bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feelings of Gratitude Toward God Among Older Whites, Older African Americans, and Older Mexican Americans
Authors: Krause Neal
Published: November 2011

The first goal of this study is to see if social relationships in the church influence feelings of gratitude toward God. The second goal is to assess the impact of race and ethnicity on this relationship. The data support the following hypotheses: (1) Older people who go to church more often tend to receive more spiritual support from fellow church members; (2) older adults who receive more spiritual support at church will derive a deeper understanding of themselves and others; (3) older people who develop greater insight into themselves and others will derive a greater sense of religious meaning in life; and (4) older adults who develop a deeper sense of religious meaning in life will feel more grateful to God. The results also indicate that the study model explains how feelings of gratitude toward God arise among older Blacks and Whites, but not older Mexican Americans.
Symptomatic Neonatal Arterial Ischemic Stroke: The International Pediatric Stroke Study
Authors: Kirton Adam , Armstrong-Wells Jennifer , Chang Taeun , deVeber Gabrielle , Rivkin Michael J. , Hernandez Marta , Carpenter Jessica , Yager Jerome Y. , Lynch John K. , Ferriero Donna M. ,   for the International Pediatric Stroke Study Investigators
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND:

Neonatal arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) has emerged as a leading cause of perinatal brain injury, cerebral palsy, and lifelong disability. The pathogenesis is poorly understood, which limits the development of treatment and prevention strategies. Multicenter studies must define epidemiology, risk factors, treatment practices, and outcomes to advance clinical trials and improve the adverse outcomes suffered by most survivors.

METHODS:

The International Pediatric Stroke Study is a global research initiative of 149 coinvestigators (30 centers in 10 countries). Patients with clinical and neuroimaging confirmation of symptomatic neonatal AIS were enrolled (2003–2007). Standardized, Web-based data entry collected clinical presentations, risk factors, investigations, treatments, and early outcomes. We examined predictors of infarct characteristics and discharge outcome by using multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS:

Two hundred forty-eight neonates were studied (57% male, 10% premature). Most of them presented with seizure (72%) and nonfocal neurologic signs (63%). MRI was completed for 92% of the infants, although <50% had vascular imaging. Infarcts preferentially involved the anterior circulation and left hemisphere and were multifocal in 30%. Maternal health and pregnancies were usually normal. Neonates often required resuscitation (30%) and had systemic illnesses (23%). Cardiac and prothrombotic abnormalities were identified in <20% of the infants. Antithrombotic treatment was uncommon (21%) and varied internationally. Half (49%) of the infants had deficits at discharge, and data on their long-term outcomes are pending.

CONCLUSIONS:

Newborns with AIS are often systemically sick, whereas their mothers are usually healthy. Definitive causes for most neonatal AISs have not been established, and large-scale case-control studies are required to understand pathogenesis if outcomes are to be improved.
Prevention and Management of Positional Skull Deformities in Infants
Authors: Laughlin James , Luerssen Thomas G. , Dias Mark S. ,   the Committee on Practice and Ambulatory Medicine, Section on Neurological Surgery
Published: November 2011

This Clinical Report was retired February 2018.

Positional skull deformities may be present at birth or may develop during the first few months of life. Since the early 1990s, US pediatricians have seen an increase in the number of children with cranial asymmetry, particularly unilateral flattening of the occiput, likely attributable to parents following the American Academy of Pediatrics “Back to Sleep” positioning recommendations aimed at decreasing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Positional skull deformities are generally benign, reversible head-shape anomalies that do not require surgical intervention, as opposed to craniosynostosis, which can result in neurologic damage and progressive craniofacial distortion. Although associated with some risk of positional skull deformity, healthy young infants should be placed down for sleep on their backs. The practice of putting infants to sleep on their backs has been associated with a drastic decrease in the incidence of sudden infant death syndrome. Pediatricians need to be able to properly differentiate infants with benign skull deformities from those with craniosynostosis, educate parents on methods of proactively decreasing the likelihood of the development of occipital flattening, initiate appropriate management, and make referrals when necessary. This report provides guidance for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of positional skull deformity in an otherwise normal infant without evidence of associated anomalies, syndromes, or spinal disease.
US Abortion Bans and Infant Mortality
Authors: Gemmill Alison , Franks Alexander M. , Anjur-Dietrich Selena , Ozinsky Amy , Arbour David , Stuart Elizabeth A. , Ben-Michael Eli , Feller Avi , Bell Suzanne O.
Published: February 2025

Importance

The impact of recent abortion bans on infant mortality is not fully understood. There is also limited evidence on how these bans may interact with long-standing racial and ethnic disparities in infant health.

Objective

To examine the association of abortion bans with changes in infant mortality and to compare this association in racial and ethnic groups based on analyses within and across states.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based, serial, cross-sectional study used a bayesian panel model to examine infant mortality rates in 14 states that implemented complete or 6-week abortion bans and compared them with predictions of infant mortality rates based on pre-ban mortality rates and states without bans. Data included all live births and infant deaths from all 50 US states and the District of Columbia for 2012 through 2023. Models accounted for temporal trends and state-specific factors, with analyses stratified by race and ethnicity, timing of death, and cause of death.

Exposure

Complete or 6-week abortion bans.

Main Outcome and Measures

Infant mortality rate, analyzed overall and by subgroups.

Results

The analysis found higher than expected infant mortality in states after adoption of abortion bans (observed vs expected, 6.26 vs 5.93 per 1000 live births; absolute increase, 0.33 [95% credible interval (CrI), 0.14-0.51]; relative increase, 5.60% [95% CrI, 2.43%-8.73%]). This resulted in an estimated 478 excess infant deaths in the 14 states with bans during the months affected by bans. The estimated increases were higher among non-Hispanic Black infants compared with other racial and ethnic groups, with 11.81 observed vs 10.66 expected infant deaths per 1000 live births, an absolute increase of 1.15 (95% CrI, 0.53-1.81) and relative increase of 10.98% (95% CrI, 4.87%-17.89%). The observed infant mortality rate due to congenital anomalies was 1.37 vs 1.24 expected (absolute increase, 0.13 [95% CrI, 0.04-0.21]; relative increase, 10.87% [95% CrI, 3.39%-18.08%]), while the rate not due to congenital anomalies was 4.89 observed vs 4.69 expected (absolute increase, 0.20 [95% CrI, 0.02-0.38]; relative increase, 4.23% [95% CrI, 0.49%-8.23%]). Texas had a dominant influence on the overall results and there were larger increases in southern vs nonsouthern states.

Conclusions

US states that adopted abortion bans had higher than expected infant mortality after the bans took effect. The estimated relative increases in infant mortality were larger for deaths with congenital causes and among groups that had higher than average infant mortality rates at baseline, including Black infants and those in southern states.
Secret Part-Time
Authors: Fainstad Tyra L.
Published: February 2025

In this narrative medicine essay, an internal medicine physician caught in the grind of academic practice considers a path of resistance through what is called secret part-time—altering one’s schedule quietly for personal matters.
Federally Qualified Health Centers as a Model to Improve Vision Health
Authors: Bai Patricia , Burt Spencer S. , Woodward Maria A. , Haber Scott , Newman-Casey Paula Anne , Henderer Jeffrey D. , Chan R. V. Paul , Chen Aiyin ,   American Academy of Ophthalmology Task Force on Ophthalmology and Community Health Centers, Modjtahedi Bobeck S. , Muir Kelly W. , Nyanwanwu Kristen H. , Rhodes Lindsay A. , Russo Diane , Scanzera Angelica C.
Published: February 2025

Importance

Disparities in eye health are associated with lower-income and minoritized populations, many of whom seek care at federally qualified health centers (FQHCs).

Objective

To examine the literature addressing vision and eye health care provided at FQHCs, identify barriers to providing care at FQHCs, and highlight recommendations on how FQHCs can decrease disparities in eye health.

Evidence Review

A systematic review of Embase, SCOPUS, and PubMed was performed, and articles regarding eye and vision health at FQHCs within the US published between January 1, 1965, and July 14, 2023, were included. This review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Structured data and case studies were extracted and collated using an a priori method to reduce bias.

Findings

The systematic review yielded 423 unique articles, with 43 meeting inclusion criteria. Only 18.3% to 29% of FQHCs reported on-site vision services with the remainder relying on external referrals to vision specialists. Primary eye conditions evaluated included diabetic retinopathy (26 studies), general eye health (11 studies), and glaucoma (6 studies). Telehealth vision initiatives were an important method to expand access (18 studies). Other topics included economic analysis (5 studies) and policy suggestions (3 studies) to increase vision services at FQHCs. Systemic barriers to accessing care at FQHCs were the lack of eye clinicians available to provide services, the cost of resources, and limited reimbursement to implement screening programs. Patient barriers to accessing care included financial constraints for specialist care, limited awareness of the importance of eye examinations, and difficulty navigating the insurance system.

Conclusions and Relevance

Findings of this systematic review suggest that FQHCs are well positioned to increase vision services and thus improve vision health equity, serving populations who are at a higher risk for vision disorders. Results find systemic and patient-level barriers to vision health that may need to be addressed. Policy leaders could leverage existing gaps for purposeful advocacy, set standards and metrics for vision health at FQHCs, promote novel models of care, and encourage collaboration of eye clinicians with partnering FQHCs.
Hyperacute Outer Retinal Dysfunction
Authors: Cheng Yizhe , Liu Xinyu , Lu Jinglin , Ren Jianing , Fei Ping , Chen Meini , Tang Changting , Zhang Jianping , Zhang Minglian , Yuan Miner , Sun Limei , Zhang Linyan , Hou Aohan , Jin Yili , Lai Yanting , Wang Qiong , Yan Wenjia , Ke Shuya , Li Xiaoxin , Ding Xiaoyan
Published: February 2025

Importance

Pattern recognition of pediatric retinal diseases can streamline the workup and guide the prognosis.

Objective

To characterize the clinical features, retinal imaging findings, and 1-year prognosis of pediatric patients who experienced sudden, severe bilateral vision loss with diffuse ellipsoid zone (EZ) and external limiting membrane (ELM) disruptions after fever.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This multicenter case series included 8 pediatric patients (16 eyes) who presented with an unusual set of clinical symptoms, including sudden, severe bilateral vision loss; nyctalopia; and diffuse EZ and ELM disruptions, subsequent to a febrile illness. The patients visited or were referred to a pediatric retina service between November 2022 and May 2023.

Main Outcome Measures

Changes in visual acuity, visual field, electroretinography (ERG) results, and presence of characteristic retinal imaging signs during follow-up.

Results

A total of 16 eyes from 8 children (6 boys and 2 girls) were included in this study; the patients’ mean (SD) age was 5.1 (1.2) years (range, 3-7 years; median, 5.0 years). Their sudden bilateral vision loss occurred a mean of 16.1 days after fever onset. Initial symptoms included sudden vision loss, visual field constriction, nyctalopia, and dyschromatopsia. Baseline visual acuity was predominantly below counting fingers. A sudden, diffuse loss of the EZ and ELM was observed in all eyes with gradual recovery beginning around the fourth week. After 1 year, visual acuity showed substantial improvement in most cases, with 7 of 8 patients (88%) achieving 20/40 or better, including 4 patients (50%) achieving 20/25 or better. The macular EZ and ELM appeared intact in 12 eyes (75%) and 14 eyes (88%), respectively, while the extrafoveal regions remained absent of EZ and ELM. ERG revealed extinguished cone and rod responses in 8 patients (100%), and multifocal ERG remained extinguished despite the recovery of visual acuity in all 8 patients (100%).

Conclusions and Relevance

This case series identifies a potentially underrecognized disease in pediatric patients after fever characterized by sudden vision loss, diffuse EZ and ELM disruption, and distinct retinal imaging features. The term hyperacute outer retinal dysfunction is recommended as descriptive while further investigations are recommended to better understand its pathophysiology and optimal management strategies.
Postnasal Drip
Authors: Chiu Jerlon , Rowan Nicholas R.
Published: February 2025

This JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery Patient Page describes the symptoms and treatment of postnasal drip.
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Intraoperative Autofluorescence for Parathyroid Identification
Authors: Serrao-Brown Hazel G. , Papachristos Alexander J. , Sidhu Stanley B.
Published: February 2025

Importance

Hypoparathyroidism (hypoPT) is the most common complication post–total thyroidectomy and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality when chronic. Conventionally, the prevention of hypoPT has involved visual inspection of parathyroid glands; however, near-infrared autofluorescence detection systems have been recently used as adjuncts. These systems involve significant outlay and ongoing costs.

Objective

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of autofluorescence for hypoPT prevention and to determine the chronic hypoPT rate at which this technology would become economically feasible.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this cost-benefit analysis, a decision tree economic model was developed to compare thyroidectomies performed with autofluorescence to visual inspection only. All costs associated with conventional surgery, autofluorescence, and the costs of managing hypoPT were captured. Morbidity was defined in terms of disutility, quantified as quality-adjusted life-years, determined over a lifetime time horizon. The model was used to calculate the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for autofluorescence-guided surgery and to identify determinants that influenced this ratio, and hence the economic feasibility of the use of autofluorescence. This study was based on the health care setting in Australia, in which more than 3500 thyroidectomies are performed annually. A probe-based autofluorescence detection system was used for analysis based on its availability in Australia. All costs were quantified in Australian dollars (A$) and were adjusted for 2024. The study data spanned from June 2022 to May 2023, and the data were analyzed in June 2023.

Results

The economic model analysis indicated that autofluorescence involved an additional cost of A $1024 (US $639) per surgery, offset by an increase in quality-adjusted life-years of 0.0080, resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of A $128 234 (US $80 060). In Australia, it is generally assumed that interventions with a ratio of up to A $70 000 (US $43 703) may be considered cost-effective. Cost-effectiveness was most sensitive to a change in the overall hypoPT rate, chronic hypoPT rate, and the efficacy of autofluorescence. Autofluorescence-guided surgery achieved the cost-effectiveness threshold at a chronic hypoPT rate of greater than or equal to 5%.

Conclusions and Relevance

Although the use of autofluorescence involves significant costs, its economic feasibility for the prevention of postsurgical hypoPT is determined by the underlying chronic and overall hypoPT rate, as well as the efficacy of autofluorescence for the reduction of hypoPT. The findings of this cost-benefit analysis are relevant in determining the prioritization and allocation of finite health care resources.
APPARENT REVERSAL OF ALLOSTERIC RESPONSE IN MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS MEND REVEALS LINKS TO HALF‐OF‐SITES REACTIVITY
Authors: Ho Ngoc Anh Thu , Given Fiona , Stanborough Tamsyn , Klein Michelle , Allison Timothy , Bulloch Esther , Jiao Wanting , Johnston Jodie
Published: February 2025

Redox‐active molecules play critical roles in various biological functions, including cellular respiration. In bacterial electron transport chains, menaquinones serve as key electron carriers. The first committed enzyme in the menaquinone biosynthesis pathway of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) MenD is allosterically inhibited by 1,4‐dihydroxy‐2‐naphthoic acid (DHNA), the first redox‐active metabolite in the pathway. Structural asymmetries in Mtb‐MenD suggest that this enzyme operates via a half‐of‐sites mechanism for catalysis. Here, we investigate the interplay between its catalytic and allosteric mechanisms. Using molecular dynamics simulations (MD), mutagenesis, kinetic and binding assays, and structural analyses, we identified and characterised mutants of two residues, D141 and D306, involved in stabilising asymmetric conformations associated with allostery. These mutations had complex effects on Mtb‐MenD’s reaction kinetics, with the D306 mutants showing an apparent reversal of the allosteric response to DHNA. Our findings indicate that asymmetric active site conformations may facilitate optimal binding of cofactors and substrates, while the transition between alternating active site conformations is essential for the catalytic cycle. DHNA binding stabilises asymmetry in the tetramer, likely promoting the binding of cofactors, substrates, or reaction intermediates. However, DHNA interferes with the transition between alternating conformations, ultimately impairing turnover and catalytic cycling in Mtb‐MenD.
Associations Between Serum IL‐17A, Renal Function and Diabetic Retinopathy in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Evidence From a Chinese Han Population
Authors: Wang Wensu , Huang Yan , Shen Jianguo , Jin Li , Chen Zhuo
Published: February 2025

Background

Evidence suggested that IL‐17A was associated with renal function in type 2 diabetes. We used ultra‐sensitive measurement to detect the concentration of IL‐17A in human peripheral blood and explored the association of IL‐17A with diabetic kidney disease (DKD).

Methods

We recruited 138 participants from the Shanghai Diabetes Institute Inpatient Database of Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital. Eighty‐four individuals diagnosed as DKD were cases, and 54 type 2 diabetes individuals without DKD or diabetic retinopathy (DR) were controls. The concentration of serum IL‐17A was detected by the High Sensitivity Immunoassay Quantitative Kit. Data was analysed by SAS.

Results

The concentration of serum IL‐17A in our population ranged from 0.07 pg/mL to 2.96 pg/mL with the median of 0.502 pg/mL. Our results suggested that the level of serum IL‐17A in DKD case group was higher than in the control (P unadjusted = 0.0496, P adjusted = 0.0298). And serum creatinine, eGFR, ACR were used as indicators of renal function. Serum creatinine and ACR were positive correlated with the level of serum IL‐17A (P adjusted = 0.0148; P adjusted = 0.0369), while eGFR showed a negative correlation (P adjusted = 0.0167). Additionally, the level of serum IL‐17A was also significantly higher in DR case group compared with the control group (p = 0.0224).

Conclusion

Serum IL‐17A level is associated with renal function decline and diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes in a Chinese Han population. Our results suggested that IL‐17A may be a potential biomarker of DKD and DR.
Comparative Evaluation of Extraction Protocols for Point‐Of‐Need Molecular Diagnostics
Authors: Kobialka Rea Maja , Ceruti Arianna , Truyen Uwe , Abd El Wahed Ahmed
Published: February 2025

Background

In the rapidly evolving field of molecular diagnostics, identifying a suitable extraction method is crucial in determining the applicability of the point‐of‐need device. Extraction, which serves as the initial and important step in the diagnostic process, plays a vital role in the accuracy, reliability, and speed of detecting pathogens. Extraction methods range from traditional approaches like organic extraction to modern advancements such as magnetic bead‐based separation, each offering unique advantages and limitations.

Methods

This study explored the comparative effectiveness of 10 commercially available protocols (denoted as I–X), focusing on their practicality and efficiency in point‐of‐need scenarios. By considering criteria such as ease of use, turnaround time, and robustness in handling different sample matrices, we aimed to highlight the critical factors that influence the selection of an appropriate extraction method for immediate and reliable diagnostic outcomes in diverse settings. The effectiveness of each protocol was evaluated by comparing the time threshold and fluorescence signal using isothermal amplification (namely reverse transcription‐recombinase‐aided amplification). For comparison, samples were also extracted with Qiagen spin column extraction.

Results

The performance of each protocol in extracting feline Coronavirus (FCoV) RNA differed depending on the sample type, such as nasal swab, serum, and feces. Overall, protocol VIII proved to be flexible and reliable for point‐of‐need diagnostics owing to its consistent extraction efficiency across different sample types and its excellent sensitivity (2 × 101 RNA copies/μL from supernatant and nasal swab and 2 × 102 RNA copies/μL from serum).

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the significance of considering the specific sample type and diagnostic goal in selecting the right extraction protocol.
What Matters to Senior Secondary Students in RE: An Australian Case Study That Compares an Innovative Curriculum with Traditional Approaches
Authors: Sultmann William , Lamb Janeen , Ivers Peter , Craig Mark
Published: February 2025

Students’ (N = 353) in the senior secondary school rated the significance of Topics, Pedagogies and Outcomes for Religious Education (RE) courses: two with an academic focus, combined and named Other RE; and one, an innovative curriculum, using a reconceptualist approach, named Religion Meaning and Life (RML). The topics of Ethics and Other World Religions were preferenced by all RE students independent of the course studied. However, students studying RML held significant and more positive perceptions for topics of Jesus and Other World Religions. All students affirmed pedagogies based on dialogue about life’s real world problems, which for the RML students was significantly more positive and fundamental to their course. Course outcomes for RML students were also significantly more positive in terms of: Listening to others; Dialoguing; Making connections; Understanding myself; and contributing to the community. While both academic and innovative approaches had different purposes, and both were valued, the reconceptualist approach within the innovative program achieved significantly better outcomes for students and aligned with the Educational Sustainable Development (ESD) goals for learning more generally. Implications centred on the potential inclusion of RML course characteristics for enhancing learning outcomes in Other RE courses and highlighted the significance of aligning of ESDs across the curriculum.
Rethinking Sustainability: Contributions of Religious Literacy Education
Authors: Grelle Bruce
Published: February 2025

This chapter argues that we should abandon the idea that “sustainability” is about finding a way to preserve our present “system” – our prevailing economic worldview, our consumer lifestyle, and the accompanying practices and institutions. Rather, we should rethink the concept of sustainability as a tool for criticizing and rejecting as unsustainable the growth-based economic status quo and as a spur to the development of more ecologically oriented alternatives. One of the main barriers to recognizing the unsustainability of our present global political economy is the widespread influence of mainstream economic theory. A growing number of scholars have argued that the worldview presented by mainstream economics amounts to a new secular religion of sorts, a system of faith that has become dominant in today’s world. Helping students and the general public to learn more about this view of life and its far-reaching influence, and helping them to recognize and envision possible alternatives, is a main contribution that education about religions and beliefs can make to contemporary discussions of environmental, economic, and social sustainability.
Religious Education in Türkiye in Terms of Sustainable Environmental Education: An Analysis of Religious Culture and Ethical Knowledge Curriculum and Textbooks
Authors: Meydan Hasan , Kaymakcan Recep , Karaahmetoğlu Feyza
Published: February 2025

In modern environmental education, for a sustainable environmental management, the most frequently emphasized ethical justification is the moral responsibility of the current generation to future generations. Even though this approach directs people to protect the environment for future generations, the responsibility is indirect. This is because the environment is placed in a position that is respected not for itself but for the benefit of future generations. However, for religions, all existence deserves existential respect because it is divine in origin. It is therefore important to consider these religious theories in religious education for the development of sustainable environmental awareness. The curricula of Religious Culture and Ethics Knowledge course has been changed four times in 1982, 2000, 2006 and 2018.

In this context, this chapter aims to explore how sustainable environmental education has been evaluated in Religious Culture and Ethics Knowledge’s curricula and textbooks since 1982, as religious education has a potential to contribute significantly to sustainable environmental awareness. Moreover, it intends to make suggestions in line with better sustainable environmental education for future curriculum development and preparation of textbooks in schools’ religious education. It is understood that these curricula held the issue in the aims, values, achievements and units in different shapes and forms.
Enhanced secretion of the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ALS-associated misfolded TDP-43 mediated by the ER-ubiquitin specific peptidase USP19
Authors: Picard Flavien , Nonaka Takashi , Belotti Edwige , Osseni Alexis , Errazuriz-Cerda Elisabeth , Jost-Mousseau Coline , Bernard Emilien , Conjard-Duplany Agnès , Bohl Delphine , Hasegawa Masato , Raoul Cédric , Galli Thierry , Schaeffer Laurent , Leblanc Pascal
Published: February 2025

Proteinopathies, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), are marked by the accumulation of misfolded proteins that disrupt cellular processes. Eukaryotic cells have developed protein quality control systems to eliminate these aberrant proteins, but these systems often fail to differentiate between normal and misfolded proteins. In ALS, pathological inclusions primarily composed of misfolded TDP-43 are a hallmark of the disease. Recently, a novel unconventional secretion process called misfolding-associated protein secretion (MAPS) has been discovered to selectively export misfolded proteins. USP19, an Endoplasmic Reticulum-associated ubiquitin peptidase, plays a crucial role in this process. In this study, we investigated the impact of ER-anchored USP19 on the secretion of misfolded TDP-43. Here we found that USP19 overexpression significantly promotes the secretion of soluble and aggregated misfolded TDP-43, requiring both ER anchoring and ubiquitin peptidase activity. Characterization of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in this process highlighted the importance of early autophagosomal and late endosomal/amphisomal compartments, while lysosomes did not play a key role. By using dominant-negative mutants and small interfering RNAs, we identified that USP19-mediated secretion of misfolded TDP-43 is modulated by key factors involved in cellular trafficking and secretion pathways, such as ATG7, the ESCRT-O HGS/HRS, the Rab GTPases RAB11A, RAB8A, and RAB27A, and the v-SNARE VAMP7. We also confirmed the crucial role of the DNAJC5/CSPα cochaperone. Overall, this study provides new insights into how cells manage the secretion of misfolded TDP-43 proteins and potentially opens new avenues for therapeutic interventions in ALS and related disorders.
Effect of pre-existing psychiatric treatment in suicidal jumpers on the need for in-hospital treatment following injury
Authors: Rantala Rolle , Heinänen Mikko , Kuorikoski Joonas , Brinck Tuomas , Söderlund Tim
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To study the effect of pre-existing psychiatric disorders on outcome following suicidal jump from a height.

Methods

Suicidal jumpers were identified from Helsinki Trauma Registry from 2006 to 2015. Trauma registry data were combined with administrative registry data to obtain long-term mortality and in-hospital treatment. The in-hospital treatment data was from 2 years preceding the index injury and up to 5 years post injury. Reasons for the in-hospital visits were also recorded. We analyzed the patients in two groups, namely patients without a pre-existing psychiatric diagnosis (group 1) and patients with a pre-existing psychiatric diagnosis (group 2).

Results

One-hundred twenty-seven patients were included in the analysis, with 73 patients having received pre-existing psychiatric treatment. A total of 57% of patients were males and 28% of patients suffered severe traumatic brain injury (head AIS ≥ 3). Group 2 patients had a higher number of in-hospital days pre- and post-injury than group 1 patients. Reason for in-hospital treatment in group 2 was psychiatric in over 80% of days except in the year beginning from the index injury. 30-day mortality was similar between the groups 1 and 2 (11% vs. 16%, p = 0.395). Five-year survival was 72% in group 2 patients to 86% in group 1 patients (p = 0.0001).

Conclusion

Patients with pre-existing psychiatric disorder reaching hospital alive have higher pre- and post-injury requirements for in-hospital treatment than patients without a pre-existing psychiatric disorder. Although pre-existing psychiatric disorder does not affect early mortality, long-term mortality is increased by 14%.

Trial registration

Trial registration number and date of registration: HUS/221/2017, 30.3.2017.
Effect of NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin on human lung cancer A549 cells via Bcl-2, Bax, caspase-3, and NF-κB signaling pathway
Authors: Yıldırım Betul Apaydın , Dogan Tuba , Bolat İsmail , Ozcan Ali Can , Kocak Rabia
Published: February 2025

Apocynin (AP) is an anti-inflammatory drug with different therapeutic effects. This study aimed to investigate the antiproliferative, apoptotic, and antioxidant effects of AP on human lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549) and to investigate the effects on Bax, Bcl-2, NF-κB, and caspase-3 signaling pathways that may play a role in the pathogenesis of lung cancer. Cell viability was measured by MTT and cell apoptosis, and detection of cell death was measured by ELISA. IMA, AOPP, MDA, and GSH levels, SOD and CAT activities, and Bcl-2, Bax, NF-κB, and caspase-3 expression levels were analyzed from the obtained cell lysates. As a result, according to the findings obtained, IMA and MDA levels decreased in the A549 cancer cell line, while GSH levels and SOD and CAT activity increased. It was determined that the application of apocynin to A549 cells significantly reduced cell viability and directed the cells to apoptosis, increased Bax, NF-κB, and caspase-3 expression, and decreased Bcl-2 expressions. Since all of the data obtained were not found in the literature about the use of apocynin in the A549, the study conducted is pioneering. Our study demonstrates the potential of apocynin for cancer therapy possibly targeting the apoptotic pathway.

Graphical Abstract
MRI of pediatric ovarian masses: validation of the O-RADS framework
Authors: Munari Alice M. , Monti Caterina B. , Viglio Camilla , Folco Gianluca , Rizzetto Francesco , Zirpoli Salvatore
Published: February 2025

Objective

The purpose of our study was to test the applicability and implications of using the O-RADS system, which is developed and validated on adults, to review MRI of ovarian masses among pediatric patients.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively reviewed consecutive MRI examinations from pediatric patients referred to imaging for suspected ovarian lesions, assessing them using the O-RADS framework. Malignancy frequencies among O-RADS classes were reviewed, and we appraised the potential for such approach to split patients into low (O-RADS 1, 2, and 3) and high risk (O-RADS 4 and 5). Multivariate analyses were conducted to review which clinical or imaging variables yielded a significant impact on malignancy, and a simplified reading framework was proposed accordingly.

Results

109 female patients were included, with a median age of 13 years (IQR 11–15 years), 7 (7%) presenting with malignant lesions. Malignancy proportions were 0% (95% confidence Interval (CI) 0–35%) for the O-RADS 1 class, 0% (95% CI 0 − 5%) for the O-RADS 2 class, 0% (95% CI 0–14%) for the O-RADS 3 class, 50 (95% CI 1 − 99%) for the O-RADS 4 class, and 75% (95% CI 41–93%) for the O-RADS 5 class. The presence of peritoneal thickening or nodules (p < 0.001), lesion composition (p < 0.001), and absence of intralesional fat (p = 0.051) were individual predictors of malignancy, and the simplified reading framework proposed with such variables identified 11 likely malignant cases, detecting all 7 malignant lesions.

Conclusion

The O-RADS system may be applied to MRI performed in the pediatric population for ovarian masses, and a simplified reading framework based on O-RADS could also prove useful in such a setting.

Key Points

Question
The Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) provides the risk of malignancy of ovarian masses among adults but has not been validated among pediatric patients.

Findings Malignancy frequencies for O-RADS classes 1, 2, 3, and 4 were 0, 0, 50%, and 75%, indicating a good accuracy in lesion discrimination.

Clinical relevance
The Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) can be effectively applied to MRI examinations in pediatric patients, enabling accurate classification of findings, with potential for score simplification in this age group.
Parenting Experiences in the Context of Parental Bipolar Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis of the Qualitative Literature
Authors: Tu En-Nien , Saunders Kate E. A. , Manley Helen , Lobban Fiona , Jones Steven , Creswell Cathy
Published: February 2025

Parental bipolar disorder (BD) is associated with an increased risk of mental health problems in children. Despite the urgent need for clear guidance on how best to support parents with BD, current research lacks a unified analysis of the challenges and needs faced by these parents and their children. This review aims to explore the impact of BD on experiences of parent–child interactions or relationships to inform effective policies and interventions. Following a preregistered PROSPERO protocol, we searched Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, SCOPUS, and CINAHL for qualitative studies on parents with BD and their children (under 19 years) published since 1994. Each study was independently screened and jointly assessed for quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program. Our thematic synthesis entailed coding in NVivo, followed by collaborative theme generation on the Miro platform. We reviewed 19 studies, of which 9 studies reported on parents, 8 on children, and 2 on both parents and children. Our analysis generated four themes: (1) "The multifaceted landscape of parenting with BD," which outlines how mood swings affect parenting in diverse ways; (2) "The evolving dynamic of child-parent relationship amidst parental BD," including how children adapt and grow in understanding and responsibility in response to their parent’s BD; (3) "The dual nature of childcare for parents with BD," which explores how childcare impacts parents’ emotions and motivations, bringing both uplifting and challenging effects; (4) "Navigating parental challenges in the context of BD," highlighting the importance of open communication, self-reflection, and timely, unbiased support to mitigate challenges associated with parental BD. This qualitative synthesis focuses specifically on the parenting experiences of families affected by parental BD. It highlights the complex, dynamic impact of BD on parenting behaviors and children’s coping mechanisms, calling for tailored therapeutic interventions that benefit both parents and children. The scope of our study is limited by factors such as a predominance of Western perspectives and an underrepresentation of fathers’ experiences, highlighting the need for more diverse research in this area.
The effects of anti-galactagogue (sage, parsley extract) and anti-inflammatory (echinacea extract) feed supplements on prolactin levels and fertility in the re-pregnancy of lactating Merino ewes
Authors: Kutlu Metehan , Akbulut Neffel Kürşat
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of anti-galactagogue (sage, parsley extract) and anti-inflammatory (echinacea extract) feed supplements on prolactin levels and fertility in the re-pregnancy of lactating Merino ewes. Eighty ewes were randomly assigned to one of two groups: control and treatment. In treatment group (Stop Lactin) group (n = 40) ewes were treated with Stop Lactin® 60 ml on day 0 orally by syringe. The control group (Control) (n = 40), ewes were not treated with any anti-galactagogue feed supplements. On day 0, a vaginal sponge containing 60 mg of medroxyprogesterone acetate was inserted for seven days. On day 7, all ewes received an intramuscular injection of 500 IU PMSG. The study results indicated no statistically significant differences between the Control group and Stop Lactin group in terms of conception rates (87.2% and 78.1%), late embryonic-early fetal mortality rate (20.6% and 8.0%), lambing rate (79.4% and 92%), twin rate (29.6% and 13.0%) and litter size (1.30 and 1.13). Estrus rates (97.5% and 82.1%, p = 0.050) tended to be higher and pregnancy rates (85.0% and 64.1%, p = 0.037) was found to be significant in the control group compared to the Stop Lactin group. The effect of treatment (P = 0.209) on serum prolactin levels and the interaction between treatment × day (P = 0.874) were both found to be insignificant. It is concluded that anti-galactagogue and anti-inflammatory feed supplements did not reduce prolactin concentration and did not improve fertility in lactating Merino ewes.
Tribological Characterization of Friction-induced Phase Transformations in Binary Nitinol
Authors: Hafezi Mahshid , Allen Jack , Abbott Andrew P. , Feeney Andrew
Published: February 2025

The binary alloy of nickel and titanium, commonly known as Nitinol, is widespread in the biomedical industry such as vascular stents. Recently, Nitinol’s application potential has expanded, including as actuating materials in ultrasonic transducers and robotic systems. In such cases, the temperature-dependent elastic moduli of Nitinol can be controlled via mechanical load or temperature triggers, between those for compliant martensite and stiff austenite. However, we have limited the understanding of the contact mechanics, predominantly the surface reactions and wear rate, of binary Nitinol in contact with other materials. The importance of this is understanding how Nitinol can be integrated in a wider range of industrial applications. Here, tribological investigations are undertaken to assess the phase transformation and contact mechanics of Nitinol under friction conditions, for stainless steel and titanium, chosen as common interfacing materials in actuation systems such as ultrasonic transducers. Experimental results demonstrate the phase transition from martensite to austenite via changes of elasticity in shape memory Nitinol rubbing against stainless steel under a dry condition. During these interactions, Nitinol exhibits a mass reduction of 0.00091 g, with a wear depth of 1.7 µm. Thermal analysis revealed that the austenite start temperature (As) is very close to ambient room temperature, at 25ºC. A multiple-load cycle indentation using a three-sided diamond tip was employed to evaluate the response of Nitinol to localized applied forces, where martensitic Nitinol has experienced a maximum force of 490 mN. Microscopic observations confirm the formation of oxide layers on Nitinol’s surface resulting from titanium exposure to oxygen. Meanwhile, the nonlinear hardness for martensitic Nitinol has been exhibited with increasing depth of penetration, exhibiting a maximum of 4.5 GPa. The novelty of the research is centered on both the tribological and mechanical performance of Nitinol-based actuating systems for a wide range of medical and industrial applications.
Endoscopic Approach to Laryngeal Schwannoma: A Case Report
Authors: Garg Akanksha , Kath Anmol , Handa Prince , Vermani Akshit
Published: February 2025

Laryngeal schwannoma is an uncommon clinical condition. This study reports the case of 78-year-old female with history of voice change. The tumour was removed by transoral endoscopic approach. On follow up the patient was symptom free. The aim of this report is to advert comprehension about this rare disease.
Automated Sample Treatment System for Enhanced Molecular Pathogen Detection in Blood
Authors: Lee Jinyeop , Abafogi Abdurhaman Teyib , Lee Tae Jae , Park Sungsu
Published: February 2025

Clinical samples contain various biological substances, such as proteins and lipids, which can inhibit molecular detection of pathogens, often present at concentrations below the limit of detection (LOD). While existing sample preparation techniques can remove inhibitors and enrich pathogens, they are generally labor-intensive, manual processes that increase the risk of exposure. We present a fully automated sample treatment system that integrates immunomagnetic separation (IMS) and DNA extraction within a microfluidic film device, specifically designed to streamline pathogen detection from clinical samples. The system can process up to 1 mL of whole blood and concentrate the final eluent to 20 µL, obtaining purified DNA in less than 1 h. When combined with PCR or quantitative PCR (qPCR), the system detects Escherichia coli O157 at concentrations as low as 1 CFU/mL in spiked whole blood—achieving a sensitivity 100 times greater than PCR or qPCR alone. This enhanced sensitivity is due to the effective integration of bacterial pre-concentration and DNA purification steps, which remove PCR inhibitors and improve detection in complex sample matrices, such as blood. These results demonstrate that our automated system is highly suitable for rapid, sensitive pathogen diagnostics in clinical settings, with potential for further adaptation to a wide range of pathogens and sample types, advancing molecular diagnostics for healthcare applications.
Assessing the Time of Emergence of Marine Ecosystems From Global to Local Scales Using IPSL‐CM6A‐LR/APECOSM Climate‐To‐Fish Ensemble Simulations
Authors: Barrier Nicolas , Maury Olivier , Seferian Roland , Santana‐Falcón Yeray , Tidd Alex , Lengaigne Matthieu
Published: February 2025

Climate change is anticipated to considerably reduce global marine fish biomass, driving marine ecosystems into unprecedented states with no historical analogs. The Time of Emergence (ToE) marks the pivotal moment when climate conditions (i.e., signal) deviate from pre‐industrial norms (i.e., noise). Leveraging ensemble climate‐to‐fish simulations from one Earth System Model (IPSL‐CM6A‐LR) and one Marine Ecosystem Model (APECOSM), this study examines the ToE of epipelagic, migratory and mesopelagic fish biomass alongside their main environmental drivers for two contrasted climate‐change scenarios. Globally averaged biomass signals emerge over the historical period. Epipelagic biomass decline emerged earlier (1950) than mesozooplankton decline (2017) due to a stronger signal in the early 20th century, possibly related to trophic amplification induced by an early emerging surface warming (1915). Trophic amplification is delayed for mesopelagic biomass due to postponed warming in the mesopelagic zone, resulting in a later emergence (2017). ToE also displays strong size class dependence, with epipelagic medium sizes (20 cm) experiencing delayed emergence compared to the largest (1 m) and smallest (1 cm) categories. For the epipelagic and mesopelagic communities, the regional signal emergence lags behind the global average, with median ToE estimates of 2030 and 2034, respectively. This is due to stronger noise in regional time‐series than in global averages. The regional ToEs are also spatially heterogeneous, driven predominantly by the signal pattern akin to mesozooplankton. Additionally, our findings underscore that mitigation efforts (i.e., transitioning from SSP5‐8.5 to SSP1‐2.6 scenario) can potentially curtail emerging ocean surface signals by 30%.
Deep‐Focus Earthquakes in Warm Slabs: Seismic Source Parameters in the Peru‐Brazil Region
Authors: Leite Neto G. S. , Prieto G. A. , Julià J.
Published: February 2025

Deep‐focus earthquakes pose a significant challenge because their occurrence under extreme pressure and temperature conditions should inhibit nucleation through conventional brittle‐failure. Transformational faulting is generally accepted as a most plausible mechanism to explain deep‐focus seismicity, but it encounters limitations in warm slabs like Nazca because warm temperatures may hinder the preservation of a metastable olivine wedge. Aiming at elucidating the conditions and processes driving deep seismicity in warm slabs, we determined seismic source parameters (stress drop, seismic moment, radiated energy, seismic efficiency) for 13 deep‐focus earthquakes (4.8 ≤ Mw ≤ 7.4) in the Peru‐Brazil border region. Our results suggest that variations in stress drop can be significant (5–90 MPa) and that scaling between stress drop and seismic moment holds for a wider range of magnitudes (Mw 4.8 to 7.4) than previously reported. Radiated energies are in the 6.8 × 1010–1.9 × 1016 J range, with earthquakes in the 6.4–7.4 Mw magnitude range displaying the largest values (4.2 × 1014–1.9 × 1016 J). Most importantly, variable radiation efficiencies (0.1–1.4) suggest the coexistence of dissipative and brittle‐like ruptures within the slab segment. We propose that these values reflect different degrees of melting involved in the rupture process, possibly controlled by the release of water from hydrous phases in the source region. Moreover, dehydration reactions would be triggered by either the latent heat released from phase transformations or by shear heating, establishing an interplay between thermal runaway enhanced by melting and phase transformations promoted by the release of water.