bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and biomechanical analysis of an axially controlled compression spinal rod for lumbar spondylolysis
Authors: Li Jingyuan , Tang Zhifang , Feng Fanzhe , Liang Jinlong , Shao Nengqi , Wang Yulei , Cai Zhijun , Tang Hui , Zhou Tianhua , Xu Yongqing , Cui Yi
Published: June 2024

Background:

To elucidate the differences in mechanical performance between a novel axially controlled compression spinal rod (ACCSR) for lumbar spondylolysis (LS) and the common spinal rod (CSR).

Methods:

A total of 36 ACCSRs and 36 CSRs from the same batch were used in this study, each with a diameter of 6.0 mm. Biomechanical tests were carried out on spinal rods for the ACCSR group and on pedicle screw-rod internal fixation systems for the CSR group. The spinal rod tests were conducted following the guidelines outlined in the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F 2193, while the pedicle screw-rod internal fixation system tests adhered to ASTM F 1798-97 standards.

Results:

The stiffness of ACCSR and CSR was 1559.15 ± 50.15 and 3788.86 ± 156.45 N/mm (P < .001). ACCSR’s yield load was 1345.73 (1297.90–1359.97) N, whereas CSR’s was 4046.83 (3805.8–4072.53) N (P = .002). ACCSR’s load in the 2.5 millionth cycle of the fatigue four-point bending test was 320 N. The axial gripping capacity of ACCSR and CSR was 1632.53 ± 165.64 and 1273.62 ± 205.63 N (P = .004). ACCSR’s torsional gripping capacity was 3.45 (3.23–3.47) Nm, while CSR’s was 3.27 (3.07–3.59) Nm (P = .654). The stiffness of the pedicle screws of the ACCSR and CSR group was 783.83 (775.67–798.94) and 773.14 (758.70–783.62) N/mm (P = .085). The yield loads on the pedicle screws of the ACCSR and CSR group was 1345.73 (1297.90–1359.97) and 4046.83 (3805.8–4072.53) N (P = .099).

Conclusion:

Although ACCSR exhibited lower yield load, stiffness, and fatigue resistance compared to CSR, it demonstrated significantly higher axial gripping capacity and met the stress requirement of the human isthmus. Consequently, ACCSR presents a promising alternative to CSR for LS remediation.
Adenoidectomy in a child with Crouzon syndrome complicated with severe obstructive sleep apnea: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Yu Lei , Zhao Yuliang
Published: June 2024

Rationale:

Crouzon syndrome is an extremely rare craniofacial dysplasia, which is mainly caused by the early ossification and closure of the coronal suture of the skull. Craniofacial deformities can cause stenosis of the nasal cavity and posterior nasal meatus, resulting in sleep apnea.

Patient concerns:

A 9-year-old boy with sleep snoring for 6 years, progressive aggravation in the past 1 month and accompanied by apnea during sleep.

Diagnoses:

This case was diagnosed with Crouzon syndrome complicated with severe obstructive sleep apnea and severe hypoxemia.

Interventions:

After adenoidectomy, he was admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit with ventilator-assisted respiration. During this period, the blood oxygen saturation fluctuated greatly. After trying to extubate, the blood oxygen was difficult to maintain and had to be intubated again. After active treatment, extubation was successful.

Outcomes:

The wound of nasopharynx recovered well and the sleep state was significantly improved 3 months postoperation.

Lessons:

It is suggested that the time of ventilator-assisted breathing should be prolonged and the perioperative airway management should be strengthened in order to reduce the risk of postoperative complications.
Effect of early initiation of noninvasive ventilation in patients transported by emergency medical service for acute heart failure
Authors: Gorlicki Judith , Masip Josep , Gil Víctor , Llorens Pere , Jacob Javier , Alquézar-Arbé Aitor , Domingo Baldrich Eva , Fortuny María José , Romero Marta , Esquivias Marco Antonio , Moyano García Rocío , Gómez García Yelenis , Noceda José , Rodríguez Pablo , Aguirre Alfons , López-Díez M. Pilar , Mir María , Serrano Leticia , Fuentes de Frutos Marta , Curtelín David , Freund Yonathan , Miró Òscar ,   on behalf of the ICA-SEMES research group
Published: June 2024

Background

While the indication for noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in severely hypoxemic patients with acute heart failure (AHF) is often indicated and may improve clinical course, the benefit of early initiation before patient arrival to the emergency department (ED) remains unknown.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the impact of early initiation of NIV during emergency medical service (EMS) transportation on outcomes in patients with AHF.

Design

A secondary retrospective analysis of the EAHFE (Epidemiology of AHF in EDs) registry.

Setting

Fifty-three Spanish EDs.

Participants

Patients with AHF transported by EMS physician-staffed ambulances who were treated with NIV at any time during of their emergency care were included and categorized into two groups based on the place of NIV initiation: prehospital (EMS group) or ED (ED group).

Outcome measures

Primary outcome was the composite of in-hospital mortality and 30-day postdischarge death, readmission to hospital or return visit to the ED due to AHF. Secondary outcomes included 30-day all-cause mortality after the index event (ED admission) and the different component of the composite primary endpoint considered individually. Multivariate logistic regressions were employed for analysis.

Results

Out of 2406 patients transported by EMS, 487 received NIV (EMS group: 31%; EMS group: 69%). Mean age was 79 years, 48% were women. The EMS group, characterized by younger age, more coronary artery disease, and less atrial fibrillation, received more prehospital treatments. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for composite endpoint was 0.66 (95% CI: 0.42–1.05). The aOR for secondary endpoints were 0.74 (95% CI: 0.38–1.45) for in-hospital mortality, 0.74 (95% CI: 0.40–1.37) for 30-day mortality, 0.70 (95% CI: 0.41–1.21) for 30-day postdischarge ED reconsultation, 0.80 (95% CI: 0.44–1.44) for 30-day postdischarge rehospitalization, and 0.72 (95% CI: 0.25–2.04) for 30-day postdischarge death.

Conclusion

In this ancillary analysis, prehospital initiation of NIV in patients with AHF was not associated with a significant reduction in short-term outcomes. The large confidence intervals, however, may preclude significant conclusion, and all point estimates consistently pointed toward a potential benefit from early NIV initiation.
Exploring Heterogeneity in Cost-Effectiveness Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Hattab Zaid , Doherty Edel , Sadique Zia , Ramnarayan Padmanabhan , O’Neill Stephen
Published: June 2024

Objective:

The aim of this study was to explore heterogeneity in the cost-effectiveness of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy compared with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in children following extubation.

Design:

Using data from the FIRST-line support for Assistance in Breathing in Children (FIRST-ABC) trial, we explore heterogeneity at the individual and subgroup levels using a causal forest approach, alongside a seemingly unrelated regression (SUR) approach for comparison.

Settings:

FIRST-ABC is a noninferiority randomized controlled trial (ISRCTN60048867) including children in UK paediatric intensive care units, which compared HFNC with CPAP as the first-line mode of noninvasive respiratory support.

Patients:

In the step-down FIRST-ABC, 600 children clinically assessed to require noninvasive respiratory support were randomly assigned to HFNC and CPAP groups with 1:1 treatment allocation ratio. In this analysis, 118 patients were excluded because they did not consent to accessing their medical records, did not consent to follow-up questionnaire or did not receive respiratory support.

Measurements and Main Results:

The primary outcome of this study is the incremental net monetary benefit (INB) of HFNC compared with CPAP using a willingness-to-pay threshold of £20,000 per QALY gain. INB is calculated based on total costs and quality adjusted life years (QALYs) at 6 months. The findings suggest modest heterogeneity in cost-effectiveness of HFNC compared with CPAP at the subgroup level, while greater heterogeneity is detected at the individual level.

Conclusions:

The estimated overall INB of HFNC is smaller than the INB for patients with better baseline status suggesting that HFNC can be more cost-effective among less severely ill patients.
Lighting the Path: Rekindling Innovation and Joy in Nursing Leadership
Authors: Soriano Rayne
Published: June 2024

In the dynamic and complex landscape of health care, rekindling innovation requires a blend of courage, connection, and joy. This article, drawing from an interview with Dr Marilyn Chow, a recognized “Living Legend” by the American Academy of Nursing (AAN), outlines a transformative approach for nurse leaders. Marilyn emphasizes the significance of listening to staff, patients, and communities, taking appreciative and incremental steps toward innovation, and fostering an environment where risks are encouraged and voices are amplified. Through her narrative, we explore how nurse leaders can inspire their teams, lead with joy, and drive impactful change, offering a blueprint for leading with intention and creating a legacy of innovation and care.
Focusing on What Matters
Authors: Bradley Carol
Published: June 2024

Health care leaders need to measure their workforce and operational performance in a more comprehensive manner to fully understand the interplay of the many variables that influence performance and the employee experience in health systems. Nurse leaders have an opportunity to leverage that understanding to provide the clinical workforce with a measurably improved workplace.
The Development of Leadership Communities of Practice
Authors: DePodesta Michelle
Published: June 2024

This paper introduces the concept of leadership communities of practice (COP) as a strategy to enhance succession planning and leadership development within the Canadian healthcare context. Drawing upon Prosci’s ADKAR methodology as a foundational change management framework, this paper explores the adaptation of COP, originally developed by Lave and Wenger in 1991, to foster collaborative learning. While COP have a long history in business and education sectors, their formal integration into healthcare, specifically leadership development is relatively recent. This paper highlights the necessity of a robust change management approach to effectively introduce COP as a mechanism to enhance leadership development in healthcare settings, highlighting their potential to facilitate knowledge exchange and support social learning among healthcare leaders.
The Nurse as Coach
Authors: O’Grady Eileen , Johnson Jean , Hassmiller Susan
Published: June 2024

The provision of modern health care in the United States faces significant challenges, as evidenced by multiple national reports of a workforce in distress. In response to these challenges, the practice of coaching emerges as a transformative skill, recommended for individuals in high-stress environments. Coaching in health care focuses on developing nurses and building teams by fostering self-understanding, deploying strengths, improving relational strategies, and gaining moral clarity. It serves as a potent strategy for nurse leaders to navigate the complexities of their systems. This paper explores the practice of coaching as an important mindset and skill. A coaching mindset is characterized by trust, deep listening, curiosity, embracing both/and thinking, discernment over judgment, and fosters an environment where nurses can flourish. It promotes a shift from telling to asking, empowering individuals to contribute innovative ideas and solutions. Additionally, the paper provides guidance for coaching and tools for maintaining a coaching mindset in the face of chronic stress. By fostering a coaching mindset, employing powerful questions, and using tools to sustain emotional integrity, leaders can empower nurses to thrive in complexity, enhance workplace well-being, and contribute to a resilient health care culture.
Central Positional Nystagmus Can Be the Sole Presentation of Cerebellar Nodulus Infarction
Authors: Baskan Gülcan Neşem , Çelebisoy Neşe
Published: June 2024

Objectives:

To draw attention to acute positional vertigo and central positional nystagmus (CPN) developing as the sole features of cerebellar nodulus infarction.

Background:

The cerebellar nodulus is vascularized by the medial branch of the posterior inferior cerebellar artery, which also supplies the uvula, tonsil, tuber, and pyramid of the vermis, and the inferior part of the cerebellar hemisphere, making isolated cerebellar nodulus infarction extremely rare. CPN occurs after a change in head position with respect to gravity and is caused by pathologies involving the vestibulo-cerebellar pathways. CPN is rarely seen in isolation. Additional neurological signs and ocular motor abnormalities are generally present.

Methods:

A 62-year-old man was admitted to the emergency department with acute-onset positional vertigo and CPN as the sole finding on examination. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging revealed an acute infarction involving the nodulus. Results: Infarcts restricted to nodulus can cause positional vertigo and CPN without any associated neurological signs or ocul ar motor abnormalities.

Conclusion:

Though very rare, cerebellar nodulus stroke must be searched in patients with positional vertigo of acute onset and isolated CPN on examination.
Objective Assessment of Cognitive Workload in Surgery
Authors: Almukhtar Aws , Caddick Virginia , Naik Ravi , Goble Mary , Mylonas George , Darzi Ara , Orihuela-Espina Felipe , Leff Daniel R.
Published: June 2024

Objective:

To systematically review technologies that objectively measure CWL in surgery, assessing their psychometric and methodological characteristics.

Summary Background Data:

Surgical tasks involving concurrent clinical decision-making and the safe application of technical and non-technical skills require a substantial cognitive demand and resource utilization. Cognitive overload leads to impaired clinical decision-making and performance decline. Assessing cognitive workload (CWL) could enable interventions to alleviate burden and improve patient safety.

Methods:

Ovid MEDLINE, OVID Embase, the Cochrane Library and IEEE Xplore databases were searched from inception to August 2023. Full-text, peer-reviewed original studies in a population of surgeons, anesthesiologists or interventional radiologists were considered, with no publication date constraints. Study population, task paradigm, stressor, Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) domain, objective and subjective parameters, statistical analysis and results were extracted. Studies were assessed for a) definition of CWL, b) details of the clinical task paradigm, and c) objective CWL assessment tool. Assessment tools were evaluated using psychometric and methodological characteristics.

Results:

10790 studies were identified; 9004 were screened; 269 full studies were assessed for eligibility, of which 67 met inclusion criteria. The most widely used assessment modalities were autonomic (32 eye studies and 24 cardiac). Intrinsic workload (e.g. task complexity) and germane workload (effect of training or expertize) were the most prevalent designs investigated. CWL was not defined in 30 of 67 studies (44.8%). Sensitivity was greatest for neurophysiological instruments (100% EEG, 80% fNIRS); and across modalities accuracy increased with multi-sensor recordings. Specificity was limited to cardiac and ocular metrics, and was found to be sub-optimal (50% and 66.67%). Cardiac sensors were the least intrusive, with 54.2% of studies conducted in naturalistic clinical environments (higher ecological validity).

Conclusion:

Physiological metrics provide an accessible, objective assessment of CWL, but dependence on autonomic function negates selectivity and diagnosticity. Neurophysiological measures demonstrate favorable sensitivity, directly measuring brain activation as a correlate of cognitive state. Lacking an objective gold standard at present, we recommend the concurrent use of multimodal objective sensors and subjective tools for cross-validation. A theoretical and technical framework for objective assessment of CWL is required to overcome the heterogeneity of methodological reporting, data processing, and analysis.
Basic life support training for intensive care unit nurses at a general hospital in Tabriz, Iran: a best practice implementation project
Authors: Kabiri Neda , Hajebrahimi Sakineh , Soleimanpour Maryam , Ardebili Roghayeh Asghari , Kashgsaray Nasim Hajipoor , Soleimanpour Hassan
Published: June 2024

Introduction and objectives:

Basic life support (BLS) is foundational to the care delivered to cardiac arrest victims. This study evaluated current practices and implemented best practices related to BLS training for intensive care unit (ICU) nurses in a general hospital in Tabriz, Iran.

Methods:

This interventional before-after study was informed by the JBI Evidence Implementation Framework. An audit, feedback, and re-audit strategy was used to measure baseline compliance with best practices, develop an implementation strategy to address gaps in compliance, and undertake a final evaluation to measure changes in compliance. The JBI Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System (JBI PACES) and situational analysis Getting Research into Practice (GRiP) tool were used to support data collection and implementation planning. There were 13 evidence-based criteria and a sample of 9 ICU nurses.

Results:

The baseline audit revealed gaps between current practice and best practice in 9 of the 13 criteria. Barriers included insufficient education tools and programs, insufficient supervision, lack of skills laboratories, and a lack of continuous BLS education. Improvement strategies included providing a human stimulator manikin, developing an education program for nurses, as well as establishing a cardiopulmonary-cerebral resuscitation department, a skills laboratory, and continuous BLS education based on the American Heart Association guidelines. The follow-up audit revealed improvement of 100% across all criteria.

Conclusions:

This project indicates that a clinical audit is effective for assessing evidence-based BLS education for ICU nurses, thereby improving resuscitation performance and patient outcomes.

Spanish abstract:

http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A213
Development of a split-luciferase assay to establish optimal protein secretion conditions for protein production by Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Kes Mariah B.M.J. , Wang Biwen , van Ulsen Peter , Hamoen Leendert W. , Luirink Joen
Published: June 2024

Bacillus subtilis is a Gram-positive bacterium that is frequently used in the bioindustry for the production of various proteins, because of its superior protein secretion capacities. To determine optimal conditions for protein secretion by B. subtilis, a quick and sensitive method for measuring protein secretion is crucial. A fast and universal assay is most useful for detecting diverse proteins in a high-throughput manner. In this study, we introduce a split-luciferase-based method for measuring protein secretion by B. subtilis. The NanoBiT system was used to monitor secretion of four different proteins: xylanase A, amylase M, protein glutaminase A, and GFP nanobody. Our findings underscore the split-luciferase system as a quick, sensitive, and user-friendly method.
The Effects of Functional Training on Muscle Strength in Athletes: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Junyan , Lei Shang , Yu Hongjun
Published: June 2024

The study aimed to analyze the effects of functional training (FT) on athletes muscle strength compared to traditional resistance training (TRT). A systematic search was conducted in 6 databases from inception to January 2024. Baseline and outcome measures from randomized controlled trials (RCT) were assessed for the impact of FT on athlete muscle strength, across sex, age, and sports levels. Hedge's g effect sizes were calculated using a random-effects model, and subgroup and single training factor analyses were performed to address potential sources of heterogeneity, along with a meta-regression analysis. The inclusion of 67 studies involving 1718 athletes revealed significant moderate to large effects of FT on maximum strength (k=11; ES=2.68; ≤0.001) , power (k=12; ES=0.68; p?0.001), as well as muscle endurance(k=12; ES=4.13; p?0.001).In conclusion, FT appears to offer potential benefits for enhancing muscle strength in athletes, with considerations for individual differences in sex, age, and training programs. Findings suggest that longer training sessions may be associated with improvements in maximum strength and muscle endurance, whereas shorter sessions might be more conducive to power development. Additionally, preliminary evidence hints that younger athletes may experience more pronounced training benefits, though this observation requires further investigation to establish a more definitive correlation.
A Non-Invasive and Non-Contact Jugular Venous Pulse Measurement: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Das Shatabdi , Dwivedi Girish , Afsharan Hadi , Kavehei Omid
Published: June 2024

The Jugular Venous Pulse (JVP) is a vital gauge of proper heart health, reflecting the venous pressure via the Jugular Vein observation. It offers crucial insights for discerning numerous cardiac and pulmonary conditions. Yet, its evaluation is often over-shadowed by the challenges in its process, especially in patients with neck obesity obstructing visibility. Although central venous catheterization provides an alternative, it is invasive and typically reserved for critical cases. Traditional JVP monitoring methods, both visual and via catheterization, present significant hurdles, limiting their frequent application despite their clinical significance. Therefore, there is a pressing need for a non-invasive, efficient JVP monitoring method accessible for home-based and hospitalized patients. Such a method could preempt numerous hospital admissions by offering early indicators. We introduce a non-invasive method using a frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar for JVP estimation directly from the skin surface. Our signal processing technique involves an eigen beamforming method to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio for better estimation of JVP. By meticulously fine-tuning various parameters, we identified the optimal settings to enhance the JVP signal quality. In addition, we performed a detailed morphological analysis comparing the JVP and photoplethysmography signals. Our investigation effectively achieved signal localization within a Direction of Arrival (DoA) range from -20° to 20°. This initial study validates the effectiveness of using a 60 GHz far-field radar in measuring JVP.

Abstract Figure
Characterization of Viroplasm-Like Structures by Co-Expression of NSP5 and NSP2 Across Rotavirus Species A to J
Authors: Lee Melissa , Cosic Ariana , Tobler Kurt , Aguilar Claudio , Fraefel Cornel , Eichwald Catherine
Published: June 2024

Rotaviruses (RV) are classified into nine species, A-C and D-J, with species A being the most studied. In rotavirus of species A (RVA), replication occurs in viroplasms, which are cytosolic globular inclusions primarily composed of the proteins NSP5, NSP2, and VP2. The co-expression of NSP5 with either NSP2 or VP2 leads to the formation of viroplasm-like structures (VLS). Although morphologically identical to viroplasms, VLSs cannot replicate, but they serve as excellent simplified tools for studying complex viroplasms.

There is a knowledge gap regarding viroplasms of non-RVA species due to a lack of research tools, such as specific antibodies and tissue culture systems. In this study, we explored the ability of NSP5 and NSP2 from non-RVA species to form VLSs. The co-expression of these two proteins led to globular VLSs in RV species A, B, D, F, G, and I, while RVC formed filamentous VLSs. The co-expression of NSP5 and NSP2 of RV species H and J did not result in VLS formation.

Interestingly, NSP5 of all RV species self-oligomerizes, with the ordered C-terminal region, termed the tail, being necessary for self-oligomerization of RV species A-C and G-J. Except for NSP5 from species J, all NSP5 bound with their respective NSP2. We also found that interspecies VLS are formed between closely related RV species B with G and D with F. Additionally, VLS from RVH and RVJ formed when the tail of NSP5 RVH and RVJ was replaced by the tail of NSP5 from RVA and co-expressed with their respective NSP2.

Importance

Rotaviruses (RV) are classified into nine species, A-D and F-J, infecting mammals and birds. Due to the lack of research tools, all cumulative knowledge on RV replication is based on RV species A (RVA). The RV replication compartments are globular cytosolic structures named viroplasms, which have only been identified in RV species A. In this study, we examined the formation of viroplasm-like structures (VLS) by the expression of NSP5 with NSP2 across RV species A to J. Globular VLSs formed for RV species A, B, D, F, G, and I, while RV species C formed filamentous structures. The RV species H and J did not form VLS with NSP5 and NSP2. Similar to RVA, NSP5 self-oligomerizes in all RV species, which is a requirement for VLS formation. This study provides basic knowledge of the non-RVA replication mechanisms, which could help develop strategies to halt virus infection across RV species.
Understanding brewing trait inheritance inde novolager yeast hybrids
Authors: Zavaleta Vasni , Pérez-Través Laura , Saona Luis A. , Villarroel Carlos A. , Querol Amparo , Cubillos Francisco A.
Published: June 2024

Hybridization betweenSaccharomyces cerevisiaeandSaccharomyces eubayanusresulted in the emergence ofS. pastorianus, a crucial yeast for lager fermentation. However, our understanding of hybridization success and hybrid vigour between these two species remains limited due to the scarcity ofS. eubayanusparental strains. Here, we explore hybridization success and the impact of hybridization on fermentation performance and volatile compound profiles in newly formed lager hybrids. By selecting parental candidates spanning a diverse array of lineages from both species, we reveal that the Beer and PB-2 lineages exhibit high rates of hybridization success inS. cerevisiaeandS. eubayanus, respectively. Polyploid hybrids were generated through rare mating techniques, revealing a prevalence of triploids and diploids over tetraploids. Despite the absence of heterosis in fermentative capacity, hybrids displayed phenotypic variability, notably influenced by maltotriose consumption. Interestingly, ploidy levels did not significantly correlate with fermentative capacity, although triploids exhibited greater phenotypic variability. TheS. cerevisiaeparental lineages primarily influenced volatile compound profiles, with significant differences in aroma production. Interestingly, hybrids emerging from the BeerS. cerevisiaeparental lineages exhibited a volatile compound profile resembling the correspondingS. eubayanusparent. This pattern may result from the dominant inheritance of theS. eubayanusaroma profile, as suggested by the over-expression of genes related to alcohol metabolism and acetate synthesis in hybrids including the BeerS. cerevisiaelineage. Our findings suggest complex interactions between parental lineages and hybridization outcomes, highlighting the potential for creating yeasts with distinct brewing traits through hybridization strategies.
Effect of PCI on Clinical Prognosis of Chronic Coronary Artery Occlusion
Authors: Jiang Lei , Wang Mei , Liu Pu , Liang Dong , Wang Jiangpeng , Meng Haoyu , Kong Xiangqing , Chen Leilei
Published: June 2024

Background

Coronary chronic total occlusions (CTOs) are considered to increase the risk of adverse clinical outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether long-term clinical outcomes could be improved by successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) over optimal medical therapy (OMT) in CTO patients.

Methods

258 consecutive patients with CTO lesions undergoing PCI at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from January 2011 to December 2017 were enrolled. After 25 were excluded due to CABG surgery, a total of 233 patients who met the enrollment criteria were divided into successful CTO-PCI group (n=187) and CTO-OMT group (n=46) based on the treatment received. The study primary endpoint was major adverse cardiac cerebrovascular events (MACCE), including cardiac death, recurrent myocardial infarction, unplanned revascularization, and stroke. The secondary endpoint was all-cause death.

Results

During a median follow-up of 78 months, PCI treatment significantly improved MACCE incidence survival probability compared with OMT (29.55% vs 21.95% p=0.028). There was no difference between these two groups in secondary endpoint (p=0.93). There was also no significant difference in MACCE between single vessel CTO lesions and single vessel CTO combined with multiple vessel lesions(p=0.54). The cumulative survival of LAD is the highest among different branch lesion groups(p=0.044). Elderly patients (≥65 years) in PCI group showed a significant decrease of MACCE incidence compared with OMT (35.00% vs 21.33% p=0.001).

Conclusions

Successful PCI in CTO patients is associated with a significant decrease of MACCE compared with OMT.
In-Scanner Thoughts shape Resting-state Functional Connectivity: how participants “rest” matters
Authors: Gonzalez-Castillo J , Spurney MA , Lam KC , Gephart IS , Pereira F , Handwerker DA , Kam JWY , Bandettini PA
Published: June 2024

Resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI) scans—namely those lacking experimentally-controlled stimuli or cognitive demands—are often used to identify aberrant patterns of functional connectivity (FC) in clinical populations. To minimize interpretational uncertainty, researchers control for across-cohort disparities in age, gender, co-morbidities, and head motion. Yet, studies rarely, if ever, consider the possibility that systematic differences in inner experience (i.e., what subjects think and feel during the scan) may directly affect FC measures. Here we demonstrate that is the case using a rs-fMRI dataset comprising 471 scans annotated with experiential data. Wide-spread significant differences in FC are observed between scans that systematically differ in terms of reported in-scanner experience. Additionally, we show that FC can successfully predict specific aspects of in-scanner experience in a manner similar to how it predicts demographics, cognitive abilities, clinical outcomes and labels. Together, these results highlight the key role of in-scanner experience in shaping rs-fMRI estimates of FC.
AnnoDUF: A Web-Based Tool for Annotating Functions of Proteins having Domains of Unknown Function (DUFs)
Authors: Vishwakarma Aman , Padmashali Namrata , Thiyagarajan Saravanamuthu
Published: June 2024

The rapid expansion of biological sequence databases due to high-throughput genomic and proteomic sequencing methods has left a considerable number of identified protein sequences with unclear or incomplete functional annotations. DUFs are protein domains that lack functional annotations but are present in numerous proteins. To address the challenge of finding functional annotations for DUFs, we have developed a computational method, which efficiently identifies and annotates these enigmatic protein domains by utilizing PSI-BLAST and data mining techniques. Our pipeline identifies putative potential functionalities of DUFs, thereby decreasing the gap between known sequences and functions. The tool can also take user input sequences to annotate. We executed our pipeline on 4,775 unique DUF sequences obtained from Pfam, resulting in putative annotations for 1,971 of these. These annotations were subsequently incorporated into a comprehensive database and interfaced with a web-based server named ‘AnnoDUF’. AnnoDUF is freely accessible to both academic and industrial users, via World Wide Web at the linkhttp://bts.ibab.ac.in/annoduf.php.
Structural diversity of Arc oligomers within the excitatory synapse
Authors: Damenti Martina , Coceano Giovanna , Mendes Silva Mariline , Alvelid Jonatan , Sgattoni Chiara , Rems Lea , Masullo Luciano A. , Unterauer Eduard M. , Kowalewski Rafal , Volpato Andrea , Delemotte Lucie , Sezgin Erdinc , Jungmann Ralf , Testa Ilaria
Published: June 2024

The Activity-Regulated Cytoskeleton-Associated protein (Arc) is pivotal in mediating synaptic plasticity responses in neuronal cells. In vitro studies suggest its ability to form high- and low-order oligomers, which are involved in neuronal trafficking. Despite its important functions, no direct observation of Arc oligomers in cells has been presented due to its highly regulated spatiotemporal expression, the small size of the structures, the lack of appropriate labelling strategies and the background associated to free diffusing cytosolic proteins. Here, we apply super resolution microscopy to observe Arc oligomeric states in cellular environment with focus on the excitatory synapse. In cells, we provide the first evidence of Arc high-order oligomers; we uncovered intermolecular interactions of Arc, its tendency to form liquid condensates and interaction with lipid bilayers. Arc high-order oligomers affect AMPA receptor surface levels. Together, our observations suggest a model by which Arc oligomerization mediates plasma membrane negative curvature favoring AMPA receptors endocytosis.
The influence of basal CO2on neurofluid dynamics measured using resting-state BOLD fMRI
Authors: Zhong Xiaole Z. , Chang Catie , Chen J. Jean
Published: June 2024

An understanding of neurofluid dynamics has been gaining importance, in part given the link between neurofluid dynamics and glymphatic flow. As carbon dioxide (CO2) strongly modulates cerebral blood volume (CBV) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow, modulation of basal CO2 through different capnic conditions may offer insight into the mechanisms through which neurofluid dynamics are influenced. In this work, we report observations of neurofluid dynamics at normocapnia as well as during short-term hyper- and hypocapnia. We use the resting-state BOLD fMRI signal in neurofluid regions of interest (i.e. blood vessels, CSF compartments) as a surrogate of neurofluid dynamics. From these BOLD signals, we extract the power and central frequency of signal oscillations. We found that 1) Relative to a normocapnic steady state, both hypocapnic and hypercapnic steady states are associated with increased BOLD signal power and shifts in BOLD signal frequency in vascular ROIs in a band-dependent manner; 2) Relative to hypocapnia, hypercapnia is associated with both increased and decreased BOLD signal power in vascular ROIs, depending on the frequency band; 3) these trends are largely reproduced in the CSF ROIs and in the CSF velocity dynamics; 4) these power and frequency variations across capnic conditions are mostly driven by respiratory and heart-rate differences rather than by steady-state CO2and associated vascular-tone variations; 5) the cardiac and respiratory response functions differ substantially across capnic conditions. This work contributes to the establishment of the BOLD signal as a surrogate for neurofluid flow, and highlight the role of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) in linking vascular and CSF dynamics in the brain. The findings suggest that the ANS is also instrumental in the regulation of neurofluid flow in response to alterations of cerebral hemodynamic homeostasis. Furthermore, our findings suggest that this mechanism of ANS regulation differs across capnic states, or more broadly, across individuals with different basal capnic states.
Cold seeps are hotspots of deep-sea nitrogen-loss driven by microorganisms across 21 phyla
Authors: Jiang Qiuyun , Cao Lei , Han Yingchun , Li Shengjie , Zhao Rui , Zhang Xiaoli , Ruff S. Emil , Zhao Zhuoming , Peng Jiaxue , Liao Jing , Zhu Baoli , Wang Minxiao , Lin Xianbiao , Dong Xiyang
Published: June 2024

Nitrogen bioavailability, governed by the balance of fixation and loss processes, is a key factor regulating oceanic productivity, ecosystem functions, and global biogeochemical cycles. The key nitrogen-loss organisms—denitrifiers and anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing (anammox) bacteria—are not well understood in marine seafloor environments, especially in deep-sea cold seeps. In this study, we combined geochemical measurements,15N stable isotope tracer analysis, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and three-dimensional protein structural simulations to investigate the diversity of denitrifying and anammox microbial communities and their biogeochemical roles in these habitats. Geochemical evidence from 301 sediment samples shows significantly higher nitrogen-loss rates in cold seeps compared to typical deep-sea sediments, with an estimated annual nitrogen loss of 6.16 Tg from seafloor surface sediments. Examination of a total of 147 million non-redundant genes reveals a high prevalence and active expression of nitrogen-loss genes, including nitrous-oxide reductase (NosZ; 6.88 genes per million or GPM on average), nitric oxide dismutase (Nod; 1.29 GPM), and hydrazine synthase (HzsA; 3.35 GPM) in surface sediments. Analysis of 3,164 metagenome-assembled genomes from this habitat has expanded the known diversity of nitrous-oxide reducers to six phyla and nitric oxide-dismutating organisms to one phylum and two new orders, while ten phyla host anammox bacteria going beyondPlanctomycetota. These microbes show diverse structural adaptations and complex gene cluster arrangements that potentially enable survival in the harsh conditions of cold seeps. These findings suggest that cold seeps, despite their low temperatures, are significant, previously underestimated hotspots of nitrogen loss, potentially contribute substantially to the global nitrogen cycle.
Strong dependence of demographic stochasticity on a small effective number of breeders in iteroparous species
Authors: Akita Tetsuya
Published: June 2024

We provided a theoretical basis for integrating the effective number of breeders (Nb) into the stochastic dynamics of the number of adults (N) for iteroparous species based on individual relationships between adult females and their offspring. Recruitment variation was partitioned into i) parental, ii) nonparental, and iii) environmental processes (including density-dependent effects). The first two processes, summarized byNb, magnified the contribution of the last process to recruitment variation. Assuming that there were no sex differences and an equal sex ratio, the relationship betweenNband the factor amplifying recruitment variation whenNb/N<0.1 was approximated to provide quantitative guidance for using onlyNb. For example,Nb<42 would have a non-negligible impact on population stochasticity in terms of amplifying the environmental impact by over 5%. The advantage of assessing recruitment variation usingNbalone is that only genetic information on samples from the same cohort is sufficient. Thus, the proposed method is applicable in data-limited situations (e.g. endangered species), where there is typically insufficient information on life-history parameters or current age/size structure. The study findings reveal the usefulness ofNbin the field of conservation biology and wildlife management.
Janus Mazebots and Cellbots Navigating Obstacles in Dense Mammalian Environment
Authors: Sokolich Max , Mallick Sudipta , Belta Calin , Weiss Ron , Das Sambeeta
Published: June 2024

The field of microrobotics has immensely grown in the last few decades, exhibiting several challenges as new features such as shapes, sizes, and actuation mechanisms are explored. Two of the biggest challenges faced in microrobotics are the development of a control system suited for precise microrobotic manipulation, and the ability to navigate microrobots in densely populated environments. In this paper, we fabricate the Mazebot microrobots using silica spheres and ferromagnetic coating, and we use them to create cellbots with genetically modified Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells. Subsequently, we navigate both the Mazebots and the cellbots through a dense environment populated by CHO cells. The Mazebots navigation is done with a control system that allows the Mazebots to swim on their own, or guide a specific cell from a given origin to a target location while avoiding cell obstacles. The control system operates in open and closed-loop modes, where the first one allows the microrobot to reorient the cell using self-induced fluid vortices, and the second one closely follows a predefined trajectory along the origin and destination. On the other hand, the cellbots navigation is done in closed-loop operation. This enables cell manipulation for potential applications in cell and tissue engineering when in a confined space. Biocompatibility of the Mazebots is confirmed through the exposure of CHO cells to the robots for 24 hours. Experimental results demonstrate the functionality of our algorithm and its potential for biomedical applications, showcasing our system as a powerful and efficient solution for precise cellular manipulation.
The what, how and why of trait-based analyses in ecology
Authors: Guillerme Thomas , Cardoso Pedro , Jørgensen Maria Wagner , Mammola Stefano , Matthews Thomas J.
Published: June 2024

Functional diversity is increasingly used alongside taxonomic diversity to describe populations and communities in ecology. Indeed, functional diversity metrics allow researchers to summarize complex occupancy patterns in space and/or time (what is changing?) that lead to changes in communities and/or populations (the process; how is it changing?) in response to some stressors (the mechanism; why is it changing?). However, as the diversity of functional diversity metrics and methods increases, it is often not directly clear which metric is more readily appropriate for which question. We studied the ability of different functional diversity metrics to recover patterns and signals from different processes linked to common assembly mechanisms (environmental filtering, competitive exclusion, equalizing fitness, and facilitation) in community ecology. Using both simulated data and an empirical dataset affected by more complex and nuanced mechanisms, we tested the effectiveness of different space occupancy metrics to recover the simulated or empirical changes. We show that different metrics perform better for different tasks, emphasizing the importance of not using a one-size-fits-all metric. Instead, researchers should carefully consider and test whether a particular metric will be effective in capturing a pattern of interest.
Genome-wide analysis of Smad and Schnurri transcription factors inC. elegansdemonstrates widespread interaction and a function in collagen secretion
Authors: Vora Mehul , Dietz Jonathan , Wing Zachary , George Karen , Liu Jun , Rongo Christopher , Savage-Dunn Cathy
Published: June 2024

Smads and their transcription factor partners mediate the transcriptional responses of target cells to secreted ligands of the Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) family, including those of the conserved bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) family, yet only a small number of direct target genes have been well characterized. InC. elegans,the BMP2/4 ortholog DBL-1 regulates multiple biological functions, including body size, via a canonical receptor-Smad signaling cascade. Here, we identify functional binding sites for SMA-3/Smad and its transcriptional partner SMA-9/Schnurri based on ChIP-seq peaks (identified by modEncode) and expression differences of nearby genes identified from RNA-seq analysis of corresponding mutants. We found that SMA-3 and SMA-9 have both overlapping and unique target genes. At a genome- wide scale, SMA-3/Smad acts as a transcriptional activator, whereas SMA-9/Schnurri direct targets include both activated and repressed genes. Mutations insma-9partially suppress the small body size phenotype ofsma-3,suggesting some level of antagonism between these factors and challenging the prevailing model for Schnurri function. Functional analysis of target genes revealed a novel role in body size for genes involved in one-carbon metabolism and in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) secretory pathway, including the disulfide reductasedpy-11. Our findings indicate that Smads and SMA-9/Schnurri have previously unappreciated complex genetic and genomic regulatory interactions that in turn regulate the secretion of extracellular components like collagen into the cuticle to mediate body size regulation.
Longitudinal Associations Between MicroRNAs and Weight in the Diabetes Prevention Program
Authors: Flowers Elena , Stroebel Benjamin , Gong Xingyue , Lewis Kimberly , Aouizerat Bradley E. , Gadgil Meghana , Kanaya Alka M. , Zhang Li
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

Circulating microRNAs show cross-sectional associations with overweight and obesity. Few studies provided data to differentiate between a snapshot perspective on these associations versus how microRNAs characterize prodromal risk from disease pathology and complications. This study assessed longitudinal relationships between circulating microRNAs and weight at multiple time-points in the Diabetes Prevention Program trial.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A subset of participants (n=150) from the Diabetes Prevention Program were included. MicroRNAs were measured from banked plasma using a Fireplex Assay. We used generalized linear mixed models to evaluate relationships between microRNAs and changes in weight at baseline, year-1, and year-2. Logistic regression was used to evaluate whether microRNAs at baseline were associated with weight change after 2 years.

RESULTS

In fully adjusted models that included relevant covariates, seven miRs (i.e., miR-126, miR-15a, miR-192, miR-23a, and miR-27a) were statistically associated with weight over 2 years. MiR-197 and miR-320a remained significant after adjustment for multiple comparisons. Baseline levels of let-7f, miR-17, and miR-320c were significantly associated with 3% weight loss after 2 years in fully adjusted models.

DISCUSSION

This study provided evidence for longitudinal relationships between circulating microRNAs and weight. Because microRNAs characterize the combined effects of genetic determinants and responses to behavioral determinants, they may provide insights about the etiology of overweight and obesity in the context or risk for common, complex diseases. Additional studies are needed to validate the potential genes and biological pathways that might be targeted by these microRNA biomarkers and have mechanistic implications for weight loss and disease prevention.
An Infusible Extracellular Matrix Biomaterial Improves Survival in a Model of Severe Systemic Inflammation
Authors: Karkanitsa Maria , Wang Raymond M. , Lyons Anne C. , Mesfin Joshua M. , Chen Alexander , Spang Martin T. , Quintero Filiberto , Sadtler Kaitlyn , Hepokoski Mark , Christman Karen L.
Published: June 2024

Excess systemic inflammation can often be lethal in septic and trauma patients due to onset of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). As of right now, there are no effective immunomodulatory therapeutics that can promote survival within this patient population. Pro-regenerative extracellular matrix (ECM) biomaterials have shown success for treatment of local inflammation but have not been fully explored for treating systemic inflammation. Here, we demonstrate efficacy of an intravenously delivered infusible ECM (iECM) material, which promotes increased survival in a murine model of MODS by decreasing systemic mediators of inflammation. Lung and kidney failure are associated with higher mortality in MODS compared to other organ failures, and we demonstrate that iECM localizes primarily to kidney and lung tissues during systemic inflammation induced by endotoxin. iECM successfully lowered vascular permeability within lung tissue and lowered levels of inflammatory cytokine signaling such as IL-6, verified via ELISA and gene expression analyses. We also demonstrated that immune cell infiltration into lung tissue was modulated with iECM treatment, with an increase in neutrophil retention in the lung and decreases in pro-inflammatory macrophage presence. In summation, iECM improves survival from severe systemic inflammation by decreasing the local and systemic inflammatory signaling pathways that contribute to MODS. These results provide a strong rationale for translational studies of iECM treatment in systemic inflammatory syndromes, including sepsis and trauma.