bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endothelium-specific SIRT7 targeting ameliorates pulmonary hypertension through Krüpple-like factor 4 deacetylation
Authors: Zhang Jin , Xu Chenzhong , Tang Xiaolong , Sun Shimin , Liu Siqi , Yang Langmei , Chen Yuqin , Yang Qifeng , Wei Tong-You Wade , Wu Xiaojing , Wang Jian , Wang Chen , Yan Xiaosong , Yang Lei , Niu Yanqin , Gou Deming , Shyy John Y J , Liu Baohua
Published: January 2024

Aims

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a pulmonary vascular disease characterized by a high mortality rate. Pulmonary arterial endothelium cells (PAECs) serve as a primary sensor of various environmental cues, such as shear stress and hypoxia, but PAEC dysfunction may trigger vascular remodelling during the onset of PH. This study aimed to illustrate the role of Sirtuin 7 (SIRT7) in endothelial dysfunction during PH and explore the potential therapeutic strategy for PH.

Methods and results

SIRT7 levels were measured in human and murine experimental PH samples. Bioinformatic analysis, immunoprecipitation, and deacetylation assay were used to identify the association between SIRT7 and Krüpple-like factor 4 (KLF4), a key transcription factor essential for endothelial cell (EC) homeostasis. Sugen5416 + hypoxia (SuHx)-induced PH mouse models and cell cultures were used for the study of the therapeutic effect of SIRT7 for PH. SIRT7 level was significantly reduced in lung tissues and PAECs from PH patients and the SuHx-induced PH mouse model as compared with healthy controls. Pulmonary endothelium-specific depletion of Sirt7 increased right ventricular systolic pressure and exacerbated right ventricular hypertrophy in the SuHx-induced PH model. At the molecular level, we identified KLF4 as a downstream target of SIRT7, which deacetylated KLF4 at K228 and inhibited the ubiquitination-proteasome degradation. Thus, the SIRT7/KLF4 axis maintained PAEC homeostasis by regulating proliferation, migration, and tube formation. PAEC dysfunction was reversed by adeno-associated virus type 1 vector-mediated endothelial overexpression of Sirt7 or supplementation with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)+ intermediate nicotinamide riboside which activated Sirt7; both approaches successfully reversed PH phenotypes.

Conclusion

The SIRT7/KLF4 axis ensures PAEC homeostasis, and pulmonary endothelium-specific SIRT7 targeting might constitute a PH therapeutic strategy.
Long-read single-cell sequencing reveals the transcriptional landscape of spermatogenesis in obstructive azoospermia and Sertoli cell-only patients
Authors: Wu X , Lu M , Yun D , Gao S , Sun F
Published: January 2024

Background

High-throughput single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is widely used in spermatogenesis. However, it only reveals short reads in germ and somatic cells, limiting the discovery of novel transcripts and genes.

Aim

This study shows the long-read transcriptional landscape of spermatogenesis in obstructive azoospermia (OA) and Sertoli cell-only patients.

Design

Single cells were isolated from testicular biopsies of OA and non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) patients. Cell culture was identified by comparing PacBio long-read single-cell sequencing (OA n = 3, NOA n = 3) with short-read scRNA-seq (OA n = 6, NOA n = 6). Ten germ cell types and eight somatic cell types were classified based on known markers.

Methods

PacBio long-read single-cell sequencing, short-read scRNA-seq, polymerase chain reaction.

Results

A total of 130 426 long-read transcripts (100 517 novel transcripts and 29 909 known transcripts) and 49 508 long-read transcripts (26 002 novel transcripts and 23 506 known transcripts) have been detected in OA and NOA patients, respectively. Moreover, 36 373 and 1642 new genes are identified in OA and NOA patients, respectively. Importantly, specific expressions of long-read transcripts were detected in germ and stomatic cells during normal spermatogenesis.

Conclusion

We have identified total full-length transcripts in OA and NOA, and new genes were found. Furthermore, specific expressed full-length transcripts were detected, and the genomic structure of transcripts was mapped in different cell types. These findings may provide valuable information on human spermatogenesis and the treatment of male infertility.
Investors’ Beliefs and Cryptocurrency Prices
Authors: Benetton Matteo , Compiani Giovanni
Published: January 2024

We explore the impact of investors’ beliefs on cryptocurrency demand and prices using new individual-level survey data and a structural characteristics-based demand model with differentiated cryptocurrencies and heterogeneous investors. We show that younger individuals with lower incomes are more optimistic about the future value of cryptocurrencies, as are late investors. We identify the model combining observable beliefs with an instrumental variable strategy that exploits variation in the production of different cryptocurrencies. Counterfactual analyses quantify the impact on portfolio allocations and equilibrium prices of (i) (regulating) entry of late optimistic investors, and (ii) growing concerns among investors about the sustainability of energy-intensive proof-of-work cryptocurrencies. (JEL: D84, G11, G41)
A change of rhodocytin's suprastructure turns the agonist into an antagonist of tumor cell induced platelet aggregation
Authors: Obermann Wolfgang M. J. , König Simone , Feickert Mascha K. , Sanz‐Soler Raquel , Eble Johannes A.
Published: January 2024

Cancer cells circulating in the blood attach to platelets by direct cell–cell interactions via several receptor‐counterreceptor contacts and indirectly by fibrin bridges which connect the two cell types by distinct integrin receptors. In the microenvironment of these tumor cell platelet aggregates (TCPAs), the tumor cells are shielded from the shear stress of the blood flow and from attack by the immune system. This supports hematogenous metastasis and tumor cell induced thrombosis. Platelet activation is triggered by binding of podoplanin on cancer cells to the platelet receptor Clec‐2. Therefore, we hypothesize that targeting this initial step will prevent the entire cascade leading to the formation of TCPAs. Rhodocytin, a heterodimeric (αβ)2 C‐type lectin from the Malayan pit viper Calloselasma rhodostoma, binds to Clec‐2 and thereby induces TCPA formation. Remarkably, mutations in rhodocytin that disturbed formation of oligomers, blocked the podoplanin‐Clec‐2 axis and prevented platelet activation. Therefore, we used lysine reactive chemicals to modify rhodocytin isolated from the crude snake venom. Blue native gel electrophoresis and far western blotting showed a change of rhodocytin's suprastructure triggered by acetylation and PEGylation. Mass spectrometry analysis of altered lysines suggested that their modifications interfered with the formation of rhodocytin tetramers. When tested in assays for tumor cell induced platelet aggregation, we found that derivatization turned rhodocytin from an agonist into an antagonist. This observation indicates that Clec‐2 is a valid target receptor molecule to curb TCPA formation and to prevent hematogenous metastasis and tumor cell induced thrombosis in cancer patients.
Discovering the Clinical Relevance of Heart-Lung Interactions
Authors: Pinsky Michael R.
Published: January 2024

In 1978, Dr. Pinsky’s scientific career became firmly directed toward understanding the deeper meaning of heart-lung interactions. This would define his focus for the next 45 yr. At the time, he and colleagues studied the effects of changes in intrathoracic pressure on left ventricular performance in humans, documenting that the primary effect of large negative swings in intrathoracic pressure was to increase left ventricular transmural ejection pressure, and thus left ventricular afterload, selectively. They concluded that large intrathoracic pressure changes directly influence cardiac performance. This fundamental observation was followed by many additional observations in both highly invasive animal studies supported by less invasive clinical studies, which showed that intrathoracic pressure–induced changes in the gradients for venous return to the heart and left ventricular ejection from the heart disproportionately affected both right ventricular and left ventricular function. The direct clinical implications of these results form the rationale for use of continuous positive airway pressure as a primary treatment of acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema and immediate endotracheal intubation for acute upper airway obstruction. These findings subsequently led to the practical use of dynamic changes in left ventricular stroke volume and the associated arterial pulse pressure during positive-pressure ventilation to identify volume responsiveness and, thus, to personalize resuscitation efforts in the treatment of acute cardiovascular insufficiency.
Consciousness and General Anesthesia: Challenges for Measuring the Depth of Anesthesia
Authors: Jiang Yandong , Sleigh Jamie
Published: January 2024

The optimal consciousness level required for general anesthesia with surgery is unclear, but in existing practice, anesthetic oblivion, may be incomplete. This article discusses the concept of consciousness, how it is altered by anesthetics, the challenges for assessing consciousness, currently used technologies for assessing anesthesia levels, and future research directions. Wakefulness is marked by a subjective experience of existence (consciousness), perception of input from the body or the environment (connectedness), the ability for volitional responsiveness, and a sense of continuity in time. Anesthetic drugs may selectively impair some of these components without complete extinction of the subjective experience of existence. In agreement with Sanders et al. (2012), the authors propose that a state of disconnected consciousness is the optimal level of anesthesia, as it likely avoids both awareness and the possible dangers of oversedation. However, at present, there are no reliably tested indices that can discriminate between connected consciousness, disconnected consciousness, and complete unconsciousness.
Recovery Trajectories in Children Requiring 3 or More Days of Invasive Ventilation
Authors: Maddux Aline B. , Miller Kristen R. , Sierra Yamila L. , Bennett Tellen D. , Watson R. Scott , Spear Matthew , Pyle Laura L. , Mourani Peter M.
Published: January 2024

OBJECTIVES:

To characterize health-related quality of life (HRQL) and functional recovery trajectories and risk factors for prolonged impairments among critically ill children receiving greater than or equal to 3 days of invasive ventilation.

DESIGN:

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING:

Quaternary children’s hospital PICU.

PATIENTS:

Children without a preexisting tracheostomy who received greater than or equal to 3 days of invasive ventilation, survived hospitalization, and completed greater than or equal to 1 postdischarge data collection.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

We evaluated 144 children measuring HRQL using proxy-report Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory and functional status using the Functional Status Scale (FSS) reflecting preillness baseline, PICU and hospital discharge, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after hospital discharge. They had a median age of 5.3 years (interquartile range, 1.1–13.0 yr), 58 (40%) were female, 45 (31%) had a complex chronic condition, and 110 (76%) had normal preillness FSS scores. Respiratory failure etiologies included lung disease (n = 49; 34%), neurologic failure (n = 23; 16%), and septic shock (n = 22; 15%). At 1-month postdischarge, 68 of 122 (56%) reported worsened HRQL and 35 (29%) had a new functional impairment compared with preillness baseline. This improved at 3 months to 54 (46%) and 24 (20%), respectively, and remained stable through the remaining 9 months of follow-up. We used interaction forests to evaluate relative variable importance including pairwise interactions and found that therapy consultation within 3 days of intubation was associated with better HRQL recovery in older patients and those with better preillness physical HRQL. During the postdischarge year, 76 patients (53%) had an emergency department visit or hospitalization, and 62 (43%) newly received physical, occupational, or speech therapy.

CONCLUSIONS:

Impairments in HRQL and functional status as well as health resource use were common among children with acute respiratory failure. Early therapy consultation was a modifiable characteristic associated with shorter duration of worsened HRQL in older patients.
The role of Intravitreal Methotrexate as an Adjunct to Local or Systemic Corticosteroids in Vitrectomy for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment and Choroidal Detachment: A Pilot Study
Authors: Chahar Annu , Sen Alok , Shukla Dhananjay , Talwar Dinesh
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate the role of repeated intravitreal Methotrexate (IMTX) as an adjunct to pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in the management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with choroidal detachment (RRDCD).

Method:

We compared anatomical and visual outcomes of RRDCD eyes that underwent PPV with (group B) or without repeated IMTX (group A).

Results:

The study included 25 eyes of 25 patients, 16 eyes in group A and nine in Group B. Both groups had similar baseline characteristics. In Group A, successful retinal attachment was achieved in 50% as compared to 89% in Group B, however the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.08). Also, Group B had a significantly greater change in visual acuity from baseline to the last follow-up visit (1.6+1.5 logMAR units) compared to Group A (1.18+1logMAR units) (p=0.05). There were no significant safety concerns with the use of IMTX.

Conclusion:

Repeated IMTX after vitrectomy for RRDCD improves outcomes without posing major safety concerns. Nonetheless, further investigation is necessary to establish the optimal IMTX dosage and duration to prevent recurrence effectively.
Validation of the DBP-1333b upper-arm blood pressure monitor according to the AAMI/ESH/ISO universal standard (ISO 81060-2:2018+Amd.1:2020)
Authors: Hou Guocun , Wu Yulu , Wang Jiaying , Zhi Jia
Published: January 2024

To evaluate the accuracy of the DBP-1333b upper-arm blood pressure (BP) measuring device in the adult population according to the AAMI/ESH/ISO universal standard (ISO 81060-2:2018+Amd.1:2020). Subjects were recruited in the adult population. The test device was an arm-type electronic sphygmomanometer (DBP-1333b) and the reference device was a desktop sphygmomanometer (XJ11D). Using the BP data measured by the desktop sphygmomanometer as reference BP, the accuracy of the non-invasive BP module of the test device was evaluated to determine whether it met the requirements. Data from 90 individuals were analysed. According to Criterion 1, the mean difference of SBP between the test and reference device was 0.19 mmHg and the SD was 7.45 mmHg. The mean difference of DBP was -0.59 mmHg and the SD was 6.47 mmHg. The mean difference of both SBP and DBP was less than 5 mmHg, and the SD was less than 8 mmHg, which met the requirements. According to Criterion 2, SD of SBP was 5.79 mmHg, which was less than 6.95 mmHg and met the requirements. The SD of DBP was 5.58 mmHg, which was less than 6.93 mmHg and met the requirements. It was concluded that the DBP-1333b complies with the AAMI/ESH/ISO universal standard (ISO 81060-2:2018+Amd.1:2020) and can be recommended for use by the adults.
Prevalence of depression, anxiety, and associated factors in immigrant pregnant women in Türkiye: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Atak Muhammed , Sezerol Mehmet Akif , Koçak Elif Nur , Değer Mehmet Sait , Kurubal Hamza
Published: January 2024

The prevalence of depression and anxiety in pregnant women is increasing and this is more important in migrants who are in the vulnerable group. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of depression and anxiety in Syrian immigrant pregnant women admitted to a Migrant Health Center and the associated factors. The study is a cross-sectional study. A questionnaire prepared using sociodemographic characteristics and the Beck depression and anxiety inventories in Arabic was applied to the participants. The study was conducted with immigrant pregnant women who applied to the Migrant Health Center between July 8, 2022, and December 31, 2022. The study was conducted through health workers who speak Arabic and had received training on the subject beforehand. The mean age of the research group was 26.67 ± 5.98 years. Of the participants, 73.0 percent (%) had primary education or less, 95.0% had low income, 87.2% had 3 or less children and 98.5% described their health status as good or very good. The mean Beck anxiety inventory score of the participants was found to be 4.65 ± 3.17. The mean Beck depression inventory score was found to be 4.48 ± 2.53. Smoking and first pregnancy status were found to be associated with anxiety, whereas smoking and history of delivery beyond 42 weeks were found to be associated with depression (P ˂ .05). Anxiety and depression levels of immigrant pregnant women were found to be very low. Minimal anxiety was found in 99.3% of the immigrant pregnant women and 97.1% had no symptoms of depression. It is thought that effective psychosocial support activities for immigrant pregnant women should be carried out in a way to cover the entire target group.
What is the relationship between serum uric acid level and insulin resistance?: A case-control study
Authors: Asma Sakalli Ayça , Küçükerdem H. Seda , Aygün Olgu
Published: January 2024

Diabetes, arises from either an absolute or relative insufficiency of insulin or insulin resistance of peripheral tissues. For assessing long-term blood glucose concentration and insulin resistance, the utilization of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and the Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) is widespread. Insulin resistance can lead to hyperuricemia by reducing the kidney ability to excrete urate, thus increasing sodium reabsorption. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible relationship between serum uric acid levels and insulin resistance. This was a retrospective case-control study. A total of 2530 applications in 2-year time were included in the study. Patient, known hypertension status, fasting plasma glucose, insulin, uric acid, HDL, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglyceride/Tg, HbA1c laboratory values and Tg/HDL ratio were examined. A statistically significant difference existed in the median uric acid values between the insulin-resistant and insulin-sensitive groups (P < .001). Additionally, a weak positive statistical correlation was identified between uric acid and HOMA-IR values (R = 0.299; P < .001) and uric acid and Tg/HDL values (R = 0.357; P < .001). This study concludes that there is a positive correlation between serum uric acid levels and insulin resistance.
Effects of vitamin D supplementation on autoantibodies and thyroid function in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tang Jiahao , Shan Shuanghong , Li Fangping , Yun Peng
Published: January 2024

Background:

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) is the prevailing form of autoimmune thyroiditis and the leading cause of hypothyroidism in iodine-sufficient regions worldwide. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation on HT through a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods:

The databases searched included PubMed, and others. We included RCTs that the treatment group received vitamin D, while the control group received either a placebo or no treatment. The studies measured the baseline and endpoint levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), free triiodothyronine (FT3), anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO-Ab), and thyroglobulin antibody (TG-Ab). We performed a meta-analysis to calculate the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results:

A total of 12 studies involving 862 individuals were included. Vitamin D supplementation has a significant impact on reducing the titers of TPO-Ab (SMD = −1.084, 95% CI = −1.624 to −0.545) and TG-Ab (SMD = −0.996, 95% CI = −1.579 to −0.413) in patients with HT, and it also improves thyroid function by decreasing TSH level (SMD = −0.167, 95% CI = −0.302 to 0.031) and increasing FT3 (SMD = 0.549, 95% CI = 0.077–1.020) and FT4 (SMD = 0.734, 95% CI = 0.184–1.285) levels. Active vitamin D (calcitriol) significantly reduces the titer of TPO-Ab compared to naive forms of vitamin D (vitamin D2 or D3); treatment durations > 12 weeks result in a more effective reduction of TPO-Ab levels and a more significant increase in FT4 and FT3 levels in patients with HT (meta-regression P < .05).

Conclusion:

Vitamin D supplementation may have beneficial effects on HT patients by modulating immune responses and improving thyroid function.
One-time relieving of frozen shoulder motor dysfunction with pure acupotomy: A case report
Authors: Zhou Kangyan , Xie Xiaolin , Liu Jie , Tao Jing , Liu Qiong , Zhou Nan , Zhou Wenchao , Tao Yinli , Chen Yongliang
Published: January 2024

Background:

Frozen shoulder (FS) is characterized by shoulder pain and restricted movement of the shoulder joint. While it tends to resolve on its own, it significantly affects an individual quality of daily life. The pure acupotomy technique employs needle-knife manipulation as the sole treatment, without the use of medications, such as steroids or vitamins, and local anesthesia if necessary. It aims to restore soft tissue mechanical balance and circulation through techniques such as cutting and stripping, creating a “gap effect.” This technique can rapidly, safely, and effectively relieve functional impairments in patients with FS. This article presents a case study of the successful treatment of FS using a purely needle-knife technique.

Patient concerns:

The patient, aged 57 years, presented with chronic pain in the right shoulder, which was particularly aggravated at night, and moderate limitations in joint mobility.

Diagnoses:

The patient was diagnosed with periarthritis of the right shoulder (moderate FS, frozen period), type 2 diabetes, and supraspinatus tendinitis of the right shoulder.

Interventions:

Conventional treatments, such as topical analgesics and acupuncture, produced insignificant improvements in symptoms. So, the patient chose acupotomy treatment and signed the treatment consent form.

Outcomes:

After undergoing one minimally invasive acupotomy treatment, the patient experienced immediate restoration of normal shoulder joint mobility and a significant reduction in pain intensity 3 days post-treatment.

Lessons:

We believe that utilizing a purely acupotomy treatment for passive functional impairments in FS not only yields good results but also saves patients time and reduces their financial burden. This is worth promoting extensively in clinical practice.
Observational study on obesity: Insights from middle-aged and elderly college staff in Beijing
Authors: Zhang Chunguo , Jing Huan , Li Yan , Li Xiaoling , Xie Guojun , Liang Jiaquan
Published: January 2024

Obesity poses a serious global public health challenge, particularly among middle-aged, and elderly college staff. This study aims to explore the associated factors of obesity by analyzing the metabolic indicators of 1756 university staff from Minzu University of China, Beijing. Venous blood samples were collected, and blood metabolic indicators were analyzed. The results indicate that middle-aged faculty members are more susceptible to obesity compared to their younger counterparts. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that BMI values increase with age (B = 0.074, P < .001), uric acid (B = 0.008, P < .001), alanine transaminase (B = 0.043, P < .001), low-density lipoprotein (B = 1.941, P < .001), triglycerides (B = 0.544, P < .001), total cholesterol (TC, B = −1.582, P < .001), and other factors, while decreasing with the increase of high-density lipoprotein (B = −1.493, P < .001). In light of these findings, it is recommended that middle-aged and elderly college staff undergo regular blood indicator checks and enhance weight management to mitigate the risk of obesity and promote their overall health.
Development and validation of novel equation for prediction of resting energy expenditure in active Saudi athletes
Authors: Abulmeaty Mahmoud M.A. , Almajwal Ali , Elsayed Mervat , Hassan Heba , Aldossari Zaid , Alsager Thamer
Published: January 2024

Being the most stable component of energy expenditure, resting metabolic rate (RMR) is usually used in the calculation of energy requirements for athletes. An adequate energy prescription is essential in supporting athlete development. This work aims to develop and validate an equation for calculating energy requirements for Arabic Saudi athletes. This cross-sectional study included 171 active athletes aged 18 to 45 years. The sample was divided into a development group (n = 127) and a validation group (n = 44). Anthropometry, indirect calorimetry, and body composition analysis via bioelectric impedance analysis were performed on all participants. The novel predictive equations were created by using stepwise linear regression analyses. The accuracy of the novel equations was compared with 10 equations, and Bland and Altman plots were used to estimate the limits of agreement between measured RMR and novel equations. The first novel equation used a set of basic measures, including weight, gender, and age, was [RMR = 1137.094 + (Wt × 14.560)–(Age × 18.162) + (G × 174.917)] (R = 0.753, and R2 = 0.567, wt = weight, G = gender; for male use 1 and female 0). The second equation used fat-free mass, age, and weight [RMR = 952.828 + (fat-free mass × 10.970)–(Age × 18.648) + (Wt × 10.297)] (R = 0.760 and R2 = 0.577). Validation of the second novel equation increased the prediction of measured RMR to 72.7% and reduced the amount of bias to 138.82 ± 133.18 Kcal. Finally, the new set of equations was designed to fit available resources in clubs and showed up to 72.73% accurate prediction and good agreement with measured RMR by Bland and Altman plots.
An isolated pontine infarct extending to the basal pontine surface has a higher abnormal ankle-brachial index
Authors: Kim Jung Hyun , Do Youngrok
Published: January 2024

Patients with ischemic stroke and branch atheromatous disease (BAD) have worse neurological deficits and prognoses than those with small vessel occlusion (SVO). However, both disorders are forms of deep brain infarctions. This study aimed to investigate an MRI-based etiological classification for isolated pontine infarctions and assess differences in vascular risk factors and peripheral arterial disease among etiological subtypes. Consecutive data of patients admitted for acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack between August 2016 and July 2019 were reviewed. Acute isolated pontine infarcts were classified into 3 groups: BAD, SVO, and large-artery atherosclerosis (LAA), according to basilar or vertebral artery steno-occlusion and the extent of the infarct lesion on the basal pontine surface as displayed on magnetic resonance imaging and angiography. Vascular risk factors, ankle-brachial index (ABI), and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity were analyzed in the 3 groups. Among 64 enrolled patients, BAD was the most common cause of isolated pontine infarct. The BAD group had a higher frequency of abnormal ABI and hypertension than the SVO group. The BAD group had abnormal ABI and hyperlipidemia more frequently than the LAA group. No significant difference was found in diabetes or brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity incidence between the BAD and SVO groups. ABI and vascular risk factors in the BAD group were more similar to those in the LAA group than to those in the SVD group. This finding suggests that pontine lesions extending to the basal pontine surface have an atherosclerotic mechanism in BAD, requiring potent antiplatelet therapy for the secondary prevention of ischemic stroke.
Impact of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Final Rule on Organ Procurement Organization Metrics and Procedural Trends in the Procurement of Pancreata for Research
Authors: Miller Jonathan , Wood Nicholas L. , Lyden Grace R. , Zaun David , Van Slyck Sean , Mannon Roslyn B. , Snyder Jon J.
Published: January 2024

Objective

Pancreata recovered for research are included as a success (or positive) in the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' (CMS) donation and organ transplantation rate metrics for recertification of organ procurement organizations (OPOs).

Materials and Methods

Given these metrics directly incentivize recovery of pancreata for research, this study tracks trends in recovery of pancreata for research across the implementation of the CMS metrics.

Results

In the 26 months before the December 2, 2020, publication of the CMS metrics, research pancreata as a percent of organs transplanted, including research pancreata, was 1.7% nationally, including as much as 10.8% of organs transplanted within any OPO. In the 26 months after the CMS metrics were published, research pancreata increased to 5.1% of organs counted as transplants nationally, including as much as 20.3% within any OPO. If research pancreata were excluded from the CMS metrics, 6 OPOs would change their CMS evaluation status for recertification purposes: 2 would move up a tier and 4 would move down a tier.

Conclusions

Procurement of research pancreata has increased since the publication of the CMS performance metrics, OPOs vary in their recovery of pancreata for research, and recovery of pancreata for research can affect recertification of OPOs.
Extensive Defect Reconstruction Using Multiple Perforator Propeller Flaps in a Jigsaw Puzzle Approach
Authors: Wang Yiou , Jin Shengyang , Zang Mengqing , Han Tinglu , Zhu Shan , Li Shanshan , Chen Zixiang , Liu Yuanbo
Published: January 2024

Background:

Reconstruction of extensive defects remains a challenge. The authors report their experience with extensive defect reconstruction using multiple perforator propeller flaps and provide a systematic review of the literature on this approach.

Methods:

This retrospective study included patients who underwent defect reconstruction with multiple perforator propeller flaps from 2014 to 2021. A systematic review was conducted by retrieving studies on reconstructive strategy from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus published before December 1, 2022.

Results:

Thirty patients underwent defect reconstruction using 65 perforator propeller flaps. The posterior trunk (66.7%) was the most common site of defects. Complete flap survival was achieved in 61 flaps (93.8%). Partial necrosis of 4 flaps in 3 patients and venous congestion of 1 flap resulted in an overall complication rate of 13.3%. One flap experienced distal tip necrosis in 21 patients undergoing posterior trunk or perineal defect reconstruction, leading to an overall complication rate of 4.7%. Other complications were observed during the reconstruction of defects in the lower extremities (1 of 5 patients) and anterior trunk (2 of 4 patients). In the systematic review, 11 articles involving 74 patients were identified. Commonly reported locations of the defects were the perineum (55.4%) and posterior trunk (33.8%). Flap-related complications included venous congestion; no flaps were lost.

Conclusion:

This study on the use of multiple perforator propeller flaps in a jigsaw puzzle approach demonstrated that the method can be used effectively for extensive posterior trunk and perineal defect reconstruction.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Risk, III.
Revisiting Breast Reduction Insurance Coverage: How the Schnur Scale Discriminates against Women Based on Body Habitus
Authors: Ochoa Pablo C. , Salinas Cristina A. , Zheng Eugene E. , Martinez-Jorge Jorys , Harless Christin A. , Vijayasekaran Aparna , Sharaf Basel A.
Published: January 2024

Background:

The Schnur scale used body surface area (BSA) to determine the amount of breast tissue resection in reduction mammaplasty, resulting in a greater requirement of breast weight removal in patients with larger BSA. The authors aimed to demonstrate BSA variance among women with similar mastectomy weights and the range of mastectomy weights among women with comparable BSAs.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent mastectomy from October of 2021 to June of 2022 was performed. Patients were included if they underwent skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomy with a minimum specimen weight of 700 g. Patient’s BSA, body mass index (BMI), mastectomy weight, and Schnur weight requirement (SWR) were collected.

Results:

A total of 130 patients (194 breasts) were included. There was significant variance in mean BSA, BMI, SWR, and SWR-to–mastectomy weight ratio among women with similar mastectomy weights. BSA varied by as much as 0.82 units, BMI varied by as much as 32 kg/m2, and SWR varied by as much as 1365 g within the same mastectomy weight group. There was also significant variance in mastectomy weights among women with comparable BSA, especially in BSA groups greater than 2.20, with the greatest range in mastectomy weights being 1684 g.

Conclusions:

Analysis of mastectomy patients showed no predictable relationship between BSA and breast weight. There was significant variance in the BSA of patients with similar breast weights, and conversely in breast weights of patients with comparable BSA. Therefore, strict adherence to the Schnur weight requirement can prevent patients with macromastia from receiving breast reductions.
Social Isolation, Physical Activity, and Subsequent Changes in Cognition Among Middle- and Older-Aged Adults: Results From the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging
Authors: Hopper Shawna , Wister Andrew V. , Cosco Theodore D. , Best John R.
Published: January 2024

Objective

The objectives of this study were to a) evaluate associations between social isolation and change in cognition over a 3-year period, and b) evaluate whether physical activity mediates the association between social isolation and cognition change.

Methods

Using baseline and follow-up 1 data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, latent change score models, incorporating direct and indirect pathways, were constructed to estimate the indirect effect of social isolation on cognitive change through physical activity. Multigroup models were constructed based on age group (45–65 versus 65+ years) and sex to allow for varying estimates across age and sex. The final analytic sample included 51,338 participants.

Results

Indirect effects of social isolation on cognition through physical activity were evident in men and women 65+ years old for memory change (

= −0.005 [99.9% confidence interval = −0.007 to −0.002], p < .001 in both groups) and in male adults 65+ years old for executive function change (

= −0.01 [99.9% confidence interval = −0.02 to −0.006], p < .001). Statistically significant indirect effects were not observed for adults between 45 and 65 years old.

Conclusions

Social isolation is associated with diminished physical activity, and in turn, diminished physical activity is associated with decline in memory in older women and men, with larger declines in executive function in older men. Public health initiatives to promote physical activity—perhaps incorporating social interaction—among older adults experiencing social isolation could be one way to mitigate the negative impact of social isolation on cognitive health.
Glucocorticoid and Adrenergic Receptor Distribution Across Human Organs and Tissues: A Map for Stress Transduction
Authors: Basarrate Sophia , Monzel Anna S. , Smith Janell L.M. , Marsland Anna L. , Trumpff Caroline , Picard Martin
Published: January 2024

Objective

Psychosocial stress is transduced into disease risk through energy-dependent release of hormones from the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and sympathetic-adrenal-medullary axes. The levels of glucocorticoid and adrenergic hormones, together with the sensitivity of tissues to their signaling, define stress responses. To understand existing pathways responsible for the psychobiological transduction of stressful experiences, we provide a quantitative whole-body map of glucocorticoid and adrenergic receptor (AR) expression.

Methods

We systematically examined gene expression levels for the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), α- and β-ARs (AR-α1B, AR-α2B AR-β2, and AR-β3), across 55 different organs using the Human Protein Atlas and Human Proteome Map datasets. Given that mitochondria produce the energy required to respond to stress, we leveraged the Human Protein Atlas and MitoCarta3.0 data to examine the link between stress hormone receptor density and mitochondrial gene expression. Finally, we tested the functional interplay between GR activation and AR expression in human fibroblast cells.

Results

The GR was expressed ubiquitously across all investigated organ systems, whereas AR subtypes showed lower and more localized expression patterns. Receptor co-regulation, meaning the correlated gene expression of multiple stress hormone receptors, was found between GR and AR-α1B, as well as between AR-α1B and AR-α2B. In cultured human fibroblasts, activating the GR selectively increased AR-β2 and AR-α1B expression. Consistent with the known energetic cost of stress responses, GR and AR expressions were positively associated with the expression of specific mitochondrial pathways.

Conclusions

Our results provide a cartography of GR and AR expression across the human body. Because stress-induced GR and AR signaling triggers energetically expensive cellular pathways involving energy-transforming mitochondria, the tissue-specific expression and co-expression patterns of hormone receptor subtypes may in part determine the resilience or vulnerability of different organ systems.
Halospeciosus flavus gen. nov., sp. nov. and Haladaptatus caseinilyticus sp. nov., halophilic archaea isolated from saline soil of an inland solar saltern and offshore sediment
Authors: Li Xin-Xin , Tan Shun , Cheng Mu , Hu Yao , Ma Xue , Hou Jing , Cui Heng-Lin
Published: January 2024

Two novel halophilic archaeal strains (XZGYJ-43T and ZJ1T) were isolated from Mangkang ancient solar saltern (Tibet, PR China) and Zhujiang river inlet (Guangdong, PR China), respectively. The comparison of the 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain XZGYJ-43T is related to the current species of the family

Halobacteriaceae

(89.2–91.7% similarity) and strain ZJ1T showed 94.7–98.3% similarity to the current species of the genus

Haladaptatus

. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA genes, rpoB′ genes and genomes indicated that strain XZGYJ-43T is separate from the related genera,

Halocalculus

,

Salarchaeum

and

Halarchaeum

of the family

Halobacteriaceae

, and strain ZJ1T tightly clusters with the current species of the genus

Haladaptatus

. The average nucleotide identity, digital DNA–DNA hybridization and average amino acid identity values between strain XZGYJ-43T and the current species of the family

Halobacteriaceae

were 71–75, 20–25 and 59–68 %, and these values between strain ZJ1T and the current species of the genus

Haladaptatus

were 77–81, 27–32 and 76–82 %, respectively, clearly below the thresholds for prokaryotic species demarcation. These two strains could be distinguished from their relatives according to differential phenotypic characteristics. The major polar lipids of strain XZGYJ-43T were phosphatidic acid (PA), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), phosphatidylglycerol phosphate methyl ester (PGP-Me), mannosyl glucosyl diether (DGD-1; DGD-PA) and sulphated mannosyl glucosyl diether (S-DGD-1; S-DGD-PA), and those of strain ZJ1T were PA, PG, PGP-Me, DGD-PA, S-DGD-1 (S-DGD-PA) and sulphated galactosyl mannosyl glucosyl diether. Based on phenotypic, phylogenetic and genomic data, strain XZGYJ-43T (=CGMCC 1.13890T=JCM 33735T) represents a novel species of a new genus within the family

Halobacteriaceae

, and strain ZJ1T (=CGMCC 1.18785T=JCM 34917T) represents a novel species of the genus

Haladaptatus

, for which the names Halospeciosus flavus gen. nov., sp. nov. and Haladaptatus caseinilyticus sp. nov. are proposed, respectively.
Impact of Capillary and Sarcolemmal Proximity on Mitochondrial Structure and Energetic Function in Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Parry Hailey A. , Willingham T. Bradley , Giordano Kevin A. , Kim Yuho , Qazi Shureed , Knutson Jay R. , Combs Christian A. , Glancy Brian
Published: January 2024

Mitochondria within skeletal muscle cells are considered to be located either between the muscle contractile apparatus (interfibrillar mitochondria, IFM) or in large pools beneath the cell membrane (subsarcolemmal mitochondria, SSM), with several structural and functional differences reported between IFM and SSM. However, recent 3D imaging studies suggest that proximity to capillaries embedded in sarcolemmal grooves, rather than proximity to the sarcolemma itself, may drive the accumulation of mitochondria near the cell periphery (paravascular mitochondria, PVM). To evaluate the impact of capillary versus sarcolemmal proximity, we compared the structure and function of skeletal muscle mitochondria located either in large pools lateral to embedded capillaries (PVM), adjacent to the sarcolemma but not in PVM pools (SSM), or interspersed between sarcomeres (IFM). Mitochondrial morphology and interactions were assessed by 3D electron microscopy coupled with machine learning segmentation while mitochondrial energy conversion was assessed by two-photon microscopy of mitochondrial membrane potential, content, calcium, NADH redox and flux in live, intact cells. Structurally, while PVM and SSM were similarly larger than IFM, PVM were more compact and had greater mitochondrial connectivity compared to both IFM and SSM. Functionally, PVM had similar or greater basal NADH flux compared to SSM and IFM, respectively, despite a more oxidized NADH pool and a greater membrane potential, signifying a greater activation of the electron transport chain in PVM. Together, these data indicate proximity to capillaries has a greater impact on mitochondrial energy conversion and distribution in skeletal muscle than the sarcolemma alone.
Gravitational waves from metastable cosmic strings in the Pati-Salam model in light of new pulsar timing array data
Authors: Ahmed Waqas , Chowdhury Talal Ahmed , Nasri Salah , Saad Shaikh
Published: January 2024

A series of pulsar timing arrays (PTAs) recently observed gravitational waves at the nanohertz frequencies. Motivated by this remarkable result, we present a novel class of Pati-Salam models that give rise to a network of metastable cosmic strings, offering a plausible explanation for the observed PTA data. Additionally, we introduce a hybrid inflationary scenario to eliminate magnetic monopoles that arise during the subsequent phase transitions from the Pati-Salam symmetry to the Standard Model gauge group. The resulting scalar spectral index is compatible with Planck data, and the tensor-to-scalar ratio is anticipated to be extremely small. Moreover, we incorporate a nonthermal leptogenesis to generate the required baryon asymmetry in our framework. Finally, the gravitational wave spectra generated by the metastable cosmic strings not only correspond to signals observed in recent PTAs, including NANOGrav, but are also within the exploration capacity of both present and future ground- and space-based experiments.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Perceived risk-based sport spectator segmentation during the pandemic situation
Authors: Kang Taeahn , Yamashita Rei , Matsuoka Hirotaka
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Although many attempts to discover key segments of sport spectators have been extant, little segmentation effort has been made to reflect pandemic situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this research is twofold: (1) to classify sport spectators into key segments based on perceived risks associated with a mass-gathered sporting event during the COVID-19 pandemic and (2) to identify each segment’s profiles.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaire surveys of spectators attending a Japanese rugby game during the COVID-19 pandemic (January–June 2021) were conducted (n = 1,410). A combination of hierarchical and non-hierarchical clustering methods was executed.

Findings

The results revealed the five-cluster solution as the optimal number of clusters representing the samples (i.e. spectators with extremely low-risk perception, those with low-risk perception, those with moderate-risk perception, those with high-risk perception and those with higher social risk perception). This five-cluster solution showed sufficient stability and validity. Moreover, each segment had different profiles regarding three background aspects – demographics, psychographics and behavioral variables.

Originality/value

This study is the first effort to segment sport spectators based on perceived risks associated with a mass-gathered sporting event in the pandemic situation. Despite extensive segmentation studies to explore sport fans, contribution reflecting the post-crisis situations is scant. Therefore, the findings provide insight into this realm by providing a new viewpoint for understanding sport spectators during a possible future pandemic era.
Determinants of housing prices: evidence from East Coast Malaysia
Authors: Zulkarnain Siti Hafsah , Nawi Abdol Samad , Esquivias Miguel Angel , Husin Anuar
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is designed to achieve the learning process in producing studies involving economic issues and scenarios in business management in Malaysia. In addition, this study will provide exposure to the integration of managerial skills by using both microeconomics and macroeconomics concepts and theories to aid decision-making in a business environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The research method comprised qualitative methodology of literature review, case study and quantitative methodology of multiple linear regression (MLR). In this case, seven microeconomics and macroeconomics factors which are believed to significantly affect house price index (HPI) are taken into consideration which includes gross domestic product, consumer price index (CPI), government tax and subsidy on housing, overnight policy rate, unemployment rate (UNEMP), the median income (INC) and cost of production index.

Findings

This research has resulted in three significant factors affecting HPI from MLR, which include CPI, UNEMP and INC where the increase of these factors will cause a high increment of HPI. The other four factors are not significant.

Originality/value

Malaysia has been facing the stagnancy in house market these recent years due to issues such as massive oversupply, impacting Malaysia’s economy specifically focusing on domestic direct investment. To avoid oversupply issues, the vitality of future house demand and pricing forecast should be comprehended by involved bodies for more effective planning for the house development industry. To make a better and bigger impact, this research is intended to analyse the microeconomic and macroeconomic factors affecting the HPI to better understand the significance of each of these factors to the changes of HPI to resolve these economic issues.