bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupling Infrared Isotopic Gas Analysis and Thermal Ramped Analysis to Characterise Soil Organic and Inorganic Carbon
Authors: Hazera Joséphine , Kowalewski Isabelle , Sebag David , Verrecchia Eric , Ravelojaona Herman , Chevallier Tiphaine
Published: January 2025

Studying the soil organic and inorganic carbon (SOC and SIC) dynamics is essential to assess the carbon (C) sequestration potential of calcareous soils. Isotopic signatures (δ13C) are used to assess the C origin of SOC or SIC. However, as measuring SOC and SIC contents, measuring δ13CSOC and δ13CSIC on a non‐pretreated aliquot remains a challenge. Thermal analyses, like the Rock‐Eval (RE) analysis, are promising to quantify SOC and SIC in a single analysis, but, to our knowledge, no development was conducted to assess δ13CSOC and δ13CSIC. We coupled a RE device to an isotopic gas analyser (Picarro) to continuously measure δ13CCO2 and approach δ13CSOC and δ13CSIC. We hypothesised that different carbonate mineralogies and/or crystal sizes in SIC involve fluctuations of the δ13CCO2. Two calcareous soils, a lithogenic (calcite) and a biogenic (snail shell) carbonate, and five calcite/shell mixes were analysed with the RE‐Picarro setup. Two distinct δ13CCO2 values were obtained before and after 650°C and were consistent with the δ13CSOC and δ13CSIC obtained by EA‐IRMS. The fluctuations of δ13CCO2 above 650°C were higher with calcite/shell mixes than with pure carbonates. A δ13CCO2 fluctuation > ± 0.2‰ could be a pertinent indicator to detect mixes of carbonate with different δ13C in soils. The RE‐Picarro setup is promising to assess SOC and SIC contents, δ13CSOC and δ13CSIC and detect mixes of carbonate with different origin on a non‐pretreated aliquot. Development is needed (i) on more soil and carbonate samples and (ii) to improve the precision and accuracy of the RE‐Picarro setup.
Circadian rhythm disruption aggravates alveolar bone loss in rat apical periodontitis
Authors: Ye Lanxiang , Mei Gang , Liu Huan , Zhong Rong , Tang Qingming , Yuan Zhenglin
Published: January 2025

Background

Circadian rhythm disruption (CRD) affects the expression levels of a range of biological clock genes, such as brain and muscle ARNT‐Like‐1 (BMAL1), which is considered to be an important factor in triggering or exacerbating inflammatory response. However, the underlying effect of CRD on the pathogenesis of apical periodontitis, a common oral inflammatory disease, currently remains unknown. Exploring the effects and pathogenic mechanisms of CRD on apical periodontitis will be beneficial in providing new ideas for the prevention and treatment of apical periodontitis.

Methodology

The cross‐sectional study was conducted among patients with apical periodontitis visiting to hospital. Rat models combining CRD and apical periodontitis were constructed, and the destruction of periapical alveolar bone was assessed by Micro‐CT, H&E, and TRAP staining assay. Rat periapical alveolar bone tissues were collected for RT‐qPCR and immunohistochemistry to further detect the expression of periapical biological clock genes. A model of apical periodontitis was constructed using Bmal1−/− and WT rats to further verify the key role played by Bmal1. Finally, rats raised in CRD environment were intraperitoneally injected with melatonin to restore the circadian rhythm, and the periapical alveolar bone repair was observed by Masson's staining and staining of osteogenic markers (ALP, RUNX2).

Results

A close association between CRD and acute exacerbation of chronic apical periodontitis (CAP) in patients was first found in an epidemiological survey. By constructing animal models of CRD and apical periodontitis, it was found that CRD could aggravate the inflammatory stress of apical periodontitis and even drive the acute exacerbation of CAP. Further investigations suggested that the expression of crucial clock genes, especially Bmal1, were significantly disrupted in the periapical tissue of apical periodontitis. In addition, the periapical tissue from Bmal1 knockout rat displayed stronger inflammatory response and more severe alveolar bone destruction in apical periodontitis. Restoring circadian rhythm by melatonin supplementation could effectively alleviate both the inflammatory response and alveolar bone loss in apical periodontitis.

Conclusion

CRD is a novel trigger in aggravating the inflammatory response and alveolar bone loss of apical periodontitis. Melatonin is expected to be used in the dental clinic as an important adjunctive therapy strategy for the healing of periapical tissue in apical periodontitis.
Comparing Proctored and Unproctored Cognitive Ability Testing in High‐Stakes Personnel Selection
Authors: Norrøne Tore Nøttestad , Nordmo Morten
Published: January 2025

New advances in computerized adaptive testing (CAT) have increased the feasibility of high‐stakes unproctored testing of general mental ability (GMA) in personnel selection contexts. This study presents the results from a within‐subject investigation of the convergent validity of unproctored tests. Three batteries of cognitive ability tests were administered during personnel selection in the Norwegian Armed Forces. A total of 537 candidates completed two sets of proctored fixed‐length GMA tests before and during the selection process. In addition, an at‐home unproctored CAT battery of tests was administered before the selection process began. Differences and similarities between the convergent validity of the tests were evaluated. The convergent validity coefficients did not significantly differ between proctored and unproctored batteries, both on observed GMA scores and the latent factor level. The distribution and standardized residuals of test scores comparing proctored‐proctored and proctored‐unproctored were overall quite similar and showed no evidence of score inflation or deflation in the unproctored tests. The similarities between proctored and unproctored results also extended to the moderately searchable words similarity test. Although some unlikely individual cases were observed, the overall results suggest that the unproctored tests maintained their convergent validity.
Enablers and inhibitors of nursing and midwifery leadership in Pacific Island collectivist cultures
Authors: Rumsey Michele , Thoms Debra , Deki  , Leong Margaret , Wilson Colleen Turaga , Filise Mele Sii Inukihaangana , Tuipulotu Amelia Latu Afuha'amango , Rossiter Chris
Published: January 2025

Aim

To identify and explore inhibitors and enablers of nursing and midwifery leadership in the Pacific; to develop context‐specific recommendations for policy and practice.

Background

Many Pacific Island countries experience poor health outcomes and are vulnerable to climate‐related health emergencies. Nursing and midwifery leadership is essential to improve regional health outcomes through influencing policy decisions, strengthening health systems and ensuring optimal health workforce utilisation. Understanding factors affecting health professional leadership facilitates action to remove obstacles and stimulate professional development for emerging leaders.

Methods

This qualitative study utilised a culturally sensitive co‐designed approach and follows the COREQ criteria. The PARcific research methodology synthesised Participant Action Research with Pacific methodologies for culturally safe interviews with 136 stakeholders.

Results

Major enablers of leadership identified were professional development, particularly skills in communication, project planning and data literacy; adequate workforce resources; effective workforce management; support from peers and managers; and personal confidence and courage. Participants identified main inhibitors: inadequate workforce resources; limited cultural sensitivity;  and poor understanding of national and regional strategies.

However, perspectives varied between different participant groups. International and regional policy makers did not recognise the critical importance of workforce resources and individual agency to fostering nursing and midwifery leadership.

Discussion

Joint action to enhance health professional leadership will promote better policymaking leading to improved health outcomes.

Implications for health policy

Professional development should specifically include leadership training using culturally appropriate methods and mechanisms for management and peer support. Leadership development also requires adequate workforce resources to support training; regional standards for accreditation and professional development; improved formal and informal communication pathways; established regional policy directions; and a regional taskforce with health professionals trained to provide crisis leadership.
Effect of Severe Salt Stress on Respiratory and Biochemical Parameters in Legumes With Differential Nodulation Form
Authors: Ortiz José , Sanhueza Carolina , Yaupi Pablo , Plaza Fabián , Castro Catalina , Paniagua‐López Mario , de la Peña Teodoro Coba , López‐Gómez Miguel , Bascuñán‐Godoy Luisa , Del‐Saz Néstor Fernández
Published: January 2025

Legumes are among the most utilised agronomic plant species due to their symbiotic association with N2‐fixing bacteria. Since N2 fixation entails high ATP cost, salt stress disrupts N2 fixation in the symbiont, but increases the production of osmolytes and antioxidant systems in the host plant. This results in competition for C allocation between osmoprotection in the host and continued supply to the symbiont for N acquisition, which may result in different plant responses to salinity. Two‐nodule types of plant species with contrasting carbon requirements for organic N2 fixation can be found within legume species; determinate and indeterminate. In this study, we tested responses of respiratory carbon metabolism, nitrogen assimilation and antioxidant machinery in leaves and roots of Phaseolus vulgaris (determinate nodules) and Pisum sativum (indeterminate nodules) 24 and 72 h after salt treatment (300 mM of NaCl). In P. sativum, we observed that nitrogenase activity was maintained at 24 h, but showed a strong decrease at 72 h together with cytochrome activity. On contrast, in P. vulgaris, respiration rates were maintained by an enhanced antioxidant activity under salinity although at the expense of nodule metabolism. Despite of the severity of the salt stress for N2 fixation, both species showed similar mechanisms to cope with salinity, like the maintenance of alternative respiration and increased antioxidant defence, that are worthy to be tested in the long term under field conditions.
Interactions of Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells and Dopaminergic Neurons in the Mouse Substantia Nigra
Authors: Fitzgerald Julia C. , Sun Ying , Reinecke Frederek , Bauer Elisabeth , Garaschuk Olga , Kahle Philipp J. , Pfeiffer Friederike
Published: January 2025

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disease caused by the death of dopaminergic neurons within the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) region of the midbrain. Recent genomic and single cell sequencing data identified oligodendrocytes and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) to confer genetic risk in PD, but their biological role is unknown. Although SNpc dopaminergic neurons are scarcely or thinly myelinated, there is a gap in the knowledge concerning the physiological interactions between dopaminergic neurons and oligodendroglia. We sought to investigate the distribution of OPCs with regard to the myelination state in the mouse substantia nigra (SN) by high‐resolution imaging to provide a morphological assessment of OPC‐dopaminergic neuron interactions and quantification of cell numbers across different age groups. OPCs are evenly distributed in the midbrain throughout the lifespan and they physically interact with both the soma and axons of dopaminergic neurons. The presence of OPCs and their interaction with dopaminergic neurons does not correlate with the distribution of myelin. Myelination is sparse in the SNpc, including dopaminergic fibers originating from the SNpc and projecting through the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNpr). We report that OPCs and dopaminergic neurons exist in a 1:1 ratio in the SNpc, with OPCs accounting for 15%–16% of all cells in the region across all age groups. This description of OPC‐dopaminergic neuron interaction in the midbrain provides a first look at their longitudinal distribution in mice, suggesting additional functions of OPCs beyond their differentiation into myelinating oligodendrocytes.

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Effects of Cancer Rehabilitation Interventions for Women Treated for Gynaecological Cancers: A Meta‐Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Zhang Liuxin , Cheung Ankie Tan , Chen Yongfeng , Chow Ka Ming
Published: January 2025

Aim

To analyse and synthesise current evidence on the effectiveness of cancer rehabilitation interventions in increasing physical activity, increasing healthy dietary habits, alleviating psychological distress, and increasing health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in women treated for gynaecological cancers (GCs).

Design

A meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs).

Data Sources

A systematic search was conducted in 12 databases from inception to 31 May 2024.

Review Methods

The quantitative results from comparable RCTs were pooled and meta‐analysed using Review Manager 5.4 software. The results from non‐comparable (i.e., clinically heterogeneous) RCTs were narratively summarised. The methodological quality of all RCTs was assessed using Version 2 of the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomised trials.

Results

Nine RCTs reported in a total of 12 articles met the inclusion criteria and comprised a total of 418 patients. The interventions had significant effects on total physical activity levels at post‐intervention, 6‐month follow‐up, and 12‐month follow‐up, and on self‐efficacy in physical activity at post‐intervention and 3‐month follow‐up. However, the interventions did not significantly improve overall HRQoL or healthy dietary habits and did not significantly alleviate anxiety and depression. The key intervention components were information provision on health‐promoting behaviours; adoption of behavioural change techniques (goal setting, action planning, relapse prevention, problem‐solving, self‐monitoring, and social support); and stress and emotion management.

Conclusion

Rehabilitation interventions effectively increase physical activity in women treated for GCs, leading to sustainable effects. However, there is limited evidence on the effectiveness of such interventions in improving overall HRQoL, encouraging healthy eating, and alleviating psychological distress in women treated for GCs.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This review found that rehabilitation interventions can increase physical activity levels among women treated for GCs. It also identified the key effective components of such interventions.

Reporting Method

This review is reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses Statement.

Patient or Public Contribution

None.

Trial Registration: International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews registration number: CRD42023442877
Implant stability quotient and osteogenic process in dental implant sites prepared using piezoelectric technique: A study in minipigs
Authors: Schierano Gianmario , Baldi Domenico , Peirone Bruno , von Degerfeld Mitzy Mauthe , Modica Fabio , Notaro Vincenzo , Boretto Cecilia , Muzio Giuliana , Autelli Riccardo
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Few studies have explored the bone response in dental implant sites prepared using a piezoelectric device, indicating moderate effectiveness in enhancing secondary stability and osteogenesis. This study seeks to expand our understanding of the changes in biological, clinical, and radiographic parameters, during the initial phases of osseointegration in sites prepared with piezoelectric surgery.

Materials and Methods

Two implant sites were prepared in the tibia of four minipigs. At the time of implant placement (T0), bone cortex thickness and Implant Stability Quotient (ISQ) were assessed. A bone specimen was collected from the tibia and used as the baseline for biomolecular analyses. X‐ray was taken after implant insertion. After 14 days (T14), a computed tomography (CT) scan of the tibias was conducted, and ISQ values were reassessed. Histological and biomolecular analyses were performed on bone sections containing the implant.

Results

ISQ significantly increased from T0 to T14, in the absence of any correlation between the cortical thickness and ISQ. In two animals, CT showed a slight trabecular bone thickening adjacent to the implants and disorganized radiodense spots; in the other two, no trabecular osseodensification was evident. Newly formed bone was about 48% of the tissue around implants. At T14, an increase in osteogenic factors and a decrease in inflammatory molecules were observed.

Conclusion

This study enhances understanding of the biological and clinical responses at bone implant sites following piezoelectric surgery. It highlights the relationship between the rise in certain osteogenic factors and new bone formation, as well as a potential association with increased ISQ.
Angulated titanium bases screw channel abutments for single implant restorations: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: De Angelis Paolo , Rella Edoardo , Liguori Margherita Giorgia , Piccirillo Davide , Palmieri Alberto , D'addona Antonio , Manicone Paolo Francesco
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Screw‐retained implant crowns are a common solution to rehabilitate single or multiple edentulous sites. Angulated screw channel (ASC) abutments have been developed as a new system of connection to correct the angulation of the implant and avoid a possible undesired emergence of the access hole. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine available literature related to the effects of ASC abutments in rehabilitating single implant crowns.

Methods

A protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database (ID = CRD42022295521). An electronic search of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Trial Protocols, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and Web of Science was performed up to January 16, 2024. Additionally, a manual search was carried out. The meta‐analysis used a fixed or a random effects model, based on the heterogeneity between the studies, focusing on binary and continuous data. A risk of bias assessment was performed (NOS or MOGA et al.) The outcomes assessed were peri‐implant marginal bone level, probing pocket depth (PPD), the prevalence of technical and mechanical complications, implant and prosthesis survival rates, and esthetics. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

The searches resulted in a total of 10 studies included in the meta‐analysis. The mean implant and prosthesis survival rates were respectively 99% (absolute quantity = 243) and 100% (absolute quantity = 239) with non‐statistically significant differences observed in single crowns supported by ASC abutments compared to cemented restorations, in terms of marginal bone loss (MBL) (p = 0.22), PPD (p = 0.08), risk of complications (p = 0.53), and esthetics (p = 0.47). Follow‐up intervals ranged from 14 days to more than 3 years.

Conclusions

Data based on this systematic review suggest that the clinical and radiographic outcomes of single implants restored using ASC are promising if compared to the outcomes relating to screw‐retained single crowns.
Challenges of poor sleep quality and mental health issues among Syrian medical residents in 22 major hospitals across Syria
Authors: Soqia Jameel , Alameer Mhd Basheer , Yakoub‐Agha Laila , Zerez Nadim , Hanbli Abdallah , Al‐shafie Mohammed , Mohamad Lama , Samaan Jad , Hamdan Duaa , Almouselli Ahmad , Wazzan Mohamad Hadi , Moudarres Turfa , Alabdullah Hadi , Ibrahim Manar , Hneino George , Alhomsi Rawan , Chatty M. Eyad
Published: January 2025

A nationwide survey in the USA reported that healthcare workers had the highest prevalence of short sleep duration compared with other professions. Moreover, several studies have reported poor sleep quality among healthcare professionals and described insufficient sleep as a potential driver of reduced physician well‐being. This study aims to explore sleep quality and mental health issues among Syrian medical residents, with the goal of informing targeted interventions to enhance their well‐being and professional performance. This cross‐sectional study in Syria involved 2071 residents from 22 major hospitals. Conducted between 27 October 2023 and 4 April 2024, it used face‐to‐face interviews with validated questionnaires following STROBE guidelines. Hospitals were categorized for comparative analysis. Measures included demographics, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Patient Health Questionnaire for depression, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7‐item. In a study involving 2071 hospital residents across Syria's major hospitals, significant findings reveal a high prevalence of poor sleep quality (67.7%), depressive symptoms (46%) and anxiety symptoms (42.2%). Analysis by hospital categories highlighted varied rates, with Damascus and Hama General Hospitals showing notably higher incidences. Females exhibited higher rates of depressive and anxiety symptoms compared with males, with predictors including gender, age and marital status. The relatively high prevalence of poor sleep quality, depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms among Syrian medical residents necessitates proper action, which will probably include limits on work hours, to enhance mental health outcomes and ensure proper patient care.
Utility of a 13C‐Spirulina Stable Isotope Gastric Emptying Breath Test in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Varma Revati , Williams Catherine E. , McClain Ethan S. , Bailey Kent R. , Ordog Tamas , Bharucha Adil E.
Published: January 2025

Background

The carbon‐13 spirulina gastric emptying breath test (GEBT) is approved to identify delayed, but not accelerated, gastric emptying (GE). We compared the utility of the GEBT to scintigraphy for diagnosing abnormal GE in patients with diabetes mellitus.

Methods

Twenty‐eight patients with diabetes ate a 230‐kcal test meal labeled with technetium 99 m and 13C‐spirulina, after which 10 scintigraphic images and breath samples (baseline, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 210, and 240 min) were collected on 2 occasions 1 week apart. We assessed the accuracy of 13C‐spirulina GEBT excretion rate (percent dose multiplied by 1000 [kPCD] min−1) values to predict scintigraphic half‐life and distinguish between normal, delayed, and accelerated GE and the intraindividual reproducibility of the GEBT.

Key Results

Scintigraphy revealed normal, delayed, and accelerated GE, respectively, in 17 (30%), 29 (52%), and 10 (18%) test results. GE T½ values measured with scintigraphy and GEBT were highly concordant within individuals; the intraindividual reproducibility was 34% (scintigraphy) and 15% (GEBT). Compared to current criteria, the kPCD150 (150 min) and kPCD180 values provided equally sensitive (90%) and more specific (81% vs. 67%) approach for distinguishing between delayed versus normal/accelerated GE. A new metric (kPCD60–kPCD15 min) was 90% sensitive and 83% specific for distinguishing between accelerated versus normal/delayed GE. These findings were used to create nomograms and an algorithm for interpreting GEBT results.

Conclusions and Inferences

Among patients with poorly controlled diabetes, the 13C‐spirulina GEBT can accurately and precisely assess GE and effectively distinguish between normal, delayed, and accelerated GE.
Who's Afraid of Basic Desert?
Authors: Madigan Taylor
Published: January 2025

Skeptics about moral responsibility are skeptical about “basic desert moral responsibility.” They claim that “we” are committed to basic desert moral responsibility in a wide range of ordinary practices; accordingly, if skeptics are right, “our” practices rest on a widespread mistake. In turn, the (purported) fact that “we” are systematically in error motivates the skeptic's revisionary proposals for alternative social practices. I aim to head off this line of thought at the first step: we do not have sufficient reason to think that we are committed to basic desert moral responsibility as pervasively as the skeptic contends. The significance of skepticism is proportional to how widespread commitment to basic desert moral responsibility is; accordingly, the less confident we should be that such a commitment is widespread, the less confident we should be that skepticism poses a significant challenge.
Targeted cattle grazing for shrub control in woody‐encroached oak savannas
Authors: Yantes Austin M. , Solberg Kent L. , Montgomery Rebecca A.
Published: January 2025

Woody encroachment threatens savanna ecosystems around the world. In the midwestern United States, remnant oak savannas persist in a woody‐encroached state due to the removal of grazing and fire disturbances from the landscape. Primary oak savanna restoration methods, such as thinning and fire, can promote a dense shrub layer. Therefore, it is necessary to explore other tools to control woody species, such as targeted grazing. We conducted an experiment to evaluate the effectiveness of targeted cattle grazing as a shrub control method and its impacts on the herbaceous community. We used high‐density, short‐duration grazing to target shrubs and minimize negative non‐target impacts. We found that this type of cattle management reduced shrub density over the short term, but there was substantial resprout after 1 year of no grazing. Targeted grazing lowered herbaceous cover and shifted species composition but did not affect herbaceous species richness or diversity. We saw no increase in non‐native cover during the study, though we documented isolated occurrences of new non‐native species in the grazing paddocks. Overall, our study points to the potential of targeted cattle grazing as a viable tool to help restore the understory of woody‐encroached ecosystems. Successfully meeting vegetation objectives requires a grazing manager with knowledge of the site, the target species, and livestock care and nutrition, as well as a commitment to adaptive management.
Syphilis‐positive and false‐positive trends among US blood donors, 2013–2023
Authors: Conti Galen , Fayed Rahima , Saa Paula , Dodd Roger Y. , Stramer Susan L.
Published: January 2025

Background

US blood donors are tested for syphilis because the bacterial agent is transfusion transmissible. Here we describe trends over an 11‐year period of donations positive for recent and past syphilis infections, and donations classified as syphilis false positive (FP).

Methods

Data from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2023 (11 years) were compiled for all American Red Cross blood donations to evaluate demographics/characteristics and longitudinal trends in donors testing syphilis reactive/positive. The prevalence of recent, past, and total (combination of recent/past) infections were evaluated, along with syphilis FP donations. Classification was based on known serological methods using treponemal and non‐treponemal tests.

Results

Approximately 53 million donations were included with 10,365 total syphilis infections (3463 recent and 6902 past; 0.02% total) and 48,719 FP (0.09%). Donor demographics, characteristics, and HBV/HCV/HIV nucleic acid testing reactivity differed among syphilis‐positive and FP compared with nonreactive donations. Donors with a FP donation had high rates of subsequent donations testing syphilis positive (0.3%) and FP (7.7%). Median time from first FP to subsequent FP was observed to be 3.6 months. Recent infections increased over the 11 years, with past infections peaking in 2014 followed by increases in 2021–2023 paralleling recent infections. Repeating cycles of seasonal FP spikes occurred in the fall of 2013 and from 2017 to 2022 corresponding with vaccine administrations.

Conclusions

Syphilis infections in blood donors are trending upward, paralleling US population trends. Syphilis FP donors had high rates of subsequent FP and unexplained syphilis‐positive donations. Seasonal syphilis FP spikes occurred for most years but are trending downwards.
Associations Between Leisure-Time Physical Activity and Mortality by Sociodemographic Factors
Authors: Van Dyke Miriam E. , Webber Bryant J. , Hyde Eric T. , Williamson John , Boyer William , Whitfield Geoffrey P.
Published: January 2025

Background: The 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines 2nd Edition Advisory Committee Scientific Report recommended research to understand whether the health benefits of physical activity (PA) differed by sociodemographic factors. This study examined associations between meeting PA guidelines in leisure time and all-cause, heart disease, and cancer mortality across sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: Nationally representative data on 567,483 eligible US adults from the 1998–2018 US National Health Interview Survey and 2019 public-use linked mortality files were used. Participants self-reported leisure-time aerobic and muscle-strengthening PA. Meeting PA guidelines was defined as meeting both aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity recommendations. Multivariate Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals comparing all-cause, heart disease, and cancer mortality risk across PA categories, with a focus on adults meeting guidelines. Results: Across sociodemographic groups, associations comparing mortality risk among adults meeting guidelines versus those meeting neither recommendation in leisure time ranged from no significant associations to significant risk reductions in mortality ranging from 14% to 36% for all-cause, 25% to 52% for heart disease, and 20% to 32% for cancer. Risk reductions were larger for women versus men (all cause and heart disease), non-Hispanic or non-Latino/a White adults compared with Hispanic or Latino/a adults (all cause), adults with college education or higher versus those with less than high school education (all cause), and adults with high school education versus those with some college education (cancer). Conclusions: Meeting PA guidelines provides a substantial reduction in mortality risk from all causes, heart disease, and cancer, but the magnitude of reduction may differ across sociodemographic groups.
Illnesses and Diseases Constitute a Quarter of Medical Conditions in an Under-21 National Football Team
Authors: Nordback Panu H.
Published: January 2025

Context: There is a minimal number of studies of under-21-year-old national football teams, and the literature is injury centric. Particularly, current knowledge is deficient regarding noninjurious medical conditions, such as illnesses and diseases. Design: The objectives of this study were to analyze the descriptive characteristics of injuries and illnesses or diseases encountered in an under-21 football team during 2 European championship qualification tournaments. Methods: Medical records of 2 consecutive men’s Union of European Football Associations European Under-21 Championship qualification competition tournaments were retrospectively analyzed for the study from September 2015 to October 2018. All match- and training-related injuries, illnesses, and diseases were analyzed and further categorized. Results: In the 20 international caps played within 13 separate events, the players encountered 81 injuries and 26 other conditions, illnesses, or diseases requiring medical attention. In total, 25 injuries and 5 diseases led to attendance inability. The incidence of injury was 0.6 per match and disease 0.3 per day. Many overuse injuries appeared during prematch training and in relation to previous history. Twenty-four percent of all medical conditions during 2 qualification tournaments were illnesses or diseases. The injury and disease incidences were low and mild or moderate rather than severe. Conclusions: A variety of illnesses and diseases constitute a quarter of conditions requiring medical attention in an under-21 national football team. Attendance at under-21 national team events can be stated as safe as the incidence and severity rates are low.
A point mutation in a
wspF-
like gene in
Pseudoalteromonas lipolytica
enhances the anticorrosion activity
Authors: Zeng Zhenshun , He Dan , Zhao Zhiying , He Tianci , Li Qian , Wang Yuqi
Published: January 2025

The protection of steel based on microbial biomineralization has emerged as a novel and eco-friendly strategy for corrosion control. However, the molecular basis of the biomineralization process in mineralization bacteria remains largely unexplored. We previously reported that
Pseudoalteromonas lipolytica
EPS+ strain provides protection against steel corrosion by forming a hybrid biomineralization film. In this study, we identified that a point mutation in the
AT00_08765
(
wspF-
like) gene, responsible for encoding a chemotaxis protein that regulates swimming motility and polysaccharide production, is linked to the observed anticorrosion activity in EPS+ strain. The engineered point mutation mutant strain, designated Δ
08765(707A
), exhibited similar phenotypes to the EPS+ strain, including colony morphology and cellulose production. Importantly, we demonstrated that moderate swimming motility in Δ
08765(707A
) plays a pivotal role in the development of a protective mineralization film on the steel surface. Additionally, we found that Δ
08765(707A
) enhances biofilm formation by rapidly forming small aggregates in the initial stage of biofilm growth. This process facilitated the assembly of more compact and larger mineralization products, effectively inhibiting steel corrosion. In addition, Δ
08765(707A
) formed a uniform mineralization film that completely covered the steel surface, preventing the formation of sheet-like steel corrosion products. Therefore, this study demonstrates that an engineering strain carrying a point mutation in the
AT00_08765
gene can significantly enhance the anticorrosion activity. This enhancement is accomplished through the formation of small bacteria-induced aggregates, followed by the development of larger mineralization products and the creation of a uniform organic–inorganic hybrid film.

IMPORTANCE

In this study, we revealed that moderate swimming motility significantly influences the anticorrosion activity of marine
Pseudoalteromonas
. Furthermore, our study demonstrated that overproduction of cellulose facilitates cell aggregation rapidly during the initial stages of biofilm formation, thereby promoting the development of larger mineralization products and the formation of a uniform organic–inorganic hybrid film on the steel surface. Our findings provide new insights into the biomineralization mechanisms in
Pseudoalteromonas lipolytica
, potentially catalyzing the advancement of an eco-friendly microbial-driven approach to marine corrosion prevention.
Laboratory evolution of
E. coli
with a natural vitamin B
12
analog reveals roles for cobamide uptake and adenosylation in methionine synthase-dependent growth
Authors: Mok Kenny C. , Hallberg Zachary F. , Procknow Rebecca R. , Taga Michiko E.
Published: January 2025

Bacteria encounter chemically similar nutrients in their environment, which impact their growth in distinct ways. Among such nutrients are cobamides, the structurally diverse family of cofactors related to vitamin B
12
(cobalamin), which function as cofactors for diverse metabolic processes. Given that different environments contain varying abundances of different cobamides, bacteria are likely to encounter cobamides that enable them to grow robustly and also those that do not function efficiently for their metabolism. To gain insights into how bacteria might respond under the latter conditions, we performed a laboratory evolution of a cobamide-dependent strain of
Escherichia coli
with pseudocobalamin (pCbl), a cobamide that
E. coli
uses less effectively than cobalamin for MetH-dependent methionine synthesis. Propagation and sequencing of nine independent lines identified potential genetic adaptations in cobamide-related genes that improved growth with less-preferred cobamides. We constructed targeted mutants to validate these findings and found that increasing the expression of the outer membrane cobamide transporter BtuB is beneficial during growth under cobamide-limiting conditions. Unexpectedly, we also found that overexpression of the cobamide adenosyltransferase BtuR confers a specific growth advantage with pCbl. Characterization of the latter phenotype revealed that BtuR and adenosylated cobamides contribute to optimal MetH-dependent growth. Together, these findings improve our understanding of how bacteria expand their cobamide-dependent metabolic potential.

IMPORTANCE

In nature, bacteria commonly experience fluctuations in the availability of required nutrients. Thus, their environment often contains nutrients that are insufficient in quantity or that function poorly in their metabolism. Cobamides, the vitamin B
12
family of cofactors, are ideal for investigating the influence of nutrient quality on bacterial growth. We performed a laboratory evolution experiment in
E. coli
with a less-preferred cobamide to examine whether and how bacteria can improve their growth with less ideal nutrients. We found that overexpression of genes for cobamide uptake and modification are genetic adaptations that improve growth under these conditions. Given that cobamides are key shared metabolites in microbial communities, our results reveal insights into bacterial interactions and competition for nutrients.
Frequently arising ESX-1-associated phase variants influence
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
fitness in the presence of host and antibiotic pressures
Authors: Luna Michael J. , Oluoch Peter O. , Miao Jiazheng , Culviner Peter , Papavinasasundaram Kadamba , Jaecklein Eleni , Shell Scarlet S. , Ioerger Thomas R. , Fortune Sarah M. , Farhat Maha R. , Sassetti Christopher M.
Published: January 2025

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(Mtb) exhibits an impressive ability to adapt to rapidly changing environments, despite its genome’s apparent stability. Recently, phase variation through indel formation in homopolymeric tracts (HT) has emerged as a potentially important mechanism promoting adaptation in Mtb. This study examines the impact of common phase variants associated with the ESX-1 type VII secretion system, focusing on a highly variable HT upstream of the ESX-1 regulatory factor,
espR
. By engineering this frequently observed indel into an isogenic background, we demonstrate that a single nucleotide insertion in the
espR
5′UTR causes post-transcriptional upregulation of EspR protein abundance and corresponding alterations in the EspR regulon. Consequently, this mutation increases the expression of ESX-1 components in the
espACD
operon and enhances ESX-1 substrate secretion. We find that this indel specifically increases isoniazid resistance without impacting the effectiveness of other drugs tested. Furthermore, we show that two distinct observed HT indels that regulate either
espR
translation or
espACD
transcription increase bacterial fitness in a mouse infection model. The presence of multiple ESX-1-associated HTs provides a mechanism to combinatorially tune protein secretion, drug sensitivity, and host-pathogen interactions. More broadly, these findings support emerging data that Mtb utilizes HT-mediated phase variation to direct genetic variation to certain sites across the genome in order to adapt to changing pressures.

IMPORTANCE

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(Mtb) is responsible for more deaths worldwide than any other single infectious agent. Understanding how this pathogen adapts to the varied environmental pressures imposed by host immunity and antibiotics has important implications for the design of more effective therapies. In this work, we show that the genome of Mtb contains multiple contingency loci that control the activity of the ESX-1 secretion system, which is critical for interactions with the host. These loci consist of homopolymeric DNA tracts in gene regulatory regions that are subject to high-frequency reversible variation and act to tune the activity of ESX-1. We find that variation at these sites increases the fitness of Mtb in the presence of antibiotic and/or during infection. These findings indicate that Mtb has the ability to diversify its genome in specific sites to create subpopulations of cells that are preadapted to new conditions.
c-di-GMP phosphodiesterase ProE interacts with quorum sensing protein PqsE to promote pyocyanin production in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Feng Qishun , Dai Xin , Wu Qiulan , Zhang Lianhui , Yang Liang , Fu Yang
Published: January 2025

The universal bacterial second messenger bis-(3′-5′)-cyclic dimeric guanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP) plays critical roles in regulating a variety of bacterial functions such as biofilm formation and virulence. The metabolism of c-di-GMP is inversely controlled by diguanylate cyclases (DGCs) and phosphodiesterases (PDEs). Recently, increasing studies suggested that the protein-protein interactions between DGCs/PDEs and their partners appear to be a common way to achieve specific regulation. In this work, we showed that the PDE ProE can interact with PQS quorum sensing protein PqsE to regulate pyocyanin production in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
. Our bacterial two-hybrid assay demonstrated that ProE directly interacts with PqsE, and isothermal titration calorimetry and surface plasmon resonance assay further confirmed that the binding affinity of ProE with PqsE is at micromolar level. Both ProE and PqsE negatively regulate intracellular c-di-GMP levels. Furthermore, our transcriptomic study showed that co-expression of ProE and PqsE significantly changes the gene expression profiles in
P. aeruginosa
, especially with increased expression of pyocyanin genes, and the qPCR and phenotypic results confirmed the transcriptome data. Taken together, our study suggested that the interaction between ProE and PqsE plays a critical role in regulation of pyocyanin production and highlights the importance of protein-protein interaction mediated c-di-GMP signaling in
P. aeruginosa
.

IMPORTANCE

c-di-GMP is pivotal in orchestrating various bacterial functions. In P
seudomonas aeruginosa
, the nuanced balance of intracellular c-di-GMP is maintained by approximately 41 diguanylate cyclases (DGCs) and phosphodiesterases (PDEs). Emerging studies indicate that the c-di-GMP metabolic DGCs and PDEs may be involved in the signal transduction process by directly binding to the target protein, thus influencing downstream function. Despite their known importance, the precise functions of these proteins, especially their interacting partners, remain unclear. In this study, we identified that PQS quorum sensing system protein PqsE is a binding partner of c-di-GMP phosphodiesterase ProE; further analysis suggested that the ProE specifically interacts with PqsE to promote pyocyanin production. Our study extended the regulatory mechanism of the c-di-GMP signal transduction and quorum sensing in governing bacterial physiology.
Uterine preservation in pyomyoma complicating uterine artery embolisation
Authors: Choudhury Satish , Gupta Avantika , Sethi Ayushi , Kumar Aman
Published: January 2025

Pyomyoma, a rare complication of uterine artery embolisation (UAE) for symptomatic fibroids, can closely mimic post-embolisation syndrome (PES), which typically presents with pain, fever and leucocytosis within the first week. Differentiating PES from pyomyoma is critical, as pyomyoma carries a higher risk of severe complications. We report a case of an unmarried nulliparous woman who developed pyomyoma following UAE for fibroids. Initially suspected to have PES, her persistent high-grade fever, purulent discharge and imaging findings of gas pockets within a necrotic fibroid led to the diagnosis of pyomyoma. Despite initial treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics, emergency laparotomy was required, revealing a necrotic, pus-filled fibroid. The infected tissue was excised, and careful surgical reconstruction of the uterus was performed, successfully preserving her fertility. This case underscores the importance of timely intervention and uterine-preserving approaches in patients with prolonged or worsening symptoms after UAE to optimise both clinical and reproductive outcomes.
Scale-up of the CRADLE Vital Signs Alert intervention to improve maternity triage in Sierra Leone: a mixed methods evaluation of device repair and maintenance
Authors: Greene Charlotte , Pearson Alice , Ridout Alexandra , Kuhrt Katy , Herm Singh Simren , Gassim Kay Jah Daniel , Momoh Francis , Sesay Tom , Shennan Andrew H
Published: January 2025

Background

Scale-up of the CRADLE intervention, a simple and accurate blood pressure and pulse device and focused training package, across all government maternity care facilities in Sierra Leone was completed in June 2023. Device maintenance must be prioritised to achieve sustainability.

We evaluated device functionality 3 years after implementation to ensure sustainability.

Methods

Non-functioning devices were collected and evaluated across five districts. Semi-structured interviews conducted with staff explored barriers and facilitators to maintenance and sustainability.

Results

21% (261/1257) of devices were reported as non-functioning and collected. 10% (26/261) of these devices had been damaged in storage and excluded from analysis. 75% (176/235) of non-functional devices needed a new cuff, 43% (100/235) a new inflation bulb and 18% (43/235) a new machine. Therefore, 3 years after scale-up, 82% of devices collected (192/235) and 96.5% of total devices distributed (1188/1231) could be functional after simple measures conducted within the healthcare facility.

100% (18/18) of healthcare workers who use the device regularly were able to identify these specific problems and solutions. Barriers to repair included transportation and logistical challenges communicating the need for repairs. A novel training video in the local language was co-produced.

Conclusion

The CRADLE device is robust and repair solutions are low cost but require logistical support at local and national levels. The majority can be fixed at the healthcare facility with minimal training if spare parts are available. The importance of implementation strategies to mitigate logistical challenges should be considered when scaling up technological innovations in similar low-resource settings.