bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In-vivo processing of nanoassemblies: a neglected framework for recycling to bypass nanotoxicological therapeutics
Authors: Kantak Maithili , Shende Pravin
Published: February 2023

The proof-of-concept of nanomaterials (NMs) in the fields of imaging, diagnosis, treatment, and theranostics shows the importance in biopharmaceuticals development due to structural orientation, on-targeting, and long-term stability. However, biotransformation of NMs and their modified form in human body via recyclable techniques are not explored owing to tiny structures and cytotoxic effects. Recycling of NMs offers advantages of dose reduction, re-utilization of the administered therapeutics providing secondary release, and decrease in nanotoxicity in human body. Therefore, approaches like in-vivo re-processing and bio-recycling are essential to overcome nanocargo system-associated toxicities such as hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and lung toxicity. After 3–5 stages of recycling process of some NMs of gold, lipid, iron oxide, polymer, silver, and graphene in spleen, kidney, and Kupffer’s cells retain biological efficiency in the body. Thus, substantial attention towards recyclability and reusability of NMs for sustainable development necessitates further advancement in healthcare for effective therapy. This review article outlines biotransformation of engineered NMs as a valuable source of drug carriers and biocatalyst with critical strategies like pH modification, flocculation, or magnetization for recovery of NMs in the body. Furthermore, this article summarizes the challenges of recycled NMs and advances in integrated technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, in-silico assay, etc. Therefore, potential contribution of NM’s life-cycle in the recovery of nanosystems for futuristic developments require consideration in site-specific delivery, reduction of dose, remodeling in breast cancer therapy, wound healing action, antibacterial effect, and for bioremediation to develop ideal nanotherapeutics.
Introduction
Authors: Jentleson Bruce W.
Published: February 2023

Sanctions were a major part of the US-led strategy against the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Even before this case, it was hard to browse the news without seeing reports of yet another set of sanctions, whether by the US, China, Russia, the EU, the UN, or others. Yet debate continues to rage over whether sanctions are an effective foreign policy strategy. So some initial puzzles: Why do sanctions get used? How to measure success? What key factors affect success? What lessons can policymakers derive for why, how, and when to wield sanctions? Part I of the book focuses on the academic literature and scholarly challenges. Part II provides case studies of major sanctions policy cases historically and then with chapters on the major sanctions senders (US, China, Russia, UN, and EU). As such, the volume both contributes to scholarly theory about economic sanctions and draws out insights and findings for policy strategizing.
Do Sanctions Work?
Authors: Jentleson Bruce W.
Published: February 2023

Both scholars and policymakers debate whether sanctions work. Three main questions for measuring success are entailed. First, What actually constitutes a sanctions case? The major sanctions databases as well as comparative case studies provide differing case counts based on whether to include economic as well as political objectives, sanctions threatened as well as those imposed, individually targeted sanctions, third-party deterrent effects, informal cued sanctions and civil society–initiated ones, and based on whether to count different sanctions imposed over time as single cases or distinct episodes. Second, Which metrics best indicate success? This debate entails taking into account economic impact, policy compliance, degrees of success rather than binary categorizations, net assessments including four types of costs potentially incurred, relativity to other policy options, timeframes for assessment, and possible false positives and false negatives. Third, Even if sanctions come through the instrumental metrics as a success, if they impose major humanitarian consequences on target populations are they ethical?
Historical Perspective
Authors: Jentleson Bruce W.
Published: February 2023

This chapter applies the Chapter 1 why-what-who-how sanctions analytic framework to seven historical cases based on three main criteria: demonstrate the complexities inherent to the use of sanctions; vary the principal sender states; and reflect debates over success and failure. The cases are Athens-Sparta, Megarian Decree, 432 bc; Napoleon’s Continental System, 1808–1814; League of Nations, Italian invasion of Ethiopia, 1935–1936; Suez crisis, US sanctions against Britain, 1956; UN sanctions against Rhodesia, 1966–1979; OPEC sanctions against the US 1973; and anti-apartheid sanctions against South Africa, 1962–1994. The concluding section draws out cross-case patterns along the lines of the analytic and methodological challenges raised in Chapters 2 and 3.
Soviet Union/Russia
Authors: Jentleson Bruce W.
Published: February 2023

Chapter 5 discussed US sanctions cases targeted at the Soviet Union/Russia. This chapter focuses on the Soviet Union/Russia as sender state. Why has the Soviet Union/Russia used sanctions much less than other major powers? How successful have their sanctions been? Cases include Soviet sanctions against Yugoslavia, 1948–1955; Russian sanctions against various Commonwealth of Independent States countries in the 1990s; and Russian countersanctions against US and EU 2014 and 2022 sanctions over Ukraine. Another section looks at patterns across three cases of Soviet/Russian energy pipelines to Western Europe: the early 1960s Friendship oil pipeline, early 1980s West Siberian natural gas pipeline, and the recent Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline.
The Education Debate
Authors: Kirp David , Macpherson Kevin
Published: February 2023

The Education Debate dissects the essential issues that confront education policymakers and practitioners today. In an era when controversies over schools’ role in educating the next generation have become hot-button political issues, disputation is the order of the day, and the book charts a research-driven course through these topics. It starts by analyzing broad themes about the purposes of education, then narrows the lens, moving from big ideas to classrooms and corridors. The stage is set with an overview of the pre-K–12 system. Racial and socioeconomic integration, school finance reform, and greater student choice—each has been promoted as the royal road to equal opportunity. Policy choices reflect these differences. Which strategy—community schools, finance equalization, charter schools, or vouchers—holds the greatest promise? What are the roles of the key players, from classroom teachers and administrators to billionaire philanthropists? Life inside the schools presents challenges to teachers and learners alike, never more so than during a time when students have become increasingly diverse. It’s essential to understand how various groups—those with special needs, English Language Learners, Native American students, and LGBT youth—experience the schools. Covid-19 has been a stress test for K–12 education, exposing and exacerbating inequities in the system. While the immediate threat of the pandemic has receded, its impact on every aspect of education will persist for decades. From racial reckoning to transgender students, education is a headline-making topic. The Education Debate offers readers a solid starting point in these pivotal issues.
Presidential Elections
Authors: Johnson Dennis W.
Published: February 2023

Presidential elections are the crown jewel of American electoral democracy, but many important issues are looming. Is the Electoral College the most reliable way to measure a presidential election, or should there be another way, such as a nationwide contest? The preprimary and primary phases of presidential elections are long, expensive, and arduous. There are several ways the system could be made better; prospects of such reforms answer the questions of why elections last so long, the difference between a primary and a caucus, the winner-take-all counting of electoral votes, battleground and safe states, and how much money has been spent in recent elections.
Climate Change
Authors: Romm Joseph
Published: February 2023

Climate Change: What Everyone Needs to Know is the essential primer on what will be the defining issue of our time. Newly updated with the latest in climate science from COP26 and beyond, this third edition offers user-friendly, scientifically rigorous answers to the most difficult (and commonly politicized) questions surrounding climate change. Drawing on the author's decades of experience as one of the country's most influential communicators on climate science and solutions, this authoritative guide highlights the following topics:
Avoiding the Worst Impacts
Authors: Romm Joseph
Published: February 2023

This chapter will examine the 2°C warming target. It will explain why the major governments and scientific associations have embraced it as the limit for minimizing/avoiding dangerous climate change. It will take a big-picture perspective on how to avoid the worst impacts—including discussions of adaptation...
Nanopore Sequencing with GraphMap for Comprehensive Pathogen Detection in Potato Field Soil
Authors: Braley Lauren E. , Jewell Jeremy B. , Figueroa Jose , Humann Jodi L. , Main Dorrie , Mora-Romero Guadalupe A. , Moroz Natalia , Woodhall James W. , White Richard Allen , Tanaka Kiwamu
Published: February 2023

Early detection of causal pathogens is important to prevent crop loss from diseases. However, some diseases, such as soilborne diseases, are difficult to diagnose due to the absence of visible or characteristic symptoms. In the present study, the use of the Oxford Nanopore MinION sequencer as a molecular diagnostic tool was assessed due to its long-read sequencing capabilities and portability. Nucleotide samples (DNA or RNA) from potato field soils were sequenced and analyzed using a locally curated pathogen database, followed by identification via sequence mapping. We performed computational speed tests of three commonly used mapping/annotation tools (BLAST, BWA-BLAST, and BWA-GraphMap) and found BWA-GraphMap to be the fastest tool for local searching against our curated pathogen database. The data collected demonstrate the high potential of Nanopore sequencing as a minimally biased diagnostic tool for comprehensive pathogen detection in soil from potato fields. Our GraphMap-based MinION sequencing method could be useful as a predictive approach for disease management by identifying pathogens present in field soil prior to planting. Although this method still needs further experimentation with a larger sample size for practical use, the data analysis pipeline presented can be applied to other cropping systems and diagnostics for detecting multiple pathogens.
Brassica Cover Crops and Natural Spongospora subterranea Infestation of Peat-Based Potting Mix May Increase Powdery Scab Risk on Potato
Authors: Alaryan Maryam M. , Zeng Yuan , Fulladolsa Ana Cristina , Charkowski Amy O.
Published: February 2023

Spongospora subterranea is a soilborne plasmodiophorid that causes powdery scab and root gall formation in potato. In this study, 18 cover crops suitable for use in dry, high-altitude potato production regions were assessed in potting mix trials to determine whether these cover crops altered S. subterranea population levels. Although S. subterranea appeared to invade roots of all plant species tested, the pathogen was unable to complete its life cycle on 11 of 18 cover crops based on postharvest qPCR and microscopy results. Buckwheat, legumes, and scarlet barley do not appear to support pathogen replication, but the pathogen may be able to complete its life cycle in some mustards. High variability occurred in the experiments and part of this may be due to the natural infestations of peat-based potting mix with S. subterranea. A tomato bioassay was used to confirm that commercial sources of peat-based potting mix were infested with S. subterranea. Dry heat and autoclaving were tested as sanitation methods and multiple rounds of autoclaving were required to reduce viable S. subterranea in potting mix. A second cover crop experiment with autoclaved potting mix was conducted and it confirmed that buckwheat, legumes, and barley do not support S. subterranea replication but that some brassica crops may be hosts of this pathogen. The results suggest that buckwheat, legumes, and barley pose the least risk as cover crops in S. subterranea infested fields and show that peat-based potting mix should not be used in seed potato production.
Survival of Colletotrichum truncatum as Microsclerotia in Soil
Authors: Tikami Ísis , Boufleur Thaís Regina , Prataviera Fábio , Panciera Lucas G. , Neves Victor H. , Ciampi-Guillardi Maisa , Massola Júnior Nelson S.
Published: February 2023

Anthracnose has become one of the main threats to soybean production and is considered the most important disease in some soybean-producing areas. Colletotrichum truncatum is the species most commonly associated with anthracnose and produces microsclerotia. However, the role of microsclerotia in the epidemiology of soybean anthracnose disease has not yet been described. The aim of this study was to determine whether C. truncatum microsclerotia can survive and maintain pathogenicity for a period of up to 246 days, corresponding to the off-season period of soybean cultivation in Brazil. Therefore, microsclerotia of two pathogenic isolates of C. truncatum (CMES1059 and LFN0297) were produced and placed in polyester bags, which were kept under field conditions either on the soil surface under maize straw or buried 8-cm deep. The bags were collected monthly for a period of up to 246 days to assess the viability of microsclerotia based on their germination and typical colony growth. The logistic regression model was used for data analysis considering viable and nonviable microsclerotia. In addition, periodic sowing of soybean was done in the soil infested with LFN0297 microsclerotia to test pathogenicity up to 246 days after soil infestation. C. truncatum microsclerotia survived from 92 to 246 days in the field soil, with the highest recovery of viable microsclerotia at 153 days. C. truncatum was reisolated from soybean plants sown in infested soil at 245 days postinoculation. The isolates from the last microsclerotia sampling from the field (246 days) and those obtained from a plant at the last sowing date (245 days) had the same genotypic profile for 12 microsatellite loci as the isolates used to perform the experiments. C. truncatum microsclerotia in soil may serve as the primary inoculum for soybean anthracnose.
Survey of Spinach Downy Mildew Management Practices and Communication Network
Authors: Choudhury Robin A. , McRoberts Neil
Published: February 2023

California spinach growers struggle to manage downy mildew effectively. Management practices are available, but it is not known how growers perceive their relative efficacy. It is also not clear who growers contact for information on spinach downy mildew management. In this study, we conducted an online survey of people involved in spinach production in the United States, asking who they contact to discuss spinach downy mildew control, the frequency of that contact, and the perceived efficacy of potential management practices. Growers were the group that was the most frequently contacted about spinach downy mildew. We found that respondents perceived resistant cultivars and the use of synthetic fungicides to be the most effective, with much lower perceived efficacy for the practices of disking diseased fields, application of certified organic fungicides, and roguing diseased plants.
First Report and Draft Genome Resource of a Unique Opportunistic Fusarium solani Pathogen Associated with Unknown Dark Galls in Sugarbeet
Authors: Navasca Abbeah , Singh Jatinder , Rivera-Varas Viviana , Geddes Barney , Secor Gary , Gill Upinder , Baldwin Thomas
Published: February 2023

Fusarium disease of sugarbeet is a threat to sugarbeet production and can cause significant losses. During routine evaluation, a unique Fusarium species was solely isolated from unknown dark galls in sugarbeets from Wilkin County, MN, U.S.A. Analysis of the RPB2 gene placed this isolate in the Fusarium solani FSSC 5 clade (100.0% similarity) but uniquely separated from the potato F. solani. Sequencing of this Fusarium species by Minion Nanopore Systems resulted in a draft genome assembly of 19 contigs with a genome size of 59.3 Mb and GC content of 50.66%. A total of 18,900 protein-coding genes, 37 secondary metabolite clusters, 1,559 secreted proteins, 668 carbohydrate-active enzymes, and 404 effectors were predicted in the genome. Pathogenicity tests showed mild vascular discoloration in inoculated sugarbeets unaccompanied by external symptoms, suggesting weak pathogenic ability of this species, indicative of an opportunistic pathogen. These results extend our understanding of this unique opportunistic Fusarium solani isolated from sugarbeet.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
The role of metabolic reprogramming of oxygen‐induced macrophages in the dynamic changes of atherosclerotic plaques
Authors: Shen Lin , Chen Weiyue , Ding Jiayi , Shu Gaofeng , Chen Minjiang , Zhao Zhongwei , Xia Shuiwei , Ji Jiansong
Published: February 2023

Atherosclerosis (As) is a chronic vascular inflammatory disease. Macrophages are the most important immune cells in atherosclerotic plaques, and the phenotype of plaque macrophages shifts dynamically to adapt to changes in the plaque microenvironment. The aerobic microenvironment of early atherosclerotic plaques promotes the transformation of M2/alternatively activated macrophages mainly through oxidative phosphorylation; the anoxic microenvironment of advanced atherosclerotic plaques mainly promotes the formation of M1/classically activated macrophages through anaerobic glycolysis; and the adventitia angiogenesis of aged atherosclerotic plaques leads to an increase in the proportion of M2/M1 macrophages. Therefore, this review deeply elucidates the dynamic change mechanism of plaque macrophages and the regulation of plaque oxygen content and immune metabolism to find new targets for the treatment of As.
A meta-analysis of the efficacy and toxicity of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in treating patients with different types of thyroid cancer: how to choose drugs appropriately?
Authors: Su Jingyang , Lu Jinhua , Zhang Jialin , Wang Menglei , Yan Jiang , Lin Shengyou
Published: February 2023

Purpose of review

Because the high risk of death and poor prognosis of patients with refractory thyroid cancer (TC), studies related to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in treating different types of refractory TC have gradually attracted attention. Thus, we conducted a meta-analysis of published randomized controlled trials and single-arm trials to evaluate tyrosine kinase inhibitors’ efficacy and safety profile treatment in TC patients.

Recent findings

The studies of 29 in 287 met the criteria, 9 were randomized controlled trials and 20 were single-arm trials, involving 11 TKIs (Apatinib, Anlotinib, Cabozantinib, Imatinib, Lenvatinib, Motesanib, Pazopanib, Sorafenib, Sunitinib, Vandetanib, Vemurafenib). Treatment with TKIs significantly improved progression-free survival [hazard ratio [HR] 0.34 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.24, 0.48), P < 0.00001] and overall survival [OS] [HR 0.76, (95% CI: 0.64, 0.91), P = 0.003] in randomized controlled trials, but adverse events (AEs) were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.00001). The result of the objective response rate (ORR) in single-arm trials was statistically significant [odds ratio [OR] 0.49 (95% CI: 0.32, 0.75), P = 0.001].

TKIs significantly prolonged progression-free survival and OS or improved ORR in patients with different types of TC (P < 0.01). Our recommendation is to select appropriate TKIs to treat different types of TC patients, and to prevent and manage drug-related AEs after using TKIs.
Prevalence of maturity-onset diabetes of the young in phenotypic type 2 diabetes in young adults: a nationwide, multi-center, cross-sectional survey in China
Authors: Chen Yan , Zhao Jing , Li Xia , Xie Zhiguo , Huang Gan , Yan Xiang , Zhou Houde , Zheng Li , Xu Tao , Zhou Kaixin , Zhou Zhiguang
Published: February 2023

Background:

Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is the most common monogenic diabetes. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of MODY in phenotypic type 2 diabetes (T2DM) among Chinese young adults.

Methods:

From April 2015 to October 2017, this cross-sectional study involved 2429 consecutive patients from 46 hospitals in China, newly diagnosed between 15 years and 45 years, with T2DM phenotype and negative for standardized glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody at the core laboratory. Sequencing using a custom monogenic diabetes gene panel was performed, and variants of 14 MODY genes were interpreted as per current guidelines.

Results:

The survey determined 18 patients having genetic variants causing MODY (6 HNF1A, 5 GCK, 3 HNF4A, 2 INS, 1 PDX1, and 1 PAX4). The prevalence of MODY was 0.74% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.40–1.08%). The clinical characteristics of MODY patients were not specific, 72.2% (13/18) of them were diagnosed after 35 years, 47.1% (8/17) had metabolic syndrome, and only 38.9% (7/18) had a family history of diabetes. No significant difference in manifestations except for hemoglobin A1c levels was found between MODY and non-MODY patients.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of MODY in young adults with phenotypic T2DM was 0.74%, among which HNF1A-, GCK-, and HNF4A-MODY were the most common subtypes. Clinical features played a limited role in the recognition of MODY.
Selection Bias with Outcome-dependent Sampling
Authors: Sjölander Arvid
Published: February 2023

In a seminal paper, Hernán et al. 2004 provided a systematic classification of selection biases, for scenarios where the selection is a collider between the exposure and the outcome. Hernán 2017 discussed another scenario, where the selection is statistically independent of the exposure, but associated with the outcome through common causes. In this note, we extend the discussion to scenarios where the selection is directly influenced by the outcome, but not by the exposure. We discuss whether these types of outcome-dependent selections preserve the sharp causal null hypothesis, and whether or not they allow for estimation of causal effects in the selected sample and/or in the source population.
Blood pressure variability: methodological aspects, clinical relevance and practical indications for management - a European Society of Hypertension position paper ∗
Authors: Parati Gianfranco , Bilo Grzegorz , Kollias Anastasios , Pengo Martino , Ochoa Juan Eugenio , Castiglioni Paolo , Stergiou George S. , Mancia Giuseppe , Asayama Kei , Asmar Roland , Avolio Alberto , Caiani Enrico G. , De La Sierra Alejandro , Dolan Eamon , Grillo Andrea , Guzik Przemysław , Hoshide Satoshi , Head Geoffrey A. , Imai Yutaka , Juhanoja Eeva , Kahan Thomas , Kario Kazuomi , Kotsis Vasilios , Kreutz Reinhold , Kyriakoulis Konstantinos G. , Li Yan , Manios Efstathios , Mihailidou Anastasia S. , Modesti Pietro Amedeo , Omboni Stefano , Palatini Paolo , Persu Alexandre , Protogerou Athanasios D. , Saladini Francesca , Salvi Paolo , Sarafidis Pantelis , Torlasco Camilla , Veglio Franco , Vlachopoulos Charalambos , Zhang Yuqing
Published: February 2023

Blood pressure is not a static parameter, but rather undergoes continuous fluctuations over time, as a result of the interaction between environmental and behavioural factors on one side and intrinsic cardiovascular regulatory mechanisms on the other side. Increased blood pressure variability (BPV) may indicate an impaired cardiovascular regulation and may represent a cardiovascular risk factor itself, having been associated with increased all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, stroke, coronary artery disease, heart failure, end-stage renal disease, and dementia incidence. Nonetheless, BPV was considered only a research issue in previous hypertension management guidelines, because the available evidence on its clinical relevance presents several gaps and is based on heterogeneous studies with limited standardization of methods for BPV assessment.

The aim of this position paper, with contributions from members of the European Society of Hypertension Working Group on Blood Pressure Monitoring and Cardiovascular Variability and from a number of international experts, is to summarize the available evidence in the field of BPV assessment methodology and clinical applications and to provide practical indications on how to measure and interpret BPV in research and clinical settings based on currently available data. Pending issues and clinical and methodological recommendations supported by available evidence are also reported. The information provided by this paper should contribute to a better standardization of future studies on BPV, but should also provide clinicians with some indications on how BPV can be managed based on currently available data.
Oscillometric pulse wave velocity estimated via the Mobil-O-Graph shows excellent accuracy in children, adolescents and young adults: an invasive validation study
Authors: Walser Matthias , Schlichtiger Jenny , Dalla-Pozza Robert , Mandilaras Guido , Tengler Anja , Ulrich Sarah , Oberhoffer Felix Sebastian , Oberhoffer-Fritz Renate , Böhm Birgit , Haas Nikolaus A. , Jakob André
Published: February 2023

Aims:

Increased arterial stiffness, measured as arterial pulse wave velocity (PWV) is associated with an elevated cardiovascular risk. Although noninvasive PWV measurement methods have been validated by invasive measurement, there is little such data on pediatric patients. The purpose of this study was to ‘fill the gap’ by validating PWV obtained by Mobil-O-Graph in children, adolescents in comparison to young adults.

Methods:

Sixty patients (25 male, mean age 16.6 years; range 3–35 years) were included in this study. Fifty-one patients underwent cardiac catheterization after a heart transplantation (HTX) and nine for interventional atrial septal defect-closure. Specific invasive pulse wave velocities were assessed for the ascending aorta (aPWV) and entire central aorta (cPWV). These invasive PWV results were compared to simultaneously measured brachial cuff readings using Mobil-O-Graph (oPWV) stratified by age in two groups (PEDIATRICS <18 years|ADULTS ≥18 years).

Results:

Correlation analysis showed a positive linear relation between both invasive PWV measurements and the oPWV in all ages (cPWV/oPWV: r = 0.417, aPWV/oPWV: r = 0.628; P < 0.001). The oPWV data agreed better with the aPWV in mean-value comparisons and correlations with mean difference in PEDIATRICS was 0.41 ± 0.41 m/s (95% confidence interval 0.27–0.55). We also found the cPWV to be faster than the aPWV particularly in adults. In addition, cPWV correlated closer with age (r = 0.393, P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Estimated oPWV using the Mobil-O-Graph demonstrated excellent accuracy in adults and pediatric patients. Therefore, the Mobil-O-Graph can be implemented as an ambulatory PWV measuring tool for pediatric cardiovascular risk stratification.

Clinical Trial Registration:

German clinical trial registration, DRKS00015066.
Doris Howes Calloway
Authors: Murphy Suzanne P. , King Janet C. , Kretsch Molly J. , Butte Nancy F. , Yates Allison A. , Blackburn Mary L.
Published: February 2023

In the 1970s, Doris Howes Calloway turned to the need to better understand mild to moderate malnutrition. She led the Nutrition Collaborative Research Support Program (NCRSP), which was designed to look at possible effects of inadequate food intakes on outcomes such as growth, morbidity, pregnancy, and childhood intellectual development. Although it was known that a severe lack of calories and/or nutrients could result in serious morbidity and death, there was controversy about the effects of moderate malnutrition. Although growth might be stunted, it seemed possible that other health and developmental outcomes might not be affected. The NCRSP selected low-income regions of 3 countries (Egypt, Kenya, and Mexico) where there was moderate malnutrition, to evaluate causes and effects on these outcomes. The study found that child growth was compromised in all 3 sites, primarily due to childhood illnesses in Egypt and to poor diets in Kenya and Mexico. Other negative effects were also seen in lower scores on tests of cognitive abilities. The NCRSP results were further extended by new studies of undernutrition both in the original countries sites and in additional locations. Ultimately, the NCRSP led to a greater acceptance of the negative consequences of even moderate malnutrition.
Association between Dyslipidemia and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Akowuah Prince Kwaku , Owusu Ebenezer , Senanu Esther Nutifafa , Adjei-Anang Joseph
Published: February 2023

SIGNIFICANCE

Meibomian gland dysfunction reduces the quality and/or quantity of meibum. An association between dyslipidemia and meibomian gland dysfunction has been proposed, but this has not been estimated. Therefore, this study evaluates the odds of dyslipidemia in meibomian gland dysfunction.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to use meta-analysis to estimate the association between dyslipidemia and meibomian gland dysfunction.

METHODS

The following databases were searched: PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. Case-control and cohort studies assessing the association between dyslipidemia and meibomian gland dysfunction were included. The association was assessed using odds ratios. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed with the χ
2 statistic and degree of inconsistency. The quality of studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42022347982).

RESULTS

The systematic review included three case-control and two cohort studies. The odds of hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia in meibomian gland dysfunction were 5.45 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.65 to 17.95) and 3.28 (95% CI, 1.25 to 8.62), respectively. The odds of elevated serum low-density lipoprotein and reduced high-density lipoprotein in meibomian gland dysfunction were 2.72 (95% CI, 1.24 to 5.98) and 1.15 (95% CI, 0.74 to 1.79), respectively. The current study's limitation is that the effects of sex, age, and meibomian gland dysfunction severity on the association between dyslipidemia and meibomian gland dysfunction were not assessed.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study suggests a significant association between dyslipidemia and meibomian gland dysfunction. This finding suggests that meibomian gland dysfunction diagnosis may call for dyslipidemia screening.
Congenital Portosystemic Shunt Presenting As Hyperammonemia Following Fontan Operation
Authors: Morneault Kayla , Mathews April , Sharma Priya , Beasley Genie
Published: February 2023

The Fontan operation allows survival for children with single ventricle congenital heart disease. In the acute postoperative period, perioperative insults and drastic changes in vascular pressures can potentially cause ischemic liver injury. We present a 3-year-old female with congenital heart disease presenting post-Fontan procedure complicated by altered mental status due to elevated ammonia levels. Etiology of the hyperammonemia was unknown and relatively controlled with medication. Further investigation, however, revealed a congenital portosystemic shunt. Congenital portosystemic shunts, more specifically Abernethy malformations, are rare conditions characterized as intrahepatic or extrahepatic, resulting in diversion of portal flow to systemic.
Too Hot to Handle: A Case of Esophageal Thermal Injury From Solid Food Ingestion
Authors: Lam Tin Bo Nicholas , Sussman Lauren , Infantino Benjamin
Published: February 2023

Esophageal thermal injury (ETI) is an uncommon occurrence in both children and adults. Therefore, little is known about the diagnosis and clinical course of patients suffering from these injuries. We present the case of an 11-year-old female with macrocephaly capillary malformation syndrome and developmental delay suffering from ETI after ingestion of a piece of hot butternut squash. Endoscopy revealed linear, white plaques consistent with thermal burns. Management involved respiratory support, local and systemic analgesia, antibiotics, and nasogastric tube feedings. Our case highlights the nuances and differences in diagnosis, endoscopic findings, and management of ETI in a pediatric patient.
Imaging Gallbladder Lesions: What Can Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Add to the Conventional Imaging Approach?
Authors: Sabaté-Llobera Aida , Reynés-Llompart Gabriel , Mestres-Martí Judit , Gràcia-Sánchez Laura , Lladó Laura , Serrano Teresa , Ramos Emilio , Cortés-Romera Montserrat
Published: February 2023

Objective

Incidental gallbladder lesions are common in imaging studies, although it is not always easy to discriminate benign lesions from gallbladder cancer with conventional imaging procedures. The present study aims to assess the capacity of positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) with 2-[18F]FDG to distinguish between benign and malignant pathology of the gallbladder, compared with conventional imaging techniques (contrast-enhanced CT or magnetic resonance imaging).

Methods

Positron emission tomography/CT and conventional imaging studies of 53 patients with gallbladder lesions were evaluated and visually classified as benign, malignant, or inconclusive. Agreement between PET/CT and conventional imaging was determined, and imaging findings were correlated with histology or follow-up. Positron emission tomography/CT images were also analyzed semiquantitatively (SUVmax and maximum tumor-to-liver ratio [TLRmax]). The presence of adenopathies and distant metastases was assessed and compared between both imaging procedures.

Results

According to histology or follow-up, 33 patients (62%) had a malignant process and 20 (38%) had benign lesions. Positron emission tomography/CT and conventional imaging showed a moderate agreement (κ = 0.59). Conventional imaging classified more studies as inconclusive compared with PET/CT (17.0% and 7.5%, respectively), although both procedures showed a similar accuracy. Malignant lesions had significantly higher SUVmax and, especially, TLRmax (0.89 and 2.38 [P = 0.00028] for benign and malignant lesions, respectively). Positron emission tomography/CT identified more pathologic adenopathies and distant metastases, and patients with regional or distant spread had higher SUVmax and TLRmax in the gallbladder.

Conclusions

Positron emission tomography/CT is accurate to distinguish between benign and malignant pathology of the gallbladder, with a similar performance to conventional imaging procedures but with less inconclusive results. Malignant lesions present higher SUVmax and TLRmax values.
Early Positive Brain 18F-FDG PET and Negative MRI in Rasmussen Encephalitis
Authors: Thomé Ursula , Machado Hélio Rubens , Santos Marcelo Volpon , Santos Antonio Carlos , Wichert-Ana Lauro
Published: February 2023

A 15-year-old adolescent boy with left body epilepsia partialis continua, hemiparesis, and electroencephalogram abnormalities lateralized to the right hemisphere. MRI finding was small hyperintense signal in the left putamen. 18F-FDG PET showed focal glucose hypermetabolism in the right paracentral lobule and hypometabolism in the inferior right frontal and precentral gyri. One month later, a new MRI showed a hyperintense signal over the paracentral lobule. Biopsy on this region confirmed the diagnosis of Rasmussen encephalitis. This patient finally underwent right hemispherotomy and became seizure free. This case emphasize the PET as an important early tool for the diagnosis of Rasmussen encephalitis.
Detection of Malpositioned VP Shunt Catheter by Radionuclide CSF Cisternography
Authors: Jo Nahyun , Edhayan Gautam , Owji Shahin , Villanueva-Meyer Javier , Bhargava Peeyush
Published: February 2023

A 37-year-old man presented with a 2-week history of abdominal pain, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and leukocytosis. Medical history includes congenital hydrocephalus, with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt placed several years ago. Radionuclide cerebrospinal fluid cisternography shows curvilinear activity in the abdomen, in the pattern of small and large bowel loops, suggesting that the tip of the catheter is inside a small bowel loop. No activity is seen in the intraperitoneal compartment. CT of the abdomen and pelvis followed by laparoscopic surgery confirmed the findings.
18FDG PET/CT Tumoral and Neurologic Therapeutic Response in a Case of Anti-GABABR Paraneoplastic Limbic Encephalitis
Authors: Ouvrard Eric , Voulleminot Paul , Mennecier Bertrand , Bund Caroline , Namer Izzie Jacques
Published: February 2023

A 70-year-old man with a history of small cell lung carcinoma 2 years earlier was addressed for the suspicion of a paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis. Brain 18FDG PET/CT revealed a bilateral amygdalian and hippocampal hypermetabolism, confirming a limbic encephalitis, and concurrent whole-body 18FDG PET/CT showed a small cell lung carcinoma plurifocal metastatic recurrence, consistent with a paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis. 18FDG PET/CT follow-up under chemotherapy revealed an almost complete normalization of brain metabolism and a partial metabolic response of the metastatic recurrence, consistent with the good clinical neurological evolution of the patient. This case highlights the clinical-metabolic imaging correlation in paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis.
Addressing Risks Derived From the Commodification of Substances of Human Origin: A European Proposal Applicable Worldwide
Authors: Cuende Natividad , Vilarrodona Anna , Vuelta Elena , Marazuela Rosario , Herrera Concha , Querol Sergi , Sánchez-Ibáñez Jacinto , Carmona Mar , Gayá Antonio , Tort Jaume , Hernández Dolores , Domínguez-Gil Beatriz
Published: February 2023

In view of the public consultation recently launched by the World Health Organization on Regulatory Convergence of Cell and Gene Therapy Products and the Proposal for a Regulation on substances of human origin (SoHO) repealing the European Union Directives on Blood and on Tissues and Cells, an opportunity arises to define an ethical and transparent framework of collaboration between industry and authorities responsible for SoHO-derived products, comprising medicines, medical devices, transfusion, and transplantation. The commodification of SoHO-derived medicinal products and medical devices entails important risks to the sustainability of healthcare systems and threatens the equitable access of patients to innovative therapies. It may also jeopardize the principle of altruistic donation of SoHO that is required for the treatment and survival of thousands of patients every year. This article puts forward several proposals aimed at reconciling the ethical principles of voluntary and unpaid SoHO donation and the noncommercialization of the human body with obtaining a profit that allows business activities, while ensuring high quality, safety, and efficacy standards of tissues and cells for clinical use.
Cardiologist Evaluation and Approval Was the Primary Predictor of Kidney Transplant Candidacy and Transplantation Among Patients With Reduced Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction
Authors: Madden Michelle , Gallen Rory , Newman Hana R. , Zhang Nan , Lim Elisabeth , LeMond Lisa M. , Steidley D. Eric , Keddis Mira T.
Published: February 2023

Background.

End-stage kidney disease patients with concomitant heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction are often denied kidney transplantation. The aims of this study were to explore factors predictive of suitability for kidney transplant and to assess cardiovascular outcomes in patients with impaired left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) after transplant.

Methods.

We evaluated 109 consecutive adults with LVEF ≤40% at the time of initial kidney transplant evaluation between 2013 and 2018. Posttransplant cardiovascular outcomes were defined as nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), admission for HF, cardiovascular death, and all-cause mortality.

Results.

A cardiologist participated in kidney transplant evaluation for 87% of patients and was present at 49% of transplant selection conferences. Twenty-four patients (22%) were denied by a cardiologist for kidney transplant‚ and 59 (54%) were denied by the selection committee, of whom 43 were because of cardiovascular risk. Forty-two (38%) patients were approved for kidney transplant. On univariate analysis, the variables associated with denial for kidney transplant included cardiologist denial, higher cardiac troponin T, prior coronary intervention, cardiovascular event, positive stress study, lower ejection fraction, and lower VO2 max (all P < 0.05). Cardiologist denial was the most significant predictor of denial for kidney transplant in different multivariate models. At a median follow-up of 15 mo, 5 (5%) suffered nonfatal MI, 13 (12%) were hospitalized for HF exacerbation, and 17 (16%) died. Only 22 patients, 52% of those approved, underwent kidney transplant. After kidney transplant, there was 1 death, 1 nonfatal MI, and 3 hospitalizations for HF. Median LVEF improved from 38% before listing to 55% posttransplant.

Conclusions.

Cardiologist denial was the primary predictor of rejection for kidney transplant. Despite careful selection, prevalence of cardiovascular events and mortality after kidney transplant was 23%. There is need for a structured multidisciplinary approach for patients with impaired LVEF.
Impact of Medicaid Expansion on Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment in Southern States
Authors: Laughlin Amy I , Li Tingting , Yu Qingzhao , Wu Xiao-Cheng , Yi Yong , Hsieh Mei-Chin , Havron William , Shoup Margo , Chu Quyen D
Published: February 2023

Background:

Medicaid expansion impacted patients when assessed at a national level. However, of the 32 states that expanded Medicaid, only three were Southern states. Whether results apply to Southern states that share similar geopolitical perspectives remains elusive. We aimed to assess the impact of Medicaid expansion on breast cancer diagnosis and treatment in 8 Southern states in the US.

Study Design:

We identified uninsured or Medicaid patients (age 40-64yr) diagnosed with invasive breast cancer 2011-2018 in Southern states from the NAACCR’s CiNA Research Dataset. Medicaid-expanded states ((MES), Louisiana, Kentucky, Arkansas) were compared to non-MES ((NMES), Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Texas, Oklahoma) using multivariate logistic regression and differences- in-differences (DiD) analyses over pre-and post-expansion periods, p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Among 21,974 patients, patients in MES had increased odds of Medicaid insurance by 43% (OR 1.43, p<0.01) and decreased odds of distant-stage disease by 7% (OR 0.93, p=0.03). After ME, Medicaid patients increased by 10.6% in MES (Arkansas, Kentucky), in contrast to a 1.3% decrease in NMES (DiD 11.9%, p<0. 0001, adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, rural-urban status, and poverty status). MES (Arkansas, Kentucky) had 2.3% fewer patients diagnosed with distant-stage disease compared to a 0.5% increase in NMES (DiD 2.8%, p=0.01, after adjustment). Patients diagnosed in MES had higher odds of receiving treatment (OR 2.27, p=0.03).

Conclusions:

Unlike NMES, MES experienced increased Medicaid insured, increased treatment and decreased distant-stage disease at diagnosis. Medicaid expansion in the South leads to earlier and more comprehensive treatment of breast cancer.
James Kay Graham Watson. 20 April 1936—18 December 2020
Authors: McKellar A. R. W. , Oka FRS Takeshi
Published: February 2023

J. K. G. (Jim) Watson was a world-leading authority on the basic theory of molecular rotation and vibration, especially renowned for his simplification of the rotational and rotation–vibration Hamiltonians (energy expressions). Other significant scientific achievements include the treatment of ‘forbidden’ rotational transitions in symmetric molecules and analysis of the spectrum of the

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molecular ion, both of which have important astrophysical implications. Jim was a reticent individual who carried out much of his most important research solo, while at the same time he had a wide circle of collaborators who were often experimentalists seeking theoretical guidance. Although his most profound contributions were highly mathematical, he always endeavoured to present the ultimate results in a widely useful form.
Long-term satellite tracking reveals patterns of long-distance dispersal in juvenile and adult Arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus)
Authors: Gravel Richard , Lai Sandra , Berteaux Dominique
Published: February 2023

Long-distance dispersal plays a key role in species distribution and persistence. However, its movement metrics and ecological implications may differ whether it is undertaken by juveniles (natal dispersal) or adults (breeding dispersal). We investigated the influence of life stage on long-distance dispersal in the Arctic fox, an important tundra predator. We fitted 170 individuals with satellite collars during a 13-year study on Bylot Island (Nunavut, Canada), and analysed the tracks of 10 juveniles and 27 adults engaging in long-distance dispersal across the Canadian High Arctic. This behaviour was much more common than expected, especially in juveniles (62.5%, adults: 19.4%). Emigration of juveniles occurred mainly at the end of summer while departure of adults was not synchronized. Juveniles travelled for longer periods and over longer cumulative distances than adults, but spent similar proportions of their time travelling on sea ice versus land. Successful immigration occurred mostly in late spring and was similar for juveniles and adults (30% versus 37%). Our results reveal how life stage influences key aspects of long-distance dispersal in a highly mobile canid. This new knowledge is critical to understand the circumpolar genetic structure of the species, and how Arctic foxes can spread zoonoses across vast geographical areas.
Do unbiased people act more rationally?—The case of comparative realism and vaccine intention
Authors: Izydorczak Kamil , Dolinski Dariusz , Genschow Oliver , Kulesza Wojciech , Muniak Pawel , Casara Bruno Gabriel Salvador , Suitner Caterina
Published: February 2023

Within different populations and at various stages of the pandemic, it has been demonstrated that individuals believe they are less likely to become infected than their average peer. This is known as comparative optimism and it has been one of the reproducible effects in social psychology. However, in previous and even the most recent studies, researchers often neglected to consider unbiased individuals and inspect the differences between biased and unbiased individuals. In a mini meta-analysis of six studies (Study 1), we discovered that unbiased individuals have lower vaccine intention than biased ones. In two pre-registered, follow-up studies, we aimed at testing the reproducibility of this phenomenon and its explanations. In Study 2 we replicated the main effect and found no evidence for differences in psychological control between biased and unbiased groups. In Study 3 we also replicated the effect and found that realists hold more centric views on the trade-offs between threats from getting vaccinated and getting ill. We discuss the interpretation and implication of our results in the context of the academic and lay-persons' views on rationality. We also put forward empirical and theoretical arguments for considering unbiased individuals as a separate phenomenon in the domain of self–others comparisons.