bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Childcare disruptions and maternal health during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: MacCallum-Bridges Colleen L , Admon Lindsay K , Daw Jamie R
Published: May 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly all US states enacted stay-at-home orders, upending usual childcare arrangements and providing a unique opportunity to study the association between childcare disruptions and maternal health. Using data from the 2021–2022 National Survey of Children's Health, we estimated the association between childcare disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and self-reported mental and physical health among female parents of young children (ages 0–5 years). Further, we assessed racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in (1) the prevalence of childcare disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and (2) the association between childcare disruptions and mental or physical health. Female parents who experienced childcare disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic were less likely to report excellent or very good mental (−7.4 percentage points) or physical (−2.5 percentage points) health. Further, childcare disruptions were more common among parents with greater socioeconomic privilege (ie, higher education, higher income), but may have been more detrimental to health among parents with less socioeconomic privilege (eg, lower education, lower income, and single parents). As state and federal policymakers take action to address the maternal health crisis in the United States, our findings suggest that measures to improve childcare stability may also promote maternal health and health equity.
‘My parkrun friends.’ A qualitative study of social experiences of men at parkrun in Ireland
Authors: Dunne Allison , Quirk Helen , Bullas Alice , Haake Steve
Published: May 2024

Social support is a well-established determinant of mental wellbeing. Community initiatives, which combine a purposeful activity with social connection, may be appropriate to promote the mental wellbeing of middle-aged men in Ireland—a group at risk of poor mental wellbeing due to social isolation. parkrun offers free, weekly, 5km run or walk events in 22 countries. This study aims to explore the social experience of parkrun participation for middle-aged men in Ireland and considers how social connections made at parkrun relate to mental wellbeing. Online semi-structured interviews were conducted in 2022/23 with 39 men aged 45–64 years, who run, walk or volunteer at parkrun in Ireland, recruited purposively in rural and urban communities. Men with a range of parkrun experience gave interviews lasting a mean of 32 minutes. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Reflexive thematic analysis resulted in three themes and ten subthemes. The men described parkrun as offering a welcoming and supportive environment (Theme 1). Men at parkrun could choose the level of social connections, building strong or weak social ties to provide social support and improve mental wellbeing (Theme 2). Social engagement with parkrun evolved following repeated participation (Theme 3). The results suggest that parkrun is a suitable community initiative for middle-aged men at risk of poor mental wellbeing due to social isolation. Social connections were developed after repeated participation in parkrun and these connections improved subjective mental wellbeing. The findings from this study could be used to design new initiatives for mental health promotion.
Two-Point Polynomial Patterns in Subsets of Positive Density in ℝn
Authors: Chen Xuezhi , Miao Changxing
Published: May 2024

Let $\gamma (t)=(P_{1}(t),\ldots ,P_{n}(t))$ where $P_{i}$ is a real polynomial with zero constant term for each $1\leq i\leq n$. We will show the existence of the configuration $\{x,x+\gamma (t)\}$ in sets of positive density $\epsilon $ in $[0,1]^{n}$ with a gap estimate $t\geq \delta (\epsilon )$ when $P_{i}$’s are arbitrary, and in $[0,N]^{n}$ with a gap estimate $t\geq \delta (\epsilon )N^{n}$ when $P_{i}$’s are of distinct degrees where $\delta (\epsilon )=\exp \left (-\exp \left (c\epsilon ^{-4}\right )\right )$ and $c$ only depends on $\gamma $. To prove these two results, decay estimates of certain oscillatory integral operators and Bourgain’s reduction are primarily utilised. For the first result, dimension-reducing arguments are also required to handle the linear dependency. For the second one, we will prove a stronger result instead, since then an anisotropic rescaling is allowed in the proof to eliminate the dependence of the decay estimate on $N$. And as a byproduct, using the strategy token to prove the latter case, we extend the corner-type Roth theorem previously proven by the first author and Guo.
Reflections on Endogenous Crises Explanations in a World of Liberal Orders
Authors: Zürn Michael
Published: May 2024

One major contribution of this special forum is to develop the potential of endogenous explanations further. In doing so, most contributions focus on institutional dynamics and temporal sequences instead of “comparative statics.” In this commentary, I want to delve deeper into the logic of endogenous explanations of contestations and crises. Based on a general understanding of the concept of endogenous explanation, the article distinguishes different endogenous accounts and locates the contributions to this forum within such a map.
Comprehensive comparative analysis of the periodontal pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis: exploring the pan-genome, the reconstruction of the gene regulatory network and genome-scale metabolic network
Authors: Miranda-López Diana C , Pérez-Rueda Ernesto , Rojas-Vargas Jorge , Cortez Cecilia Hernández , Saldaña-Padilla Andres , Castelán-Sánchez Hugo G , Castro-Escarpulli Graciela
Published: May 2024

Porphyromonas gingivalis is a nonmotile, obligate anaerobic, Gram-negative bacterium known for its association with periodontal disease and its involvement in systemic diseases such as atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, colon cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. This bacterium produces several virulence factors, including capsules, fimbriae, lipopolysaccharides, proteolytic enzymes, and hemagglutinins. A comparative genomic analysis revealed the open pangenome of P. gingivalis and identified complete type IV secretion systems in strain KCOM2805 and almost complete type VI secretion systems in strains KCOM2798 and ATCC49417, which is a new discovery as previous studies did not find the proteins involved in secretion systems IV and VI. Conservation of some virulence factors between different strains was observed, regardless of their genetic diversity and origin. In addition, we performed for the first time a reconstruction analysis of the gene regulatory network, identifying transcription factors and proteins involved in the regulatory mechanisms of bacterial pathogenesis. In particular, QseB regulates the expression of hemagglutinin and arginine deaminase, while Rex may suppress the release of gingipain through interactions with PorV and the formatum/nitrate transporter. Our study highlights the central role of conserved virulence factors and regulatory pathways, particularly QseB and Rex, in P. gingivalis and provides insights into potential therapeutic targets.
Investigating Research Hotspots of Combat-related Spinal Injuries: A 30-year Bibliometric Analysis Study
Authors: Wang Pengru , Zhou Shangbin , Li Bo , Wang Yingtian , Xu Wei
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Spinal cord injuries often lead to significant motor and sensory deficits, as well as autonomic dysfunction. Compared with normal spinal injuries, combat-related spinal injuries (CRSIs) are usually more complex and challenging to treat because of multiple traumas, firing-line treatments, and arduous initial treatments on a battlefield. Yet numerous issues remain unresolved about clinical treatment and scientific research. The enhancement of CRSI diagnosis and treatment quality by military surgeons and nurses is imperative. The objective of this study is to identify the frontiers, hotspots, and trends among recent research, summarize the development process of clinical trials, and visualize them systematically.

Materials and Methods

We collected publications from CRSI based on the Core Collection of Web of Science for 30 years from January 1, 1993 to May 1, 2023.Visualizations of the knowledge maps were produced using VOSviewer and CiteSpace software. We examined annual trends of publications and distribution patterns, the number of publications, as well as the research hotspots.

Results

Among 201 documents, it was found that there was a stable upward trend in publications. There were 2 rapid growth stages during the 30 years. Among all countries, the USA contributed the most publications, along with the highest influence and the most international cooperation. Military Medicine was the journal of the maximum publications, whereas the Spine journal was the most influential one. Keyword co-occurrence analysis and trend topics analysis revealed that these articles focused 5 distinct categories for CRSI.

Conclusions

As the first bibliometric study focused on CRSI, we demonstrated the evolution of the field and provided future research directions. We summarized the hotspots and 5 clusters published. This would serve as a useful guide for clinicians and scientists regarding CRSI global impacts.
Impact of Hydrocolloid Dressing and Moisturizing Cream as Facial Skin Protectants Among Health Care Workers
Authors: Oblea Pedro N , Nguyen-Wu Elizabeth D , Siaki Leilani A , Cho Sunghun , Romito Kenneth J , Chan Wenyaw
Published: May 2024

Introduction

During the novel coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, health care workers experienced facial problems from prolonged use of N95 masks, including skin irritation, pigmentation changes, and contact dermatitis. We assessed the use of hydrocolloid dressing versus dimethicone cream to prevent skin breakdown among military health care workers while wearing an N95.

Materials and Methods

Participants were recruited using convenience and snowball sampling in this nonblinded, randomized, cross-over study with 2 active treatments, hydrocolloid dressing and dimethicone cream, across 3 time points. The skin was assessed using photographs and subepidermal moisture scanner (SEM). N95 seal integrity was assessed using qualitative fit test. Institutional review board approval was obtained from the Madigan Army Medical Center Institutional Review Board.

Results

Among the 73 participants, wearing an N95 alone versus with dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions. There were no significant differences in qualitative fit test failure rate between groups. Participants experienced minimal to no dizziness, loss of energy/tiredness/fatigue, claustrophobia, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and dry or itchy eyes. For all interventions, wearing an N95 did not interfere with participants’ concentration, verbal communication, hearing, vision, and, importantly, delivery of care.

Conclusions

Using a skin protectant with an N95 may prevent adverse skin reactions while preserving health care workers’ ability to safely and competently care for patients in routine and pandemic conditions.
A Conceptual Model of Individual Clinical Readiness
Authors: VanFosson Christopher A
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Force readiness is a priority among senior leaders across all branches of the Department of Defense. Units that do not achieve readiness benchmarks are considered non-deployable until the unit achieves the requisite benchmarks. Because military units are made up of individuals, the unit cannot be ready if the individuals within the unit are not ready. For medical personnel, this refers to one’s ability to competently provide patient care in a deployed setting or their individual clinical readiness (ICR). A review of the literature found no conceptual model of ICR. Other potential concepts, such as individual medical readiness, were identified but used inconsistently. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to define ICR and propose a conceptual model to inform future efforts to achieve ICR and facilitate future study of the concept.

Materials and Methods

Model development occurred using a 3-step theoretical model synthesis process. The process included specification of key concepts, identification of related factors and relationships, and organizing them into an integrated network of ideas.

Results

ICR is the clinically oriented service members’ (COSM) ability to meet the demands of the militarily relevant, assigned clinical mission. ICR leads to one’s “individual clinical performance,” a key concept distinct from ICR. To understand ICR, one must account for “individual characteristics,” as well as one’s “education,” “training,” and “exposure.” ICR and individual clinical performance are influenced by the “quality of exposure” and the “patient care environment.” One’s “individual clinical performance” also reciprocally influences the patient care environment, as well as the “team’s clinical performance.” These factors (individual clinical performance, team clinical performance, and the patient care environment) influence “patient outcomes.” In the proposed model, patient outcomes are an indirect result of ICR and its antecedents (personal characteristics, education, training, and exposure); one’s individual clinical performance may not be consistent with their ICR. Patient outcomes are also influenced by the “patient environment” (external to the health care environment) and “patient characteristics”; these elements of the model do not influence ICR or individual clinical performance.

Conclusion

Force readiness is a Department of Defense priority. In order for military units to be deployment ready, so too must their personnel be deployment ready. For COSMs, this includes one’s ability to competently provide patient care in a deployed setting or their ICR. This article defines ICR, as well as identifies another key concept and other factors associated with ICR. The proposed model is a tool for military medical leaders to communicate with and influence non-medical military leaders in the Department of Defense. Future research is needed to further refine the proposed model, determine the strength of the proposed relationships, and identify interventions to improve ICR.
Psychometric Properties of the Weight Loss Readiness Test in Active Duty Military Personnel Enrolled in a Weight Management Trial
Authors: Tynan Mara , Afari Niloofar , Roesch Scott , Herbert Matthew S
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The Weight Loss Readiness Test (WLRT) was developed to encourage consideration of factors influencing readiness to engage in weight loss. The WLRT is used clinically, most notably to assess motivation before initiating Navy weight management programs, yet little is known about its psychometric properties.

Materials and Methods

This study examined the reliability, convergent and predictive validity, and factor structure of the WLRT in a sample of active duty service members enrolling in a Navy-based weight management program (N = 178, identified as female = 61%, mean age = 29.7 years, mean baseline body mass index = 33.1 kg/m2). All procedures were approved by the respective Institutional Review Boards and research committees.

Results

Exploratory factor analysis revealed a 5-factor structure explaining 52% of the variance that best fit the data with low to moderate correlations between factors: (1) Motivation, (2) Exercise-Related Confidence, (3) Non-Exercise Confidence, (4) Cues, and (5) Anticipated Satisfaction. Internal reliability of subscales was acceptable to good (α = 0.755-0.903). Generally, convergent validity was found between the identified subscales and other measures of motivation, confidence, and disinhibited eating in expected directions. No relationships were found between the subscales and predictive validity outcomes (weight change, program attendance).

Conclusions

Results indicate adequate structural and convergent validity in the WLRT, but that weight loss readiness, as measured by the WLRT, does not provide predictive validity regarding weight loss or attendance outcomes in this sample. Nonetheless, this measure offers clinical utility in fostering thoughtful conversations about weight loss. The WLRT uniquely focuses on long-term maintenance of behavior change and differentiates between exercise-related and non-exercise confidence. Future studies should further probe the utility of this measure in other populations and the contexts in which it is being used.
Gender and Mentorship in Military Medicine: A Survey Study
Authors: Cole Rebekah , Zurbrugg Kaitlin , Lee Yen , Dong Ting , Bunin Jessica , Granite Guinevere , Barak Amber , Rudinsky Sherri L
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Mentorship is essential for professional development and advancement within the military. In civilian medicine, the intersection between gender and mentorship holds important implications for research opportunities, academic success, and career progression. However, the intersection of gender and mentorship has not yet been explored within the field of military medicine. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to investigate the role of gender in mentorship within the field of military medicine.

Materials and Methods

We investigated gender and mentorship within military medicine by developing and distributing a 16-item Likert survey to active-duty military physicians. We used the Chi-squared test of independence and the independent samples t-test to examine the role of gender in mentorship among the 16 questions.

Results

The male respondents reported more same-gender mentors than females (male [M]: 61.9% vs. female [F]: 33.0%), whereas the female respondents had significantly more mentors of the opposite gender than males (M: 12.4% vs. F: 47.3%). A higher proportion of males indicated no preference compared to females. Conversely, a significant preference for a same-sex mentor was expressed by female respondents compared to male respondents (M: 5.2% vs. F: 30.1%). In contrast, female respondents considered having a mentor more important than their male counterparts (t(206) = −2.26, P = .012, F: 3.86 vs. M: 3.57). Both male and female respondents had significantly more female mentees ($\chi _{\left( 1 \right)}^2$ = 12.92, P < .001, Cramer’s V = 0.254).

Conclusions

While the female participants in our study preferred female mentors, the male participants had more same-gender mentors than the female participants. In addition, more females reported that they did not have the time to be mentored. Our results, therefore, suggest that training males to be better mentors to females and providing accessible mentorship training to females may promote equitable career development within military medicine.
Consequences of Assigning Non-Measurable Sets Imprecise Probabilities
Authors: Thong Joshua
Published: May 2024

This paper is a discussion note on Isaacs, Hájek and Hawthorne (2022), which claims to offer a new motivation for imprecise probabilities, based on the mathematical phenomenon of non-measurability. In this note, I clarify some consequences of that proposal. In particular, I show that if the proposal is applied to a bounded 3-dimensional space, then one has to reject at least one of the following:

• If A is at most as probable as B and B is at most as probable as C, then A is at  most as probable as C.

• Let A∩C=B∩C=∅. A is at most as probable as B if and only if (A∪C) is at  most as probable as (B∪C).

But rejecting either statement seems unattractive.
Detection of pan-azole resistant Aspergillus fumigatus in horticulture and a composting facility in Belgium
Authors: Debergh Hanne , Castelain Philippe , Goens Karine , Lefevere Paulien , Claessens Jessie , De Vits Elien , Vissers Marc , Blindeman Liesbet , Bataille Charlotte , Saegerman Claude , Packeu Ann
Published: May 2024

Azole resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus (ARAf) is becoming a worldwide health threat due to increasing occurrence in the environment. However, environmental surveillance programs are not commonly in place and are lacking in Belgium. Since no data on the occurrence of ARAf and the presence of hotspots for the selection of azole resistance is available in Belgium, a first study on the prevalence of ARAf in the environment was conducted. A total of 232 air and compost or soil samples were taken from two composting facilities, and from horticultural and agricultural crops. The azole susceptibility pattern was determined using the EUCAST method (E. Def. 9.4), and the cyp51A gene and its promotor region were sequenced in A. fumigatus isolates with phenotypic azole resistance. Six pan-azole-resistant A. fumigatus isolates were identified, originating from compost and horticultural crops. Four isolates carried the TR34/L98H mutation, and one isolate carried the TR46/Y121F/T289A mutation. However, we did not observe any ARAf isolates from agricultural crops. In conclusion, this study reported the first TR34/L98H and TR46/Y121F/T289A mutation isolated from a composting facility and horticulture in Belgium. The implementation of standardization in environmental surveillance of A. fumigatus on a European level would be beneficial in order to identify hotspots.
On the bright end of the UV luminosity functions of galaxies at z ∼ 0.6–1.2
Authors: Sharma M , Page M J , Ferreras I , Breeveld A A
Published: May 2024

We derive the ultraviolet (UV) luminosity function (LF) of star-forming galaxies in the redshift range z = 0.6–1.2, in the rest-frame far-UV (1500 Å) wavelength. For this work, we are in particular interested in the bright end of the UV LF in this redshift range. Data from the XMM–Newton Optical Monitor (XMM-OM), near-UV (2410–3565 Å) observations over 1.5 deg2 of the Cosmic evolution survey (COSMOS) field are employed for this purpose. We compile a source list of 879 sources with UVW1AB in the range ∼21–24 mag from the wide-area UVW1 image of the COSMOS field in the two bins 0.6 ≤ z ≤ 0.8 and 0.8 ≤ z ≤ 1.2. The M1500 for these sources lies in the interval [ − 19.10, −22.50]. We use the maximum likelihood to fit a Schechter function model to the unbinned data to estimate the parameters (faint-end slope, characteristic magnitude, and normalization) of the Schechter function. We find the shape of the LF to be consistent with the Schechter model, and the parameters are in fair agreement with other studies conducted using direct measurements of the 1500 Å flux. We see a brightening of the characteristic magnitude as we move from lower (0.7) to higher (1.0) redshift. The measures for luminosity density are within the error margins of past studies. We examine the brightest sources in our sample for the active galactic nucleus contribution. These sources are characterized by their spectral energy distributions, integrated infrared (IR) luminosities, and morphologies. We also explore their overlap with the brightest IR galaxies in a similar redshift range.
Arabidopsis AGO1 N-terminal extension acts as an essential hub for PRMT5 interaction and post-translational modifications
Authors: Martín-Merchán Andrea , Lavatelli Antonela , Engler Camila , González-Miguel Víctor M , Moro Belén , Rosano Germán L , Bologna Nicolas G
Published: May 2024

Plant ARGONAUTE (AGO) proteins play pivotal roles regulating gene expression through small RNA (sRNA) -guided mechanisms. Among the 10 AGO proteins in Arabidopsis thaliana, AGO1 stands out as the main effector of post-transcriptional gene silencing. Intriguingly, a specific region of AGO1, its N-terminal extension (NTE), has garnered attention in recent studies due to its involvement in diverse regulatory functions, including subcellular localization, sRNA loading and interactions with regulatory factors. In the field of post-translational modifications (PTMs), little is known about arginine methylation in Arabidopsis AGOs. In this study, we show that NTE of AGO1 (NTEAGO1) undergoes symmetric arginine dimethylation at specific residues. Moreover, NTEAGO1 interacts with the methyltransferase PRMT5, which catalyzes its methylation. Notably, we observed that the lack of symmetric dimethylarginine has no discernible impact on AGO1’s subcellular localization or miRNA loading capabilities. However, the absence of PRMT5 significantly alters the loading of a subgroup of sRNAs into AGO1 and reshapes the NTEAGO1 interactome. Importantly, our research shows that symmetric arginine dimethylation of NTEs is a common process among Arabidopsis AGOs, with AGO1, AGO2, AGO3 and AGO5 undergoing this PTM. Overall, this work deepens our understanding of PTMs in the intricate landscape of RNA-associated gene regulation.
Recruitment of multi-segment genomic RNAs by Bluetongue virus requires a preformed RNA network
Authors: Sung Po-yu , Phelan Jody E , Luo Dongsheng , Kulasegaran-Shylini Raghavendran , Bohn Patrick , Smyth Redmond P , Roy Polly
Published: May 2024

How do segmented RNA viruses correctly recruit their genome has yet to be clarified. Bluetongue virus is a double-stranded RNA virus with 10 segments of different sizes, but it assembles its genome in single-stranded form through a series of specific RNA–RNA interactions prior to packaging. In this study, we determined the structure of each BTV transcript, individually and in different combinations, using 2′-hydroxyl acylation analysed by primer extension and mutational profiling (SHAPE-MaP). SHAPE-MaP identified RNA structural changes during complex formation and putative RNA–RNA interaction sites. Our data also revealed a core RNA-complex of smaller segments which serves as the foundation (‘anchor’) for the assembly of a complete network composed of ten ssRNA segments. The same order of core RNA complex formation was identified in cells transfected with viral RNAs. No viral protein was required for these assembly reactions. Further, substitution mutations in the interacting bases within the core assemblies, altered subsequent segment addition and affected virus replication. These data identify a wholly RNA driven reaction that may offer novel opportunities for designed attenuation or antiviral therapeutics.
BaRDIC: robust peak calling for RNA–DNA interaction data
Authors: Mylarshchikov Dmitry E , Nikolskaya Arina I , Bogomaz Olesja D , Zharikova Anastasia A , Mironov Andrey A
Published: May 2024

Chromatin-associated non-coding RNAs play important roles in various cellular processes by targeting genomic loci. Two types of genome-wide NGS experiments exist to detect such targets: ‘one-to-all’, which focuses on targets of a single RNA, and ‘all-to-all’, which captures targets of all RNAs in a sample. As with many NGS experiments, they are prone to biases and noise, so it becomes essential to detect ‘peaks’—specific interactions of an RNA with genomic targets. Here, we present BaRDIC—Binomial RNA–DNA Interaction Caller—a tailored method to detect peaks in both types of RNA–DNA interaction data. BaRDIC is the first tool to simultaneously take into account the two most prominent biases in the data: chromatin heterogeneity and distance-dependent decay of interaction frequency. Since RNAs differ in their interaction preferences, BaRDIC adapts peak sizes according to the abundances and contact patterns of individual RNAs. These features enable BaRDIC to make more robust predictions than currently applied peak-calling algorithms and better handle the characteristic sparsity of all-to-all data. The BaRDIC package is freely available at https://github.com/dmitrymyl/BaRDIC.
Long-term renal and cardiovascular risks of tacrolimus in patients with lupus nephritis
Authors: van Schaik Mieke , Bredewold Obbo W , Priester Merel , Michels Wieneke M , Rabelink Ton J , Rotmans Joris I , Teng Y K Onno
Published: May 2024

Background

Despite continuous advancement, treatment of lupus nephritis (LN) remains challenging. Recent guidelines now include a regimen incorporating tacrolimus as a first-line treatment option. Even though tacrolimus is effective in combination with mycophenolate and corticosteroids, concerns remain regarding long-term use, given its association with increased cardiovascular risks including nephrotoxicity, hypertension, dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia in kidney transplant recipients. However, in LN, long-term evaluations and head-to-head comparisons are lacking and thus the safety profile remains ill-defined. We hypothesized that chronic toxicity also occurs in LN patients. Therefore, this study aimed to assess long-term cardiovascular and renal outcomes of tacrolimus in LN patients.

Methods

This observational cohort study examined adult LN patients treated with tacrolimus, assessing renal outcomes, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular events and the Framingham risk score. The results were compared with a control group of CNI-naïve LN patients.

Results

Of the 219 LN patients in this study, 43 (19.6%) had tacrolimus exposure. Over a median follow-up of 7.1 years, tacrolimus use was associated with significant kidney function decline (6.8 mL/min/1.73 m2, versus 0.8 in the control group). The incidence of end-stage kidney disease was similar. Cardiovascular event incidence was equally low in both groups. The 10-year risk of coronary heart disease was lower in the tacrolimus group, primarily due to age differences. HbA1c levels were higher in the tacrolimus group (37.4 mmol/mol) than in controls (33.6 mmol/mol), although the incidence of diabetes was similar. There were no differences in the occurrence of hypertension or dyslipidemia.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that tacrolimus exposure was associated with long-term kidney function loss in LN patients. Although cardiovascular risk factors and events were similar to patients never exposed to tacrolimus, there may be an increased risk of developing diabetes. Therefore, our study supports vigilance towards renal adverse effects in LN patients treated with tacrolimus.
Towards consistency in pediatric brain tumor measurements: Challenges, solutions, and the role of artificial intelligence-based segmentation
Authors: Familiar Ariana M , Fathi Kazerooni Anahita , Vossough Arastoo , Ware Jeffrey B , Bagheri Sina , Khalili Nastaran , Anderson Hannah , Haldar Debanjan , Storm Phillip B , Resnick Adam C , Kann Benjamin H , Aboian Mariam , Kline Cassie , Weller Michael , Huang Raymond Y , Chang Susan M , Fangusaro Jason R , Hoffman Lindsey M , Mueller Sabine , Prados Michael , Nabavizadeh Ali
Published: May 2024

MR imaging is central to the assessment of tumor burden and changes over time in neuro-oncology. Several response assessment guidelines have been set forth by the Response Assessment in Pediatric Neuro-Oncology (RAPNO) working groups in different tumor histologies; however, the visual delineation of tumor components using MRIs is not always straightforward, and complexities not currently addressed by these criteria can introduce inter- and intra-observer variability in manual assessments. Differentiation of non-enhancing tumors from peritumoral edema, mild enhancement from absence of enhancement, and various cystic components can be challenging; particularly given a lack of sufficient and uniform imaging protocols in clinical practice. Automated tumor segmentation with artificial intelligence (AI) may be able to provide more objective delineations, but rely on accurate and consistent training data created manually (ground truth). Herein, this paper reviews existing challenges and potential solutions to identifying and defining subregions of pediatric brain tumors (PBTs) that are not explicitly addressed by current guidelines. The goal is to assert the importance of defining and adopting criteria for addressing these challenges, as it will be critical to achieving standardized tumor measurements and reproducible response assessment in PBTs, ultimately leading to more precise outcome metrics and accurate comparisons among clinical studies.
Metallic protection of soil carbon: divergent drainage effects in Sphagnum vs. non-Sphagnum wetlands
Authors: Liu Chengzhu , Zhao Yunpeng , Ma Lixiao , Zhai Guoqing , Li Xingqi , Freeman Chris , Feng Xiaojuan
Published: May 2024

The established paradigm assumes that drainage may decrease the vast soil organic carbon (SOC) reservoir in global wetlands. Yet drainage can also promote SOC stabilization by fostering the accrual of metal-bound organic carbon (bound OC) upon oxygen exposure. Here, this emergent mechanism is tested for the first time at a regional scale, using literature data and a nationwide, pairwise survey of drained wetlands across China. We show that long-term (15–55 years) drainage largely increased metallic protection of SOC (bound OC%) in non-Sphagnum wetlands, but consistently decreased bound OC% in Sphagnum wetlands following replacement of the ‘rust engineer’ Sphagnum by herbaceous plants. Improved SOC stock estimates based on 66 soil profiles reveal that bound OC increases can compensate for the loss of unbound SOC components in non-Sphagnum wetlands with substantial accrual of reactive metals. Metallic stabilization of wetland SOC is hence a widespread but overlooked mechanism that is heavily influenced by vegetational shifts. Incorporating this novel mechanism into models will improve prediction of wetland SOC dynamics under shifting hydrological regimes.
Amoxicillin and Ceftriaxone: A Synergistic Association Against Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Sixt Thibault , Moretto Florian , Das Neves Sylvia , Amoureux Lucie , Neuwirth Catherine , Piroth Lionel , Blot Mathieu , Chavanet Pascal , Bador Julien
Published: May 2024

Among 15 strains of Listeria monocytogenes tested, a synergy between amoxicillin and ceftriaxone was observed in 14 (93%) according to minimal inhibitory concentration strips and 12 (80%) per the checkerboard methods, as well as for 2 of the 3 strains tested by the time-killing curve. This association may be an alternative treatment for listeriosis in the future.
Extracellular vesicles of Norway spruce contain precursors and enzymes for lignin formation and salicylic acid
Authors: Kankaanpää Santeri , Väisänen Enni , Goeminne Geert , Soliymani Rabah , Desmet Sandrien , Samoylenko Anatoliy , Vainio Seppo , Wingsle Gunnar , Boerjan Wout , Vanholme Ruben , Kärkönen Anna
Published: May 2024

Lignin is a phenolic polymer in plants that rigidifies the cell walls of water-conducting tracheary elements and support-providing fibers and stone cells. Different mechanisms have been suggested for the transport of lignin precursors to the site of lignification in the cell wall. Extracellular vesicle (EV)-enriched samples isolated from a lignin-forming cell suspension culture of Norway spruce (Picea abies L. Karst.) contained both phenolic metabolites and enzymes related to lignin biosynthesis. Metabolomic analysis revealed mono-, di-, and oligolignols in the EV isolates, as well as carbohydrates and amino acids. In addition, salicylic acid (SA) and some proteins involved in SA signaling were detected in the EV-enriched samples. A proteomic analysis detected several laccases, peroxidases, β-glucosidases, putative dirigent proteins, and cell wall-modifying enzymes, such as glycosyl hydrolases, transglucosylase/hydrolases, and expansins in EVs. Our findings suggest that EVs are involved in transporting enzymes required for lignin polymerization in Norway spruce, and radical coupling of monolignols can occur in these vesicles.
Systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma is more aggressive in children than in adults
Authors: Tirelli Francesca , Zanatta Elisabetta , Moccaldi Beatrice , Binda Marco , Martini Giorgia , Giraudo Chiara , Vittadello Fabio , Meneghel Alessandra , Zulian Francesco
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To compare the clinical and laboratory features of paediatric SSc sine scleroderma (ssJSSc) with adult-onset ssSSc.

Methods

Demographic, clinical and laboratory data of ssJSSc, retrospectively retrieved from our hospital medical records, case reports from the literature and from the Pediatric Rheumatology European Society JSSc registry, were compared with the Padua cohort of adult patients with ssSSc. Patients were defined as having ssSSc if they never had skin involvement but all the following features: (i) RP and/or digital vasculopathy, (ii) positive ANA, (iii) internal organs involvement typical of scleroderma and (iv) no other defined CTD.

Results

Eighteen juvenile and 38 adult-onset ssSSc patients, mean disease duration 5.8 and 9.7 years, respectively, entered the study. The frequency of females affected was significantly lower in ssJSSc (38.9% vs 89.5%, P < 0.0001). When compared with adults, ssJSSc displayed fewer SSc-specific capillaroscopy abnormalities (68.8% vs 94.7%, P = 0.02) while having significantly higher vascular (digital pitting scars, ulcers 35.3% vs 10.5%, P = 0.042), respiratory (50.0% vs 23.7%, P = 0.02) and cardiac (50.0% vs 2.6%, P < 0.0001) involvement. The outcome was significantly worse in ssJSSc as six patients (33%) died (n = 3) or reached an end-stage organ failure (n = 3) in comparison with only two deaths (5.3%) in the adult cohort. ACA were significantly lower in children (20.0% vs 68.4%, P = 0.001) while no difference was noted for other SSc-specific autoantibodies.

Conclusion

Compared with adults where ssSSc generally has an indolent course, children present with aggressive disease that heralds a worse prognosis characterized by high cardiorespiratory morbidity and mortality.
Navigating the ‘moral hazard’ argument in synthetic biology’s application
Authors: Lean Christopher Hunter
Published: May 2024

Synthetic biology has immense potential to ameliorate widespread environmental damage. The promise of such technology could, however, be argued to potentially risk the public, industry or governments not curtailing their environmentally damaging behavior or even worse exploit the possibility of this technology to do further damage. In such cases, there is the risk of a worse outcome than if the technology was not deployed. This risk is often couched as an objection to new technologies, that the technology produces a moral hazard. This paper describes how to navigate a moral hazard argument and mitigate the possibility of a moral hazard. Navigating moral hazard arguments and mitigating the possibility of a moral hazard will improve the public and environmental impact of synthetic biology.
The inner ear and stapes of the basal mammaliaform Morganucodon revisited: new information on labyrinth morphology and promontorial vascularization
Authors: Hoffmann Simone , Malik Ramza Shahid , Vidyasagar Arjun , Gill Pamela
Published: May 2024

Based on high-resolution computed tomography scanning, we provide new insights into the inner ear and stapedial morphology of Morganucodon from the Early Jurassic of St Brides. At the base of mammaliaforms, Morganucodon plays a pivotal role in understanding the sequence of character acquisition from basal cynodonts to mammals, including the detachment of the middle ear and the evolution of high-frequency hearing. Advancements in imaging technology enabled us to revise or newly describe crucial anatomy that was not accessible for the original description of Morganucodon. Based on 37 petrosals, we can confirm that the apex of the cochlear canal is expanded in Morganucodon, suggestive of a lagena macula. A gently raised crest along the abneural margin is reminiscent of (although much shallower than) the secondary lamina base of other Mesozoic mammaliaforms. The venous circum-promontorial plexus, which surrounded the inner ear in several basal mammaliaforms, was connected to the cochlear labyrinth in Morganucodon through numerous openings along the secondary lamina base. Two petrosals contain fragmentary stapes, which differ substantially from previously described isolated stapes attributed to Morganucodon in having peripherally placed crura and an oval and bullate footplate. Based on the revised stapedial morphology, we question the traditional view of an asymmetrical bicrural stapes as the plesiomorphic condition for Mammaliaformes.
Genome Sequence Resource of Bacillus velezensis Strain HC-5, Revealing Its Potential as a Native Biological Control Agent Against Ginger Bacterial Wilt
Authors: He Pengjie , Wang Wenjia , Zhang Jiajia , Zhang Yuanju , Cui Wenyan
Published: May 2024

The Bacillus velezensis strain HC-5, isolated from rhizosphere soil of ginger, exhibits effective biocontrol activity against ginger bacterial wilt. However, its genomic information has remained unexplored. This study presents the complete genome sequence of B. velezensis HC-5. The genome spans 4,237,244 bp and consists of 4,258 genes, with a total GC content of 45.85%. The HC-5 genome comprises 4,058 coding genes, 86 transfer RNAs, 27 ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs), 19 small RNAs (sRNAs), 70 interspersed repeats, and 74 tandem repeats. Moreover, we identified 10 gene clusters responsible for the biosynthesis of antibiotic compounds and 28 two-component systems associated with the bacterium's environmental adaptability. This genome sequence of B. velezensis HC-5 enhances our understanding of its biocontrol mechanisms and supports its potential development as an effective biocontrol agent for managing bacterial wilt in ginger production.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Minimally Invasive Versus Open Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion in Obese Patients
Authors: Quek Clara X. , Goh Graham S. , Tay Adriel Y. , Soh Reuben Chee Cheong
Published: May 2024

Study Design.

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

Objectives.

This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of obese patients undergoing minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) and open TLIF.

Summary of Background Data.

The perioperative benefits of minimally invasive surgery in obese patients have been described. However, there is limited literature on the patient-reported outcomes (PROs), satisfaction and return to work following MIS-TLIF and open TLIF in this subgroup of patients.

Materials and Methods.

Obese patients (BMI ≥30.0 kg/m2) who underwent a primary, one-level to two-level open and MIS-TLIF were stratified and matched using propensity scoring. Operative time, length of stay, and perioperative outcomes were recorded. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) including Oswestry disability index, Short Form-36 physical component score, mental component score, visual analogue scale for back pain and leg pain were compared at each postoperative time point. Achievement of minimal clinically important difference (MCID), patient satisfaction and return to work were also assessed. Revision procedures were recorded at mean 10±3.3 years follow-up.

Results.

In total, 236 obese patients were included: 118 open TLIF and 118 MIS-TLIF. Length of stay was longer in the open TLIF cohort and there was a trend toward a higher complication rate. However, there was no difference in operative time, transfusions, or readmissions. Patients who underwent open TLIF reported worse ODI (P=0.043) and VAS leg pain at two years, although the latter did not reach statistical significance (P=0.095). Achievement of MCID for each PRO, patient satisfaction, and return to work were also comparable.

Conclusions.

Obese patients who underwent MIS-TLIF had a shorter length of stay and improved functional disability at two years compared those who underwent open TLIF. However, a similar proportion achieved a clinical meaningful improvement. Patient satisfaction and return to work were also comparable at two years.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Dilip’s Transmucosal Internal Sphincterotomy: A Simplified Approach to Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy for Fissure in Ano
Authors: Pathak Dilip Umakant
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Fissure in ano is a prevalent and painful condition, typically treated by lateral internal sphincterotomy after conservative measures fail. Dilip’s transmucosal internal sphincterotomy introduces a simplified approach that reduces the risk of damaging the external sphincter, making it particularly suitable for less experienced surgeons. This innovation offers a less invasive method with minimal risk of incontinence, providing a safer, more accessible option.

IMPACT OF INNOVATION:

Transmucosal internal sphincterotomy simplifies the internal sphincterotomy process, offering a tailored approach that eliminates the need for extensive dissection. This method allows surgeons complete control over the internal sphincter bundle, facilitating a precise, customizable cut without the risks associated with traditional internal sphincterotomy, especially in obese patients where the intersphincteric groove is not visible, leading to potentially harmful blind incisions.

TECHNOLOGY, MATERIALS, AND METHODS:

The procedure is performed under saddle block anesthesia with the patient in the lithotomy position. A distinctive approach involving the use of retractors and stay sutures allows the internal sphincter to be made prominent and secured without extensive dissection. The division of the internal sphincter is achieved through a minimal mucosal incision, requiring no closure and significantly reducing postoperative pain and complications.

PRELIMINARY RESULTS:

Between December 2020 and February 2022, 124 patients received transmucosal internal sphincterotomy, showing significant benefits with a median operative time of 7 minutes and low postoperative pain. With a 2.5% infection rate effectively managed and a 3% transient incontinence rate, the majority healed within 9 weeks. Recurrence was rare at 1.6%.

CONCLUSIONS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS:

Transmucosal internal sphincterotomy presents significant advantages over traditional internal sphincterotomy, including reduced pain, lower risk of complications, such as hematoma, abscess, or fistula formation, and the absence of painful postoperative nodules. The success of transmucosal internal sphincterotomy suggests that it should be incorporated into surgical education, offering a less daunting and more reproducible method for treating fissure in ano that is especially beneficial for junior surgeons and improving patient outcomes.
Supervision Unveiled: Navigating the Supervision Landscape in Medical Spas
Authors: Almukhtar Rawaa M. , Aigen Alyx Rosen , Loyal Jameson , Mishra Vineet
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

There is an ongoing increase in the demand for injectable procedures and an increase in the number of medical spas across the United States State regulations significantly vary regarding level of supervision at these medical spas.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine who performs cosmetic procedures, provides medical supervision, and who is being informed of complications.

METHODS

Descriptive study based on a standardized telephone interview performed by a prospective patient for injectable treatments performed at medical Spas in Las Vegas. Data were then extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 63 medical spas reviewed, most of the injectable treatments (73%) were performed by nonphysicians. An onsite physician who supervised or personally performed the cosmetic procedures was present in only 38.1% of the spas surveyed. Only 46% of surveyed medical spas notify a medical director/supervising physician in the event of a complication and only 39.7% of surveyed spas had a number to call after regular business hours.

CONCLUSION

The majority of treatments are performed by nonphysicians in the spas surveyed. Physician supervisors are not on site in most of the spas and about half of spas do not inform the medical director in the event of a complication.