bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extreme emission line galaxies detected in JADES JWST/NIRSpec – I. Inferred galaxy properties
Authors: Boyett Kit , Bunker Andrew J , Curtis-Lake Emma , Chevallard Jacopo , Cameron Alex J , Jones Gareth C , Saxena Aayush , Charlot Stéphane , Curti Mirko , Wallace Imaan E B , Arribas Santiago , Carniani Stefano , Willott Chris , Alberts Stacey , Eisenstein Daniel J , Hainline Kevin , Hausen Ryan , Johnson Benjamin D , Rieke Marcia , Robertson Brant , Stark Daniel P , Tacchella Sandro , Williams Christina C , Chen Zuyi , Egami Eiichi , Endsley Ryan , Kumari Nimisha , Laseter Isaac , Looser Tobias J , Maseda Michael V , Scholtz Jan , Shivaei Irene , Simmonds Charlotte , Smit Renske , Übler Hannah , Witstok Joris
Published: October 2024

Extreme emission line galaxies (EELGs) exhibit large equivalent widths (EW) in their rest-optical emission lines ([O iii]$\lambda 5007$ or H $\alpha$ rest-frame EW$\gt 750$ Å) which can be tied to a recent upturn in star formation rate (SFR), due to the sensitivity of the nebular line emission and the rest-optical continuum to young ($\lt 10$ Myr) and evolved stellar populations, respectively. By studying a sample of 85 star-forming galaxies (SFGs), spanning the redshift and magnitude interval $3 \lt z\lt 9.5$ and $-16\gt $M$\rm _{UV}\gt -21$, in the JWST Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey (JADES) with NIRSpec/prism spectroscopy, we determine that SFGs initiate an EELG phase when entering a significant burst of star formation, with the highest EWs observed in EELGs with the youngest luminosity-weighted ages ($\lt 5$ Myr) and the highest burst intensity (those with the greatest excess between their current and long-term average SFR). We spectroscopically confirm that a greater proportion of SFGs are in an EELG phase at high redshift in our UV-selected sample ($61\pm 4~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ in our $z\gt 5.7$ high-redshift bin, compared to $23^{+4}_{-1}\%$ in our lowest redshift bin $3\lt z\lt 4.1$) due to the combined evolution of metallicity, ionization parameter, and star formation histories with redshift. We report that the EELGs within our sample exhibit a higher average ionization efficiency ($\log _{10}(\xi _\mathrm{ion}^\mathrm{HII}/{\rm erg^{-1}Hz}) =25.5\pm 0.2$) than the non-EELGs. High-redshift EELGs therefore comprise a population of efficient ionizing photon producers. Additionally, we report that 53 per cent (9/17) of EELGs at $z\gt 5.7$ have observed Ly $\alpha$ emission, potentially lying within large ionized regions. The high detection rate of Ly $\alpha$ emitters in our EELG selection suggests that the physical conditions associated with entering an EELG phase also promote the escape of Ly $\alpha$ photons.
An experimental study of the biological impact of a superflare on the TRAPPIST-1 planets
Authors: Abrevaya X C , Odert P , Oppezzo O J , Leitzinger M , Luna G J M , Guenther E , Patel M R , Hanslmeier A
Published: October 2024

In this study, we conducted experiments to assess the biological effects of high fluences of UV radiation (UVR) on the TRAPPIST-1 planetary system (planets e, f, g within the habitable zone), unlike previous estimates made by other authors which used theoretical approaches. To this end, we first calculated the UV fluxes at the orbits of the planets of the TRAPPIST-1 system during quiescent conditions and during a superflare. We then studied the effects of UVR on microbial life by exposing UV-tolerant (Deinococcus radiodurans) and UV-susceptible bacteria (Escherichia coli) to fluences equivalent to a superflare on the unshielded surface of these planets. Based on the results of our laboratory experiments, we have found a survival fraction of $6.31\times 10^{-8}$ for D. radiodurans and a survival fraction below the limit of detection for E. coli at the surface of the planet e, which would receive the highest UVR flux. These survival fractions were higher for the planets f and g. In contrast to the results obtained by other authors which used theoretical estimates, we show that a fraction of the population of microorganisms could tolerate the high UVR fluences of a superflare on the surface of TRAPPIST-1 planets, even without any shielding such as that provided by an atmosphere or an ocean. Our study evidences the existence of methodological problems in theoretical approaches. It also emphasizes the importance of performing specifically designed biological experiments to predict microbial survival in extraterrestrial contexts.
Epigenetic associations with kidney disease in individuals of African ancestry with APOL1 high-risk genotypes and HIV
Authors: Hung Rachel K Y , Costeira Ricardo , Chen Junyu , Schlosser Pascal , Grundner-Culemann Franziska , Booth John W , Sharpe Claire C , Bramham Kate , Sun Yan V , Marconi Vincent C , Teumer Alexander , Winkler Cheryl A , Post Frank A , Bell Jordana T
Published: October 2024

Background

Apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) high-risk variants are major determinants of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in people of African ancestry. Previous studies have identified epigenetic changes in relation to kidney function and CKD, but not in individuals with APOL1 high-risk genotypes. We conducted an epigenome-wide analysis of CKD and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in in people of African ancestry and APOL1 high-risk genotypes with HIV.

Methods

DNA methylation profiles from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 119 individuals with APOL1 high-risk genotypes (mean age 48 years, 49% female, median CD4 count 515 cells/mm3, 90% HIV-1 RNA <200 copies/mL, 23% with CKD) were obtained by Illumina MethylationEPIC BeadChip. Differential methylation analysis of CKD considered technical and biological covariates. We also assessed associations with eGFR. Replication was pursued in three independent multi-ancestry cohorts with and without HIV.

Results

DNA methylation levels at 14 regions were associated with CKD. The strongest signals were located in SCARB1, DNAJC5B and C4orf50. Seven of the 14 signals also associated with eGFR, and most showed evidence for a genetic basis. Four signals (in SCARB1, FRMD4A, CSRNP1 and RAB38) replicated in other cohorts, and 11 previously reported epigenetic signals for kidney function or CKD replicated in our cohort. We found no significant DNA methylation signals in, or near, the APOL1 promoter region.

Conclusions

We report several novel as well as previously reported epigenetic associations with CKD and eGFR in individuals with HIV having APOL1 high-risk genotypes. Further investigation of pathways linking DNA methylation to APOL1 nephropathies is warranted.
Prospective longitudinal analysis of physiologic MRI-based tumor habitat predicts short-term patient outcomes in IDH-wildtype glioblastoma
Authors: Moon Hye Hyeon , Park Ji Eun , Kim NakYoung , Park Seo Young , Kim Young-Hoon , Song Sang Woo , Hong Chang Ki , Kim Jeong Hoon , Kim Ho Sung
Published: October 2024

Background

This study validates MRI-based tumor habitats in predicting time-to-progression (TTP), overall survival (OS), and progression sites in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-wildtype glioblastoma patients.

Methods

Seventy-nine patients were prospectively enrolled between January 2020 and June 2022. MRI, including diffusion-weighted and dynamic susceptibility contrast imaging, were obtained immediately postoperation and at three serial timepoints. Voxels from cerebral blood volume and apparent diffusion coefficient maps were grouped into three habitats (hypervascular cellular, hypovascular cellular, and nonviable tissue) using k-means clustering. Predefined cutoffs for increases in hypervascular and hypovascular cellular habitat were applied to calculate the habitat risk score. Associations between spatiotemporal habitats, habitat risk score, TTP, and OS were investigated using Cox proportional hazards modeling. Habitat risk score was compared to tumor volume using time-dependent receiver operating characteristics analysis. Progression sites were matched with spatial habitats.

Results

Increases in hypervascular and hypovascular cellular habitats and habitat risk scores were associated with shorter TTP and OS (all P < .05). Hypovascular cellular habitat and habitat risk scores 1 and 2 independently predicted TTP (hazard ratio [HR], 4.14; P = .03, HR, 4.51; P = .001 and HR, 10.02; P < .001, respectively). Hypovascular cellular habitat and habitat risk score 2 independently predicted OS (HR, 4.01, P = .003; and HR, 3.27, P < .001, respectively). Habitat risk score outperformed tumor volume in predicting TTP (12-month AUC, 0.762 vs. 0.646, P = .048). Hypovascular cellular habitat predicted progression sites (mean Dice index: 0.31).

Conclusions

Multiparametric physiologic MRI-based spatiotemporal tumor habitats and habitat risk scores are useful biomarkers for early tumor progression and outcomes in IDH-wildtype glioblastoma patients.
Deciphering decadal urban ozone trends from historical records since 1980
Authors: Wang Haolin , Lu Xiao , Palmer Paul I , Zhang Lin , Lu Keding , Li Ke , Nagashima Tatsuya , Koo Ja-Ho , Tanimoto Hiroshi , Wang Haichao , Gao Meng , He Cheng , Wu Kai , Fan Shaojia , Zhang Yuanhang
Published: October 2024

Ozone pollution is a major environmental threat to human health. Timely assessment of ozone trends is crucial for informing environmental policy. Here we show that for the most recent decade (2013–2022) in the northern hemisphere, warm-season (April–September) mean daily 8-h average maximum ozone increases much faster in urban regions with top ozone levels (mainly in the North China Plain, 1.2 ± 1.3 ppbv year−1) than in other, low-ozone regions (0.2 ± 0.9 ppbv year−1). These trends widen the ozone differences across urban regions, and increase extreme pollution levels and health threats from a global perspective. Comparison of historical trends in different urban regions reveals that ozone increases in China during 2013–2022 differ in magnitude and mechanisms to historical periods in other regions since 1980. This reflects a unique chemical environment characterized by exceptionally high nitrogen oxides and aerosol concentrations, where reducing ozone precursor emissions leads to substantial ozone increase. Ozone increase in China has slowed down in 2018–2022 compared to 2013–2017, driven by ongoing emission reductions, but with ozone-favorable weather conditions. Historical ozone evolution in Japan and South Korea indicates that ozone increases should be suppressed with continuous emission reduction. Increasing temperature and associated wildfires have also reversed ozone decreases in the USA and Europe, with anthropogenic ozone control slowing down in recent decades.
Micronutrients, Vitamin D, and Inflammatory Biomarkers in COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Causal Inference Studies
Authors: Alcalá-Santiago Ángela , Rodriguez-Barranco Miguel , Sánchez María-José , Gil Ángel , García-Villanova Belén , Molina-Montes Esther
Published: October 2024

Context

Experimental and observational studies suggest that circulating micronutrients, including vitamin D (VD), may increase COVID-19 risk and its associated outcomes. Mendelian randomization (MR) studies provide valuable insight into the causal relationship between an exposure and disease outcomes.

Objectives

The aim was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of causal inference studies that apply MR approaches to assess the role of these micronutrients, particularly VD, in COVID-19 risk, infection severity, and related inflammatory markers.

Data Sources

Searches (up to July 2023) were conducted in 4 databases.

Data Extraction and Analysis

The quality of the studies was evaluated based on the MR-STROBE guidelines. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted where possible.

Results

There were 28 studies (2 overlapped) including 12 on micronutrients (8 on VD) and COVID-19, 4 on micronutrients (all on VD) and inflammation, and 12 on inflammatory markers and COVID-19. Some of these studies reported significant causal associations between VD or other micronutrients (vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, zinc, copper, selenium, and magnesium) and COVID-19 outcomes. Associations in terms of causality were also nonsignificant with regard to inflammation-related markers, except for VD levels below 25 nmol/L and C-reactive protein (CRP). Some studies reported causal associations between cytokines, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), and other inflammatory markers and COVID-19. Pooled MR estimates showed that VD was not significantly associated with COVID-19 outcomes, whereas ACE2 increased COVID-19 risk (MR odds ratio = 1.10; 95% CI: 1.01–1.19) but did not affect hospitalization or severity of the disease. The methodological quality of the studies was high in 13 studies, despite the majority (n = 24) utilizing 2-sample MR and evaluated pleiotropy.

Conclusion

MR studies exhibited diversity in their approaches but do not support a causal link between VD/micronutrients and COVID-19 outcomes. Whether inflammation mediates the VD–COVID-19 relationship remains uncertain, and highlights the need to address this aspect in future MR studies exploring micronutrient associations with COVID-19 outcomes.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022328224.
Randomized Controlled Trial of the Immunogenicity and Safety of a Serum-Free Purified Vero Rabies Vaccine (PVRV-NG2) Using a Simulated Postexposure Zagreb Regimen With Human Rabies Immunoglobulin in Adults in Thailand
Authors: Chansinghakul Danaya , Tantawichien Terapong , Limkittikul Kriengsak , Ratanasuwan Winai , Wang Yuancheng , Petit Celine , Guinet-Morlot Francoise , Frago Carina , Pineda-Peña Andrea-Clemencia
Published: October 2024

Background

A serum-free, highly purified Vero rabies vaccine–next generation (PVRV-NG2) is under development. We conducted a phase III trial to describe the safety and immunogenicity profile of PVRV-NG2 compared with those of licensed purified Vero rabies vaccine (PVRV) in a simulated rabies postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) Zagreb regimen in Thailand.

Methods

Healthy adults aged ≥18 years (n = 201) were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive PVRV-NG2 or PVRV in a rabies PEP Zagreb (days 0, 7, 21 [2-1-1]) regimen, with concomitant human rabies immunoglobulin (HRIG) at day 0. Immunogenicity end points included the proportion of participants with rabies virus–neutralizing antibody (RVNA) titers ≥0.5 IU/mL at days 0, 14, and 35. Safety outcomes were also assessed.

Results

A total of 199 participants completed the study (PVRV-NG2 n = 133, PVRV n = 66). In the PVRV-NG2 group and PVRV group, respectively, 91.0% (95% CI, 84.1%–95.6%) and 94.6% (95% CI, 85.1%–98.9%) had RVNA titers ≥0.5 IU/mL at day 14, increasing to 100% (95% CI, 96.8%–100%) and 100% (95% CI, 93.5%–100%) by day 35. The vaccines had similar safety profiles, and there were no safety concerns.

Conclusions

PVRV-NG2 showed acceptable safety and immunogenicity profiles when co-administered with HRIG in a simulated PEP Zagreb regimen in healthy adults in Thailand.
Let's Have a Chat: How Well Does an Artificial Intelligence Chatbot Answer Clinical Infectious Diseases Pharmacotherapy Questions?
Authors: Kufel Wesley D , Hanrahan Kathleen D , Seabury Robert W , Parsels Katie A , Gallagher Jason C , MacDougall Conan , Covington Elizabeth W , Chahine Elias B , Britt Rachel S , Steele Jeffrey M
Published: October 2024

Background

It is unknown whether ChatGPT provides quality responses to infectious diseases (ID) pharmacotherapy questions. This study surveyed ID pharmacist subject matter experts (SMEs) to assess the quality of ChatGPT version 3.5 (GPT-3.5) responses.

Methods

The primary outcome was the percentage of GPT-3.5 responses considered useful by SME rating. Secondary outcomes were SMEs' ratings of correctness, completeness, and safety. Rating definitions were based on literature review. One hundred ID pharmacotherapy questions were entered into GPT-3.5 without custom instructions or additional prompts, and responses were recorded. A 0–10 rating scale for correctness, completeness, and safety was developed and validated for interrater reliability. Continuous and categorical variables were assessed for interrater reliability via average measures intraclass correlation coefficient and Fleiss multirater kappa, respectively. SMEs' responses were compared by the Kruskal-Wallis test and chi-square test for continuous and categorical variables.

Results

SMEs considered 41.8% of responses useful. Median (IQR) ratings for correctness, completeness, and safety were 7 (4–9), 5 (3–8), and 8 (4–10), respectively. The Fleiss multirater kappa for usefulness was 0.379 (95% CI, .317–.441) indicating fair agreement, and intraclass correlation coefficients were 0.820 (95% CI, .758–.870), 0.745 (95% CI, .656–.816), and 0.833 (95% CI, .775–.880) for correctness, completeness, and safety, indicating at least substantial agreement. No significant difference was observed among SME responses for percentage of responses considered useful.

Conclusions

Fewer than 50% of GPT-3.5 responses were considered useful by SMEs. Responses were mostly considered correct and safe but were often incomplete, suggesting that GPT-3.5 responses may not replace an ID pharmacist's responses.
Detection of solar internal flows with numerical simulation and machine learning
Authors: Masaki Hiroyuki , Hotta Hideyuki
Published: October 2024

The solar interior is filled with turbulent thermal convection, which plays a key role in energy and momentum transport and generation of the magnetic field. Turbulent flows in the solar interior cannot be optically detected due to its significant optical depth. Currently, helioseismology is the only way to detect the internal dynamics of the Sun. However, long-duration data with a high cadence is required and only a temporal average can be inferred. To address these issues effectively, in this study, we develop a novel method to infer solar internal flows using a combination of radiation magnetohydrodynamic numerical simulations and machine/deep learning. With the application of our new method, we can evaluate the large-scale flow at 10 Mm depth from the solar surface with three snapshots separated by an hour. We also apply the method to observational data. Our method is highly consistent with the helioseismology, although the amount of input data is significantly reduced.
Leaf nutrient basis for the differentiation of photosynthetic traits between subtropical evergreen and deciduous trees
Authors: Shi Qi , He Bin , Knauer Jürgen , Peguero-Pina Jose Javier , Zhang Shi-Bao , Huang Wei
Published: October 2024

Compared with evergreens, deciduous tree species usually have higher photosynthetic efficiency to complete vegetative and reproductive growth in a shorter growing season. However, the nutrient basis for the differentiation of photosynthesis functional traits between evergreen and deciduous tree species has not yet been clarified. Thirty evergreen and 20 deciduous angiosperm tree species from a subtropical common garden were compared in terms of photosynthetic traits and leaf nutrients. Generally, their differences in area-based photosynthetic capacity were uncorrelated with area-based leaf nutrient content but were caused by the fraction of nitrogen allocated to photosynthetic components. By comparison, the differences in mass-based photosynthetic capacity were more correlated with leaf nitrogen content than leaf phosphorus and potassium content. Convergence in phosphorus and potassium constraints to photosynthesis occurred in deciduous tree species but not in evergreen tree species. Furthermore, leaf C/N ratio played a more significant role than leaf mass per area in determining the differentiation of photosynthetic traits between evergreen and deciduous groups. Our findings provide insight into the nutrient basis for photosynthetic carbon gain and functional strategies across tree species.
Reducing Racial Asymmetries in the Survey Overestimation of Voter Turnout
Authors: Barker David C , Block Ray , Johnson Marcus , Leighley Jan
Published: October 2024

Research has consistently demonstrated that Black respondents are more likely than their White counterparts to overstate their plans or previous decisions to vote. We propose that by using a single question regarding turnout intention and candidate preference (rather than the typical approach of using two separate questions), survey researchers can reduce these racial asymmetries. The reason, we suggest, is that doing so encourages Black respondents to consider the turnout question through the lens of candidates and parties, rather than as a civic responsibility they have toward other Black Americans, which therefore mitigates the social desirability bias that leads to overestimation. We evaluate this argument using a survey experiment that randomly asks a control group of survey respondents to answer two voting questions—one about turnout and one about vote choice—and asks the other half of the sample, the treatment group, a single question that combines the two. Using original data from a nationally representative survey, we find that using the single turnout/preference question reduces the racial asymmetry in turnout overestimation substantially. We further observe that the decrease is concentrated among respondents with relatively high levels of campaign indifference and especially racial civic consciousness, a condition that is much more common among Black respondents than among White respondents. We believe these findings are particularly relevant to election scholars and campaign professionals, given their focus on understanding the thought processes of survey respondents and prospective voters, as well as improving the validity of self-reports in survey research.
Mass Beliefs about the Working Poor and Support for Redistributive Policies
Authors: Newman Benjamin J
Published: October 2024

Past research demonstrates that the working poor are politically relevant, yet little is known about public opinion toward this group. This research note explores public beliefs about working poverty in the United States. The results suggest that most Americans are aware of the working poor and view working poverty as problematic and due to structural factors. Like many political attitudes, beliefs about the working poor are linked to Americans’ personal experiences—namely, their level of local exposure to low-income people. However, consistent with research on the role of race in shaping the politics of poverty and inequality, the linkage between local low-income populations and beliefs about the working poor is conditioned by the race of the local poor. Finally, the political relevance of beliefs about the working poor is illustrated by their substantively large relationships to preferences over spending on the poor and taxing the rich.
The Effects of House Prices and Home Equity Extraction on Career Outcomes
Authors: Cespedes Jacelly , Liu Zack , Parra Carlos
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the effects of housing wealth shocks on workers’ career decisions related to job quality and long-term career outcomes. Using a novel data set of career histories in the film industry, we find that homeowners facing greater house price declines reduce participation in high-quality projects but increase involvement in low-quality films. Conversely, renters are not affected by these shocks. Consistent with individuals using home equity during job searches, these shocks have a greater impact on homeowners who extracted home equity during the housing boom. Moreover, house price declines from the housing crisis affect long-term career paths. (JEL J01, R20, D14, G51)
Scrub typhus–leptospirosis co-infection in India: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Govekar Siddhant , Puri Oshin , Bhatia Mohit
Published: October 2024

Scrub typhus and leptospirosis are re-emerging zoonotic infections with significant morbidity and mortality rates in India. Overlapping aetiological and epidemiological patterns indicate a high possibility of their co-infection in India, which can be a diagnostic challenge due to non-specific clinical features. A systematic search of the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus and Embase databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published through 31 August 2023. Studies reporting co-infection of scrub typhus and leptospirosis among the Indian population were included. Data extraction, quality assessment and statistical analysis were performed in accordance with established guidelines. Six studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising a total of 58 co-infection cases. Pooled prevalence of scrub typhus–leptospirosis co-infection among acute undifferentiated febrile illness patients was 3.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.00 to 0.126). Among scrub typhus patients, the prevalence of co-infection with leptospirosis was 13.7% (95% CI 0.027 to 0.304). Significant heterogeneity was observed among the included studies, highlighting the need for cautious interpretation of prevalence estimates. This meta-analysis underscores the clinical importance of scrub typhus–leptospirosis co-infection in India and emphasizes the need for enhanced clinical awareness, improved diagnostic strategies and targeted research efforts to address this emerging infectious disease threat.
Impact of Twin Lockdowns on Hunger, Labor-Market Outcomes, and Household Coping Mechanisms: Evidence from Uganda
Authors: Pörtner Claus C , Alam Shamma A , Ahmed Ishraq
Published: October 2024

Uganda had two of the strictest COVID-19 lockdowns in Sub-Saharan Africa. These severe lockdowns provide a unique case study for understanding the implications of such public-health measures on economic well-being. We use longitudinal data to examine the lockdowns’ short- and medium-term impacts on household food insecurity, labor-market outcomes, and coping strategies. Lockdowns significantly exacerbated food insecurity immediately and continued to do so in the medium term. The effect was more pronounced after the second lockdown, likely from a combination of reduced resilience after the first lockdown and lower-than-normal rainfall immediately before. There were substantial decreases in income from various sources—including agriculture, non-farm businesses, and wage employment—contributing to the heightened food insecurity. Notably, agricultural households were less adversely affected, and there was a significant switch to agricultural activities as a coping mechanism. The other coping mechanisms households typically rely on for idiosyncratic shocks, such as remittances and government assistance, failed, contributing to the sizeable increase in food insecurity.
Effects of High Tunnel Soil Solarization on Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in the Temperate Climate of Central Kentucky
Authors: Rudolph Rachel , Dixon Ed , Leonberger Kimberly , Munir Misbakhul , Pettigrew Kathryn , Polo Martin , Smith Henry , Lamb April E. , Ward Gauthier Nicole A.
Published: October 2024

Diseases caused by Sclerotinia spp. can affect a wide range of plants, including vegetables, with yield losses ranging from 10 to 50%. Sclerotinia diseases can be especially problematic in high tunnels where high-value vegetable crops are planted in early spring to extend the growing season, achieve earlier harvest, and bring higher profits. Fungicide applications and crop rotations are limited due to product application restrictions and constraints on time, crop resistance, and profitability. Soil solarization is a cultural management method that uses transparent polyethylene to raise soil temperatures via solar irradiation to kill pathogens, pests, and weeds. A two-year study was conducted in a Kentucky high tunnel to determine the maximum temperature potential of solarization at various soil depths at different durations during different seasons and to identify temperatures at which S. sclerotiorum sclerotia lose viability. The experiment included solarization treatments of 2, 4, and 6 weeks and a non-solarized control implemented in spring, summer, and fall. Sclerotia and temperature data loggers were buried at 5.1, 10.2, and 15.2 cm soil depths. The number of hours at which soil temperatures reached ≥ 40 °C was greatest in summer in both years, followed by fall, and then spring. The highest average daily maximum soil temperature reached was 48.9°C, which occurred during the summer 6-week solarization in Year 1. The viability of buried sclerotia was overall lower in solarized treatments compared to non-solarized treatments in both years. In general, the 2-week solarization treatment had significantly higher percent sclerotial germination than the 4-week and 6-week treatments, which were not significantly different from one another. The viability of sclerotia was progressively higher with burial depth. In both years, sclerotia germination was significantly lower in summer compared to spring and fall.
Influence of Cervical Level Fused on Subsidence of Cage and Allograft in Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion
Authors: Milestone Zachary P. , Duey Akiro H. , Ahmed Wasil , Gonzalez Christopher , Park Jiwoo , Liou Lathan , Ferriter Pierce , Markowitz Jonathan , Kim Jun S. , Cho Samuel K.
Published: October 2024

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort.

Objective:

This study aims to evaluate the relationship between the cervical levels fused and the degree of subsidence following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedures.

Background:

Subsidence following ACDF may worsen clinical outcomes. Previous studies have linked lower cervical levels with higher rates of subsidence, but none have quantified the relative degree of subsidence between levels.

Materials and Methods:

Patients who underwent ACDF from 2016 to 2021 at a tertiary medical center were included in this study. Lateral cervical radiographs from the immediate postoperative period and the final follow-ups were used to calculate subsidence. Analysis of variance was used to examine the association between cervical levels fused and subsidence. Multivariable linear regression analysis controlled for age, sex, smoking status, osteopenia/osteoporosis, number of fused levels, cage-to-body ratio, and cage type while examining the relationship between the cervical level fused and subsidence.

Results:

This study includes 122 patients who underwent 227 levels fused. There were 16 (7.0%) C3–C4 fusions, 55 (24.2%) C4–C5 fusions, 97 (42.7%) C5–C6 fusions, and 59 (26.0%) C6–C7 fusions. There was a significant difference in the degree of anterior subsidence between cervical levels fused (P = 0.013) with a mean subsidence of 1.0 mm (SD: 1.6) for C3–C4, 1.1 mm (SD: 1.4) for C4–C5, 1.8 mm (SD: 1.5) for C5-C6, and 1.8 mm (SD: 1.6) for C6–C7 fusions. Relative to C6–C7 fusions, C4–C5 (P = 0.016), and C3–C4 (P = 0.014) fusions were associated with decreased anterior subsidence, whereas C5–C6 (P = 0.756) fusions were found to have similar degrees of anterior subsidence in the multivariable analysis.

Conclusion:

We found upper cervical levels experienced a smaller degree of anterior subsidence than lower levels, after controlling for demographic and implant characteristics. Surgeons can consider using larger cages at lower cervical levels to minimize these risks.
MACULAR CHANGES IN ADULTS WITH HISTORY OF PREMATURE BIRTH
Authors: Cox Jacob T. , Knapp Austen N. , Chen Cindy , Baynes Kimberly , Burton Danielle , Kaiser Peter K. , Srivastava Sunil K. , Rachitskaya Aleksandra V.
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

To characterize changes in the macular structure and vascularity seen in premature-birth adults.

Methods:

Retrospective review of adult patients seen in the clinic from July 2018 to November 2020 with history of premature birth not requiring treatment for retinopathy of prematurity, as well as healthy controls. Swept-source ocular coherence tomography-angiography scans were analyzed for various parameters related to the macular structure and vascularity. Statistical analysis was performed using univariate linear regression.

Results:

Thirty-four eyes were included (17 eyes from 10 premature-birth adults, 17 eyes from 11 control patients). Prematurity was associated with vascular changes on ocular coherence tomography-angiography: decreased foveal avascular zone area (P = 0.001), decreased foveal avascular zone circularity index (P < 0.001), decreased superficial capillary plexus vessel density (P = 0.02), and decreased deep capillary plexus vessel density (P < 0.001). Prematurity was also associated with structural changes: shallower foveal pit depth (P < 0.001), decreased cube average thickness (P = 0.005), and increased central subfield thickness-to-cube average thickness ratio (P = 0.002).

Conclusion:

This is the largest published series of ocular coherence tomography-angiography data for premature-birth adults. Even without a history of retinopathy of prematurity treatment, premature birth is associated with multiple changes to the macular structure and vascularity that persist into adulthood. These include a smaller, more irregularly shaped foveal avascular zone, decreased juxtafoveal vascular density, and a shallower foveal pit.
Activation of TGR5 in the injured nerve site according to a prevention protocol mitigates partial sciatic nerve ligation–induced neuropathic pain by alleviating neuroinflammation
Authors: Shi Wen-ge , Yao Yao , Liang Ya-jing , Lei Jie , Feng Shi-yang , Zhang Zi-xian , Tian Yue , Cai Jie , Xing Guo-gang , Fu Kai-yuan
Published: October 2024

Neuropathic pain is a pervasive medical challenge currently lacking effective treatment options. Molecular changes at the site of peripheral nerve injury contribute to both peripheral and central sensitization, critical components of neuropathic pain. This study explores the role of the G-protein-coupled bile acid receptor (GPBAR1 or TGR5) in the peripheral mechanisms underlying neuropathic pain induced by partial sciatic nerve ligation in male mice. TGR5 was upregulated in the injured nerve site and predominantly colocalized with macrophages. Perisciatic nerve administration of the TGR5 agonist, INT-777 according to a prevention protocol (50 μg/μL daily from postoperative day [POD] 0 to POD6) provided sustained relief from mechanical allodynia and spontaneous pain, whereas the TGR5 antagonist, SBI-115 worsened neuropathic pain. Transcriptome sequencing linked the pain relief induced by TGR5 activation to reduced neuroinflammation, which was further evidenced by a decrease in myeloid cells and pro-inflammatory mediators (eg, CCL3, CXCL9, interleukin [IL]-6, and tumor necrosis factor [TNF] α) and an increase in CD86-CD206+ anti-inflammatory macrophages at POD7. Besides, myeloid-cell-specific TGR5 knockdown in the injured nerve site exacerbated both neuropathic pain and neuroinflammation, which was substantiated by bulk RNA-sequencing and upregulated expression levels of inflammatory mediators (including CCL3, CCL2, IL-6, TNF α, and IL-1β) and the increased number of monocytes/macrophages at POD7. Furthermore, the activation of microglia in the spinal cord on POD7 and POD14 was altered when TGR5 in the sciatic nerve was manipulated. Collectively, TGR5 activation in the injured nerve site mitigates neuropathic pain by reducing neuroinflammation, while TGR5 knockdown in myeloid cells worsens pain by enhancing neuroinflammation.
Examining Long-Term Influences of Frailty on Outcomes for Adults Undergoing Left Ventricular Assist Device Therapy
Authors: Schroeder Sarah E. , Pozehl Bunny , Struwe Leeza , Fisher Alfred , Alonso Windy
Published: October 2024

Background

Frailty is common in adults with end-stage heart failure receiving a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Short-term studies show frailty reversal post-LVAD. Little is known about long-term frailty and how frailty relates to key LVAD outcomes, including depression, quality of life (QoL), and cognition beyond 6 months.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine physical frailty, depression, QoL, and cognition from pre-LVAD implantation to 3, 6, and 12 months post-LVAD implantation.

Methods

Clinical data and measures of physical frailty, depression, QoL, and cognition pre- and post-LVAD were extracted from an existing institutional database. Descriptive statistics and tests for statistical significance were used to describe and compare changes over time. Frailty trajectories were identified to describe physical frailty from pre-LVAD to 12 months post-LVAD.

Results

The sample (n = 46) was predominantly male (76%), with a mean age of 64.7 ± 11 years, and over half (n = 25) were physically frail. Physical frailty was reduced by nearly half at 12 months. Frailty, depression, and QoL significantly improved at all time points (P < .001). Improvements in cognition did not reach statistical significance. Recipients of LVAD without improvement in frailty exhibited worse depression, QoL, and cognition scores at 12 months compared with those not frail pre-LVAD or no longer frail post-LVAD implantation.

Conclusion

Some recipients of LVADs experienced physical frailty reversal with benefits sustained long-term. Those without improvement recorded worse long-term patient-reported outcomes. Identifying factors that predict physical frailty response to LVAD implantation is a key area of future research.
Bolus exposure as a novel predictor of postoperative symptom resolution after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication: a two-institutional retrospective cohort study
Authors: Jung Suh Woo , Lee Inhyeok , Lee InYeong , Kim Jeong Woo , Alromi Ahmad , Seo Won Jun , Park Shin-Hoo , Kwon Yeongkeun , Jang You Jin , Lee Chang Min , Kim Jong-Han , Park Joong-Min , Park Sungsoo
Published: October 2024

Background:

Even in the absence of definite evidence of pathological acid reflux, antireflux surgery (ARS) can still effectively improve gastroesophageal reflux symptoms. Nonetheless, predicting postoperative reflux symptom improvement has been primarily dependent on acid-based parameters. No objective index reflecting both acid and nonacid reflux was identified to select ARS candidates.

Materials and methods:

Prospectively collected data of 121 patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), who underwent laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication from two institutions, were retrospectively reviewed. The patients reported preoperative and postoperative GERD symptoms using the Korean version of the GERD questionnaire, along with the gastroesophageal reflux disease-health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL). The patients were assessed for reflux symptoms using bolus exposure, acid exposure time (AET), and DeMeester score (DMS) as measurements were selected. For each reflux parameter, its association, correlation, and predictive capacity of the degree of postoperative symptom resolution were analyzed using χ
2 tests, point-biserial correlations, logistic regression analyses, and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses.

Results:

Seventy-two patients were eligible for this study. Bolus exposure was superior to the other parameters in terms of the degree of association and correlation with a resolution of typical symptoms. Bolus exposure also showed a higher diagnostic accuracy in predicting the resolution of epigastric pain (area under the curve [AUC]=0.723, P=0.013) and regurgitation (AUC=0.981, P<0.001). Secondary analyses were performed in patients without pathological reflux, defined as the DMS-negative (DMS <14.7) or AET-negative (AET <6%) groups. In the secondary analyses, bolus exposure showed considerable diagnostic accuracy with statistical significance for all typical symptoms in both the DMS-negative (heartburn: AUC=0.717, P=0.025; epigastric pain: AUC=0.717, P=0.025; regurgitation: AUC=0.975, P<0.001) and AET-negative (heartburn: AUC=0.681, P=0.045; epigastric pain: AUC=0.749, P=0.009; regurgitation: AUC=0.975, P<0.001) groups.

Conclusion:

Bolus exposure, a parameter of total reflux, was superior to AET or DMS in defining candidates for ARS. Further studies investigating the surgical indications for ARS in patients with nonacid reflux using bolus exposure are required.
Sexual Distress and Quality of Life in Women With Genital Erosive Lichen Planus—A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Skullerud Kristin Helene , Gjersvik Petter , Eberhard-Gran Malin , Pripp Are Hugo , Qvigstad Erik , Vangen Siri , Helgesen Anne Lise Ording
Published: October 2024

Objective

The study aimed to assess sexual distress and quality of life in women with moderate-to-severe genital erosive lichen planus (GELP).

Materials and Methods

Thirty-six women with GELP were recruited at the Oslo University Hospital in Norway. The diagnosis was confirmed by a dermatologist with experience in vulvovaginal disease and based on characteristic clinical changes in the vulva and/or vagina, and biopsy results if available. Clinical severity was measured using the GELP score with a score ≥5 required for inclusion. Sexual distress was measured using the revised Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS-R), and quality of life was measured using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Topical steroid treatment was allowed.

Results

The mean FSDS-R score was 22.7 (range 0–45) with 27 women reporting high scores for sexual distress (FSDS-R score >15). The mean DLQI score was 8.8 (range 1–19) with 15 women reporting a moderate impact (DLQI score 6–10), and 12 women reporting a very large impact (DLQI score 11–20) of GELP on their quality of life. No clear correlations were found between disease severity assessed by GELP scores and FSDS-R or DLQI scores. Age was not correlated with FSDS-R or DLQI scores.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that a substantial number of women with GELP experience sexual distress and a reduced quality of life.
Long-term (15 y) complications and outcomes after liver transplantation for primary sclerosing cholangitis: Impact of donor and recipient factors
Authors: Mouchli Mohamad A. , Osman Mohamed K. , Busebee Bradley , Taner Timucin , Heimbach Julie K. , Eaton John , Mousa Omar , Cole Kristin , Watt Kymberly D.
Published: October 2024

With longer survival of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) undergoing liver transplantation (LT), the frequency and risk factors associated with vascular and biliary complications in the allograft and the impact on long-term outcomes are poorly understood. To assess frequency and risk factors for long-term outcomes in patients after LT for PSC. All recipients of LT for advanced stage PSC for a non-cholangiocarcinoma indication from 1984 to 2012, with follow-up through March 2022 (>10+ y follow-up), were identified. One-, 5-, and 10-year cumulative risks of complications were estimated using the Aalen-Johansen method, where death was considered a competing risk. Two hundred ninety-three patients (mean age, 47.3 ± 12 y) formed our study cohort. One hundred and thirty-four patients received LT before 1995, and 159 were transplanted after 1995. Over a median (IQR) follow-up of 15.0 (10.3–22.1) years, LT was complicated by hepatic artery thrombosis (N = 30), portal vein stenosis/thrombosis (N = 48), biliary leak (N = 47), biliary strictures (N = 87), recurrent PSC (N=107), and graft failure (N=70). The 1-, 5-, 10-, and 15-year cumulative incidence of recurrent PSC was 1.0%, 8.0%, 23.5%, and 34.3%, respectively. The type of donor and older donor age were associated with an increased risk of biliary strictures. Donor age >60 years was associated with an increased risk of recurrent PSC. Long-term patient and graft survival have not changed significantly for patients transplanted for PSC. Controlling transplant-related factors, such as donor age, prompt identification of vascular and biliary complications early, and long-term rigorous follow-up, is recommended to continue to improve on these outcomes.
Effectiveness of Early Thiopurine Use in Korean Patients With Moderate-to-Severe Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Hyun Hye Kyung , Kim Ji Won , Lee Jun , Jeen Yoon Tae , Kim Tae-Oh , Kim Joo Sung , Park Jae Jun , Hong SungNoh , Park Dong Il , Kim Hyun-Soo , Lee YooJin , Jung Eun Suk , Kim Youngdoe , Jung Su Young , Cheon Jae Hee
Published: October 2024

Background:

Thiopurines play an important role in the management of steroid-refractory and steroid-dependent ulcerative colitis. However, the effectiveness of the early use of thiopurines in ulcerative colitis remains controversial.

Materials and Methods:

In this multicenter prospective cohort (MOSAIK) study, we divided patients with ulcerative colitis into those who underwent early (within 6 mo of diagnosis) and late (6 mo after diagnosis) thiopurine therapy to determine the effectiveness of early thiopurine treatment. The primary outcome was the cumulative rate of clinical relapse (Mayo score >2 points). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression was used to identify independent clinical factors associated with the outcomes.

Results:

Overall, 333 patients with moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis were included. Of the 118 patients treated with thiopurines, 65 (55.1%) and 53 (44.9%) received thiopurine therapy within and after 6 months of diagnosis. The cumulative use rate of thiopurines was 38.9% at 3 years after diagnosis. The median initial dose of thiopurines was 0.7 mg/kg (0.3 to 2.0); the median maintenance dose was 1.1 mg/kg (0.3 to 2.4). The cumulative rate of clinical relapse was not significantly different between patients who started thiopurine therapy within 6 months of diagnosis and those who started therapy 6 months after diagnosis (P=0.712). The presence of extraintestinal manifestations (hazard ratio: 4.674, 95% CI: 1.210–18.061, P=0.025) independently predicted an increased risk of clinical relapse.

Conclusions:

Patients with ulcerative colitis who received early thiopurine therapy did not differ significantly in terms of clinical relapse compared with those who received late therapy.
USE OF MUSCULAR ULTRASOUND TO DETECT INTENSIVE CARE UNIT-ACQUIRED WEAKNESS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS
Authors: Gu Bin , Zhou Yu , Shi Rui , Miao Shumin , Pei Fei , Yuan Hao , Wang Luhao , Teboul Jean-Louis , Si Xiang , Guan Xiangdong , Wu Jianfeng
Published: October 2024

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to detecting performance of muscular ultrasound for intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired weakness (ICUAW). Methods: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane library, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang databases for articles published before July 2024. A random-effects model was utilized to derive the summary estimates of sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Additionally, the sources of heterogeneity were explored by subgroup analysis and meta-regression. Results: This meta-analysis comprised 10 prospective studies involving 561 participants, of whom 241 (42.96%) were diagnosed as ICUAW. Overall, muscular ultrasound exhibited good performance for detecting ICUAW, with the area of summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve of 0.85 (95%CI 0.82–0.88), sensitivity of 0.76 (95%CI 0.70–0.81), specificity of 0.80 (95%CI 0.74–0.84), and DOR of 12.43 (95%CI 7.98–19.38). Upon predefined subgroup analysis, the rectus femoris exhibited significantly superior discriminatory ability in identifying ICUAW than the non-rectus femoris, with higher SROC (0.88 [95%CI 0.85–0.91] vs. 0.76 [95%CI 0.72–0.79], P < 0.01). Moreover, cross-sectional area was more effective than thickness, with higher specificity (0.86 [95%CI 0.80–0.91] vs. 0.74 [95%CI 0.68–0.79], P = 0.02) and SROC (0.89 [95%CI 0.86–0.92] vs. 0.76 [95%CI 0.72–0.80], P < 0.01). Furthermore, integrated analysis of these two indicators revealed that the cross-sectional area of rectus femoris was statistically superior to the thickness of rectus femoris, with higher sensitivity (0.82 [95%CI 0.74–0.87] vs. 0.75 [95%CI 0.65–0.83], P < 0.05) and AUC (0.91 [95%CI 0.88–0.93] vs. 0.80 [95%CI 0.76–0.83], P < 0.01). Conclusions: Muscular ultrasound could be a reliable tool for ICUAW detection. Compared with alternative indices, the cross-sectional area of the rectus femoris exhibits superior detection efficacy and may be considered as a valuable parameter for clinical application.