bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
To conserve African tropical forests, invest in the protection of its most endangered group of monkeys, red colobus
Authors: Linder Joshua M. , Cronin Drew T. , Ting Nelson , Abwe Ekwoge E. , Aghomo Florence , Davenport Tim R. B. , Detwiler Kate M. , Galat Gérard , Galat‐Luong Anh , Hart John A. , Ikemeh Rachel A. , Kivai Stanislaus M. , Koné Inza , Konstant William , Kujirakwinja Deo , Long Barney , Maisels Fiona , McGraw W. Scott , Mittermeier Russell A. , Struhsaker Thomas T.
Published: April 2024

Forest loss and overhunting are eroding African tropical biodiversity and threatening local human food security, livelihoods, and health. Emblematic of this ecological crisis is Africa's most endangered group of monkeys, the red colobus (genus Piliocolobus). All 17 species, found in forests from Senegal in the west to the Zanzibar archipelago in the east, are threatened with extinction. Red colobus are among the most vulnerable mammals to gun hunting, typically disappearing from heavily hunted forests before most other large‐bodied animals. Despite their conservation status, they are rarely a focus of conservation attention and continue to be understudied. However, red colobus can act as critical barometers of forest health and serve as flagships for catalyzing broader African tropical forest conservation efforts. We offer a plan for conservation of red colobus and their habitats and discuss conservation and policy implications.
Adiposity indicators exhibit depot‐ and sex‐specific associations with multimorbidity onset: A cohort study of the UK Biobank
Authors: Ma Lu , Li Ying , Li Gaixia , Sun Jiajun , Zhang Xueli , Shi Zumin , Yan Yating , Duan Yutian , Wang Jing , Li Zengbin , Zhang Lei
Published: April 2024

Aim

This study investigated the depot‐ and sex‐specific associations of adiposity indicators with incident multimorbidity and comorbidity pairs.

Materials and Methods

We selected 382 678 adults without multimorbidity (≥2 chronic diseases) at baseline from the UK Biobank. General obesity, abdominal obesity and body fat percentage indices were measured.

Results

Cox proportional hazard regression analyses of general obesity indices revealed that for every one‐unit increase in body mass index, the risk of incident multimorbidity increased by 5.2% (95% confidence interval 5.0%‐5.4%). A dose‐response relationship was observed between general obesity degrees and incident multimorbidity. The analysis of abdominal obesity indices showed that for every 0.1 increment in waist‐to‐height ratio and waist‐to‐hip ratio, the risk of incident multimorbidity increased by 42.0% (37.9%‐46.2%) and 27.9% (25.7%‐30.0%), respectively. Central obesity, as defined by waist circumference, contributed to a 23.2% increased risk of incident multimorbidity. Hip circumference and hip‐to‐height ratio had protective effects on multimorbidity onset. Consistent findings were observed for males and females. Body fat percentage elevated 3% (0.2%‐5.9%) and 5.3% (1.1%‐9.7%) risks of incident multimorbidity in all adults and females, respectively. Arm fat percentages elevated 5.3% (0.8%‐9.9%) and 19.4% (11.0%‐28.5%) risks of incident multimorbidity in all adults and males, respectively. The general obesity indices, waist circumference, waist‐to‐height ratio, waist‐to‐hip ratio and central obesity increased the onset of comorbidity pairs, whereas hip circumference and hip‐to‐height ratio decreased the onset of comorbidity pairs. These adiposity indicators mainly affect diabetes mellitus‐related comorbidity onset in males and hypertensive‐related comorbidity onset in females.

Conclusions

Adiposity indicators are predictors of multimorbidity and comorbidity pairs and represent a promising approach for intervention.
Evaluation of the hydrating benefits of a cationic hyaluronic acid: From biological evaluation to consumer home use trial
Authors: Blanc Catala Justine , Zanchetta Catherine , François Candice , Chapuis Emilie , Joset Nathalie , Meunier Marie , Loeser Florian , Godbille Shan , Scandolera Amandine , Reynaud Romain , Lefèvre Fabrice
Published: April 2024

Active ingredients are often assessed based on physiological measurements, but innovative technologies to measure skin sensations can provide a holistic volunteer assessment of the use of an ingredient. In this paper, the hydrating benefits of a cationic hyaluronic acid (HA) were evaluated alongside clinical biometrics and innovative cognitive measurements to determine how biological benefits correlated with volunteers' feelings and perceptions of hydration. The results demonstrated that cationic HA provides hydrating benefits at the clinical level due to its film‐forming properties. Through the use of innovative behavioural measurement tools, we were able to show that these outcomes are perceived by naïve consumers in real‐life conditions. In addition, the benefits of cationic HA reported by users were in accordance with the mental representation they had related to the use of HA, thus the product achieved complete sensorial embodiment. We can conclude that the combination of clinical evaluations and home use trials consolidates product assessment when seeking to measure consumer satisfaction with proven biological benefits.
AV‐optimized conduction system pacing for treatment of AV dromotropathy: A randomized, cross‐over study
Authors: Zupan Mežnar Anja , Mrak Miha , Mullens Wilfried , Štublar Jernej , Ivanovski Maja , Žižek David
Published: April 2024

Background

Severe first‐degree atrioventricular (AV) block may produce symptoms similar to heart failure due to AV dyssynchrony, a syndrome termed AV dromotropathy. According to guidelines, it should be considered for permanent pacemaker implantation, yet evidence supporting this treatment is scarce.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the impact of AV‐optimized conduction system pacing (CSP) in patients with symptomatic severe first‐degree AV block and echocardiographic signs of AV dyssynchrony.

Methods

Patients with symptomatic first‐degree AV block (PR > 250 ms), preserved left ventricular ejection fraction, narrow QRS, and AV dyssynchrony were included in the study. In a single‐blind cross‐over design, patients were randomized to AV sequential CSP or backup VVI pacing with a base rate of 40 bpm. We compared exercise capacity, echocardiographic parameters, and symptom occurrence at the end of 3 months of each period.

Results

Fourteen patients completed the study. During the AV‐optimized CSP compared to the backup pacing period, patients achieved a higher workload on exercise test (147.2 ± 50.9 vs. 140.7 ± 55.8 W; p = .032), with a trend towards higher peak VO2 (23.3 ± 7.1 vs. 22.8 ± 7.1 mL/min/kg; p = .224), and higher left ventricular stroke volume (LVSV 74.5 ± 13.8 vs. 66.4 ± 12.5 mL; p < .001). Symptomatic improvement was recorded, with fewer patients reporting general tiredness and 71% of patients preferring the AV‐optimized CSP (p = .008).

Conclusions

AV‐optimized CSP could improve symptoms, exercise capacity and LVSV in patients with severe first‐degree AV block.
Effectiveness of interventions to enhance shared decision‐making in wound care: A systematic review
Authors: Clemett Victoria J. , Graham Tanya , Woodward Sue , Grocott Patricia
Published: April 2024

Aims

To explore the effectiveness of interventions to enhance patient participation in shared decision‐making in wound care and tissue viability.

Background

Caring for people living with a wound is complex due to interaction between wound healing, symptoms, psychological wellbeing and treatment effectiveness. To respond to this complexity, there has been recent emphasis on the importance of delivering patient centred wound care and shared decision‐making to personalise health care. However, little is known about the effectiveness of existing interventions to support shared decision‐making in wound care.

Design

Systematic review of interventional studies to enhance shared decision‐making in wound care or tissue viability. This was reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines 2020.

Methods

Interventional primary research studies published in English up to January 2023 were included. Screening, data extraction and quality appraisal were undertaken independently by two authors.

Data Sources

Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trails (trials database), CINAHL, British Nursing Index (BNI), WorldCat (thesis database), Scopus and registries of ongoing studies (ISRCTN registry and clinicaltrials.gov).

Results

1063 abstracts were screened, and eight full‐text studies included. Findings indicate, interventions to support shared decision‐making are positively received. Goal or need setting components may assist knowledge transfer between patient and clinician, and could lower short term decisional conflict. However, generally findings within this study had very low certainty due to the inconsistencies in outcomes reported, and the variation and complexity of single and multiple interventions used.

Conclusions

Future research on shared decision‐making interventions in wound care should include the involvement of stakeholders and programme theory to underpin the interventions developed to consider the complexity of interventions.

Implications for the profession and patient care

Patients setting out their needs or goals and exploring patient questions are important and should be considered in clinical care.

Registration

The review protocol was prospectively registered (PROSPERO database: CRD42023389820).

No Patient or Public Contribution

Not applicable as this is a systematic review.
A comparative review of human milk banking and national tissue banking programs
Authors: Herson Marisa , Weaver Gillian
Published: April 2024

This paper explores the legislative and operational commonalities and differences in Medical Products of Human Origin (MPHO) programs, including blood, hematopoietic cells, tissues and reproductive cells and human milk banking. The analysis includes ethical principles in donation and utilization, policies and legislation, public awareness and education, registries, guidelines in donor selection, safety and quality assurance, operational models and funding, infrastructure and human resources and biovigilance and evaluation of outcomes. Unlike other MPHO, the need for donor human milk (DHM) may be greatly reduced, that is, by ensuring optimal support for maternal lactation and breastfeeding. This should not be lost in the drive for wider and improved service provision. Nevertheless, increased overall demand for DHM is expected as a result of forthcoming international recommendations and also its increased use as the first‐choice supplement to a mother's own milk both within and beyond preterm, low‐birthweight and sick infant populations. Insight into current human milk banking highlights differences and gaps in practices that can benefit from further exploration and harmonization. Strong similarities with the ethical and operational principles underpinning donation and processing of the diverse MPHO suggest that legislating human milk banks within similar MPHO frameworks may bring additional safety and facilitate improved product quality. Moreover, that MPHO‐inspired models operating within attainable regulatory requirements may contribute to sustainable human milk banking activity and growth.
Headgear therapy in children with Class II malocclusion and the role of compliance on treatment outcome: A nine‐month randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ghislanzoni Luis Huanca , Kiliaridis Stavros , Antonarakis Gregory S.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To evaluate three‐dimensional movements of maxillary teeth during headgear treatment in Class II growing children, using digital analytical tools, and to determine the effects of compliance on these movements.

Materials and Methods

A 9‐month parallel‐group randomized controlled trial was carried out on 40 children with Class II malocclusion, aged 8‐12 years, half assigned to receive a cervical headgear and half to a no‐treatment group, using block randomization. Subjects in the treatment group were instructed to wear the headgear for 12 hours daily and monitored using an electronic module. After 9 months, the following dental outcomes were measured: first maxillary molar distalisation, rotation, tip and torque, arch depth, and interpremolar and intermolar distances. Caregivers and participants were not blinded to group assignments, but those assessing outcomes were. Linear regression models were used to detect differences between groups and correlation coefficients to find correlations between compliance and dental outcomes.

Results

All 40 included patients were analysed. A significant difference in molar distalisation was observed between the treatment (1.2 mm) and control groups (−0.2 mm). Arch depth change was also increased to a larger extent in the treatment groups (1.3 mm vs 0.1 mm), as was the interpremolar distance (1.9 mm vs 0.4 mm). In contrast, no significant differences in molar rotation or torque change were observed. With regard to compliance, average compliance was 55%. A significant correlation was found between molar distalisation and compliance in the treatment group.

Conclusions

Headgear therapy has significant effects on molar distalisation, arch depth, and arch width. Compliance has a significant positive effect on molar distalisation.
Characterisation of the novel HLA‐A*30:218 allele using two different sequencing technologies
Authors: Secco Danielle , Lopes Giovanna , Santos Angela , Vianna Romulo , Porto Luís Cristóvão
Published: April 2024

The novel HLA‐A*30:218 allele, first described in a potential bone marrow donor from Brazil.
A cold case of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn resolved by genomic sequencing and population studies to define a new antigen in the Rh system
Authors: Wilson Brett , Davison Candice L. , Lopez Genghis H. , Millard Glenda M. , Liew Yew‐Wah , Powley Tanya , Campbell Tamika , Jadhao Sudhir S. , Nagaraj Shivashankar H. , Perry Maree , Roulis Eileen V. , Toombs Maree , Irving David O. , Flower Robert L. , Hyland Catherine A.
Published: April 2024

Background

We report an obstetric case involving an RhD‐positive woman who had developed a red blood cell (RBC) antibody that was not detected until after delivery of a newborn, who presented with a positive direct antiglobulin test result. Immunohematology studies suggested that the maternal antibody was directed against a low‐prevalence antigen on the paternal and newborn RBCs.

Results

Comprehensive blood group profiling by targeted exome sequencing revealed a novel nonsynonymous single nucleotide variant (SNV) RHCE c.486C>G (GenBank MZ326705) on the RHCE*Ce allele, for both the father and newborn. A subsequent genomic‐based study to profile blood groups in an Indigenous Australian population revealed the same SNV in 2 of 247 individuals. Serology testing showed that the maternal antibody reacted specifically with RBCs from these two individuals.

Discussion

The maternal antibody was directed against a novel antigen in the Rh blood group system arising from an RHCE c.486C>G variant on the RHCE*Ce allele linked to RHD*01. The variant predicts a p.Asn162Lys change on the RhCE protein and has been registered as the 56th antigen in the Rh system, ISBT RH 004063.

Conclusion

This antibody was of clinical significance, resulting in a mild to moderate hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). In the past, the cause of such HDFN cases may have remained unresolved. Genomic sequencing combined with population studies now assists in resolving such cases. Further population studies have potential to inform the need to design population‐specific red cell antibody typing panels for antibody screening in the Australian population.
Evaluation of Composite Structural Materials for Heliostat Cost Reduction
Authors: Tsvankin Daniel , Muller Matthew
Published: April 2024

Structures manufactured from steel comprise up to 40% of a concentrating solar thermal power (CSP) heliostat's cost. Composite structures represent a potential opportunity to reduce this cost. A reference heliostat structural model has been created with a reflector area of 25 m2. The design, constructed of low-carbon steel, provides baseline deflection and stiffness under a 21 m/s operating wind speed. Established roster of suitable metal alternative materials is considered including glass, basalt, and carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP, BFRP, and CFRP, respectively). Three heliostat components are investigated: the pylon, torque tube, and the purlin–strut assembly. Composite material properties are substituted for those of steel, and the beams are re-sized to match the original steel components’ deflection under given wind loads. Weight and cost changes resulting from this resizing are evaluated. It is found that GFRP and BFRP represent a 3 ×–6 × cost premium for the same operating deflection characteristics as steel across all three investigated component classes; with weight reduction only achieved for the purlin–strut assembly. While CFRP components can achieve approximately 25–75% weight savings depending on the application, this comes with a 9 ×–14 × cost increase over the steel baseline for tube-type structures and roughly 5 × cost increase when replacing c-channel structures. This work does not rule out the possibility of cost savings when the heliostat design and kinematics take advantage of composites' specific properties.
Impacts of Developmental Coordination Disorder on Postural Control Mechanisms in Children and Early Adolescents
Authors: Guetiti Sirine , Cadoret Geneviève , Chénier Félix , Blanchet Mariève
Published: April 2024

Several studies have demonstrated balance impairments in children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD). However, a recent meta-analysis reports that none of the existing studies investigated the entire construct of balance across the same postural task. It is unclear whether anticipatory postural adjustments before voluntary unperturbed leaning tasks are altered in DCD. Anticipatory postural adjustment’s impact on postural control and limits of stability as well as the contribution of proprioception in these mechanisms are also unknown. This study compared the center of pressure displacements of participants with DCD (n = 30) to typically developing participants (n = 20) (9–12 years old). Standing on an AMTI force plate, participants were asked to lean as far as possible forward, backward, rightward, and leftward in both natural and with eyes closed + foam conditions (eight separated trials). The statistical analysis revealed that the DCD group had larger anticipatory postural adjustments, maximal center of pressure excursion, and greater postural instabilities than the control group. The proprioceptive condition does not systematically influence postural performance in DCD. These deficits are, however, increased in mediolateral directions. These impairments could interfere with children’s performance during daily and physical activities and even negatively impact social inclusion.
Rhizospheric bacteria from the Atacama Desert hyper-arid core: cultured community dynamics and plant growth promotion
Authors: Castro-Severyn Juan , Fortt Jonathan , Sierralta Mariela , Alegria Paola , Donoso Gabriel , Choque Alessandra , Avellaneda Andrea M. , Pardo-Esté Coral , Saavedra Claudia P. , Stoll Alexandra , Remonsellez Francisco
Published: April 2024

The Atacama Desert is the oldest and driest desert on Earth, encompassing great temperature variations, high ultraviolet radiation, drought, and high salinity, making it ideal for studying the limits of life and resistance strategies. It is also known for harboring a great biodiversity of adapted life forms. While desertification is increasing as a result of climate change and human activities, it is necessary to optimize soil and water usage, where stress-resistant crops are possible solutions. As many studies have revealed the great impact of the rhizobiome on plant growth efficiency and resistance to abiotic stress, we set up to explore the rhizospheric soils of
Suaeda foliosa
and
Distichlis spicata
desert plants. By culturing these soils and using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, we address community taxonomy composition dynamics, stability through time, and the ability to promote lettuce plant growth. The rhizospheric soil communities were dominated by the families Pseudomonadaceae, Bacillaceae, and Planococcaceae for
S. foliosa
and Porphyromonadaceae and Haloferacaceae for
D. spicata
. Nonetheless, the cultures were completely dominated by the Enterobacteriaceae family (up to 98%). Effectively, lettuce plants supplemented with the cultures showed greater size and biomass accumulation. We identified 12 candidates that could be responsible for these outcomes, of which 5 (
Enterococcus, Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, Paenisporosarcina,
and
Ammoniphilus
) were part of the built co-occurrence network. We aim to contribute to the efforts to characterize the microbial communities as key for the plant’s survival in extreme environments and as a possible source of consortia with plant growth promotion traits aimed at agricultural applications.

IMPORTANCE

The current scenario of climate change and desertification represents a series of incoming challenges for all living organisms. As the human population grows rapidly, so does the rising demand for food and natural resources; thus, it is necessary to make agriculture more efficient by optimizing soil and water usage, thus ensuring future food supplies. Particularly, the Atacama Desert (northern Chile) is considered the most arid place on Earth as a consequence of geological and climatic characteristics, such as the naturally low precipitation patterns and high temperatures, which makes it an ideal place to carry out research that seeks to aid agriculture in future conditions that are predicted to resemble these scenarios. Our main interest lies in utilizing microorganism consortia from plants thriving under extreme conditions, aiming to promote plant growth, improve crops, and render “unsuitable” soils farmable.
Effect of probiotic administration during pregnancy on the functional diversity of the gut microbiota in healthy pregnant women
Authors: Ma Guangyu , Yan Hao , Tye Kian Deng , Tang Xiaomei , Luo Huijuan , Li Zhe , Xiao Xiaomin
Published: April 2024

Our study aims to investigate the impact of probiotic consumption during pregnancy on gut microbiota functional diversity in healthy pregnant women. Thirty-two pregnant women were randomly assigned to two groups. The probiotic group (PG) consisted of pregnant women who consumed triple viable
Bifidobacterium longum
,
Lactobacillus delbrueckii bulgaricus
, and
Streptococcus thermophilus
tablets from the 32nd week of pregnancy until delivery. The functional profiles of the gut microbiota were predicted through high-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing results using PICRUSt software and referencing the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database. In the gut microbiota of the PG, the genera
Blautia
and
Ruminococcus
, as well as the species
Subdoligranulum
, showed significantly higher relative abundances compared to the control group (CG) (
P
< 0.05). At Level 1 of the KEGG signaling pathways, there was a significant reduction in the functional genes of the gut microbiota involved in Organismal Systems in the PG (
P
< 0.05). In Level 2 of the KEGG signaling pathways, there was a significant reduction in the functional genes of the gut microbiota involved in Infectious Disease in the PG (
P
< 0.05). In Level 3 of the KEGG signaling pathways, the PG exhibited a significant increase in the functional genes of the gut microbiota involved in ABC transporters, Oxidative phosphorylation, Folate biosynthesis, and Biotin metabolism (
P
< 0.05). The CG showed a significant increase in the functional genes related to Cysteine and methionine metabolism, Vitamin B6 metabolism, Tuberculosis, and
Vibrio cholerae
pathogenic cycle (
P
< 0.05). In conclusion, our findings suggest that probiotic supplementation during pregnancy has a significant impact on functional metabolism in healthy pregnant women.

IMPORTANCE

Probiotics are considered beneficial to human health. There is limited understanding of how probiotic consumption during pregnancy affects the functional diversity of the gut microbiota. The aim of our study is to investigate the impact of probiotic consumption during pregnancy on the functional diversity of the gut microbiota. Our findings suggest that probiotic supplementation during pregnancy has a significant impact on functional metabolism. This could potentially open up new avenues for preventing various pregnancy-related complications. This also provides new insights into the effects of probiotic consumption during pregnancy on the gut microbiota and offers a convenient method for exploring the potential mechanisms underlying the impact of probiotics on the gut microbiota of pregnant women.
An enhanced IL17 and muted type I interferon nasal epithelial cell state characterizes severe COVID-19 with fungal coinfection
Authors: Ziegler Carly G. K. , Owings Anna H. , Galeas-Pena Michelle , Kazer Samuel W. , Miao Vincent N. , Navia Andrew W. , Tang Ying , Bromley Joshua D. , Lotfy Peter , Sloan Meredith , Laird Hannah , Williams Haley B. , George Micayla , Drake Riley S. , Pride Yilianys , Abraham George E. , Senitko Michal , Robinson Tanya O. , Diamond Gill , Lionakis Michail S. , Shalek Alex K. , Ordovas-Montanes Jose , Horwitz Bruce H. , Glover Sarah C.
Published: April 2024

Recent case reports and epidemiological data suggest that fungal infections represent an underappreciated complication among people with severe COVID-19. However, the frequency of fungal colonization in patients with COVID-19 and associations with specific immune responses in the airways remain incompletely defined. We previously generated a single-cell RNA-sequencing data set characterizing the upper respiratory microenvironment during COVID-19 and mapped the relationship between disease severity and the local behavior of nasal epithelial cells and infiltrating immune cells. Our previous study, in agreement with findings from related human cohorts, demonstrated that a profound deficiency in host immunity, particularly in type I and type III interferon signaling in the upper respiratory tract, is associated with rapid progression to severe disease and worse clinical outcomes. We have now performed further analysis of this cohort and identified a subset of participants with severe COVID-19 and concurrent detection of
Candida
species-derived transcripts within samples collected from the nasopharynx and trachea. Here, we present the clinical characteristics of these individuals. Using matched single-cell transcriptomic profiles of these individuals’ respiratory mucosa, we identify epithelial immune signatures suggestive of IL17 stimulation and anti-fungal immunity. Further, we observe a significant expression of anti-fungal inflammatory cascades in the nasal and tracheal epithelium of all participants who went on to develop severe COVID-19, even among participants without detectable genetic material from fungal pathogens. Together, our data suggest that IL17 stimulation—in part driven by
Candida
colonization—and blunted interferon signaling represent a common feature of severe COVID-19 infection.

IMPORTANCE

In this paper, we present an analysis suggesting that symptomatic and asymptomatic fungal coinfections can impact patient disease progression during COVID-19 hospitalization. By looking into the presence of other pathogens and their effect on the host immune response during COVID-19 hospitalizations, we aim to offer insight into an underestimated scenario, furthering our current knowledge of determinants of severity that could be considered for future diagnostic and intervention strategies.
Identification and characterization of recent retrovirus in
Rhinolophus ferrumequinum
bats
Authors: Chung Hee Chun , Kim Sung Jae , Hwang Su Jin , Jeon Young Shin , Song Min Sik , Ko Si Hwan , Lee Jasper , Choi Yoona , Chung Chul Un , Lee Jae Myun
Published: April 2024

An investigation into retrovirus was conducted in six species of bats (
Myotis aurascens
,
Myotis petax
,
Myotis macrodactylus
,
Miniopterus fuliginosus
,
Rhinolophus ferrumequinum
, and
Pipistrellus abramus
) inhabiting South Korea. Exogenous retroviruses (XRVs) were detected in the tissue samples of
R. ferrumequinum
individuals by PCR assay. Proviruses were identified in all tissue samples through viral quantification using a digital PCR assay per organ (lung, intestine, heart, brain, wing, kidney, and liver), with viral loads varying greatly between each organ. In phylogenetic analysis based on the whole genome, the Korean bat retroviruses and the
R. ferrumequinum
retrovirus (RfRV) strain formed a new clade distinct from the
Gammaretrovirus
clade. The phylogenetic results determined these viruses to be RfRV-like viruses. In the Simplot comparison, Korean RfRV-like viruses exhibited relatively strong fluctuated patterns in the latter part of the envelope gene area compared to other gene areas. Several point mutations within this region (6,878–7,774 bp) of these viruses were observed compared to the RfRV sequence. One Korean RfRV-like virus (named Y4b strain) was successfully recovered in the Raw 264.7 cell line, and virus particles replicated in the cells were confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. RfRVs (or RfRV-like viruses) have been spreading since their first discovery in 2012, and the Korean RfRV-like viruses were assumed to be XRVs that evolved from RfRV.

IMPORTANCE

R. ferrumequinum
retrovirus (RfRV)-like viruses were identified in greater horseshoe bats in South Korea. These RfRV-like viruses were considered exogenous retroviruses (XRVs) that emerged from RfRV. Varying amounts of provirus detected in different organs suggest ongoing viral activity, replication, and
de novo
integration in certain organs. Additionally, the successful recovery of the virus in the Raw 264.7 cell line provides strong evidence supporting their status as XRVs. These viruses have now been identified in South Korea and, more recently, in Kenya since RfRV was discovered in China in 2012, indicating that RfRVs (or RfRV-like viruses) have spread worldwide.
Supplemental Material: Tracking the tempo of a continental margin arc: Insights from a forearc succession in West Antarctica
Authors: Riley Teal R. , al. et
Published: April 2024

Text S1: Analytical procedures. Figure S1: Representative cathodoluminescence images of zircons from sample of Fossil Bluff Group. Figure S2: Radial density plots and maximum likelihood age estimates for 15 samples from the Fossil Bluff Group accretionary complex. Table S1: Sample information and location data. Table S2: Zircon U-Pb geochronological data. Table S3: Lu-Hf isotopic data. 
Analgesia to acidosis: metabolic acidosis due to chronic acetaminophen (paracetamol) use
Authors: Goyal Anmol , Gaskill John , Osman Omar , Gibson Demetra
Published: April 2024

This case describes a rare occurrence of high anion gap metabolic acidosis due to chronic acetaminophen (paracetamol) usage, which can be confirmed by measuring 5-oxoproline (pyroglutamate), an organic acid metabolite. As acetaminophen is an extremely common drug prescribed in both inpatient and outpatient settings, a high degree of clinical suspicion is required to isolate it as the aetiology for metabolic acidosis. Management includes discontinuation of acetaminophen use and at times the supplementation of oral bicarbonate. Metabolic acidosis due to a high anion gap is commonly described by the mnemonic ‘MUDPILES’ in daily practice. A newer mnemonic, ‘GOLD MARK’ is proposed to be a more inclusive tool to assist in determining the cause of high anion gap metabolic acidosis, especially with such cases being reported.
Mycobacterium senegalensecatheter-related bloodstream infection
Authors: Badarol Hisham Noralwani , Madon Mazriza , Masri Siti Norbaya , Amin-Nordin Syafinaz
Published: April 2024

Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is one of the common healthcare-acquired infections imposing a high burden of morbidity and mortality on the patients. Non-tuberculous mycobacterium is a rare aetiology for CRBSI and poses challenges in laboratory diagnosis and clinical management. This is a case of a woman in her early 60s with underlying end-stage renal failure, diabetes mellitus and hypertension presented with a 2-week history of high-grade fever postregular haemodialysis, vomiting, lethargy and altered mental status.

Blood cultures from a permanent catheter and peripheral taken concurrently yieldedMycobacterium senegalense, identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry, which established the diagnosis of CRBSI atypically presented with concurrent acute intracranial bleeding and cerebrovascular infarction at initial presentation. She was started on a combination of oral azithromycin, oral amikacin and intravenous imipenem, and the permanent catheter was removed. Despite the treatments instituted, she developed septicaemia, acute myocardial infarction and macrophage activation-like syndrome, causing the patient’s death.
The downstream effects of COVID-19 on adolescent girls in the Peruvian Amazon: qualitative findings on how the pandemic affected education and reproductive health
Authors: Woodson Lisa L , Garcia Saldivar Adriana , Brown Heidi E , Magrath Priscilla A , Antunez de Mayolo Nicolas , Pettygrove Sydney , Farland Leslie V , Madhivanan Purnima , Blas Magaly M
Published: April 2024

Due to COVID-19, schools were closed to mitigate disease spread. Past studies have shown that disruptions in education have unintended consequences for adolescents, including increasing their risk of school dropout, exploitation, gender-based violence, pregnancy and early unions. In Peru, the government closed schools from March 2020 to March 2022, declaring a national emergency that affected an estimated 8 million children. These closures may have unintended consequences, including increased adolescent pregnancy, particularly in Peru’s rural, largely indigenous regions. Loreto, located in the Peruvian Amazon, has one of the highest adolescent pregnancy rates in the country and poor maternal and child health outcomes. The underlying causes may not be fully understood as data are limited, especially as we transition out of the pandemic. This qualitative study investigated the downstream effects of COVID-19 on adolescent education and reproductive health in Loreto’s districts of Nauta and Parinari. In-depth interviews (n=41) were conducted with adolescents and community leaders. These were held in June 2022, 3 months after the reinstitution of in-person classes throughout Peru. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were also completed with community health workers and educators from the same study area in October 2022 to supplement our findings (3 FGDs, n=15). We observed that the economic, educational and health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to reduced contraceptive use, and increased school abandonment, early unions and adolescent pregnancy. The interplay between adolescent pregnancy and both early unions and school abandonment was bidirectional, with each acting as both a cause and consequence of the other.
Tolerability of electrodiagnostic studies in patients: a prospective study
Authors: Chang Chin-Hen , McClellan Timithy Mark , Lopez Kevin David , Wasser Thomas , Hemtasilpa Somkiat
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Nerve conduction study (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) are electrodiagnostic studies that are highly tolerated by patients despite their nature of causing pain and discomfort. However, few studies have focused on the true tolerability of these procedures in patients. This study aimed to determine the true tolerance rate of NCS and EMG in patient populations and the factors that might be associated with them.

Methods

Participants scheduled for electrodiagnostic studies were prospectively recruited between March 2023 and September 2023. After completion of the study, the physicians completed a questionnaire on each patient’s tolerance of the studies.

Results

Of the 103 patients enrolled in the study, 98 were able to tolerate both tests, and 5 patients were intolerant to 1 or both tests. The overall tolerance rate of NCS and EMG was 95.1% (0.951, 95% CI 0.897 to 0.981). Age, sex, ethnicity, the type of NCS performed and the type of EMG performed were not associated with NCS or EMG intolerance.

Conclusion

Most patients tolerated the NCS and EMG; however, a small percentage of patients were intolerant. Clinicians should recognise the intolerance of certain patients when introducing and performing electrodiagnostic tests.
Management and outcome of oncological patients under immune checkpoint inhibitors presenting at the emergency department
Authors: Pini Francesco , Grigoriu Bogdan , Lieveke Ameye , Meert Anne-Pascale
Published: April 2024

Introduction

With the rising use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in oncology, emergency physicians are increasingly confronted with their immune-related adverse events (irAEs). We described the types of irAEs presenting to the ED of a Belgian cancer centre and determined associations with the development of an irAE and other patient’s characteristics. Secondary objectives describe the therapeutic management and determine 7 and 30-day mortality.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of ED visits of patients on ICI from 15 December 2016 to 6 December 2020 was performed. Clinical presentation, cancer characteristics and type of ICI were extracted by a single abstractor. We recorded any suspicion of irAE in the ED and confirmation of an irAE was based on the patient’s oncologist report. Outcome was based on mortality at date of last follow-up.

Results

227 patients on ICI presented to the ED, with a total of 451 visits. 54 (12%) of the visits resulted in a diagnosis of irAE. Four clinical features were associated with an irAE: gastrointestinal complaints (p=0.01), skin rashes (p=0.02), acute renal failure (p=0.002) and abnormal liver function (p=0.04). An irAE was also associated with three different factors: a cancer status in remission (OR=5.33, 95% CI 2.57 to 11.04), a combination of two ICIs (OR=4.43, 95% CI 2.09 to 9.42) and a medical history of irAE (OR=2.44, 95% CI 1.27 to 4.68). 30-day mortality was lower in the irAE group (0%) than in the non-irAE group (13%, 95% CI 9% to 19%).

Conclusions

Oncological patients under ICI presenting in the ED are more likely to have an irAE if they present with gastrointestinal and dermatological complaints, acute renal failure and abnormal liver function. This is also true for patients with any history of irAE, a concomitant use of two ICIs and with a cancer status in remission.
Poverty trajectories and child and mother well-being outcomes in Ireland: findings from an Irish prospective cohort
Authors: JO Driscoll David , Kiely Elizabeth , O'Keeffe Linda M , Khashan Ali S
Published: April 2024

Background

Poverty is associated with poor outcomes, yet exposure to distinct poverty trajectories in early childhood is not well understood.

Objective

To understand the prevalence of different trajectories of household poverty and their association with mid-childhood and mother indicators of physical health and psychopathology in Ireland.

Methods

We used a nationally representative, prospective cohort (Growing Up in Ireland–Infant Cohort). Household poverty included lowest third income decile, subjective poverty and material deprivation when children were aged 9 months, and 3, 5, 9 years. We used group-based multitrajectory cluster modelling to classify trajectories of poverty. Using multivariable logistic regression, adjusted with separate child and mother confounders, we assessed the association of poverty trajectories from 9 months to 9 years with child outcomes (overweight, any longstanding illness and psychopathology) at age 9 years and the same poverty trajectories over the same 9-year period with mother outcomes (overweight, any longstanding illness and depression).

Results

Of 11 134 participants, 4 trajectories were identified: never in poverty (43.1%), material/subjective>monetary poverty (16.1%), monetary>material poverty (25.6%) and persistent poverty (15.2%). Children in persistent poverty compared with those in never in poverty experienced higher odds of being overweight at 9 years (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.70, 95% CI 1.34, 2.16), having a longstanding illness (aOR 1.51, 95% CI 1.20, 1.91), and psychopathology (aOR 2.06, 95% CI 1.42, 2.99). The outcomes for primary parents (99.7% were mothers) were as follows: having higher odds of being overweight (aOR 1.49, 95% CI 1.16, 1.92), having a longstanding illness (aOR 2.13, 95% CI 1.63, 2.79), and depression (aOR 3.54, 95% CI 2.54, 4.94).

Conclusions

Any poverty trajectory was associated with poorer psychopathology and physical well-being in late childhood for children and their mothers in Ireland.
Do athletic ECG changes predict athletic performance in Gurkha recruits?
Authors: Paton Michael , Wong A K H , Cooper D , Pun D , Melhuish J , Parsons I T
Published: April 2024

Introduction

ECG changes are associated with regular long-term intensive exercise due to electrical manifestations of increased vagal tone, increased ventricular wall thickness and enlarged chamber size. The aim of this study was to further understand the relationship of athletic ECG changes and athletic performance in an athletic population.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed in 195 Nepali civilian males undergoing selection to the Gurkhas. V̇O2max(maximal oxygen consumption) was estimated from a 1.5-mile run time using Cooper’s formula and correlated with athletic ECG adaptations. Variables were explored with univariable and multivariable linear regression.

Results

The median number of athletic changes on ECG was 2 (IQR 1–2). There was no significant correlation (p=0.46) between the number of ECG adaptations and the degree of cardiovascular fitness by estimated V̇O2max(estV̇O2max). We found a negligible but significant correlation between the presence of inferior T wave inversion (TWI) and estV̇O2max(R2=0.03, p=0.02). The multivariable-fitted regression model was: estV̇O2max~Intercept+presence of RVH (right ventricular hypertrophy) voltage criteria+absence of sinus arrhythmia+T wave axis+inferior TWI. The overall regression was statistically significant: R2=0.10, F(df=4, df=189)=[5.4], p=0.0004). All variables in the multivariable model significantly predicted estV̇O2max(p<0.04).

Conclusion

ECG changes of athleticism negligibly predict and differentiate athletic performance in our athletic population. The most predictive ECG markers being voltage criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy and RVH. Markers of increased vagal tone were not predictive. TWI, being a marker for disease, was also a marker for athletic performance in this cohort. The number of athletic ECG adaptations did not predict increased athletic performance.
Analysis of core outcome set reporting in coronary intervention trials
Authors: Duncan Aaron , Shiely Frances
Published: April 2024

Background

This paper will focus on outcome reporting within percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) trials. A core outcome set (COS) is a standardised set of outcomes that are recommended to be reported in every clinical trial. Using a COS can help to ensure that all relevant outcomes are consistently reported across clinical trials. In 2018, the European Society of Cardiology outlined the only COS published for PCI trials.

Methods

We searched the literature for all randomised controlled trials published between 2014 and 2022. PCI trials included were late-phase trials and must investigate coronary intervention. The primary outcome was the proportion of trials that reported all of the COS-defined outcomes within their publication as either a primary, secondary or safety endpoint. The secondary outcomes included; the number of primary outcomes reported per study, the proportion of studies which use patient and public involvement (PPI) during trial design, outcome variability and outcome consistency.

Results

9580 trials were screened and 115 studies met inclusion/exclusion criteria. Our study demonstrated that 55% (34/62) of PCI trials used a COS when it was available, compared with 40% (21/53) before the availability of a PCI COS set, p=0.121. Fewer primary outcomes were reported after the implementation of the COS, 2 compared with 2.3, p=0.014. There was no difference in the use of PPI between either group. There was a higher level of variability in outcomes reported before the availability of the COS, while the consistency of outcome reporting remained similar.

Conclusion

The use of a COS in PCI trials is low. This study provides evidence that there still is a lack of awareness of the COS among those who design clinical trials. We also presented the inconsistency and heterogenicity in reporting clinical trial outcomes. Finally, there was a clear lack of PPI utilisation in PCI trials.
SOME FRACTALS RELATED TO PARTIAL MAXIMAL DIGITS IN LÜROTH EXPANSION
Authors: DENG JIANG , MA JIHUA , SONG KUNKUN , XIE ZHONGQUAN
Published: April 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be the Lüroth expansion of [Formula: see text], and let [Formula: see text]. It is shown that for any [Formula: see text], the level set [Formula: see text] has Hausdorff dimension one. Certain sets of points for which the sequence [Formula: see text] grows more rapidly are also investigated.
EDGE-WIENER INDEX OF LEVEL-3 SIERPINSKI SKELETON NETWORK
Authors: DU CAIMIN , YAO YIQI , XI LIFENG
Published: April 2024

The edge-Wiener index is an important topological index in Chemical Graph Theory, defined as the sum of distances among all pairs of edges. Fractal structures have received much attention from scientists because of their philosophical and aesthetic significance, and chemists have even attempted to synthesize various types of molecular fractal structures. The level-3 Sierpinski triangle is constructed similarly to the Sierpinski triangle and its skeleton networks have self-similarity. In this paper, by using the method of finite pattern, we obtain the edge-Wiener index of skeleton networks according to level-3 Sierpinski triangle. This provides insights for a better understanding of molecular fractal structures.
n-Absorbing number for some monomial ideals
Authors: Zahedzadeh Mojgan , Soleyman Jahan Ali
Published: April 2024

We compute the absorbing number of the edge ideals of special graphs such as complete graphs, path graphs, and cycle graphs. We also compute the absorbing number for other monomial ideals. In special cases, we show that the length of a prime filtration of a monomial ideal [Formula: see text] is an upper bound for its absorbing number.
Classical capacity of quantum non-Gaussian attenuator and amplifier channels
Authors: Van Herstraeten Zacharie , Guha Saikat , Cerf Nicolas J.
Published: April 2024

We consider a quantum bosonic channel that couples the input mode via a beam splitter or two-mode squeezer to an environmental mode that is prepared in an arbitrary state. We investigate the classical capacity of this channel, which we call a non-Gaussian attenuator or amplifier channel. If the environment state is thermal, we of course recover a Gaussian phase-covariant channel whose classical capacity is well known. Otherwise, we derive both a lower and an upper bound to the classical capacity of the channel, drawing inspiration from the classical treatment of the capacity of non-Gaussian additive-noise channels. We show that the lower bound to the capacity is always achievable and give examples where the non-Gaussianity of the channel can be exploited so that the communication rate beats the capacity of the Gaussian-equivalent channel (i.e. the channel where the environment state is replaced by a Gaussian state with the same covariance matrix). Finally, our upper bound leads us to formulate and investigate conjectures on the input state that minimizes the output entropy of non-Gaussian attenuator or amplifier channels. Solving these conjectures would be a main step toward accessing the capacity of a large class of non-Gaussian bosonic channels.