bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desain Pembelajaran Pendidikan Agama Kristen Remaja Usia 12-16 Tahun dengan Menggunakan Subject Centered Design
Authors: Messakh Jefrit Johanis , Hasibuan Serepina Y. , Larosa Setiaman
Published: November 2023

Many teenagers are less interested in taking part in Christian Religious Education lessons at church because the learning is less relevant. As a result, teenagers are influenced by the wrong relationships. Many people are involved in activities that tend to harm themselves and even other people around teenagers. Teenagers often gather and do activities such as smoking and even drinking alcohol, some teenagers even start using illegal drugs. This problem needs to be responded to by implementing Christian religious education for teenagers with an approach appropriate to their age and needs. The approach used in this article is Subject Centered Design. This approach allows teenagers to actively participate in Christian Religious Education learning at church. The aim of this research is to describe the learning design of Christian Religious Education for adolescents aged 12-16 years using Subject Centered Learning. The method used in this research is literature study. The result of this research is a Christian Religious Education learning design for teenagers aged 12-16 years that uses Subject Centered Design to increase teenagers' interest and motivation to take part in Christian Religious Education learning. Teenagers are actively and critically involved in participating in Christian Religious Education learning.
Study on the Effects of Internal Marketing on Job Attitude, Organizational Commitment and Managerial Performance in Secondary Financial Sector
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee SangHee , Shin MinYeong
Published: November 2023

The purpose of the effects of job attitude and organizational commitment on managerial performance in secondary financial sector, which are highly dependent on human resources as a service industry and the quality of services provided by employees to customers is an important factor in the competitiveness of companies and is directly related to managerial performance. The results of the study confirmed that strengthening internal marketing affects job attitude, organizational commitment, and managerial performance. In addition, it found that job attitude and organizational commitment affect management performance. This study is differentiated from existing studies in that it focuses on the secondary financial sector, which has been under-researched compared to the primary financial sector, and is significant in that it reveals through empirical analysis that in order to improve the competitiveness of the secondary financial sector, it has gained value as a research as it suggests that the most important aspects of internal marketing strategies of secondary financial sector are to organize an efficient and smooth communication or interaction system to improve the level of internal communication and to introduce standards or systems that can provide appropriate rewards for employees' performance.
Qualitative Meta-Analysis of the Life of Repatriated Overseas Koreans in South Korea: A Focus on Goryoins and Sakhalin Diaspora
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kwak Minjeong , Ham Boyeon
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of repatriated overseas Koreans in Korea, as reported in six qualitative articles published in domestic academic journals from 2012 to 2022. The research identified five key themes and 17 sub-concepts, including motivations for repatriation, social and economic challenges, vulnerabilities in social infrastructure, community activities, and identity issues among repatriated individuals. This analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the repatriated overseas Koreans' experiences in Korea.
A Satisfaction Study of One Smart Device per Person Based Learning in Sejong City: Focus on Students, Parents, and Teachers
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kim Kyunglee
Published: November 2023

This study is to conduct a survey for empirical schools that are learning using one smart device per person in Sejong City. As a result, first, most students and teachers responded positively to the using smart device in class. However, parents who responded positively was rather low. Second, students and teachers were satisfied with using diverse materials in class. On the other hand, it showed the lowest with 'teacher evaluates their level better' for student, 'children become closer to teachers' for parent. It showed the lowest satisfaction with 'the school atmosphere is getting better for teacher'. Third, students and teachers were satisfied in the class, which was higher than parents. Through this, there is a need for a change in parental awareness about the learning effect using smart devices efficiently. In addition, it will be possible to utilize the advantage of providing effective learning services according to individual characteristics.
Effect of endocrine disruptors on bacterial virulence
Authors: Thiroux Audrey , Berjeaud Jean-Marc , Villéger Romain , Crépin Alexandre
Published: November 2023

For several decades, questions have been raised about the effects of endocrine disruptors (ED) on environment and health. In humans, EDs interferes with hormones that are responsible for the maintenance of homeostasis, reproduction and development and therefore can cause developmental, metabolic and reproductive disorders. Because of their ubiquity in the environment, EDs can adversely impact microbial communities and pathogens virulence. At a time when bacterial resistance is inevitably emerging, it is necessary to understand the effects of EDs on the behavior of pathogenic bacteria and to identify the resulting mechanisms. Increasing studies have shown that exposure to environmental EDs can affect bacteria physiology. This review aims to highlight current knowledge of the effect of EDs on the virulence of human bacterial pathogens and discuss the future directions to investigate bacteria/EDs interaction. Given the data presented here, extended studies are required to understand the mechanisms by which EDs could modulate bacterial phenotypes in order to understand the health risks.
Current and future options for adult biventricular assistance: a review of literature
Authors: Loardi Claudia Maria , Zanobini Marco , Ricciardi Gabriella , Vermes Emmanuelle
Published: November 2023

In cardiogenic shock various short-term mechanical assistances may be employed, including an Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenator and other non-dischargeable devices. Once hemodynamic stabilization is achieved and the patient evolves towards a persisting biventricular dysfunction or an underlying long-standing end-stage disease is present, aside from Orthotopic Heart Transplantation, a limited number of long-term therapeutic options may be offered. So far, only the Syncardia Total Artificial Heart and the Berlin Heart EXCOR (which is not approved for adult use in the United States unlike in Europe) are available for extensive implantation. In addition to this, the strategy providing two continuous-flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices is still off-label despite its widespread use. Nevertheless, every solution ensures at best a 70% survival rate (reflecting both the severity of the condition and the limits of mechanical support) with patients suffering from heavy complications and a poor quality of life. The aim of the present paper is to summarize the features, implantation techniques, and results of current devices used for adult Biventricular Mechanical Circulatory Support, as well as a glance to future options.
Precarious positions: glass ceilings, glass escalators, and glass cliffs in the superintendency
Authors: Timmer Jennifer D. , Woo David S.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The “glass cliff” phenomenon has been observed in many fields; in these situations, women are hired into prestigious, but precarious, leadership positions. In education, little is known about the preexisting district contextual trends into which women leaders are hired, and thus whether a glass cliff might exist in the superintendency. This study explores descriptively whether evidence suggests superintendents in New Jersey might be differentially sorted into “precarious” districts across gender.

Methods

Our study utilizes a newly created statewide longitudinal data set to examine descriptive trends in superintendent placement, including multiple measures of precarity. We investigate the presence of the glass ceiling by examining representation in the superintendency, the glass escalator as evidenced by leader qualifications, and the glass cliff as indicated by district characteristics.

Results

New Jersey employs a higher proportion of women superintendents than the national average. Men and women superintendents are equivalently qualified, on average, though women tend to be paid less. We find that male and female superintendents in the state work in somewhat similar districts, though women are more likely to lead districts serving students from low-income communities and larger proportions of minoritized students.

Discussion

These findings suggest women superintendents in New Jersey are excelling despite serving communities that are often under-resourced. Thus, there is some suggestion of a glass cliff phenomenon in education leadership, as women who obtain the highest positions are also in more precarious settings.
Impact of wastewater reuse on contaminants of emerging concern in an effluent-dominated river
Authors: Wolfand Jordyn M. , Sytsma Anneliese , Taniguchi-Quan Kristine T. , Stein Eric D. , Hogue Terri S.
Published: November 2023

Contaminants of emerging concern such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, and plasticizers, are ubiquitous in effluent-dominated rivers and have potential adverse effects on humans and aquatic life. Demands on water supply have prompted conservation and water reuse measures, impacting the discharge in these rivers, yet the effects of these management decisions on water quality are largely intuited and not quantified. This research examines how changes in water reuse practices will impact concentrations of contaminants of emerging concern, specifically carbamazepine, diclofenac, galaxolide, gemfibrozil, 4-nonylphenol, and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), in the effluent-dominated Los Angeles River (Los Angeles County, California). A water quality module was added to a calibrated hydrologic model of the system and parametrized with observed water quality monitoring data in EPA SWMM. Results indicate that water reuse (i.e., reduced effluent flow) will consistently improve in-stream water quality for all compounds studied except PFOS. However, the improvements are often not substantial enough to mitigate high concentrations directly downstream of treated effluent discharge points. Concentrations of these pharmaceuticals are substantially reduced through attenuation as dilution and degradation occur downstream, though the rate of this attenuation is variable and based on the contaminant. In contrast, concentrations of PFOS increase under some wastewater reuse scenarios and decrease under others but remain below the recommended environmental screening levels. Our work also highlights that management decisions regarding water quantity should integrate water quality modeling to help identify priority monitoring locations and constituents.
A perspective on how glyphosate and 2,4-D in wetlands may impact climate change
Authors: Cornish Christine M. , Sweetman Jon N.
Published: November 2023

An increase in herbicide use is occurring due to a growing population and herbicide-resistant crops in agriculture, which has resulted in more herbicide tolerant target species. Glyphosate and 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) are two of the most commonly used herbicides worldwide and are more recently being used in combination in pre-mixed commercial formulas. Subsequently, herbicide contamination of wetlands will increase exposure of microorganisms to multiple chemical stressors. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas naturally emitted from wetlands, but herbicides may disrupt biogeochemical processes leading to an unbalanced methane cycle. We review the impacts of these herbicides on aquatic microbial communities from glyphosate-derived nutrient enrichment and 2,4-D inhibition of methane oxidation, and examine how these altered metabolic processes may lead to increased methane production in wetlands. The response of wetland ecosystems to herbicide contamination will vary across regions, in part due to the complexity of microbial communities, however, this perspective gives a glimpse into the potential global implications of continuing herbicide use on wetlands and demonstrates the importance for research on ecosystem-level co-stressors.
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with continuously elevated immunoglobulin M following treatment: a case report with pathologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular analyses
Authors: Xiao Fei , Cai Yong-Mei , Fang Jian-Chen , Shen Yan-Ying , Yu Bao-Hua , Zhang Yi-Wei , Zhu Di , Li Zi-Hua , Li Guo-Qing , Hou Jian , Zhang Min-Yue , Huang Hong-Hui
Published: November 2023

A rare subtype of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) has been reported to be accompanied by elevated immunoglobulin M (IgM) paraprotein in the serum at diagnosis, called as IgMs-DLBCL. The monoclonal IgM paraprotein disappears soon after treatment in most of these patients. Here, we described a DLBCL patient with continuously elevated IgM following therapy. A 59-year-old male was diagnosed with DLBCL (GCB subtype per Hans algorithm, stage IA) with involvement of the right cervical lymph node. After six cycles of immuno-chemotherapy with the R-CHOP regimen, complete metabolic remission was achieved, but an elevated level of serum IgM persisted. To investigate the origin of elevated IgM, pathologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular analyses of lymph node and bone marrow (BM) samples were performed pre- and post-treatment. BM infiltration of lymphoplasmacytic cells, and a typical immunophenotypic profile by flow cytometry supported the diagnosis of Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM). The MCD subtype of DLBCL was identified by next-generation sequencing of the lymph node at initial diagnosis characterized by co-occurring point mutations in MYD88L265P and CD79B. Additionally, two different dominant clonotypes of the immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) were detected in the lymph node and BM by IGH sequencing, which was IGHV 3–11*06/IGHJ 3*02 and IGHV 3–11*06/IGHJ 6*02, respectively, speculating to be two independent clonal origins. This study will provide a panoramic understanding of the origin or biological characteristics of DLBCL co-occurring with WM.
Phonological redeployment for [retracted tongue root] in third language perception of Kaqchikel stops
Authors: Nelson Brett C.
Published: November 2023

Phonological redeployment is the theoretical ability of language learners to utilize non-local phonological knowledge from known languages in the mapping and acquisition of novel contrasts in their target languages. The current paper probes the limits of phonological redeployment in a third language acquisition scenario. The phonological features [Advanced Tongue Root] and [Retracted Tongue Root] capture a range of phonological contrasts and harmony processes in both vowels and consonants of spoken languages across the world, including, but not limited to, vowel tensing and post-velar places of articulation (e.g. uvular). Kaqchikel (cak) exhibits both a tense-lax vocalic contrast in its vowels plus a velar-uvular Place contrast in its eight stop consonant phonemes. English (eng) exhibits a tense-lax vocalic distinction but no velar-uvular distinction among its six stop phonemes. Spanish (spa) exhibits neither of these contrasts in its vowels or among its six stop phonemes. How do multilingual learners of Kaqchikel already familiar with English and Spanish, but who differ in which is their first language (L1), compare in their categorical perception of Kaqchikel stop consonants? Despite English and Spanish having a three-way Place distinction among stops in common, in a phonemic categorization task, L1 English learners of Kaqchikel were better at correctly categorizing audio recordings of Kaqchikel uvular stops than L1 Spanish learners of Kaqchikel. To account for this surprising result, I propose that the L1 English group have easier access than the L1 Spanish group to the feature underlying English's tense-lax distinction. This access allows them to redeploy that phonological feature to accurately map out the novel four-way contrast of Kaqchikel's stop consonants, and the [±RTR] specified velar-uvular distinction in particular. Therefore, phonological redeployment must be considered in models of third language acquisition.
Achieving high-quality silver sintered joint for highly-reliable schottky barrier diodes via pressureless method
Authors: Dai Chenyi , Wang Yong , Lin Pengrong , Hao Zilin , Wang Chaoyang , Feng Xiaocheng , Liu Xueming
Published: November 2023

The fabrication of silver joints was done using the pressureless sintering technology to suit the demand of high-reliability schottky barrier diodes (SBD). Porosity of 10.6% and shear strength of 39.6 MPa were reached under the optimized parameters of 290°C sintering temperature and 40 min residence time. The sintered joint demonstrated good mechanical/thermal/electrical performance in the ultimate reliability assessment testing, including the temperature cycling test, second sintering test, steady-state lifetime test, and intermittent lifetime test. This study demonstrated the viability of pressureless sintering of silver joints with good high-temperature reliability, which has significant application potential for aeronautical high-reliability power electronics.
Most of the pelvic floor muscle functions in women differ in different body positions, yet others remain similar: systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Lu , Zhang Zhi-Yuan , Liu Hong , Gao Min , Wang Xiao-Qi , Duan Xiao-Qin , Liu Zhong-Liang
Published: November 2023

Objectives

This systematic literature review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the effect of body position on the measurement of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) contractility and to analyze the influential factors.

Data sources

Five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Scopus) were searched for relevant studies published up to 12nd October 2023.

Study selection or eligibility criteria

Included cross-sectional studies had to involve the assessment of pelvic floor muscle function in at least two positions.

Study appraisal and synthesis methods

We calculated standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) to ascertain the potential effect of body position on outcomes.

Results

In total, we included 11 cross-sectional studies to ascertain the potential effect of body position on outcomes. There was no statistical difference in the results of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) of the pelvic floor muscles when assessed in between supine and standing positions (SMD −0.22; 95% CI −0.72 to 0.28; p = 0.38). The results of the meta-analysis showed significantly larger values of resting voluntary contractions (RVC) measured in the standing position compared to the supine position (SMD −1.76; 95% CI −2.55 to −0.97; p < 0.001). Moreover, pelvic floor muscle movement during pelvic floor muscle contraction in the standing position was significantly better than that measured in the supine position (SMD −0.47; 95% CI −0.73 to 0.20; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results of this study showed that the RVC and PFM movement varied with the position of the assessment. In contrast, MVC values are independent of the assessment position and can be selected according to clinical needs.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022363734, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022363734.
Competition-cooperation mechanism between Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus based on systems mapping
Authors: Li Caifeng , Yin Lixin , He Xiaoqing , Jin Yi , Zhu Xuli , Wu Rongling
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Interspecies interactions are a crucial driving force of species evolution. The genes of each coexisting species play a pivotal role in shaping the structure and function within the community, but how to identify them at the genome-wide level has always been challenging.

Methods

In this study, we embed the Lotka-Volterra ordinary differential equations in the theory of community ecology into the systems mapping model, so that this model can not only describe how the quantitative trait loci (QTL) of a species directly affects its own phenotype, but also describe the QTL of the species how to indirectly affect the phenotype of its interacting species, and how QTL from different species affects community behavior through epistatic interactions.

Results

By designing and implementing a co-culture experiment for 100 pairs of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), we mapped 244 significant QTL combinations in the interaction process of the two bacteria using this model, including 69 QTLs from E. coli and 59 QTLs from S. aureus, respectively. Through gene annotation, we obtained 57 genes in E. coli, among which the genes with higher frequency were ypdC, nrfC, yphH, acrE, dcuS, rpnE, and ptsA, while we obtained 43 genes in S. aureus, among which the genes with higher frequency were ebh, SAOUHSC_00172, capF, gdpP, orfX, bsaA, and phnE1.

Discussion

By dividing the overall growth into independent growth and interactive growth, we could estimate how QTLs modulate interspecific competition and cooperation. Based on the quantitative genetic model, we can obtain the direct genetic effect, indirect genetic effect, and genome-genome epistatic effect related to interspecific interaction genes, and then further mine the hub genes in the QTL networks, which will be particularly useful for inferring and predicting the genetic mechanisms of community dynamics and evolution. Systems mapping can provide a tool for studying the mechanism of competition and cooperation among bacteria in co-culture, and this framework can lay the foundation for a more comprehensive and systematic study of species interactions.
A new contribution to the raptorial ciliate genus Lacrymaria (Protista: Ciliophora): a brief review and comprehensive descriptions of two new species from Changjiang Estuary
Authors: Tang Jin , Zhang Gongaote , Guo Junqi , Luo Lingxuan , Jiang Jiamei , Pan Hongbo
Published: November 2023

Ciliates serve as excellent indicators for water quality monitoring. However, their utilization is hindered by various taxonomic confusions. The ciliate genus Lacrymaria Bory de Saint-Vincent, 1824 is commonly found in different aquatic habitats, but its taxonomy has been sparsely investigated using state-of-the-art methods. This study investigated two new Lacrymaria species from Nanhui Wetland, Shanghai, China, using living observation, protargol staining, and molecular phylogeny methods. Lacrymaria songi sp. nov. is 180–340 × 20–25 μm in size and possesses 12–16 somatic kineties, 1 terminal contractile vacuole, 2 macronuclear nodules, and 2 types of rod-shaped extrusomes. Lacrymaria dragescoi sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by its cell size of 210–400 × 25–35 μm, 14–17 somatic kineties, 1 terminal contractile vacuole, 1 macronucleus, and 2 types of rod-shaped extrusomes. Phylogenetic analyses based on SSU rRNA gene sequences indicate that Lacrymariidae is monophyletic but Lacrymaria is not. Additionally, a brief review of the genus Lacrymaria is provided in this study. We suggest that L. bulbosa Alekperov, 1984, L. lanceolata Kahl, 1930, and L. ovata Burkovsky, 1970 be removed from the genus and propose Phialina lanceolata nov. comb. and Phialina ovata nov. comb. for the latter two.

ZooBank registration: Present work: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:CDFB1EBD-80BD-4533-B391-CEE89F62EDC4 Lacrymaria songi sp. nov.: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:417E7C2D-DAEC-4711-90BB-64AB3CD2F7D5 Lacrymaria dragescoi sp. nov.: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:8778D6B0-1F2E-473C-BE19-3F685391A40D.
pts promoter influences antibiotic resistance via proton motive force and ROS in Escherichia coli
Authors: Tao Jian-jun , Li Shao-hua , Wu Jia-han , Peng Xuan-xian , Li Hui
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Glucose level is related to antibiotic resistance. However, underlying mechanisms are largely unknown.

Methods

Since glucose transport is performed by phosphotransferase system (PTS) in bacteria, pts promoter-deleted K12 (Δpts-P) was used as a model to investigate effect of glucose metabolism on antibiotic resistance. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry based metabolomics was employed to identify a differential metabolome in Δpts-P compared with K12, and with glucose as controls.

Results

Δpts-P exhibits the resistance to β-lactams and aminoglycosides but not to quinolones, tetracyclines, and macrolide antibiotics. Inactivated pyruvate cycle was determined as the most characteristic feature in Δpts-P, which may influence proton motive force (PMF), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and nitric oxide (NO) that are related to antibiotic resistance. Thus, they were regarded as three ways for the following study. Glucose promoted PMF and β-lactams-, aminoglycosides-, quinolones-mediated killing in K12, which was inhibited by carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone. Exogenous glucose did not elevated ROS in K12 and Δpts-P, but the loss of pts promoter reduced ROS by approximately 1/5, which was related to antibiotic resistance. However, NO was neither changed nor related to antibiotic resistance.

Discussion

These results reveal that pts promoter regulation confers antibiotic resistance via PMF and ROS in Escherichia coli.
Comparative genomic analysis of pleurotus species reveals insights into the evolution and coniferous utilization of Pleurotus placentodes
Authors: Sun Lei , Yin Xiaolei , Sossah Frederick Leo , Han Xuerong , Li Yu
Published: November 2023

Pleurotus placentodes (PPL) and Pleurotus cystidiosus (PCY) are economically valuable species. PPL grows on conifers, while PCY grows on broad-leaved trees. To reveal the genetic mechanism behind PPL’s adaptability to conifers, we performed de novo genome sequencing and comparative analysis of PPL and PCY. We determined the size of the genomes for PPL and PCY to be 36.12 and 42.74 Mb, respectively, and found that they contain 10,851 and 15,673 protein-coding genes, accounting for 59.34% and 53.70% of their respective genome sizes. Evolution analysis showed PPL was closely related to P. ostreatus with the divergence time of 62.7 MYA, while PCY was distantly related to other Pleurotus species with the divergence time of 111.7 MYA. Comparative analysis of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZYmes) in PPL and PCY showed that the increase number of CAZYmes related to pectin and cellulose degradation (e.g., AA9, PL1) in PPL may be important for the degradation and colonization of conifers. In addition, geraniol degradation and peroxisome pathways identified by comparative genomes should be another factors for PPL’s tolerance to conifer substrate. Our research provides valuable genomes for Pleurotus species and sheds light on the genetic mechanism of PPL’s conifer adaptability, which could aid in breeding new Pleurotus varieties for coniferous utilization.
Time course of effective connectivity associated with perspective taking in utterance comprehension
Authors: Tokimoto Shingo , Tokimoto Naoko
Published: November 2023

This study discusses the effective connectivity in the brain and its time course in realizing perspective taking in verbal communication through electroencephalogram (EEG) associated with the understanding of Japanese utterances. We manipulated perspective taking in a sentence with the Japanese subsidiary verbs -ageru and -kureru, which mean “to give”. We measured the EEG during the auditory presentation of the sentences with a multichannel electroencephalograph, and the partial directed coherence and its temporal variations were analyzed using the source localization method to examine causal interactions between nineteen regions of interest in the brain. Three different processing stages were recognized on the basis of the connectivity hubs, direction of information flow, increase or decrease in flow, and temporal variation. We suggest that perspective taking in speech comprehension is realized by interactions between the mentalizing network, mirror neuron network, and executive control network. Furthermore, we found that individual differences in the sociality of typically developing adult speakers were systematically related to effective connectivity. In particular, attention switching was deeply concerned with perspective taking in real time, and the precuneus played a crucial role in implementing individual differences.
Spectral-based thickness profiling of the corpus callosum enhances anomaly detection in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Authors: Fraize Justine , Leprince Yann , Elmaleh-Bergès Monique , Kerdreux Eliot , Delorme Richard , Hertz-Pannier Lucie , Lefèvre Julien , Germanaud David
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) range from fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) to non-syndromic forms (NS-FASD). The neuroanatomical consequences of prenatal alcohol exposure are mainly the reduction in brain size, but also focal abnormalities such as those of the corpus callosum (CC). We previously showed a narrowing of the CC for brain size, using manual measurement and its usefulness to improve diagnostic certainty. Our aim was to automate these measurements of the CC and identify more recurrent abnormalities in FAS subjects, independently of brain size reduction.

Methods

We developed a fast, automated, and normalization-free method based on spectral analysis to generate thicknesses of the CC continuously and at singular points (genu, body, isthmus, and splenium), and its length (LCC). We applied it on midsagittal section of the CC extracted from T1-anatomical brain MRI of 89 subjects with FASD (52 FAS, 37 NS-FASD) and 126 with typically development (6–20 y-o). After adjusting for batch effect, we compared the mean profiles and thicknesses of the singular points across the 3 groups. For each parameter, we established variations with age (growth charts) and brain size in the control group (scaling charts), then identified participants with abnormal measurements (<10th percentile).

Results

We confirmed the slimming of the posterior half of the CC in both FASD groups, and of the genu section in the FAS group, compared to the control group. We found a significant group effect for the LCC, genu, median body, isthmus, and splenium thicknesses (p < 0.05). We described a body hump whose morphology did not differ between groups. According to the growth charts, there was an excess of FASD subjects with abnormal LCC and isthmus, and of FAS subjects with abnormal genu and splenium. According to the scaling charts, this excess remained only for LCC, isthmus and splenium, undersized for brain size.

Conclusion

We characterized size-independent anomalies of the posterior part of the CC in FASD, with an automated method, confirming and extending our previous study. Our new tool brings the use of a neuroanatomical criterion including CC damage closer to clinical practice. Our results suggest that an FAS signature identified in NS-FASD, could improve diagnosis specificity.
Subpopulation treatment effect pattern plot analysis: a prognostic model for distant recurrence-free survival to estimate delayed adjuvant chemotherapy initiation effect in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Morante Zaida , Ferreyra Yomali , Pinto Joseph A. , Valdivieso Natalia , Castañeda Carlos , Vidaurre Tatiana , Valencia Guillermo , Rioja Patricia , Fuentes Hugo , Cotrina José M. , Neciosup Silvia , Gomez Henry L.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous disease associated with a poor prognosis. Delaying in time to start adjuvant chemotherapy (TTC) has been related to an increased risk of distant recurrence-free survival (DRFS). We aimed to develop a prognostic model to estimate the effects of delayed TTC among TNBC risk subgroups.

Materials and methods

We analyzed 687 TNBC patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy at the Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplasicas (Lima, Peru). Database was randomly divided to create a discovery set (n=344) and a validation set (n=343). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were performed to identify prognostic factors for DRFS. Risk stratification was implemented through two models developed based on proportional hazard ratios from significant clinicopathological characteristics. Subpopulation treatment effect pattern plot (STEPP) analysis was performed to determine the best prognostic cut-off points for stratifying TNBC subgroups according to risk scores and estimate Kaplan-Meier differences in 10-year DRFS comparing TTC (≤30 vs.>30 days).

Results

In univariate analysis, patients aged ≥70 years (HR=4.65; 95% CI: 2.32-9.34; p=<0.001), those at stages pT3-T4 (HR=3.28; 95% CI: 1.57-6.83; p=0.002), and pN2-N3 (HR=3.00; 95% CI: 1.90-4.76; p=<0.001) were notably associated with higher risk. STEPP analysis defined three risk subgroups for each model. Model N°01 categorized patients into low (score: 0–31), intermediate (score:32–64), and high-risk (score: 65–100) cohorts; meanwhile, Model N°02: low (score: 0–26), intermediate (score: 27–55), and high (score: 56–100). Kaplan-Meier plots showed that in the discovery set, patients with TTC>30 days experienced a 17.5% decrease in 10-year DRFS rate (95%CI=6.7-28.3), and the impact was more remarkable in patients who belong to the high-risk subgroup (53.3% decrease in 10 years-DRFS rate). Similar results were found in the validation set.

Conclusions

We developed two prognostic models based on age, pT, and pN to select the best one to classify TNBC. For Model N°02, delayed adjuvant chemotherapy conferred a higher risk of relapse in patients ≥70 years and who were characterized by pT3/T4 and pN2/N3. Thus, more efforts should be considered to avoid delayed TTC in TNBC patients, especially those in high-risk subgroups.
Sodium-glucose cotransporter–2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and the reporting of falls and fractures: an european pharmacovigilance analysis
Authors: Mascolo Annamaria , Rafaniello Concetta , di Mauro Gabriella , Ruggiero Donatella , Campitiello Maria Rosaria , Donniacuo Maria , Berrino Pasquale Maria , Rossi Francesco , Paolisso Giuseppe , Capuano Annalisa
Published: November 2023

Background: The risk of falls and bone fractures with sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors has been characterized by conflicting evidence. Therefore, we decided to investigate the reporting probability of falls and fractures by comparing SGLT2 inhibitors with DPP4 inhibitors.

Methods A retrospective, pharmacovigilance study of the European database of Individual Case Safety Reports (ICSRs) was conducted. Disproportionality analyses (Reporting Odds Ratio, ROR) were conducted to compare the reporting probability of falls or fracture between treatments.

Results A total of 507 ICSRs reporting at least one fall or fracture with SGLT2 inhibitors were identified. The most reported SGLT2 inhibitor was canagliflozin (N = 188; 36.9%), followed by empagliflozin (N = 176; 34.5%), and dapagliflozin (N = 143; 28.0%). A total of 653 events related to fall or bone fracture were reported. Fall was the most reported event (N = 333; 51.0%). Among fractures (N = 320; 49.0%), the most reported were foot fractures (N = 40; 6.1%) and hip fractures (N = 32; 4.9%). SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with a lower reporting probability of fall than DPP4 inhibitors (ROR, 0.66; 95%CI, 0.57-0.78). The lower reporting probability of fall was also observed when the single SGLT2 inhibitor was compared to DPP4 inhibitors: dapagliflozin (ROR, 0.67; 95%CI, 0.53-0.83), canagliflozin (ROR, 0.56; 95%CI, 0.45-0.70), and empagliflozin (ROR, 0.77; 95%CI, 0.63-0.94). For fractures, canagliflozin showed a slightly significant increased reporting when compared with DPP4 inhibitors (not confirmed in the sensitivity analysis), whereas all other comparison showed no statistically significant difference.

Conclusion SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with a lower reporting probability of fall than DPP4 inhibitors, in accordance with the reassuring evidence about the safety profile of these drugs. Future researches will help to confirm their long-term safety profile.
Elucidating the impact of in vitro cultivation on Nicotiana tabacum metabolism through combined in silico modeling and multiomics analysis
Authors: Yu Jing , Wang Xiaowei , Yuan Qianqian , Shi Jiaxin , Cai Jingyi , Li Zhichao , Ma Hongwu
Published: November 2023

The systematical characterization and understanding of the metabolic behaviors are the basis of the efficient plant metabolic engineering and synthetic biology. Genome-scale metabolic networks (GSMNs) are indispensable tools for the comprehensive characterization of overall metabolic profile. Here we first constructed a GSMN of tobacco, which is one of the most widely used plant chassis, and then combined the tobacco GSMN and multiomics analysis to systematically elucidate the impact of in-vitro cultivation on the tobacco metabolic network. In-vitro cultivation is a widely used technique for plant cultivation, not only in the field of basic research but also for the rapid propagation of valuable horticultural and pharmaceutical plants. However, the systemic effects of in-vitro cultivation on overall plant metabolism could easily be overlooked and are still poorly understood. We found that in-vitro tobacco showed slower growth, less biomass and suppressed photosynthesis than soil-grown tobacco. Many changes of metabolites and metabolic pathways between in-vitro and soil-grown tobacco plants were identified, which notably revealed a significant increase of the amino acids content under in-vitro condition. The in silico investigation showed that in-vitro tobacco downregulated photosynthesis and primary carbon metabolism, while significantly upregulated the GS/GOGAT cycle, as well as producing more energy and less NADH/NADPH to acclimate in-vitro growth demands. Altogether, the combination of experimental and in silico analyses offers an unprecedented view of tobacco metabolism, with valuable insights into the impact of in-vitro cultivation, enabling more efficient utilization of in-vitro techniques for plant propagation and metabolic engineering.
The great pretenders? Individuals’ responses to threats to their remote worker identities
Authors: Felix Bruno , Tiussi Bruno Lorencini , Mahadevan Jasmin , Dias Rogério Correia
Published: November 2023

Introduction

This study aims to understand (a) how remote workers respond to threats to their identity and (b) the conditions in which each coping response tends to occur more frequently.

Methods

To this end, we pursued a grounded theory approach, conducting interviews with 71 individuals who chose to work remotely.

Results

Our model and theoretical propositions create insights into how remote workers respond to negative stigma from a range of origins. While some responses lead to restructuring the remote workers’ identity (identity restructuring responses), others involve keeping the enactment of such identity (identity-preserving responses) or maintaining a paradoxical relationship between restructuring and preserving the identity (paradoxical identity work responses). We also theorise on the conditions under which each response is more likely to occur.

Discussion

We expand the predominant focus on the meso and macro aspects of this type of work to the micro-interactions in which these individuals engage, thus highlighting how identity is made, performed, created, and enacted, within specific boundary conditions. In addition, by reflecting upon remote workers’ identity threats in light of the wider macro context. We also explore the conditions under which specific kinds of responses tend to emerge.
New and continuing physician-based outpatient mental health care among children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario, Canada: a population-based study
Authors: Toulany Alene , Vigod Simone , Kurdyak Paul , Stukel Therese A. , Strauss Rachel , Fu Longdi , Guttmann Astrid , Guan Jun , Cohen Eyal , Chiu Maria , Hepburn Charlotte Moore , Moran Kimberly , Gardner William , Cappelli Mario , Sundar Purnima , Saunders Natasha
Published: November 2023

Objective

To assess physician-based mental health care utilization during the COVID-19 pandemic among children and adolescents new to care and those already engaged with mental health services, and to evaluate differences by sociodemographic factors.

Study design

We performed a population-based repeated cross-sectional study using linked health and administrative databases in Ontario, Canada among all children and adolescents 3–17 years. We examined outpatient visit rates per 1,000 population for mental health concerns for those new to care (no physician-based mental healthcare for ≥1 year) and those with continuing care needs (any physician-based mental healthcare <1 year) following onset of the pandemic.

Results

Among ~2.5 million children and adolescents (48.7% female, mean age 10.1 ± 4.3 years), expected monthly mental health outpatient visits were 1.5/1,000 for those new to mental health care and 5.4/1,000 for those already engaged in care. Following onset of the pandemic, visit rates for both groups were above expected [adjusted rate ratio (aRR) 1.22, 95% CI 1.17, 1.27; aRR 1.10, 95% CI 1.07, 1.12] for new and continuing care, respectively. The greatest increase above expected was among females (new: aRR 1.33, 95% CI 1.25, 1.42; continuing: aRR 1.22 95% CI 1.17, 1.26) and adolescents ages 13–17 years (new: aRR 1.31, 95% CI 1.27, 1.34; continuing: aRR 1.15 95% CI 1.13, 1.17). Mood and anxiety concerns were prominent among those new to care.

Conclusion

In the 18 months following onset of the pandemic, outpatient mental health care utilization increased for those with new and continuing care needs, especially among females and adolescents.
Strategizing global health governance: unpacking opportunities and challenges for least developed nations within the WHO pandemic treaty framework
Authors: Jiang Shisong , Kumah Emmanuel
Published: November 2023

Exploring the intricacies of the proposed WHO pandemic treaty, this paper underscores its potential benefits and challenges for Least Developed Nations (LDNs) in the global health landscape. While the treaty could elevate LDNs’ access to vital resources, fortify health systems, and amplify their voice in global health governance, tangible challenges in safeguarding equitable access, protecting sovereignty, and ensuring compliance are illuminated. Concluding with targeted recommendations, the paper advocates for treaty revisions that assure resource access, safeguard LDNs’ autonomy, and foster capacity-building. In essence, the paper emphasizes the imperative of genuinely empowering LDNs, crafting a pandemic treaty that establishes a more equitable, resilient, and inclusive global health future.
Light Pollution: Why We Need to Turn Off the Lights
Authors: Gurholt Hannah , Miller Colleen R. , Seymoure Brett M.
Published: November 2023

You might have heard that looking at bright lights like TVs and phones at night can affect your sleep and be bad for your health. But did you know that lights at night are also bad for animals and plants in nature? Human-made light that reaches the environment at night is called light pollution. Lights at night often kill many insects, baby sea turtles, and migrating birds. Light pollution is easy to fix—only turn the lights on when they are needed! In this article, we review how light pollution affects people and the environment, and we describe some ways you can help.
Talent identification and development in an English Premiership rugby union club: the perspectives of players and coaches
Authors: Dimundo Francesco , Cole Matthew , Blagrove Richard C. , Herbison Jordan D. , Turnnidge Jennifer , Till Kevin , Vitali Francesca , Kelly Adam L.
Published: November 2023

The pathway towards senior professional status in sport is affected by a multitude of factors. An abductive examination of the talent identification and development processes at an English Premiership rugby union (RU) club was undertaken for the present study. Part one examined the perspectives on the selection and development processes of senior academy male players (n = 8), whereas part two explored the perceptions of male coaches (n = 7). A total of three focus groups were used. Three main themes were confirmed by players and coaches: (a) task constraints, (b) performer constraints, and (c) environmental constraints. Specifically, although athletes and coaches believed that performer constraints were highly impactful on players' career in RU, there were inconsistencies surrounding the task and environmental constraints. Despite an indication that three common themes impacted an players path, this preliminary study shows an imbalance in the understanding of some of the key factors perceived to be important for talent progression in the present rugby academy. More research using similar qualitative methods is recommended to better understand the differences in opinions between players and coaches. Meanwhile, practitioners should consider implementing objective and holistic strategies to improve the talent pathway in English RU academies.
Successful pedicled vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap reconstruction with negative-pressure wound therapy for deep sternal wound infection: a case report and comprehensive review
Authors: Lee Dong Yun , Eo SuRak , Lim SooA , Yoon Jung Soo
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Deep sternal wound infection (DSWI) is a serious complication that may occur after median sternotomy, with potentially devastating consequences. By reporting our case and analyzing the existing literature, this article aimed to provide a thorough understanding of the role of negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) and the importance of flap choice in managing DSWI accompanied by severe heart injury and high hemodynamic risk.

Case description

A 60-year-old woman with severe aortic stenosis, aortic valve regurgitation, and heart failure underwent redo sternotomy, which resulted in an intraoperative right ventricle injury. She required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support because of low blood pressure and subsequently developed complications, including surgical site hematoma, wound dehiscence, and fat necrosis. She was referred for wound closure, where a significant 10 × 20-cm soft tissue defect in the anterior chest wall was observed. A pedicled vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap addressed the soft tissue defect. The wound showed remarkable improvement at the 8-month follow-up visit.

Conclusions

DSWI management is a complex and multifaceted challenge. NPWT, when combined with appropriate surgical strategies, including wound debridement and flap selection, may promote successful wound healing. This case report highlights the successful management of a complex DSWI using a multidisciplinary approach, including debridement, appropriate antibiotic therapy, and free-flap reconstruction, which resulted in favorable outcomes.