bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neddylation is essential for malaria transmission in
Plasmodium berghei
Authors: Nayak Bandita , Paul Plabita , Mishra Satish
Published: February 2024

Neddylation is a type of posttranslational modification known to regulate a wide range of cellular processes by covalently conjugating the ubiquitin-like protein Nedd8 to target proteins at lysine residues. However, the role of neddylation in malaria parasites has not been determined. Here, for the first time, we showed that neddylation plays an essential role in malaria transmission in
Plasmodium berghei
. We found that disruption of Nedd8 did not affect blood-stage propagation, gametocyte development, gamete formation, or zygote formation while abolishing the formation of ookinetes and further transmission of the parasites in mosquitoes. These phenotypic defects in Nedd8 knockout parasites were complemented by reintroducing the gene that restored mosquito transmission to wild-type levels. Our data establish the role of
P. berghei
Nedd8 in malaria parasite transmission.

IMPORTANCE

Neddylation is a process by which Nedd8 is covalently attached to target proteins through three-step enzymatic cascades. The attachment of Nedd8 residues results in a range of diverse functions, such as cell cycle regulation, metabolism, immunity, and tumorigenesis. The potential neddylation substrates are cullin (CUL) family members, which are implicated in controlling the cell cycle. Cullin neddylation leads to the activation of cullin-RING ubiquitin ligases, which regulate a myriad of biological processes through target-specific ubiquitylation. Neddylation possibly regulates meiosis in zygotes, which subsequently develop into ookinetes. Our findings point to an essential function of this neddylation pathway and highlight its possible importance in designing novel intervention strategies.
Single-genome analysis reveals a heterogeneous association of the herpes simplex virus genome with H3K27me2 and the reader PHF20L1 following infection of human fibroblasts
Authors: Francois Alison K. , Rohani Ali , Loftus Matt , Dochnal Sara , Hrit Joel , McFarlane Steven , Whitford Abigail , Lewis Anna , Krakowiak Patryk , Boutell Chris , Rothbart Scott B. , Kashatus David , Cliffe Anna R.
Published: February 2024

The fate of herpesvirus genomes following entry into different cell types is thought to regulate the outcome of infection. For the Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), latent infection of neurons is characterized by association with repressive heterochromatin marked with Polycomb silencing-associated lysine 27 methylation on histone H3 (H3K27me). However, whether H3K27 methylation plays a role in repressing lytic gene expression in non-neuronal cells is unclear. To address this gap in knowledge, and with consideration that the fate of the viral genome and outcome of HSV-1 infection could be heterogeneous, we developed an assay to quantify the abundance of histone modifications within single viral genome foci of infected fibroblasts. Using this approach, combined with bulk epigenetic techniques, we were unable to detect any role for H3K27me3 during HSV-1 lytic infection of fibroblasts. By contrast, we could detect the lesser studied H3K27me2 on a subpopulation of viral genomes, which was consistent with a role for H3K27 demethylases in promoting lytic gene expression. In addition, viral genomes co-localized with the H3K27me2 reader protein PHF20L1, and this association was enhanced by inhibition of the H3K27 demethylases UTX and JMJD3. Notably, targeting of H3K27me2 to viral genomes was enhanced following infection with a transcriptionally defective virus in the absence of Promyelocytic leukemia nuclear bodies. Collectively, these studies implicate a role for H3K27me2 in fibroblast-associated HSV genome silencing in a manner dependent on genome sub-nuclear localization and transcriptional activity.

IMPORTANCE

Investigating the potential mechanisms of gene silencing for DNA viruses in different cell types is important to understand the differential outcomes of infection, particularly for viruses like herpesviruses that can undergo distinct types of infection in different cell types. In addition, investigating chromatin association with viral genomes informs on the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation of DNA processes. However, there is a growing appreciation for heterogeneity in the outcome of infection at the single cell, and even single viral genome, level. Here we describe a novel assay for quantifying viral genome foci with chromatin proteins and show that a portion of genomes are targeted for silencing by H3K27me2 and associate with the reader protein PHF20L1. This study raises important questions regarding the mechanism of H3K27me2-specific targeting to viral genomes, the contribution of epigenetic heterogeneity to herpesvirus infection, and the role of PHF20L1 in regulating the outcome of DNA virus infection.
Lake Erie ice is a repository of organisms
Authors: Iwaloye Opeoluwa F. , Michaud Brenna , Alloy Tessa , D'Souza Nigel , McKay R. Michael L. , Morris Paul , Gura Colby , Rogers Scott O.
Published: February 2024

Organism abundance and diversity were assessed in Lake Erie ice samples using sequences derived from a combined metagenomic and metatranscriptomic analysis. The 68,417 unique sequences were from Bacteria (77.5%), Eukarya (22.3%), and Archaea (0.2%) and indicated diverse species of organisms from 32 bacterial, 8 eukaryotic, and 2 archaeal taxonomic groups.
Whole-genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 from the initial cases of domestic cat infections in Canada
Authors: Sultana Asma , Bienzle Dorothee , Weese Scott , Pickering Brad , Kruczkiewicz Peter , Smith Greg , Pinette Mathieu , Lung Oliver
Published: February 2024

Two cat nasal swabs from Canada’s earliest confirmed SARS-CoV-2 positive domestic cats were sequenced to over 99% SARS-CoV-2 genome coverage. One cat had lineage A.23.1 SARS-CoV-2 not reported before in animals. Both sequences have multiple spike gene mutations and clustered closely with human-derived sequences in the global SARS-CoV-2 phylogenetic tree.
Genomic revisitation and reclassification of the genus
Providencia
Authors: Dong Xu , Jia Huiqiong , Yu Yuyun , Xiang Yanghui , Zhang Ying
Published: February 2024

Members of
Providencia
, although typically opportunistic, can cause severe infections in immunocompromised hosts. Recent advances in genome sequencing provide an opportunity for more precise study of this genus. In this study, we first identified and characterized a novel species named
Providencia zhijiangensis
sp. nov. It has ≤88.23% average nucleotide identity (ANI) and ≤31.8%
in silico
DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values with all known
Providencia
species, which fall significantly below the species-defining thresholds. Interestingly, we found that
Providencia stuartii
and
Providencia thailandensis
actually fall under the same species, evidenced by an ANI of 98.59% and a dDDH value of 90.4%. By fusing ANI with phylogeny, we have reclassified 545 genomes within this genus into 20 species, including seven unnamed taxa (provisionally titled Taxon 1–7), which can be further subdivided into 23 lineages. Pangenomic analysis identified 1,550 genus-core genes in
Providencia
, with coenzymes being the predominant category at 10.56%, suggesting significant intermediate metabolism activity. Resistance analysis revealed that most lineages of the genus (82.61%, 19/23) carry a high number of antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs) and display diverse resistance profiles. Notably, the majority of ARGs are located on plasmids, underscoring the significant role of plasmids in the resistance evolution within this genus. Three species or lineages (
P. stuartii
, Taxon 3, and
Providencia hangzhouensis
L12) that possess the highest number of carbapenem-resistance genes suggest their potential influence on clinical treatment. These findings underscore the need for continued surveillance and study of this genus, particularly due to their role in harboring antibiotic-resistance genes.

IMPORTANCE

The
Providencia
genus, known to harbor opportunistic pathogens, has been a subject of interest due to its potential to cause severe infections, particularly in vulnerable individuals. Our research offers groundbreaking insights into this genus, unveiling a novel species,
Providencia zhijiangensis
sp. nov., and highlighting the need for a re-evaluation of existing classifications. Our comprehensive genomic assessment offers a detailed classification of 545 genomes into distinct species and lineages, revealing the rich biodiversity and intricate species diversity within the genus. The substantial presence of antibiotic-resistance genes in the
Providencia
genus underscores potential challenges for public health and clinical treatments. Our study highlights the pressing need for increased surveillance and research, enriching our understanding of antibiotic resistance in this realm.
Efficient Loading of an Atom Chip from a Low-Velocity Atomic Beam
Authors: Skakunenko P. I. , Bykova D. V. , Afanasiev A. E. , Balykin V. I.
Published: February 2024

Various regimes of the loading of a magneto-optical trap formed near an atom chip, such as loading from thermal atomic vapors and from a low-velocity atomic beam, have been studied on an example of 87Rb atoms. The possibility of controlling the loading of the magneto-optical trap by spatially controlling the atomic beam has been demonstrated. This has made it possible to increase the loading rate of atoms into the magneto-optical trap with keeping ultrahigh vacuum near the atom chip. The maximum number of atoms in the magneto-optical trap at optimal loading regimes is 4.9 × 107. In this case, the measured lifetime of atoms in the magneto-optical trap is 4.1 s.
Features of the Dynamic Spectrum of Signals Generated by a Wide-Aperture Electron Beam in a Large-Scale Magnetized Plasma
Authors: Zudin I. Yu. , Gushchin M. E. , Strikovskiy A. V. , Aidakina N. A. , Korobkov S. V. , Nikolenko A. S. , Gundorin V. I. , Loskutov K. N. , Demekhov A. G.
Published: February 2024

Electromagnetic signals generated by a wide-aperture electron beam in the laboratory plasma under conditions limitedly modeling the interaction between waves and particles in the near-Earth plasma have been studied at the large-scale Krot device. The spectrum of electromagnetic radiation includes whistler noise, which is presumably due to the current instability, and discrete (narrowband) signals near harmonics of the electron cyclotron and plasma frequencies. It has been shown that narrowband signals with a positive frequency drift that are observed at the injection of the electron beam are caused by nonstationary variations of the plasma density due to an additional ionization of a neutral gas by accelerated electrons. These effects should be taken into account to interpret nonconventional forms of the dynamic spectrum in various laboratory experiments simulating processes in the Earth’s ionosphere and magnetosphere.
Rare cause of recurrent hypocalcaemia and functional hypoparathyroidism due to hypomagnesaemia caused byTRPM6gene mutation
Authors: Khadse Savita , Takalikar Vrushali Satish , Ghildiyal Radha , Shah Nikhil
Published: February 2024

Magnesium is essential for the functioning and release of parathyroid hormone. Therefore, its deficiency can present as functional hypoparathyroidism. This case report describes a rare inherited disorder called congenital hypomagnesaemia with secondary hypocalcaemia due toTRPM6gene mutation. This disease clinically and biochemically mimics hypoparathyroidism. However, unlike hypoparathyroidism, it can be treated only by long-term oral magnesium supplements. The patient presented to us with recurrent hypocalcaemic convulsions. The laboratory picture in each admission was similar to that of hypoparathyroidism. However, the hypocalcaemia persisted, and it was noticed to be associated with persistent hypomagnesaemia. A defect in the tubular magnesium reabsorption was postulated and a genetic analysis of the patient was done, which revealed aTRPM6mutation causing hypomagnesaemia by excessive renal excretion of magnesium. The child responded well to oral magnesium supplements and is currently developmentally appropriate for her age and thriving well.
Sleep quality and its associated factors among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Hunan, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Maimaitituerxun Rehanguli , Chen Wenhang , Xiang Jingsha , Xie Yu , Xiao Fang , Wu Xin Yin , Chen Letao , Yang Jianzhou , Liu Aizhong , Dai Wenjie
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a serious public health issue. Compared with the general population, patients with T2DM have a higher risk of poor sleep quality, which could ultimately result in poor prognosis. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate sleep quality and its associated factors among patients with T2DM in Hunan, China.

Design

This was a cross-sectional study.

Setting

A tertiary hospital in Hunan, China.

Participants

Patients with T2DM hospitalised at the Endocrinology Department were consecutively enrolled between March 2021 and December 2022. Sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors and T2DM-related information were collected retrospectively.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, with a cut-off value of >7 suggesting poor sleep quality. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with poor sleep quality.

Results

Of the 1039 participants included, 1001 provided complete data. The mean age of the study sample was 60.24±10.09 years, and 40.5% (95% CI 37.5% to 43.5%) of patients had poor sleep quality. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that female sex (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.70, 95% CI 1.25 to 2.29), unmarried status (aOR 1.72, 95% CI 1.05 to 2.83), diabetic retinopathy (aOR 1.38, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.83), diabetic foot (aOR 1.80, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.93) and a per capita monthly household income of >5000 RMB (aOR 0.66, 95% CI 0.47 to 0.93) were associated with poor sleep quality.

Conclusions

Nearly two-fifths of patients with T2DM reported poor sleep quality in Hunan, China. Sex, marital status, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic foot and household income were independently associated with sleep quality among patients with T2DM in Hunan, China.
Demonstration of particle tracking with scintillating fibres read out by a SPAD array sensor and application as a neutrino active target
Authors: Franks Matthew , Dieminger Till , Kaneyasu Kodai , Sgalaberna Davide , Bruschini Claudio , Charbon Edoardo , Kose Umut , Li Botao , Mos Paul , Wayne Michael , Weber Tim , Wu Jialin
Published: February 2024

Scintillating fibre detectors combine sub-mm resolution particle tracking, precise measurements of the particle stopping power and sub-ns time resolution. Typically, fibres are read out with silicon photomultipliers (SiPM). Hence, if fibres with a few hundred $$\upmu $$
μ
m diameter are used, either they are grouped together and coupled with a single SiPM, losing spatial resolution, or a very large number of electronic channels is required. In this article we propose and provide a first demonstration of a novel configuration which allows each individual scintillating fibre to be read out regardless of the size of its diameter, by imaging them with Single-Photon Avalanche Diode (SPAD) array sensors. Differently from SiPMs, SPAD array sensors provide single-photon detection with single-pixel spatial resolution. In addition, O(us) or faster coincidence of detected photons allows to obtain noise-free images. Such a concept can be particularly advantageous if adopted as a neutrino active target, where scintillating fibres alternated along orthogonal directions can provide isotropic, high-resolution tracking in a dense material and reconstruct the kinematics of low-momentum protons (down to 150 MeV/c), crucial for an accurate characterisation of the neutrino-nucleus cross section. In this work the tracking capabilities of a bundle of scintillating fibres coupled to SwissSPAD2 is demonstrated. The impact of such detector configuration in GeV-neutrino experiments is studied with simulations and reported. Finally, future plans, including the development of a new SPAD array sensor optimised for neutrino detection, are discussed.
A Note to Non-adaptive Broadcasting
Authors: Gholami Saber , Harutyunyan Hovhannes A.
Published: February 2024

Broadcasting is a fundamental problem in the information dissemination area. In classical broadcasting, a message must be sent from one network member to all other members as rapidly as feasible. Although it has been demonstrated that this problem is NP-Hard for arbitrary graphs, it has several applications in various fields. As a result, the universal lists model, replicating real-world restrictions like the memory limits of nodes in large networks, is introduced as a branch of this problem in the literature. In the universal lists model, each node is equipped with a fixed list and has to follow the list regardless of the originator.

In this study, we focus on the non-adaptive branch of universal lists broadcasting. In this regard, we establish the optimal broadcast time of [Formula: see text]-ary trees and binomial trees under the non-adaptive model and provide an upper bound for complete bipartite graphs. We also improved a general upper bound for trees under the same model and showed that our upper bound cannot be improved in general.
Improved decay estimates and C2-asymptotic stability of solutions to the Einstein-scalar field system in spherical symmetry
Authors: Costa João L. , Duarte Rodrigo , Mena Filipe C.
Published: February 2024

We investigate the asymptotic stability of solutions to the characteristic initial value problem for the Einstein (massless) scalar field system with a positive cosmological constant. We prescribe spherically symmetric initial data on a future null cone with a wider range of decaying profiles than previously considered. New estimates are then derived in order to prove that, for small data, the system has a unique global classical solution. We also show that the solution decays exponentially in (Bondi) time and that the radial decay is essentially polynomial, although containing logarithmic factors in some special cases. This improved asymptotic analysis allows us to show that, under appropriate and natural decaying conditions on the initial data, the future asymptotic solution is differentiable, up to and including spatial null-infinity, and approaches the de Sitter solution, uniformly, in a neighborhood of infinity. Moreover, we analyze the decay of derivatives of the solution up to second order showing the (uniform) [Formula: see text]-asymptotic stability of the de Sitter attractor in this setting. This corresponds to a surprisingly strong realization of the cosmic no-hair conjecture.
Machine and Deep Learning Implementations for Heritage Building Information Modelling: A Critical Review of Theoretical and Applied Research
Authors: Gil Aleksander , Arayici Yusuf , Kumar Bimal , Laing Richard
Published: February 2024

Research domain and Problem:
HBIM modelling from point cloud data has become a crucial research topic in the last decade since it is potentially considered as the central data model paving the way for the digital heritage practice beyond digitization. Reality Capture technologies such as terrestrial laser scanning, drone-mounted LiDAR sensors and photogrammetry enable the reality capture with a sub-millimetre accurate point cloud file that can be used as a reference file for Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM). However, HBIM modelling from the point cloud data of heritage buildings is mainly manual, error-prone, and time-consuming. Furthermore, image processing techniques are insufficient for classification and segmentation of point cloud data to speed up and enhance the current workflow for HBIM modelling.

Due to the challenges and bottlenecks in the scan-to-HBIM process, which is commonly criticized as complex with its bespoke requirements, semantic segmentation of point clouds is gaining popularity in the literature.

Research Aim and Methodology:
Therefore, this paper aims to provide a thorough critical review of Machine Learning and Deep Learning methods for point cloud segmentation, classification, and BIM geometry automation for cultural heritage case study applications.

Research findings:
This paper files the challenges of HBIM practice and the opportunities for semantic point cloud segmentation found across academic literature in the last decade. Beyond definitions and basic occurrence statistics, this paper discusses the success rates and implementation challenges of machine and deep learning classification methods.

Research value and contribution:
This paper provides a holistic review of point cloud segmentation and its potential for further development and application in the Cultural Heritage sector. The critical analysis provides insight into the current state-of-the-art methods and advises on their suitability for HBIM projects. The review has identified highly original threads of research, which hold the potential to significantly influence practice and further applied research.
Exploring the Strategies People with Parkinson's Disease Use to Self-track Symptoms and Medications
Authors: Tang Charlotte , Shuva Imrul K. , Thelen Matthew , Zhu Linda , Miller Nathaniel S.
Published: February 2024

Self-tracking has great potential in empowering individuals with a chronic illness in managing their condition. Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disease that affects millions of people worldwide. PD presents a broad range of motor and non-motor symptoms that are unique to each person with PD, thus requiring unique intervention needs for people with PD. Self-tracking can aid treatment for people with PD, by recording their experiences and responses to intervention. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 26 people with PD (PwPD), six caregivers (CGs), and three healthcare providers (HPs) to acquire a better understanding of their experiences with the strategies and challenges of self-tracking. Five tracking strategies were identified: mental tracking, analog tracking, tracking with general-purpose technology, specialized technology tracking, and tracking by proxy. We also uncovered challenges experienced during self-tracking, such as symptoms not always distinctive or easy to describe, inaccuracy of tracking, lack of perceived usefulness of tracked data, interaction barriers with technology, and lack of proper tracking tools. Our findings contribute to existing literature and yield insights to guide the inclusive design of self-tracking tools for PD.
Repetitive sulfur dioxide exposure in mice models post-deployment respiratory syndrome
Authors: Gutor Sergey S. , Salinas Rodrigo I. , Nichols David S. , Bazzano Julia M. R. , Han Wei , Gokey Jason J. , Vasiukov Georgii , West James D. , Newcomb Dawn C. , Dikalova Anna E. , Richmond Bradley W. , Dikalov Sergey I. , Blackwell Timothy S. , Polosukhin Vasiliy V.
Published: February 2024

We developed a mice model of “post-deployment respiratory syndrome” (PDRS), a condition in Veterans with unexplained exertional dyspnea. Our model successfully recapitulates many of the pathological and physiological features of the syndrome, revealing involvement of the ROS-isoLGs-Sirt3-SOD2 pathway in pulmonary vasculature pathology. Our study provides additional knowledge about effects and long-term consequences of sulfur dioxide exposure on the respiratory system, serving as a valuable tool for future PDRS research.
A Data-Driven Method and Hybrid Deep Learning Model for Flood Risk Prediction
Authors: Ni Chenmin , Fam Pei Shan , Marsani Muhammad Fadhil
Published: February 2024

Flood disasters occur worldwide, and flood risk prediction is conducive to protecting human life and property safety. Influenced by topographic changes and rainfall, the water level fluctuates randomly and violently during the flood, introducing many noises and directly increasing the difficulty of flood prediction. A data-driven flood forecasting method is proposed based on data preprocessing and a two-layer BiLSTM-Attention network to improve forecast accuracy. First, the Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD) is used to decompose the data for reducing noise and produce suitable Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMFs); Then, an optimized two-layer attention-based Bidirectional Long Sshort-Term memory (BiLSTM-Attention) network is constructed to predict each IMF. Finally, two optimization algorithms are used to obtain the optimized parameters of VMD and BiLSTM intelligently, increasing the self-adaptability. The inertia factor of particle swarm optimization is improved and then used to optimize the five hyperparameters of BiLSTM. The proposed model reduces storage errors for smaller training sets and can achieve good performance. Three water level data sets from the Yangtze River in China are used for comparative experiments. Numerical results show that the peak height absolute error is within 2 cm, and the relative error of peak time arrival is within 30%. Compared with LSTM, BiLSTM, CNN-BiLSTM-attention, etc., the proposed model reduces the root mean square error by at least 50% and has advantages for high-risk forecasting when the water level exceeds the defense line and fluctuates prominently.
Effect of Codoping Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles with Sulfur and Nitrogen on Its Energy Bandgap, Antioxidant Properties, and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Yadesa Diriba , Guyasa Jabessa Nagasa , Beyene Tamene Tadesse
Published: February 2024

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are used in various fields such as industrial, environmental remediation, catalytic, and antibacterial applications. However, their ability to absorb visible light is limited due to their high-energy bandgap and fast electron-hole recombination, which restricts their use. To enhance the efficiency of ZnO-NPs in medical and other applications, surface functionality can be modified through doping. Here, we investigated the effects of S and N doping on the energy bandgap of ZnO-NP and their antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. The results showed that the optical bandgap energy of pure ZnO-NPs was 2.98 eV while that of 6% N-ZnO, 4% S-ZnO, and S4-N6-ZnO was 2.78, 2.69, and 2.63 eV, respectively. The energy bandgap reduction is attributed to the changes in the electronic level of zinc oxide as the result of doping. The crystal size of pure ZnO-NPs, 6% N-ZnO, 4% S-ZnO, and S4-N6-ZnO was 29.06, 27.05, 29.02, and 25.06 nm, respectively, as calculated from XRD data using FWHM. Following the bandgap and particle size reduction, the antimicrobial activities of the dual-doped ZnO-NPs surpassed that of the pure ZnO-NPs. Moreover, dual doping improved the antioxidant activity of ZnO-NPs from 52.45% to 88.89% for the optimized concentration. Therefore, incorporating S and N as dual dopants can enhance the functionality and efficiency of ZnO-NPs in various fields.
Selective Capsulotomies and Partial Capsulectomy in Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction Revision Surgery
Authors: Susini Pietro , Marcaccini Gianluca , Giardino Francesco Ruben , Pozzi Mirco , Volanti Francesco , Nisi Giuseppe , Cuomo Roberto , Grimaldi Luca
Published: February 2024

Background. Breast cancer with about 2.3 million diagnoses and 685,000 deaths globally is the most frequent malignancy in the female population. Continuous research has led to oncological and reconstructive advances in the management of breast cancer, thus improving outcomes and decreasing patient morbidity. Nowadays, the submuscular expander and prosthesis (E/P) implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR) accounts for 73% of all reconstructions. Despite its widely accepted efficacy, the technique is not free from complications and up to 28% of cases require revision surgery for mechanical complications such as capsular contracture, implant displacement/rotation, and implant rupture. With this study, the authors report their experience in the management of E/P IBR revision surgery through the technique of Selective Capsulotomies (SCs) and Partial Capsulectomy (PC). Methods. A retrospective study was conducted on patients who had previously undergone E/P IBR and presented for revision reconstruction between January 2013 and May 2023 at the Department of Plastic Surgery of the University of Siena, Italy. Reasons for revision included capsular contracture, implant displacement/rotation, and implant rupture. Revision reconstructions involved SC and PC with implant replacement. Fat grafting was also considered. The complication rate was evaluated by analysis of patients’ medical records. Patients’ satisfaction with the treatment was assessed through a specific questionnaire. Results. 32 patients underwent revision surgeries. No early complication occurred. Recurrence rate was assessed at 19% with average follow-up of 59 months (range: 13–114 months). The average time between revision surgery and recurrence was 3 years (range: 1–6 years). 23 patients answered the questionnaire and were overall satisfied with the treatments (8.29/10). Conclusions. SC possibly associated to PC is a valuable option for E/P IBR revision surgery with minimal complications, reduced surgical trauma, short operating time, and relatively low recurrence risk. In addition, treated patients are overall satisfied with the results over time.
Serum Lipidome Profiling Reveals a Distinct Signature of Ovarian Cancer in Korean Women
Authors: Sah Samyukta , Bifarin Olatomiwa O. , Moore Samuel G. , Gaul David A. , Chung Hyewon , Kwon Sun Young , Cho Hanbyoul , Cho Chi-Heum , Kim Jae-Hoon , Kim Jaeyeon , Fernández Facundo M.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Distinguishing ovarian cancer from other gynecological malignancies is crucial for patient survival yet hindered by non-specific symptoms and limited understanding of ovarian cancer pathogenesis. Accumulating evidence suggests a link between ovarian cancer and deregulated lipid metabolism. Most studies have small sample sizes, especially for early-stage cases, and lack racial/ethnic diversity, necessitating more inclusive research for improved ovarian cancer diagnosis and prevention.

Methods:

Here, we profiled the serum lipidome of 208 ovarian cancer, including 93 early-stage patients with ovarian cancer and 117 nonovarian cancer (other gynecological malignancies) patients of Korean descent. Serum samples were analyzed with a high-coverage liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry platform, and lipidome alterations were investigated via statistical and machine learning (ML) approaches.

Results:

We found that lipidome alterations unique to ovarian cancer were present in Korean women as early as when the cancer is localized, and those changes increase in magnitude as the diseases progresses. Analysis of relative lipid abundances revealed specific patterns for various lipid classes, with most classes showing decreased abundance in ovarian cancer in comparison with other gynecological diseases. ML methods selected a panel of 17 lipids that discriminated ovarian cancer from nonovarian cancer cases with an AUC value of 0.85 for an independent test set.

Conclusions:

This study provides a systemic analysis of lipidome alterations in human ovarian cancer, specifically in Korean women.

Impact:

Here, we show the potential of circulating lipids in distinguishing ovarian cancer from nonovarian cancer conditions.
The Role of Subjective Age in Predicting Post-Hospitalization Outcomes of Older Adults
Authors: Zisberg Anna , Gur-Yaish Nurit , Shadmi Efrat , Shulyaev Ksenya , Smichenko Juliana , Rogozinski Amos , Palgi Yuval
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Studies of community-dwelling older adults find subjective age affects health and functional outcomes. This study explored whether younger subjective age serves as a protective factor against hospital-associated physical, cognitive, and emotional decline, well-known consequences of hospitalization among the elderly. Methods: This study is a secondary data analysis of a subsample (N = 262; age: 77.5 ± 6.6 years) from the Hospitalization Process Effects on Mobility Outcomes and Recovery (HoPE-MOR) study. Psychological and physical subjective age, measured as participants’ reports on the degree to which they felt older or younger than their chronological age, was assessed at the time of hospital admission. Independence in activities of daily living, life-space mobility, cognitive function, and depressive symptoms were assessed at hospital admission and 1 month post-discharge. Results: The odds of decline in cognitive status, functional status, and community mobility and the exacerbation of depressive symptoms were significantly lower in those reporting younger vs. older psychological subjective age (odds ratio [OR] = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.46–0.98; OR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.36–0.98; OR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.44–0.93; OR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.43–0.96, respectively). Findings were significant after controlling for demographic, functional, cognitive, emotional, chronic, and acute health predictors. Physical subjective age was not significantly related to post-hospitalization outcomes. Conclusion: Psychological subjective age can identify older adults at risk for poor hospitalization outcomes and should be considered for preventive interventions.
Bile Acids and Farnesoid X Receptor in Renal Pathophysiology
Authors: Yang Jiufang , Pontoglio Marco , Terzi Fabiola
Published: February 2024

Background: Bile acids (BAs) act not only as lipids and lipid-soluble vitamin detergents but also function as signaling molecules, participating in diverse physiological processes. The identification of BA receptors in organs beyond the enterohepatic system, such as the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), has initiated inquiries into their organ-specific functions. Among these organs, the kidney prominently expresses FXR. Summary: This review provides a comprehensive overview of various BA species identified in kidneys and delves into the roles of renal apical and basolateral BA transporters. Furthermore, we explore changes in BAs and their potential implications for various renal diseases, particularly chronic kidney disease. Lastly, we center our discussion on FXR, a key BA receptor in the kidney and a potential therapeutic target for renal diseases, providing current insights into the protective mechanisms associated with FXR agonist treatments. Key Messages: Despite the relatively low concentrations of BAs in the kidney, their presence is noteworthy, with rodents and humans exhibiting distinct renal BA compositions. Renal BA transporters efficiently facilitate either reabsorption into systemic circulation or excretion into the urine. However, adaptive changes in BA transporters are evident during cholestasis. Various renal diseases are accompanied by alterations in BA concentrations and FXR expression. Consequently, the activation of FXR in the kidney could be a promising target for mitigating kidney damage.
Clinical Outcomes and Predictors of Advanced Therapy for the Management of Right Heart Thrombus
Authors: Watson Nathan W. , Weinberg Ido , Dicks Andrew B. , Carroll Brett J. , Secemsky Eric A.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The role of advanced therapies (systemic thrombolysis, catheter-based treatment, and surgical thrombectomy) for the management of right heart thrombus is poorly defined. In this study, we assessed the clinical predictors and outcomes of advanced therapy compared with anticoagulation alone for the acute management of right heart thrombus.

METHODS:

In this observational cohort study, we analyzed consecutive patients who were treated for right heart thrombus. The primary end point was 90-day all-cause mortality. Clinical predictors of utilizing advanced therapy were assessed with multivariable logistic regression. Propensity score matching was utilized to compare adjusted outcomes between patients receiving advanced therapies versus anticoagulation alone.

RESULTS:

A total of 345 patients were included in the study. Advanced therapy was utilized in 13.6% (N=47) of patients, of which 25.5% (N=12/47) was systemic thrombolysis, 23.4% (N=11/47) was endovascular thrombectomy, and 53.2% (N=25/47) was surgical thrombectomy. Younger age (odds ratio, 0.98 [95% CI, 0.96–0.99]) and concurrent pulmonary embolism (odds ratio, 5.36 [95% CI, 2.48–12.1]) predicted utilization of advanced therapy. In propensity score-matched analysis, there was no difference in 90-day mortality (hazard ratio, 0.46 [95% CI, 0.17–1.22]), in-hospital mortality (odds ratio, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.17–2.19]), or length of stay (β, −4.39 [95% CI, −14.0 to 5.22]) between advanced therapy and anticoagulation.

CONCLUSIONS:

Among a diverse cohort of patients with right heart thrombus, outcomes did not differ between those who underwent advanced therapy and anticoagulation alone. Important predictors for utilizing advanced treatment included younger age and the presence of a concurrent pulmonary embolism. Future studies assessing advanced therapy in larger and broader patient populations are necessary.
Prospective Associations of Accelerometer‐Measured Machine‐Learned Sedentary Behavior With Death Among Older Women: The OPACH Study
Authors: Nguyen Steve , Bellettiere John , Anuskiewicz Blake , Di Chongzhi , Carlson Jordan , Natarajan Loki , LaMonte Michael J. , LaCroix Andrea Z.
Published: February 2024

Background

Sedentary behavior is a recognized mortality risk factor. The novel and validated convolutional neural network hip accelerometer posture algorithm highly accurately classifies sitting and postural changes compared with accelerometer count cut points. We examined the prospective associations of convolutional neural network hip accelerometer posture–classified total sitting time and mean sitting bout duration with all‐cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) death.

Methods and Results

Women (n=5856; mean±SD age, 79±7 years; 33% Black women, 17% Hispanic or Latina women, 50% White women) in the Women's Health Initiative Objective Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Health (OPACH) Study wore the ActiGraph GT3X+ for ~7 days from May 2012 to April 2014 and were followed through February 19, 2022 for all‐cause and CVD death. The convolutional neural network hip accelerometer posture algorithm classified total sitting time and mean sitting bout duration from GT3X+ output. Over follow‐up (median, 8.4 years; range, 0.1–9.9), there were 1733 deaths (632 from CVD). Adjusted Cox regression hazard ratios (HRs) comparing women in the highest total sitting time quartile (>696 min/d) to those in the lowest (<556.0 min/d) were 1.57 (95% CI; 1.35–1.83;
P
‐trend<0.001) for all‐cause death and 1.78 (95% CI; 1.36–2.31;
P
‐trend<0.001) for CVD death. HRs comparing women in the longest mean sitting bout duration quartile (>15 minutes) to the shortest (<9.3 minutes) were 1.43 (95% CI; 1.23–1.66;
P
‐trend<0.001) for all‐cause death and 1.52 (95% CI; 1.18–1.96;
P
‐trend<0.001) for CVD death. Apparent nonlinear associations for total sitting time suggested higher all‐cause death (
P
nonlinear=0.009) and CVD death (
P
nonlinear=0.008) risk after ~660 to 700 min/d.

Conclusions

Higher total sitting time and longer mean sitting bout duration are associated with higher all‐cause and CVD mortality risk among older women. These data support interventions aimed at reducing both total sitting time and interrupting prolonged sitting.
Sex Differences in Out‐of‐Hospital Cardiac Arrest Survival Trends
Authors: Smits Robin L.A. , Tan Hanno L. , van Valkengoed Irene G.M.
Published: February 2024

Background

Out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest survival rates have improved over time. This study established whether improvements were similar for women and men, and to what extent resuscitation characteristics or in‐hospital procedures contributed to sex differences in temporal trends.

Methods and Results

This retrospective cohort study included 3386 women and 8564 men from North Holland, the Netherlands, who experienced an out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest from a cardiac cause in 2005 to 2017. Yearly rates of 30‐day survival and secondary outcomes were calculated. Sex differences in temporal trends were evaluated with age‐adjusted Poisson regression analysis, including interaction for sex and out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest year. Resuscitation characteristics and in‐hospital procedures were added to the model, and a spline at 2013 was considered. During the study period, the average 30‐day survival was 24.9% in men and 15.7% in women. The 30‐day survival rate increased in men (20% to 27.2%;
P
<0.001) but not in women (15.0% to 11.6%;
P
=0.40). The increase in the 30‐day survival rate was 3% higher per year in men than in women (rate ratio, 1.03 [95% CI, 1.00–1.05]), with a stronger difference after 2013. Men had a larger increase in survival rate to the hospital arrival than women in 2005 to 2013, and, after 2013, an advantage over women in survival rate after hospital arrival. The sex differences were partly explained by differing trends in shockable initial rhythm (eg, adjusted rate ratio, 1.01 [95% CI, 0.99–1.03] for 30‐day survival) and provision of in‐hospital procedures.

Conclusions

Changes in rates of 30‐day survival, survival to hospital arrival, and, after 2013, survival from hospital arrival to 30 days were more beneficial in men than women. The differences in trends were partly explained by shockable initial rhythm and in‐hospital procedures.
Sex Differences in Outcomes of Acute Myocardial Injury After Stroke
Authors: Rosso Michela , Stengl Helena , Ganeshan Ramanan , Hellwig Simon , Klammer Markus G. , von Rennenberg Regina , Böhme Sophie , Nolte Christian H. , Audebert Heinrich J. , Endres Matthias , Kasner Scott E. , Scheitz Jan F.
Published: February 2024

Background

Sex differences in presentation, treatment, and prognosis of cardiovascular disorders are well recognized. Although an association between acute myocardial injury and mortality after ischemic stroke has been demonstrated, it is unclear whether prevalence and outcome of poststroke acute myocardial injury differ between women and men.

Methods and Results

We prospectively screened consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke and serial high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T measurements admitted to our center. Acute myocardial injury was defined as at least 1 high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T value above the upper reference limit (14 ng/L) with a rise/fall of >20%. Rates of acute myocardial injury were also calculated using sex‐specific high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T cutoffs (women upper reference limit, 9 ng/L; men upper reference limit, 16 ng/L). Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the association between acute myocardial injury and outcomes. Of 1067 patients included, 494 were women (46%). Women were older, had a higher rate of known atrial fibrillation, were more likely to be functionally dependent before admission, had higher stroke severity, and more often had cardioembolic strokes (all
P
values <0.05). The crude prevalence of acute myocardial injury differed by sex (29% women versus 23% men,
P
=0.024). Statistically significant associations between acute myocardial injury and outcomes were observed in women (7‐day in‐hospital mortality: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.2 [95% CI, 1.07–9.3]; in‐hospital mortality: aOR, 3.3 [95% CI, 1.4–7.6]; modified Rankin Scale score at discharge: aOR, 1.6 [95% CI, 1.1–2.4]) but not in men. The implementation of sex‐specific cutoffs did not increase the prognostic value of acute myocardial injury for unfavorable outcomes.

Conclusions

The prevalence of acute myocardial injury after ischemic stroke and its association with mortality and greater disability might be sex‐dependent.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03892226.
Effects of fermented soymilk with Lacticaseibacillus paracasei YIT 9029 on gut microbiota and defecation habits: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Kaga C. , Nagino T. , Gomi A. , Takagi A. , Miyazaki K. , Yoshida Y. , Shida K.
Published: February 2024

Previous studies have demonstrated that soymilk and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei YIT 9029 (strain Shirota: LcS) each beneficially affect the gut microbiota and defecation habits. To investigate the effects of daily consumption of fermented soymilk containing LcS (FSM), we conducted a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 112 healthy Japanese adults with a low faecal Bifidobacterium count. They consumed 100 ml FSM or placebo (unfermented soymilk base) once daily for 4 weeks. Their gut microbiota was analysed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and faecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and urinary putrefactive products were assessed during the pre- and post-consumption periods. Defecation habits were examined weekly using a subjective questionnaire. In the post-consumption period, living LcS were not detected in two subjects in the FSM group (n = 57) but were detected in one subject in the SM group (n = 55). The FSM group had a significantly higher number and relative abundance of faecal lactobacilli compared with the placebo group. The relative abundance of Bifidobacterium, alpha-diversity of microbiota, and concentrations of acetate and total SCFAs in faeces were significantly increased in the FSM group, although no significant differences were detected between the groups. The number of defecations and defecation days per week significantly increased in both groups. Subgroup analysis of 109 subjects, excluding 3 with inconsistent LcS detection (2 and 1 subjects in the FSM and SM groups, respectively), revealed that the FSM group (n = 55) had significantly greater increases in faecal acetate concentration compared with the SM group (n = 54) and significant upregulation of pathways related to energy production or glucose metabolism in the gut microbiota. These findings suggest that daily FSM consumption improves the gut microbiota and intestinal environment in healthy adults and may help to maintain health and prevent diseases.

Registered at the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) clinical trials registry under: UMIN 000035612.
Unusual snakefly larvae in about 100 million-year-old amber and the evolution of the larva-pupa transition
Authors: HAUG JOACHIM T. , ZIPPEL ANA , LINHART SIMON , MÜLLER PATRICK , HAUG CAROLIN
Published: February 2024

The evolutionary success of Insecta, more precisely of its ingroup Holometabola, has partly been explained by their ontogeny, with larvae and adults differing in their morphology and ecology. This differentiation occurs in large and well-known groups such as beetles, butterflies and bees, but also in the relatively species-poor group of snakeflies (Raphidioptera). Despite the rather small number of species, snakeflies are evolutionarily very significant as they were part of the early diversification of Holometabola and still exhibit several plesiomorphic traits retained from the ground pattern of the latter, for example, a mobile pupa. Furthermore, during development, some snakeflies show a mixture of larval and pupal, sometimes even of adult characters, a phenomenon called metathetely. We here report a 100 million-year-old fossil snakefly larva from Myanmar amber with possible characters reminiscent of metathetely. Different dimensions of the body were measured in the specimen and other snakefly larvae and pupae, and ratios were calculated and compared among the larvae. The new fossil shows similarities to extant pupae in the larger length of the prothorax, similarities to modern adults in the small width of the prothorax, but also similarities to other fossil snakefly larvae such as the undivided tarsus and the antenna being subdivided into only five elements. Such a mixture of characters from different developmental stages points to a less pronounced metamorphosis in fossil snakeflies than in extant ones. Similar ontogenetic patterns, with a more gradual development in earlier representatives evolving into a more pronounced metamorphosis in modern representatives, are also known in other groups of Euarthropoda and point to heterochronic events in the evolution of these lineages.