bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case report: cardiac tamponade secondary to candida pericarditis
Authors: Jette Nicholas , Gebhardt Colin , Coustinos Dimitri
Published: March 2024

Fungal pericarditis, a rare clinical presentation primarily observed in post-cardiothoracic surgery and immunocompromised patients, requires prompt recognition and effective treatment involving antifungal medications and surgical drainage. We report the case of a 40-year-old female initially diagnosed with infective endocarditis who progressed to cardiac tamponade. Timely surgical drainage significantly improved the patient’s clinical status and revealed fungal pericarditis through pathological analysis. This case highlights the importance of considering the diagnosis of fungal pericarditis even in the absence of prior cardiothoracic surgical intervention and emphasizes the crucial role of both intravenous antifungal therapy and surgical drainage in its treatment.
Neuroganglioma in the posterior mediastinum: an incidental discovery
Authors: Tellez-Zarate Maximiliano , Meza-Hernandez Javier , Jimenez-Fuentes Edgardo
Published: March 2024

Ganglioneuroma, a rare benign neuroblastic tumor, typically arises in the posterior mediastinum, but it can be found in the anterior mediastinum and thymus. Predominantly affecting the young, these asymptomatic tumors are often discovered incidentally through imaging. In our reported case, a 44-year-old woman post-hysterectomy with persistent jaundice was diagnosed with a neuroganglioma in the right posterior mediastinum via a computed tomography (CT) scan. Thoracotomy and resection revealed a 10-cm neuroganglioma untangled from mediastinal planes. Post-surgery, chylothorax emerged, which was managed through a 5-day fasting approach. Thoracic neurogangliomas, rare and often asymptomatic, demand meticulous diagnosis, emphasizing imaging and histopathology, with postoperative vigilance for complications.
Harnessing EU legal concepts for the energy transition on islands
Authors: Mauger Romain , Diestelmeier Lea , Nieuwenhout Ceciel
Published: March 2024

The European Commission plans to achieve the decarbonization of dozens of European Union (EU) islands by 2030. This would reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower the dependency of islands on imported fuels, and potentially reduce local energy prices. At the same time, it may accelerate the mainland’s own energy transition through the import of surplus energy from renewable sources, the provision of aggregated flexibility services, and the testing of both technologies and policies on islands for replication and adaptation on the continent. Although islands are not even a legal category per se in EU energy law, the existing legal framework already allows to harness various concepts to foster the energy transition of EU islands. This article reviews available legal qualifications and regimes such as small systems’ exemptions, energy communities, positive energy districts, and local flexibility markets in the context of the decarbonization of EU islands. Potentially, they could open many different ways to tailor local energy transitions, channelling local actions to accelerate the whole process.
Galactinol synthase 2 influences the metabolism of chlorophyll, carotenoids, and ethylene in tomato fruits
Authors: Zhang Huidong , Zhang Kunpeng , Zhao Xueya , Bi Mengxi , Liu Yudong , Wang Shuo , He Yi , Ma Kui , Qi Mingfang
Published: March 2024

Galactinol synthase (GolS), which catalyses the synthesis of galactinol, is the first critical enzyme in the biosynthesis of raffinose family oligosaccharides (RFOs) and contributes to plant growth and development, and resistance mechanisms. However, its role in fruit development remains largely unknown. In this study, we used CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) to create the gols2 mutant showing uniformly green fruits without dark-green shoulders, and promoting fruit ripening. Analysis indicated that galactinol was undetectable in the ovaries and fruits of the mutant, and the accumulation of chlorophyll and chloroplast development was suppressed in the fruits. RNA-sequencing analysis showed that genes related to chlorophyll accumulation and chloroplast development were down-regulated, including PROTOCHLOROPHYLLIDE OXIDOREDUCTASE, GOLDEN 2-LIKE 2, and CHLOROPHYLL A/B-BINDING PROTEINS. In addition, early color transformation and ethylene release was prompted in the gols2 lines by regulation of the expression of genes involved in carotenoid and ethylene metabolism (e.g. PHYTOENE SYNTHASE 1, CAROTENE CIS-TRANS ISOMERASE, and 1-AMINOCYCLOPROPANE-1-CARBOXYLIC ACID SYNTHASE2/4) and fruit ripening (e.g. RIPENING INHIBITOR, NON-RIPENING, and APETALA2a). Our results provide evidence for the involvement of GolS2 in pigment and ethylene metabolism of tomato fruits.
Monosaccharide transporter OsMST6 is activated by transcription factor OsERF120 to enhance chilling tolerance in rice seedlings
Authors: Luo Shengtao , Zheng Shuangshuang , Li Zhitao , Cao Jie , Wang Bo , Xu Yunyuan , Chong Kang
Published: March 2024

Chilling stress caused by extreme weather is threatening global rice (Oryza sativa L.) production. Identifying components of the signal transduction pathways underlying chilling tolerance in rice would advance molecular breeding. Here, we report that OsMST6, which encodes a monosaccharide transporter, positively regulates the chilling tolerance of rice seedlings. mst6 mutants showed hypersensitivity to chilling, while OsMST6 overexpression lines were tolerant. During chilling stress, OsMST6 transported more glucose into cells to modulate sugar and abscisic acid signaling pathways. We showed that the transcription factor OsERF120 could bind to the DRE/CRT element of the OsMST6 promoter and activate the expression of OsMST6 to positively regulate chilling tolerance. Genetically, OsERF120 was functionally dependent on OsMST6 when promoting chilling tolerance. In summary, OsERF120 and OsMST6 form a new downstream chilling regulatory pathway in rice in response to chilling stress, providing valuable findings for molecular breeding aimed at achieving global food security.
Fermentation Practices Select for Thermostable Endolysins in Phages
Authors: Oechslin Frank , Zhu Xiaojun , Morency Carlee , Somerville Vincent , Shi Rong , Moineau Sylvain
Published: March 2024

Endolysins are produced by (bacterio)phages and play a crucial role in degrading the bacterial cell wall and the subsequent release of new phage progeny. These lytic enzymes exhibit a remarkable diversity, often occurring in a multimodular form that combines different catalytic and cell wall-binding domains, even in phages infecting the same species. Yet, our current understanding lacks insight into how environmental factors and ecological niches may have influenced the evolution of these enzymes. In this study, we focused on phages infecting Streptococcus thermophilus, as this bacterial species has a well-defined and narrow ecological niche, namely, dairy fermentation. Among the endolysins found in phages targeting this species, we observed limited diversity, with a singular structural type dominating in most of identified S. thermophilus phages. Within this prevailing endolysin type, we discovered a novel and highly conserved calcium-binding motif. This motif proved to be crucial for the stability and activity of the enzyme at elevated temperatures. Ultimately, we demonstrated its positive selection within the host's environmental conditions, particularly under the temperature profiles encountered in the production of yogurt, mozzarella, and hard cheeses that rely on S. thermophilus.
Concepts of Existential Catastrophe
Authors: Greaves Hilary
Published: March 2024

The notion of existential catastrophe is increasingly appealed to in discussion of risk management around emerging technologies, but it is not completely clear what this notion amounts to. Here, I provide an opinionated survey of the space of plausibly useful definitions of existential catastrophe. Inter alia, I discuss: whether to define existential catastrophe in ex post or ex ante terms, whether an ex ante definition should be in terms of loss of expected value or loss of potential, and what kind of probabilities should be involved in any appeal to expected value.
Saved by the Dark Forest: How a Multitude of Extraterrestrial Civilizations Can Prevent a Hobbesian Trap
Authors: Jebari Karim , Asker Andrea S
Published: March 2024

The possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI) exists despite no observed evidence, and the risks and benefits of actively searching for ETI (Active SETI) have been debated. Active SETI has been criticized for potentially exposing humanity to existential risk, and a recent game-theoretical model highlights the Hobbesian trap that could occur following contact if mutual distrust leads to mutual destruction. We argue that observing a nearby ETI would suggest the existence of many unobserved ETI. This would expand the game and implies that there may be a mechanism that prevents ETI from attacking us. As a result, the Hobbesian trap would be avoided if both parties assumed the other is not likely to attack.
Automation and taxation
Authors: Hötte Kerstin , Theodorakopoulos Angelos , Koutroumpis Pantelis
Published: March 2024

Do automation-induced changes in labour and capital income undermine public revenues? Decomposing taxes by source (labour, capital, sales), we analyse the impact of automation on tax revenues and the structure of taxation in nineteen EU countries during 1995–2016. Before 2008 robot diffusion was associated with a decline in total tax revenues and taxes from capital, along with decreasing labour and capital income and output. After 2007, the negative effects diminish. Information and Communication Technologies show a weak negative but persistent effect on total tax revenues and taxes on goods for the full period, and an increase in capital income. Overall, the impact of automation on production and taxation varies over time. Whether automation erodes taxation depends on the technology and stage of diffusion. Concerns about public budgets appear myopic when focusing on the short run and ignoring relevant technological trends.
Urban green infrastructure and pandemic response: how urban parks were used to support the COVID-19 response and the relationship between parkland acreage and excess mortality in large cities in the USA
Authors: Boyce Matthew R
Published: March 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was an unprecedented public health emergency, and relatively little research has investigated the relationship between urban green infrastructure, such as parks, and pandemic-related health outcomes. This study describes how urban parks were used to support the pandemic response and examines the associations between urban park acreage and excess mortality in 2020 in the 50 most populous cities in the USA. The descriptive portion of the study revealed that all cities temporarily closed at least some parks during the first year of the pandemic, and most reported collaborations between parks and public health authorities. Further, urban parks were used to support the pandemic response by serving as venues for meal distributions, diagnostic testing, education and childcare, housing shelters, vaccination clinics, personal protective equipment distributions and other services. A series of linear regression models were used to investigate the association between park acreage and excess mortality. Univariable regression revealed a negative, statistically significant relationship between total urban park acreage and excess mortality rates. However, the relationship weakened and was no longer significant when additional demographic and socioeconomic variables were added in multiple linear regressions. In combination, these results may inform efforts to optimize the design of urban parks and strengthen urban resilience against future infectious disease outbreaks, especially if they consider and address aspects such as park accessibility and equity.
‘The bar is different as a woman’: A thematic analysis of career advice given by female police officers
Authors: Padilla Kathleen E , Renfro Kellie , Huff Jessica
Published: March 2024

In an effort to reduce gender disparities in policing and move beyond the current legitimacy crisis faced by the profession, there has been a renewed focus on increasing the recruitment and retention of female police officers. Beyond understanding why current female officers have remained in the field, it is important to understand why some have left the profession altogether. The current study employs deductive and inductive coding of a mixed-methods self-report survey from 154 current and former female officers in the Dallas Police Department (DPD). We sought to examine the advice that current and former female police officers would give to other women who might want to enter or promote within policing. Responses highlighted challenges related to the impact on family life, navigating the male-dominated culture, maintaining one’s sense of identity and integrity, and creating strong social support networks. Implications for the DPD and other agencies are discussed.
Local Fiscal Response to State Preemption: A Case Study of Massachusetts’ Proposition 2½ Tax Referendum
Authors: Wang Shu , Wu Yonghong
Published: March 2024

State preemption in the form of tax and expenditure limits significantly limits local revenue-raising capacity. To gain insights into how local governments respond to fiscal preemption through direct democracy, this study focuses on tax referenda that override the levy limit set by Proposition 2½ in Massachusetts. Analyzing a sample of 320 municipalities from 2010 to 2021, we investigate the influence of fiscal slack resources and tax burden on the levy limit overrides and exclusions. Our analysis breaks down the tax referendum process into two stages, highlighting the involvement of different decision-makers: local officials proposing the referendum and individual voters approving it. We find that municipalities are motivated to seek tax referenda due to diminishing fiscal slack resources, yet the tax burden on residents can discourage such pursuits.
Bio-functional hydroxyapatite-coated 3D porous polyetherketoneketone scaffold for enhanced osteogenesis and osteointegration in orthopedic applications
Authors: Liu Huanhuan , Liu Taiqing , Yin Zhicheng , Liu Xiaoyin , Tan Ying , Zhao Yuwei , Yu Haiyang
Published: March 2024

Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), a high-performance thermoplastic special engineering material, maintains bone-like mechanical properties and has received considerable attention in the biomedical field. The 3D printing technique enables the production of porous scaffolds with a honeycomb structure featuring precisely controlled pore size, porosity and interconnectivity, which holds significant potential for applications in tissue engineering. The ideal pore architecture of porous PEKK scaffolds has yet to be elucidated. Porous PEKK scaffolds with five pore sizes P200 (225 ± 9.8 μm), P400 (411 ± 22.1 μm), P600 (596 ± 23.4 μm), P800 (786 ± 24.2 μm) and P1000 (993 ± 26.0 μm) were produced by a 3D printer. Subsequently, the optimum pore size, the P600, for mechanical properties and osteogenesis was selected based on in vitro experiments. To improve the interfacial bioactivity of porous PEKK scaffolds, hydroxyapatite (HAp) crystals were generated via in situ biomimetic mineralization induced by the phase-transited lysozyme coating. Herein, a micro/nanostructured surface showing HAp crystals on PEKK scaffold was developed. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that the porous PEKK-HAp scaffolds exhibited highly interconnected pores and functional surface structures that were favorable for biocompatibility and osteoinductivity, which boosted bone regeneration. Therefore, this work not only demonstrates that the pore structure of the P600 scaffold is suitable for PEKK orthopedic implants but also sheds light on a synergistic approach involving 3D printing and biomimetic mineralization, which has the potential to yield customized 3D PEKK-HAp scaffolds with enhanced osteoinductivity and osteogenesis, offering a promising strategy for bone tissue engineering.
Do Factory Jobs Improve Welfare? Experimental Evidence from Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Girum , Buehren Niklas , Goldstein Markus
Published: March 2024

This study explores the impact of a light-touch job-facilitation intervention that supported young female job seekers during the application process for factory work in a newly constructed industrial park in Ethiopia. Using data from a panel of 687 job seekers and randomized access to the support intervention, the study finds that treated applicants are more likely to be employed and have higher earnings and savings eight months after baseline, although these impacts are short-lived. Four years later, the effects on employment and income largely dissipated. The results suggest that young women face significant barriers to engaging in factory work in the short run that a simple job-facilitation intervention can help overcome. In the long term, however, these jobs do not offer a better alternative than other income-generating opportunities.
Persistence and Microbiome Modification in Rhizoctonia solani-Inoculated Rhizosphere Following Amendment with a Bacillus Biocontrol Agent
Authors: Moshe Maya , Frenkel Omer , Sela Noa , Davidovich Chagai , Amutuhaire Hildah , Banin Ehud , Cytryn Eddie
Published: March 2024

Bacterial biocontrol agents that antagonize soilborne pathogens are increasingly considered alternatives to chemical pesticides, but their in vivo efficacy is often inconsistent, restricting commercial use. The efficacy of a biocontrol agent can depend on rhizosphere competence and its interaction with native microbiomes, which can affect ecosystem functioning. This study investigated the capacity of a Bacillus cereus sensu lato biocontrol strain (S-25) to persist on roots and in the rhizosphere of cucumber and evaluated its impact on bacterial and fungal community composition in the rhizosphere in the absence and presence of Rhizoctonia solani, the causative agent of damping-off disease in young seedlings. Following amendment, S-25 abundance in the cucumber rhizosphere decreased by two orders of magnitude but remained relatively high for the duration of the experiment, in contrast to the root surface, where it was not detected. Amendment with S-25 significantly reduced the incidence of disease caused by R. solani without reducing the relative abundance of the fungal pathogen. Interestingly, R. solani did not substantially alter the rhizosphere microbial community, whereas S-25 reduced bacterial diversity and facilitated a shift in community composition, with increased relative abundance of Acidobacteriota and Actinomycetota, and reduced abundance of Pseudomonadota, Bacteroidota, and Verrucomicrobiota. Collectively, this study provides important insights into the mode of persistence of biocontrol agents and their effect on native microbiomes in the rhizosphere of pathogen-inoculated plants. It demonstrates that amendment can significantly alter local microbiomes and suggests that optimizing amendment regimes or selecting strains with higher rhizosphere competence can enhance future biocontrol agents.
In Vitro Antifungal Activity of White Thyme, Oregano, and Savory Oils Against Five Monilinia fructicola Isolates from the Southeastern United States
Authors: Chang Yuru , Boukari Wardatou , Riley Simon S. , Harmon Philip F. , Sarkhosh Ali , Brecht Jeffrey K.
Published: March 2024

Monilinia fructicola is a primary pathogen causing fruit brown rot of peach during pre- and postharvest in the southeast of the United States. In this in vitro study, we assessed the antifungal activity of four plant essential oil treatments against five isolates of M. fructicola obtained from naturally infected peaches in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. The tested essential oils were white thyme oil, oregano oil, summer savory oil, and a 1:1 mixture of thyme and oregano oils. We evaluated isolates’ growth using a Gompertz growth curve model. All tested essential oils exhibited antifungal activity against all isolates, with thyme, oregano, and the 1:1 mixture of thyme and oregano oils showing no significant differences and no evidence of synergy. Savory oil showed the least effectiveness and stability of the four essential oil treatments. We observed diverse sensitivities of different M. fructicola isolates to the essential oils. The minimum inhibitory concentration values for the essential oils ranged from 200 to 500 μl/liter, and the minimum fungicidal concentration values varied from 500 to 750 μl/liter, depending on the fungal isolate and essential oil treatment. All isolates were inhibited by the essential oils at 500 μl/liter and killed at 750 μl/liter. Our findings provide a basis for future in vivo research on the use of these essential oils for controlling fruit brown rot caused by M. fructicola in peach postharvest handling.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY 4.0 International license .
Serum Prestin Level May Increase Following Music Exposure That Induces Temporary Threshold Shifts: A Pilot Study
Authors: Iliadou Eleftheria , Plack Christopher J. , Pastiadis Konstantinos , Bibas Athanasios
Published: March 2024

Objectives:

To determine if blood prestin level changes after exposure to music at high sound pressure levels, and if this change is associated with temporary threshold shift (TTS) and/or changes in distortion product (DP) amplitude.

Design:

Participants were exposed to pop-rock music at 100 dBA for 15 min monaurally through headphones. Pure-tone audiometry, DP amplitude, and blood prestin level were measured before and after exposure.

Results:

Fourteen adults (9 women; age range: 20 to 54 years, median age = 31 [Interquartile ratio = 6.75]) with normal hearing were included in the study. Mean prestin level increased shortly after exposure to music, then returned to baseline within 1 week, although this trend was not observed in all participants. All participants presented TTS or a decrease in DP amplitude in at least one frequency after music exposure. There was a statistically significant average threshold elevation at 4 min postexposure. Statistically significant DP amplitude shifts were observed at 4 and 6 kHz, 2 min following exposure. Mean baseline serum prestin level (mean: 140.00 pg/mL, 95% confidence interval (CI): 125.92 to 154.07) progressively increased following music exposure, reaching a maximum at 2 hr (mean: 158.29 pg/mL, 95% CI: 130.42 to 186.66) and returned to preexposure level at 1 week (mean: 139.18 pg/mL, 95% CI: 114.69 to 163.68). However, after correction for multiple comparisons, mean prestin level showed no statistically significant increase from baseline at any timepoint. No correlation between maximum blood prestin level change and average TTS or distortion product otoacoustic emission amplitude shift was found. However, in an exploratory analysis, TTS at 6 kHz (the frequency at which maximum TTS occurred) decreased significantly as baseline blood prestin level increased.

Conclusions:

The results suggest that blood prestin level may change after exposure to music at high sound pressure levels, although statistical significance was not reached in this relatively small sample after correction. Baseline serum prestin level may also predict the degree of TTS. These findings thus suggest that the role of baseline serum prestin level as a proxy marker of cochlear susceptibility to intense music exposure should be further explored.
Retrospective comparison of a weight-based dose every 2 weeks with a fixed dose every month: a real-life analysis of nivolumab in the treatment of advanced melanoma
Authors: Leroy Marie , Desmedt Eve , Deramoudt Laure , Vasseur Michèle , Odou Pascal , Béhal Hélène , Décaudin Bertrand , Mortier Laurent , Simon Nicolas
Published: March 2024

Nivolumab was first authorized at a weight-based dose (WBD) of 3 mg/kg every two weeks (Q2W). Since 2017, a fixed dose (FD) regimen [first 240 mg Q2W and then 480 mg per month (Q4W)] was allowed. The objective of the study was to compare a WBD regimen and an FD regimen with regard to effectiveness and safety. We conducted a single-center, retrospective, real-life study of consecutive adult patients who had received a WBD of nivolumab or an FD of 480 mg Q4W. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of grade ≥3 immune-related adverse events (irAEs). The secondary endpoints were overall survival and cost of the treatment. In all, 342 patients were included: 71 in the WBD cohort and 271 in the FD cohort. 201 patients (59.6%) experienced an irAE, and 24 of these events were graded as ≥3. At 12 months, there was no significant difference in irAE occurrence between the two cohorts [hazard ratio (95% confidence interval): 0.54 (0.21–1.36), P = 0.19]. The 12-month overall survival rate was significantly lower in the WBD cohort (P < 0.001). Switching from a fortnightly weight dose to a fixed monthly dose halves the cost of hospitalization. Our results did not show a significant difference between WBD and FD cohort in the occurrence of severe irAEs. However Overall survival appeared to be significantly higher in FD group. Some clinical trials are investigating a hybrid dosing regimen in which a WBD is capped by an FD. The present results need to be confirmed in prospective studies.
Feasibility and efficacy of indocyanine green in monitoring systemic drug leakage during isolated limb perfusion for recurrent melanoma of extremity
Authors: Nekkanti Sri Siddharth , Nusrath Syed , Jarang Rajesh , Rayani Basanth Kumar , Vamshi Krishna Yerramshetty , Raju Kalidindi Venkata Vijaya Narsimha
Published: March 2024

Melanoma is known for its high metastatic potential and aggressive growth. Recurrence is common post-surgery, sometimes leading to unresectable disease. Locally recurrent unresectable melanoma of extremity has been treated with high-dose anticancer chemotherapy via isolated limb perfusion (ILP) to improve local efficacy of drug and salvage limbs. Standard ILP monitoring uses radiolabeled dyes, requiring specialized personnel and involving radiation exposure. In this case, we used indocyanine green (ICG) to track systemic drug leakage during ILP. A 47-year-old gentleman with recurrent malignant melanoma of the left foot, operated twice earlier and treated with adjuvant pembrolizumab, presented with multiple in-transit metastases in the limb. ILP was planned, with 5 mg ICG administered in the perfusion solution along with high-dose melphalan. Stryker’s SPI PHI handheld device was employed to visualize ICG during ILP. Absence of fluorescence beyond the involved extremity, such as fingers, ears, and the abdominal wall, indicated no systemic drug dispersion. For control, technetium radiocolloid dye was co-administered, monitored by a precordial gamma probe, confirming no systemic leakage, and validating effectiveness of ICG in leakage monitoring. ICG proves to be a safe, reliable, cost-effective, radiation-free approach for precise systemic drug leakage monitoring during ILP for recurrent melanoma of extremity.
Donor Cornea Storage Temperature: Investigation of the Time Period Immediately Before Cornea Transplantation Surgery
Authors: Andersen Karl Maeser , Da Joseph Lin , Petroll Walter Matthew , Waldrop William Hatcher
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

Donor cornea storage temperature seems to affect tissue viability; however, the time period between removal from storage and transplant surgery has not been explored. We investigated the possible impact time at room temperature in the operating room may have on endothelial cell density (ECD) and corneal thickness (CT).

Methods:

In our simulation, transplant-ineligible corneas underwent 1 of 4 room temperature protocols. ECD (by specular microscopy) and CT (by anterior segment optical coherence tomography [OCT]), measured before and after protocols, were used to explore possible effects of time at room temperature. Control group tissue resided at room temperature only long enough for warming and subsequent ECD and CT measurements.

Results:

Corneas underwent one of the following protocols: 1) 17 (±1) minutes at room temperature (for baseline OCT measurements; n = 13) followed by 23 minutes at 35°C (to facilitate specular imaging, conducted for all 4 protocols), 2) 60 (±1) minutes (1 hour; n = 8) at room temperature, 3) 187 (±1) minutes (approximately 3 hours; n = 7) at room temperature, and 4) 416 (±1) minutes (approximately 7 hours; n = 7). Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in ECD change (P = 0.353) or CT change (P = 0.415) between protocol groups. Controlling for donor age and death-to-preservation time rendered no statistical significance.

Conclusions:

Time at room temperature did not seem to significantly influence ECD or CT measured soon after warming. Studies exploring ECD postoperatively and long-term graft survival are needed to assess the possible clinical impact of preoperative time at room temperature.
Diversity of oncopharmacogenetic profile within Spanish population
Authors: Ferrer Bolufer Irene , Galiana Vallés Ximo , Izquierdo Álvarez Silvia , Serrano Mira Ana , Guzmán Luján Carola , Safont Aguilera María José , González Tarancón Ricardo , Bolaños Naranjo Matilde , Carrasco Salas Pilar , Santamaría González María , Rodríguez-López Raquel
Published: March 2024

Consensus guidelines for genotype-guided fluoropyrimidine dosing based on variation in the dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPYD) gene before treatment have been firmly established. The prior pharmacogenetic report avoids the serious toxicity that inevitably occurred in a non-negligible percentage of the treated patients. The precise description of the allelic distribution of the variants of interest in our reference populations is information of great interest for the management of the prescription of these antineoplastic drugs. We characterized the allelic distribution of the UGT1A1*28 variant (rs3064744), as well as the DPYD*2A (rs3918290) variant, c.1679T>G (rs55886062), c.2846A>T (rs67376798) and c.1129-5923C>G (rs75017182; HapB3) in series of 5251 patients who are going to receive treatment with irinotecan and fluoropyrimidines, representative of Valencian, Aragonese and Western Andalusian populations.
Noninvasive liver disease assessment to identify portal hypertension: Systematic and narrative reviews supporting the AASLD Practice Guideline
Authors: Rockey Don C. , Alsawas Mouaz , Duarte-Rojo Andres , Patel Keyur , Levine Deborah , Asrani Sumeet K. , Hasan Bashar , Nayfeh Tarek , Alsawaf Yahya , Saadi Samer , Malandris Konstantinos , Murad M. Hassan , Sterling Richard K.
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims:

Portal hypertension is a serious complication of cirrhosis, which leads to life-threatening complications. HVPG, a surrogate of portal pressure, is the reference standard test to assess the severity of portal hypertension. However, since HVPG is limited by its invasiveness and availability, noninvasive liver disease assessments to assess portal pressure, especially clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH), are needed.

Approach and Results:

We conducted a systematic review of Ovid MEDLINE(R) Ovid EMBASE, Ovid Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Ovid Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus from each database’s inception to April 22, 2022. We included only studies in English that examined ≥50 patients in single liver disease etiologies, which compared noninvasive tests (blood and/or imaging) to HVPG for predicting clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH; defined as HVPG ≥ 10 mm Hg) in patients with chronic liver disease. Outcomes included measures of diagnostic test accuracy. Additionally, a narrative review of studies not eligible for the systematic review is also provided. Nine studies with 2492 patients met the inclusion criteria. There was substantial heterogeneity with regard to liver disease studied and cutoff values used to detect CSPH. Blood-based tests, including aspartate-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) (56% sensitivity and 68% specificity) and FIB-4 (54% sensitivity and 73% specificity) had low accuracy measures. Imaging-based tests (transient elastography and shear wave elastography detection of liver stiffness measurement [LSM]) had better accuracy but also had substantial variation; at 15 kPa, TE sensitivity was 90%–96% and specificity was 48%–50%, while at 25 kPa, its sensitivity and specificity were 57%–85% and 82%–93%, respectively. The narrative review suggested that imaging-based tests are the best available noninvasive liver disease assessment to detect CSPH; CSPH is highly unlikely to be present at an LSM ≤15 kPa and likely to be present at an LSM ≥25 kPa.

Conclusions:

While imaging-based noninvasive liver disease assessment appeared to have higher accuracy than blood-based tests to detect CSPH, only 9 studies fit the a priori established inclusion criteria for the systematic review. In addition, there was substantial study heterogeneity and variation in cutoffs for LSM to detect CSPH, limiting the ability to establish definitive cutoffs to detect CSPH.
COVID-19-Related Work Absenteeism and Associated Lost Productivity Cost in Germany
Authors: Yang Jingyan , Rai Kiran K. , Seif Monica , Volkman Hannah R , Ren Jinma , Schmetz Andrea , Gowman Hannah , Massey Lucy , Pather Shanti , Nguyen Jennifer L.
Published: March 2024

Objective

The aim of the study is to estimate COVID-19 absenteeism and indirect costs, by care setting.

Methods

A population-based retrospective cohort study using data from the German Statutory Health Insurance (SHI) database to define outpatient (April 2020–December 2021) and hospitalized (April 2020–October 2022) cohorts of employed working-aged individuals.

Results

In the outpatient cohort (N = 369,220), median absenteeism duration and associated cost was 10.0 (Q1, Q3: 5.0, 15.0) days and €1061 (530, 1591), respectively. In the hospitalized cohort (n = 20,687), median absenteeism and associated cost was 15.0 (7.0, 32.0) days and €1591 (743, 3394), respectively. Stratified analyses showed greater absenteeism in older workers, those at risk, and those with severe disease.

Conclusions

The hospitalized cohort had longer absenteeism resulting in higher productivity loss. Being older, at risk of severe COVID-19 and higher disease severity during hospitalization were important drivers of higher absenteeism duration.
Effectiveness of integrated nursing interventions in enhancing patient outcomes during postoperative intravesical instillation for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer: A comparative study
Authors: Wang Wenwen , Chen Ying , Gu Jun
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to investigate nursing strategies for patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) undergoing postoperative intravesical instillation. We recruited 100 NMIBC patients from January 2017 to January 2022. Participants were randomly assigned to either the research group or the control group (n = 50 each) using random number tables. The control group received routine nursing interventions, while the research group received integrated nursing interventions. We compared and analyzed various parameters, including patient satisfaction, treatment compliance, General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) scores, core quality of life scale scores, bladder carcinoma specificity scale scores, disease coping scores, and the incidence of complications among patients undergoing instillation treatment. The research group exhibited significantly higher satisfaction scores and treatment compliance (P < .05). Additionally, GSES, Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) scores were significantly improved in the research group (P < .05). Scores on each dimension of the EORTC QLQ-C30 were higher (P < .05). The research group also had lower scores for post-nursing urinary system diseases, treatment problems, future worries, and intestinal symptoms in the QLQ-BLS24 score (P < .05). Furthermore, the research group experienced fewer postoperative complications (P < .05). Nursing interventions significantly enhance the outcomes of NMIBC patients undergoing intravesical instillation treatment. These interventions effectively improve treatment compliance, alleviate negative emotions, modify coping strategies, reduce the incidence of complications, and enhance overall nursing satisfaction.
Vaginal delivery of triplets after emergency transvaginal cerclage: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zou Tong , Wu Yi-Cheng , Yao Qiang
Published: March 2024

Rationale:

To report a peculiar case of vaginal delivery of a triplet after emergency transvaginal cerclage and to find a way to optimize some extreme situations encountered in clinical practice after evaluating feasibility.

Patient concerns:

A 33-year-old gravida 6, para 0050 woman at 21 + 6 weeks of gestation was referred to the obstetric department for opening of the cervical canal. An emergency McDonald cerclage was performed at 22 weeks of gestation after a comprehensive assessment, and the pregnancy ended with vaginal delivery at 24 + 6 weeks of gestation. The postpartum period was normal, and the newborns were discharged to home care after treatment in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Interventions:

After discussing the risks, the patient requested emergency transvaginal McDonald cerclage at 22 weeks of gestation.

Outcomes:

Emergency McDonald cerclage was performed at 22 weeks of gestation, and the pregnancy ended with vaginal delivery at 24 + 6/25 weeks of gestation, successfully prolonging gestation by 20/21 days. The postpartum period had no exceptional circumstances, and newborns were discharged to home care after treatment in the neonatal intensive care unit for 104/98/104 days.

Lessons:

Emergency cerclage seems to be impossible in multiple pregnancies. However, in this case, after a comprehensive assessment, it was feasible to extend the gestational age by emergency cerclage, and prompt and accurate evaluation is important to avoid complications and individualize the following management. In this case, we may find a way to optimize some extreme situations encountered in clinical practice and offer a glimmer of hope for families challenged with multiple pregnancies at risk of preterm delivery. However, more high-quality studies are needed to prove the effectiveness and safety of emergency cerclages in triplets.
Effect of liraglutide on cardiac function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials
Authors: Xia Wenjing , Yu Hua , Lei Xia , Wen Pengcheng
Published: March 2024

Background:

Liraglutide widely utilized in type 2 diabetes treatment, has elicited conflicting findings regarding its impact on cardiac function in patients with this condition. Therefore, The objective of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effects of liraglutide on cardiac function in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Methods:

We identified double-blind randomized trials assessing the effects of liraglutide compared to placebo on cardiac function in patients with type 2 diabetes. Data were synthesized with the fixed-effect models to generate standard mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of each outcome for liraglutide versus placebo. The risk of bias would be assessed according to the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool, while meta-analysis would be conducted using Revman 5.3.0 software. The evidence was graded based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

Results:

The meta-analysis encompassed 5 RCTs including 220 participants. Results revealed that liraglutide exhibited significant enhancements in left ventricular ejection fraction [SMD = −0.38, 95%CI(−0.70, −0.06), P = .02], cardiac index [SMD = −1.05, 95%CI(−1.52, −0.59), P < .0001], stroke volume [SMD = −0.67, 95%CI(−1.02, −0.32), P = .0002] and early diastolic filling velocity/late atrial filling velocity ratio [SMD = −0.52, 95%CI(−0.82, −0.22), P = .0006]. However, no statistically significant impact on cardiac output [SMD = −0.20, 95%CI(−0.53, 0.14), P = .26], early diastolic filling velocity/early diastolic annular velocity (E/Ea) ratio [SMD = −0.34, 95%CI(−0.75, 0.06), P = .10] and early diastolic filling velocity/early diastolic mitral annular velocity ratio [SMD = 0.21, 95%CI(−0.15, 0.56), P = .25] was observed. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation evidence quality ratings indicated that all the outcome measures included in this study were evaluated as having low and very low quality.

Conclusion:

The available evidence suggested that liraglutide may exert a favorable impact on cardiac function in patients with type 2 diabetes. Consequently, the utilization of liraglutide as a preventive measure against heart failure incidents in individuals with type 2 diabetes represents a promising strategy. However, robust evidence support requires the conduct of large-scale, multicenter high-quality RCTs.
The research status and prospects of nanomaterials in wound healing: A scientometric study
Authors: Xia Songxia , Wang Renxian , Bai Xueshan , Nie Jing-Jun , Chen Dafu , Teng Li , Yang Liya
Published: March 2024

Nanotechnology and nanomaterials have swiftly influenced wound healing, propelling the development of wound-healing nanomaterials. Therefore, it’s crucial to gather essential information about prominent researches in this domain. Moreover, identifying primary directions and related frontiers in wound healing and nanomaterials is paramount. This will enhance our comprehension of the current research landscape and foster progress in this field. Retrieved from the Web of Science core database, a total of 838 relevant studies published from 2013 to 2022 were analyzed through bibliometric visualization tools such as CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Bibliometrics Online Analysis Platform. The annual study count has been rising steadily, primary contributors to this field include China, India, and the United States. The author with the highest output is Zangeneh, Akram, while Grumezescu, Alexandru Mihai garners the most citations. Chinese Academy of Sciences emerges as the leading institution, with Nanomaterials as the predominant journal. The keyword “antibacterial” signals prevailing and forthcoming trends in this domain. This study presents the first scientometric study and bibliometric visualization for wound healing-related nanomaterials, shedding light on research hotspots and trends. Over the course of the decade from 2013 to 2022, enthusiasm for nanomaterials in wound healing research has surged, auguring well for upcoming investigations.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of minimally invasive versus conventional open proctectomy for locally advanced colon cancer
Authors: Peng Zhang , Ya Lu , Yichi Zhang , Dong Lin , Dechun Zhang
Published: March 2024

Background:

Locally advanced colon cancer is considered a relative contraindication for minimally invasive proctectomy (MIP), and minimally invasive versus conventional open proctectomy (COP) for locally advanced colon cancer has not been studied.

Methods:

We have searched the Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science for articles on minimally invasive (robotic and laparoscopic) and COP. We calculated pooled standard mean difference (SMD), relative risk (RR), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The protocol for this review has been registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023407029).

Results:

There are 10132 participants including 21 articles. Compared with COP, patients who underwent MIP had less operation time (SMD 0.48; CI 0.32 to 0.65; I2 = 0%, P = .000), estimated blood loss (MD −1.23; CI −1.90 to −0.56; I2 = 95%, P < .0001), the median time to semi-liquid diet (SMD −0.43; CI −0.70 to −0.15; I2 = 0%, P = .002), time to the first flatus (SMD −0.97; CI −1.30 to −0.63; I2 = 7%, P < .0001), intraoperative blood transfusion (RR 0.33; CI 0.24 to 0.46; I2 = 0%, P < .0001) in perioperative outcomes. Compared with COP, patients who underwent MIP had fewer overall complications (RR 0.85; CI 0.73 to 0.98; I2 = 22.4%, P = .023), postoperative complications (RR 0.79; CI 0.69 to 0.90; I2 = 0%, P = .001), and urinary retention (RR 0.63; CI 0.44 to 0.90; I2 = 0%, P = .011) in perioperative outcomes.

Conclusion:

This study comprehensively and systematically evaluated the difference between the safety and effectiveness of minimally invasive and open treatment of locally advanced colon cancer through meta-analysis. Minimally invasive proctectomy is better than COP in postoperative and perioperative outcomes. However, there is no difference in oncological outcomes. This also provides an evidence-based reference for clinical practice. Of course, multi-center RCT research is also needed to draw more scientific and rigorous conclusions in the future.
A novel CD8+ T cell-related gene signature as a prognostic biomarker in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Peng Xiaozhen , Lu Xingjun , Yang Daqing , Liu Jinyan , Wu Honglin , Peng Hong , Zhang Yiya
Published: March 2024

CD8+ T cells have great roles in tumor suppression and elimination of various tumors including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nonetheless, potential prognostic roles of CD8+ T cell-related genes (CD8Gs) in HCC remains unknown. In our study, 416 CD8Gs were identified in HCC, which were enriched in inflammatory and immune signaling pathways. Using The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset, a 5-CD8Gs risk model (KLRB1, FYN, IL2RG, FCER1G, and DGKZ) was constructed, which was verified in International Cancer Genome Consortium and gene expression omnibus datasets. Furthermore, we found that overall survival was independently correlated with the CD8Gs signature, and it was associated with immune- and cancer-related signaling pathways and immune cells infiltration. Finally, drug sensitivity data indicated that 10 chemotherapeutic drugs held promise as therapeutics for HCC patients with high-risk. In conclusion, multi-databases analysis showed that 5-CD8Gs and their signature could be an indicator to predict candidate drugs for HCC therapy.
Postpartum choriocarcinoma – a rare cause of delayed postpartum hemorrhage: Four case reports and literature review
Authors: Dai Guan-Lin , Tang Fu-Rong , Ma Yu , Wang Dan-Qing
Published: March 2024

Background:

Delayed postpartum hemorrhage is rare, with an incidence of 0.5% to 2.0% in all pregnancies. The most important causes are placental remnants, infections, and placental bed subinvolution. Postpartum choriocarcinoma, a highly malignant complication of pregnancy, is a rare condition that can be easily misdiagnosed as other common causes, such as gestational remnants, and delays the diagnosis.

Methods:

Four patients visited our clinic complaining of delayed postpartum hemorrhage, combined with respiratory and neurological symptoms in 2 cases. Two cases were confirmed by histopathological examination and in addition, medical history, elevated human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) level, and imaging findings help confirm the diagnosis of delayed postpartum hemorrhage caused by postpartum choriocarcinoma in other cases. Individualized combination chemotherapies were prescribed. In the light of massive cerebral metastasis in case 2, intrathecal methotrexate injection combined with whole-brain radiotherapy was prescribed.

Results:

Due to the absence of routine monitoring of β-hCG following full-term delivery, there was widespread metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Three patients got complete remission and there is no sign of recurrence. One patient had relapse and widespread metastasis and died at home 6 months after the last chemotherapy.

Conclusion:

It is important to be aware of the possibility of choriocarcinoma in patients with delayed postpartum hemorrhage. Clinicians should improve the recognition of choriocarcinoma following full-term delivery, emphasize the monitoring of β-hCG, comprehensively analyze the general condition of patients, and conduct standardized and individualized chemotherapy protocols.