bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FRED X flow diverter for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms: Two-center experience and mini-review of the literature
Authors: Goertz Lukas , Styczen Hanna , Siebert Eberhard , Li Yan , Schlamann Marc , Forsting Michael , Bohner Georg , Deuschl Cornelius , Kabbasch Christoph
Published: April 2024

Objective

The flow re-direction endoluminal device (FRED) is a safe and effective treatment option for intracranial aneurysms. The novel FRED X features an antithrombotic surface coating (“X Technology”) on an otherwise unmodified stent design. This two-center study evaluates the clinical safety and efficacy of FRED X and compares it to the literature.

Methods

Consecutive patients treated between 2020 and 2023 were retrospectively reviewed for aneurysm characteristics, procedural details and complications, and angiographic outcomes. A mini-review of the literature for FRED X clinical trials was performed and results were pooled using a random effects model.

Results

Thirty-four patients (mean age 56 years) were treated for 34 aneurysms. The mean aneurysm size was 7.7 ± 5.0 mm, 7 (21%) were ruptured, 6 (18%) were recurrent after previous treatment, 11 (32.3%) were located in the posterior circulation, and 4 (12.5%) had non-saccular morphology. All procedures were technically successful and no balloon angioplasty was required. There was 1 (2.9%) symptomatic complication (a transient ischemic attack) and no procedural morbidity or mortality. Technical asymptomatic events included 1 procedural stent occlusion that was reopened with thrombectomy and 3 cases of vasospasm. Complete and adequate occlusion rates were 68% (19/28) and 89% (25/28) at a mean follow-up time of 6 months, respectively. The results of this study are comparable to previous FRED X studies.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate a high feasibility and procedural safety of the FRED X with adequate mid-term occlusion rates. Long-term and comparative studies are needed to evaluate the full potential of the FRED X.
Quality of life and quality-adjusted life years after stroke in Sierra Leone
Authors: Youkee Daniel , Deen Gibrilla F , Sackley Catherine , Lisk Durodami R , Marshall Iain , Soley-Bori Marina
Published: April 2024

Background:

Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and negatively affects health-related quality of life (HRQoL). HRQoL after stroke is understudied in Africa and there are no reports of quality-adjusted life years after stroke (QALYs) in African countries. We determined the impact of stroke on HRQoL after stroke in Sierra Leone. We calculated QALYs at 1 year post-stroke and determined sociodemographic and clinical variables associated with HRQoL and QALYs in this population.

Methods:

A prospective stroke register was established at the two-principal adult tertiary government hospitals in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Participants were followed up at 7, 90 days, and 1 year post-stroke to capture all-cause mortality and EQ-5D-3L data. QALYs were calculated at the patient level using EQ-5D-3L utility values and survival data from the register, following the area under the curve method. Utilities were based on the UK and Zimbabwe (as a sensitivity analysis) EQ-5D value sets, as there is no Sierra Leonean or West African value set. Explanatory models were developed based on previous literature to assess variables associated with HRQoL and QALYs at 1 year after stroke. To address missing values, Multiple Imputation by Chained Equations (MICE), with linear and logistic regression models for continuous and binary variables, respectively, were used.

Results:

EQ-5D-3L data were available for 373/460 (81.1%), 360/367 (98.1%), and 299/308 (97.1%) participants at 7, 90 days, and 1 year after stroke. For stroke survivors, median EQ-5D-3L utility increased from 0.20 (95% CI: −0.16 to 0.59) at 7 days post-stroke to 0.76 (0.47 to 1.0) at 90 days and remained stable at 1 year 0.76 (0.49 to 1.0). Mean QALYs at 1 year after stroke were 0.28 (SD: 0.35) and closely associated with stroke severity. Older age, lower educational attainment, patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage and undetermined stroke types all had lower QALYs and lower HRQoL, while being the primary breadwinner was associated with higher HRQoL. Sensitivity analysis with the Zimbabwe value set did not significantly change regression results but did influence the absolute values with Zimbabwe utility values being higher, with fewer utility values less than 0.

Conclusion:

We generated QALYs after stroke for the first time in an African country. QALYs were significantly lower than studies from outside Africa, partially explained by the high mortality rate in our cohort. Further research is needed to develop appropriate value sets for West African countries and to examine QALYs lost due to stroke over longer time periods.

Data availability:

The Stroke in Sierra Leone anonymized dataset is available on request to researchers, see data access section.
Regulating artificial intelligence: A technology-independent approach
Authors: Turk Žiga
Published: April 2024

Successful applications of artificial intelligence (AI), such as ChatGPT, have been prompting regulators to speed up the related regulation processes. China and the EU have been particularly ambitious in this regard. The EU AI Act has been swiftly progressing through the institutions and is expected to be officially adopted in spring 2024. This article argues that its overall approach is wrong, that it extends EU regulation into policy areas which come under national competences and that it will hurt European AI innovation in particular and society in general. Instead of regulating AI per se, the EU or the member states should regulate the use of AI in specific sectors or, better still, regulate it in technologically independent ways—by specifying what is allowed or prohibited, regardless of the technology used.
“God’s Most Stubborn Enemy:” Jonathan Edwards on Spiritual Pride and the Hope of a Humble Faith
Authors: Setran David P.
Published: April 2024

Spiritual pride is a threat to all who take spiritual formation seriously, but it is often difficult to discern. Reflecting on this vice within the revivals of the First Great Awakening and in his own life, Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758) both diagnosed the symptoms of spiritual pride and addressed its potential cures. This article looks specifically at Edwards’s analysis of spiritual pride and his perspectives on the pathways to overcoming its power. In the end, Edwards proposed that Christians could pursue spiritual formation and yet remain humble if they would develop a new perspective of “comparative meanness” and develop new postures of “self-examination” and “glorying.” Edwards’s vision for a humble spiritual formation provides helpful insights both for locating spiritual pride in the Christian life and for severing its varied roots.
Effect of Press-Fit Size on Insertion Mechanics and Cartilage Viability in Human and Ovine Osteochondral Grafts
Authors: Suderman R.P. , Hurtig M.B. , Grynpas M.D. , Kuzyk P.R.T. , Changoor A.
Published: April 2024

Objective

The osteochondral allograft procedure uses grafts constructed larger than the recipient site to stabilize the graft, in what is known as the press-fit technique. This research aims to characterize the relationships between press-fit size, insertion forces, and cell viability in ovine and human osteochondral tissue.

Design

Human (4 donors) and ovine (5 animals) articular joints were used to harvest osteochondral grafts (4.55 mm diameter, N = 33 Human, N = 35 Ovine) and create recipient sites with grafts constructed to achieve varying degrees of press fit (0.025-0.240 mm). Donor grafts were inserted into recipient sites while insertion forces were measured followed by quantification of chondrocyte viability and histological staining to evaluate the extracellular matrix.

Results

Both human and ovine tissues exhibited similar mechanical and cellular responses to changes in press-fit. Insertion forces (Human: 3-169 MPa, Ovine: 36-314 MPa) and cell viability (Human: 16%-89% live, Ovine: 2%-76% live) were correlated to press-fit size for both human (force: r = 0.539, viability: r = −0.729) and ovine (force: r = 0.655, viability: r = −0.714) tissues. In both species, a press-fit above 0.14 mm resulted in reduced cell viability below a level acceptable for transplantation, increased insertion forces, and reduced linear correlation to press-fit size compared to samples with a press-fit below 0.14 mm.

Conclusions

Increasing press-fit size required increased insertion forces and resulted in reduced cell viability. Ovine and human osteochondral tissues responded similarly to impact insertion and varying press-fit size, providing evidence for the use of the ovine model in allograft-related research.
Geographies of super-philanthropy: Disaggregating the global philanthropic complex
Authors: Fuentenebro Pablo , Bok Rachel , Rosenman Emily , Acuto Michele
Published: April 2024

In recent decades the world has witnessed an unparalleled growth of philanthropic initiatives and institutions that has proven inextricable from the vast accumulation and concentration of wealth on a global scale. Echoing recent calls for geographers to study philanthropy, this paper seeks to advance a critical geographical understanding of globalising philanthropy. Inspired by geographical scholarship on relational thinking, the paper frames the varied manifestations of contemporary philanthropy as a ‘philanthropic complex’ in order to understand philanthropy through central themes of relationality, intermediation and stabilisation. Advancing theories of philanthropy by characterising the complex's geographical unevenness and political functions of depoliticisation, the paper closes by outlining avenues in which relational thinking about philanthropy can advance geographical theories of elites and global development.
Repeat Discectomy or Instrumented Surgery for Recurrent Lumbar Disk Herniation: An Overview of French Spine Surgeons’ Practice
Authors: Cômes Pierre-Cyril , Gavotto Amandine , Zouakia Zineb , Lonjon Guillaume , Amelot Aymeric , Edgard-Rosa Grégory , Debono Bertrand
Published: April 2024

Study design

Retrospective multicenter cohort study.

Objective

Recurrent lumbar disc herniation (ReLDH) is a common condition requiring surgical intervention in a large proportion of cases. Evidence regarding the appropriate choice between repeat microdiscectomy (RD) and instrumented surgery (IS) is lacking. To understand the indications for either of the procedures and compare the results, we aimed to provide an overview of spine surgeon practice in France.

Methods

This retrospective, multicenter analysis included adults who underwent surgery for ReLDHs between December 2020 and May 2021. Surgeons were asked which of the following factors determined their therapeutic choice: radio-clinical considerations, non-discal anatomical factors, patient preference, or surgeon background. Data on preoperative clinical status and radiologic findings were collected. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were assessed and compared using propensity scores preoperatively and at 3 and 12 months postoperatively.

Results

The study included 150 patients (72 IS and 78 RD). Radioclinical elements, anatomical data, patient preferences, and surgeon background influenced the choice of RD in 57.7%, 1.3%, 25.6%, and 15.4% of the cases, respectively, and IS in 34.7%, 6.9%, 13.9%, and 44.5% of the cases, respectively. At 12 months, patient satisfaction, return to work, and changes in PROMs were not significantly different between the groups.

Conclusions

The decision-making process included both objective and subjective factors, resulting in patient satisfaction in 80.3% to 81.5% of cases, with significant clinical improvement in radicular symptoms in 75.8% to 91.8% of cases, and quality of life in 75.8% to 84.9% of cases, depending on the procedure performed.
Ecology’s inattention to the city: Exploring a regime of scientific imperceptibility
Authors: Chalmandrier Maud , Boisvert Valérie , Salomon Cavin Joelle , Flaminio Silvia , Granjou Céline
Published: April 2024

Promoters of urban ecology commonly point to the historical absence of the city in ecology. This assertion is obviously meant to highlight the novelty and timeliness of urban ecology and to plead for its development. Given the founding role of this ignorance narrative for urban ecology, we deemed it essential to explore whether and how it could be empirically substantiated. Drawing on ignorance studies, we propose to investigate knowledge blind spots and questions left uncharted by the dominant research agendas in ecology. Stepping aside from the shared assumptions within the urban ecology community, we set up to explore the main features of a regime of (im)perceptibility of the city in ecology. To this end, and using a mix of methods including bibliometric and textual data analyses, observations and interviews, we combined the exploration of global scientific publications, naturalist inventories in Swiss research institutions and cities and everyday ecological research practices in Switzerland. Our analysis leads to nuancing the binary representation of the city as either absent or present in ecological research. It highlights three dimensions (epistemic framings, field practices and institutional marginality) that may explain the imperceptibility of the city in ecological research. We demonstrate the existence of ecological research in the city before and alongside self-declared ‘urban ecology’. Ignorance studies generally aim to expose biased historiographies and address the politics of contentious knowledge. We hypothesize and show that this analytical framing can also shed light on the obfuscation of past and rival research in the formation and consolidation of epistemic communities.
Gorerite, CaAlFe11O19, a new mineral of the magnetoplumbite group from the Negev Desert, Israel
Authors: Galuskin Evgeny V. , Krüger Biljana , Galuskina Irina O. , Krüger Hannes , Nejbert Krzysztof , Vapnik Yevgeny
Published: April 2024

Gorerite, ideally CaAlFe11O19 is a new mineral and M-type hexaferrite of the magnetoplumbite group. It was found in ferrite-rich segregations of esseneite–gehlenite–wollastonite–anorthite melted rock of the ‘olive’ subunit of pyrometamorphic rocks located near Hatrurim Junction in the Negev Desert, Israel. Within these ferrite-rich segregations up to 100 μm in size, platy crystals of gorerite up to 50 μm in size intergrow with hibonite, hematite, maghemite, magnesioferrite, dorrite, barioferrite and andradite, forming aggregates. Additionally, small crystals of gorerite occur within magnesioferrite. Importantly, gorerite did not crystallise directly from the melt. Instead, it emerged through a reaction involving earlier crystallised hibonite and an iron-enriched melt, resulting in the partial or complete replacement of hibonite by gorerite. Gorerite appears grey in the reflected light (R = 18–23%), displaying distinct bireflectance: dark-grey perpendicular to Z and light-grey parallel to Z. Its Raman spectrum exhibits only one strong band at 700 cm–1, which shifts to higher frequencies with increasing Al content. Gorerite crystallises in the P63/mmc space group, with lattice parameters a = 5.8532(4) Å, c = 22.7730(2) Å and V = 675.67(7) Å3 with Z = 2. It exhibits a structure characterised by an intercalation of triple spinel-like S blocks and rock-salt type R blocks along the hexagonal c-axis.
Unravelling variations: an examination of entry point selection in proximal femoral cephalomedullary nailing
Authors: Lisitano Leonard , Wulff Laura , Schmidt Jürgen , Sieland Christoph , Mahlke Lutz , Röttinger Timon , Cifuentes Jairo , Mayr Edgar , Rau Kim
Published: April 2024

Background

The exact positioning of the cephalomedullary (CM) nail entry point for managing femoral fractures remains debatable, with significant implications for fracture reduction and postoperative complications. This study aimed to explore the variability in the selection of the entry point among trauma surgeons, hypothesizing potential differences and their association with surgeon experience.

Methods

In this prospective multicenter study, 16 participants, ranging from residents to senior specialists, partook in a simulation wherein they determined the optimal entry point for the implantation of a proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFN-A; DePuy Synthes) in various femora. The inter- and intra-observer variability was calculated, along with comprehensive descriptive statistical analysis, to assess the variability in entry point selection and the impact of surgeon experience.

Results

In this study, the mean distance from the selected entry points to the calculated mean entry point was 3.98 mm, with a smaller distance observed among surgeons with more than 500 implantations (ANOVA, p = 0.050). Intra-surgeon variability for identical femora averaged at 5.14 mm, showing no significant differences across various levels of surgical experience or training. Notably, 13.6% of selected entry points would not allow a proper intramedullary positioning of the implant, thereby rendering anatomical repositioning unfeasible. Among these impossible entry points, a significant skew towards anterior placement was observed (70.6% of the impossible entry points), with a smaller fraction being overly lateral (27.5%) or medial (13.7%). On a patient level, the impossibility rate varied widely from 0 to 35% among the different femora examined, with a significantly higher rate seen in younger patients (mean age 55.02 versus 60.32; t-test for independent samples, p = 0.04).

Conclusions

Significant variations exist in surgeons’ selection of entry points for proximal femoral nailing, underscoring the task’s complexity. Experience does not prevent the choice of unfeasible entry points, emphasizing the inadequacy of a universal approach and pointing towards the necessity for a patient-specific strategy for improved outcomes.

Trial registration number: DRKS00032465.
Erector spinae plane block did not improve postoperative pain-related outcomes and recovery after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery : a randomised controlled double-blinded multi-center trial
Authors: Clairoux A. , Moore A. , Caron-Goudreault M. , Soucy-Proulx M. , Thibault M. , Brulotte V. , Bélanger ME. , Raft J. , Godin N. , Idrissi M. , Desroches J. , Ruel M. , Fortier A. , Richebé P.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

There is a sizable niche for a minimally invasive analgesic technique that could facilitate ambulatory video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). Our study aimed to determine the analgesic potential of a single-shot erector spinae plane (ESP) block for VATS. The primary objective was the total hydromorphone consumption with patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) 24 h after surgery.

Methods

We conducted a randomized, controlled, double-blind study with patients scheduled for VATS in two major university-affiliated hospital centres. We randomized 52 patients into two groups: a single-shot ESP block using bupivacaine or an ESP block with normal saline (control). We administered a preoperative and postoperative (24 h) quality of recovery (QoR-15) questionnaire and assessed postoperative pain using a verbal numerical rating scale (VNRS) score. We evaluated the total standardized intraoperative fentanyl administration, total postoperative hydromorphone consumption (PCA; primary endpoint), and the incidence of adverse effects.

Results

There was no difference in the primary objective, hydromorphone consumption at 24 h (7.6 (4.4) mg for the Bupivacaine group versus 8.1 (4.2) mg for the Control group). Secondary objectives and incidence of adverse events were not different between the two groups at any time during the first 24 h following surgery.

Conclusion

Our multi-centre randomized, controlled, double-blinded study found no advantage of an ESP block over placebo for VATS for opioid consumption, pain, or QoR-15 scores. Further studies are ongoing to establish the benefits of using a denser block (single-shot paravertebral with a continuous ESP block), which may provide a better quality of analgesia.
Psychological and physical factors related to social integration of older adults in Ghana
Authors: Oduro Joseph Kojo
Published: April 2024

Background

Globally, older adults aged 60 years and over are outnumbering children under 5 and young people aged 15–24. Much evidence exists on the importance of high social integration and positive quality of life and health outcomes. However, evidence on how older adults are socially integrated in Ghanaian communities is limited. This study examined how self-reported well-being and quality of life (psychological and physical (psycho-physical) factors) predict the social integration of older adults in Ghana.

Methods

A secondary analysis of longitudinal survey data of the 2014/15 Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE Wave 2) conducted by the World Health Organization was applied. Older adults aged 60 years and older (n = 1,927) were included in this study. Multilevel logistic regression analyses were used to examine psycho-physical factors associated with high social integration among older adults. The output was reported as odds ratios (OR).

Results

In general, social integration varied based on older adults’ demographic characteristics. Those in rural communities had lower odds of having high social integration (OR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.56,1.03) when compared with older adults in urban areas. Having high physical and psychological well-being was associated with high social integration (OR = 1.90, 95% CI = 1.41, 2.57), (OR = 2.05, 95% CI = 1.56, 2.69). However, older adults with high levels of emotional and spiritual well-being were 9% and 7% (respectively) less likely to experience a high level of social integration (OR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.71,1.24), (OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.60,1.04).

Conclusion

The higher the level of self-reported psychological and physical well-being, the higher the social integration for older adults aged 60 years and over. However, the higher the level of self-reported emotional well-being and spiritual well-being, the less likely to have high social integration. Improved social integration or participation in society for older adults with high emotional and spiritual well-being is needed. The findings of this study highlight the need for policymakers and stakeholders to consider psycho-physical factors as an important public health tool and metric to encourage more research on the well-being of older adults in Ghana.
Characteristics, outcomes, facilitators and barriers for psychosocial interventions on inpatient mental health dementia wards: a systematic review
Authors: Thompson Naomi , Hsu Ming-Hung , Odell-Miller Helen , Underwood Benjamin R. , Wolverson Emma
Published: April 2024

Background

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines state that psychosocial interventions should be the first line of treatment for people with dementia who are experiencing distress behaviours, such as agitation and depression. However, little is known about the characteristics and outcomes of psychosocial interventions or the facilitators and barriers to implementation on inpatient mental health dementia wards which provide care for people with dementia who are often experiencing high levels of distress.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted on MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Collection, and Scopus in May 2023, following PRISMA guidelines. Reference and citation searches were conducted on included articles. Peer-reviewed literature of any study design, relating to psychosocial interventions in inpatient mental health dementia wards, was included. One author reviewed all articles, with a third of results reviewed independently by a second author. Data were extracted to a bespoke form and synthesised using a narrative review. The quality of included studies was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

Results

Sixteen studies were included in the synthesis, which together included a total of 538 people with dementia. Study methods and quality varied. Psychosocial interventions delivered on wards included music therapy (five studies), multisensory interventions (four studies), multicomponent interventions (two studies), technology-based interventions (two studies), massage interventions (two studies) and physical exercise (one study). Reduction in distress and improvement in wellbeing was demonstrated inconsistently across studies. Delivering interventions in a caring and individualised way responding to patient need facilitated implementation. Lack of staff time and understanding of interventions, as well as high levels of staff turnover, were barriers to implementation.

Conclusion

This review highlights a striking lack of research and therefore evidence base for the use of psychosocial interventions to reduce distress in this vulnerable population, despite current healthcare guidelines. More research is needed to understand which psychosocial interventions can reduce distress and improve wellbeing on inpatient mental health dementia wards, and how interventions should be delivered, to establish clinical and cost effectiveness and minimise staff burden.
Gut microbial features may influence antiviral IgG levels after vaccination against viral respiratory infectious diseases: the evidence from two-sample bidirectional mendelian randomization
Authors: Tu Junlan , Wang Yidi , Ye Xiangyu , Wang Yifan , Zou Yixin , Jia Linna , Yang Sheng , Yu Rongbin , Liu Wei , Huang Peng
Published: April 2024

Background

Vaccination is effective in preventing viral respiratory infectious diseases through protective antibodies and the gut microbiome has been proven to regulate human immunity. This study explores the causal correlations between gut microbial features and serum-specific antiviral immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels.

Methods

We conduct a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary data to explore the causal relationships between 412 gut microbial features and four antiviral IgG (for influenza A, measles, rubella, and mumps) levels. To make the results more reliable, we used four robust methods and performed comprehensive sensitivity analyses.

Results

The MR analyses revealed 26, 13, 20, and 18 causal associations of the gut microbial features influencing four IgG levels separately. ​Interestingly, ten microbial features, like genus Collinsella, species Bifidobacterium longum, and the biosynthesis of L-alanine have shown the capacity to regulate multiple IgG levels with consistent direction (rise or fall). The ​reverse MR analysis suggested several potential causal associations of IgG levels affecting microbial features.

Conclusions

The human immune response against viral respiratory infectious diseases could be modulated by changing the abundance of gut microbes, which provided new approaches for the intervention of viral respiratory infections.
Macular hypoplasia and high myopia in 48, xxyy syndrome: a unique case of 48, xxyy syndrome that presents with high myopia and macular dysplasia
Authors: Hou Aohan , Liu Xinyu , Sun Limei , Ding Xiaoyan
Published: April 2024

Background

Among sex chromosome aneuploidies, 48, XXYY syndrome is a rare variant. This condition is marked by the existence of an additional X and Y chromosome in males, leading to a diverse range of physical, neurocognitive, behavioral, and psychological manifestations. Typical characteristics include a tall stature and infertility. Other phenotypes include congenital heart defects, skeletal anomalies, tremors, obesity, as well as the potential for type 2 diabetes and/or peripheral vascular disease.

Case presentation

A 6-year-old boy, who had been experiencing progressive vision deterioration in both eyes for the past two years, presented with a history of poor vision, delayed motor skills. The patient was diagnosed with micropenis in the pediatric outpatient clinic. Sparse hair, an unusually tall stature and craniofacial dysmorphology characterized by ocular hypertelorism, depressed nasal bridge, and epicanthic folds were observed. Comprehensive ophthalmic examination revealed high myopia and grade 3 macular hypoplasia. Diagnostic investigations including karyotype analysis and whole-exome sequencing identified an anomalous male karyotype comprising two X and two Y chromosomes, confirming a diagnosis of 48, XXYY syndrome.

Conclusions

This study underscores the rare association of high myopia and grade 3 macular dysplasia with 48, XXYY syndrome. To our knowledge, this case marks the first recorded instance of macular dysplasia in a patient with 48, XXYY syndrome. This novel finding enhances our understanding of this syndrome’s phenotypic variability.
Life satisfaction and job and personal resources among public workers with non-standard work schedules
Authors: Cavallari Jennifer M. , Trudel Sierra M. , Miskovsky Megan N. , Laguerre Rick A. , Dugan Alicia G.
Published: April 2024

Background

While the link between non-standard work schedules and poor health outcomes is established, few studies have examined how resources both in and outside of work can support the well-being of workers with non-standard work schedules.

Methods

Using a cross-sectional survey, we assessed the association between one facet of well-being, life satisfaction, and job and personal resources. In 2019, an electronic survey was administered to two unionized, public service populations who work non-standard work schedules: transportation maintainers and correctional supervisors. We assessed life satisfaction with a 10-item scale; a broad set of job resources (reward satisfaction, supervisor support, co-worker support, schedule satisfaction, and working hours fit); and a broad set of personal resources (health status, sleep, physical activity, and finances). We used log-binomial regression models to estimate prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals among statistically significant univariate predictors.

Results

Of the 316 workers surveyed, the majority were male (86%), White (68%), and reported positive life satisfaction (56%). In multivariate models, the prevalence of positive life satisfaction was higher in workers reporting reward satisfaction (PR:1.35, 95% CI: 1.11, 1.65; p = 0.003), good work schedule fit (PR:1.43, 95% CI: 1.12, 1.83; p = 0.004), good health (PR:2.92, 95% CI: 1.70, 4.99; p < 0.0001), and good finances (PR:1.32, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.72; p = 0.04).

Conclusion

Employers should consider increasing work recognition, as well as improving schedule fit, financial well-being, and overall good health in support of worker life satisfaction and ultimately well-being.
Understanding the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Venezuela
Authors: Chacón-Labrador Fabián R. , Passantino María G. , Moncada-Ortega Augusto , Ávila Atahualpa A. , Moreno Andrea A. , Kuffaty-Akkou Nicolle A. , Pedroza Luisana M. , Camejo-Ávila Natasha A. , Mendoza-Millán Daniela L. , Rodriguez-Saavedra Carlis M. , Marcano-Rojas María V. , Hernández-Medina Fernando , Grillet María E. , Carrión-Nessi Fhabián S. , Forero-Peña David A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Despite nearly a quarter of Venezuelans remaining unvaccinated against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy in the country have not been thoroughly investigated.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 15th to 30th, 2022, using a knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) survey to identify factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy.

Results

The study analyzed data from 1,930 participants from all 24 states of Venezuela. The majority (93.4%) were vaccinated. The mean age was 40 years, predominantly female (67.3%), and held a university degree (70.6%). The mean KAP score was significantly higher among vaccinated individuals compared to unvaccinated ones (7.79 vs. 3.94 points for knowledge, 40 vs. 24 points for attitudes, and 16 vs. 10 points for practices, all p < 0.001). Increases in the scores for KAP were associated with increased odds of being vaccinated (84.6%, 25.6%, and 33% respectively for each one-point increase, all p < 0.001). Certain demographic factors such as marital status, occupation, religious beliefs, monthly income, and location influence COVID-19 vaccine knowledge. Higher income and certain occupations decrease the odds of low knowledge, while residing in specific states increases it. Attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine are influenced by age, health status, vaccination status, and location. Higher income and absence of certain health conditions decrease the odds of negative attitudes. Lastly, age, occupation, monthly income, and location affect vaccine practices. Advanced age and higher income decrease the odds of inappropriate practices, while residing in La Guaira state increases them.

Conclusion

Factors such as age, education level, occupation, monthly income, and location were found to be associated with knowledge and attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccine among the surveyed Venezuelans.
Computational study of extrinsic factors affecting ACL strain during single-leg jump landing
Authors: Rao Harish , Bakker Ryan , McLachlin Stewart , Chandrashekar Naveen
Published: April 2024

Background

Non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are a major concern in sport-related activities due to dynamic knee movements. There is a paucity of finite element (FE) studies that have accurately replicated the knee geometry, kinematics, and muscle forces during dynamic activities. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a knee FE model and use it to quantify the relationships between sagittal plane knee kinematics, kinetics and the resulting ACL strain.

Methods

3D images of a cadaver knee specimen were segmented (bones, cartilage, and meniscus) and meshed to develop the FE model. Knee ligament insertion sites were defined in the FE model via experimental digitization of the specimen’s ligaments. The response of the model was validated against multiple physiological knee movements using published experimental data. Single-leg jump landing motions were then simulated on the validated model with muscle forces and kinematic inputs derived from motion capture and rigid body modelling of ten participants.

Results

The maximum ACL strain measured with the model during jump landing was 3.5 ± 2.2%, comparable to published experimental results. Bivariate analysis showed no significant correlation between body weight, ground reaction force and sagittal plane parameters (such as joint flexion angles, joint moments, muscle forces, and joint velocity) and ACL strain. Multivariate regression analysis showed increasing trunk, hip and ankle flexion angles decreases ACL strain (R2 = 90.04%, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Soft landing decreases ACL strain and the relationship could be presented through an empirical equation. The model and the empirical relation developed in this study could be used to better predict ACL injury risk and prevention strategies during dynamic activities.
Fully endoscopic approach for resection of brainstem cavernous malformations: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Hu Zhigang , Tang Chao , Ma Chiyuan
Published: April 2024

Background

Brainstem cavernous malformations (BCMs) are benign lesions that typically have an acute onset and are associated with a high rate of morbidity. The selection of the optimal surgical approach is crucial for obtaining favorable outcomes, considering the different anatomical locations of various brainstem lesions. Endoscopic surgery is increasingly utilized in treating of BCMs, owing to its depth illumination and panoramic view capabilities. For intra-axial ventral BCMs, the best surgical options are endoscopic endonasal approaches, following the “two-point method. For cavernous hemangiomas on the dorsal side of the brainstem, endoscopy proves valuable by providing enhanced visualization of the operative field and minimizing the need for brain retraction.

Methods

In this review, we gathered data on the fully endoscopic approach for the resection of BCMs, and outlined technical notes and tips. Total of 15 articles were included in this review. The endoscopic endonasal approach was utilized in 19 patients, and the endoscopic transcranial approach was performed in 3 patients.

Results

The overall resection rate was 81.8% (18/22). Among the 19 cases of endoscopic endonasal surgery, postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage occurred in 5 cases, with lesions exceeding 2 cm in diameter in 3 patients with postoperative CSF rhinorrhea. Among the 20 patients with follow-up data, 2 showed no significant improvement after surgery, whereas the remaining 18 patients showed significant improvement compared to their admission symptoms.

Conclusions

This systematic literature review demonstrates that a fully endoscopic approach is a safe and effective option for the resection of BCMs. Further, it can be considered an alternative to conventional craniotomy, particularly when managed by a neurosurgical team with extensive experience in endoscopic surgery, addressing these challenging lesions.
Pangenome analysis reveals transposon-driven genome evolution in cotton
Authors: He Xin , Qi Zhengyang , Liu Zhenping , Chang Xing , Zhang Xianlong , Li Jianying , Wang Maojun
Published: April 2024

Background

Transposable elements (TEs) have a profound influence on the trajectory of plant evolution, driving genome expansion and catalyzing phenotypic diversification. The pangenome, a comprehensive genetic pool encompassing all variations within a species, serves as an invaluable tool, unaffected by the confounding factors of intraspecific diversity. This allows for a more nuanced exploration of plant TE evolution.

Results

Here, we constructed a pangenome for diploid A-genome cotton using 344 accessions from representative geographical regions, including 223 from China as the main component. We found 511 Mb of non-reference sequences (NRSs) and revealed the presence of 5479 previously undiscovered protein-coding genes. Our comprehensive approach enabled us to decipher the genetic underpinnings of the distinct geographic distributions of cotton. Notably, we identified 3301 presence-absence variations (PAVs) that are closely tied to gene expression patterns within the pangenome, among which 2342 novel expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) were found residing in NRSs. Our investigation also unveiled contrasting patterns of transposon proliferation between diploid and tetraploid cotton, with long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposons exhibiting a synchronized surge in polyploids. Furthermore, the invasion of LTR retrotransposons from the A subgenome to the D subgenome triggered a substantial expansion of the latter following polyploidization. In addition, we found that TE insertions were responsible for the loss of 36.2% of species-specific genes, as well as the generation of entirely new species-specific genes.

Conclusions

Our pangenome analyses provide new insights into cotton genomics and subgenome dynamics after polyploidization and demonstrate the power of pangenome approaches for elucidating transposon impacts and genome evolution.
A Pfs48/45-based vaccine to block Plasmodium falciparum transmission: phase 1, open-label, clinical trial
Authors: Alkema M. , Smit M. J. , Marin-Mogollon C. , Totté K. , Teelen K. , van Gemert G. J. , van de Vegte-Bolmer M. , Mordmüller B. G. , Reimer J. M. , Lövgren-Bengtsson K. L. , Sauerwein R. W. , Bousema T. , Plieskatt J. , Theisen M. , Jore M. M. , McCall M. B. B.
Published: April 2024

Background

The stalling global progress in malaria control highlights the need for novel tools for malaria elimination, including transmission-blocking vaccines. Transmission-blocking vaccines aim to induce human antibodies that block parasite development in the mosquito and mosquitoes becoming infectious. The Pfs48/45 protein is a leading Plasmodium falciparum transmission-blocking vaccine candidate. The R0.6C fusion protein, consisting of Pfs48/45 domain 3 (6C) and the N-terminal region of P. falciparum glutamate-rich protein (R0), has previously been produced in Lactococcus lactis and elicited functional antibodies in rodents. Here, we assess the safety and transmission-reducing efficacy of R0.6C adsorbed to aluminium hydroxide with and without Matrix-M™ adjuvant in humans.

Methods

In this first-in-human, open-label clinical trial, malaria-naïve adults, aged 18–55 years, were recruited at the Radboudumc in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. Participants received four intramuscular vaccinations on days 0, 28, 56 and 168 with either 30 µg or 100 µg of R0.6C and were randomised for the allocation of one of the two different adjuvant combinations: aluminium hydroxide alone, or aluminium hydroxide combined with Matrix-M1™ adjuvant. Adverse events were recorded from inclusion until 84 days after the fourth vaccination. Anti-R0.6C and anti-6C IgG titres were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Transmission-reducing activity of participants’ serum and purified vaccine-specific immunoglobulin G was assessed by standard membrane feeding assays using laboratory-reared Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes and cultured P. falciparum gametocytes.

Results

Thirty-one participants completed four vaccinations and were included in the analysis. Administration of all doses was safe and well-tolerated, with one related grade 3 adverse event (transient fever) and no serious adverse events occurring. Anti-R0.6C and anti-6C IgG titres were similar between the 30 and 100 µg R0.6C arms, but higher in Matrix-M1™ arms. Neat participant sera did not induce significant transmission-reducing activity in mosquito feeding experiments, but concentrated vaccine-specific IgGs purified from sera collected two weeks after the fourth vaccination achieved up to 99% transmission-reducing activity.

Conclusions

R0.6C/aluminium hydroxide with or without Matrix-M1™ is safe, immunogenic and induces functional Pfs48/45-specific transmission-blocking antibodies, albeit at insufficient serum concentrations to result in transmission reduction by neat serum. Future work should focus on identifying alternative vaccine formulations or regimens that enhance functional antibody responses.

Trial registration

The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov under identifier NCT04862416.
PI3Kγδ inhibition suppresses key disease features in a rat model of asthma
Authors: Pinkerton James W. , Preite Silvia , Piras Antonio , Zervas Dimitrios , Markou Thomais , Freeman Mark S. , Hofving Tobias , Ivarsson Emil , Bonvini Sara J. , Brailsford Wayne , Yrlid Linda , Belvisi Maria G. , Birrell Mark A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Two isoforms of Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), p110γ and p110δ, are predominantly expressed in leukocytes and represent attractive therapeutic targets for the treatment of allergic asthma. The study aim was to assess the impact of administration of an inhaled PI3Kγδ inhibitor (AZD8154) in a rat model of asthma.

Methods

Firstly, we checked that the tool compound, AZD8154, inhibited rat PI3K γ & δ kinases using rat cell-based assays. Subsequently, a time-course study was conducted in a rat model of asthma to assess PI3K activity in the lung and how it is temporally associated with other key transcription pathways and asthma like features of the model. Finally, the impact on lung dosed AZD8154 on target engagement, pathway specificity, airway inflammation and lung function changes was assessed.

Results

Data showed that AZD8154 could inhibit rat PI3K γ & δ isoforms and, in a rat model of allergic asthma the PI3K pathway was activated in the lung. Intratracheal administration of AZD8154 caused a dose related suppression PI3K pathway activation (reduction in pAkt) and unlike after budesonide treatment, STAT and NF-κB pathways were not affected by AZD8154. The suppression of the PI3K pathway led to a marked inhibition of airway inflammation and reduction in changes in lung function.

Conclusion

These data show that a dual PI3Kγδ inhibitor suppress key features of disease in a rat model of asthma to a similar degree as budesonide and indicate that dual PI3Kγδ inhibition may be an effective treatment for people suffering from allergic asthma.
Toxoplasma gondii suppresses proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells by regulating their transcriptome
Authors: Ye Hengming , Zhou Xiaotao , Zhu Bike , Xiong Tiantian , Huang Weile , He Feng , Li Hui , Chen Lihua , Tang Luying , Ren Zefang
Published: April 2024

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) has shown anticancer activity in breast cancer mouse models, and exerted beneficial effect on the survival of breast cancer patients, but the mechanism was unclear.

Methods

The effect of tachyzoites of T. gondii (RH and ME49 strains) on human breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells) proliferation and migration was assessed using cell growth curve and wound healing assays. Dual RNA-seq was performed for T. gondii-infected and non-infected cells to determine the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and Protein–Protein Interaction Networks analysis (PPI) were performed to explore the related signaling pathway and hub genes. Hub genes were validated using the Kaplan–Meier plotter database, and Pathogen Host Interaction (PHI-base) database. The results were verified by qRT-PCR.

Results

The tachyzoites of T. gondii decreased the expression of Ki67 and increased the expression of E-cadherin, resulting in suppressing the proliferation and migration of infected human breast cancer cells. The inhibitory effect of T. gondii on breast cancer cells showed a significant dose–response relationship. Compared with the control group, 2321 genes were transcriptionally regulated in MCF-7 cells infected with T. gondii, while 169 genes were transcriptionally regulated in infected MDA-MB-231 cells. Among these genes, 698 genes in infected MCF-7 cells and 67 genes in infected MDA-MB-231 cells were validated by the publicly available database. GO and KEGG analyses suggested that several pathways were involved in anticancer function of T. gondii, such as ribosome, interleukin-17 signaling, coronavirus disease pathway, and breast cancer pathway. BRCA1, MYC and IL-6 were identified as the top three hub genes in infected-breast cancer cells based on the connectivity of PPI analysis. In addition, after interacting with breast cancer cells, the expression of ROP16 and ROP18 in T. gondii increased, while the expression of crt, TgIST, GRA15, GRA24 and MIC13 decreased.

Conclusions

T. gondii transcriptionally regulates several signaling pathways by altering the hub genes such as BRCA1, MYC and IL-6, which can inhibit the breast tumor growth and migration, hinting at a potential therapeutic strategy.