bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Introns are derived from transposons
Authors: Rogers Scott O. , Bendich Arnold J. 
Published: February 2023

AbstractIntrons and transposons exhibit many similar features, but the connections between them have yet to be firmly established. Group I introns have commonalities with DNA transposons, while group II introns share many features with retrotransposons. Here, we report the results of an analysis of 214 introns (including group I, group II, group III, twintrons, spliceosomal, and archaeal introns) from members of seven major taxa (within Eukarya, Bacteria, and Archaea) that all have direct repeats at or near both exon/intron borders, indicating that they were inserted via transposition events. Border sequence analysis indicates that after splicing, most mature transcripts would be functionally compromised because they do not restore the DNA sequence information before intron insertion. Transposons and introns thus appear to be members of a diverse assemblage of parasitic mobile genetic elements that secondarily may benefit their host cell and have expanded greatly in eukaryotes from their presumed prokaryotic ancestors.Author SummaryIntrons are found in all domains of life. While they are limited in prokaryotes, they have greatly expanded in number and diversity in eukaryotes. We found direct repeat sequences at or near both exon/intron borders for all 214 introns analyzed among eukaryotes, bacteria, and archaea. We infer that all introns were inserted into genes via transposon-like mechanisms and are members of a large family of mobile genetic elements.
Cost‐effectiveness and cost‐utility analyses of a web‐based computer‐tailored intervention for prevention of binge drinking among Spanish adolescents
Authors: Vargas‐Martínez Ana Magdalena , Lima‐Serrano Marta , Trapero‐Bertran Marta 
Published: February 2023

AbstractBackgroundBinge drinking (BD) among adolescents is a public health concern worldwide. This study assessed the cost‐effectiveness and cost‐utility of a web‐based computer‐tailored intervention to prevent BD in adolescence.MethodsThe sample was drawn from a study evaluating the Alerta Alcohol program. The population consisted of adolescents 15 to 19 years of age. Data were recorded at baseline (January to February 2016) and after 4 months (May to June 2017) and were used to estimate costs and health outcomes, as measured by the number of BD occasions and quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs). Incremental cost‐effectiveness and cost‐utility ratios were calculated from National Health Service (NHS) and societal perspectives and for a time horizon of 4 months. A multivariate deterministic sensitivity analysis of best/worst scenarios by subgroups was used to account for uncertainty.ResultsThe cost of reducing BD occasions by one per month was €16.63 from the NHS perspective, which from the societal perspective resulted in savings of €7986.37. From the societal perspective, the intervention resulted in an incremental cost of €71.05 per QALY gained from the NHS perspective and this was dominant, resulting in savings of €34,126.64 per QALY gained in comparison with the control group. Subgroup analyses showed that the intervention was dominant for girls from both the perspectives and for individuals 17 years or older from the NHS perspective.ConclusionsComputer‐tailored feedback is a cost‐effective way to reduce BD and increase QALYs among adolescents. However, long‐term follow‐up is needed to evaluate more fully changes in both BD and health‐related quality of life.
Population pharmacokinetics of amikacin in suspected cases of neonatal sepsis
Authors: Severino Nicolas , Urzúa Soledad , Ibacache Mauricio , Paulos Claudio , Cortínez Luis , Toso Alberto , Leguizamon Liliana , Inojosa Rocío , Maccioni Andrea , Meza Sebastián , García Andrés , Ramírez Marcelo , Von Mentlen Catalina , Ceballos Javiera , Paredes Noemí 
Published: February 2023

AimsThis study aimed to characterize the population pharmacokinetic parameters of intravenously administered amikacin in newborns and assess the effect of sepsis in amikacin exposure.MethodsNewborns aged ≥3 days who received at least 1 dose of amikacin during their hospitalization period were eligible for the study. Amikacin was administered intravenously during a 60‐min infusion period. Three venous blood samples were taken from each patient during the first 48 h. Population pharmacokinetic parameter estimates were obtained using a population approach with the programme NONMEM.ResultsData from 329 drug assay samples were obtained from 116 newborn patients (postmenstrual age [PMA] 38.3, range 32–42.4 weeks; weight 2.8, range 1.6–3.8 kg). Measured amikacin concentrations ranged from 0.8 to 56.4 mg/L. A 2‐compartment model with linear elimination produced a good fit of the data. Estimated parameters for a typical subject (2.8 kg, 38.3 weeks) were clearance (Cl = 0.16 L/h), intercompartmental clearance (Q = 0.15 L/h), volume of distribution of the central compartment (Vc = 0.98 L) and peripheral volume of distribution (Vp = 1.23 L). Total bodyweight, PMA and the presence of sepsis positively influenced Cl. Plasma creatinine concentration and circulatory instability (shock) negatively influenced Cl.ConclusionOur main results confirm previous findings showing that weight, PMA and renal function are relevant factors influencing newborn amikacin pharmacokinetics. In addition, current results showed that pathophysiological states of critically ill neonates, such as sepsis and shock, were associated with opposite effects in amikacin clearance and should be considered in dose adjustments.
Ethical challenges in the prioritization of elective care in pandemic settings: On the significance of time‐sensitive scoring
Authors: Diner Sarah , Ritter Manuel , Gadebusch Bondio Mariacarla 
Published: February 2023

AbstractIn times of ongoing resource shortages, appropriate evaluation criteria are crucial for the ethical prioritization of medical care. While the use of scoring models as tools for prioritization is widespread, they are barely discussed in the medical‐ethical discourse in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic. During this time, the challenge of providing care for patients in need has promoted consequentialist reasoning. In this light, we advocate for the integration of time‐ and context‐sensitive scoring (TCsS) models in prioritization policies that foster treatment opportunities for patients with subacute and chronic conditions. We argue, first, that TCsSs enable a more efficient use of resources, reducing avoidable harm to patients by preventing arbitrary postponement of necessary but nonurgent interventions. Second, we contend that on an interrelational level, TCsSs render decision‐making pathways more transparent, which promotes the information requirement of patient autonomy and raises confidence in the resulting prioritization decision. Third, we claim that TCsS contributes to distributive justice by reallocating available resources to the benefit of elective patients. We conclude that TCsSs promote anticipatory measures that extend the timeframe for responsible action into the future. This strengthens patients' ability to exercise their right to healthcare—primarily during times of crisis, but ultimately in the longer term too.
Food anaphylaxis in the elderly: Analysis of allergy vigilance network data from 2002 to 2021
Authors: El Hanache Hassan , Perennec Tanguy , Beaumont Pascale , Puillandre Erick , Schwender Denis , Louis Donguy Frédérique , Froidefond Claudine , Jarlot Sophie , Petit Nicolas , Nootens Carine , Pirson Françoise , Sullerot Isabelle , Nicolie Brigitte , Van der Brempt Xavier , Morisset Martine 
Published: February 2023

AbstractBackgroundFew studies have focused on food allergies in the elderly, even though it may persist or appear de novo.MethodsWe reviewed data for all cases of food‐induced anaphylaxis in people age ≥ 60 reported to the French “Allergy Vigilance Network” (RAV) between 2002 and 2021. RAV collates data reported by French‐speaking allergists regarding cases of anaphylaxis graded II to IV according to the Ring and Messmer classification.ResultsIn total, 191 cases were reported, with an even sex distribution and mean age was 67.4 years (range 60 to 93). The most frequent allergens were mammalian meat and offal (31 cases, 16.2%), often associated with IgE to α‐Gal. Legumes were reported in 26 cases (13.6%), fruits and vegetables in 25 cases (13.1%), shellfish 25 cases (13.1%), nuts 20 cases (10.5%), cereals 18 cases (9.4%), seeds 10 cases (5.2%), fish 8 cases (4.2%) and anisakis 8 cases (4.2%). Severity was grade II in 86 cases (45%), grade III in 98 cases (52%) and grade IV in 6 cases (3%) with one death. Most episodes occurred at home or in a restaurant and in most cases adrenaline was not used to treat the acute episode. Potentially relevant cofactors such as beta‐blocker, alcohol or non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug intake were present in 61% of cases. Chronic cardiomyopathy, present in 11.5% of the population, was associated with greater, grade III or IV reaction severity (OR 3.4; 1.24–10.95).ConclusionAnaphylaxis in the elderly has different causes to younger people and requires detailed diagnostic testing and individualized care plans.
Bell's palsy and pregnancy: Incidence, comorbidities and complications. A meta‐analysis and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Carmel Neiderman Narin N. , Netanyahu Yael , Ungar Omer J. , Handzel Ophir , Masarwy Razan , Abu‐Eta Rani , Reicher Lee , Oron Yahav 
Published: February 2023

AbstractObjectivesData on the association between Bell's palsy (BP) and pregnancy is scarce and there is an ongoing debate regarding the association of BP and pregnancy.Main Outcome MeasuresWe aimed to investigate the prevalence of BP among pregnant patients and determine the frequency of pregnant women in BP cohorts and vice versa, assess which term of the pregnancy and peripartum bears a higher risk for BP occurrence, and determine the prevalence of maternal comorbidities associated with BP during pregnancy.DesignMeta analysis.SettingsScreening standard articles and extracting data from Ovid MEDLINE (1960–2021), Embase (1960–2021), and Web of Science (1960–2021). All study types were included except for case reports.MeasuresData were pooled by means of both fixed and random‐effects models.ResultsThe search strategy identified 147 records. Twenty‐five of the studies that met our inclusion criteria described 809 pregnant patients with BP in a total of 11,813 BP patients and they were included in the meta‐analysis. The incidence of BP among the pregnant patients was 0.05%; The incidence of pregnant patients among all BP patients was 6.62%. Most of the BP occurrences were during the third trimester (68.82%). The pooled incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus; hypertension; pre‐eclampsia/eclampsia and fetal complications among the pregnant patients with BP was 6.3%, 13.97%, 9.54%, and 6.74%, respectively.ConclusionsThis meta‐analysis revealed a low incidence of BP during pregnancy. A Higher proportion occurred during the third trimester. The association of BP and pregnancy warrants further exploration.
Post‐kidney transplant body mass index trajectories are associated with graft loss and mortality
Authors: Liu Yi , Bendersky Victoria A. , Chen Xiaomeng , Ghildayal Nidhi , Harhay Meera N. , Segev Dorry L. , McAdams‐DeMarco Mara 
Published: February 2023

AbstractBackgroundEarly post‐kidney transplantation (KT) changes in physiology, medications, and health stressors likely impact body mass index (BMI) and likely impact all‐cause graft loss and mortality.MethodsWe estimated 5‐year post‐KT (n = 151 170; SRTR) BMI trajectories using an adjusted mixed effects model. We estimated long‐term mortality and graft loss risks by 1‐year BMI change quartile (decrease [1st quartile]: change < −.07 kg/m2/month; stable [2nd quartile]: −.07 ≤ change ≤ .09 kg/m2/month; increase [3rd, 4th quartile]: change > .09 kg/m2/month) using adjusted Cox proportional hazards models.ResultsBMI increased in the 3 years post‐KT (.64 kg/m2/year, 95% CI: .63, .64) and decreased in years 3–5 (−.24 kg/m2/year, 95% CI: −.26, −.22). 1‐year post‐KT BMI decrease was associated with elevated risks of all‐cause mortality (aHR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.10–1.16), all‐cause graft loss (aHR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.10–1.15), death‐censored graft loss (aHR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.11–1.19), and mortality with functioning graft (aHR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.08–1.14). Among recipients with obesity (pre‐KT BMI≥30 kg/m2), BMI increase was associated with higher all‐cause mortality (aHR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.05–1.14), all‐cause graft loss (aHR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.01–1.09), and mortality with functioning graft (aHR = 1.10, 95% CI: 1.05–1.15) risks, but not death‐censored graft loss risks, relative to stable weight. Among individuals without obesity, BMI increase was associated with lower all‐cause graft loss (aHR = .97, 95% CI: .95–.99) and death‐censored graft loss (aHR = .93, 95% CI: .90–.96) risks, but not all‐cause mortality or mortality with functioning graft risks.ConclusionsBMI increases in the 3 years post‐KT, then decreases in years 3–5. BMI loss in all adult KT recipients and BMI gain in those with obesity should be carefully monitored post‐KT.
Trends and cyclic variation in the incidence of childhood type 1 diabetes in two Italian regions over 33 years and during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Gesuita Rosaria , Rabbone Ivana , Marconi Vittorio , De Sanctis Luisa , Marino Monica , Tiberi Valentina , Iannilli Antonio , Tinti Davide , Favella Lucia , Giorda Carlo , Carle Flavia , Cherubini Valentino 
Published: February 2023

AbstractAimThere is conflicting evidence about the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the incidence of type 1 diabetes. Here, we analysed long‐term trends in the incidence of type 1 diabetes in Italian children and adolescents from 1989 to 2019 and compared the incidence observed during the COVID‐19 pandemic with that estimated from long‐term data.Materials and MethodsThis was a population‐based incidence study using longitudinal data from two diabetes registries in mainland Italy. Trends in the incidence of type 1 diabetes from 1 January 1989 to 31 December 2019 were estimated using Poisson and segmented regression models.ResultsThere was a significant increasing trend in the incidence of type 1 diabetes of 3.6% per year [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.4‐4.8] between 1989 and 2003, a breakpoint in 2003, and then a constant incidence until 2019 (0.5%, 95% CI: ‐1.3 to 2.4). There was a significant 4‐year cycle in incidence over the entire study period. The rate observed in 2021 (26.7, 95% CI: 23.0‐30.9) was significantly higher than expected (19.5, 95% CI: 17.6‐21.4; p = .010).ConclusionLong‐term incidence analysis showed an unexpected increase in new cases of type 1 diabetes in 2021. The incidence of type 1 diabetes now needs continuous monitoring using population registries to understand better the impact of COVID‐19 on new‐onset type 1 diabetes in children.
Tripeptide gut hormone infusion does not alter food preferences or sweet taste function in volunteers with obesity and prediabetes/diabetes but promotes restraint eating: A secondary analysis of a randomized single‐blind placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Behary Preeshila , Alessimii Haya , Miras Alexander D. , Tharakan George , Alexiadou Kleopatra , Aldhwayan Madhawi M. , Purkayastha Sanjay , Moorthy Krishna , Ahmed Ahmed R. , Bloom Stephen R. , Tan Tricia M. 
Published: February 2023

AbstractAimsTo investigate whether the elevation in postprandial concentrations of the gut hormones glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1), oxyntomodulin (OXM) and peptide YY (PYY) accounts for the beneficial changes in food preferences, sweet taste function and eating behaviour after Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB).Materials and methodsThis was a secondary analysis of a randomized single‐blind study in which we infused GLP‐1, OXM, PYY (GOP) or 0.9% saline subcutaneously for 4 weeks in 24 subjects with obesity and prediabetes/diabetes, to replicate their peak postprandial concentrations, as measured at 1 month in a matched RYGB cohort (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01945840). A 4‐day food diary and validated eating behaviour questionnaires were completed. Sweet taste detection was measured using the method of constant stimuli. Correct sucrose identification (corrected hit rates) was recorded, and sweet taste detection thresholds (EC50s: half maximum effective concencration values) were derived from concentration curves. The intensity and consummatory reward value of sweet taste were assessed using the generalized Labelled Magnitude Scale.ResultsMean daily energy intake was reduced by 27% with GOP but no significant changes in food preferences were observed, whereas a reduction in fat and increase in protein intake were seen post‐RYGB. There was no change in corrected hit rates or detection thresholds for sucrose detection following GOP infusion. Additionally, GOP did not alter the intensity or consummatory reward value of sweet taste. A significant reduction in restraint eating, comparable to the RYGB group was observed with GOP.ConclusionThe elevation in plasma GOP concentrations after RYGB is unlikely to mediate changes in food preferences and sweet taste function after surgery but may promote restraint eating.
Population attributable fractions of modifiable risk factors for microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes in China: An analysis using national cross‐sectional data
Authors: Lin Chu , Zhu Xingyun , Jiao Ruoyang , Cai Xiaoling , Hu Suiyuan , Lv Fang , Yang Wenjia , Li Zonglin , Ji Linong 
Published: February 2023

AbstractAimTo assess the population attributable fractions (PAFs) for modifiable risk factors for microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in China.Materials and MethodsData collected from the China National HbA1c Surveillance System from 2009 to 2013 were used. The PAFs of four predefined risk factors, including an HbA1c of 7% or higher, blood pressure (BP) of 130/80 mmHg or higher, low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (LDL‐C) of 1.8 mmol/L or higher and body mass index (BMI) of 24 kg/m2 or higher, were calculated for diabetic microvascular complications, including diabetic retinopathy (DR), diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN). PAFs were further adjusted for age, sex and duration of diabetes.ResultsIn total, there were 998 379 participants with T2D from nationwide mainland China included in this analysis. As for DR, an HbA1c of 7% or higher, BP of 130/80 mmHg or higher, LDL‐C of 1.8 mmol/L or higher and BMI of 24 kg/m2 or higher conferred PAFs of 16.2%, 15.2%, 5.8% and 2.8%, respectively. In the case of DKD, BP of 130/80 mmHg or higher provided a PAF of 25.2%, followed by an HbA1c of 7% or higher (13.9%), BMI of 24 kg/m2 or higher (8.0%) and LDL‐C of 1.8 mmol/L or higher (5.6%). As for DSPN, an HbA1c of 7% or higher, BP of 130/80 mmHg or higher, LDL‐C of 1.8 mmol/L or higher and BMI of 24 kg/m2 or higher contributed to PAFs of 14.2%, 11.7%, 5.9% and 5.8%, respectively. PAFs for diabetic microvascular complications were mildly to moderately reduced after adjusting for participants' age, sex and duration of diabetes.ConclusionsSuboptimal glycaemic and BP control were the main contributors to diabetic microvascular complications, while the PAFs of unmet LDL‐C and BMI control targets were quite limited for diabetic microvascular complications. In addition to glycaemic control, BP control should be especially prioritized in the management of diabetic microvascular complications to further reduce the disease burden.
Contingent impacts of COVID relief policies under global value chain shortage
Authors: Wu Ruohan 
Published: February 2023

AbstractThis paper empirically investigates how governments' COVID‐19 relief policies have affected firms in 14 post‐communist economies under the global value chain shortage between May 2020 and January 2022. We construct a panel dataset with firms that were continuously observed in three rounds of the World Bank's COVID‐19 survey to comprehensively evaluate the dynamic changes in the firms' value chains, production, and finances. We further estimate the determinants of these changes, especially the roles played by the government. We find that under the impact of COVID‐19, (1) reduced production capacity or reduced supply significantly increased the likelihood of reduced production and finances, whereas reduced demand had the opposite impact; (2) receiving support from the government augmented the impacts of affected production capacities and value chains; (3) among firms with restricted capacity or supplies, receiving government support increased the likelihood of reduced production and finances; and (4) among firms with abundant capacity and supplies, receiving government support lowered the likelihood of reduced production and finances. Other variables, such as firms' size, remote workforce, online businesses, and exports, also exhibit significant influences.
Identification of putative noncanonical driver mutations in patients with essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Arai Akihiko , Yoshimitsu Makoto , Otsuka Maki , Ito Yoshikiyo , Miyazono Takayoshi , Nakano Nobuaki , Obama Kosuke , Nakashima Hidetoshi , Hanada Shuichi , Owatari Satsuki , Nakamura Daisuke , Tokunaga Masahito , Kamada Yuhei , Utsunomiya Atae , Haraguchi Koichi , Hayashida Maiko , Fujino Satoshi , Odawara Jun , Tabuchi Tomohisa , Suzuki Shinsuke , Hamada Heiichiro , Kawamoto Yoshiko , Uchida Yuichiro , Hachiman Miho , Ishitsuka Kenji 
Published: February 2023

AbstractEssential thrombocythemia (ET) cases without canonical JAK2, CALR, or MPL mutations, that is, triple‐negative (TN) ET, have been found in 10%–20% of ET cases. Owing to the limited number of TN ET cases, its clinical significance remains unclear. This study evaluated TN ET's clinical characteristics and identified novel driver mutations. Among 119 patients with ET, 20 (16.8%) had no canonical JAK2/CALR/MPL mutations. Patients with TN ET tended to be younger and had lower white blood cell counts and lactate dehydrogenase values. We identified putative driver mutations in 7 (35%): MPL S204P, MPL L265F, JAK2 R683G, and JAK2 T875N were previously reported as candidate driver mutations in ET. Moreover, we identified a THPO splicing site mutation, MPL*636Wext*12, and MPL E237K. Four of the seven identified driver mutations were germline. Functional studies on MPL*636Wext*12 and MPL E237K revealed that they are gain‐of‐function mutants that increase MPL signaling and confer thrombopoietin hypersensitivity with very low efficiency. Patients with TN ET tended to be younger, although this was thought to be due to the inclusion of germline mutations, hereditary thrombocytosis. Accumulating the genetic and clinical characteristics of noncanonical mutations may help future clinical interventions in TN ET and hereditary thrombocytosis.
What's trust got to do with it? Examining trust in leadership, psychological capital, and employee well‐being in a cross‐national context during Covid‐19
Authors: Babu Nishat , Fletcher Luke , Pichler Shaun , Budhwar Pawan 
Published: February 2023

AbstractWe propose and test the idea that trust in the senior leadership team is needed to help overcome the potential widespread decrements to employee well‐being resulting from the Covid‐19 pandemic. Drawing on conservation of resources theory, we suggest that psychological capital mediates the relationship between trust in the senior leadership team's response to Covid‐19 and employee well‐being. We also examine the contextual relevance of line management's servant leadership alongside country differences (i.e., India vs. UK) in reinforcing the importance of trust in fostering psychological capital. We test our model in a time‐lagged survey study that follows employed individuals towards the early, middle, and later stages of the first wave of the pandemic in 2020. Results provide support for our model and indicate potential country differences. Our findings point to the significance of leadership, both at the senior level and at the line management level, in protecting employee well‐being during crises.