bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical Considerations in Shone Complex
Authors: Yang Roderick , Greene Christina L.
Published: September 2023

Shone complex is defined by 4 anomalies: parachute mitral valve, supravalvar mitral ring, subaortic stenosis, and coarctation of the aorta. Establishing a clear definition is one of the principal challenges in the study of Shone complex as not all patients have all lesions. The essential feature of Shone complex is multilevel left-sided obstruction involving both the left ventricular inflow and outflow. This anatomic variability is reflected in the clinical presentation as signs of left ventricular inflow obstruction are often masked by outflow obstruction and the multilevel nature of the condition is thus underappreciated. Surgical treatment is often stepwise addressing the outflow obstruction first. In this review, geared to the pediatric cardiac anesthesiologist, we review the pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of Shone complex.
Platform capitalism and place relations in social movements: Environmentalism and Extinction Rebellion in Western Australia
Authors: Grenfell Raymond
Published: September 2023

This article investigates spatial aspects of contemporary protest as a form of performative spectacle for platform capitalism. Discussing literature on and around platform capitalism and social movements it seeks to examine the Extinction Rebellion protest movement in its relationship to platform capitalism. Drawing on observations of the Western Australian Extinction Rebellion group from September 2019 to March 2022 as well as interviews with participants in the movement in November 2021 and previous experience in environmental movements, the article argues that a problematic relationship has developed between the movement and platform capitalism. Critically comparing Extinction Rebellion with the Occupy! Movement, one of the first to utilise platforms, this article reflects on the movements’ different modes of engagement with platforms and the resulting geographical shifts in activism. In doing so, it asks how platform capitalism has influenced place relations in contemporary Western Australian environmentalism and how activists may navigate this changing reality.
How ballot access laws increase primary competition and decrease party unity
Authors: Reller Cassidy
Published: September 2023

How do electoral institutions affect primary competition and legislative behavior? This paper examines the understudied electoral rule known as ballot access laws, advancing the novel theory that denying ballot access to minor candidates forces these outsiders into major parties. I find that in American states that adopt high ballot access thresholds experience higher rates of ideological heterogeneity and primary competition, and those that reduce their thresholds experience a reduction in heterogeneity and competition. Using an original dataset on state-level changes to ballot access thresholds from 1990 to 2018, I find that an increase in the number and types of primary competition leads to an increase in heterogeneity within both party caucuses. This paper adds to the literature on legislative behavior and electoral institutions, demonstrating institutions' role in shaping electoral competition and the ideology of those represented in office.
Food on the Margins: A Creative Film Collaboration to Amplify the Voices of Those Living with Food Insecurity
Authors: Pettinger Clare , Ellwood James
Published: September 2023

‘ Food on the margins in Plymouth’ is a short ‘fly on the wall’-style documentary film which has captured the food stories of six individuals who are, for whatever reason, experiencing food insecurity. The film was inspired by a recent participatory food research project (Food as a Lifestyle Motivator) which aimed to explore creative methods to better understand the food experiences of vulnerable communities in Plymouth, UK. Our aim was to ‘co-produce’ a documentary film illustrating the realities of the lived experience of food insecurity that could be promoted by/to city leaders and policy-makers to catalyse food system change. The resulting documentary film successfully met its aim by presenting a work of public sociology that informs publics about food poverty. Here, within this ‘Beyond the Text’ companion piece, we critique and appraise what the film achieves, by proposing how and why film-making can engage publics through sharing food stories and conveying wider sociological discourses.
Mind ascribed to AI and the appreciation of AI-generated art
Authors: Messingschlager Tanja Veronika , Appel Markus
Published: September 2023

Creative artificial intelligence (AI) has received a lot of attention in recent years. Artworks that are introduced to be generated by AI (rather than a human artist) are, however, often evaluated negatively. Integrating extant research, we suggest that AI is ascribed less mind (i.e. agency and experience) which is responsible for this effect. In two experiments ( N = 176 and N = 381) we observed negative indirect effects of artist information (AI vs human artist) on the appreciation of visual artworks. The AI is consistently ascribed less agency and less experience than a human artist. Higher levels of experience and agency ascribed to an artist are, in turn, associated with higher appreciation of a piece of art. In both experiments the total effect of artist information on appreciation was not significant. Artist information did not predict whether the artwork deviated positively from viewers’ expectations developed before the actual artwork was encountered.
Metformin inhibits mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes induced by high glucose via upregulating AMPK activity
Authors: Wu Yuansheng
Published: September 2023

Abnormal mitochondrial functions are a major pathophysiological basis of diabetic cardiomyopathy. 5′ AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is involved in mitochondrial dynamics. As an activator of AMPK, this study examined the effect of metformin on cardiomyocytes treated with high glucose. Primary cardiomyocytes isolated from neonatal rat ventricles were exposed to a high glucose concentration (33 mM) to establish a model of high-glucose injury with or without metformin (2 mM) treatment. AMPK activity was inhibited or activated by CC (20 µM) or AICAR (50 µM). CCK-8 and TUNEL assays were used to assess cell viability and apoptosis, respectively. A JC-1 assay was used to measure the mitochondrial membrane potential, and MitoSOX™ staining was used to examine mitoROS. Mito-Tracker Green-stained mitochondria were visualized by confocal microscopy to assess mitochondrial fission. Furthermore, we measured the expression levels of AMPK-mediated mitochondrial dynein and apoptotic proteins by western blotting. Our results showed that AMPK activity was significantly decreased in cardiomyocytes under the high-glucose condition, which was accompanied by increased mitochondrial fragmentation and aggravated mitochondrial dysfunction. The mitochondrial membrane potential was decreased and oxidative stress was increased, leading to apoptosis. Activation of AMPK by either metformin or AICAR reversed myocardial mitochondrial dysfunction and inhibited apoptosis under high glucose. Furthermore, inhibition of AMPK activity abrogated the protective effect of metformin against high glucose–induced mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes. Our study demonstrates that metformin protects cardiomyocytes from high glucose–induced mitochondrial fragmentation and apoptosis by activating AMPK.
Genome-wide association study identifying variants related to performance and injury in high-performance athletes
Authors: Ebert Jay R , Magi Agnes , Unt Eve , Prans Ele , Wood David J , Koks Sulev
Published: September 2023

A growing body of evidence exists supporting the role that genetic variation plays in athletic performance and injury. This study sought to identify genetic variants associated with performance and lower limb musculoskeletal injury in a high-level athletic cohort. A total of 126 Estonian National Team members (Olympic athletes and participants of International Championships) (104 males, 82.5%) underwent a genome-wide association analysis between 2017 and 2018, to identify single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with performance and/or injury. The athletic cohort was stratified within each sport based on performance and whether they were a medalist ( n = 29) or not ( n = 97), whether they sustained an injury ( n = 47) or not ( n = 79), and the type of injury (patella tendinopathy n = 22, Achilles tendinopathy n = 17, hamstring injury n = 3, anterior cruciate ligament rupture n = 6). Three SNPs demonstrated strong genome-wide association with athletic performance (podium/medalist versus not), including DSG1 (rs10502567, OR 14.3) and DSG4 (rs73410248, OR 17.4), while 76 SNPs demonstrated suggestive significance. Overall, 37 SNPs gave genome-wide suggestive association with any type of injury, including PAPPA2 (rs11580456, OR 13.8) and MAS1 (rs220735, rs170219, OR 3.1) which demonstrated positive signal with multiple SNPs. Several genes demonstrated positive association for the specific injury types, including COL22A1 (rs3924862) and PLXNA2 (rs11799530), as well as PAPPA2 (rs11580456), DOK5 (rs73142922), GNG12 (rs28435277), and DAP (rs267959, rs2930047, rs1080440, rs267939). The current study identified genetic variants associated with high-level athletic performance and musculoskeletal injury. Further work is required to permit integration of this and future knowledge into individualized training practices, as well as injury mitigation and rehabilitation programs.
People Think That Social Media Platforms Do (but Should Not) Amplify Divisive Content
Authors: Rathje Steve , Robertson Claire , Brady William J. , Van Bavel Jay J.
Published: September 2023

Recent studies have documented the type of content that is most likely to spread widely, or go “viral,” on social media, yet little is known about people’s perceptions of what goes viral or what should go viral. This is critical to understand because there is widespread debate about how to improve or regulate social media algorithms. We recruited a sample of participants that is nationally representative of the U.S. population (according to age, gender, and race/ethnicity) and surveyed them about their perceptions of social media virality ( n = 511). In line with prior research, people believe that divisive content, moral outrage, negative content, high-arousal content, and misinformation are all likely to go viral online. However, they reported that this type of content should not go viral on social media. Instead, people reported that many forms of positive content—such as accurate content, nuanced content, and educational content—are not likely to go viral even though they think this content should go viral. These perceptions were shared among most participants and were only weakly related to political orientation, social media usage, and demographic variables. In sum, there is broad consensus around the type of content people think social media platforms should and should not amplify, which can help inform solutions for improving social media.
Destination: Wokeness? Possibilities for exploring domestic educational travel as conscientizing praxis
Authors: Johnson Kayla M
Published: September 2023

I explore the possibilities for domestic educational travel to impact students’ understandings of racism, and their attitudes and planned behaviors toward enacting change in their communities. Prompted by movements for racial justice and drawing from the critical pedagogies of Paulo Freire, students on the “America’s Race Issues” community engagement program traveled throughout the Northern and Southern US to explore issues impacting the Black experience, such as slavery and the Civil War, the civil rights movement, environmental injustice, contemporary racial justice activism, and community organizing. Six students documented their experiences through photos and participated in interviews that illuminated the program’s impact on their process of conscientization. The program contributed to students’ conscientization in various ways and to varying degrees, yet shortcomings exist. This study suggests that domestic educational travel with a purposeful focus on race and racial justice activism can contribute to student conscientization, but further research and program improvement is needed.
Does distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis affect proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty outcomes in the same finger?
Authors: Startseva Xenia , Marks Miriam , Schweizer Andreas , Herren Daniel B. , Schindele Stephan
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to analyse the 1-year outcomes after combining a surface replacing proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty and a distal interphalangeal screw arthrodesis and to compare the combined surgery with proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty alone. To obtain two groups with similar baseline data from our prospective registry, propensity score matching was used to match 23 fingers with the combined operations with 115 fingers with proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty alone. One year after surgery, the mean ranges of motion were 60° (95% CI: 53° to 67°) in the combined group and 63° (95% CI: 60° to 66°) in the control group and did not differ significantly. Grip strength, the brief Michigan Hand Questionnaire and pain also did not differ between the groups 1 year after surgery. All the proximal interphalangeal implants in patients treated with a distal interphalangeal screw arthrodesis remained in situ. Combining proximal interphalangeal joint arthroplasty with distal interphalangeal arthrodesis leads to 1-year outcomes that are similar to those achieved by proximal interphalangeal joint replacement alone.

Level of evidence: III
Talonavicular Osteochondral Lesions: Surgical Technique and Clinical Outcomes from the Boston and Amsterdam Perspectives
Authors: Rikken Quinten G.H. , Dahmen Jari , Gianakos Arianna L. , Bejarano-Pineda Lorena , Waryasz Gregory , DiGiovanni Christopher W. , Stufkens Sjoerd A.S. , Kerkhoffs Gino M.M.J.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The primary purpose of the present study was to assess the patient-reported outcomes, complications, and reoperation rate of patient who underwent surgical treatment for symptomatic osteochondral lesions of the talonavicular joint (TNJ).

Methods

Patients undergoing surgical treatment for symptomatic osteochondral lesions of the TNJ with a minimum of 12-month follow-up were included. Outcomes included clinical patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), return to sports and work outcomes, and postoperative complications or reoperations. Medical records were screened by 2 independent reviewers. Patients were contacted by phone and underwent an in-depth interview. Additionally, operative techniques for both arthroscopic and open surgical approaches for treating TNJ osteochondral lesions were described.

Design

Retrospective Case Series (Level IV) and Surgical Technique.

Results

A total of 7 patients were included with a final follow-up time of 25.4 (SD: 15.2) months follow-up. PROMs were considered satisfactory for 5 out of 7 patients, 6 out of 7 patients returned to any level of sports at a mean of 3.7 (SD: 4.2) months, and 5 out of 6 patients returned to preinjury level of sports at a mean of 14 (SD: 7.5) months. All patients returned to work at an average of 5.4 (SD: 3.6) weeks. No complications or reoperations after index surgery were reported.

Conclusion

Surgical treatment of TNJ osteochondral lesions is a feasible procedure that may offer successful clinical, sport, and work outcomes in the majority of patients. Both open and arthroscopic surgical treatments are available and can be considered in a patient-specific treatment plan.
Accuracy of radiographic measurements of fracture-induced deformity in the distal radius
Authors: Jensen Janni , Graumann Ole , Gerke Oke , Torfing Trine , Precht Helle , Rasmussen Benjamin S , Tromborg Hans B
Published: September 2023

Background

Management of the distal radius fracture (DRF) is to some extent based on radiographic characterization of fracture displacement. It remains unclear, however, if the measurements used to quantify displacement are accurate.

Purpose

To quantify accuracy of two radiographic measurements: dorsal/volar tilt and fracture compression, measured indirectly as ulnar variance (UV), using radiostereometric analyses (RSA) as reference standard.

Material and Methods

Twenty-one fresh frozen non-fractured human cadaveric forearms (right = 11, left = 10) were thawed and eligible for inclusion. The forearms were mounted on a custom made platform that allowed for controlled forearm rotation, and they underwent two rounds of imaging (both rounds consisted of RSA and radiographs). In round one, the non-fractured forearms were radiographed. In round two, artificial DRF´s with compression and dorsal angulation were created and imaging procedures repeated. Change in tilt and UV between the non-fractured and later fractured forearms was defined as fracture-induced deformity. Deformity was measured radiographically and additionally calculated using RSA. Bland Altman analyses were used to estimate agreement between radiographically measured, and RSA calculated, fracture-induced deformity.

Results

Our results indicated that radiographs underestimate the amount of fracture-induced deformity. Mean measured differences (bias) in dorsal tilt deformity between radiographs and RSA were −2.5° for both observers. The corresponding values for UV were −1.4 mm and −1.5 mm.

Conclusion

Quantifying fracture-induced deformity on radiographs underestimated the actual deformity when compared to RSA calculated deformity. These findings suggest that clinicians, at least in part, base fracture management and potentially corrective surgery on inaccurate measurements.
Effects of Fracture Liaison Service on Outcomes of Patients with Hip Fracture in Rural Area of an Asian Country
Authors: Wang Chien-Chieh , Liu Hsuan-Chih , Lee Ming-Tsung , Huang Wen-Tsung
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Fracture Liaison Services (FLS) has been proven effective in reducing subsequent fractures and related mortality. However, more research is needed on the impact of FLS on the 30-day readmission rate and its effectiveness in rural hospitals. This study aims to assess the impact of FLS on clinical outcomes including readmission rates, subsequent fractures, and fracture-related mortality in rural areas of an Asain country.

Materials and methods

In a rural hospital in Taiwan, we conducted a two-year prospective cohort study on elderly individuals with fragility hip fractures. The study compared the clinical outcomes between the control group and the FLS-cohort group. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors contributing to 1-year mortality after injury.

Results

556 patients were enrolled. (304 in the control group and 252 in the FLS group) The mean age was 79.8 years. The findings revealed that the introduction of FLS did not result in significant differences in mortality, readmission, complication, subsequent fractures, or secondary hip fractures. However, there were notable improvements in the length of hospital stay and the proportion of patients receiving surgery within 48 h following the implementation of FLS. Subgroup analysis showed that FLS patients who received anti-osteoporotic treatment had lower mortality and 30-day readmission rates. Factors associated with higher 1-year mortality included male, high ASA level, and delayed surgery.

Discussion

This study provides the real-life evidence of the effect of intensive FLS model in a rural hospital in an Asian country.

Conclusion

While FLS did not show significant differences in certain clinical outcomes, it led to shorter hospital stays and increased timely surgeries. FLS patients receiving anti-osteoporotic treatment had better mortality and readmission rates. Further research is necessary to gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of FLS care in rural areas of Asia.
“We Need to Wake Our World up”: Collegiate Athletes’ Communicative Constitution of Activism
Authors: Feder Lillian B. , Jackson Diane L. , Eddington Sean M.
Published: September 2023

This study examines National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I athletes’ experiences engaging in activism through the lens of the communicative constitution of organizations. Specifically, we investigated the modalities and approaches collegiate athletes employ in their activism. Findings indicate that collegiate athletes gravitate toward online and offline channels, and fiscal, ideological, and organizational activities as modalities for their activist efforts. We also uncovered that collegiate athletes’ inclination to call-in versus call-out is characterized by their willingness to engage with the recipients of their cause-related messages. This inquiry demonstrates the discursive and material nature of collegiate athlete activism, highlighting the call-in approach, and provides direction for athletes and athletic institutions in this time of heightened activist engagement.
Comprehensive Assessment of Indirect Decompression Through Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Japanese Orthopedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire-Based Analysis
Authors: Hiyama Akihiko , Sakai Daisuke , Katoh Hiroyuki , Sato Masato , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: September 2023

Study Design

A retrospective study.

Objective

This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the clinical outcomes of lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) as an indirect decompression technique for degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS) and concomitant degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS) patients. We utilized the Japanese Orthopedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire (JOABPEQ) to assess treatment success and its impact on patient's quality of life (QOL).

Methods

We included 124 patients who underwent LLIF. Pre- and postoperative JOABPEQ evaluations indicated treatment success. Subgroup analysis categorized patients’ perceptions of surgery as beneficial or non-beneficial.

Results

89% of patients (110/124) reported satisfaction with LLIF. Lateral lumbar interbody fusion achieved successful indirect decompression, increasing canal diameter and central canal area. Significant improvements occurred across all JOABPEQ domains, notably for low back pain, lumbar function, walking ability, social life function, and mental health. Patients who perceived the surgery as beneficial experienced fewer postoperative complications, lower numeric rating scale scores for pain relief, and greater functional outcome improvements compared to non-beneficial patients.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the utility of JOABPEQ as a valuable and sensitive tool for assessing treatment effectiveness and patient-reported outcomes in DS and concomitant DLSS patients. Patients undergoing LLIF. The results affirm the favorable outcomes of LLIF as a surgical option for DLSS patients and emphasize the importance of considering patient perspectives when evaluating overall treatment success. The study provides valuable insights into the impact of indirect decompression on patients' QOL, supporting the effectiveness of LLIF as a minimally invasive technique for DLSS and DS management.
Exploring the association between COVID-19 and male genital cancer risk in European population: evidence from mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Wang Dejie , Ma Yingjuan , Yan Lin , Gan Wei , Han Yugang , Tan Jiang-Shan , Zhao Wenhua
Published: September 2023

Background

Recently accumulated evidence indicates a potential association between COVID-19 and elevated susceptibility to cancer, including male genital cancer. However, the causal nature of this relationship remains unclear.

Methods

In this Mendelian randomization (MR) study, we investigated the potential causal relationship between COVID-19 and male genital cancer using genetic variants as instrumental variables. We utilized summary statistics from two large-scale genome-wide association studies of COVID-19 hospitalized Vs. controls, as well as data from a population-based male genital cancer database based on European ancestry. We applied stringent quality control measures to select instrumental variables, including checking for linkage disequilibrium, removing low-quality variants, and assessing the strength of the instruments using the F-statistic. We conducted the MR  analysis using the inverse-variance weighted method and several sensitivity analyses (including MR Egger and Weighted Median MR analysis) to test the robustness of our results.

Results

Our MR analysis revealed no causal associations between COVID-19 hospitalization and the incidence of male genital cancer. In the inverse-variance weighted analysis, no causal associations were observed between patients with COVID-19 hospitalization and the incidence of male genital cancer (odds ratio = 1.000 and 95% confidence interval = 0.998-1.001, p = 0.668). The estimated causal effect was consistent across all sensitivity analyses (including the Weighted Median, the MR Egger analysis, and the MR PROSSO analysis). The leave-one-out analysis showed that there was no any sing Single-nucleotide polymorphism significantly influencing our results.

Conclusions

Our study provides evidence that there is no causal association between COVID-19 hospitalization and male genital cancer.
Telomere sequence variability in genotypes from natural plant populations: unusual block-organized double-monomer terminal telomeric arrays
Authors: Belyayev Alexander , Kalendar Ruslan , Josefiová Jiřina , Paštová Ladislava , Habibi Farzaneh , Mahelka Václav , Mandák Bohumil , Krak Karol
Published: September 2023

Background

Telomeres are the nucleoprotein complexes that physically cap the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes. Most plants possess Arabidopsis-type telomere sequences (TSs). In addition to terminal TSs, more diverse interstitial TSs exists in plants. Although telomeres have been sufficiently studied, the actual diversity of TSs in land plants is underestimated.

Results

We investigate genotypes from seven natural populations with contrasting environments of four Chenopodium species to reveal the variability in TSs by analyzing Oxford Nanopore reads. Fluorescent in situ hybridization was used to localize telomeric repeats on chromosomes. We identified a number of derivative monomers that arise in part of both terminal and interstitial telomeric arrays of a single genotype. The former presents a case of block-organized double-monomer telomers, where blocks of Arabidopsis-type TTTAGGG motifs were interspersed with blocks of derivative TTTAAAA motifs. The latter is an integral part of the satellitome with transformations specific to the inactive genome fraction.

Conclusions

We suggested two alternative models for the possible formation of derivative monomers from telomeric heptamer motifs of Arabidopsis-type. It was assumed that derivatization of TSs is a ubiquitous process in the plant genome but occurrence and frequencies of derivatives may be genotype-specific. We also propose that the formation of non-canonical arrays of TSs, especially at chromosomal termini, may be a source for genomic variability in nature.
The complete chloroplast genome of Diplodiscus trichospermus and phylogenetic position of Brownlowioideae within Malvaceae
Authors: Wu Mingsong , He Liu , Ma Guangyao , Zhang Kai , Yang Haijian , Yang Xinquan
Published: September 2023

Background

Malvaceae is an economically important plant family of 4,225 species in nine subfamilies. Phylogenetic relationships among the nine subfamilies have always been controversial, especially for Brownlowioideae, whose phylogenetic position remains largely unknown due to the lack of samples in previous analysis datasets. To greatly clarify the phylogenetic relationship of Malvaceae, we newly sequenced and assembled the plastome of Diplodiscus trichospermus taxonomically located in Brownlowioideae, and downloaded the allied genomes from public database to build a dataset covering all subfamily members of Malvaceae.

Results

The annotation results showed that the plastome of Diplodiscus trichospermus has a typical quadripartite structure, comprising 112 unique genes, namely 78 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes and 4 rRNA genes. The total length was 158,570 bp with 37.2% GC content. Based on the maximum likelihood method and Bayesian inference, a robust phylogenetic backbone of Malvaceae was reconstructed. The topology showed that Malvaceae was divided distinctly into two major branches which were previously recognized as Byttneriina and Malvadendrina. In the Malvadendrina clade, Malvoideae and Bombacoideae formed, as always, a close sister clade named as Malvatheca. Subfamily Helicteroideae occupied the most basal position and was followed by Sterculioideae which was sister to the alliance of Malvatheca, Brownlowioideae, Dombeyoideae, and Tilioideae. Brownlowioideae together with the clade comprising Dombeyoideae and Tilioideae formed a sister clade to Malvatheca. In addition, one specific conservation SSR and three specific palindrome sequences were observed in Brownlowioideae.

Conclusions

In this study, the phylogenetic framework of subfamilies in Malvaceae has been resolved clearly based on plastomes, which may contribute to a better understanding of the classification and plastome evolution for Malvaceae.
Potential antibacterial, antibiofilm, and photocatalytic performance of gamma-irradiated novel nanocomposite for enhanced disinfection applications with an investigated reaction mechanism
Authors: El-Sayyad Gharieb S. , Abd Elkodous M. , El-Bastawisy Hanan S. , El Rouby Waleed M. A.
Published: September 2023

Background

Water scarcity is now a global challenge due to the population growth and the limited amount of available potable water. In addition, modern industrialization, and microbial pathogenesis is resulting in water pollution on a large scale.

Methods

In the present study, reusable Co0.5Ni0.5Fe2O4/SiO2/TiO2 composite matrix was incorporated with CdS NPs to develop an efficient photocatalyst, and antimicrobial agents for wastewater treatment, and disinfection purpose. The antibacterial performance of the gamma-irradiated samples was evaluated against various types of Gram-positive bacteria using ZOI, MIC, antibiofilm, and effect of UV-exposure. Antibacterial reaction mechanism was assessed by bacterial membrane leakage assay, and SEM imaging. In addition, their photocatalytic efficiency was tested against MB cationic dye as a typical water organic pollutant.

Results

Our results showed that, the formed CdS NPs were uniformly distributed onto the surface of the nanocomposite matrix. While, the resulted CdS-based nanocomposite possessed an average particle size of nearly 90.6 nm. The antibacterial performance of the prepared nanocomposite was significantly increased after activation with gamma and UV irradiations. The improved antibacterial performance was mainly due to the synergistic effect of both TiO2 and CdS NPs; whereas, the highest photocatalytic efficiency of MB removal was exhibited in alkaline media due to the electrostatic attraction between the cationic MB and the negatively-charged samples. In addition, the constructed heterojunction enabled better charge separation and increased the lifetime of the photogenerated charge carriers.

Conclusion

Our results can pave the way towards the development of efficient photocatalysts for wastewater treatment and promising antibacterial agents for disinfection applications.
Phylogeography and ecological niche modeling implicate multiple microrefugia of Swertia tetraptera during quaternary glaciations
Authors: Yang Lucun , Zhou Guoying
Published: September 2023

Background

Climate fluctuations during the Pleistocene and mountain uplift are vital driving forces affecting geographic distribution. Here, we ask how an annual plant responded to the Pleistocene glacial cycles.

Methods

In this study, we analyzed the population demographic history of the annual herb Swertia tetraptera Maxim (Gentianaceae) endemic to Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP). A total of 301 individuals from 35 populations of S. tetraptera were analyzed based on two maternally inherited chloroplast fragments (trnL-trnF and trnS-trnG). Phylogeographic analysis was combined with species distribution modeling to detect the genetic variations in S. tetraptera.

Results

The genetic diversity of S. tetraptera was high, likely due to its wide natural range, high proportion of endemic haplotypes and evolutionary history. Fifty-four haplotypes were identified in S. tetraptera. Only a few haplotypes were widespread (Hap_4, Hap_1, Hap_3), which were dispersed throughout the present geographical range of S. tetraptera, while many haplotypes were confined to single populations. The cpDNA dataset showed that phylogeographic structuring was lacking across the distribution range of S. tetraptera. Analyses of molecular variance showed that most genetic variation was found within populations (70.51%). In addition, the relationships of the haplotypes were almost completely unresolved by phylogenetic reconstruction. Both mismatch distribution analysis and neutrality tests showed a recent expansion across the distribution range of S. tetraptera. The MaxEnt analysis showed that S. tetraptera had a narrow distribution range during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) and a wide distribution range during the current time, with predictions into the future showing the distribution range of S. tetraptera expanding.

Conclusion

Our study implies that the current geographic and genetic distribution of S. tetraptera is likely to have been shaped by Quaternary periods. Multiple microrefugia of S. tetraptera existed during Quaternary glaciations. Rapid intraspecific diversification and hybridization and/or introgression may have played a vital role in shaping the current distribution patterns of S. tetraptera. The distribution range of S. tetraptera appeared to have experienced contraction during the LGM; in the future, when the global climate becomes warmer with rising carbon dioxide levels, the distribution of S. tetraptera will expand.
Effects of intraoperative Magnesium sulfate infusion on emergency agitation during general anesthesia in patients undergoing radical mastectomy: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Su Yan-hong , Luo De-cai , Pang Yong
Published: September 2023

Background

Emergency agitation is a common postoperative complication in patients under general anesthesia, which can lead to unpredictable damages such as shedding of drainage tube and bleeding from the wound. The purpose of the study is to investigate whether intraoperative infusion of Magnesium Sulfate reduces the incidence of emergency agitation (EA) in patients undergoing radical mastectomy, and to evaluate its safety and efficacy.

Methods

A total of 70 patients were randomly assigned to two groups: the Magnesium group (M group) and the control group (C group). After a routine intravenous anesthetic induction, patients in the M group received a 30 mg/kg bolus of intravenous magnesium during the first hour and then a continuous infusion of 10 mg/kg ×h until the end of the surgery, patients in the C group received 0.9% saline at the same volume and rate. The sedation-agitation scale (SAS) and the visual analogue scale were used to assess agitation and pain, respectively.

Results

Compared to the C group, the M group reduced the incidence of EA significantly (odds ratio 0.26, 95% confidence interval 0.09–0.71, P = 0.009). The postoperative pain score of the magnesium sulfate group(0(0,1)) was lower than that of the control group(2(0,3)) at T0 (P = 0.011). Additionally, the M group required a lower dosage of remifentanil during surgery compared to the C group(300.4 ± 84 versus 559.3 ± 184 µg, respectively, P<0.001).

Conclusions

the intraoperative infusion of magnesium sulfate is a safe and effective method for reducing the incidence of emergency agitation in patients undergoing radical mastectomy.

Trail registration

The study was registered in Chictr.org with the identifier: ChiCTR2300070595 on 18/04/2023.
Trial in Elderly with Musculoskeletal Problems due to Underlying Sarcopenia—Faeces to Unravel the Gut and Inflammation Translationally (TEMPUS-FUGIT): protocol of a cross-sequential study to explore the gut-muscle axis in the development and treatment of sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults
Authors: Lapauw Laurence , Dupont Jolan , Amini Nadjia , Vercauteren Laura , Verschueren Sabine , Tournoy Jos , Raes Jeroen , Gielen Evelien
Published: September 2023

Background

Gut microbiota (GM) might play a role in muscle metabolism and physiological processes through a hypothesized gut-muscle axis, influencing muscle mass and function and thus, sarcopenia. The Trial in Elderly with Musculoskeletal Problems due to Underlying Sarcopenia—Faeces to Unravel the Gut and Inflammation Translationally (TEMPUS-FUGIT) aims to explore the gut-muscle axis in sarcopenia.

Methods

First, in a cross-sectional case–control phase, 100 community-dwelling adults without sarcopenia will be compared to 100 community-dwelling adults (≥ 65 years) with sarcopenia of similar age-, gender and BMI-ratio, participating in the ongoing ‘Exercise and Nutrition for Healthy AgeiNg’ (ENHANce; NCT03649698) study. Sarcopenia is diagnosed according to the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EWGSOP2) criteria. GM composition and intestinal inflammatory markers (fecal calprotectin, lactoferrin and S100A12) will be determined in fecal samples. Systemic inflammatory markers (hs-CRP, IL-4, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-13, IL-1β and creatine kinase) will be determined in fasted blood samples. Both groups will be compared using appropriate statistical testing, whereas linear regression will be used for cross-sectional associations between gut, inflammatory and sarcopenia parameters.

Second, in the longitudinal phase, sarcopenic older adults will be requested to deliver five fecal samples during the 12-week intervention to assess the effects of protein, omega-3 and a physical exercise program on the GM.

Discussion

TEMPUS-FUGIT aims to explore the gut-muscle axis by comparing GM composition between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic older adults and to determine the association of GM with intestinal and systemic inflammatory markers and sarcopenia-defining parameters (muscle mass, muscle strength and physical performance). Furthermore, effects of single or combined, optimized and individualized anabolic interventions (exercise, protein and omega-3 supplementation), on GM will be explored in persons with sarcopenia.

TEMPUS-FUGIT aims to impact clinical practice by clarifying the relationship between the gut-muscle axis and sarcopenia. TEMPUS-FUGIT is expected to contribute to the discovery of clinical and microbial biomarkers for sarcopenia and insights in its pathophysiology, opening possible future perspectives for novel sarcopenia treatment strategies targeting GM.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrails.gov NCT05008770, registered on August 17, 2021; first participant enrolled on September 21 2021.
WNT pathway in focal cortical dysplasia compared to perilesional nonlesional tissue in refractory epilepsies
Authors: Marinowic Daniel R. , Zanirati Gabriele G. , Xavier Fernando A. C. , Varella Fábio Jean , Azevedo Sofia Prates da Cunha , Ghilardi Isadora Machado , Pereira-Neto Normando G. , Koff Marco Antônio Eduardo , Paglioli Eliseu , Palmini André , Abreu José Garcia , Machado Denise C. , da Costa Jaderson C.
Published: September 2023

Background

Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) is a malformation of cortical development that causes medical refractory seizures, and one of the main treatments may be surgical resection of the affected area of the brain. People affected by FCD may present with seizures of variable severity since childhood. Despite many medical treatments available, only surgery can offer cure. The pathophysiology of the disease is not yet understood; however, it is known that several gene alterations may play a role. The WNT/β-catenin pathway is closely related to the control and balance of cell proliferation and differentiation in the central nervous system. The aim of this study was to explore genes related to the WNT/β-catenin pathway in lesional and perilesional brain tissue in patients with FCD type II.

Methods

Dysplastic and perilesional tissue from the primary dysplastic lesion of patients with FCD type IIa were obtained from two patients who underwent surgical treatment. The analysis of the relative expression of genes was performed by a qRT-PCR array (super array) containing 84 genes related to the WNT pathway.

Results

Our results suggest the existence of molecular alteration in some genes of the WNT pathway in tissue with dysplastic lesions and of perilesional tissue. We call this tissue of normal-appearing adjacent cortex (NAAC). Of all genes analyzed, a large number of genes show similar behavior between injured, perilesional and control tissues. However, some genes have similar characteristics between the perilesional and lesional tissue and are different from the control brain tissue, presenting the perilesional tissue as a molecularly altered material.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the perilesional area after surgical resection of tissue with cortical dysplasia presents molecular changes that may play a role in the recurrence of seizures in these patients. The perilesional tissue should receive expanded attention beyond the somatic mutations described and associated with FCD, such as mTOR, for example, to new signaling pathways that may play a crucial role in seizure recurrence.
Dietary treatment postpartum in women with obesity reduces weight and prevents weight gain: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Øhman Elisabeth A. , Fossli Maria , Ottestad Inger , Holven Kirsten B. , Ulven Stine M. , Løland Beate F. , Brekke Hilde K.
Published: September 2023

Background

Women with pre-pregnancy obesity have an increased risk of retaining or gaining weight postpartum and may benefit from weight loss treatment. However, evidence is lacking for weight loss strategies in women with BMIs in the higher obesity classes. A dietary treatment for postpartum weight loss resulted in a 10% weight reduction in lactating women with a mean BMI of 30 kg/m2. We aimed to examine the effects of this dietary treatment on changes in weight, markers of lipid and glucose metabolism, waist and hip circumference and postpartum weight retention (PPWR) in postpartum women with higher BMIs than tested previously.

Methods

At baseline, approximately 8 weeks postpartum, 29 women with a mean (SD) BMI = 40.0 (5.2) kg/m2 were randomised to a 12-week dietary treatment (n 14) or to a control treatment (n 15). Measurements were made at baseline and after 3 and 12 months. Data was analysed using mixed model.

Results

The mean weight change in the diet group was -2.3 (3.1) kg compared to 1.7 (3.1) kg in the control group after 3 months (P = 0.003) and -4.2 (5.6) kg compared to 4.8 (11.8) kg in the control group after 12 months (P = 0.02). The dietary treatment led to reduced waist circumference (P < 0.04) and PPWR (P < 0.01) compared to the control treatment at both time points. The treatment lowered fasting blood glucose at 12 months (P = 0.007) as the only effect on markers of lipid and glucose metabolism.

Conclusion

The dietary treatment postpartum reduced weight and prevented weight retention or weight gain in women with obesity.

Trial registration

The trial was retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03579667) 06/07/2018.

Graphical Abstract

In a randomised, controlled trial, 29 postpartum women with obesity were allocated to a dietary treatment or a control treatment. The dietary treatment reduced weight and prevented postpartum weight retention or weight gain after 12 months.

Reference: Adapted from “Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Study Design (2 Arms, Graphical)”, by BioRender.com (2022). Retrieved from https://app.biorender.com/biorender-templates.
A secondary analysis of the factors associated with women´s adequate utilization of antenatal care services during their last pregnancy in Uganda
Authors: Towongo Moses Festo , Ngome Enock , Navaneetham Kannan , Letamo Gobopamang
Published: September 2023

Background

Adequate antenatal care services (ANC) use is critical to identifying and reducing pregnancy risks. Despite the importance placed on adequate antenatal care service utilization, women in Uganda continue to underutilize antenatal care services. The primary goal of this study is to identify the factors associated with women’s adequate utilization of antenatal care services in Uganda.

Methods

Secondary data from the 2016 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey were used in this study. The study sample consists of 9,416 women aged 15 to 49 who reported giving birth in the five years preceding the survey. The adequate use of antenatal care services is the dependent variable. A woman who used antenatal care services at least four times is considered to have adequately used antenatal care services. We used univariate, bivariate, and multilevel logistic regression modelling to identify the factors associated with adequate utilization of antenatal care services. STATA version 14.2 was used to analyze the data.

Results

The prevalence of adequate utilization of antenatal care services in Uganda was found to be 61.4%. Women with secondary or higher education were 32.0% (AOR = 1.32, 95% CI;1.07–1.63), employed women were 26.0% (AOR = 1.26, 95% CI;1.10–1.44), women who received high-quality antenatal care content were 78.0% (AOR = 1.78, 95% CI;1.58–2.02), and women who belong to the rich category of the wealth index bracket were 27.0% (AOR = 1.27, 95% CI;1.09–1.49), more likely to use antenatal care services adequately. Finally, the study discovered that women from less diverse ethnic communities were 15.0% (AOR, 0.85, 95%CI; 0.73–0.99) less likely to use antenatal care services adequately.

Conclusion

Women’s adequate utilization of antenatal care was influenced by both community and individual-level characteristics. Policymakers must use a multi-sectoral approach to develop policies that address both individual and community-level characteristics.
Spontaneous regression of an isolated retinal astrocytic hamartoma in a newborn: a case report
Authors: Yang Bo , Li Danfeng , Xiao Jun
Published: September 2023

Background

To report the spontaneous regression of an isolated retinal astrocytic hamartoma in a newborn. During the seven-month follow-up duration, fundus photography and fluorescein angiography examinations were performed.

Case presentation

An isolated retinal astrocytic hamartoma was detected in the nasal retina of the left eye of a 4-day-old male infant. At the time of initial presentation, we detected a solitary yellowish-white flat mass with an approximate size of 1.5 disc diameters in the nasal retina. Fluorescein angiography (FA) revealed a diffuse hyperfluorescence with slight fluorescence leakage. Seven months later, the fundus examination showed no lesion in the left eye, FA revealed mild tortuous vessels without leakage.

Conclusions

In the present case, we established that the isolated retinal astrocytic hamartoma in this infant has underwent spontaneous regression. This case can point out that follow –up reexaminations are advisable for a solitary yellowish-white flat mass of the fundus in a newborn.