bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Home time and state regulations among Medicare beneficiaries in assisted living communities
Authors: Mao Yunjiao , Li Yue , McGarry Brian , Wang Jinjiao , Temkin‐Greener Helena
Published: December 2023

Background

Home time is an important patient‐centric quality metric, which has been largely unexamined among assisted living (AL) residents. Our objectives were to assess variation in home time among AL residents in the year following admission and to examine the associations with state regulations for direct care workers (DCW) training and staffing and for licensed nurse staffing.

Methods

Medicare beneficiaries who entered AL communities in 2018 were identified, and their home time in the year following admission was measured. Home time was calculated as the percentage of time spent at home per day being alive. Resident characteristics and state regulations in DCW staffing, DCW training, and licensed staffing were measured. We used a multivariate linear regression model with AL‐level fixed effects to estimate the relationship between person‐level characteristics and home time. Linear regression models adjusting for resident characteristics were used to estimate the association between state regulations and residents' home time.

Results

The study sample included 59,831 new Medicare beneficiary residents in 12,143 ALs. In the year following AL admission, residents spent 94% (standard deviation = 14.6) of their time at home. Several resident characteristics were associated with lower home time: Medicare–Medicaid dual eligibility, having more chronic conditions, and specific chronic conditions, for example, dementia. In states with greater regulatory specificity for DCW training and staffing, and lower specificity for licensed staffing, residents had longer adjusted home time.

Conclusion/Implications

Home time varied substantially among AL residents depending on resident characteristics and state‐level regulatory specificity. AL residents eligible for Medicare and Medicaid had substantially shorter home time than the Medicare‐only residents, largely due to longer time spent in nursing homes. State AL regulatory specificity for DCWs and licensed staff also impacted AL residents' home time. These findings may guide AL operators and state legislators in efforts to improve this important quality of life metric.
A case of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma of the upper gingiva with minimal residual disease detected in cryopreserved ovarian tissue: A case report
Authors: Wakimoto Ken , Wakimoto Yu , Matsuda Ikuo , Yoshihara Satoshi , Ukita Yuji , Fukui Atushi , Hirota Seiichi , Shibahara Hiroaki
Published: December 2023

Recently, more than 200 live births following ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) and transplantation in cancer survivors have been reported worldwide. However, cancer survivors with minimal residual disease (MRD) in cryopreserved ovarian tissue are at the risk of relapse through the graft. Here, we report a rare case of a 19‐year‐old female patient with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma who had MRD in the ovary harvested for OTC. The patient was diagnosed with aggressive B‐cell lymphoma after gingival biopsy. The 18F‐fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose positron emission tomography scan performed before OTC showed no viable lesions in either ovary. However, on histological evaluation, we detected infiltration of lymphoma cells in the ovary. Informed consent about MRD is required even if there is no evidence of MRD in the ovary before OTC. Patients whose cryopreserved ovaries have MRD may require the development of alternative assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro growth or artificial ovary.
Effect of abutment type and creep behavior on the mechanical properties of implant restorations in the anterior region: A finite element analysis
Authors: Anniwaer Annikaer , Yin Zhengrong , Zhu Jiakang , Huang Cui
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the effect of abutment variation and creep on dental implant restorations.

Materials and Methods

Three finite element analysis (FEA) models of implant restorations were created, which were restored by conventional one‐piece abutment (CA), hybrid abutment crown (HAC), and multi‐unit abutment (MUA). The contacts were considered intimate (no friction), except for implant/abutment, abutment/screw, and abutment/screw/crown (HAC) attachments. The related mechanical parameters were used to improve the authenticity of the study. Instantaneous loads and constant loads (100 s) of 130 N were applied at a 30° angle to the palatal portion of the crown. Results were qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated using the equivalent von Mises stress, micro‐gap distance of the implant–abutment interface (IAI), preload changes, and safety index.

Results

The stress state of each component differed depending on the restoration type, from CA and HAC to MUA. Implants and screws were the structures that suffered the most stress under instantaneous loads. Each metal structure exhibited a substantial decrease in stress during a constant loading period. The screws of the MUA abutment showed more preload loss (62.1 N) after constant loads for 100 s. MUA base produced less micro‐gap (0.72 μm) at the IAI when it was compared with the CA group (0.93 μm) and HAC group (3.29 μm).

Conclusions

The abutment type influences the mechanical properties and performance of implant restorations. The creep effect decreases the maximum stress level and increases the safety factors of each structure, indicating that stress‐related mechanical complications may not occur more easily.
The effect of weather index insurance on social capital: Evidence from rural Ethiopia
Authors: Nigus Halefom Yigzaw , Nillesen Eleonora , Mohnen Pierre
Published: December 2023

We study the effect of weather index insurance (WII) uptake on social capital. We measure individual social capital using experimental and survey‐based measures and relate it to the actual purchase of WII. We use propensity score matching (PSM) and an instrumental variable (IV) to address endogeneity concerns. Our descriptive and PSM estimates show that WII uptake negatively and significantly affects social capital. We find that insured households contribute less to the public good than uninsured households. We also find qualitatively and quantitatively similar results using our IV approach, yet insufficient power renders most of our IV estimates insignificant. We however report robust significant effects of instrumented WII uptake on sociopsychological outcomes—WII uptake increases perceptions of self‐sufficiency and free‐riding behavior: these are potential channels through which a negative effect on social capital comes about. Although far from conclusive, our paper provides several pieces of evidence that suggest WII uptake negatively affects social capital.
Protective role of agarwood essential oil and compounds thereof in crop‐associated fungal pathogens
Authors: Liu Jing , Cheng Nuojin , Li Yuan , Jiang Xingtao , Luo Qi , Wu Zehong
Published: December 2023

The potential risk of fungal pathogen infection in agriculture has great adverse effects on agricultural development and human health. In this study, we explored the application of agarwood essential oil (AEO) and its main components in the development of agricultural fungicides. The compositions of AEO produced in Maoming City of Guangdong Province, China was firstly analysed by GC–MS. AEO and compounds thereof including carvacrol and longifolene were then used to perform a series of antifungal activity evaluations in vitro and in vivo against agricultural and foodborne pathogens. The in vitro results showed that the antifungal activities of AEO were comparable to those of hymexazol (a positive control), and carvacrol exhibited stronger efficacy. In vivo studies also showed that AEO and carvacrol could significantly inhibit the damage effect of Curvularia mebaldsii on the germination rate of wheat roots. Further, it was found that the germination rate exhibited a downward trend with the dose increase of AEO and carvacrol.
Hepatitis A hospitalisations in the United States and risk factors for inpatient mortality: A nationwide population study, 1998–2020
Authors: Wasuwanich Paul , So Joshua M. , Rajborirug Songyos , Karnsakul Wikrom
Published: December 2023

Hepatitis A virus infections in the United States have been declining; however, recent widespread outbreaks have brought the disease back into the spotlight. We aim to describe the epidemiology of hepatitis A hospitalisations from 1998 to 2020 in the United States and investigate risk factors for inpatient mortality. We utilised the National Inpatient Sample database and identified hepatitis A‐related hospitalisations using ICD‐9 and ICD‐10 diagnosis codes. Demographic and clinical data including death, coinfections, comorbidities and pregnancy status were extracted. Data were analysed by logistic and Poisson regression. We identified a total of 213,681 hepatitis A‐related hospitalisations between 1998 and 2020, with hospitalisation rates ranging between 22.4 per 1,000,000 and 62.9 per 1,000,000. Between 1998 and 2015, the hospitalisation rate for hepatitis A was decreasing (IRR = 0.98; 95% CI: 0.97–0.98; p < .001); however, between 2015 and 2020, it increased overall (IRR = 1.22; 95% CI: 1.21–1.23; p < .001). The overall inpatient mortality rate was 2.7%. Age ≥55 years (OR = 1.84; 95% CI: 1.41–2.40; p < .001), alcoholic cirrhosis (OR = 2.53; 95% CI: 1.64–3.90; p < .001), ascites (OR = 2.65; 95% CI: 1.86–3.78; p < .001), hepatorenal syndrome (OR = 9.04; 95% CI: 5.93–13.80; p < .001), heart failure (OR = 1.76; 95% CI: 1.29–2.39; p < .001), pulmonary hypertension (OR = 2.02; 95% CI: 1.28–3.19; p = .003) and malignant neoplasm (OR = 1.75; 95% CI: 1.25–2.45; p = .001) were associated with increased odds of mortality. Tobacco use disorder (OR = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.38–0.70; p < .001) was associated with decreased odds of mortality. None of the hepatitis A‐associated hospitalisations involving pregnant women resulted in death. Hepatitis A hospitalisations initially declined but increased rapidly after 2015. Certain risk factors can be used to predict prognosis of hospitalised patients.
International disease burden of acute viral hepatitis among adolescents and young adults: An observational study
Authors: Yang Qing , Lin Tianxiang , Zhao Yanrong , Qiu Yinwei , Jiang Xuewen , Yang Hongyu
Published: December 2023

Adolescents and young adults are the driving force of social development, and the prevalence of acute viral hepatitis (AVH) in this population cannot be ignored. At present, there are few studies on the disease burden of AVH in this age group, and most studies focus on chronic liver disease. In this study, we identified global trends in the burden of AVH among adolescents and young adults (15–29) to help policymakers implement precise disease interventions. In this observational study of disease trends, we collected data exclusively from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 study. This study examined the trends in the prevalence, incidence and mortality of AVH among adolescents and young adults in 21 regions of the world from 2009 to 2019. Age‐specific disease trends were analysed with a joinpoint regression model. The overall global disease burden of AVH declined. The prevalence rate per 100,000 people decreased from 316.13 in 2009 to 198.79 in 2019, the incidence rate decreased from 3245.52 in 2009 to 2091.93 in 2019, and the death rate decreased from 0.87 in 2009 to 0.43 in 2019. During the study period, the prevalence of hepatitis B virtues (HBV) in the young population decreased, but the downward trend of other types of hepatitis other than HBV was not obvious, especially HAV, which even showed an upward trend. Among adolescents and young adults aged 15–29 years, Western Saharan Africa had the highest prevalence of AVH in 2019. There were significant differences in mortality rates among different age groups; 20–24 was the age group with the highest mortality rate from 2009 to 2019, followed by the 15–19 and 25–29 age groups. Although the overall global AVH disease burden declined, some causes of AVH, such as HAV, showed an upward trend during the study period. In addition, the prevalence of AVH among adolescents and young adults in Asia and Africa was higher than that in other parts of the world and warrants more attention. Finally, more research should be conducted on mortality in the 20–24 age group.
Parliamentary Control of the Executive and the Duration of Government Formation
Authors: Aaskoven Lasse , Martin Shane
Published: December 2023

One particularly striking difference between parliamentary democracies is the length of time it takes to form a government after a general election, with consequences for governability and democratic accountability. This study contributes to the literature on government formation duration by exploring whether parties find it more difficult to form a government when parliament has greater control over what the executive can do. All else equal, parliamentary control reduces cabinet autonomy, meaning parties face greater uncertainty as to whether they will be able to achieve their policy goals if they enter government. This institution‐generated incomplete information exacerbates bargaining uncertainty and ultimately increases bargaining delays during government formation. Using newly collected data on two measures of parliamentary control – committee powers and budgetary powers – covering 36 non‐presidential countries, we find that post‐election government formation tends to take more time in countries where parliamentary control of the cabinet is stronger.
Before and after closed season for beach seine fishing in Ghana: Impact on benthic macroinvertebrates species diversity indices
Authors: Akwetey Margaret Fafa Awushie , Mensah Paul Kojo , Tibu Gertrude , Agboli Naomi Aku , Wiredu Gifty
Published: December 2023

Beach seine fishery provides a means of livelihood to many households in Africa and it is widely practiced in the coastal communities of Ghana due to the relatively cheaper operational cost. However, the small mesh sizes of beach seine nets and fishing activities that involve dragging a net through the nearshore seabed tend to destroy fish breeding grounds and capture juvenile fish and non‐target benthic macroinvertebrates, which get discarded. This study investigated the impact that before and after closed season for beach seine fishing had on macroinvertebrates species diversity indices at two Ghanaian beaches with different fishing pressures. The study was carried out at OLA and Sisimbo Beaches located in the Central Region of Ghana, taking advantage of the statutory 1‐month national fishing closed season in July 2022. Six (6) replicate sediment samples were taken at each beach after landing by beach seine fishers every month for 6 months, from April to June, and August to October, representing before and after closed season, respectively. Benthic macroinvertebrates were retrieved from the samples using appropriate protocols and subjected to indirect (Shannon, Simpson, Rényi) and direct (species abundance models, species accumulation models, multivariate statistics) measures of species diversity analyses. The indirect species diversity indices increased monotonically the following 2 months after closed season but reduced in the third month after closed season at both beaches. Conversely, the direct measures of diversity indices revealed that closed season for beach seine fishing improved species numbers and richness at both study beaches. This is the first report on the impact of a closed season on macroinvertebrates in any African country.
Variation in phenotypic plasticity across age‐at‐maturity genotypes in wild Atlantic salmon
Authors: Raunsgard Astrid , Persson Lo , Czorlich Yann , Ugedal Ola , Thorstad Eva B. , Karlsson Sten , Fiske Peder , Bolstad Geir H.
Published: December 2023

Evolution of phenotypic plasticity requires genotype–environment interaction. The discovery of two large‐effect loci in the vgll3 and six6 genomic regions associated with the number of years the Atlantic salmon spend feeding at sea before maturation (sea age), provides a unique opportunity to study evolutionary potential of phenotypic plasticity. Using data on 1246 Atlantic salmon caught in the River Surna in Norway, we show that variation in mean sea age among years (smolt cohorts 2013–2018) is influenced by genotype frequencies as well as interaction effects between genotype and year. Genotype–year interactions suggest that genotypes may differ in their response to environmental variation across years, implying genetic variation in phenotypic plasticity. Our results also imply that plasticity in sea age will evolve as an indirect response to selection on mean sea age due to a shared genetic basis. Furthermore, we demonstrate differences between years in the additive and dominance functional genetic effects of vgll3 and six6 on sea age, suggesting that evolutionary responses will vary across environments. Considering the importance of age at maturity for survival and reproduction, genotype–environment interactions likely play an important role in local adaptation and population demography in Atlantic salmon.
Multiple spatial scales of bacterial and fungal structural and functional traits affect carbon mineralization
Authors: Ma Zhiyuan , Jiao Shuo , Zheng Kaikai , Ni Haowei , Li Dong , Zhang Na , Yang Yunfeng , Zhou Jizhong , Sun Bo , Liang Yuting
Published: December 2023

Studying the functional heterogeneity of soil microorganisms at different spatial scales and linking it to soil carbon mineralization is crucial for predicting the response of soil carbon stability to environmental changes and human disturbance. Here, a total of 429 soil samples were collected from typical paddy fields in China, and the bacterial and fungal communities as well as functional genes related to carbon mineralization in the soil were analysed using MiSeq sequencing and GeoChip gene microarray technology. We postulate that CO2 emissions resulting from bacterial and fungal carbon mineralization are contingent upon their respective carbon consumption strategies, which rely on the regulation of interactions between biodiversity and functional genes. Our results showed that the spatial turnover of the fungal community was 2–4 times that of the bacterial community from hundreds of meters to thousands of kilometres. The effect of spatial scale exerted a greater impact on the composition rather than the functional characteristics of the microbial community. Furthermore, based on the establishment of functional networks at different spatial scales, we observed that both bacteria and fungi within the top 10 taxa associated with carbon mineralization exhibited a prevalence of generalist species at the regional scale. This study emphasizes the significance of spatial scaling patterns in soil bacterial and fungal carbon degradation functions, deepening our understanding of how the relationship between microbial decomposers and soil heterogeneity impacts carbon mineralization and subsequent greenhouse gas emissions.
Woman, Life, Freedom, One Year Later: Will the Iran Protests Succeed?
Authors: Monshipouri Mahmood , Zamiri Ramtin
Published: December 2023

This essay argues that the recent protests in Iran, ostensibly driven by the Woman, Life, Freedom movement, are a symbol of a far greater dissatisfaction with arbitrary rule, corruption, and incompetence. While compulsory veiling was the immediate cause, the main drivers are the ailing economy and the decline in public services. Given the depth and breadth of street protests and the ongoing civil disobedience, the Islamic Republic simply cannot return to business as usual. At the same time, the regime is incapable of reinventing itself. It faces political and socioeconomic constraints and a mix of demographic and environmental challenges, among others. As for whether outside pressure can help protesters, the West must balance its championing of the movement with its pursuit of diplomatic engagement on Iran's nuclear program. And Iran is now getting more international assistance by looking eastward to China and Russia. With the government and security forces willing to use violence against protesters, civil disobedience may be the only method to systematically challenge the ruling order.
NLRP3 regulates CIITA/MHC II axis and interferon‐γ‐inducible chemokines in Malassezia globosa‐infected keratinocytes
Authors: Luo Yun , Tang Jin‐Feng , Gao Fei‐Fei , Quan Juan‐Hua , Ma Chuan‐Ting , Li Shi‐Jie , Fan Yi‐Ming
Published: December 2023

CIITA, a member of NOD‐like receptor (NLR) family, is the major MHC II trans‐activator and mediator of Th1 immunity, but its function and interaction with NLRP3 have been little studied. We found activation of NLRP3 inflammasome, increased expression of CIITA, CBP, pSTAT1, STAT1, MHC II, IFN‐γ and IFN‐γ‐inducible chemokines (CCL1 and CXCL8), and colocalisation of NLRP3 with CIITA in Malassezia folliculitis lesions, Malassezia globosa‐infected HaCaT cells and mouse skin. CoIP with anti‐CIITA or anti‐NLRP3 antibody pulled down NLRP3 or both CIITA and ASC. NLRP3 silencing or knockout caused CIITA downexpression and their colocalisation disappearance in HaCaT cells and mouse skin of Nlrp3−/− mice, while CIITA knockdown had no effect on NLRP3, ASC, IL‐1β and IL‐18 expression. NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors and knockdown significantly suppressed IFN‐γ, CCL1, CXCL8 and CXCL10 levels in M. globosa‐infected HaCaT cells. CCL1 and CXCL8 expression was elevated in Malassezia folliculitis lesions and reduced in Nlrp3−/− mice. These results demonstrate that M. globosa can activate NLRP3 inflammasome, CIITA/MHC II signalling and IFN‐γ‐inducible chemokines in human keratinocytes and mouse skin. NLRP3 may regulate CIITA by their binding and trigger Th1 immunity by secreting CCL1 and CXCL8/IL‐8, contributing to the pathogenesis of Malassezia‐associated skin diseases.
Seed microbiome‐mediated herbicide resistance evolution in weeds
Authors: Hu Tingting , Fang Hongda , Pan Qianqian , Xu Haorong , Lv Tianxing , Fan Xiaoyan , Wang Yue , Guo Yichun , Mou Lei , Xu Jiayu , Zhu Jinwen , Matsumoto Haruna , Wang Mengcen
Published: December 2023

See also the Commentary on this article by Zhang et al., 242: 327–330.
Molecular module GmPTF1a/b‐GmNPLa regulates rhizobia infection and nodule formation in soybean
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Chen Jia‐Xin , Lian Wen‐Ting , Zhou Hui‐Wen , He Ying , Li Xin‐Xin , Liao Hong
Published: December 2023

Nodulation begins with the initiation of infection threads (ITs) in root hairs. Though mutual recognition and early symbiotic signaling cascades in legumes are well understood, molecular mechanisms underlying bacterial infection processes and successive nodule organogenesis remain largely unexplored.

We functionally investigated a novel pectate lyase enzyme, GmNPLa, and its transcriptional regulator GmPTF1a/b in soybean (Glycine max), where their regulatory roles in IT development and nodule formation were elucidated through investigation of gene expression patterns, bioinformatics analysis, biochemical verification of genetic interactions, and observation of phenotypic impacts in transgenic soybean plants.

GmNPLa was specifically induced by rhizobium inoculation in root hairs. Manipulation of GmNPLa produced remarkable effects on IT and nodule formation. GmPTF1a/b displayed similar expression patterns as GmNPLa, and manipulation of GmPTF1a/b also severely influenced nodulation traits. LI soybeans with low nodulation phenotypes were nearly restored to HI nodulation level by complementation of GmNPLa and/or GmPTF1a. Further genetic and biochemical analysis demonstrated that GmPTF1a can bind to the E‐box motif to activate transcription of GmNPLa, and thereby facilitate nodulation.

Taken together, our findings potentially reveal novel mediation of cell wall gene expression involving the basic helix–loop–helix transcription factor GmPTF1a/b acts as a key early regulator of nodulation in soybean.
Combined liver‐kidney transplantation in pediatric patients
Authors: Yi Nam‐Joon , Kim Jiyoung , Hong Su Young , Kang Hee Gyung
Published: December 2023

Combined liver‐kidney transplantation (CLKT) is a surgical procedure that involves transplanting both liver and kidney organs. There are two types of CLKT: simultaneous liver‐kidney transplantation (smLKT) and sequential LKT (sqLKT). CLKT accounts for a small percentage of liver transplantations (LTs), particularly in pediatric cases. Nevertheless, the procedure has demonstrated excellent outcomes, with high survival rates and lower rejection rates. The main indications for CLKT in pediatric patients differ somewhat from that in adults, in which end‐stage kidney disease after LT is the major indication. In children, congenital diseases are common reason for performing CLKT; the examples of such diseases include autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease with congenital hepatic fibrosis which equally affects both organs, and primary hyperoxaluria type 1, a primary liver disease leading kidney failure. The decision between smLKT or sqLKT depends on the dominant organ failure, the specific pathophysiology, and available organ sources. However, there remain significant surgical and societal challenges surrounding CLKT. Innovations in pharmacology and genetic engineering have decreased the necessity for CLKT in early‐diagnosed cases without portal hypertension or kidney replacement therapy. Nonetheless, these advancements are not universally accessible. Therefore, decision‐making algorithms should be crafted, considering region‐specific organ allocation systems and prevailing medical environments.
Immediate extubation after pediatric liver transplantation: Update on a single‐center experience
Authors: Scalise P. Nina , Koo Donna C. , Staffa Steven J. , Cuenca Alex G. , Kovatsis Pete G. , Kim Heung Bae , Lee Eliza J.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Immediate extubation (IE) following liver transplantation (LT) is increasingly common in adult patients. This study reviews our center's experience with IE in children following LT to determine characteristics predictive of successful IE and its effects on post‐operative outcomes.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent LT at our institution between January 2005 and November 2022. Patients with concomitant lung transplants and chronic ventilator requirements were excluded.

Results

Overall, 235 patients met study criteria. IE was achieved in 164 (69.8%) patients across all diagnoses and graft types. Of IE patients, only two required re‐intubation within 3 days post‐transplant. IE patients exhibited significantly shorter ICU (2 [1, 3 IQR] vs. 4 [2, 4 IQR] days, p < .001) and hospital lengths of stay (17 [12, 24 IQR] vs. 22 [14, 42 IQR] days, p = .001). Pre‐transplant ICU requirement, high PELD/MELD score, intraoperative transfusion, cold ischemia time, and pressor requirements were risk factors against IE. There was no association between IE and recipient age or weight. The proportion of patients undergoing IE post‐transplant increased significantly over time from 2005 to 2022 (p < .001), underscoring the role of clinical experience and transplant team learning curve.

Conclusion

Spanning 18 years and 235 patients, we report the largest cohort of children undergoing IE following LT. Our findings support that IE is safe across ages and clinical scenarios. As our center gained experience, the rate of IE increased from 40% to 83%. These trends were associated with lower ICU and LOS, the benefits of which include earlier patient mobility and improved resource utilization.
Matrix exceptional Laguerre polynomials
Authors: Koelink E. , Morey L. , Román P.
Published: December 2023

We give an analog of exceptional polynomials in the matrix‐valued setting by considering suitable factorizations of a given second‐order differential operator and performing Darboux transformations. Orthogonality and density of the exceptional sequence are discussed in detail. We give an example of matrix‐valued exceptional Laguerre polynomials of arbitrary size.
Evidence for a new model of the complex interrelationship of ball possession, physical intensity and performance in elite soccer
Authors: Jerome Benjamin W. C. , Stoeckl Michael , Mackriell Ben , Dawson Christian W. , Fong Daniel T. P. , Folland Jonathan P.
Published: December 2023

Background

How the physical metrics, especially physical intensity, and possession interact with each other, and subsequently combine to influence performance remains opaque. Therefore, we investigated the interrelationship of possession, physical metrics, and team performance in elite soccer.

Methods

Four seasons of a top European league were used to derive 80 team league performances (points), together with possession and physical data. Physical metrics were absolute distances (m) during the whole match and ball‐in‐play, and rates of distance covered (m⋅min−1) as the index of physical intensity, notably when in‐possession/out‐of‐possession, in total and within five speed categories. Interrelationships of possession, physical metrics, possession, and performance were assessed with Pearson's correlations and mediation analysis.

Results

Overall possession (r = 0.794) and time out‐of‐possession within the defensive third (r = −0.797) were most strongly correlated with performance. The strong relationships between in‐possession distances and performance appeared coincidental due to greater time in‐possession. Physical intensity had a complex relationship with possession and performance, with opposite relationships according to possession status: lower physical intensity when in‐possession and higher physical intensity when out‐of‐possession were associated with possession and performance. Mediation analysis revealed the direct, independent importance of possession for team performance; however, the association of physical intensity with performance was largely (>79%) mediated by possession.

Conclusion

Based on these findings, we propose a novel model of the interrelationships between possession, physical intensity, and performance, whereby higher possession is the largest, direct contributor toward enhanced team performance, with lower physical intensity in‐possession a consequence of higher possession, but greater physical intensity when out‐of‐possession a cause of increased possession.
Sustainable phosphorus recycling: A review of advanced recovery methods with a focus on hydrothermal humification technology and potential phosphorus resources in China for this method
Authors: Tang Chunyu , Gai Shuang , Liu Zhuqing , Sui Long , Cheng Kui , Yang Fan
Published: December 2023

The management of phosphorus (P) resources is facing dual challenges mediated by human activities: the scarcity of bioavailable P in soil and the disposal of massive undeveloped P resources in waste streams. In China, large amounts of P resources remain unexploited, including crop straw (0.9 Tg/year), pig manure (1.1 Tg/year), sludges (0.2 Tg/year), faeces (0.5 Tg/year) and outbreaking algae (0.48 Tg/year). Traditional P recovery technologies, including precipitation, acidulation and thermochemistry technology (PAT) and enhanced biological phosphorus removal technology (EBPR), have shown limitations in P recovery from these biomass waste streams. Hydrothermal humification technology (HTH) is a promising new technology, capable of converting typical waste streams into phosphate fertilizer for green and sustainable development. We estimate that the amount of available P that HTH could potentially extract from straw, macroalgae waste and sludge totals 0.46 Tg/year. Accordingly, the consistent development of HTH for the recycling of waste P in biomass will effectively improve China's P cycle and relieve the absence of phosphate rock sources and environment pollution.
A tau class glutathione S‐transferase in tea plant, CsGSTU45, facilitates tea plant susceptibility to Colletotrichum camelliae infection mediated by jasmonate signaling pathway
Authors: Lv Wuyun , Jiang Hong , Cao Qinghai , Ren Henze , Wang Xinchao , Wang Yuchun
Published: December 2023

Tea plant [Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze], as one of the most important commercial crops, frequently suffers from anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum camelliae. The plant‐specific tau (U) class of glutathione S‐transferases (GSTU) participates in ROS homeostasis. Here, we identified a plant‐specific GST tau class gene from tea plant, CsGSTU45, which is induced by various stresses, including C. camelliae infection, by analyzing multiple transcriptomes. CsGSTU45 plays a negative role in disease resistance against C. camelliae by accumulating H2O2. JA negatively regulates the resistance of tea plants against C. camelliae, which depends on CsGSTU45. CsMYC2.2, which is the key regulator in the JA signaling pathway, directly binds to and activates the promoter of CsGSTU45. Furthermore, silencing CsMYC2.2 increased disease resistance associated with reduced transcript and protein levels of CsGSTU45, and decreased contents of H2O2. Therefore, CsMYC2.2 suppresses disease resistance against C. camelliae by binding to the promoter of the CsGSTU45 gene and activating CsGSTU45. CsJAZ1 interacts with CsMYC2.2. Silencing CsJAZ1 attenuates disease resistance, upregulates the expression of CsMYC2.2 elevates the level of the CsGSTU45 protein, and promotes the accumulation of H2O2. As a result, CsJAZ1 interacts with CsMYC2.2 and acts as its repressor to suppress the level of CsGSTU45 protein, eventually enhancing disease resistance in tea plants. Taken together, the results show that the JA signaling pathway mediated by CsJAZ1‐CsMYC2.2 modulates tea plant susceptibility to C. camelliae by regulating CsGSTU45 to accumulate H2O2.
Scale‐invariant changes in corticospinal excitability reflect multiplexed oscillations in the motor output
Authors: Emanuele Marco , D'Ausilio Alessandro , Koch Giacomo , Fadiga Luciano , Tomassini Alice
Published: December 2023

In the absence of disease, humans produce smooth and accurate movement trajectories. Despite such ‘macroscopic’ aspect, the ‘microscopic’ structure of movements reveals recurrent (quasi‐rhythmic) discontinuities. To date, it is unclear how the sensorimotor system contributes to the macroscopic and microscopic architecture of movement. Here, we investigated how corticospinal excitability changes in relation to microscopic fluctuations that are naturally embedded within larger macroscopic variations in motor output. Participants performed a visuomotor tracking task. In addition to the 0.25 Hz modulation that is required for task fulfilment (macroscopic scale), the motor output shows tiny but systematic fluctuations at ∼2 and 8 Hz (microscopic scales). We show that motor‐evoked potentials (MEPs) elicited by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) during task performance are consistently modulated at all (time) scales. Surprisingly, MEP modulation covers a similar range at both micro‐ and macroscopic scales, even though the motor output differs by several orders of magnitude. Thus, corticospinal excitability finely maps the multiscale temporal patterning of the motor output, but it does so according to a principle of scale invariance. These results suggest that corticospinal excitability indexes a relatively abstract level of movement encoding that may reflect the hierarchical organisation of sensorimotor processes.

image

Key points

Motor behaviour is organised on multiple (time)scales.

Small but systematic (‘microscopic’) fluctuations are engrained in larger and slower (‘macroscopic’) variations in motor output, which are instrumental in deploying the desired motor plan.

Corticospinal excitability is modulated in relation to motor fluctuations on both macroscopic and microscopic (time)scales.

Corticospinal excitability obeys a principle of scale invariance, that is, it is modulated similarly at all (time)scales, possibly reflecting hierarchical mechanisms that optimise motor encoding.
Ultrasensitive quantification of HIV-1 cell-to-cell transmission in primary human CD4
+
T cells measures viral sensitivity to broadly neutralizing antibodies
Authors: Mazurov Dmitriy , Herschhorn Alon
Published: December 2023

HIV-1 can efficiently replicate by direct transmission from infected to uninfected CD4
+
T cells at confined local sites designated virological synapses (VSs). VSs are formed by cell junctions between HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins (Envs) on an infected cell and CD4 on an uninfected cell. These sites facilitate highly efficient viral transmission and contribute to HIV-1 evasion from neutralizing antibodies, but accurate quantification of the efficiency of cell-cell transmission is still challenging. Here, we developed an ultrasensitive HIV-1 cell-to-cell transmission assay that triggers the expression of the
nanoluciferase (nluc
) gene in target cells upon transmission and after reverse transcription of the HIV-1 RNA genome. The assay is based on the insertion of the
nluc
gene in an antisense orientation into the HIV-1 provirus. Nluc expression is blocked in virus-producing cells because the
nluc
gene contains an intron that can be efficiently spliced out only when mRNA is transcribed from the opposite (sense) strand. Thus, only sense mRNA that is spliced and subsequently reverse transcribed during transmission to target cells will support Nluc expression. Assay optimization resulted in a very low background, >99% splicing efficiency, high sensitivity, and wide dynamic range for the detection of cell-cell transmission in T cell lines and primary CD4
+
T cells. The optimized reporter vector detects cell-cell transmission using single-round viral vectors and HIV-1 molecular clones, which provide viral proteins of different HIV-1 strains, and reproducibly measures the sensitivity of HIV-1 transmission to antibody neutralization
in vitro
. This assay will contribute to understanding the fundamental mechanisms of HIV-1 cell-to-cell transmission, allow evaluation of pre-existing or acquired HIV-1 resistance in clinical trials, and can be adapted to study other retroviruses.

IMPORTANCE

HIV-1 can efficiently transmit from one cell to another but accurate quantification of this mode of transmission is still challenging. Here, we developed an ultrasensitive assay to measure HIV-1 transmission between cells and to evaluate HIV-1 escape from broadly neutralizing antibodies in primary human T cells. This assay will contribute to understanding the fundamental mechanisms of HIV-1 cell-to-cell transmission, allow evaluation of pre-existing or acquired HIV-1 resistance in clinical trials, and can be adapted to study the biology of other retroviruses.
Nitroxoline resistance is associated with significant fitness loss and diminishes
in vivo
virulence of
Escherichia coli
Authors: Deschner Felix , Risch Timo , Baier Claas , Schlüter Dirk , Herrmann Jennifer , Müller Rolf
Published: December 2023

Nitroxoline (NTX) is an antibiotic approved for the treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by Enterobacteriaceae like
Escherichia coli
, and it has been on the market for more than 50 years. Despite being in use longer than several other clinically relevant antibiotics, the resistance of clinical isolates against NTX has not evolved significantly. To better understand this observation, we performed a standardized
in vitro
evaluation of NTX in comparison to other UTI drugs with a focus on resistance development and especially their consequences. We have managed to generate low-level resistant mutants in
E. coli
and
Klebsiella pneumoniae
using a long-term exposure setup, and identified mutations in different efflux-related genes and in other pleiotropic regulators as well as the sensor histidine kinase
envZ
. Subsequently, mutants were characterized by metabolic and proteomic analyses confirming major effects of NTX resistance on both metabolism and differential protein expression of
E. coli
, which ultimately also translates into reduced
in vitro
motility and
in vivo
virulence of mutant strains as shown in a zebrafish larvae infection model.

IMPORTANCE

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a global threat and requires the exploration of underestimated treatment options. Nitroxoline, an effective broad-spectrum antibiotic, does not suffer from high resistance rates in the clinics but surprisingly, it is not heavily used yet. Our findings provide compelling evidence that Nitroxoline resistance renders bacteria unable to cause an infection
in vivo
, thereby reinvigorating the potential of Nitroxoline in combating AMR.
Morfofunctional and Molecular Changes in Placenta and Peripheral Blood in Preeclampsia and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Artemieva K. A. , Stepanova Yu. V. , Stepanova I. I. , Shamarakova M. V. , Tikhonova N. B. , Nizyaeva N. V. , Tsakhilova S. G. , Mikhaleva L. M.
Published: December 2023

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and preeclampsia (PE) are common pregnancy complications with similar risk factors. Although GDM is associated with PE, the exact mechanism underlying the association is unclear. The objective of this work was to study the morphofunctional and molecular changes in the placenta and peripheral blood in PE and GDM. Local and systemic changes in the production of several placental proteins were assessed along with markers of inflammation and metabolic disorders. Expression of placental lactogen, trophoblastic β1-glycoprotein, placental alpha-1-microglobulin, and proteinase 3 in villi was found to change in complicated pregnancy groups. Similarity of underlying pathogenic mechanisms was demonstrated for PE and GDM.
Multiple micronutrient deficiencies as a long-term complication of bariatric surgery
Authors: Dixit Devika , Rodriguez Vanessa I , Naumann Ashton A , Kamel Amir Y
Published: December 2023

Micronutrient deficiencies may develop as a long-term complication of bariatric surgery due to alteration of gut anatomy and disruption of normal gut absorption. Inadequate repletion of essential vitamin and mineral deficiencies can lead to multisystem dysfunction. We present a case of a woman in her 50s, with a history of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass over 10 years ago, who presented with generalised weakness and a diffuse desquamating rash. A punch biopsy performed was compatible with nutritional deficiency. Labs revealed low levels of micronutrients A, B1, B6, C, E, zinc and copper. The patient received intravenous micronutrients and an oral regimen, which improved her symptoms. Unfortunately, the patient died from cardiac arrest secondary to pulmonary oedema. This report highlights the importance of high suspicion of micronutrient deficiency in patients with a history of bariatric surgery and maintaining lifelong nutritional follow-up.
Trauma in the elderly: a bilateral rectus sheath haematoma
Authors: McArdle Michael
Published: December 2023

Life expectancy has more than doubled in the last century, and a new cohort of elderly and increasingly frail patients is presenting to emergency departments with new clinical challenges. When this patient cohort presents after injury, all aspects of clinical practice have to be recalibrated to provide safe and appropriate care. The prevalence of chronic disease, levels of organ failure, multiple comorbidities, greater use of anticoagulation and incidence of recurrent low- and high-impact trauma may delay and obscure diagnosis and, ultimately, increase mortality.

Older age is a risk factor for rectus sheath haematoma (RSH), which is haemorrhage into the potential space surrounding the rectus abdominis muscle/s. It is a rare presentation following trauma but can provide diagnostic challenges and be fatal. Even more rare is bilateral RSH with only 12 reported in the literature since 1981.

This case report describes bilateral RSH presenting in an elderly woman following a fall and the consequences of seemingly minor trauma in the elderly.
Rare presentation of thrombosis with bleeding in Behcet’s disease
Authors: Meisel Talia , Mian Sundus , Nguyen Andy , Ayesha Bibi
Published: December 2023

Behcet’s disease (BD) is a rare autoimmune and autoinflammatory disease characterised by recurrent oral and genital aphthous ulcers as well as gastrointestinal, ocular, neurological, articular and vascular inflammation. Patients are at risk for both thrombotic events and bleeding, so providers are often challenged in deciding whether to start patients on anticoagulation. We report a rare, complex case of a patient with BD who presented with massive gastrointestinal bleeding. This case report highlights the management of recurrent thrombosis due to protein C and S deficiency in a patient with BD who also presents with acute gastrointestinal bleeding.
Large hepatocellular carcinoma treated with sequential SBRT and immunotherapy with anti-VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) therapy
Authors: Bidarmaghz Bardia , Idrees Marwan , Lee Yoo Young , Hodgkinson Peter
Published: December 2023

Managing large solitary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains challenging as guidelines recommend a palliative approach given the general poor prognosis without accounting for variations in the underlying tumour biology. Surgical resection provides significantly better survival than other modalities for HCC, but only a small proportion of patients with large tumours qualify for surgical resection. Recently, with technological advances in radiation therapy, stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) has emerged as an alternative treatment option for HCC . In this paper, we present a patient who was diagnosed with a 13 cm HCC with vascular invasion. SBRT was delivered as a locoregional therapy followed by immunotherapy with the outcome of complete pathological response observed on right hemi-hepatectomy.
Primary Ewing’s sarcoma of the talus
Authors: Kantiwal Prabodh , Yadav Sandeep Kumar , Nalwa Aasma , Rajnish Rajesh Kumar
Published: December 2023

Ewing’s sarcoma is a malignant round cell tumour of bones and soft tissues that usually arises from the diaphyseal or meta-diaphyseal parts of long bones and less commonly from flat bones. It occurs rarely in the foot and if occurs, the calcaneus and the metatarsals are commonly involved. We present a case of a young woman diagnosed with primary Ewing’s sarcoma of the talus with local spread to adjacent tarsals and the ankle joint. Ewing’s sarcoma of feet, if present with even a trivial suspicion of spread either locally or distant, makes limb salvage surgery difficult. So, the treatment with radical surgery or by combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy should be considered—keeping in mind the complex anatomy of the foot and the difficulty in achieving tumour-free margins. Based on this experience, she underwent below-knee amputation. The patient received adjuvant chemotherapy and survived with a disease-free survival at the latest follow-up of 1 year.