bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Galaxy mergers can rapidly shut down star formation
Authors: Ellison Sara L , Wilkinson Scott , Woo Joanna , Leung Ho-Hin , Wild Vivienne , Bickley Robert W , Patton David R , Quai Salvatore , Gwyn Stephen
Published: September 2022

Galaxy mergers trigger both star formation and accretion on to the central supermassive black hole. As a result of subsequent energetic feedback processes, it has long been proposed that star formation may be promptly extinguished in galaxy merger remnants. However, this prediction of widespread, rapid quenching in late stage mergers has been recently called into question with modern simulations and has never been tested observationally. Here we perform the first empirical assessment of the long-predicted end phase in the merger sequence. Based on a sample of ∼500 post-mergers identified from the Ultraviolet Near Infrared Optical Northern Survey (UNIONS), we show that the frequency of post-merger galaxies that have rapidly shutdown their star formation following a previous starburst is 30–60 times higher than expected from a control sample of non-merging galaxies. No such excess is found in a sample of close galaxy pairs, demonstrating that mergers can indeed lead to a rapid halt to star formation, but that this process only manifests after coalescence.
Interspecific differences in oxidative DNA damage after hydrogen peroxide exposure of sea urchin coelomocytes
Authors: Liu Fengjia , Last Kim S , Henry Theodore B , Reinardy Helena C
Published: September 2022

Interspecific comparison of DNA damage can provide information on the relative vulnerability of marine organisms to toxicants that induce oxidative genotoxicity. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is an oxidative toxicant that causes DNA strand breaks and nucleotide oxidation and is used in multiple industries including Atlantic salmon aquaculture to treat infestations of ectoparasitic sea lice. H2O2 (up to 100 mM) can be released into the water after sea lice treatment, with potential consequences of exposure in nontarget marine organisms. The objective of the current study was to measure and compare differences in levels of H2O2-induced oxidative DNA damage in coelomocytes from Scottish sea urchins Echinus esculentus, Paracentrotus lividus, and Psammechinus miliaris. Coelomocytes were exposed to H2O2 (0–50 mM) for 10 min, cell concentration and viability were quantified, and DNA damage was measured by the fast micromethod, an alkaline unwinding DNA method, and the modified fast micromethod with nucleotide-specific enzymes. Cell viability was >92% in all exposures and did not differ from controls. Psammechinus miliaris coelomocytes had the highest oxidative DNA damage with 0.07 ± 0.01, 0.08 ± 0.01, and 0.07 ± 0.01 strand scission factors (mean ± SD) after incubation with phosphate-buffered saline, formamidopyrimidine-DNA glycosylase, and endonuclease-III, respectively, at 50 mM H2O2. Exposures to 0.5 mM H2O2 (100-fold dilution from recommended lice treatment concentration) induced oxidative DNA damage in all three species of sea urchins, suggesting interspecific differences in vulnerabilities to DNA damage and/or DNA repair mechanisms. Understanding impacts of environmental genotoxicants requires understanding species-specific susceptibilities to DNA damage, which can impact long-term stability in sea urchin populations in proximity to aquaculture farms.
The transcriptional coactivator Eya1 exerts transcriptional repressive activity by interacting with REST corepressors and REST-binding sequences to maintain nephron progenitor identity
Authors: Li Jun , Cheng Chunming , Xu Jinshu , Zhang Ting , Tokat Bengu , Dolios Georgia , Ramakrishnan Aarthi , Shen Li , Wang Rong , Xu Pin-Xian
Published: September 2022

Eya1 is critical for establishing and maintaining nephron progenitor cells (NPCs). It belongs to a family of proteins called phosphatase-transcriptional activators but without intrinsic DNA-binding activity. However, the spectrum of the Eya1-centered networks is underexplored. Here, we combined transcriptomic, genomic and proteomic approaches to characterize gene regulation by Eya1 in the NPCs. We identified Eya1 target genes, associated cis-regulatory elements and partner proteins. Eya1 preferentially occupies promoter sequences and interacts with general transcription factors (TFs), RNA polymerases, different types of TFs, chromatin-remodeling factors with ATPase or helicase activity, and DNA replication/repair proteins. Intriguingly, we identified REST-binding motifs in 76% of Eya1-occupied sites without H3K27ac-deposition, which were present in many Eya1 target genes upregulated in Eya1-deficient NPCs. Eya1 copurified REST-interacting chromatin-remodeling factors, histone deacetylase/lysine demethylase, and corepressors. Coimmunoprecipitation validated physical interaction between Eya1 and Rest/Hdac1/Cdyl/Hltf in the kidneys. Collectively, our results suggest that through interactions with chromatin-remodeling factors and specialized DNA-binding proteins, Eya1 may modify chromatin structure to facilitate the assembly of regulatory complexes that regulate transcription positively or negatively. These findings provide a mechanistic basis for how Eya1 exerts its activity by forming unique multiprotein complexes in various biological processes to maintain the cellular state of NPCs.
Impact of incremental initiation of haemodialysis on mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Caton Emma , Sharma Shivani , Vilar Enric , Farrington Kenneth
Published: September 2022

Background

Incremental haemodialysis initiation entails lower sessional duration and/or frequency than the standard 4 h thrice-weekly approach. Dialysis dose is increased as residual kidney function (RKF) declines. This systematic review evaluates its safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library databases from inception to 27 February 2022. Eligible studies compared incremental haemodialysis (sessions either fewer than three times weekly or of duration <3.5 h) with standard treatment. The primary outcome was mortality. Secondary outcomes included treatment-emergent adverse events, loss of RKF, quality of life and cost effectiveness. The study protocol was prospectively registered. Risk of bias assessment used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool, as appropriate. Meta-analyses were undertaken in Review Manager, Version 5.4.

Results

A total of 644 records were identified. Twenty-six met the inclusion criteria, including 22 cohort studies and two randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Sample size ranged from 48 to 50 596 participants (total 101 476). We found no mortality differences (hazard ratio = 0.99; 95% CI 0.80–1.24). Cohort studies suggested similar hospitalization rates though the two small RCTs suggested less hospitalization after incremental initiation (relative risk = 0.31; 95% CI 0.18–0.54). Data on other treatment-emergent adverse events and quality of life was limited. Observational studies suggested reduced loss of RKF in incremental haemodialysis. This was not supported by RCT data. Four studies reported reduced costs of incremental treatments.

Conclusions

Incremental initiation of haemodialysis does not confer greater risk of mortality compared with standard treatment. Hospitalization may be reduced and costs are lower.
Lanthanide single-molecule magnets with high anisotropy barrier: where to from here?
Authors: Zhu Zhenhua , Tang Jinkui
Published: September 2022

High-temperature lanthanide single-molecule magnets with large coercive fields are being pursued.
In situ resource utilization of lunar soil for highly efficient extraterrestrial fuel and oxygen supply
Authors: Zhong Yuan , Low Jingxiang , Zhu Qing , Jiang Yawen , Yu Xiwen , Wang Xinyu , Zhang Fei , Shang Weiwei , Long Ran , Yao Yingfang , Yao Wei , Jiang Jun , Luo Yi , Wang Weihua , Yang Jinlong , Zou Zhigang , Xiong Yujie
Published: September 2022

Building up a lunar settlement is the ultimate aim of lunar exploitation. Yet, limited fuel and oxygen supplies restrict human survival on the Moon. Herein, we demonstrate the in situ resource utilization of lunar soil for extraterrestrial fuel and oxygen production, which may power up our solely natural satellite and supply respiratory gas. Specifically, the lunar soil is loaded with Cu species and employed for electrocatalytic CO2 conversion, demonstrating significant production of methane. In addition, the selected component in lunar soil (i.e. MgSiO3) loaded with Cu can reach a CH4 Faradaic efficiency of 72.05% with a CH4 production rate of 0.8 mL/min at 600 mA/cm2. Simultaneously, an O2 production rate of 2.3 mL/min can be achieved. Furthermore, we demonstrate that our developed process starting from catalyst preparation to electrocatalytic CO2 conversion is so accessible that it can be operated in an unmmaned manner via a robotic system. Such a highly efficient extraterrestrial fuel and oxygen production system is expected to push forward the development of mankind's civilization toward an extraterrestrial settlement.
A double-edged sword with a therapeutic target: iron and ferroptosis in immune regulation
Authors: Ni Shuo , Yuan Yin , Song Shangdao , Li Xiaolin
Published: September 2022

Cellular activities such as DNA synthesis, adenosine triphosphate production, and mitochondrial respiration are affected by iron metabolism. Disturbance of iron homeostasis usually leads to damage in cells and organs in the context of iron overload or deficiency. Thus, iron, a key regulator in nutritional immunity, was shown to be critical in innate and adaptive immunity. Unlike apoptosis, ferroptosis, a feature of iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, is thought to be associated with immune regulation because of its immunogenic nature. In this review, we summarize the role of iron and ferroptosis in immune regulation and discuss their therapeutic potential in the treatment of arthropathies like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Improved perception of work following a stress management intervention
Authors: Manford W , Petersen G L , Willert M V
Published: September 2022

Background

In the work and stress literature, surprisingly few studies of stress management interventions have evaluated effects on the perceived psychosocial work environment. Using data from a randomized controlled trial we investigated whether the perceived psychosocial work environment and overcommitment to work improved following a group-based, cognitive-behavioural stress management intervention.

Aims

We hypothesized that the participants would experience less job demand, overcommitment and effort-reward imbalance (ERI) as well as higher job control following the intervention.

Methods

Using a wait-list controlled design, 102 participants were randomized to either an intervention group or a wait-list control group. Outcome measures were assessed at baseline and follow-up after three, six and nine months, and analysed using mixed model univariate repeated measures analyses of variance. Results are presented as effect sizes using Cohen’s d with confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results

Changes from 0 to 3 months for the intervention group were significantly superior to changes for the wait-list control group on all outcomes. The controlled effect size for job demands was d = 0.42 (0.01–0.84 95% CI), for job control d = 0.39 (0.06–0.71 95% CI), for effort-reward imbalance d = 0.61 (0.22–1.01 95% CI) and for overcommitment d = 0.44 (0.06–0.81 95% CI). Improvements were maintained at three months follow-up after the end of treatment.

Conclusions

The intervention improved the perceived psychosocial work environment and attitude to work with small-medium effect sizes. To our knowledge, this is the first paper from a randomized controlled trial of a stress-management intervention reporting on these important outcomes.
Breath Biomarkers of Influenza Infection
Authors: Danaher Patrick J , Phillips Michael , Schmitt Peter , Richard Stephanie A , Millar Eugene V , White Brian K , Okulicz Jason F , Coles Christian L , Burgess Timothy H
Published: September 2022

Background

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are produced systemically due to varied physiological states such as oxidative stress and are excreted through the lungs. Benchtop and preliminary clinical data suggest that breath testing may be a useful diagnostic modality for viral respiratory tract infections.

Methods

Patients with influenza-like illness (ILI) presenting to a single clinic in San Antonio, Texas, from 3/2017 to 3/2019 submitted a 2-minute breath sample in addition to a nasopharyngeal swab collected for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for respiratory pathogens. VOCs were assayed with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and data were analyzed to identify breath VOC biomarkers that discriminated between ILI patients with and without a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay that was positive for influenza.

Results

Demographic, clinical, PCR, and breath data were available for 237 episodes of ILI, among which 32 episodes (13.5%) were PCR positive for influenza. Twenty candidate VOCs identified patients with influenza with greater than random accuracy. A predictive algorithm using 4 candidate biomarkers identified this group with 78% accuracy (74% sensitivity, 70% specificity). Based on their mass spectra, most of these biomarkers were n-alkane derivatives, consistent with products of oxidative stress.

Conclusions

A breath test for VOC biomarkers accurately identified ILI patients with PCR-proven influenza. These findings bolster those of others that a rapid, accurate, universal point-of-care influenza diagnostic test based on assay of exhaled-breath VOCs may be feasible. The next step will be a study of patients with ILI using a simplified method of breath collection that would facilitate translation for use in clinical practice.
Evaluation of Vancomycin Accumulation in Patients With Obesity
Authors: Assadoon Maha S , Pearson Jeffrey C , Kubiak David W , Kovacevic Mary P , Dionne Brandon W
Published: September 2022

Background

Current vancomycin guidelines recommend early and frequent area-under-the-curve monitoring in patients with obesity. Vancomycin's volume of distribution is likely altered in patients with obesity, which may result in lower serum concentrations initially but lead to accumulation with continued use. The objective of this study was to evaluate the incidence of vancomycin accumulation in patients with obesity and identify potential factors associated with accumulation.

Methods

This was a single-center, retrospective, observational study at a tertiary academic medical center. Adult patients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2 and ≥ 2 vancomycin serum trough concentrations drawn in 2019 were screened for inclusion. The major endpoint was the incidence of vancomycin accumulation defined as ≥ 20% increase in trough concentration within the first 10 days of therapy. Key minor endpoints included incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) and factors associated with accumulation.

Results

Of the 443 patients screened, 162 were included. The median age was 56.5 years (interquartile range [IQR], 43–65.3), and 62.3% were male. The median weight was 112.7 kg (IQR, 99.8–122.6) and the median BMI was 36.8 kg/m2 (IQR, 33.1–41). The total daily dose median at initiation was 28.7 mg/kg per day (IQR, 25.4–31.2). Accumulation occurred in 99 of 162 patients (61.1%) and AKI occurred in 20 of 140 patients (14.3%). No specific factors were found to be associated with accumulation.

Conclusions

Patients with obesity are likely to experience vancomycin accumulation within the first 10 days of therapy. Clinicians should use frequent monitoring of vancomycin and use caution when interpreting early concentrations in patients with obesity.
Maternal Referral Delays and a Culture of Downstream Blaming Among Healthcare Providers: Causes and Solutions
Authors: Mohan Monali , Ghoshal Rakhi , Roy Nobhojit
Published: September 2022

Patient referral management is an integral part of clinical practice. However, in low-resource settings, referrals are often delayed. The World Health Organization categorizes three types of referral delays; delay in seeking care, in reaching care and in receiving care. Using two case studies of maternal referrals (from a low-resource state in India), this article shows how a culture of downstream blaming permeates referral practice in India. With no referral guidelines to follow, providers in higher-facilities evaluate the clinical decision-making of their peers in lower-facilities based on patient outcome, not on objective measures. The fear of punitive action for an unfavorable maternal outcome is a larger driving factor than patient safety. The article argues for the need to formulate an ecosystem where patient responsibility is shared across the health system. In conclusion, it discusses possible solutions which can bridge communication and information gap between referring facilities.
A conserved glutamate residue in RPM1-INTERACTING PROTEIN4 is ADP-ribosylated by the Pseudomonas effector AvrRpm2 to activate RPM1-mediated plant resistance
Authors: Yoon Minsoo , Middleditch Martin J , Rikkerink Erik H A
Published: September 2022

Gram-negative bacterial plant pathogens inject effectors into their hosts to hijack and manipulate metabolism, eluding surveillance at the battle frontier on the cell surface. The effector AvrRpm1Pma from Pseudomonas syringae pv. maculicola functions as an ADP-ribosyl transferase that modifies RESISTANCE TO P. SYRINGAE PV MACULICOLA1 (RPM1)-INTERACTING PROTEIN4 (RIN4), leading to the activation of Arabidopsis thaliana (Arabidopsis) resistance protein RPM1. Here we confirmed the ADP-ribosyl transferase activity of another bacterial effector, AvrRpm2Psa from P. syringae pv. actinidiae, via sequential inoculation of Pseudomonas strain Pto DC3000 harboring avrRpm2Psa following Agrobacterium-mediated transient expression of RIN4 in Nicotiana benthamiana. We conducted mutational analysis in combination with mass spectrometry to locate the target site in RIN4. A conserved glutamate residue (Glu156) is the most likely target for AvrRpm2Psa, as only Glu156 could be ADP-ribosylated to activate RPM1 among candidate target residues identified from the MS/MS fragmentation spectra. Soybean (Glycine max) and snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) RIN4 homologs without glutamate at the positions corresponding to Glu156 of Arabidopsis RIN4 are not ADP-ribosylated by bacterial AvrRpm2Psa. In contrast to the effector AvrB, AvrRpm2Psa does not require the phosphorylation of Thr166 in RIN4 to activate RPM1. Therefore, separate biochemical reactions by different pathogen effectors may trigger the activation of the same resistance protein via distinct modifications of RIN4.
Transcription factor WRKY28 curbs WRKY33-mediated resistance to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in Brassica napus
Authors: Zhang Ka , Liu Fei , Wang Zhixin , Zhuo Chenjian , Hu Kaining , Li Xiaoxia , Wen Jing , Yi Bin , Shen Jinxiong , Ma Chaozhi , Fu Tingdong , Tu Jinxing
Published: September 2022

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum causes substantial damage and loss of yield in oilseed rape (Brassica napus). The molecular mechanisms of oilseed rape defense against Sclerotinia remain elusive. In this study, we found that in the early stages of B. napus infection a conserved mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade mediated by BnaA03.MKK5-BnaA06.MPK3/BnaC03.MPK3 module phosphorylates the substrate BnWRKY33, enhancing its transcriptional activity. The activated BnWRKY33 binds to its own promoter and triggers a transcriptional burst of BnWRKY33, thus helping plants effectively resist the pathogenic fungi by enhancing the expression of phytoalexin synthesis-related genes. The expression of BnWRKY33 is fine-tuned during defense. Ongoing Sclerotinia infection induces BnaA03.WRKY28 and BnaA09.VQ12 expression. BnaA09.VQ12 interacts physically with BnaA03.WRKY28 to form a protein complex, causing BnaA03.WRKY28 to outcompete BnWRKY33 and bind to the BnWRKY33 promoter. BnaA03.WRKY28 induction suppresses BnWRKY33 expression in the later stages of infection but promotes branch formation in the leaf axils by regulating the expression of branching-related genes such as BnBRC1. BnaA03.WRKY28 participates in the trade-off between defense and growth. These findings suggest that oilseed rape plants may modulate defense-response strength and develop alternative reproduction and survival strategies in the face of lethal pathogens.
NDFIP1 limits cellular TAZ accumulation via exosomal sorting to inhibit NSCLC proliferation
Authors: Cheng Yirui , Lu Xin , Li Fan , Chen Zhuo , Zhang Yanshuang , Han Qing , Zeng Qingyu , Wu Tingyu , Li Ziming , Lu Shun , Williams Cecilia , Xia Weiliang
Published: September 2022

NDFIP1 has been previously reported as a tumor suppressor in multiple solid tumors, but the function of NDFIP1 in NSCLC and the underlying mechanism are still unknown. Besides, WW-domain containing proteins can be recognized by NDFIP1, resulted in the loading of the target proteins into exosomes. However, whether WW domain-containing transcription regulator 1 (WWTR1, also known as TAZ) can be packaged into exosomes by NDFIP1 and if so, whether the release of this oncogenic protein via exosomes has an effect on tumor development has not been investigated to any extent. Here, we first found that NDFIP1 was low-expressed in NSCLC samples and cell lines, which is associated with shorter OS. Then, we confirmed the interaction between TAZ and NDFIP1, and the existence of TAZ in exosomes, which requires NDFIP1. Critically, knockout of NDFIP1 led to TAZ accumulation with no change of its mRNA level and degradation rate. And the cellular TAZ level could be altered by exosome secretion. Furthermore, NDFIP1 inhibited proliferation in vitro and in vivo, and silencing TAZ eliminated the increase of proliferation caused by NDFIP1 knockout. Moreover, TAZ was negatively correlated with NDFIP1 in subcutaneous xenograft model and clinical samples, and serum exosomal TAZ level was lower in NSCLC patients. In summary, our data uncovers a new tumor suppressor, NDFIP1 in NSCLC and a new exosome-related regulatory mechanism of TAZ.
Whole grain consumption and risk of radiographic knee osteoarthritis: a prospective study from the Osteoarthritis Initiative
Authors: Liu Tong , Xu Chang , Driban Jeffery B , Liang Ge-yu , Zhang Xue-hong , Hu Frank B , McAlindon Timothy , Lu Bing
Published: September 2022

Objectives

To assess the association of whole grain consumption with the risk of incident knee OA.

Material and methods

We followed 2846 participants in the Osteoarthritis Initiative ages 45–79 years. Participants were free from radiographic knee OA (Kellgren–Lawrence grade <2) in at least one knee at baseline. Dietary data from baseline were obtained using the Block Brief Food Frequency Questionnaire. We defined radiographic knee OA incidence as a Kellgren–Lawrence grade ≥2 during the subsequent 96 months. Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the association between whole grain food intake and the risk of incident knee OA.

Results

During the 96 month follow-up, 518 participants (691 knees) developed incident radiographic knee OA. Higher total whole grain consumption was significantly associated with a lower knee OA risk [hazard ratio (HR)quartile 4vs1 = 0.66 (95% CI 0.52, 0.84), P for trend < 0.01] after adjusting for demographic and socio-economic factors, clinical factors and other dietary factors related to OA. Consistently, a significant inverse association of dark bread consumption with knee OA risk was observed [HRquartile 4vs1 = 0.68 (95% CI 0.53, 0.87), P for trend < 0.01). In addition, we observed a significant inverse association between higher cereal fibre intake and reduced knee OA risk [HRquartile 4vs1 = 0.61 (95% CI 0.46, 0.81), P for trend < 0.01).

Conclusions

Our findings revealed a significant inverse association of whole grain consumption with knee OA risk. These findings provide evidence that eating a diet rich in whole grains may be a potential nutritional strategy to prevent knee OA.
Association of mycophenolate and azathioprine use with cognitive function in systemic lupus
Authors: Dobrowolski Chrisanna , McGinley John , Fazzari Melissa , Su Jiandong , Bingham Kathleen S , Anderson Nicole , Ruttan Lesley , Beaton Dorcas E , Wither Joan E , Tartaglia Maria Carmela , Kakvan Mahta , Bonilla Dennisse , Choi May Y , Fritzler Marvin J , Diaz Martinez Juan Pablo , Katz Patricia , Green Robin , Putterman Chaim , Touma Zahi
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Cognitive dysfunction (CD) is a common manifestation of SLE that can have detrimental consequences for those affected. To date, no treatments have been approved for SLE-CD. This study aims to assess the association of azathioprine (AZA) and mycophenolate (MMF) use with SLE-CD, given that these medications have demonstrated neuroprotective qualities in prior studies.

Methods

Consecutive adult SLE patients presenting to a single healthcare center were considered for participation. The ACR neuropsychological battery for SLE was administered to consenting patients at 0, 6 and 12 months. Scores were compared with age- and sex-matched controls. Primary outcome was CD, defined as a z-score ≤−1.5 in two or more cognitive domains. Mixed-effects logistic regression models were constructed to estimate the odds of CD with respect to AZA and MMF use.

Results

A total of 300 participants representing 676 patient visits completed the study; 114 (38%) met criteria for CD at baseline. The cumulative AZA dose (g/kg) was associated with reduced odds of CD [odds ratio (OR) 0.76 (95% CI 0.58, 0.98), P = 0.04]. Years of AZA treatment was also associated with reduced odds of CD [OR 0.72 (95% CI 0.54, 0.97), P = 0.03]. MMF use was not associated with CD.

Conclusion

AZA use was associated with significantly lower odds of SLE-CD, while MMF use was not. Additional studies are warranted to further investigate the relationship of AZA and SLE-CD.
The large firm dilemma: anchor embeddedness and high-technology competition
Authors: Ornston Darius , Camargo Lorena
Published: September 2022

Do large firms support or suppress regional entrepreneurship? Comparing Ottawa and Waterloo, two entrepreneurial ecosystems dominated by large, flagship firms, Nortel and Research in Motion (RIM), we demonstrate how an anchor firm’s relationship to the entrepreneurial community shapes entrepreneurial activity. In Ottawa, an engaged anchor delivered the public goods to overcome the negative externalities associated with large firm growth. In the long run, however, this vibrant, startup scene proved surprisingly vulnerable to Nortel’s decline. In Waterloo, in contrast, new firm formation plummeted under a detached anchor. RIM’s isolation, however, enabled Waterloo to construct the independent, entrepreneurial infrastructure it needed to capitalize on its collapse. Illuminating the mechanisms behind ‘entrepreneurial recycling’, or the reallocation of labor from declining anchor firms, we argue that regions confront a strategic dilemma in how they engage large firms.
Gaps and Silences: Gender and Climate Policies in the Global North
Authors: Eggebø Helga , Lundberg Aase Kristine , Teigen Mari
Published: September 2022

For decades, feminist activists and scholars have stressed the importance of integrating gender perspectives into the most defining challenge of our time: the climate disaster. In this article, we analyze official Norwegian policy documents in the context of regional and supra-national levels. We identify a lack of connection between gender equality policy and climate policy in the Norwegian policy documents that is symptomatic of a general silence on gender in climate policy in the Global North. We argue that there is untapped potential for gender mainstreaming in Norwegian climate policy and suggest that gendered, disaggregated data on climate issues could be combined with scholarly insights about the Nordic gender equality model so as to further our understanding of the climate crisis. Finally, we ask whether the absence of gender perspectives in Norwegian climate policy may reflect an unrecognized contradiction between Nordic gender equality policy and sustainability.
Assessment of coagulation markers, serum zinc and copper in children with beta-thalassemia major in Egypt
Authors: El Sehmawy Asmaa A , Hassan Donia Ahmed , Elamir Reham Yousri , Eldesoky Noha Abdel-Rahman , Al Anany Mona Gamal El Din , El-Fattah Doaa Aly Abd , El Attar Shahinaz , Abdelbadea Alzahra
Published: September 2022

Background

Thalassemia is one of the commonest single gene disorders usually associated with many complications. Coagulation changes as well as trace elements levels alterations have been described in children with β thalassemia. Activation of coagulation can be assessed by measuring thrombin–antithrombin (TAT) complex, plasmin–antiplasmin (PAP) complex and β-thromboglobulin (β-TG).

Methods

A total of 200 children and adolescents were enrolled in the study; 100 were from the Al-Azhar University hospital’s pediatric hematology clinic diagnosed as thalassemia major, while the other 100 were apparently healthy volunteers who acted as the control group. Complete blood count, liver function test, kidney function tests, TAT complex, PAP complex, β-TG as indicators of coagulation changes, serum zinc and copper were performed on all participants.

Results

Significantly higher levels of TAT complex, PAP complex and β-TG in thalassemia children than the controls. Decreased serum zinc and increased serum copper levels in thalassemia children compared to the controls. A negative correlation was observed between the serum level of TAT and hemoglobin level, besides the negative correlation of TAT complex and β-TG with the serum zinc.

Conclusion

Thalassemia major was associated with increased serum level of coagulation activation markers, increased serum copper while decreased serum zinc.
Clinical features and risk factors for death in acute undifferentiated fever: A prospective observational study in rural community hospitals in six states of India
Authors: Mørch Kristine , Manoharan Anand , Chandy Sara , Singh Ashita , Kuriakose Cijoy , Patil Suvarna , Henry Anil , Chacko Novin , Alvarez-Uria Gerardo , Nesaraj Joel , Blomberg Bjørn , Kurian Siby , Haanshuus Christel Gill , Antony George Vasanthan , Langeland Nina , Mathai Dilip
Published: September 2022

Background

Acute undifferentiated fever (AUF) ranges from self-limiting illness to life-threatening infections, such as sepsis, malaria, dengue, leptospirosis and rickettsioses. Similar clinical presentation challenges the clinical management. This study describes risk factors for death in patients hospitalized with AUF in India.

Methods

Patients aged ≥5 y admitted with fever for 2–14 d without localizing signs were included in a prospective observational study at seven hospitals in India during 2011–2012. Predictors identified by univariate analysis were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression for survival analysis.

Results

Mortality was 2.4% (37/1521) and 46.9% (15/32) died within 2 d. History of heart disease (p=0.013), steroid use (p=0.011), altered consciousness (p<0.0001), bleeding (p<0.0001), oliguria (p=0.020) and breathlessness (p=0.015) were predictors of death, as were reduced Glasgow coma score (p=0.005), low urinary output (p=0.004), abnormal breathing (p=0.006), abdominal tenderness (p=0.023), leucocytosis (p<0.0001) and thrombocytopenia (p=0.001) at admission. Etiology was identified in 48.6% (18/37) of fatal cases.

Conclusions

Bleeding, cerebral dysfunction, respiratory failure and oliguria at admission, suggestive of severe organ failure secondary to systemic infection, were predictors of death. Almost half of the patients who died, died shortly after admission, which, together with organ failure, suggests that delay in hospitalization and, consequently, delayed treatment, contribute to death from AUF.
Modification of the Helper Component Proteinase of Papaya Ringspot Virus Vietnam Isolate to Generate Attenuated Mutants for Disease Management by Cross Protection
Authors: Tran Thi-Thu-Yen , Cheng Hao-Wen , Nguyen Van-Hoa , Yeh Shyi-Dong
Published: September 2022

Papaya ( Carica papaya) production is seriously limited by papaya ringspot virus (PRSV) worldwide, including in Vietnam. Control of PRSV by cross protection is dependent on the availability of effective mild strains. Here, an infectious cDNA clone was constructed from PRSV isolate TG5 from South Vietnam. Site-directed mutagenesis with point mutations on the essential motifs of the helper component proteinase (HC-Pro) was performed, with or without deleting five amino acids (d5) from its N-terminal region. Mutants TG-d5, TG-d5I7, and TG-d5L206 containing d5, d5 + F7I, and d5 + F206L, respectively, induced mild mottling followed by symptomless recovery on papaya and infected Chenopodium quinoa without lesion formation. Each mutant accumulated in papaya at reduced levels with a zigzag pattern and was stable beyond six monthly passages. The cross-protection effectiveness of the three mutants in papaya against TG5 was investigated, each with 60 plants from three independent trials. The results showed that each mutant provided complete protection (100%) against TG5, 1 month after the challenge inoculation, as verified by the lack of severe symptoms and lack of local lesions in C. quinoa. Further tests revealed that TG-d5I7 also confers high levels of protection against other severe PRSV isolates from South Vietnam, including isolates DN (97%) and ST2 (50%). However, TG-d5I7 is ineffective or less effective (0 to 33%) against seven other severe PRSV strains from different geographic origins, including the isolate HN from North Vietnam. Our results indicate that the protection by the three mutants is highly strain-specific and suitable for the control of PRSV in South Vietnam.
Dying to retire or living to work
Authors: Hidinger Julie , Lu-Hsu Stephanie , Otis-Smith Holly , De la Cruz Edward , Palecek Nancy
Published: September 2022

Nurses who work in high-stress positions may be at risk for health problems that may result in early retirement. This article identifies health risks to aging nurses who continue to work in clinical settings and suggests methods for reducing negative health impacts to prevent them from retiring prematurely.
What emergency nurses want you to know
Authors: Proehl Jean A. , Van Dusen Kathy
Published: September 2022

As a long standing emergency nurse myself, I am happy to have colleagues Jean and Kathy contribute this guest editorial to Nursing2022. – LINDA LASKOWSKI-JONES, MS, APRN, ACNS-BC, CEN, NEA-BC, FAWM, FAAN
The Effect of Paraspinal Fatty Muscle Infiltration and Cumulative Lumbar Spine Degeneration on the Outcome of Patients with Lumbar Spinal Canal Stenosis: Analysis of the Lumbar Stenosis Outcome Study (LSOS) Data
Authors: Getzmann Jonas M. , Ashouri Hamidreza , Burgstaller Jakob M. , Valeri Fabio , Winklhofer Sebastian , Ulrich Nils H. , Guggenberger Roman
Published: September 2022

Study Design.

Prospective.

Objective.

To investigate the influence of paraspinal fatty muscle infiltration (FMI) and cumulative lumbar spine degeneration as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on long-term clinical outcome measures in patients with lumbar spinal canal stenosis (LSCS) of the Lumbar Stenosis Outcome Study (LSOS) cohort.

Summary of Background Data.

Past studies have tried to establish correlations of morphologic imaging findings in LSCS with clinical endpoints. However, the impact of FMI and overall lumbar spinal degeneration load has not been examined yet.

Methods.

Patients from the LSOS cohort with moderate to severe LSCS were included. Two radiologists assessed the degree of LSCS as well as cumulative degeneration of the lumbar spine. FMI was graded using the Goutallier scoring system. Spinal Stenosis Measure (SSM) was used to measure the severity level of symptoms and disability. European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3 Level Version (EQ-5D-3L) was used to measure health-related quality of life.

Results.

The non-surgically treated group consisted of 116 patients (age 74.8±8.5 y), whereas the surgically treated group included 300 patients (age 72.3±8.2 y). Paraspinal FMI was significantly different between the groups (54.3% vs. 32.0% for Goutallier grade ≥2; P<0.001). Total degeneration score was comparable in both groups (9.5±2.0 vs. 9.3±2.0; P=0.418). FMI was associated with lower SSM function and lower EQ-5D-3L (all P<0.05), but not with SSM symptoms. Total degeneration of the lumbar spine was associated neither with SSM symptoms, nor with SSM function, nor with EQ-5D-3L (all P>0.05).

Conclusion.

FMI is associated with higher disability and worse health-related quality of life of LSCS patients in the LSOS cohort. There was no significant association between total cumulative lumbar spine degeneration and the outcome of either surgically or non-surgically treated patients.

Level of Evidence.

Level 3
Approach to Lymphoma-Associated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Abouzid Mohamed Riad Abdelgawad , Hameed Maha , Katta Maanya Rajasree , Valisekka Sai Sudha
Published: September 2022

Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the myocardium that affects the heart structure and function, eventually resulting in heart failure, valvular regurgitation, arrhythmia, or even sudden cardiac death. Occurring following treatment of lymphoma, both Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s, cardiomyopathy is a feared complication in these cancer survivors due to its significant association with morbidity and mortality. A review of the literature was conducted using a combination of keywords including “Cardiomyopathy,” “Anthracycline,” “Radiation,” “Pathogenesis,” and “Management.” Anthracyclines and radiation are prominent entities explored in the discussion of lymphoma-associated cardiomyopathy, whereby the formation of reactive oxygen species following treatment with both has been seen in the pathogenesis. The current standard of care thus far for anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy includes heart failure medications such as beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, aldosterone receptor antagonists, and loop-diuretics. On the other hand, radiation-induced cardiomyopathy management has not been well-established yet in literature, with agents such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory drugs still being studied in rat models. The treatment approach to cardiotoxicity in a lymphoma patient should consist of a collaboration between the oncologist and cardiologist prior to lymphoma treatment initiation, to stratify the risk of development of cardiomyopathy in the patient, and decide the best chemotherapy or radiotherapy agent, dosing, and surveillance technique.
Patient Comfort, Safety, and Effectiveness of Resilient Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Formulated With Different Local Anesthetics
Authors: Kaufman-Janette Joely , Joseph John H. , Dayan Stephen H. , Smith Stacy , Eaton Laura , Maffert Pauline
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

Maximizing patient comfort during hyaluronic acid gel injection is a common concern that is usually addressed by selecting fillers with lidocaine.

OBJECTIVE

Two randomized, double-blinded, split-face trials aimed to demonstrate noninferiority of specific hyaluronic acid fillers incorporating mepivacaine (RHA-M) versus their lidocaine controls, at providing pain relief.

METHODS

Thirty subjects per trial received injections of RHAR-M versus RHAR, and RHA4-M versus RHA4, respectively, in the perioral rhytids (PR) and nasolabial folds (NLF). Pain was assessed on a visual analog scale; aesthetic effectiveness was evaluated with validated scales, and safety was monitored based on common treatment responses (CTRs) and adverse events (AEs).

RESULTS

RHA-M fillers proved as effective as their lidocaine counterparts at reducing pain (noninferior, p < .0002 and p < .0001). Bilateral wrinkle improvement was measured both in the PR (−1.5 ± 0.6 points on each side) and in the NLF (−1.8 ± 0.6 and −1.9 ± 0.5 points) trials at one month, with virtually identical responder rates (≥96.7%). Common treatment responses and AEs were similar between treated sides, and none was clinically significant.

CONCLUSION

Resilient hyaluronic acid fillers with either mepivacaine or lidocaine are equally effective at reducing pain during treatment and equally performant and safe for correction of dynamic facial wrinkles and folds.
Donor-Derived Cell-free DNA for Personalized Immunosuppression in Renal Transplantation
Authors: Oellerich Michael , Budde Klemens , Osmanodja Bilgin , Bornemann-Kolatzki Kirsten , Beck Julia , Schütz Ekkehard , Walson Philip D.
Published: September 2022

Background:

The long-term outcomes of solid organ transplantation remain suboptimal. Therefore, appropriate biomarkers are needed in addition to immunosuppressive drugs and other traditional approaches for graft monitoring to achieve personalized immunosuppression and reduce premature graft loss.

Methods:

Donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) is a minimally invasive biomarker of cell death due to graft injury. It can be quantified using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction and next-generation sequencing. Fractional dd-cfDNA determination can be affected by changes in recipient cfDNA, such as those caused by leukopenia or infection, leading to false-positive or false-negative results, respectively. Absolute quantification of dd-cfDNA helps in overcoming this limitation.

Results:

Overall, there is sufficient evidence of the clinical validity of dd-cfDNA. It detects rejection episodes early at an actionable stage and reflects the severity of graft injury without being rejection-specific. Owing to its high negative predictive value, dd-cfDNA is very useful for ruling out graft injury. Dd-cfDNA complements histological findings and can help in avoiding unnecessary biopsies. It indicates a response to rejection treatment and detects underimmunosuppression.

Conclusions:

Monitoring changes in dd-cfDNA over time may be helpful in adapting immunosuppression to prevent graft rejection. Moreover, serial dd-cfDNA determination may increase the effectiveness of transplant recipient surveillance and facilitate personalized immunosuppression when combined with other relevant clinical and diagnostic findings.
Antihypertensive therapy of late arterial hypertension in children following successful coarctation correction
Authors: Sendzikaite Skaiste , Sudikiene Rita , Lubaua Inguna , Silis Pauls , Rybak Agata , Brzezinska-Rajszys Grazyna , Obrycki Łukasz , Litwin Mieczysław , Jankauskiene Augustina
Published: September 2022

Backgroung:

Late arterial hypertension (AH) is the most significant complication of coarctation of the aorta (CoA). Only a few clinical studies described antihypertensive treatment of late AH following successful CoA repair. The primary objective of this multicentre cross-sectional study was to describe real-life antihypertensive therapy for late AH in children after hemodynamically successful CoA repair. The secondary objective was to describe antihypertensive therapy used within different haemodynamic phenotypes of AH.

Method:

Blood pressure status, echocardiographic parameters and central blood pressure measurements were evaluated in 110 children aged 6–18 years following successful CoA repair with right arm blood pressure not exceeding leg blood pressure by at least 20 mmHg.

Results:

AH was found in 62 (56%) patients including 47 who were already treated and 15 with new diagnosed AH of whom seven presented with masked hypertension. Among treated patients, 10 presented with masked hypertension. The dominant phenotype of AH among patients with uncontrolled AH was isolated systolic hypertension (32 patients out of 37; 87.5%). AH was controlled in 53% of treated patients. Fifty-three percent of hypertensive patients had elevated central SBP and 39% had left ventricular hypertrophy with various left ventricle geometry patterns, 23% of them had both. β-adrenergic receptor blockers were the most used antihypertensive drugs followed by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors with doses within the lower recommended range.

Conclusion:

High prevalence of uncontrolled AH despite successful CoA repair and use of relatively low doses of antihypertensive drugs indicates the need of close blood pressure monitoring and more intensive and combined antihypertensive therapy.
Sleep and risk of hypertension in general American adults: the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (2015–2018)
Authors: Li Chunnan , Shang Shaomei , Liang Wannian
Published: September 2022

Objective:

The purpose of research is to investigate the associations of sleep factors separately and jointly with risk of hypertension.

Methods:

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) is a nationally representative survey. Participants aged over 20 years with complete and credible data from the NHANES 2015–2016 and 2017–2018 waves were included. Hypertension was assessed based on self-report medical diagnoses, or antihypertensive medication use, or systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg. Sleep information (sleep duration, trouble sleeping, daytime sleepiness, self-reported snoring and sleep-related breathing issue) was obtained from household interview.

Results:

Of 7426 participants, the mean (standard deviation) age was 48.0 (17.3) years, 3845 (51.8%) were females. The prevalence of hypertension was 32.8%, and lower in those with 7–9 h sleep, no trouble sleeping, no excessive daytime sleepiness, no snoring or sleep apnea symptoms, decreased as the quantity of healthy sleep factors increased. The self-reported short sleep (odds ratio [OR]: 1.25, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02−1.54, P = 0.032), trouble sleeping (OR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.20 to 1.95, P = 0.001), excessive daytime sleepiness (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.01−1.35, P = 0.041) and sleep apnea symptoms (OR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.10−1.61, P = 0.004) were associated with 25%, 53%, 17% and 33% increased risk of hypertension, respectively. Participants with a poor sleep pattern was associated with higher hypertension risk (OR: 2.47, 95% CI: 1.90−3.22, P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Sleep behaviors were cross-sectionally associated with a considerably higher hypertension risk.