bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The carbon footprint associated with the overuse of short-acting β2-agonists in asthma patients
Authors: Chen Chao-Hsien , Lin I-Chih , Lai Chih-Cheng , Liu Hsing-hui , Wang Ya-Hui , Wang Cheng-Yi , Wang Hao-Chien
Published: November 2024

Background. In recent years, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from inhalers have received more attention. The inhalers are classified as controllers and relievers, which are mainly short-acting beta-agonists (SABA), and SABAs account for more than 50% of all inhaler use in most countries. The overuse of SABA is common in asthma patients, but the environmental impact related to these patients has not yet been studied. Methods. Asthma patients were retrieved from Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Database between 2011 and 2020. These patients were classified as SABA overuse (≥3 canisters annually) and controlled (<3 canisters annually) according to the 12-month baseline period, and the GHG emission in the following year was calculated. The propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance patients in two groups. Results. A total of 243,136 asthma patients were included for analysis. The annual mean GHG emission associated with the use of inhalers was 69.90 kg/person/year carbon dioxide equivalent in the SABA overuse group. After PSM, there were 22,605 patients in each group, and the mean GHG emission was 2.85 times higher in the SABA overuse group compared to the control group, which was due to both the increased use of SABAs and controller inhalers. Conclusion. The asthma patients who overused SABAs had a greater environmental impact compared to those with acceptable SABA use. It is essential to consider environmental implications when developing asthma treatments, and further research is needed on how to decrease the amount of GHG emissions from inhalers.
Learning continuous scattering length density profiles from neutron reflectivities using convolutional neural networks*
Authors: Qu Brian , Christakopoulos Panagiotis , Wang Hanyu , Keum Jong , Angelopoulou Polyxeni P , V Bonnesen Peter , Hong Kunlun , Doucet Mathieu , Browning James F , Fuentes-Cabrera Miguel , Kumar Rajeev
Published: November 2024

Interpreting neutron reflectivity (NR) data using ad hoc multi-layer models and physics-based models provides information about spatially resolved neutron scattering length density (NSLD) profiles. Recent improvements in data acquisition systems have allowed acquiring thousands of NR curves in a couple of hours, which has led to a need for automated data analysis tools to interpret NR measurements in real-time. Here, we present a machine learning analysis workflow that uses a series of models, based on a convolutional neural network (CNN), to learn the relation between the NSLDs and the NRs, and subsequently produce continuous NSLD profiles directly from NRs. The usefulness of our CNN-based models is demonstrated by constructing NSLDs from NRs of several films containing homopolymer polyzwitterions and diblock copolymers mixed with different types of salts. Comparisons of the NSLDs with those constructed using ad hoc multi-layer models reveal a very good agreement, suggesting the potential of CNN-based models for real-time automated data analysis of NRs.
Macrophage subtypes inhibit breast cancer proliferation in culture
Authors: Varady Sophia R. S. , Greiner Daniel , Roh-Johnson Minna
Published: November 2024

Macrophages are a highly plastic cell type that adopt distinct subtypes and functional states depending on environmental cues. These functional states can vary widely, with distinct macrophages capable of displaying opposing functions. We sought to understand how macrophage subtypes that exist on two ends of a spectrum influence the function of other cells. We used a coculture system with primary human macrophages to probe the effects of macrophage subtypes on breast cancer cell proliferation. Our studies revealed a surprising phenotype in which both macrophage subtypes inhibited cancer cell proliferation compared with cancer cells alone. Of particular interest, using two different proliferation assays with two different breast cancer cell lines, we showed that differentiating macrophages into a “protumor” subtype inhibited breast cancer cell proliferation. These findings are inconsistent with the prevailing interpretation that “protumor” macrophages promote cancer cell proliferation and suggest a re-evaluation of how these interpretations are made.
The Toxoplasma gondii homolog of ATPase inhibitory factor 1 is critical for mitochondrial cristae maintenance and stress response
Authors: Usey Madelaine M. , Ruberto Anthony A. , Parker Kaelynn V. , Huet Diego
Published: November 2024

The production of energy in the form of ATP by the mitochondrial ATP synthase must be tightly controlled. One well-conserved form of regulation is mediated via ATPase inhibitory factor 1 (IF1), which governs ATP synthase activity and gene expression patterns through a cytoprotective process known as mitohormesis. In apicomplexans, the processes regulating ATP synthase activity are not fully elucidated. Using the model apicomplexan Toxoplasma gondii, we found that knockout and overexpression of TgIF1, the structural homolog of IF1, significantly affected gene expression. Additionally, TgIF1 overexpression resulted in the formation of a stable TgIF1 oligomer and increased the presence of higher order ATP synthase oligomers. We also show that parasites lacking TgIF1 exhibit reduced mitochondrial cristae density, and that while TgIF1 levels do not affect growth in conventional culture conditions, they are crucial for parasite survival under hypoxia. Interestingly, TgIF1 overexpression enhances recovery from oxidative stress, suggesting a mitohormetic function. In summary, while TgIF1 does not appear to play a role in ATP synthase regulation under conventional growth conditions, our work uncovers its potential role in adapting to the stressors faced by T. gondii and other apicomplexans throughout their intricate life cycles.
Absurd and Holy Mystery
Authors: Insole Christopher J
Published: November 2024

There are significant common features to Albert Camus’ notion of the state of rebellion in relation to the absurd, and Karl Rahner’s notion of the pre-apprehension of holy mystery. Both arise from the collision between the subjective and objective perspectives upon ourselves, where, to give a complete account of our lives, both perspectives must be acknowledged, although we are unable successfully to reconcile the perspectives. The nub of the difference between the two thinkers is this: that where Rahner calls the irreducible confrontation ‘holy’, Camus calls it ‘absurd’. There is a ‘freedom of naming’: holy, or, absurd. Rahner embodies an attitude of worship, and Camus of vigilant rebellion. The chapter concludes with some lessons about the freedom of belief, and the humility and limitations of different types of thinking, specifically, those types of thinking that tend to be characterized as being cases of ‘reason’ or ‘philosophy’.
Deciphering the genetic interplay between depression and dysmenorrhea: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Shuhe , Wei Zhen , Carr Daniel F , Moraros John
Published: November 2024

Background

This study aims to explore the link between depression and dysmenorrhea by using an integrated and innovative approach that combines genomic, transcriptomic, and protein interaction data/information from various resources.

Methods

A two-sample, bidirectional, and multivariate Mendelian randomization (MR) approach was applied to determine causality between dysmenorrhea and depression. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) data were used to identify genetic variants associated with both dysmenorrhea and depression, followed by colocalization analysis of shared genetic influences. Expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) data were analyzed from public databases to pinpoint target genes in relevant tissues. Additionally, a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING database to analyze interactions among identified proteins.

Results

MR analysis confirmed a significant causal effect of depression on dysmenorrhea [‘odds ratio’ (95% confidence interval) = 1.51 (1.19, 1.91), P = 7.26 × 10−4]. Conversely, no evidence was found to support a causal effect of dysmenorrhea on depression (P = .74). Genetic analysis, using GWAS and eQTL data, identified single-nucleotide polymorphisms in several genes, including GRK4, TRAIP, and RNF123, indicating that depression may impact reproductive function through these genetic pathways, with a detailed picture presented by way of analysis in the PPI network. Colocalization analysis highlighted rs34341246(RBMS3) as a potential shared causal variant.

Conclusions

This study suggests that depression significantly affects dysmenorrhea and identifies key genes and proteins involved in this interaction. The findings underline the need for integrated clinical and public health approaches that screen for depression among women presenting with dysmenorrhea and suggest new targeted preventive strategies.
miCGR: interpretable deep neural network for predicting both site-level and gene-level functional targets of microRNA
Authors: Wu Xiaolong , Zhang Lehan , Tong Xiaochu , Wang Yitian , Zhang Zimei , Kong Xiangtai , Ni Shengkun , Luo Xiaomin , Zheng Mingyue , Tang Yun , Li Xutong
Published: November 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are critical regulators in various biological processes to cleave or repress translation of messenger RNAs (mRNAs). Accurately predicting miRNA targets is essential for developing miRNA-based therapies for diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. Traditional miRNA target prediction methods often struggle due to incomplete knowledge of miRNA-target interactions and lack interpretability. To address these limitations, we propose miCGR, an end-to-end deep learning framework for predicting functional miRNA targets. MiCGR employs 2D convolutional neural networks alongside an enhanced Chaos Game Representation (CGR) of both miRNA sequences and their candidate target site (CTS) on mRNA. This advanced CGR transforms genetic sequences into informative 2D graphical representations based on sequence composition and subsequence frequencies, and explicitly incorporates important prior knowledge of seed regions and subsequence positions. Unlike one-dimensional methods based solely on sequence characters, this approach identifies functional motifs within sequences, even if they are distant in the original sequences. Our model outperforms existing methods in predicting functional targets at both the site and gene levels. To enhance interpretability, we incorporate Shapley value analysis for each subsequence within both miRNA sequences and their target sites, allowing miCGR to achieve improved accuracy, particularly with more lenient CTS selection criteria. Finally, two case studies demonstrate the practical applicability of miCGR, highlighting its potential to provide insights for optimizing artificial miRNA analogs that surpass endogenous counterparts.
wQFM-DISCO: DISCO-enabled wQFM improves phylogenomic analyses despite the presence of paralogs
Authors: Hakim Sheikh Azizul , Ratul Md Rownok Zahan , Bayzid Md Shamsuzzoha
Published: November 2024

Motivation

Gene trees often differ from the species trees that contain them due to various factors, including incomplete lineage sorting (ILS) and gene duplication and loss (GDL). Several highly accurate species tree estimation methods have been introduced to explicitly address ILS, including ASTRAL, a widely used statistically consistent method, and wQFM, a quartet amalgamation approach experimentally shown to be more accurate than ASTRAL. Two recent advancements, ASTRAL-Pro and DISCO, have emerged in phylogenomics to consider GDL. ASTRAL-Pro introduces a refined quartet similarity measure, accounting for orthology and paralogy. On the other hand, DISCO offers a general strategy to decompose multi-copy gene trees into a collection of single-copy trees, allowing the utilization of methods previously designed for species tree inference in the context of single-copy gene trees.

Results

In this study, we first introduce some variants of DISCO to examine its underlying hypotheses and present analytical results on the statistical guarantees of DISCO. In particular, we introduce DISCO-R, a variant of DISCO with a refined and improved pruning strategy that provides more accurate and robust results. We then demonstrate with extensive evaluation studies on a collection of simulated and real data sets that wQFM paired with DISCO variants consistently matches or outperforms ASTRAL-Pro and other competing methods.

Availability and implementation

DISCO-R and other variants are freely available at https://github.com/skhakim/DISCO-variants.
Development of a large-scale rapid LAMP diagnostic testing platform for pandemic preparedness and outbreak response
Authors: van Beuningen Rinie , Jim Kin Ki , Boot Maikel , Ossendrijver Michel , Keijser Bart J F , van de Bovenkamp Jeroen H B , Melchers Willem J G , Kievits Tim
Published: November 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic underscored the necessity for rapid and efficient diagnostic testing to mitigate outbreaks and control disease transmission. While real-time reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) has been the gold standard due to its high sensitivity and specificity, its logistical complexities and extended turnaround times highlighted the need for alternative molecular methods and non-standard equipment and consumables not subject to supply chain pressure. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) offers several advantages over RT-qPCR, including faster processing time, assay flexibility and cost-effectiveness. During the pandemic, LAMP was successfully demonstrated as a viable alternative to RT-qPCR for SARS-Related Coronavirus 2 detection. However, due to a 100 to 1,000-fold increase in testing volumes, there was an imminent need for automating and scaling up existing LAMP testing workflows leveraging a robotic infrastructure, while retaining analytical performance and cost-effectiveness. In 2020, the Foundation TOMi started the “TOMi corona initiative” to develop and validate a high-throughput, end-to-end, automated, scalable single-step RNA purification, and LAMP-based COVID-19 testing system called SMART-LAMP (Scalable Molecular Automation for Rapid Testing using LAMP) that can process up to 40,000 samples per day using existing laboratory equipment infrastructure with sensitivity comparable to RT-qPCR. This system provides a rapid and scalable diagnostic solution for future pandemics, capable of processing over 40,000 samples per day. In addition, the system is designed to minimize consumable costs and reduces the overall use of plastics to align with increasingly strict sustainability goals that will be imposed over the coming years. Importantly, this system and public–private partnerships in the TOMi corona initiative has the potential to serve as a baseline to enhance pandemic preparedness and response capabilities.
Long-term follow-up of the conventional versus no-touch isolation technique for resection of primary colon cancer (JCOG1006): randomized clinical trial
Authors: Komori Koji , Takii Yasumasa , Mizusawa Junki , Kanemitsu Yukihide , Shiozawa Manabu , Ohue Masayuki , Ikeda Satoshi , Kobatake Takaya , Hamaguchi Tetsuya , Katayama Hiroshi , Fukuda Haruhiko
Published: November 2024

Background

The Japan Clinical Oncology Group (JCOG) 1006 was a phase III trial of patients with clinical T3/T4 colon cancer comparing the no-touch isolation technique (‘No Touch’) with the conventional technique (‘Conventional’). The planned primary analysis at 3 years failed to confirm the superiority of the No Touch over the ‘Conventional’. The present study aimed to compare the ‘No Touch’ and ‘Conventional’ using long-term (6-year) follow-up data.

Methods

Patients aged 20–80 years who had a clinical classification of T3–4, N0–2, and M0 with histologically proven colon cancer were randomly assigned (1 : 1) to undergo open surgery using ‘Conventional’ or ‘No Touch’ techniques. The primary endpoint was disease-free survival.

Results

In total, 853 patients from 30 institutions were assigned to the ‘Conventional’ (427) or ‘No Touch’ (426) groups between June 2011 and November 2015. The 6-year disease-free survival was 70.3% and 69.4% for ‘Conventional’ and ‘No Touch’ arms respectively (HR 1.030; 95% c.i. 0.813 to 1.304; one-sided P = 0.60). The 6-year overall survival was 89.4% and 86.6% respectively (HR 1.276; 95% c.i. 0.902 to 1.807). The 6-year relapse-free survival was 78.9% and 75.0% respectively (HR 1.209; 95% c.i. 0.920 to 1.589). The 6-year liver relapse-free survival was 85.1% and 80.2% respectively (HR 1.311; 95% c.i. 0.961 to 1.787).

Conclusion

Long-term follow-up data did not support the superiority of ‘No Touch’ over ‘Conventional’ technique in patients with stages II and III colon cancer. These study findings indicate that the conventional technique is still standard surgery for managing colon cancers.

Trial registration number

UMIN000004957
Knowledge, Values, and Preferences Regarding Contraceptive Choices Among Women Living With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Limdi Jimmy K , Rhodes Sarah , Liu Eleanor , Kuriakose Kuzhiyanjal Anish J , Brookes Matthew , Farraye Jennifer , Cannon Rachel , Woodhams Elisabeth , Farraye Francis A
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

Active inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) at conception is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. International guidelines address antenatal care, but contraception counseling and risk assessment are not addressed. Data on healthcare professionals’ guidance for women with IBD regarding contraception are scarce. We aimed to describe contraceptive use, preferences, knowledge, and barriers among women with IBD.

Methods

A 34-item questionnaire was administered to female IBD patients aged 18-45. Disease control was measured using PRO-2 and IBD-control questionnaire, and contraceptive preferences were assessed by the contraceptive features survey. Logistic regression explored associations between contraceptive use, attitudes, disease remission status, and other factors.

Results

Of 338 women surveyed, 243 (74%) used some form of contraception. Oral birth control pills (28%) and barrier methods (18%) were most used but 20% used long-acting methods. Women with active disease were more likely to use long-acting contraception (23%) compared to those in remission (17%). Contraceptive priorities were effectiveness (78%), ease of use (75%), and minimal side effects (68%). Only 25% women had discussed reproductive issues with their IBD clinician, though 85% were comfortable to do so. Preferred sources for reproductive counseling were IBD nurses (79%), general practitioners (75%), IBD doctors (68%), and gynecologists (49%).

Conclusions

A quarter of women with IBD were not using any contraception, and long-acting contraceptive use was low. Women prefer effective, easy-to-use contraceptives with minimal side effects but lack knowledge on effective contraception-related issues. Better education and proactive discussions between healthcare providers and patients could improve reproductive health in women with IBD.
Ultra-low-dose coronary computed tomography angiography using photon-counting detector computed tomography
Authors: Araki Suguru , Nakamura Satoshi , Takafuji Masafumi , Ichikawa Yasutaka , Sakuma Hajime , Kitagawa Kakuya
Published: November 2024

Aims

Photon-counting detector computed tomography (PCD-CT), which allows the exclusion of electronic noise, shows promise for significant dose reduction in coronary CT angiography (CCTA). This study aimed to assess the radiation dose and image quality of CCTA using PCD-CT, combined with high-pitch helical scanning and an ultra-low tube potential of 70 kVp, and investigate the effect of a sharp kernel on image quality and stenosis assessment in such an ultra-low-dose CCTA setting.

Methods and results

Forty patients (65% male) with stable heart rates and no prior coronary interventions were included. Data on CT dose index volume (CTDIvol) and dose-length product (DLP) were collected, with effective radiation dose estimated using a conversion factor of 0.014. Images were reconstructed using kernels of Bv64 and Bv40 for image quality and stenosis assessment. The mean CTDIvol, DLP, and effective dose of CCTA were 1.72 ± 0.38 mGy, 29.1 ± 6.8 mGy·cm, and 0.41 ± 0.09 mSv, respectively. Image quality was similar (P = 0.75) between the two kernels, with over 95% of segments achieving a rating of good image quality for both kernels. The per-segment stenosis score distribution between Bv40 and Bv64 reconstruction images showed significant differences for both non-calcified and calcified plaques (P < 0.001 for both).

Conclusion

PCD-CT technology with high-pitch helical scanning and the tube potential of 70 kVp can provide CCTA with ultra-low radiation exposure (DLP, 29 mGy·cm). The noise reduction capability of PCD-CT allows the use of a sharp kernel even in this low-dose CCTA setting without compromising image quality, potentially improving the evaluation of coronary artery stenosis.
Predicting population-level vulnerability among pregnant women using routinely collected data and the added relevance of self-reported data
Authors: Molenaar Joyce M , Leung Ka Yin , van der Meer Lindsey , Klein Peter Paul F , Struijs Jeroen N , Kiefte-de Jong Jessica C
Published: November 2024

Recognizing and addressing vulnerability during the first thousand days of life can prevent health inequities. It is necessary to determine the best data for predicting multidimensional vulnerability (i.e. risk factors to vulnerability across different domains and a lack of protective factors) at population level to understand national prevalence and trends. This study aimed to (1) assess the feasibility of predicting multidimensional vulnerability during pregnancy using routinely collected data, (2) explore potential improvement of these predictions by adding self-reported data on health, well-being, and lifestyle, and (3) identify the most relevant predictors. The study was conducted using Dutch nationwide routinely collected data and self-reported Public Health Monitor data. First, to predict multidimensional vulnerability using routinely collected data, we used random forest (RF) and considered the area under the curve (AUC) and F1 measure to assess RF model performance. To validate results, sensitivity analyses (XGBoost and Lasso) were done. Second, we gradually added self-reported data to predictions. Third, we explored the RF model’s variable importance. The initial RF model could distinguish between those with and without multidimensional vulnerability (AUC = 0.98). The model was able to correctly predict multidimensional vulnerability in most cases, but there was also misclassification (F1 measure = 0.70). Adding self-reported data improved RF model performance (e.g. F1 measure = 0.80 after adding perceived health). The strongest predictors concerned self-reported health, socioeconomic characteristics, and healthcare expenditures and utilization. It seems possible to predict multidimensional vulnerability using routinely collected data that is readily available. However, adding self-reported data can improve predictions.
Politicians, power, and the people's health: US elections and state health outcomes, 2012–2024
Authors: Krieger Nancy , Moallef Soroush , Chen Jarvis T , Balasubramanian Ruchita , Cowger Tori L , Hamad Rita , McGregor Alecia J , Hanage William P , Tabb Loni Philip , Bassett Mary T
Published: November 2024

Our descriptive study examined current associations (2022–2024) between US state-level health outcomes and 4 US state-level political metrics: 2 rarely used in public health research (political ideology of elected representatives based on voting records; trifectas, where 1 party controls the executive and legislative branches) and 2 more commonly used (state policies enacted; voter political lean). The 8 health outcomes spanned the life course: infant mortality, premature mortality (death at age <65), health insurance (adults aged 35–64), vaccination for children and persons aged ≥65 (flu; COVID-19 booster), maternity care deserts, and food insecurity. For the first 3 outcomes, we also examined trends in associations (2012–2024). For all political metrics, higher state-level political conservatism was associated with worse health outcomes, especially for the metrics for political ideology and state trifectas. For example, in 2016, the premature mortality rate in states with Republican vs Democratic trifectas was higher by 55.4 deaths per 100 000 person-years (95% CI: 7.7, 103.1), and the slope of the rate of increase to 2021 was also higher, by 27.0 deaths per 100 000 person-years (95% CI: 24.4, 29.7). These results suggest elections, political ideology, and concentrations of political power matter for population health.
Body size and survival of urban and rural populations of a common wolf spider are not influenced by lifelong exposure to lead pollution
Authors: Guarnieri Lucy , Taylor Leo , Phelan P Larry , Gardiner Mary Margaret
Published: November 2024

Heavy metal pollution is pervasive in urban soils, and it can negatively impact the fitness of arthropods. Arthropod populations can evolve to become more tolerant or resistant to metals, but the mechanisms of these processes are understudied. Here, we tested the hypotheses of fixed adaptation and facultative adaptation in a lead (Pb)-exposure experiment using the progeny of field-collected Pardosa milvina spiders from urban (elevated soil Pb) and rural (background soil Pb) habitats. We predicted that spiders from both populations that were reared in the elevated Pb treatment would exhibit decreased body size in comparison to individuals reared in background Pb soil due to a facultative shift in metabolic investment from growth to Pb resistance, or, alternatively, that urban spiders would exhibit no change in body size across treatments, supporting fixed adaptation as a consequence of a legacy effect of urban Pb pollution. We found no evidence that exposure to elevated Pb soil had an effect on P. milvina’s adult body size or survival, regardless of population origin. Our results indicate that the amount of Pb accumulated by the spiders was not sufficient to induce a measurable change in body size, or that there was a fitness cost that was not measured in the experiment, such as changes in fecundity or body condition. Overall, these findings do not provide support for fixed or facultative adaptation to Pb pollution in P. milvina; as such, future studies should investigate other possible tradeoffs, including changes in egg size, body weight, and foraging effort.
An unexpected primary squamous cell carcinoma of the left colon: a rare case report
Authors: Cornwell Charlotte , Kim Tae Jun , Byrne Chris M
Published: November 2024

Colorectal cancer is a common cancer with a large burden of disease. Adenocarcinomas account for majority of colorectal cancers, arising from glandular epithelium. Other malignancies including neuroendocrine, adenosquamous, spindle cell and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) are seldomly encountered. Primary colorectal SCC was first reported in 1919 and is particularly rare. It is difficult to manage as patients present late, with locally invasive or metastatic disease. We present the case of a woman in her 40s with a previously resected sigmoid adenocarcinoma and a new splenic flexure mass. Histopathology revealed an SCC without evidence of extra-colonic disease. The patient underwent resection with clear margins, however, did not tolerate systemic adjuvant treatment and developed local recurrence within twelve months. We add our patient’s case to the small compilation of cases of primary colorectal SCC along with a summary of its clinical and histological characteristics, strategies in management and considerations for future research.
Resection of accessory parotid gland tumor utilizing trans-oral technique: a case report
Authors: Alrohaimi Fayez A , Alharbi Nader S , Alshammari Abdulrazaq M , Alotaibi Salman K
Published: November 2024

In this report, we discuss a rare case of pleomorphic adenoma in the accessory parotid gland of a 39-year- old male, which is generally a difficult tumor to manage because of the danger of facial scarring and nerve injury from external incisions. A minimally invasive trans-oral surgical technique was used, resulting in a successful resection without the usual complications, demonstrating a promising option that focuses on cosmetic and functional benefits. The importance of complete preoperative evaluations is emphasized, as is the possibility for broader applicability with additional study, establishing the technique’s efficacy to improve outcomes for patients in similar circumstances.
Microsurgery for basilar apex aneurysms: a case series
Authors: Acha Sánchez José Luis , Bocanegra-Becerra Jhon E , Contreras Montenegro Luis , Cueva Manuel , Bellido Adriana , Contreras Shamir , Santos Oscar
Published: November 2024

Although endovascular management has been increasingly adopted for basilar apex aneurysms (BAAs), microsurgery still represents an amenable treatment option. In this case series, six female patients (median age: 46 years) with six saccular high-riding BAAs (50% ruptured) were included. The median neck size was 5.3 mm (range: 2.9–7.9), and the median length from base to dome was 7.25 mm (range: 5.2–11.4). Preoperative complications included hydrocephalus (22%) and rebleeding (22%). All patients underwent clipping with a pterional craniotomy with extension into the temporal bone base. Intraoperative aneurysm rupture occurred in one patient (17%). Postoperative complications occurred in two patients (34%), of which one died because of extensive cerebral vasospasm and hospital-acquired pneumonia. At the 6-month follow-up, all remaining patients had modified Rankin scale scores ≤ 2. Microsurgery remains a viable option for BAAs in limited-resource settings. Technical success depends on delicate tissue work, in-depth anatomical knowledge, and maneuverability in narrow corridors.
Case report of central serous chorioretinopathy with intraretinal fluid and normal fundus fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography
Authors: Hegde Manasi , Weaver Travers
Published: November 2024

A 73-year-old man was diagnosed with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR). He had atypical features including a normal indocyanine green angiography (ICG) and fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA), uncommon age group for initial diagnosis and a finding of intraretinal fluid. This case report is the first of our knowledge that exemplifies this type of unusual clinical presentation for CSCR.
A Cylindrical Lens Spectrometer with Parallel Detection for Reflection Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy
Authors: Hwang Junhyeok , Park In-Yong , Ogawa Takashi
Published: November 2024

Reflection electron energy loss spectroscopy (REELS) has played a pivotal role in allowing researchers to explore the characteristics of various bulk materials. This study presents results for the low-loss region of REELS with a new cylindrical lens spectrometer integrated into a low-voltage scanning electron microscope. The operational principles and implementation of the spectrometer are explained through comparisons between electron optical simulations and experimental results. Notably, the analysis shows the ability to distinguish samples in film and bulk forms. Graphene and graphite, despite their identical elemental composition and crystalline structure, are found to have distinct energy spectra as indicated by plasmon peaks. Furthermore, the study explores the bandgap measurement of SiO2 at low-energy conditions of 2.5 keV, highlighting the proposed instrument's advantages in the measurement without the harmful effect of Cherenkov loss. Additionally, this method reaffirms the capability to measure multiple plasmon peaks from the energy spectra of bulk gold samples, thus introducing a pioneering avenue in energy spectrum measurement. Leveraging the compact size and simple experimental setup of the spectrometer for REELS, the method enables the measurement of energy spectra of both bulk- and film-formed samples under low electron energy conditions, marking a significant advancement in the field.
Investigation of Military Spouse Suicide
Authors: Cole Rebekah , Cowan Rebecca G , Pearce Elizabeth , Quintana Taqueena , Ren Xiao
Published: November 2024

Background

Recent statistics released by the Department of Defense have revealed increasing numbers of military spouse suicide. Although past qualitative research has suggested possible reasons for this phenomenon, there is a lack of wide-scale quantitative research regarding suicide within the military spouse population. To fill this gap, we aimed to examine military spouses’ perceptions of suicide and their ability to access mental health care. We also aimed to explore the perceptions of sucide within various subgroups of military spouses.

Materials and Methods

We recruited military spouse participants (officer and enlisted) through social media to complete a 12-item Likert survey focusing on their perception of suicide in the military spouse community, including the threat level of suicide, their own mental health status, barriers and stigmas to accessing mental health care, the view from the spouse’s leadership, and the leading causes for military spouse suicide. A total of 141 military spouses participated in our study.

Results

Spouses’ perception of the main threats to their mental health and suicides in their community were an ongoing sense of loss of control (27.7%), loss of identity (25.5%), difficulty accessing mental health services (19.1%), and fear of seeking mental health services (10.6%). Additionally, 28.3% of participants were moderately concerned, quite concerned, or extremely concerned about their mental health. The participants also believed that the threat of suicides in their community was moderately prevalent (35.5%), quite prevalent (17.7%), and extremely prevalent (5%). There was no difference between spouses of officers or enlisted service members, spouses of service members in the Army, Navy, or Air Force on perceptions of suicide risk prevalence, stigma, participants’ concern for themselves, confidence in their ability to access resources, confidence in their ability to help another spouse, or the perceived importance military leaders place on preventing suicide. Spousal tenure was similarly not significantly related to any of the variables of interest.

Conclusions

Our military spouse particpants reported elevated perceptions about the prevalence of suicide threats, concern for themselves, and stigma toward accessing mental health resources, as well as low perceived importance placed on spouse suicide prevention by military leadership. The spouses reported moderate confidence in their ability to help another spouse or access suicide prevention resources. Our participants also reported challenges in accessing mental health services and perceived a stigma associated with receiving counseling services. Continued focus and advocacy is needed to ensure military spouses receive the mental health support needed to prevent suicide within this population.
New radial velocities for 40 nearby dwarf galaxies
Authors: Karachentsev Igor D , Chazov Maxim I , Kaisin Serafim S
Published: November 2024

The 6-metre BTA telescope has been used to determine radial velocities for 40 galaxies, recently identified in the DESI Legacy Imaging Surveys as nearby objects. Half of them have kinematic distances within 11 Mpc being new probable companions to the bright Local Volume galaxies: NGC 628, Maffei 2, NGC 2787, M 81, NGC 4605, and NGC 4631. Six relatively isolated objects with heliocentric velocities in the range of $[-150, +70]$ km s$^{-1}$, together with the blue compact dwarf NGC 6789, form a diffuse association of dwarf galaxies located in the near part of the Local Void.
A molecular module improves rice grain quality and yield at high temperatures
Authors: Lu Feifei , Jiao Guiai , Qiu Jiehua , Zhao Shaolu , Zhao Fengli , Wang Ping , Chen Luna , Chen Pengfei , Li Xinwei , Dong Nannan , Cao Ruijie , Li Xiaoxue , Ruan Zheyan , Shao Gaoneng , Hu Shikai , Sheng Zhonghua , Xie Lihong , Tang Shaoqing , Hu Peisong , Wei Xiangjin
Published: November 2024

Excessive temperatures during grain filling can compromise endosperm starch biosynthesis and decrease grain quality and yield in rice. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these remain unclear. Here, we show that heat shock protein OsHsp40-1 interacts with and elevates the ATPase activity of OsHsp70-2 in rice. OsHsp40-1 also interacts with the key starch biosynthetic enzymes OsGBSSI and OsPPDKB and thereby enhances their stability and activity, which is essential for maintaining rice quality and grain yield under moderate high-temperature (HT) conditions. Overexpression of OsHsp70-2 and OsHsp40-1 in rice significantly improved grain quality and yield at HT. Furthermore, a haplotype analysis identified favorable alleles of OsHsp70-2 and OsHsp40-1, which could be used for improving thermotolerance in rice. Collectively, our findings reveal a novel mechanism by which the OsHsp70-2–OsHsp40-1 module ameliorates the effects of HT on starch biosynthesis, providing a new strategy for genetic improvement of rice quality and yield under HT conditions.
A Comparison of Two DAAs Used in a Unique Model of Care to Treat Hepatitis C Infections in New Jersey
Authors: Slim Jihad , Bellafiore Paul , Tempalski Barbara , Rosmarin-DeStefano Corey , Leyden Kevin , Torres Juan , Duprey Sheena , Levaggi Emily
Published: November 2024

In this prospective observational study, we compare the efficacy of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir vs sofosbuvir/velpatasvir in treating hepatitis C within a unique model of care utilizing a combination of telehealth, an ambulatory van, case management, and a contracted pharmacy. Among 769 patients treated, 90.4% completed treatment, with 9.6% lost to follow-up. Both regimens demonstrated high completion rates and efficacy.
Etiologies of Bloody Diarrhea in Children Presenting With Acute Gastroenteritis to US Emergency Departments
Authors: Fonseca-Romero Paola , Brintz Ben J , Vierkant D Matthew , Dien Bard Jennifer , Cohen Daniel M , Festekjian Ara , Leber Amy L , Jackson Jami T , Kanwar Neena , Larsen Chari , Selvarangan Rangaraj , Chapin Kimberle C , Pavia Andrew T , Ahmed Sharia M , Leung Daniel T ,   the IMPACT study investigators, Pavia Andrew T , Cohen Daniel M , Leber Amy L , Daly Judy A , Jackson Jami T , Selvarangan Rangaraj , Kanwar Neena , Bender Jeffrey M , Bard Jennifer Dien , Festekjian Ara , Duffy Susan , Larsen Chari , Holmberg Kristen M , Bardsley Tyler , Haaland Benjamin , Bourzac Kevin M , Stockmann Christopher , Chapin Kimberle C , Leung Daniel T
Published: November 2024

We used molecular testing to examine the causes of bloody diarrhea in a multicenter study of pediatric gastroenteritis. Pathogens typically associated with bloody diarrhea were detected in less than half of cases, and inappropriate antibiotic use was common, supporting the use of stool testing in patients with bloody diarrhea.
Trajectories and Decline of Serum Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Predict Outcomes in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Hsu Wei-Fan , Chen Chuen-Fei , Lai Hsueh-Chou , Su Wen-Pang , Wang Hung-Wei , Chen Sheng-Hung , Huang Guan-Tarn , Peng Cheng-Yuan
Published: November 2024

Background

The kinetics of serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) levels during long-term nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA) therapy remains unclear. We delineated the kinetics of HBsAg and analyzed its association with long-term treatment outcomes.

Methods

We enrolled 912 treatment-naïve patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) who had received NA therapy for >12 months and analyzed the kinetic patterns through group-based trajectory models (GBTMs).

Results

The median treatment duration for the entire cohort was 60.3 months. GBTMs revealed 4 patterns in patients achieving HBsAg loss (groups 1–4) in the study population and in patients achieving HBsAg <100 IU/mL among those with HBeAg-negative CHB with baseline HBsAg ≥100 IU/mL (groups A–D). Patients in groups 1 and A had the highest rates of HBsAg loss (22.2%, 6/27) and of achieving HBsAg <100 IU/mL (47.5%, 56/118), respectively. HBsAg <40 IU/mL and <400 IU/mL at 12 months of treatment predicted group 1 and group A membership among all patients and those with HBeAg-negative CHB, respectively. Multivariable Cox regression analysis identified HBsAg trajectory group (group 1 vs groups 3 and 4: hazard ratio [HR], 179.46; P < .001; group 2 vs groups 3 and 4: HR, 24.34; P < .001) and HBsAg decline (HR, 82.14; P < .001) as independent predictors of both HBsAg loss and achieving HBsAg <100 IU/mL.

Conclusions

Serum HBsAg trajectories and decline can predict HBsAg loss and the achievement of HBsAg <100 IU/mL in patients with CHB receiving long-term NA therapy.
Burden of Hospitalization for Coccidioidal Meningitis: An Analysis of the National Inpatient Sample, 2019–2021
Authors: Coleman Craig I , Donovan Fariba , Miriyapalli Lahar , Shan Ryan , Lovelace Belinda
Published: November 2024

Coccidioidal meningitis (CM) requires lifelong aggressive management, often necessitating hospitalization. In the National Inpatient Sample (2019–2021), CM hospitalizations (N = 2305) were associated with frequent CM-related procedures (63.6% [95% confidence interval {CI}, 59.3%–67.6%]), long stays (mean, 13.0 days [95% CI, 11.3–14.6 days]), substantial costs per stay (mean, $48 155 [95% CI, $42 382–$53 929]), and a 7.6% (95% CI, 5.6%–10.3%) mortality incidence. CM inflicts a substantial burden on hospital resources.
Exosomes of stem cells: a potential frontier in the treatment of osteoarthritis
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Xu Lei , Wu Zhimin , Lou Linbing , Xia Cunyi , Miao Haixiang , Dai Jihang , Fei Wenyong , Wang Jingcheng
Published: November 2024

The aging population has led to a global issue of osteoarthritis (OA), which not only impacts the quality of life for patients but also poses a significant economic burden on society. While biotherapy offers hope for OA treatment, currently available treatments are unable to delay or prevent the onset or progression of OA. Recent studies have shown that as nanoscale bioactive substances that mediate cell communication, exosomes from stem cell sources have led to some breakthroughs in the treatment of OA and have important clinical significance. This paper summarizes the mechanism and function of stem cell exosomes in delaying OA and looks forward to the development prospects and challenges of exosomes.
Nothing really matters: evaluating demand-side moderators of age discrimination in hiring
Authors: Dalle Axana , Lippens Louis , Baert Stijn
Published: November 2024

As age discrimination hampers the OECD’s ambition to extend the working population, an efficient anti-discrimination policy targeted at the right employers is critical. Therefore, the context in which age discrimination is most prevalent must be identified. In this study, we thoroughly review the current theoretical arguments and empirical findings regarding moderators of age discrimination in different demand-side domains (i.e. decision-maker, vacancy, occupation, organization and sector). Our review demonstrates that the current literature is highly fragmented and often lacks field-experimental evidence, raising concerns about its internal and external validity. To address this gap, we conducted a correspondence experiment and systematically linked the resulting data to external data sources. In so doing, we were able to study the priorly determined demand-side moderators within a single multi-level analysis and simultaneously control multiple correlations between potential moderators and discrimination estimates. Having done so, we found no empirical support for any of these moderators.
Power and inequality: determinants of income inequality in rich capitalist democracies, 1960 to 2019
Authors: Rosenblum Jordan , Kenworthy Lane , Nygård Mikael
Published: November 2024

We explore the link between the distribution of power and income inequality in rich capitalist democracies since 1960. We advance understanding of the impact of government ideology, a key indicator of the distribution of power, in two ways. First, previous research has tended to focus on government ideology at the country level. We make use of party manifesto data to introduce a novel global ideology measure that captures a global shift rightward since 1980, often referred to as the rise of neoliberalism. Second, for country-level party ideology, we use party manifesto data to capture changes over time. We find that this time-varying operationalization of party ideology is more strongly linked to income inequality than the standard expert-survey operationalization that assumes party ideology remains constant. In line with theoretical expectations derived from prior research, our findings show that a more rightward distribution of power at both the country and the global level is associated with increased income inequality within countries.
Global web trends analysis of sex toys
Authors: Değer Müslim Doğan , Akgul Burak
Published: November 2024

Background

Individuals from all over the world are increasingly using the internet to purchase sex toys and gadgets to enhance their sexual experience and provide variety and excitement to their sexual encounters.

Aim

This study examined the trends about the most popular preferred sex toys by nation/region from 2009 using data from Google Trends (GT).

Methods

GT was used to generate a “line-graph” that displays how interest in a topic in certain places has risen or diminished over time. Search terms were generated for vibrator, dildo, anal plug, strap-on, and masturbator. The data were included “globally” from January 1, 2009 to June 30, 2023.

Outcomes

The search values for certain terms were indexed using the relative search volume (RSV), which is shown on a scale of 0–100.

Results

In the linear regression analysis, the trends by strength were sorted as follows: dildo, vibrator, strap-on, anal plug, and masturbator. In 2018, vibrator surpassed strap-on and came in second, while the regression analysis showed a positive trend for dildo between 2009 and 2016 (P = .014). It had a negative trend after 2016. Strap-on was the only one to have a downward trend (P = .029). Regression analysis revealed positive trends for vibrator and masturbator (P = .030, P = .045). The upward trends have continued uninterruptedly since 2009.

Clinical implications

According to our research, interest in online trends relating to sex toys has increased along with advancements in technology and clinical applications. This rise is linked to the worldwide sex toy industry’s development in response to consumer demand and ease of accessibility.

Strengths and limitations

This is the first research of this sort, looking into the interests of internet users about sex toys by country over time using GT. GT data is anonymous, and analysis of subpopulation groups is not possible.

Conclusion

Individual preferences for sex toys have different trends on different continents around the world. The compatibility of sex toys with technology over time, their clinical use, and sex toy-related injuries play an important role in the selection process. Web trends seem appropriate to reflect how the demand for sex toys has changed over time.