bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social, disease and diagnostic factors associated with diagnostic delays in dermatomyositis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wanberg Lindsey J , Singhe Nawang , Rasner Cody J , McGrath Joseph , Jiang Ziou , Baker-James Karen , Buechler Connor R , Pearson David R
Published: June 2024

Adult patients with dermatomyositis from an academic tertiary referral centre experienced a range in durations of diagnostic delay, which were dependent on social, disease and diagnostic factors. About one-quarter of patients experienced a diagnostic delay ≥ 12 months, with a median of 3.5 months. Symptoms at initial presentation, zip code, skin biopsy results and treatment with systemic corticosteroids were associated with diagnostic delay duration.
Stuck between a Rock and a Hard Place: An Investigation into a Youth-Serving Community-Based Organization, Philanthropy, and Urban Public Schools
Authors: Cohen Abbie
Published: June 2024

In the wake of the federal government’s retrenchment from urban America in the 1970s and 1980s and the resulting rise in inequality, youth-serving, out-of-school time (OST) nonprofits took on a greater role in supporting urban public schools and students. Since then, many educational OST nonprofits have become enriching spaces for youth outside of traditional K–12 classrooms. Yet, their reliance on private philanthropic donations to function often complicates their goals. This article uses a critical, participatory, qualitative case study method to describe the experience of a youth-serving community-based education nonprofit organization in a Northeast city in the United States. In order to understand this nonprofit’s role in the urban schooling community context, this article analyzes its aims and interrogates its barriers to success, using two theoretical perspectives: social reproduction and community cultural wealth. Qualitative analysis revealed that the organization is unmoored—unable to completely meet its own goals centered on community cultural wealth, because of limiting traditional conceptions of capital that reinforce and maintain unfair racialized power dynamics.
Fission as a source of variation for group selection
Authors: Simon Burton , Ispolatov Yaroslav , Doebeli Michael
Published: June 2024

Without heritable variation natural selection cannot effect evolutionary change. In the case of group selection, there must be variation in the population of groups. Where does this variation come from? One source of variation is from the stochastic birth–death processes that occur within groups. This is where variation between groups comes from in most mathematical models of group selection. Here, we argue that another important source of variation between groups is fission, the (generally random) group-level reproduction where parent groups split into two or more offspring groups. We construct a simple model of the fissioning process with a parameter that controls how much variation is produced among the offspring groups. We then illustrate the effect of that parameter with some examples. In most models of group selection in the literature, no variation is produced during group reproduction events; that is, groups “clone” themselves when they reproduce. Fission is often a more biologically realistic method of group reproduction, and it can significantly increase the efficacy of group selection.
Differential Regulation of Opsin Gene Expression in Response to Internal and External Stimuli
Authors: Torres-Dowdall Julián , Karagic Nidal , Prabhukumar Femina , Meyer Axel
Published: June 2024

Determining how internal and external stimuli interact to determine developmental trajectories of traits is a challenge that requires the integration of different subfields of biology. Internal stimuli, such as hormones, control developmental patterns of phenotypic changes, which might be modified by external environmental cues (e.g. plasticity). Thyroid hormone (TH) modulates the timing of opsin gene expression in developing Midas cichlid fish (Amphilophus citrinellus). Moreover, fish reared in red light accelerate this developmental timing compared to fish reared in white light. Hence, we hypothesized that plasticity caused by variation in light conditions has coopted the TH signaling pathway to induce changes in opsin gene expression. We treated Midas cichlids with TH and crossed this treatment with two light conditions, white and red. We observed that not only opsin expression responded similarly to TH and red light but also that, at high TH levels, there is limited capacity for light-induced plasticity. Transcriptomic analysis of the eye showed that genes in the TH pathway were affected by TH, but not by light treatments. Coexpression network analyses further suggested that response to light was independent of the response to TH manipulations. Taken together, our results suggest independent mechanisms mediating development and plasticity during development of opsin gene expression, and that responses to environmental stimuli may vary depending on internal stimuli. This conditional developmental response to external factors depending on internal ones (e.g. hormones) might play a fundamental role in the patterns of phenotypic divergence observed in Midas cichlids and potentially other organisms.
Competition and Digital Game Design: a Self-Determination Theory Perspective
Authors: Moller Arlen C , Kornfield Rachel , Lu Amy S
Published: June 2024

Although competition is a common feature of digital games, nuances of when and why aspects of competition influence players' motivation and well-being have been surprisingly underexplored, especially through the lens of self-determination theory (SDT). In this critical review, we: (1) describe how a mini-theory of SDT, cognitive evaluation theory (CET), can help predict when and why aspects of competition will alternatively satisfy or frustrate basic psychological needs in digital games with downstream effects on players' motivation and well-being; (2) apply the Motivation, Engagement and Thriving in User Experience (METUX) model to outline ways competition in digital games can influence motivation and well-being at multiple levels; and (3) prioritize future research directions. Finally, we argue that digital games, given their diversity, adaptability and massive reach, represent an especially powerful context for studying competition, motivation and well-being.

Research Highlights This critical review integrates self-determination theory (SDT)-guided models and research related to HCI, sports psychology and well-being supportive design to advance understanding of competition in digital games. Introduces a new taxonomy of competition relevant to SDT and digital games, including macro-level categories, general elements and specific features. Presents a competition and digital gaming specific cognitive evaluation theory (CET) model linking different aspects of competition in digital games to basic psychological need satisfaction and frustration, motivation, health and well-being. Applying the METUX model, we map out ways researchers and game makers can think about aspects of competition in digital games at multiple levels or spheres of influence. Prioritizes future directions for research, specifically related to experimentally manipulating digital feedback and digital representations of self and others in digital games.
Cortical impairment and reduced muscle mass in children and young adults with nephropathic cystinosis
Authors: Bechtold-Dalla Pozza Susanne , Lemster Simon , Herzig Nadine , Vill Katharina , Dubinski Ilja , Hohenfellner Katharina ,   The Interdisciplinary Cystinosis Clinic, Lemster Simon , Bechtold-Dalla Pozza Susanne , Herzig Nadine , Vill Katharina , Dubinski Ilja , Hohenfellner Katharina
Published: June 2024

Nephropathic cystinosis is an orphan autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disease characterized by a deficiency of cystinosin, a cystine transporter protein, leading to tissue damage, primarily in the kidney and cornea. With the introduction of cystine-depleting therapy with cysteamine and the possibility to survive to adulthood, new challenges of skeletal complications are a concern, with sparse data available regarding bone development. The aim of the current study was to gain more information on bone density and geometry in these patients. Fifty-one patients (29 males, 22 females) with genetically proven nephropathic cystinosis were clinically evaluated with a medical history, physical examination, grip strength measurements, and biochemical and imaging studies. Bone mineral density, bone geometry, and muscle cross sectional area were measured, and muscle was evaluated. Results were compared with age- and gender-specific reference data. Z-scores for height (mean [M] = −1.75, standard deviation [SD] = 1.43), weight (M = −1.67, SD = 1.29), and BMI (M = −0.98, SD = 1.29) were lower than reference data. Medullary cross-sectional area (CSA) and cortical density z-scores were not compromised (M = 0.12, SD = 1.56 and M = −0.25, SD = 1.63, respectively), but cortical CSA z-scores and Strength-Strain Index (SSI) were reduced (M = −2.16, SD = 1.08, M = −2.07, SD = 1.08). Muscular deficits were reflected by reduced z-scores for muscle CSA (M = −2.43, SD = 1.27) and grip strength (M = −3.01, SD = 1.10), along with jump force (34% lower than reference value). Multiple regression analyses indicated an association of muscle mass with medullary CSA and SSI, but not with cortical CSA. While bone density parameters were normal, bone geometry was altered, resulting in a thinner cortex with possible impact on bone strength. Muscle weakness be partially responsible for altered bone geometry and could provide a potential treatment target.
Cooperative Regulation in the WTO
Authors: Gruszczynski Lukasz
Published: June 2024

This chapter explores the operation of the SPS Committee. It looks at its composition, mode of functioning, and activities. In this context, it identifies two basic functions perfomed by the SPS Committee. First it acts as a forum for information exchange and peer review among Members (mainly through the Specific Trade Concerns mechanism); second, it performs a norm elaboration function. The chapter offers many examples of specific trade concerns raised within the SPS Committee, and of the nature of the ensuing interaction between Members. Finally, it examines the norm elaboration function of the SPS Committee, and the various decisions and guidelines promulgated by it, and their legal status.
The Transparency Obligations
Authors: Gruszczynski Lukasz
Published: June 2024

This chapter explains the transparency and notification requirements of the Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (the SPS Agreement). Transparency implies the duty of disseminating information and a burden of justification attached to Members, enhancing their accountability in regulation. Since transparency is increasingly viewed as a regulatory tool or instrument in its own right, the World Trade Organization (WTO) is in line with other developments on the national and international regulatory landscape. The chapter also details the role of the WTO Secretariat in relation to transparency under the SPS Agreement.
Looking Beyond the SPS Agreement
Authors: Gruszczynski Lukasz
Published: June 2024

This chapter considers the relationship between the Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (the SPS Agreement) and free trade agreements (FTAs). The chapter explains growing interest among WTO Members in regional economic integration and the shift in the attention of FTAs from border measures to non-tariff barriers (NTBs), including SPS matters. It discusses the specific requirements of the FTAs, such as harmonization, science-based obligations, regionalization, and equivalence. Altogether the analysis covers five FTAs: EU–Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), the EU–Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EU–Japan EPA), the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), and the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Magnetars as powering sources of gamma-ray burst associated supernovae, and unsupervized clustering of cosmic explosions
Authors: Kumar Amit , Sharma Kaushal , Vinkó Jozsef , Steeghs Danny , Gompertz Benjamin , Lyman Joseph , Dastidar Raya , Singh Avinash , Ackley Kendall , Pursiainen Miika
Published: June 2024

We present the semi-analytical light curve modelling of 13 supernovae associated with gamma-ray bursts (GRB-SNe) along with two relativistic broad-lined (Ic-BL) SNe without GRB association (SNe 2009bb and 2012ap), considering millisecond magnetars as central-engine-based power sources for these events. The bolometric light curves of all 15 SNe in our sample are well-regenerated utilizing a χ2-minimization code, MINIM, and numerous parameters are constrained. The median values of ejecta mass (Mej), magnetar’s initial spin period (Pi), and magnetic field (B) for GRB-SNe are determined to be ≈5.2 M⊙, 20.5 ms, and 20.1 × 1014 G, respectively. We leverage machine learning (ML) algorithms to comprehensively compare the three-dimensional parameter space encompassing Mej, Pi, and B for GRB-SNe determined herein to those of H-deficient superluminous SNe (SLSNe-I), fast blue optical transients (FBOTs), long GRBs (LGRBs), and short GRBs (SGRBs) obtained from the literature. The application of unsupervized ML clustering algorithms on the parameters Mej, Pi, and B for GRB-SNe, SLSNe-I, and FBOTs yields a classification accuracy of ∼95 per cent. Extending these methods to classify GRB-SNe, SLSNe-I, LGRBs, and SGRBs based on Pi and B values results in an accuracy of ∼84 per cent. Our investigations show that GRB-SNe and relativistic Ic-BL SNe presented in this study occupy different parameter spaces for Mej, Pi, and B than those of SLSNe-I, FBOTs, LGRBs, and SGRBs. This indicates that magnetars with different Pi and B can give birth to distinct types of transients.
Aurora: a fluorescent deoxyribozyme for high-throughput screening
Authors: Volek Martin , Kurfürst Jaroslav , Drexler Matúš , Svoboda Michal , Srb Pavel , Veverka Václav , Curtis Edward A
Published: June 2024

Fluorescence facilitates the detection, visualization, and tracking of molecules with high sensitivity and specificity. A functional DNA molecule that generates a robust fluorescent signal would offer significant advantages for many applications compared to intrinsically fluorescent proteins, which are expensive and labor intensive to synthesize, and fluorescent RNA aptamers, which are unstable under most conditions. Here, we describe a novel deoxyriboyzme that rapidly and efficiently generates a stable fluorescent product using a readily available coumarin substrate. An engineered version can detect picomolar concentrations of ribonucleases in a simple homogenous assay, and was used to rapidly identify novel inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 ribonuclease Nsp15 in a high-throughput screen. Our work adds an important new component to the toolkit of functional DNA parts, and also demonstrates how catalytic DNA motifs can be used to solve real-world problems.
OptoLacI: optogenetically engineered lactose operon repressor LacI responsive to light instead of IPTG
Authors: Liu Meizi , Li Zuhui , Huang Jianfeng , Yan Junjun , Zhao Guoping , Zhang Yanfei
Published: June 2024

Optogenetics’ advancement has made light induction attractive for controlling biological processes due to its advantages of fine-tunability, reversibility, and low toxicity. The lactose operon induction system, commonly used in Escherichia coli, relies on the binding of lactose or isopropyl β-d-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) to the lactose repressor protein LacI, playing a pivotal role in controlling the lactose operon. Here, we harnessed the light-responsive light-oxygen-voltage 2 (LOV2) domain from Avena sativa phototropin 1 as a tool for light control and engineered LacI into two light-responsive variants, OptoLacIL and OptoLacID. These variants exhibit direct responsiveness to light and darkness, respectively, eliminating the need for IPTG. Building upon OptoLacI, we constructed two light-controlled E. coli gene expression systems, OptoE.coliLight system and OptoE.coliDark system. These systems enable bifunctional gene expression regulation in E. coli through light manipulation and show superior controllability compared to IPTG-induced systems. We applied the OptoE.coliDark system to protein production and metabolic flux control. Protein production levels are comparable to those induced by IPTG. Notably, the titers of dark-induced production of 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PDO) and ergothioneine exceeded 110% and 60% of those induced by IPTG, respectively. The development of OptoLacI will contribute to the advancement of the field of optogenetic protein engineering, holding substantial potential applications across various fields.
Finding digital health governance mechanism to support country’s health systems: Thailand case study
Authors: Kijsanayotin Boonchai , Ratchatorn Anawat , Suwanthaweemeesuk Kamonporn
Published: June 2024

In 2010, a collaboration between the Ministry of Public Health and the World Health Organization Thailand highlighted the urgent need for an effective eHealth governance mechanism in the country. Despite efforts, a consensus-driven governance mechanism remains elusive. This research aimed to investigate suitable digital health governance models for Thailand by examining models from six countries (Malaysia, the Philippines, Australia, England, the USA and Canada) and gathering insights from stakeholders. In stage 1, research gathered data via literature reviews and interviews with 11 executives in Thailand’s digital health sectors. The study of six countries showed diverse digital health governance influenced by political, cultural and health factors. Using the Broadband Commission’s governance models, most participants preferred a dedicated digital health agency. They emphasized decisive leadership, collaboration to prevent silos and uniform health information standards. In Thailand, the Ministry of Public Health cannot oversee digital health solely but can lead in tandem with other bodies. Effective governance requires collaboration, leadership and the dedicated agency model, underscoring health information standards’ significance. Stage 2 published the ‘Digital Health Governance Model: Recommendation for Thailand Health Systems’, presented to 101 high-level representatives. A survey indicated that over 90% of these stakeholders concurred with the study’s findings and recommendations. The research suggests that while the Ministry of Public Health is central, it should not manage alone. Collaborative governance with consistent leadership is crucial for Thailand’s digital health progression. Although the study lacked civil society input, its insights are pivotal for Thailand’s digital health policy future.
BMI/Obesity and consumers’ price sensitivity: Implications for food tax policies
Authors: Bao Ying , Osborne Matthew , Wang Emily , Jaenicke Edward C
Published: June 2024

We examine the relationship between BMI and food purchase behavior using a unique dataset that links individual-level food purchases to health data. We find that individuals with higher BMI are significantly more sensitive to price changes in vice categories but do not show similar sensitivity in comparable nonvice categories. We rely on past literature that defines and identifies vice categories as those that are tempting and purchased impulsively. We explore the effectiveness of a 10% price increase on vice food categories, a hypothetical policy similar in spirit to a fat tax or sugar tax. We predict that such a tax would substantially reduce consumption of these foods, and would be particularly effective in reducing consumption by individuals with higher BMI.
Morality in the anthropocene: The perversion of compassion and punishment in the online world
Authors: Robertson Claire E , Shariff Azim , Van Bavel Jay J
Published: June 2024

Although much of human morality evolved in an environment of small group living, almost 6 billion people use the internet in the modern era. We argue that the technological transformation has created an entirely new ecosystem that is often mismatched with our evolved adaptations for social living. We discuss how evolved responses to moral transgressions, such as compassion for victims of transgressions and punishment of transgressors, are disrupted by two main features of the online context. First, the scale of the internet exposes us to an unnaturally large quantity of extreme moral content, causing compassion fatigue and increasing public shaming. Second, the physical and psychological distance between moral actors online can lead to ineffective collective action and virtue signaling. We discuss practical implications of these mismatches and suggest directions for future research on morality in the internet era.
Societal interaction plans—A tool for enhancing societal engagement of strategic research in Finland
Authors: Pulkkinen Kirsi , Aarrevaara Timo , Rask Mikko , Mattila Markku
Published: June 2024

In this paper we investigate the practices and capacities that define successful societal interaction of research groups with stakeholders in mutually beneficial processes. We studied the Finnish Strategic Research Council’s (SRC) first funded projects through a dynamic governance lens. The aim of the paper is to explore how the societal interaction was designed and commenced at the onset of the projects in order to understand the logic through which the consortia expected broad impacts to occur. The Finnish SRC introduced a societal interaction plan (SIP) approach, which requires research consortia to consider societal interaction alongside research activities in a way that exceeds conventional research plans. Hence, the first SRC projects’ SIPs and the implemented activities and working logics discussed in the interviews provide a window into exploring how active societal interaction reflects the call for dynamic, sustainable practices and new capabilities to better link research to societal development. We found that the capacities of dynamic governance were implemented by integrating societal interaction into research, in particular through a ‘drizzling’ approach. In these emerging practices SIP designs function as platforms for the formation of communities of experts, rather than traditional project management models or mere communication tools. The research groups utilized the benefits of pooling academic knowledge and skills with other types of expertise for mutual gain. They embraced the limits of expertise and reached out to societal partners to truly broker knowledge, and exchange and develop capacities and perspectives to solve grand societal challenges.
Comparative functional characterization and in vitro immunological cross-reactivity studies on Daboia russelii and Craspedocephalus malabaricus venom
Authors: Rajan Karthika , Alangode Aswathy , Menon Jaideep C , Raveendran Dileepkumar , Nair Sudarslal Sadasivan , Reick Margaret , Nair Bipin Gopalakrishnan , Reick Martin , Vanuopadath Muralidharan
Published: June 2024

Background

Snake venom is a complex mixture of organic and inorganic constituents, including proteins and peptides. Several studies showed that antivenom efficacy differs due to intra- and inter-species venom variation.

Methods

In the current study, comparative functional characterization of major enzymatic proteins present in Craspedocephalus malabaricus and Daboia russelii venom was investigated through various in vitro and immunological cross-reactivity assays.

Results

The enzymatic assays revealed that hyaluronidase and phospholipase A2 activities were markedly higher in D. russelii. By contrast, fibrinogenolytic, fibrin clotting and L-amino acid oxidase activities were higher in C. malabaricus venom. ELISA results suggested that all the antivenoms had lower binding potential towards C. malabaricus venom. For D. russelii venom, the endpoint titration value was observed at 1:72 900 for all the antivenoms. In the case of C. malabaricus venom, the endpoint titration value was 1:2700, except for Biological E (1:8100). All these results, along with the avidity assays, indicate the strength of venom–antivenom interactions. Similarly, the western blot results suggest that all the antivenoms showed varied efficacies in binding and detecting the venom antigenic epitopes in both species.

Conclusions

The results highlight the need for species-specific antivenom to better manage snakebite victims.
Synthesizing Subject-matter Expertise for Variable Selection in Causal Effect Estimation: A Case Study
Authors: Debertin Julia , Jurado Vélez Javier A. , Corlin Laura , Hidalgo Bertha , Murray Eleanor J.
Published: June 2024

Background:

Causal graphs are an important tool for covariate selection but there is limited applied research on how best to create them. Here, we used data from the Coronary Drug Project trial to assess a range of approaches to directed acyclic graph (DAG) creation. We focused on the effect of adherence on mortality in the placebo arm, since the true causal effect is believed with a high degree of certainty.

Methods:

We created DAGs for the effect of placebo adherence on mortality using different approaches for identifying variables and links to include or exclude. For each DAG, we identified minimal adjustment sets of covariates for estimating our causal effect of interest and applied these to analyses of the Coronary Drug Project data.

Results:

When we used only baseline covariate values to estimate the cumulative effect of placebo adherence on mortality, all adjustment sets performed similarly. The specific choice of covariates had minimal effect on these (biased) point estimates, but including nonconfounding prognostic factors resulted in smaller variance estimates. When we additionally adjusted for time-varying covariates of adherence using inverse probability weighting, covariates identified from the DAG created by focusing on prognostic factors performed best.

Conclusion:

Theoretical advice on covariate selection suggests that including prognostic factors that are not exposure predictors can reduce variance without increasing bias. In contrast, for exposure predictors that are not prognostic factors, inclusion may result in less bias control. Our results empirically confirm this advice. We recommend that hand-creating DAGs begin with the identification of all potential outcome prognostic factors.
Correlation Between Tacrolimus Levels in Blood Samples Obtained From Central Catheter and Peripheral Venipuncture in Lung Transplant Patients (Ven-Cat Study)
Authors: Diego-Fernández Verónica , García-Saiz María del Mar , Llorente-Cantalapiedra Ana , Arquero-González José Antonio , Bermúdez-García María Victoria , Catalán-Ramírez María Montserrat , Cornejo-Callejo Patricia , Nuria de Pedro-Simón María , Díez-Pérez María Jesús , Gandarillas-Ruiz Paula , Hernández-González Francisco , Herranz-Arenillas Patricia , Laso-Boada María Jesús , Medina-Gonzalo Gema , Rodríguez-López Adrián , Ruiz-Antolín Miriam , Álamo-Ibañez Marta , Cos-Cossio María de los Ángeles , Lavín-Alconero Lucía , Mora-Cuesta Víctor M.
Published: June 2024

Background:

Following lung transplantation (LT), receiving immunosuppressive therapy is crucial. Tacrolimus is considered a drug with a narrow therapeutic range and its use requires constant monitoring. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between tacrolimus levels obtained from central venous catheter and direct venipuncture in adult patients undergoing LT.

Methods:

This prospective study included LT patients hospitalized in conventional ward carrying a central catheter through which no intravenous tacrolimus was administered. Trough samples were obtained through direct puncture and from the central catheter. Pearson correlation coefficient was calculated to quantify the mean difference between the 2 measures.

Results:

A total of 54 sample pairs from 16 LT patients were obtained, mostly male (81.3%) and bilateral transplant recipients (93.8%); the transplant procedure was the primary reason for admission (81.3%). The difference in tacrolimus levels between both samples was 0.3 (0.1–0.6) mcg/L, with the measurement for the samples obtained through venipuncture being mostly higher than that for those obtained from the catheter. A strong correlation was observed between the tacrolimus levels in the samples obtained from the catheter and through venipuncture (Pearson correlation coefficient, 0.991; P < 0.001; R2 = 0.982).

Conclusions:

There is an excellent correlation between tacrolimus levels obtained from venipuncture and those obtained from central venous catheter in LT patients undergoing oral tacrolimus therapy.
Multiple Buttress Reconstruction for Extended Total Maxillectomy by Mixed Use of Vascularized and Nonvascularized Fibula
Authors: Tsuge Itaru , Yamanaka Hiroki , Katsube Motoki , Sakamoto Michiharu , Morimoto Naoki
Published: June 2024

Reconstruction of extended total maxillectomy is challenging. This study aimed to isolate the skull base from the nasal cavity to avoid intracranial infection, cerebrospinal fluid fistula, and palate closure to maintain feeding and conversation. However, facial appearance and symmetry are important for quality of life. We report primary multiple buttress reconstruction using a removed nonvascularized fibula that reduced the risk of infection and exposure. A 74-year-old woman experienced a local recurrence of right maxillary sinus cancer after subtotal maxillectomy and postoperative radiotherapy (60 Gy). We performed extended total maxillectomy, including the right eyeball, orbit, temporal bone, palate, and zygomatic arch. Primary reconstruction was performed using fibular and anterolateral thigh free flaps. The proximal fibula bone was resected to obtain the length of the peroneal vessels, and the distal 9 cm of the fibula was made into two pieces while keeping the peroneal vessels attached. The nonvascularized 5-cm fibula was split sagittally with an L-shaped section to maintain the strength of the fragments. An anterolateral thigh flap was elevated from the ipsilateral thigh attached to the partial vastus lateralis muscle, which was divided into proximal (to the cheek skin and prosthetic eye bed) and distal (to the nasal cavity and palate) skin islands. Two nonvascularized bone fragments were fixed at the lateral and infraorbital rims. The dead space around the built-up pillar made of transferred bone was filled with vastus lateralis muscle to prevent infection and depression. This approach allowed for one-stage multiple buttress reconstruction for extended total maxillectomy.
Reconstruction of Soft Tissues of the Postamputation Lower Leg Stump with a Free Anterolateral Thigh Flap for Optimal Prosthesis
Authors: Szychta Pawel , Stępniewski Sławomir , Witmanowski Henryk
Published: June 2024

Patients without proper covering of the bone stump with soft tissues after below-knee amputation have limited opportunities for prosthesis. The resulting high degree of disability severely restricts their proper functioning in social and professional life. The commonly used significant reduction of the bone length for local coverage limits rehabilitative options to the less comprehensive prosthesis. We aimed to describe a delayed reconstruction with soft tissues of the lower leg stump using free anterolateral thigh flap as an alternative surgical method allowing for optimal prosthesis. A 20-year-old patient was consulted because of right lower leg stump, covered only with a skin graft following posttraumatic amputation. Previously, the patient had ineffective attempts of using a prosthesis. He asked to determine the possibility of recovering the functionality of the lower limb. We performed reconstruction of soft tissues of the stump with a free anterolateral thigh flap. Postoperatively, the patient achieved good coverage of the remaining part of the tibia with a thick layer of soft tissues, allowing the subsequent adequate forming of the stump. Therefore, a fixed prosthesis with the dynamic foot could be implemented. A significant increase in physical activity contributed to a full return to the patient’s professional and private life. In conclusion, the free anterolateral thigh flap provides a robust amount of good-quality tissues for supportive function of the lower limb stump. The resulting adaptation of the stump to numerous modern prosthetic devices significantly increases the range of physical activity and contributes to the full return of the patient to their professional and private life.
Association Between Family History and the Corneal Characteristics of Keratoconus in Japan
Authors: Itoi Motohiro , Itoi Motozumi
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to determine the association between family history and corneal characteristics of keratoconus in Japan.

Methods:

The clinical records of patients with keratoconus who were interviewed regarding family history of keratoconus were retrospectively reviewed. Corneal indices derived from anterior segment optical coherence tomography were compared between the positive and negative family history groups using multiple linear regression analysis adjusted with age, sex, and history of atopy and eye rubbing.

Results:

A total of 2,701 eyes, including 122 eyes with positive family history, were enrolled. Based on the adjusted multiple linear regression analysis, no significant differences were found between groups with and without a family history except for paracentral and mid-peripheral corneal thickness. The adjusted mean differences in paracentral and mid-peripheral corneal thicknesses between the two groups were −10.33 (95% confidence interval −20.29 to −0.37 P-value <0.05) and −9.78 (95% confidence interval −16.70 to −2.85, P-value <0.01), respectively.

Conclusions:

There was no significant association between family history and corneal indices in Japanese patients with keratoconus, except for paracentral and mid-peripheral corneal thicknesses. A Japanese patient with keratoconus who had a family history showed significantly lower paracentral and mid-peripheral corneal thicknesses than those with no family history.
Stability Reliability and External Validity of Myrick THIRD Test for Hip Labral Tears
Authors: Myrick Karen M. , Feinn Richard
Published: June 2024

The purpose of the study is to examine whether the physical examination technique, Myrick The Hip Internal Rotation with Distraction (THIRD), is reliable and valid. The Myrick THIRD test has previously established and documented sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and internal and external validity. The goal of this original research was to demonstrate stability reliability of the Myrick THIRD test when the study is conducted in a clinical setting where the test has not previously been performed, as well as to demonstrate that the Myrick THIRD test has external validity when conducted across multiple examiners in a new setting. The importance of the study reflects current clinical practice and the lack of specific clinical assessment techniques used to determine the source of intra-articular hip pain successfully. Testing included the Myrick THIRD test, magnetic resonance arthrogram (MRA), and arthroscopy. The primary outcomes included the results of the MRA, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Myrick THIRD test, and arthroscopy. The inclusion criteria were 18- to 49-year-olds presenting with hip pain. The exclusion criteria included patients younger than 18 and older than 49 years and patients who were willing to undergo MRI arthrogram. A test of paired proportions, correlation, sensitivity, and specificity was performed. The significance level was preset at .05. All 86 patients had a positive Myrick THIRD test, which was confirmed with arthroscopy. Eight of the 11 positive MRI results and 64 of the 74 positive MRA results were confirmed with arthroscopy. The Myrick THIRD test had a statistically significant higher accuracy rate than the MRA (p = .002) but not the MRI (p = .08). Myrick THIRD test showed a significantly higher accuracy rate than MRA.
The Application of Pneumatic Arm in Neuroendoscopic Transsphenoidal Pituitary Adenoma Resection
Authors: Hong Wen-Ming , Wang Jing-Tao , Wang Bin , Cheng Hong-Wei , Chen Dong-Hui , Zhang Fang
Published: June 2024

Objective:

To summarize the application experience of the pneumatic arm in transnasal sphenoidal pituitary adenoma resection under neuroendoscope.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 52 patients with pituitary adenoma who underwent endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery with pneumatic arm fixation in the Neurosurgery Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University from July 2021 to March 2024. Among them, there were 5 cases of pituitary microadenoma, 35 cases of macroadenoma, and 12 cases of giant adenoma. Head CT and a full set of hormones were re-examined within 24 hours after surgery to evaluate the surgical effect. Follow-up was conducted by the outpatient department after surgery to assess the clinical symptoms, hormone level, and imaging of all patients.

Results:

Among 52 patients, gross total resection was achieved in 48 cases (92.3%), subtotal resection in 3 cases (5.8%), and partial resection in 1 case (1.9%). Preoperatively, 43 patients had diminished vision, with 40 showing improvement postoperatively, 1 worsening, and 2 having no significant improvement. Thirty-eight patients had headaches preoperatively, and all showed varying degrees of improvement postoperatively. Routine hormone examination within 24 hours after surgery showed that all 20 prolactinoma patients had restored normal hormone levels, 10 of 12 growth hormone-secreting adenoma patients normalized, and 4 of 6 cases of adrenocorticotropic hormone-secreting adenoma immediately relieved after surgery. Postoperative complications included intracranial hematoma in 1 case, cerebrospinal fluid leakage in 2 cases, transient diabetes insipidus in 6 cases, intracranial infection in 1 case, and no death cases. The median follow-up time of 52 patients was 18.6 months (range: 1–32 mo). During the follow-up period, the initial clinical symptoms of all patients improved to varying degrees, and they were able to work and live normally. At the last follow-up, 1 patient had recurrent tumor and 1 patient had progression.

Conclusion:

Transnasal sphenoidal resection of pituitary adenoma using a pneumatic arm-fixed neuroendoscope allows the operator to perform the surgery with both hands, resulting in satisfactory overall tumor resection and fewer surgical complications. This technique has good clinical value for promotion.
Structural and functional insights into the C-terminal signal domain of the Bacteroidetes type-IX secretion system
Authors: Mizgalska Danuta , Rodríguez-Banqueri Arturo , Veillard Florian , Książęk Mirosław , Goulas Theodoros , Guevara Tibisay , Eckhard Ulrich , Potempa Jan , Gomis-Rüth F. Xavier
Published: June 2024

Gram-negative bacteria from the Bacteroidota phylum possess a type-IX secretion system (T9SS) for protein secretion, which requires cargoes to have a C-terminal domain (CTD). Structurally analysed CTDs are from
Porphyromonas gingivalis
proteins RgpB, HBP35, PorU and PorZ, which share a compact immunoglobulin-like antiparallel 3+4 β-sandwich (β1–β7). This architecture is essential as a
P. gingivalis
strain with a single-point mutant of RgpB disrupting the interaction of the CTD with its preceding domain prevented secretion of the protein. Next, we identified the C-terminus (‘motif C-t.’) and the loop connecting strands β3 and β4 (‘motif Lβ3β4’) as conserved. We generated two strains with insertion and replacement mutants of PorU, as well as three strains with ablation and point mutants of RgpB, which revealed both motifs to be relevant for T9SS function. Furthermore, we determined the crystal structure of the CTD of mirolase, a cargo of the
Tannerella forsythia
T9SS
,
which shares the same general topology as in
Porphyromonas
CTDs. However, motif Lβ3β4 was not conserved. Consistently,
P. gingivalis
could not properly secrete a chimaeric protein with the CTD of peptidylarginine deiminase replaced with this foreign CTD. Thus, the incompatibility of the CTDs between these species prevents potential interference between their T9SSs.
Roseobacter fucihabitans sp. nov., isolated from the brown alga Fucus spiralis
Authors: Hahnke Sarah , Berger Martine , Schlingloff Andrea , Athale Isha , Wolf Jacqueline , Neumann-Schaal Meina , Adenaya Adenike , Poehlein Anja , Daniel Rolf , Petersen Jörn , Brinkhoff Thorsten
Published: June 2024

A Gram-negative, aerobic, pink-pigmented, and bacteriochlorophyll a-containing bacterial strain, designated B14T, was isolated from the macroalga Fucus spiralis sampled from the southern North Sea, Germany. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, species of the genera Roseobacter and Sulfitobacter were most closely related to strain B14T with sequence identities ranging from 98.15 % (Roseobacter denitrificans Och 114T) to 99.11 % (Roseobacter litoralis Och 149T), whereas Sulfitobacter mediterraneus CH-B427T exhibited 98.52 % sequence identity. Digital DNA–DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity values between the genome of the novel strain and that of closely related Roseobacter and Sulfitobacter type strains were <20 % and <77 %, respectively. The novel strain contained ubiquinone-10 as the only respiratory quinone and C18 : 1 ω7c, C16 : 0, C18 : 0, C12 : 1 ω7c, C18 : 2 ω7,13c, and C10 : 0 3-OH as the major cellular fatty acids. The predominant polar lipids of strain B14T were phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylglycerol. The genome of strain B14T comprises a chromosome with a size of 4.5 Mbp, one chromid, and four plasmids. The genome contains the complete gene cluster for aerobic anoxygenic photosynthesis required for a photoheterotrophic lifestyle. The results of this study indicate that strain B14T (=DSM 116946T=LMG 33352T) represents a novel species of the genus Roseobacter for which the name Roseobacter fucihabitans sp. nov. is proposed.
Clostridium omnivorum sp. nov., isolated from anoxic soil under the treatment of reductive soil disinfestation
Authors: Ueki Atsuko , Tonouchi Akio , Kaku Nobuo , Honma Sachi , Ueki Katsuji
Published: June 2024

Reductive soil disinfestation (RSD), also known as biological soil disinfestation, is a bioremediation method used to suppress soil-borne plant pathogens by stimulating the activity of indigenous anaerobic bacteria in the soil. An anaerobic bacterial strain (E14T) was isolated from an anoxic soil sample subjected to RSD treatment and then comprehensively characterized. Cells of the strain were Gram-stain-positive, curved to sigmoid, and spore-forming rods. Cells were motile with a polar flagellum. Strain E14T grew in peptone–yeast extract broth, indicating that it utilized proteinous compounds. Strain E14T was also saccharolytic and produced acetate, isobutyrate, butyrate, isovalerate and gases (H2 and CO2) as fermentation products. The strain did not decompose any of examined polysaccharides except for starch. The major cellular fatty acids of strain E14T were iso-C15:0 and iso-C15:0 DMA. The closest relative to strain E14T, based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, was Clostridium thermarum SYSU GA15002T (96.2 %) in the Clostridiaceae. Whole-genome analysis of strain E14T showed that its genome was 4.66 Mb long with a genomic DNA G+C content of 32.5 mol%. The average nucleotide identity (ANIb) between strain E14T and C. thermarum SYSU GA15002T was 69.0 %. The presence of the genes encoding glycolysis and butyrate production via the acetyl–CoA pathway was confirmed through genome analysis. Based on the obtained phylogenetic, genomic and phenotypic data, we propose that strain E14T should be assigned to the genus Clostridium in the family Clostridiaceae as Clostridium omnivorum sp. nov. The type strain is E14T (=NBRC 115133T=DSM 114974T).
‘Queer in Microbiology’: a Microbiology Society members’ endeavour for creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ microbiologists
Authors: de Oliveira Bruno Francesco Rodrigues , Donovan-Banfield I’ah , Penrice-Randal Rebekah , Casey Rowan , Gonçalves-Carneiro Daniel
Published: June 2024

The past decade has seen growing awareness of the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ scientists, including discrimination in the workplace and the lack of representation. Initiatives such as 500 Queer Scientists, Pride in STEM and the Microbiology Society’s LGBTQIA+ events have been instrumental in promoting inclusivity in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM). The Microbiology Society and its members have played a pivotal role in these efforts and summarized here are their initiatives towards safer and more inclusive scientific and research environments. Starting with a series of interviews and blog posts about the experiences of LGBTQIA+ microbiologists in research, the Society has promoted the organization of networking and social events and developed guidelines for creating more inclusive scientific conferences. These initiatives have not only improved the representation and visibility of LGBTQIA+ individuals in microbiology, but have also served as a blueprint for similar efforts in other scientific areas. Nevertheless, despite improvements in some areas, full inclusion of LGBTQIA+ scientists is still hindered by societal and institutional policies around the world. Here, we propose novel measures to support and empower LGBTQIA+ microbiological communities within learned societies.
Age-related differences in the loss and recovery of serial sarcomere number following disuse atrophy in rats
Authors: Hinks Avery , Power Geoffrey A.
Published: June 2024

Background

Older adults exhibit a slower recovery of muscle mass following disuse atrophy than young adults. At a smaller scale, muscle fibre cross-sectional area (i.e., sarcomeres in parallel) exhibits this same pattern. Less is known, however, about age-related differences in the recovery of muscle fibre length, driven by increases in serial sarcomere number (SSN), following disuse. The purpose of this study was to investigate age-related differences in SSN adaptations and muscle mechanical function during and following muscle immobilization. We hypothesized that old rats would experience a similar magnitude of SSN loss during immobilization, however, take longer to recover SSN than young following cast removal, which would limit the recovery of muscle mechanical function.

Methods

We casted the plantar flexors of young (8 months) and old (32 months) male rats in a shortened position for 2 weeks, and assessed recovery during 4 weeks of voluntary ambulation. Following sacrifice, legs were fixed in formalin for measurement of soleus wet weight and SSN with the un-casted soleus acting as a control. Ultrasonographic measurements of pennation angle (PA) and muscle thickness (MT) were also conducted weekly.In-vivoactive and passive torque-angle relationships were constructed pre-cast, post-cast, and following 4 weeks of recovery.

Results

From pre- to post-cast, young and old rats experienced similar decreases in SSN (–20%,P<0.001), muscle wet weight (–25%,P<0.001), MT (–30%), PA (–15%,P<0.001), and maximum isometric torque (–40%,P<0.001), but there was a greater increase in passive torque in old (+180%,P<0.001) compared to young rats (+68%,P=0.006). Following cast removal, young exhibited quicker recovery of SSN, PA, and MT than old, but SSN recovered sooner than PA and MT in both young and old. Muscle wet weight recovered 90% and active torque fully recovered in young rats, whereas in old these remained unrecovered at 75% and 72%, respectively.

Conclusions

This study showed that old rats retain a better ability to recover longitudinal compared to parallel muscle morphology following cast removal, making SSN a highly adaptable, appealing mechanism for restoration of functional capacity following disuse in elderly populations.