bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved ability of liposomes to encapsulate ascorbic acid via coating with xanthan gum
Authors: Li Zemin , Zhou Xianghuai , Pan Min-hsiung , Chiou Yi-shiou , Ding Baomiao
Published: January 2025

The ability of liposomes (LP) to entrap ascorbic acid (AA) was improved via coating with xanthan gum (XG). The encapsulation efficiency of AA liposomes (AA-LP) increased from 29.7% to 76.2%, and their retention ratio in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids reduced from 43.0% to 29.4% and 78.56% to 49.2%, respectively, after coating with XG, indicating that AA-LP stability was effectively increased. XG-AA-LP zeta potential and particle size increased from −29.4 mV to −51.6 mV and 240.9 nm to 291.4 nm, respectively. The increase in XG-AA-LP P values indicated that XG inhibited the movement of phospholipids, leading to a decrease in phospholipid bilayer mobility. Furthermore, FTIR results implied that noncovalent bonding forces such as hydrogen bonding, electrostatic forces, etc. played crucial roles in the binding of XG to AA-Lip, and DSC results indicated that the thermal stability of LP increased after coating with XG. TEM results signified that some irregular substances bound to the surface of AA-LP and the liposome particles became larger compared to those of AA-LP, and the surface of AA-LP was coated with XG. These findings suggest that XG coating can be an effective strategy to develop LP ability to deliver AA and to increase AA-LP stability.
Dough rheology properties as affected by the inclusion of oat-drink residue flour: a multivariate analysis approach
Authors: Rashed Mahmoud Said , Gallagher Eimear , Frias Jesus M , Pojić Milica , Pathania Shivani
Published: January 2025

The global shift towards plant-based food consumption presents significant environmental benefits, yet the consequential rise in related by-products sill imposes a challenge to be addressed. The present work was carried out to evaluate the rheological properties of bread dough as affected by the incorporation of dry fractionated oat-drink residue flours as a functional ingredient to identify the optimum condition for incorporating fibre-rich ingredients in bakery products. Mechanically dry fractionated dried oat-drink residue flour of particle size F1: > 150, F2: 150–224, F3: 224-300 μm were blended with strong wheat flour at 10 and 20% substitution levels of the wheat flour. The resulting doughs were assessed for their rheological characteristics. Results from Mixolab®, Rapid Visco Analyser, and gel texture properties revealed that 10F3 showed the highest peak viscosity; 20F2 exhibited the highest water absorption value (66.7%), whereas 20F2 showed the lowest gel hardness level compared to control (100% wheat flour). Principal component analysis showed that the specific surface area of the flour composite is a key feature determining dough rheological properties. Additionally, cluster analysis results revealed that, within measured parameters, flour-pasting properties are the most representative of the flour composite characteristics. Moreover, the analysis was able to discriminate between different flour composites based on their rheological properties. The TOPSIS- Shannon entropy approach was used to increase the inclusion level of non-wheat components in the bread formulations while maintaining the structural quality of the bread. The comparison between different flour composites via TOPSIS analysis revealed that 10F2 was the best formulation in terms of instrumental quality properties of resultant bread among other flour composites. It was observed that the effect of inclusion level outweighs the effect of particle size distribution on incorporated fibre-rich ingredients in terms of affecting the texture quality characteristics of resultant bread. Results highlight the potential application of fractionated oat-drink residue flour for blending with wheat flour properties for to produce fibre-rich bakery products.
Carvacrol encapsulated in chia mucilage nanocapsules reduces salmonella population in chicken meat
Authors: Cacciatore Fabíola Ayres , Scherer Alina , Brandelli Adriano , da Silva Malheiros Patrícia
Published: January 2025

Salmonella contamination in poultry products remains a significant concern worldwide, affecting food safety and public health. In this study, carvacrol encapsulated in chia mucilage nanocapsules (CMNP) was tested against a cocktail of Salmonella enterica artificially inoculated into chicken meat. The Bactericidal Inactivation Concentration (BIC) of CMNP and carvacrol emulsion (CE) was 0.92 mg/mL and 1.77 mg/mL, respectively, while no inhibitory effect was observed for unloaded nanocapsules (UCMN). A reduction of approximately 2 log CFU/g in the viable Salmonella count was observed in 0.25 h when CMNP was applied and remained constant for 72 h. For CE, the maximum reduction (1.7 log CFU/g) occurred at 6 h and, for UCMN, the peak reduction in the viable Salmonella count occurred after 2 h (0.7 log CFU/g). The colour of all the samples after the experiments was whitish, like that of cooked chicken. The texture of the samples exposed to 48 h and 72 h of contact showed significant variations. Despite this, CMNP has the potential to be used as an antimicrobial in processed chicken foods, such as nuggets or burgers, considering that changes in colour and texture may not be visually noticeable after heat treatment.
Dynamic changes in primary and secondary metabolites of monascal brown rice through γ-aminobutyric acid microcapsule supplementation and untargeted metabolomic analysis
Authors: Uthai Narissara , Nuclear Paulwatt , Kraboun Kitisart
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to study the effect of modification of monascal brown rice (MBR) solid-state fermentation through supplementation of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) microcapsules from the emulsification/internal gelation technique on dynamic changes in primary and secondary metabolites during 25-day fermentation to conduct metabolomic analysis. During MBR fermentation, the d50 values of GABA microcapsules increased due to their swelling during the MBR fermentation. The lowest encapsulation efficiency (EE%) and highest cumulative release (CR%) of GABA microcapsules found after 25 days of the fermentation were 40.18% and 89.13%, respectively. It was an interesting point that supplementation of microencapsulated GABA into MBR substrate could expand the stationary phase (days 10–20 of the fermentation) of M. purpureus growth curve compared to the control (days 10–15 of the fermentation). During the stationary phase, the concentrations of alanine, phenylalanine, arginine, tyrosine, and tryptophan in MBR fermentation with GABA microcapsule supplementation rose by more than 1.2-fold relative to the control, whereas linolenic acid, linoleic acid, and oleic acid demonstrated increases of over 1.24, 1.31, and 1.42-fold, respectively. Following a 25-day fermentation period, the maximum concentration of GABA detected in the MBR supplemented with GABA microcapsules was 1,267.13 mg/kg, in comparison to the control. Considering HCA and variable importance in projection (VIP), the primary metabolites MBR from GABA microcapsule supplementation positively correlated with days 10 and 15 of the fermentation but days 20 and 25 of the fermentation for the secondary metabolites. The significant metabolic pathways based on the primary and secondary metabolites of MBR from GABA microcapsule supplementation were 1. starch and sucrose metabolism, 2. neomycin, kanamycin, and gentamicin biosynthesis, 3. biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, 4. phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis, 5. arginine and proline metabolism, 6. citrate cycle (TCA cycle), 7. fructose and mannose metabolism, and 8. pyruvate metabolism.
Breast cancer surveillance for epithelial ovarian cancer patients with BRCA1 and BRCA2 pathogenic variants: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Hasegawa-Minato Junko , Tochigi Mikako , Miyahara Shuko , Kudo Kei , Shibuya Yusuke , Hashimoto Chiaki , Ishibashi Masumi , Shigeta Shogo , Tokunaga Hideki , Shimada Muneaki
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To identify a method for breast cancer (BC) surveillance in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) with germline BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants (gBRCA1/2m) and the incidence of BC after EOC in the era of broad PARP inhibitors use.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data on EOC patients who had gBRCA1/2m by genetic testing between January 2017 and August 2023 in our single center.

Results

Of 125 patients with EOC, 33 had gBRCA1/2m. Of these, 27 (81.8%) underwent BC surveillance, 20 ultrasound and/or mammography, and seven magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The median time from EOC diagnosis to the initiation of BC surveillance was 8 months. EOC recurrence was significantly lower in the group with MRI than in the group without MRI (no case vs. 10 cases, P = .0261). The duration from EOC diagnosis to the start of BC surveillance was longer in the group with MRI than in the group without MRI (21 vs. 7 months, P = .1033). Two (6.1%) patients developed BC after EOC. Both cases were early stage, triple-negative BCs that occurred more than 3 years after the diagnosis of stage III EOC.

Conclusions

With the advent of PARP inhibitors, long-term survival is expected to increase, and a certain number of patients with EOC after initial treatment may benefit from BC surveillance using MRI. In particular, BC surveillance with MRI may be considered for patients who have not experienced EOC recurrence for more than 2 years.
Cryptic circulation of chikungunya virus in Côte d’Ivoire revealed by sentinel travellers, 2023–24
Authors: Pezzi Laura , Modenesi Gabriella , Ayhan Nazli , Verdurme Laura , Brichler Ségolène , Mansuy Jean-Michel , Izopet Jacques , Mailhe Morgane , Lariven Sylvie , Duvignaud Alexandre , Zemali Nael , Ramière Christophe , Icard Vinca , Bravy Véronique , Fournet Nelly , Idrissi Ayoub , Zhu-Soubise Aurélien , Piorkowski Géraldine , Amaral Rayane , Carrara Madeleine , Fontaine Albin , Tarantola Arnaud , Grard Gilda , Durand Guillaume André , Fournier Lucie , Paty Marie-Claire , de Lamballerie Xavier , Klitting Raphaëlle
Published: January 2025

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is known to circulate in Africa, but there is little evidence of CHIKV transmission in Côte d’Ivoire. Using genomic data, we linked CHIKV cases imported in France from Côte d’Ivoire to a lineage from the West African genotype, likely been circulating in the country since July 2021.
Super-resolution expansion microscopy in plant roots
Authors: Gallei Michelle , Truckenbrodt Sven , Kreuzinger Caroline , Inumella Syamala , Vistunou Vitali , Sommer Christoph , Tavakoli Mojtaba R , Agudelo Dueñas Nathalie , Vorlaufer Jakob , Jahr Wiebke , Randuch Marek , Johnson Alexander , Benková Eva , Friml Jiří , Danzl Johann G
Published: January 2025

Super-resolution methods provide far better spatial resolution than the optical diffraction limit of about half the wavelength of light (∼200-300 nm). Nevertheless, they have yet to attain widespread use in plants, largely due to plants’ challenging optical properties. Expansion microscopy improves effective resolution by isotropically increasing the physical distances between sample structures while preserving relative spatial arrangements and clearing the sample. However, its application to plants has been hindered by the rigid, mechanically cohesive structure of plant tissues. Here, we report on whole-mount expansion microscopy of thale cress (Arabidopsis thaliana) root tissues (PlantEx), achieving a four-fold resolution increase over conventional microscopy. Our results highlight the microtubule cytoskeleton organization and interaction between molecularly defined cellular constituents. Combining PlantEx with stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy, we increase nanoscale resolution and visualize the complex organization of subcellular organelles from intact tissues by example of the densely packed COPI-coated vesicles associated with the Golgi apparatus and put these into a cellular structural context. Our results show that expansion microscopy can be applied to increase effective imaging resolution in Arabidopsis root specimens.
Mutagenicity and carcinogenicity prediction of sugar substitutes: an in silico approach with compound-gene interactions network
Authors: Arulanandam Charli Deepak , Babu Venkatadri , Soorni Yugendhar , Prathiviraj Ragothaman
Published: January 2025

Sugar substitutes are mostly artificial, man-made industrial products used as additives in food and beverages. Most of these substances flow through the digestive tract and food chains, becoming emerging organic contaminants in various abiotic and biotic environmental media. Here, we predict the mutagenicity and carcinogenicity of commonly used sugar substitutes using in silico based methods. The simplified molecular-input line-entry system (SMILES) of sugar substitutes was obtained from the PubChem database for toxicity predictions. Here, sixteen sugar substitutes tested out of these four compounds Glucin (GLU), and 5-nitro-2-propoxyaniline (P-4000), SCL, Ace were predicted as mutagens by using in silico tools such as LAZAR, pKCSM, and Toxtree. Based on the predicted results GLU and P-4000 were predicted as carcinogenic sugar substitutes. Also the study conducted compound gene interaction network to identify the direct connection between sugar substitutes and its corresponding receptors.
Systematics of the colour-polymorphic spider genus Cybaeolus, with comments on the phylogeny of the family Hahniidae (Araneae)
Authors: Burgo Agustina , Catley Kefyn , Grismado Cristian J , Dupérré Nadine , Benjamin Suresh P , Hormiga Gustavo , Griswold Charles , Martínez Leonel , Ramírez Martín J
Published: January 2025

We revise the spider genus Cybaeolus Simon, 1884, endemic to Chile and Argentina, including three species, Cybaeolus delfini (Simon, 1904), Cybaeolus pusillus Simon, 1884, and Cybaeolus rastellus (Roth, 1967). The genus Clitistes Simon, 1902 is synonymized with Cybaeolus, and its type species Clitistes velutinus Simon, 1902 is synonymized with Cybaeolus pusillus. We provide a phylogenetic analysis of Cybaeolus and representatives of Hahniidae and outgroups, using molecular markers. Because Cybaeolus is nested within Hahniinae, we synonymize the subfamily Cybaeolinae Lehtinen, 1967 with Hahniinae Bertkau, 1878, and provide an updated diagnosis of Hahniidae using characters of the male palp and spinning organs. We trace the evolution of the characteristic transversal arrangement of spinnerets of hahniids; our results indicate that the grouped spinnerets of Cybaeolus, as well as the presence of many piriform gland spigots, is a reversion to the ancestral state found in outgroups. The morphology of the male palp of hahniids suggests that the tibial retrolateral apophysis of the male is a functional conductor of the intrommittent organ during mating. We document the colour polymorphism of the three species of Cybaeolus, which is unrelated to geographic location and time of collection, and similar morphs occur in both sexes of different species.
The Impact of Modifier-22 on Reimbursement Following Acetabular Fracture Fixation
Authors: Bischoff Caleb J. , Rucinski Kylee , Hoskins Wayne , Haase Douglas R. , Bellamy Jaime L.
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVES:

The 22-modifier in the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) system indicates increased surgical procedure complexity, aiming to secure greater reimbursement for surgeons. This study investigated the 22-modifier on reimbursement amounts after acetabular fracture fixation.

METHODS:

Design: Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Academic Level I Trauma Center.

Patient Selection Criteria:

Included were patients with third party reimbursement for acute acetabular fracture (AO/OTA 62A-C) fixation through an open approach from 2005 to 2021 as identified using CPT codes 27226, 27227 and 27228.

Outcome Measures and Comparisons:

Chart review identified procedures where the 22-modifier for obesity or fracture complexity was applied. A cohort without the 22-modifier matched by diagnosis, primary CPT code and insurance carrier was made for comparison. The primary outcome measure was the difference in financial reimbursement when the 22-modifier was used. Secondary outcomes were the difference in billed charges and operative time.

RESULTS:

A total of 785 cases were initially identified with 747 meeting the inclusion criteria, and 73 having the 22-modifier applied. After removing surgeries that did not receive compensation from their insurance, 52 of these patients were compared to 52 matched cases without a 22-modifier. The 22-modifier group and the non-modifier group had no significant difference in reimbursed amounts ($4,112.71 USD vs. $3,851.00, p = 0.644). However, patients in the 22-modifier group had significantly greater billed charges ($8,007.35 vs. $7,120.94 USD; p = 0.0096), longer operative times (301.7 vs. 240.2 minutes, p < 0.001) and greater body mass index (BMI) (43.1 vs 29.3 kg/m2; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Despite increased complexity and greater billed charges, the use of a 22-modifier in acetabular fracture cases did not result in improved collected reimbursements, and reimbursement is equal to when the 22-modifier is not used. Policymakers and insurers should revise reimbursement structures to better align reimbursements for acetabular fixation with surgical complexity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Level III
The Complete Blood Count Sepsis Index Using Monocyte Distribution Width for Early Detection of Sepsis in Patients Without Obvious Signs
Authors: Levin Scott , Sarani Nima , Hinson Jeremiah , Naiman Melissa , Cannon Chad , Smith Aria , Steinhart Benjamin , DeBraine Arnaud , Kehoe Sarah , Immhoff Bryan , Taribichi Yasir , Malinovska Alexandra , Badaki-Makun Kemi
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVES:

Exploiting the complete blood count (CBC) with differential (CBC-diff) for early sepsis detection has practical value for emergency department (ED) care, especially for those without obvious presentations. The objective of this study was to develop the CBC Sepsis Index (CBC-SI) that incorporates monocyte distribution width (MDW) to enhance rapid sepsis screening.

DESIGN:

A retrospective observational study.

SETTING:

The ED of the University of Kansas Medical Center, United States.

PATIENTS:

All adult patients (age 18 or over) presenting to the ED between August 8, 2020, and April 1, 2022, that received a CBC-diff as part of routine clinical care.

INTERVENTIONS:

MDW, WBC count, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were used to develop a CBC-SI (0 low to 5 high risk) for early sepsis detection. The diagnostic performance of CBC-SI was evaluated for patients with and without obvious early signs of sepsis.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

In a cohort of 51,407 ED visits, 1,683 (3.3%) met sepsis criteria; 1,343 (79.8%) septic patients presented with obvious signs and 340 (20.2%) without. The overall area under the curve of the CBC-SI was 0.83 (95% CI, 0.81–0.85). A CBC-SI of greater than or equal to 1 point exhibited a sensitivity of 83.1% (95% CI, 79.9–86.2%) and specificity of 64.8% (95% CI, 64.0–65.5%). Superior performance was observed in the patient subgroup presenting without obvious signs; greater than or equal to 1 point, 81.1% (95% CI, 73.2–88.9%) sensitivity and 69.1% (95% CI, 68.3–69.9%) specificity. Septic patients without obvious signs exhibited delays in antibiotic administration from arrival (median 4.7 vs. 3.4 hr; p < 0.001) and higher rates of ICU admission (43.8% vs. 27.9%; p < 0.001) and in-hospital mortality (14.7% vs. 9.8%; p = 0.011) compared with the septic subgroup presenting with obvious signs.

CONCLUSIONS:

The CBC-SI demonstrated strong performance for early sepsis detection. Its performance was best for nonobvious presentations, suggesting highest utility in a subgroup that is most susceptible to delayed interventions and poorer outcomes.
Disorders of Lymphatic Architecture and Flow in Critical Illness
Authors: Itkin Maxim , Horak Jiri , Pascual Jose L. , Chang Cherylee W. J. , Lile Deacon , Tomita Beverly , Bass Gary Alan , Kovach Stephen J. , Kaplan Lewis J.
Published: January 2025

Objectives:

To provide a narrative review of disordered lymphatic dynamics and its impact on critical care relevant condition management.

Data Sources:

Detailed search strategy using PubMed and Ovid Medline for English language articles (2013–2023) describing congenital or acquired lymphatic abnormalities including lymphatic duct absence, injury, leak, or obstruction and their associated clinical conditions that might be managed by a critical care medicine practitioner.

Study Selection:

Studies that specifically addressed abnormalities of lymphatic flow and their management were selected. The search strategy time frame was limited to the last 10 years to enhance relevance to current practice.

Data Extraction:

Relevant descriptions or studies were reviewed, and abstracted data were parsed into structural or functional etiologies, congenital or acquired conditions, and their management within critical care spaces in an acute care facility.

Data Synthesis:

Abnormal lymph flow may be identified stemming from congenital lymphatic anomalies including lymphatic structure absence as well as acquired obstruction or increased flow from clinical entities or acute therapy. Macro- and microsurgical as well as interventional radiological techniques may address excess, inadequate, or obstructed lymph flow. Patients with deranged lymph flow often require critical care, and those who require critical care may concomitantly demonstrate deranged lymph flow that adversely impacts care.

Conclusions:

Critical care clinicians ideally demonstrate functional knowledge of conditions that are directly related to, or are accompanied by, deranged lymphatic dynamics to direct timely diagnostic and therapeutic interventions during a patient’s ICU care episode.
Innovations in Nipple-areolar Complex Reconstruction: Evaluation of a New Prosthesis
Authors: Riccio Michele , Aquinati Angelica , Fordellone Mario , Carboni Nicola , Marchesini Andrea , De Francesco Francesco
Published: January 2025

Background:

The reconstruction of the nipple-areola complex (NAC) is a crucial step for completing breast restoration with patient satisfaction. Surgical reconstruction or tattooing of the NAC may not be preferable or feasible for some patients. There is no universal method for NAC that is ideal for every patient or clinical situation. Various approaches often do not maintain projection over time. Over time, several techniques have been perfected, including the C-V flap, to improve and support projection for patients with bilateral implant-based reconstructions.

Methods:

We used, for the first time, prosthetic devices for NAC reconstruction and examined the safety of these devices associated with ease of implantation and patient satisfaction levels using a survey conducted during a 1-year follow-up. We enrolled 20 individuals who opted for these NAC prostheses following unilateral or bilateral breast reconstruction and following NAC excision.

Results:

Ninety percent of the participants expressed satisfaction or high satisfaction with the appearance and balance of the new NAC. The prosthetics enhanced the overall body self-image and self-regard of all the study participants. Except for 4 patients, there were no reports of skin adverse reactions, infections, or erosion.

Conclusions:

Encouraged by these auspicious outcomes that indicate a significant rate of safety and satisfaction, we believe that this straightforward, noninvasive, affordable medical device deserves consideration as a reconstructive option for all patients seeking breast reconstruction, promoting full body integrity.
Penile Reconstruction in Aphallia: Modification of the De Castro Technique With Large Tissue Expander
Authors: Chen Joanna , Bautista Catherine H. , Patel Ashraf , French Mackenzie M. , Mienko Anna , Schaeffer Anthony J. , Wallis M. Chad , Gociman Barbu
Published: January 2025

Aphallia is an exceedingly rare congenital malformation. The condition is the result of a sporadic anatomic anomaly during fetal development in a 46, XY male patient with otherwise normal functioning testes and male sexual hormone metabolism. Neophallus reconstruction using the De Castro phalloplasty technique is currently the most accepted treatment modality for this condition. However, most case reports in the literature do not use tissue expansion. To achieve a larger neophallus and possibly decrease the need for secondary phalloplasty postpuberty, tissue expansion should be a standardized adjunct to the De Castro procedure in the management of all patients with congenital aphallia.
Revisiting Fat Graft Harvesting and Processing Technique to Optimize Its Regenerative Potential
Authors: Karina Karina , Biben Johannes A. , Ekaputri Krista , Krisandi Grady , Rosadi Imam , Sobariah Siti , Afini Irsyah , Widyastuti Tias , Zakiyah Alfida , Ernanda Difky
Published: January 2025

Background:

The use of fat grafting has expanded to include cell and tissue regeneration, necessitating investigations to ensure the viability of stromal and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) within the transferred fat parcels. This study explored the impact of harvesting technique and centrifugation on the viability of stromal cells and ASCs in lipoaspirate.

Methods:

Fat was harvested from patients undergoing fat grafting using 2 types of liposuction cannula: (A) a 3-mm blunt tip cannula with 3 smooth holes and (B) a 2.4-mm, sharp point port, multihole blunt tip cannula. Fat from cannula B underwent different processing methods: no centrifugation, 300g, 600g, and 900g centrifugation. Stromal cells were isolated, quantified, and evaluated for viability. ASCs were cultured from these samples to confirm survival.

Results:

Lipoaspirates from 21 patients were analyzed. The mean stromal cell counts were 0.937 × 109 ± 0.346 × 109/mL for cannula A and 0.734 × 109 ± 0.266 × 109/mL for cannula B (P = 0.684), with viabilities of 98.79% and 98.22% (P = 0.631), respectively. ASCs isolated and after 2-passage culture were also higher for cannula A. Stromal cell quantification and viability were lowest in the noncentrifuged group (P < 0.05) and highest in the 600g centrifugation group.

Conclusions:

Fat harvesting using cannulas A and B showed no significant difference in stromal cell yield or viability. Handheld syringe liposuction preserved stromal vascular fraction cell and ASC viability. Centrifugation at different speeds did not significantly affect stromal cell viability.
Fat Grafting With Lymphedema Fat: From Trash to Treasure?
Authors: Hartiala Pauliina , Steiner Aida K. , Niemi Tarja
Published: January 2025

Liposuction is a common procedure for patients with lymphedema with nonpitting adipose tissue hypertrophy. However, routinely, the lipoaspirate is discarded. Experimental studies have shown that adipose-derived stem cells in fat may enhance the regenerative and lymphangiogenic effects of the fat. Recent evidence has shown that lymphedema fat is enriched in adipose-derived stem cell populations, thus making it an interesting regenerative option. This article introduces a novel surgical technique using the lipoaspirate of a patient with lymphedema for regenerative purposes. A 42-year-old woman developed lymphedema 18 months after mastectomy and axillary lymph node dissection surgery. The patient underwent upper limb liposuction and latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction of the breast. Lipofilling of the flap and axillary area after scar release was performed using suctioned lymphedema fat. The results showed a sustained reduction in the volume of the lymphedema arm, an improved lymphatic transport index, decreased fluid extravasation, and new lymphatics in the upper arm. At 64-month follow-up, the patient had good breast symmetry, had minimal swelling of the lymphedema arm, and rarely used compression garments. This report is the first to use lymphedema fat for regenerative purposes, differentiating it from existing literature that uses healthy fat. In conclusion, successful dual-effect fat grafting with lymphedema fat presents a promising avenue for further investigation. This innovative approach addresses breast cancer-related lymphedema and offers potential benefits in regenerative and lymphangiogenic effects without the need for microsurgical expertise. This case report emphasizes the importance of exploring this novel option for future research and clinical applications.
Nuclear Waste Tank Emission Contributions to Particle Size Distribution
Authors: Matthews Brianna H. , Noble Stephen
Published: January 2025

Pollutants from anthropogenic activities including industrial processes are ubiquitous to the environment. To understand the impact from industrial aerosol on climate and human health, industrial aerosol needs to be better characterized. In this study, particle number concentrations were used as a proxy for atmospheric pollutants, which include both particles and gases. Particle concentration and size distribution were measured using a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) approximately 4.5 km from primary industrial areas at the Savannah River Site in Aiken, SC. Industrial areas include numerous nuclear waste storage and processing tanks. The SMPS data were divided into two groups depending on the wind direction measured onsite to categorize transport from the industrial area or from elsewhere. Industrial contributions were found to have a higher concentration of particles with sizes less than 200 nm, 859 ± 564 cm−3
, in comparison to non-industrial attributed particles, 733 ± 495 cm−3
on average from March-July 2021. For sizes larger than 200 nm, industrial and non-industrial particles have a similar concentration, 89 ± 59 cm−3
and 99 ± 61 cm−3
, with non-industrial concentrations being slightly larger. To confirm that industrial particles could travel to the sampling location, air dispersion modeling was completed for specific case studies during the sampling period. The atmospheric dispersion modeling results confirmed that particles released at the industrial areas reached the sampling location when the wind direction was favorable for transport from the industrial areas. The greater concentration of smaller-sized particles in industrial emissions has implications for typical particulate measurements (PM2.5), heath impacts, and climatological influences.
Hispanic survival paradox: a systematic review of short-term hospital readmissions among Hispanic kidney transplant recipients in the United States
Authors: Meléndez Grecia B. Vargas , Jopson Andrew D. , Alvarado Flor , Gaskin Darrell J. , Purnell Tanjala S.
Published: January 2025

Purpose of review

The epidemiologic phenomenon known as the “Hispanic paradox” postulates that Hispanic/Latino Americans generally tend to live longer than other racial/ethnic communities, despite facing many socioeconomic disadvantages and other healthcare barriers. Whether this phenomenon is relevant among kidney transplantation (KT) recipients remains unclear. To investigate the possibility of a Hispanic mortality advantage, we conducted a systematic review of the published literature comparing short-term KT outcomes (first 12-months) for US Hispanic versus non-Hispanic White KT recipients.

Recent findings

This systematic review summarizes recent findings from sixteen observational retrospective cohort studies that met our study criteria. Study sample sizes ranged from 42 to 244 037 total KT recipients and examined data between 2005 and 2022. Compared to their Non-Hispanic comparator, the Hispanic sub-samples were more likely to be younger, spend more time on dialysis, and less likely to receive preemptive transplant or living donation. Hispanic KT recipients experienced similar or more favorable outcomes in eleven studies (ten studies examining patient and graft survival, one study examining readmissions), but only three studies with statistical significance.

As the US Hispanic and Latino population continues to grow into the diverse American melting pot, this review highlights the need for better approaches to studying racial and ethnic variables within kidney transplantation.
Examining the feasibility of cognitive bias modification for patients with cancer and survivors in 3 independent pilot studies
Authors: Tenschert Demi D. , Wilbers Joyce , Eichelsheim Patrick , Delbressine Valerie , Schenkel Edwin , Custers José A. E. , Prins Judith B. , van de Wouw Agnes J. , Blijlevens Nicole M. A. , Loonen Jacqueline J. , Tendolkar Indira , Vrijsen Janna N.
Published: January 2025

Objective:

Cancer comes with considerable psychological and emotional distress, which can persist long after initial treatment. Yet, few digital interventions targeting emotional distress are available for patients with cancer and survivors. Cognitive bias modification (CBM) is a digital intervention designed to reduce emotional distress by repeatedly training automatic processing of positive and disease-specific information. We examined the feasibility, safety, and clinical potential of CBM as secondary prevention of psychiatric disorders.

Methods:

Three independent pilot studies were conducted in samples with emotional distress: (i) patients newly diagnosed with hematological cancer at the start of their treatment, (ii) patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy, and (iii) cancer survivors ≥5 years after curative treatment receiving long-term survivorship care. Within each study, patients were randomized to either receive four sessions of computer-based active or control CBM or a nonintervention condition. Self-report measures of emotional distress were administered before, directly after, and one week after the intervention. Intervention feasibility and safety were assessed, as well as the direction of symptom change.

Results:

The intervention was deemed unfeasible in patients newly diagnosed with cancer and patients receiving chemotherapy. In cancer survivors, however, the intervention was well tolerated and possibly clinically relevant. The intervention was considered safe for all three populations.

Conclusions:

CBM can be considered as a possible secondary prevention digital intervention for cancer survivors. The intervention seems inappropriate for patients with cancer receiving treatment, possibly because the treatment phase itself is too impactful. Future research could examine the preventative potential of CBM in a clinical trial in cancer survivors.
The Biomechanical Properties of A Modified Distraction Device Used in Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis for Craniofacial Microsomia Patients: A Simulation Finite Element Analysis Study
Authors: Liu Anna , Huang Changjin , Liu Wei , Tang Xiaojun
Published: January 2025

Objective:

Finite element analysis (FEA) of the biomechanical properties of the modified extraoral distractor device used in the mandibular distraction of craniofacial microsomia patients.

Materials and Methods:

Finite element analysis (FEA) models of 5 patients under 2 working conditions, the instance when the distractor is activated and when the distractor participates in mastication, were included in the current study. To conduct the FEA, load boundary conditions (35.6 N on the distractor for the first working condition and 50 N on the unoperated side, 100 N and 200 N on both sides for the second working condition) were applied. Besides, constraint boundary conditions and contact conditions were also applied.

Results:

With 5 or 3 bioabsorbable screws fixing the upper fixing plate, the maximal displacement of the mandible was <3 mm and the maximal stress distributed on distractor and bioabsorbable screws was less than the yield strength of corresponding materials under the 2 working conditions when setting 50 N on the unoperated side and 100 N on both sides for the second working condition. However, when setting 200 N on both sides for the second working condition, the maximal displacement of the mandible slightly increased, and stress distributed on distractor and bioabsorbable screws exceeded the yield strength of corresponding materials in some patients.

Conclusion:

In most cases, both 5 and 3 poly-L-lactic acidscrews could firmly fix the distractor on the mandible without plastic deformation, although the situation would be different when the mastication force was too powerful.
Association of Craniofacial Skeletal and Soft Tissue Characteristics With Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Age-specific and BMI-specific Patient Groups
Authors: Zhang Weikang , Zhang Hehe , Xi Xin , Wu Hao , Jiao Yuanni , Zhang Nan , Han Haiping , Xie Jiang
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

To identify the key craniofacial anatomic characteristics associated with the prevalence of severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patient cohorts stratified by age and body mass index (BMI).

Methods:

This prospective study was conducted at the Beijing Anzhen Hospital Center for Sleep Medicine and Science between December 2023 and March 2024. Patients suspected of having OSA underwent overnight polysomnography, along with computed tomography scans of the head and neck, to evaluate the skeletal and soft tissue characteristics. Multivariable analysis was conducted to explore the independent risk factors associated with the prevalence of severe OSA (apnea hypopnea index ≥30 events/h) after adjusting for age, sex, BMI, and neck circumference.

Results:

Among the 118 participants, 75 (63.6%) were diagnosed with severe OSA. Skeletal variables, such as vertical airway length, and soft tissue-related variables, like soft palate length, were independently correlated with the prevalence of severe OSA. Furthermore, subgroup analysis revealed that all skeletal variables and a few soft tissue parameters were associated with severe OSA in patients aged older than 40 years, whereas only a specific soft tissue variable was independently associated with the occurrence of severe OSA in those aged younger than or equal to 40 years. In addition, certain soft tissue-related variables were notably associated with severe OSA in obese patients (BMI >28 kg/m2), whereas only specific skeletal variables were acted independent risk factors for severe OSA in non-obese patients (BMI ≤28 kg/m2).

Conclusion:

Craniofacial skeletal and soft tissue features play essential roles in the prevalence of severe OSA, with variations observed based on age and BMI.
Machine Learning for Predicting Primary Graft Dysfunction After Lung Transplantation: An Interpretable Model Study
Authors: Xia Wei , Liu Weici , He Zhao , Song Chenghu , Liu Jiwei , Chen Ruo , Chen Jingyu , Wang Xiaokun , Xu Hongyang , Mao Wenjun
Published: January 2025

Background.

Primary graft dysfunction (PGD) develops within 72 h after lung transplantation (Lung Tx) and greatly influences patients’ prognosis. This study aimed to establish an accurate machine learning (ML) model for predicting grade 3 PGD (PGD3) after Lung Tx.

Methods.

This retrospective study incorporated 802 patients receiving Lung Tx between July 2018 and October 2023 (640 in the derivation cohort and 162 in the external validation cohort), and 640 patients were randomly assigned to training and internal validation cohorts in a 7:3 ratio. Independent risk factors for PGD3 were determined by integrating the univariate logistic regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analyses. Subsequently, 9 ML models were used to construct prediction models for PGD3 based on selected variables. Their prediction performances were further evaluated. Besides, model stratification performance was assessed with 3 posttransplant metrics. Finally, the SHapley Additive exPlanations algorithm was used to understand the predictive importance of selected variables.

Results.

We identified 9 independent clinical risk factors as selected variables. Among 9 ML models, the random forest (RF) model displayed optimal performance (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.9415, sensitivity [Se] = 0.8972, specificity [Sp] = 0.8795 in the training cohort; AUC = 0.7975, Se = 0.7520, Sp = 0.7313 in the internal validation cohort; and AUC = 0.8214, Se = 0.8235, Sp = 0.6667 in the external validation cohort). Further assessments on calibration and clinical usefulness indicated the promising applicability of the RF model in PGD3 prediction. Meanwhile, the RF model also performed best in terms of risk stratification for postoperative support (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation time: P < 0.001, mechanical ventilation time: P = 0.006, intensive care unit time: P < 0.001).

Conclusions.

The RF model had the optimal performance in PGD3 prediction and postoperative risk stratification for patients after Lung Tx.
Germinal Center B Cells are Uniquely Targeted by Antibody-Suppressor CXCR5+CD8+ T Cells
Authors: Zimmerer Jason M. , Chaudhari Sachi , Koneru Kavya , Han Jing L. , Abdel-Rasoul Mahmoud , Uwase Hope , Yi Tai , Breuer Christopher K. , Bumgardner Ginny L.
Published: January 2025

Background.

Alloprimed antibody-suppressor CXCR5+CD8+ T cells (CD8+ TAb-supp cells) downregulate alloantibody production, mediate cytotoxicity of IgG+ B cells, and prolong allograft survival. The purpose of this investigation was to determine which immune-cell subsets are susceptible to CD8+ TAb-supp cell–mediated cytotoxicity or noncytotoxic suppression.

Methods.

Alloprimed immune-cell subsets were evaluated for susceptibility to CD8+ TAb-supp cell–mediated in vitro cytotoxicity and/or suppression of intracellular cytokine expression. In vivo CD8-mediated cytotoxicity to wild-type germinal center (GC) B cells or wild-type CD4+ T follicular helper cells (TFH cells) was assessed in RAG1 knockout mice. The impact of in vivo adoptive transfer of CD8+ TAb-supp cells into hepatocyte or kidney transplant recipients on the quantity of lymphoid immune-cell subsets was assessed.

Results.

CD8+ TAb-supp cells mediated allospecific cytotoxicity to alloprimed GC B cells but not alloprimed extrafollicular plasmablasts, marginal zone B cells, follicular B cells, or plasma cells. CD8+ TAb-supp cells did not mediate cytotoxicity to alloprimed dendritic cells, macrophages, CD4+ TFH cells, CD4+ T follicular regulatory cells, or CD4+ regulatory T cell. CD8+ TAb-supp cells did not suppress CD4+ TFH cell, T follicular regulatory cell, or regulatory T-cell cytokine expression. Adoptive transfer of CD8+ TAb-supp cells into hepatocyte or kidney transplant recipients reduced alloantibody production and the quantity of GC B cells, TFH cells, and plasma cells (but not other B-cell, T-cell, or antigen-presenting cell subsets). The reduction of TFH-cell quantity was dependent on CD8+ TAb-supp cell–mediated major histocompatibility complex-I-dependent cytotoxic killing of GC B cells.

Conclusions.

The primary targets of CD8+ TAb-supp cells are GC B cells with downstream reduction of TFH and plasma cells.
Genomic epidemiology of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli from humans and a river in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Gray Holly A. , Biggs Patrick J. , Midwinter Anne C. , Rogers Lynn E. , Fayaz Ahmed , Akhter Rukhshana N. , Burgess Sara A.
Published: January 2025

In Aotearoa New Zealand, urinary tract infections in humans are commonly caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli. This group of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria are often multidrug resistant. However, there is limited information on ESBL-producing E. coli found in the environment and their link with human clinical isolates. In this study, we examined the genetic relationship between environmental and human clinical ESBL-producing E. coli and isolates collected in parallel within the same area over 14 months. Environmental samples were collected from treated effluent, stormwater and multiple locations along an Aotearoa New Zealand river. Treated effluent, stormwater and river water sourced downstream of the treated effluent outlet were the main samples that were positive for ESBL-producing E. coli (7/14 samples, 50.0%; 3/6 samples, 50%; and 15/28 samples, 54%, respectively). Whole-genome sequence comparison was carried out on 307 human clinical and 45 environmental ESBL-producing E. coli isolates. Sequence type 131 was dominant for both clinical (147/307, 47.9%) and environmental isolates (11/45, 24.4%). Only one ESBL gene was detected in each isolate. Among the clinical isolates, the most prevalent ESBL genes were bla
CTX-M-27 (134/307, 43.6%) and bla
CTX-M-15 (134/307, 43.6%). Among the environmental isolates, bla
CTX-M-15 (28/45, 62.2%) was the most prevalent gene. A core SNP analysis of these isolates suggested that some strains were shared between humans and the local river. These results highlight the importance of understanding different transmission pathways for the spread of ESBL-producing E. coli.
Reconstructing whole-brain structure and dynamics using imaging data and personalized modeling
Authors: Fabbrizzi M. , Amato L.G. , Martinelli L. , Carpaneto J. , Bartolini E. , Calderoni S. , Retico A. , Vergani A. A. , Mazzoni A.
Published: January 2025

Brain structure plays a pivotal role in shaping neural dynamics. Current models lack the anatomical and functional resolution needed to accurately capture both structural and dynamical features of the human brain. Here, we introduce the FEDE (high FidElity Digital brain modEl) pipeline, generating anatomically accurate brain digital twins from imaging data. Using advanced techniques of anatomical tissue segmentation and finite-element analysis, FEDE reconstructs brain structure with high spatial resolution, while also replicating whole-brain neural activity. We demonstrated its application by creating the first brain digital twin of a toddler with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Through parameter optimization, FEDE replicated both time-frequency and spatial features of recorded neural activity. Notably, FEDE predicted patient-specific aberrant values of excitation to inhibition ratio, coherently with ASD pathophysiology. FEDE represents a significant leap forward in brain modeling, paving the way for more effective applications of digital twin in experimental and clinical settings.
ATR and PKMYT1 inhibition re-sensitize a subset of TNBC patient-derived models to carboplatin inducing mitotic catastrophe
Authors: Guay Juliet , Kuasne Hellen , Chabot Catherine , Bozek Kathryn , Majedi Yasamin , Buchanan Marguerite , Aguilar-Mahecha Adriana , Bareke Eric , Kong Tim , Yang Kangning , Elebute Oluwadara , Guo Ruining , Monast Anie , Morin Geneviève , Huang Sidong , Park Morag , Basik Mark
Published: January 2025

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with poor prognosis and is mainly treated with chemotherapy-based regimens, often including carboplatin. Resistance to carboplatin is a common clinical issue that is either initially present or develops with treatment. Overcoming this resistance is a significant clinical challenge, which highlights the need for novel therapeutic strategies. We used a pooled shRNA screening approach with a chemoresistant TNBC patient-derived xenograft (PDX) cell (PDXC) line to identify targets whose knockdown would enhance the efficacy of carboplatin. This screening led to the identification of the ATR (ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related) gene as a key therapeutic vulnerability. Inhibiting ATR with BAY1895344 or AZD6738 re-sensitized carboplatin-resistant PDXCs and PDXs to carboplatin, resulting in an increase in DNA damage, and apoptosis. ATR inhibition disrupts the dependence of carboplatin-resistant cells on the S and G2/M checkpoints for DNA repair, leading to mitotic catastrophe. We further found that the addition of ATR inhibitors to carboplatin reversed a FOXM1-targeted gene program enabling premature passage into mitosis. Moreover, targeting PKMYT1, a regulator of cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) controlling the G2/M checkpoint, through knockdown or with the novel PKMYT1 inhibitor RP-6306, also enhanced carboplatin efficacy in our TNBC PDXC. Molecular factors associated with response to the ATR inhibitor/carboplatin combination included low RNA levels of PKMYT1. These results underscore the pivotal roles of ATR and PKMYT1 in mediating resistance to carboplatin in TNBC and support targeting these pathways to overcome carboplatin resistance in this disease.