bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term climate establishes functional legacies by altering microbial traits
Authors: Broderick Caitlin M , Benucci Gian Maria Niccolò , Bachega Luciana Ruggiero , Miller Gabriel D , Evans Sarah E , Hawkes Christine V
Published: January 2025

Long-term climate history can influence rates of soil carbon cycling but the microbial traits underlying these legacy effects are not well understood. Legacies may result if historical climate differences alter the traits of soil microbial communities, particularly those associated with carbon cycling and stress tolerance. However, it is also possible that contemporary conditions can overcome the influence of historical climate, particularly under extreme conditions. Using shotgun metagenomics, we assessed the composition of soil microbial functional genes across a mean annual precipitation gradient that previously showed evidence of strong climate legacies in soil carbon flux and extracellular enzyme activity. Sampling coincided with recovery from a regional, multi-year severe drought, allowing us to document how the strength of climate legacies varied with contemporary conditions. We found increased investment in genes associated with resource cycling with historically higher precipitation across the gradient, particularly in traits related to resource transport and complex carbon degradation. This legacy effect was strongest in seasons with the lowest soil moisture, suggesting that contemporary conditions—particularly, resource stress under water limitation—influences the strength of legacy effects. In contrast, investment in stress tolerance did not vary with historical precipitation, likely due to frequent periodic drought throughout the gradient. Differences in the relative abundance of functional genes explained over half of variation in microbial functional capacity—potential enzyme activity—more so than historical precipitation or current moisture conditions. Together, these results suggest that long-term climate can alter the functional potential of soil microbial communities, leading to legacies in carbon cycling.
The influence of imidacloprid seed treatment on non-ThryvOn and ThryvOn cotton
Authors: Farmer Walker Brett , Gore Jeffrey , Catchot Angus L , Crow Whitney D , Cook Don , Pieralisi Brian K , Towles Tyler , Brown Sebe , Stewart Scott , Reisig Dominic , Huseth Anders
Published: January 2025

In the southern United States, thrips are a significant early season pest of cotton. In the United States, in 2022, 98% of cotton acres were infested with thrips, and, of those acres, 45% were treated for thrips. Thrips injury resulted in over $113 million dollars in losses plus control costs to the cotton industry in the United States that year. A new Bacillus thuringiensis trait known as ThryvOn has been commercialized to provide control against thrips. There is ongoing debate about the need for an insecticidal seed treatment to improve thrips control on ThryvOn varieties. Field studies were conducted to determine if the addition of an imidacloprid seed treatment improved efficacy against tobacco thrips and to determine if reduced rates of seed treatments (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% of the labeled rate) provided benefits for thrips control in ThryvOn cotton. To control for infestation pressure, a complementary greenhouse study was conducted using the same treatments under controlled conditions. Imidacloprid provided only a limited benefit for improved management on ThryvOn cotton in the greenhouse study, but no benefit in the field study. Efforts in pest surveillance should be continued in ThryvOn cotton to allow for foliar applications when warranted based on established thresholds. No conclusions can be drawn about the benefits of an imidacloprid seed treatment for resistance management in ThryvOn cotton from this study, but these data suggest that any benefit would be minimal.
Behavior, behavioral syndromes, and metabolism: the effects of artificial selection for death-feigning on metabolic rate
Authors: Matsumura Kentarou , Hosken David J , Noda Tomohito , Miyatake Takahisa , Sharma Manmohan D
Published: January 2025

Death-feigning, or thanatosis, is an anti-predator behavioral strategy in many animals. Because individuals remain immobile while feigning death, individuals with longer durations of death feigning often show lower locomotor activity. Thus, metabolic rate, which is closely related to locomotor activity, may also be related to the intensity of death feigning. If there is a genetic correlation between death feigning and metabolism, metabolic rate may respond to selection on death-feigning behavior. Here, we tested for a relationship between metabolic rate and death-feigning using replicated populations of the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum) subjected to artificial bidirectional selection on the duration of death-feigning behavior. The results indicated that metabolic rate did not differ between populations selected for increased or decreased death feigning, although locomotor activity was significantly different between these treatments; populations selected for reduced death-feigning durations tended to be more active. These results suggest that death-feigning behavior is not genetically correlated with metabolic rate in T. castaneum.
Survival modelling of smartphone trigger data in crowdsourced seismic monitoring: with applications to the 2023 Pazarcik and 2019 Ridgecrest earthquakes
Authors: Aiello Luca , Argiento Raffaele , Finazzi Francesco , Paci Lucia
Published: January 2025

Crowdsourced smartphone-based earthquake early warning systems have recently emerged as reliable alternatives to more expensive solutions based on scientific instruments. For example, during the deadly 2023 Pazarcik event in Turkey, the system implemented by the Earthquake Network citizen science initiative provided up to 58 s of warning to people exposed to life-threatening ground shaking. We develop a statistical methodology based on a survival mixture cure model that provides full Bayesian inference on epicentre, depth, and origin time, and we design a tempering Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm to account for the multi-modality of the posterior distribution. The methodology is applied to data collected by the Earthquake Network during three seismic events, including the 2023 Pazarcik and 2019 Ridgecrest earthquakes.
Warped multifidelity Gaussian processes for data fusion of skewed environmental data
Authors: Colombo Pietro , Miller Claire , Yang Xiaochen , O’Donnell Ruth , Maranzano Paolo
Published: January 2025

Understanding the dynamics of climate variables is critical for sectors like energy and environmental monitoring. This study addresses the pressing need for accurate mapping of environmental variables in national or regional monitoring networks, a challenge exacerbated by skewed data and large gaps. While this may not be immediately apparent, managing skewness across multiple data sources introduces additional complexities, as conventional transformation methods often fail to effectively normalize the data or preserve inter-dataset relationships. Furthermore, the literature highlights that interpolation uncertainty is closely linked to the interpolation distance, making the handling of large gaps particularly problematic. To tackle these challenges, we propose a novel data fusion approach: the warped multifidelity Gaussian process. This method predicts time-series data from multiple sources with varying reliability and resolution, while effectively addressing skewness and demonstrating partial independence from interpolation distance. Through extensive simulation experiments, we explore both the strengths and limitations of the method. Additionally, as a case study, we apply warped multifidelity Gaussian process (WMFGP) to wind speed data from the Agenzia regionale per la protezione ambientale (ARPA) Lombardia network, a regional environmental agency in Italy. Our results demonstrate the efficacy of WMFGP in filling large gaps in wind speed data, providing more accurate predictions that are essential for air quality forecasting, network maintenance.
Pneumococcal and Herpes Zoster Vaccination Rates Among U.S. Veterans With Chronic Inflammatory Disease on Biologic Medications: A Quality Improvement Project
Authors: Phomakay Venusa , Gupta Sandeep , Swims Melanie , Pattanaik Debendra
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Patients with chronic inflammatory diseases are often treated with pharmacologic therapies that target the immune system and have an increased risk of infection. These risks can be reduced by vaccination against common pathogens. This quality improvement project aimed to increase pneumococcal and herpes zoster vaccination rates in patients with chronic inflammatory disease on biologic immunosuppressive therapy.

Materials and Methods

This quality improvement project was developed and implemented at the Veteran Affairs (VA) hospital in Memphis, TN. A VA data warehouse query was used to identify veterans with an active prescription for a biologic immunosuppressant over 2 phases (phase 1 and phase 2) of the project. Clinical pathway and VA electronic medical record, e.g., Computerized Patient Record System order set for various biological agents and vaccines, were developed by the investigators over a period of 3 months before the activation of phase 1 and was approved by the Memphis VA Medical Center Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. The pathway and the order set were developed for providers prescribing biologic therapies to include a review of patient immunization status and the option to order vaccines before initiation of biologics. When a provider used the order set to order the biologic, the appropriate vaccine and laboratory tests were recommended on the order set to educate the provider to take the appropriate actions necessary before the medication was started. Charts of Veterans included in the study were reviewed to assess vaccination rates before and after the QI project implementation for each phase. Phase 1 occurred over a 1-year period (October 2018 to October 2019) and sought to increase pneumococcal vaccination (PV) rates in patients on biologic therapies compared to the preintervention period. Recombinant zoster vaccine was not included in this phase as it was not readily available at the Memphis VA Medical Center at that time. Phase 2 (November 2019 to April 2022) sought to increase pneumococcal and herpes zoster vaccination rates.

Results

During phase 1, pneumococcal vaccination rates improved from a 41% preintervention rate to 66% (P < .01). During phase 2, 73% of patients completed their pneumococcal vaccination series and 58% received PCV13, PPSV23 and at least 1 dose of Shingrix, compared to 30% in the preintervention period (P < .01).

Conclusions

Provider education, clinical pathway, and Computerized Patient Record System order set can improve vaccination rates in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases on biologic immunosuppressive therapy.
Understanding what helium absorption tells us about atmospheric escape from exoplanets
Authors: Ballabio Giulia , Owen James E
Published: January 2025

Atmospheric escape is now considered the major contributing factor in shaping the demographic of detected exoplanets. However, inferences about the exoplanet populations strongly depend on the accuracy of the models. Direct observational tests of atmospheric models are still in their infancy. Helium escape from planetary atmospheres has rapidly become the primary observational probe, already observed in $\gtrsim$20 exoplanets. Grounding our understanding in the basic physics of atmospheric escape, we present a new theoretical model to predict the excess absorption from the helium absorption line. We constrain the atmosphere properties, such as mass-loss rates and outflow temperatures, by implementing a Parker wind solution with an energy limited evaporating outflow. Importantly, we self-consistently link the mass-loss rates and outflow temperatures, which are critical to understanding helium absorption as the triplet-level population is typically exponentially sensitive to temperature. Furthermore, helium absorption is typically optically thin and the absorption is dominated far from the planet. Therefore, the absorption depth is not a measure of the size of the helium outflow. Our results indicate that for planets with a detectable signal, typically the helium triplet population in the atmosphere rapidly approaches a statistical equilibrium between populations by recombination and depopulation caused by electron collisions. We suggest that excess helium absorption can be quantified by a scaled equivalent width, which is positively correlated with the mass-loss rate. We also show that the helium absorption scales with incident radiation, particularly with the XEUV to FUV flux ratios.
Adduct-catalyzed tandem electro-thermal synthesis of organophosphorus (III) compounds from white phosphorus
Authors: Hu Jingcheng , He Haoyu , Xu Minghao , Qi Xiaotian , Fu Chao , Yi Hong , Lei Aiwen
Published: January 2025

Electrooxidation strategies for synthesizing readily oxidizable products face notable challenges, especially when the oxidation potential of the products is lower than that of the reactants or when high current densities are necessary. The electrooxidation synthesis of trivalent organophosphorus compounds (OPCs (III)) from white phosphorus (P4) has demonstrated potential but is hindered by selectivity issues due to over-oxidation. Herein, we report a tandem electro-thermal synthesis pathway that addresses these challenges in producing OPCs (III) from P4. The process begins with an electrooxidation step that generates a stable trivalent phosphorus transfer reagent, then thermochemically converted into various high-value OPCs (III). Utilizing hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) as the nucleophile and optimizing a tetrabutylammonium iodide (TBAI)–4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP)-adduct catalytic system, we developed an efficient electrophilic phosphorus transfer reagent via electrosynthesis. The adduct facilitates the oxidation of P4 and enhances the nucleophilicity of HFIP, thereby improving the electrooxidation process. This approach supports high current density, scales up to the hundred-gram level without yield loss, and remains compatible with fluctuating green electricity.
‘But Switzerland’s boring’: tax migration and the pull of place-specific cultural capital
Authors: Friedman Sam , Gronwald Victoria , Summers Andy , Taylor Emma
Published: January 2025

Many countries are concerned about the migration of top taxpayers. Yet we know little about how economic elites weigh the taxes they pay when deciding where to live. Existing evidence on tax flight is either quantitative or comes from wealthy individuals issuing warnings in the media. Drawing on in-depth interviews with thirty-five individuals in the top 1 per cent of the wealth distribution in the UK, we find a striking stigma attached to tax migration. Participants disparaged those who move for tax purposes and several characterized low-tax destinations as boring and culturally barren. Yet the most important factor restraining tax migration was the attachment to London as a place to work and live, particularly its unparalleled highbrow cultural infrastructure. These findings demonstrate that wealthy individuals often choose to prioritize investments in place-specific cultural capital above the relatively small gains in economic capital associated with tax migration.
Masked liking of pornography: implicit associations in men with compulsive sexual behavior
Authors: Engel Jannis , Waechter Antonia , Veit Maria , Kneer Jonas , Sinke Christopher , Brand Matthias , Krueger Tillmann H C
Published: January 2025

Background

Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder is a new category in the 11th version of the International Classification of Diseases and is showing neuropsychological similarities to substance dependencies and behavioral addictions.

Aims

This experimental study aims to further our knowledge on implicit associations in Compulsive Sexual Behavior (CSB) with a clinical sample.

Methods

Participants completed an Implicit Association Test modified with pornographic pictures. In addition, problematic sexual behavior and sensitivity toward sexual excitation were assessed.

Outcomes

We collected data on implicit associations from 47 heterosexual men with CSB (age, M = 36.51, SD = 11.47) and a control group of 38 men without the condition (age: M = 37.92, SD = 12.33).

Results

Results show significantly more positive relationships between implicit associations of pornographic pictures with positive emotions, as well as with problematic sexual behavior and sensitivity toward sexual excitation, in men with CSB vs. men without CSB. Furthermore, implicit associations, sexual excitation, and sexual inhibition due to threat of performance consequences differentiated significantly between groups using a binary stepwise logistic regression analysis. The findings are in line with those of previous subclinical investigations and support the assumption of pronounced positive implicit associations in CSB. Moreover, as suggested by the I-PACE model of addictive behaviors, implicit associations may be crucial to the maintenance of behavioral addictions.

Clinical implications

Implicit associations could be addressed in therapy to illustrate cognitive processes of those affected and as an outcome measure in research on treatment efficiency.

Strengths & limitations

The present study is the first to investigate implicit associations in CSB in a clinical sample. Findings are limited to heterosexual men.

Conclusion

Findings can be seen in accordance with a proposed classification of CSB as a behavioral addiction.
Gender, Money, and Power: The Importance of Equitable Distribution of Political Financing for the Achievement of Parity Democracy in Argentina
Authors: Francovich Mila , Saletti Cuesta Lorena , Brussino Silvina
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to understand the existence and consequences of a gender gap in political parties’ distribution of campaign budgets. We chose Cordoba, Argentina, because it pioneered electoral reforms favoring women. Four subthemes were identified from twenty-four interviews with legislators: gender differences in budget allocation, practices and consequences of differential treatment for female candidates, limitations of the political party financing law, and access to private funding. The study reveals a systemic gender-based inequality in campaign funding, limiting women’s ability to compete equally with men in politics. It highlights the intersection of gender and financial power, showing that current political finance regulations are insufficient. These findings challenge the effectiveness of gender-focused reforms and suggest the need for comprehensive approaches to political party financing. The study also has implications for future research, as it raises important questions about the long-term effects of financial inequality on women’s political participation and representation globally.
Identification and Characterization of Penicillium spp. Associated with Storage Rot of Sugar Beet in the Red River Valley of Minnesota and North Dakota, USA
Authors: Bhuiyan Md. Ziaur Rahman , Lakshman Dilip Kumar , Kandel Shyam , Ismaiel Adnan , Bhandari Sunil , Khan Mohamed F. R.
Published: January 2025

Sugar beets produced in the Red River Valley of Minnesota and North Dakota, USA are stored in large outdoor piles or sheds for up to 280 days before processing into sugar. During storage, roots often succumb to postharvest rots which reduce the yield of recoverable sucrose from the roots. Penicillium spp. are commonly responsible for postharvest sucrose loss, although the species responsible for postharvest rots and the frequency in their ability to establish infection are largely unknown for this production region. To determine the Penicillium species responsible for storage rot in the Red River Valley, Penicillium isolates were obtained from rotted roots that were collected from storage piles located throughout the Red River Valley in Minnesota and North Dakota after variable times in storage. Morphological characterization and molecular identification of species using the DNA sequence of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), β-tubulin (tub2), and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2) regions of the pathogen genome indicated the presence of four Penicillium species in sugar beet root piles. The four Penicillium strains were identified, in order of their prevalence in piles, as P. cellarum, P. paneum, P. crustosum, and P. polonicum. Regional variations in the distribution of Penicillium species were noticed. Inoculation of healthy roots with isolates of all four Penicillium species caused storage rot symptoms resembling those observed on storage roots from which the Penicillum species were isolated. While P. cellarum has been previously identified in U.S. storage piles, this is the first report of P. paneum and P. crustosum as causal organisms of sugar beet storage rot in the U.S. These findings will be useful for the identification of the pathogens present in the storage piles and the formulation of disease management practices to control the storage rot of sugar beet.
Representation of Hispanic Patients in Clinical Trials for Respiratory Failure: A Systematic Review
Authors: Harlan Emily A. , Malley Kaitlin , Quiroga Grecia , Mubarak Eman , Lama Pema , Schutz Amanda , Cuevas Adolfo , Hough Catherine L. , Iwashyna Theodore J. , Armstrong-Hough Mari , Valley Thomas S.
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVES:

Hispanic individuals comprise one-fifth of the U.S. population and Hispanic patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) experience higher odds of death compared with non-Hispanic White patients. Representation of Hispanic patients in clinical trials for respiratory failure is critical to address this inequity. We conducted a systematic review to examine the inclusion of Hispanic patients in randomized controlled trials for AHRF and assessed language as a potential barrier to enrollment.

DATA SOURCES:

National Library of Medicine PubMed, Elsevier Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases through January 2024.

STUDY SELECTION:

Randomized controlled trials assessing AHRF interventions enrolling U.S. patients receiving mechanical ventilation, noninvasive mechanical ventilation, or high-flow nasal cannula were included. The systematic review was registered prospectively through PROSPERO (CRD42023437828).

DATA EXTRACTION:

Two authors independently screened studies and extracted data for each included study.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Ninety-four trials published from 1975 to 2023 were included; 33.0% (n = 31) of studies reported ethnicity, and 11.2% of participants in studies reporting race or ethnicity (1,320/11,780) were identified as Hispanic. The proportion of Hispanic-identified participants was significantly lower than the U.S. Hispanic population from 1996 to 2019 (p < 0.01). Starting in 2020, the proportion of Hispanic-identified participants was significantly higher than the U.S. population (27.8% vs. 19.1%; p < 0.01). Two studies (4.9%) reporting race or ethnicity excluded non-English speaking participants; the remainder did not specify language requirements for enrollment.

CONCLUSIONS:

Hispanic-identified individuals were underrepresented in trials for AHRF until 2020 when Hispanic patient representation increased during COVID-19. Exclusion of participants who do not speak English may represent a barrier to trial enrollment.
Three-Dimensional Electrical Impedance Imaging During Spontaneous Breathing Trials in Patients With Acute Hypoxic Respiratory Failure: A Pilot Study
Authors: Barbosa da Rosa Nilton , Kao Tzu-Jen , Brinton John , Offner Patrick J. , Burnham Ellen L. , Mueller Jennifer L.
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this work is to evaluate the feasibility of lung imaging using 3D electrical impedance tomography (EIT) during spontaneous breathing trials (SBTs) in patients with acute hypoxic respiratory failure. EIT is a noninvasive, nonionizing, real-time functional imaging technique, suitable for bedside monitoring in critically ill patients. EIT data were collected in 24 mechanically ventilated patients immediately preceding and during a SBT on two rows of 16 electrodes using a simultaneous multicurrent source EIT system for 3D imaging. Dynamic 3D EIT images of conductivity were computed, as well as the EIT-derived rapid shallow breathing index, regional ventilation delay, global inhomogeneity index, and time traces of tidal volumes. 3D reconstructions and derived measures demonstrated inhomogeneity in ventilation distribution within patients. We conclude that 3D EIT images can provide information regarding ventilatory heterogeneity across the lung and may be useful in guiding ventilator management.
Critical Care Therapy After Cytoreductive Nephrectomy for Metastatic Kidney Cancer
Authors: Siech Carolin , de Angelis Mario , Jannello Letizia Maria Ippolita , Di Bello Francesco , Rodriguez Peñaranda Natali , Goyal Jordan A. , Tian Zhe , Saad Fred , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Puliatti Stefano , Longo Nicola , de Cobelli Ottavio , Briganti Alberto , Hoeh Benedikt , Mandel Philipp , Kluth Luis A. , Chun Felix K. H. , Karakiewicz Pierre I.
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVES:

To examine critical care therapy rates after cytoreductive nephrectomy in metastatic kidney cancer patients.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PATIENTS:

Relying on the National Inpatient Sample (2000–2019), we addressed critical care therapy use (total parenteral nutrition, invasive mechanical ventilation, renal replacement therapy, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube insertion, and tracheostomy) and in-hospital mortality in surgically treated metastatic kidney cancer patients. Estimated annual percentage changes and multivariable logistic regression models were fitted.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Of 10,915 patients, 802 (7.3%) received critical care therapy and 249 (2.4%) died in-hospital. Over time, critical care therapy rates did not differ significantly (6.6% in 2000 to 5.7% in 2019; p = 0.07), while in-hospital mortality decreased from 2.3% to 1.9% (p = 0.004). Age 71 years old or older (odds ratio [OR], 1.43; p < 0.001) and higher comorbidity burden (Charlson Comorbidity Index [CCI] ≥ 3: OR, 2.92; p < 0.001 and CCI 1–2: OR, 1.45; p < 0.001) independently predicted higher critical care therapy rates. Conversely, partial nephrectomy (OR, 0.51; p = 0.003) and minimally invasive surgery (OR, 0.33; p < 0.001) predicted lower critical care therapy rates. Virtually the same associations were recorded for in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS:

After cytoreductive nephrectomy, critical care therapy rate was 7.3% vs. in-hospital mortality was 2.4%. Of patients at highest risk of critical care therapy need were those with CCI greater than or equal to 3 and those 71 years old or older. Ideally, these patients should represent targets for thorough assessment of risk factors for complications before cytoreductive nephrectomy.
Reinnervation of Free Nipple Grafts Associated With Improved Erection Function
Authors: Remy Katya , Fruge Seth E. , McCulloch Ian L. , Vicente Kristyn , Kochheiser Makayla , Carruthers Katherine H. , Austen William G. , Gfrerer Lisa , Valerio Ian L.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Most patients undergoing breast surgery with free nipple grafts lose nipple erection (NE) function. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of nerve preservation and reconstruction with targeted nipple–areola complex reinnervation (TNR) on NE following gender-affirming mastectomy with free nipple grafting.

Methods:

Patients undergoing gender-affirming mastectomy with free nipple grafts were prospectively enrolled. Subjects who underwent TNR were compared with controls who did not undergo TNR. Postoperative patient-reported NE function was scored using a 4-point Likert scale. Objective NE evaluation consisted of the change in areola circumference and nipple height following cold application using a thermal device and 3-dimensional imaging.

Results:

Twenty patients (11 subjects and 9 controls) with comparable age, body mass index, and mastectomy weight were included. At an average follow-up of 16.8 (±7.0) months, significantly more subjects reported NE than controls (72.8% versus 38.9%, P = 0.03), with a higher median NE score (3 [range 1–4] versus 1 [range 1–2], P = 0.0005). Following cold application, subjects had a greater mean reduction in areola circumference (−4.16 ± 3.3 versus −1.67 ± 1.9 mm, P = 0.02) and a greater mean increase in nipple height (+0.86 ± 0.8 versus +0.37±0.3 mm, P = 0.04) compared with controls. Improved patient-reported NE function correlated with better cold detection thresholds (P = 0.01).

Conclusions:

TNR was associated with improved patient-reported and objective NE following gender-affirming mastectomy. Improved NE correlated with improved cold detection, suggesting the role of both sensory and autonomic innervation in mediating NE.
Long-term Breast Shape Analysis After Short-scar Reduction Mammaplasty: A Critical View
Authors: Hilewitz Daniel , Ganor Oren , Adler Neta , Olshinka Asaf , Shilo Yaacobi Dafna , Har-Shai Lior , Shay Tamir , Icekson Michael , Ad-El Dean , Meshulam-Derazon Sagit
Published: January 2025

Background:

Over the past 2 decades, vertical scar reduction mammaplasty techniques have been gaining more acceptance. However, many surgeons are still hesitant to use it routinely because of the uncertainty of the effectiveness of vertical scar techniques in managing lower pole skin excess. We aimed to test its efficacy by using objective anthropometric measurements to evaluate long-term breast shape and lower pole stability.

Methods:

The study population included 40 of 129 consecutive women with short-scar reduction mammaplasty followed up for at least 1 year. Breasts were measured preoperatively, perioperatively, and at least 1 year postoperatively. All women also completed the BREAST-Q questionnaire at their most recent visit.

Results:

The mean sternal notch-to-nipple and upper breast-to-nipple distances decreased postoperatively by 22% and 43%, respectively, and remained stable over a mean time of 110.1 ± 65.58 weeks. The nipple-to-inframammary fold distance, which was intraoperatively shortened by an average of 63%, elongated back to 88% of its preoperative measurements. No correlation was detected between the long-term changes across all 3 measurements, the amount of tissue removed or the satisfaction reported by patients. Mean BREAST-Q satisfaction rates in all parameters evaluated were 75.79–98.12.

Conclusions:

The 12% improvement in the nipple-to-inframammary fold measurement implies that the short-scar technique might properly address the horizontal dimension of the hypertrophic-ptotic breast but falls short in addressing its vertical dimension. The search for a modification that mirrors the advantages of the vertical scar technique in terms of shape and projection, while guaranteeing a steady lower pole, remains ongoing.
Intravitreal Sustained Release Steroid Implants Are Safe and Effective in Patients With Glaucoma Drainage Devices
Authors: Zhou Henry W. , Tandias Rachel , Lu Edward S , Hoyek Sandra , Lin Michael M. , Miller John B. , Solá-Del Valle David , Patel Nimesh A.
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

To describe effects of sustained-release steroid delivery devices on intraocular pressure (IOP) in eyes with glaucoma drainage devices (GDD).

Methods:

Retrospective case series of eyes with steroid implants (dexamethasone or fluocinolone acetonide) and prior GDD (Ahmed, Baerveldt) without uveitis. Outcomes included IOP, IOP rise, central foveal thickness (CFT), and IOP medications.

Results:

We included 14 eyes (14 patients, 38% male, 94% pseudophakic). Mean age at steroid implantation was 64 ± 12 years. Baerveldt (64%) was more common than Ahmed (36%). Tubes were in the anterior chamber (57.1%), sulcus (28.6%), and pars plana (14.3%). Ozurdex (93%) was more common than Yutiq (7%). Mean IOP was 13.5 ± 3.4 mmHg pre-implant, 11.8 ± 3.7 mmHg at month 1, 13.3 ± 3.6 mmHg at month 3 (p=0.35), and 11.3 ± 3.8 mmHg at 1 year (p=0.032). Mean antihypertensive medications was unchanged at month 3 (p = 1.0), and -0.36 medications at last follow-up (p = 0.35). Mean CFT change was -204 ± 158 μm (p = 0.001). There were no cases of endophthalmitis.

Conclusions:

Intravitreal steroid implants were safe and effective for the treatment of post-surgical CME in patients with pre-existing GDD. There was no increase in IOP and no increase in antihypertensive drops.
Dietary modulation of epigenetics: Implications for cancer prevention and progression
Authors: Zhu Si-Rui , Liang Xin-Yu , Bai Qian , Ni Xiang-Min , Wang Jian
Published: January 2025

Epidemiological studies indicate a strong correlation between various types of human cancer and dietary factors, whereas the specific mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. Epigenetic alterations, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNA, are influenced by dietary components, especially phytochemicals and nutrients that participate in one-carbon metabolism. These alterations significantly impact cancer occurrence and progression. Consequently, epigenetic pathways may mediate the effects of diet on cancer risk. This review synthesizes the current information regarding the association of epigenetic alterations with cancer initiation and development, as well as the mechanisms by which diet exerts its influence on these changes. The goal of this minireview is to enhance the understanding of the roles of diet on epigenetic alterations to improve cancer prevention and treatment through diet.
Effect of a Peaceful End-of-Life Care Program on Perceived Good Death in People With Advanced Cancer and Their Family Caregivers
Authors: Trakoolngamden Benchamart , Monkong Supreeda , Chaiviboontham Suchira , Satitvipawee Pratana , Runglodvatana Yotsawaj
Published: January 2025

Early integration of palliative care benefits both people with advanced cancer and their family caregivers, yet research on holistic end-of-life care and advance care planning remains limited. The primary objective of this study was to examine the effect of a peaceful end-of-life care program on perceived good death outcomes in people with advanced cancer and their family caregivers. Secondary objectives included exploring the program's effect on the quality relationship and end-of-life care knowledge among family caregivers. In this quasi-experimental design with repeated measures, 122 participants were enrolled. On the basis of the Theory of the Peaceful End of Life, the experimental group received a 4-week program comprising health education, self-care for symptom management, advance care planning, psychosocial support, and family involvement plus standard care, whereas the control group received standard care alone. The Good Death Inventory was the primary measurement tool. The results showed a significant improvement in perceived good death, quality relationships, and end-of-life care knowledge in the experimental group, with no such improvements observed in the control group. The program improved good death outcomes, caregiver relationships, and end-of-life care knowledge. Therefore, early initiation of this program is recommended to optimize its benefits.
The model of fear of movement/(re)injury runs clockwise from catastrophizing: evidence from a sample of outpatients with chronic non-specific low back pain
Authors: Monticone Marco , Arippa Federico , Frigau Luca , Foti Calogero , Ferrari Silvano , Guicciardi Marco , Rocca Barbara
Published: January 2025

Objective

To provide evidence that catastrophizing is the primer of the cognitive-behavioural model of fear of movement/(re)injury (FAM).

Design

A cross-sectional analysis of 180 outpatients with chronic non-specific low back pain who completed the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK), the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale – Depression (HADS-D), and a pain intensity numerical rating scale (NRS). The intercorrelations of the outcome measures were estimated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r), and regression analyses were used to examine their predictive values by following the left side of the FAM clockwise from the PCS (p = 0.05). A postdictive analysis dichotomizing the sample into high- and low-level catastrophizers evaluated the effects of addressing catastrophizing on disability and pain.

Results:

The intercorrelations of the PCS with the TSK, RMDQ, HADS-D and NRS were respectively r = 0.59, r = 0.54, r = 0.18, and r = 0.44. PCS was a significant predictor of TSK; PCS and TSK significantly predicted RMDQ and HADS-D; and PCS, TSK, RMDQ and HADS-D significantly predicted NRS. The postdictive analysis showed that addressing catastrophizing reduces disability and pain experience by 14% in high-level catastrophizers and 86% in low-level catastrophizers.

Conclusion

Our findings provide evidence that catastrophizing is the primer of the FAM.
ADAMTS4-Specific MR Peptide Probe for the Assessment of Atherosclerotic Plaque Burden in a Mouse Model
Authors: Mangarova Dilyana B. , Kaufmann Jan O. , Brangsch Julia , Kader Avan , Möckel Jana , Heyl Jennifer L. , Verlemann Christine , Adams Lisa C. , Ludwig Antje , Reimann Carolin , Poller Wolfram C. , Niehaus Peter , Karst Uwe , Taupitz Matthias , Hamm Bernd , Weller Michael G. , Makowski Marcus R.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Atherosclerosis is the underlying cause of multiple cardiovascular pathologies. The present-day clinical imaging modalities do not offer sufficient information on plaque composition or rupture risk. A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 4 (ADAMTS4) is a strongly upregulated proteoglycan-cleaving enzyme that is specific to cardiovascular diseases, inter alia, atherosclerosis.

Materials and Methods

Male apolipoprotein E-deficient mice received a high-fat diet for 2 (n = 11) or 4 months (n = 11). Additionally, a group (n = 11) receiving pravastatin by drinking water for 4 months alongside the high-fat diet was examined. The control group (n = 10) consisted of C57BL/6J mice on standard chow. Molecular magnetic resonance imaging was performed prior to and after administration of the gadolinium (Gd)-based ADAMTS4-specific probe, followed by ex vivo analyses of the aortic arch, brachiocephalic arteries, and carotid arteries. A P value <0.05 was considered to indicate a statistically significant difference.

Results

With advancing atherosclerosis, a significant increase in the contrast-to-noise ratio was measured after intravenous application of the probe (mean precontrast = 2.25; mean postcontrast = 11.47, P < 0.001 in the 4-month group). The pravastatin group presented decreased ADAMTS4 expression. A strong correlation between ADAMTS4 content measured via immunofluorescence staining and an increase in the contrast-to-noise ratio was detected (R
2 = 0.69). Microdissection analysis revealed that ADAMTS4 gene expression in the plaque area was significantly greater than that in the arterial wall of a control mouse (P < 0.001). Laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry confirmed strong colocalization of areas positive for ADAMTS4 and Gd.

Conclusions

Magnetic resonance imaging using an ADAMTS4-specific agent is a promising method for characterizing atherosclerotic plaques and could improve plaque assessment in the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis.
Virtual Monitoring Technician Performance in High-Fidelity Simulations of Remote Patient Monitoring
Authors: Sanghavi Harsh , Peng Yuhao , Tetteh Emmanuel , Parker Sarah Henrickson , Wolf Laurie D.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Virtual Monitor Technicians (VMTs) are crucial in remotely monitoring inpatient telemetry. However, little is known about VMT workload and intratask performance changes, and their potential impact on patient safety. This exploratory study used a high-fidelity simulation aimed to evaluate VMTs' workload and performance changes over time in telemetry monitoring and identify future research directions for performance improvement.

Methods

The research team created a simulation of the current remote telemetry stations with 36 patient waveforms across 3 screens alongside a documentation screen, replicating VMTs' work. Twelve VMTs participated in a 1-hour session, and time-to-escalate and detection accuracy to auditory/visual alerts were recorded. Workload was measured using the NASA-Task Load Index.

Results

The post-task NASA-Task Load Index score showed an increased workload score of 64 of 100 from a prescore of 38 of 100, with mental and temporal demands being the largest contributors. The performance of VMTs did not change significantly over time, with a 52% correct response rate. Participants' ability to detect signals was slightly better than chance (d′ = 0.477), and they tended to be cautious in their responses, β (M = 1.989, SD = 1.635). Urgent, Warning, and Medium audiovisual alerts were recognized in 9, 35, and 39 seconds, respectively, whereas advisory alerts (visual only) were recognized in 13 minutes.

Conclusion

This study sets a foundation for future work on VMT workload expectations. Although our work is exploratory, the results indicate a significant increase in VMT workload with no decline in performance; VMTs responded most quickly and accurately to urgent alerts, whereas overall response accuracy to nonurgent alerts was marginally better than chance. Future research needs to explore techniques to improve response accuracy rate beyond the 52% measured in this study.
Evaluating Delta-8-THC–Induced Psychosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ralston Megan Jayne , Osman Alim
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study reviews literature on the psychiatric effects of delta-8-THC, particularly psychosis and severe mental health outcomes, to highlight the need for further research and regulation.

Background

Marijuana, the most widely used illicit drug in the United States, sees increasing use due to legalization. Although moderate use is generally safe, adverse effects can occur, especially in those with preexisting conditions. Delta-9-THC is known for its psychoactive effects and potential to induce psychosis. Delta-8-THC, another cannabinoid, is gaining popularity and has been linked to severe adverse events but remains under-researched.

Methods

A comprehensive search of PubMed and Web of Science followed PRISMA guidelines to identify studies and case reports on delta-8-THC and psychosis. Articles on delta-9-THC or other cannabinoids were excluded. Relevant studies were screened, and duplicates removed. The included studies were evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Checklist for Case Reports.

Results

The search identified 201 studies, with 12 meeting the inclusion criteria for full-text analysis. Six case reports, involving 9 patients, were reviewed. Most patients were male and in their 20s, with varied psychiatric histories, including no prior psychiatric history, schizophrenia, posttraumatic stress disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Reported symptoms included psychosis, mood lability, and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. Treatments varied, with different clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

Delta-8-THC poses significant psychiatric risks despite being less intoxicating than delta-9-THC. The lack of Food and Drug Administration regulation and the availability of delta-8-THC products heighten these risks. More rigorous studies are needed to understand delta-8-THC's impact on mental health and inform regulatory actions.
Harmonizing the inner orchestra: the impact of urbanization and evolution of stress, inflammation, diet, and lifestyles in depression
Authors: Su Kuan-Pin
Published: January 2025

Purpose of review

This review explores the intersection of urbanization, stress, inflammation, diet, lifestyle changes, and digital evolution as key factors influencing depression, emphasizing the necessity for integrative and evolutionary perspectives in mental health and intervention.

Recent findings

Epidemiological studies reveal a dramatic increase in common mental disorders, particularly depression, alongside parallel increases in suicide, unemployment, and divorce rates. Evolutionary perspectives suggest that mechanisms once advantageous for survival, such as stress responses and inflammatory processes, may contribute to mental health challenges in modern urban environments. Moreover, the mental health crisis among generation Z underscores the impact of digital evolution, where the shift from play-based to phone-based childhood contributes significantly to rising depression rates. Recent research highlights the significant role of omega-3 fatty acids, circadian rhythm regulation, mindfulness, and anti-inflammatory lifestyle interventions in mitigating depressive symptoms.

The interplay between our evolutionary heritage and rapid societal changes has created a “symphony” of factors contributing to depression. Understanding these evolutionary mismatches in stress responses, inflammatory processes, dietary shifts, circadian disruptions, and digitalization provides new insights into the etiology of depression. This holistic approach, conceptualized as “harmonizing the inner orchestra,” offers promising avenues for prevention and treatment strategies that address the multifaceted nature of depression in our modern world.
Optimising synthetic cystic fibrosis sputum media for growth of non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae
Authors: Do Carmo Silva Phoebe , Hill Darryl , Harrison Freya
Published: January 2025

Non-typeable Haempophilus influenzae (NTHi) is an early pathogen isolated from the lungs of children with cystic fibrosis (CF). However, its role in the progression of CF lung infection is poorly understood. Additionally, whether it forms biofilms in the lungs of people with CF is an open question. The development of synthetic cystic fibrosis sputum media has given key insights into the microbiology of later CF pathogens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, through replicating the chemical composition of CF sputum. However, growth of NTHi in these media has not previously been reported. We show that NTHi grows poorly in three commonly-used variants of synthetic cystic fibrosis sputum media commonly used to induce in vivo-like growth of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus (SCFM1, SCFM2 and SCFM3). The addition of NAD and hemin to SCFM1 and SCFM2 promoted the planktonic growth and biofilm formation of both laboratory and clinical NTHi isolates, and we were able to develop a modified variant of SCFM2 that allows culture of NTHis. We show that NTHi is unable to be identified in an established ex-vivo model of CF infection, which uses SCFM and porcine bronchiolar tissue. This may in part be due to the presence of endogenous bacteria on the pig lung tissue which outcompete NTHi, but the lack of selective agar to isolate NTHi from endogenous bacteria, and the fact that NTHi is an exclusively human pathogen, make it hard to conclude that this is the case. Through spiking modified SCFM2 with filter sterilized lung homogenate, biofilm growth of clinical NTHi isolates was enhanced. Our results highlight that there are crucial components present in the lung tissue which NTHi require for growth, that are not present in any published variant of SCFM from the Palmer et al. 2007 lineage. Our results may inform future modifications to SCFM recipes to truly mimic the environment of CF lung sputum, and thus, to facilitate study of a wide range of CF pathogens.