bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Dental Practitioners about Probiotics in Jazan: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Jethlia Ankur , Lunkad Honey , Porwal Amit , Zain Maryam , Wasly Rana , Zaylai Sadeem
Published: February 2025

Objectives Probiotics help maintain oral health and contribute to developing healthy microbial equilibrium by positively interacting with oral microbiomes. Recently, evidence has supported using probiotics in reducing the risk of dental caries, periodontitis, and halitosis. This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding probiotics among dental practitioners in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods A mixed-methods study design was employed, and the data were collected through a concurrent triangulation design. For quantitative analysis, there were a total of 202 dental practitioners, while 8 participants were included for qualitative analysis. Thematic analysis was done with the help of tech software, and themes were developed. The Mann–Whitney test was performed to analyze quantitative data to check knowledge and attitude. A chi-square test was employed to check the difference between knowledge and years of practice. p-Value <0.05 was set to be statistically significant.

Results In the quantitative analysis, it was reported that both male and female participants had adequate knowledge of probiotics. However, statistical significance was recorded in the knowledge among the groups practicing for more than 5 years (p = 0.025) and 1 year of practice. A statistically significant difference was reported in prescribing probiotics where male practitioners were willing to recommend the probiotics (p = 0.003). The themes developed during qualitative analysis were “knowledge regarding probiotics,” “need for more knowledge,” and “attitude towards prescribing.”

Conclusion This study suggested adequate knowledge among dental practitioners for using probiotics in the Jazan region. Lack of evidence regarding the importance of probiotics in maintaining oral health should be addressed.
Nerve Plexus Anatomy 101
Authors: Swenson Gabriel , James Emily , Ozen Merve , Matthees Nicholas G.
Published: February 2025

Nerve plexuses are complex networks of interwoven nerves in the peripheral nervous system. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the anatomy and function of the major nerve plexuses in the human body. The main spinal nerve plexuses—cervical, brachial, abdominal, lumbar, and sacral—are examined in detail, including their spinal origins, anatomical locations, and the areas they innervate. Understanding the intricate anatomy of nerve plexuses is essential for interventionalists, as it aids in the diagnosis and treatment of various neurological disorders affecting the peripheral nervous system.
Current Status of Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) in Colorectal Cancer (CRC)
Authors: Somashekhar S.P. , Surendran Adwaith Krishna , Goyal Deep , Rawat Saumitra , Aggarwal Shyam , Selvasekar C. , Parikh Purvish M.
Published: February 2025

Accounting for 8.7% of global cancer deaths, colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality. Cytoreduction surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is part of a multimodal strategy for managing CRC. HIPEC is designed to target residual microscopic disease using heated chemotherapy. There are several techniques including the open abdomen “coliseum” technique, which uses a silastic sheet to create a perfusion chamber and allows for manipulation of contents; whereas the closed abdomen technique maintains a sterile environment and may involve abdominal wall massage for heat distribution; lastly, the laparoscopic method combines the benefits of both techniques with enhanced drug distribution through laparoscopy. Research has shown that the coliseum technique offers superior heat uniformity, while the laparoscopic method provides optimal distribution with advanced monitoring tools. We examined early trials, procedural variations, and recent clinical research to assess its efficacy.

HIPEC involves the administration of heated chemotherapy directly into the peritoneal cavity after CRS in order to enhance local tumor control and survival. Various regimens that have been explored, including the Sugarbaker, triple dosing, and low dose mitomycin C regimen, report mixed results. The selection of chemotherapy drugs and their efficacy at high temperatures is crucial, with studies yielding mixed results for oxaliplatin and mitomycin C. The advantages of HIPEC, especially with oxaliplatin-based regimens, have been questioned by recent trials such as the PRODIGE 7 study because of problems like chemoresistance and greater postoperative morbidity. On the other hand, HIPEC is still supported by some as a good choice for individuals who are carefully chosen, particularly when combined with other forms of treatment. Despite being widely used in several cancer centers around the world for other pathologies, HIPEC remains a debated treatment option in CRC with peritoneal metastases. Even though the current evidence suggests that it might not provide a statistically meaningful overall survival improvement when compared to CRS alone, it might still be useful in some clinical settings or when combined with well-designed protocols. Thus, the necessity of more research and standardized protocols is paramount.

Determining the role of HIPEC, maximizing patient selection, and contrasting its effectiveness with other intraperitoneal treatments such as pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy and early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy will require ongoing trials and future research. Until clearer evidence emerges, HIPEC should be considered a therapeutic option for selected patients and offered by dedicated, experienced centers and surgical teams.
The T16 Project: Image Subtraction Light Curves from TESS Cycle 1 Full-frame Images for Stars with T < 16
Authors: Hartman Joel D. , Bakos Gáspár Á. , Bouma Luke G. , Csubry Zoltan
Published: February 2025

We present 83,717,159 light curves for 56,401,549 stars with T < 16 mag observed in the Full-Frame Images (FFIs) of Cycle 1 of the NASA TESS mission. These light curves were extracted from subtracted images produced by the Cluster Difference Imaging Survey. We make public the raw image subtraction light curves, together with light curves de-trended against instrumental systematics. We compare the light curves to other publicly available light curves from the TESS FFIs, finding that for a substantial fraction of stars with T < 16, the T16 project provides the highest precision FFI light curves available. We demonstrate that the detrended T16 light curves are generally as good as, or better than, than the light curves from other projects for the known TOIs. We also show that the un-detrended light curves can be used to study high amplitude variable stars. The light curves are being made available through the NASA Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes. Light curve production is underway for additional TESS Cycles.
Band alignment of heterojunctions formed by PtSe2 with doped GaN
Authors: Lv Zhuoyang , Zhao Guijuan , Wei Wanting , Lv Xiurui , Liu Guipeng
Published: February 2025

In this work, in order to investigate the effect of different doping types on the band alignment of heterojunctions, we prepared PtSe2/n-GaN, PtSe2/p-GaN, and PtSe2/u-GaN heterojunctions by wet transfer technique. The valence band offsets (VBO) of the three heterojunctions were measured by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS),while the PtSe2/n-GaN is 3.70±0.15 eV, PtSe2/p-GaN is 0.26±0.15 eV, and PtSe2/u-GaN3.02±0.15 eV. The conduction band offset (CBO) of the three heterojunctions was calculated from the material bandgap and VBO, while the PtSe2/n-GaN is 0.61±0.15eV, PtSe2/p-GaN is 2.83±0.15eV, and PtSe2/u-GaN is 0.07±0.15eV. This signifies that both PtSe2/u-GaN and PtSe2/p-GaN exhibit type-I band alignment, but the PtSe2/n-GaN heterojunction has type-III band alignment. This signifies that the band engineering of PtSe2/GaN heterojunction can be achieved by manipulating the concentration and type of doping, which is significantly relevant for the advancement of related devices through the realization of band alignment and the modulation of the material properties of the PtSe2/GaN heterojunction.
GPIC: a GPU-based parallel independent cascade algorithm in complex networks
Authors: Su Chang , Na Xu , Zhou Fang , Lü Linyuan
Published: February 2025

Independent cascade (IC) models, by simulating how one node can activate another, are important tools for studying the dynamics of information spreading in complex networks. However, traditional algorithms for the IC model implementation face significant efficiency bottlenecks when dealing with large-scale networks and multi-round simulations. To settle this problem, this study introduce a GPU-based parallel independent cascade (GPIC) algorithm, featuring an optimized representation of the network data structure and parallel task scheduling strategies. Specifically, for this GPIC algorithm, we propose a network data structure tailored for GPU processing, thereby enhancing the computational efficiency and the scalability of the IC model. In addition, we design a parallel framework that utilizes the full potential of GPU’s parallel processing capabilities, thereby augmenting the computational efficiency. The results from our simulation experiments demonstrate that GPIC not only preserves accuracy but also significantly boosts efficiency, achieving a speedup factor of 129 when compared to the baseline IC method. Our experiments also reveal that when using GPIC for the independent cascade simulation, 100-200 simulation rounds are sufficient for higher-cost studies, while high precision studies benefit from 500 rounds to ensure reliable results, providing empirical guidance for applying this new algorithm to practical research.
Direct observation of Ultrafast Magnetization Dynamics in Co/Ni bit patterned media by Time-Resolved Scanning Kerr Microscopy
Authors: Zhang Wei , He Wei , Lv Qin-Li , Cai Jian-Wang , Zhang Xiang-Qun , Cheng Zhao-Hua
Published: February 2025

Bit patterned recording (BPR) has attracted much attention due to its promising potential in achieving high densities in magnetic storage devices. The materials with strong perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) are always preferred in designing the BPR. Here, the patterned Co/Ni multilayers showing d-d hybridization induced PMA was studied. In particular, we record the ultrafast spin dynamics by means of time-resolved scanning magneto-optical Kerr effect (TRMOKE) microscopy. We are able to acquire the “snapshot” magnetic maps of the sample surface because of both the femtosecond temporal and sub-micrometer spatial resolution in our TRMOKE microscopy. Furthermore, the spatially inhomogeneous ultrafast demagnetization was observed in experiment, and this has been evidenced by simulations.
Nonlinear Raman-Nath diffraction of inclined femtosecond laser by periodically poled lithium niobate nonlinear grating
Authors: Li Jiacheng , Hong Lihong , Zou Yu , Chen Jianluo , Li Zhi-Yuan
Published: February 2025

When a pump laser beam strikes the surface of a nonlinear crystal with modulated second-order nonlinearity, various nonlinear diffraction phenomena occur, with nonlinear Raman-Nath diffraction (NRND) being a prominent example. In this study, we use an 800 nm Ti:Sapphire femtosecond laser beam to pump the surface of a periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) crystal thin-plate nonlinear grating. By rotating the crystal, we change the incidence angle and observe and measure the exit angle, polarization, and power of NRND spots on the other side of the crystal. The experiment shows that NRND characteristics are highly sensitive to the incidence angle of the pump laser beam, which are consistent with the theoretical prediction. We expect that this research will advance the understanding of nonlinear diffraction and provide valuable insights for nonlinear optical interaction in complicated geometric and physical configurations.
Welcome from the new Editor-in-Chief
Authors: Pavlova Marina A
Published: February 2025

In this Editorial, as the new Editor-in-Chief of Cerebral Cortex, I make a tribute to its well-known founders, late Patricia S. Goldman-Rakić and Paško Rakić. A couple with great synergies, they created a very special journal with a unique spirit, one of the premier venues to publish the best neuroscience research. For the journal’s future, my intentions are threefold: (i) to maintain and advance the high publication standards and traditions that contribute to the exceptional reputation of Cerebral Cortex in the scientific community, (ii) to follow the principles established by its founders, and (iii) to reflect novel trends in scientific publishing that have been crucially altered in recent years.
Post-artesunate delayed hemolysis in African children with severe malaria: incidence, medical impact and prevention
Authors: Carret Valentine , Sossou Darius , Yakoubou Annatou , Fievet Nadine , Gay Frédérick , Tielli Alexandra , Chambrion Charlotte , Fernando Aurax , Houngbegnon Parfait , Allaf Bichr , Nouatin Odilon , Adimi Elisée , Akoho Romuald , Diallo Aissatou , Chadli Nora , Ouorou Rachidou , Bello El’ Mourchid , Linard Cyril , Koehl Bérengère , Massougbodji Achille , Taudon Nicolas , Siriez Jean-Yves , Buffet Pierre , Alao Jules , Ndour Papa Alioune
Published: February 2025

Background

Post-Artesunate Delayed Hemolysis (PADH) occurs in 7-25% of adults with severe imported malaria. Whether it exists in African children is controversial.

Methods

351 children treated with artesunate were enrolled in a prospective severe malaria study in Benin. Clinical, epidemiological and biological data, plasma concentrations of antimalarials were captured or determined on admission then at 3, 5, 14, 21 and 28 days after starting treatment. PADH was defined by a >10% drop in hemoglobin level and/or a >10% rise in LDH concentrations beyond Day 5.

Results

14 children (4%) died before D14. While 10% of guardians declared administration of anti-malarial drugs before admission, 316/350 (90%) of children had measurable plasma levels of lumefantrine (n=279), quinine (n=104), sulfadoxine (n=67), artemisinin (n=28), chloroquine (n=16), or other antimalarials (n=9). PADH occurred in 76/332 children (22.9%). Levels of pitted RBC were higher and recovery from anemia was slower in these children. Severe anemia and transfusion were more frequent between D14 and D28 in children with PADH compared to children without PADH (10.6%v0.4%, 9.8%v0%). During follow-up, children with PADH were more frequently hospitalized (11.1%vs1.6%) and had more frequent infectious events (6.9%v0.4%) than children without PADH. Children who received 2 transfusions within 3 days post-admission had a lower incidence of PADH than untransfused children (12.5% v 26.8%, p=0.015).

Conclusions

Despite widespread self-medication with antimalarials, PADH affects 23% of African children treated with artesunate for severe malaria, of whom more than 15% suffer from severe anemia and/or infectious events. Liberal early transfusion may be protective against PADH.
Tofacitinib for Hospitalized Acute Severe Ulcerative Colitis Management (the TRIUMPH study)
Authors: Narula Neeraj , Pray Cara , Hamam Hasan , Peerani Farhad , Hansen Tawnya , Bessissow Talat , Bressler Brian , Arun Arathi , Schmit Maria , Castelli Jane , Marshall John K ,   Canadian IBD Research Consortium (CIRC)
Published: February 2025

Background

Tofacitinib is a rapidly acting Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor with increasing evidence of effectiveness in patients with acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC). However, there are scarce prospective data analyzing the efficacy and rapidity of action in hospitalized ASUC.

Methods

The TRIUMPH study is a prospective open-label interventional trial of tofacitinib in hospitalized patients with ASUC conducted in five hospitals across Canada (Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04925973). Eligible participants included biologic-naïve and experienced patients with ASUC refractory to three days of intravenous (IV) corticosteroids (Modified Truelove-Witts Severity Index [MTWSI] > 10 despite steroids). Participants were treated with tofacitinib 10mg twice daily and assessed daily while in hospital. The primary outcome was day 7 clinical response (MTWSI reduction of > 3 from baseline and < 10).

Results

Among 24 subjects, 33.3% (8/24) had previous anti-TNF failure. Day 7 clinical response was achieved in 58.3% (14/24). The mean number of days to achieve clinical response was 2.4 (SD 1.3). Marked reduction in C-reactive protein was observed in responders within the first two days after tofacitinib initiation compared to non-responders. Colectomy occurred in 25% (6/24) by six months, with no additional colectomy beyond this time point. Five participants reported a total of 13 adverse events.

Conclusion

Tofacitinib is an effective rescue therapy in hospitalized patients with steroid-refractory ASUC. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to compare JAK inhibitors with other rescue therapies including infliximab in steroid refractory ASUC (Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04925973).
Adjusting to Urban Stress: How Eurasian Tree Sparrows Modulate Multiple Physiological and Nutritional Markers Across Sexes
Authors: Ahmad Ibrahim M , Zhang Qian , Liu Xu , Ge Shiyong , Nabi Ghulam , Wingfield John C , Li Dongming
Published: February 2025

Numerous bird species have adapted to rapid urbanization, navigating challenges introduced by novel stressors. While prior research has explored how urban exploiters adjust their physiology relative to their rural counterparts during breeding season, the modulation of multiple physiological markers outside of reproduction, and the maintenance of sex-specific differences, remain less understood. Using an urban exploiter, the Eurasian tree sparrow (ETS; Passer montanus), we investigated how both sexes of urban and rural populations modulate twenty-two physiological markers of nutrition, body condition, oxidative stress, and antioxidative responses during pre-breeding stage. Our results showed that urban ETSs displayed distinct glucolipid metabolism compared to rural ETSs, characterized by higher levels of free fatty acids, β-hydroxybutyric acid, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and total cholesterol, alongside lower levels of triglycerides, glucose (Glu), and fat content (FC). No significant differences were observed in other physiological markers. Additionally, both sexes of urban ETSs exhibited similar profiles across these markers, unlike rural populations where females showed higher Glu and total protein levels and lower HDL and FC levels than males. Our findings suggest that birds adjust their nutritional physiological markers in response to urbanization, likely due to dietary differences between urban and rural environments. Furthermore, sex differences in physiological markers of nutrition, body condition, oxidative stress, and antioxidant responses appear to diminish in urban settings.
Transgenerational Inheritance of Hepatic Steatosis in Mice: Sperm methylome is largely reprogrammed and inherited but does not globally influence liver transcriptome
Authors: Ribó Sílvia , Ramon-Krauel Marta , Marimon-Escude Josep M , Busato Florence , Palmieri Flavio , Mourin-Fernandez Marta , Palacios-Marin Ivonne , Diaz Ruben , Lerin Carles , Oliva Rafael , Tost Jorg , Jiménez-Chillarón Josep C
Published: February 2025

Nutritional challenges and obesity can contribute to the transmission of metabolic diseases through epigenetic mechanisms. Among them, DNA methylation stands out as a potential carrier of information because germline cytosine methylation responds to environmental factors and can be transmitted across generations. Yet, it remains unclear whether inherited DNA methylation plays an active role in the inheritance of metabolic phenotypes or solely influences expression of a few genes that cannot recapitulate the whole metabolic spectrum in the next generation offspring.

Previously, we established a mouse model of childhood obesity by reducing litter size at birth. Mice raised in small litters (SL) developed obesity, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis. The offspring (SL-F1) and grand-offspring (SL-F2) of SL males also exhibited hepatic steatosis. Here, we aimed to investigate whether germline DNA methylation could serve as a carrier of phenotypic information, hepatic steatosis, between generations.

Litter size reduction significantly altered global DNA methylation profile in the sperm of SL-F0 males. Remarkably, 8% of these methylation marks remained altered in the sperm of SL-F1 mice and in the liver of SL-F2 mice. These data suggest that germline DNA methylation is sensitive to environmental challenges and holds significant heritability, either through direct germline transmission and/or through sequential erasure and reestablishment of the marks in the following generations.

Yet, DNA methylation did not strongly correlate with the hepatic transcriptome in SL-F2 mice, suggesting that it does not directly drive phenotypes in the F2. As an alternative, germline DNA methylation could potentially influence the phenotype of the next generation by modulating the expression of a reduced number of key transcription factors that, through an amplification cascade, drive phenotypic outcomes in subsequent generations. HighlightsEarly obesity induced epigenetic inheritance of hepatic steatosis until the F2Childhood obesity broadly modified sperm DNA methylation in the exposed individualsA substantial number of sperm-borne methyl-marks were transmitted (i.e., inherited) to the offspring and grand-offspring.Sperm-bone methyl-marks do not seem to influence global transcription profile, and therefore phenotypic outcomes, in the F2.Instead, germline DNA methylation may influence the phenotype of the next generation by modulating the expression of a select group of key transcription factors.
Mid-term outcomes of intervalvular fibrosa body reconstruction with Commando variants for active infective endocarditis
Authors: Forteza-Gil Alberto , Sandoval Elena , Martínez-López Daniel , Pereda Daniel , De Villarreal-Soto Juan Esteban , Castellá Manuel , Centeno-Rodríguez Jorge , Alcocer Jorge , Martin-López Carlos Esteban , Rubio Brayan , Quintana Eduard
Published: February 2025

OBJECTIVES

Infective endocarditis (IE) with intervalvular fibrosa (IVF) involvement is a life-threatening condition. Fibrous skeleton reconstructive options encompass variants of the Commando operation dictated by surgical findings. We aim to review the characteristics and outcomes of patients undergoing different iterations of this operation.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients who underwent IVF reconstruction in the setting of acute IE at two national referral centres from April 2014 to November 2023. Patients were divided into two groups, regarding the extend of surgery at the aortic root level: non-ROOT (Commando) and ROOT (Root-Commando: commando with root replacement).

RESULTS

Seventy-eight patients were included; thirty (38.5%) in ROOT group and 48 (61.5%) non-ROOT. There were no differences in perioperative mortality, postoperative complications, and follow-up reoperations or reinfections. There were no relapses in both groups. Median follow-up was 4.69 years (95% CI 3.10—5.13). Overall, in-hospital and/or 30-day mortality was 14 (17.9%), without differences between groups. Overall survival rates at 1 and 5 years were 76.2% and 67.2%, respectively. Overall survival was 74%, 74% and 68% in the non-ROOT group and 79%, 79% and 63% in the ROOT group; respectively at 1, 2 and 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Variants of the Commando operation offer stable cardiac fibrous skeleton reconstructions to patients without alternative repair options. Provided that surgical reconstruction is achieved, there are no differences in early and mid-term outcomes based on the use of root replacement. Absence of relapses can be achieved with these techniques.
Improving genomic selection in hexaploid wheat with sub-genome additive and epistatic models
Authors: Tessele Augusto , González-Diéguez David O , Crossa José , Johnson Blaine E , Morris Geoffrey P , Fritz Allan K
Published: February 2025

The goal of wheat breeding is the development of superior cultivars tailored to specific environments, and the identification of promising crosses is crucial for the success of breeding programs. Although genomic estimated breeding values were developed to estimate additive effects of genotypes before testing as parents, application has focused on predicting performance of candidate lines, ignoring non-additive genetic effects. However, non-additive genetic effects are hypothesized to be especially important in allopolyploid species due to the interaction between homeologous genes. The objectives of this study were to model additive and additive-by-additive epistatic effects to better delineate the genetic architecture of grain yield in wheat and to improve the accuracy of genomewide predictions. The dataset utilized consisted of 3740 F5:6 experimental lines tested in the K-State wheat breeding program across the years 2016 and 2018. Covariance matrices were calculated based on whole and sub-genome marker data and the natural and orthogonal interaction approach (NOIA) was used to estimate variance components for additive and additive-by-additive epistatic effects. Incorporating epistatic effects in additive models resulted in non-orthogonal partitioning of genetic effects but increased total genetic variance and reduced deviance information criteria. Estimation of sub-genome effects indicated that genotypes with the greatest whole genome effects often combine sub-genomes with intermediate to high effects, suggesting potential for crossing parental lines which have complementary sub-genome effects. Modeling epistasis in either whole-genome or sub-genome models led to a marginal (3%) improvement in genomic prediction accuracy, which could result in significant genetic gains across multiple cycles of breeding.
Association of plasma fatty acid profile with trajectory of multimorbidity and mortality: A community-based longitudinal study
Authors: Li Yang , Wang Jiao , Miao Yuyang , Dunk Michelle M , Maioli Silvia , Fang Zhongze , Zhang Qiang , Xu Weili
Published: February 2025

Background

Plasma fatty acids have been linked to various chronic diseases and mortality, but the extent to which fatty acids are associated with the trajectory of multimorbidity remains unclear. We investigated the association of fatty acid profile with multimorbidity trajectories and event-free survival.

Methods

Within the UK Biobank, 138,685 chronic disease-free participants were followed for up to 16 years. 17 plasma fatty acids were measured by nuclear magnetic resonance. A comprehensive healthy fatty acid score (HFAS) was constructed using LASSO regression. Incidence of chronic diseases and death were ascertained through linkages to medical and death records. Event-free survival was defined as survival without chronic diseases or death. Data were analyzed using a linear mixed-effects model, Cox regression, and Laplace regression.

Results

High HFAS was associated with lower risk of chronic diseases/death (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.907, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.888-0.925) and prolonged event-free survival time by 0.636 (95% CI: 0.500-0.774) years compared to low HFAS. High HFAS was also associated with a slower accumulation trajectory of multimorbidity (β: -0.042, 95% CI: -0.045 to -0.038). There was a significant multiplicative interaction between moderate-to-high HFAS and healthy lifestyle on chronic disease/death (P for interaction = 0.002) and multimorbidity accumulation trajectories (P for interaction<0.001).

Conclusions

A healthier plasma fatty acid metabolic profile is associated with a slower accumulation of multimorbidity and prolonged event-free survival time. A healthy lifestyle may strengthen the protective association of HFAS with the risk of chronic diseases/death and the accumulation trajectory of multimorbidity.
Can we borrow your intervention? A randomized controlled trial of an older adult telehealth wellness promotion program in middle-aged adults with physical disability
Authors: Molton Ivan R , Singsank Katie , Rivera Nova , Munroe Leah , Flaster Aaron , Humbert Andrew , Daymon Deidre , Thompson Meghan , Yang Bishan , Denison Paige
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives

The widespread availability of evidence-based, community embedded health promotion programs for older adults represents a major achievement in gerontology. Many of these programs may also be suitable for younger adults with early-acquired disability, creating an opportunity to leverage existing resources and networks. However, the evidence base supporting these programs has often excluded people with early-acquired or long-term disability.

Research Design and Methods

This project represented a “bridging” partnership among a group of academic disability researchers and a community service organization serving older adults. The team identified an existing health coaching program for older adults (EnhanceWellness), engaged in a formal adaptation process, and conducted a 3-arm randomized controlled trial in 505 middle-aged adults with long-term, physical disability. Participant reported outcomes (mood, community participation and self-efficacy) were assessed at baseline, mid-intervention (3 months), post-intervention (6 months) and 12 months, utilizing PROMIS measures. Enhance Wellness was compared to health education or treatment as usual.

Results

Participants were middle-aged (M=55.8 years) and primarily women (79%), who had lived with a disability-associated health condition for an average of 23 years. Linear mixed effects modeling suggested superiority of Enhance Wellness in increasing participation outcomes, and effects were maintained at the 12-month follow-up. Intervention effects were partially mediated by improvements in disease management self-efficacy. There were no significant treatment effects on depression.

Discussion and Implications

Results emphasize the potential for adaptation as a strategy to extend the existing network of older adult interventions to serve those living with long-term disability.
Enteric methane emission classification and ranking of growing steers during the backgrounding and finishing phases
Authors: de J. Vargas Juan , Manriquez Diego , Swenson Maya , Carvalho Pedro H V , Place Sara E
Published: February 2025

There is limited information regarding the effect of beef cattle enteric methane (CH4) classification during the backgrounding and finishing phases and the impact of using metabolic modulators such as growth-promoting implants. This experiment aimed to determine how CH4 and residual CH4 emission (RME) classification impact gas flux and whether implanted or non-implanted growing steers maintain the same CH4 and RME classification during the backgrounding and finishing phases. A total of 46 Angus steers (approximately 8 months of age and 244 ± 11.1 kg of initial body weight [BW]) were enrolled. During the finishing phase, 23 steers were implanted, while 23 did not receive an implant. Individual animal growth performance and gas flux (CH4 and carbon dioxide (CO2) production and oxygen (O2) consumption) were determined during the backgrounding and finishing phases. In addition, RME was individually determined using metabolic BW and dry matter intake (DMI). In the backgrounding and finishing phases, steers were ranked in ascending order according to their CH4 production (g/d), CH4 yield (g/ kg of DMI), CH4 intensity (g/ kg of average daily gain), and RME. Consequently, steers were classified as low, medium, and high emitters based on the quartile distribution. Then, gas flux was analyzed using a completely randomized design for each phase. The relationship between the initial CH4 and RME classification during the backgrounding and the subsequent classification during finishing was analyzed using Fisher’s exact test. Steers classified as low CH4 or RME had lower (P < 0.05) CH4 production than high emitters during the backgrounding and finishing phases. The production of CO2 varies among classification groups regarding the growing phase and the use of growth-promoting implants. The consumption of O2 was lower (P < 0.05) in steers classified as low CH4 emitters during the backgrounding but not (P > 0.05) during the finishing phase. In addition, between 35 and 83% of the steers re-ranked according to CH4 and RME classification from the backgrounding to the finishing phase. In conclusion, the classification of growing steers using CH4 production, yield, intensity, or RME results in animals with lower CH4 production during the backgrounding and finishing phases. However, CH4 or RME classification should be conducted in each phase because growing steers re-ranked when changing from the backgrounding to the finishing phase.
Retrospective Fentanyl Analysis in the Hair of Workplace Drug Testing Subjects
Authors: Stowe G. Neil , Paulsen Ryan B , Schaffer Michael I
Published: February 2025

The powerful opioid analgesic fentanyl has become readily available in the most recent phase of the ongoing opioid crisis. While fentanyl does have important medicinal uses, it is highly prone to misuse and non-medical use. In addition, the relative ease of fentanyl synthesis lends it subject to structural modifications by clandestine chemists to produce fentanyl analogs (often termed fentalogs) that are designed to evade detection by law enforcement and forensic toxicologists. Herein, we report fentanyl data as measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) with extensively washed hair as the matrix in the United States workforce population over the years 2019 to 2024. The limit of detection and limit of quantitation for our method was set at 1.0 pg analyte/mg hair. From our data, we find that approximately 94% of samples with concentrations above 150 pg fentanyl/mg hair contained measurable norfentanyl metabolite above 1.0 pg/mg hair. In our studied population, only one sample containing the presence of a fentanyl analog was observed in the absence of fentanyl itself. It thus appears that fentanyl analogs are most often found in combination with, or as contaminants of, fentanyl consumed by our study population.
How to focus on autoantigen-specific lymphocytes: a review on diagnosis and treatment of Sjogren's syndrome
Authors: Ming Bingxia , Li Ling , Cai Shaozhe , Hu Ziwei , Gao Rongfen , Umehara Hisanori , Zhong Jixin , Zheng Fang , Dong Lingli
Published: February 2025

Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune epithelitis characterized by focal lymphocytic infiltration against self-antigens leading to progressive glandular dysfunction, which can develop to multisystem manifestation. The classification criteria for SS emphasizes glandular lymphocyte infiltrates and anti-SSA/SSB seropositivity, which is usually manifested in advanced patients. Therapeutically, apart from symptomatic treatment, treatment of SS is based on glucocorticoids and conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs with global immunosuppression, but the efficacy of biologic or targeted synthetic therapies is still sparse. Currently, emerging studies focus on autoantigen-specific immunotherapies to treat autoimmune disorders by directly eliminating autoreactive cell subsets and inducing tolerance by increasing the autoreactive regulatory lymphocytes. Herein, we summarize the current state of research on the autoantigen-specific approaches for detecting autoreactive lymphocytes and outline the current autoantigen-specific immunotherapies in other autoimmune disorders and their attempts in treatment of SS. Last, we discuss the potential value of focusing on autoantigen-specific lymphocytes in the early diagnosis, monitoring, and targeted treatment of SS.

Potential strategies for targeting autoreactive lymphocytes need to be confirmed in SS.
Solidago canadensis modifies microbial community and soil physicochemical properties through litter leachates and root exudates
Authors: Bo Yanwen , Liao Yali , Pawlett Mark , Akbar Rasheed , Girkin Nickolas , Sun Jianfan , Ali Amjad , Ahmad Naushad , Liu Wei , Wang Xiaoyan , Du Daolin
Published: February 2025

Invasive plant inputs alter soil microbial communities via chemical compounds in litter, root exudates, and leachate, impacting a range of soil processes, but precise effects are poorly understood. We examined Solidago canadensis, a common invasive species in China, and its litter effects on soil microbial communities under natural conditions. Experimental treatments included S. canadensis seedling density (1 and 2 plants/pot) and quantity of litter (10 and 20 g/pot), with control groups that contained no plants or litter. After 120 days, soil samples were analyzed for physico-chemical properties, GC-MS chemical composition, and bacterial community composition using high-throughput sequencing. Results showed that S. canadensis seedlings and litter inputs increased soil pH, organic matter (SOM), and nitrogen (TN), while phosphorus and potassium remained unchanged. We identified 66 chemical compounds, predominantly ketones, alcohol, aldehyde, hydrocarbon, ester, acid, terpenoids, and alkaloids, associated with the presence of the invasive species, alongside shifts in dominant bacterial genera including Sphingomonas, Acidobacteriales, and Gemmatimonas. Rarer genera under the invasive treatment species, such as Candidatus, Rhodoplanes and Novosphingobium, correlated positively with soil TN, pH, and SOM. Collectively, our results demonstrate how the increased presence of allelochemicals from S. canadensis litter significantly impact soil properties and bacterial communities, and may therefore have implications for ecosystem dynamics.
Endogenous testosterone levels moderate the negative impact of gender-related discrimination on well-being among LGBTQ+ individuals
Authors: Chan Randolph C H , Lam Marcus Shengkai , Lau Way K W
Published: February 2025

Background

Previous studies have explored protective factors against gender minority stress among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other gender and sexually diverse (LGBTQ+) individuals. However, many of these studies have relied on self-report data, which may limit the validity of their findings due to potential common method bias.

Aim

The present study seeks to understand the biological and psychological underpinnings of the stress-buffering mechanism among LGBTQ+ individuals, specifically examining the protective role of testosterone.

Methods

A total of 107 LGBTQ+ individuals completed a survey on gender-related discrimination, loneliness, and well-being. Additionally, they provided a saliva sample, which was used to derive their endogenous testosterone levels.

Outcomes

The main outcome was well-being, measured using the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index.

Results

The findings revealed that gender-related discrimination was associated with heightened levels of loneliness, which in turn were associated with reduced well-being. Testosterone levels significantly moderated the association between gender-related discrimination and well-being. Specifically, among individuals with higher levels of testosterone, the negative association between discrimination and well-being was not significant.

Clinical implications

These results suggest that higher levels of testosterone may protect against the psychological consequences of gender-related discrimination.

Strengths and limitations

This study represents a pioneering effort to gather empirical evidence on the protective role of testosterone among LGBTQ+ individuals, but it is unlikely that a single biomarker (testosterone) can fully capture the complexity of resilience. Understanding the biological and psychological foundations of minority stress necessitates the integration of multiple biological factors. Such an approach would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the stress-buffering mechanisms operating among LGBTQ+ individuals.

Conclusion

The study suggests that testosterone may play a significant role in reflecting and regulating the response to gender minority stress.
eFAST to OR: Determining the Quality of Paramedic Conduction and Interpretation of eFAST Exams in Prehospital Settings
Authors: Roberts Emily , Carboni Alexa , Miller Michael , Rosas Aleesa , Shelton Ryan , Peterson Jodi , Apfelbaum Jonathan , Toney Amanda , LaPorta Anthony , Gubler K Dean
Published: February 2025

Traumatic injuries are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly among young adults. Direct transport to the operating room has been associated with reduced mortality by minimizing treatment delays. The extended Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (eFAST) is a critical diagnostic tool in trauma care, identifying life-threatening conditions that may require urgent surgical intervention. This study aims to assess the diagnostic accuracy of eFAST performed by paramedics in a prehospital environment, comparing their interpretations to those of expert physicians. A retrospective observational cohort analysis was conducted on trauma cases (n = 64) attended by South Metro Fire Rescue from January to December 2022. Paramedics underwent comprehensive training in ultrasound use and interpretation before performing eFAST exams in transit to medical facilities. Exam findings were compared to interpretations by an expert ultrasonographer, with sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values calculated. The cohort consisted primarily of males (63%), with a mean age of 46 years. The most common injury mechanism was motor vehicle crash (n = 20). Paramedic-conducted eFAST exams demonstrated a sensitivity of 80.0% and specificity of 95.8%. Positive and negative predictive values were 50% and 95.8%, respectively. False positives were largely due to difficulty in interpreting normal anatomy or identifying pathologies. Paramedics can reliably perform eFAST exams with high diagnostic accuracy, suggesting that prehospital eFAST could enhance trauma care by reducing time to surgical intervention. Future research should explore the integration of eFAST into prehospital protocols across diverse settings to improve trauma outcomes.
Musculoskeletal Care Within the Holistic Health and Fitness Team: A 12-month Retrospective Review
Authors: Szymanek Eliza , Jones Megan , Clark Ryan , Robertson Michael , Hatler Brian , Goss Don
Published: February 2025

Introduction

People are the Army’s greatest strength and most valuable asset. The Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) performance team was designed to optimize Soldiers’ individual performance potential and well-being by becoming stronger, faster, and more ready in the physical and nonphysical domains of health and wellness. The H2F team is a human performance readiness platform composed of a team of professionals to include: strength and conditioning specialists, dietitian, nutrition care technician, occupational therapist, certified occupational therapist assistant, cognitive performance specialist, certified athletic trainers (ATs), physical therapists, and physical therapy technician. In the military health care system, where resources are limited, it is important to consider the H2F musculoskeletal (MSK) team as an integral part of the military health care system.

Methods

For the 12-months analyzed, we tracked AT, physical therapy, and occupational therapy initial encounters, follow-ups, and rehabilitative treatment encounters. A retrospective analysis of ankle injuries, postoperative patients, and concussions was completed.

Results

During the 12-month period, a total of 946 initial AT, physical therapy, and occupational therapy evaluations were completed. Including follow-ups and rehabilitative treatments, a total of 4862 MSK medical encounters were completed during this time.

Discussion

The subanalysis comparing primary care manager-based care to H2F physical therapy and AT group for ankle injuries demonstrated a reduction in imaging, days on profile, and reduction in referral to specialty care. The subanalysis of postoperative MSK care within the H2F footprint demonstrates not only a 93% return to duty rate but minimizing lost duty time due to appointment location. For all 6 acute concussions identified, they were successful in Progressive Return to Activity, with an average of 4 occupational therapy visits and return to duty within 3 weeks of injury. Utilization of the H2F MSK care platform is essential to providing timely and efficient MSK care to return Soldiers to duty.

Conclusion

To optimize Soldiers lethality and maintain a high level of readiness during the challenges of multi-domain operations, the Army developed the H2F team. This description of MSK care within an H2F team describes the importance of utilizing the H2F MSK care team within the military health care system to reduce cost, health care utilization, and minimize duty time lost to MSK injuries.
Evaluating Nanopore Sequencing as a Respiratory Virus Diagnostic Tool for the Prehospital Setting
Authors: Reed Grace M , Strickland Amanda K , Mutchler Cameron T , Ochoa Anna R , Asin Susana N , Blackburn August N
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Upper respiratory tract infections are a strain on military that results in lost duty days and an overall reduced readiness of the force. Improved diagnostic testing would enable better force health protection measures and earlier treatment of illness. Lightweight portable devices are preferred for diagnostic testing in austere environments where they are sometimes needed during military deployment. Current diagnostic testing is targeted to specific pathogens despite multiple pathogens that present with similar symptoms. In practice the pathogens that cause upper respiratory tract infections often go unidentified, which could be improved using agnostic or semi-agnostic diagnostic testing. Here, we performed an evaluation of shotgun metagenomic sequencing using the Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) Rapid Sequencing Kit as a method for diagnostic testing of upper respiratory tract infections. This sequencing library preparation kit was chosen because of its ease of use and compatibility with the ONT MinION, a lightweight portable sequencer.

Materials and Methods

Samples from patients with symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections were collected at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center under an approved IRB protocol. Nasal rinse samples from 59 study participants were tested using the BioFire FilmArray Respiratory 2.1 Panel as well as shotgun metagenomic sequencing using ONT Rapid Sequencing Kit and ONT R9.4.1 flow cells.

Results

A mixture of various viral pathogens was present among the 59 samples used in this study. We observed high specificity and modest sensitivity to detect the identified pathogens using shotgun metagenomic sequencing. Shotgun metagenomic sequencing detected additional pathogens that were missed by the BioFire FilmArray Respiratory 2.1 Panel, which are discussed. Lastly, we observe modest evidence of nonuniformity of the proportion of reads belonging to the pathogen during the duration of sequencing runs, which has implications for improving sensitivity by increasing the amount of sequencing performed.

Conclusions

Overall, ONT Rapid Sequencing Kit combined with alignment to a known panel of pathogens has shown great potential utility in our hands for quickly and accurately identifying viral respiratory pathogens. This, combined with its ease of use and portability, makes it a great candidate for further research and development toward a deployable agnostic diagnostic testing platform.