bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of blocking CD24 and CD47 ‘don't eat me’ signals in combination with rituximab in mantle‐cell lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Aroldi Andrea , Mauri Mario , Ramazzotti Daniele , Villa Matteo , Malighetti Federica , Crippa Valentina , Cocito Federica , Borella Chiara , Bossi Elisa , Steidl Carolina , Scollo Chiara , Voena Claudia , Chiarle Roberto , Mologni Luca , Piazza Rocco , Gambacorti‐Passerini Carlo
Published: September 2023

Mantle‐cell lymphoma (MCL) is a B‐cell non‐Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) with a poor prognosis, at high risk of relapse after conventional treatment. MCL‐associated tumour microenvironment (TME) is characterized by M2‐like tumour‐associated macrophages (TAMs), able to interact with cancer cells, providing tumour survival and resistance to immuno‐chemotherapy. Likewise, monocyte‐derived nurse‐like cells (NLCs) present M2‐like profile and provide proliferation signals to chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), a B‐cell malignancy sharing with MCL some biological and phenotypic features. Antibodies against TAMs targeted CD47, a ‘don't eat me’ signal (DEMs) able to quench phagocytosis by TAMs within TME, with clinical effectiveness when combined with Rituximab in pretreated NHL. Recently, CD24 was found as valid DEMs in solid cancer. Since CD24 is expressed during B‐cell differentiation, we investigated and identified consistent CD24 in MCL, CLL and primary human samples. Phagocytosis increased when M2‐like macrophages were co‐cultured with cancer cells, particularly in the case of paired DEMs blockade (i.e. anti‐CD24 + anti‐CD47) combined with Rituximab. Similarly, unstimulated CLL patients‐derived NLCs provided increased phagocytosis when DEMs blockade occurred. Since high levels of CD24 were associated with worse survival in both MCL and CLL, anti‐CD24‐induced phagocytosis could be considered for future clinical use, particularly in association with other agents such as Rituximab.
Spleen stiffness: a new tool to predict high‐risk varices in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Gaspar Rui , Silva Marco , Cardoso Pedro , Goncalves Raquel , Andrade Patrícia , Macedo Guilherme
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Cirrhosis is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Portal hypertension is the major contributor of cirrhosis‐related complications and is defined as a hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) > 5 mmHg. Measurement of HVPG is an invasive, difficult, and costly procedure. Therefore, it is only performed in specialized centers. Liver stiffness measured with transient elastography is one of the most studied noninvasive markers of portal hypertension, and spleen elastography has recently emerged as an important adjuvant tool. The development of a new probe (100 Hz) that more reliably reflect the grade of portal hypertension evaluated by spleen stiffness measurement has improved the accuracy of this technique. The aim of this work was to evaluate the accuracy of spleen stiffness with the new dedicated probe to predict the presence of high‐risk varices, as well as to determine the ideal cutoff to predict it.

Methods

Prospective study of cirrhotic patients admitted to upper endoscopy that were also submitted to liver and spleen elastography with the 100‐Hz probe by the same blinded operator in a tertiary center.

Results

We included 209 cirrhotic patients, with mean age of 61.9 years (±9.9), 77.0% male. The most common etiology was alcoholic liver disease (72.7%). The median value of liver elastography was 25.3 [4.5–75] kPa, and the median value of spleen elastography was 42.4 [7.6–100] kPa. At the cutoff of 53.25 kPa, we obtained sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 72.6% to predict high‐risk varices, and, according to this cutoff, 133/175 of esophagogastroduodenoscopy could have been spared (76.0%), while according to Baveno guidelines, only 51/175 would have been spared (29.1%).

Conclusion

In the era of noninvasive exams, spleen elastography with the 100‐Hz probe emerges as an excellent tool for prediction of presence of high‐risk varices. At the cutoff of 53.25 kPa, spleen elastography avoids upper endoscopy for screening for high‐risk varices, promising to be become part of the hepatologists' daily routine.
Preparing for pragmatic trials in dementia care: Health equity considerations for nonpharmacological interventions
Authors: Aranda María P. , Baier Rosa , Hinton Ladson , Peak Katherine D. , Jackson Jonathan D. , Dilworth‐Anderson Peggye , Gitlin Laura N. , Jutkowitz Eric , Quiñones Ana R.
Published: September 2023

Inequities with regard to brain health, economic costs, and the evidence base for dementia care continue. Achieving health equity in dementia care requires rigorous efforts that ensure disproportionately affected populations participate fully in—and benefit from—clinical research. Embedding‐proven interventions under real‐world conditions and within existing healthcare systems have the potential to examine the effectiveness of an intervention, improve dementia care, and leverage the use of existing resources. Developing embedded pragmatic controlled trials (ePCT) research designs for nonpharmacological dementia care interventions involves a plethora of a priori assumptions and decisions. Although frameworks exist to determine whether interventions are “ready” for ePCT, there is no heuristic to assess health equity‐readiness. We discuss health equity considerations, case examples, and research strategies across ePCT study domains of evidence, risk, and alignment. Future discussions regarding health equity considerations across other domains are needed.
Natural variation of GmFATA1B regulates seed oil content and composition in soybean
Authors: Cai Zhandong , Xian Peiqi , Cheng Yanbo , Yang Yuan , Zhang Yakun , He Zihang , Xiong Chuwen , Guo Zhibin , Chen Zhicheng , Jiang Huiqian , Ma Qibin , Nian Hai , Ge Liangfa
Published: September 2023

Soybean (Glycine max) produces seeds that are rich in unsaturated fatty acids and is an important oilseed crop worldwide. Seed oil content and composition largely determine the economic value of soybean. Due to natural genetic variation, seed oil content varies substantially across soybean cultivars. Although much progress has been made in elucidating the genetic trajectory underlying fatty acid metabolism and oil biosynthesis in plants, the causal genes for many quantitative trait loci (QTLs) regulating seed oil content in soybean remain to be revealed. In this study, we identified GmFATA1B as the gene underlying a QTL that regulates seed oil content and composition, as well as seed size in soybean. Nine extra amino acids in the conserved region of GmFATA1B impair its function as a fatty acyl–acyl carrier protein thioesterase, thereby affecting seed oil content and composition. Heterogeneously overexpressing the functional GmFATA1B allele in Arabidopsis thaliana increased both the total oil content and the oleic acid and linoleic acid contents of seeds. Our findings uncover a previously unknown locus underlying variation in seed oil content in soybean and lay the foundation for improving seed oil content and composition in soybean.
Acetylcholine release from striatal cholinergic interneurons is controlled differently depending on the firing pattern
Authors: Arakawa Itsumi , Muramatsu Ikunobu , Uwada Junsuke , Sada Kiyonao , Matsukawa Noriyuki , Masuoka Takayoshi
Published: September 2023

How is the quantal size in neurotransmitter release adjusted for various firing levels? We explored the possible mechanisms that regulate acetylcholine (ACh) release from cholinergic interneurons using an ultra‐mini superfusion system. After preloading [3H]ACh in rat striatal cholinergic interneurons, the release was elicited by electrical stimulation under a condition in which presynaptic cholinergic and dopaminergic feedback was inhibited. [3H]ACh release was reproducible at intervals of more than 10 min; shorter intervals resulted in reduced levels of ACh release. Upon persistent stimulation for 10 min, ACh release transiently increased, before gradually decreasing. Vesamicol, an inhibitor of the vesicular ACh transporter (VAChT), had no effect on the release induced by the first single pulse, but it reduced the release caused by subsequent pulses. Vesamicol also reduced the [3H]ACh release evoked by multiple pulses, and the inhibition was enhanced by repetitive stimulation. The decreasing phase of [3H]ACh release during persistent stimulation was accelerated by vesamicol treatment. Thus, it is likely that releasable ACh was slowly compensated for via VAChT during and after stimulation, changing the vesicular ACh content. In addition, ACh release per pulse decreased under high‐frequency stimulation. The present results suggest that ACh release from striatal cholinergic interneurons may be adjusted by changes in the quantal size due to slow replenishment via VAChT, and by a reduction in release probability upon high‐frequency stimulation. These two distinct processes likely enable the fine tuning of neurotransmission and neuroprotection/limitation against excessive output and have important physiological roles in the brain.

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Intranasal oxytocin does not change partner preference in female titi monkeys (Plecturocebus cupreus), but intranasal vasopressin decreases it
Authors: Zablocki‐Thomas Pauline , Lau Allison , Witczak Lynea , Dufek Madison , Wright Amber , Savidge Logan , Paulus John , Baxter Alexander , Karaskiewicz Chloe , Seelke Adele M. H. , Freeman Sara M. , Ferrer Emilio , Bales Karen L.
Published: September 2023

Strong social bonds are critical to human health; however, the mechanisms by which social bonds are formed and maintained are still being elucidated. The neurohormones oxytocin (OT) and vasopressin (AVP) are considered likely candidates. Primate females, both human and nonhuman, remain understudied populations. Here, we conducted a pharmacological study coupled with a behavioral partner preference test (PPT) to better understand the mechanistic basis of attachment in adult female titi monkeys (Plecturocebus cupreus). This pair‐bonding species shares a conserved form of oxytocin with humans and is an excellent model organism to study the neural basis of social bonding. We performed intranasal administration of three doses of oxytocin (IN‐OT), two doses of vasopressin (IN‐AVP), one dose of an oxytocin antagonist (IN‐OTA) and one dose of a saline treatment. We found that compared to the saline control, the IN‐AVP treatment (lower dose, 40 IU/kg) decreased the time spent in proximity to the partner and increased lip‐smacking toward the stranger. We found no effects of IN‐OT or IN‐OTA manipulation on partner preference. In contrast, low‐dose IN‐AVP weakened the partner preference in female titi monkeys.
Cryolipolysis for fat reduction using Cooltech® Define technology: A large‐sample retrospective clinical study
Authors: Vignoli Fabrizio , Mármol Gregorio Viera
Published: September 2023

Background

Cryolipolysis is a noninvasive technique for localized fat reduction, which induces selective apoptosis of the adipocytes using controlled exposure to intense cold. During the past 10 years, this technique has been shown to be safe and effective and its application has significantly increased. In this context, Cooltech® devices have been widely used around the world.

Aims

The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the removal of localized fatty tissue in different body areas using the new Cooltech® Define controlled cooling system.

Methods

This single‐center study was carried out on 287 patients, both female and male, treated with Cooltech® Define on different body areas for a total of 1118 procedures. Follow‐up evaluations were conducted to estimate efficacy and safety. Efficacy was evaluated through plicometry and photographs. Side effects were also reported.

Results

Fold thickness showed a significant reduction (−69.91 ± 12.55%) after cryolipolysis treatment (fold thickness before: 35.33 ± 8.41 mm; fold thickness after: 10.69 ± 5.27 mm). Few side effects were reported, they included posttreatment pain (1.70%) and one case of paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (0.09%).

Conclusion

The Cooltech® Define cryolipolysis device is a safe, effective, and well‐tolerated nonsurgical procedure for reducing localized fat.
Cross‐modal and cross‐cultural perceptions of parosmia
Authors: Tei Masayoshi , Sekine Rumi , Mori Eri , Mazal Patricia Portillo , Gupta Neelima , Enecilla Maria Lourdes Berioso , Hummel Thomas
Published: September 2023

This international study aimed to investigate cross‐modal associations between parosmic sensations and visual information, as well as explore potential cross‐cultural differences; 393 parosmia patients from Argentina, Germany, Japan, and the Philippines participated. The patients were provided with a 63‐color chart encompassing diverse hues and a 20‐shape chart containing polygonal and curved shapes. Their task was to choose one color and one shape that matched their parosmic sensations. Results indicated that patients generally associated their parosmic sensations with brownish or greenish colors, darker colors, and polygonal or cloud‐like shapes. Significant cross‐cultural differences were observed, with Germans tending to select darker colors and edged shapes, while Japanese preferred brighter colors and curved shapes. These differences appeared to be related to the intensity of parosmia, which was higher among Germans. The study suggests a cross‐modal relationship between olfaction and vision, while also highlighting the influence of cultural factors on parosmia perception.

Practical Applications

The findings of this study have practical implications for understanding and managing parosmia symptoms, particularly in multicultural settings. Healthcare professionals can use the cross‐modal associations between olfactory sensations and visual information as a tool for assessment and diagnosis of parosmia patients. By considering the cultural background of patients, healthcare providers can better understand the nuances in their descriptions and interpretations of parosmic sensations. Additionally, the observed cross‐cultural differences in color and shape associations can inform the development of standardized assessment tools that are sensitive to cultural variations. This knowledge can enhance communication between patients and healthcare professionals, leading to more accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment approaches, and improved patient outcomes. Furthermore, the study highlights the need for cultural sensitivity in odor‐related research and the development of interventions for parosmia and other olfactory disorders.
Duration of monitoring after cessation of oxygen therapy in infants with bronchiolitis
Authors: Gilbert Yasmin , Shrapnel Jane , Lau Christine , Dalby‐Payne Jacqueline
Published: September 2023

Aim

There is no evidence for how long bronchiolitis patients should be observed after coming off oxygen therapy and wide practice variation exists. We aimed to investigate whether it is safe to discharge bronchiolitis patients 4 h after cessation of oxygen therapy.

Methods

A retrospective single‐centre cohort study of 884 infants (n = 462 in 2018 vs. n = 422 in 2019) aged 0–24 months admitted with bronchiolitis in 2018 and 2019 was conducted after implementation of a bronchiolitis protocol recommending discharge home 4 h post‐cessation of oxygen therapy in 2019. We compared the rate of readmissions and Clinical Reviews/Rapid Responses in the pre‐ and post‐exposure cohorts.

Results

There was a significant reduction in median (interquartile range (IQR)) time to discharge post oxygen cessation by 87 min (510 (370–1033) min versus 423 (273–904) min; P < 0.001) and in median (IQR) length of stay by 6.7 h (2.11 (1.54–2.97) days vs. 1.83 (1.17–2.71) days; P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between readmissions in 2018 compared to 2019 (0.6% vs. 1.4%; P = 0.317). In 2018, there were two Clinical Reviews and in 2019 there were two Rapid Responses post‐cessation of oxygen. There were 89 patients discharged within 4 h of cessation of oxygen therapy (n = 18 in 2018 vs. n = 71 in 2019; P < 0.001) with no readmissions, Clinical Reviews or Rapid Responses in the 2019 cohort.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that patients can be discharged 4 h after cessation of supplemental oxygen without increased risk of adverse events.
Ten‐year impact of a Down syndrome pediatric clinic
Authors: Hickey Francis , Wolter‐Warmerdam Kristine , Winders Patricia , Holland Samantha , Kelminson Karen , Daniels Dee
Published: September 2023

To report the 10‐year experience of a new pediatric Down syndrome (DS) center at one of the top 10 pediatric hospitals in the United States identified by U.S. News and World Report serving children and young adults with DS. This is a retrospective cohort study design of 1812 children with DS at a single, large, pediatric referral center specializing in DS. Children were identified from the comprehensive clinic database populated by the clinic's Visit and Intake Forms and electronic medical records. The average age at initial clinic visit was 5.50 years (SD ± 5.64). Most patients had a gastrointestinal diagnosis (n = 1319, 72.8%), ophthalmologic anomaly (n = 1286, 71.0%), cardiac defect (n = 1056, 58.3%), and obstructive sleep apnea (n = 975, 53.8%). The most common referrals made for American Academy of Pediatrics DS Guidelines compliance were for labs (n = 1152), audiology (n = 1145), ophthalmology (n = 966), and cardiology (n = 491). Clinic outreach to community pediatricians to ensure compliance with guidelines was statistically impactful with audiology (2017–2020 = 59.8%; 2011–2016 = 65.5%) and sleep study referrals (2017–2020 = 17.2%; 2011–2016 = 28.0%). Over its 10 years, the DS pediatric clinic produced over 9800 department and 5250 testing or procedure referrals. The highest volume procedures were in ear, nose, and throat with tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy and pressure equalizer tubes. Our data support that the pediatric DS clinic model can positively impact the overall health measures of patients and produce significant revenue generated by referral appointments, testing, and procedures.
Personalisation and embodiment in e‐Learning for health professionals: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Skrupky Lee P. , Stevens Ryan W. , Virk Abinash , Tande Aaron J. , Oyen Lance J. , Cook David A.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Mayer's theory of multimedia learning proposes that personalisation and embodiment (P/E) can improve outcomes in e‐Learning. The authors hypothesised that an e‐Learning module enhanced by P/E principles would lead to higher knowledge, perceived P/E and motivation among health care professionals, compared with an unenhanced module.

Methods

The authors conducted a randomised trial comparing two versions of a 30‐minute multimedia e‐Learning module addressing the antibiotic management of pneumonia. The unenhanced format used slides with voiceover (human voice but no visible speaker), formal language and no specific P/E strategies. The enhanced format additionally implemented P/E strategies including conversational style, polite language, visible author, social congruence, human‐like presence and professional presence by subtly changing the script and substituting several short videos of subject matter experts. Participants included pharmacists, physicians and advanced practice providers from three academic and several community hospitals. Outcomes included knowledge, perceived P/E (assessed by the Congruence Personalisation Questionnaire, CPQ), motivation (assessed via the Instructional Materials Motivation Survey [IMMS] and Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire [MSLQ]) and course satisfaction.

Results

There were 406 participants including 225 pharmacists, 109 physicians and 72 advanced practice providers. Post‐module knowledge was slightly higher for the enhanced versus the unenhanced format, but the difference did not reach statistical significance (adjusted mean difference, 0.04 of 10 possible, [95% CI −0.26, 0.34], p = 0.78; Cohen d 0.02). Participant perceptions of P/E (measured via CPQ) were significantly greater for the enhanced format (difference 0.46 of 5 possible [0.35, 0.56], p < 0.001; Cohen d 0.85), as were motivational features of the e‐Learning course (measured via IMMS) (difference 0.14 of 5 possible [0.02, 0.26], p = 0.02; Cohen d 0.24). Participants' overall motivational orientation (measured via MSLQ) and course satisfaction were not significantly different between the two formats (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Application of P/E principles to an e‐Learning module led to greater perceived P/E and motivational features but did not influence knowledge.
Combining retinal structural and vascular measurements improves discriminative power for multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Bostan Mihai , Li Chi , Sim Yin Ci , Bujor Inna , Wong Damon , Tan Bingyao , Ismail Munirah Binte , Garhöfer Gerhard , Tiu Cristina , Pirvulescu Ruxandra , Schmetterer Leopold , Popa‐Cherecheanu Alina , Chua Jacqueline
Published: September 2023

Data on how retinal structural and vascular parameters jointly influence the diagnostic performance of detection of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients without optic neuritis (MSNON) are lacking. To investigate the diagnostic performance of structural and vascular changes to detect MSNON from controls, we performed a cross‐sectional study of 76 eyes from 51 MS participants and 117 eyes from 71 healthy controls. Retinal macular ganglion cell complex (GCC), retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thicknesses, and capillary densities from the superficial (SCP) and deep capillary plexuses (DCP) were obtained from the Cirrus AngioPlex. The best structural parameter for detecting MS was compensated RNFL from the optic nerve head (AUC = 0.85), followed by GCC from the macula (AUC = 0.79), while the best vascular parameter was the SCP (AUC = 0.66). Combining structural and vascular parameters improved the diagnostic performance for MS detection (AUC = 0.90; p<0.001). Including both structure and vasculature in the joint model considerably improved the discrimination between MSNON and normal controls compared to each parameter separately (p = 0.027). Combining optical coherence tomography (OCT)‐derived structural metrics and vascular measurements from optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) improved the detection of MSNON. Further studies may be warranted to evaluate the clinical utility of OCT and OCTA parameters in the prediction of disease progression.
Planetary boundaries at the intersection of Earth system law, science and governance: A state‐of‐the‐art review
Authors: Kim Rakhyun E. , Kotzé Louis J.
Published: September 2023

First developed in Earth system science, the idea of planetary boundaries has gradually spilled over into social science research in the past decade. An interdisciplinary body of literature has emerged as a result at the intersection of Earth system science, law and governance. In this article, we provide a bird’s eye view of the state of the art, and examine how social scientists frame the planetary boundaries framework and what they identify as key regulatory challenges and implications. To that end, we conducted a systematic review of 80 peer‐reviewed articles identified through a keyword search. Our survey finds that social scientists have approached the planetary boundaries framework using four key problem framings, which revolve around the notion of planetary boundaries as embodying a set of interdependent and politically constructed environmental limits that are global in scale. We also identify four key clusters of governance solutions offered in the literature, which broadly relate to the ideas of institutionalizing, coordinating, downscaling and democratizing planetary boundaries. We then apply the foregoing insights to the legal domain and explore their implications for law. More specifically, we discuss how the recently proposed notion of Earth system law is related to these emerging problem framings and how it might contribute to these responses.
Reconnecting to Internal Sensations and Experiences (RISE): An online, multi‐session intervention improves interoceptive sensibility for military personnel
Authors: Smith April R. , Witte Tracy K. , Troop‐Gordon Wendy , Grunewald William , Crosby Eric , Hill Kent , Williams Tammy , Kinkel‐Ram Shruti , Santivasci Celeste , Chamberlin Jacob , Aguon‐Larson Cyrena , Harris Isaac , Esche Maj Aaron , Tubman Lt Col David , Dretsch LTC Michael
Published: September 2023

Objective

This preregistered randomized controlled trial tested the effects of a four‐session, online interoceptive awareness intervention relative to an active comparator, matched for time and attention on interoception and suicidal ideation.

Method

Participants (N = 195; 69% male; mean age = 37) were active duty service members (62%) and veterans (38%) who completed measures of interoceptive sensibility, interoceptive accuracy, and suicidal ideation at baseline. They were randomized to either the interoceptive awareness intervention, Reconnecting to Internal Sensations and Experiences (RISE), or the comparator, Healthy Habits. Participants completed the assessment battery again at posttest as well as a 1 and 3‐month follow‐up.

Results

RISE was rated as acceptable and demonstrated excellent feasibility per completion rates (85% completed all four modules). RISE improved the majority of interoceptive sensibility domains assessed (noticing body sensations, not worrying about sensations of pain or discomfort, emotional awareness, self‐regulation, body listening, and body trust), and most of these gains remained at 1 and 3‐month follow‐ups. There were no differences between conditions on suicidal ideation, perhaps due to the low levels of ideation reported, or interoceptive accuracy.

Conclusions

RISE is a disseminable, cost‐effective, and transdiagnostic intervention that improves interoceptive sensibility up to 3 months.
Trends and predictions of perioperative transfusion and venous thromboembolism in hepatectomy using a North American Registry
Authors: Ha Monica , Stewart Kenneth E. , Butt Amir L. , Vandyck Kofi B. , Tran Sydany , Jain Ajay , Edil Barish , Tanaka Kenichi A.
Published: September 2023

Background

Studies indicate a link between allogeneic blood transfusion and venous thromboembolism (VTE) post‐major surgery. Analyzing trends and predictors of these outcomes after hepatectomy can inform risk management.

Methods

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was used for a retrospective analysis. Primary outcomes were perioperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion and VTE events within 30 days of hepatectomy. Seven‐year trends and predictors were evaluated.

Results

Among 29,131 hepatectomy patients, transfusion rates showed no statistically significant decreasing trends (p = .122) from 2014 to 2020 (18.13%–16.71%), while VTE rates showed a downward trend over the 7 years (p = .021); 17.2% received RBC transfusion, with higher rates in surgeries lasting ≥282 min (median: 220 min). Calculated RBC mass [hematocrit (%) × body weight (kg) × 10−5 × 70/(body mass index/22)] at or below 1.5 L substantially increased transfusion odds. VTE was reported postoperatively in 2.6% of cases more frequently in longer cases involving transfusions. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of VTE escalated from the shortest operative time to the longest (3.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.37–4.22). The adjusted odds of VTE doubled for transfused patients compared to non‐transfused patients (aOR, 2.19; 95% CI, 1.86–2.57).

Conclusions

Rates of RBC transfusion and VTE rates hepatectomy have minimally changed in the recent years. VTE prevention is challenging in extended surgeries at increased risk of bleeding and RBC transfusions. Patient‐level data on coagulation and thromboprophylaxis can potentially refine risk assessment for postoperative VTE.
Comparison of incisional bursting strength of a bidirectional absorbable knotless suture material versus a standard continuous absorbable suture material for closure of the equine linea alba
Authors: Bellitto Nicholas A. , Oliver Francina Barceló , Pollock Patrick J.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To evaluate the use of bidirectional knotless barbed suture material for closure of the equine linea alba.

Study design

Laboratory study.

Animal or sample population

Adult light horse cadavers (n = 24).

Methods

A 25 cm incision was made through the linea alba, and a 200 L polyurethane bladder was positioned within the abdomen. The linea alba was closed either using USP2/EP5 bidirectional polydioxanone barbed suture or USP2/EP5 standard polydioxanone suture in a simple continuous pattern. Closure time was recorded for each suture type. The bladder was air‐insufflated at 40 L/min, and the pressure at body wall failure recorded. The length of suture used for wound closure and wound failure modes were recorded. Suture length, closure time, bursting pressure, and failure modes were compared using Welch‐Aspin t‐tests.

Results

The incisional bursting pressure was comparable between the two groups (p > .05). Less suture material (p < .01) was required with the barbed suture than the standard suture. Closure time was less for the barbed suture than the standard suture (p < .01). Suture failure was the main failure mode in both groups (83% cases).

Conclusions

Closure of the equine linea alba using bidirectional barbed suture material reduced the amount of foreign material in the wound and decreased closure time without compromising incisional strength.

Clinical relevance

Bidirectional barbed suture material could be considered as an alternative to standard suture materials for closure of the equine line alba.
Operational window of a deammonifying sludge for mainstream application in a municipal wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Cheenakula Dheeraja , Paulsen Svea , Ott Fabian , Grömping Markus
Published: September 2023

The present work aimed to study the mainstream feasibility of the deammonifying sludge of side stream of municipal wastewater treatment plant (MWWTP) in Kaster, Germany. For this purpose, the deammonifying sludge available at the side stream was investigated for nitrogen (N) removal with respect to the operational factors temperature (15–30°C), pH value (6.0–8.0) and chemical oxygen demand (COD)/N ratio (≤1.5–6.0). The highest and lowest N‐removal rates of 0.13 and 0.045 kg/(m3 d) are achieved at 30 and 15°C, respectively. Different conditions of pH and COD/N ratios in the SBRs of Partial nitritation/anammox (PN/A) significantly influenced both the metabolic processes and associated N‐removal rates. The scientific insights gained from the current work signifies the possibility of mainstream PN/A at WWTPs. The current study forms a solid basis of operational window for the upcoming semi‐technical trails to be conducted prior to the full‐scale mainstream PN/A at WWTP Kaster and WWTPs globally.
Project-Based Learning and Perceived Effect on Behaviors for Students with Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Case Study
Authors: Foster Manda S. , Shriner Michael
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore the perception of educators transitioning from a traditional learning environment to a project-based learning activity environment. Teachers’ perceptions of student behaviors ranging in age from 8 to 17 were captured. Data were collected from 1-1 interviews with five participants with Missouri teacher certification ranging in grade levels from elementary to high school working with a total of 175 students within a mental health residential school for children and youth throughout Missouri. Additional data were collected from lesson reflections, lesson plans, behavioral logs, regulation logs, and supplemental data from critical incident reports from classrooms of students with the same background as teacher participants over the last four school years, 2018-22, of teachers who have taught project-based learning units. Study findings support the teacher's perception that project-based learning activities decrease negative behaviors for students with adverse childhood experiences while increasing engagement, academic skills, and self-regulation. Further, implications from these findings support that project-based learning activities increase student choice, allowing students within a residential mental health classroom to have control.
A Calibration Approach for Accelerated Creep Testing for Electron Beam Melted Ti-6Al-4V Using the Wilshire–Cano–Stewart Model
Authors: Hossain Md Abir , Pellicotte Jacob T. , Stewart Calvin M.
Published: September 2023

This study outlines a model calibration approach for an accelerated creep test called the dynamic negative stepped test (DNST) to enable the rapid screening of creep-resistant materials. In DNST, stress is stepped decreased based on the attainment of a sufficient minimum-creep-strain-rate (MCSR) at each stress level. Steps are repeated, torturing the material, until rupture occurs. The DNST is advantageous as a screening test for new alloys. Alloys and heats with superior creep resistance will be able to survive longer and with greater ductility than those with poor creep resistance. The calibration of a constitutive model to DNST data furnishes predictions of the conventional creep response being between 65 h and 6685 h from the relatively short (<130 h) DNST Data. In this study, DNSTs are performed on electron beam melted (EBM) Ti-6Al-4V at 650 °C with stepping through 150, 75, 60, and 50 MPa. Six build orientations are tested including 0 deg, 30 deg, 45 deg, 60 deg, 90 deg, and V (vertical) direction. The Wilshire–Cano–Stewart (WCS) model is employed to calibrate the experimental data. A systematic calibration approach is adopted. Each step is calibrated numerically. A unique set of minimum-creep-strain-rate (MCSR) and stress-rupture (SR) related material constants, i.e., the Wilshire and Sinh constants are obtained for each build direction. A nonhomogenous objective function is used to numerically optimize the strain trajectory and damage trajectory constants. To find the best-fit curve, the strain trajectory constants, and damage trajectory constants are numerically refined for each step. The WCS model shows a near-perfect prediction of the DNST data. Based on the calibrated constants, conventional creep curves are generated in order to determine which build orientations are likely to exhibit poor, moderate, and superior creep resistance. Predictions of MCSR and SR curves over a wide stress range are estimated outside the experimental range to investigate the extrapolation pedigree of the approach. This will allow the material designers to have more confidence in DNST-generated test data for predicting long-term creep response and structural lifetime.
Guidelines for the Aerodynamic Design of sCO2 Centrifugal Compressor Stages
Authors: Romei Alessandro , Gaetani Paolo , Persico Giacomo
Published: September 2023

This paper explores the viability of established criteria to design centrifugal compressor stages that operate CO2 close to the critical point. The work is split into two complementary studies. At first, several stage configurations are generated by varying characteristic design parameters, such as the inlet and outlet flow coefficient, work coefficient, and stage Mach number. Then, three selected configurations are optimized with a surrogate-assisted evolutionary strategy to refine specific geometrical parameters, which control the meridional shape and splitter location. The stage aerodynamics and performance are assessed with a validated RANS solver based on the homogeneous equilibrium assumption for the two-phase mixture. One of the key findings of the parametric studies is that designing a stage with a flow coefficient smaller than that suggested by design practices prevents the occurrence of two-phase flows. The onset of a secondary phase at the impeller intake alters the fluid compressibility, producing density gradients across saturated condition that can cause flow separation. Such separation occurs for liquid-like CO2 but not for vapor-like CO2, implying that consolidated design rules can apply to the latter case notwithstanding the presence of condensing flows. Shape optimizations reveal that modest efficiency improvements can be gained by changing the meridional channel and splitter location. Moreover, the optimization problem is highly multimodal, as more than 30 different geometries can yield equivalent design efficiency. As a side effect of the optimization, the rangeability is significantly modified. Specifically, increasing the inlet slope angle of the shroud contour extends the operating range at high flow rates but reduces it at low flow rates. Therefore, this geometrical parameter can be controlled to adjust the stage rangeability without compromising design efficiency.
SMART-BARN: Scalable multimodal arena for real-time tracking behavior of animals in large numbers
Authors: Nagy Máté , Naik Hemal , Kano Fumihiro , Carlson Nora V. , Koblitz Jens C. , Wikelski Martin , Couzin Iain D.
Published: September 2023

The SMART-BARN (scalable multimodal arena for real-time tracking behavior of animals in large numbers) achieves fast, robust acquisition of movement, behavior, communication, and interactions of animals in groups, within a large (14.7 meters by 6.6 meters by 3.8 meters), three-dimensional environment using multiple information channels. Behavior is measured from a wide range of taxa (insects, birds, mammals, etc.) and body size (from moths to humans) simultaneously. This system integrates multiple, concurrent measurement techniques including submillimeter precision and high-speed (300 hertz) motion capture, acoustic recording and localization, automated behavioral recognition (computer vision), and remote computer-controlled interactive units (e.g., automated feeders and animal-borne devices). The data streams are available in real time allowing highly controlled and behavior-dependent closed-loop experiments, while producing comprehensive datasets for offline analysis. The diverse capabilities of SMART-BARN are demonstrated through three challenging avian case studies, while highlighting its broad applicability to the fine-scale analysis of collective animal behavior across species.
Emergence of rigidity percolation in flowing granular systems
Authors: Dashti Hor , Saberi Abbas Ali , Rahbari S. H. E. , Kurths Jrgen
Published: September 2023

Jammed granular media and glasses exhibit spatial long-range correlations as a result of mechanical equilibrium. However, the existence of such correlations in the flowing matter, where the mechanical equilibrium is unattainable, has remained elusive. Here, we investigate this problem in the context of the percolation of interparticle forces in flowing granular media. We find that the flow rate introduces an effective long-range correlation, which plays the role of a relevant perturbation giving rise to a spectrum of varying exponents on a critical line as a function of the flow rate. Our numerical simulations along with analytical arguments predict a crossover flow rate

γ
˙

c

≃
1

0

−
5

below which the effect of induced disorder is weak and the universality of the force chain structure is shown to be given by the standard rigidity percolation. We also find a power-law behavior for the critical exponents with the flow rate

γ
˙

>

γ
˙

c

.
Transcription factor OxyR regulates sulfane sulfur removal and L-cysteine biosynthesis in
Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Du Huanmin , Qi Yuting , Qiao Jinfang , Li Lingcong , Wei Liang , Xu Ning , Shao Li , Liu Jun
Published: September 2023

Sulfane sulfur, a collective term for hydrogen polysulfide and organic persulfide, often damages cells at high concentrations. Cells can regulate intracellular sulfane sulfur levels through specific mechanisms, but these mechanisms are unclear in
Corynebacterium glutamicum
. OxyR is a transcription factor capable of sensing oxidative stress and is also responsive to sulfane sulfur. In this study, we found that OxyR functioned directly in regulating sulfane sulfur in
C. glutamicum
. OxyR binds to the promoter of
katA
and
nrdH
and regulates its expression, as revealed via
in vitro
electrophoretic mobility shift assay analysis, real-time quantitative PCR, and reporting systems. Overexpression of
katA
and
nrdH
reduced intracellular sulfane sulfur levels by over 30% and 20% in
C. glutamicum
, respectively. RNA-sequencing analysis showed that the lack of OxyR downregulated the expression of sulfur assimilation pathway genes and/or sulfur transcription factors, which may reduce the rate of sulfur assimilation. In addition, OxyR also affected the biosynthesis of L-cysteine in
C. glutamicum
. OxyR overexpression strain Cg-2 accumulated 183 mg/L of L-cysteine, increased by approximately 30% compared with the control (142 mg/L). In summary, OxyR not only regulated sulfane sulfur levels by controlling the expression of
katA
and
nrdH
in
C. glutamicum
but also facilitated the sulfur assimilation and L-cysteine synthesis pathways, providing a potential target for constructing robust cell factories of sulfur-containing amino acids and their derivatives.

IMPORTANCE

C. glutamicum
is an important industrial microorganism used to produce various amino acids. In the production of sulfur-containing amino acids, cells inevitably accumulate a large amount of sulfane sulfur. However, few studies have focused on sulfane sulfur removal in
C. glutamicum
. In this study, we not only revealed the regulatory mechanism of OxyR on intracellular sulfane sulfur removal but also explored the effects of OxyR on the sulfur assimilation and L-cysteine synthesis pathways in
C. glutamicum
. This is the first study on the removal of sulfane sulfur in
C. glutamicum
. These results contribute to the understanding of sulfur regulatory mechanisms and may aid in the future optimization of
C. glutamicum
for biosynthesis of sulfur-containing amino acids.
The regulator FleQ both transcriptionally and post-transcriptionally regulates the level of RTX adhesins of
Pseudomonas fluorescens
Authors: Pastora Alexander B. , O’Toole George A.
Published: September 2023

Biofilm formation by the Gram-negative, Gammaproteobacteria
Pseudomonas fluorescens
relies on the repeats-in-toxin adhesins LapA and MapA in the cytoplasm, secretion of these adhesins through their respective type 1 secretion systems, and retention at the cell surface. Published work has shown that retention of the adhesins occurs via a post-translational mechanism involving the cyclic-di-GMP receptor LapD and the protease LapG. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms that regulate the level of these adhesins. Here, we demonstrate that the master regulator FleQ modulates biofilm formation by both transcriptionally and post-transcriptionally regulating LapA and MapA. We find that a Δ
fleQ
mutant has a biofilm formation defect compared to the wild-type (WT) strain, which is attributed in part to a decrease in LapA and MapA abundance in the cell, despite the Δ
fleQ
mutant having increased levels of
lapA
and
mapA
transcripts compared to the WT strain. Through transposon mutagenesis and subsequent genetic analysis, we found that overstimulation of the Gac/Rsm pathway partially rescues biofilm formation in the Δ
fleQ
mutant background. Collectively, these findings provide evidence that FleQ regulates biofilm formation by both transcriptionally regulating the expression of the
lapA and mapA
genes and post-transcriptionally regulating the abundance of LapA and MapA, and that activation of the Gac/Rsm pathway can post-transcriptionally enhance biofilm formation by
P. fluorescens
.

IMPORTANCE

Biofilm formation is a highly coordinated process that bacteria undergo to colonize a variety of surfaces. For
Pseudomonas fluorescens
, biofilm formation requires the production and localization of repeats-in-toxin adhesins to the cell surface. To date, little is known about the underlying mechanisms that regulate biofilm formation by
P. fluorescens
. Here, we identify FleQ as a key regulator of biofilm formation that modulates both gene expression and abundance of LapA and MapA through both a transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanism. We provide further evidence implicating activation of the Gac/Rsm system in FleQ-dependent regulation of biofilm formation. Together, our findings uncover evidence for a dual mechanism of transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of the LapA and MapA adhesins.
Maintenance of heme homeostasis in
Staphylococcus aureus
through post-translational regulation of glutamyl-tRNA reductase
Authors: Leasure Catherine S. , Grunenwald Caroline M. , Choby Jacob E. , Sauer John-Demian , Skaar Eric P.
Published: September 2023

Staphylococcus aureus
is an important human pathogen responsible for a variety of infections including skin and soft tissue infections, endocarditis, and sepsis. The combination of increasing antibiotic resistance in this pathogen and the lack of an efficacious vaccine underscores the importance of understanding how
S. aureus
maintains metabolic homeostasis in a variety of environments, particularly during infection. Within the host,
S. aureus
must regulate cellular levels of the cofactor heme to support enzymatic activities without encountering heme toxicity.
G
lutamyl
tR
NA
r
eductase (GtrR), the enzyme catalyzing the first committed step in heme synthesis, is an important regulatory node of heme synthesis in Bacteria, Archaea, and Plantae. In many organisms, heme status negatively regulates the abundance of GtrR, controlling flux through the heme synthesis pathway. We identified two residues within GtrR, H32 and R214, that are important for GtrR-heme binding. However, in strains expressing either GtrR
H32A
or GtrR
R214A
, heme homeostasis was not perturbed, suggesting an alternative mechanism of heme synthesis regulation occurs in
S. aureus
. In this regard, we report that heme synthesis is regulated through phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of GtrR by the serine/threonine kinase Stk1 and the phosphatase Stp1, respectively. Taken together, these results suggest that the mechanisms governing staphylococcal heme synthesis integrate both the availability of heme and the growth status of the cell.

IMPORTANCE

Staphylococcus aureus
represents a significant threat to human health. Heme is an iron-containing enzymatic cofactor that can be toxic at elevated levels. During infection,
S. aureus
must control heme levels to replicate and survive within the hostile host environment. We identified residues within a heme biosynthetic enzyme that are critical for heme binding
in vitro;
however, abrogation of heme binding is not sufficient to perturb heme homeostasis within
S. aureus
. This marks a divergence from previously reported mechanisms of heme-dependent regulation of the highly conserved enzyme glutamyl tRNA reductase (GtrR). Additionally, we link cell growth arrest to the modulation of heme levels through the post-translational regulation of GtrR by the kinase Stk1 and the phosphatase Stp1.