bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
H i imaging of a Blueberry galaxy suggests a merger origin
Authors: Dutta Saili , Bera Apurba , Bait Omkar , Narayan Chaitra A , Sebastian Biny , Vaddi Sravani
Published: June 2024

Blueberry galaxies (BBs) are fainter, less massive, and lower redshift counterparts of the Green pea galaxies. They are thought to be the nearest analogues of the high redshift Lyman Alpha (Ly $\alpha$) emitters. We report the interferometric imaging of H i 21 cm emission from a Blueberry galaxy, J1509+3731, at redshift, z = 0.03259, using the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope. We find that this Blueberry galaxy has an H i mass of $M_{\rm{H\,{{\small I}}}} \approx 3\times 10^8 \, {\rm{M}}_{\odot }$ and an H i-to-stellar mass ratio $M_{\rm{H {\small I}}}/M_* \approx$ 2.4. Using SFR estimates from the H $\beta$ emission line, we find that it has a short H i depletion time scale of ${\approx} 0.2$ Gyr, which indicates a significantly higher star formation efficiency compared to typical star-forming galaxies at the present epoch. Interestingly, we find an offset of ${\approx} 2$ kpc between the peak of the H i 21 cm emission and the optical centre which suggests a merger event in the past. Our study highlights the important role of mergers in triggering the starburst in BBs and their role in the possible leakage of Lyman-$\alpha$ and Lyman-continuum photons which is consistent with the previous studies on BB galaxies.
Ancient and Recent Hybridization in the Oreochromis Cichlid Fishes
Authors: Ciezarek Adam G , Mehta Tarang K , Man Angela , Ford Antonia G P , Kavembe Geraldine Dorcas , Kasozi Nasser , Ngatunga Benjamin P , Shechonge Asilatu H , Tamatamah Rashid , Nyingi Dorothy Wanja , Cnaani Avner , Ndiwa Titus C , Di Palma Federica , Turner George F , Genner Martin J , Haerty Wilfried
Published: June 2024

Cichlid fishes of the genus Oreochromis (tilapia) are among the most important fish for inland capture fisheries and global aquaculture. Deliberate introductions of non-native species for fisheries improvement and accidental escapees from farms have resulted in admixture with indigenous species. Such hybridization may be detrimental to native biodiversity, potentially leading to genomic homogenization of populations and the loss of important genetic material associated with local adaptation. By contrast, introgression may fuel diversification when combined with ecological opportunity, by supplying novel genetic combinations. To date, the role of introgression in the evolutionary history of tilapia has not been explored. Here we studied both ancient and recent hybridization in tilapia, using whole genome resequencing of 575 individuals from 23 species. We focused on Tanzania, a natural hotspot of tilapia diversity, and a country where hybridization between exotic and native species in the natural environment has been previously reported. We reconstruct the first genome-scale phylogeny of the genus and reveal prevalent ancient gene flow across the Oreochromis phylogeny. This has likely resulted in the hybrid speciation of one species, O. chungruruensis. We identify multiple cases of recent hybridization between native and introduced species in the wild, linked to the use of non-native species in both capture fisheries improvement and aquaculture. This has potential implications for both conservation of wild populations and the development of the global tilapia aquaculture industry.
Transfer learning for cross-context prediction of protein expression from 5’UTR sequence
Authors: Gilliot Pierre-Aurélien , Gorochowski Thomas E
Published: June 2024

Model-guided DNA sequence design can accelerate the reprogramming of living cells. It allows us to engineer more complex biological systems by removing the need to physically assemble and test each potential design. While mechanistic models of gene expression have seen some success in supporting this goal, data-centric, deep learning-based approaches often provide more accurate predictions. This accuracy, however, comes at a cost — a lack of generalization across genetic and experimental contexts that has limited their wider use outside the context in which they were trained. Here, we address this issue by demonstrating how a simple transfer learning procedure can effectively tune a pre-trained deep learning model to predict protein translation rate from 5’ untranslated region (5’UTR) sequence for diverse contexts in Escherichia coli using a small number of new measurements. This allows for important model features learnt from expensive massively parallel reporter assays to be easily transferred to new settings. By releasing our trained deep learning model and complementary calibration procedure, this study acts as a starting point for continually refined model-based sequence design that builds on previous knowledge and future experimental efforts.
Structure-based learning to predict and model protein–DNA interactions and transcription-factor co-operativity in cis-regulatory elements
Authors: Fornes Oriol , Meseguer Alberto , Aguirre-Plans Joachim , Gohl Patrick , Bota Patricia M , Molina-Fernández Ruben , Bonet Jaume , Chinchilla-Hernandez Altair , Pegenaute Ferran , Gallego Oriol , Fernandez-Fuentes Narcis , Oliva Baldo
Published: June 2024

Transcription factor (TF) binding is a key component of genomic regulation. There are numerous high-throughput experimental methods to characterize TF–DNA binding specificities. Their application, however, is both laborious and expensive, which makes profiling all TFs challenging. For instance, the binding preferences of ∼25% human TFs remain unknown; they neither have been determined experimentally nor inferred computationally. We introduce a structure-based learning approach to predict the binding preferences of TFs and the automated modelling of TF regulatory complexes. We show the advantage of using our approach over the classical nearest-neighbor prediction in the limits of remote homology. Starting from a TF sequence or structure, we predict binding preferences in the form of motifs that are then used to scan a DNA sequence for occurrences. The best matches are either profiled with a binding score or collected for their subsequent modeling into a higher-order regulatory complex with DNA. Co-operativity is modelled by: (i) the co-localization of TFs and (ii) the structural modeling of protein–protein interactions between TFs and with co-factors. We have applied our approach to automatically model the interferon-β enhanceosome and the pioneering complexes of OCT4, SOX2 (or SOX11) and KLF4 with a nucleosome, which are compared with the experimentally known structures.
Quitting Smoking With … Smoke? Unauthorized Claims Used by Herbal Cigarette Manufacturers
Authors: Seidenberg Andrew B , Donovan Emily , Azadi Mona , Goyette Rebecca , Ling Pamela M
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Herbal cigarettes are made with non-tobacco plant materials (eg, tea leaves, hemp), are typically sold pre-rolled in packs and with filters, and are combusted and smoked like tobacco cigarettes. Herbal cigarette manufacturers have a history of making misleading health claims and at least one company has previously settled with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission over deceptive advertising. This study examined current claims and product characteristics of herbal cigarettes sold by a popular online retailer.

Aims and Methods

We searched Amazon.com for “herbal cigarettes” and “hemp cigarettes” and identified all herbal cigarette products sold on the first page of search results (n = 51). Two coders independently content analyzed each product’s Amazon page for claims (eg, smoking cessation, health), product characteristics (eg, flavors), and presence of disclaimers and warnings.

Results

Overall, 78.4% of product pages made smoking cessation claims (eg, “A more scientific way to quit smoking,” “…decreases nicotine craving symptom and helps to quit tobacco smoking”). Further, 45.1% of product pages included claims describing lower risk/exposure compared to tobacco products (eg, “…without the addictive nicotine and toxic chemicals found in tobacco cigarettes”). Some herbal products were available in multiple flavors, including menthol (21.6%) and fruit (17.7%). Only 35.3% of products included visible health warnings on product packaging.

Conclusions

Many herbal cigarette products sold on Amazon.com make unauthorized cessation and health claims. Regulatory agencies must act decisively to stop the misleading advertising of these products and develop appropriate warnings to educate the public about the potential harms.

Implications

This content analysis documents the use of unauthorized and misleading claims made in the marketing of herbal cigarettes. These findings highlight the need for enforcement of existing federal regulations, which prohibit deceptive advertising. Research is needed to inform the development of appropriate warning labels that can be used to inform consumers of the potential harms of smoking herbal cigarettes.
How to construct a new global order
Authors: Rodrik Dani , Walt Stephen
Published: June 2024

We advance principles for the construction of a stable and broadly beneficial world order that does not require significant commonality in interests and values among states. In particular, we propose a ‘meta-regime’ as a device for structuring a conversation around the relevant issues, and facilitating either agreement or accommodation. Participating in this meta-regime would impose few constraints on states, yet in favourable circumstances could facilitate significant cooperation. It could also encourage increased cooperation over time even among adversaries, as participation in the meta-regime builds trust. We apply these ideas to several issue areas, including US–China competition.
How India can reach net zero: a strategy for 2025–35
Authors: Ahluwalia Montek S , Patel Utkarsh
Published: June 2024

This paper assesses the feasibility of India achieving its stated objective of getting to net zero carbon emissions by 2070 and outlines a possible strategy for the next 10 years consistent with this goal. It recommends a combination of price-based measures and several sector-specific interventions. The ideal price-based measure would be a carbon tax. This may not be feasible for various reasons, but in its absence a well-designed emissions trading system, as described in the paper, could make a major contribution in reducing emissions. On sectoral interventions, the critical areas over the next 10 years would be (i) accelerated expansion of various forms of renewable energy capacity, which will require several policy changes, (ii) electrification of transport, and (iii) a shift from private to public transport in urban areas and from road to rail for freight. Action will also be necessary in other sectors such as industry, agriculture, and buildings, but a detailed strategy for these may take more time to put in place. Since responsibility for action in all these areas is spread across different ministries in the central government and, in many cases, state governments, evolving an internally consistent and cost-effective strategy will present a major challenge. There is a case for setting up a high-level commission chaired by the Prime Minister to approve a national strategy. The paper estimates that the additional investment needed to make this transition will be about 2 per cent of India’s GDP by 2030, much of which will have to come from additional public and private savings. In this context, some form of carbon pricing would help generate additional revenue.
Three Arabidopsis UMP kinases have different roles in pyrimidine nucleotide biosynthesis and (deoxy)CMP salvage
Authors: Rinne Jannis , Niehaus Markus , Medina-Escobar Nieves , Straube Henryk , Schaarschmidt Frank , Rugen Nils , Braun Hans-Peter , Herde Marco , Witte Claus-Peter
Published: June 2024

Pyrimidine nucleotide monophosphate biosynthesis ends in the cytosol with uridine monophosphate (UMP). UMP phosphorylation to uridine diphosphate (UDP) by UMP KINASEs (UMKs) is required for the generation of all pyrimidine (deoxy)nucleoside triphosphates as building blocks for nucleic acids and central metabolites like UDP-glucose. The Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) genome encodes five UMKs and three belong to the AMP KINASE (AMK)-like UMKs, which were characterized to elucidate their contribution to pyrimidine metabolism. Mitochondrial UMK2 and cytosolic UMK3 are evolutionarily conserved, whereas cytosolic UMK1 is specific to the Brassicaceae. In vitro, all UMKs can phosphorylate UMP, cytidine monophosphate (CMP) and deoxycytidine monophosphate (dCMP), but with different efficiencies. Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated nuclease 9 (Cas9)-induced null mutants were generated for UMK1 and UMK2, but not for UMK3, since frameshift alleles were lethal for germline cells. However, a mutant with diminished UMK3 activity showing reduced growth was obtained. Metabolome analyses of germinating seeds and adult plants of single- and higher-order mutants revealed that UMK3 plays an indispensable role in the biosynthesis of all pyrimidine (deoxy)nucleotides and UDP-sugars, while UMK2 is important for dCMP recycling that contributes to mitochondrial DNA stability. UMK1 is primarily involved in CMP recycling. We discuss the specific roles of these UMKs referring also to the regulation of pyrimidine nucleoside triphosphate synthesis.
Epigenetic control during root development and symbiosis
Authors: Zanetti María Eugenia , Blanco Flavio , Ferrari Milagros , Ariel Federico , Benoit Matthias , Niebel Andreas , Crespi Martin
Published: June 2024

The roots of plants play multiple functions that are essential for growth and development, including anchoring to the soil as well as water and nutrient acquisition. These underground organs exhibit the plasticity to modify their root system architecture in response to environmental cues, allowing adaptation to change in water and nutrient availability. In addition, roots enter in mutualistic interactions with soil microorganisms, for example, the root nodule symbiosis (RNS) established between a limited group of plants and nitrogen-fixing soil bacteria and the arbuscular mycorrhiza symbiosis involving most land plants and fungi of the Glomeromycetes phylum. In the past 20 years, genetic approaches allowed the identification and functional characterization of genes required for the specific programs of root development, root nodule, and arbuscular mycorrhiza symbioses. These genetic studies provided evidence that the program of the RNS recruited components of the arbuscular mycorrhiza symbiosis and the root developmental programs. The execution of these programs is strongly influenced by epigenetic changes—DNA methylation and histone post-translational modifications—that alter chromatin conformation modifying the expression of key genes. In this review, we summarize recent advances that highlight how DNA methylation and histone post-translational modifications, as well as chromatin remodeling factors and long noncoding RNAs, shape the root system architecture and allow the successful establishment of both root nodule and arbuscular mycorrhiza symbioses. We anticipate that the analysis of dynamic epigenetic changes and chromatin 3D structure in specific single cells or tissue types of root organs will illuminate our understanding of how root developmental and symbiotic programs are orchestrated, opening exciting questions and new perspectives to modulate agronomical and ecological traits linked to nutrient acquisition.
Monetary Policy and Heterogeneity: An Analytical Framework
Authors: Bilbiie Florin O
Published: June 2024

THANK is a tractable heterogeneous-agent New-Keynesian model that captures analytically core micro-heterogeneity channels of quantitative-HANK: cyclical inequality and risk; self-insurance, precautionary saving, and realistic intertemporal marginal propensities to consume. I use it to elucidate key transmission mechanisms and dynamic properties of HANK models. Countercyclical inequality yields aggregate-demand amplification and makes determinacy with Taylor rules more stringent; but solving the forward guidance puzzle requires procyclical inequality: a Catch-22. Solutions include combining inequality with a distinct risk channel, with compensating cyclicalities; I provide evidence that disposable income inequality was procyclical in the last two, Great and COVID recessions, while risk is countercyclical. Alternative policy rules also solve the Catch-22, e.g. price-level-targeting or, in the model version with liquidity, setting nominal public debt. Optimal policy with heterogeneity features a novel inequality-stabilization motive generating higher inflation volatility—but is unaffected by risk, insofar as the target efficient equilibrium entails no inequality.
Effects of peer victimization on cortical processing of social-evaluative stress in patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Iffland Benjamin , Kley Hanna , Neuner Frank
Published: June 2024

Peer victimization contributes to the development of major depressive disorders (MDDs). While previous studies reported differentiated peripheral physiological responses in peer-victimized individuals with depression, little is known about potential alterations of cortical event-related potentials (ERPs) in response to social stimuli in depressive patients with a history of peer victimization. Using a social condition paradigm, the present study examined whether peer victimization alters conditioned cortical responses to potentially threatening social stimuli in MDD patients and healthy controls. In the task, we studied ERPs to conditioned stimuli (CSs), i.e. still images of faces, that were coupled to unconditioned socially negative and neutral evaluative video statements. Peer victimization was related to more pronounced P100 amplitudes in reaction to negative and neutral CSs. Attenuated P200 amplitudes in peer-victimized individuals were found in response to negative CSs. Cortical responses to CSs were not influenced by a diagnosis of MDD. The results suggest altered responsiveness to interpersonal information in peer-victimized individuals. Facilitated early processing of social threat indicators may prevent peer-victimized individuals from adaptive responses to social cues, increasing their vulnerability for depression.
Phylogenomic analyses in the complex Neotropical subfamily Corydoradinae (Siluriformes: Callichthyidae) with a new classification based on morphological and molecular data
Authors: Dias Angelica C , Tencatt Luiz F C , Roxo Fabio F , Silva Gabriel de Souza da Costa , Santos Sérgio A , Britto Marcelo R , Taylor Martin I , Oliveira Claudio
Published: June 2024

The family Callichthyidae, which comprises the subfamilies Corydoradinae and Callichthyinae, represents one of the largest families within the Siluriformes. Corydoradinae, the largest subfamily of Callichthyidae, alone accounts for >200 valid species, with new species being described frequently. This subfamily holds significant popularity among catfish enthusiasts worldwide, mainly because Corydoras are small, peaceful, and colourful fishes. Recognizing the existence of polyphyletic groups within Corydoradinae, the aim of this study was to construct a new phylogenetic hypothesis using genomic data (ultraconserved elements) and to re-evaluate the synonymized genera using the most recent morphological data. Our results supported the monophyly of Corydoradinae and identified seven distinct groups of species, each one with an associated pre-available generic name. These genera, namely Corydoras, Aspidoras, Scleromystax, Gastrodermus (resurrected), Osteogaster (resurrected), Brochis (resurrected), and Hoplisoma (resurrected), were all validated based on evidence derived from molecular and morphological analyses. A taxonomic key for the Corydoradinae genera is provided.
Multiomics analysis reveals serine catabolism as a potential therapeutic target for MELAS
Authors: Liufu Tongling , Zhao Xutong , Yu Meng , Xie Zhiying , Meng Lingchao , Lv He , Zhang Wei , Yuan Yun , Xing Guogang , Deng Jianwen , Wang Zhaoxia
Published: June 2024

Mitochondrial disease is a devastating genetic disorder, with mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke‐like episodes (MELAS) and m.3243A>G being the most common phenotype and genotype, respectively. The treatment for MELAS patients is still less effective. Here, we performed transcriptomic and proteomic analysis in muscle tissue of MELAS patients, and discovered that the expression of molecules involved in serine catabolism were significantly upregulated, and serine hydroxymethyltransferase 2 (SHMT2) increased significantly in both the mRNA and protein levels. The SHMT2 protein level was also increased in myoblasts with m.3243A>G mutation, which was transdifferentiated from patients derived fibroblasts, accompanying with the decreased nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)/reduced NAD+ (NADH) ratio and cell viability. After treating with SHMT2 inhibitor (SHIN1), the NAD+/NADH ratio and cell viability in MELAS myoblasts increased significantly. Taken together, our study indicates that enhanced serine catabolism plays an important role in the pathogenesis of MELAS and that SHIN1 can be a potential small molecule for the treatment of this disease.
HDAC1/2/3‐mediated downregulation of neurogranin is involved in cognitive impairment in offspring exposed to maternal subclinical hypothyroidism
Authors: Yu Xi , Guo Jun , Song Yueyang , Wei Bin , Shi Yajun , Zhao Yan , Zhao Zejun , Gao Qinqin , Wang Bin , Sun Miao
Published: June 2024

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in pregnancy is the most common form of thyroid dysfunction in pregnancy, which can affect fetal nervous system development and increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders after birth. However, the mechanism of the effect of maternal subclinical hypothyroidism on fetal brain development and behavioral phenotypes is still unclear and requires further study. In this study, we constructed a mouse model of maternal subclinical hypothyroidism by exposing dams to drinking water containing 50 ppm propylthiouracil (PTU) during pregnancy and found that its offspring were accompanied by severe cognitive deficits by behavioral testing. Mechanistically, gestational SCH resulted in the upregulation of protein expression and activity of HDAC1/2/3 in the hippocampus of the offspring. ChIP analysis revealed that H3K9ac on the neurogranin (Ng) promoter was reduced in the hippocampus of the offspring of SCH, with a significant reduction in Ng protein, leading to reduced expression levels of synaptic plasticity markers PSD95 (a membrane‐associated protein in the postsynaptic density) and SYN (synaptophysin, a specific marker for presynaptic terminals), and impaired synaptic plasticity. In addition, administration of MS‐275 (an HDAC1/2/3‐specific inhibitor) to SCH offspring alleviated impaired synaptic plasticity and cognitive dysfunction in offspring. Thus, our study suggests that maternal subclinical hypothyroidism may mediate offspring cognitive dysfunction through the HDAC1/2/3‐H3K9ac‐Ng pathway. Our study contributes to the understanding of the signaling mechanisms underlying maternal subclinical hypothyroidism‐mediated cognitive impairment in the offspring.
Development and Implementation of an Experiential Longitudinal Health Systems Science Thread Into an Existing Medical School Curriculum
Authors: Dagher Tanios , Oyler Julie , Press Valerie G. , Kostas Tia , Tang Joyce , Hight Robert , Saathoff Mark , McKinnon Marie , Jackson Jenna Ford , McGinty Michael , Schwanz Korry , Farnan Jeanne , Arora Vineet , Anderson Irsk
Published: June 2024

Problem

Medical school graduates enter a complex health care delivery system involving interprofessional teamwork and multifaceted value-based patient care decisions. However, current curricula on health systems science (HSS) are piecemeal, lecture based, and confined to preclinical training.

Approach

The VISTA program is a longitudinal, immersive learning curriculum integrated into the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine curriculum between 2016 and 2018. Key components include a unit-based nursing interprofessional team experience, a discharge objective structured clinical examination (OSCE), a patient safety simulation, and the implementation of a Choosing Wisely SmartPhrase. Graduates before 2016–2017 and after 2018–2020 VISTA implementation completed a Likert-style survey assessing attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors on HSS topics. A free response question solicited improvement areas. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Graduation Questionnaire (GQ) was also examined.

Outcomes

The overall VISTA survey response rate was 59%, with 126 fourth-year medical student respondents before VISTA and 120 after VISTA. Compared with pre-VISTA graduates, post-VISTA graduates reported a significantly higher rate of competence on the HSS questions, with the greatest increases seen in effective communication at discharge (n = 73/126 [57.9%] to 116/120 [96.7%], P < .001), knowledge on safety event reporting (n = 53/126 [42.1%] to 96/120 [79.8%], P < .001), and considering costs in making health care decisions (n = 76/126 [60.3%] to 117/120 [97.5%], P < .001). All were directly addressed through experiential learning interventions, and 2 were intended practice behaviors. VISTA graduate responses to free-text questions demonstrated a more nuanced understanding of HSS compared with pre-VISTA responses. The AAMC GQ data showed increased agreement with an item that mapped to HSS understanding.

Next Steps

The VISTA program provides a model for institutions to enhance HSS education between curricular overhauls. Next steps include implementing value-added roles and additional immersive learning exercises.
A pattern of admission and outcome of patients admitted to the intensive care unit of a tertiary hospital in a low resource setting: a cohort study
Authors: Bime Aman E. , Bayissa Badhaasaa B.
Published: June 2024

Background:

ICU is a specialized department designed to serve critical care for severely ill patients. It needs an adequate number of highly trained and skilled human power and costly materials, which has limited its number and functionality in low resource settings. As a result, intensive care medicine or critical care services are poorly developed, or at most, still in the infancy stage. Due to the multifactorial limitations, ICU treatment outcomes were lower compared to high-income countries from the limited available literature. The objective of this study was to depict ICU treatment patterns and patient outcomes at low resources and limited setup.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on patients admitted to ICU from January 2017 to 31 December 2020, on a sample of 420 cases using a systematic sampling technique. Patient data were collected from the medical record and filled into a prevalidated checklist from admission to discharge or death. Data were analyzed using a statistical package for social sciences version 25.0.

Result:

A total of 419 patients’ data was qualified for analysis with ICU mortality being 40.8%. The majority of the admissions to the ICU were from the surgical department followed by trauma admissions. Some of the factors significantly associated with ICU mortality were: vasopressor use during the course of ICU follow up adjusted odd ratio (aOR)=4.3 with 95% CI: 1.83–10.03, P-value <0.001, patients who were put on mechanical ventilator aOR=3.6 with 95% CI: 1.90–6.63, P-value <0.001, enteral feeding aOR=0.31 at 95% CI: 0.16–0.59, P-value <0.001and admissions from internal medicine aOR=4.2, 95% CI: 1.66–10.41, P-value=0.01.

Conclusion:

The pattern of ICU admissions in developing countries were characterized by surgical and trauma related, younger patients, and high mortality rate. Hypotension, being on mechanical ventilator, vasopressor use, and enteral feeding were some of the factors associated with ICU outcome.
Prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrome and Its Risk Factors in a Spanish University Population
Authors: Ortiz-Toquero Sara , Sanchez Irene , Serrano Alicia , Martin Raul
Published: June 2024

Objectives:

To determine the prevalence of digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome (CVS) and its risk factors in a university population (University of Valladolid, Spain).

Methods:

An anonymous cross-sectional online survey was conducted in a university population [staff (lecturers and administrative employees) and students (undergraduate, master's, and PhD)], including two validated questionnaires (Ocular Surface Disease Index [OSDI] and the 17-item Computer-Vision Symptom Scale questionnaire [CVSS17]) and questions about sociodemographic data and visual display terminal use. The prevalence and risk factors for CVS (CVSS17≥29) (multivariate logistic regression model) were calculated.

Results:

One thousand nine participants responded to the survey (35.2±15.2 years; 64.1% women). The mean OSDI and CVSS17 questionnaire scores were 18.9±15.6 and 31.5±6.4, respectively, and 35.4% of the respondents had dry eye symptoms (OSDI>22). The total prevalence of CVS was 65.4% (95% CI 62.1–68.3). Undergraduate students showed the highest CVS prevalence (72.6%; P<0.01), which was significant. In addition, women, participants younger than 36 years old, contact lens wearers, and subjects with dry eye symptoms reported a statistically higher CVSS17 score (P≤0.01). In the multivariate model, significant factors associated with the presence of CVS (P≤0.03) were female sex (OR=2.10; 95% CI 1.54–2.88), dry eye symptoms (OSDI>22) (OR=16.98; 95% CI 10.36–27.84), VTD use ≥6 hr daily (OR=1.96; 95% CI 1.09–3.52), and being an undergraduate student (OR=2.23; 95% CI 1.54–3.24).

Conclusion:

A high prevalence (65.4%) of CVS was found among the Spanish university population, with the undergraduate student group having the highest prevalence (72.6%). Female sex, more than 6 hr/day of visual display terminal use, being an undergraduate student, and dry eye symptoms significantly increased the risk of CVS in the university population.
Sonographic Assessment of Asymptomatic Patellar and Achilles Tendons to Predict Future Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Cushman Daniel M. , Vomer Rock , Teramoto Masaru , O'Sullivan Maddie , Mulvey Jade , Eby Sarah F. , McAuliffe Sean
Published: June 2024

Objective:

Patients with clinical tendinopathy often demonstrate significant abnormalities with ultrasound (US) imaging. Tendon abnormalities likely precede pain in these patients. The purpose of this review was to systematically evaluate the available literature regarding the utility of US imaging as a method to predict Achilles and patellar tendon pain.

Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis. Inclusion criteria were as follows: prospective studies of Achilles and patellar tendon pain development with baseline US measurements, follow-up clinical measurements, and English-language studies published after 2000. Exclusion criteria were prior rupture or surgery and presence of rheumatologic disorder.

Setting:

N/A.

Patients:

Athletes without Achilles or patellar tendon pain at baseline.

Interventions:

N/A.

Main Outcome Measures:

Risk ratios (RRs) were identified for the development of pain in those with Achilles or patellar tendon sonographic abnormalities.

Results:

This review of 16 studies included 810 Achilles and 1156 patellar tendons from a variety of sports and demonstrated that the RR for pain development from abnormal Patellar and Achilles tendons was 6.07 [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.88-12.81; P < 0.001] and 3.96 [95% CI, 2.21-7.09; P < 0.001], respectively. The positive and negative predictive values of an abnormal US finding were 27.2% and 92.0% for the Achilles tendon and 27.2% and 93.5% for the patellar tendon, respectively.

Conclusions:

This systematic review and meta-analysis identified that the use of asymptomatic US scanning of the Achilles or patellar tendon has a low positive predictive value but a high negative predictive value for the future development of pain.
Successful second kidney transplantation following cured metastatic rectal cancer after first kidney transplantation, 20-year history: A case report
Authors: Lee Chang-Hoon , Lee Na-Ri , Song Eun-Kee , Jeon So-Yeon
Published: June 2024

Rationale:

Solid organ transplant recipients face an elevated risk of malignancies due to immunosuppressive drugs and viral infections. Colorectal cancer is a common malignancy in kidney transplant (KT) recipients, with liver metastasis associated with worse. This case report highlights the successful resolution of colorectal cancer with liver metastasis following KT and subsequent triumph in a second KT after the cancer cure.

Patient concerns:

A man who had undergone KT 10 years earlier presented with rectal bleeding. He was diagnosed with rectal cancer with no distant metastasis and recurrence of renal failure, with a creatinine level of 2 mg/dL.

Diagnosis:

He underwent an anterior resection of a pathologic T3N0M0 tumor without risk features. Three months after surgery, a liver metastasis was detected, and a metastasectomy was performed. After the metastasectomy, the patient’s renal function further declined, and his creatinine levels increased from 5 mg/dL to over 12 mg/dL.

Interventions:

A consultation to discuss adjuvant chemotherapy was postponed in favor of discussions regarding dialysis. He visited the oncologic clinic to discuss adjuvant treatment options 7 months post-metastasectomy. The decision was made to monitor for cancer recurrence without adjuvant therapy.

Outcomes:

The patient remained cancer-free for 5 years, and was declared cured. Another 6 years passed, and he achieved renal recovery through a second KT and maintained good health for the subsequent 2 years.

Lessons:

Despite the poor prognosis for posttransplant malignancies, this case underscores the significance of early detection and tailored intervention in achieving successful outcomes for posttransplant malignancies and advocates for considering a second transplantation for cancer-cured patients experiencing organ function loss.
The Effect of Perceived Social Support and Spiritual Care Needs in Predicting Hope in Oncology Patients
Authors: Budak Simay Ezgi , Ay Kaatsız Melike Ayça
Published: June 2024

Background

Hope has an influential role in oncology patients and is related to perceived social support and spirituality. However, studies on the extent to which the concepts of perceived social support and spiritual care needs affect hope are still limited.

Objective

To examine the effect of perceived social support and spiritual care needs in predicting hope in adult oncology patients.

Methods

Study questionnaires, a demographic form, the Herth Hope Scale, the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale, and the Spiritual Care Needs Scale were administered to participants. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted.

Results

A total of 134 oncology patients completed the study questionnaires. Significant correlations were found between hope and perceived social support and between hope and spiritual care needs (P < .05). Perceived support explained 11.7% of the variance in hope scores. A 1-unit increase in the support score was associated with a 0.344-unit increase in the hope score. Spiritual care needs did not significantly predict hope.

Conclusion

In line with the results, interventions that promote social support may increase hope in oncology patients.

Implications for Practice

Nurses could incorporate interventions into their care to improve social support as one way to enhance hope levels among oncology patients. Further studies are required to understand more about the impact of spiritual care needs on hope.
Do All Patients Benefit From the Soothing Properties of a Conversational Nursing Intervention to Reduce Symptom Burden During Outpatient Chemotherapy?
Authors: Arbour Caroline , Lapierre Alexandra , Hjeij Danny , Bilodeau Karine
Published: June 2024

Background

Soothing conversation (SC) is particularly promising for symptom management during outpatient chemotherapy. However, we know little about the profile of patients who are most likely to benefit from this intervention.

Objective

To gain a better understanding of the profile of patients most likely to benefit from SC to reduce symptom burden during outpatient chemotherapy.

Methods

We performed a multimethod secondary analysis of 2 data sets: the first gathered during a quantitative pilot trial investigating the impact of SC on patients’ symptom fluctuations during chemotherapy perfusion (n = 24); the second derived from qualitative interviews about nurses’ experiences with SC in this context (n = 6).

Results

Secondary quantitative analysis suggests that symptom control with SC is more effective in older patients, reporting lower education, widowed status, work incapacity, advanced cancer, and undergoing chemotherapy perfusion for less than 1 hour. According to nurses’ interviews, SC could best benefit patients (1) prone to anxiety and fear, (2) with unalleviated pain, (3) who are unaccompanied during treatment, and contrary to what was shown with quantitative data, (4) undergoing longer perfusion duration.

Conclusion

Although this study provides valuable insights, much work remains to be done to fully understand the factors that predispose patients to respond positively to SC during outpatient chemotherapy.

Implications for Practice

This study extends previous research on the effectiveness of SC for symptom management during outpatient chemotherapy by comparing nurses’ experience with the intervention to patients’ results. Results could be used to inform the assignment and delivery of supportive communication-based interventions during chemotherapy protocols.
Clinicopathological Impact of FOXM1 and MMP-9 Immunohistochemical Expression in Different Grades of Intracranial Meningioma
Authors: Ibrahim Hanaa M. , Abdelrahman Aziza E. , Elwan Amira , Gharieb Shimaa A. , Refaat Mohammed , Elmesallamy Wael , Salem Amira A.
Published: June 2024

Objectives:

To find predictive biomarkers for recurrence and progression of meningioma.

Background:

Despite great advances in meningioma treatment, the prognosis remained unfavorable due to the high recurrence rate.

Methods:

In this study, we evaluated the immunohistochemical expression of FOXM1, MMP-9, and Ki67 in 50 cases of intracranial meningioma to detect its potential role in meningioma progression, recurrence, and patients’ survival.

Results:

Strong FOXM1 expression was detected in 20% of the cases and was significantly associated with meningioma grade (P= 0.002) and peritumoral brain edema (PTBE; P<0.001). Strong MMP-9 expression was noted in 32% of the cases and was significantly associated with meningioma grade and PTBE (P<0.001, P<0.001, respectively). High Ki67 was noted in 50% and significantly associated with tumor grade and PTBE (P<0.001, P= 0.002, respectively). The follow-up period revealed that meningiomas with strong FOXM1, strong MMP-9, and high Ki67 expression were associated with tumor recurrence, shorter OS, and recurrence-free survival. Furthermore, up-regulation of FOXM1 and MMP-9 expression had a significant relation with poor clinical response to the therapy (P= 0.010, P= 0. 001, respectively). However, high Ki67 cases were more sensitive to clinical therapy (P= 0.005).

Conclusion:

Strong FOXM1, strong MMP-9, and high Ki67 in meningiomas indicate highly aggressive tumors with a shortened survival rate, dismal outcome, and high risk of recurrence after the standard protocol of therapy.
Comparison of Laws that Impact Volunteer Response in Three Disaster-Prone Southeastern States
Authors: Malmin Natasha Prudent , Nostrand Elizabeth Van
Published: June 2024

Objective:

As natural disasters become more frequent and severe, the ability of impacted states to rapidly scale up their capacity to respond and facilitate recovery through volunteers is ever more crucial. However, the legal landscape that may facilitate or hamper augmentation through volunteers has yet to be fully explored.

Design:

This study utilized policy surveillance methodology to code relevant laws identified in searches using the Emergency Law Inventory database and Westlaw.

Setting:

We assessed laws in three natural disaster-prone states: North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.

Main Outcome Measures:

We assessed the presence of liability protection, license reciprocity, and scope of practice laws for health care volunteers.

Results:

Of the three assessed legal domains, liability protection for health care volunteers across all states contained the most robust language. Liability protections apply unless the health care volunteers act with reckless disregard, willful misconduct, or gross negligence. However, nuance exists based on which organizations (state vs charitable) volunteers are affiliated with to qualify for coverage. License reciprocity for out-of-state specific health care professions entering the impacted states was available across all three states. However, only Georgia enacted federal model legislation that provides additional flexibility regarding credentialing and liability protections. Lastly, very few laws addressed the scope of practice in impacted states.

Conclusions:

Comparisons of laws that impact the ability of health care volunteers to respond and recover from disasters are scarce. More research needs to be performed to better understand the laws that impact volunteers in emergencies, particularly as the public health system is overtasked when providing services to impacted communities.
Shifting the Curve
Authors: Rydberg Leslie , Roy Vivian , Roy Ishan , Neal Jacqueline
Published: June 2024

Nerve conduction studies are a commonly performed procedure and a core competency for physical medicine and rehabilitation residents. Nerve conduction studies are complex to learn and no standardized training protocols exist across physical medicine and rehabilitation programs. The aims of this study are to standardize training and assessment of resident proficiency in nerve conduction studies skills and to evaluate the impact of an educational intervention on skills development. This was a repeated measures design wherein 36 physical medicine and rehabilitation residents underwent a pretest, followed by a mastery learning-based intervention, including deliberate practice. Residents were then expected to meet or exceed a minimum passing score at posttest. Performance improved from a median score of 4.5/66 on the pretest to a median score of 63/66 on the posttest. Thirty-three of 36 residents achieved the minimum passing score on the first attempt; three residents required additional deliberate practice and met the minimum passing score on the second attempt. A curriculum featuring deliberate practice dramatically increased checklist scores of residents performing nerve conduction studies. This mastery learning program shows a reliable and reproducible method to achieve procedural competency within a physical medicine and rehabilitation residency program and can shift the curve to allow residents to immediately start performing nerve conduction studies at the start of their clinical experience.
The most remarkable migrants—systematic analysis of the Western European insect flyway at a Pyrenean mountain pass
Authors: Hawkes Will L. , Doyle Toby , Massy Richard , Weston Scarlett T. , Davies Kelsey , Cornelius Elliott , Collier Connor , Chapman Jason W. , Reynolds Don R. , Wotton Karl R.
Published: June 2024

In autumn 1950 David and Elizabeth Lack chanced upon a huge migration of insects and birds flying through the Pyrenean Pass of Bujaruelo, from France into Spain, later describing the spectacle as combining both grandeur and novelty. The intervening years have seen many changes to land use and climate, posing the question as to the current status of this migratory phenomenon. In addition, a lack of quantitative data has prevented insights into the ecological impact of this mass insect migration and the factors that may influence it. To address this, we revisited the site in autumn over a 4 year period and systematically monitored abundance and species composition of diurnal insect migrants. We estimate an annual mean of 17.1 million day-flying insect migrants from five orders (Diptera, Hymenoptera, Hemiptera, Lepidoptera and Odonata) moving south, with observations of southward ‘mass migration’ events associated with warmer temperatures, the presence of a headwind, sunlight, low windspeed and low rainfall. Diptera dominated the migratory assemblage, and annual numbers varied by more than fourfold. Numbers at this single site hint at the likely billions of insects crossing the entire Pyrenean mountain range each year, and we highlight the importance of this route for seasonal insect migrants.
Coevolution of longevity and female germline maintenance
Authors: Baur Julian , Koppik Mareike , Savković Uroš , Đorđević Mirko , Stojkovic Biljana , Berger David
Published: June 2024

An often-overlooked aspect of life-history optimization is the allocation of resources to protect the germline and secure safe transmission of genetic information. While failure to do so renders significant fitness consequences in future generations, germline maintenance comes with substantial costs. Thus, germline allocation should trade off with other life-history decisions and be optimized in accordance with an organism’s reproductive schedule. Here, we tested this hypothesis by studying germline maintenance in lines of seed beetle, selected for early (E) or late (L) reproduction for 350 and 240 generations, respectively. Female animals provide maintenance and screening of male gametes in their reproductive tract and oocytes. Here, we reveal the ability of young and aged E- and L-females to provide this form of germline maintenance by mating them to males with ejaculates with artificially elevated levels of protein and DNA damage. We find that germline maintenance in E-females peaks at young age and then declines, while the opposite is true for L-females, in accordance with the age of reproduction in the respective regime. These findings identify the central role of allocation to secure germline integrity in life-history evolution and highlight how females can play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of male germline decisions on mutation rate and offspring quality.
Identification of Mammaliicoccus fleurettii as the source of a methicillin-resistance gene in a First Nation reserve lake in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Bashar Sabrin , Patidar Rakesh , Wai Alvan , White Dawn , Golding George R. , Farenhorst Annemieke , Kumar Ayush
Published: June 2024

Our study aimed to identify the bacterial source of a previously detected mobile antibiotic-resistance gene, mecA, found in a lake that serves as a source to a water treatment plant operated by First Nation reserve. Three methicillin-resistant presumptive Staphylococcus spp. isolated from the sample using selective media were verified as mecA positive by PCR (polymerase chain reaction). MALDI-TOF (matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time-of-flight mass spectrometry) and whole genome sequencing of each isolate confirmed that all three were Mammaliicoccus fleurettii. Antibiotic-resistance gene analysis of the assembled genomes predicted mecA with 99.7% sequence identity, and phylogenetic analysis grouped our three mecA genes with the mecA allele from a methicillin-resistant strain of Staphylococcus aureus. Identifying microbial species known to harbour mobile antibiotic-resistance elements can provide greater depth of information about drinking water, an especially essential need in First Nation reserves where water quality too frequently is poor.