bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Balancing act: Examining the trade‐offs between regional convergence and economic growth in China's province managing county reform
Authors: Yousaf Tahir
Published: September 2024

The study examines the relationship between regional convergence, economic growth and government hierarchies, with a specific focus on the province managing county (PMC) reform policy in China. The motivation for this research stems from the observation that a substantial portion of the increased inequality in China is attributable to disparities at the county level. This underscores the necessity for policies that address regional inequalities at the county level while simultaneously promoting sustained economic growth. We employ a time‐varying quasi‐natural experiment to explore how this reform has influenced regional convergence and economic growth within the sample period. The outcomes reveal that the PMC reform had a detrimental impact on regional convergence, hindering it by an average of 2.6%, while economic growth received a modest increase of 0.36%. The study also reveals notable heterogeneity in the effects of the reform, contracted disparities in western region, alongside exhibiting widened disparities and higher growth in eastern & central region. The study also investigates the underlying mechanisms, finding that expenditures on basic provisions reduced, while county revenue and investment expenditures increased following the policy change. It proposes that the increased investment in capital expenditures stimulated economic growth but came at the cost of hindering regional convergence.
Exploring the synergy of enhanced weathering and Bacillus subtilis: A promising strategy for sustainable agriculture
Authors: Niron Harun , Vienne Arthur , Frings Patrick , Poetra Reinaldy , Vicca Sara
Published: September 2024

Climate change is one of the most urgent environmental challenges that humanity faces. In addition to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, safe and robust carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies that capture atmospheric CO2 and ensure long‐term sequestration are required. Among CDR technologies, enhanced silicate weathering (ESW) has been suggested as a promising option. While ESW has been demonstrated to depend strongly on pH, water, and temperature, recent studies suggest that biota may accelerate mineral weathering rates. Bacillus subtilis is a plant growth‐promoting rhizobacterium that can facilitate weathering to obtain mineral nutrients. It is a promising agricultural biofertilizer, as it helps plants acquire nutrients and protects them from environmental stresses. Given that croplands are optimal implementation fields for ESW, any synergy between ESW and B. subtilis can hold great potential for further practice. B. subtilis was reported to enhance weathering under laboratory conditions, but there is a lack of data for soil applications. In a soil‐mesocosm experiment, we examined the effect of B. subtilis on basalt weathering. B. subtilis–basalt interaction stimulated basalt weathering and increased soil extractable Fe. The combined application displayed higher CDR potential compared to basalt‐only application (3.7 vs. 2.3 tons CO2 ha−1) taking solid and liquid cation pools into account. However, the cumulative CO2 efflux decreased by approximately 2 tons CO2 ha−1 with basalt‐only treatment, while the combined application did not affect the CO2 efflux. We found limited mobilization of cations to the liquid phase as most were retained in the soil. Additionally, we found substantial mobilization of basalt‐originated Mg, Fe, and Al to oxide‐ and organic‐bound soil fractions. We, therefore, conclude that basalt addition showed relatively low inorganic CDR potential but a high capacity for SOM stabilization. The outcomes indicated the importance of weathering rate–GHG emission integration and the high potential of SOM stabilization in ESW studies.
Real‐world effectiveness of eptacog beta in patients with haemophilia and inhibitors: A multi‐institutional case series
Authors: Youkhana Kimberley , Batsuli Glaivy , Acharya Suchitra , Khan Osman , Tran Duc Q. , Dvorak Andrea , Recht Michael , Young Guy , Sidonio Robert , Abajas Yasmina
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The management of bleeding events (BEs) in haemophilia A (HA) and B (HB) patients with inhibitors necessitates the use of bypassing agents. The recombinant factor VIIa bypassing agent eptacog beta has demonstrated efficacy at treating BEs and managing perioperative bleeding in adults in phase three clinical studies.

Aim

To provide real‐world descriptions of eptacog beta use for BE treatment in patients on emicizumab or eptacog beta prophylaxis.

Methods

This is a retrospective case series of 14 patients who received eptacog beta at seven haemophilia treatment centres, with HA (n = 11) or HB (n = 3) and inhibitors or anaphylaxis to factor replacement.

Results

Twenty‐four spontaneous and traumatic BEs are described (muscle hematomas, joint hemarthroses, port site, and epistaxis) involving 11 subjects. Eptacog beta was effective for acute bleed treatment as both first‐line therapy and for treatment of BEs refractory to eptacog alfa in 23/24 events. When eptacog beta was used for prophylaxis, 2/3 patients reported a decreased frequency of breakthrough BEs compared with prophylactic eptacog alfa and one patient experienced a similar frequency of breakthrough BEs compared with prophylactic activated prothrombin complex concentrate. Eptacog beta provided effective bleed control for three subjects who underwent minor surgical procedures. Treatment with eptacog beta was estimated to be 46%–72% more cost‐effective than eptacog alfa. No safety concerns or adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

In this case series, eptacog beta was safe, effective, and economical as first‐line therapy, treatment of refractory BEs, management of perioperative bleeding, or prophylaxis in haemophilia patients with inhibitors.
Microalgae‐based sunscreens as green and sustainable cosmetic products
Authors: Najafi Asal , Heidary Mobina , Martinez Renata Miliani , Baby André Rolim , Morowvat Mohammad Hossein
Published: September 2024

Recently, microalgal biotechnology has attained great acceptance among various researchers and industries for the green and sustainable production of different bioactive compounds. They provide multiple metabolites and molecules, making them an ideal candidate for cosmetic formulators and cosmeceutical companies. Nevertheless, numerous microalgae strains have never been studied for their pharmaceutical, nutritional and cosmeceutical purposes. Even less, only some have been cultivated on a large scale for bioactive compound production. Here, we have studied the cosmetic and cosmeceutical potentials of different microalgal strains for sunscreen as adjuvants and boosters in a green, carbon‐neutral and sustainable platform. Other bioactive compounds were exploited, and the available products in the market and the published patents were also reviewed. From our review, it will be possible to combine the fundamental and practical aspects of microalgal biotechnology toward a greener and more sustainable future for the cosmetic/cosmeceutical areas of the photoprotection scenario.
Lightning damage characteristics of Cf/SiC based on ultrasonic and multi‐nondestructive testing methods
Authors: Gao Xiaojin , Liang Chengyu , Fu Liang , Chen Jiasheng , Mei Hui , Cheng Laifei , Zhang Litong
Published: September 2024

According to the characteristics of the internal damage of the Cf/SiC composite material after the lightning strike, this article establishes a high‐energy ultrasonic excitation, reception, and high‐resolution ultrasonic testing model, achieving high‐energy and high‐resolution ultrasound C‐scan detection of Cf/SiC composite material samples after lightning strikes, and combining digital X‐ray and computed tomography methods for damage analysis. When the lightning energy is gradually increased, the lightning stratified damage will occur inside the sample, and the delamination damage area reaches the maximum value of 25182 mm2 at the lightning energy of S4. Subsequently, as the energy increases, significant needle‐like damage is generated at the needle‐stitched area inside the sample, and the area of delamination damage gradually decreases. When the energy continues to increase to the lightning strike energy of S6, as the energy increases, the number of needle‐like damage in the sample continues to grow, and penetrating injury appears at the needle suture site. At S8, the maximum number of needle‐like lightning damage occurred, with 53 damage points and a total volume of 256.86 mm3, respectively. Through comprehensive analysis, Cf/SiC has excellent resistance to lightning damage, but the needle‐stitched carbon fiber in the thickness direction significantly reduces its resistance to lightning penetration.
Rethinking the pathogenesis of endometriosis: Complex interactions of genomic, epigenetic, and environmental factors
Authors: Kobayashi Hiroshi , Imanaka Shogo , Yoshimoto Chiharu , Matsubara Sho , Shigetomi Hiroshi
Published: September 2024

Aim

Endometriosis is a complex, multifactorial disease. Recent advances in molecular biology underscore that somatic mutations within the epithelial component of the normal endometrium, alongside aberrant epigenetic alterations within endometrial stromal cells, may serve as stimulators for the proliferation of endometriotic tissue within the peritoneal cavity. Nevertheless, pivotal inquiries persist: the deterministic factors driving endometriosis development in certain women while sparing others, notwithstanding comparable experiences of retrograde menstruation. Within this review, we endeavor to synopsize the current understanding of diverse pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying the initiation and progression of endometriosis and delineate avenues for future research.

Methods

A literature search without time restriction was conducted utilizing PubMed and Google Scholar.

Results

Given that aberrant clonal expansion stemming from cancer‐associated mutations is common in normal endometrial tissue, only endometrial cells harboring mutations imparting proliferative advantages may be selected for survival outside the uterus. Endometriotic cells capable of engendering metabolic plasticity and modulating mitochondrial dynamics, thereby orchestrating responses to hypoxia, oxidative stress, inflammation, hormonal stimuli, and immune surveillance, and adeptly acclimating to their harsh surroundings, stand a chance at viability.

Conclusion

The genesis of endometriosis appears to reflect the evolutionary principles of mutation, selection, clonal expansion, and adaptation to the environment.
Seed Treatment With Fungicides and Biocontrol Agents for Fusarium Wilt Management and Improvement of Seed Quality in Lentil
Authors: Jadhav Sunil , Kumar Atul , Akthar Jameel , Patted Praveen , Mishra Gyna P. , Aski Muralidhar , Tomar Sakshi
Published: September 2024

Lentil (Lens culinaris) is an important pulse crop in India. Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis (Fol), is a major biotic constraint in lentil production. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of combination products of fungicides and bio‐agents against Fol under in vitro and in vivo conditions. Fungicides were evaluated using the poisoned food technique, while the antagonistic activity of bio‐agents was studied using dual culture technique. Among seven combination products of fungicides, carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% was the most effective fungicide in restricting the colony diameter of the pathogen. In field conditions, the seed treatment with carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% at 2.5 g/kg seed performed best in both yield and seed quality parameters. Among the bio‐agents tested, Trichoderma asperullum gave the best results in suppressing pathogen growth under in vitro conditions. The seed treatment with the combination of T. asperullum + Pseudomonas fluorescens at 5 g/kg seed showed improvement in seed yield and seed quality parameters in the field. The present study has provided chemical and biological measures for the integrated management of lentil wilt.
Foliar Resistance to a Natural Population of Plasmopara viticola in Some Grapevine Varieties Grown in Türkiye
Authors: Doğu Duygu Mermer , Özer Nuray
Published: September 2024

It is critical to use a population of the pathogen that contains different strains to determine the resistance of grapevine varieties to the downy mildew pathogen Plasmopara viticola in a specific region. This study tested six local grape varieties (Çavuş, Kalecik Karası, Müşküle, Papaz Karası, Sultana and Yapıncak), eight Turkish registered varieties (Barış, Bozbey, Güzgülü, Özer Karası, Reçel Üzümü, Tekirdağ Çekirdeksizi, Trakya İlkeren and Yalova İncisi) and seven varieties of foreign origin (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cardinal, Chardonnay, Cinsault, Isabella, Semillon and Gamay) using detached leaf and leaf disc assays with pathogen populations collected from vineyards. There was a significant correlation for disease severity between the two assay methods. No sporulation was observed on the varieties Çavuş and Isabella in both assay methods. The variety Yapıncak had very low disease severity (2.00%) in the leaf disc assay, and the pathogen did not sporulate on this variety in the detached leaf assay. Cluster analysis was performed to determine the resistance level of the varieties against the pathogen, as different disease severities were observed in some varieties depending on the test method used, and the 21 varieties were classified into four clusters. Barış, Bozbey, Cardinal, Çavuş, Isabella, Semillon and Yapıncak in Cluster I exhibited the lowest disease severity mean (2.88%), while those in Cluster 3, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Güzgülü, Papaz Karası and Yalova Incisi, had the highest disease severity mean (56.75%). These varieties in Clusters 1 and 3 were considered highly resistant and highly susceptible, respectively. Leaf hair density, as reported in official variety descriptions, did not associate with reduced disease severity in the two assays. This study assessed the response of grapevine varieties to the P. viticola population in the region for the first time. The highly resistant and resistant varieties identified will provide new material for breeders and contribute to the improvement of organic viticulture in the area.
Neural Evidence for Syntactic Unification in Second Language Sentence Comprehension: A Time‐Frequency Analysis
Authors: Song Yoonsang , Li Yu , Wong Patrick C. M.
Published: September 2024

This study investigates whether syntactic unification occurs during online L2 sentence comprehension using time‐frequency analysis. We measured the oscillatory power changes in native English speakers and L1‐Cantonese L2‐English speakers while they were reading well‐formed English sentences, syntactically intact nonsense sentences, and random word lists. Additionally, we conducted traditional ERP analyses to test L2 speakers’ sensitivity to NP‐internal number (dis)agreement. The results show that low‐beta power significantly increased in the L2 group when reading not only well‐formed sentences but also nonsense sentences, replicating the pattern found in the L1 group. This suggests that syntactic unification occurs in L2 comprehension as reliably as in L1 comprehension. However, L2 speakers did not show increased positivity for NP‐internal number disagreement, indicating that they have not developed native‐like sensitivity to this syntactic error. The implications of these time‐frequency and ERP data for L2 sentence processing and syntactic development are discussed.
Timed Up‐and‐Go Test and Sit‐to‐Stand Test in Community‐Dwelling Older Person: Inter and Intraobserver Reliability Among Turkish Nurses
Authors: Sancar Behire , Doğan Aysel , Taş Serkan
Published: September 2024

Background

A decrease in dynamic balance and muscle strength related to ageing is associated with a decreased quality of life, reduced life expectancy and increased risk of falls. Timed stand‐up test (TUG) is one of the most used clinical tests for the evaluation of dynamic balance and sit‐to‐stand test (STS). Although these tests are reported to be reliable in pathological conditions in different populations and different countries, there is a gap in the evaluation of the reliability of the tests by nurses in the older persons living in Turkish society.

Objective

The present study aimed to investigate the inter‐ and intra‐observer reliability of the timed up‐and‐go test (TUG) and sit‐to‐stand test (STS) performed by nurses in Turkish community‐dwelling older persons.

Methods

A total of 97 community‐dwelling older persons participated in this study. To determine the interobserver reliability of the TUG and STS tests, all tests were performed at an interval of 30 min by two nurses. To determine the intra‐observer reliability of the tests, each measurement was repeated 1 week after the first measurement by another nurse.

Results

Excellent intra‐observer reliability was found for the TUG (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.962) and STS tests (ICC = 0.996), with a total range of 0.943–0.997. Excellent interobserver reliability was found for the TUG (ICC = 0.995) and STS (ICC = 0.996) tests. The coefficient of variant values for the tests was < 15%.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that the TUG and STS tests can be reliably used by nurses in community‐dwelling older persons.

Implications for Practice

This study is important in terms of determining the risk of falling among older persons aged 60 and over in Turkey, preventing hospitalisations due to falls and developing nursing policies that promote the safety of older persons individuals.
Comparison of manual titrations to automated microplate and gel titration assays used in the screening of blood donors for production of Low‐Titer O Whole Blood
Authors: Orr Michael D. , Casleton Brian G. , Garcia Olivia R.
Published: September 2024

Background

The popularity of Low‐Titer O Whole Blood (LTOWB) for treating trauma patients requires that donor centers and transfusion services make decisions on what titer testing capabilities to institute and an appropriate titer level threshold. This study compared the titer results determined by four methods to find a rate of agreement.

Study Design and Methods

Isohemagglutinin titers were tested on 300 plasma samples utilizing various methods, each determining IgM antibody levels by direct hemagglutination with A1 and B reference cells. The methods used were the Beckman Coulter's PK7300, Immucor's NEO Iris microplate technology, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics (OCD) Vision, and manual titrations.

Results

Only 42.7% of the samples tested showed agreement across all methods on ABO isohemaglutinin titer levels and only 32.5% demonstrated “High titer” agreement. Sample agreement was close to 90% if the Immucor method was excluded. At a <1:256 titer level threshold, the pass rate was 94.3% for Immucor, 89.7% for the PK7300, 87.3% for manual testing, and 75.7% for OCD's gel method. Sensitivity and specificity rates at a ± 1 titer level were respectively 100% and 95.4% for OCD's gel, 73.7% and 100% for Immucor, and 100% and 99.6% for the PK7300. Overall method accuracy was 91.7% for Immucor, 90.3% for the PK7300, and 86.7% for OCD's gel method as compared to manual titration.

Conclusion

All three automated methods perform comparably to the manual method at a ± 1 titer tolerance level. Based on these comparisons, a titer level of <1:256 would maximize LTOWB production regardless of the method used.
Autoantibodies to ADAMTS13 in human immunodeficiency virus‐associated thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Meiring Muriel , Khemisi Mmakgabu , Louw Susan , Krishnan Palanisamy
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a potentially fatal thrombotic microangiopathic disorder that can result from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The pathogenesis involves a deficiency of the von Willebrand factor (vWF) cleaving protease ADAMTS13 (a disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin motifs member 13) and the presence of anti‐ADAMTS13 autoantibodies. However, there is insufficient information regarding the epitope specificity and reactivity of these autoantibodies. This study aimed to perform epitope‐mapping analysis to provide novel insights into the specific epitopes on ADAMTS13 domains affected by autoantibodies.

Materials and Methods

The study analysed 59 frozen citrate plasma samples from HIV‐associated TTP patients in South Africa, measuring ADAMTS13 activity using Technozyme® ADAMTS13 activity test, total immunoglobulin (Ig) M and IgA antibodies levels using ELISA kit and purifying IgG antibodies using NAb™ Protein G spin columns. A synthetic ADAMTS13 peptide library was used for epitope mapping.

Results

Overall, 90% of samples showed anti‐ADAMTS13 IgG autoantibodies, with 64% of these antibodies being inhibitory, as revealed by mixing studies. Samples with ADAMTS13 antigen levels below 5% showed high anti‐ADAMTS13 IgG autoantibody titres (≥50 IU/mL), whereas those with 5%–10% levels had low autoantibody titres (<50 IU/mL).The metalloprotease, cysteine‐rich and spacer domains were 100% involved in binding anti‐ADAMTS13 IgG antibodies, with 58% of samples containing antibodies binding to the C‐terminal part of the ADAMTS13 disintegrin‐like domain, indicating different pathogenic mechanisms.

Conclusion

The metalloprotease, cysteine‐rich and spacer domains are the primary targets for anti‐ADAMTS13 IgG autoantibodies in patients with HIV‐associated TTP. These findings suggest potential effects on the proteolytic activity of ADAMTS13, highlighting the complex nature of the pathogenic mechanisms involved.
Neuroimmune modulation for targeting organ damage in hypertension and atherosclerosis
Authors: Perrotta Marialuisa , Carnevale Daniela
Published: September 2024

The brain is essential for processing and integrating sensory signals coming from peripheral tissues. Conversely, the autonomic nervous system regulated by brain centres modulates the immune responses involved in the genesis and progression of cardiovascular diseases. Understanding the pathophysiological bases of this relationship established between the brain and immune system is relevant for advancing therapies. An additional mechanism involved in the regulation of cardiovascular function is provided by the brain‐mediated control of the renin–angiotensin system. In both cases, the communication is typically bidirectional and established by afferent and sensory signals collected at the level of peripheral tissues, efferent circuits, as well as of hormones. Understanding how the brain mediates the bidirectional communication and how the immune system participates in this process is object of intense investigation. This review examines key findings that support a role for these interactions in the pathogenesis of major vascular diseases that are characterized by a consistent alteration of the immune response, such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. In addition, we provide a critical appraisal of the translational implications that these discoveries have in the clinical setting where an effective management of neuroimmune and/or neuroinflammatory state might be beneficial.

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On a Generalized Class of Nonsingular Kernel Operators and Their Singular Kernel Extensions: Useful Modeling Insights
Authors: Odibat Zaid , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: September 2024

Some possible definitions of fractional derivative operators with nonsingular analytic kernels have been introduced. In this paper, we propose a new generalized class of fractional derivative operators of Caputo-type with nonsingular analytic kernels which includes some known operators as special cases. We demonstrate a relationship between the fractional derivative operators of the proposed generalized class and the Riemann–Liouville (RL) fractional integral operator. We also, using this relationship, introduce the corresponding fractional integral operators. Then, mainly, we provide extensions to the fractional derivative operators of the proposed generalized class that display integrable singular kernels. The extended fractional derivative operators provide useful insights regarding the modeling issue so that the initialization problem can be overcome. Finally, we discuss some basic properties of the proposed operators that are expected to be widely used in fractional calculus.
Cylindrical Composite Structural Design for Underwater Compressed Air Energy Storage
Authors: Wang Tianqi , An Chen , Mao Yixuan
Published: September 2024

The utilization of renewable energy sources is pivotal for future energy sustainability. However, the effective utilization of this energy in marine environments necessitates the implementation of energy storage systems to compensate for energy losses induced by intermittent power usage. Underwater compressed air energy storage (UWCAES) is a cost-effective and emission-free method for storing energy underwater. This technology has proven to be effective and viable, and it offers significant benefits in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability. In this paper, a cylindrical composite structure UWCAES tank is designed. At first, the materials and shapes of the different forms of air containers were evaluated, and the relationship between container diameter, length, and number of air containers was analyzed on the basis of the range of energy storage densities for different kinds of systems. Subsequently, the materials to be applied in the tanks were investigated and selected according to the actual working conditions of the system. Eventually, finite element models (FEMs) and prediction formula were developed, and the influence of changes in the thicknesses of the steel reinforcement was discussed. The results demonstrated that the storage tank possesses adequate environmental resistance and load-bearing capacity, which can provide a reference for its practical engineering implementation.
Briefe einer Antifaschistin: 1946
Authors: Obermayer August
Published: September 2024

Diese Eintragungen zeichnen das tägliche Leben in den ersten Monaten nach der deutschen Kapitulation am Ende des Zweiten Weltkriegs wie es Charlotte Angermann, Einwohnerin von Dresden, erlebte. Angermann beschreibt den Mangel an Lebensnotwendigem, der von der allgemeinen Bevölkerung erlitten wurde und die äußerst unsichere Existenz der Dresdner während der sowjetischen Besatzung. Diese kurzen Texte erscheinen in Form einer direkten Anrede an ihre Tochter, Marianne Angermann-Bielschowsky, die, zusammen mit ihrem Ehemann Franz Bielschowsky, während des Spanischen Bürgerkrieges in einem Militärlazarett in Madrid gearbeitet hatte. Als 1939 die republikanische Sache verloren war, floh sie mit ihrem deutschen Ehemann Dr. Franz Bielschowsky nach Großbritannien, wo beide an der Universität Sheffield im Labor von Prof. H. N. Green eine Anstellung als Forschungsassistenten fanden.
The text records day to day life in 1946 under Soviet occupation as it was experienced by Charlotte Angermann, a resident of Dresden. Angermann writes of the death of her husband, Konrad Angermann, and her longing to see her daughter, Marianne Angermann-Bielschowsky, who was at the time in Great Britain where worked as a researcher under Professor Green at the University of Sheffield.
Hot and cold Earth through time
Authors: Mills Benjamin J. W.
Published: September 2024

Reconstructing ancient Earth’s temperature reveals a global climate regulation system
Psychedelic research at a crossroads
Authors: Armstrong Stacey B. , Davis Alan K.
Published: September 2024

There is an urgent need to develop better treatments for mental health conditions that affect one in every eight people in the world. To combat this concern, psychedelic drugs have been combined with psychotherapy and studied in clinical trials in the United States and Europe. Psychedelics are hallucinogenic drugs that alter brain activity and facilitate altered states of consciousness. The proposed benefits of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) include relatively short treatment times and stronger effects compared to other treatments. Although results of trials using MDMA for trauma or psilocybin for depression are promising, PAT is controversial because many questions about its safety and effectiveness are unanswered. This is evident in the recent ruling by the US Food and Drug Administration against the approval of MDMA therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder and the retraction of several papers about MDMA trials owing to unethical conduct by study therapists and data integrity, among other concerns. This field is at a crossroads, and the research community must address several obstacles to transition from exploratory trials to established, evidence-based treatments while avoiding pitfalls that can hinder advancement.
Claim of seafloor ‘dark oxygen’ faces doubts
Authors: Voosen Paul
Published: September 2024

Mining companies and others skeptical that metallic nodules electrically split seawater
RNA:DNA triplexes: a mechanism for epigenetic communication between hosts and microbes?
Authors: Bierhoff Holger , Barber Amelia E. , Blango Matthew G.
Published: September 2024

Molecular communication between host and microbe is mediated by the transfer of many different classes of macromolecules. Recently, the trafficking of RNA molecules between organisms has gained prominence as an efficient way to manipulate gene expression via RNA interference (RNAi). Here, we posit a new epigenetic control mechanism based on triple helix (triplex) structures comprising nucleic acids from both host and microbe. Indeed, RNA:DNA triplexes are known to regulate gene expression in humans, but it is unknown whether interkingdom triplexes are formed either to manipulate host processes during pathogenesis or as a host defense response. We hypothesize that a fraction of the extracellular RNAs commonly released by microbes (e.g., bacteria, fungi, and protists) and their hosts form triplexes with the genome of the other species, thereby impacting chromatin conformation and gene expression. We invite the field to consider interkingdom triplexes as unexplored weaponry in the arms race between host and microbe.
Draft genome sequences of clinical
Mycobacterium canettii
strains in Canada
Authors: Islam Md Rashedul , Adam Heather , Akochy Pierre-Marie , Sharma Meenu , McGurran Alisa , Soualhine Hafid
Published: September 2024

Mycobacterium canettii
is a rare pathogen causing tuberculosis in humans and presents a risk to public health. Here, we report the genome sequences of two
M. canettii
strains. The genomes will assist in creating sequence-based tools for
M. canettii
and serve as references for identification, surveillance, and epidemiological investigations.
Metagenome from ACT-3/CF: an anaerobic chloroform-degrading microbial community
Authors: Bulka Olivia , Edwards Elizabeth
Published: September 2024

Here, we present the metagenome of an anaerobic chloroform respiring mixed microbial community used for bioremediation. Our objective was to obtain draft genomes of key microorganisms in the culture.
Impact of microorganism virulence on endophthalmitis outcomes
Authors: Yap Aaron , Kaur Dilpreet , Muttaiyah Sharmini , Welch Sarah , Lightman Sue , Tomkins-Netzer Oren , Niederer Rachael L
Published: September 2024

Aims

To determine the impact of microorganism virulence on visual outcomes in endophthalmitis.

Methods

Retrospective, multicentre cohort study of patients presenting with endophthalmitis between 2006 and 2021. A literature review was conducted to divide cultured microorganisms into low and high virulence subcategories.

Results

610 eyes with endophthalmitis were recruited from New Zealand, the UK and Israel. The median age was 69.4 years. The median visual acuity was hand movements at presentation and 20/120 at the final follow-up. Severe visual loss (≤20/200) occurred in 237 eyes (38.9%) at the final follow-up. The culture-positive rate was 48.5% (296 eyes). Highly virulent microorganisms were associated with a 4.48 OR of severe visual loss at the final follow-up (p<0.001) and a 1.90 OR of developing retinal detachment or requiring enucleation or evisceration during the follow-up period (p=0.028). Oral flora were observed in 76 eyes (25.7%), and highly virulent microorganisms were observed in 68 eyes (22.9%). Highly virulent microorganisms were more likely to be found after glaucoma surgery (15 eyes, 34.9%) and vitrectomy (five eyes, 35.7%) compared with intravitreal injections (two eyes, 2.9%) and cataract surgery (22 eyes, 24.2%). On multivariate analysis, the following were associated with poorer visual outcomes: poor presenting vision (p<0.001), glaucoma surgery (p=0.050), trauma (p<0.001), oral microorganism (p=0.001) and highly virulent microorganism (p<0.001).

Conclusion

This is the first classification of microorganisms into high and low virulence subcategories that demonstrate highly virulent microorganisms were associated with poor visual outcomes and increased likelihood of retinal detachment and enucleation.
Benzodiazepine receipt in adults with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures in the USA
Authors: Xu Kevin Young , Nascimento Fábio A , Lin Binx Yezhe , Park Tae Woo , Maust Donovan T , Samples Hillary , Bushnell Greta A
Published: September 2024

Background

Characterising benzodiazepine (BZD) prescribing to individuals with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) is important for optimising PNES outcomes, but existing data is lacking.

Methods

Using a nationwide administrative claims database (2016–2022), incident PNES was defined as an International classification of diseases, tenth revision, clinical modification (ICD-10-CM) diagnosis in an inpatient or outpatient healthcare encounter after a 1-year period with no documented diagnosis. We described clinical characteristics of adults with incident PNES and estimated the prevalence of outpatient BZD treatment in the baseline year and 30-day follow-up period, with secondary analyses stratifying by baseline ES, anxiety and/or insomnia diagnoses, representing common indications for BZD receipt. We used logistic regression to evaluate predictors of post-PNES BZD receipt.

Results

Among 20 848 adults with incident PNES diagnosis, 33.1% and 15.1% received BZDs in the year and month prior to PNES diagnosis, respectively, and 18.1% received BZDs in the month following a PNES diagnosis; 5.4% of those without prior BZD prescriptions received BZDs after diagnosis. The median days’ supply was 30 days, with clonazepam, alprazolam and lorazepam representing the most common BZDs prescribed after PNES. Most people who received BZDs in the month prior to PNES diagnosis remained on BZDs in the month after PNES diagnosis (62.9%), with similar findings in the subcohorts without ES, anxiety and/or insomnia. Baseline BZD receipt and anxiety disorders, but not baseline ES diagnoses, were strong independent predictors of post-PNES BZD receipt.

Conclusions

While new BZD initiation is rare after PNES, most individuals with BZD scripts 1 month before PNES continue scripts after diagnosis.
Personalised penetrance estimation forC9orf72-related amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Douglas Andrew G L , Thompson Alexander G , Turner Martin R , Talbot Kevin
Published: September 2024

Background

C9orf72hexanucleotide repeat expansions are the most common genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in European populations. Variable disease penetrance between families presents a challenge for genetic counselling of at-risk relatives and reduces the predictive utility of testing asymptomatic relatives. We have developed a novel model for estimating penetrance in individual families affected byC9orf72using available family history information, allowing the calculation of personalised risk estimates.

Methods

Published aggregated age-of-onset data forC9orf72-related ALS/FTD were used to generate age-related cumulative relative risks for at-risk relatives within pedigrees. Age-related relative risks are combined with a priori chance of individuals carrying an expansion based on known pedigree information. Penetrance is calculated as a number of affected individuals divided by the sum of cumulative age-related risks of relatives being affected by 80 years.

Results

This method allows family-specific penetrance to be estimated from family history and at-risk relatives’ personalised age-related ALS/FTD risks to be calculated and illustrated graphically. Penetrance reduces as the number and age of at-risk unaffected relatives increases.

Conclusions

Family history remains the best indicator of penetrance inC9orf72expansion carriers. Calculating family-specific penetrance can aid genetic counselling by allowing at-risk relatives a more accurate understanding of their individual risk.
Prevalence and risk factors of curable sexually transmitted and reproductive tract infections and malaria co-infection among pregnant women at antenatal care booking in Kenya, Malawi and Tanzania: a cross-sectional study of randomised controlled trial data
Authors: Gore-Langton Georgia R , Madanitsa Mwayiwawo , Barsosio Hellen C , Minja Daniel T R , Mosha Jacklin , Kavishe Reginald A , Mtove George , Gesase Samwel , Msemo Omari A , Kariuki Simon , Otieno Kephas , Phiri Kamija S , Lusingu John P A , Mukerebe Crispin , Manjurano Alphaxard , Ikigo Pius , Saidi Queen , Onyango Eric D , Schmiegelow Christentze , Dodd James , Hill Jenny , Hansson Helle , Alifrangis Michael , Gutman Julie , Hunter Patricia Jean , Klein Nigel , Ashorn Ulla , Khalil Asma , Cairns Matt , ter Kuile Feiko O , Chico R Matthew
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Malaria and curable sexually transmitted and reproductive tract infections (STIs/RTIs) are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study reports the prevalence and risk factors of curable STIs/RTIs, STI/RTI co-infection and STI/RTI and malaria co-infection among HIV-negative pregnant women at their first antenatal care visit in Kenya, Malawi and Tanzania.

Methods

HIV-negative pregnant women of all gravidae (n=4680) were screened for syphilis with point-of-care tests and treated if positive. Separately, women provided blood samples (n=4569) for rapid plasma reagin (RPR) testing; positive cases were confirmation byTreponema pallidumparticle agglutination (TPPA). Women also provided dried blood spots for batch testing of malaria by retrospective polymerase chain reaction (PCR (n=4226) methods. A randomly selected subgroup of women provided vaginal swabs for chlamydia, gonorrhoea and trichomoniasis testing by retrospective PCR batch testing (n=1431), and bacterial vaginosis diagnosis by Nugent scoring (n=1402).

Results

Malaria prevalence was 14.6% (95% CI 13.6 to 15.7), 45.9% (43.4 to 48.4) of women were positive for at least one curable STI/RTI and 6.7% (5.5 to 8.1) were co-infected with malaria and a curable STI/RTI. Prevalence of individual STIs/RTIs ranged from 28.5% (26.2 to 30.9) for bacterial vaginosis to 14.5% (12.7 to 16.4) for trichomoniasis, 13.8% (12.1 to 15.7) for chlamydia, 2.7% (1.9 to 3.6) for gonorrhoea and 1.7% (1.4 to 2.2) for RPR/TPPA-confirmed syphilis. The prevalence of STI/RTI co-infection was 10.1% (8.7 to 11.8). Paucigravidae, at highest risk of malaria, were also at greater risk of having chlamydia, gonorrhoea and bacterial vaginosis than multigravidae.

Conclusions

Of women infected with malaria, 49.0% also had a curable STI/RTI and one in five women with at least one STI/RTI were co-infected with more than one STI/RTI. Current antenatal interventions that address malaria and curable STIs/RTIs remain suboptimal. New approaches to preventing and managing these infections in pregnancy are urgently needed.

Trial registration number

NCT03208179.
Sex-specific alterations in pulmonary metabolic, xenobiotic and lipid signalling pathways after e-cigarette aerosol exposure during adolescence in mice
Authors: Paoli Sofia , Eidelman David H , Mann Koren K , Baglole Carolyn
Published: September 2024

Background

E-cigarette use is now prevalent among adolescents and young adults, raising concerns over potential adverse long-term health effects. Although it is hypothesised that e-cigarettes promote inflammation, studies have yielded conflicting evidence. Our previous work showed that JUUL, a popular e-cigarette brand, elicited minimal lung inflammation but induced significant molecular changes in adult C57BL/6 mice.

Methods

Now, we have profiled immunological and proteomic changes in the lungs of adolescent male and female BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice exposed to a flavoured JUUL aerosol containing 18 mg/mL of nicotine for 14 consecutive days. We evaluated changes in the immune composition by flow cytometry, gene expression levels by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and assessed the proteomic profile of the lungs and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) by tandem mass tag-labelled mass spectroscopy.

Results

While there were few significant changes in the immune composition of the lungs, proteomic analysis revealed that JUUL exposure caused significant sex-dependent and strain-dependent differences in lung and BAL proteins that are implicated in metabolic pathways, including those related to lipids and atherosclerosis, as well as pathways related to immune function and response to xenobiotics. Notably, these changes were more pronounced in male mice.

Conclusions

These findings raise the possibility that vaping dysregulates numerous biological responses in lungs that may affect disease risk, disproportionally impacting males and raising significant concerns for the future health of male youth who currently vape.
Timing of oral anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation patients after acute ischaemic stroke and outcome after 3 months: results of the multicentre Berlin Atrial Fibrillation Registry
Authors: Olma Manuel C , Tütüncü Serdar , Hansen Katrin , Grittner Ulrike , Kunze Claudia , Dietzel Joanna , Schurig Johannes , Dimitrijeski Boris , Hagemann Georg , Hamilton Frank , Honermann Martin , Jungehuelsing Gerhard Jan , Kauert Andreas , Koennecke Hans-Christian , Mackert Bruno-Marcel , Nabavi Darius G , Schmehl Ingo , Sparenberg Paul , Stingele Robert , Voelzke Enrico , Waldschmidt Carolin , Zeise-Wehry Daniel , Heuschmann Peter U , Endres Matthias , Haeusler Karl Georg
Published: September 2024

Background

Oral anticoagulation (OAC) is key in stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) but there is uncertainty regarding the optimal timing of OAC (re)initiation after stroke, as recent large randomised controlled trials have methodological weaknesses and excluded stroke patients on therapeutic anticoagulation at stroke onset as well as patients started on a vitamin K antagonist after stroke. The ‘1–3–6–12 days rule’, based on expert consensus and referring to stroke severity, was used in clinical practice to initiate OAC after acute ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) since publication in 2013.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed whether compliance to the ‘1–3–6–12 days rule’ was associated with the composite endpoint (recurrent stroke, systemic embolism, myocardial infarction, major bleeding or all-cause death).

Results

Among 708 registry patients with known AF before stroke and hospitalisation within 72 hours after stroke, 432 were anticoagulated at stroke onset. OAC was started according to the ‘1–3–6–12 days rule’ in 255 (39.2%) patients. Non-adherence to the ‘1–3–6–12 days rule’ was not associated with the composite endpoint within 3 months in 661 patients who (re-)started on OAC (log-rank test: p=0.74).

Results were similar for 521 patients (re)started on a non-vitamin K-dependent OAC.

Conclusion

(Re)starting OAC after stroke followed the ‘1–3–6–12 days rule’ in about 40% of all patients with AF, and more often in those anticoagulated at stroke onset. Adherence to the ‘1–3–6–12 days rule’ did not reduce the composite clinical endpoint, if OAC was restarted within 3 months of stroke/TIA.

Trial registration number

NCT02306824.
Appropriate use of wearable defibrillators with multiparametric evaluation to avoid unnecessary defibrillator implantation
Authors: Matteucci Andrea , Pignalberi Carlo , Di Fusco Stefania , Aiello Alessandro , Aquilani Stefano , Nardi Federico , Colivicchi Furio
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Wearable cardioverter-defibrillators (WCD) have emerged as a valuable tool in the management of patients at risk for life-threatening arrhythmias. These devices offer a non-invasive and temporary solution, providing continuous monitoring and the potential for prompt defibrillation when needed. In this study, we explore the use of WCD and evaluate arrhythmic events through comprehensive monitoring.

Methods

From November 2022 to May 2024, we conducted an outpatient follow-up of 41 patients receiving WCD. Regular check-ups, remote monitoring and comprehensive echocardiography were performed to optimise a tailored therapy.

Results

The average age of the patients was 59.2.4±16.5 years, with 78% being male. Among the cohort, 54% had hypertension, 41% were smokers and 66% had dyslipidaemia, while 27% were diabetic. WCD was assigned according to the Italian Association of Hospital Cardiologists position paper focussing on the appropriate use of WCD and European Society of Cardiology guidelines on ventricular arrhythmias and the prevention of sudden cardiac death: 24 (58%) patients had a de novo diagnosis of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, 11 (27%) patients had a recent acute coronary syndrome and ejection fraction <35%, 3 (7%) patients had a cardiac electronic device extraction and 3 (7%) patients had myocarditis with features of electrical instability. The average follow-up was 62±38 days according to specific aetiology, with a daily wearing time of 22.7±1.3 hours. No device interventions were recorded. At the end of the follow-up period, 15 patients still required an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). Among these, 12 patients (29%) underwent ICD implantation. Two patients (5%) declined the procedure.

Conclusions

The use of WCD for patients at high risk of arrhythmias allowed to optimise therapy and limit the indications for ICD. Inappropriate implantation of ICD was avoided in 69% of patients who received WCD. The device showed a good safety profile, low incidence of device interventions and adequate patients’ adherence to WCD use.
Recovery rate from conduction disorders in patients with permanent pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Yamamoto Maria , Hiraoka Arudo , Yoshida Toshinobu , Kishimoto Satoru , Chikazawa Genta , Yoshitaka Hidenori
Published: September 2024

Backgrounds

Permanent pacemaker implantation (PPMI) is one of the greatest disadvantages of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). To seek the predictors and clinical impacts of PPMI and investigate the recovery rate from conduction disorders.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed data from 745 consecutive patients who underwent TAVI for severe aortic stenosis from November 2013 to July 2022. The ventricular pacing (VP) rate was recorded at 1 and 6 months after PPMI and the recovery from conduction disorders was defined as the VP rate <1%.

Results

Postoperative PPMI was performed in 7.1% (53/745) of patients. Balloon predilatation was significantly frequent in the PPMI (−) group (52.8% (28/53) vs 80.6% (558/692); p<0.001) and the oversizing ratio was significantly greater in the PPMI (+) group (11.8%±10.1% vs 9.1%±9.7%; p=0.035). Freedom from rehospitalisation due to heart failure rate was significantly higher in the PPMI (−) group (p=0.032). In patients with postoperative PPMI, recovery from conduction disorders was observed in 17.0% and 27.9% of patients at 1 and 6 months, respectively.

Conclusions

Recovery from conduction disorders occurred frequently. Avoidance of oversizing and extension of observation time may reduce the need for PPMI after TAVI.