bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of inter-root soil bacterial community structure and diversity of different sand-fixing shrubs at the southeastern edge of the Mu Us Desert, China
Authors: Shi Lei , Yang Liangyan , Peng Biao , Hua Dongwen , Sun Zenghui , He Lirong
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different shrub plants on the structure and diversity of inter-root soil bacterial communities, in order to provide scientific support for ecological restoration and revegetation of the Mu Us Desert.

Methods

Three major shrub plants (Artemisia ordosica, Salix psammophila, Caragana microphylla) in the Mu Us Desert were selected for this study. Using high-throughput sequencing technology, the bacterial community structure and diversity in the inter-root soils of these plants were analysed in depth, and combined with the determination of soil physicochemical and microbiological properties, the response characteristics of the bacterial diversity in the inter-root soils of the different plants were assessed comprehensively.

Results

It was found that although the soil pH did not show significant differences among different plant growths, the SOC, TN and TP contents were higher in Salix psammophila sample plot and Artemisia ordosica sample plot, which indicated that the plant growths had a positive effect on the soil nutrient contents. Through Venn diagram analysis, it was observed that the number of OTUs of bacteria in the soils of different shrubland sites varied, and all of them were higher than those in the soils of the sample sites where no plants grew, which indicated that plants had an effect on soil bacterial diversity. The bacterial Chao1 index were higher in the Artemisia ordosica sample plot sample site, suggesting that the growth of Artemisia ordosica contributes to the enhancement of soil bacterial richness. Soil bacterial communities showed compositional differences among different sample plots, especially the higher relative abundance of Betaproteobacteria in the Artemisia ordosica sample plot sample plot, which may be related to the increase of soil organic matter content.

Conclusion

The results of the study revealed that specific plants, such as Artemisia ordosica, can significantly improve the soil nutrient status of windy sandy soils, increase soil organic matter and nitrogen content, and thus enhance the diversity and abundance of soil microorganisms. The bacterial community structure in the inter-root soils of different plants differed significantly, with changes in the relative abundance of the dominant phyla, such as Alphaproteobacteria, Betaproteobacteria and Actinobacteria, reflecting the differences in soil nutrient status. These findings emphasise the important role of plants on soil chemical properties and microbial community structure, providing an important basis for soil management and ecological restoration.
“Moving beyond silos”: focus groups to understand the impact of an adapted project ECHO model for a multidisciplinary statewide forum of substance use disorder care leaders
Authors: Ramalingam NithyaPriya , Rieke Eowyn , McDonnell Maggie McLain , Myers Emily , Hoover Dan
Published: August 2024

Background

Although clinical substance use disorder (SUD) care is multidisciplinary there are few opportunities to collaborate for quality improvement or systems change. In Oregon, the Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) model was adapted to create a novel multidisciplinary SUD Leadership ECHO. The objective of this study was to understand the unique effects of the adapted ECHO model, determine if the SUD Leadership ECHO could promote systems change, and identify elements that enabled participant-leaders to make changes.

Methods

Four focus groups were conducted between August and September of 2022 with a purposive sample of participants from the second cohort of the Oregon ECHO Network’s SUD Leadership ECHO that ran January to June 2022. Focus group domains addressed the benefits of the adapted ECHO model, whether and why participants were able to make systems change following participation in the ECHO, and recommendations for improvement. Thematic analysis developed emergent themes.

Results

16 of the 53 ECHO participants participated in the focus groups. We found that the SUD Leadership ECHO built a multi-disciplinary community of practice among leaders and reduced isolation and burnout. Three participants reported making organizational changes following participation in the ECHO. Those who successfully made changes heard best practices and how other organizations approached problems. Barriers to initiating practice and policy changes included lack of formal leadership authority, time constraints, and higher-level systemic issues. Participants desired for future iterations of the ECHO more focused presentations on a singular topic, and asked for a greater focus on solutions, advocacy, and next steps.

Conclusions

The adapted ECHO model was well received by focus group participants, with mixed reports on whether participation equipped them to initiate organizational or policy changes. Our findings suggest that the SUD Leadership ECHO model, with fine-tuning, is a promising avenue to support SUD leaders in promoting systems change and reducing isolation among SUD leaders.
Melatonin alleviates palmitic acid-induced mitochondrial dysfunction by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing autophagy in bovine endometrial epithelial cells
Authors: Wang Yi , Gong Jianfei , Heng Nuo , Hu Yingfan , Wang Rui , Wang Huan , He Wei , Zhu Ni , Hu Zhihui , Hao Haisheng , Zhu Huabin , Zhao Shanjiang
Published: August 2024

Background

Negative energy balance (NEB) typically occurs in dairy cows after delivery. Cows with a high yield are more likely to experience significant NEB. This type of metabolic imbalance could cause ketosis, which is often accompanied by a decline in reproductive performance. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying NEB have yet to be fully elucidated. During excessive NEB, the body fat is extensively broken down, resulting in the abnormal accumulation of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs), represented by palmitic acid (PA), within the uterus. Such an abnormal accumulation has the potential to damage bovine endometrial epithelial cells (BEECs), while the molecular mechanisms underlying its involvement in the PA-induced injury of BEECs remains poorly understood. Melatonin (MT) is recognized for its regulatory role in maintaining the homeostasis of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mitoROS). However, little is known as to whether MT could ameliorate the damage incurred by BEECs in response to PA and the molecular mechanism involved.

Results

Analysis showed that 0.2 mmol/L PA stress increased the level of cellular and mitochondrial oxidative stress, as indicated by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level. In addition, we observed mitochondrial dysfunction, including abnormal mitochondrial structure and respiratory function, along with a reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial copy number, and the induction of apoptosis. Notably, we also observed the upregulation of autophagy proteins (PINK, Parkin, LC3B and Ubiquitin), however, the P62 protein was also increased. As we expected, 100 μmol/L of MT pre-treatment attenuated PA-induced mitochondrial ROS and restored mitochondrial respiratory function. Meanwhile, MT pretreatment reversed the upregulation of P62 induced by PA and activated the AMPK-mTOR-Beclin-1 pathway, contributing to an increase of autophagy and decline apoptosis.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that PA can induce mitochondrial dysfunction and enhance autophagy in BEECs. In addition, MT is proved to not only reduce mitochondrial oxidative stress but also facilitate the clearance of damaged mitochondria by upregulating autophagy pathways, thereby safeguarding the mitochondrial pool and promoting cellular viability. Our study provides a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of an excess of NEB on the fertility outcomes of high yielding dairy cows.
Insights into the interplay between gut microbiota and lipid metabolism in the obesity management of canines and felines
Authors: Li Kaiqi , Xiao Xiangyu , Li Yuling , Lu Sichen , Zi Jianghang , Sun Xiaoqiang , Xu Jia , Liu Hao-Yu , Li Xiaoqiong , Song Tongxing , Cai Demin
Published: August 2024

Obesity is a prevalent chronic disease that has significant negative impacts on humans and our companion animals, including dogs and cats. Obesity occurs with multiple comorbidities, such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and osteoarthritis in dogs and cats. A direct link between lipid metabolism dysregulation and obesity-associated diseases has been implicated. However, the understanding of such pathophysiology in companion animals is limited. This review aims to address the role of lipid metabolism in various metabolic disorders associated with obesity, emphasizing the involvement of the gut microbiota. Furthermore, we also discuss the management of obesity, including approaches like nutritional interventions, thus providing novel insights into obesity prevention and treatment for canines and felines.
Considerations for the use of plausible values in large-scale assessments
Authors: Jewsbury Paul A. , Jia Yue , Gonzalez Eugenio J.
Published: August 2024

Large-scale assessments are rich sources of data that can inform a diverse range of research questions related to educational policy and practice. For this reason, datasets from large-scale assessments are available to enable secondary analysts to replicate and extend published reports of assessment results. These datasets include multiple imputed values for proficiency, known as plausible values. Plausible values enable the analysis of achievement in large-scale assessment data with complete-case statistical methods such as t-tests implemented in readily-available statistical software. However, researchers are often challenged by the complex and unfamiliar nature of plausible values, large-scale assessments, and their datasets. Misunderstandings and misuses of plausible values may therefore arise. The aims of this paper are to explain what plausible values are, why plausible values are used in large-scale assessments, and how plausible values should be used in secondary analysis of the data. Also provided are answers to secondary researchers’ frequently asked questions about the use of plausible values in analysis gathered by the authors during their experience advising secondary users of these databases.
Empirical approaches for non-linear site response: results for the ESG6-blind test
Authors: Régnier Julie , Bard Pierre-Yves , Castro-Cruz David , Derras Boumédiène , Bertrand Etienne
Published: August 2024

As a contribution to step 3 of the ESG6 blind prediction exercise, we present an application of two different, purely empirical approaches to estimate the strong ground motion at a soft site ("KUMA") from the observed ground motion at a reference rock site ("SEVO") for the two largest shocks of the Kumamoto 2016 sequence. The two methods estimate the non-linear transfer function between a reference rock and a sedimentary site by modifying the linear transfer function derived from weak motion recordings. The modification is based either on a machine learning tool based on a wide collection of Japanese weak and strong motion recordings and the associated site metadata (method 1), or on an estimate of a site-specific parameter related to an average non-linear site response (method 2). The acceleration time series are then derived at the sedimentary site of interest using an estimation of the time delay between wave arrivals at the rock and site stations, and a minimum phase assumption for the site transfer function. These predictions were made blindly, but after the ESG6 conference they could be compared both with the actual ground motion recorded at KUMA during the two shocks, and the average and range of all other predictions preformed for this benchmark. Both of these purely empirical methods provide an honorable prediction of usual engineering ground motion parameters of the two target events. The performance of these two purely empirical approaches is at least comparable to those of the numerical simulation methods for the foreshock—if not better—and slightly worse for the (largest) mainshock. As the methods required only recordings of weak motions at the target and a referent sites and very simple description of the soil profile. The use of moderate motions to constrain the frequency shift prediction for the second method and the consideration of an alternative phase modification are possible ways to improvement.

Graphical Abstract
Development of a microbial dewaxing agent using three spore forming bacteria
Authors: Guo Xiaoyan , Zhao Xutao , Li Lizhu , Jin Haibo , Wang Jianjun
Published: August 2024

Microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR) is a cost effective and efficient method for recovering residual oil. However, the presence of wax (paraffin) in residual oil can substantially reduce the efficiency of MEOR. Therefore, microbial dewaxing is a critical process in MEOR. In this study, a bacterial dewaxing agent of three spore-forming bacteria was developed. Among these bacteria, Bacillus subtilis GZ6 produced the biosurfactant surfactin. Replacing the promoter of the surfactin synthase gene cluster (srfA), increased the titer of surfactin in this strain from 0.33 g/L to 2.32 g/L. The genetically modified strain produced oil spreading rings with diameters increasing from 3.5 ± 0.1 to 4.1 ± 0.2 cm. The LadA F10L/N133R mutant was created by engineering an alkane monooxygenase (LadA) using site-directed mutagenesis in the Escherichia coli host. Compared to the wild-type enzyme, the resulting mutant exhibited an 11.7-fold increase in catalytic efficiency toward the substrate octadecane. When the mutant (pIMPpladA2mu) was expressed in Geobacillus stearothermophilus GZ178 cells, it exhibited a 2.0-fold increase in octadecane-degrading activity. Cultures of the two modified strains (B. subtilis GZ6 (pg3srfA) and G. stearothermophilus GZ178 (pIMPpladA2mu)) were mixed with the culture of Geobacillus thermodenitrificans GZ156 at a ratio of 5:80:15. The resulting composition increased the rate of wax removal by 35% compared to the composition composed of three native strains. This study successfully developed a multi-strain bacterial agent with enhanced oil wax removal capabilities by genetically engineering two bacterial strains.
Enhancing adipose tissue functionality in obesity: senotherapeutics, autophagy and cellular senescence as a target
Authors: Arias Consuelo , Álvarez-Indo Javiera , Cifuentes Mariana , Morselli Eugenia , Kerr Bredford , Burgos Patricia V.
Published: August 2024

Obesity, a global health crisis, disrupts multiple systemic processes, contributing to a cascade of metabolic dysfunctions by promoting the pathological expansion of visceral adipose tissue (VAT). This expansion is characterized by impaired differentiation of pre-adipocytes and an increase in senescent cells, leading to a pro-inflammatory state and exacerbated oxidative stress. Particularly, the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and adipose tissue hypoxia further impair cellular function, promoting chronic disease development. This review delves into the potential of autophagy modulation and the therapeutic application of senolytics and senomorphics as novel strategies to mitigate adipose tissue senescence. By exploring the intricate mechanisms underlying adipocyte dysfunction and the emerging role of natural compounds in senescence modulation, we underscore the promising horizon of senotherapeutics in restoring adipose health. This approach not only offers a pathway to combat the metabolic complications of obesity, but also opens new avenues for enhancing life quality and managing the global burden of obesity-related conditions. Our analysis aims to bridge the gap between current scientific progress and clinical application, offering new perspectives on preventing and treating obesity-induced adipose dysfunction.
Unveiling emerging interdisciplinary research challenges in the highly threatened sclerophyllous forests of central Chile
Authors: Delpiano Cristian A. , Vargas Solange , Ovalle Juan F. , Cáceres Catalina , Zorondo-Rodríguez Francisco , Miranda Alejandro , Pohl Nelida , Rojas Claudia , Squeo Francisco A.
Published: August 2024

Background

The potential ecosystem collapse of forests in Mediterranean-type ecosystems (MTEs) by unprecedented droughts is worrisome due to the impacts on its exceptional biodiversity and human well-being. However, research integrating the impacts of global change drivers, forest resilience and the challenges facing human-nature relationships is still scarce.

Methods and results

Using the central Chile megadrought and recently massive forest browning event as a model scenario, we identified, through a scientific literature review and an interdisciplinary scientific workshop, the research priorities and questions to address for MTEs in a context of global change. Our results highlighted knowledge gaps that need to be covered, particularly in social and environmental sciences, with an emphasis on soil science. Research priorities must focus on (1) the understanding of interactive effects of global and local anthropogenic drivers on MTEs and (2) the evaluation of the potential impacts of MTEs collapse on human well-being and ecosystem functioning.

Conclusions

We highlight the need for a collaborative approach involving scientists, landowners, managers/administrators, and policymakers to apply adaptive forest management against the current socio-environmental challenges under a global change context.
Pathological examination of factors involved in PD-L1 expression in patients with oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Koyama Yu , Ogawa Chiharu , Kurihara Chihiro , Hashimoto Nao , Shinagawa Shota , Okazaki Hiroya , Koyama Takumi , Sugahara Keisuke , Katakura Akira
Published: August 2024

Background

Tumor tissues comprise cancer cells and stromal cells, and their interactions form the cancer microenvironment. Therefore, treatments targeting cells other than cancer cells are also actively being developed, and among them, treatment targeting PD-1, an immune checkpoint molecule that is important in tumor immune evasion, has also been indicated for head and neck cancer. PD-L1, a ligand of PD-1, is expressed in both tumor cells and stromal cells, and the scoring system based on the combined positivity rates of both types of cells, the combined positive score (CPS), is used for predicting treatment effect. However, much is unknown regarding the expression of PD-L1. In this study, we histopathologically examined factors controlling the expression of PD-1/PD-L1. This study included 37 patients who underwent resection surgery for tongue squamous cell carcinoma in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Tokyo Dental College Suidobashi Hospital. The expression levels of PD-L1, α-SMA, and p53 were assessed by immunohistochemical staining.

Results

Seven participants had CPS ≥ 20, twenty-four participants had 1 ≤ CPS < 20, and six participants had CPS < 1. The overall positivity rate of α-SMA, a marker for cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), was 27% (10/37 participants), and the positivity rates of α-SMA for the three CPS groups were 85.7% (6/7 participants), 16.7% (4/24 participants), and 0% (0/6 participants), respectively. In addition, the overall positivity rate of p53 was 37.8% (14/37 participants), and the positivity rates of p53 for the three CPS groups were 71.4% (5/7 participants), 37.5% (9/24 participants), and 0% (0/6 participants), respectively.

Conclusions

The expression of PD-L1 demonstrated an association with α-SMA and p53 positivity. In addition, compared with the expression of p53, the expression of α-SMA demonstrated a higher association with PD-L1 expression in patients with a high CPS. The abovementioned findings suggest that the interactions between CAFs, cancer cells, and immunocompetent cells may regulate the expression of PD-L1.
Idiopathic pyogenic thoracic and lumbar spondylodiscitis: outcome of long segment fixation
Authors: Elnaggar Ahmed Gabry , Habib Hosam-Eldin Abdel-Azim
Published: August 2024

Background

Spondylodiscitis is an infection of the vertebral body extending to the intervertebral disc, and possibly the surrounding paraspinal structures.

Objectives

To evaluate the clinical results of posterior long segment transpedicular screws fixation and decompression of the infected area for management of idiopathic pyogenic spondylodiscitis of the thoracic and lumbar spine.

Methods

This retrospective study included 14 patients with idiopathic active pyogenic spondylodiscitis of the lumber and thoracic spine between January 2017 and December 2021, with follow-up continuing until December 2022. All patients had posterior long-segment rigid fixation with infection decompression.

Results

All patients after 6-month follow-up had achieved complete fusion. There was no evidence of postoperative wound infection, and no patient had a recurrence of infection at the lesion site during follow-up. Prior to surgery, the mean VAS score for back pain was 7.6 (range 6–9), however, after surgery, it fell to 1.3 (0–3), a statistically significant improvement (P < 0.001) during the last follow-up. According to the Kirkaldy-Willis criteria, the functional prognosis was excellent in 11 individuals, good in two, and fair in one.

Conclusions

Posterior long-segment fixation in conjunction with decompression of the affected area effectively resolved bacterial spinal infection and restored neurological impairment.
The use of an autologous platelet-rich fibrin membrane in urethroplasty for cases of distal hypospadias
Authors: Abdelazim Osama , Abdullateef Khaled Salah , Khedr Elsayed , Tarek Mahmoud
Published: August 2024

Background

Among pediatric surgical procedures, hypospadias surgery is one of the most difficult. The most prevalent complication following hypospadias repair is urethrocutaneous fistula. Numerous procedures have been developed to prevent and resolve this issue. One such method is platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) membrane preparation, which is a straightforward process requiring only the patient’s serum. It has already been utilized successfully in plastic and reconstructive surgeries, where it significantly enhances the healing capacity and decreases the risk of infections. The purpose of this study is to assess the efficacy of an autologous PRF membrane in promoting healing and reducing fistula occurrence in cases of de novo distal hypospadias.

Methods

Forty patients with primary distal hypospadias underwent TIP repair, as a part of a prospective controlled randomized study from April 2017 to February 2018. The cases were randomly allocated into two categories. TIP repair done in all cases by the same surgeon. Twenty cases comprised group A, which utilized a preputial or local dartos flap as an additional protective layer over the urethroplasty. In contrast, group B comprised 20 cases in which the urethroplasty was covered with a PRF membrane. The initial follow-up duration was 6 months. Each group’s fistula incidence and other associated complications were documented.

Results

Two groups were compared during the initial 6-month follow-up period. There were seven cases of urethrocutaneous fistula in group A, representing a 35% incidence rate. In group B, there were two cases that had fistula with an incidence of 10% in the early postoperative period. Two patients (10%) in group A developed meatal stenosis and only one patient in group B (5%) developed meatal stenosis. Glandular dehiscence occurred in one patient (5%) in group B. There was no skin wound infection in both groups.

Conclusion

The PRF membrane may be a promising method as a coverage layer over the urethroplasty aiming to reduce the fistula rate after the repair. A larger comparative study is needed to evaluate the efficacy of PRF membranes in promoting wound healing.
Echocardiographic estimation of pulmonary arterial and right atrial pressures in children with congenital heart disease: a comprehensive prospective study and introduction of novel equations
Authors: Malakan Rad Elaheh , Elhamian Reza , Zanjani Keyhan Sayadpour , Shabanian Reza , Moghadam Ehsan Aghaei , Majnoon Mohamad Taghi , Zeinaloo Aliakbar
Published: August 2024

Background

Pediatric pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by a mean pulmonary arterial pressure exceeding 20 mmHg. There is limited research on the suitability of adult-based methods for estimating PH in pediatric populations. Using established formulas for adults, this study aimed to evaluate the correlation between echocardiographic estimates of systolic, diastolic, and mean pulmonary arterial pressures, and mean right atrial pressures in children with congenital heart disease (CHD).

Methods

A prospective study was conducted involving children with CHD undergoing cardiac catheterization without prior cardiac surgery. We used echocardiography to estimate pulmonary and right atrial pressures and compared these with invasively measured values. Four reliable regression equations were developed to estimate systolic, diastolic, and mean pulmonary arterial pressures, and mean right atrial pressures. Cutoff values were determined to predict the occurrence of PH. Linear regression, Bland–Altman analysis, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were performed to assess the accuracy of echocardiography and establish diagnostic thresholds for PH.

Results

The study involved 55 children (23 with normal pulmonary arterial pressure and 32 with PH) with acyanotic CHD aged 1 to 192 months. Four equations were developed to detect high pulmonary arterial pressures, with cutoff values of 32.9 for systolic pulmonary arterial pressure, 14.95 for diastolic pulmonary arterial pressure, and 20.7 for mean pulmonary arterial pressure. The results showed high sensitivity and moderate specificity but a tendency to underestimate systolic and mean pulmonary arterial pressures at higher pressures.

Conclusions

The study provides valuable insights into the use of adult-based echocardiographic formulas for estimating PH in pediatric patients with acyanotic CHD.
Genomic Profiling of Small Intestine Cancers From a Real-World Data Set Identifies Subgroups With Actionable Alterations
Authors: Takeda Hiroyuki , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Oikawa Ritsuko , Umemoto Kumiko , Arai Hiroyuki , Mizukami Takuro , Ogawa Kazuki , Uchida Yoshiyasu , Nagata Yusuke , Kubota Yohei , Doi Ayako , Horie Yoshiki , Ogura Takashi , Izawa Naoki , Moore Jay A. , Sokol Ethan S. , Sunakawa Yu
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

Panel-based comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) is used in clinical practice worldwide; however, large real-world data (RWD) of patients with advanced small intestine cancer have not been characterized. We investigated differences in the prevalence of clinically relevant alterations across molecularly defined or age-stratified subgroups.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a collaborative biomarker study of RWD from CGP testing (Foundation Medicine, Inc). Hybrid capture was conducted on at least 324 cancer-related genes and select introns from up to 31 genes frequently rearranged in cancer. Overall, 1,364 patients with advanced small intestine cancer were available for analyses and were stratified by age (≥40 years/<40 years), microsatellite instability (MSI) status, tumor mutational burden (TMB) status (high ≥10/low <10 Muts/Mb), and select gene alterations. The frequency of alterations was analyzed using a chi-square test with Yate's correction.

RESULTS

Genes with frequent alterations included TP53 (59.8%), KRAS (54.8%), APC (27.7%), and CDKN2A (22.4%). Frequent genes with amplifications were MYC (6.7%), MDM2 (5.9%), GATA6 (5.5%), and CCND1 (3.4%). Patients younger than 40 years had significantly lower frequency of APC mutations than those 40 years and older (10.4% v 28.7%; P = .0008). Druggable genomic alterations were detected in 22.3% of patients: BRAF V600E (1.2%), BRCA1 (1.8%), BRCA2 (3.2%), ERBB2 amplification (3.2%), KRAS G12C (3.3%), NTRK1/2/3 fusion (0.07%), MSI-high (7.0%), and TMB-high (12.2%), with no significant differences in the frequency according to age (<40 years v ≥40 years; 22.1% v 22.3%). TMB of 10-20 Mut/Mb was observed in 4.8% of patients, and TMB ≥20 Mut/Mb was seen in 7.3% of the cohort.

CONCLUSION

RWD from clinical panel testing revealed the genomic landscape in small intestine cancer by subgroup. These findings provide insights for the future development of treatments in advanced small intestine cancer.
“I Just Assumed This Was Already Being Done”: Canadian Patient Preferences for Enhanced Data Sharing for Precision Oncology
Authors: Pollard Samantha , Ehman Morgan , Hermansen Anna , Weymann Deirdre , Krebs Emanuel , Ho Cheryl , Lim Howard J. , Jones Steven , Bombard Yvonne , Hanna Timothy P. , Hessels Chiquita , Longstaff Holly , Cook-Deegan Robert , Bubela Tania , Regier Dean A.
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

In Canada, health data are siloed, slowing bioinnovation and evidence generation for personalized cancer care. Secured data-sharing platforms (SDSPs) can enable data analysis across silos through rapid concatenation across trial and real-world settings and timely researcher access. To motivate patient participation and trust in research, it is critical to ensure that SDSP design and oversight align with patients' values and address their concerns. We sought to qualitatively characterize patient preferences for the design of a pan-Canadian SDSP.

METHODS

Between January 2022 and July 2023, we conducted pan-Canadian virtual focus groups with individuals who had a personal history of cancer. Following each focus group, participants were invited to provide feedback on early-phase analysis results via a member-checking survey. Three trained qualitative researchers analyzed data using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight individuals participated across five focus groups. Four focus groups were conducted in English and one in French. Thematic analysis generated two major and five minor themes. Analytic themes spanned personal and population implications of data sharing and willingness to manage perceived risks. Participants were supportive of increasing access to health data for precision oncology research, while voicing concerns about unintended data use, reidentification, and inequitable access to costly therapeutics. To mitigate perceived risks, participants highlighted the value of data access oversight and governance and informational transparency.

CONCLUSION

Strategies for secured data sharing should anticipate and mitigate the risks that patients perceive. Participants supported enhancing timely research capability while ensuring safeguards to protect patient autonomy and privacy. Our study informs the development of data-governance and data-sharing frameworks that integrate real-world and trial data, informed by evidence from direct patient input.
Association of Acute Systemic Inflammation with Patient-Centric Postoperative Pulmonary Complications After Elective Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Mittel Aaron , Drubin Casey , Hua May , Nitta Suzuka , Wagener Gebhard , Vidal Melo Marcos F.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) occur frequently after cardiac surgery. Absolute postoperative values of biomarkers of inflammation (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α]) and alveolar epithelial injury (soluble receptor for advanced glycation end-products [sRAGE]) have been associated with hypoxia and prolonged ventilation. However, relationships between these biomarkers and PPCs, contextualized to preoperative inflammation and perioperative lung injury risk factors, are uncertain. We aimed to determine associations between perioperative increases in biomarkers of inflammation and alveolar epithelial injury with a patient-centric PPC definition in adult cardiac surgical patients, accounting for the influence of intraoperative risk factors for lung injury.

METHODS:

Adults undergoing elective cardiac surgery were eligible for this observational cohort study. Blood concentrations of IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and sRAGE were collected after anesthesia induction (baseline) and on postoperative day 1 (POD 1). The primary outcome was the occurrence of moderate or severe PPCs, graded using a validated scale, in POD 0 to 7. We estimated the association between POD 1 IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and sRAGE concentrations and moderate/severe PPC presence using separate logistic regression models for each biomarker, adjusted for baseline biomarker values and risk factors for postoperative lung injury (age, baseline PaO2/FiO2, left ventricle ejection fraction [LVEF], procedural type, cardiopulmonary bypass duration, and transfusions). Covariables were chosen based on relevance to lung injury and unadjusted between-group differences among patients with versus without PPCs. The secondary outcome was postoperative ventilation duration, which was log-transformed and analyzed using linear regression, adjusted using the same variables as the primary outcome.

RESULTS:

We enrolled 204 patients from 2016 to 2018. Biomarkers were analyzed in 2023 among 175 patients with complete data. In adjusted analyses, POD 1 IL-8 and IL-6 were significantly associated with moderate/severe PPCs. The odds ratio (OR) for developing a PPC for every 50 pg/mL increase in POD 1 IL-8 was 7.19 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.13–28.53, P = .003) and 1.42 (95% CI, 1.13–1.93, P = .01) for every 50 pg/mL increase in POD 1 IL-6. In adjusted analyses, postoperative ventilation duration was significantly associated with POD 1 sRAGE; each 50 pg/mL increase in sRAGE was associated with a 25% (95% CI, 2%–52%, P = .03) multiplicative increase in hours of ventilation. TNF-α was not significantly associated with PPCs or ventilation duration.

CONCLUSIONS:

Acute systemic inflammation is significantly associated with PPCs after elective cardiac surgery in adults when taking into consideration preoperative inflammatory burden and perioperative factors that may influence postoperative lung injury.
Das Telesterion von Eleusis im wandel
Authors: Καούρα Ιουλία
Published: August 2024

Η διδακτορική διατριβή εξετάζει το Τελεστήριο της Ελευσίνας στις διαδοχικές οικοδομικές του φάσεις. Η σε βάθος επανεξέταση των κτηρίων αυτών αποτελούσε ερευνητικό ζητούμενο, καθώς μετά από τη δημοσίευση της μονογραφίας του Noack το 1927 τα κτήρια αυτά δεν ξαναβρέθηκαν στο επίκεντρο της έρευνας. Επιπλέον, η ανασκαφή που πραγματοποιήθηκε στον χώρο του Τελεστηρίου τη δεκαετία του 1930 έφερε στο φως νέα ευρήματα που, όμως, δημοσιεύτηκαν μόνο συνοπτικά σε προκαταρκτικές εκθέσεις. Η έλλειψη της συστηματικής δημοσίευσης επιχειρήθηκε να καλυφθεί εδώ μέσω της μελέτης του Αρχείου της εν Αθήναις Αρχαιολογικής Εταιρείας. Με τη βοήθεια του υλικού αυτού, της σχετικής βιβλιογραφίας και προσωπικών παρατηρήσεων επί τόπου, προέκυψε μια νέα εικόνα για τα εν λόγω κτήρια: Τα κατάλοιπά τους εξετάστηκαν εκ νέου, οι αναπαραστάσεις τους συμπληρώθηκαν ή τροποποιήθηκαν, οι συνθήκες κατασκευής και η χρονολόγησή τους επανεξετάστηκαν και η μορφή τους αναλύθηκε στο πλαίσιο της σύγχρονής τους αρχιτεκτονικής. Ιδιαίτερη σημασία έχει το συμπέρασμα ότι οι ανανεώσεις του Τελεστηρίου από την ύστερη αρχαϊκή έως την τελευταία κλασική του φάση υπάκουαν σε έναν προσεκτικό σχεδιασμό που προέβλεπε την τμηματική τους υλοποίηση υπό όρους σύγχρονου project management: Το προς εκτέλεση έργο διαιρείτο σε υποέργα που υλοποιούνταν διαδοχικά, ώστε να καθίσταται πάντοτε εφικτή η τέλεση της λατρείας στο εσωτερικό. Η διαπίστωση αυτή, που έχει αξία για τη μελέτη των ελληνικών ιερών εν γένει, οδήγησε τελικά σε μια νέα σύνθεση της οικοδομικής ιστορίας του Τελεστηρίου. Παράλληλα, η εξέταση των διαδοχικών Τελεστηρίων, το σχέδιο των οποίων παραλλάσει κυρίως τον αριθμό και τη διάταξη των εσωτερικών κιόνων, καταδεικνύει ότι ο εκάστοτε νέος σχεδιασμός κατέτεινε στη δημιουργία ενός χώρου συνάθροισης με τις καλύτερες δυνατές συνθήκες ορατότητας και ακουστικής, δηλαδή ενός υπό ευρεία έννοια θεατρικού χώρου. Η παρατήρηση αυτή είναι καθοριστικής σημασίας για τη θέση του Τελεστηρίου στην ιστορία της αρχιτεκτονικής και διανοίγει νέες προοπτικές τόσο ως προς το ερώτημα της καταγωγής των λεγόμενων υπόστυλων αιθουσών όσο και ως προς το ζήτημα της τυπολογίας.
The relationship of age, sex and prothrombin time related to the severity of COVID-19 patients with diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta analysis
Authors: Mirza Audrey Fabianisa , Halim Ceria , Sari Mutiara Indah
Published: August 2024

Background SARS-CoV-2 first appeared in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Looking at the prevalence data in the world and in Indonesia, the highest mortality rate due to COVID-19 involves age, gender and comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus. Severity of the condition also refers to coagulation abnormalities, such as abnormal prothrombin time values. Methods This systematic review study and meta-analysis used online literature sourced from PubMed, Science Direct, EBSCO, Cochrane and Google Scholar. The literature used here is literature that has data on age, sex and prothrombin time of COVID-19 patients with diabetes mellitus whose quality is assessed by the NOS (Newcastle-Ottawa Scale) criteria and processing data using Review Manager 5.4. Results Out of 8711 literatures that were traced from various search sources, there were 45 literatures that were included in this study. The results of the analysis on age showed the Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) value of 0.45 and P <0.0001 (95% CI: 0.23–0.68), the gender analysis showed an Odds Ratio (OR) value of 3.28 and P = 0.01 (95% CI: 1.26–8.52) and the prothrombin time analysis showed SMD values of 0.41 and P = 0.07 (95%CI = -0.03–0.85). Conclusion Patients with COVID-19 who have DM have a higher risk compared to those without DM. Among COVID-19 patients with DM admitted to hospitals, they were older compared to those without DM and prothrombin time values similar but slightly higher in COVID-19 patients with DM.
Evaluation of NETosis (Neutrophil Extracellular Traps) biomarkers in smokers and nonsmokers periodontitis patients
Authors: Jabbar Najim Rasha Abdul , Al Ghurabi Batool Hassan
Published: August 2024

Background To evaluate the NETosis biomarkers citrullinated histone H3 (citH3), neutrophil elastase (ELA), calprotectin (CALPRO), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) as indicators of inflammation in the severe stages of periodontitis III and IV in both (smokers and nonsmokers) patients, and to determine the correlation between NETosis biomarkers and clinical periodontal parameters. Methods This study recruited male subjects with an age range of (20-60) years; 60 were stage III and stage IV periodontitis patients, 30 were cigarette smoker, and 30 were nonsmokers. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria to evaluate their eligibility for recruitment, 25 control subjects with a healthy periodontal status and good oral hygiene maintenance were included. Unstimulated saliva was obtained and evaluated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the following periodontal parameters were documented: [plaque index, bleeding on probing, periodontal pocket depth, and clinical attachment loss]. Results The mean levels of all salivary NETosis biomarkers citH3, ELA, CALPRO, and MPO were elevated in the periodontitis groups (smokers and nonsmokers) than in controls. Moreover, the mean NETosis biomarker‘s mean levels were significantly higher in smoker than in nonsmokers. In addition, the correlations were significant between CALPRO and CitH3 in smokers and between ELA and CitH3 in nonsmokers. Conclusions The results of this study showed that the chosen salivary biomarkers of NETosis revealed elevated clinical accuracy in differentiating the studied periodontitis groups (smokers and nonsmokers) from controls. In addition, cigarette smoking increases the risk of periodontitis, and neutrophils in smokers with periodontitis exhibited more susceptibility to form neutrophil extracellular traps when compared with nonsmokers.
Digital twins for managing bridge climate change adaptation
Authors: Kaewunruen Sakdirat , Fu Hao , Adebiyi Adefolarin , Sengsri Pasakorn
Published: August 2024

Background Bridges are vital construction infrastructures that almost every nation needs in order to function. Climate change is a significant issue, that especially affects the construction industry. It is very important that bridges are able to withstand the impacts of climate change and adaptation measures will be required to achieve this. Methods The digital twin will be developed using BIM to manage the climate change adaptation measures for the bridges. A 6D BIM model will be created that includes the 3D Revit model of a bridge featuring climate change measures, the climate change adaptation measures timeline schedule, climate change adaptation cost estimation, and carbon emission estimation, which will be produced using Revit software, Navisworks, and Granta EduPack. The results will show how 6D BIM can be used to support the adaptation of bridges to the effects of climate change. Results The findings underscore the efficacy of 6D BIM in enhancing bridge resilience against climate change impacts. The 3D model demonstrates integration of adaptation measures without compromising bridge functionality. Moreover, the 4D model's timeline scheduling facilitates hazard anticipation, project planning, communication enhancement, collaborative efforts, and project visualization. Cost estimations from the 5D model reveal varying costs among adaptation measures, while the 6D model highlights differences in carbon footprints. These BIM dimensions enable stakeholders to analyze effects on project costs and energy consumption, aiding sustainability and cost-efficiency considerations. Conclusions The study exhibits the literature review analysis, the risk assessment, research on climate change adaptation strategies, and implementation using Revit 2022, Navisworks 2022, and Granta EduPack software. By contributing to the adaptation of bridges to climate change effects, the research has provided valuable insights and practical implications for enhancing bridge resilience globally.
The genome sequence of the bloodfluke planorb, Biomphalaria glabrata (Say, 1818)
Authors: Berriman Matthew , Buddenborg Sarah ,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: August 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual Biomphalaria glabrata (the bloodfluke planorb; Mollusca; Gastropoda; Planorbidae). The genome sequence spans 850.60 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 18 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 13.67 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 25,327 protein-coding genes.
Potential Correlation between Kienböck’s Disease and Hereditary Hemochromatosis: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, AZ Delta, Roeselare, Belgium., Top Alexander C R , Vanmierlo Bert ,   Department of Orthopaedics, AZ Delta, Roeselare, Belgium., Decramer Arne ,   Department of Orthopaedics, AZ Delta, Roeselare, Belgium.
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Avascular necrosis of the lunate bone has been extensively researched, although the etiology of the condition remains controversial. Even though many treatments for the disease exist, a better understanding of the pathophysiology can improve our decision-making between preventive and therapeutic measures. Various hematological disorders have been found to predispose for Kienböck’s disease. On the other hand, there has not yet been any reference in literature to a relationship between this condition and hereditary hemochromatosis (HH). Case Report: We present two cases of Kienböck’s disease in two patients who are third-degree relatives and diagnosed with HH. A 61-year-old Caucasian female patient with type 1 HH presented with symptomatic Kienböck’s disease on the left side. The patient is a third-degree relative of a 51-year-old male Caucasian patient with Kienbock’s disease on the right side, known as having the same hereditary hematological condition. Conclusion: Our findings suggest a potential correlation between the aforementioned conditions. The prevalence of these coexisting pathologies should be studied further. Keywords: Kienböck, lunate, osteonecrosis, hemochromatosis.
Clinical Outcome of Floating Hip with Irreducible Hip Dislocation and Distal Third Femur Fracture with Intra-Articular Extension: A Rare Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, IMS and SUM Hospital, Kalinga Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India., Sahu Nabin Kumar , Panda Ananta Narayan ,   Department of Orthopaedics, IMS and SUM Hospital, Kalinga Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India., Nayak Satya Prasanna ,   Department of Orthopaedics, IMS and SUM Hospital, Kalinga Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India., Swaroop Shakti ,   Department of Orthopaedics, IMS and SUM Hospital, Kalinga Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India., Mishra Sourav ,   Department of Orthopaedics, IMS and SUM Hospital, Kalinga Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India., Biradar Prasanna ,   Department of Orthopaedics, IMS and SUM Hospital, Kalinga Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Floating hip with hip dislocation is a very high-energy, devastating, and rare injury whose treatment is very challenging, and the outcome is usually poor. Case Report: A 35-year-old man presented posterior wall fracture acetabulum and dislocation of the hip with ipsilateral distal third shaft femur fracture with intra-articular extension fracture and un-displaced patella fracture. We achieved a reduction of hip dislocation by a knee-spanning external fixator followed by open reduction and internal fixation with anatomical locking plate for distal third femur fracture with intra-articular extension followed by open reduction and internal fixation for posterior wall of acetabulum with recon plate in Kocher-Langenbeck approach in stages. The patient was able to partial weight bear after 12 weeks of the injury and mobilized independently without any support after 5 months. Conclusion: Floating hip with hip dislocation is difficult to manage but reducing the hip dislocation with knee spanning external fixator and management in stages will reduce the complications and better outcome. Keywords: Floating hip, hip dislocation, knee spanning external fixator.
A narrative review of community wellbeing programmes and the reported outcomes for young carers
Authors: Bibb Jennifer , McMaster Samuel , Palmer Victoria J.
Published: August 2024

Wellbeing programmes have the potential to support young carers in their formative years. However, there is a scarcity of research into wellbeing programmes for young carers and their associated outcomes. This review aims to identify targeted community programmes that support the mental health and social wellbeing of young carers and their outcomes through the academic literature. An initial search of databases retrieved 335 articles, with ten meeting the inclusion criteria. Findings were organised thematically according to the programme outcomes: improvement in emotional wellbeing and quality of life; the development of new skills; respite from caring; and social connectedness and peer support.