bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of homocysteine, vitamin B12 and folic acid between rural and urban ageing Indians and its association with mild cognitive impairment and cardiovascular risk factors: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Mallikarjun Divya N , Malo Palash Kumar , Mensegere Abhishek , Partha Ajith , Sundarakumar Jonas S , Issac Thomas Gregor , Diwakar Latha
Published: October 2024

The relationship between blood levels of homocysteine (HCY), vitamin B12, folic acid and cognitive impairment is inconclusive. Since HCY is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, understanding its association with Framingham risk score (FRS) may provide insight into the shared underlying mechanism between cardiovascular disease and cognitive impairment. Cross-sectional analyses utilized baseline data from two ongoing longitudinal studies: the Tata Longitudinal Study of Ageing (n = 923), an urban cohort, and Srinivaspura Ageing, NeuroSenescence and COGnition (n = 4239), a rural cohort. The study compared the HCY, vitamin B12 and folic acid levels across cohorts and normal versus mild cognitive impairment (MCI) participants. The association between HCY and cognitive status was established using regression models. Three models were analysed: model 1—unadjusted; model 2—adjusted for age, gender, smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, hypertension, cardiac illness, diabetes; and model 3—adjusted for variables in model 2 plus vitamin B12 and folic acid. Correlation was calculated between HCY and FRS. The urban cohort exhibited a significantly higher level of HCY [median (IQR) (17.70 (10.2) versus 14.70 (9.7); P < 0.001)], vitamin B12 (251 (231) versus 219 (138); P < 0.001) and folic acid (8.21 (8) versus 5.48 (4); P < 0.001) levels compared to rural cohort. HCY, vitamin B12 and folic acid levels did not differ significantly between normal and MCI participants in the urban cohort. In the rural cohort, among the age-gender matched MCI-normal, participants with normal cognition had higher levels of vitamin B12 (≥60 years) [227 (152) versus 217 (175); P = 0.03] and folic acid (<60 years) [5.91 (4) versus 5.40 (4); P = 0.04] compared to MCI. There was no association between HCY and cognitive status in both the cohorts, but there was a significant positive relationship between vitamin B12 deficiency and Clinical Dementia Rating—Sum of the Boxes (CDR-SOB), as well as folic acid deficiency and CDR-SOB in rural and urban cohorts, respectively, within a specific age group. A significant correlation was observed between FRS and HCY in the rural cohort (r = 0.17, P < 0.001), but not in the urban cohort. This study revealed significant differences in HCY, vitamin B12 and folic acid levels between the cohorts. In the rural cohort, participants with MCI had lower vitamin B12 and folic acid levels in a certain age group. Association between HCY and cognitive status was insignificant in both the cohorts. A small significant correlation between FRS and HCY was seen in the rural cohort.
Refractory papulonodular mucinosis successfully treated with tofacitinib
Authors: Luo Si-Yu , Fang Sheng
Published: October 2024

Tofacitinib may be a promising treatment option for papulonodular mucinosis (PNM). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report highlighting the use of tofacitinib in the management of PNM.
Valvular and perivalvular thrombosis following self-expandable aortic valve replacement: analysis of 100 multi-detector computed tomography scans
Authors: Moscarelli Marco , Zaccone Gregorio , Zlahoda-Huzior Adriana , Pernice Vincenzo , Milo Sabrina , Violante Francesco , Trizzino Francesca , Dudek Dariusz , Speziale Giuseppe , Lancellotti Patrizio , Fattouch Khalil
Published: October 2024

Aims

Subclinical thrombosis may represent an early stage of prosthesis structural disease. Most of the available evidence on the incidence, location, predictors, and consequences of thrombosis comes from studies that have employed balloon-expandable valves. We aimed to describe the different localisations of valvular and perivalvular thrombosis and analyse prosthesis-host multi-detector computed tomography predictors in the context of self-expandable prosthesis. Additionally, we aimed to assess the impact of valvular and perivalvular thrombosis on prosthesis performance and subsequent clinical outcomes.

Methods and results

This analysis includes 100 consecutive patients with normal renal function who underwent transcatheter aortic valve replacement using Evolut R and received multi-detector computed tomography and transthoracic bi-dimensional echocardiography at the 6 month follow-up. Leaflet thrombosis was detected in 18 (18%) patients; 6 (6%) had at least one leaflet with severe thrombosis. Thrombosis of the anatomic sinus was detected in 24 patients (24%) and was more prevalent in the non-coronary sinus. Subvalvular thrombosis with partial or complete circumferential involvement of the prosthesis inner skirt was diagnosed in 23 patients (23%). Bicuspid valve was the predictor with highest association with hypoattenuated lesions [least absolute shrinkage and selection operator coefficient 0.35, 95%, confidence interval (CI) 0.21–0.68]. There was no difference in terms of haemodynamic structural valve dysfunction, neurological events, and re-hospitalisation between the groups with and without thrombosis (hazard ratio: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.24–3.06, P = 0.82).

Conclusion

This study showed that in a relatively low-risk population, valvular and perivalvular thrombosis were not rare phenomena following transcatheter aortic valve replacement at early follow-up. Bicuspid valve showed the strongest association with post-implant thrombosis.
Autonomic reactivity to mental stress is associated with cardiovascular mortality
Authors: Shah Anish S , Vaccarino Viola , Moazzami Kasra , Almuwaqqat Zakaria , Garcia Mariana , Ward Laura , Elon Lisa , Ko Yi-An , Sun Yan V , Pearce Brad D , Raggi Paolo , Bremner J Douglas , Lampert Rachel , Quyyumi Arshed A , Shah Amit J
Published: October 2024

Aims

The mechanisms linking acute psychological stress to cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality are incompletely understood. We studied the relationship of electrocardiographic measures of autonomic dysfunction during acute mental stress provocation and CVD death.

Methods and results

In a pooled cohort of 765 participants with stable CVD from two related studies, we collected Holter data during standardized laboratory-based mental stress testing with a speech task and followed them for events. We assessed autonomic function using low-frequency (LF) heart rate variability (HRV) in 5-min intervals before, during, and after stress induction, and specifically examined changes from rest to stress. We employed cause-specific survival models to examine its association with CVD and all-cause mortality, controlling for demographic and CVD risk factors. The mean (SD) age was 58 (10) years, 35% were women, and 44% self-identified as Black. After a median follow-up of 5.6 years, 37 (5%) died from CVD causes. A stress-induced LF HRV decrease (67% of sample), vs. increase, was associated with a hazard ratio (HR) of 3.48 (95% confidence interval—3.25, 3.73) for CVD mortality. Low rest LF HRV (bottom quartile) was also independently associated with CVD mortality, HR = 1.75 (1.58, 1.94), vs. normal rest LF HRV (upper three quartiles). The combination of stress-induced LF HRV decrease and low rest LF HRV was associated with HR = 5.73 (5.33, 6.15) vs. the normal stress/rest LF HRV reference. We found similar results with HF HRV.

Conclusion

Stress-induced LF HRV decrease and low rest LF HRV are both independently and additively associated with a higher CVD mortality risk. Additional research is needed to assess whether targeting autonomic dysfunction may improve CVD outcomes.
“What Does ‘Age-Friendly’ Mean to You?”: The Role of Microaggressions in a Retirement and Assisted Living Community
Authors: Kilaberia Tina R , Chang E-Shien , Padgett Deborah K , Lachs Mark , Rosen Tony
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives

In conversations about expanding age-friendly ecosystems, the concept of “age-friendliness” has not been explored in relation to residential settings.

Research Design and Methods

This multiple-case study compared four residents’ perspectives on the age-friendliness of a retirement and assisted living community, combining individual semi-structured interviews with observational data and organizational document analyses in a contextualist thematic examination.

Results

Three themes depict (A) existing experiences of the setting as “age-friendly” and the tension of the built design vs. identity; (B) resident-to-resident microaggressions, delineated into 4 subthemes including identity-related, intergenerational, condition-related microaggressions, and their influence on social isolation; and (C) desired experiences of the setting as “age-friendly” reflecting the social design. In cases of visibly perceptible diversity (white cane, darker skin tone), residents fared worse in experiencing microaggressions stemming from ableism, racism, and age differences. Conversely, in cases of visibly imperceptible diversity, residents had more positive or entirely positive experiences. Although the setting met many environmental and healthcare needs, it lacked design factors prioritizing meaningful social relationships among residents, affecting social isolation.

Discussion and Implications

Resident-to-resident social relationships were key in the experience of a retirement and assisted living community as age-friendly. Resident-to-resident microaggressions undermined perceptions of the community as age-friendly, and influenced social isolation. We reflect on the organizational role in mitigating against negative social relationships and social isolation to maximize dignity.
Cognitive Trajectories and Associated Social and Behavioral Determinants Among Racial/Ethnic Minority Older Adults in the United States
Authors: Wang Kun , Chen Xiayu Summer , Zeng Xiaoyi , Wu Bei , Liu Jinyu , Daquin Jane , Li Clara
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives

Despite higher risks of developing Alzheimer’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease–related dementias among racial/ethnic minority populations, some maintain good cognition until old age. The aims of this study were to investigate heterogeneous cognitive trajectories among non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic older adults, examine cognitive impairment prevalence across trajectory classes, and identify associated social and behavioral determinants.

Research Design and Methods

Using 11 waves of data from the Health and Retirement Study (1996–2016), 1,322 non-Hispanic Black and 747 Hispanic adults aged 50+ years in 1996 with normal cognition were included. Latent class growth modeling and multinomial logistic regressions were performed to examine cognitive trajectories and associated determinants.

Results

For both racial/ethnic groups, 3 trajectory classes were identified: high, medium, and low cognition. In the low-cognition class, 87% and 100% of non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic participants, respectively, developed cognitive impairment. For both racial/ethnic groups, older age and living in rural areas during schooltime increased the likelihood of being in the low-cognition class, whereas more education was associated with a lower likelihood. Unique risk and protective determinants for non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic participants were also identified.

Discussion and Implications

This study reveals the heterogeneity of cognitive trajectories among racial/ethnic minority older adults and various associated social and behavioral determinants. More prevention interventions and accessible, affordable diagnosis and treatment should be provided to older racial/ethnic minorities with these characteristics to reduce disparities. More research is needed to further explore associations between unique determinants and cognition in racial/ethnic minority populations to better inform interventions.
Ceramide lowering rescues respiratory defects in a Drosophila model of acid sphingomyelinase deficiency
Authors: Hull Alexander J , Atilano Magda L , Hallqvist Jenny , Heywood Wendy , Kinghorn Kerri J
Published: October 2024

Types A and B Niemann-Pick disease (NPD) are inherited multisystem lysosomal storage disorders due to mutations in the SMPD1 gene. Respiratory dysfunction is a key hallmark of NPD, yet the mechanism for this is underexplored. SMPD1 encodes acid sphingomyelinase (ASM), which hydrolyses sphingomyelin to ceramide and phosphocholine. Here, we present a Drosophila model of ASM loss-of-function, lacking the fly orthologue of SMPD1, dASM, modelling several aspects of the respiratory pathology of NPD. dASM is expressed in the late-embryonic fly respiratory network, the trachea, and is secreted into the tracheal lumen. Loss of dASM results in embryonic lethality, and the tracheal lumen fails to fill normally with gas prior to eclosion. We demonstrate that the endocytic clearance of luminal constituents prior to gas-filling is defective in dASM mutants, and is coincident with autophagic, but not lysosomal defects, in late stage embryonic trachea. Finally, we show that although bulk sphingolipids are unchanged, dietary loss of lipids in combination with genetic and pharmacological block of ceramide synthesis rescues the airway gas-filling defects. We highlight myriocin as a potential therapeutic drug for the treatment of the developmental respiratory defects associated with ASM deficiency, and present a new NPD model amenable to genetic and pharmacological screens.
Diversity and interactions of rhizobacteria determine multinutrient traits in tomato host plants under nitrogen and water disturbances
Authors: Shi Wen-Xuan , Guo Jun-Jie , Yu Xin-Xuan , Li Zhi-Xing , Weng Bo-Yang , Wang Dan-Xia , Su Shi-Hao , Sun Yu-Fei , Tan Jin-Fang , Xie Ruo-Han
Published: October 2024

Coevolution within the plant holobiont extends the capacity of host plants for nutrient acquisition and stress resistance. However, the role of the rhizospheric microbiota in maintaining multinutrient utilization (i.e. multinutrient traits) in the host remains to be elucidated. Multinutrient cycling index (MNC), analogous to the widely used multifunctionality index, provides a straightforward and interpretable measure of the multinutrient traits in host plants. Using tomato as a model plant, we characterized MNC (based on multiple aboveground nutrient contents) in host plants under different nitrogen and water supply regimes and explored the associations between rhizospheric bacterial community assemblages and host plant multinutrient profiles. Rhizosphere bacterial community diversity, quantitative abundance, predicted function, and key topological features of the co-occurrence network were more sensitive to water supply than to nitrogen supply. A core bacteriome comprising 61 genera, such as Candidatus Koribacter and Streptomyces, persisted across different habitats and served as a key predictor of host plant nutrient uptake. The MNC index increased with greater diversity and higher core taxon abundance in the rhizobacterial community, while decreasing with higher average degree and graph density of rhizobacterial co-occurrence network. Multinutrient absorption by host plants was primarily regulated by community diversity and rhizobacterial network complexity under the interaction of nitrogen and water. The high biodiversity and complex species interactions of the rhizospheric bacteriome play crucial roles in host plant performance. This study supports the development of rhizosphere microbiome engineering, facilitating effective manipulation of the microbiome for enhanced plant benefits, which supports sustainable agricultural practices and plant health.
Genome editing for grass improvement and future agriculture
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Geng Jie , Chen Lin , García-Caparros Pedro , Hu Tao
Published: October 2024

Grasses, including turf and forage, cover most of the earth’s surface; predominantly important for land, water, livestock feed, soil, and water conservation, as well as carbon sequestration. Improved production and quality of grasses by modern molecular breeding is gaining more research attention. Recent advances in genome-editing technologies are helping to revolutionize plant breeding and also offering smart and efficient acceleration on grass improvement. Here, we reviewed all recent researches using (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein (Cas)-mediated genome editing tools to enhance the growth and quality of forage and turf grasses. Furthermore, we highlighted emerging approaches aimed at advancing grass breeding program. We assessed the CRISPR-Cas effectiveness, discussed the challenges associated with its application, and explored future perspectives primarily focusing on turf and forage grasses. Despite the promising potential of genome editing in grasses, its current efficiency remains limited due to several bottlenecks, such as the absence of comprehensive reference genomes, the lack of efficient gene delivery tools, unavailability of suitable vector and delivery for grass species, high polyploidization, and multiple homoeoalleles, etc. Despite these challenges, the CRISPR-Cas system holds great potential to fully harness its benefits in grass breeding and genetics, aiming to improve and sustain the quantity and quality of turf and forage grasses.
Using historical catch flexibility and fishing ground mobility as measures of the adaptive capacity of fishing communities to future ocean change
Authors: Selden Rebecca L , Kitchel Zoë , Coleman Kaycee E , Calzada Leonardo , St. Martin Kevin
Published: October 2024

Changing ocean characteristics, moving species, and competing ocean uses challenge fishing communities reliant on marine resources. Many communities have diversified what they catch, or where they fish to cope with variation in availability of fish. However, we often lack understanding of the frequency of these adaptation strategies in response to historical variability. Here, we quantitatively evaluate catch flexibility, catch switching, and fishing ground mobility of Communities at Sea (CaS) in the Northeast USA. CaS capacity to change catch composition or shift fishing grounds differed by gear type and with regional drivers. Dredge was highly mobile but species selective, and groundfish trawl either altered their catch or shifted fishing grounds. Lobster and shrimp trawl CaS were largely unable to take advantage of either strategy, while fleets using other pots and traps did both. Differences within gear types often reflected distinct regional strategies in dealing with the loss of target species from historical fishing grounds. Overall, adaptive capacity for a port reflects its portfolio of fleets as well as shared constraints and opportunities of their home port. Understanding the degree to which fishing communities have adapted to historical variability can help prioritize efforts to enhance adaptive capacity for future ocean change.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer patients from the perspective of pharmaceutical care: a scoping review
Authors: Lira Giselle Amorim , Brandão Júlia de Andrade , Anderson Leticia , Bassi Ênio José
Published: October 2024

Background

Cancer treatment has become a significant health challenge, with notable changes in recent years due to increasing knowledge of cancer biology. The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has shown promising results, but they can induce adverse events (AEs), resulting in serious consequences for patients. Pharmaceutical care aims to prevent, identify, and address issues related to medications, such as AEs.

Aim

The objective of this scoping review was to assess the contribution of pharmacists to the intervention and care of cancer patients undergoing treatment with ICIs.

Methods

The PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched for studies on the treatment of cancer patients treated with ICIs in which pharmacists participated. No time frame or language restriction was applied. Article screening was performed independently by two authors, with any discrepancies resolved by a third author. The studies were analyzed and included in this review following the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

Nine studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Pharmaceutical care encompasses a variety of interventions, including providing guidance to patients and to the multidisciplinary team, monitoring and managing AEs, conducting pharmaceutical consultations, and recommending over-the-counter medications and laboratory tests, among other actions. Pharmaceutical recommendations led to better outcomes regarding AEs.

Conclusions

Pharmaceutical care has a positive impact on oncological immunotherapy with ICIs, contributing to both health institutions through cost reduction and, most importantly, patients by improving treatment outcomes and enhancing the quality of life.
First Report of a Fatal Septicemia Case Caused by Vibrio metoecus: A Comprehensive Functional and Genomic Study
Authors: Carmona-Salido Héctor , López-Solís Sofía , López-Hontangas José Luis , Amaro Carmen
Published: October 2024

Background

In recent years, we have witnessed an unprecedented increase in the incidence of vibriosis due to global warming. Vibrio metoecus is a recently described Vibrio cholerae-like species that has not been associated with septicemia death in humans. During follow-up of human vibriosis, we received a blood isolate from a patient with secondary septicemia who died a few hours after admission.

Methods

Phenotypic and genotypic methods failed to identify the isolate, which could only be identified by average nucleotide identity after genome sequencing. The isolate was subjected to in vitro and ex vivo assays, complemented by comparative genomics focused on the identification of unique genetic traits. Strains and genomes from the same and related species (V. cholerae and Vibrio mimicus) were used for analyses.

Results

The isolate was the only one able to resist and multiply in human serum. Its genome contained virulence genes shared with V. mimicus and/or V. cholerae, with those associated with sialic acid degradation within pathogenicity island 2 standing out. However, it also presented a unique gene cluster, flanked by a transposase gene, putatively related to surface polysaccharide pseudosialyzation.

Conclusions

We document the first case of death caused by septicemia due to V. metoecus and propose that the acquisition of surface pseudosialyzation genes explains the ability of certain isolates of this species to survive in blood. Our discovery underscores the urgent need to monitor and study newly emerging pathogenic species, as climate change may be facilitating their spread and increasing the risk of serious infections in humans.
Integrative taxonomic revision of the Cerurina-Afrocerura genus-pair (Lepidoptera, Noctuoidea, Notodontidae, Cerurinae)
Authors: Mulvaney Lydia R J , St Laurent Ryan A , László Gyula M , Schintlmeister Alexander
Published: October 2024

The Afrotropical Cerurinae (Notodontidae) genera Cerurina Kiriakoff and Afrocerura Kiriakoff are revised. Historically, significant confusion has existed surrounding the identities of members of these 2 closely related genera. Using morphology and genetic data derived from mitochondrial COI barcodes and anchored hybrid enrichment nuclear genomics, we present an integrated taxonomic approach. Upon examining all types, historical material in global collections, and numerous recently collected specimens, we are able to associate available names with the taxa in these genera as well as describe four new species of Afrocerura for which no names were available. Historical misidentifications are also addressed. For nearly all species, both sexes and their genitalia are figured. In total, we recognize one species in Cerurina with 2 subspecies: C. marshalli marshalli Hampson (type species) and C. marshalli cameroona (Bethune-Baker) comb. n., and 8 species in Afrocerura: A. leonensis (Hampson) (type species), A. takanoisp. n., A. bifasciata (Janse), A. inexpectatasp. n., A. tanganyikae Kiriakoff stat. n., A. ethiopicasp. n., A. thomensis (Talbot) and A. smithisp. n. Color photos of C. m. cameroona larvae are presented for the first time and are compared to larvae of C. m. marshalli.
Dispersal of microbes from grassland fire smoke to soils
Authors: Ellington Adam J , Walters Kendra , Christner Brent C , Fox Sam , Bonfantine Krista , Walker Cassie , Lampman Phinehas , Vuono David C , Strickland Michael , Lambert Katie , Kobziar Leda N
Published: October 2024

Wildland fire is increasingly recognized as a driver of bioaerosol emissions, but the effects that smoke-emitted microbes have on the diversity and community assembly patterns of the habitats where they are deposited remain unknown. In this study, we examined whether microbes aerosolized by biomass burning smoke detectably impact the composition and function of soil sinks using lab-based mesocosm experiments. Soils either containing the native microbial community or presterilized by γ-irradiation were inundated with various doses of smoke from native tallgrass prairie grasses. Smoke-inundated, γ-irradiated soils exhibited significantly higher respiration rates than both smoke-inundated, native soils and γ-irradiated soils exposed to ambient air only. Microbial communities in γ-irradiated soils were significantly different between smoke-treated and control soils, which supports the hypothesis that wildland fire smoke can act as a dispersal agent. Community compositions differed based on smoke dose, incubation time, and soil type. Concentrations of phosphate and microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen together with pH were significant predictors of community composition. Source tracking analysis attributed smoke as contributing nearly 30% of the taxa found in smoke-inundated, γ-irradiated soils, suggesting smoke may play a role in the recovery of microbial communities in similar damaged soils. Our findings demonstrate that short-distance microbial dispersal by biomass burning smoke can influence the assembly processes of microbial communities in soils and has implications for a broad range of subjects including agriculture, restoration, plant disease, and biodiversity.
Marine Bacillus pumilus substances exhibit antimicrobial effect on multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Freitas-Silva Jéssyca , Martins Roberto Carlos Campos , Leal Carla Monteiro , Mendonça Simony Carvalho , Cypriano Jefferson Bomfim Silva , Oelemann Walter Martin Roland , Abreu Fernanda de Avila , Andrade-Oliveira Ana Luisa , Giambiagi-deMarval Marcia , Laport Marinella Silva
Published: October 2024

Aims

This study aimed to assess the antimicrobial potential of Bp1-AdE, produced by Bacillus pumilus 64–1, and to investigate its mode of action against Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA).

Methods and results

Bp-1AdE, derived from sponge-associated B. pumilus, exhibited bactericidal activity at 1 550 µg ml−1 against S. aureus ATCC29213 and MRSA strains. Light and fluorescence microscopy revealed drastic cell lysis of S. aureus treated with Bp-1AdE. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy suggested that Bp-1AdE disrupts the cytoplasmic membrane. Toxicity assays showed that Bp-1AdE was non-toxic to Tenebrio molitor larvae. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and Global Natural Product Social spectral libraries identified four substances within Bp-1AdE, including aliphatic alcohols [3,4-dipentylhexane-2,5-diol and 1,1′-(4,5-dibutyl-3,6-dimethylcyclohexane-1,2-diyl)bis(ethan-1-one)] and terpenoids (cholic acid and canrenone).

Conclusions

Bp-1AdE demonstrated selective toxicity and bactericidal activity, highlighting its potential for controlling infections caused by multidrug-resistant S. aureus strains.
Development, Validation, and Application of a Fast Sequential Method for Na, K, Ca, and Mg Determination in Hemodialysis Solutions by HR-CS F AAS
Authors: Schwartzhaupt Flávia E , Kolling Leandro , Boschetti Wiliam , Garcia Cássia V , da Silva Márcia M , Vale Maria Goreti R , Dessuy Morgana B , Mendez Andreas S L
Published: October 2024

Background

Hemodialysis solutions are liquid concentrates used during hemodialysis sessions. They are commonly used as a renal replacement therapy.

Objective

This study aimed to develop a method to determine Na, K, Ca, and Mg in hemodialysis solutions by high-resolution continuum source flame atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS F AAS) using Design of Experiments (DOE).

Methods

The combination of the Doehlert Matrix with the desirability function was used to establish a compromise condition in the optimization of the significant variables studied: 60 L/h for acetylene flow rate, 8 mm for burner height, and 0.25% (w/v) and 0.60% (w/v) for Cs and La concentrations. The method was validated by following the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) guidelines and parameters, and, as such, the selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy, and robustness were evaluated.

Results

Calibration curves with the ranges of 25–130 mg/L for Na, 1.0–5.0 mg/L for K and Ca, and 0.30–0.70 mg/L for Mg were employed. The method proved to be precise (RSD lower than 2.7%) and accurate (mean recovery data, contemplating the three levels added, were 103.0% for Na, 100.5% for K, 101.3% for Ca, and 101.5% for Mg).

Conclusions

The developed method enables the sequential multielement determination of Na, K, Ca, and Mg in a single run. Requiring only one dilution step, this method significantly reduces analysis time for both sample and standard solution preparation and measurement.

Highlights

This study presents the first method reported in the literature for multielement determination in hemodialysis solutions, offering an alternative approach to the current European Pharmacopeia method.
Changes in peripheral quantitative computed tomography measured bone density, size, and strength in Zimbabwean children with and without HIV over one year: a cohort study
Authors: Kahari Cynthia , Gregson Celia L , Breasail Mícheál Ó , Rukuni Ruramayi , Madanhire Tafadzwa , Simms Victoria , Chipanga Joseph , Stranix-Chibanda Lynda , Micklesfield Lisa K , Ferrand Rashida A , Ward Kate A , Rehman Andrea M
Published: October 2024

Understanding bone accrual in adolescents may inform approaches to improve skeletal health and reduce adult fracture risk. We investigated the effect of HIV on bone mineral accrual assessed by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT). Children with HIV (CWH) on ART for ≥2 years, and children without HIV (CWOH), aged 8-16 years (n = 609), had tibial pQCT scans at 0 and 12 months. Linear regression estimated sex-stratified differences in change (∆) and mean pQCT bone density (trabecular and cortical), size (total cross-sectional area [CSA]), and strength (SSI) between CWH and CWOH, adjusting for socio-economic status (SES) and orphanhood and incorporating an interaction term for baseline pubertal status (Tanner 1-2[pre/early] vs 3-5[mid/late]). Structural equation modeling tested whether baseline height-for-age-Z-scores (HAZ) mediate the effect of HIV on ∆bone outcomes. CWH were more likely than CWOH to be orphans (44% vs 7%), of lower SES (43% vs 27%), and be stunted (30% vs 8%); but similar in age. At baseline and follow-up, CWH had lower trabecular density, CSA, and SSI than CWOH. After adjustment, bone density and strength increased similarly in CWH and CWOH. CWH in mid/late puberty at baseline had greater 12 months increases in CSA than CWOH, particularly males (mean difference [31.3(95%CI:–3.1, 65.6) mm2 in mid/late puberty vs –2.04(–23.8, 19.7) mm2 in pre/early puberty; interaction p-value = 0.013]). HAZ mediated the effect of HIV on ∆bone outcomes only in females. as follows: indirect pathways from HIV to ∆trabecular density [–2.47 (–4.4, –0.5) mg/cm3], ∆cortical density [–3.26 (–5.5, –0.9) mg/cm3], and ∆SSI [–15.76 (–27.3, –4.2) mm3]. In conclusion, CWH show bone deficits at follow-up. Investigations of bone mineral accrual earlier in life and post-puberty to peak bone mass are needed.
Reinforcement learning-based optimal hull form design with variations in fore and aft parts
Authors: Oh Se-Jin , Oh Min-Jae , Son Eun-Young
Published: October 2024

With recent advancements in artificial intelligence technology, various studies are being conducted in the shipbuilding industry. Traditionally, hull form variation methods have relied on the intuition and expertise of designers, leading to inconsistent results and unintended changes in the ship’s main dimensions depending on the designer’s competence. Moreover, the iterative process of design variation and analysis to derive the optimal hull form is both costly and time-consuming. To address these issues, this study proposes an optimal hull design technique utilizing reinforcement learning, a type of unsupervised learning in machine learning. Reinforcement learning allows the model to learn from past policies by recording and accumulating the rewards associated with various actions taken by an agent in a specific environment. In this study, after calculating the main parameters of the ship, the agent defines a state representing hull information and performs local transformations of the bow and stern. The reward of reinforcement learning is defined as the change in total resistance due to the hull deformation, constrained by limiting the tolerance of the ship’s prismatic coefficient (CP) and longitudinal center of buoyancy. In this study, the problem is solved by comparing the proximal policy optimization algorithm and the deep deterministic policy gradient algorithm to find the best deep reinforcement learning model for the hull optimization problem. The results were compared with the genetic algorithm and speed-constrained multi-objective particle swarm optimization, and the optimal hull resistance values were less different, but the time of the reinforcement learning model was five times shorter.
Visa policy and international student migration: evidence from Canada
Authors: Gonnot Jerome , Lanati Mauro
Published: October 2024

This article examines how visa policy affects international student migration. Using administrative data on community colleges in Canada, we evaluate a reform that introduced a new visa stream—the Student Partners Program (SPP)—with shorter processing times and higher approval rates for student visa applicants able to demonstrate that they have the financial resources and language skills to succeed academically. Using a triple difference estimator, we find that SPP increased student migration from treated countries by 34% relative to what would have occurred without the reform, and that this effect materialized only among students from origin countries suffering from low approval rates. Moreover, we show that higher enrollment was driven in roughly equal proportions by an increase in visa approval rates and the volume of visa applications, suggesting that the policy helped reduce statistical discrimination and increased the attractiveness of treated institutions. We also leverage the SPP reform to investigate potential crowding-out effects. While inflows of international students did not reduce the number of domestic students enrolled at Canadian community colleges, the reform helped foreign enrollment outpace domestic enrollment by crowding-in international students from countries that were not eligible to SPP.
Review of femoroacetabular impingement syndrome
Authors: Gómez-Verdejo Fernando , Alvarado-Solorio Elsa , Suarez-Ahedo Carlos
Published: October 2024

Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) is a common condition of the hip that can cause significant damage to the joint, leading to degeneration and osteoarthritis. FAIS constitutes an abnormal and dynamic contact between the femoral head–neck junction and the acetabular rim, resulting from altered bone morphology at one or both sites. Repetitive trauma at the site of impingement generates progressive damage to the acetabular labrum, chondrolabral junction, and articular cartilage. Proper diagnosis based on patient symptoms, specific clinical signs, and imaging findings will guide treatment and ultimately allow preservation of the native hip joint. Common symptoms in patients with FAIS include pain, clicking, catching, buckling, stiffness, giving way, and a limited range of motion of the hip. Specific clinical maneuvers can aid diagnosis, such as flexion adduction internal rotation and flexion abduction external rotation tests. Imaging diagnosis includes orthogonal hip and pelvis X-ray views, as well as magnetic resonance imaging/magnetic resonance arthrogram imaging. Initial treatment of FAIS can be conservative and include physical therapy, intra-articular injections, and activity modification. Currently, the preferred surgical management consists of hip arthroscopy, which aims to correct bony abnormalities, repair or reconstruct labral lesions and address other intra-articular and extra-articular derangements as needed.
Cohesin ring gates are specialized for meiotic cell division
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Liu Bohan , Zhang Ruirui , Zhu Zixuan , Zhao Li , Jiang Ruijie , Wang Yinghao , Qi Feifei , Wang Ruoxi , Zhao Huijie , Zhou Jun , Gao Jinmin
Published: October 2024

Cohesin is a ring complex closed with SMC-1, SMC-3, and a kleisin subunit, mediating sister chromatid cohesion in mitosis and meiosis. Kleisin N- and C-terminal domains interact with SMC-3 and SMC-1, forming two distinct cohesin gates. Whether these gates are specialized for mitosis and meiosis remains elusive. Here, we create Caenorhabditis elegans mutants that express chimeric proteins swapping N- and C-terminal domains between different kleisins to investigate how these gates are specialized for different cell division programs. Replacing the meiotic REC-8 N-terminus with that of a cell division-unrelated kleisin COH-1 or the mitotic kleisin SCC-1 disrupts inter-sister chromatid cohesion and causes severe meiotic defects. Swapping the REC-8 C-terminus with that of COH-1 or SCC-1 largely retains the meiotic functions of REC-8 but causes age-related chromosome abnormalities. A specialized C-terminus is also required for the functions of SCC-1. Furthermore, point mutations in REC-8 C-terminus cause severe meiotic defects without impairing SMC-1–kleisin interaction, suggesting an integrated SMC-1–kleisin gate. These findings suggest the requirements for specialized cohesin gates in different biological processes.
Reducing learning and psychosocial disparities in Latino children with cancer: a randomized intervention trial
Authors: Patel Sunita K , Kim Seong-Hyeon , Ingman Kathleen , Huynh Van , Huszti Heather , Kayser Kimberly , Mucci Grace , Balderrama Melissa , Bava Laura , Onderwyzer Gold Abigail , Wuth Alicia , Delgado Nicole , Bosworth Alysia , Nishimura Emily , Hara Harneet , Pawlowska Anna , Mueller Lisa , Wong F Lennie
Published: October 2024

Background

We developed a high-intensity parenting intervention program (HIP) to help parents support the academic success of childhood cancer survivors (CCSs), who often face post-treatment challenges affecting their school-related functioning. This randomized controlled trial (NCT03178617) evaluated HIP’s efficacy compared with lower-intensity, single-session, treatment-as-usual services (lower-intensity program [LIP]) in Latino families. Primary outcomes were parenting efficacy and CCSs’ school functioning; secondary outcomes included parenting knowledge and measures of CCSs’ academic performance, attention, and functioning outside of school.

Methods

In total, 106 Latino survivors of childhood leukemia and lymphoblastic lymphoma (aged 6–12 years) and their parents were randomly assigned to HIP (n = 54) or LIP (n = 52). Linear mixed-effects models evaluated group differences across baseline, 6-month (T2), and 12-month (T3) assessments.

Results

Parenting efficacy and knowledge improved significantly in the HIP arm, resulting in higher scores vs LIP at T2 and T3 (P ≤ .01). No significant between-group differences were found in child school functioning; however, HIP children showed significantly better social functioning and performance on 1 measure of attention (CPT-3 commissions) at T3 (P < .05). Although HIP adherence challenges were observed, with only 33 (61%) completing the intervention, exploratory analyses suggest that benefits were most evident among those who were fully engaged. Satisfaction and perceived benefit were greater for HIP vs LIP at both time points (P < .05).

Conclusions

Our results suggest the potential value of parent-directed behavioral interventions such as HIP for CCSs and their families. Further studies are needed to address participation barriers and enhance engagement to maximize and sustain benefits.
Increasing tree phylogenetic diversity stimulates microbial functional potential in a subtropical forest
Authors: Fang Yuantian , He Xunyang , Xie Qingquan , Li Dejun
Published: October 2024

Soil microbial functions are closely related to ecosystem productivity, carbon sequestration and their responses to global change. Tree phylogenetic diversity (TPD) has been found to impact microbial community composition, diversity and functions, but how it modulates the linkage between microbial community facets and functions remains unclear. Here, 45 plots covering a natural gradient of TPD were selected in a subtropical forest of southwest China to explore how increasing TPD impacts soil microbial community facets and microbial functional potential. The microbial functional potential was evaluated based on the abundances of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus cycling-related functional genes. Soil fungal alpha diversity increased significantly, but bacterial alpha diversity did not change as TPD increased. Both soil microbial network complexity and stability improved significantly with increasing TPD. Ultimately, increasing TPD promoted soil microbial functional potential by stimulating soil carbon and nitrogen availability, microbial keystone diversity and network stability collectively. These findings emphasize the critical roles of keystone taxa and network stability as microbial factors in stimulating soil microbial function in response to increasing TPD. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to increase TPD so as to stimulate soil microbial functions and other ecosystem functions when implementing afforestation or ecological restoration projects.
Adult presentation of symptomatic annular pancreas treated with gastrojejunostomy
Authors: Kryzsko Violet M , Tecos Maria E , Buesing Keely L , Henry Reynold
Published: October 2024

Annular pancreas is a rare congenital abnormality that is often considered a neonatal condition, though in few cases it can present in adulthood. Patients diagnosed with annular pancreas in adulthood are often asymptomatic and diagnosed incidentally from radiologic studies. While there is no existing treatment protocol for symptomatic annular pancreas, multiple surgical approaches have been documented in the literature. In this case study we present a 49-year-old female patient who presented with gastric outlet obstruction secondary to annular pancreas. The patient was treated with nasogastric decompression and open side-to-side gastrojejunostomy with an antecolic approach to bypass the obstructed duodenal segment. The surgery was successful, followed by an uneventful postoperative course and discharge on postoperative Day 4. By 5-week outpatient follow-up the patient had resolution of her symptoms and achieved weight gain.
Expression of the grapevine anion transporter ALMT2 in Arabidopsis roots decreases the shoot Cl−/NO3− ratio under salt stress
Authors: Wu Yue , Henderson Sam W , Walker Rob R , Shelden Megan C , Gilliham Matthew
Published: October 2024

Grapevines (Vitis vinifera, Vvi) are economically important crop plants which, when challenged with salt (NaCl) in soil and/or irrigation water, tend to accumulate Na+ and Cl– in aerial tissues, impacting yield and berry acceptability for winemaking. Grapevine (Vitis spp.) rootstocks vary in their capacity for shoot Cl− exclusion. Here, we characterize two putative anion transporter genes—Aluminium-activated Malate Transporter VviALMT2 and VviALMT8—that were differentially expressed in the roots of efficient (140 Ruggeri) and inefficient (K51-40) Cl−-excluding rootstocks, to explore their potential for impacting shoot Cl− exclusion. Using the Xenopus laevis oocyte expression system, VviALMT2 and VviALMT8 formed conductive channels that were highly permeable to NO3−, slightly to moderately permeable to other substrates including Cl− and malate, but impermeable to SO42−. Quantitative reverse transcription–PCR analyses revealed that VviALMT2 was more highly expressed in the root vasculature and up-regulated by high [NO3−] re-supply post-starvation, while the fluorescently tagged translational fusion of VviALMT2 localized to the plasma membrane. As VviALMT8 showed no such features, we selected VviALMT2 as our salt exclusion candidate and assessed its function in planta. Expression of VviALMT2 in Arabidopsis thaliana root vasculature reduced shoot [Cl−]/[NO3−] after NaCl treatment, which suggests that VviALMT2 can be beneficial to plants under salt stress.
Evolutionary origins, macroevolutionary dynamics, and climatic niche space of the succulent plant syndrome in the Caryophyllales
Authors: Vásquez-Cruz Marilyn , Loera Israel , Del Angel Melina , Nakamura Miguel , Hultine Kevin R , Hernández-Hernández Tania
Published: October 2024

The succulent plant syndrome is defined by the coordination of traits that enhance internal water storage within plant tissues. Although distributed globally in different habitats, succulent plants are thought to have evolved to avoid drought in arid regions, due to trait modifications that decrease tissue water deficits. We evaluated the evolution and the ecological significance of the succulent strategy at a global scale by comparing the climatic niche of species displaying succulence within the core Caryophyllales with their non-succulent relatives. We assembled and curated a worldwide dataset of 201 734 georeferenced records belonging to 5447 species within 28 families, and analyzed the climatic niche of species along with their origin and evolutionary trajectories using ecological niche modeling, phylogenetic regression, divergence dates, and ancestral state estimation. The results indicated that the core Caryophyllales have inhabited drylands since their origin in the Early Cretaceous. However, the succulent syndrome appeared and diversified during later geological periods. The climatic niche space of succulents is narrower than that of non-succulent relatives, but no niche separation was detected between groups. Our results support alternative interpretations of the environmental and ecological forces that spurred the origin and diversification of the succulent plant syndrome and the radiation of rich succulent lineages.
Toxin-Antitoxin Systems Reflect Community Interactions Through Horizontal Gene Transfer
Authors: Bethke Jonathan H , Kimbrel Jeffrey , Jiao Yongqin , Ricci Dante
Published: October 2024

Bacterial evolution through horizontal gene transfer (HGT) reflects their community interactions. In this way, HGT networks do well at mapping community interactions, but offer little toward controlling them—an important step in the translation of synthetic strains into natural contexts. Toxin–antitoxin (TA) systems serve as ubiquitous and diverse agents of selection; however, their utility is limited by their erratic distribution in hosts. Here we examine the heterogeneous distribution of TAs as a consequence of their mobility. By systematically mapping TA systems across a 10,000 plasmid network, we find HGT communities have unique and predictable TA signatures. We propose these TA signatures arise from plasmid competition and have further potential to signal the degree to which plasmids, hosts, and phage interact. To emphasize these relationships, we construct an HGT network based solely on TA similarity, framing specific selection markers in the broader context of bacterial communities. This work both clarifies the evolution of TA systems and unlocks a common framework for manipulating community interactions through TA compatibility.