bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender, Security, and Atomic Destruction in Louisa Hall’s Trinity
Authors: Kollin Susan
Published: October 2023

Louisa Hall’s Trinity examines environmental risk and responsibility, restoring to memory the networks of power and security that shaped the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the so-called “father of the atomic age.” Extending work in feminist theories of exposure, Indigenous critiques of nuclear colonization, and studies of environmental agency and accountability, I trace the author’s use of fictional biography as a means of investigating disavowal, detachment, and the drive for mastery. Focusing on systems of silence and security underwriting the development of the bomb, Hall addresses everyday experiences of gender, race, and sexuality as meaningful in the world of atomic science and as useful tools for grappling with the uncertainties and vulnerabilities of environmental risk in the atomic age.
Hypertension-mediated organ damage involving multiple sites is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events
Authors: Lembo Maria , Pacella Daniela , Manzi Maria Virginia , Morisco Carmine , La Mura Lucia , Mancusi Costantino , Bardi Luca , Trimarco Valentina , Trimarco Bruno , Izzo Raffaele , Esposito Giovanni
Published: October 2023

Aims

Chronic pressure overload determines functional and structural alterations, leading to hypertension-mediated organ damage (HMOD), affecting multiple districts. We aim at evaluating the prognostic impact of the absence vs. presence of HMOD in one or more sites and of blood pressure (BP) and metabolic control in hypertensive patients.

Methods and results

The study included 7237 hypertensive patients from the Campania Salute Network Registry, followed up for 5.3 ± 4.5 years. As HMOD, we analysed the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy, carotid plaques, and chronic kidney disease (CKD-EPI ≥3 stage) and evaluated the impact of zero vs. one vs. two vs. three sites of HMOD on the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). Blood pressure control and Metabolic Score for Insulin Resistance (METS-IR) were also considered. Optimal BP control was achieved in 57.3% patients. Major adverse cardiovascular events occurred in 351 (4.8%) patients. The MACE rate in patients without HMOD was 2.7%, whereas it was 4.7, 7.9, and 9.8% in patients with one, two, and three sites with HMOD, respectively. By using Cox multivariate models, adjusted for age, BP control, mean heart rate, mean METS-IR, number of HMOD sites, and drugs, MACE was found to be significantly associated with ageing, mean METS-IR, anti-platelet therapy, and multiple sites with HMOD, whereas a negative association was found with renin–angiotensin system inhibitor drugs.

Conclusion

In hypertensive patients, the risk of MACE increases with the incremental number of districts involved by HMOD, independent of BP control and despite the significant impact of metabolic dysregulation. Hypertension-mediated organ damage involving multiple sites is the deleterious consequence of hypertension and dysmetabolism but, when established, it represents an independent cardiovascular risk factor for MACE occurrence.
Child Penalties in Politics
Authors: Fiva Jon H , King Max-Emil M
Published: October 2023

Women tend to experience a substantial decline in their labour income after their first child is born, while men do not. Do such ‘child penalties’ also exist in the political arena? Using comprehensive administrative data from Norway, we find that women are less likely than men to secure elected office after their first child is born. The effects already manifest from the nomination stage, where mothers receive less favourable rankings on party lists relative to comparable fathers. This paper broadens our understanding of a fundamental social issue in political representation and demonstrates how motherhood even affects positively selected women.
Validation of Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation 2 (SCORE2) and SCORE2-Older Persons in the EPIC-Norfolk prospective population cohort
Authors: van Trier Tinka J , Snaterse Marjolein , Boekholdt S Matthijs , Scholte op Reimer Wilma J M , Hageman Steven H J , Visseren Frank L J , Dorresteijn Jannick A N , Peters Ron J G , Jørstad Harald T
Published: October 2023

Aims

The European Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation 2 (SCORE2) and SCORE2-Older Persons (OP) models are recommended to identify individuals at high 10-year risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Independent validation and assessment of clinical utility is needed. This study aims to assess discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility of low-risk SCORE2 and SCORE2-OP.

Methods and results

Validation in individuals aged 40–69 years (SCORE2) and 70–79 years (SCORE2-OP) without baseline CVD or diabetes from the European Prospective Investigation of Cancer (EPIC) Norfolk prospective population study. We compared 10-year CVD risk estimates with observed outcomes (cardiovascular mortality, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and stroke). For SCORE2, 19 560 individuals (57% women) had 10-year CVD risk estimates of 3.7% [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.6–3.7] vs. observed 3.8% (95% CI 3.6–4.1) [observed (O)/expected (E) ratio 1.0 (95% CI 1.0–1.1)]. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.75 (95% CI 0.74–0.77), with underestimation of risk in men [O/E 1.4 (95% CI 1.3–1.6)] and overestimation in women [O/E 0.7 (95% CI 0.6–0.8)]. Decision curve analysis (DCA) showed clinical benefit. Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation 2-Older Persons in 3113 individuals (58% women) predicted 10-year CVD events in 10.2% (95% CI 10.1–10.3) vs. observed 15.3% (95% CI 14.0–16.5) [O/E ratio 1.6 (95% CI 1.5–1.7)]. The AUC was 0.63 (95% CI 0.60–0.65) with underestimation of risk across sex and risk ranges. Decision curve analysis showed limited clinical benefit.

Conclusion

In a UK population cohort, the SCORE2 low-risk model showed fair discrimination and calibration, with clinical benefit for preventive treatment initiation decisions. In contrast, in individuals aged 70–79 years, SCORE2-OP demonstrated poor discrimination, underestimated risk in both sexes, and limited clinical utility.
Length of hospital stay for elective electrophysiological procedures: a survey from the European Heart Rhythm Association
Authors: Boriani Giuseppe , Imberti Jacopo F , Leyva Francisco , Casado-Arroyo Ruben , Chun Julian , Braunschweig Frieder , Zylla Maura M , Duncker David , Farkowski Michał M , Pürerfellner Helmut , Merino José L
Published: October 2023

Aims

Electrophysiological (EP) operations that have traditionally involved long hospital lengths of stay (LOS) are now being undertaken as day case procedures. The coronavirus disease-19 pandemic served as an impetus for many centres to shorten LOS for EP procedures. This survey explores LOS for elective EP procedures in the modern era.

Methods and results

An online survey consisting of 27 multiple-choice questions was completed by 245 respondents from 35 countries. With respect to de novo cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) implantations, day case procedures were reported for 79.5% of implantable loop recorders, 13.3% of pacemakers (PMs), 10.4% of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), and 10.2% of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices. With respect to CIED generator replacements, day case procedures were reported for 61.7% of PMs, 49.2% of ICDs, and 48.2% of CRT devices. With regard to ablations, day case procedures were reported for 5.7% of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablations, 10.7% of left-sided ablations, and 17.5% of right-sided ablations. A LOS ≥ 2 days for CIED implantation was reported for 47.7% of PM, 54.5% of ICDs, and 56.9% of CRT devices and for 54.5% of AF ablations, 42.2% of right-sided ablations, and 46.1% of left-sided ablations. Reimbursement (43–56%) and bed availability (20–47%) were reported to have no consistent impact on the organization of elective procedures.

Conclusion

There is a wide variation in the LOS for elective EP procedures. The LOS for some procedures appears disproportionate to their complexity. Neither reimbursement nor bed availability consistently influenced LOS.
Chromosome structure and DNA replication dynamics during the life cycle of the predatory bacterium Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus
Authors: Pląskowska Karolina , Zakrzewska-Czerwińska Jolanta
Published: October 2023

Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus, an obligate predatory Gram-negative bacterium that proliferates inside and kills other Gram-negative bacteria, was discovered more than 60 years ago. However, we have only recently begun to understand the detailed cell biology of this proficient bacterial killer. Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus exhibits a peculiar life cycle and bimodal proliferation, and thus represents an attractive model for studying novel aspects of bacterial cell biology. The life cycle of B. bacteriovorus consists of two phases: a free-living nonreplicative attack phase and an intracellular reproductive phase. During the reproductive phase, B. bacteriovorus grows as an elongated cell and undergoes binary or nonbinary fission, depending on the prey size. In this review, we discuss: (1) how the chromosome structure of B. bacteriovorus is remodeled during its life cycle; (2) how its chromosome replication dynamics depends on the proliferation mode; (3) how the initiation of chromosome replication is controlled during the life cycle, and (4) how chromosome replication is spatiotemporally coordinated with the proliferation program.
Genomic Insights into Mollusk Terrestrialization: Parallel and Convergent Gene Family Expansions as Key Facilitators in Out-of-the-Sea Transitions
Authors: Aristide Leandro , Fernández Rosa
Published: October 2023

Animals abandoned their marine niche and successfully adapted to life on land multiple times throughout evolution, providing a rare opportunity to study the mechanisms driving large scale macroevolutionary convergence. However, the genomic factors underlying this process remain largely unknown. Here, we investigate the macroevolutionary dynamics of gene repertoire evolution during repeated transitions out of the sea in mollusks, a lineage that has transitioned to freshwater and terrestrial environments multiple independent times. Through phylogenomics and phylogenetic comparative methods, we examine ∼100 genomic data sets encompassing all major molluskan lineages. We introduce a conceptual framework for identifying and analyzing parallel and convergent evolution at the orthogroup level (groups of genes derived from a single ancestral gene in the species in question) and explore the extent of these mechanisms. Despite deep temporal divergences, we found that parallel expansions of ancient gene families played a major role in facilitating adaptation to nonmarine habitats, highlighting the relevance of the preexisting genomic toolkit in facilitating adaptation to new environments. The expanded functions primarily involve metabolic, osmoregulatory, and defense-related systems. We further found functionally convergent lineage-exclusive gene gains, while family contractions appear to be driven by neutral processes. Also, genomic innovations likely contributed to fuel independent habitat transitions. Overall, our study reveals that various mechanisms of gene repertoire evolution—parallelism, convergence, and innovation—can simultaneously contribute to major evolutionary transitions. Our results provide a genome-wide gene repertoire atlas of molluskan terrestrialization that paves the way toward further understanding the functional and evolutionary bases of this process.
N-glycans show distinct spatial distribution in mouse brain
Authors: Noel Maxence , Cummings Richard D , Mealer Robert G
Published: October 2023

The development and function of the brain requires N-linked glycosylation of proteins, which is a ubiquitous modification in the secretory pathway. N-glycans have a distinct composition and undergo tight regulation in the brain, but the spatial distribution of these structures remains relatively unexplored. Here, we systematically employed carbohydrate binding lectins with differing specificities to various classes of N-glycans and appropriate controls to identify glycan expression in multiple regions of the mouse brain. Lectins binding high-mannose-type N-glycans, the most abundant class of brain N-glycans, showed diffuse staining with some punctate structures observed on high magnification. Lectins binding specific motifs of complex N-glycans, including fucose and bisecting GlcNAc, showed more partitioned labeling, including to the synapse-rich molecular layer of the cerebellum. Understanding the spatial distribution of N-glycans across the brain will aid future studies of these critical protein modifications in development and disease of the brain.
How can UK public health initiatives support each other to improve the maintenance of physical activity? Evidence from a cross-sectional survey of runners who move from Couch-to-5k to parkrun
Authors: Relph Nicola , Owen Michael , Moinuddin Mohammed , Noonan Rob , Dey Paola , Bullas Alice , Quirk Helen , Haake Steve
Published: October 2023

Physical activity improves physical and mental well-being and reduces mortality risk. However, only a quarter of adults globally meet recommended physical activity levels for health. Two common initiatives in the UK are Couch-to-5k (an app-assisted 9-week walk/run programme) and parkrun (a free, weekly, timed 5-km walk/run). It is not known how these initiatives are linked, how Couch-to-5k parkrunners compare to parkrunners, and the extent to which this influences their parkrun performance. The aims were to compare the characteristics and motives and to compare physical activity levels, parkrun performance and the impact of parkrun between Couch-to-5k parkrunners and parkrunners. Three thousand two hundred and ninety six Couch-to-5k parkrunners were compared to 55,923 parkrunners to explore age, sex, ethnicity, employment status, neighbourhood deprivation, motives, physical activity levels, parkrun performance and the impact of parkrun. Couch-to-5k parkrunners were slightly older, more likely to be female and work part-time, but similar in ethnicity, and neighbourhood deprivation compared with other parkrunners. Couch-to-5k parkrunners had different motives for participation and reported high levels of physical activity at registration, which remained to the point of survey completion. This group had slower parkrun times but, when registered for a year, completed a similar number of runs (11) per year. Larger proportions of Couch-to-5k parkrunners perceived positive impacts compared with other parkrunners and 65% of Couch-to-5k parkrunners reported improvements to their lifestyle. parkrun appears to be an effective pathway for those on the Couch-to-5k programme, and the promising positive association between the two initiatives may be effective in assisting previously inactive participants to take part in weekly physical activity.
A novel strategy for therapeutic drug monitoring: application of biosensors to quantify antimicrobials in biological matrices
Authors: Wang Quanfang , Li Sihan , Chen Jiaojiao , Yang Luting , Qiu Yulan , Du Qian , Wang Chuhui , Teng Mengmeng , Wang Taotao , Dong Yalin
Published: October 2023

Over the past few years, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) has gained practical significance in antimicrobial precision therapy. Yet two categories of mainstream TDM techniques (chromatographic analysis and immunoassays) that are widely adopted nowadays retain certain inherent limitations. The use of biosensors, an innovative strategy for rapid evaluation of antimicrobial concentrations in biological samples, enables the implementation of point-of-care testing (POCT) and continuous monitoring, which may circumvent the constraints of conventional TDM and provide strong technological support for individualized antimicrobial treatment. This comprehensive review summarizes the investigations that have harnessed biosensors to detect antimicrobial drugs in biological matrices, provides insights into the performance and characteristics of each sensing form, and explores the feasibility of translating them into clinical practice. Furthermore, the future trends and obstacles to achieving POCT and continuous monitoring are discussed. More efforts are necessary to address the four key ‘appropriateness’ challenges to deploy biosensors in clinical practice, paving the way for personalized antimicrobial stewardship.
Irreversibility in nuclear arms control and disarmament law?
Authors: Fleck Dieter
Published: October 2023

While irreversibility of nuclear arms control and disarmament measures can be supported by compliance with applicable legal norms, the existing treaty regulation has serious gaps: pertinent treaties are not universally applicable; limitations on missiles as important carriers of nuclear warheads have been abrogated; the strategic doctrines of nuclear weapons powers are not fully transparent, and while the latter may strengthen the effectiveness of nuclear deterrence, it also raises questions as to compliance with fundamental obligations to refrain from a threat or use of force and to settle international disputes by peaceful means. There are certain principles of general international law that can and should be used in international cooperation to overcome nuclear crisis situations and strengthen international security: fundamental norms regarding the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and nuclear disarmament under strict and effective international control have an erga omnes character and are accepted and recognized by the international community of States as a whole. Furthermore, general rules of international responsibility are fully applicable in the law of nuclear arms control and disarmament. It is in this sense that irreversibility in nuclear arms control and disarmament is served by legal principles and rules, which require States to comply with existing obligations and to cooperate for the maintenance of peace and security.
Patterns of reproduction and autozygosity distinguish the breeding from nonbreeding gray wolves of Yellowstone National Park
Authors: vonHoldt Bridgett M , DeCandia Alexandra L , Cassidy Kira A , Stahler Erin E , Sinsheimer Janet S , Smith Douglas W , Stahler Daniel R
Published: October 2023

For species of management concern, accurate estimates of inbreeding and associated consequences on reproduction are crucial for predicting their future viability. However, few studies have partitioned this aspect of genetic viability with respect to reproduction in a group-living social mammal. We investigated the contributions of foundation stock lineages, putative fitness consequences of inbreeding, and genetic diversity of the breeding versus nonreproductive segment of the Yellowstone National Park gray wolf population. Our dataset spans 25 years and seven generations since reintroduction, encompassing 152 nuclear families and 329 litters. We found more than 87% of the pedigree foundation genomes persisted and report influxes of allelic diversity from two translocated wolves from a divergent source in Montana. As expected for group-living species, mean kinship significantly increased over time but with minimal loss of observed heterozygosity. Strikingly, the reproductive portion of the population carried a significantly lower genome-wide inbreeding coefficients, autozygosity, and more rapid decay for linkage disequilibrium relative to the nonbreeding population. Breeding wolves had significantly longer lifespans and lower inbreeding coefficients than nonbreeding wolves. Our model revealed that the number of litters was negatively significantly associated with heterozygosity (R = −0.11). Our findings highlight genetic contributions to fitness, and the importance of the reproductively active individuals in a population to counteract loss of genetic variation in a wild, free-ranging social carnivore. It is crucial for managers to mitigate factors that significantly reduce effective population size and genetic connectivity, which supports the dispersion of genetic variation that aids in rapid evolutionary responses to environmental challenges.
A Mixture Model Approach to Assessing Measurement Error in Surveys Using Reinterviews
Authors: Hoellerbauer Simon
Published: October 2023

Researchers are often unsure about the quality of the data collected by third-party actors, such as survey firms. This may be because of the inability to measure data quality effectively at scale and the difficulty with communicating which observations may be the source of measurement error. Researchers rely on survey firms to provide them with estimates of data quality and to identify observations that are problematic, potentially because they have been falsified or poorly collected. To address these issues, I propose the QualMix model, a mixture modeling approach to deriving estimates of survey data quality in situations in which two sets of responses exist for all or certain subsets of respondents. I apply this model to the context of survey reinterviews, a common form of data quality assessment used to detect falsification and data collection problems during enumeration. Through simulation based on real-world data, I demonstrate that the model successfully identifies incorrect observations and recovers latent enumerator and survey data quality. I further demonstrate the model’s utility by applying it to reinterview data from a large survey fielded in Malawi, using it to identify significant variation in data quality across observations generated by different enumerators.
‘Clinical exacerbation of an overlooked tropical pulmonary eosinophilia after deworming’
Authors: Calin Ruxandra , Lampros Alexandre , Canestri Ana , Barral Matthias , Schmidt Matthieu , Mesnard Laurent , Paris Luc , Hennequin Christophe , Jauréguiberry Stéphane
Published: October 2023

Eosinophilia with nonspecific symptoms, which may be overlooked, is a common finding in migrants and may lead to the administration of non-targeted antihelmintic treatment. This practice can have dangerous consequences as illustrated by a patient who developed acute tropical pulmonary eosinophilia and severe secondary myocarditis after administration of ivermectin and albendazole.
Root responses to abiotic stress: a comparative look at root system architecture in maize and sorghum
Authors: Hostetler Ashley N , Morais de Sousa Tinoco Sylvia , Sparks Erin E
Published: October 2023

Under all environments, roots are important for plant anchorage and acquiring water and nutrients. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding how root architecture contributes to stress tolerance in a changing climate. Two closely related plant species, maize and sorghum, have distinct root system architectures and different levels of stress tolerance, making comparative analysis between these two species an ideal approach to resolve this knowledge gap. However, current research has focused on shared aspects of the root system that are advantageous under abiotic stress conditions rather than on differences. Here we summarize the current state of knowledge comparing the root system architecture relative to plant performance under water deficit, salt stress, and low phosphorus in maize and sorghum. Under water deficit, steeper root angles and deeper root systems are proposed to be advantageous for both species. In saline soils, a reduction in root length and root number has been described as advantageous, but this work is limited. Under low phosphorus, root systems that are shallow and wider are beneficial for topsoil foraging. Future work investigating the differences between these species will be critical for understanding the role of root system architecture in optimizing plant production for a changing global climate.
The complex stellar system M 22: constraining the chemical enrichment from AGB stars using magnesium isotope ratios
Authors: McKenzie M , Yong D , Karakas A I , Wang E , Monty S , Marino A F , Milone A P , Nordlander T , Mura-Guzmán A , Martell S , Carlos M
Published: October 2023

The complex star cluster M 22 (NGC 6656) provides a unique opportunity for studying the slow neutron capture (s-)process nucleosynthesis at low metallicity due to its two stellar groups with distinct iron-peak and neutron capture element abundances. Previous studies attribute these abundance differences to pollution from $3-6 \ \rm {M}_{\odot }$ asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars which produce significant quantities of the neutron-rich Mg isotopes 25Mg and 26Mg. We report the first-ever measurements of Mg isotopic abundance ratios at $\rm {[Fe/H]} \ \sim -2$ in a globular cluster-like system using very high-resolution and signal-to-noise spectra (R = 110 000, S/N  = 300 per pixel at 514 nm) from the VLT/UVES spectrograph for six stars; three in each s-process group. Despite the presence of star-to-star variations in 24Mg, 25Mg, and 26Mg, we find no correlation with heavy element abundances, implying that the nucleosynthetic source of s-process enrichment must not influence Mg isotope ratios. Instead, a key result of this work is that we identify correlations between 26Mg/24Mg and some light elements. Using a custom suite of AGB nucleosynthesis yields tailored to the metallicity of M 22, we find that low mass ($\sim 1 \rm {-} 3 \ \rm {M}_{\odot }$) AGB stars are capable of reproducing the observed s-process abundances of M 22 and that the absence of any difference in Mg isotope ratios between the two s-process groups precludes AGBs with masses above $\sim 3 \ \rm {M}_{\odot }$. This places tighter constraints on possible formation scenarios and suggests an age difference of at least $\sim 280 \rm {-} 480 \ \rm {Myr}$ between the two populations which is independent of isochrone fitting.
H i content of selected mid-infrared bright, starburst blue compact dwarf galaxies
Authors: Chandola Yogesh , Li Di , Tsai Chao-Wei , Li Guodong , Peng Yingjie , Zuo Pei , McIntyre Travis , Ma Yin-Zhe , Stern Daniel , Griffith Roger , Jarrett Thomas , Eisenhardt Peter , Balkowski Chantal
Published: October 2023

We report measurements of H i content in 11 nearby, actively star-forming, blue compact dwarf galaxies (BCDs) from 21 cm observations with the Arecibo telescope. These BCDs, selected by their red (W2[4.6 $\mu$m]−W3[12 $\mu$m]>3.8 mag) and bright mid-infrared (MIR) emission (W4[22 $\mu$m]<7.6 mag), have high specific star formation rates (median sSFR ∼10−7.8 yr−1), similar to high redshift galaxies. H i emission was detected in six sources. We analyse our new detections in the context of previous H i observations of 218 dwarf irregulars (dIs) and BCDs in the literature. The MH i–M* relation resulting from our observations confirms the dominating fraction of H i gas among baryons in galaxies with lower stellar masses. This Arecibo BCD sample has significantly lower median H i depletion time-scales (τH i ∼ 0.3 Gyr) than other dIs/BCDs (∼ 6.3 Gyr) in the literature. The majority of the sources (10/11) in the Arecibo sample are very red in W1[3.4 $\mu$m]−W2[4.6 $\mu$m] colour (>0.8 mag) implying the presence of warm dust. We investigate the relation of τHI with stellar mass (M*) and sSFR. We find that τH i is significantly anticorrelated with M* for higher sSFR (>10−8.5 yr−1) and with sSFR for higher stellar mass ($\gt 10^{7.5}\, {\rm M}_{\odot }$) dwarf galaxies. The high sSFR for the BCDs in the Arecibo observed sample is mainly due to their high atomic gas star formation efficiency (SFE) or low τH i. The low τH i or high SFE in these sources is possibly due to runaway star formation in compact and dense super star clusters.
A detailed numerical study of field line random walk in magnetic turbulence
Authors: Shalchi A
Published: October 2023

A fundamental problem in space plasma physics and astrophysics is to understand the behaviour of magnetic field lines in turbulence. In the past it was controversial what aspects of turbulence are most important in field line random walk theory. In the current paper we employ numerical tools, commonly referred to as simulations, to gain more insight. In particular, we explore the importance of the energy range of the turbulence spectrum, spectral anisotropy, as well the existence of a component of the turbulent magnetic field parallel with respect to the mean magnetic field. The latter point is directly related to the question whether field line random walk in compressible turbulence behaves differently compared to random walk in incompressible turbulence.
Identifying the possible ex-situ origin of the globular clusters of the Milky Way: a kinematic study
Authors: Rostami Shirazi Ali , Khalaj Pouria , Haghi Hosein
Published: October 2023

This is the second paper in a series, which studies the likelihood that some globular clusters (GCs) of the Milky Way (MW) could have originated from a dwarf satellite galaxy (DSG). Using a large suite of three-body simulations we determine the present-day orbital properties of 154 GCs that could have escaped from 41 MW DSGs over the past $8\ \mathrm{Gyr}$. For the MW we considered two sets of static and dynamic models which account for the sustained growth of the MW since its birth. We focus on the Magellanic clouds and Sagittarius. We compare the apogalactic distance, eccentricity, and orbital inclination of the MW GCs with those of runaway GCs from DSGs, to constrain their possible ex-situ origin. We observe a positive correlation between a DSG mass and the dispersion of its runaway GCs in the orbital parameter space of (Rap, e). We provide tables of the identified MW GCs and their likely associated progenitors. In total, we find 29 (19 per cent) MW GCs which could be kinematically associated with MW DSGs. We report, for the first time, 6 and 10 new associations with the Large Magellanic Cloud and the Sagittarius, respectively. For the Sagittarius we predict a concentration of runaway GCs at large apogalactic distances of $R_\mathrm{ap}\approx 275-375 \ \mathrm{kpc}$, e ≈ 0.8, and a relative inclination of Δθ ≈ 20°. So far, there has not been any observed GCs with such orbital elements. Complemented with photometric and spectroscopic observations, and cosmological simulations, the findings from the present study could conclusively settle the debate over the in-situ versus ex-situ origin of the MW GCs.
High-resolution structure of stem-loop 4 from the 5′-UTR of SARS-CoV-2 solved by solution state NMR
Authors: Vögele Jennifer , Hymon Daniel , Martins Jason , Ferner Jan , Jonker Hendrik R A , Hargrove Amanda E , Weigand Julia E , Wacker Anna , Schwalbe Harald , Wöhnert Jens , Duchardt-Ferner Elke
Published: October 2023

We present the high-resolution structure of stem-loop 4 of the 5′-untranslated region (5_SL4) of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) genome solved by solution state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. 5_SL4 adopts an extended rod-like structure with a single flexible looped-out nucleotide and two mixed tandem mismatches, each composed of a G•U wobble base pair and a pyrimidine•pyrimidine mismatch, which are incorporated into the stem-loop structure. Both the tandem mismatches and the looped-out residue destabilize the stem-loop structure locally. Their distribution along the 5_SL4 stem-loop suggests a role of these non-canonical elements in retaining functionally important structural plasticity in particular with regard to the accessibility of the start codon of an upstream open reading frame located in the RNA's apical loop. The apical loop—although mostly flexible—harbors residual structural features suggesting an additional role in molecular recognition processes. 5_SL4 is highly conserved among the different variants of SARS-CoV-2 and can be targeted by small molecule ligands, which it binds with intermediate affinity in the vicinity of the non-canonical elements within the stem-loop structure.
MiST 4.0: a new release of the microbial signal transduction database, now with a metagenomic component
Authors: Gumerov Vadim M , Ulrich Luke E , Zhulin Igor B
Published: October 2023

Signal transduction systems in bacteria and archaea link environmental stimuli to specific adaptive cellular responses. They control gene expression, motility, biofilm formation, development and other processes that are vital to survival. The microbial signal transduction (MiST) database is an online resource that stores tens of thousands of genomes and allows users to explore their signal transduction profiles, analyze genomes in bulk using the database application programming interface (API) and make testable hypotheses about the functions of newly identified signaling systems. However, signal transduction in metagenomes remained completely unexplored. To lay the foundation for research in metagenomic signal transduction, we have prepared a new release of the MiST database, MiST 4.0, which features over 10 000 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), a scaled representation of proteins and detailed BioSample information. In addition, several thousands of new genomes have been processed and stored in the database. A new interface has been developed that allows users to seamlessly switch between genomes and MAGs. MiST 4.0 is freely available at https://mistdb.com; metagenomes and MAGs can also be explored using the API available on the same page.
Social media trust predicts lower COVID-19 vaccination rates and higher excess mortality over 2 years
Authors: Chen Sylvia Xiaohua , Ye Frank Tian-fang , Cheng Kai Lam , Ng Jacky C K , Lam Ben C P , Hui Bryant P H , Au Algae K Y , Wu Wesley C H , Gu Danan , Zeng Yi
Published: October 2023

Trust plays a crucial role in implementing public health interventions against the COVID-19 pandemic. We examined the prospective associations of interpersonal, institutional, and media trust with vaccination rates and excess mortality over time in two multinational studies. In study 1, we investigated the country-level relationships between interpersonal trust, vaccination rates, and excess mortality across 54 countries. Interpersonal trust at the country level was calculated by aggregating data of 80,317 participants from the World Values Survey in 2017–20. Data on vaccination rates and excess mortality were obtained from the World Health Organization. Our findings indicated that higher levels of interpersonal trust were linked to higher vaccination rates and lower excess mortality rates in both 2020 and 2021. In study 2, we collected data from 18,171 adults in 35 countries/societies, stratified by age, gender, and region of residence. At the country/society level, interpersonal trust and trust in local healthcare facilities, local healthcare services, and healthcare professionals were associated with higher vaccination rates and lower excess mortality, whereas social media trust was associated with lower vaccination rates and higher excess mortality across three time points over 2 years. Our findings are robust when controlling for country-level covariates of the government stringency index, population density, and medical resources (i.e. critical care beds) in both studies.
Subcutaneous immunoglobulin for patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies: a real-world, single-centre experience
Authors: Ma Zechen , Johnson Dylan , Gniadecki Robert , Ritchie Bruce , Keeling Stephanie , Cohen Tervaert Jan Willem , Osman Mohammed
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) are heterogeneous diseases characterized by skeletal muscle inflammation associated with cutaneous, pulmonary and/or other visceral organ involvement. IVIG has been recommended as an adjunct therapy for IIM patients refractory to conventional therapy. However, IVIG has high resource needs and increased risk of adverse reactions. Subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIG) therapy has been used as an alternative to IVIG in primary immunodeficiencies and neuroinflammatory disorders. We assessed the satisfaction, patient preference and effectiveness in IIM patients who transitioned from IVIG to SCIG.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed consecutive 20 patients with IIM who were transitioned from IVIG to SCIG therapy for >12 months. Patient preference between IVIG and SCIG was surveyed using a questionnaire previously used in studies of neuroinflammatory conditions. In addition, disease flares, changes in immunosuppression, cumulative prednisone doses and global disease activity were evaluated using the Myositis Intention to Treat Index (MITAX) 12 months pre- and post-SCIG initiation.

Results

Most patients (78.9%) preferred SCIG over IVIG and preferred home-based therapies to hospital-based therapies. There was no significant difference in global disease activity (MITAX 3.31 vs 3.02) or in cumulative steroid doses 12 months pre- or post-SCIG initiation. Three patients experienced disease flares, five escalated in immunosuppression, while four patients deescalated in immunosuppressive medications.

Conclusions

SCIG is preferred by most patients over IVIG without a substantial increased disease activity or need for additional CS. Future cost-effectiveness studies may provide an additional rationale for utilizing SCIG over IVIG for maintenance therapy for IIM.
Looking up and down and round and round: a theoretical–empirical, individual-level analysis of income comparisons
Authors: Lehr Alex
Published: October 2023

Income comparisons imply that individuals care not only about the absolute value of their income but also about its relative value. Such comparisons likely have significant societal consequences while also challenging standard neoclassical economic theory. I argue that a better understanding of income comparisons requires a more systematic, theoretical engagement with three problems: (1) the problem of reference group selection, (2) the problem of orientation, and (3) the problem of functional form. Income comparisons are commonly attributed to interdependent preferences, in particular to envy. I propose an alternative theoretical approach in which comparisons are a rational means for individuals to improve upon imperfect information about their current earning potential. I test the empirical implications of both approaches for reference group selection, orientation, and functional form using individual-level data from the Netherlands. The evidence suggests that imperfect information drives comparisons, but interdependent preferences also play a role.
Biological effects of air pollution on the function of human skin equivalents
Authors: Reynolds Wil J. , Eje Ndubuisi , Christensen Paul , Li Wen‐Hwa , Daly Susan M. , Parsa Ramine , Chavan Bhaven , Birch‐Machin Mark A.
Published: October 2023

The World Health Organization reports that 99% of the global population are exposed to pollution levels higher than the recommended air quality guidelines. Pollution‐induced changes in the skin have begun to surface; however, the effects require further investigation so that effective protective strategies can be developed. This study aimed to investigate some of the aging‐associated effects caused by ozone and particulate matter (PM) on human skin equivalents. Full‐thickness skin equivalents were exposed to 0.01 μg/μL PM, 0.05 μg/μL PM, 0.3 ppm ozone, or a combination of 0.01 μg/μL PM and 0.3 ppm ozone, before skin equivalents and culture medium were harvested for histological/immunohistochemical staining, gene and protein expression analysis using qPCR, Western blotting, and ELISA. Markers include MMP‐1, MMP‐3, COL1A1, collagen‐I, 4‐HNE, HMGCR, and PGE2. PM was observed to induce a decrease in epidermal thickness and an enhanced matrix building phenotype, with increases in COL1A1 and an increase in collagen‐I protein expression. By contrast, ozone induced an increase in epidermal thickness and was found to induce a matrix‐degrading phenotype, with decreases in collagen‐I gene/protein expression and increases in MMP‐1 and MMP‐3 gene/protein expression. Ozone was also found to induce changes in lipid homeostasis and inflammation induction. Some synergistic damage was also observed when combining ozone and 0.01 μg/μL PM. The results presented in this study identify distinct pollutant‐induced effects and show how pollutants may act synergistically to augment damage; given individuals are rarely only exposed to one pollutant type, exposure to multiple pollutant types should be considered to develop effective protective interventions.
Risk Factors for Rectal Stump Leakage following Discontinuity Resection: Stump Length Matters Most
Authors: Ritter Alina S. , Dumm Noemi , Deisenhofer Julian M. , Franz Clemens , Al-Saeedi Mohammed , Büchler Markus W. , Schneider Martin
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND:

Discontinuity resection is commonly conducted to avoid anastomotic leakage in high-risk patients, but potentially results in rectal stump leakage. While risk factors for anastomotic leakage have been widely studied, data on rectal stump leakage rates and underlying risk factors are scarce.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine rectal stump leakage rates following Hartmann’s procedure and to identify patient- and surgery-associated risk factors.

DESIGN:

A retrospective study with univariate and multivariate analysis to identify risk factors of rectal stump leakage was performed. A subgroup analysis of scheduled operations was carried out.

SETTINGS:

The study was conducted a Heidelberg University Hospital, Germany.

PATIENTS:

Patients who underwent discontinuity resection with rectal stump formation between 2010 and 2020 were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

The main outcome measures included rectal stump leakage rates, 30-day mortality, length of hospitalization and necessity for further invasive treatment.

RESULTS:

Rectal stump leakage occurred in 11.78% of patients. Rectal stump leakage rates varied considerably depending on the surgical procedure performed and were highest following subtotal pelvic exenteration (34%). Diagnosis of rectal stump leakage peaked on postoperative day 7. A short rectal stump (p = 0.001), previous pelvic radiotherapy (p = 0.04), chemotherapy (p = 0.004) and previous laparotomy (p = 0.03) were independent risk factors for rectal stump leakage in the entire patient collective. In patients undergoing scheduled surgery, a short rectal stump was the only independent risk factor (p = 0.003). Rectal stump leakage was not associated with increased 30-day mortality, but prolonged length of hospitalization and frequently necessitated further invasive treatment.

LIMITATIONS:

Study results are limited by the retrospective design, a high number of emergency operations and the mere inclusion of symptomatic leakages.

CONCLUSIONS:

Rectal stump leakage is a relevant complication after discontinuity resection. Risk factors should be considered during surgical decision making when both discontinuity resection and abdominoperineal resection are feasible..
Tonsil tissue control is ideal for monitoring estrogen receptor immunohistochemical staining
Authors: Chang Chia-Ping , Hang Jen-Fan , Chen Chih-Jung , Tung Chun-Liang , Lien Huang-Chun , Lai Chiung-Ru , Hsu Chih-Yi
Published: October 2023

Background:

Estrogen receptor (ER) testing performed using immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a critical predictive tool for breast cancer treatment. This study aimed to investigate the use of tonsil control for monitoring ER staining and hypothesize that optimal staining would reduce interlaboratory variations.

Methods:

A proficiency test for ER IHC was conducted using 21 tissue cores. The staining quality was centrally reviewed based on tonsil ER staining.

Results:

We found that 64.9% of participant samples demonstrated optimal or good staining quality. Poor staining quality was significantly associated with the use of Ventana autostainers and concentrated antibodies. Although the concordance rate did not show significant differences across staining quality levels, interparticipant agreement declined as staining quality deteriorated. Among the 19 discordant responses, 63.2% could be attributed to staining problems, whereas 36.8% could be due to misinterpretation. Poor staining quality due to inadequate staining was the primary reason for undercalls, which can lead to false-negative results. Misinterpretations of nonspecific faint staining that was weaker than the staining of the tonsil control were the cause of most overcalls.

Conclusion:

Tonsil tissue is an ideal control for monitoring ER staining and can serve as a reference for determining the lower bound for ER positivity. Optimal ER staining and appropriate references for ER positivity can further improve ER IHC quality.
The modern landscape of fertility, pregnancy, and parenthood in people with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Jain Raksha , Kazmerski Traci M. , Taylor-Cousar Jennifer L.
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review

With improved long-term survival and the expanding availability of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator therapies that treat the underlying genetic defect in cystic fibrosis, more people are interested in parenthood. Cystic fibrosis care centers and people with cystic fibrosis need more information to guide decisions related to parenting.

Recent findings

Here we present currently available data on fertility, pregnancy, and parenthood in the modern era of cystic fibrosis care. Fertility may be improving in female individuals with cystic fibrosis with the use of CFTR modulator therapies, and there is an associated increase in annual pregnancies. Infertility in male individuals with cystic fibrosis remains approximately 97–98% and is unchanged with CFTR modulators in those already born with cystic fibrosis. As more female individuals with cystic fibrosis experience pregnancy, questions remain about the impact of pregnancy on their health and that of their child. Fortunately, there are multiple routes to becoming a parent; however, more work is needed to understand the impact of pregnancy and parenthood in the context of CF as some previous data suggests potential challenges to the health of parents with cystic fibrosis.

We encourage cystic fibrosis care teams to have knowledge and resources available to support the reproductive goals of all individuals with cystic fibrosis.
Count regression models analysis of factors affecting antenatal care utilization in Ethiopia: original article
Authors: Woldeyohannes Birhanu , Yohannes Zemene , Likassa Habte T. , Mekebo Gizachew G. , Wake Senahara K. , Sisay Assefa L. , Gondol Ketema B. , Argaw Abebe , Diriba Gezahagn , Irana Tariku
Published: October 2023

Background:

Antenatal care (ANC) reduces maternal and newborn mortalities and makes it easier to find infections early and prevent them from progressing. This study aimed to identify factors affecting ANC utilization in Ethiopia via the count regression model.

Methods:

The data for the study was drawn from the 2019 Ethiopian Mini Demographic and Health Survey dataset. Count regression models, such as Poisson, Negative Binomial (NB), Zero-Inflated Poisson (ZIP), and Zero-Inflated Negative Binomial (ZINB) models, were used to determine the factors influencing ANC utilization.

Results:

A total of 3962 women were included in the study. Only about 42% of women used the WHO-recommended number of ANC of a minimum of four visits. The ZIP model was outperforming to fit the data as compared to other count regression models. Rural residence (IRR=0.8832, 95% CI: 0.8264–0.9440), being resident of the Somalia region (IRR=0.4762, 95% CI: 0.3919–0.5785), SNNPR (IRR=0.8716, 95% CI: 0.7913–0.9600), and Gambela Region (IRR=0.7830, 95% CI: 0.7063–0.8680), being Muslim (IRR=0.9384, 95% CI: 0.8876–0.9921) decrease the ANC utilization. Contrarily, Addis Ababa residence (IRR=1.1171, 95% CI: 1.0181–1.2259), primary education (IRR=1.1278, 95% CI: 1.0728–1.1855), secondary and higher education (IRR=1.2357, 95% CI: 1.1550–1.3220), middle wealth index (IRR=1.0855, 95% CI: 1.0095–1.1671) and rich wealth index (IRR=1.0941, 95% CI: 1.0152–1.1790) increase the ANC utilization.

Conclusion:

The ZIP model best fitted the data compared to others. The study revealed that being poor, rural resident, uneducated, Somalia region resident, SNNPR resident, Gambela region resident, and Muslim were factors associated with lower ANC utilization. Thus, health education is needed to be given for mothers with no education. In addition, building a strong awareness-creation program regarding ANC is required for rural residents so as to improve the level of ANC utilization in Ethiopia.