bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early assessment of responsive neurostimulation for drug-resistant epilepsy in China: A multicenter, self-controlled study
Authors: Yang Yanfeng , Wei Penghu , Shi Jianwei , Mao Ying , Zhang Jianmin , Lei Ding , Yang Zhiquan , Song Shiwei , Qian Ruobing , Li Wenling , Shan Yongzhi , Zhao Guoguang
Published: November 2024

Background:

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the first cohort of people in China treated with a responsive neurostimulation system (EpilcureTM, GenLight MedTech, Hangzhou, China) for focal drug-resistant epilepsy in this study.

Methods:

This multicenter, before-and-after self-controlled study was conducted across 8 centers from March 2022 to June 2023, involving patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who were undergoing responsive neurostimulation (RNS). The study was based on an ongoing multi-center, single-blind, randomized controlled study. Efficacy was assessed through metrics including median seizure count, seizure frequency reduction (SFR), and response rate. Multivariable linear regression analysis was conducted to explore the relationships of basic clinical factors and intracranial electrophysiological characteristics with SFR. The postoperative quality of life, cognitive function, depression, and anxiety were evaluated as well.

Results:

The follow-up period for the 19 participants was 10.7 ± 3.4 months. Seizure counts decreased significantly 6 months after device activation, with median SFR of 48% at the 6th month (M6) and 58% at M12 (P <0.05). The average response rate after 13 months of treatment was 42%, with 21% (n = 4) of the participants achieving seizure freedom. Patients who have previously undergone resective surgery appear to achieve better therapeutic outcomes at M11, M12 and M13 (β <0, P <0.05). No statistically significant differences were observed in patients’ scores of quality of life, cognition, depression and anxiety following stimulation when compared to baseline measurements. No serious adverse events related to the devices were observed.

Conclusions:

The preliminary findings suggest that EpilcureTM exhibits promising therapeutic potential in reducing the frequency of epileptic seizures. However, to further validate its efficacy, larger-scale randomized controlled trials are required.

Registration:

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (No. ChiCTR2200055247)
Patterns of Adherence to Home Blood Pressure Monitoring Among Older Adults With Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Kovell Lara C. , Bothwick Victoria , McCabe Paul , Juraschek Stephen P. , Meng Yuchen , Revoori Ritika , Pena Stephanie , Schoenthaler Antoinette , Adhikari Samrachana , Dodson John A.
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

Hypertension (HTN) is common and represents a major modifiable risk factor for ischemic heart disease in older adults. While home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) is important in HTN management, patterns of HBPM engagement in older adults undergoing mobile health cardiac rehabilitation (mHealth-CR) are unknown. We aimed to identify patterns of adherence to HBPM in a cohort of older adults undergoing mHealth-CR to optimize HBPM use in the future.

Methods:

We used interim data from the ongoing Rehabilitation using Mobile Health for Older Adults with Ischemic Heart Disease in the Home Setting (RESILIENT) randomized trial, in which intervention arm participants (adults ≥ 65 years with ischemic heart disease) were instructed to monitor blood pressure (BP) at least weekly. Engagement groups were determined by latent class analysis and compared using ANOVA or Chi-Square tests. Longitudinal mixed effect modeling determined the associations between weekly HBPM and baseline covariates including uncontrolled HTN, obesity, diabetes, depression, alcohol, and tobacco use.

Results:

Of the 111 participants, the mean age was 71.9 ± 5.6 years, and 83% had HTN. Over the 12-week study, mean HBPM engagement was 2.3 ± 2.3 d/wk. We observed 3 distinct patterns of engagement: high engagement (22%), gradual decline (10%), and sustained baseline engagement (68%). HBPM adherence decreased in two of the engagement groups over time. Of the covariates tested, only depression was associated with weekly HBPM after adjusting for relevant covariates (OR 9.09, P = .03).

Conclusions:

In this older adult cohort undergoing mHealth-CR, we found three main engagement groups with declining engagement over time in two of the three groups. These patterns can inform future mHealth-CR interventions.
Endothelial Cell Viability of Nonscrolled “Endo-Out” Preloaded Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty Graft
Authors: Ghafarian Sadegh , Abdullayev Eric , DeMarco Karen , Kurz Arthur , Rivero Andy , Koo Ellen H.
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of our paper is to report on the endothelial viability of a preloaded Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) graft that was found to be in a fully opened, nonscrolled configuration in the glass cannula.

Methods:

Case Report.

Results:

The preloaded DMEK graft was found to be in an opened, nonscrolled configuration with the endothelial side facing outward in the micro Weiss glass cannula when the preloaded system was visualized in the operating room. As the opened graft was noted to be in a relatively immobilized state against the cannula wall, the decision was made to decline usage for transplantation and the tissue was returned to the eye bank for further assessment of endothelial viability. The DMEK graft underwent specular microscopy and Trypan Blue staining for cell damage assessment. The results demonstrated viable endothelial cells and the suitability of the DMEK graft for transplantation.

Conclusions:

We herein demonstrate that despite the DMEK graft being in a fully opened, nonscrolled configuration in the preloaded glass cannula, with the endothelial side facing outward, the endothelial cells were found to be viable. The evaluation and assessment of the DMEK graft were determined to be suitable for transplantation. We demonstrate that surgeons may likely accept such grafts with confidence.
Assessing postoperative toric intraocular lens rotation: comparative analysis
Authors: Lisy Marcus , Danzinger Victor , Schranz Markus , Mahnert Nikolaus , Abela-Formanek Claudette , Leydolt Christina , Menapace Rupert , Schartmüller Daniel
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

To investigate the accuracy of 3 distinct postoperative toric intraocular lens (TIOL) rotational stability measurement methods.

Setting:

Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.

Design:

Single-center, prospective, interventional clinical trial.

Methods:

128 eyes of 81 patients with age-related cataract received a hydrophobic acrylic TIOL Clareon CNW0T3-9. To evaluate rotational stability, 3 distinct assessment methods were used: (Rotix) comparing the TIOL axis at the end of surgery (EoS) with 1 week and 6 months postoperatively using reference vessels at the sclera, (Slitlamp) comparing the intended axis (IA) with the axis at 1 week and 6 months using slitlamp photography using the horizontal axis as a reference, and (Casia) comparing the IA with the axis at 1 week and 6 months using the axis determination tool of a swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomographer (Casia 2).

Results:

Mean absolute rotation from EoS/IA to 6 months differed significantly among Rotix (1.33 ± 1.99 degrees [0.01; 19.80]), Casia (2.88 ± 2.64 degrees [0.00; 19.00]), and Slit-lamp (4.38 ± 3.38 degrees [0.02; 19.38]), as indicated by the Friedman test (χ2 = 71.852, P < .001). Bland-Altman coefficients of repeatability (CoRs) indicated the closest agreement of results between Casia and Rotix, with a CoR of ±3.95 degrees, followed by Slit-lamp and Casia (±6.82 degrees), and finally, between Slit-lamp and Rotix (±7.19 degrees).

Conclusions:

When assessing true TIOL rotational stability, it is imperative to use fixed anatomical landmarks as a reference and establish a baseline at the EoS. When assessing TIOL rotation along the horizontal axis, considering cyclorotation of the eye is crucial and must not be underestimated.
The Mediating Effect of Depression on Perceived Discrimination and Persistent Prescription Opioid Use Among Puerto Rican Adults
Authors: Essien-Aleksi Inyene E. , Zhang Yuan , Koren Ainat , Palacios Natalia , Falcon Luis M. , Tucker Katherine L.
Published: November 2024

Background

Stress indicators, including perceived discrimination and depression, have been linked with chronic diseases. Studies have also linked persistent prescription opioid use (PPOU) with depression. With increasing numbers of opioid overdose deaths among Hispanics (predominantly Puerto Rican) in Massachusetts, investigating how perceived discrimination and depression affect PPOU is relevant to public health efforts to address the opioid crisis. This study examined the effect of depression on PPOU and whether depression mediated the association between perceived discrimination and PPOU among Puerto Rican adults.

Methods

Data derived from a prospective population-based Boston Puerto Rican Health Study, at baseline and ~2- and ~6-year follow-up, were used to estimate the association between perceived discrimination and PPOU. Baron and Kenny's method was used to examine the potential mediating effect of depression.

Results

A total of 798 Puerto Rican adults (aged 56.5 ± 7.5 years, 72.9% women) participated in the study at all three time points, and 6.5% used prescription opioids persistently. Both depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale score range: 0–60; OR = 1.03, 95% CI [1.00, 1.05], p = .03) and perceived discrimination (yes/no; OR = 2.43, 95% CI [1.28, 4.61], p = .006) were associated with PPOU. Depressive symptomatology partially mediated the effect of perceived discrimination on PPOU, by 10.3%.

Conclusions

Among Puerto Rican adults in Massachusetts, depressive symptomatology partially explained the effects of perceived discrimination on PPOU. Other unidentified factors could play a role in the relationship between perceived discrimination and PPOU. Discussion on the potential risks of PPOU should be considered among underserved populations experiencing chronic pain, discrimination, and depressive symptoms.
Reducing Blood Loss From Phlebotomy in Adult Neurocritical Care Patients: An Evidence-Based Practice Project
Authors: Simonowicz Patricia J. , Bott Kristin , Elwell Joy , Jaffa Matthew N.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: Blood loss from phlebotomy is a significant cause of hospital-acquired anemia. Use of small-volume (Pedi) tubes in adult patients reduces blood loss by 40% and does not increase need for repeated labs. Although this practice is evidencebased, it has not been widely implemented. Using Pedi tubes for phlebotomy is a key component of blood management programs to decrease the incidence of hospital-acquired anemia and blood transfusions in the intensive care unit (ICU). Our aim was to implement the use of Pedi tubes for labs in the adult neurocritical care unit to demonstrate feasibility in this population. METHODS: This was a pre-/postintervention quality improvement project. All consecutive patients admitted to the neurocritical care unit from April 10, 2023, to October 10, 2023, aged 18–99 years, were included in the project. During the intervention period from July 10, 2023, to October 10, 2023, Pedi tubes were used for all laboratory draws except admission and crisis labs. A retrospective chart review from April 10 to July 9, 2024, established standard practice for comparison. We recorded hospital and ICU admission, nadir, and discharge hemoglobin, length of stay, number of rejected specimens, number of blood transfusions, discharge disposition, and 30-day readmission for all subjects. RESULTS: Pedi tube use was successfully implemented with significantly less need for repeat laboratory collections in the postintervention cohort (P = .001). Although no difference was noted in hemoglobin levels, there was a decrease in both ICU and hospital length of stay by 1 day in the intervention arm. Fewer transfusions were required in the intervention cohort. CONCLUSIONS: Small-volume tube use for phlebotomy in adult neurocritical care patients is feasible and can lead to decreased blood transfusion need in the ICU.
Financial toxicity in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Kong Hanhan , Li Huanhuan , Liao Yumei , Peng Wujian , Liu Yanqun , Gong Claire , Bai Jinbing , Zhang Liping
Published: November 2024

Objective:

To investigate financial toxicity (FT) and the factors influencing it in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Methods:

A cross-sectional design was used. From August 2023 to December 2023, 148 PD patients were selected for investigation. The selection was conducted using the convenience sampling method across Shenzhen Third People’s Hospital, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, and The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine. Patients’ financial toxicity was assessed using a general demographic questionnaire, laboratory test results, and the Comprehensive Score for financial Toxicity-Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (COST-FACIT). T-tests, ANOVA, Pearson’s chi-squared test and multiple linear regression analysis were used to evaluate the predictors of FT in patients with PD.

Results:

Seventy-nine patients (53.38%) had mild FT, and 61 patients (41.21%) had moderate FT. Age, working status, monthly household income per capita, and PD-related complications were significantly associated with FT in PD patients (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

There were varying degrees of FT in PD patients. Measuring FT can help medical professionals develop treatment care strategies, reduce the financial burden on patients, and avoid treatment interruption.
Giant Cell-Rich Tumors of the Skeleton
Authors: Diaz-Perez Julio A. , Rosenberg Andrew E.
Published: November 2024

The accurate diagnosis of giant cell-rich tumors of bone is challenging, especially in limited tissue samples. This diverse group of neoplasms have similar and often ambiguous clinical presentations, radiologic features, and morphologic characteristics. During the last decade, the discovery of pathogenic recurrent genetic alterations has allowed the development of immunohistochemical surrogate markers and FISH assays that can help differentiate the entities of this broad group from one another. The correct diagnosis of these neoplasms is essential in the management of the affected patients.
PHRENIC NERVE RECONSTRUCTION WITH SHORT-TERM DIAPHRAGM PACING CORRECTS DIAPHRAGM PARALYSIS DUE TO INTRATHORACIC NERVE INJURY
Authors: Kaufman Matthew R. , Bauer Thomas , Sico Jeannine , Jarrahy Reza
Published: November 2024

Background.

Symptomatic diaphragm paralysis and subsequent pulmonary debilitation has been shown to occur following phrenic nerve injury within the thoracic cavity. In this study, we investigate the effectiveness of intrathoracic reconstruction of the phrenic nerve combined with short-term diaphragm pacing in restoring diaphragm function.

Methods.

A retrospective review of 34 consecutive patients who underwent intrathoracic phrenic nerve reconstruction and diaphragm pacing for symptomatic diaphragm paralysis was performed. Inclusion criteria included confirmation of diaphragm paralysis on chest fluoroscopy, BMI <40, Age <75, and presence of functional motor units on EMG testing. Surgical treatment consisted of intrathoracic phrenic nerve reconstruction with simultaneous implantation of a diaphragm pacemaker.

Results.

34 patients met inclusion criteria, including: 23 males and 11 females with an average age of 46 and average BMI of 28.5 kg/m2. Thirty patients (88%) reported improvement in respiratory function. FVC and FEV1 values improved by 15% (p=0.02) and 14% (p=0.049), respectively. A 375% increase in diaphragm motor amplitude was observed, from 0.04mV to 0.19mV (p=0.02). Radiographic improvement in resting diaphragm position and contraction was demonstrated in 71% of patients. Complications included pacemaker site infection (5%), cardiac arrythmia (5%), and asymptomatic abdominal bulge (3%).

Conclusions.

Intrathoracic phrenic nerve reconstruction with short-term diaphragm pacing is a safe and effective surgical treatment that improves diaphragm function and alleviates symptoms of respiratory insufficiency in patients with diaphragmatic paralysis following intrathoracic phrenic nerve injury. This approach should be considered as part of the treatment algorithm for this patient population.
Long-term Outcomes of a Modified Straight-line Palate Repair Technique: Low Speech Correcting Surgery and Fistula Rates
Authors: Lasky Sasha , Munabi Naikhoba C O , Jolibois Marah , Roohani Idean , Moshal Tayla , Collier Zachary , Naidu Priyanka , Nagengast Eric S. , Wolfe Erin M. , Magee William P.
Published: November 2024

Background:

The goal of cleft palate (CP) repair is to restore normal speech, however, rates of velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) after palatoplasty remain high. We present a modified straight-line palate repair (SLR) technique that facilitates velum length to alleviate VPI. The technique releases nasal mucosa with the levator muscle off the hard palate. This study assesses speech outcomes of this modified SLR technique. Secondary aims are to assess fistula outcomes.

Methods:

A retrospective review evaluated non-syndromic patients with Veau III or IV CP ± cleft lip who underwent SLR from 1993-2023. Patients undergoing modified SLR were compared to those receiving traditional SLR. Outcomes included postoperative palatal fistula, fistula location, fistula repair rates, and velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) correcting surgery rates. Multivariable logistic regression was performed.

Results:

Overall, 343 patients were included (160 modified SLR, 183 traditional SLR). Average length of follow-up from palatoplasty was 6.4±5.3 years. Modified SLR was associated with fewer fistulas than traditional SLR (3.1% vs 15.3%, Odds Ratio [OR]: 0.19; p=0.001), lower fistula repair rates (0.6% vs 13.1%, OR: 0.26; p=0.022), and lower secondary speech surgery rates (0.8% vs 16.0%, OR: 0.046; p=0.003).

Conclusion:

The modified SLR technique resulted in lower rates of VPI surgery, as well as fewer fistulas and lower rates of fistula repairs compared to traditional SLR at six years postoperatively. We hypothesize that releasing the nasal mucosa off the hard palate facilitates more posterior positioning of the levator muscle and less restricted medial mobilization of the oral mucosa, which lengthens the velum to alleviate VPI.
Regional Metabolic Abnormalities in Autoimmune Encephalitis
Authors: Kosek Sonja , Kilsved Ellen , Danfors Torsten , Cunningham Janet L. , Pavel Radu , Rostedt Punga Anna , Burman Joachim , Fällmar David
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) is a group of conditions that are insufficiently understood and difficult to diagnose. Several publications indicate that FDG PET has superior sensitivity compared with MRI. This study aimed to perform a systematic review of publications to assess the characteristics and frequency of brain FDG PET compared with MRI findings at the individual level in AIE, including case reports and case series. The resulting meta-analysis is complementary to previous publications with large or medium-sized cohorts.

Patients and Methods

The review was performed using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and aimed to identify all studies with at least 1 case of AIE in which brain FDG PET was performed. Results from MRI and FDG PET were extracted on a patient-by-patient basis.

Results

The literature search yielded 1303 results, of which 234 studies were included, containing 498 cases. Abnormal FDG PET findings are reported in 93% compared with 55% with MRI. The affected brain regions, rates of unilateral versus bilateral findings, and hypermetabolism versus hypometabolism are descriptively presented in tables categorized according to the associated antibody.

Conclusions

FDG PET detected abnormalities more frequently than MRI, particularly in cases with anti-NMDAR and anti-GABA-B antibodies. Findings include a high prevalence of hypermetabolism in the medial temporal lobes, but also a high prevalence of parietal and occipital hypometabolism. Results differed depending on the associated antibody. Overall, the findings strengthen the importance of FDG PET in patients with suspected AIE, and the antibody-related patterns of regional metabolic abnormalities indicate a high potential for further development as a diagnostic and prognostic tool.
Quantitative Bone SPECT/CT Parameters Could Predict the Success of the Conservative Treatment for Symptomatic Basal Joint Arthritis of the Thumb
Authors: Kim Yong-Il , Ryu Jin-Sook , Kim Jae Kwang , Oh Byung Hun , Shin Young Ho
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of quantitatively assessed bone SPECT/CT parameters for predicting the success of conservative treatment for symptomatic basal joint arthritis of the thumb.

Patients and Methods

Seventy-eight patients (128 hands) with symptomatic basal joint arthritis of the thumb who underwent bone SPECT/CT scans within 4 weeks after their initial visit and completed conservative treatment for more than 6 months between April 2019 and April 2023 were retrospectively enrolled. PRWHE (patient-rated wrist/hand evaluation) was evaluated in all patients before and after the treatment. The SUVmax from bone SPECT/CT was measured in the 4 peritrapezial joints, and the highest uptake was used for analysis.

Results

On the basis of the minimal clinically important difference in PRWHE scores, 64 hands (50.0% of 128 hands) were classified as the treatment success group and 64 hands (50.0% of 128 hands) were failure group. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, only high SUVmax (odds ratio, 1.097; 95% confidence interval, 1.027–1.172; P = 0.006) was a factor significantly associated with the success of conservative treatment. In receiver operating characteristics curve analysis, the area under the curve of SUVmax was 0.649 (95% confidence interval, 0.554–0.744; P = 0.002). As a prognostic parameter for the success of conservative treatment, SUVmax showed a sensitivity of 56.3% and specificity of 70.3% with a cutoff of 9.52.

Conclusions

High initial SUVmax on bone SPECT/CT was significantly associated with the success of conservative treatment for symptomatic basal joint arthritis of the thumb.
Primary Extraosseous Ewing Sarcoma on 18F-FDG and 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT
Authors: Tao Yi , Wang Feifei , Yan Jiao , Chen Zhengguo , Wu Chunyan
Published: November 2024

Primary extraosseous Ewing sarcoma of the nasal cavity is rare. A 17-year-old man underwent 18F-FDG and 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT for a nasal mass. The mass showed avid FDG uptake but weak FAPI uptake. Endoscopic endonasal biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma.
FDG PET/CT in Cutaneous Involvement of Plasmablastic Plasma Cell Myeloma
Authors: Mohamed Passant , Stuart Sophie , Vergara-Lluri Ria , Colletti Patrick M.
Published: November 2024

Extraosseous manifestations are found in less than 5% of patients with multiple myeloma. They can arise in any tissue, and their presence has been associated with more aggressive disease. We present FDG PET/CT findings of immunoglobulin A κ multiple myeloma with innumerable hypermetabolic right lower extremity lesions of cutaneous and subcutaneous involvement of plasmablastic plasma cell myeloma in a 44-year-old man.
Captopril DMSA Contribution in the Identification of the Cause of Severe Hypertension in an Otherwise Healthy 5-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Serbis Anastasios , Tsiouris Spyridon , Stefos Efstathios , Brountzos Elias N. , Siomou Ekaterini
Published: November 2024

Hypertension in younger children is usually secondary to various disorders. A previously healthy 5-year-old girl was diagnosed with stage 2 hypertension. Her personal and family history was noncontributory, and she was normal on physical examination. Blood tests revealed a strongly elevated renin and slightly increased aldosterone, suggesting a renovascular cause. Nevertheless, color Doppler ultrasound, CT, and MR angiography were normal. A DMSA renal scan with and without captopril was performed with results suggestive of a right intrarenal segmental artery branch stenosis, which was corrected with arteriography. A captopril DMSA can be helpful in localizing smaller intrarenal artery branch stenoses.
The structure of an amyloid precursor protein/talin complex indicates a mechanical basis of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ellis Charles , Ward Natasha L. , Rice Matthew , Ball Neil J. , Walle Pauline , Najdek Chloé , Kilinc Devrim , Lambert Jean-Charles , Chapuis Julien , Goult Benjamin T.
Published: November 2024

Misprocessing of amyloid precursor protein (APP) is one of the major causes of Alzheimer’s disease. APP comprises a large extracellular region, a single transmembrane helix and a short cytoplasmic tail containing an NPxY motif (normally referred to as the YENPTY motif). Talins are synaptic scaffold proteins that connect the cytoskeletal machinery to the plasma membrane via binding NPxY motifs in the cytoplasmic tail of integrins. Here, we report the crystal structure of an APP/talin1 complex identifying a new way to couple the cytoskeletal machinery to synaptic sites through APP. Proximity ligation assay (PLA) confirmed the close proximity of talin1 and APP in primary neurons, and talin1 depletion had a dramatic effect on APP processing in cells. Structural modelling reveals APP might form an extracellular meshwork that mechanically couples the cytoskeletons of the pre- and post-synaptic compartments. We propose APP processing represents a mechanical signalling pathway whereby under tension, the cleavage sites in APP have varying accessibility to cleavage by secretases. This leads us to propose a new hypothesis for Alzheimer’s, where misregulated APP dynamics result in loss of the mechanical integrity of the synapse, corruption and loss of mechanical binary data, and excessive generation of toxic plaque-forming Aβ42 peptide.
Tracing 600 years of long-distance Atlantic cod trade in medieval and post-medieval Oslo using stable isotopes and ancient DNA
Authors: Martínez-García Lourdes , Pulido Angélica , Ferrari Giada , Hufthammer Anne Karin , Vedeler Marianne , Hirons Alex , Kneale Catherine , Barrett James H. , Star Bastiaan
Published: November 2024

Marine resources have been important for the survival and economic development of coastal human communities across northern Europe for millennia. Knowledge of the origin of such historic resources can provide key insights into fishing practices and the spatial extent of trade networks. Here, we combine ancient DNA and stable isotopes (δ
13
C, δ
15
N, non-exchangeable δ
2
H and δ
34
S) to investigate the geographical origin of archaeological cod remains in Oslo from the eleventh to seventeenth centuries CE. Our findings provide genetic evidence that Atlantic cod was obtained from different geographical populations, including a variety of distant-water populations like northern Norway and possibly Iceland. Evidence for such long-distance cod trade is already observed from the eleventh century, contrasting with archaeological and historical evidence from Britain and other areas of Continental Europe around the North and Baltic Seas, where such trade increased during the thirteenth to fourteenth centuries. The genomic assignments of specimens to different populations coincide with significantly different δ
13
C values between those same specimens, indicating that multiple Atlantic cod populations living in different environments were exploited. This research provides novel information about the exploitation timeline of specific Atlantic cod stocks and highlights the utility of combining ancient DNA (aDNA) methods and stable isotope analysis to describe the development of medieval and post-medieval marine fisheries.
Physician and Endoscopy Nurse Perspectives on Tap Water for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: A Cross-Sectional Survey on Support, Perceived Barriers, and Intent to Advocate
Authors: Goodings Anthony James , Chhor Allison Dana , Anderson Hannah , Pastrak Mila , Kajitani Sten , Schultzel Matthew , O’Sullivan Aoife , Eustaceryan Ann-Marie
Published: November 2024

Background

The standard water used for endoscopic irrigation is sterile water. Minimal evidence exists regarding sterile water use where there is access to clean water. The WHO has declared the climate crisis as the greatest global health crisis today; we must re-examine our practices and adapt them to promote environmental stewardship while maintaining safety.

Method and Objective

We surveyed physicians and endoscopy nurses to determine their attitudes toward tap water use for irrigation in gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures.

Results

There were 88 complete responses collected from June to November 2024. The majority of respondents and endoscopy-performing consultants expressed comfort with tap water use (59% and 84%, respectively), perceived viability (62% and 68%, respectively), and an interest to implement (73% and 94%, respectively); however, discussions on the topic remained infrequent (77% and 81%, respectively). 82% of overall respondents and 93% of consultants were aware of potential cost-savings, with 69% and 87% more willing to consider tap water based on this. Respondents (60%) and consultants (73%) agree there is a lack of guidelines regarding tap water use and feel that policy barriers will hinder change (59% and 73% respectively). Overall, 59% of respondents and 73% of consultants are likely to advocate for change.

Conclusion

The majority of respondents support tap water as a viable, cost-effective alternative with environmental benefits. A strong intention to advocate for change highlights the presence of potential leaders in this space. By promoting and supporting these leaders through education and institutional change, a more sustainable future for endoscopy exists.

What is already known on this topic

There is an urgent need to address the immense impact of medicine on the environment.

Gastrointestinal endoscopy involves the use of large volumes of sterile water to irrigate a non-sterile space in the body.

What this study adds

Allows us to understand the views of physicians on the potential use of tap water in GI endoscopy, as well as understand perceived feasibility and barriers.

How this study might affect research, practice, or policy

With an understanding of physician support and perceived barriers, specific actions to address these can be taken by regulators.

By increasing awareness around the topic, experts can deliberate on the idea and choose to advocate for change, providing leadership in an intimidating discipline.
Multivariate patterns linking brain microstructure to temperament and behavior in adolescent eating disorders
Authors: Makowski Carolina , Shafiei Golia , Martinho Megan , Hagler Donald J. , Pecheva Diliana , Dale Anders M. , Fennema-Notestine Christine , Bischoff-Grethe Amanda , Wierenga Christina E.
Published: November 2024

Eating disorders (EDs) are multifaceted psychiatric disorders characterized by varying behaviors, traits, and cognitive profiles thought to drive symptom heterogeneity and severity. Non-invasive neuroimaging methods have been critical to elucidate the neurobiological circuitry involved in ED-related behaviors, but often focused on a limited set of regions of interest and/or symptoms. The current study harnesses multivariate methods to map microstructural and morphometric patterns across the entire brain to multiple domains of behavior and symptomatology in patients. Diffusion-weighted images, modeled with restriction spectrum imaging, were analyzed for 91 adolescent patients with an ED and 48 healthy controls. Partial least squares analysis was applied to map 38 behavioral measures (encompassing cognition, temperament, and ED symptoms) to restricted diffusion in white matter tracts and subcortical structures across 65 regions of interest. The first significant latent variable explained 46.9% of the covariance between microstructure and behavior. This latent variable retained a significant brain-behavior correlation in held-out data, where an ‘undercontrolled’ behavioral profile (e.g., higher emotional dysregulation, novelty seeking; lower effortful control and interoceptive awareness) was linked to increased restricted diffusion across white matter tracts, particularly those joining frontal, limbic, and thalamic regions. Individually-derived brain and behavior scores for this latent variable were higher in patients with binge-purge symptoms, compared to those with only restrictive eating symptoms. Findings demonstrate the value of applying multivariate modeling to the array of brain-behavior relationships inherent to the clinical presentation of EDs, and their relevance for providing a neurobiologically-informed model for future clinical subtyping and prediction efforts.
Physiological, transcriptomic and metabolomic responses of the marine diatomPhaeodactylum tricornutumto auxin
Authors: Chen Yu-Ting , Zhao Dong-Sheng , Liu Xiao-Li , Yang Huan , Gu Run-Ze , Li Nan , Yan Xiufeng , Zou Hui-Xi
Published: November 2024

Auxin, an essential phytohormone, is widely used to promote plant growth and development. However, the effect of auxin on diatoms and its mechanism remain underexplored. Here, we studied the impact of auxin 3-indoleacetic acid (IAA) on the marine diatomPhaeodactylum tricornutumand the underlying molecular mechanisms. We found that 5 μg L-1of IAA promotes the growth ofP. tricornutumin a time- dependent manner. Treatment with IAA resulted in significant changes in photosynthetic pigments and malondialdehyde, chlorophyll fluorescence, and antioxidant enzyme activities. In addition, transcriptomics showed that IAA exposure leads to upregulation of a large number of differential genes (DEGs) in carbon fixation and porphyrin metabolism, several of which were verified by qPCR. Furthermore, corresponding metabolites of these pathways were also validated by metabolomic analysis. Thus, IAA exhibits growth-promotion effect on the diatom mainly through increasing photosynthetic carbon sequestration and the expression of genes in porphyrin synthesis. Our results provide key data on the action mechanism of IAA in promoting the growth of a diatom.
OsbHLH089 and OsbHLH094 Modulate OsSLR1 Levels to Maintain Male Reproductive Fitness in Rice
Authors: Fernandes Telma , Barros Pedro M. , Flores-Tornero María , Carvalho Pedro , Sapeta Helena , Becker Jörg D. , Abreu Isabel A.
Published: November 2024

DELLA proteins are a unique class of transcriptional regulators in plants, playing critical roles in diverse biological processes. Far from being only negative regulators of the Gibberellin (GA) signalling pathway, DELLAs act as central signalling hubs due to their versatile binding capacity and responsiveness to GA fluctuations. This adaptability allows DELLAs to interact with a wide array of proteins but also makes their functional study challenging: disruptions in DELLA function lead to pleiotropic effects across multiple pathways.

To address this complexity, understanding DELLA interactors provides valuable insights into DELLA’s nuanced functions and regulation. Building on this approach, we investigated novel OsSLR1 interactors, OsbHLH089 and OsbHLH094, members of the basic-helix-loop-helix transcription factor family. Our findings reveal thatOsbHLH089andOsbHLH094are expressed in mature pollen grains, with theOsbhlh089/94double mutant displaying smaller, indehiscent anthers and non-viable pollen, indicating their redundant role in pollen development during its late stages.

Through ChIP-Seq and RNA-Seq analyses, we identified five target genes repressed byOsbHLH089andOsbHLH094(OsTDL1A,OsSPS1,OsDGD2β,OspPGM, andOsDPE2) that are essential for pollen and anther development. Interestingly, we also observed the binding of these TFs to theOsSLR1promoter. Notably, while other target genes were repressed,OsSLR1was induced, with a significant protein accumulation in the double mutant compared to the Kitaake background in the late stages of pollen development. This suggests that OsSLR1 accumulation may compromise pollen viability, further highlighting the critical regulatory role ofOsbHLH089andOsbHLH094in repressing OsSLR1 levels for proper pollen and anther development.
Transpiration Insights: Estimating Transpiration Through Advanced Modeling
Authors: Friedman Shani , Averbuch Nir , Nevo Tifferet , Moshelion Menachem
Published: November 2024

Summery

We conducted research to predict daily transpiration in crops by utilizing a combination of machine learning (ML) models and Big-Data from gravimetric load cells as well as ambient sensors. Our aim was to improve the accuracy of transpiration estimates.

Data were collected from two semi-controlled greenhouses over seven years, measuring key physiological and meteorological variables at high frequency and accuracy. We trained Decision tree, Random Forest, XGBoost, and Neural Network models on this dataset to predict daily transpiration.

The Random Forest and XGBoost models demonstrated high accuracy in predicting the whole plant transpiration, with R² values of 0.87 on the test set (cross-validation) and average of R2= 0.79 on holdout experiments. Ambient temperature was identified as the most influential environmental factors affecting transpiration.

Our results emphasize the potential of ML for precise water management in agriculture, and simplify some of the complex and dynamic environmental forces that shape transpiration.
Lineage-specific trait variation generates widespread, contemporaneous coexistence and competitive exclusion dynamics in an invasive, multihost wildlife parasite
Authors: Garner Trenton WJ , Harrison Xavier A , Fenton Andy , Ghosh Pria N , Verster Ruhan , Murray Kris A , Brookes Lola M , Allen Bryony E , Farrer Rhys A , Schmidt Benedikt R , Bates Kieran A , Kruger Natasha , Wolmarans Abigail , Bosch Jaime , Fisher Matthew C , Weldon Ché
Published: November 2024

Invasive and highly virulent parasites are emerging worldwide, transported to new locations and into novel hosts by anthropogenic activities. Multiple introduction events lead to interactions amongst genetically dissimilar genotypes that can result in either competitive exclusion, coexistence, or cycling through a combination of the two. Here, we report how intra-lineage trait variation of the multihost amphibian parasiteBatrachochytrium dendrobatidisdrives contrasting outcomes of inter-lineage interactions on two continents, Europe and Africa. Through field surveys, competition experiments and mathematical modelling we show that interactions between the same two lineages in the two continents and in different hosts demonstrate both ends of the exclusion/coexistence continuum. Trait variation in one of the two predominating lineages,BdGPL, is responsible for these contrasting outcomes: In Europe,BdGPL is highly competitive and has constrained the distribution of the other,BdCAPE, to two locations. In Africa,BdGPL andBdCAPE can mutually invade host populations when the other lineage is already resident, potentially leading to coinfections and recombination. That these contrasting outcomes are prolonged and contemporaneous for the same two lineages shows that epidemiological models of invasive parasites need to account for trait variation both within and across lineages.
iSIM-sigma: efficient standard deviation calculation for molecular similarity
Authors: Perez Kenneth Lopez , Zhao Bill , Quintana Ramon Alain Miranda
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The average and variance of the molecular similarities in a set is high-value and useful information for cheminformatics tasks like chemical space exploration and subset selection. However, the calculation of the variance of the complete similarity matrix has a quadratic complexity,O(N2). As the sizes of molecular libraries constantly increase, this pairwise approach is unfeasible. In this work, we present an alternative to obtaining the exact standard deviation of the molecular similarities in a set (withNmolecules andMfeatures) for the Russell-Rao (RR) and Sokal-Michener (SM) similarity indexes inO(N M2) complexity. Additionally, we present a highly accurate approximation with linear complexity,O(N), based on the sampling of representative molecules from the set. The proposed approximation can be extended to other similarity indexes, including the popular Jaccard-Tanimoto (JT). With only the sampling of 50 molecules, the proposed method can estimate the standard deviation of the similarities in a set with RMSE lower than 0.01 for sets of up to 50,000 molecules. In comparison, random sampling does not warrant a good approximation as shown in our results.
Ecological associations of the coastal marsh periwinkle snailLittoraria irrorata: field and laboratory evidence of vegetation habitat preferences
Authors: Klinges David H. , Martin Charles W. , Roberts Brian J.
Published: November 2024

Coastal salt marshes serve as the margin between terrestrial and marine biomes, provide a variety of important services, and are dynamic ecosystems characterized by keystone species that shape trophic networks. In coastal salt marshes of the Eastern Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, marsh periwinkle snails (Littoraria irrorata) exhibit high abundance and form critical trophic pathways as important herbivores and detritivores. Specifically, snails forage onSpartina alternifloraand associated fungal growth, for whichL. irroratamay act as a top-down control on plant growth. Yet,L. irrorataoccupies other salt marsh plants, suggesting its habitat niche may be broader than previously reported. Here, we documented snail densities and size distributions in a Louisiana (USA) salt marsh composed of multiple marsh graminoids and report the results of behavioral choice experiments designed to test snail habitat preferences as a potential mechanism underlying their field distribution. We observed higher snail densities onS. alterniflorastalks (283.0 snails m-2) than other plant species, however, snails were highly abundant onS. patens(115.6 snails m-2),Juncus roemerianus(94.8 snails m-2), andDistichlis spicata(56.9 nails m-2) with densities comparable or higher on all species than reported onS. alterniflorain other studies along the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Snails found onS. alternifloraandJ. roemerianus, both plants with tall and rigid stalks, were also larger than snails found on other plant species. In species preference experiments, snails preferredS. alternifloraoverS. patensandD. spicata, but no clear preferences were observed betweenS. alternifloraandJ. roemerianus, nor between any combinations ofS. patens, D. spicata, andJ. roemerianus. Finally, we found that snails preferred senescing and deadS. alternifloratissue over freshS. alterniflora. Interpreting these results in tandem, this study suggestsL. irroratasnails have consistent patterns of field distributions that match their habitat preferences, and future studies should test potential processes driving snail habitat selection, such as dietary habits and predator refugia (i.e., climbing sturdy stalks to avoid aquatic predators). Considering the abundance and trophic role ofL. irroratain coastal salt marshes, snail behavior may be a key modulator for salt marsh trophic networks.
The genetic basis of dermatophytosis skin infection susceptibility
Authors: Haapaniemi Hele , Eghtedarian Reyhane , Tervi Anniina ,   Estonian Biobank Research Team,   FinnGen, Abner Erik , Ollila Hanna M.
Published: November 2024

Dermatophytosis is an infection caused by fungi that utilize keratinized tissues, such as skin, nails, and hair, as their energy source. This infection commonly presents as red, itchy and ring-like patches on the skin, nail thickening, or hair loss. With ever-increasing case numbers, it has become a significant public health concern estimated to affect 20 % of the world’s population. Despite the high prevalence, the genetic risk factors for dermatophytosis are poorly understood. Our goal was to elucidate the biological mechanisms underlying individual susceptibility to dermatophytosis and to explore its genetic associations with other diseases and traits. We performed a large-scale genome-wide association meta-analysis of dermatophytosis infections with over 250,000 cases and 1,370,000 controls using data from FinnGen, Estonian Biobank, UK Biobank and Million Veterans Program. We identified 30 genome-wide significant loci including seven missense variants and two variants in high linkage disequilibrium with missense variants. The strongest associations were with variants within or closest toZNF646(p = 6.60×10−79, beta = 0.07),HLA-DQB1(p = 1.42×10−36, beta = 0.05),FLG(p = 1.96×10−27, beta = −0.22),FTO(p = 5.75×10−26, beta = −0.04),SLURP2(p = 3.33×10−24, beta = 0.04) andKRT77(p = 1.28×10−15, beta = 0.03) genes. Overall, our findings implicate keratin lifecycle and skin integrity, immune defense, and obesity as risk factors for dermatophytosis. Our findings highlight the clinical comorbidities with other skin diseases and with high BMI and identify novel genetic variants some of which are novel candidates for managing dermatophytosis infection.
Reduced brain structural similarity is associated with maturation, neurobiological features, and clinical status in schizophrenia
Authors: García-San-Martín Natalia , Bethlehem Richard AI , Mihalik Agoston , Seidlitz Jakob , Sebenius Isaac , Alemán-Morillo Claudio , Dorfschmidt Lena , Shafiei Golia , Morgan Sarah E. , Ruiz-Veguilla Miguel , Ayesa-Arriola Rosa , Vázquez-Bourgon Javier , Misic Bratislav , Suckling John , Crespo-Facorro Benedicto , Romero-García Rafael
Published: November 2024

Schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) are characterized by atypical brain maturation, including reduced structural similarity between regions. However, the maturational and neurobiological underpinnings of the complex interactions between abnormal development and network reorganization remain poorly characterized. Using structural MRI data from 195 healthy controls (HC) and 352 individuals with SSD, we constructed individual Morphometric INverse Divergence (MIND) networks. Compared to HC, individuals with SSD exhibited reduced structural similarity in the temporal and cingulate lobes, with more pronounced reductions in individuals exhibiting a ‘poor’ clinical status (more impaired cognitive functioning and more severe symptomatology). These alterations in MIND networks were associated with cortical hierarchy and maturational events, locating MIND reductions in higher-order association areas that predominantly mature later. Finally, we mapped 46 neurobiological features from healthy individuals onto MIND networks revealing a high presence of neurotransmitters, astrocytes, and microglia, along with decreased metabolism and microstructure, in regions with reduced similarity in SSD. Taken together, these findings provide evidence on the complex interplay between structural dysconnectivity, maturational events, and the underlying neurobiology in determining clinical status of individuals with SSD.