bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
L5-S1 Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion is Associated With Increased Revisions Compared With L4-L5 Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion at Two Years
Authors: Singh Manjot , Casey Jack , Glueck Jacob , Balmaceno-Criss Mariah , Perez-Albela Alejandro , Hanna John , Diebo Bassel G. , Daniels Alan H. , Basques Bryce A.
Published: September 2024

Study Design.

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to compare outcomes in patients undergoing 1-level transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) at L4-S1.

Background.

TLIF is frequently performed at L4-S1 to treat degenerative lumbar pathologies. However, the native alignment and biomechanics differ across L4-L5 and L5-S1, and there is limited data regarding comparative radiographic outcomes.

Patients and Methods.

Patients who underwent 1-level TLIF at L4-L5 or L5-S1 at a single academic institution were identified. Baseline demographics, procedural characteristics, change in postoperative spinopelvic alignment patient-reported outcome measures, and 2-year postoperative surgical complications were compared. Multivariate regression analyses, accounting for age, sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and body mass index, were also performed.

Results.

Across the 175 included patients, 125 had L4-L5 TLIF and 50 had L5-S1 TLIF. The mean age was 57.8 years, 56.6% were females, the mean Charlson Comorbidity Index was 0.9, and the mean follow-up was 26.7 months. In the hospital, the 2 cohorts were not statistically different with regard to estimated blood loss and length of stay. Two years postoperatively, multivariate linear regression analyses revealed that L5-S1 TLIF achieved 6.0° higher correction in L4-S1 lordosis (P = 0.012) than L4-L5 TLIF. At the same time, however, L5-S1 patients undergoing TLIF experienced significantly higher rates of pseudoarthrosis (8.0% vs. 1.6%, P = 0.036) and subsequent spine surgery (18.0% vs. 7.2%, P = 0.034), specifically for pseudoarthrosis (6.0% vs. 0.0%, P = 0.006), with this cohort having 8.7 times higher odds of subsequent spine surgery for pseudoarthrosis (P = 0.015) than L4-L5 patients undergoing TLIF on multivariate logistic analyses. Patient-reported outcome measures, in contrast, were not different across the 2 cohorts.

Conclusions.

Although L5-S1 TLIF yielded good radiographic correction, it was associated with higher rates of subsequent spine surgery for pseudoarthrosis compared with L4-L5 TLIF. These findings may be related to differences in native segmental alignment and biomechanics across the L4-L5 and L5-S1 motion segments and are important to consider during surgical planning.

Level of Evidence.

Level IV.
Cervical Laminoplasty Versus Laminectomy and Fusion
Authors: Chua Theresa , Lim Perry L. , Hershman Stuart H. , Fogel Harold A. , Tobert Daniel G.
Published: September 2024

Study Design.

Retrospective study.

Objective.

To compare the true cost between posterior cervical laminectomy and fusion and cervical laminoplasty using time driven activity-based costing methodology.

Summary of Background Data.

Cervical laminoplasty (LP) and posterior cervical laminectomy with fusion (LF) are effective procedures for treating cervical myelopathy. A comprehensive accounting of cost differences between LP versus LF is not available. Using time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC), we sought to compare the total facility costs in patients with cervical myelopathy undergoing LP versus LF.

Materials and Methods.

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 277 LP and 229 LF performed between 2019 and 2023. Total facility costs, which included personnel and supply costs, were assessed using TDABC. Separate analyses including and excluding implant costs were performed. Multiple regression analysis was utilized to assess the independent effect of LP compared with LF on facility costs, with all costs standardized using cost units (CUs).

Results.

Patients undergoing LP had lower total supply costs [672.5 vs. 765.0 CUs (0.88x), P<0.001] and lower total personnel costs [330.0 vs. 830.0 CUs (0.40x), P<0.001], resulting in a lower total facility cost both including [1003.8 vs. 1600.0 CUs (0.63x), P<0.001] and excluding implant costs [770.0 vs. 875.0 CUs (0.88x), P<0.001] (Table 1). After controlling for demographics and comorbidities, LF was associated with increased total facility costs, including (588.5 CUs, 95% CI: 517.1–659.9 CUs, P<0.001) and excluding implant costs (104.3 CUs, 95% CI: 57.6–151.0 CUs, P<0.001).

Conclusions.

Using time-driven activity-based costing, we found that total facility costs were lower in patients treated with laminoplasty. These findings suggest that laminoplasty may offer a less costly and more efficient surgical option for treating cervical myelopathy.
TIME-COURSE RETINAL CIRCULATION CHANGES IN EYES WITH CENTRAL RETINAL ARTERY OCCLUSION USING LASER SPECKLE FLOWGRAPHY
Authors: Tanaka Shin , Soga Naoki , Hirono Kazushi , Okawa Kazuyoshi , Chin Jacob Y. H. , Kitahata Shohei , Inoue Tatsuya , Maruyama-Inoue Maiko , Kadonosono Kazuaki
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate retinal circulation in eyes with central retinal artery occlusion.

Methods:

The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), fluorescein angiography, and laser speckle flowgraphy values were measured at the first visit in 42 patients with central retinal artery occlusion (42 eyes; mean age, 66.0 ± 14.0 years). Laser speckle flowgraphy was performed at baseline, 1 week, and 1, 3, and 6 months; the difference between the mean blur rate vessel area and mean blur rate tissue area (MV-MT), reflecting the retinal vessel blood flow, was measured. Fluorescein angiography measured the arteriovenous passage time. Time-course changes in the MV-MT and BCVA, and the relationship between MV-MT and final BCVA were examined.

Results:

Mean blur rate vessel area and mean blur rate tissue area were significantly correlated with arteriovenous passage time (P < 0.001). The MV-MT increased significantly after 1, 3, and 6 months (P < 0.001). The visual acuity improved significantly until 1 month (P < 0.01). Multivariate analysis showed a significant correlation between the baseline BCVA (P < 0.001) and MV-MT at 1 month (P = 0.01) and the final BCVA. Age and MV-MT significantly negatively correlated at 1 month (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The retinal circulation improved significantly within 1 month; younger patients had better retinal circulation improvement. The baseline BCVA and retinal circulation within 1 month correlated with the final BCVA.
Anatomic Characteristics of Eyes With Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy
Authors: Miller Darby D. , Wagner Isabella V. , Hasan Syed A. , Stewart Michael W. , Towne Caleb M. , Li Zhuo , Baratz Keith H.
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the anatomic characteristics of eyes with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) with eyes without FECD.

Methods:

This study was a retrospective chart review performed at an academic medical center. Patients with FECD were identified through a search of the electronic medical records. Eligible patients underwent Scheimpflug imaging and optical biometry and were compared with age and sex-matched control subjects who underwent similar testing in preparation for cataract surgery. Several measurements of the cornea, anterior chamber, and eyes were evaluated using multivariable linear regression models and multivariable logistic regression models.

Results:

A total of 404 eyes (202 eyes with FECD and 202 control eyes) were included in this study. Compared with controls, eyes with FECD had shallower AC depths, lower AC volumes, and narrower angles. Conversely, the spherical equivalent before cataract surgery, corneal pachymetry, and corneal volume were higher in eyes with FECD. On Scheimpflug imaging analysis, these anatomical differences were present in FECD eyes with and without corneal edema. After adjusting for sex, these differences remained statistically significant. Shorter axial length was found to be statistically significant in male eyes but not in female eyes with FECD.

Conclusions:

This study reports new ocular characteristics in FECD eyes with and without edema. Optical biometry and Scheimpflug imaging established that the anatomic findings in eyes with FECD were not simply due to the larger volume of an edematous cornea but rather unique to eyes with FECD. These findings will provide reliable, normative data for future studies examining surgical, medical, and anatomical factors in FECD.
Diagnosis of periprosthesis joint infection and selection of replantation timing: a novel nomogram diagnosis model
Authors: Yang Jianye , Qin Leilei , Zhao Chen , Wang Hai , Chen Cheng , Zhang Tao , Zhu Bo , Wei Li , Su Xudong , Li Yujian , Hu Ning , Huang Wei
Published: September 2024

Preoperative diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is critical to guide treatment options and improve patient outcomes. In this letter, the authors discuss results from our experiences with a novel nomogram diagnosis model based on serum and synovial fluid indicators for the preoperative diagnosis of PJI. The results showed that the novel nomogram diagnosis model can distinguish PJI from aseptic loosening before the operation. And it is also a useful candidate for the selection of the timing of current secondary revision.
Preoperative endoscopic ultrasound-guided biopsy for resectable pancreatic head tumors increases operative time but not complications: a single center cohort study
Authors: Wu Chien-Hui , Ho Te-Wei , Chen Ching-Hsuan , Chien Kuo-Liong , Tien Yu-Wen
Published: September 2024

Background:

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided aspiration or biopsy allows preoperative confirmation of malignancy but is not necessary for resectable pancreatic cancer. Preoperative biopsy may induce pancreatitis, making surgery difficult and complex. Therefore, the authors performed a retrospective study to evaluate the association between preoperative endoscopic ultrasound-guided biopsy and surgical outcomes in patients with resectable pancreatic head tumors.

Materials and Methods:

A prospectively enrolled cohort from a single high-volume pancreatic center was analyzed. Between 2007 and 2019, a total of 518 patients with resectable pancreatic head tumors underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy. This analysis was performed to determine the association of preoperative endoscopic ultrasound-guided biopsy with operating time and major complications.

Results:

In 518 patients who received pancreaticoduodenectomy, 164 patients (31.6%) underwent preoperative endoscopic ultrasound-guided biopsy. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biopsy increased surgical time (46.9 min, 95% CI: 25.1–68.8, P-value <0.05) without increasing complications (odds ratio: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.31–1.29, P-value=0.29).

Conclusion:

Preoperative endoscopic ultrasound-guided biopsy for pancreatic head tumors may increase operative time but is not associated with an increased risk of mortality and complications.
Integrating genomics and precision health knowledge into practice: A guide for nurse practitioners
Authors: Walker Trina , Ersig Anne L. , Dwyer Andrew A. , Kronk Rebecca , Snyder Cynthia T. , Whitt Karen , Willis Valerie
Published: September 2024

Nurse practitioners (NPs) are the fastest growing group of health care providers, with an increase of 8.5% over the past year and anticipated growth of more than 40% by 2031. Improving NPs' knowledge of how genes influence health enables them to assess, diagnose, and manage patients in all states of health in a safe, efficient, and competent manner. Nurse practitioners may also care for patients who obtain direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic tests without provider oversight and share their results; improved knowledge of genetics can provide NPs with the information and resources needed to interpret and understand DTC test results. The literature indicates that NPs have limited understanding of basic genetic concepts and guidelines for prescribing drugs affected by genomic variability. As a result, NPs report low confidence in their ability to accurately interpret and apply genetic test results, which inhibits genomics-informed precision health care. This article provides resources and clinical recommendations for using the 2021 American Association of Colleges of Nursing Essentials and the American Nurses Association Essentials of Genomic Nursing to facilitate the integration of genomics into NP curricula and practice. These resources will help future and practicing NPs integrate genomics into practice and improve precision health care.
Facial Nerve Tractography Using Diffusion MRI: A Comparison of Acquisition b-Values and Single- and Multifiber Tracking Strategies
Authors: Epprecht Lorenz , Zekelman Leo , Reinshagen Katherine L. , Xie Guoqiang , Norton Isaiah , Kikinis Ron , Makris Nikos , Piccirelli Marco , Huber Alexander , Lee Daniel J. , Zhang Fan , O'Donnell Lauren J.
Published: September 2024

Hypothesis

This study investigates the impact of different diffusion magnetic imaging (dMRI) acquisition settings and mathematical fiber models on tractography performance for depicting cranial nerve (CN) VII in healthy young adults.

Background

The aim of this study is to optimize visualization of CN VII for preoperative assessment in surgeries near the nerve in the cerebellopontine angle, reducing surgery-associated complications. The study analyzes 100 CN VII in dMRI images from the Human Connectome Project, using three separate sets with different b values (b = 1,000 s/mm2, b =2,000 s/mm2, b =3,000 s/mm2) and four different tractography methods, resulting in 1,200 tractographies analyzed.

Results

The results show that multifiber and free water (FW) compartment models produce significantly more streamlines than single-fiber tractography. The addition of an FW compartment significantly increases the mean streamline fractional anisotropy (FA). Expert quality ratings showed that the highest rated tractography was the 1 tensor (1T) method without FW at b values of 1,000 s/mm2.

Conclusions

In this young and healthy cohort, best tractography results are obtained by using a 1T model without a FW compartment in b =1,000 diffusion MR images. The FW compartment increased the contrast between streamlines and cerebrospinal fluid (higher mean streamline FA). This finding may help ongoing research to improve CN VII tractography results in tumor cases where the nerve is often stretched and thinned by the tumor.
Blood Pressure During Hospital Stay for Delivery and Risk for Postpartum Readmission for Hypertension
Authors: Taylor Kaitlyn , Pochana Sai S. , Chapple Andrew G. , Dempsey Maureen , Sutton Elizabeth F.
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the association of changes in peripartum blood pressure (BP) with risk for postpartum readmission for hypertension.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of birthing individuals delivering from January 1, 2017, to March 1, 2020, in Louisiana. We identified patients with postpartum readmission for hypertension (readmission within 30 days of delivery) and compared BP and clinical and sociodemographic characteristics with those of patients who were not readmitted for hypertension. Patients were also grouped by their BP at both admission for delivery and 36 hours postpartum: systolic below 130 mm Hg and diastolic below 80 mm Hg, systolic 130–139 mm Hg or diastolic 80–89 mm Hg, systolic 140–149 mm Hg or diastolic 90–99 mm Hg, and systolic 150 mm Hg or higher or diastolic 100 mm Hg or higher. Logistic regression was performed to identify risk factors for postpartum readmission for hypertension.

RESULTS:

In our cohort of 17,587 individuals, 329 patients (1.9%) experienced postpartum readmission for hypertension. Increased admission BP (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.26, 95% CI, 1.75–2.928), increased 36-hour postpartum BP (aOR 2.36, 95% CI, 1.58–3.53), and preeclampsia (aOR 2.47, 95% CI, 1.83–3.34) were the strongest predictors of postpartum readmission for hypertension. Black race, anemia, and increased maternal age also significantly increased the odds of postpartum readmission for hypertension (all P<.001). Elevated BP on admission for delivery showed a stepwise increased incidence of postpartum readmission for hypertension (percent readmitted among the four admission BP groups: 6.0%, 2.8%, 1.6%, and 0.7% in the 150/100 mm Hg or higher group [highest], 140–149/90–99 mm Hg group, 130–139/80–89 mm Hg group, and less than 130/80 mm Hg group [lowest], respectively).

CONCLUSION:

Even mildly elevated BP at delivery admission and persisting postpartum significantly increased risk for postpartum readmission for hypertension.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Public Health Infrastructure Grant: A Better Approach to Empowering More State and Local Decision Making and Strengthening the Public Health Workforce and Infrastructure
Authors: Carter Marion W. , Simone Patricia M. , Houry Debra E. , Reynolds Steven L. , Patterson Sara S. , Carlson Jonathan E. , Dauphin Leslie A.
Published: September 2024

Context:

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress passed the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) that included a historic investment in the public health workforce.

Program:

Charged with implementing this investment, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched the Public Health Infrastructure Grant (PHIG). PHIG builds on CDC’s experience working with state, local, and territorial public health departments and represents a new approach to strengthening the public health workforce.

Implementation:

Specifically, PHIG incorporates features that allow these public health departments to prioritize and tailor the funding to meet their communities’ needs: 1) focus on workforce as core infrastructure, 2) streamlined programmatic and administrative requirements, 3) more equitable funding approach, and 4) enhanced support from national partners and CDC.

Discussion:

The goal is to optimize the unprecedented opportunity afforded by ARPA and lead to a stronger public health workforce and infrastructure across the United States.
Paratriathlon Race Performance in Elite Ambulatory Athletes With Physical Impairments
Authors: Bevins Rachel L.
Published: September 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare overall performance and performance within the individual disciplines (e.g., swim) in elite paratriathlon between the ambulatory classes PTS2–5 in men and women.

Design

Data were acquired from the official results of 31 International paratriathlon competitions between 2018 and 2021. A total of 1094 results (men n = 774; women n = 320) were analyzed. One-way analysis of variance was used to compare overall performance time, absolute time spent in each discipline, and percentage of performance time spent in each discipline between sports classes. Pearson’s correlation between segment times and overall times were explored.

Results

Overall time was significantly quicker in PTS5 than PTS4 and PTS3 (P < 0.05), and between PTS4 and PTS3 (P < 0.05), but no differences were found between PTS3 and PTS2. PTS5 was also quicker than PTS4 and PTS3 (P < 0.05) across most of the individual discipline times. Cycling comprised the highest percentage of race time in all classes (47.1%–49.6%) and was strongly correlated to overall performance (r = 0.72–0.91).

Conclusions

Hierarchy in performance times was demonstrated between the less impaired paratriathlon classes, but not between the most impaired PTS2 and PTS3 classes. It may be appropriate for PTS2 and PTS3 to compete together.
Transition to dolutegravir-based ART in 35 low- and middle-income countries: a global survey of HIV care clinics
Authors: Zaniewski Elizabeth , Skrivankova Veronika Whitesell , Brazier Ellen , Avihingsanon Anchalee , Wagner Cardoso Sandra , Cesar Carina , Chenal Henri , Crabtree-Ramírez Brenda E. , Ditangco Rossana A. , Ebasone Peter Vanes , Eley Brian , Euvrard Jonathan George , Fatti Geoffrey , Huwa Jacqueline Madalitso , Lelo Patricia , Machado Daisy Maria , Messou Eugene Kouassi , Minga Albert Kla , Muleebwa Joseph , Mundhe Sanjay , Murenzi Gad , Muyindike Winnie R. , Nsonde Dominique Mahambou , Obatsa Sarah M. , Odhiambo Joseph , Prozesky Hans Walter , Rungmaitree Supattra , Semeere Aggrey Semwendero , Seydi Moussa , Sipambo Nosisa , Sudjaritruk Tavitiya , Technau Karl-Günter , Tiendrebeogo Thierry , Twizere Christelle , Ballif Marie
Published: September 2024

Objective:

We studied the transition to dolutegravir-containing antiretroviral therapy (ART) at HIV treatment clinics within the International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA).

Design:

Site-level survey conducted in 2020–2021 among HIV clinics in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods:

We assessed the status of dolutegravir rollout and viral load and drug resistance testing practices for persons on ART switching to dolutegravir-based regimens. We used generalized estimating equations to assess associations between clinic rollout of both first- and second-line dolutegravir-based ART regimens (dual rollout) and site-level factors.

Results:

Of 179 surveyed clinics, 175 (98%) participated; 137 (78%) from Africa, 30 (17%) from the Asia-Pacific, and 8 (5%) from Latin America. Most clinics (80%) were in low- or lower-middle-income countries, and there were a mix of primary-, secondary- and tertiary-level clinics. Ninety percent reported rollout of first-line dolutegravir, 59% of second-line, 94% of first- or second-line and 55% of dual rollout. The adjusted odds of dual rollout were higher among tertiary-level [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 4.00; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.39–11.47] and secondary-level clinics (aOR 3.66; 95% CI 2.19–6.11) than in primary-level clinics. Over half (59%) of clinics that introduced first- or second-line dolutegravir-based ART required recent viral load testing before switching to dolutegravir, and 15% performed genotypic resistance testing at switch.

Conclusions:

Dolutegravir-based ART was rolled out at nearly all IeDEA clinics in LMICs, yet many switched persons to dolutegravir without recent viral load testing and drug resistance testing was rarely performed. Without such testing, drug resistance among persons switching to dolutegravir may go undetected.
Liver and Kidney Tumor Masses as the Initial Presentation of B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Zhong Jianping
Published: September 2024

We described a 13-year-old girl who presented unexplained paroxysmal sharp pain in the right upper abdomen for 3 days. CT and MRI showed multiple masses in the liver and kidneys, initially diagnosed as lymphoma. The hepatic mass biopsy confirmed B-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma. FDG PET/CT examination found that the liver and kidney masses demonstrated high metabolic activity, with concomitant increased metabolic activity in the skeleton. Bone marrow biopsy revealed extensive skeletal involvement. The final diagnosis was B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. This case highlights the effectiveness of FDG PET/CT as an adjunct imaging modality for diagnosis.
Analysis of Neuroradiologic Findings in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension—A Population-Based Study
Authors: Steinberg Yael N. , Parnes Gregory J. , Raval Nilesh K. , Pellerano Sosa Fernando M. , Parsikia Afshin , Mbekeani Joyce N.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) has been associated with several MRI features. We assessed types of MRI findings and clinical-radiologic correlations in patients with IIH from one hospital system.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of IIH and control patients was conducted. Brain MRI/magnetic resonance venogram features were enumerated and assessed for correlation with body mass index (BMI) and lumbar puncture opening pressure (LPOP). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and likelihood ratios (LRs) were calculated for each MRI sign. Significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results:

One hundred one patients diagnosed with IIH, and 119 control patients had complete files and were included. Patients with IIH were predominantly female (92.8% vs 59.7%; P = <0.001), younger (30.6 years vs 46.4 years; P < 0.001), and more obese (mean BMI = 35.2 vs 29.3; P < 0.001) than controls. Mean (SD) number of MRI findings was 2.21 (1.8) in IIH and 0.6 (1.2) in controls; (P < 0.001). Vertical nerve tortuosity (44.1%; P < 0.001), TVSS (37.8%; P < 0.001), sheath expansion (36.0%; P < 0.001), globe flattening (22.5%; P < 0.001), slit ventricles (18.9%; P < 0.001), optic disc protrusion (9.9%; P = 0.007), and complete empty sella (12.6%; P < 0.042) were observed more in patients with IIH than control patients. In the IIH group, mean (SD) LPOP was 33.6 (11.11) cmH2O and weakly correlated with number of MRI findings (rho = 0.182, P = 0.057). TVSS (sensitivity 37.84%; confidence interval [CI] 29.3%–47.2%, specificity 98.32%; CI 93.5%–99.6%) had the highest PPV (95.45%) and positive LR (22.51) for IIH diagnosis.

Conclusions:

These results are consistent with IIH predominance in young, obese females. In patients with IIH, the number of MRI findings exceeded controls and positively correlated with LPOP. TVSS was most predictive of IIH.
Hyphobacterium marinum sp. nov. and Hyphobacterium lacteum sp. nov., isolated from marine sediment
Authors: Zhao Shi-bo , Liu Le , Lian Feng-bai , Du Zong-Jun
Published: September 2024

Two bacterial strains, Y60-23T and HN-65T, were isolated from marine sediment samples collected from Xiaoshi Island, Weihai, and Dongzhai Harbour, Haikou, PR China, respectively. Based on the 16S rRNA gene sequences, strain Y60-23T exhibited 96.0% similarity to its most related type strain Hyphobacterium vulgare KCTC 52487T, while strain HN-65T exhibited 97.3% similarity to its most related type strain Hyphobacterium indicum 2ED5T. The 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity between the two strains was 95.8%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strains Y60-23T and HN-65T belonged to the genus Hyphobacterium. Cells of strains Y60-23T and HN-65T were rod-shaped, Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, non-motile, prosthecate and multiplied by binary fission. The major cellular fatty acids (>10.0%) of strain Y60-23T were C18 : 1
 ω7c and C17 : 0, while those of strain HN-65T were iso-C17 : 1
 ω9c, iso-C17 : 0 and C18 : 1
 ω7c. The major respiratory quinone in both strains was ubiquinone-10 (Q-10) and the major polar lipids were monoglycosyl diglyceride, sulfoquinovosyl diacylglycerol and glucuronopyranosyl diglyceride. The genomic DNA G+C contents of strains Y60-23T and HN-65T were 63.9 and 60.7 mol%, respectively. The average nucleotide identity value between the two strains was 72.1% and the DNA–DNA hybridization value was 18.4%, clearly distinguishing them from each other. According to the results of the phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, phylogenetic and genomic analyses, the two strains represented two novel species within the genus Hyphobacterium, for which the names Hyphobacterium marinum sp. nov. and Hyphobacterium lacteum sp. nov. were proposed with the type strains Y60-23T (=MCCC 1H01433T=KCTC 8172T) and HN-65T (=MCCC 1H01434T=KCTC 8169T), respectively.
Functional Reorganization across Four Episodes in Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Liu Xiaobo , Wan Bin , Zhang Xi-Han , Cui Ruifang , Long Siyu , Ge Ruiyang , Liu Lang , Xiao Jinming , Liu Zhen-Qi , Yan Jiadong , Xie Ke , Yao Meng , Wen Xin , Wang Sanwang , Gao Yujun
Published: September 2024

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a heterogeneous psychiatric condition encompassing various episode states, including manic (BipM), depressive (BipD), mixed (mBD), and remission (rBD). Cumulative evidence has revealed that few BD episodes exhibit brain functional connectome changes; however, these findings remain fragmentary, and a systematic understanding of these functional alterations among all episodes is still lacking. Here, we firstly aimed to investigate how these episodes are differentially represented along the sensory-association axis, which constitutes the primary functional organization spectrum of the human cortex. We found expansion in sensory regions with compression in association regions in BipM, BipD and rBD as well as expansion in visual regions and prefrontal regions, compression motor regions, and precuneus regions for mBD compared to healthy controls. By examining outward and inward activity propagation in association regions, we observed less frequent flows in BipM and BipD, clarifying that association may be dominant in functional reorganization. mBD showed more frequent inward flows than other episodes in both sensory and associations, emphasizing information exchange between these two anchors. By evaluating the network integration and segregation, we observed an increase in functional integration alongside a decrease in functional segregation for unipolar episodes and the greatest functional integration for mBD. Furthermore, clinical relevance analysis suggests that emotional changes were mainly related to association functional reorganization, which may be used as specific and sensitive biomarkers to detect mood changes in different episodes. Finally, the episode representations were spatially correlated with distribution of serotonin transporter, gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor, Alpha-4-Beta-4 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, layer 4 and layer 5 excitatory neurons. This study demonstrates functional reorganization as a biomarker as well as a uniform and simplified framework of neural phenotype to quantify mental abnormality of different BD episodes systematically.
Predictors of white matter hyperintensities in the elderly Congolese population
Authors: Yohe Emile Omba , Alonso Alvaro , Drane Daniel L. , Patel Saranya Sundaram , Schwinne Megan , Epenge Emmanuel , Gikelekele Guy , Herve Esambo , Kavugho Immaculee , Tshengele Nathan , Mampunza Samuel , Mananga Lelo , Zhao Liping , Qiu Deqiang , Stringer Anthony , Saindane Amit M , Ikanga Jean
Published: September 2024

Background

White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are strongly linked to cardiovascular risk factors and other health conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. However, there is a dearth of research on this topic in low-income countries and underserved populations, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) where the population is aging rapidly with increasing cardiovascular risk factors and dementia-related diseases. This study evaluates health factors associated with WMH in the elderly Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), specifically Congolese adults.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study of 77 people from the DRC, participants underwent neuroimaging to analyze WMH volume and completed clinical evaluation, laboratory-based blood exams, self-reported questionnaires, and interviews. A simple linear regression model was conducted to test the association between WMH and potential predictors (neurological status, age, sex, hypertension, diabetes, tobacco abuse, stroke, high cholesterol, cardiovascular medication, and alcohol abuse). Stepwise selection and backward elimination analyses were performed to obtain the final model. Finally, a multiple linear regression model was conducted to assess the association between WMH and variables retained in the final model (neurological status, sex, and age).

Results

Of the 77 individuals, 47 (61%) had dementia, 40 (52.6%) were males, and the mean age was 73 years (± 8.0 years standard deviation). In simple linear regression models, WMH was significantly associated with dementia (expβ1=1.75, 95% CI=1.14 – 2.71, p-value=0.01) though it had a weak association with age (expβ1=1.03, 95% CI=1.00 – 1.05, p-value=0.05) and sex (male) (expβ1=0.66, 95% CI=0.43 – 1.01, p-value=0.05). In multiple linear regression models, WMH was statistically significantly associated with dementia (expβ1=1.97, 95% CI=1.31 – 2.95, p-value =0.001), male sex (expβ2=0.54, 95% CI=0.36 – 0.80, p-value=0.003), and age (expβ3=1.03, 95% CI=1.00 – 1.06, p-value=0.03). However, WMH was not significantly associated with common cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, tobacco use, obesity, and high cholesterol levels.

Conclusion

WMH is significantly associated with neurological status, sex, and age in the Congolese population. Understanding these predictors may improve our ability to diagnose, assess, and develop preventative treatments for white matter disease in SSA/DRC populations, where neuroimaging is difficult to obtain.
Gut microbiome compositional and functional features associate with Alzheimer’s disease pathology
Authors: Kang Jea Woo , Khatib Lora A. , Heston Margo B. , Dilmore Amanda H. , Labus Jennifer S. , Deming Yuetiva , Schimmel Leyla , Blach Colette , McDonald Daniel , Gonzalez Antonio , Bryant MacKenzie , Sanders Karenina , Schwartz Lara , Ulland Tyler K. , Johnson Sterling C. , Asthana Sanjay , Carlsson Cynthia M. , Chin Nathaniel A. , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Rey Federico E. ,   Alzheimer Gut Microbiome Project Consortium, Kaddurah-Daouk Rima , Knight Rob , Bendlin Barbara B.
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

The gut microbiome is a potentially modifiable factor in Alzheimer’s disease (AD); however, understanding of its composition and function regarding AD pathology is limited.

METHODS

Shallow-shotgun metagenomic data was used to analyze fecal microbiome from participants enrolled in the Wisconsin Microbiome in Alzheimer’s Risk Study, leveraging clinical data and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers. Differential abundance and ordinary least squares regression analyses were performed to find differentially abundant gut microbiome features and their associations with CSF biomarkers of AD and related pathologies.

RESULTS

Gut microbiome composition and function differed between people with AD and cognitively unimpaired individuals. The compositional difference was replicated in an independent cohort. Differentially abundant gut microbiome features were associated with CSF biomarkers of AD and related pathologies.

DISCUSSION

These findings enhance our understanding of alterations in gut microbial composition and function in AD, and suggest that gut microbes and their pathways are linked to AD pathology.
The Impact of Estrogen-Suppressing Contraceptives on Behavioral and Functional Difficulties in Borderline Personality Disorder
Authors: Katrinli Seyma , Rothbaum Alex O. , DeMoss Raneeka , Turner William C. , Hunter Ben , Powers Abigail , Michopoulos Vasiliki , Smith Alicia K.
Published: September 2024

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is characterized by rapidly shifting emotional, interpersonal, and behavioral symptoms, and is often co-morbid with mood and anxiety disorders. Females are more likely to be diagnosed with BPD than males and exhibit greater functional impairment. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in estrogen levels, may influence the manifestation of BPD symptoms. Here we investigated the influence of estrogen-suppressing contraceptives on behavioral and functional difficulties in BPD. The analytical sample included 348 females ages 18-50 undergoing residential treatment for psychiatric disorders, with 131 having a BPD diagnosis. Patients were categorized based on their contraceptive method: 1) Estrogen-suppressing contraceptives (N=145) and 2) Naturally cycling (N=203). Interaction models tested the impact of estrogen-suppressing contraceptives on the relationship between BPD diagnosis and behavioral and functional difficulties at admission and discharge, assessed by the four Behavior and Symptom Identification Scale (BASIS-32) domains: difficulties in relationships, daily living, depression/anxiety, and impulsivity. Females with a BPD diagnosis were more likely to use estrogen-suppressing contraceptives compared to those without BPD (p=0.04). However, estrogen-suppressing contraceptive use was not associated with behavioral and functional difficulties at admission, discharge, or over time. Estrogen-suppressing contraceptives moderated the association between BPD diagnosis and difficulties in relationships (p=0.004), difficulties in daily living (p=0.01), and depression/anxiety symptoms (p=0.004). Patients with BPD expressed increased behavioral and functional difficulties at admission, discharge, and over time only if naturally cycling (p<0.003). Our findings suggest that estrogen-suppressing contraceptives may help to regulate the rapidly shifting emotional, interpersonal, and behavioral symptoms in females with BPD by stabilizing estrogen levels.
Brief remote psychological treatments for healthcare workers with emotional distress during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Salum Giovanni Abrahão , de Abreu Costa Marianna , Spanemberg Lucas , Simioni André Rafael , Gosmann Natan Pereira , de Souza Lívia Hartmann , Cuijpers Pim , Pine Daniel Samuel , Brunoni André Russowsky , Kristensen Christian Haag , de Almeida Fleck Marcelo Pio , Manfro Gisele Gus , Dreher Carolina Blaya
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has catalyzed a widespread mental health crisis, impacting millions of people. This study aimed to compare three brief remote psychological treatments for healthcare workers with emotional distress during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

METHODS

Nationwide three-arm randomized clinical trial in Brazil. This is a transdiagnostic study that included professionals and students from health services with high levels of anxiety, depression, or irritability symptoms, as defined by Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). The exclusion criterion was positive suicide risk. Participants were randomized single session psychoeducation group plus weekly personalized pre-recorded videos for four weeks (SSI-ET), brief cognitive behavioral telepsychotherapy group (B-CBT, four sessions), or brief interpersonal telepsychotherapy (B-IPT, four sessions). This study was registered inclinicaltrials.gov(NCT04635618). The primary outcome was the proportion of participants with a 50% reduction in T-scores in PROMIS rating scales of anxiety, depression, and/or irritability at one-month.

FINDINGS

Of the 3328 volunteers assessed for eligibility, 999 participants were enrolled, from May 19th2020 to December 31st2021, and allocated to SSI-ET (n=342), B-CBT (n=323), or B-IPT (n=334). All three groups showed significant symptom reductions in the one-month assessment that were maintained over the three and six-month follow-ups (Cohen’s d range = 0.94-1.36, p<0.001), with no significant difference between groups. The estimated proportion of responders were 46.5%, 43.7% and 44.6% for SSI-ET, B-CBT and B-IPT, respectively.

Conclusions

Our results refute the hypothesis that therapeutic interventions with higher number of sessions and with more specialized therapeutic components offer advantages in alleviating emotional distress, particularly among healthcare workers facing epidemic emergencies. These results have critical implications for planning interventions for crisis responses, especially in settings with limited resources.

FUNDING

Ministry of Health of Brazil, Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, and Fundo de Incentivo à Pesquisa/Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of locomotor decisions inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Lebovich Lior , Alisch Tom , Redhead Edward S. , Parker Matthew O. , Loewenstein Yonatan , Couzin Iain D. , de Bivort Benjamin L.
Published: September 2024

Decision-making in animals often involves choosing actions while navigating the environment, a process markedly different from static decision paradigms commonly studied in laboratory settings. Even in decision-making assays in which animals can freely locomote, decision outcomes are often interpreted as happening at single points in space and single moments in time, a simplification that potentially glosses over important spatiotemporal dynamics. We investigated locomotor decision-making inDrosophila melanogasterin Y-shaped mazes, measuring the extent to which their future choices could be predicted through space and time. We demonstrate that turn-decisions can be reliably predicted from flies’ locomotor dynamics, with distinct predictability phases emerging as flies progress through maze regions. We show that these predictability dynamics are not merely the result of maze geometry or wall-following tendencies, but instead reflect the capacity of flies to move in ways that depend on sustained locomotor signatures, suggesting an active, working memory-like process. Additionally, we demonstrate that fly mutants known to have sensory and information-processing deficits exhibit altered spatial predictability patterns, highlighting the role of visual, mechanosensory, and dopaminergic signaling in locomotor decision-making. Finally, highlighting the broad applicability of our analyses, we generalize our findings to other species and tasks. We show that human participants in a virtual Y-maze exhibited similar decision predictability dynamics as flies. This study advances our understanding of decision-making processes, emphasizing the importance of spatial and temporal dynamics of locomotor behavior in the lead-up to discrete choice outcomes.
Preparation of Illumina 16s Amplicon Sequencing Libraries with Peptide Nucleic Acids (PNAs) for the Analysis of Maize-Associated Microbiomes
Authors: Wallace Jason G. , Griffis Holly
Published: September 2024

One of the most common methods to survey bacterial communities is targeted amplification of the hypervariable regions of the 16s rRNA gene followed by sequencing. This protocol details Illumina library preparation of such amplicons from communities isolated from maize. We include both staggered PCR primers to improve Illumina base calling and peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) to reduce the presence of plant organelles. Primers are designed with Illumina adapter sequences for the addition of sample-specific indexes (barcodes). We also briefly discuss alternative primer sets, including ones that directly discriminate against plant organelles or that amplify different organisms (e.g., fungal internal transcribed spacer [ITS] sequences).
Navigating the Maze of Maize Genomics: the Impact of Transposable Elements and Tandem Repeats
Authors: Heringer Pedro , Benson Christopher W. , Ou Shujun
Published: September 2024

Transposable elements (TEs) are abundant and ubiquitous components of eukaryotic genomes. Since TEs were first discovered in maize (Zea mays) by Barbara McClintock in the late 1940s, these elements have been shown to be important agents in shaping genome structure and evolution. Today, maize continues to be an important model organism for molecular and quantitative genetics, and represents a particularly useful system for the study of the interplay between TEs and host genomes. While TEs constitute a significant part of the maize genome and are important drivers of genome evolution, their annotation remains a complex and challenging task. Here, we discuss genome annotation of TEs and other repetitive sequences in maize genomes. We briefly review current knowledge on the overall landscape of TE and non-TE repeats in maize, and discuss how these sequences may impact genome structure, and the genotype and phenotype within species. We also provide a summary of the main tools used to find TE polymorphisms, and briefly introduce four different bioinformatic approaches for TE and tandem repeat annotation, explaining how they can be best used by maize researchers.
Roles of value co-creation on social platforms in driving participating businesses’ sustainable competitive advantage and performance
Authors: Liu Honglei , Choi Chang Suk , Kim Kyung Hoon
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study discusses the sources of value co-creation and its effects on businesses using social platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and blogs.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 301 survey responses were selected. The selected respondents indicated that they lived in South Korea, had an occupation as a private business or marketer and had used a social platform one or more times a day. The hypotheses were tested using a structural equation model.

Findings

The study reveals that the source of sustainable value co-creation between social platforms and businesses positively affects the competitive advantage of maintaining businesses. This advantage reveals an integrated relationship that leads to the successful financial performance of businesses through online word of mouth and customer satisfaction. Moreover, this study finds that the relationship between variables differs by social platform types (unidirectional vs bidirectional service).

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study explain the relationship between value co-production, value-in-use, SCA and long-term performance. However, this study focused on private business and marketing staff working in companies in South Korea. Accordingly, more countries in which social platforms are widely utilized should be taken into account to help generalize the empirical findings.

Practical implications

There is a difference in the relationship between co-creation activity and cost advantage/long-term performance in accordance with the service type of a social platform. The results indicate that a bidirectional service is a more powerful tool for cost advantage and long-term performance.

Originality/value

This study focuses on the role of value co-creation in social platforms to ensure companies’ sustainable competitive advantage and performance. The results of this study will help companies develop online marketing strategies using social platforms.
Experienscape and psychology in silver screen destinations: exploring the effects of cognition and affect
Authors: Radic Aleksandar , Quan Wei , Ariza-Montes Antonio , Han Heesup
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the behavioral predictors that affect tourists’ intentions to visit silver screen destinations.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey questionnaire was composed of multi-item measures, and a total of 432 questionnaires were collected by purposive sampling technique. Participants were asked about sensory stimuli, social stimuli, naturalistic stimuli, cultural stimuli, hospitality culture stimuli, cognitive responses, affective responses and behavior approach, which were evaluated using a seven-point Likert scale.

Findings

The authors discovered that cognitive and affective responses positively influence the tourists’ intention toward destinations with film-induced tourism, because tourists highly value unique and refreshing symbolic connotations of silver screen destinations, which are commonly predisposed to nostalgia and poetic on the scene.

Originality/value

The originality of this study and the theoretical value of the present research lies with revealing specific relations within the film-induced experienscape constructs that are based on the multistakeholder and multidisciplinary approach. Moreover, this study puts forward constructive suggestions for destination stakeholders in regard to how to market film-induced tourism that uses a multidisciplinary approach that is encompassed by experienscape constructs, which thereby reinforces the film-induced tourists’ experience and their behavior approach.
Ethics in focus: PhD students’ perspectives on IRBs in India
Authors: A Subaveerapandiyan , Taj Amreen , Ahmad Naved , Verma Manoj Kumar , Ahmed Mohammed Gulzar
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of PhD students in India regarding research ethics and institutional review boards (IRBs), assess awareness levels, identify training gaps, examine ethical priorities and understand challenges in the IRB application process.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative approach was used, and a self-evaluator questionnaire was distributed electronically to PhD students. Data collection occurred between 1 March 1 and 30 March 2024, with analysis conducted using SPSS software.

Findings

The study reveals a significant gap in formal training on IRB procedures within PhD programs and challenges in completing IRB applications despite recognising ethical priorities such as informed consent and confidentiality.

Originality/value

This study provides insights into PhD students’ perspectives on research ethics and IRBs in India, highlighting the need for enhanced education and awareness initiatives to promote responsible conduct and safeguard research participants.