bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal restructuring facilitates compositional convergence of gut microbiota in free-ranging rodents
Authors: Klure Dylan M , Dearing M Denise
Published: October 2023

Gut microbes provide essential services to their host and shifts in their composition can impact host fitness. However, despite advances in our understanding of how microbes are assembled in the gut, we understand little about the stability of these communities within individuals, nor what factors influence its composition over the life of an animal. For this reason, we conducted a longitudinal survey of the gut microbial communities of individual free-ranging woodrats (Neotoma spp.) across a hybrid zone in the Mojave Desert, USA, using amplicon sequencing approaches to characterize gut microbial profiles and diet. We found that gut microbial communities were individualized and experienced compositional restructuring as a result of seasonal transitions and changes in diet. Turnover of gut microbiota was highest amongst bacterial subspecies and was much lower at the rank of Family, suggesting there may be selection for conservation of core microbial functions in the woodrat gut. Lastly, we identified an abundant core gut bacterial community that may aid woodrats in metabolizing a diet of plants and their specialized metabolites. These results demonstrate that the gut microbial communities of woodrats are highly dynamic and experience seasonal restructuring which may facilitate adaptive plasticity in response to changes in diet.
Crustal deformation in the southeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau: insights from broad-band Pg-wave attenuation tomography
Authors: Li Ruo-Jie , Zhao Lian-Feng , Xie Xiao-Bi , Yao Zhen-Xing
Published: October 2023

The deformation mechanism in southeastern Tibet since the continental collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates could be explained by several models, including two major classic end-member models, the rigid-block extrusion model and the crustal flow model. Crustal channel flow is likely an important tectonic regime for properly explaining a large number of geological and geophysical observations but remains in competition with the block extrusion model. Consequently, detecting ductile flow connectivity would play a key role in understanding the tectonic evolution of the southeastern Tibetan Plateau. Here, we established a high-resolution broad-band QPg model for the crust in SE Tibet by using a joint inversion tomography method based on both single- and two-station Pg data. We verified the stability of the QPg tomography by comparing the QPg values at 1 Hz between the joint inversion and the two-station method. Two low-QPg zones were observed, isolated by the high-QPg Emeishan large igneous province (ELIP). Strong Pg attenuation beneath the Songpan-Ganzi Block and Western Sichuan Block may indicate the presence of crustal material flow due to relatively weak rheological strength. Cooled basaltic magma remnants in the inner zone of the ELIP likely block the southeastward migration of crustal materials driven by the gravity and lateral pressure gradient, and restrict the flow to the Western Sichuan Block, resulting in surface uplift and crustal thickening. Strong Pg attenuation near the Xiaojiang Fault and the Red River Fault may result from mantle upwelling in this region. Our QPg model, combined with previous results, suggests that the tectonic deformation in the southeastern Tibetan Plateau has been mainly controlled by the effects of crustal channel flow and asthenospheric upwelling since the Late Miocene.
Simulating aortic root replacement for a surgical wet laboratory in a resource-limited setting: an economical innovation
Authors: Kamal Mian Mustafa , Sohail Abdul Ahad , Qureshi Neelam Jawed , Ullah Haseeb , Shahabuddin Syed , Kamal Mian Yasir
Published: October 2023

Traditional cardiac surgery residency programs rely mainly on teaching surgical skills in the operating room. The increasing complexity of cardiac surgical operations on high-risk patients and the time constraints placed on residents in this surgical discipline negatively impact the learning opportunities for those residents. Simulation models, though efficient, are very expensive. In Third World Countries, they are unavailable for trainees due to financial constraints.

We have introduced an innovative and cost-effective way of simulating aortic root replacement in a wet laboratory by applying a hand-made valve conduit or ‘pencil conduit’ to a bovine heart. It is reproducible, easy to assemble, cost-effective and simple to use. It can help develop and enhance the surgical skills of residents and junior surgeons for this advanced operation, which requires a meticulous surgical technique performed within a limited time frame.
Forecasting the effective reproduction number during a pandemic: COVID-19 R
t forecasts, governmental decisions and economic implications
Authors: Vasilakis Chrysovalantis , Nikolopoulos Konstantinos
Published: October 2023

Accepted by: Prof. M. Zied Babai

This research empirically identifies the best-performing forecasting methods for the Effective Reproduction Number Rt of coronavirus disease 2019, the most used epidemiological parameter for policymaking during the pandemic. Furthermore, based on the most accurate forecasts for the United Kingdom, we model the excess exports and imports during the pandemic (using World Trade Organization data), whilst simultaneously controlling for governmental decisions, i.e. lockdown(s) and vaccination. We provide empirical evidence that the longer the lockdown lasts, the larger the cost to the economy is, predominantly for international trade. We show that imposing a lockdown leads to exports falling by 16.55% in the United Kingdom; without a lockdown, the respective decrease for the same period would be only 1.57%. On the other hand, efforts towards fast population vaccination improve the economy. We believe our results can help policymakers to make better decisions before and during future pandemics.
Initial-boundary value problem for a fractional heat equation on an interval
Authors: Peña Y Pérez , Sánchez J Ortíz , Ariza Hernández F J , Árciga Alejandre M P
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we study a Dirichlet problem for a fractional heat equation, with spacial fractional derivative in the sense of Riemann–Liouville on a finite interval. The main ideas of Fokas method is employed, where the Lax pairs are used to obtain an integral representation of solutions.
Cholecystostoma: unusual evolution of a cholecystocutaneous fistula following percutaneous incision and drainage of perforated cholecystitis
Authors: Naim Andrea J , De Robles Marie Shella
Published: October 2023

Cholecystocutaneous fistulas (CCFs) are rare complications of gallbladder disease, wherein chronic inflammation leads the formation of an anomalous fistulous tract between the gallbladder and skin. Widespread availability of imaging modalities and timely access to surgical expertise has caused a marked decline in their incidence. Consequently, there is notable heterogeneity in management approaches to this disease entity, and guidance regarding the best, evidence-based treatment strategy is lacking. Most patients are definitively managed with cholecystectomy and en bloc excision of the adjoining fistula tract. However, there is no guidance on how to manage patients whose comorbidities preclude them from operative intervention. We provide the first report chronicling the stepwise development of a CCF in a 75-year-old woman, complete with pictorial documentation of its evolution. Furthermore, we present the inaugural account of a practical, safe approach to the long-term conservative management of CCFs in patients in whom surgical or endoscopic intervention is prohibitive.
Conservative aortic valve surgery and supra-coronary tube: a case report
Authors: Idrissa Abdel Malick , Wazaren Hicham , Bouhdadi Hanae , Jihad Briki , Youssef Saadouni , Benlafqih Chakib , Rhissassi Jaafar , Sayah Rochde , Laaroussi Mohammed
Published: October 2023

Conservative aortic valve surgery is becoming an effective alternative to aortic valve replacement for patients with aortic insufficiency (AI) and ascending aortic aneurysms. It has become a crucial component of the therapeutic arsenal recommended by the learned societies. This paper reports the case of a patient with severe AI following dilatation of the supra-coronary aorta that underwent aortic plasty associated with a supra-coronary tube in the Cardiovascular Surgery Department ‘A’ of the Ibn Sina Hospital, Rabat, Morocco.
Primary splenic multicystic peritoneal mesothelioma in a young healthy male
Authors: Price Matthew D , Nair Shuait , Harris James
Published: October 2023

Multicystic peritoneal mesothelioma (BMPM) is a rare, usually benign tumor that arises from peritoneal mesothelial cells that most commonly occurs in women of reproductive age. Pathogenesis of these tumors is thought to come from chronic inflammation from prior surgery, endometriosis, trauma, or recurrent peritonitis. Here we report a case of primary splenic BMPM in a 20-year-old male with no past medical or surgical history and without any typical risk factors for this condition. He underwent an open splenectomy without complication. Pathology revealed an 18 × 4 × 11 cm3 spleen with a cyst occupying 75% of the splenic surface. Sections revealed a multilocular cyst with trabeculated walls and immunohistochemical staining positive for cytokeratin (AE1/AE3) consistent with BMPM. One year post operatively he remains asymptomatic; however, his interval computed tomography (CT) scan revealed several sub centimeter nodules that either represents small splenules or neoplastic implants. These will be followed with close interval imaging.
Isolated free intraperitoneal fluid in young male after blunt abdominal sport trauma: two case reports from the World Cup 2022
Authors: Al-Aieb Abubaker , Abdelrahman Husham , Rizoli Sandro , El-Menyar Ayman , Nabir Syed , Kloub Ahmad , Al-Thani Hassan
Published: October 2023

The presence of isolated intraperitoneal free fluid (IFIPF) indicates the presence of mesenteric, organ, or bowel injury, which necessitates surgical exploration. The advances in computerized tomographic scanning (CT scan) allow even smaller amounts of IFIPF being detected. However, the clinical significance of IFIPF following blunt abdominal trauma remains not well-studied. Moreover, IFIPF is an unexpected condition in healthy male in the absence of mesenteric or organ injury on abdominal imaging. Herein, we presented two cases with IFIPF detected by CT scan in two healthy football male players during the World Cup 2022. The two players were managed conservatively and rejoined safely their football team during the same competition.
Measuring small-scale magnetic fields of 44 M dwarfs from SPIRou spectra with ZeeTurbo
Authors: Cristofari P I , Donati J-F , Moutou C , Lehmann L T , Charpentier P , Fouqué P , Folsom C P , Masseron T , Carmona A , Delfosse X , Petit P , Artigau E , Cook N J ,   the SLS consortium
Published: October 2023

We present the results of an analysis aimed at probing the small-scale magnetic fields of M dwarfs observed with SPIRou, the nIR high-resolution spectro-polarimeter installed at the Canada–France–Hawaii Telescope, in the context of the SPIRou Legacy Survey. Our analysis relies on high-resolution median spectra built from several tens of spectra recorded between 2019 and 2022, and on synthetic spectra computed with the ZeeTurbo code for various combination of atmospheric parameters and magnetic field strengths. We pursue the efforts undertaken in a previous study and focus on 44 weakly to moderately active M dwarfs. We derive average magnetic field strengths () ranging from 0.05 to 1.15 kG, in good agreement with activity estimates and rotation periods. We found that including magnetic fields in our models has virtually no impact on our derived atmospheric parameters, and that a priori assumptions on the stellar surface gravity can affect our estimated . Our results suggest that small-scale magnetic fields account for more than 70 per cent of the overall average magnetic field for most targets whose large-scale fields were previously measured. We derived low magnetic fluxes for several targets in our sample, and found no clear evidence that  decreases with increasing Rossby number in the unsaturated dynamo regime. We even identified counterexamples (GJ 1289 and GJ 1286) where the small-scale field is unusually strong despite the long rotation period. Along with similar results on the large-scale fields, our findings further suggest that dynamo processes may operate in a non-conventional mode in these strongly magnetic, slowly rotating stars.
Quantum scattering cross-sections for O(3P) + N2 collisions for planetary aeronomy
Authors: Kumar Sanchit , Kumar Sumit , Gacesa Marko , El-Kork Nayla , Yamijala Sharma S R K C
Published: October 2023

‘Hot atoms’, atoms in their excited states, transfer their energy to the surrounding atmosphere through collisions. This process (known as thermalization) plays a crucial role in various astrophysical and atmospheric processes. Thermalization of hot atoms is mainly governed by the amount of species present in the surrounding atmosphere and the collision cross-sections between the hot atoms and surrounding species. In this work, we investigated the elastic and inelastic collisions between hot oxygen atoms and neutral N2 molecules, relevant to oxygen gas escape from the Martian atmosphere and for characterizing the chemical reactions in hypersonic flows. We conducted a series of quantum scattering calculations between various isotopes of O(3P) atoms and N2 molecules across a range of collision energies (0.3–4 eV), and computed both their differential and collision cross-sections using quantum time-independent coupled-channel approach. Our differential cross-section results indicate a strong preference for forward scattering over sideways or backward scattering, and this anisotropy in scattering is further pronounced at higher collision energies. By comparing the cross-sections of three oxygen isotopes, we find that the heavier isotopes consistently have larger collision cross-sections than the lighter isotopes. As a whole, this study contributes to a better understanding of the energy distribution and thermalization processes of hot atoms within atmospheric environments. Specifically, the cross-sectional data presented in this work is directly useful in improving the accuracy of energy relaxation modelling of O and N2 collisions over the Mars and Venus atmospheres.
Interesting clues to detect hidden tidal disruption events in active galactic nuclei
Authors: Zhang Xue-Guang
Published: October 2023

In the manuscript, effects of tidal disruption events (TDEs) are estimated on long-term AGN variability, to provide interesting clues to detect probable hidden TDEs in normal broad line AGN with apparent intrinsic variability which overwhelm the TDEs expected variability features, after considering the unique TDEs expected variability patterns. Based on theoretical TDEs expected variability plus AGN intrinsic variability randomly simulated by Continuous AutoRegressive process, long-term variability properties with and without TDEs contributions are well analysed in AGN. Then, interesting effects of TDEs can be determined on long-term observed variability of AGN. First, more massive BHs, especially masses larger than $10^7\, {\rm M_\odot }$, can lead to more sensitive and positive dependence of τTN on RTN, with τTN as variability time-scale ratio of light curves with TDEs contributions to intrinsic light curves without TDEs contributions, and RTN as ratio of peak intensity of TDEs expected variability to the mean intensity of intrinsic AGN variability without TDEs contributions. Secondly, stronger TDEs contributions RTN can lead to τTN quite larger than 5. Thirdly, for intrinsic AGN variability having longer variability time-scales, TDEs contributions will lead τTN to be increased more slowly. The results actually provide an interesting forward-looking method to detect probable hidden TDEs in normal broad-line AGN, due to quite different variability properties, especially different DRW/CAR process expected variability time-scales, in different epochs, especially in normal broad line AGN with shorter intrinsic variability time-scales and with BH masses larger than $10^7\, {\rm M_\odot }$.
Five years of 6.7-GHz methanol maser monitoring with Irbene radio telescopes
Authors: Aberfelds A , Šteinbergs J , Shmeld I , Burns R A
Published: October 2023

We present the results of a 5-yr monitoring program of 42 sources targeted at 6.7-GHz methanol masers, conducted from 2017 March to 2022 October using the Irbene 32- and 16-m radio telescopes. Sources were observed with irregular intervals where time between two consecutive observations ranged from 24 h to 35 d. We found that more than 55 per cent of the sources showed significant variability, but often only one or a few spectral features were varying significantly. Numerous type of variability were found in our sample: low-variable, periodic, irregular, synchronized, and anticorrelated between features and steadily raising or falling flux. Our analysis techniques also uncover new variability trends for several sources. The maser monitoring program is one of the first single-dish science initiatives at the Irbene radio telescope complex, initiated shortly after the instrument’s reconstruction and upgrades. Our findings unequivocally demonstrate its suitability for maser research purposes.
Interstellar complex organic molecules towards outflows from the G351.16+0.70 (NGC 6334 V) massive protostellar system
Authors: Rojas-García O S , Gómez-Ruiz A I , Palau A , Orozco-Aguilera M T , Kurtz S E , Chavez Dagostino M
Published: October 2023

G351.16+0.70 is a relatively well-studied high-mass star-forming region with at least two main bipolar outflow structures originating from an OB-embedded star and multiple IR sources. Using high-resolution and large-bandwidth SMA observations, we studied its molecular content to probe the emission of iCOMs, which could be related to the bipolar outflows or their jets. We analysed the emission spectra in the 1 mm band within 8 GHz bandwidth coverage, finding that the observed emission spectra could be explained by 11 iCOMs and 5 molecular isotopologues. Additionally, we analysed the unusually broad iCOM emission lines by using integrated and velocity field maps, searching for extended emission and velocity gradients related to molecular outflows. Ro-vibrational transitions of CH3OH and CH3OCHO present evidence of extended emission that does not fit with spherical morphology and that follows the extension of the low-velocity 13CO outflow. The multiple outflows in the system are revealed also by the CO (2–1) and SiO (5–4) emission, but in particular we have discovered an extremely high-velocity outflow (|VMax − VLSR| ∼ 60 km s−1). Finally, we provide the complete catalogue of iCOMs produced by the protostellar core within the 8 GHz bandwidth of our observations, along with a compilation of iCOM abundances studied in interferometric works from the literature and a comparison with single-dish results.
Solid-state atomic hydrogen as a broad-spectrum RONS scavenger for accelerated diabetic wound healing
Authors: Luo Man , Wang Qin , Zhao Gang , Jiang Wei , Zeng Cici , Zhang Qingao , Yang Ruyu , Dong Wang , Zhao Yunxi , Zhang Guozhen , Jiang Jun , Wang Yucai , Zhu Qing
Published: October 2023

Hydrogen therapy shows great promise as a versatile treatment method for diseases associated with the overexpression of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS). However, developing an advanced hydrogen therapy platform that integrates controllable hydrogen release, efficient RONS elimination, and biodegradability remains a giant technical challenge. In this study, we demonstrate for the first time that the tungsten bronze phase H0.53WO3 (HWO) is an exceptionally ideal hydrogen carrier, with salient features including temperature-dependent highly-reductive atomic hydrogen release and broad-spectrum RONS scavenging capability distinct from that of molecular hydrogen. Moreover, its unique pH-responsive biodegradability ensures post-therapeutic clearance at pathological sites. Treatment with HWO of diabetic wounds in an animal model indicates that the solid-state atomic H promotes vascular formation by activating M2-type macrophage polarization and anti-inflammatory cytokine production, resulting in acceleration of chronic wound healing. Our findings significantly expand the basic categories of hydrogen therapeutic materials and pave the way for investigating more physical forms of hydrogen species as efficient RONS scavengers for clinical disease treatment.
Neuroimaging and neuroendocrine insights into food cravings and appetite interventions in obesity
Authors: Huang Jin , Wang Chen , Zhang Hang-Bin , Zheng Hui , Huang Tao , Di Jian-Zhong
Published: October 2023

This article reviews the previous studies on the distinction between food cravings and appetite, and how they are regulated by hormones and reflected in brain activity. Based on existing research, food cravings are defined as individual preferences influenced by hormones and psychological factors, which differ from appetite, as they are not necessarily related to hunger or nutritional needs. The article also evaluates the neuroimaging findings about food cravings, and interventions to reduce food cravings, such as mindfulness training, alternative sweeteners, non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and imaginal retraining, and points out their advantages, disadvantages, and limitations. Furthermore, the article delves into the potential future directions in the field, emphasizing the need for a neuroendocrine perspective, considerations for associated psychiatric disorders, innovative clinical interventions, and emerging therapeutic frontiers in obesity management. The article outlines the neuro-endocrine basis of food cravings, including ghrelin, leptin, melanocortin, oxytocin, glucagon-like peptide-1, baclofen, and other hormones and their brain regions of action. The article argues that food cravings are an important target for obesity, and more research is needed to explore their complex characteristics and mechanisms, and how to effectively interact with their neuro-endocrine pathways. The article provides a new perspective and approach to the prevention and treatment of obesity.
Moving From Alteplase to Tenecteplase for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Koriesh Ahmed , Liu Michael , Brinjikji Waleed , Klaas James , Nasr Deena , Keser Zafer
Published: October 2023

Objectives:

Tenecteplase is a fibrin-specific plasminogen activator that has shown promising results in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. Tenecteplase has been suggested to reduce door-to-needle time and to increase the rate of spontaneous recanalization. In February 2021, Mayo Clinic Health System switched to Tenecteplase as the standard thrombolytic therapy for acute ischemic stroke.

Methods:

In this center-based observational cohort study, we present clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with tenecteplase between February 2021 and May 2022 compared with alteplase treatment between September 2019 and February 2021. We used descriptive and comparative statistics.

Results:

Baseline characteristics were comparable between the groups. The incidence of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage was significantly less among the tenecteplase group (0.65% vs. 5%, P=0.027). Both groups had a similar door-to-needle time [55 (IQR 30.5) vs. 57 (IQR 38) in the tissue plasminogen activator group, P=0.395]. Spontaneous partial or complete recanalization was more commonly observed in the tenecteplase group (10.4% vs. 1.4%, P=0.038). Mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion was deferred due to marked clinical improvement more commonly in tenecteplase (6.3% vs. 1.4%); however, this difference was not statistically significant. Ninety-day modified Rankin Scale did not show a significant difference between the groups.

Conclusion:

Tenecteplase use as the thrombolytic agent in acute ischemic stroke was associated with lower rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, higher rates of spontaneous recanalization, but similar door-to-needle time and 90-day modified Rankin Scale as compared with tissue plasminogen activator.
Limb-Shaking And Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Pitton Rissardo Jamir , Fornari Caprara Ana Letícia
Published: October 2023

Background:

Limb-shaking is one of the transient ischemic attacks (TIA) ‘chameleons.’ This literature review aims to evaluate the clinical, epidemiological profile, pathologic mechanisms, and management of limb-shaking TIA.

Review Summary:

Relevant reports in Medline’s (PubMed) database were identified and assessed by 2 reviewers without language restriction from 1985 to 2022. A total of 82 reports containing 161 cases that developed limb-shaking TIA were reported. The mean and median age were 61.36 (SD: 15.29) and 62 years (range: 4–93 y). Most of the individuals affected were males (64.34%). Limb-shaking was reported as unilateral in 83.33% of the patients. Limb-shaking presented with other neurological deficits in 44.33% of the individuals, in which the most common concurrent neurological deficit was the weakness of at least 1 limb. A recurrence of the “shaking” phenomenon was observed in 83 individuals. A trigger of limb-shaking was reported in 69 cases, and the most common was changing body position. The internal carotid artery was the most frequent vessel involved in limb-shaking. A chronically occluded internal carotid artery was observed in 42 individuals. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity. The management was conservative in 42.30% of the cases. The most frequent misdiagnoses were seizures. A full recovery was achieved in 56.60% of the individuals.

Conclusions:

Limb-shaking TIA could be defined as involuntary, rhythmic, brief (<5 min), recurrent, jerky movement usually precipitated by activities that may reduce cerebral blood flow. The “shaking” phenomenon was primarily described as a manifestation of symptomatic complete internal carotid artery obstruction.
C9orf72 Repeat Expansion Initially Presenting as Late-Onset Bipolar Disorder With Psychosis
Authors: Gaynor Leslie S , Yadollahikhales Golnaz , Tsoy Elena , Hall Matthew , Boxer Adam L , Miller Bruce L. , Grinberg Lea T.
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

C9orf72 expansion is the most common genetic abnormality in behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Although psychiatric prodromes are common in C9orf72 expansion carriers, there are only scattered reported cases of primary psychiatric disorders, such as bipolar disorder, diagnosed at disease onset. Moreover, C9orf72 carrier status is rarely identified in bipolar disorder genetic studies.

Case Report:

A 51-year-old, right-handed woman with 16 years of education presented for evaluation of long-standing cognitive and behavioral change. She initially displayed symptoms of mania and florid, multimodal psychotic symptoms at age 39. Her bipolar disorder symptoms were initially responsive to medication; however, she later developed executive dysfunction and behavioral symptoms consistent with bvFTD. She became progressively nonverbal, and her limited speech was notable for speech apraxia. At the time of presentation, she demonstrated cortical sensory deficit, ideomotor and oral-buccal apraxia, and unstable gait. Neuroimaging revealed diffuse brain atrophy. Postmortem histopathological evaluation revealed frontotemporal lobar degeneration with TDP-43 inclusions, type B, and genetic study identified C9orf72 expansion. A detailed review of family history found a strong paternal history of bipolar disorder and substance use disorder.

Conclusions:

We describe a rare case of C9orf72 expansion initially characterized by late-onset bipolar disorder and florid, multimodal psychotic symptoms, followed years later by bvFTD diagnosis. This report emphasizes the importance of completing a neurological examination, obtaining a detailed family history, and pursuing genetic screening to distinguish between primary psychiatric disorder and bvFTD in individuals who meet the criteria for late-onset bipolar disorder.
The Relationship between Lumbar Puncture Opening Pressure and Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thickness in the Diagnosis of Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Authors: Kaya Tutar Nurhan , Kale Nilufer
Published: October 2023

Objectives:

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), is characterized by elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) without an identified cause. Today, lumbar puncture (LP) is the most common method used for diagnosis by measuring cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure to reflect intracranial pressure. This invasive examination has significant disadvantages, such as complications and negative experiences for patients. Therefore, noninvasive methods for ICP measurement are desired. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is widely used for the diagnosis and follow-up of IIH patients as it reflects papilledema. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between CSF pressure and OCT parameters and the ability of OCT in the diagnostic approach.

Methods:

In our study, patients who were followed up with a diagnosis of IIH with complete neuro-ophthalmological examinations, including visual acuity (VA), visual field, and OCT imaging within 24 hours before lumbar puncture, were retrospectively evaluated. CSF pressure, visual acuity LogMAR, mean deviation of visual fields, retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness measured by OCT, and treatment protocols were obtained from our hospital data system.

Results:

A total of 42 eyes of 21 patients were enrolled in the study. A statistically significant positive and moderate correlation was found between CSF pressure values and average RNFL thickness (r=0.507; P=0.001). The same relationship was demonstrated in all 4 quadrants: inferior, superior, nasal, and temporal.

Conclusions:

Increased peripapillary RNFL thickness in optic nerve head OCT may be correlated with increased ICP in IIH patients. A larger number of patients are needed to better understand the correlation between OCT parameters and CSF pressure in patients with IIH.
Neurological Manifestations Induced by Nitrous Oxide Abuse
Authors: Pichon Maud , Majhadi Loubna , Menn Anne-Marie
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Nitrous oxide (NO) abuse is increasing among young people. This can result in severe neurological disorders such as myelopathy and/or peripheral neuropathy. We report the clinical presentations, biological, radiologic and electrophysiological findings of 5 patients hospitalized with neurological symptoms consecutive to NO abuse. In addition, a literature review was conducted to describe the neurological characteristics and to identify factors associated with a poor recovery.

Case report:

Among the 5 patients included, 2 had a myeloneuropathy, 2 had a sensorimotor neuropathy, and 1 had a normal spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging and electromyography despite neurological manifestations consistent with myeloneuropathy. After vitamin B12 supplementation, recovery was reported in 4 patients, and 1 was lost to follow-up.

From the literature review, 154 patients were included [94 males; median age 22 (19 to 26) y; NO exposure 9 (3 to 18) mo]. A myelopathy was identified in 116 patients (75%) and a peripheral neuropathy was documented in 89 patients (58%). Compared with patients who recovered, those with sequelae were more likely to have a motor deficit at presentation (P<0.001), to use NO regularly (P<0.001), to have a lower vitamin B12 level (P=0.04), and a higher concentration of homocysteine (P=0.04). A less extensive myelopathy was more frequently found in the group with favorable outcomes (P=0.002).

Conclusion:

Neurological disorders caused by NO may be challenging with severe clinical patterns. We identified several factors associated with a poor recovery, to make clinicians aware of NO-induced neurotoxicity.
Spinal Meningeal Mass Lesion
Authors: White Jessica D. , Clarke Michelle J. , Paludo Jonas , Feldman Andrew L. , Sener Ugur T.
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

The differential diagnosis of a spinal intradural extramedullary mass lesion is broad and includes meningioma, schwannoma, neurofibroma, leptomeningeal metastasis, and myxopapillary ependymoma. Though rare, lymphoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of a dural mass lesion.

Case Report:

A 38-year-old man presented with back pain that progressed over 1 month with associated focal tenderness over his mid to lower thoracic spine. He developed intermittent numbness of the bilateral lower extremities, nuchal rigidity, difficulty sleeping, and night sweats. A magnetic resonance imaging of the thoracic spine demonstrated a dorsal intradural extramedullary enhancing lesion from T7 to T10 extending outside the spinal canal. Dural thickening across the entire circumference of the spinal cord was noted. Computed tomography (CT)-guided biopsy of the thoracic lesion was performed, and pathology was consistent with follicular lymphoma. Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography:CT demonstrated no systemic disease. Bone marrow biopsy was negative for malignancy. Symptoms resolved with dexamethasone therapy. He was treated with bendamustine and rituximab with follow-up positron emission tomography:CT 2 months later demonstrating a complete response.

Conclusions:

Lymphoma can rarely present as an isolated dural lesion and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intradural extramedullary spinal mass lesions. Prompt diagnosis and initiation of treatment can lead to complete response and resolution of symptoms.
Three-dimensional mandibular kinematics of mastication in the marsupialDidelphis virginiana
Authors: Stilson Kelsey T. , Luo Zhe-Xi , Li Peishu , Olson Selby , Ross Callum F.
Published: October 2023

Didelphis virginiana(the Virginia opossum) is often used as an extant model for understanding feeding behaviour in Mesozoic mammaliaforms, primarily due to their morphological similarities, including an unfused mandibular symphysis and tribosphenic molars. However, the three-dimensional jaw kinematics of opossum chewing have not yet been fully quantified. We used biplanar videofluoroscopy and the X-Ray Reconstruction of Moving Morphology workflow to quantify mandibular kinematics in four wild-caught opossums feeding on hard (almonds) and soft (cheese cubes) foods. These data were used to test hypotheses regarding the importance of roll versus yaw in chewing by early mammals, and the impact of food material properties (FMPs) on jaw kinematics. The magnitude of roll exceeds that of yaw, but both are necessary for tooth-tooth or tooth-food-tooth contact between complex occlusal surfaces. We confirmed the utility of the four vertical kinematic gape cycle phases identified in tetrapods but we further defined two more in order to capture non-vertical kinematics. Statistical tests support the separation of chew cycle phases into two functional groups: occlusal and non-occlusal phases. The separation of slow close into two (occlusal) phases gives quantitative kinematic support for the long-hypothesized multifunctionality of the tribosphenic molar.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Food processing and nutritional assimilation in animals’.
Head posture impacts mammalian hyoid position and suprahyoid muscle length: implication for swallowing biomechanics
Authors: Li Peishu , Ross Callum F. , Luo Zhe-Xi , Gidmark Nicholas J.
Published: October 2023

Instantaneous head posture (IHP) can extensively alter resting hyoid position in humans, yet postural effects on resting hyoid position remain poorly documented among mammals in general. Clarifying this relationship is essential for evaluating interspecific variation in hyoid posture across evolution, and understanding its implications for hyolingual soft tissue function and swallowing motor control. Using
Didelphis virginiana
as a model, we conducted static manipulation experiments to show that head flexion shifts hyoid position rostrally relative to the cranium across different gapes. IHP-induced shifts in hyoid position along the anteroposterior axis are comparable to
in vivo
hyoid protraction distance during swallowing. IHP also has opposite effects on passive genio- and stylohyoid muscle lengths. High-speed biplanar videoradiography suggests
Didelphis
consistently swallows at neutral to flexed posture, with stereotyped hyoid kinematics across different head postures. IHP change can affect suprahyoid muscle force production by shifting their positions on the length-tension curve, and redirecting lines of action and the resultant force from supra- and infrahyoid muscles. We hypothesize that demands on muscle performance may constrain the range of swallowing head postures in mammals.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Food processing and nutritional assimilation in animals’.
Virologic outcomes on dolutegravir-, atazanavir-, or efavirenz-based ART in urban Zimbabwe: A longitudinal study
Authors: Shamu Tinei , Egger Matthias , Mudzviti Tinashe , Chimbetete Cleophas , Manasa Justen , Anderegg Nanina
Published: October 2023

There are few data from sub-Saharan Africa on the virological outcomes associated with second-line ART based on protease inhibitors or dolutegravir (DTG). We compared viral load (VL) suppression among people living with HIV (PLWH) on atazanavir (ATV/r)- or dolutegravir (DTG)-based second-line ART with PLWH on efavirenz (EFV)-based first-line ART. We analyzed data from the electronic medical records system of Newlands Clinic in Harare, Zimbabwe. We included patients aged ≥12 years when commencing first-line EFV-based ART or switching to second-line DTG- or ATV/r-based ART with ≥24 weeks follow-up after start or switch. We computed suppression rates (HIV VL <50 copies/mL) at weeks 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 and estimated the probability of VL suppression by treatment regimen, time since start/switch of ART, sex, age, and CD4 cell count (at start/switch) using logistic regression in a Bayesian framework. We included 7013 VL measurements of 1049 PLWH (61% female) initiating first-line ART and 1114 patients (58% female) switching to second-line ART. Among those switching, 872 (78.3%) were switched to ATV/r and 242 (21.7%) to DTG. VL suppression was lower in second-line ART patients than first-line ART patients, except at week 12, when those on DTG showed higher suppression than those on EFV (aOR 2.10, 95%-credible interval [CrI] 1.48-3.00) and ATV/r-based regimens (aOR 1.87, 95%-CrI 1.32-2.71). In weeks ≥48, first-line patients had around 3 times the odds of VL suppression compared to second-line patients. There was no evidence of a difference between DTG and ATV/r for follow-up times ≥24 weeks in PLWH on second-line. Second-line ART patients had lower VL suppression rates than those receiving first-line ART, and there was no difference in suppression between DTG- and ATV/r-based second-line ART ≥6 months after switching. Virologic monitoring and adherence support remain essential to prevent second-line treatment failure in settings with limited treatment options.
Delineating yeast cleavage and polyadenylation signals using deep learning
Authors: Stroup Emily Kunce , Ji Zhe
Published: October 2023

3’-end cleavage and polyadenylation is an essential process for eukaryotic mRNA maturation. In yeast species, the polyadenylation signals that recruit the processing machinery are degenerate and remain poorly characterized compared to well-defined regulatory elements in mammals. Especially, recent deep sequencing experiments showed extensive cleavage heterogeneity for some mRNAs inSaccharomyces cerevisiaeand uncovered the polyA motif differences betweenS. cerevisiaevs.Schizosaccharomyces pombe. The findings raised the fundamental question of how polyadenylation signals are formed in yeast. Here we addressed this question by developing deep learning models to deconvolute degeneratecis-regulatory elements and quantify their positional importance in mediating yeast polyA site formation, cleavage heterogeneity, and strength. InS. cerevisiae, cleavage heterogeneity is promoted by the depletion of U-rich elements around polyA sites as well as multiple occurrences of upstream UA-rich elements. Sites with high cleavage heterogeneity show overall lower strength. The site strength and tandem site distances modulate alternative polyadenylation (APA) under the diauxic stress. Finally, we developed a deep learning model to reveal the distinct motif configuration ofS. pombepolyA sites which show more precise cleavage thanS. cerevisiae. Altogether, our deep learning models provide unprecedented insights into polyA site formation across yeast species.
Monoallelicde novovariants inDDX17cause a novel neurodevelopmental disorder
Authors: Seaby Eleanor G. , Godwin Annie , Clerc Valentine , Meyer-Dilhet Géraldine , Grand Xavier , Fletcher Tia , Monteiro Laloe , Carelli Valerio , Palombo Flavia , Seri Marco , Olivucci Giulia , Grippa Mina , Ciaccio Claudia , D’Arrigo Stefano , Iascone Maria , Bermudez Marion , Fischer Jan , Donato Nataliya Di , Goesswein Sophie , Leung Marco L. , Koboldt Daniel C. , Myers Cortlandt , Bartholomew Dennis , Arnadottir Gudny Anna , Stefansson Kari , Sulem Patrick , Goldberg Ethan M. , Bruel Ange-Line , Tran Mau Them Frederic , Willems Marjolaine , Bjornsson Hans Tomas , Hognason Hakon Bjorn , Thorolfsdottir Eirny Tholl , Agolini Emanuele , Novelli Antonio , Zampino Giuseppe , Onesimo Roberta , Lachlan Katherine , Baralle Diana , Rehm Heidi L. , O’Donnell-Luria Anne , Courchet Julien , Guille Matt , Bourgeois Cyril F. , Ennis Sarah
Published: October 2023

Introduction

DDX17 is an RNA helicase shown to be involved in critical processes during the early phases of neuronal differentiation. Globally, we identified 11 patients with neurodevelopmental phenotypes withde novomonoallelic variants inDDX17. All 11 patients had a neurodevelopmental phenotype, whereby intellectual disability, delayed speech and language, and motor delay predominated.

Materials and methods

We performedin uterocortical electroporation in the brain of developing mice, assessing axon complexity and outgrowth of electroporated neurons, comparing wild-type and Ddx17 knockdown. We then undertookex vivocortical electroporation on neuronal progenitors to quantitively assess axonal development at a single cell resolution. Homozygous and heterozygousddx17crispant knockouts inXenopus tropicaliswere generated for assessment of morphology, performed behavioural assays, and neuronal outgrowth measurements. We further undertook transcriptomic analysis of neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells, to identify differentially expressed genes in DDX17-KD cells compared to controls.

Results

Knockdown of Ddx17 in electroporated mouse neuronsin vivoshowed delayed neuronal migration as well as decreased cortical axon complexity. Mouse primary cortical neurons revealed reduced axon outgrowth upon knockdown ofDdx17 in vitro. The axon outgrowth phenotype was replicated in crispantddx17tadpoles, including in a heterozygous model. Crispant tadpoles had clear functional neural defects and showed an impaired neurobehavioral phenotype. Transcriptomic analysis identified a statistically significant number of differentially expressed genes involved in neurodevelopmental processes in DDX17-KD cells compared to control cells.

Discussion

We have identified a new gene,DDX17, representing a rare cause of neurodevelopmental delay. We provide evidence for the role of the gene and mechanistic basis of dysfunctional neurodevelopment in both mammalian and non-mammalian species.
Disruption of myelin structure and oligodendrocyte maturation in a pigtail macaque model of congenital Zika infection
Authors: Tisoncik-Go Jennifer , Stokes Caleb , Whitmore Leanne S. , Newhouse Daniel J. , Voss Kathleen , Gustin Andrew , Sung Cheng-Jung , Smith Elise , Stencel-Baerenwald Jennifer , Parker Edward , Snyder Jessica M. , Shaw Dennis W. , Rajagopal Lakshmi , Kapur Raj P. , Waldorf Kristina Adams , Gale Michael
Published: October 2023

Zika virus (ZikV) infection during pregnancy can cause congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) and neurodevelopmental delay in non-microcephalic infants, of which the pathogenesis remains poorly understood. We utilized an established pigtail macaque maternal-to-fetal ZikV infection/exposure model to study fetal brain pathophysiology of CZS manifesting from ZikV exposurein utero.We found prenatal ZikV exposure led to profound disruption of fetal myelin, with extensive downregulation in gene expression for key components of oligodendrocyte maturation and myelin production. Immunohistochemical analyses revealed marked decreases in myelin basic protein intensity and myelinated fiber density in ZikV-exposed animals. At the ultrastructural level, the myelin sheath in ZikV-exposed animals showed multi-focal decompaction consistent with perturbation or remodeling of previously formed myelin, occurring concomitant with dysregulation of oligodendrocyte gene expression and maturation. These findings define fetal neuropathological profiles of ZikV-linked brain injury underlying CZS resulting from ZikV exposurein utero. Because myelin is critical for cortical development, ZikV-related perturbations in oligodendrocyte function may have long-term consequences on childhood neurodevelopment, even in the absence of overt microcephaly.

Graphical abstract
A distinct subpopulation of adipocytes in adult perirenal adipose tissue arises through brown-to-white conversion but reverts to a thermogenic phenotype upon cold exposure
Authors: Zhang Houyu , Li Yan , Ibáñez Carlos F. , Xie Meng
Published: October 2023

Perirenal adipose tissue (PRAT) is a unique visceral depot that contains a mixture of brown and white adipocytes. The origin and plasticity of such cellular heterogeneity remains unknown. Here, we combine single-nucleus RNA sequencing with genetic lineage tracing to reveal the existence of a distinct subpopulation ofUcp1-/Cidea+adipocytes that arises from brown-to-white conversion during postnatal life in the peri-ureter region of mouse PRAT. Cold exposure restoresUcp1expression and a thermogenic phenotype in this subpopulation. These cells have a transcriptome that is distinct from subcutaneous beige adipocytes and may represent a unique type of cold-recruitable adipocytes. These results pave the way for studies of PRAT physiology and mechanisms controlling the plasticity of brown/white adipocyte phenotypes.
Alasemenia, the earliest ovule with three wings and without cupule
Authors: Wang Deming , Yang Jiangnan , Liu Le , Zhou Yi , Xu Peng , Qin Min , Huang Pu
Published: October 2023

The ovules or seeds (fertilized ovules) with wings are widespread and especially important for wind dispersal. However, the earliest ovules in the Famennian of the Late Devonian are rarely known about the dispersal syndrome and usually surrounded by a cupule. From Xinhang, Anhui, China, we now report a new taxon of Famennian ovules,Alasemenia triagen. et sp. nov. Each ovule of this taxon possesses three integumentary wings evidently extending outwards, folding inwards along abaxial side and enclosing most part of nucellus. The ovule is borne terminally on smooth dichotomous branches and lacks a cupule.Alasemeniasuggests that the integuments of the earliest ovules without a cupule evolved functions in probable photosynthetic nutrition and wind dispersal. It indicates that the seed wing originated earlier than other wind dispersal mechanisms such as seed plume and pappus, and that three- or four-winged seeds were followed by seeds with less wings. Mathematical analysis shows that three-winged seeds are more adapted to wind dispersal than seeds with one, two or four wings under the same condition.