bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lactobacillus crispatus‐dominated vaginal microbiome and Acinetobacter‐dominated seminal microbiome support beneficial ART outcome
Authors: Koort Kairi , Sõsa Kristiina , Türk Silver , Lapp Eleri , Talving Elle , Karits Peeter , Rosenstein Karin , Jaagura Madis , Sekavin Aire , Sõritsa Deniss , Haldre Kai , Karro Helle , Korrovits Paul , Salumets Andres , Mändar Reet
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Despite the considerable progress made in assisted reproductive technologies (ART), the implantation rate of transferred embryos remains low and in many cases, the reasons for failure remain unclear. We aimed to determine the potential impact of female and male partners’ reproductive tract microbiome composition on ART outcome.

Material and methods

The ART couples (n = 97) and healthy couples (n = 12) were recruited into the study. The smaller healthy group underwent a careful selection according to their reproductive and general health criteria. Both vaginal and semen samples were subjected to 16S rDNA sequencing to reveal the bacterial diversity and identify distinct microbial community types.

Ethics statement

The study was approved by the Ethics Review Committee on Human Research of Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia (protocol no. 193/T‐16) on 31 May 2010. Participation in the research was voluntary. Written informed consent was obtained from all study participants.

Results

The men with Acinetobacter‐associated community who had children in the past, had the highest ART success rate (P < 0.05). The women with bacterial vaginosis vaginal microbiome community and with L. iners‐predominant and L. gasseri‐predominant microbiome had a lower ART success rate than women with the L. crispatus‐predominant or the mixed lactic‐acid‐bacteria‐predominant type (P < 0.05). The 15 couples where both partners had beneficial microbiome types had a superior ART success rate of 53%, when compared with the rest of the couples (25%; P = 0.023).

Conclusions

Microbiome disturbances in the genital tract of both partners tend to be associated with couple's infertility as well as lower ART success levels and may thus need attention before the ART procedure. The incorporation of genitourinary microbial screening as a part of the diagnostic evaluation process may become routine for ART patients if our results are confirmed by other studies.
French Neonatal Society issues recommendations on preventing nasal injuries in preterm newborn infants during non‐invasive respiratory support
Authors: Zores Claire , Zana‐Taïeb Elodie , Caeymaex Laurence , Fumeaux Céline Fischer , Kuhn Pierre ,   the Group of Reflection and Evaluation of the Environment of Newborns study group of the French Neonatology Society
Published: May 2023

Aim

To issue practical recommendations regarding the optimal care of nasal skin when non‐invasive ventilation support is used.

Methods

We performed a systematic search of PubMed to identify relevant papers published in English or French through December 2019. Different grades of evidence were evaluated.

Results

Forty‐eight eligible studies. The incidence in preterm infants was high. The lesions were more frequent for preterm infants born under 30 weeks of gestational age and/or below 1500 g. The lesion was most often located on the skin of the nose but could also be found on the intranasal mucous membranes or elsewhere on the face. Nasal injuries appear early after the beginning of non‐invasive ventilation at a mean of 2–3 days for cutaneous lesions and eight or nine for intranasal lesions. The most effective strategies to prevent trauma are the use of a hydrocolloid at the beginning of the support ventilation, the preferential use of a mask and the rotation of ventilation interfaces.

Conclusion

Nasal injuries with continuous positive airway pressure treatment in preterm newborn infants were frequent and can induce pain, discomfort and sequelae. The immature skin of preterm newborn infants needs specific attention from trained caregivers and awareness by parents.
The use of minimal residual disease in thoracic oncology: Gaps between promises and the on‐the‐ground reality of daily practice
Authors: Hofman Paul , Denis Marc G.
Published: May 2023

The assessment of minimal residual disease (MRD) from blood samples of patients with resected non‐small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is promising and opens up many opportunities for the optimisation of patient care in daily practice. Notably, this includes the potential for escalation or de‐escalation of adjuvant therapies. Thus, the evaluation of MRD status can directly contribute to an increase in the overall survival of early stage NSCLC patients and/or limit therapeutic but also “financial” toxicity. Therefore, several clinical trials recently evaluated MRD in early stage NSCLC by integrating and retrospectively comparing the results of MRD assessments. In this context, there is an urgent need to close the gap between clinical research and the use of the evaluation of MRD in routine daily practice. Further action needs to be taken, particularly in evaluating the pertinence of the detection of MRD in prospective interventional clinical studies. This may be done in part by comparing different parameters, such as the techniques used, the different time points and the cutoffs of MRD assessments. This article investigates the assessment of MRD in non‐small cell lung cancers, with a special focus on the issues associated with the various assays and the limitations of using circulating free DNA analyses for MRD assessment in early stage lung cancer. Recommendations and tips for the optimisation of MRD evaluation in non‐small cell lung cancers are provided.
A public early intervention approach to first‐episode psychosis: Treated incidence over 7 years in the Emilia‐Romagna region
Authors: Belvederi Murri Martino , Ferrara Maria , Imbesi Massimiliano , Leuci Emanuela , Marchi Mattia , Musella Vincenzo , Natali Alba , Neri Anastasia , Ragni Sabrina , Saponaro Alessio , Tarricone Ilaria , Tullini Andrea , Starace Fabrizio ,   for the Early Psychosis Working Group (for Group Authorship)
Published: May 2023

Aim

To estimate the treated incidence of individuals with first‐episode psychosis (FEP) who contacted the Emilia‐Romagna public mental healthcare system (Italy); to examine the variability of incidence and user characteristics across centres and years.

Methods

We computed the raw treated incidence in 2013–2019, based on FEP users aged 18–35, seen within or outside the regional program for FEP. We modelled FEP incidence across 10 catchment areas and 7 years using Bayesian Poisson and Negative Binomial Generalized Linear Models of varying complexity. We explored associations between user characteristics, study centre and year comparing variables and socioclinical clusters of subjects.

Results

Thousand three hundred and eighteen individuals were treated for FEP (raw incidence: 25.3 / 100.000 inhabitant year, IQR: 15.3). A Negative Binomial location‐scale model with area, population density and year as predictors found that incidence and its variability changed across centres (Bologna: 36.55; 95% CrI: 30.39–43.86; Imola: 3.07; 95% CrI: 1.61–4.99) but did not follow linear temporal trends or density. Centers were associated with different user age, gender, migrant status, occupation, living conditions and cluster distribution. Year was associated negatively with HoNOS score (R = −0.09, p < .001), duration of untreated psychosis (R = −0.12, p < .001) and referral type.

Conclusions

The Emilia‐Romagna region presents a relatively high but variable incidence of FEP across areas, but not in time. More granular information on social, ethnic and cultural factors may increase the level of explanation and prediction of FEP incidence and characteristics, shedding light on social and healthcare factors influencing FEP.
Categorical surrogation of agent‐based models: A comparative study of machine learning classifiers
Authors: Llacay Bàrbara , Peffer Gilbert
Published: May 2023

Agent‐based modelling has gained recognition in the last years because it provides a natural way to explore the behaviour of social systems. However, agent‐based models usually have a considerable number of parameters that make it computationally prohibitive to explore the complete space of parameter combinations. A promising approach to overcome the computational constraints of agent‐based models is the use of machine learning‐based surrogates or metamodels, which can be used as efficient proxies of the original agent‐based model. As the use of metamodels of agent‐based simulations is still an incipient area of research, there are no guidelines on which algorithms are the most suitable candidates. In order to contribute to filling this gap, we conduct here a systematic comparative analysis to evaluate different machine learning‐based approaches to agent‐based model surrogation. A key innovation of our work is the focus on classification methods for categorical metamodeling, which is highly relevant because agent‐based simulations are very often validated in a qualitative way. To analyse the performance of the classifiers we use three types of indicators—measures of correctness, efficiency, and robustness—and compare their results for different datasets and sample sizes using an agent‐based artificial market as a case study.
Roxadustat promotes hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α/vascular endothelial growth factor signalling to enhance random skin flap survival in rats
Authors: Lan Qicheng , Wang Kaitao , Meng Zhefeng , Lin Hang , Zhou Taotao , Lin Yi , Jiang Zhikai , Chen Jianpeng , Liu Xuao , Lin Yuting , Lin Dingsheng
Published: May 2023

Random skin flaps have limited clinical application as a broad surgical reconstruction treatment because of distal necrosis. The prolyl hydroxylase domain‐containing protein inhibitor roxadustat (RXD) enhances angiogenesis and reduces oxidative stress and inflammation. This study explored the function of RXD in the survival of random skin flaps. Thirty‐six male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into low‐dose RXD group (L‐RXD group, 10 mg/kg/2 day), high‐dose RXD group (H‐RXD group, 25 mg/kg/2 day), and control group (1 mL of solvent, 1:9 DMSO:corn oil). The proportion of surviving flaps was determined on day 7 after surgery. Angiogenesis was assessed by lead oxide/gelatin angiography, and microcirculation blood perfusion was evaluated by laser Doppler flow imaging. Specimens in zone II were obtained, and the contents of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured as indicators of oxidative stress. Histopathological status was evaluated with haematoxylin and eosin staining. The levels of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and the inflammatory factors interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) were detected by immunohistochemistry. RXD promoted flap survival and microcirculatory blood perfusion. Angiogenesis was detected distinctly in the experimental group. SOD activity increased and the MDA level decreased in the experimental group. Immunohistochemistry indicated that the expression levels of HIF‐1α and VEGF were increased while the levels of IL‐6, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α were decreased after RXD injection. RXD promoted random flap survival by reinforcing vascular hyperplasia and decreasing inflammation and ischaemia‐reperfusion injury.
Epidemiology of work‐related burn injuries: A ten‐year retrospective study of 429 patients at a referral burn centre in the north of Iran
Authors: Bagheri Toolaroud Parissa , Attarchi Mirsaeed , Afshari Haghdoust Reza , Feizkhah Alireza , Esmailzadeh Mojdeh , Rimaz Siamak , Pirooz Amir , Mobayen Mohammadreza
Published: May 2023

Work‐related burns can have a destructive impact; however, knowledge of the epidemiology of work‐related burn injuries in Iran is limited. This study aimed to describe epidemiological characteristics of work‐related burn injuries in a burn centre in the north of Iran. This study was a retrospective single‐centre study of the medical records of work‐related burns between 2011 and 2020. Data collection was done using the hospital information system (HIS). The data were analysed by using descriptive statistical methods and SPSS 24.0 software. Of the 9220 cases treated in the burn centre, 429 (4.65%) had work‐related burns. There was an increasing trend of work‐related burns during the ten years. The mean age of patients was 37.53 (SD = 13.72). Most patients were male (n = 377, 87.9%), with a male‐to‐female ratio of 7.25/1. The mean total body surface area burn was 23.39% (SD = 20.03). Most work‐related burns occurred in the summer season (46.9%, n = 201), and the upper limb was the most common anatomical site of burns (n = 123, 28.7%). The most common mechanism of injury was fire & flames (266, 62.0%). Inhalation injury was observed in 52 (12.1%) patients, and mechanical ventilation was undertaken in 71 (16.6%) patients. The mean length of stay in the hospital was 10.38 (SD = 10.37) days, and the overall mortality rate was 11.2%. The most common activities associated with burns at the time of the incidents were food preparation and serving related (108, 25.2%), followed by welders (n = 71, 16.6%) and electricians (n = 61, 14.2%). This research is the basis for evaluating work‐related burns and identifying the causes of these injuries to develop education and prevention programmes, especially for young male workers.
Adrenocorticotropic hormone application lowered aldosterone/cortisol value on dominant side without superior surgical outcomes during adrenal venous sampling
Authors: Lin Lede , Chen Huiling , Liu Yu , Liu Zhihong , Shen Sikui , Xu Huan , Huang Huasong , Chen Tao , Zhou Liang , Zhu Yuchun
Published: May 2023

Adrenal venous sampling (AVS) is thought to be the gold standard for primary aldosteronism (PA) subtype discrimination, during which the application of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) arouses heated debate. We aimed to identify the effect of ACTH on AVS and surgical outcomes. After propensity score matching (PSM), a total of 220 patients diagnosed with PA and completed AVS were included (110 without ACTH stimulation and 110 with ACTH stimulation). According to AVS results, surgeries were conducted in appropriate patients. ACTH stimulation significantly increased almost all selectivity index (SI) in both left adrenal vein (LAV) and right adrenal vein (RAV). We discovered that aldosterone/cortisol (A/C) value on dominant side significantly reduced after ACTH stimulation, with a reduction in lateralization index (LI) observed. Finally, 39 patients in unstimulated group and 32 patients in stimulated group completed surgery and enough follow‐up. The comparison between surgical outcomes with and without ACTH stimulation was analyzed and the difference was not significant (p = .464). In conclusion, ACTH application significantly lowered A/C value instead of the relative aldosterone secretion index (RASI) value on dominant side, which did not yield superior surgical outcomes and might render confusing AVS interpretation.
Thermal performance of a hybrid solar dryer through experimental and CFD investigation
Authors: Behera Debashree Debadatta , Mohanty Ramesh Chandra , Mohanty Ardhendu Mouli
Published: May 2023

Solar drying comes under clean energy technology that aims to dry food products hygienically. The present work discusses the development of an energy‐efficient and cost‐effective hybrid‐type solar dryer for drying 15 kg of food products. Experiments and CFD modeling of the solar drying system have been carried out for drying tomato slices. The maximum efficiency of the collector has been obtained as 74.1% and 66.96%, respectively with and without using exhaust hot air recirculation. Performance indicators such as convective heat transfer coefficient, overall loss coefficient, drying efficiency, and collector efficiency factor have been obtained as 7.743685 W/m2°C, 5.94189 W/m2°C, 32.89%, and 0.987%, respectively. The coefficient of determination (R2) is calculated as 0.9863, 0.9919, and 0.9755 for the first, second, and third day, respectively, representing a higher order of fit of getting a performance evaluation of the collector. A p‐value is obtained as 0.49375 (>0.05) from a paired sample t‐test signifying no statistical significance difference between the predicted and actual experimental results of collector efficiency. For a constant mass flow rate of air, the maximum temperature inside the drying chamber and wall radiative heat flux obtained from experiments and CFD simulation are in good agreement, thus satisfying the validation. Further, the dryer can be used during the night time by using an electric coil producing a satisfactory drying effect. It is lightweight and easily portable to capture maximum solar radiation.

Practical applications

The present solar dryer is most suitable for drying applications in food processing industries due to the clean and hygienic process of drying. It is easily portable to any location to capture maximum solar radiation. It is lightweight and has low construction, and maintenance costs. It is the most efficient and fast drying compared to open sun drying and can be used for large‐scale drying in industrial applications. The present study is about CFD simulations of the solar dryers for drying 5 kg of tomato slices. The drying efficiency has been increased by utilizing exhaust hot air circulation. Both the simulation and experimental results have been validated and further dryer has been used during night time by using an auxiliary heating element.
Effect of heating temperature on electrical properties and gel properties of carp surimi
Authors: Wang Ranran , Mu Jingying , Yu Lianshuang , Shen Xiaoran , Zhai Yuhang , Yuan Chunhong
Published: May 2023

For better application of ohmic heating technology in the food industry, it is necessary to study the variation of the electrical properties of food materials with temperature. In this paper, various initial heating temperatures were applied to investigate the impact of temperature on the electrical properties of rinsed and unrinsed carp surimi. An impedance analyzer was utilized to measure the electrical parameters of carp surimi within the frequency range of 20 ~ 120 MHz. The frequency and temperature characteristics of electrical parameters were explained based on biological and electromagnetic theories. These findings furnish theoretical references and experimental evidence for applying ohmic heating technology. The results showed that the parallel inductance (Lp), parallel capacitance (Cp), parallel resistance (Rp), and impedance (Z) of surimi decreased as the internal temperature of the surimi increased. The greater the heating temperature of the water bath, the larger the parameter values. The Lp, Cp, Rp, and Z values were lower for unrinsed surimi than for rinsed surimi. During the heating and cooling process, the parameter values at the same temperature point differed due to the different states of the surimi gel. As the frequency increased, the Rp and Z of surimi showed different regular changes, with similar trends at the same temperature. Rinsing has been demonstrated to improve the gel properties of surimi effectively. Prolonged periods in the temperature range of 60 ~ 70°C can cause the modori phenomenon (gel degradation), leading to reduce the gel strength of surimi. Thus, it is essential to pass through this temperature zone as soon as possible during the preparation of surimi gel. The relationship between the internal microstructure of surimi gel and the electrical parameters needs to be further investigated.

Practical Applications

As an emerging technology for food heat treatment, ohmic heating has the characteristics of uniform heating and fast heat production. As a homogeneous material, surimi is ideal for ohmic heating. However, the heating process is not easy to control when the electrical parameters are unknown, so the purpose of this study is to explore the changes of the electrical parameters of surimi at different heating rates and temperatures, provide data reference for the heat treatment of surimi by ohmic heating, and promote the application of ohmic heating in surimi processing.
Malignant transformation rate of oral leukoplakia in the past 20 years: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Guan Jing‐Yao , Luo Yong‐Hua , Lin Ye‐Yu , Wu Zhou‐Yang , Ye Jing‐Yi , Xie Si‐Ming , Li Jin
Published: May 2023

Background

This meta‐analysis aimed to assess the rate of malignant transformation (MT) of oral leukoplakia (OL) and to study potential risk factors for the MT of OL into oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Method

We performed a bibliographic search on nine electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, and Wanfang Data, for data on the MT rate of OL. Possible risk factors were calculated using Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis and Open Meta [Analyst] software.

Results

The pooled proportion of OL MT for the total population described in the 26 selected studies was 7.20% (95% confidence interval: 5.40–9.10%). Nonhomogeneous type lesions, higher grades of dysplasia, the location of the lesion (tongue and multifocal), and female sex had significant effects on the MT of OL.

Conclusion

OL tended to develop into OSCC (7.2%), and those with significant MT risk factors should be subjected to regular follow‐up and observation. However, we require large‐scale prospective studies to validate these results, together with unified clinicopathological diagnostic criteria, standardized risk factor recording/assessment methods, and long‐term follow‐up guidelines.
A conservative approach for unicystic ameloblastoma: Retrospective clinic‐pathologic analysis of 12 cases
Authors: Leite‐Lima Flávia , Martins‐Chaves Roberta Rayra , Fonseca Felipe Paiva , Brennan Peter A. , de Castro Wagner Henriques , Gomez Ricardo Santiago
Published: May 2023

Background

Unicystic ameloblastoma is an encapsulated odontogenic neoplasm with a single cyst cavity. The conservative or aggressive surgical approaches used to treat the tumor directly affect recurrence rates. However, there is a lack of a standard protocol that can guide its management.

Study Design

We retrospectively reviewed the clinicopathological findings and therapeutical procedures of 12 unicystic ameloblastoma cases treated by the same surgeon during the past 20 years.

Methods

All cases of unicystic ameloblastoma diagnosed by biopsy and treated by the same surgeon between 2002 and 2022 were reviewed. Eligibility criteria were patients with completely filled‐out charts containing the follow‐up period and confirmation of the diagnoses based on the microscopic findings of the whole excised specimens. Data collected were categorized into clinical, radiographic, histological, surgical, and recurrence aspects.

Results

There was a female predilection (2:1), and ages ranged between 18 and 61 years (mean: 27.25, ±12.45). Almost all (92%) affected the posterior mandible. Radiographically, the mean length of the lesions was 46.14 mm ± 14.28 mm which 92% were unilocular and 8.3% multilocular. Root resorption (n = 7, 58%), tooth displacement (n = 9, 75%), and cortical perforation (n = 5, 42%) were also observed. The mural histological subtype corresponded to 9 (75%) of the cases. The same conservative protocol was performed in all cases. The follow‐up period ranged between 12 and 240 months (~62 ± 65) and recurrence occurred in only one patient (8%).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest a conservative approach should be the first option for unicystic ameloblastoma treatment, even for those with mural proliferation.
Chronic hyperglycemia reduces the expression of intercellular adhesion molecules and increases intercellular hyperpermeability in the periodontal epithelium
Authors: Narukawa Yuki , Sugiyama Naoyuki , Miura Jiro , Yamashita Rentaro , Tominaga Shotaro , Izumi Yoshihiro , Bamba Takeshi , Ishihama Yasushi , Kashiwagi Yoichiro , Murakami Shinya
Published: May 2023

Background/Aims

Hyperglycemia in diabetes is closely associated with periodontal disease progression. This study aimed to investigate the effect of hyperglycemia on the barrier function of gingival epithelial cells as a cause of hyperglycemia‐exacerbated periodontitis in diabetes mellitus.

Methods

The abnormal expression of adhesion molecules in gingival epithelium in diabetes was compared between db/db and control mice. To study the effects of hyperglycemia on interepithelial cell permeability, the mRNA and protein expressions of adhesion molecules were investigated using a human gingival epithelial cell line (epi 4 cells) in the presence of either 5.5 mM glucose (NG) or 30 mM glucose (HG). Immunocytochemical and histological analyses were performed. We also studied HG‐related intracellular signaling to assess abnormal adhesion molecule expression in the cultured epi 4 cells.

Results

The results of the proteomic analysis implied the abnormal regulation of cell–cell adhesion, and mRNA and protein expression assessments revealed the significant downregulation of Claudin1 expression in the gingival tissues of db/db mice (p < .05 vs control). Similarly, the mRNA and protein expressions of adhesion molecules were lower in epi 4 cells cultured under HG conditions than in those cultured under NG conditions (p < .05). Three‐dimensional culture and transmission electron microscopy revealed reduced thickness of the epithelial cell layers with no flattened apical cells and heterogeneously arranged intercellular spaces among adjacent epi 4 cells under the HG. These results were consistent with the increased permeability of epi 4 cells under the HG relative to that of cells under the NG. This abnormal expression of intercellular adhesion molecules under the HG was related to the increased expression of receptors for advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and oxidative stress relative to that seen under the NG, along with stimulation of ERK1/2 phosphorylation in epi 4 cells.

Conclusions

High glucose‐induced impairment of intercellular adhesion molecule expression in gingival epithelial cells was related to the intercellular permeability of gingival cells, representing a possible link to hyperglycemia‐related AGE signaling, oxidative stress, and ERK1/2 activation.
Organ dysfunction and failure in liver disease
Authors: Juanola Adrià , Tiwari Neha , Solé Cristina , Adebayo Danielle , Wong Florence , Ginès Pere
Published: May 2023

Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a complex syndrome defined by the existence of different organ failures (OFs) in patients with chronic liver disease, mainly cirrhosis. Several definitions have been proposed to define the syndrome, varying in the grade of the subjacent liver disease, the type of precipitants and the organs considered in the definition. Liver, coagulation, brain, kidney, circulatory and pulmonary are the six types of OFs proposed in the different classifications, with different prevalence worldwide. Irrespective of the definition used, patients who develop ACLF present a hyperactive immune system, profound haemodynamic disturbances and several metabolic alterations that finally lead to organ dysfunction. These disturbances are triggered by different factors such as bacterial infections, alcoholic hepatitis, gastrointestinal bleeding or hepatitis B virus flare, among others. Because patients with ACLF present high short‐term mortality, a prompt recognition is needed to start treatment of the trigger event and specific organ support. Liver transplantation is also feasible in carefully selected patients and should be evaluated.
Transition theory and the emotional journey to medical educator identity: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Browne Julie , Collett Tracey
Published: May 2023

Background

Medical academia is in crisis, with fewer people entering and growing concern at numbers leaving. While faculty development is often seen as part of the solution, there are significant issues with faculty not engaging with and resisting development opportunities. Lack of motivation may be linked to what might be called a ‘weak’ educator identity. We studied medical educators' experiences of career development to gain further insights into: how professional identity may develop; individuals' accompanying emotional responses to perceived identity change; and consideration of the accompanying temporal dimensions. Drawing on new materialist sociology, we explore medical educator identity formation in terms of an affective flow that places the individual within a constantly shifting assemblage of psychological, emotional and social relations.

Method

We interviewed 20 medical educators at various career stages, with differing strengths of medical educator self‐identity. Using an adapted transition model as a basis for understanding the emotions experienced by those undergoing identity transitions, we explore the process that, for some medical educators, appears to lead to decreased motivation, ambiguous identity and disengagement, but for others results in renewed energy, a stronger and more stable professional identity and increased interest and engagement.

Results

By more effectively illustrating the emotional impact of the transition process leading to a more stable educator identity, we show that some individuals, especially where the change was not sought or welcomed, express their uncertainty and distress through low mood, resistance and an attempt to minimise the significance of undertaking or increasing teaching duties.

Discussion

Understanding the emotional and developmental phases of the transition to medical educator identity has several key implications for faculty development. Faculty development approaches should be alert to the individual educator's stage of transition since this will affect that individual's readiness to accept and respond to guidance, information and support. A renewed emphasis on early educational approaches that will support the transformational and reflective learning of the individual is needed, while traditional approaches emphasising skills and knowledge may be more useful in the later stages. Further testing of the transition model and its applicability to identity development in medical education is indicated.
Platform couriers' self‐exploitation: The case study of Glovo
Authors: Vieira Tiago
Published: May 2023

This article examines the phenomenon of self‐exploitation among platform couriers, using the company Glovo as a case study. The research, based on a qualitative approach with interviews from 22 different stakeholders, highlights the ways in which precarity, entrepreneurial subjectivity, and gamification intersect to create what are referred to as postdisciplinary control mechanisms. These mechanisms shift the locus of exploitation from the employer to the workers' inner selves, which are compelled to follow implicit guidelines due to their precarious situation. The use of algorithmic management by platform companies like Glovo plays a major role in this architecture marked by overwork, exposure to hazardous conditions, and economic dependence. The article urges policymakers to look beyond platform workers' employment status debate and address the design of algorithms and broader forms of labour precarity, so that policies that successfully improve workers' experience are designed.
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging for left atrial appendage closure planning
Authors: Bhuta Sapan , Cao Carolyn , Pieper Justin A. , Tong Matthew S. , Varghese Juliet , Han Yuchi , Harfi Thura T. , Simonetti Orlando P. , Augostini Ralph S. , Kalbfleisch Steven J. , Savona Salvatore J. , Okabe Toshimasa , Afzal Muhammad R. , Hummel John D. , Daoud Emile G. , Houmsse Mahmoud
Published: May 2023

Background

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) are currently utilized for left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) planning. During the recent global iodine contrast media shortage in 2022, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) was utilized for the first time for LAAC planning. This study sought to assess the utility of CMR versus TEE for LAAC planning.

Methods

This single center retrospective study consisted of all patients who underwent preoperative CMR for LAAC with Watchman FLX or Amplatzer Amulet. Key measures were accuracy of LAA thrombus exclusion, ostial diameter, depth, lobe count, morphology, accuracy of predicted device size, and devices deployed per case. Bland‐Altman Analysis was used to compare CMR versus TEE measurements of LAA ostial diameter and depth.

Results

25 patients underwent preoperative CMR for LAAC planning. A total of 24 (96%) cases were successfully completed with 1.2 ± 0.5 devices deployed per case. Among the 18 patients who underwent intraoperative TEE, there was no significant difference between CMR versus TEE in LAA thrombus exclusion (CMR 83% vs. TEE 100% cases,p = .229), lobe count (CMR 1.7 ± 0.8 vs. TEE 1.4 ± 0.6,p = .177), morphology (p = .422), and accuracy of predicted device size (CMR 67% vs. TEE 72% cases,p = 1.000). When comparing the difference between CMR and TEE measurements, Bland‐Altman analysis demonstrated no significant difference in LAA ostial diameter (CMR‐TEE bias 0.7 mm, 95% CI [−1.1, 2.4],p = .420), but LAA depth was significantly larger with CMR versus TEE (CMR‐TEE bias 7.4 mm, 95% CI [1.6, 13.2],p = .015).

Conclusions

CMR is a promising alternative for LAAC planning in cases where TEE or CCTA are contraindicated or unavailable.
Age moderates the link between relationship desire and life satisfaction among singles
Authors: Hill Roy Laetitia , Park Yoobin , MacDonald Geoff
Published: May 2023

Higher desire for a romantic partner has been shown to be associated with lower life satisfaction for singles, but research has not considered whether the strength of this association might vary across age groups. We collected data from single participants (N = 3057) across a broad age range (18 to 75 years of age,mean = 36.12,standard deviation[SD] = 12.34) to examine age as a moderator of the relationship between desire for a partner and singles' life satisfaction. Our results suggest that having greater desire for a partner is associated with lower life satisfaction for older (1SDabove the mean or 48.46 years) versus younger (1SDbelow the mean or 23.78 years) individuals. We also found some evidence that this age‐dependent association was stronger for women than men. Further, this interaction effect remained largely unchanged controlling for participants' attachment anxiety or avoidance. This study highlights the importance of considering how singlehood may play out differently for individuals at different life stages.
Disease diagnostic strategies and emerging analytical metabolomics techniques for waterborne microbial pathogens in vegetable crops—A critical review
Authors: Nnabuo‐Eguzozie Emmanuella C. , Kibechu Rose W. , Eguzozie Kennedy U. , Mamba Bhekie B. , Nyoni Hlengilizwe , Nkambule Thabo T. I. , Msagati Titus A. M.
Published: May 2023

A significant number of people around the world suffer from illnesses that are related to the consumption of unsafe vegetable crops. Early identification of waterborne microbial pathogens affecting vegetable crops can be an important step towards the control of disease. Microbial pathogens secrete extracellular metabolic volatiles or molecular biomarkers that affect the yield and quality of vegetable crops. These secreted compounds can be investigated using several applied analytical techniques, such as metabolomics, proteomics and other ‘omics’ tools. Currently, it is possible to use these approaches to characterize a broad range of specialized metabolites present in vegetable crops affected by waterborne and soilborne microbial pathogens. Such approaches may be used to determine molecular biomarkers, which can subsequently be exploited for the diagnosis of microbial pathogens that affect vegetable crops. Molecular biomarkers are involved in complex pathogenic biological processes involving mechanisms of pathogenesis and could be of great interest in the field of metabolomics. This review investigates disease diagnostic strategies and emerging analytical metabolomics techniques for waterborne microbial pathogens in vegetable crops. These will be vital in building comprehensive and more reliable data regarding the nature of secreted proteins and other specialized metabolites in vegetable crops and will lead to an increased understanding of the interactions between the host and pathogenic oomycetes, fungi, bacteria and viruses.
Los desafíos de la migración a la salud pública en Iberoamérica en tiempos de la COVID-19
Authors: Bartolomé de la Rosa Reyna , Bojorquez Chapela Ietza , Cabieses Báltica , Carpio Karen , Cubillos Novella Andrés , Eguren Joaquín , Fantin María Alejandra , Gómez Moisés , Hernández Bonilla Sindy , Koechlin Costa José , López-Cevallos Daniel Fernando , Maldonado Enrique , Martínez Gandolfi María Alejandra , Matos Lemões Marcos Aurélio , Obach Alexandra , Ochoa Sandra Catalina , Oddone Nahuel , Ortiz Peredo Adriana , Osorio Álvarez Emilio , Phélan Mauricio , Ramírez Bernardo , Rojas Araya Karol , Ruano Estrada Maira Hayde , Solórzano Salleres Ximena del Rosario , Torres Irene , Valdez-Castro Pedro A. , Wharton Tracy
Published: May 2023

Los desafíos de la migración a la salud pública en Iberoamérica en tiempos de la COVID-19 muestra la importancia de establecer estrategias que se enfoquen en los problemas que enfrentan los migrantes para acudir a los servicios de salud en otros países y para afrontar situaciones de precariedad. Además, evidencia la debilidad de aquellos Estados que no logran implementar estrategias que garanticen el cumplimiento de los derechos básicos de los migrantes, analiza cómo ellos vivieron la pandemia de la COVID-19 y muestra posibles soluciones políticas que podrían mejorar su bienestar y su salud. A través de un enfoque interseccional, este libro evidencia una problemática creciente de exclusión social en el sector de la salud, el cual debe dar una respuesta apropiada a sus poblaciones y, al mismo tiempo, enfrentar una nueva realidad migratoria.
A Globally Stable Adaptive Controller for the Human Shank Dynamics
Authors: Ortega R. , Bobstov A. , Queiroz M. de , Yang R. , Nikolaev N.
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we propose a globally stable adaptive controller for the human shank motion tracking problem that appears in neuromuscular electrical stimulation systems. The control problem is complicated by the fact that the mathematical model of the human shank dynamics is nonlinear and the parameters enter in a nonlinear and nonseparable form. To solve the problem, we first derive a nonlinearly parameterized regressor equation (NLPRE) that is used with a new parameter estimator specifically tailored for this NLPRE. This estimator is then combined with a classical feedback linearizing controller to ensure the tracking objective is globally achieved. A further contribution of the paper is the proof that parameter convergence, and consequent global tracking, is guaranteed with an extremely weak interval excitation requirement. A simulation study comparing the proposed adaptive controller with existing ones in the literature shows comparable human shank tracking performance but with fewer parameter estimates and without requiring knowledge of bounds for the unknown parameters.
Effect of Confinement on Flow Around a Rotating Elliptic Cylinder in Laminar Flow Regime
Authors: Gupta Prateek , Panda Sibasish , Sahu Akhilesh Kumar , Kumar Deepak
Published: May 2023

The flow phenomena around a rotating elliptic cylinder placed in a narrow channel is studied numerically. The walls of the channel act as a confinement that limits the flow in the transverse direction. The confinement ratio (β), nondimensional rotation rate (α), and the Reynolds number (Re) span across multiple values. A parametric study is done to identify the variations in drag-coefficient (CD), lift-coefficient (CL), and moment coefficient (CM) with changes in β, α, and Re. Near-field and far-field vorticity contours are discussed in detail. fast Fourier transform (FFT) of the time-periodic lift signals are presented to understand the shedding-frequency characteristics. Furthermore, CM values are analyzed for possible cases of autorotation. It is observed that confinement acts to delay the shedding of vortices. However, a complete suppression is not obtained even for the maximum value of β. This is likely because of the sharp flow separation at the edges of the cylinder, which tends to promote the formation of a vortex. Hovering vortices are observed for α>1, and a special case is identified for which the hovering vortex never dissipates.
Characterizing Hydration Practices in Healthy Young Recreationally Active Adults—Is There Utility in First Morning Urine Sampling?
Authors: Muñoz Colleen X. , Bergeron Michael F.
Published: May 2023

First morning urine (FMU) assessment would be a practical and convenient solution for clinically acceptable detection of underhydration prior to competition/training, and for the general public. Thus, we thus sought to determine the diagnostic accuracy of FMU as a valid indicator of recent (previous 24 hr, 5 days average) hydration practices. For 5 consecutive days and one final morning, 67 healthy women (n = 38) and men (n = 29; age: 20 [1] years, body mass index: 25.9 [5.5]) completed 24-hr diet logs for total water intake (from beverages and foods, absolute and relative to body mass), 24-hr urine and FMU collection (last morning only) for osmolality (Osm), specific gravity (SG), and color (Col), and morning blood sampling for plasma osmolality and copeptin. Correlations determined significance and relationship strength among FMU and all other variables. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curves, sensitivity, specificity, and positive likelihood ratios were employed using previously reported values to indicate underhydration (total water intake < 30 ml/kg, osmolality > 500, and >800 mOsm/kg, specific gravity > 1.017, and copeptin > 6.93 pmol/L). FMU_Osm and FMU_SG were significantly correlated (p < .05) to all variables except the previous 5-day plasma osmolality. FMU_Col was only significantly correlated with other color time intervals and total water intake per gram. FMU_Osm held greatest utility (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, sensitivity, and specificity >80%) overall, with the best outcome being FMU_Osm indicating a previous 24-hr osmolality threshold of 500 mOsm/kg (FMU_Osm criterion >710 mOsm/kg and positive likelihood ratio = 5.9). With less effort and cost restriction, FMU is a viable metric to assess underhydration.
“Knock, Knock … Who’s There?” ChatGPT and Artificial Intelligence-Powered Large Language Models: Reflections on Potential Impacts Within Health and Physical Education Teacher Education
Authors: Killian Chad M. , Marttinen Risto , Howley Donal , Sargent Julia , Jones Emily M.
Published: May 2023

This research note suggests the emergence of Artificial Intelligence-powered chatbots like ChatGPT pose challenges to the future of higher education. We as a field should pay attention to issues and opportunities associated with this technology across learning, teaching, and research spaces. We propose ignoring, or being indifferent to, predictions about what technologies like Artificial Intelligence-powered chatbots can do can cause us to do “dumb things.” All health and physical education teacher education faculty members should make efforts to learn about these tools to facilitate informed, solution-focused decisions about whether and where to leverage them. We highlight the importance of maintaining sociocritical perspectives when considering use of digital technologies to understand and address digital (in)equity and promote equitable practices. We conclude by emphasizing the need for field-specific consensus statements to guide ethical and appropriate use of Artificial Intelligence-powered chatbots, to ensure the value of these tools is harnessed for the good of the society. [Output by ChatGPT-3]
Phylogenetic tracing of midbrain-specific regulatory sequences suggests single origin of eubilaterian brains
Authors: Schuster Helen C. , Hirth Frank
Published: May 2023

Conserved cis-regulatory elements (CREs) control
Engrailed
-,
Pax2
-, and
dachshund
-related gene expression networks directing the formation and function of corresponding midbrain circuits in arthropods and vertebrates. Polarized outgroup analyses of 31 sequenced metazoan genomes representing all animal clades reveal the emergence of
Pax2
- and
dachshund
-related CRE-like sequences in anthozoan Cnidaria. The full complement, including
Engrailed
-related CRE-like sequences, is only detectable in spiralians, ecdysozoans, and chordates that have a brain; they exhibit comparable genomic locations and extensive nucleotide identities that reveal the presence of a conserved core domain, all of which are absent in non-neural genes and, together, distinguish them from randomly assembled sequences. Their presence concurs with a genetic boundary separating the rostral from caudal nervous systems, demonstrated for the metameric brains of annelids, arthropods, and chordates and the asegmental cycloneuralian and urochordate brain. These findings suggest that gene regulatory networks for midbrain circuit formation evolved within the lineage that led to the common ancestor of protostomes and deuterostomes.
Transcriptomics reveals amygdala neuron regulation by fasting and ghrelin thereby promoting feeding
Authors: Peters Christian , He Songwei , Fermani Federica , Lim Hansol , Ding Wenyu , Mayer Christian , Klein Rüdiger
Published: May 2023

The central amygdala (CeA) consists of numerous genetically defined inhibitory neurons that control defensive and appetitive behaviors including feeding. Transcriptomic signatures of cell types and their links to function remain poorly understood. Using single-nucleus RNA sequencing, we describe nine CeA cell clusters, of which four are mostly associated with appetitive and two with aversive behaviors. To analyze the activation mechanism of appetitive CeA neurons, we characterized serotonin receptor 2a (Htr2a)–expressing neurons (CeA
Htr2a
) that comprise three appetitive clusters and were previously shown to promote feeding. In vivo calcium imaging revealed that CeA
Htr2a
neurons are activated by fasting, the hormone ghrelin, and the presence of food. Moreover, these neurons are required for the orexigenic effects of ghrelin. Appetitive CeA neurons responsive to fasting and ghrelin project to the parabrachial nucleus (PBN) causing inhibition of target PBN neurons. These results illustrate how the transcriptomic diversification of CeA neurons relates to fasting and hormone-regulated feeding behavior.
Living microecological hydrogels for wound healing
Authors: Chen Guopu , Wang Fengyuan , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Shang Yixuan , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: May 2023

Chronic hard-to-heal wounds draw great attention worldwide, as their treatments are limited by infections and hypoxia. Inspired by the natural oxygen production capacity of algae and the competitive advantage of beneficial bacteria over other microbes, we presented a living microecological hydrogel (LMH) with functionalized
Chlorella
and
Bacillus subtilis
encapsulation to realize continuous oxygen delivery and anti-infections for promoting chronic wound healing. As the hydrogel consisted of thermosensitive Pluronic F-127 and wet-adhesive polydopamine, the LMH could keep liquid at a low temperature while quickly solidifying and tightly adhering to the wound bed. It was demonstrated that by optimizing the proportion of the encapsulated microorganism, the
Chlorella
could continuously produce oxygen to relieve hypoxia and support the proliferation of
B. subtilis
, while
B. subtilis
could eliminate the colonized pathogenic bacteria. Thus, the LMH substantially promoted the healing of infected diabetic wounds. These features make the LMH valuable for practical clinical applications.