideology, conspiracism, or both. We conclude that there is no single functional form that universally characterizes the relationship between conspiracism and political orientations across countries, or even over time within countries.
“I trust you, but I'm scared!” Attitudinal and emotional drivers of support for restrictive interventions during crises
Authors: Casiraghi Matteo C. M. , Curini Luigi , Nai Alessandro
Published: September 2024

Under what conditions do citizens support restrictive and punitive measures to curb global crises? This article investigates the role of political trust in supporting different interventions across three types of crises—pandemics, climate change, and terrorism—both directly and in conjunction with issue‐related anxiety. We test the hypothesis that political trust positively affects the likelihood of accepting restrictive measures during crisis, focusing on Italy as a relevant case study due to its comparatively low levels of political trust. According to affective intelligence theory, we also expect that individual anxiety moderates such a relationship: Political trust should have an effect primarily when people are not anxious. To examine this, we conducted a conjoint experiment administered to a nationally representative sample of 1000 Italian citizens. Respondents were presented with a “crisis vignette” where the nature of the crisis, its severity, and the state measures implemented to curb the threat were randomly allocated as attributes. They were then asked to rate their support for the proposed measure. Results confirm that political trust matters. Citizens with high levels of trust are generally more willing to accept restrictions. However, as predicted, political trust only influences non‐anxious voters.
Integrative metabolome and transcriptome analysis characterized methyl jasmonate‐elicited flavonoid metabolites of Blumea balsamifera
Authors: Guan Lingliang , Yang Lixin , Yu Fulai , Zeng Houyuan , Yuan Chao , Xie Xiaoli , Bai Lin , Chen Zhenxia , Chen Xiaolu , Wang Kai , Huang Mei , Hu Xuan , Liu Lei
Published: September 2024

As a commonly used medicinal plant, the flavonoid metabolites of Blumea balsamifera and their association with genes are still elusive. In this study, the total flavonoid content (TFC), flavonoid metabolites and biosynthetic gene expression patterns of B. balsamifera after application of exogenous methyl jasmonate (MeJA) were scrutinized. The different concentrations of exogenous MeJA increased the TFC of B. balsamifera leaves after 48 h of exposure, and there was a positive correlation between TFC and the elicitor concentration. A total of 48 flavonoid metabolites, falling into 10 structural classes, were identified, among which flavones and flavanones were predominant. After screening candidate genes by transcriptome mining, the comprehensive analysis of gene expression level and TFC suggested that FLS and MYB may be key genes that regulate the TFC in B. balsamifera leaves under exogenous MeJA treatment. This study lays a foundation for elucidating flavonoids of B. balsamifera, and navigates the breeding of flavonoid‐rich B. balsamifera varieties.
Identification of the novel HLA‐B*49:01:01:22 allele in an Indian renal transplant donor by next generation sequencing
Authors: Jaiswal Ram Mohan , Swaroop Shyam , Singla Ashina , Sharma Shweta , Godara Suraj
Published: September 2024

HLA‐B*49:01:01:22 differs from HLA‐B*49:01:01:01 by a single nucleotide C‐>G change in intron 5 at gDNA 2451.
Ophthalmic findings and reference values for selected ocular parameters in whooping cranes (Grus americana) and Mississippi sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis pulla)
Authors: Gafen Hannah B. , Garces‐Torres Rodrigo S. , Liu Chin‐Chi , Lewin Andrew C. , Camacho‐Luna Pilar , MacLean Robert A. , Carter Renee T.
Published: September 2024

Objective

To establish baseline ophthalmic parameters for an endangered, semi‐wild population of healthy whooping cranes (Grus americana) (WHCR) and Mississippi sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis pulla) (SACR).

Animals Studied

Eighteen WHCR and 16 SACR.

Procedures

Ophthalmic examination was performed by a single observer, followed by conjunctival swab collection for aerobic bacterial culture and measurement of tear production (phenol red thread test, PRTT) and corneal diameter (CD) as tolerated. Measurement of the axial globe (AG) length, anterior chamber (AC) depth, lens thickness, vitreous chamber (VC) depth, and pecten length was performed via ocular ultrasound (OUS) as tolerated.

Results

Eyelid cicatrization (n = 1 WHCR), keratitis (n = 2 WHCR), incipient cataracts (n = 1 WHCR, n = 4 SACR), and uveal cysts (n = 1 SACR) were identified. Twenty‐one bacterial species were cultured from SACR, while 18 bacterial species were cultured from WHCR. SACR under 6 months old had increased PRTT values compared to older SACR (p = .0432). AG length and VC depth of male WHCR were greater than in female WHCR (p = .0045 and p = .0008, respectively). WHCR less than 6 months old had greater AC depth and lens thickness than WHCR over 6 months (p < .001 and p = .0013, respectively). SACR less than 6 months old had greater AC depth and lens thickness than WHCR over 6 months (p < .0001 and p < .0001, respectively).

Conclusions

WHCR and SACR are amenable to complete ophthalmic examination. Age‐related differences in PRTT in SACR, sexual dimorphism in WHCR, and age‐related differences in AC depth and lens thickness in WHCR and SACR were identified.
Enhanced aqueous formation and neutralization of fine atmospheric particles driven by extreme cold
Authors: Campbell James R. , Michael Battaglia Jr.  , Dingilian Kayane K. , Cesler-Maloney Meeta , Simpson William R. , Robinson Ellis S. , DeCarlo Peter F. , Temime-Roussel Brice , D’Anna Barbara , Holen Andrew L. , Wu Judy , Pratt Kerri A. , Dibb Jack E. , Nenes Athanasios , Weber Rodney J. , Mao Jingqiu
Published: September 2024

The prevailing view for aqueous secondary aerosol formation is that it occurs in clouds and fogs, owing to the large liquid water content compared to minute levels in fine particles. Our research indicates that this view may need reevaluation due to enhancements in aqueous reactions in highly concentrated small particles. Here, we show that low temperature can play a role through a unique effect on particle pH that can substantially modulate secondary aerosol formation. Marked increases in hydroxymethanesulfonate observed under extreme cold in Fairbanks, Alaska, demonstrate the effect. These findings provide insight on aqueous chemistry in fine particles under cold conditions expanding possible regions of secondary aerosol formation that are pH dependent beyond conditions of high liquid water.
Using patterns of shared taxa to infer bacterial dispersal in human living environment in urban and rural areas
Authors: Grönroos M. , Jumpponen A. , Roslund M. I. , Nurminen N. , Oikarinen S. , Parajuli A. , Laitinen O. H. , Cinek O. , Kramna L. , Rajaniemi J. , Hyöty H. , Puhakka R. , Sinkkonen A.
Published: September 2024

Contact with environmental microbial communities primes the human immune system. Factors determining the distribution of microorganisms, such as dispersal, are thus important for human health. Here, we used the relative number of bacteria shared between environmental and human samples as a measure of bacterial dispersal and studied these associations with living environment and lifestyles. We analyzed amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) of the V4 region of 16S rDNA gene from 347 samples of doormat dust as well as samples of saliva, skin swabs, and feces from 53 elderly people in urban and rural areas in Finland at three timepoints. We first enumerated the ASVs shared between doormat and one of the human sample types (i.e., saliva, skin swab, or feces) of each individual subject and calculated the shared ASVs as a proportion of all ASVs in the given sample type of that individual. We observed that the patterns for the proportions of shared ASVs differed among seasons and human sample type. In skin samples, there was a negative association between the proportion of shared ASVs and the coverage of built environment (a proxy for degree of urbanization), whereas in saliva data, this association was positive. We discuss these findings in the context of differing species pools in urban and rural environments.

IMPORTANCE

Understanding how environmental microorganisms reach and interact with humans is a key question when aiming to increase human contacts with natural microbiota. Few methods are suitable for studying microbial dispersal at relatively large spatial scales. Thus, we tested an indirect method and studied patterns of bacterial taxa that are shared between humans and their living environment.
Three families of CD4-induced antibodies are associated with the capacity of plasma from people living with HIV to mediate ADCC in the presence of CD4-mimetics
Authors: Tauzin Alexandra , Marchitto Lorie , Bélanger Étienne , Benlarbi Mehdi , Beaudoin-Bussières Guillaume , Prévost Jérémie , Yang Derek , Chiu Ta-Jung , Chen Hung-Ching , Bourassa Catherine , Medjahed Halima , Korzeniowski Marek K. , Gottumukkala Suneetha , Tolbert William D. , Richard Jonathan , Smith Amos B. , Pazgier Marzena , Finzi Andrés
Published: September 2024

CD4-mimetics (CD4mcs) are small molecule compounds that mimic the interaction of the CD4 receptor with HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins (Env). Env from primary viruses normally samples a “closed” conformation that occludes epitopes recognized by CD4-induced (CD4i) non-neutralizing antibodies (nnAbs). CD4mcs induce conformational changes on Env resulting in the exposure of these otherwise inaccessible epitopes. Here, we evaluated the capacity of plasma from a cohort of 50 people living with HIV to recognize HIV-1-infected cells and eliminate them by antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) in the presence of a potent indoline CD4mc. We observed a marked heterogeneity among plasma samples. By measuring the levels of different families of CD4i Abs, we found that the levels of anti-cluster A, anti-coreceptor binding site, and anti-gp41 cluster I antibodies are responsible for plasma-mediated ADCC in the presence of CD4mc.

IMPORTANCE

There are several reasons that make it difficult to target the HIV reservoir. One of them is the capacity of infected cells to prevent the recognition of HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins (Env) by commonly elicited antibodies in people living with HIV. Small CD4-mimetic compounds expose otherwise occluded Env epitopes, thus enabling their recognition by non-neutralizing antibodies (nnAbs). A better understanding of the contribution of these antibodies to eliminate infected cells in the presence of CD4mc could lead to the development of therapeutic cure strategies.
Torsion of a large subserosal fibroid along with omental torsion adherent to it: a rare cause of acute abdomen
Authors: Goel Rishu , Vatsa Richa , Sharma Aparna , Kulshrestha Vidushi
Published: September 2024

A woman in her 30s presented to emergency with complaints of acute lower abdominal pain for 3 days, not associated with any menstrual, bowel or urinary symptoms. Examination revealed an abdominopelvic mass corresponding to an 18-week gravid uterus with diffuse tenderness and guarding over her lower abdomen. The patient was a follow-up case of subserosal fibroid uterus, chronic kidney disease stage 4 and rheumatic heart disease on anticoagulants. Fibroid degeneration or torsion was suspected. Ultrasound revealed a large posterior wall subserosal fibroid with free fluid in the pelvis. As findings did not suggest degeneration or pedunculated fibroid, noncontrast CT was done, which showed a similar mass with a pedicle arising from the uterine fundus with free fluid with no other evident cause of acute abdomen. The patient was taken up for emergency laparotomy. Intraoperatively, it was found to be a case of subserosal fibroid with greater omentum adhered to it and twisted around its axis about eight times. This case is being reported to highlight a rare cause of acute abdomen.
Refractory amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis requiring adjunctive cholestyramine treatment
Authors: Zhao Huaying , Leung Joseph MWS
Published: September 2024

Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic drug which may be associated with thyroid dysfunction. Type I amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) is treated with thionamides and type II AIT is treated with glucocorticoids. Combined therapy is used in mixed or indeterminate forms. When medical treatment is unsuccessful, radioiodine ablation or thyroidectomy is considered. This report reviews a case of AIT refractory to conventional treatment. Despite high doses of methimazole and prednisone, the patient remained clinically and biochemically thyrotoxic. Cholestyramine, a bile salt sequestrant, was used as an off-label adjunctive treatment resulting in significant improvement and achievement of euthyroidism that may also be in part due to the expected natural timeline of recovery from AIT after several months. The patient subsequently trended towards hypothyroidism with symptomatic weight gain and cold intolerance for which he was initiated on levothyroxine.
Management of iatrogenic acute limb ischaemia in the neonate
Authors: Shaniv Dotan , Simpson-Lavy Yael , Hershkovich Shporen Calanit
Published: September 2024

Iatrogenic acute limb ischaemia (ALI) in neonates is a rare but severe event with potentially deleterious outcomes. In the neonatal intensive care unit, this risk is increased due to the high rate of catheterisation procedures. ALI management includes pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, but no commonly accepted clinical guidelines are available. In the present case, a peripheral catheter was erroneously placed in the left brachial artery of a term infant, causing blockage and ischaemia in the limb. The catheter was immediately removed, the affected limb was elevated and warm compresses were applied to the contralateral limb. The patient was treated with fresh frozen plasma, heparin, iloprost and topical nitroglycerin. Three nerve block procedures were also performed. At 6–8 days of age, significant improvement was observed. The patient was discharged at 17 days of age with near-complete resolution, whereas complete resolution was observed at postdischarge follow-up.
Lessons learnt from a 2017 Irish national clinical claims review: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Power Karen A , O'Byrne Maguire Irene , Byrne Noelle , Walsh Deirdre , Robinson Karen , McCullagh Mark , Fallon Yvonne , Godfrey Mary , Duffy Ann , O'Regan Claire , Twohig Mairead , O'Keeffe Cathal
Published: September 2024

Objective

Learning from adverse outcomes in health and social care is critical to advancing a culture of patient safety and reducing the likelihood of future preventable harm to service users. This review aims to present an overview of all clinical claims finalised in one calendar year involving publicly funded health and social care providers in Ireland.

Design

This is a retrospective observational study. The Clinical Risk Unit (CRU) of the State Claims Agency identified all service-user clinical claims finalised between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017 from Ireland’s National Incident Management System (n=713). Claims that had incurred financial damages were considered for further analysis (n=356). 202 claims underwent an in-depth qualitative review. Of these, 57 related to maternity and gynaecology, 64 to surgery, 46 to medicine, 20 to community health and social care and 15 related to children’s healthcare.

Results

The services of surgery and medicine ranked first and second, respectively, in terms of a number of claims. Claims in maternity services, despite ranking third in terms of claims numbers, resulted in the highest claims costs. Catastrophic injuries in babies resulting in cerebral palsy or other brain injury accounted for the majority of this cost.

Diagnostic errors and inadequate or substandard communication, either with service users and/or interprofessional communication with colleagues, emerged as common issues across all clinical areas analysed. Quantitative analysis of contributory factors demonstrated that the complexity and seriousness of the service user’s condition was a significant contributory factor in the occurrence of incidents leading to claims.

Conclusion

This national report identifies common issues resulting in claims. Targeting these issues could mitigate patient safety risks and reduce the cost of claims.
Sports-related concussion not associated with long-term cognitive or behavioural deficits: the PROTECT-TBI study
Authors: Lennon Matthew Joseph , Rigney Grant , Creese Byron , Aarsland Dag , Hampshire Adam , Ballard Clive , Corbett Anne , Raymont Vanessa
Published: September 2024

Background

The cognitive effects of sports-related concussion (SRC) have been the subject of vigorous debate but there has been little research into long-term outcomes in non-athlete populations.

Methods

This cohort study of UK community-dwelling adults (aged 50–90 years) was conducted between November 2015 and November 2020, with up to 4 years annual follow-up (n=15 214). Lifetime history of concussions was collected at baseline using the Brain Injury Screening Questionnaire. The first analysis grouped participants by type of concussion (no concussion, only SRC, only non-SRC (nSRC), mixed concussions (both SRC and nSRC)) and the second grouped the participants by number (0, 1, 2 or 3+ SRC or nSRC). Mixed models were used to assess the effect of concussion on outcomes including four cognitive domains and one behavioural measure (Mild Behavioural Impairment-C).

Results

Analysis of the included participants (24% male, mean age=64) at baseline found that the SRC group had significantly better working memory (B=0.113, 95% CI 0.038, 0.188) and verbal reasoning (B=0.199, 95% CI 0.092, 0.306) compared with those without concussion. Those who had suffered one SRC had significantly better verbal reasoning (B=0.111, 95% CI 0.031, 0.19) and attention (B=0.115, 95% CI 0.028, 0.203) compared with those with no SRC at baseline. Those with 3+ nSRCs had significantly worse processing speed (B=−0.082, 95% CI −0.144 to –0.019) and attention (B=−0.156, 95% CI −0.248 to –0.063). Those with 3+ nSRCs had a significantly worse trajectory of verbal reasoning with increasing age (B=−0.088, 95% CI −0.149 to –0.026).

Conclusions

Compared with those reporting no previous concussions, those with SRC had no cognitive or behavioural deficits and seemed to perform better in some tasks. As indicated by previous studies, sports participation may confer long-term cognitive benefits.
Predictors of relapse risk and treatment response in AQP4-IgG positive and seronegative NMOSD: A multicentre study
Authors: Siriratnam Pakeeran , Sanfilippo Paul , van der Walt Anneke , Sharmin Sifat , Foong Yi Chao , Yeh Wei Zhen , Zhu Chao , Khoury Samia Joseph , Csepany Tunde , Willekens Barbara , Etemadifar Masoud , Ozakbas, Serkan , Nytrova Petra , Altintas Ayse , Al-Asmi Abdullah , Yamout Bassem , Laureys Guy , Patti Francesco , Simo Magdolna , Surcinelli Andrea , Foschi Matteo , McCombe Pamela A , Alroughani Raed , Sánchez-Menoyo José Luis , Turkoglu Recai , Soysal Aysun , Lechner Scott Jeanette , Kalincik Tomas , Butzkueven Helmut , Jokubaitis Vilija , Huda Saif , Monif Mastura
Published: September 2024

Background

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) can be categorised into aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-IgG) NMOSD or seronegative NMOSD. While our knowledge of AQP4-IgG NMOSD has evolved significantly in the past decade, seronegative NMOSD remains less understood. This study aimed to evaluate the predictors of relapses and treatment responses in AQP4-IgG NMOSD and seronegative NMOSD.

Methods

This was a multicentre, international, retrospective cohort study using the MSBase registry. Recurrent relapse risk was assessed using an Andersen-Gill model and risk of first relapse was evaluated using a Cox proportional hazards model. Covariates that putatively influence relapse risk included demographic factors, clinical characteristics and immunosuppressive therapies; the latter was assessed as a time-varying covariate.

Results

A total of 398 patients (246 AQP4-IgG NMOSD and 152 seronegative NMOSD) were included. The AQP4-IgG NMOSD and seronegative NMOSD patients did not significantly differ by age at disease onset, ethnicity or annualised relapse rate. Both low-efficacy and high-efficacy immunosuppressive therapies were associated with significant reductions in recurrent relapse risk, with notably greater protection conferred by high-efficacy therapies in both AQP4-IgG NMOSD (HR 0.27, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.49, p<0.001) and seronegative NMOSD (HR 0.21, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.51, p<0.001). Longer disease duration (HR 0.97, 95% CI 0.95 to 0.99, p<0.001) and male sex (HR 0.52, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.84, p=0.007) were additional protective variables in reducing the recurrent relapse risk for the AQP4-IgG NMOSD group.

Conclusion

Although further studies are needed to improve our understanding of seronegative NMOSD, our findings underscore the importance of aggressive treatment with high-efficacy immunotherapies in both NMOSD subtypes, regardless of serostatus.
Total bilirubin modified the association between diabetes and stroke: a cross-sectional study from NHANES 2011–2016
Authors: Xia Zhang , Xu Guozheng , Zhao Mingyang , Li Yuhao , Ye Peiyu , Liu Yijian , Gaisano Herbert Y , He Yan
Published: September 2024

Background

Total bilirubin (TBIL) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to determine whether elevated TBIL could modify the association between diabetes and stroke.

Method

Data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–2016. TBIL was stratified by median (10.3 µmol/L). The association between diabetes and stroke was quantified using multivariable logistic regression models. The cut-off concentration for the presence of TBIL modification effects was identified by Johnson-Neyman analyses. Mediation analyses were performed to determine the influence of TBIL on mediating factors that mediate the relationship between diabetes and stroke.

Results

This cross-sectional study included 16 130 participants, with the mean age of 46.8±0.4 years and 48.5% of men. Diabetes was associated with the presence of stroke at TBIL <10.3 µmol/L (OR=2.19, 95% CI 1.58 to 3.05) but not at TBIL ≥10.3 µmol/L (OR=1.27, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.88) after adjustment for confounders. Above associations were significantly different between the two TBIL concentrations (Pfor interaction=0.03). Moreover, the modification effect of TBIL specifically occurred in men (Pfor interaction=0.02) rather than in women (Pfor interaction=0.08). The cut-off concentration for the presence of TBIL modification effects was 17.05 µmol/L. Additionally, the TBIL of ≥10.3 µmol/L inhibited mediating effects of hypersensitive C reactive protein (mediating effect=0.03, 95% CI −0.15 to 0.22,P=0.72) and systemic immune-inflammation index (mediating effect=0.01, 95% CI −0.01 to 0.04,P=0.29) as compared with the TBIL of <10.3 µmol/L.

Conclusions

Elevated TBIL modified the association between diabetes and stroke through inhibiting mediating effects of inflammatory factors.