bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
JWST reveals star formation across a spiral arm in M33
Authors: Peltonen Joshua , Rosolowsky Erik , Williams Thomas G , Koch Eric W , Dolphin Andrew , Chastenet Jérémy , Dalcanton Julianne J , Ginsburg Adam , Johnson L Clifton , Leroy Adam K , Richardson Theo , Sandstrom Karin M , Sarbadhicary Sumit K , Smercina Adam , Wainer Tobin , Williams Benjamin F
Published: December 2023

Young stellar objects (YSOs) are the gold standard for tracing star formation in galaxies but have been unobservable beyond the Milky Way and Magellanic Clouds. But that all changed when the JWST was launched, which we use to identify YSOs in the Local Group galaxy M33, marking the first time that individual YSOs have been identified at these large distances. We present Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) imaging mosaics at 5.6 and 21 $\mu$m that cover a significant portion of one of M33’s spiral arms that has existing panchromatic imaging from the Hubble Space Telescope and deep Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array CO measurements. Using these MIRI and Hubble Space Telescope images, we identify point sources using the new dolphot MIRI module. We identify 793 candidate YSOs from cuts based on colour, proximity to giant molecular clouds (GMCs), and visual inspection. Similar to Milky Way GMCs, we find that higher mass GMCs contain more YSOs and YSO emission, which further show YSOs identify star formation better than most tracers that cannot capture this relationship at cloud scales. We find evidence of enhanced star formation efficiency in the southern spiral arm by comparing the YSOs to the molecular gas mass.
An outburst and FU Ori-type disc of a former low-luminosity protostar
Authors: Ashraf Mizna , Jose Jessy , Lee Ho-Gyu , Contreras Peña Carlos , Herczeg Gregory J , Liu Hanpu , Johnstone Doug , Lee Jeong-Eun
Published: December 2023

Strong accretion outbursts on to protostars are associated with emission dominated by a viscously heated disc, which is characterized by high luminosities. We report the discovery and characterization of a strong mid-IR (3.4, 4.6 μm) outburst in the embedded protostar SSTgbs J21470601+4739394 (hereafter SSTgbsJ214706). SSTgbsJ214706 has steadily brightened in the mid-infrared by ∼2 mag over the past decade, as observed by NEOWISE. Follow-up investigations with the Gemini near-IR spectrograph reveal that SSTgbsJ214706 is a binary system with a spatially extended outflow. The outburst is occurring on the more embedded south-east (SE) component, which dominates the mid- and far-infrared emission from the source. The outbursting component exhibits a spectrum consistent with an FU Ori-type outburst, including the presence of enhanced absorption observed in the molecular bands of CO. The luminosity of the SE component is estimated to be $\sim 0.23\,$ L⊙ before the outburst and $\sim 0.95\,$ L⊙ during the outburst, which is one to two orders of magnitude fainter than bonafide FU Ori outbursts. We interpret this eruption as an FU Ori-type outburst, although the possibility of brightening following an extinction episode cannot be ruled out. We discuss the implications and potential explanations for such a low-luminosity eruption.
Bursty star formation and galaxy–galaxy interactions in low-mass galaxies 1 Gyr after the Big Bang
Authors: Asada Yoshihisa , Sawicki Marcin , Abraham Roberto , Bradač Maruša , Brammer Gabriel , Desprez Guillaume , Estrada-Carpenter Vince , Iyer Kartheik , Martis Nicholas , Matharu Jasleen , Mowla Lamiya , Muzzin Adam , Noirot Gaël , Sarrouh Ghassan T E , Strait Victoria , Willott Chris J , Harshan Anishya
Published: December 2023

We use CANUCS JWST/NIRCam imaging of galaxies behind the gravitationally-lensing cluster MACS J0417.5-1154 to investigate star formation burstiness in low-mass (M⋆ ∼ 108 M⊙) galaxies at z ∼ 4.7–6.5. Our sample of 123 galaxies is selected using the Lyman break selection and photometric emission-line excess methods. Sixty per cent of the 123 galaxies in this sample have Hα-to-UV flux ratios that deviate significantly from the range of Hα-to-UV ratio values consistent with smooth and steady star formation histories. This large fraction indicates that the majority of low-mass galaxies is experiencing bursty star formation histories at high redshift. We also searched for interacting galaxies in our sample and found that they are remarkably common ($\sim 40~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of the sample). Compared to non-interacting galaxies, interacting galaxies are more likely to have very low Hα-to-UV ratios, suggesting that galaxy–galaxy interactions enhance star formation burstiness and enable faster quenching (with time-scales of ≲100 Myr) that follows the rapid rise of star formation activity. Given the high frequency of galaxy–galaxy interactions and the rapid SFR fluctuations they appear to cause, we conclude that galaxy–galaxy interactions could be a leading cause of bursty star formation in low-mass, high-z galaxies. They could thus play a significant role in the evolution of the galaxy population at early cosmological times.
Dwarfs in nearby voids: results of SALT spectroscopy
Authors: Pustilnik S A , Kniazev A Y , Tepliakova A L , Perepelitsyna Y A , Egorova E S
Published: December 2023

In the framework of the ongoing project, aimed at the systematical studying galaxies in nearby voids, we conducted spectroscopy with the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) of 62 objects from the Nearby Void Galaxy (NVG) sample. They include 8 remaining objects of the 60 pre-selected candidates to eXtremely Metal-Poor (XMP) dwarfs, two known void XMP dwarfs and 52 void dwarfs residing within the Local Volume. For 47 galaxies residing in the nearby voids, we obtained spectra of the diverse quality. For 42 of them, we detected the Hydrogen and Oxygen lines that allowed us to get estimates of O/H in the observed H ii regions. For 12 of the 42 objects, we detected the faint line [O iii]λ4363, that allowed us to directly derive the electron temperature Te and obtain their gas O/H by the direct method. 14 objects with the undetected [O iii]λ4363 line fall to the lowest metallicities range (12+log(O/H) ≲ 7.5 dex). For them, we use a carefully checked new empirical ‘Strong line’ method of Izotov et al. For 14 other objects with only strong lines detected and with 12+log(O/H) of ∼7.5–8.0 dex, we used the modified version of ‘semi-empirical’ method of Izotov and Thuan. It accounts for effect of the excitation parameter O32 on Te. 16 new galaxies are found with parameter 12+log(O/H) ≲ 7.39 dex. Of them, four have 12+log(O/H) = 7.07–7.20 dex. Of the 60 observed NVG objects, 15 have mistaken radial velocities in HyperLEDA. They do not reside in the nearby voids.
A strontium-rich ultra-metal-poor star in the Atari disc component
Authors: Mardini Mohammad K , Frebel Anna , Chiti Anirudh
Published: December 2023

We report on the discovery of the first ultra-metal-poor (UMP) star 2MASS J20500194−6613298 (J2050−6613; [Fe/H] = −4.05) selected from the Gaia BP/RP spectral catalogue that belongs to the ancient Atari disc component. We obtained a high-resolution spectrum for the star with the MIKE spectrograph on the Magellan-Clay telescope. J2050−6613 displays a typical chemical abundance pattern for UMP stars, including carbon and zinc enhancements. In contrast, J2050−6613 shows extremely high [Sr/Fe] and [Sr/Ba] ratios compared to other stars in the [Fe/H] < −4.0 regime. J2050−6613 is most likely an early Population II star that formed from a gas cloud that was chemically enriched by a massive Population III hypernova (E > 1052 erg). Such a Population III core-collapse hypernova could simultaneously explain the origin of the abundance pattern of light and heavy elements of 2MASS J2050−6613 if a large amount of Sr of ∼10−5 M⊙ was produced, possibly by neutrino-driven (wind) ejecta. Therefore, the abundance pattern of 2MASS J2050−6613 places important constraints on Sr-producing nucleosynthesis sources operating in the Atari progenitor at the earliest times.
Endometrial stromal cell autophagy-dependent ferroptosis caused by iron overload in ovarian endometriosis is inhibited by the ATF4-xCT pathway
Authors: Dong Xiaoyu , Xu Le , Wang Shuang , Jiao Xue , Yan Shumin , Huang Yufei , Yuan Ming , Wang Guoyun
Published: December 2023

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent programmed cell death process characterized by the accumulation of lethal oxidative damage. Localized iron overload is a unique clinical phenomenon in ovarian endometriosis (EM). However, the role and mechanism of ferroptosis in the course of ovarian EM remain unclear. Traditionally, autophagy promotes cell survival. However, a growing body of research suggests that autophagy promotes ferroptosis under certain conditions. This study aimed to clarify the status of ferroptosis in ovarian EM and explore the mechanism(s) by which iron overload causes ferroptosis and ectopic endometrial resistance to ferroptosis in human. The results showed increased levels of iron and reactive oxygen species in ectopic endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). Some ferroptosis and autophagy proteins in the ectopic tissues differed from those in the eutopic endometrium. In vitro, iron overload caused decreased cellular activity, increased lipid peroxidation levels, and mitochondrial morphological changes, whereas ferroptosis inhibitors alleviated these phenomena, illustrating activated ferroptosis. Iron overload increased autophagy, and ferroptosis caused by iron overload was inhibited by autophagy inhibitors, indicating that ferroptosis caused by iron overload was autophagy-dependent. We also confirmed the effect of iron overload and autophagy on lesion growth in vivo by constructing a mouse EM model; the results were consistent with those of the in vitro experiments of human tissue and endometrial stomal cells. However, ectopic lesions in patients can resist ferroptosis caused by iron overload, which can promote cystine/glutamate transporter hyperexpression by highly expressing activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4). In summary, local iron overload in ovarian EM can activate autophagy-related ferroptosis in ESCs, and ectopic lesions grow in a high-iron environment via ATF4-xCT while resisting ferroptosis. The effects of iron overload on other cells in the EM environment require further study. This study deepens our understanding of the role of ferroptosis in ovarian EM.
Ames test study designs for nitrosamine mutagenicity testing: qualitative and quantitative analysis of key assay parameters
Authors: Thomas Dean N , Wills John W , Tracey Helen , Baldwin Sandy J , Burman Mark , Williams Abbie N , Harte Danielle S G , Buckley Ruby A , Lynch Anthony M
Published: December 2023

The robust control of genotoxic N-nitrosamine (NA) impurities is an important safety consideration for the pharmaceutical industry, especially considering recent drug product withdrawals. NAs belong to the ‘cohort of concern’ list of genotoxic impurities (ICH M7) because of the mutagenic and carcinogenic potency of this chemical class. In addition, regulatory concerns exist regarding the capacity of the Ames test to predict the carcinogenic potential of NAs because of historically discordant results. The reasons postulated to explain these discordant data generally point to aspects of Ames test study design. These include vehicle solvent choice, liver S9 species, bacterial strain, compound concentration, and use of pre-incubation versus plate incorporation methods. Many of these concerns have their roots in historical data generated prior to the harmonization of Ames test guidelines. Therefore, we investigated various Ames test assay parameters and used qualitative analysis and quantitative benchmark dose modelling to identify which combinations provided the most sensitive conditions in terms of mutagenic potency. Two alkyl-nitrosamines, N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) were studied. NDMA and NDEA mutagenicity was readily detected in the Ames test and key assay parameters were identified that contributed to assay sensitivity rankings. The pre-incubation method (30-min incubation), appropriate vehicle (water or methanol), and hamster-induced liver S9, alongside Salmonella typhimurium strains TA100 and TA1535 and Escherichia coli strain WP2uvrA(pKM101) provide the most sensitive combination of assay parameters in terms of NDMA and NDEA mutagenic potency in the Ames test. Using these parameters and further quantitative benchmark dose modelling, we show that N-nitrosomethylethylamine (NMEA) is positive in Ames test and therefore should no longer be considered a historically discordant NA. The results presented herein define a sensitive Ames test design that can be deployed for the assessment of NAs to support robust impurity qualifications.
GPATCH4 regulates rRNA and snRNA 2′-O-methylation in both DHX15-dependent and DHX15-independent manners
Authors: Kanwal Nidhi , Krogh Nicolai , Memet Indira , Lemus-Diaz Nicolas , Thomé Chairini C , Welp Luisa M , Mizi Athanasia , Hackert Philipp , Papantonis Argyris , Urlaub Henning , Nielsen Henrik , Bohnsack Katherine E , Bohnsack Markus T
Published: December 2023

Regulation of RNA helicase activity, often accomplished by protein cofactors, is essential to ensure target specificity within the complex cellular environment. The largest family of RNA helicase cofactors are the G-patch proteins, but the cognate RNA helicases and cellular functions of numerous human G-patch proteins remain elusive. Here, we discover that GPATCH4 is a stimulatory cofactor of DHX15 that interacts with the DEAH box helicase in the nucleolus via residues in its G-patch domain. We reveal that GPATCH4 associates with pre-ribosomal particles, and crosslinks to the transcribed ribosomal DNA locus and precursor ribosomal RNAs as well as binding to small nucleolar- and small Cajal body-associated RNAs that guide rRNA and snRNA modifications. Loss of GPATCH4 impairs 2′-O-methylation at various rRNA and snRNA sites leading to decreased protein synthesis and cell growth. We demonstrate that the regulation of 2′-O-methylation by GPATCH4 is both dependent on, and independent of, its interaction with DHX15. Intriguingly, the ATPase activity of DHX15 is necessary for efficient methylation of DHX15-dependent sites, suggesting a function of DHX15 in regulating snoRNA-guided 2′-O-methylation of rRNA that requires activation by GPATCH4. Overall, our findings extend knowledge on RNA helicase regulation by G-patch proteins and also provide important new insights into the mechanisms regulating installation of rRNA and snRNA modifications, which are essential for ribosome function and pre-mRNA splicing.
Tracing the Land in Dependency and World-Systems Theories
Authors: Ajl Max
Published: December 2023

This chapter surveys central theories of underdevelopment—namely, the dependency, neocolonial, and world-systems schools. These ways of thinking, emerging from the national liberation and antisystemic struggles of the Third World, were central intellectual and political challenges to capitalist modernization and imperialism. They anatomized the structure of the world-system and dissected contemporary imperialist dynamics, in the process exploding the myths of modernization theory and orthodox Eurocentric Marxisms alike. The chapter first puts forward some central theorists and problematics, then surveys “anti-dependency” thinking from the periphery, in particular that focused on how to rupture from underdevelopment and neo-colonialism. It highlights thinkers focused on auto-centered development and delinking, including their technological components.
Facial Recognition in Law Enforcement
Authors: Hälterlein Jens
Published: December 2023

This chapter discusses the use of facial recognition technology (FRT) by law enforcement with a special focus on machine learning applications. First, FRT is situated in the larger context of the rise of video surveillance and a shift in Western security culture. The chapter shows how the promise of FRT addresses the problems of video surveillance. Then, it explains how FRT works and how machine learning techniques such as eigenface and convolutional neural networks come into play. Afterward, it explains how the accuracy and effectiveness of FRT are evaluated and why it is important to take the interplay of human operators and FRT systems into account. Finally, several controversies around the police use of FRT are presented and the limits of technological solutions to the problem of bias are demonstrated.
The Use and Promises of Machine Learning in Financial Markets
Authors: Spears Taylor , Bondo Hansen Kristian
Published: December 2023

This chapter examines the use of machine learning (ML) in financial markets and argues that the adoption of ML into finance is bringing to light new issues that have traditionally fallen outside the purview of the sociology of finance and financial modeling. Furthermore, the chapter argues that the use of ML methods may be facilitating a cultural and infrastructural alignment between big tech and financial services through both the adoption of open source software within finance and the dependence of ML on large-scale cloud infrastructures. Accordingly, the chapter identifies two potential directions for future work on the sociology of financial machine learning: a “horizontal” expansion to account for the ways machine learning is being used across financial institutions, and a “vertical” deepening that investigates the infrastructures upon which ML systems are developed and deployed, and how they are shaping financial institutions and markets.
Environment, Society, and Machine Learning
Authors: Scoville Caleb , Faxon Hilary , Chapman Melissa , Fried Samantha Jo , Xu Lily , Boettiger Carl , Reed J. Michael , Lapeyrolerie Marcus , Van Scoyoc Amy , Amironesei Razvan
Published: December 2023

This chapter reviews ways in which machine learning is being deployed in environmental science, policy, and management and considers their sociological implications. The chapter first reviews how machine learning is used to collect and classify data, to harmonize diverse datasets, and to intervene at various phases of the environmental policy cycle. Second, drawing on research and frameworks from science and technology studies, the chapter explores machine learning’s role as environmental infrastructure that is embedded in physical systems and social institutions. Third, drawing on political economic perspectives, the chapter locates the sociology of machine learning and the environment in the context of the analysis of global capitalism and its relationship to environmental, political, and economic inequality. The chapter concludes by outlining several areas for further research in the sociology of machine learning and the environment.
Rule of Law in Europe
Authors: van Aaken Anne
Published: December 2023

The rule of law is perceived as the bedrock of peace in Europe. European countries have built their institutions on that very premise: the Council of Europe (CoE) and the European Union (EU). Yet, although the rule of law is not yet on the red list of endangered species in Europe, there is rule of law backsliding in some European States (to a varying degree) and between European States. This chapter discusses the various definitions of the rule of law on the national and European (CoE and EU) level as well as the international rule of law, including the diversity of views on the rule of law in Europe. It shows the interactions of the different layers of the rule of law and deliberates about the current tensions in that multi-layered network, internally within Europe and in its external relations. The latest developments of attempting to safeguard the rule of law are discussed.
Spain and Portugal
Authors: Espósito Carlos , Galvão Teles Patrícia
Published: December 2023

The chapter focuses on contemporary international law in Spain and Portugal. There are similitudes in the conception of international law and the experiences of Spain and Portugal in the last fifty years as both countries defined a new commitment to international law and human rights in their democratic constitutions of the 1970s and became members of the European Union (EU) in 1986. In this chapter the reader will find a two-country study, the conceptions and practices of international law in Spain and Portugal. In both cases, they consider certain features that best describe each country’s concept of international law, both in theory and practice.
The Question of Democracy in International Law in the Context of European History
Authors: Poghosyan Sevanna
Published: December 2023

This chapter aims to define the relationship between democracy and international law, examine the role of this concept in altering the political dynamics of Europe over time, and evaluate its present value and significance within the framework of the European international legal system. This investigation is not restricted to the language and history of the term ‘democracy’ in international law. It focuses on pivotal moments and transformative shifts that have impacted the understanding of democracy and its relationship to international law in the context of international legal developments in Europe. The study concludes by demonstrating that the histories and destinies of Europe and the notion of democracy are intricately intertwined and profoundly influence one another, as reflected in the European international legal order.
The Molecular Frequency, Conservation and Role of Reactive Cysteines in Plant Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Cannon Ashley E , Horn Patrick J
Published: December 2023

Cysteines (Cys) are chemically reactive amino acids containing sulfur that play diverse roles in plant biology. Recent proteomics investigations in Arabidopsis thaliana have revealed the presence of thiol post-translational modifications (PTMs) in several Cys residues. These PTMs are presumed to impact protein structure and function, yet mechanistic data regarding the specific Cys susceptible to modification and their biochemical relevance remain limited. To help address these limitations, we have conducted a wide-ranging analysis by integrating published datasets encompassing PTM proteomics (comparing S-sulfenylation, persulfidation, S-nitrosylation and S-acylation), genomics and protein structures, with a specific focus on proteins involved in plant lipid metabolism. The prevalence and distribution of modified Cys residues across all analyzed proteins is diverse and multifaceted. Nevertheless, by combining an evaluation of sequence conservation across 100+ plant genomes with AlphaFold-generated protein structures and physicochemical predictions, we have unveiled structural propensities associated with Cys modifications. Furthermore, we have identified discernible patterns in lipid biochemical pathways enriched with Cys PTMs, notably involving beta-oxidation, jasmonic acid biosynthesis, fatty acid biosynthesis and wax biosynthesis. These collective findings provide valuable insights for future investigations targeting the mechanistic foundations of Cys modifications and the regulation of modified proteins in lipid metabolism and other metabolic pathways.
Warfare impact overtakes climate-controlled fires in the eastern Silk Roads since 2000 B.P.
Authors: Zhang Shanjia , Liu Hao , Li Gang , Zhang Zhiping , Chen Xintong , Shi Zhilin , Zhou Aifeng , Dong Guanghui
Published: December 2023

Warfare has played an important role in fire regimes; however, it remains unclear whether and when it may have impacted fire history along the Silk Roads. Based on a high-resolution record of black carbon in alpine-lake sediment, and warfare data from historical documents, we explore the relationships between fire, fuel, climate, and human activity along the eastern Silk Roads over the past 6,000 years. Results show that fire activities were low in the middle Holocene but gradually increased in the late Holocene, a pattern closely related to the intensification of drought and the expansion of herbaceous vegetation. However, the intensity and amplitude of paleo-fires increased significantly in the past 2,000 years, a pattern that was no longer synchronized with climate and vegetation changes on centennial timescales; rather, the sequence demonstrated a significant positive correlation with the documented number of wars in different dynasties. We argue that warfare between different political powers may have been the primary influence on the occurrence of five high-intensity fires since 2000 B.P. on centennial timescales in the eastern Silk Roads. Our study certainly reveals the impact of warfare activities related to dynastic change on fire regimes in Chinese history, providing a novel perspective for understanding the impact of human activities on the environment.
Aspects of the Domain-Wall Standard Model
Authors: Okada Nobuchika , Raut Digesh , Villalba Desmond
Published: December 2023

In the “Domain-Wall Standard Model,” all the Standard Model (SM) fields are localized in certain domains in a non-compact 5D space-time. While the SM is realized as a 4D effective theory at low energies, the model involves Kaluza–Klein (KK) modes of the SM particles. In this paper we introduce two simple solvable examples which lead to domain-wall configurations for the SM particles and their KK-modes. Based on the examples, we address a variety of phenomenologies of the Domain-Wall SM, such as the KK-mode gauge boson phenomenology at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the effect of the KK-mode SM fermions on Higgs boson phenomenology, and the KK-mode fermion search at the LHC with its decay into a corresponding SM fermion and a Nambu–Goldstone boson associated with a spontaneous breaking of the translational invariance in the 5th dimension. We also propose a simple unified picture of localizing all the SM fields.
The PSY-SIM Model: Using Real-World Data to Inform Health Care Policy for Individuals With Chronic Psychotic Disorders
Authors: de Oliveira Claire , Mason Joyce , Luu Linda , Iwajomo Tomisin , Simbulan Frances , Kurdyak Paul , Pechlivanoglou Petros
Published: December 2023

Background and Hypothesis

Few microsimulation models have been developed for chronic psychotic disorders, severe and disabling mental disorders associated with poor medical and psychiatric outcomes, and high costs of care. The objective of this work was to develop a microsimulation model for individuals with chronic psychotic disorders and to use the model to examine the impact of a smoking cessation initiative on patient outcomes.

Study Design

Using health records and survey data from Ontario, Canada, the PSY-SIM model was developed to simulate health and cost outcomes of individuals with chronic psychotic disorders. The model was then used to examine the impact of the Smoking Treatment for Ontario Patients (STOP) program from Ontario on the development of chronic conditions, life expectancy, quality of life, and lifetime health care costs.

Study Results

Individuals with chronic psychotic disorders had a lifetime risk of 63% for congestive heart failure and roughly 50% for respiratory disease, cancer and diabetes, and a life expectancy of 76 years. The model suggests the STOP program can reduce morbidity and lead to survival and quality of life gains with modest increases in health care costs. At a long-term quit rate of 4.4%, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of the STOP program was $41,936/QALY compared with status quo.

Conclusions

Smoking cessation initiatives among individuals with chronic psychotic disorders can be cost-effective. These findings will be relevant for decision-makers and clinicians looking to improving health outcomes among this patient population.
Mauritius Responds to its ‘Grey-Listing’ by the Financial Action Task Force Through Statutes: An Informative Review
Authors: Mahadew Bhavna
Published: December 2023

This article reviews the statutory response given by Mauritius to its ‘grey-listing’ by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). It analyses the various legislations that the government had to amend or create to become compliant with the international standards set by the FATF in the wake of combating money laundering and financing of terrorism. The statutory response of Mauritius to its grey-listing by FATF can be considered as a successful one giving that a significant number of laws had to be simultaneously and harmoniously changed to the satisfaction of the FATF in a considerably short period of time. Indeed, in October 2021, Mauritius was removed from the list of jurisdictions under enhanced monitoring, having been placed there in February 2020. Therefore, the expediency which Mauritius responded through laws and the effectiveness with which it managed to restore international business through its financial services sector can humbly serve as lessons or best practices to jurisdictions finding themselves in similar situations with the FATF.
Responses of peritubular macrophages and the testis transcriptome profiles of peripubertal and adult rodents exposed to an acute dose of MEHP
Authors: Fang Xin , Tiwary Richa , Nguyen Vivian P , Richburg John H
Published: December 2023

Exposure of rodents to mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) is known to disrupt the blood-testis barrier and cause testicular germ cell apoptosis. Peritubular macrophages (PTMφ) are a newly identified type of testicular macrophage that aggregates near the spermatogonial stem cell niche. We have previously reported that MEHP exposure increased the numbers of PTMφs by 6-fold within the testis of peripubertal rats. The underlying mechanism(s) accounting for this change in PTMφs and its biological significance is unknown. This study investigates if MEHP-induced alterations in PTMφs occur in rodents (PND 75 adult rats and PND 26 peripubertal mice) that are known to be less sensitive to MEHP-induced testicular toxicity. Results show that adult rats have a 2-fold higher basal level of PTMφ numbers than species-matched peripubertal animals, but there was no significant increase in PTMφ numbers after MEHP exposure. Peripubertal mice have a 5-fold higher basal level of PTMφ compared with peripubertal rats but did not exhibit increases in number after MEHP exposure. Further, the interrogation of the testis transcriptome was profiled from both the MEHP-responsive peripubertal rats and the less sensitive rodents via 3′ Tag sequencing. Significant changes in gene expression were observed in peripubertal rats after MEHP exposure. However, adult rats showed lesser changes in gene expression, and peripubertal mice showed only minor changes. Collectively, the data show that PTMφ numbers are associated with the sensitivity of rodents to MEHP in an age- and species-dependent manner.
Tumor necrosis factor alpha gene polymorphism affects the pattern of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in Kuwaiti Arab children
Authors: Al-Eisa Amal A , Al Rushood Maysoun , Kashyap Sumedha , Haider Mohammad Z
Published: December 2023

Objectives

TNF-α is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that has been implicated in many inflammatory diseases, but its association with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is poorly understood. This study looked for an association of TNF-α gene polymorphisms with INS, as well as its effect on steroid responsiveness among Kuwaiti Arab children.

Methods

Genotypes of the TNF-a gene polymorphisms were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism in 151 INS Kuwaiti Arab patients and 64 age and sex-matched controls. Clinical data of all subjects were reviewed.

Results

The heterozygous AG genotype was detected in 8.6% of INS patients compared 23.4% of the controls (p < 0.01). Comparing steroid responsiveness, AA genotype was significantly more common in steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) cases than steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) patients (p = 0.001). However, AG genotype was significantly more common in SRNS patients compared to the SSNS cases (p = 0.001). No difference was found between these two subgroups in the GG genotype frequency.

Conclusion

AG genotype of TNF-a gene polymorphisms may be considered a suitable marker for INS disease among Kuwaiti children. Both AA and AG genotypes may be useful in predicting steroid responsiveness among these cases of Arab ethnicity. The findings might open the era for the use of genetic markers in the early treatment of NS.
Catch me if you can, or how paradigms of tardigrade biogeography evolved from cosmopolitism to ‘localism’
Authors: Gąsiorek Piotr
Published: December 2023

This review synthesizes recent developments in the field of tardigrade biogeography, tracing back to the origins of Baas Becking’s hypothesis that ‘everything is everywhere but the environment selects’ to the latest empirical studies that favour biogeographic structuring of these microinvertebrates. I recapitulate evidence for diverse means of meiofauna dispersal, focusing on the two principal mechanisms suggested for tardigrades: wind (aeolian dispersal/anemochory) and animals (zoochory). I argue that tardigrade species with relatively well-documented geographic distributions display climatic regionalization. The literature treating purportedly cosmopolitan tardigrades is critically scrutinized and evidence for strict cosmopolitanism is deemed insufficient. Due to the presence of numerous endemics restricted to mountains, elevational diversity gradients can be recognized at a local scale (for example, within a single biogeographic region). Finally, the tardigrade faunas of a given region should be likely regarded as part of a regionalized macrometazoan fauna containing a small fraction of widespread, ubiquitous species (called ‘biogeographic noise’ herein).
Development of a Deep-Learning Model for Diagnosing Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Based on CT Images
Authors: Li Kai-Yu , Weng Jun-Jie , Li Hua-Lin , Ye Hao-Bo , Xiang Jian-Wei , Tian Nai-Feng
Published: December 2023

Study Design.

Retrospective study.

Objectives.

This study aimed to develop an initial deep-learning (DL) model based on computerized tomography (CT) scans for diagnosing lumbar spinal stenosis.

Summary of Background Data.

Magnetic resonance imaging is commonly used for diagnosing lumbar spinal stenosis due to its high soft tissue resolution, but CT is more portable, cost-effective, and has wider regional coverage. Using DL models to improve the accuracy of CT diagnosis can effectively reduce missed diagnoses and misdiagnoses in clinical practice.

Materials and Methods.

Axial lumbar spine CT scans obtained between March 2022 and September 2023 were included. The data set was divided into a training set (62.3%), a validation set (22.9%), and a control set (14.8%). All data were labeled by two spine surgeons using the widely accepted grading system for lumbar spinal stenosis. The training and validation sets were used to annotate the regions of interest by the two spine surgeons. First, a region of interest detection model and a convolutional neural network classifier were trained using the training set. After training, the model was preliminarily evaluated using a validation set. Finally, the performance of the DL model was evaluated on the control set, and a comparison was made between the model and the classification performance of specialists with varying levels of experience.

Results.

The central stenosis grading accuracies of DL Model Version 1 and DL Model Version 2 were 88% and 83%, respectively. The lateral recess grading accuracies of DL Model Version 1 and DL Model Version 2 were 75% and 71%, respectively.

Conclusions.

Our preliminarily developed DL system for assessing the degree of lumbar spinal stenosis in CT, including the central canal and lateral recess, has shown similar accuracy to experienced specialist physicians. This holds great value for further development and clinical application.
Classifying Hand Dexterity Impairment in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy With 10-Second Grip and Release Test
Authors: Liang Guoyan , Ye Yongyu , Zheng Shuhao , Liao Tianying , Wu Weihao , Chen Chong , Chen Junying , Chang Yunbing
Published: December 2023

Study design.

Diagnostic accuracy study with prospectively collected data.

Objective.

This study aimed to establish optimal cutoff values for the 10-second grip and release (10s-G&R) Test to distinguish between mild, moderate, and severe levels of hand dexterity impairment in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM).

Background.

The 10s-G&R test is widely utilized to assess hand function in DCM patients. However, whether this test can effectively distinguish between varying severities of hand dexterity impairment, along with the relevant cutoff values, remains unknown.

Materials and Methods.

The authors analyzed hand motion data from 551 consecutively enrolled DCM patients using an artificial intelligent system. In addition, the authors conducted evaluations of functional status, quality of life, and outcome measures. Receiver operating curve analysis was performed to determine cutoff values that differentiate mild, moderate, and severe hand dexterity impairments based on the ability to fasten buttons, as assessed by the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Cervical Myelopathy Evaluation Questionnaire Q2-1. The validity of these cutoffs was assessed by comparing G&R parameters, upper limb disability, overall disease severity, and quality of life among patients in different severity groups.

Results.

The authors identified 16 G&R cycles as the cutoff for moderate hand dexterity impairment and 13 G&R cycles as the cutoff for severe impairment. Patients with severe impairment exhibited significantly worse G&R parameters, more severe upper limb symptoms, greater overall disease severity, and reduced quality of life. Patients completing fewer than 13 G&R cycles within 10 seconds were more likely to have moderate-to-severe DCM, indicating the need for potential surgical intervention.

Conclusion.

The authors propose classifying mild hand dexterity impairment as 17 to 20 cycles on the 10s-G&R test, moderate as 14 to 16 cycles, and severe as 13 cycles or less. Our study underscores that the 10s-G&R test can serve as an effective supplementary tool within the context of other currently available measurement tools.
Modification in ICU Design May Affect Delirium and Circadian Melatonin: A Proof of Concept Pilot Study
Authors: Spies Claudia , Piazena Helmut , Deja Maria , Wernecke Klaus-Dieter , Willemeit Thomas , Luetz Alawi ,   ICU Design Working Group
Published: December 2023

OBJECTIVES:

Nonpharmacologic delirium management is recommended by current guidelines, but studies on the impact of ICU design are still limited. The study’s primary purpose was to determine if a multicomponent change in room design prevents ICU delirium. Second, the influence of lighting conditions on serum melatonin was assessed.

DESIGN:

Prospective observational cohort pilot study.

SETTING:

The new design concept was established in two two-bed ICU rooms of a university hospital. Besides modifications aimed at stress relief, it includes a new dynamic lighting system.

PATIENTS:

Seventy-four adult critically ill patients on mechanical ventilation with an expected ICU length of stay of at least 48 hours, treated in modified or standard rooms.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

The clinical examination included a prospective assessment for depth of sedation, delirium, and pain every 8 hours using validated scores. Blood samples for serum melatonin profiles were collected every 4 hours for a maximum of three 24-hour periods. Seventy-four patients were included in the analysis. Seventy-six percent (n = 28) of patients in the standard rooms developed delirium compared with 46% of patients (n = 17) in the modified rooms (p = 0.017). Patients in standard rooms (vs. modified rooms) had a 2.3-fold higher delirium severity (odds ratio = 2.292; 95% CI, 1.582–3.321; p < 0.0001). Light intensity, calculated using the measure of circadian effective irradiance, significantly influenced the course of serum melatonin (p < 0.0001). Significant interactions (p < 0.001) revealed that differences in serum melatonin between patients in standard and modified rooms were not the same over time but varied in specific periods of time.

CONCLUSIONS:

Modifications in ICU room design may influence the incidence and severity of delirium. Dedicated light therapy could potentially influence delirium outcomes by modulating circadian melatonin levels.
Overcoming Reluctance to Nursing Overseas
Authors: Curry Peggy
Published: December 2023

A North American nurse confronted her ongoing resistance about living in the Middle East and later India. Through studying the Bible and praying, the author overcame her reluctance as she worked as a school nurse on the Arabian Peninsula, faced breast cancer, and later embraced the opportunity to provide nursing care to sex-trafficked women in a brothel. In each setting, the author experienced God's supernatural work of changing her attitude and enabling her to express her faith in Christ to those whom she served and lived among.
Prophylactic Use of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in High-risk Patients Undergoing Oncoplastic and Reconstructive Breast Surgery
Authors: Vidya Raghavan , Khosla Muskaan , Baek Kim , Vinayagam R. , Thekkinkattil Dinesh , Laws Siobhan , Douvetzemis Stergios , Sircar Tapan , Mullapudi Amulya , Murphy John
Published: December 2023

Background:

Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has emerged as an adjunct to reduce wound complication rates in many surgical domains. This study investigated the prophylactic use of PICO NPWT in high-risk patients undergoing oncoplastic and reconstructive breast surgery.

Methods:

This was a prospective multicenter national audit. The findings were compared against Association of Breast Surgery/British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (ABS/BAPRAS) Oncoplastic Guidelines for best practice.

Results:

Data from 267 patients were included from seven centers. All patients had at least one high-risk factor for postoperative wound complications, whereas 78 patients (29.2%) had more than one. Thirty-six patients (13.5%) developed postoperative wound complications. An estimated 16 (6%) developed skin flap necrosis, wound dehiscence occurred in 13 patients (4.9%), and 15 patients (5.6%) developed postoperative wound infection. Eleven patients (4.1%) required further surgery due to wound complications. In total, 158 patients underwent mastectomy with immediate implant reconstruction. Postoperative wound complication rate was comparable in this subgroup (n = 22; 13.9%). Implant loss rate was 3.8%, which was within the 5% target mentioned in the ABS/BAPRAS guidelines. The estimated total cost saving was US $105,600 (£84,613) and US $395.50 (£316.90) per patient. Wound infection rate (5.6%) was much lower than the 25% reported by both iBRA study and National Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction Audit.

Conclusions:

Our study suggests that prophylactic use of NPWT in oncoplastic and reconstructive breast surgery results in low rates of wound-related complications with associated healthcare cost benefits in patients with high-risk factors for wound-related complications. However, a prospective randomized control trial is required.
Nationwide Study: Public Adults’ Perception of Cosmetic Surgery in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsubhi Mohammed Naif , Albalawi Ibrahim Abdullah S. , Almaraih Mai Jamal , Alqarni Abdulrhman Mohammed Salem , Alzahrani Maha Ahmed , Alghamdi Hisham
Published: December 2023

Background:

Knowing what influences people to pursue cosmetic surgery can aid current and aspiring cosmetic surgeons as they develop their techniques and enhance their market practice. This study aimed to evaluate Saudi adults’ perceptions of cosmetic surgery using the three subscales of the Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale, namely Social, Consider, and Intrapersonal.

Methods:

This cross-sectional, nationwide study involved members of the public from all provinces of Saudi Arabia. The inclusion criteria were being a Saudi resident over 18 years old and consenting to participate; those who did not meet the criteria were excluded. The study was implemented between October 25 and December 16, 2022. The electronic survey was composed of a demographic characteristics section and a previously constructed questionnaire modified for Arabic speakers to assess the population’s perceptions of cosmetic surgery. Statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS 22 statistical package.

Results:

Of the 8006 Saudi adults who participated in the study, 5551 (69.3%) were women, and 2245 (30.7%) were men. We found that intrapersonal factors were the primary motivator, followed by factors addressed by the Consider and Social subscales. However, attitudes differed by gender, age, and other demographic characteristics: men and younger individuals (18–29) showed the lowest score for likelihood to pursue cosmetic surgery, whereas women and older individuals (40–50) ranked the highest on total scale scores. Overall, the Saudi adult population showed diminished perceptions of cosmetic surgery nationwide.

Conclusion:

The results confirmed the authors’ hypothesis that there is a diminished perception of cosmetic surgery among adults in Saudi Arabia.
Recommendations for patient education in the management of persistent pelvic pain: a systematic review of clinical practice guidelines
Authors: Mardon Amelia K. , Leake Hayley B. , Szeto Kimberley , Moseley G. Lorimer , Chalmers K. Jane
Published: December 2023

Patient education has a critical role in the management of pain. There is considerable heterogeneity in patient education for females with persistent pelvic pain (PPP), and it remains unclear what is considered best clinical practice. Therefore, this systematic review identified and summarised recommendations for patient education in the management of benign gynaecological and urological conditions associated with PPP, as endorsed by international guidelines. Academic and relevant guideline databases were searched from inception to May 2022. Included guidelines were those for the management of benign gynaecological and urological conditions associated with PPP in adult females published in English, of any publication date, and endorsed by a professional organisation or society. Two independent reviewers screened 3097 records; 17 guidelines were included in the review. Guideline quality was assessed using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE-II) tool. Recommendations were pooled using descriptive synthesis. Persistent pelvic pain guideline quality was generally poor. Three guidelines were classified as “excellent” (The NICE, RANZCOG, and ESHRE endometriosis guidelines) and therefore recommended for use. Eleven guidelines (64.7%) recommended patient education for females with PPP. Recommendations for education content were variable, however most frequently covered treatment strategies and pelvic pain diagnoses. For education delivery, the most frequent recommendations were for support groups and written/printed materials. Further research into tailored education interventions is needed for females with PPP.