bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical significance of small dense low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol measurement in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Hirano Tsutomu
Published: January 2025

Low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) is known to be a causal substance of atherosclerosis, but its usefulness as a predictive biomarker for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is limited. In patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), LDL‐C concentrations do not markedly increase, while triglycerides (TG) concentrations are usually elevated. Although TG is associated with ASCVD risk, they do not play a direct role in the formation of atheromatous plaques. TG changes the risk of ASCVD in a way that is dependent on LDL‐C, and TG is the primary factor in reducing LDL particle size. Small dense (sd)LDL, a potent atherogenic LDL subfraction, best explains the “Atherogenic Duo” of TG and LDL‐C. Although hypertriglyceridemia is associated with small‐sized LDL, patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia and low LDL‐C rarely develop ASCVD. This suggests that quantifying sdLDL is more clinically relevant than measuring LDL size. We developed a full‐automated direct sdLDL‐C assay, and it was proven that sdLDL‐C is a better predictor of ASCVD than LDL‐C. The sdLDL‐C level is specifically elevated in patients with metabolic syndrome and T2D who have insulin resistance. Due to its clear link to metabolic dysfunction, sdLDL‐C could be named “metabolic LDL‐C.” Insulin resistance/hyperinsulinemia promotes TG production in the liver, causing steatosis and overproduction of VLDL1, a precursor of sdLDL. sdLDL‐C is closely associated with steatotic liver disease and chronic kidney disease, which are common complications in T2D. This review focuses on T2D and discusses the clinical significance of sdLDL‐C including its composition, pathophysiology, measurements, association with ASCVD, and treatments.
Reply to Comment on: Clinical Performance of Existing Diagnostic Criteria for Pneumonia in Older Emergency Patients
Authors: Hunold Katherine M. , Caterino Jeffrey M.
Published: January 2025

See the related comment by Turgut et al.
Comment on: Clinical Performance of Existing Diagnostic Criteria for Pneumonia in Older Emergency Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Turgut Zeynep Iclal , Ozkan Emre , Cicek Orhan , Dogan Mustafa Hakan , Akkar Ilyas , Kars Merve Yilmaz , Kizilarslanoglu Muhammet Cemal
Published: January 2025

See the related reply by Hunold and Caterino.
Dissemination of the Care Ecosystem Collaborative Care Model for Dementia
Authors: Sideman Alissa B. , Dulaney Sarah , Merrilees Jennifer , Barclay Michelle , Hernandez de Jesus Alma , Possin Katherine L.
Published: January 2025

Background

Dementia represents a growing healthcare challenge in the United States. The Care Ecosystem, an effective collaborative care model, bridges medical and social care needs for individuals with dementia. The purpose of this study was to describe how the Care Ecosystem has been disseminated and the lessons learned from this experience.

Methods

Interested site leaders from both health systems and community‐based organizations reviewed online implementation support materials and consulted with Care Ecosystem directors. Those that decided to move forward with implementation were invited to join monthly ‘Implementation Meetings.’ Observations of these meetings and review of minutes were combined with site surveys and interviews, which were analyzed using qualitative and descriptive methods.

Results

Implementation efforts resulted in the adoption of the Care Ecosystem at 28 health systems and eight community‐based organizations, including 22 participants in Medicare's Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) payment model. The Implementation Meetings facilitated collaborative learning and adaptation and supported fidelity to core model elements. The Care Ecosystem's flexible approach and open‐source materials enabled tailored implementations that align with local contexts and population needs.

Conclusions

The Care Ecosystem exemplifies a scalable approach to dementia care, guided by implementation science principles to bridge the gap between research and real‐world application. Its success in improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs underscores its potential to enhance dementia care delivery on a broader scale. Future efforts should focus on refining implementation strategies, enhancing fidelity monitoring, and expanding partnerships to sustain and scale effective dementia care practices across diverse healthcare settings.
NLR‐mediated antiviral immunity in plants
Authors: Zhu Min , Feng Mingfeng , Tao Xiaorong
Published: January 2025

Plant viruses cause substantial agricultural devastation and economic losses worldwide. Plant nucleotide‐binding domain leucine‐rich repeat receptors (NLRs) play a pivotal role in detecting viral infection and activating robust immune responses. Recent advances, including the elucidation of the interaction mechanisms between NLRs and pathogen effectors, the discovery of helper NLRs, and the resolution of the ZAR1 resistosome structure, have significantly deepened our understanding of NLR‐mediated immune responses, marking a new era in NLR research. In this scenario, significant progress has been made in the study of NLR‐mediated antiviral immunity. This review comprehensively summarizes the progress made in plant antiviral NLR research over the past decades, with a focus on NLR recognition of viral pathogen effectors, NLR activation and regulation, downstream immune signaling, and the engineering of NLRs.
An In Vitro Nutritional Evaluation of Mixed Silages of Drought‐Impaired Grass and Sugar Beet Pulp With or Without Silage Inoculants
Authors: Gruber Theresa , Lang Claudia , Fliegerová Katerina , Terler Georg , Zebeli Qendrim , Hartinger Thomas
Published: January 2025

Increasing droughts adversely affect grasslands, diminishing the availability and quality of forages for ruminants. We have recently shown that mixed ensiling of drought‐impaired grass (DIG) with sugar beet pulp (SBP) improved the conservation and feed value of silage. The application of silage additives may further improve the ruminal degradability, which may thereby shape the fermentation and microbiome in the rumen when those silages are tested as part of dairy diets. Therefore, we performed a long‐term in vitro nutritional evaluation of diets containing 50% (DM basis) of mixed silages from DIG and SBP, ensiled either with no additive (T_CON) or with anaerobic fungi culture supernatant (25% in DM; T_AF), mixed ruminal fluid (10% in DM; T_RF) or lactic acid bacteria (1% in FM; T_LAB). The data showed a high degradability of all diets (e.g., > 70% for organic matter), though without differences in nutrient degradabilities among treatments (p > 0.05). Fermentation characteristics, such as ruminal pH, short‐chain fatty acid profile, and gas production were only marginally affected by the treatments. Isobutyric acid proportion was higher in T_CON than in T_AF (p = 0.01), whereas isovaleric acid proportion was lower in T_LAB than in T_RF (p = 0.01). The analysis of the bacterial community revealed similar diversity and structure across all treatments in both the liquid and solid fraction. Noteworthy, Lactobacillus was among the predominant genera in the liquid fraction, which may have derived from the mixed silages. In conclusion, mixed silages from DIG and SBP as part of a 50% concentrate diet showed high ruminal degradability, but no beneficial impact by the tested silage additives was observed. Hence, under these conditions, their application appears not justified. Our results warrant further in vivo verification, whereby it would be of interest to determine the impact of the applied silage additives in forage‐based diets (e.g., > 50% silage in diet DM) in future research.
Using Microalgae as a Good Motivator of Ossimi Lamb's Health and Growth
Authors: Allak Masouda A. , Fayed Ayat Kassem , Mahmoud Rania M. , Adawy Asmaa A.
Published: January 2025

In tropical and subtropical countries like Egypt, sheep breeding faces environmental thermal stress, especially during the summer when air temperature and humidity are very high. Using Microalgae as an alternative feedstuff can significantly improve sheep growth, health and oxidative status. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of consuming two different species of microalgae: Spirulina platensis (SP) and Chlorella vulgaris (C. vulgaris) on the following: growth performance, oxidative status, kidney and liver function, serum Glu, proteins and lipids profile and haematological parameters under hot dry environmental conditions. A total of 32 Ossimi male lambs were divided randomly into four equal groups (n = 8), (G1) was fed the control diet, (G2) was supplemented with S. platensis, (G3) was supplemented with a combination between (S. platensis and C. vulgaris) and (G4) was supplemented C. vulgaris. The results of our study revealed that microalgae supplementation significantly (p ≤ 0.05) enhanced lamb's growth, liver and kidney function, levels of serum immunoglobulin IgG, glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and haematological parameters. Moreover, the levels of thyroid hormones and serum proteins profile were significantly increased in all treated lambs compared to the control group. Our research revealed that including microalgae in sheep's feed can enhance their immune system, promote growth and enhance their general health by mitigating the harmful effects of heat and oxidative stress.
Structural analysis of a membrane‐associated delta‐6 fatty acid desaturase from Prorocentrum micans
Authors: Du Zhihong , Sun Kaiwen , Xu Shangyi , Qiu Xiao
Published: January 2025

Delta‐6 fatty acid desaturases, which play key roles in the biosynthesis of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), are membrane‐associated enzymes that present significant challenges for isolation and purification, complicating their structural characterization. Here we report the identification and structure–function analysis of a novel Δ6 fatty acid desaturase (PmD6) from the marine alga Prorocentrum micans with substrate preference to α‐linolenic acid (18:3n‐3). Structural modeling revealed a mushroom‐like structure of PmD6 formed by four transmembrane α‐helices as a stem and three cytoplasmic domains as a cap. Structural alignment identified several key residues positioned around the substrate tunnel and catalytic center in PmD6. Functional analysis of these residues by site‐directed mutagenesis showed that Tyr226, Trp235, Phe345, and Ser349, facing the middle region of the substrate tunnel of PmD6, played critical roles in defining the structure for acceptance of substrates. Thr200, Leu391, and Met389, surrounding the end of the substrate tunnel, had roles in interaction with the methyl end of substrates. Asp255, close to a metal iron in the catalytic center, was essential for catalytic reaction by supporting the regional structure. These results have provided mechanistic insights into the structure–function relationship of membrane‐bound front‐end fatty acid desaturases.
Three Decades of Research on Iberian Wild Ungulates: Key Insights and Promising Research Avenues
Authors: Carvalho João , Carpio António , Figueiredo Ana M. , Fonseca Carlos , Ferreira Eduardo , Serrano Emmanuel , Barja Isabel , Sánchez‐Zapata José , Carranza Juan , Palacios Laura Barbero , Ortiz‐Jiménez Lorena , Rosalino Luís Miguel , Rossa Mariana , Velamazán Mario , Santos Nuno , Fandos Paulino , Acevedo Pelayo , Perea Ramón , Castillo‐Contreras Raquel , Pascual‐Rico Roberto , Jiménez‐Ruiz Saúl , Torres Rita Tinoco
Published: January 2025

The Iberian Peninsula is witnessing ever‐faster environmental changes, and new challenges for wild ungulates are continuously emerging as they become more abundant and widespread.

We conducted a systematic review to analyse the knowledge on wild ungulates inhabiting the Iberian Peninsula. We used Web of Science and Scopus search engines, complemented by searches in nonindexed journals, to examine peer‐reviewed articles published between January 1990 and July 2023.

The annual average growth rate in the number of publications was 17%. Most studies focussed on diseases and pathogens (36%), physiology, endocrinology and reproduction (19%), and behaviour, population and community ecology (17%). Red deer and wild boar are the most targeted species in scientific literature, followed by the Iberian wild goat, roe deer, fallow deer, Southern chamois, mouflon and aoudad.

We identify key knowledge gaps that deserve further attention such as the ecological and social impacts of (re)introductions, the effects of increasing ungulate densities on ecosystem integrity and the impact of different hunting and management techniques (some unique to the Iberian Peninsula) on population dynamics. We also highlight the need to stimulate Iberian collaboration and extend the discussion to a wider range of stakeholders to integrate different perspectives on the research agenda for Iberian wild ungulates.
A universal geography neural network for mobility flow prediction in planning scenarios
Authors: Guo Jifu , Bai Shengguang , Li Xun , Xian Kai , Liu Erjian , Ding Wenting , Ma Xizhi
Published: January 2025

This study primarily focuses on generating mobility flow in regions and cities, which plays an important role in urban planning and management. The majority of existing mobility flow models, including conventional statistical models and deep learning‐based models, are heavily dependent on historical data to predict future mobility flows. The application of these models poses significant challenges in the planning and construction of emerging cities and regions, particularly in developing countries experiencing swift urbanization. These challenges are exacerbated by a dearth of historical data and rapid shifts in mobility patterns. Consequently, the scenario necessitates a mobility flow generation model capable of generating flows without historical data. This study introduces the universal geography neural network, an algorithm designed to glean potential patterns in human mobility across diverse cities and temporal spans. This is achieved through the analysis of substantial quantities of location‐based data, resulting in the generation of mobility flows within a city. Our experiment, designed to extract various features and generate fine‐grained mobility flows in the testing set, outperforms both traditional models and state‐of‐the‐art deep learning models. Moreover, our model has proven capable of generating reliable results across various time periods and grid areas.
Non‐territorial autonomy in Russia during the revolution and the civil war
Authors: Nam Irina
Published: January 2025

This paper provides an overview of the numerous attempts at implementing the idea of non‐territorial autonomy (NTA) during the revolution and civil war in Russia in 1917–1922, when the fate of the disintegrating multinational empire was being discussed. Projects of Russian political parties offered various options for the implementation of NTA—from a universal model for solving national problems to an alternative to the territorial option and to specific projects intended for ethnic minorities only. The Constitutional Democrats, whose main priority was the indivisibility of Russia, saw NTA as a counterweight to the increasingly influential federalist movement. The Socialist parties envisaged the possibility of both territorial and non‐territorial solutions to the national question. The idea of NTA was embodied in the projects of the national movements of Jews, Germans and Ukrainians; in the national‐religious movement of Muslim Turko‐Tatars; and in the activities of the provisional democratic governments in the country's east, that is, the Committee of Members of the Constituent Assembly, the Provisional Siberian Government based in Omsk and the Ministry of National Affairs of the Far Eastern Republic.
Using Discrete Choice Experiments to Measure the Preferences of Older People for Home Care Services in China
Authors: Xu Yue , Xiao Danni , Li Yuchang , Hu Linlin
Published: January 2025

The global aging demographic trend has led to an increased demand for home care services among older people. We measured the preferences and willingness to pay (WTP) of older adults in China for home care services using a discrete choice experiment (DCE) design. A total of 496 valid responses from older adults were included. The analysis was performed using conditional logit and mixed logit models to estimate utility parameters, WTP, and uptake rates. The attributes for home care services included the following: home care service content, service quality, supervision, and feedback collection during service provision, and out‐of‐pocket payment. The findings indicated that respondents were willing to pay RMB 197.487 more per month for medical care services, RMB 76.227 more per month for higher quality services, and RMB 134.397 more for services with supervision. Improving these attributes could increase the likelihood of older adults using home care services by 29.33%. Policymakers should reduce the economic burden on older adults, enhancing service content as well as supervision and quality to improve the acceptability and sustainability of home care services.
Small Intestinal Slow Wave Dysrhythmia and Blunted Postprandial Responses in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Zhu Ying , Gong Shiyuan , Li Shiying , Li Yan , Wang Yan , Wu Gaojue , Chen Jiande D. Z.
Published: January 2025

Background

Gastric dysmotility and gastric slow wave dysrhythmias have been well documented in patients with diabetes. However, little is known on the effect of hyperglycemia on small intestine motility, such as intestinal slow waves, due to limited options in measuring its activity. Moreover, food intake and digestion process have been reported to alter the small intestine motility in normal rats, but their roles in that of diabetic rats remains unknown. This study aimed to explore the effect of hyperglycemia on small intestinal myoelectrical activity (IMA) and responses to various meals in diabetic and normal rats.

Methods

IMA was recorded via chronically implanted serosal electrodes in the proximal small intestine in rats with type 2 diabetes induced by high‐fat diet feeding followed by a low dose of streptozotocin (30 mg/kg) and normal rats. The percentage of normal slow wave (%NSW), dominant power, and dominant frequency (DF) were assessed from the IMA under various conditions. Oral glucose tolerance test was performed, and blood was collected via the tail vein at baseline and 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 min after glucose administration for the measurement of blood glucose. Regular laboratory chow, high‐fat diet, and small or large nutrient liquid meal were used to explore IMA responses to different meals in diabetic and normal rats.

Results

(1) Compared with a postprandial increase in DF in normal rats (p = 0.007), diabetic rats showed a blunted postprandial response in DF (p = 0.145) after a regular chow. However, no difference was found in %NSW between diabetic and normal rats in both fasting and fed states; (2) In the fasting state, %NSW was correlated with the blood glucose level in diabetic rats (r = −0.817, p = 0.004, N = 8) as well as HbA1C (r = −0.871, p = 0.005, N = 8). After glucose administration, the increase in blood glucose was correlated with a decrease in %NSW (r = −0.655, p < 0.001, N = 8). (3) %NSW in diabetic rats during the 30‐min postprandial state was not altered after a meal, either liquid or solid, regular or high‐fat diet, small or large meal, suggesting an absence of gastric‐small intestinal reflex.

Conclusions

In type 2 diabetic rats, the regularity of intestinal slow waves is negatively correlated with the blood glucose level in both fasting and fed states. Diabetic rats exhibit a blunted postprandial response in intestinal slow waves compared with normal rats. There seems to be a lack of gastric‐small intestinal reflex upon food ingestion in diabetic rats.
The role of adipogenic niche resident cells in colorectal cancer progression in relation to obesity
Authors: Domagalski Mikołaj , Olszańska Joanna , Pietraszek‐Gremplewicz Katarzyna , Nowak Dorota
Published: January 2025

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide and has one of the highest mortality rates. Considering its nonlinear etiology, many risk factors are associated with CRC formation and development, with obesity at the forefront. Obesity is regarded as one of the key environmental risk determinants for the pathogenesis of CRC. Excessive food intake and a sedentary lifestyle, together with genetic predispositions, lead to the overgrowth of adipose tissue along with a disruption in the number and function of its building cells. Adipose tissue‐resident cells may constitute part of the CRC microenvironment. Alterations in their physiology and secretory profiles observed in obesity may further contribute to CRC progression, and despite similar localization, their contributions are not equivalent. They can interact with CRC cells, either directly or indirectly, influencing various processes that contribute to tumorigenesis. The main aim of this review is to provide insights into the diversity of adipose tissue resident cells, namely, adipocytes, adipose stromal cells, and immunological cells, regarding the role of particular cell types in co‐forming the CRC microenvironment. The scope of this study was also devoted to the abnormalities in adipose tissue physiology observed in obesity states and their impact on CRC development.
Celebrating the Pyrite Anniversary of the Congressional Budget Act
Authors: Meyers Roy T.
Published: January 2025

The congressional budget process has not aged well after years of polarized partisan competition. Republicans, who now control government, may enact budget resolutions and reconciliation bills, or instead end the filibuster. Though debt levels need to be reduced, Republicans favor tax cuts. This places the burden on spending cuts, which lack an election mandate, and that will be opposed strenuously by beneficiaries. Republicans plan to outsource the generation of spending cuts to a nonexpert “Department of Government Efficiency,” and to empower the President to impound funds. The conditions of President Trump's reelection will endanger the legitimacy of budget decisions.
Understanding the war in Ukraine: Comparing knowledge and bias in Russia and the U.S.
Authors: Beattie Peter , Sherstoboeva Elena
Published: January 2025

What mass publics know about foreign affairs is of great importance in international politics. Knowledge and ignorance probabilistically delimit the range of opinions likely to form on foreign affairs issues. Military strategists understand the importance of “information warfare,” since publics apply foreign affairs knowledge to form opinions that may help or hinder a government's foreign policy goals. However, little research has investigated what the Russian and U.S. publics know about the invasion of Ukraine. By using a signal detection technique to assess the accuracy of, and bias in, knowledge related to the war in its first few months, this study provides insight into the knowledge both publics used to form opinions about the conflict in mid‐2022. The results indicate that both groups have more accurate knowledge pertaining to the dominant narrative in the opposing country, compared to the dominant narrative in their own country. Both groups evinced greater bias toward their own‐country narrative, with Russians more biased than Americans. These results are connected to differences and similarities in the two countries' media systems and political contexts. Normative implications differ; from a classical realist international relations perspective, public ignorance is expected and irrelevant, but some versions of democratic theory require unbiased and accurate knowledge found absent here.
Inputs, Outputs, and Total Factor Productivity in the US Farm Sector: A New State‐Level Analysis (1960–2015)
Authors: Wang Sun Ling , Nehring Richard , Mosheim Roberto , Rocha Adauto Brasilino
Published: January 2025

We introduce new methods and data sources to generate comprehensive state‐level estimates of inputs, outputs, and total factor productivity for each of the 48 contiguous US states from 1960 to 2015. Results show that total factor productivity is the primary driver of farm output growth during the study period. However, the average annual productivity growth rates exhibit significant variation among states, ranging from 0.23% (New Mexico) to 1.95% (Ohio). While the average annual productivity growth rate has decelerated for most states over the past two decades, our test results do not indicate a consistent productivity slowdown across 10 production regions.
Attempted ablation of an orbital cyst in a dog with 1% polidocanol using fluoroscopy and contrast cystography
Authors: Matthews Marissa R. , Jones Katrina E. V. , Flanders Hannah , Wotman Kathryn , Cleymaet Allison , Scansen Brian A.
Published: January 2025

A 4‐year‐old female spayed mixed‐breed dog received enucleation surgery of the right eye in 2018 following the diagnosis of glaucoma. The patient was presented in 2021 for recurrent swelling of the right orbit. Ultrasound confirmed the presence of a cystic structure, and chemical ablation with 1% polidocanol (compounded, Stokes Pharmacy, Mt. Laurel, NJ) and contrast cystography was elected for treatment. Iodinated contrast was injected under fluoroscopy and after no leakage was noted, the contrast was aspirated from the orbital cyst and immediately followed by an injection of 1% polidocanol solution. The orbital cyst collapsed within 24 h but returned 25 days post‐injection. A second attempt was made for chemical cyst wall ablation with 1% polidocanol foam and ultrasound guidance. The orbital cyst returned 12 weeks post 1% polidocanol foam injection, and the patient presented for surgical removal. Histopathology revealed an orbital conjunctival inclusion cyst associated with granulomatous and lymphoplasmacytic inflammation. Histopathology confirmed that the draining cyst was lined by conjunctiva and likely represented conjunctival remnants from the previous enucleation. This report describes fluoroscopic guidance for sclerotherapy in the treatment of a post‐enucleation orbital cyst in a dog. Contrast cystography may be useful to verify catheter position and demonstrate cyst margins prior to injection. This case report highlights the importance of complete conjunctival excision during enucleation.
The Role of Regulatory Compliance in Shaping Risk Management Practices in Kuwaiti Insurance Companies
Authors: Alibrahim Noora F. , Malick Shahroz Saeed
Published: January 2025

The paper examines the issues construed by the insurance organizations in the State of Kuwait, through changing the policies and regulations. It also shows the hazard of non-compliance and how that could affect risk management strategies. This research is conducted via a survey-based methodology where structured questionnaires are used to shed light on the interplay of regulatory requirements with the implementation and success of risk management strategies in the insurance sector of Kuwait. Data has confirmed the expected, indicating the correlation between the level of regulatory query strictness and business awareness of the risks. Moreover, the paper indicates a direct positive impact of robust regulation and risk management measures. Thus, the research shows that strong regulatory environment matters a lot in optimal risk management. Finally, this research provides knowledge to the subject literature that accentuates the fact that the role of regulatory measures upon which the companies can use in developing organizational behavior is more paramount than risk management decisions. The research fits well, since it emphasizes the role of knowing how the regulating stringency and risk management processes are linked, which is usually in a rapidly changing regulatory landscape. While insurance companies in Kuwait become more innovative and invent the new ways of complying to the oversight agencies to use good governance and sound risk management strategies, the insights mentioned above become crucial.
Machine learning driven measurement of high-aspect-ratio nanostructures using Mueller matrix spectroscopic ellipsometry
Authors: Mudide Shiva , Keller Nick , Andrew Antonelli G. , Cruz Geraldina , Hart Julia , Bruccoleri Alexander R. , Heilmann Ralf K. , Schattenburg Mark L.
Published: January 2025

Accurate fabrication of high-aspect ratio (HAR) structures in applications from semiconductor devices to x-ray observatories is essential for their optimal performance because their performance directly depends on their structure. High-efficiency critical-angle transmission (CAT) gratings enable high-resolution x-ray spectroscopy in astrophysics, but their performance is only ideal when certain performance-critical parameters, like the bar tilts introduced during deep reactive-ion etching, are tuned to precise values. Traditional measurement methods like small-angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) are accurate, but limit the development of robust control algorithms to nudge performance-critical parameters toward favorable values because they are slow and often destructive. We present a fast, accurate, nondestructive measurement method using Mueller matrix spectroscopic ellipsometry and machine learning. Given a HAR structure, we train on rigorous coupled-wave analysis simulation data to predict Mueller matrix spectra from input performance-critical parameter values. We then invert this forward problem by freezing our network weights, measuring experimental Mueller matrix spectra, and vanilla gradient descending on performance-critical parameters to values that correspond to the input Mueller matrix spectra. Introducing machine learning to invert the forward problem reduces computation time, and experimental results demonstrate close agreement between our method’s determined tilt and SAXS measurements. Our accurate, fast measurement method paves the way for the development of robust control algorithms that adjust fabrication parameters in response to measurement, ensuring optimal performance in not only CAT gratings but also HAR structures embedded in applications from semiconductor to microelectromechanical systems fabrication.
Kinesiology JEDI ... Moving With the Future: What Would Yoda Do?
Authors: Armstrong Ketra L.
Published: January 2025

“JEDI” is an acronym that many organizations use to describe programs and practices related to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. However, the term “Jedi” also elicits thoughts about the warriors on the light side of peace and justice in the mystical and fictional Star War series. This essay takes some artistic license in applying lessons learned from Star Wars’ Jedi to address the challenges that kinesiology faces regarding JEDI in the future. The role of symbolic kinesiology leadership in promoting and sustaining JEDI for the future is discussed. In accordance with the idioms of Star Wars, this essay posits organizational cultures as kinesiology’s metaphorical JEDI Force and organizational justice as kinesiology’s metaphorical JEDI weapon, the lightsaber. In so doing, this essay offers suggestions by which kinesiology must maintain a focus on JEDI in the future, despite the sociopolitical attacks that it may receive and the various forms of resistance that it my experience.
IRF1 cooperates with ISGF3 or GAF to form innate immune de novo enhancers in macrophages
Authors: Chavez Carolina , Lin Kelly , Malveaux Alexis , Gorin Aleksandr , Brizuela Stefanie , Cheng Quen J. , Hoffmann Alexander
Published: January 2025

Macrophages exposed to immune stimuli reprogram their epigenomes to alter their subsequent functions. Exposure to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) causes widespread nucleosome remodeling and the formation of thousands of de novo enhancers. We dissected the regulatory logic by which the network of interferon regulatory factors (IRFs) induces the opening of chromatin and the formation of de novo enhancers. We found that LPS-activated IRF3 mediated de novo enhancer formation indirectly by activating the type I interferon (IFN)–induced ISGF3. However, ISGF3 was generally needed to collaborate with IRF1, particularly where chromatin was less accessible. At these locations, IRF1 was required for the initial opening of chromatin, with ISGF3 extending accessibility and promoting the deposition of H3K4me1, marking poised enhancers. Because
IRF1
expression depends on the transcription factor NF-κB, which is activated in infected but not bystander cells, IRF-regulated enhancers required activation of both the IRF3 and NF-κB branches of the innate immune signaling network. However, type II IFN (IFN-γ), which is typically produced by T cells, may also induce
IRF1
expression through the STAT1 homodimer GAF. We showed that, upon IFN-γ stimulation, IRF1 was also responsible for opening inaccessible chromatin sites that could then be exploited by GAF to form de novo enhancers. Together, our results reveal how combinatorial logic gates of IRF1-ISGF3 or IRF1-GAF restrict immune epigenomic memory formation to macrophages exposed to pathogens or IFN-γ–secreting T cells but not bystander macrophages exposed transiently to type I IFN.
Another traveler’s tale: African tick-bite fever
Authors: Brunet A. , Leplatois A. , Lier Clement , Limelette A. , N’Guyen Y.
Published: January 2025

Background

In the present report, we discuss the clinical and species-specific diagnosis of African tick-bite fever.

Case Summary

A 58-year-old man was admitted to the hospital for fever, headache, and myalgia. The clinical examination yielded only two small purpuric lesions with a dark center on the thigh and the abdomen. The patient reported that he had just returned from a 10-day trip to the eastern region of South Africa, and that he had hiked through the bush in Eswatini 7 days before the onset of fever. The white blood cell count showed lymphopenia, and the C reactive protein and alanine aminotransferase levels were mildly elevated. The diagnoses of bacteremia, malaria, COVID 19, and arboviruses were ruled out. Both the diagnoses of African tick-bite fever and Mediterranean spotted fever were plausible because both
Rickettsia africae
and
Rickettsia conorii
are present in South Africa. The presence of two skin lesions presumed to be necrotic eschars was a bit more suggestive of African tick-bite fever. Treatment with doxycycline was started once blood serology and a biopsy of the abdominal lesion had been performed. The outcome was rapidly favorable. A PCR assay performed on the abdominal eschar confirmed the involvement of
R. africae,
while the successive serological assays did not.

Conclusion

Numerous necrotic eschars without secondary maculopapular rash affecting the sole and palms are more commonly observed in African tick-bite fever than in Mediterranean spotted fever.
Acute embolic infarcts of bilateral cerebellar lobes, cerebral peduncles, thalami and left parietal lobe cortex following HIPEC surgery
Authors: Kumar Neeraj , Prasad Surya Nandan , Kumar Abhyuday , Kumari Anita
Published: January 2025

Cytoreductive surgery and intraoperative, intraperitoneal hyperthermic chemoperfusion (hyperthermic intraperitoneal intraoperative chemotherapy) are commonly used for the management of peritoneal surface metastases. We describe a case of acute embolic infarcts in bilateral cerebellar lobes, cerebral peduncles, thalamus and left parietal lobe cortex in a postmenopausal woman in her 50s diagnosed with bilateral ovarian mucinous adenocarcinoma with peritoneal metastasis under general anaesthesia.
Unexpected presentation: metastatic adenoid cystic carcinoma (AdCC) of the breast masquerading as a large cystic-solid renal mass
Authors: Wong Benjamin Ngie Xiong , Chen David Chun , Duplessis Justin , Woon Dixon
Published: January 2025

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (AdCC) of the breast is a rare histological subtype of breast cancer, which usually has a low propensity for metastasis and is associated with a good prognosis. AdCC metastasis to the kidney is rare, with only 29 cases reported in the literature. We report a case of a woman in her 60s with multiple right-sided large cystic-solid renal lesions after a recent diagnosis of marginal zone B-cell lymphoma. The patient previously had T1c N0 breast AdCC, treated with curative intent surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy 10 years prior. She underwent a radical nephrectomy, and histology was confirmed asmetastatic classic AdCC, consistent with the spread from previous AdCC breast cancer. Although she was in remission for 10 years, it is imperative to distinguish between breast AdCC metastasis and primary cystic renal cell carcinoma to be able to formulate an optimal management strategy for these tumours.
Advancing cancer care through digital access in the USA: a state-of-the-art review of patient portals in oncology
Authors: Suresh Uday , Ancker Jessica , Salmi Liz , Diamond Lisa , Rosenbloom Trent , Steitz Bryan
Published: January 2025

Patient portal use among patients with cancer has increased significantly in recent years. This state-of-the-art review seeks to address and analyse literature involving patient portal use by patients with cancer and their care partners. In this review, we queried articles from PubMed published between January 2018 and April 2024 that describe recent trends and the current presence of portals in cancer care for patients, proxy users and/or care partners. We searched for articles addressing three overarching themes: (1) trends and disparities in portal adoption and use among patients with cancer, (2) use of specific portal components and functions in cancer care and (3) associations between portal use and cancer-related outcomes. Our search identified 278 unique studies, of which 82 were relevant empiric studies that met inclusion criteria and were included in this review. These papers aligned with 12 subthemes, including disparities in patient portal access, growing use of telemedicine via patient portal and patient access to immediately available to electronic health information. Our findings indicate that patient portals play an increasingly important role in helping patients manage their cancer care, despite few disparities that contribute to inequitable use. However, despite consistent growth in use over recent years, there are many areas for improvement in how portals support patients with cancer and a demand for functionality to continually evolve with patient needs.
Association between thyroid dysfunction and insulin resistance: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Krishnamurthy Hari , Suresh Chithra , Siriwardhane Thushani , Krishna Karthik , Song Qi , Jayaraman Vasanth , Wang Tianhao , Bei Kang , Rajasekaran John J
Published: January 2025

Objective

To evaluate the association between thyroid disease and diabetes markers.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

The study was conducted in a diagnostic setting where the primary care providers recommended the patients to test for thyroid and diabetes panels.

Participants

The thyroid and diabetes markers were tested in 32 787 subjects with suspected thyroid and related conditions who visited Vibrant America Clinical Laboratory between January 2015 and June 2019.

Results

Our general prevalence results showed that homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was elevated in overt hypothyroid subjects (43.7%) and overt hyperthyroid subjects (42.2%). Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) was elevated in subclinical hypothyroid subjects (19.2%), overt hypothyroid subjects (22.3%) and overt hyperthyroid subjects (21.2%). Glucose was significantly elevated in subclinical hypothyroid subjects (24.2%) and overt hyperthyroid subjects (31.0%). Insulin was significantly elevated in overt hypothyroid subjects (15.1%). Interestingly, we found that 70.3% of subjects who had their HOMA-IR score escalated from negative (HOMA-IR<2.7) to positive (HOMA-IR>2.7) during their multiple visits had anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) 369 (±242) days prior to the onset of this change.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that anti-TPO levels are elevated before the onset of insulin resistance, indicating its potential use as a predictive marker.
Prevalence and factors associated with neonatal sepsis in Mali: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Traoré Fatoumata Bintou , Camara Bienvenu Salim , Diallo Elhadj Marouf , Sidibé Cheick Sidya , Diallo Alhassane , Sidibé Sidikiba , LY Birama Apho , Yaro Fatimata , Traoré Mariam , Dembelé Haoua , Touré Abdoulaye , Camara Alioune , Delamou Alexandre , Sangho Hamadoun
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors for neonatal sepsis among neonates admitted to selected health facilities in the Bamako district and Koulikoro region in Mali.

Design

This is a prospective cross-sectional study. Data were analyses using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Setting

This facility-based study was conducted in four health facilities consisting of two hospitals and two reference health centres in Mali.

Participants

The study participants comprised 795 randomly selected neonates and their indexed mother.

Outcome measures

The primary outcome of the study was the prevalence of sepsis in the considered health facilities. The other variables of interest were risk factors for sepsis.

Results

The prevalence of neonatal sepsis among the study population was 21.00%. More than 74% of sepsis cases were early onset (<72 hours). Neonatal age <7 days (AOR=2.79, 95% CI 1.59 to 4.89, p=0.000), low birth weight <2500 g (AOR=2.88, 95% CI 1.41 to 5.86, p=0.003), Apgar score <7 (AOR=4.03, 95% CI 3.09 to 5.24, p=0.000), mother with no education (AOR=2.24, 95% CI 1.15 to 4.33, p=0.02), maternal fever (AOR=2.31, 95% CI 1.53 to 3.53, p=0.000), prolonged rupture of membranes (AOR=1.87, 95% CI 1.01 to 3.54, p=0.04) and prolonged labour (AOR=2, 95% CI 1.03 to 3.88, p=0.04) were significantly associated with neonatal sepsis.

Conclusion

The prevalence of sepsis in Mali is still high. Given the country’s current security context, the findings in this study can support prevention activities, particularly given the limited resources available. It is essential to facilitate antenatal and postnatal visits, to promote in-facility births and rigorous monitoring of neonates at high risk of sepsis. Furthermore, it would be beneficial for future research on neonatal sepsis to include neonates born at home.
Effects of nurse-home visiting on intimate partner violence and maternal income, mental health and self-efficacy by 24 months postpartum: a randomised controlled trial (British Columbia Healthy Connections Project)
Authors: Catherine Nicole L A , MacMillan Harriet , Jack Susan , Zheng Yufei , Xie Hui , Boyle Michael , Sheehan Debbie , Gonzalez Andrea , Gafni Amiram , Tonmyr Lil , Barr Ronald , Marcellus Lenora , Varcoe Colleen , Waddell Charlotte
Published: January 2025

Objective

To evaluate the impact of Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP), a home-visiting programme, on exploratory maternal outcomes in British Columbia (BC), Canada.

Design

Pragmatic, parallel arm, randomised controlled trial conducted October 2013–November 2019. Random allocation of participants (1:1) to comparison (existing services) or NFP (plus existing services). Researchers were naïve to allocation.

Setting

26 local health areas across four of five BC regional health authorities.

Participants

739 young (<25 years), first-time mothers (enrolled <28 weeks gestation), experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage.

Intervention

Public health nurses with NFP education offered home visits (up to 64) during pregnancy and until children’s second birthday plus existing services on offer in BC.

Outcome measures

Prespecified exploratory outcomes included exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV), income (annual from employment) and not in education, employment or training (NEET) by 24 months postpartum, and psychological distress and self-efficacy across five time points (34–36 weeks gestation, 2, 10, 18 and 24 months postpartum).

Results

A total of 739 participants were randomised (368 NFP, 371 comparison) and analysed via an intention-to-treat analysis. At 24 months postpartum, for participants receiving NFP, a lower percentage reported IPV (group difference −7.14; 95% CI: –14.17, –0.10); incomes were larger ($1629.74, 95% CI: $5.20, $3254.28) after adjusting for baseline differences and no difference in percentage of NEET (−2.41, 95% CI: −10.11, 5.30). For participants receiving NFP, psychological distress was lower across time points (−1.59, 95% CI: −2.35 to –0.84); self-efficacy was greater at 34–36 weeks gestation (0.78, 95% CI: 0.34, 1.22), then decreasing and becoming insignificant by 24 months postpartum (0.29, 95% CI: −0.18, 0.75). No unanticipated serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

Relying on the maternal report, at 24 months postpartum, the NFP group had reduced IPV exposure and increased incomes. Benefits observed in late pregnancy were sustained to study end for psychological distress, but not self-efficacy. Longer-term follow-up is recommended.

Trial registration

NCT01672060.
Mixed-methods reproductive health knowledge, attitudes and practices survey of IDPs, returnees and host communities in Jonglei State, South Sudan
Authors: Lieberman Lawry Lynn , Gabor Rachel , Katele Jacques , Baak Madut Lazarus , Sommers Katina , Manuel David , Nadolski Claire , Lado Mounir , Koehlmoos Tracey , Clemmer William
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To understand the current state of maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) among internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees and host communities in remote counties of Jonglei state.

Design

Cross-sectional, randomly sampled, mixed-methods, population-based household study.

Setting

Ayod, Nyirol, Fangak and Pigi counties of Jonglei, South Sudan.

Participants

859 households, including 586 adult females and 273 adult males.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of MNCH. Secondary: contraception, pregnancies, pregnancy outcomes, use or non-use of antenatal care (ANC)/postnatal care (PNC), use of skilled birth attendants, breastfeeding, knowledge of warning or danger signs of pregnancy, gender-based violence (GBV) and MNCH attitudes/cultural norms.

Results

A total of 859 households consented to the study (586 females and 273 males) with a response rate of 96% among females and 94% among males. The ability to list at least three warning/danger signs or essentials of care for different MNCH categories among respondents was low (range, 37·0%–47·1%). 1% of females and 3% of males use contraception. ANC and PNC are suboptimal and largely provided by unskilled providers. 26% of women exclusively breastfed for up to 6 months. For respondents with children<2 years of age, 68·9% (95% CI 64·7 to 72·7) had received three doses of Penta valent vaccine. Females and males reported similar lifetime GBV rates.

Conclusion

Conflict and flooding in the remote survey areas are significant barriers to MNCH. Evidence-based interventions that decrease mortality and morbidity are lacking and the dearth of skilled health providers and healthcare facilities limits improvements in MNCH. Establishing cost-effective and evidence-based interventions proven to reduce MNCH mortality either at fixed facilities and/or in combination with mobile clinics and community outreach are necessary to ensure that IDPs and returnees are reached.