bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation Of Synchronous Cultures Of The Yeasts, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae And Schizosaccharomyces Pombe
Authors: Creanor J , Toyne J
Published: November 2023

During the last 25 years a great deal of information has come from cell-cycle studies of yeast, and one of the essential tools has been the production of synchronous cultures. These cultures have been produced by a variety of techniques and the purpose of this chapter is to describe their use in the most frequently studied yeasts, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe. The choice of method is usually determined by the available apparatus, by the cycle event or cellular component one is investigating, by the degree and duration of synchrony required, and, particularly in S. cerevisiae, by the compatibility of the methods available with particular strains.
Methods For Analysis Of The Fission Yeast Cell Cycle
Authors: Macneill S A , Fantes P A
Published: November 2023

The fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe is a unicellular ascomycete fungus. Physiological analysis of the cell cycle of S. pombe was initiated by Mitchison (1) who appreciated the advantages of working with cells that were large enough to permit detailed microscopic analysis, but which were as easy to culture as bacteria, which were themselves popular experimental organisms at the time. In particular, Mitchison realized that the growth of S. pombe cells by length extension made the organism ideal for investigating the relationship between cell growth and cell division.
Introduction
Authors: Kipling David
Published: November 2023

This book begins with the central biological problem that telomeres circumvent, that of replicating the very end of a linear DNA molecule (for general reviews on telomeres see Szostak 1983; Blackburn and Szostak 1984; Zakian 1989; Zakian et al. 1990; Blackburn 1991a,b; Greider 1991; Henderson and Larson 1991; Biessmann and Mason 1992). Nature has devised a fascinating selection of mechanisms to do this (below) although much interest centres on a type of DNA polymerase called telomerase, whose biochemistry is detailed in Chapter 4. Many of the phenomena the current molecular approaches are trying to explain concern the behaviour of chromosome ends observed by microscopy (Chapter 2). It was the failure to obtain terminal deletions and inversions in X-irradiated Drosophila which first defined the natural end of a chromosome as having a special structure and function required for chromosome stability, the telomere (Muller 1938, 1940; reviewed by Muller and Herskowitz 1954). Cytological observations of the fate of broken ends in maize led McClintock in the 1940s to suggest that one such function was to protect the natural ends of chromosomes from recombination and fusion with other chromosomes. Telomeres may also be involved in the three-dimensional organization of the interphase nucleus, via interactions with the nuclear envelope, the nuclear matrix, and other telomeres. Organization and compartmentalization of the nucleus in three dimensions has important biological implications for processes such as replication, transcription, and chromosome segregation. An apparent organizational role for telomeres is seen in meiosis, where interactions with the nuclear envelope may play a role in facilitating the alignment and pairing of homologous chromosomes. This in turn has important consequences for how genetic maps are interpreted.
The cytology of the telomere
Authors: Kipling David
Published: November 2023

The concept that the natural end of a chromosome has a specialized structure came from a combination of genetic and cytological observations in the 1930s. This chapter reviews these early classical studies as well as cytological observations of interactions between telomeres, and between telomeres and the nuclear envelope. These interactions may have a role in organizing the genome within the interphase nucleus, and in facilitating the pairing of homologous chromosomes in meiosis. The first part of this chapter concentrates on organization in the mitotic nucleus, in which telomeres have at best a tentative role. Subsequently the behaviour of telomeres in meiosis is considered, where there is stronger evidence for telomeres having a functional role.
Telomere structure
Authors: Kipling David
Published: November 2023

This chapter summarizes the nuclear telomere sequence organization for a number of eukaryotic species. In most cases tandem repeat arrays of a short (typically fewer than 10 nucleotides) sequence are found at the very end of the chromosome. These show considerable similarity in sequence between species and various lines of evidence implicate them in essential telomere function. In addition a wide range of repetitive sequences has been found in the subterminal regions of many species. These sequences are often species-specific and it has proved difficult to assign any biological role to them. Finally the ability of a number of telomeric sequences to fold into unusual secondary structures in vitro, stabilized by G· G bonds, will be discussed. However, before dealing with any individual species, methods to isolate and study telomeric sequences, and general conclusions regarding their structure, will be reviewed.
Electron microscopy of organelles
Authors: James Nigel
Published: November 2023

1. Introduction

The electron microscope has made major contributions to our understanding of tissues, cells, and organelles and how they function. Electron microscopes have become widespread in their use and are a reliable means of examining biological structures. The process of producing sections using a microtome (microtomy) is also reliable provided that the samples are adequately prepared and embedded. Electron microscopy enables these samples to be examined with a high degree of resolution of approx. 1 nm which is much greater than that of optical microscopy which is limited by the intrinsic properties of light. A further fundamental difference between optical and all forms of electron microscopy is that optical microscopical techniques for examining large quantities of potentially living specimens exist whilst the electron microscope is capable of examining only relatively small quantities of exclusively dead and artefactually transformed specimens.
Purification and assay of inositol hexakisphosphate kinase and diphosphoinositol pentakisphosphate kinase
Authors: Voglmaier Susan M , Bembenek Michael E , Kaplin Adam I , DormÁn GyÖrgy , Olszewski John D , Prestwich Glenn D , Snyder Solomon H
Published: November 2023

The identification of diphosphoinositol pentakisphosphate (PP-InsP  5) and bisdiphosphoinositol tetrakisphosphate ([PP]2-InsP  4), inositol pyrophosphates with seven and eight phosphates associated with the inositol ring (1-3), indicates that inositol hexakisphosphate (InsP  6)is not the endpoint of myo-inositol metabolism with a slow turnover rate as was once thought.
Phosphoinositide 3-kinase
Authors: Pons Sebastian , Burks Deborah J , White Morris F
Published: November 2023

Plants, yeast and animal cells contain phosphoinositide 3-kinase activities (PI3K), each of which is capable of transferring the terminal phosphate of ATP to the D-3 position of the inositol head groups of one or more of the substrates Ptdins, PtdIns4P, and PtdIns(4,5)P  2 (see Chapter 1 and references therein). PI3K is a downstream effector of several receptor tyrosine kinases and plays a central role in a broad range of biological effects (1). PI3K activation can potentially generate three products: PtdIns3P, PtdIns(3,4)P  2, and PtdIns(3,4,5)P  3 (2), with the last of these regarded as the most important signal generated product (Figure 1).
Synthetic lethal/enhancer screening to identify snRNA:protein and protein:protein interactions in yeast pre-rnRNA splicing
Authors: Stutz Francoise , Tang Jie , Rosbash Michael
Published: November 2023

Over the past five years or so, our laboratory has carried out three synthetic lethal screens aimed at identifying novel yeast (S. cerevisiae) genes involved in pre-mRNA splicing. Although many of the results have been published (1-5), we have never assembled an overall summary of what we obtained and how well the screens worked to identify new genes-an informal assessment of the genetic signal-to-noise ratio. Otherwise put, what is the benefit-to-labour ratio in taking this approach to the splicing factor identification problem? As our procedures have also undergone modifications as a function of time and experience. this will serve as a useful venue for discussing the advantages and disadvantages of the approaches we have tried.
Protease Assay Methods
Authors: Sarath Gautam , Zeece Michael G , Penheiter Alan R
Published: November 2023

Peptidases have continued to receive significant attention in the last decade. Although some novel means to assay these enzymes have been published, many of the older protocols for the assay of proteases are still in use. One obvious change has been brought about by the revolution in recombinant protein expression technology. This ability to engineer proteins has added a new dimension to the study of proteases. Other changes have arisen from an understanding of the complexity of the proteolytic machinery that govern many critical cellular processes (e.g. caspases), and the development of instrumental means to auto mate these analyses. Thus, in addition to several standard protocols, this chapter describes some of these newer assays that can be readily imported into most lab oratories. Other, more complex methods are described briefly. It is expected that the reader will adapt the protocols presented to meet their specific needs. The substrate nomenclature used in this chapter is shown in Table 1.
Purification and cloning of DNA binding transcription factors
Authors: Nicolas R H , Hynes, G , Goodwin G H
Published: November 2023

If you have just identified a protein binding to a novel regulatory sequence, the next step is to clone the cDNA encoding the protein. Most practitioners in this field would first attempt direct screening of expression libraries with the DNA binding site (see Chapter 5) before embarking on the protein purification/peptide sequence/oligonucleotide screening approach. However, in many cases, direct screening of libraries has not proved successful or has not been possible (for example when the protein is part of a multiprotein complex and more than one protein is required for DNA binding) and protein purification may then have been the only method available. The purification of DNA binding proteins has been remarkably successful with the development of sequence-specific DNA affinity chromatography and the band-shift technique for rapidly analysing chromatography fractions. With the recent advances in protein-sequencing techniques (e.g. sequencing peptides immobilized on blots following electrophoretic separation), the protein purification approach has become less arduous and one can expect to get good sequence results from 50 pmol of protein. Also, mass spectroscopy techniques are being used to mass fingerprint proteins for the identification of protein sequences in databases, and tandem mass spectroscopy is now able to obtain peptide sequences from femtomole amounts of protein.
Analysis of RNA virus-encoded proteinases
Authors: Ryan M D , Flint M , Donnelly M L L , Byrne E , Cowton V
Published: November 2023

An extremely common strategy of positive-strand RNA viruses is to encode some, if not all, of their proteins in the form of polyproteins. Picoma-, flavi-, and potyviruses, for example, encode all their proteins in a single, long, open reading frame (ORF). Other viruses may have monopartite genomes encoding more than one polyprotein (e.g. togaviruses). Multipartite genomes are very common in plant viruses and each of the different RNA strands may also encode a polyprotein (e.g. bymo-, como-, nepoviruses).
Medical genetics resources in the genomic era
Authors: Pruitt Kim D
Published: November 2023

While the past few decades have yielded impressive gains in our understanding of biology and inherited diseases, the availability of the human genome sequence, polymorphism, and expression data will have a critical impact on the field of medical genetics. The human genome sequence data opens powerful new approaches to integrate and access information. The power, and promise, of medical genetics lies in the ability to intercalate disparate data from multiple sources. At the intersection of genetics, genomics, and medicine, medical genetics holds great promise for understanding the fundamental nature of many diseases, which in tum will lead to better diagnoses, treatments, and even cures.
Bipolaris fujianensis sp. nov., an Emerging Pathogen of Sapling Shoot Blight on Chinese Fir, and Its Sensitivity to Fungicides
Authors: Zhang Qinghua , Meng Yuhan , Zhao Wenbao , Wang Qianqian , Wang Xiaoting , Xue Lili , Xu Xiaochen , Chen Chunli
Published: November 2023

Chinese fir is an extremely important economic tree species in southern China. In recent years, 74.5% of Chinese fir saplings suffered from shoot blight in Shunchang County, Nanping City, Fujian Province, China. Seventeen isolates were collected from rotten shoots, and their pathogenicity was confirmed following Koch’s postulates. The five pathogenic isolates were identified as belonging to the genus Bipolaris based on morphological characteristics, including septate and geniculate conidiophores, smooth to slightly verruculose conidiogenous nodes, dematiaceous phragmospore conidia, oblong or fusiform conidia, and slightly protruding or truncate hilum on conidia, but the number of pseudosepta (3 to 11, mostly 5 to 8) and the size of conidia ([22.81 to 116.13] × [9.16 to 26.58] μm) are different from those of the known species of Bipolaris. A phylogenetic analysis based on ITS, GAPDH, and Tef1-α sequences determined that the five strains belong to a new species of Bipolaris, and the name Bipolaris fujianensis sp. nov. is proposed. The fungicide sensitivity of the pathogen strain Cfsb3 was further evaluated using eight fungicides. Flusilazole, difenoconazole, tebuconazole, and propiconazole exhibited high toxicity to Cfsb3, and the effective concentration inhibiting 50% (EC50) of mycelial growth was 0.08, 0.20, 0.34, and 0.36 μg/ml, respectively, for these four fungicides. Flusilazole, difenoconazole, and iprodione inhibited B. fujianensis by 100% on detached Chinese fir shoots at their recommended concentrations, but azoxystrobin and thiram were ineffective. In conclusion, this study reported an emerging pathogen of Chinese fir sapling shoot blight and proposed triazole and dicarboximide fungicides for disease control.
Chinese Expert Consensus on Microvascular Protection Strategy during Emergency Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Therapy in Patients with ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors:   Chinese Society of Cardiology, Chinese Medical Association; Editorial Board of Chinese Journal of Cardiology
Published: November 2023

Microcirculatory dysfunction (CMD) typically occurs in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction during percutaneous coronary intervention, which is associated with more severe myocardial injury and a worse prognosis. With the advancement of intracoronary physiology and imaging technology, the prevention and therapeutic interventions of CMD have attracted more attention. However, relevant guidelines or consensus on CMD are lacking in China. The current consensus summarizes the prevention and diagnostic strategies of emergency percutaneous coronary intervention-related CMD and gives suggestions to improve the prognosis of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients based on evidence from recent clinical studies, guidelines, and consensus from international sources.
Virome in immunodeficiency: what we know currently
Authors: Wang Hu , Xu Siqi , Li Shuang , Su Bin , Sherrill-Mix Scott , Liang Guanxiang
Published: November 2023

Over the past few years, the human virome and its complex interactions with microbial communities and the immune system have gained recognition as a crucial factor in human health. Individuals with compromised immune function encounter distinctive challenges due to their heightened vulnerability to a diverse range of infectious diseases. This review aims to comprehensively explore and analyze the growing evidence regarding the role of the virome in immunocompromised disease status. By surveying the latest literature, we present a detailed overview of virome alterations observed in various immunodeficiency conditions. We then delve into the influence and mechanisms of these virome changes on the pathogenesis of specific diseases in immunocompromised individuals. Furthermore, this review explores the clinical relevance of virome studies in the context of immunodeficiency, highlighting the potential diagnostic and therapeutic gains from a better understanding of virome contributions to disease manifestations.
Epidemiology of obesity among people with HIV
Authors: Talathi Ria , Anekwe Chika V. , Toribio Mabel
Published: November 2023

Purpose of review

People with HIV (PWH) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) globally are disproportionately affected by obesity, with prevalence rates highest among women with HIV. The purpose of this review is to discuss rates of obesity, factors associated with obesity, and adverse consequences of obesity among PWH.

Recent findings

Among PWH on ART, rates of obesity have increased over the last several decades and tend to be higher than the general population. Weight gain with the initiation of new ART regimens such as integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)-based regimens are thought to contribute to higher rates of obesity among PWH on ART. Other factors, such as sex and ethnicity, also are associated with obesity among PWH on ART. Higher obesity rates among PWH may contribute to heightened cardiometabolic disease risk and lower health-related quality of life.

Prospective studies which identify factors associated with increased obesity prevalence and weight gain among PWH are necessary for the development and implementation of obesity prevention and treatment strategies among PWH on ART and, in turn, reduce the prevalence of obesity in this population.
Neuroimaging Correlates of Internet Gaming Disorder: Can We Achieve the Promise of Translating Understanding of Brain Functioning Into Clinical Advances?
Authors: Mestre-Bach Gemma , Potenza Marc N.
Published: November 2023

Objectives:

Here, we aimed to consider the neural factors associated with internet gaming disorder (IGD), as well as the associations between these factors and existing treatments for the disorder.

Methods:

A narrative review was conducted.

Results:

Pharmacological as well as psychological treatments for IGD may be associated with specific changes in multiple brain areas and circuits. In particular, frontostriatal and subcortical regions and pathways appear relevant to IGD and its treatment.

Conclusions:

Neuroimaging holds promise for identifying specific mechanisms underlying IGD interventions. However, to date, firm conclusions are difficult to draw and more research examining neural mechanisms of empirically supported treatments for IGD is needed.

Objectifs:

Nous avons cherché à examiner les facteurs neuronaux associés au trouble du jeu sur internet (TJI), ainsi que les associations entre ces facteurs et les traitements existants pour ce trouble.

Méthodes:

Une étude narrative a été réalisée.

Résultats:

Les traitements pharmacologiques et psychologiques du TJI peuvent être associés à des changements spécifiques dans de multiples zones et circuits cérébraux. En particulier, les régions et voies fronto-striatales et sous-corticales semblent pertinentes pour le TJI et son traitement.

Conclusions:

La neuro-imagerie est prometteuse pour l’identification des mécanismes spécifiques qui sous-tendent les interventions du TJI. Cependant, à ce jour, il est difficile de tirer des conclusions définitives et il est nécessaire de poursuivre les recherches sur les mécanismes neuronaux des traitements empiriques du TJI.
Further decompensation in cirrhosis: Results of a large multicenter cohort study supporting Baveno VII statements
Authors: D’Amico Gennaro , Zipprich Alexander , Villanueva Càndid , Sordà Juan Antonio , Morillas Rosa Maria , Garcovich Matteo , García Retortillo Montserrat , Martinez Javier , Calès Paul , D’Amico Mario , Dollinger Matthias , García-Guix Marta , Gonzalez Ballerga Esteban , Tsochatzis Emmanuel , Cirera Isabel , Albillos Agustìn , Roquin Guillaume , Pasta Linda , Colomo Alan , Daruich Jorge , Canete Nuria , Boursier Jérôme , Dallio Marcello , Gasbarrini Antonio , Iacobellis Angelo , Gobbo Giulia , Merli Manuela , Federico Alessandro , Svegliati Baroni Gianluca , Pozzoni Pietro , Addario Luigi , Chessa Luchino , Ridola Lorenzo , Garcia-Tsao Guadalupe
Published: November 2023

Background and Aims:

The prognostic weight of further decompensation in cirrhosis is still unclear. We investigated the incidence of further decompensation and its effect on mortality in patients with cirrhosis.

Approach and Results:

Multicenter cohort study. The cumulative incidence of further decompensation (development of a second event or complication of a decompensating event) was assessed using competing risks analysis in 2028 patients. A 4-state model was built: first decompensation, further decompensation, liver transplant, and death. A cause-specific Cox model was used to assess the adjusted effect of further decompensation on mortality. Sensitivity analyses were performed for patients included before or after 1999. In a mean follow-up of 43 months, 1192 patients developed further decompensation and 649 died. Corresponding 5-year cumulative incidences were 52% and 35%, respectively. The cumulative incidences of death and liver transplant after further decompensation were 55% and 9.7%, respectively. The most common further decompensating event was ascites/complications of ascites. Five-year probabilities of state occupation were 24% alive with first decompensation, 21% alive with further decompensation, 7% alive with a liver transplant, 16% dead after first decompensation without further decompensation, 31% dead after further decompensation, and <1% dead after liver transplant. The HR for death after further decompensation, adjusted for known prognostic indicators, was 1.46 (95% CI: 1.23–1.71) (p<0.001). The significant impact of further decompensation on survival was confirmed in patients included before or after 1999.

Conclusions:

In cirrhosis, further decompensation occurs in ~60% of patients, significantly increases mortality, and should be considered a more advanced stage of decompensated cirrhosis.
Light adjustable intraocular lenses in cataract surgery: considerations
Authors: Jun Jong Hwa , Lieu Alexander , Afshari Natalie A.
Published: November 2023

Purpose of review

Light adjustable intraocular lens (LAL) is a promising concept in cataract surgery. This review explores considerations for the use of LALs.

Recent findings

Through updates, the safety of LALs and light delivery devices have been enhanced, enabling more efficient treatment with lower ultraviolet (UV) energy. Preoperative topography and aberration are essential for understanding indications for LALs. Furthermore, when determining intraocular lens power, it is crucial to factor in potential postoperative myopia or hyperopic adjustments. This is achieved by establishing a proper postimplantation refractive target and considering potential wavefront changes. Postoperative adjustments for defocus and astigmatism have demonstrated excellent outcomes. Monovision strategy by adjustable blended vision of LALs revealed distance vision of 20/20 along with near vision of J2 in 96% of patients. However, the results of clinical studies on postrefractive cataract surgery showed contrasting outcomes at distance, indicating the need for further research results regarding its effectiveness. A new postoperative workflow needs to be designed to enable a systematic follow-up process.

LALs are safe and demonstrate promising refractive outcomes. To achieve appropriate results, understanding the changes in optical characteristics associated with adjustment and constructing a new postoperative workflow are necessary.
Intraocular lens subluxation during Nd:YAG capsulotomy on an eye with primary congenital glaucoma
Authors: Azarcon Corrina P. , Lat-Luna Maria Margarita
Published: November 2023

Intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation is an uncommon complication of Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy. This report presents the case of primary congenital glaucoma of both eyes of a young girl with glaucoma who presented with bilateral increased blurring of vision secondary to posterior capsular opacification. The opacification developed within a few years after sequential glaucoma drainage device implantation, trabeculectomy, and cataract surgery for both eyes. Laser shots were administered on the right eye from the 8 o'clock to 4 o'clock positions behind the lens optic in a circular pattern. The procedure was aborted when the IOL subluxated inferiorly. Ultrasound biomicrocopy results showed undetectable inferior zonules on the right eye and zonular stretching on the left eye. This case demonstrates an increased risk for complication when performing Nd:YAG laser on eyes with congenital glaucoma. This risk should be taken into consideration before offering this simple procedure in this subset of patients.
Novel Discovery of ROS1:PPFIBP1 fusion protein in General Lymphatic Anomaly
Authors: Kadenhe-Chiweshe Angela , Baad Michael , Kaicker Shipra , Mathew Susan , Pua Bradley , Steigman Shaun , McGuinn Catherine
Published: November 2023

Generalized lymphatic anomaly (GLA) is a morbid condition with few treatment options. Cure is currently not possible, and therefore, treatment is aimed at symptom relief, improving function, and slowing the progression of disease. Despite a recent explosion of knowledge in identifying the underlying pathogenic pathways that are involved in these disease processes, the genetic and biologic pathways underlying and driving these disorders remain poorly understood. Next-generation sequencing provides a unique tool that can help to unveil mutations in driver pathways expanding the use of targeted therapies. Here, we report the novel discovery of a ROS1 fusion protein, ROS1:PPFIBP1 in an adolescent with GLA. While ROS1 fusion proteins have been shown to be drivers of disease in various adult and pediatric cancers, they have not been previously reported in vascular anomalies. This discovery provides a basis for potential additional treatment options with recently Food and Drug Administration-approved ROS1 inhibitors.
An optimized post-surgery follow-up strategy for patients with esophageal cancer: a cohort study
Authors: Mai Zihang , Xie Jiaxin , Leng Changsen , Xie Xiuying , Wen Jing , Yang Hong , Liu Qianwen , Fu Jianhua
Published: November 2023

Background:

After radical surgery, patients with esophageal cancer should undergo long-term surveillance of disease relapse. However, the optimal follow-up strategy remains to be explored.

Method:

A total of 4688 patients were recruited. Recursive partition analysis was applied to develop recurrence risk stratification for patients. The follow-up strategies of each stratification were developed based on monthly recurrence probability and validated by bootstrap validation and an external dataset. Markov decision-analytic model was constructed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the follow-up strategies.

Results:

Patients were stratified into four groups according to four pathological features. We applied random survival forest to calculate the monthly recurrence probability of each group. Based on the temporal distribution of recurrences, we further established surveillance strategies for four groups. The strategies were validated as optimal protocols by bootstrap resampling and another dataset. Markov decision-analytic analysis indicated that our recommended strategies outperformed the mainstream protocols from guidelines and were most cost-effective. Using less than 12 visits across the first 5 years on average, our follow-up strategies were more efficient than the NCCN recommended strategies (14 visits average). Our results also supported the computerized tomography from the neck to the upper abdomen as routine examination and PETCT of distant metastasis for some groups with high risks.

Conclusion:

Our study provided data-driven evidence of personalized and economic follow-up strategies for EC patients and shed light on follow-up optimization for other cancer types.
Efficacy of electroacupuncture in improving postoperative ileus in patients receiving colorectal surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Hsiao-Tien , Hung Kuo-Chuan , Huang Yen-Ta , Wu Jheng-Yan , Hsing Chung-Hsi , Lin Chien-Ming , Chen I-Wen , Sun Cheuk-Kwan
Published: November 2023

Background:

This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) in improving postoperative ileus (POI) after colorectal surgery.

Methods:

Electronic databases (e.g., Medline) were screened to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that focused on the association between EA and POI. Time to first flatus served as the primary outcome, while the secondary outcomes included time required for the recovery of other gastrointestinal functions (e.g., bowel sound recovery), time to tolerability of liquid/solid food, postoperative pain scores, risk of overall complications, and hospital length of stay (LOS).

Results:

Our meta-analysis focusing on 16 studies with a total of 1562 patients demonstrated positive associations of EA with shorter times to the first flatus (mean difference [MD):-10.1 hours, P<0.00001, n=1562), first defecation (MD:-11.77 hours, P<0.00001, n=1231), bowel sound recovery (MD:-10.76 hours, P<0.00001, n=670), tolerability of liquid (MD: -16.44 hours, P=0.0002, n=243), and solid food (MD: -17.21 hours, P=0.005, n=582) than those who received standard care. The use of EA was also correlated with a lower risk of overall complications [risk ratio (RR):0.71, P=0.04, n=1011], shorter hospital LOS (MD: -1.22 days, P=0.0001, n=988), and a lower pain score on postoperative days two (standardized MD: -0.87, P=0.009, n=665) and three (standardized MD: -0.45, P<0.00001, n=795), without a difference in time to first ambulation.

Conclusion:

Our findings showed an association between EA and enhanced gastrointestinal functional recovery and reduced pain severity following colorectal surgery, highlighting the potential benefits of incorporating EA into perioperative care to enhance recovery outcomes in this setting.
Diagnostic consistency between computed tomography and adrenal vein sampling of primary aldosteronism: Leading to successful curative outcome after adrenalectomy: A retrospective study
Authors: Kim Byung-Chang , Yoon Hyun-Ki , Park Kye Jin , Kim Gun Ha , Pak Shin Jeong , Kwon Douk , Cho Jae Won , Kim Won Woong , Lee Yu-mi , Koh Jung-Min , Lee Seung Hun , Chung Ki-Wook , Sung Tae-Yon
Published: November 2023

Background:

Adrenal Computed tomography (CT) is a useful tool for locating adrenal lesion in primary aldosteronism(PA) patients. However, adrenal vein sampling(AVS) is considered as a gold standard for subtype diagnosis of PA. The aim of this study was to investigate the consistency of CT and AVS for the diagnosis of PA subtypes and evaluate the concordance of surgical outcomes.

Materials and methods:

This retrospective study included 264 PA patients having both CT and AVS. Diagnostic consistency between CT and AVS was accessed, and clinical and biochemical outcomes were evaluated at 6 months after adrenalectomy.

Results:

Of all, 207 (78%) had CT unilateral lesion, 32 (12%) CT bilateral lesion, and 25 (9%) CT bilateral normal findings. Among CT unilateral lesion group, 138 (67%) had ipsilateral AVS lateralization. For CT bilateral lesion and bilateral normal, AVS unilateral lateralization was found in 17 (55%) and 2 (8%), respectively. The consistency between CT lesion and AVS lateralization including CT unilateral with AVS ipsilateral, and CT bilateral lesion with AVS bilateral patients was 63.8%(152/238). Of 77 patients with available data out of 138 patients who underwent adrenalectomy with consistency between CT and AVS, clinical success rate was 96%, for 17 inconsistency patients out of 22 patients who underwent adrenalectomy, clinical success rate was 94% after adrenalectomy following the lateralization result of AVS.

Conclusion:

CT is a useful tool to diagnose the adrenal lesion in PA patients. However, AVS is more sufficient to detect the unilateral PA subtype which could provide curable treatment to surgical candidates of PA such that AVS can identify patients with contralateral PA in CT unilateral lesion and unilateral PA in CT bilateral lesion. The surgical outcome was successful when adrenalectomy was performed according to the AVS lateralization result.
Artificial intelligence in interventional pulmonology
Authors: Ishiwata Tsukasa , Yasufuku Kazuhiro
Published: November 2023

Purpose of review

In recent years, there has been remarkable progress in the field of artificial intelligence technology. Artificial intelligence applications have been extensively researched and actively implemented across various domains within healthcare. This study reviews the current state of artificial intelligence research in interventional pulmonology and engages in a discussion to comprehend its capabilities and implications.

Recent findings

Deep learning, a subset of artificial intelligence, has found extensive applications in recent years, enabling highly accurate identification and labeling of bronchial segments solely from intraluminal bronchial images. Furthermore, research has explored the use of artificial intelligence for the analysis of endobronchial ultrasound images, achieving a high degree of accuracy in distinguishing between benign and malignant targets within ultrasound images. These advancements have become possible due to the increased computational power of modern systems and the utilization of vast datasets, facilitating detections and predictions with greater precision and speed.

Artificial intelligence integration into interventional pulmonology has the potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient safety, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes. However, the clinical impacts of artificial intelligence enhanced procedures remain unassessed. Additional research is necessary to evaluate both the advantages and disadvantages of artificial intelligence in the field of interventional pulmonology.
Organ storage in renal transplantation
Authors: Guo Yanbo , Luke Patrick , Sener Alp
Published: November 2023

Purpose of review

Kidney transplantation is vital for those with end-stage renal disease, enhancing quality of life and longevity. It is the preferred treatment but is hindered by a global disparity between donor kidney availability and demand. Therefore, optimizing organ storage techniques is crucial to mitigate the effects of ischemia reperfusion injury in available organs. Recent interest has centered on innovative methods like oxygenated normothermic perfusion and abdominal regional perfusion.

Recent findings

Multiple recent metanalyses, including a Cochrane review, confirm the benefits of hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP) for deceased donor kidneys, demonstrating its utility and cost effectiveness. The benefits of oxygenated normothermic perfusion have been seen in retrospective data sets but not in prospective trials. Abdominal regional perfusion (aNRP) is gaining interest, especially for liver transplantation, but kidney specific data are scant.

High-quality evidence backs the use of HMP for deceased donor kidneys. Despite interest in other techniques, clinical evidence for their benefits in kidney transplantation is lacking. The gap between innovation and verified success emphasizes the need for continued research and collaboration between medical professionals, researchers, and ethical committees. This review aims to further illuminate the complexities and advancements in the field, bridging the knowledge gap and aiding in the continual pursuit of excellence in transplantation.
Characterizing residential mobility among people with HIV in Tennessee and its impact on HIV care outcomes
Authors: Ahonkhai Aima A. , Bian Aihua , Robbins Natalie N. , Maurer Laurie A. , Clouse Kate , Pierce Leslie J. , Perkins Jessica M. , Wernke Steven A. , Shepherd Bryan E. , Brantley Meredith
Published: November 2023

Objective:

Our objective was to assess the prevalence and patterns of mobility among people with HIV (PWH) in Tennessee and its impact on HIV care outcomes.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods:

We combined residential address and HIV surveillance data from PWH in Tennessee from 2016 to 2018. Using Poisson regression, we estimated associations between in-state mobility (change in address or total miles moved) in 1 year and outcomes in the subsequent year; retention: having two CD4+/HIV RNA values (labs) in a calendar year at least 3 months apart, loss to follow-up (LTFU): having labs at baseline but not the subsequent year, and viral suppression: HIV RNA less than 200 copies/ml. We applied a kernel density estimator to origin-destination address lines to visualize mobility patterns across demographic subgroups.

Results:

Among 17 428 PWH [median age 45 years (interquartile range; IQR 34–53)], 6564 (38%) had at least one move. Median miles moved was 8.9 (IQR 2.6–143.4)). We observed in-state movement between major cities (Chattanooga, Knoxville, Memphis and Nashville) and out-of-state movement to and from Georgia and Florida. Having at least one in-state move was associated with a decreased likelihood of retention [adjusted relative risk (aRR) = 0.91; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.88–0.95], and an increased risk of LTFU (aRR = 1.17; 95% CI 1.04–1.31, two to three moves vs. none). Greater distance moved in-state was associated with decreased retention and increased LTFU (aRR = 0.53; 95% CI 0.49–0.58, aRR = 2.52; 95% CI 2.25–2.83, respectively for 1000 vs. 0 miles). There was no association between mobility and viral suppression.

Conclusion:

Mobility is common among PWH in Tennessee and is associated with initial poor engagement in HIV care.
Exploring Reliable and Identifiable Quantitative Anatomical, Timing, and Displacement Measures in the VFS of Speech
Authors: Street Melanie , Morrison Maeve , Miles Anna
Published: November 2023

Aim:

Videofluroscopy studies of speech are a recognized assessment of velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI). Yet, this method is subjective and has low inter-rater reliability. Quantitative measures of timing, distance, and area in videofluoroscopic studies of swallowing have been shown to be valid and reliable, but quantitative measures are not routinely used in videofluroscopy studies for VPI. This study explored the use of quantitative measures in patients with VPI in terms of feasibility and reliability.

Methods:

Forty patients of mixed etiology diagnosed with VPI through perceptual speech assessment underwent videofluroscopy. Anatomical landmarks and timing, distance, and area measurements were taken of the velopharyngeal port at rest and during speech tasks using specialized Swallowtail software. 50% of measures were double-blind rated to test inter-rater reliability. Raters reported on the time they took to complete each assessment and the challenges they had. Associations between measures were explored.

Results:

Ten timing, line, and area measures were developed based on 3 landmarks. Measures had moderate-substantial inter-rater reliability (intraclass coefficient: 0.69–0.91) except for time to lift (secs), which only achieved fair agreement (intraclass coefficient: 0.56). Measures demonstrated internal consistency (R>0.60). Raters took, on average, 15 mins per patient and reported some challenges with image resolution, especially in timing measures where structures were blurred by movement.

Conclusion:

Quantitative measures are reliable and have the potential to add novel information regarding VPI to support multidisciplinary decision-making. Further research with larger patient cohorts is needed to clarify how quantitative measures can support tailored decisions about surgical and therapeutic interventions in order to maximize outcomes for individuals.
Neuropathic Pain After Burn Injury: A Severe and Common Problem in Recovery
Authors: Stanton Eloise , Kowalske Karen , Won Paul , Schneider Jeffrey C. , Ryan Colleen , Carrougher Gretchen , McMullen Kara , Yenikomshian Haig A.
Published: November 2023

Objective:

To address the limited understanding of neuropathic pain (NP) among burn survivors by comprehensively examining its prevalence and related factors on a national scale using the Burn Model System (BMS) National Database.

Summary Background Data:

NP is a common but underexplored complaint among burn survivors, greatly affecting their quality of life and functionality well beyond the initial injury. Existing data on NP and its consequences in burn survivors are limited to select single-institution studies, lacking a comprehensive national perspective.

Methods:

The BMS National Database was queried to identify burn patients responding to NP-related questions at enrollment, six months, 12 months, two years, and five years post-injury. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were used to explore associations between demographic/clinical characteristics and self-reported NP at different time points.

Results:

There were 915 patients included for analysis. At discharge, 66.5% of patients experienced NP in their burn scars. Those with NP had significantly higher PROMIS-29 pain inference, itch, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance scores and were less able to partake in social roles. Multiple logistic regression revealed male sex, %TBSA, and moderate-to-severe pain as predictors of NP at six months. At 12 months, %TBSA and moderate-to-severe pain remained significant predictors, while ethnicity and employment status emerged as significant predictors at 24 months.

Conclusions:

This study highlights the significant prevalence of NP in burn patients and its adverse impacts on their physical, psychological, and social well-being. The findings underscore the necessity of a comprehensive approach to NP treatment, addressing both physical symptoms and psychosocial factors.
Posttransplant Tertiary Lymphoid Organs
Authors: Ruddle Nancy H.
Published: November 2023

Tertiary lymphoid organs (TLOs), also known as tertiary or ectopic lymphoid structures or tissues, are accumulations of lymphoid cells in sites other than canonical lymphoid organs, that arise through lymphoid neogenesis during chronic inflammation in autoimmunity, microbial infection, cancer, aging, and transplantation, the focus of this review. Lymph nodes and TLOs are compared regarding their cellular composition, organization, vascular components, and migratory signal regulation. These characteristics of posttransplant TLOs (PT-TLOs) are described with individual examples in a wide range of organs including heart, kidney, trachea, lung, artery, skin, leg, hand, and face, in many species including human, mouse, rat, and monkey. The requirements for induction and maintenance of TLOs include sustained exposure to autoantigens, alloantigens, tumor antigens, ischemic reperfusion, nephrotoxic agents, and aging. Several staging schemes have been put forth regarding their function in organ rejection. PT-TLOs most often are associated with organ rejection, but in some cases contribute to tolerance. The role of PT-TLOs in cancer is considered in the case of immunosuppression. Furthermore, TLOs can be associated with development of lymphomas. Challenges for PT-TLO research are considered regarding staging, imaging, and opportunities for their therapeutic manipulation to inhibit rejection and encourage tolerance.
Pontibacter harenae sp. nov., isolated from the soil of a Populus euphratica forest
Authors: Osman Ghenijan , Sayim Gulnisa , Yang Hongmei , Gu Meiying , Sun Jian , Gao Yan , Zhu Jing , Song Suqin , Yi Yuanyang , Wang Wei , Zhang Zhidong
Published: November 2023

A Gram-negative, rod-shaped, aerobic and light pink-pigmented bacterium, designated XAAS-A31T, was isolated from the soil of a Populus euphratica forest located near Hotan City, Xinjiang, PR China. Polyphasic, taxonomic and phylogenomic analyses were used to determine the taxonomy position of the strain. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that XAAS-A31T belongs to the genus

Pontibacter

, family

Hymenobacteraceae

, and shows highest sequence similarity to

Pontibacter silvestris

XAAS-R86T (96.2 %). The digital DNA–DNA hybridization (22.0 %–19.2 %) and orthologous average nucleotide identity (74.1 %–72.7 %) values relative to closest validly published

Pontibacter

species were lower than the recommended thresholds of 70 and 96 %, respectively. The cells grew at 4–40 °C (optimum, 28–30 °C), at pH 6.5–8.5 (pH 7.0–7.5) and with 0–8% NaCl (0.5–2.0% NaCl). The main respiratory quinone of XAAS-A31T is MK-7, and the principal cellular fatty acids are iso-C15 : 0, iso-C17 : 0 3OH and summed feature 4 (iso-C17 : 1 I and/or anteiso-C17 : 1 B). The major polar lipids are phosphatidylethanolamine, three unidentified amino-phospholipids, one unidentified glycolipid and eight unidentified lipids. The genome length of strain XAAS-A31T is 5.48 Mbp with a DNA G+C content of 44.2 mol% and 4013 protein-coding genes. Phenotypic and genotypic data suggested that XAAS-A31T represents a novel

Pontibacter

species, for which we propose the name Pontibacter harenae sp. nov. and type strain XAAS-A31T (=CCTCC AB 2017162T=KCTC 62049T).
Serial Dependence in face-gender classification revealed in low-beta frequency EEG
Authors: Ranieri Giacomo , Burr David C. , Bell Jason , Morrone Maria Concetta
Published: November 2023

Perception depends not only on current sensory input but is also heavily influenced by the immediate past perceptual experience, a phenomenon known as “serial dependence”. It is particularly robust in face perception. We measured face-gender classification for a sequence of intermingled male, female and androgynous images. The classification showed strong serial dependence (androgynous images biased male when preceded by male and female when preceded by female). The strength of the bias oscillated over time in the beta range, at 14 Hz for female prior stimuli, 17 Hz for male. Using classification techniques, we were able to successfully classify the previous stimulus from current EEG activity. Classification accuracy correlated well with the strength of serial dependence in individual participants, confirming that the neural signal from the past trial biased face perception. Bandpass filtering of the signal within the beta range showed that the best information to classify gender was around 14 Hz when the previous response was “female”, and around 17 Hz when it was “male”, reinforcing the psychophysical results showing serial dependence to be carried at those frequencies. Overall, the results suggest that recent experience of face-gender is selectively represented in beta-frequency (14–20 Hz) spectral components of intrinsic neural oscillations.

Significance Statement

The neurophysiological mechanisms of how past perceptual experience affects current perception are poorly understood. Using classification techniques, we demonstrate that the gender of face images can be decoded from the neural activity of the EEG response to the successive face stimulus, showing that relevant neural signals are maintained over trials. Classification accuracy was higher for participants with strong serial dependence, strongly implicating these signals as the neural substrate for serial dependence. The best information to classify gender was around 14 Hz for “female” faces, and around 17 Hz for “male”, reinforcing the psychophysical results showing serial dependence to be carried at those beta-frequencies.