bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parents as Partners: Exploring the Experiences of Teachers of Students with Disabilities
Authors: Chase Bethany L
Published: March 2024

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1990 (reauthorized in 2004 as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act) mandates that teachers include parents and guardians as partners in their child’s education. Although these partnerships have been shown to help parents and teachers alike, they can also be experienced negatively by both parties, resulting in diminished outcomes for students, stress and frustration for parents, and burnout for teachers. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of teachers of students with disabilities when partnering with their students’ parents. After conducting 10 semistructured interviews and using thematic analysis to analyze the data, author identified the following four themes: (1) yearning to be trusted, (2) embracing the paradox (“you can't take it personally”), (3) striving to access empathy, and (4) lacking training and support (“desperate for help”). Findings from this study indicate that teachers desire connection and collaboration with their students’ parents but require more professional development and overall support to do so consistently and effectively. The article provides recommendations for specific areas where professional development may be particularly useful in repairing roadblocks to positive teacher and parent collaboration.
Chromosomal DNA sequences of the Pacific saury genome: versatile resources for fishery science and comparative biology
Authors: Sato Mana , Fukuda Kazuya , Kadota Mitsutaka , Makino-Itou Hatsune , Tatsumi Kaori , Yamauchi Shinya , Kuraku Shigehiro
Published: March 2024

Pacific saury (Cololabis saira) is a commercially important small pelagic fish species in Asia. In this study, we conducted the first-ever whole genome sequencing of this species, with single molecule, real-time (SMRT) sequencing technology. The obtained high-fidelity (HiFi) long-read sequence data, which amount to ~30-folds of its haploid genome size that was measured with quantitative PCR (1.17 Gb), were assembled into contigs. Scaffolding with Hi-C reads yielded a whole genome assembly containing 24 chromosome-scale sequences, with a scaffold N50 length of 47.7 Mb. Screening of repetitive elements including telomeric repeats was performed to characterize possible factors that need to be resolved towards ‘telomere-to-telomere’ sequencing. The larger genome size than in medaka, a close relative in Beloniformes, is at least partly explained by larger repetitive element quantity, which is reflected in more abundant tRNAs, in the Pacific saury genome. Protein-coding regions were predicted using transcriptome data, which resulted in 22,274 components. Retrieval of Pacific saury homologs of aquaporin (AQP) genes known from other teleost fishes validated high completeness and continuity of the genome assembly. These resources are available at https://treethinkers.nig.ac.jp/saira/ and will assist various molecular-level studies in fishery science and comparative biology.
Circulating cell-free DNA-based biomarkers for prognostication and disease monitoring in adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Lippert Juliane , Smith Gabrielle , Appenzeller Silke , Landwehr Laura-Sophie , Prete Alessandro , Steinhauer Sonja , Asia Miriam , Urlaub Hanna , Elhassan Yasir S , Kircher Stefan , Arlt Wiebke , Fassnacht Martin , Altieri Barbara , Ronchi Cristina L
Published: March 2024

Objective

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare aggressive cancer with heterogeneous behaviour. Disease surveillance relies on frequent imaging, which comes with significant radiation exposure. The aim of the study was to investigate the role of circulating cell-free DNA (ccfDNA)-related biomarkers (BMs) for prognostication and monitoring of ACC.

Design and Methods

We investigated 34 patients with ACC and 23 healthy subjects (HSs) as controls. Circulating cell-free DNA was extracted by commercial kits and ccfDNA concentrations were quantified by fluorimeter (BM1). Targeted sequencing was performed using a customized panel of 27 ACC-specific genes. Leucocyte DNA was used to discriminate somatic variants (BM2), while tumour DNA was sequenced in 22/34 cases for comparison. Serial ccfDNA samples were collected during follow-up in 19 ACC patients (median period 9 months) and analysed in relationship with standard radiological imaging.

Results

Circulating cell-free DNA concentrations were higher in ACC than HS (mean ± SD, 1.15 ± 1.56 vs 0.05 ± 0.05 ng/µL, P < .0001), 96% of them being above the cut-off of 0.146 ng/µL (mean HS + 2 SD, positive BM1). At ccfDNA sequencing, 47% of ACC showed at least 1 somatic mutation (positive BM2). A combined ccfDNA-BM score was strongly associated with both progression-free and overall survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.63; 95% CI, 1.13-6.13; P = .010, and HR = 5.98; 95% CI, 2.29-15.6; P = .0001, respectively). During disease monitoring, positive BM2 showed the best specificity (100%) and sensitivity (67%) to detect ACC recurrence or progress compared with BM1.

Conclusion

ccfDNA-related BMs are frequently detected in ACC patients and represent a promising, minimally invasive tool to predict clinical outcome and complement surveillance imaging. Our findings will be validated in a larger cohort of ACCs with long-term follow-up.
Raising awareness among the TESOL community about the professional identity tensions of women EFL teachers in Africa
Authors: Koné Kadidja , Kéita Fatoumata , Koita Binta
Published: March 2024

This collaborative autoethnographic study explores how three female university English teachers in critical friendship navigated professional identity tensions related to the ideological biases of male faculty members implying that women do not belong in academia because of their gender and the responsibilities it entails in an African context. In a reflective collaborative autoethnography, the women raised awareness among TESOL practitioners, researchers, and educators of their professional identity tensions, which ranged from frustration to isolation. They also shared critical reflections on how they invested in their careers to navigate their professional identity tensions in a male-dominated higher-education environment.
Impact of pre-admission physical activity on benefits of physiology-guided complete revascularization in older patients with myocardial infarction: insights from the FIRE trial
Authors: Pavasini Rita , Campo Gianluca , Serenelli Matteo , Tonet Elisabetta , Guiducci Vincenzo , Escaned Javier , Moreno Raul , Casella Gianni , Cavazza Caterina , Varbella Ferdinando , Sacchetta Giorgio , Arena Marco , Santos Ignacio Amat , Ibañes Enrique Gutiérrez , Scarsini Roberto , D’Amico Gianpiero , Ruiz-Poveda Fernando Lozano , Díez Gil José Luis , Pignatelli Gianluca , Iannopollo Gianmarco , Colaiori Iginio , Santos Ramon Calvino , Marrone Andrea , Fileti Luca , Rigattieri Stefano , Barbato Emanuele , Ocaranza-Sanchez Raymundo , Biscaglia Simone
Published: March 2024

Aims

The present analysis from the Functional Assessment in Elderly Myocardial Infarction Patients with Multivessel Disease (FIRE) trial aims to explore the significance of pre-admission physical activity and assess whether the benefits of physiology-guided complete revascularization apply consistently to sedentary and active older patients.

Methods and results

Patients aged 75 years or more with myocardial infarction (MI) and multivessel disease were randomized to receive physiology-guided complete revascularization or culprit-only strategy. The primary outcome was a composite of death, MI, stroke, or any revascularization within a year. Secondary endpoints included the composite of cardiovascular death or MI, as well as single components of the primary endpoint. Pre-admission physical activity was categorized into three groups: (i) absent (sedentary), (ii) light, and (iii) vigorous. Among 1445 patients, 692 (48%) were sedentary, whereas 560 (39%) and 193 (13%) performed light and vigorous physical activity, respectively. Patients engaging in light or vigorous pre-admission physical activity exhibited a reduced risk of the primary outcome compared with sedentary individuals [light hazard ratio (HR) 0.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.55–0.91 and vigorous HR 0.14, 95% CI 0.07–0.91, respectively]. These trends were also observed for death, cardiovascular death, or MI. When comparing physiology-guided complete revascularization vs. culprit-only strategy, no significant interaction was observed for primary and secondary endpoints when stratified by sedentary or active status.

Conclusion

In older patients with MI, pre-admission physical activity emerges as a robust and independent prognostic determinant. Physiology-guided complete revascularization stands out an effective strategy in reducing ischaemic adverse events, irrespective of pre-admission physical activity status.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03772743.
AI Originality Revisited: Can We Prompt Copyright over AI-Generated Pictures?
Authors: He Tianxiang
Published: March 2024

With the advent of large language models (LLMs) that can generate qualified content, such as images based on text prompts, the threat posed by AI creativity has become imminent. Courts and institutions in the US and China have provided different answers with regard to the copyrightability of prompt-based images. This article argues that the judicial recognition of text-to-image copyrightability at the current stage is dangerous. Not only is the practice not in accordance with our traditional understanding of originality and the author-work relationship; it also fails to consider the collateral consequences of such a finding. Perfectly regulating AI-generated content (AIGC) may be beyond the judiciary’s capacity, as the solutions are provided within an ill-suited framework. It would be preferable for legislators to engage in thorough discussions with stakeholders to develop a considered regulatory plan first, which does not necessarily have to revolve around copyright.
Dietary Interventions and Supplementation in Patients With an Ileal Pouch–Anal Anastomosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gold Stephanie , Levinson Carrie , Colombel Jean-Frederic , Manning Laura , Sands Bruce E , Kayal Maia
Published: March 2024

Lay Summary

The restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch–anal anastomosis is the preferred surgery for patients with medically refractory ulcerative colitis. Although the ileal pouch–anal anastomosis provides gastrointestinal continuity and is an excellent alternative to a permanent end ileostomy, it is not without its complications including acute pouchitis, which occurs in up to 80% of patients. Diet may have a significant impact on pouch function and the development of pouchitis by virtue of its impact on motility and the microbiome. Multiple studies have evaluated the ability of different diets and supplements to improve pouch function and manage pouchitis, yet results are conflicting; thus, evidence-based dietary recommendations are lacking. Patients with an ileoanal pouch routinely ask about dietary interventions to maintain pouch health, and it is crucial that concrete evidence-based recommendations are identified to provide guidance. The goal of this systematic review is to summarize the available data on dietary patterns in patients with an ileoanal pouch, dietary interventions in this cohort, and the impact of supplements on pouch function and pouchitis.
Seasonal shift in energy allocation from somatic growth to lipid storage and the link between pre-winter condition and overwintering potential in juvenile Pacific cod
Authors: Abookire Alisa A , Copeman Louise A , Litzow Michael A , Laurel Benjamin J
Published: March 2024

Warming temperatures in the Gulf of Alaska have been linked to recruitment failure in Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus), but the mechanisms and timing of mortality events for juveniles are unclear. To date, limited research has focused on overwintering success, and the knowledge of juvenile ecology and physiology is based entirely on summer observations. Here, we investigate the changes in body condition, diet composition, and tissue-specific fatty acid (FA) storage for age-0 Pacific cod in Kodiak, Alaska, from February to December during 2018 and 2020. We observed protracted nearshore residency from June to December. Cod body condition (Kdry) and predicted weight at length were lowest in October, November, and December. Although not different interannually, diet composition varied seasonally, which corresponded to an increase in cod length. A range of condition metrics (HSIwet, FA concentration in liver tissue, and the % of whole body FAs stored in the liver) began to increase in September. Cod prioritized growth during the summer, while in the autumn and pre-winter they allocated more energy into lipid storage. We conclude that seasonal changes in tissue-specific FA storage and pre-winter fish conditions are important factors to consider for understanding overwintering potential of juvenile Pacific cod.
A short-term wind speed prediction method based on the BLS–RVM hybrid model
Authors: Geng Jianchun , Wen Lili
Published: March 2024

The study introduces a novel approach to short-term wind speed forecasting, which amalgamates statistical and machine learning techniques through the utilization of a hybrid model consisting of the broad learning system (BLS) and the relevance vector machine (RVM), to account for the nonstationary characteristics of wind speed data. Firstly, the initial wind speed time series is preprocessed using singular spectrum analysis to achieve noise reduction. Subsequently, the denoised wind speed time series is predicted using generalized learning system (BLS), and the prediction error is obtained. Finally, the prediction error of BLS is further predicted using RVM, and the final prediction result is obtained by combining it with the prediction results of BLS. By integrating multiple algorithms, this novel wind speed forecasting hybrid model improves prediction accuracy and can adapt to different wind speed characteristics and complex wind speed fluctuations. Through a case study, we find that this model outperforms other comparative models in terms of prediction, fully demonstrating its superiority.
Blunted Cortisol Response to Acute Psychosocial Stress in Women With Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Authors: Hamidovic Ajna , Davis John , Soumare Fatimata
Published: March 2024

Background

Despite being considered a stress-related condition, it is not known whether the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is dysfunctional in response to acute psychosocial stress in premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). This is problematic because many women with PMDD report that they are not able to control their stress levels, and a blunted cortisol output has been identified in women with related psychiatric conditions, such as anxiety and depression. The present study is a part of the Premenstrual Hormonal and Affective State Evaluation (PHASE) project, and it aimed to characterize the cortisol trajectory in response to an acute psychosocial stress challenge.

Methods

Women with PMDD and healthy controls with confirmed ovulatory cycles underwent the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) procedure in the mid-late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, throughout which we collected serum samples of cortisol that we analyzed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

The linear mixed model analysis indicated a significant time*diagnosis interaction (P = .008) such that women with PMDD displayed significantly lower serum cortisol levels at +40 through +90 minutes from the time of stress induction.

Conclusion

This is the first study to show that women with PMDD have a blunted cortisol response to psychosocial stress. Combined with our earlier finding showing a greater parasympathetic nervous system withdrawal on heart oscillations in PMDD during acute stress, these and other results show that the dysregulated processing of stress in PMDD may be captured using objective study measures.
Sporadic regional re-emergent cholera: a 19th century problem in the 21st century
Authors: Al-Adham Ibrahim S I , Jaber Nisrein , Ali Agha Ahmed S A , Al-Remawi Mayyas , Al-Akayleh Faisal , Al-Muhtaseb Najah , Collier Phillip J
Published: March 2024

Cholera, caused by Vibrio cholerae, is a severe diarrheal disease that necessitates prompt diagnosis and effective treatment. This review comprehensively examines various diagnostic methods, from traditional microscopy and culture to advanced nucleic acid testing like polymerase spiral reaction and rapid diagnostic tests, highlighting their advantages and limitations. Additionally, we explore evolving treatment strategies, with a focus on the challenges posed by antibiotic resistance due to the activation of the SOS response pathway in V. cholerae. We discuss promising alternative treatments, including low-pressure plasma sterilization, bacteriophages, and selenium nanoparticles. The paper emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary approaches combining novel diagnostics and treatments in managing and preventing cholera, a persistent global health challenge. The current re-emergent 7th pandemic of cholera commenced in 1961 and shows no signs of abeyance. This is probably due to the changing genetic profile of V. cholerae concerning bacterial pathogenic toxins. Given this factor, we argue that the disease is effectively re-emergent, particularly in Eastern Mediterranean countries such as Lebanon, Syria, etc. This review considers the history of the current pandemic, the genetics of the causal agent, and current treatment regimes. In conclusion, cholera remains a significant global health challenge that requires prompt diagnosis and effective treatment. Understanding the history, genetics, and current treatments is crucial in effectively addressing this persistent and re-emergent disease.
Decentralized Targeting of Agricultural Credit Programs: Private Versus Political Intermediaries
Authors: Maitra Pushkar , Mitra Sandip , Mookherjee Dilip , Visaria Sujata
Published: March 2024

We conduct a field experiment in India comparing two ways of delegating selection of microcredit clients among smallholder farmers to local intermediaries: a private trader (TRAIL), versus a local–government appointee (GRAIL). Selected beneficiaries in both schemes were equally likely to take up and repay loans, and experienced similar increases in borrowing and farm output. However farm profits increased and unit costs of production decreased significantly only in TRAIL. While there is some evidence of superior selection by ability and landholding in TRAIL, the results are mainly driven by greater reduction of unit production costs for TRAIL treated farmers than GRAIL treated farmers of similar ability or landholding. We develop and test a model where the TRAIL agents’ role as middlemen in the agricultural supply chain enabled and motivated them to offer treated farmers business advice, which helped them lower unit costs.
Metabolic regulation of neutrophil functions in homeostasis and diseases
Authors: Leblanc Pier-Olivier , Bourgoin Sylvain G , Poubelle Patrice E , Tessier Philippe A , Pelletier Martin
Published: March 2024

Neutrophils are the most abundant leukocytes in humans and play a role in the innate immune response by being the first cells attracted to the site of infection. While early studies presented neutrophils as almost exclusively glycolytic cells, recent advances show that these cells use several metabolic pathways other than glycolysis, such as the pentose phosphate pathway, oxidative phosphorylation, fatty acid oxidation, and glutaminolysis, which they modulate to perform their functions. Metabolism shifts from fatty acid oxidation–mediated mitochondrial respiration in immature neutrophils to glycolysis in mature neutrophils. Tissue environments largely influence neutrophil metabolism according to nutrient sources, inflammatory mediators, and oxygen availability. Inhibition of metabolic pathways in neutrophils results in impairment of certain effector functions, such as NETosis, chemotaxis, degranulation, and reactive oxygen species generation. Alteration of these neutrophil functions is implicated in certain human diseases, such as antiphospholipid syndrome, coronavirus disease 2019, and bronchiectasis. Metabolic regulators such as AMPK, HIF-1α, mTOR, and Arf6 are linked to neutrophil metabolism and function and could potentially be targeted for the treatment of diseases associated with neutrophil dysfunction. This review details the effects of alterations in neutrophil metabolism on the effector functions of these cells.
COVID-19 Disease
Authors: Conlon Christopher P. , Firth John D.
Published: March 2024

A novel coronavirus, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus -2 (SARS-CoV-2), first appeared in the city of Wuhan in Central China in December 2019. Initial cases appeared to be centred on a so-called wet market, but the outbreak spread rapidly. The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared a Pandemic Health Emergency of International Concern on 30 January, 2020. By mid January 2021, there have been over 90 million cases globally and more than two million deaths.
Business, as usual? The impact of organized economic interests on the stringency of Covid-19 containment policies: insights from the Italian case
Authors: Tassinari Arianna , Panarello Demetrio , Tassinari Giorgio , Alboni Fabrizio , Drudi Ignazio , Bagnardi Francesco
Published: March 2024

How do organized economic interests affect the governance of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic? We investigate whether the structural and instrumental power of employer organizations and unions impact upon the stringency of containment measures implemented by governing authorities to tackle the Covid-19 pandemic, focusing on Italy during the first Covid-19 wave of early 2020 as a crucial case. Using Hausman–Taylor panel regression models and original indicators of regional stringency and of unions and employers’ organizations’ efforts to exercise instrumental power via public pressure on social media, we find that the intensity of public pressure by employer organizations is negatively correlated with the stringency of the policy responses implemented by regional authorities to tackle the Covid-19 pandemic, whilst union pressures only show a limited effect. Our findings demonstrate that business pressure and the interplay of economic and class interests are constitutive of the governance of a crucial social and public health phenomenon such as the Covid-19 pandemic.
The adjuvant effect of oil-based gastric lavage on the outcome of acute Aluminum phosphide poisoning: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: De Santi Omar , Orellana Marcelo J , Di Niro Cecilia A , Lashin Heba I , Greco Vanina
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Aluminum Phosphide (AlP) poisoning constituted the most common cause of poisoning death in some low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of oil-based gastric lavage (GL) compared with standard therapy for the treatment of AlP poisoning. Materials and methods. This systematic review complied with “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses” (PRISMA) Protocols. A comprehensive search was carried out, identifying randomized controlled trials (RCTs), including anyone presenting within 6 h of exposure to AlP, and the administration of GL with oils, including liquid paraffin or coconut oil.

Results

We identified 7 RCTs. The evidence from 4 RCTs indicates that GL with paraffin oil is an effective treatment for acute AlP poisoning, decreasing the mortality rate (RR = 0.62; 95% CI = 0.48 to 0.81; participants = 226; I 2 = 10%; low-quality evidence). We estimate the Number Needed to Treat of 4. Likewise, this intervention reduces the need for intubation and mechanical ventilation (RR = 0.62; 95% CI = 0.40 to 0.79; I2 = 0%; low-quality evidence). Regarding GL with coconut oil, the evidence from 4 RCTs, indicates a slight reduction in mortality (RR = 0.82; 95% CI = 0.69 to 0.98; participants = 112; I2 = 0%; very low-quality evidence).

Conclusions

Limited evidence suggests that GL with paraffin oil is effective in reducing the mortality rate. Likewise, limited evidence showed in favor of paraffin oil concerning the need for intubation and mechanical ventilation. Very limited evidence suggests that GL with coconut oil could reduce mortality. Both interventions would have a benign safety profile.
The Implementation of Physiotherapist-Led Lung Ultrasound on Physiotherapy and Medical Clinical Decision-Making in Intensive Care Patients: A Retrospective Review
Authors: Lockstone Jane , Brain Matt , Ntoumenopoulos George
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

The clinical use of lung ultrasound (LUS) is gaining acceptance and rapidly growing. Lung ultrasound is being integrated into clinical care by trained respiratory physiotherapists and has been reported to influence physiotherapists' clinical decision-making in the respiratory management of patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the implementation of physiotherapist-led LUS on physiotherapy and medical clinical decision-making in a single intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods:

This was a retrospective review using descriptive analyses of a senior ICU physiotherapist's LUS scans.

Results:

Of the 40 LUS scans completed, 26 (65%) were clinically indicated, and 31 (77.5%) were identified as positive scans. After LUS, respiratory physiotherapy management changed in 11 (27.5%) cases, continued unaltered in 12 (30%) cases, deemed not indicated in 4 (10%) cases, and not reported in 10 (25%) cases. Medical decision-making changed in 8 (20%) cases, continued unchanged in 14 (35%) cases, and not reported in 18 (45%) cases.

Conclusions:

This small retrospective review of a single physiotherapist's LUS scans suggests that LUS may have an influence on physiotherapy and medical clinical management in ICU. Research to prospectively evaluate the impact of physiotherapy-led LUS on clinical decision-making and key patient outcomes is strongly recommended.
Ambient air pollution and mortality: The role of socioeconomic conditions
Authors: Nascimento Felipe Parra do , Gouveia Nelson
Published: March 2024

Background:

There is a vast body of literature covering the association between air pollution exposure and nonaccidental mortality. However, the role of socioeconomic status (SES) in this relationship is still not fully understood.

Objectives:

We investigated if individual and contextual SES modified the relationship between short-term exposure to ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter <10 µm (PM10) on cardiovascular, respiratory, and all nonaccidental mortality.

Methods:

We conducted a time-stratified case-crossover study. Analyses were based on information on 280,685 deaths from 2011 to 2015 in the city of São Paulo. Education was used as an individual SES, and information on the district of residence was used to build a contextual SES. Exposure to PM10, NO2, and O3 was accessed from monitoring stations and linked to each case based on the date of death. Conditional logistic regression models were used to estimate the effects of air pollutants, and interaction terms were added to access the effect modification of SES.

Results:

Individuals with lower education had an increased chance of dying for all nonaccidental outcomes (1.54% [0.91%, 2.14%]) associated with exposure to PM10. Individuals living in lower SES areas had an increased chance of dying for nonaccidental (0.52% [0.16%, 0.88%]), cardiovascular (1.17% [0.88%, 1.46%]), and respiratory (1.70% [0.47%, 2.93%]) causes owing to NO2 exposure.

Conclusion:

Exposure to air pollutants increases the chance of dying by nonaccidental, cardiovascular, and respiratory causes. Lower educational levels and living on lower contextual SES increased the risk of mortality associated with air pollution exposure.
Evaluation of macular atrophy in patients treated with macular buckle for myopic traction maculopathy (MTM): mid and long-term follow-up.
Authors: Parolini Barbara , Rosales Padrón Jaime Francisco , Lopes Edgar , Matello Veronika , Crincoli Emanuele
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate the incidence, rate and pattern of progression of myopic maculopathy in eyes operated with macular buckle (MB) for myopic traction maculopathy (MTM) vs a control group without surgery to find out if the progression varies due to the macular buckle’s indentation, and to evaluate possible MB-related pigmentary changes or atrophy.

Methods:

Eyes operated with macular buckle with two good quality fundus images: one preoperative or early postoperative image and the second image of at least 12 months apart, the control group was comprised by the contralateral eyes. Demographics, axial length, follow-up, stage of MTM and myopic maculopathy were reported. Groups and subgroups (mid and long-term follow-up) progression results were reported and compared.

Results:

We included 116 eyes of 66 patients. Progression was found in 29 eyes (41.4%) and 23 eyes (50%) in the macular buckle group and control group, respectively. The progression rate was 73 per 1000 eye-years and 88.9 per 1000 eye-years in the macular buckle group and the control group, respectively. Axial length was found a predictor of progression (OR,2.59; p=0.02).

Conclusion:

Progression of myopic maculopathy was similar in both groups, even mildly grater in the control group. We did not find any MB-related pigmentary changes or atrophy.
Self-transfers, Hospital Admissions and Mortality Among Children and Adolescents Lost to Follow-up From Antiretroviral Therapy Programs in the Western Cape, South Africa Between 2004 and 2019: Linkage to Provincial Records
Authors: Nyakato Patience , Boulle Andrew , Wood Robin , Eley Brian , Rabie Helena , Egger Matthias , Yiannoutsos Constantin T. , Davies Mary-Ann , Cornell Morna
Published: March 2024

Background:

Pediatric programs face a high rate of loss to follow-up (LTFU) among children and adolescents living with HIV (CAHIV). We assessed true outcomes and predictors of these among CAHIV who were LTFU using linkage to the Western Cape Provincial Health Data Centre at Western Cape sites of the International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS-Southern Africa collaboration.

Methods:

We examined factors associated with self-transfer, hospital admission and mortality using competing risks regression in a retrospective cohort of CAHIV initiating antiretroviral therapy <15 years old between 2004 and 2019 and deemed LTFU (no recorded visit at the original facility for ≥180 days from the last visit date before database closure and not known to have officially transferred out or deceased).

Results:

Of the 1720 CAHIV deemed LTFU, 802 (46.6%) had self-transferred and were receiving care elsewhere within the Western Cape, 463 (26.9%) had been hospitalized and 45 (2.6%) CAHIV had died. The overall rates of self-transfer, hospitalization, mortality and LTFU were 9.4 [95% confidence interval (CI): 8.8–10.1], 5.4 (95% CI: 5.0–6.0), 0.5 (95% CI: 0.4–0.7) and 4.8 (95% CI: 4.4–5.3) per 100 person-years respectively. Increasing duration on antiretroviral therapy before LTFU was associated with self-transfers while male sex, older age at last visit (≥10 years vs. younger) were associated with hospital admission and immune suppression at last visit was associated with 5 times higher mortality.

Conclusions:

Nearly half of CAHIV classified as LTFU had self-transferred to another health facility, a quarter had been hospitalized and a small proportion had died.
A Novel Dental and Maxillofacial Sign in Aarskog Syndrome: A Family Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ferretti Fabrizio , Manotti Angelo Maria , Gallesio Cesare , Ramieri Guglielmo , Gerbino Giovanni
Published: March 2024

Objective:

To describe a case of a novel mutation with dental and maxillofacial expression in a family with Aarskog syndrome and to conduct a literature review to determine the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in the pathology.

Methods:

The authors described a family of a father and mother and 7 children (5 sons affected). The first child is evaluated for multiple mandibular osteolytic lesions and dental malocclusion with eruption disorders. The patient presents facial features of Aarskog syndrome, such as hypertelorism and eyelid ptosis with epicanthal folds, but also an unusual sign of numerous comedones distributed over the body. A literature review on dental and maxillofacial signs in Aarskog syndrome was conducted on Scopus and Pubmed with specific keywords.

Results:

Osteolytic lesions are described as orthokeratotic keratocysts with giant cellular, foreign body type, calcifications, and bone spicules. A recurrence occurred 2 years after surgery of keratocysts. Ten articles were selected for the description of dental and maxillofacial features associated with Aarskog syndrome.

Discussion:

Literature has paid little attention to different phenotypic characterizations in the maxillofacial region of patients with Aarskog syndrome. It is important to determine an early diagnosis to provide the best treatments for patients. The family described has some peculiarities: (1) a new nucleotide variation, (2) the sample size, (3) features as multiple comedones of the body, and keratocysts of the jaws are never described in the literature.

Conclusion:

Clinical and radiological maxillofacial signs, often not evaluated in Aarskog syndrome, should be considered early to obtain an optimal treatment.
Microbial Primer: Lipopolysaccharide – a remarkable component of the Gram-negative bacterial surface
Authors: VanOtterloo Leah M. , Trent M. Stephen
Published: March 2024

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a fundamental tripartite glycolipid found on the surface of nearly all Gram-negative bacteria. It acts as a protective shield for the bacterial cell and is a potent agonist of the innate immune system. This primer serves to introduce the basic properties of LPS, its function in bacterial physiology and pathogenicity, and its use as a therapeutic target.
Non-Invasive dsRNA Delivery via Feeding for Effective Gene Silencing in Teleost Fish: A Novel Approach in the Study of Gene Function Analysis
Authors: Gao Xiangyu , Yang Ruiyan , Song Weihao , Shen Yiyang , Sun Hao , Nie Tianci , Yue Xinlu , Song Zongcheng , Qi Jie , Zhang Quanqi , He Yan
Published: March 2024

RNA interference is a powerful technique for gene silencing, involving post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Successful application of RNAi has been demonstrated in various organisms like nematodes, insects, and oysters by ingesting dsRNA-expressing bacteria. In this study, we attempted a non-invasive feeding method in the marine economy teleost fish,Sebastes schlegelii. To validate the feasibility of this approach inS. schlegelii, we utilized rotifers (Brachionus plicatilis),Artemia nauplii, and commercial pellet feed as vectors to deliverEscherichia colistrain HT115 engineered to express double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), targetingdead end(dnd) gene, known to be important for primordial germ cells (PGCs) migration and proliferation in fish. Our experimental results consistently showed that knockdown of thedndgene effectively inhibited the development of PGCs inS. schlegelii, resulting in gonadal dysplasia and even sex reversal. This study marks a significant advancement in understanding gene function in teleost fish, laying the groundwork for future large-scale research in this field.
Relative rDNA copy number is not associated with resistance training-induced skeletal muscle hypertrophy and does not affect myotube anabolismin vitro
Authors: Godwin Joshua S. , Michel J. Max , Ludlow Andrew T. , Frugé Andrew D. , Mobley C. Brooks , Nader Gustavo A. , Roberts Michael D.
Published: March 2024

Ribosomal DNA (rDNA) copies are organized in tandem repeats across multiple chromosomes, and inter-individual variation in rDNA copy number has been speculated to be a modifier of the hypertrophic responses to resistance training. In the current study, 82 apparently healthy participants (n=53 males, 21±1 years old; n=29 females, 21±2 years old) performed 10-12 weeks of supervised full-body resistance training. Whole-body, mid-thigh, and histological skeletal muscle hypertrophy outcomes were determined, as was relative rDNA copy number from pre-intervention vastus lateralis (VL) biopsies. Pre- and post-intervention VL biopsy mRNA/rRNA markers of ribosome content and biogenesis were assayed in all participants, and these targets were also assayed in the 29 females 24 hours following their first workout bout. Across all 82 participants, no significant associations were evident between relative rDNA copy number and training-induced changes in whole body lean mass (r = -0.034, p=0.764), vastus lateralis thickness (r = 0.093, p=0.408), mean myofiber cross-sectional area (r = -0.128, p=0.259), or changes in muscle RNA concentrations (r = 0.026, p=0.818). Several significant, positive associations in females support ribosome biogenesis being linked to training-induced myofiber hypertrophy. Follow-up studies using LHCN-M2 myotubes demonstrate a reduction in relative rDNA copy number induced by bisphenol A (BPA). However, BPA did not significantly affect myotube diameter or prevent insulin-like-growth factor-induced hypertrophy. These findings provide strong evidence that relative rDNA copy number is not associated with myofiber anabolism and provide further mechanistic evidence for ribosome biogenesis being involved in this phenomenon.
Early cytokine-driven adaptation of survival pathways in lymphoid cells during targeted therapies
Authors: Luo Meng-Xiao , Tan Tania , Trussart Marie , Poch Annika , Nguyen Thi Minh Hanh , Speed Terence P. , Hicks Damien G. , Bandala-Sanchez Esther , Peng Hongke , Chappaz Stéphane , Slade Charlotte , Utzschneider Daniel T , Strasser Andreas , Thijssen Rachel , Ritchie Matthew E , Tam Constantine S , Lindeman Geoff , Huang David CS , Lew Thomas E , Anderson Mary Ann , Roberts Andrew W , Teh Charis E , Gray Daniel HD
Published: March 2024

Venetoclax, a first-in-class BH3 mimetic drug targeting BCL-2, has improved outcomes for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Early measurements of the depth of the venetoclax treatment response, assessed by minimal residual disease, are strong predictors of long-term clinical outcomes. Yet, there are limited data concerning the early changes induced by venetoclax treatment that might inform strategies to improve responses. To address this gap, we conducted longitudinal mass cytometric profiling of blood cells from patients with CLL during the first two months of venetoclax monotherapy. At baseline, we resolved CLL heterogeneity at the single-cell level to define multiple subpopulations in all patients distinguished by proliferative, metabolic and cell survival proteins. Venetoclax induced significant reduction in all CLL subpopulations coincident with rapid upregulation of pro-survival BCL-2, BCL-XL and MCL-1 proteins in surviving cells, which had reduced sensitivity to the drug. Mouse models recapitulated the venetoclax-induced elevation of survival proteins in B cells and CLL-like cells that persistedin vivo, with genetic models demonstrating that extensive apoptosis and access to the B cell cytokine, BAFF, were essential. Accordingly, analysis of patients with CLL that were treated with a different targeted therapy, the anti-CD20 antibody obinutuzumab, also exhibited marked elevation of BAFF and increased pro-survival proteins in leukemic cells that persisted. Overall, these data highlight the rapid adaptation of CLL cells to targeted therapies via homeostatic factors and support co-targeting of cytokine signals to achieve deeper and more durable long-term responses.

Key points

Leukaemic cells rapidly adapt to targeted therapy by elevating pro-survival protein expression.

Cell attrition and increased bioavailability of homeostatic cytokines drive this heightened survival, highlighting avenues for more potent combination therapies.
Community level variability in Bronx COVID-19 hospitalizations associated with differing viral variant adaptive strategies during the second year of the pandemic
Authors: Forster Ryan , Griffen Anthony , Daily Johanna , Kelly Libusha
Published: March 2024

The Bronx, New York, exhibited unique peaks in the number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations compared to national trends. To determine which features of the SARS-CoV-2 virus might underpin this local disease epidemiology, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the genomic epidemiology of the four dominant strains of SARS-CoV-2 (Alpha, Iota, Delta and Omicron) responsible for COVID-19 cases in the Bronx between March 2020 and January 2023. Genomic analysis revealed similar viral fitness for Alpha and Iota variants in the Bronx compared to nationwide data. However, Delta and Omicron variants had increased fitness within the borough. While the transmission dynamics of most variants in the Bronx corresponded with mutational fitness-based predictions of transmissibility, the Delta variant presented as an exception. Epidemiological modeling confirms Delta’s advantages of higher transmissibility, and suggested pre-existing immunity within the community counteracted Delta virulence, contributing to unexpectedly low Bronx hospitalizations compared to preceding strains. There were few novel T-cell epitope mutations in Delta compared to Iota which suggests Delta had fewer immune escape mechanisms to subvert pre-existing immunity within the Bronx. The combination of epidemiological models and quantifying amino acid changes in T-cell and antibody epitopes also revealed an evolutionary trade-off between Alpha’s higher transmissibility and Iota’s immune evasion, potentially explaining why the Bronx Iota variant remained dominant despite the introduction of the nationwide dominant Alpha variant. Together, our study demonstrates that localized analyses and integration of orthogonal community-level datasets can provide key insights into the mechanisms of transmission and immunity patterns associated with regional COVID-19 incidence and disease severity that may be missed when analyzing broader datasets.

One sentence summary

A reduction in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations during the Delta variant’s dominance are preceded with the prevalence of the immune-evading Iota variant over the globally dominant, more transmissible Alpha variant amongst the Bronx, indicating community-level variability associated with differing viral variant adaptive strategies.
The predictive value of heparin-binding protein for bacterial infections in patients with severe multiple trauma
Authors: Li Li , Tian Xiao-xi , Feng Gui-long , Chen Bing
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Heparin-binding protein is an inflammatory factor with predictive value and participates in the inflammatory response through antibacterial effects, chemotaxis, and increased vascular permeability. The role of heparin-binding protein in sepsis has been progressively demonstrated, but few studies have been conducted in the context of multiple trauma combined with bacterial infections. This study aims to investigate the predictive value of heparin-binding protein for bacterial infections in patients with severe multiple trauma.

Materials and methods

Patients with multiple trauma in the emergency intensive care unit were selected for the study, and plasma heparin-binding protein concentrations and other laboratory parameters were measured within 48 hours of admission to the hospital. A two-sample comparison and univariate logistic regression analysis were used to investigate the relationship between heparin-binding protein and bacterial infection in multiple trauma patients. A multifactor logistic regression model was constructed, and the ROC curve was plotted.

Results

Ninety-seven patients with multiple-trauma were included in the study, 43 with bacterial infection and 54 without infection. According to data analysis, heparin-binding protein was higher in the infected group than in the control group [(32.00±3.20) ng/mLvs.(18.52±1.33) ng/mL]. Univariate logistic regression analysis shows that heparin-binding protein is related to bacterial infection (OR=1.10,Z=3.91,95%CI:1.05∼1.15,P=0.001). Multivariate logistic regression equations showed that patients were 1.12 times more likely to have bacterial infections for each value of heparin-binding protein increase, holding neutrophils and PCT constant. ROC analysis shows that heparin-binding protein combined with neutrophils and PCT has better predictive value for bacterial infection [AUC=0.935,95%CI:0.870∼0.977].

Conclusions

Heparin-binding protein may predict bacterial infection in patients with severe multiple trauma. Combining heparin-binding protein, PCT, and neutrophils may improve bacterial infection prediction.
Catalytically inactive SHP1-C453S mutant gain of “robust LLPS” function
Authors: Zhang Qichen , Sun Tianyue , Chen Qi , Zhu Guangya , Kong Xiangyu , Du Yiqi
Published: March 2024

SHP1 is a non-receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase extensively expressed in hematopoietic cells, exerting a pivotal role as an immunosuppressive factor. Our previous studies have suggested that SHP1 can undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). In this study, the SHP1-C455S mutant, commonly utilized in biochemical assays due to its lack of catalytic phosphatase activity, unexpectedly exhibited a remarkably robust ability for LLPS. Since the C453S mutation has been previously shown to potentially induce a conformational transition of SHP1 from a closed to an open state, we hypothesize that the enhanced LLPS capability of SHP1 may be facilitated by this conformational alteration. The SHP1-C453S mutant exhibited robust LLPS activity, while completely abrogating its phosphatase activity. This allows for effective investigation of the catalytic activity and LLPS capability of SHP1.
Impacts of leader anger expressions on newcomer proactive career behavior and work alienation in the construction industry
Authors: Kang Fei , Shi Yifei , Li Jiyu , Zhang Han
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Despite the growing body of empirical research on leader anger expressions, the issue of how and when leader anger expressions shape newcomers’ proactive career behavior and work alienation in the construction industry has been largely overlooked. Building upon social information processing theory, this research identifies newcomers’ organization-based self-esteem as a mediator, and suggests that newcomers’ performance goal orientation could moderate the relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire study was conducted on the construction industry in China, and the PROCESS program developed by Hayes was used to test the hypothetical model with 215 valid cases.

Findings

The results suggest that leader anger expressions are negatively associated with newcomers’ organization-based self-esteem, and organization-based self-esteem mediated the link between leader anger expressions and newcomers’ proactive career behavior and work alienation. Furthermore, the newcomers’ performance goal orientation moderates the negative impact of leader anger expressions on newcomers’ organization-based self-esteem.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the cross-sectional nature of this study, causal implications are difficult to draw. Moreover, all data we received was based on participant self-reports, which may raise concerns about common method variance.

Originality/value

In this paper, we contribute to a deeper understanding of the mediating mechanisms and boundary conditions by which leader anger expressions influence newcomers’ proactive career behavior and work alienation from social information processing perspective, in addition to providing valuable insights for management of newcomers in the construction industry.