bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying Facial Feminization Surgery’s Impact: Focus on Patient Facial Satisfaction
Authors: Alper David P. , Almeida Mariana N. , Hu Kevin G. , De Baun Heloise M. , Hosseini Helia , Williams Mica C.G. , Salib Andrew , Shah Jinesh , Persing John A. , Alperovich Michael
Published: November 2023

Background:

Facial feminization surgery (FFS) has been associated with improving gender dysphoria in transgender patients. This study aimed to quantify the impact of surgery on patient facial satisfaction, using the FACE-Q and a quality-of-life (QoL) survey.

Methods:

Transgender female patients were recruited to complete the FACE-Q and the World Health Organization’s QoL Scale-Short Form (WHOQOL-BREF) if they were planning to or had undergone FFS at our institution. FACE-Q modules completed included “Satisfaction with Facial Appearance Overall,” individual facial attributes (forehead/eyebrows, nose, cheeks, cheekbone, chin, jawline, and neck), and the WHOQOL-BREF, which assesses patient QoL through four domains (physical, psychological, social relations, and environment). Both matched and unmatched analyses of preoperative versus postoperative cohorts were performed.

Results:

Overall, 48 patients participated in our study and completed 31 FACE-Q surveys preoperatively and 37 postoperatively. On average, patients were 37.2 ± 12.5 years old. FACE-Q scores increased significantly for all facial attributes and for Satisfaction with Facial Appearance Overall between cohorts (P < 0.05). The facial attribute with the greatest increase in satisfaction was the jawline, followed by the nose. The WHOQOL-BREF’s psychological and physical domains both improved significantly (P < 0.05). Wait time for surgery of less than 6 months (b = 22.42, P = 0.02) was associated with higher overall facial satisfaction, whereas age at surgery (b = −1.04, P < 0.01) was associated with lower overall facial satisfaction.

Conclusions:

Transgender female patients experienced significant improvements in facial satisfaction and QoL after FFS. Undergoing surgery at a younger age and shorter wait times for surgery were associated with increased overall facial satisfaction.
Fibular Allograft Osteoplasty and Silicone Arthroplasty following Gunshot Injury of the Metacarpal
Authors: Driscoll Cassandra R. , Davidson Amelia L. , Schuth Olga , Reynolds Michael
Published: November 2023

The complexity of a gunshot wound to the hand with segmental bone loss and adjacent joint disruption presents a unique challenge for the reconstructive surgeon. There are several options for posttraumatic reconstruction of hand joint defects, ranging from arthrodesis, implants, and autologous arthroplasty. Despite the abundance of literature regarding guidelines for isolated osteoplasty and arthroplasty, there are only case reports describing management of bone and joint defects, all within the setting of cancer resection. This case report presents a 24-year-old, right-hand dominant man with a gunshot wound to his left hand involving the fifth metacarpal and metacarpal phalangeal joint. The metacarpal was reconstructed with a fibular bone allograft with simultaneous placement of a silicone arthroplasty implant, allowing preservation of motion at the metacarpal phalangeal joint with satisfactory functional outcomes. This illustrates the feasibility of successfully reconstructing segmental bone loss and adjacent joint defects simultaneously in the traumatic setting of firearm injuries.
Comparative Effectiveness of Secondary Furlow and Buccal Myomucosal Flap Lengthening to Treat Velopharyngeal Insufficiency
Authors: Sitzman Thomas J. , Perry Jamie L. , Snodgrass Taylor D. , Temkit M’hamed , Singh Davinder J. , Williams Jessica L.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Secondary Furlow (Furlow) and buccal myomucosal flaps (BMMF) treat velopharyngeal insufficiency by lengthening the palate and retropositioning the levator veli palatini muscles. The criteria for choosing one operation over the other remain unclear.

Methods:

A single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted. Thirty-two patients with nonsyndromic, repaired cleft palate were included. All patients underwent a Furlow or BMMF. Outcome measures included (1) resolution of hypernasality 12 months postoperatively, (2) degree of improvement of hypernasality severity; and (3) change in velar length, as measured on magnetic resonance imaging scans obtained preoperatively and 12 months postoperatively. All measures were performed by raters blinded to participants’ medical and surgical history.

Results:

Hypernasality was corrected to normal in 80% of the Furlow group and in 56% of the BMMF group. Patients receiving BMMF had more severe hypernasality during preoperative speech evaluation. Both groups had a median decrease of two scalar rating points for severity of hypernasality (P = 0.58). On postoperative magnetic resonance imaging, patients who underwent Furlow had a median increased velar length of 6.9 mm. Patients who received BMMF had a median increased velar length of 7.5 mm. There was no statistically significant difference between groups regarding increase in velar length (P = 0.95).

Conclusions:

Furlow and BMMF procedures increase velar length with favorable speech outcomes. The same degree of improvement for hypernasality was observed across groups, likely explained by the similar increase in velar length achieved. Anatomic changes in palate length and levator veli palatini retropositioning persist 1 year after surgery.
Recurrent Breast Animation after Conversion from Dual Plane to Prepectoral Breast Implant Placement
Authors: Pawaskar Rishaan , French James
Published: November 2023

Conversion to a prepectoral implant pocket is considered the definitive treatment for breast animation after implant-based breast reconstruction. Although subtle movement of implants placed in the prepectoral plane may be noted on clinical examination by experienced surgeons, current data demonstrate complete resolution of animation deformity with prepectoral implant placement. We present the case of a middle-aged women who underwent breast implant pocket conversion from dual-plane to prepectoral plane for treatment of animation deformity. Although her postoperative recovery was unremarkable with initial resolution of animation, recurrent implant animation was evident on 3-month follow-up. Recurrent breast animation after conversion from dual-plane to prepectoral implant pocket is highly unusual and unreported in the current literature. Although revision surgery may identify potential causes, larger-scale research on contributing factors will be valuable in developing strategies to prevent recurrent animation after conversion to a prepectoral implant pocket.
FAMILIAL EXUDATIVE VITREORETINOPATHY WITH NASAL RETINAL INVOLVEMENT: A RARE PRESENTATION
Authors: Cooper Amelia , Stevens Henry , Batlle Ivan
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

To present a case of familial exudative vitreoretinopathy with nasal retinal involvement and aim to describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, management strategies, and genetic testing.

Methods:

An evaluation of a 31-year-old female patient with familial exudative vitreoretinopathy presenting with predominate nasal retinal involvement. Diagnostic tests—including fundus examination, optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, and genetic testing—were performed. The patient's management involved intravitreal injection of 1.25 mg/0.05 mL of bevacizumab in the left eye and sectoral panretinal photocoagulation in both eyes.

Results:

The patient exhibited discrete neovascularization and tortuosity predominantly localized to the nasal retinal blood vessels. Optical coherence tomography imaging showed macular schisis and vitreomacular traction without retinal detachment. Genetic testing identified a likely pathogenic variant associated with autosomal dominant and recessive exudative vitreoretinopathy. Treatment with bevacizumab and panretinal photocoagulation resulted in regression of neovascularization and improvement in macular schisis. Conclusion: This case report highlights an atypical presentation of familial exudative vitreoretinopathy with nasal retinal involvement. Early recognition and genetic testing aids in diagnosis and management.
Online intraocular lens calculation
Authors: Buonsanti Dante , Raimundo Miguel , Findl Oliver
Published: November 2023

Purpose of review

To showcase the majority of online intraocular lens (IOL) calculation tools and highlight some of their characteristics.

Recent findings

Online tools are available for preoperative and postoperative IOL-related calculations, including IOL power and toricity selection for standard patients, patients who underwent prior refractive surgery, keratoconus, limbal relaxing incisions for astigmatism management, realignment of a misplaced or rotated toric IOL, surgical induced astigmatism (SIA), formulae comparison, and other tools.

As there are new online developments and technology is advancing rapidly, we hope that this review will assist ophthalmologists in becoming acquainted with a large variety of online tools.
Cefazolin and Carbapenem Combination to Treat Persistent Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in Preterm Infants
Authors: Hagmann Stefan H. F. , Hodle Taylor , Brennan Maura , Szczerba Frank , Camelo Ingrid Y. , Beachy Joanna , Horton Evan R.
Published: November 2023

Encouraged by bacteremia clearance using antistaphylococcal beta-lactams plus carbapenem combination in adults with refractory methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus infection, we present our experience with 2 preterm infants and review 1 previously published case. Noted successful bacteremia clearance in all 3 must be weighed against possible adverse effects associated with carbapenem use.
The Overweight and Obese Patient in Oculofacial Plastic Surgery: A Narrative Review
Authors: Rana Harkaran S. , Clabeaux Carson E. , Patadia Amol H. , Allen Richard C.
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

The oculofacial plastic surgeon will more frequently encounter challenges related to overweight and obese patients as the incidence rises. There is a paucity of data in the oculofacial plastic surgical literature regarding this topic. The goal of this review is to detail the role obesity plays in the perioperative course and the considerations for a surgeon treating this patient population.

Methods:

The authors conducted a computerized search using PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar. The search terms used were “(obesity OR overweight) AND surgery,” “(obesity OR overweight) AND oculoplastic,” “(obesity OR overweight) AND oculofacial,” “(obesity OR overweight) AND ‘facial plastic surgery’, ” “(obesity OR overweight) AND ‘bariatric surgery’, ” “(obesity OR overweight) AND (pre-operative OR post-operative OR intraoperative,” “ (obesity OR overweight) AND complications,” “(obesity OR overweight) AND (facial plastic surgery) AND complications),” “(obesity OR overweight) AND eyelid,” “(obesity OR overweight) AND (nasolacrimal OR ‘nasolacrimal duct’),” “(obesity OR overweight) AND IIH,” “(obesity OR overweight) AND exophthalmos.”

Results:

A total of 127 articles, published from 1952 to 2022 in the English language or with English translations were included. Articles published earlier than 2000 were cited for foundational knowledge. References cited in the identified articles were also used to gather further data for the review.

Conclusions:

Overweight and obese patients pose specific challenges that the oculofacial plastic surgeon should be aware of to better optimize patient outcomes. Multiple comorbidities, poor wound healing, and nutritional deficits all contribute to the complications experienced in this patient population. Further investigation on overweight and obese patients is needed.
New-Onset of Herpes Simplex Keratitis After Blepharoplasty, Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Shtayer Chen , Friehmann Asaf , Nemet Arie
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

To report 3 cases of new-onset herpes simplex keratitis (HSK) after uncomplicated extraocular plastic surgery and discuss potential risk factors.

Methods:

This case series includes 3 patients who underwent uncomplicated blepharoplastic surgery. Within 2 weeks postoperatively, all patients reported ocular discomfort, and their ophthalmic examinations revealed corneal lesions suspicious of HSK. One case was confirmed as an active herpes infection, and the other 2 cases were clinically diagnosed with HSK. The patients were treated with oral acyclovir and followed up for up to 6 weeks.

Results:

All patients demonstrated improvement without sequelae at follow-up visits from 5 days to 4 weeks after initiating acyclovir treatment.

Conclusions:

Risk factors for new-onset HSK after uncomplicated extraocular surgeries may be related to an immunocompromised state, postoperative administration of topical or periocular corticosteroids, or environmental factors such as psychological stress. Ophthalmologists, particularly plastic surgeons, should be vigilant for ocular discomfort following eyelid surgeries and consider the possibility of herpes infection. This report highlights the importance of recognizing and managing HSK in the context of extraocular plastic surgery.
Trends in prevalence of fractures among adults in the United States, 1999-2020: a population-based study
Authors: Xu Bin , Radojčić Maja R. , Anderson David B. , Shi Baoyi , Yao Liang , Chen Yujie , Feng Shiqing , Lee Jae Hyup , Chen Lingxiao
Published: November 2023

Background:

Population data that examine recent national trends in the prevalence of fractures are lacking in the United States (US).

Materials and Methods:

Analyses were based on 1999–2020 data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Primary outcomes included the prevalence of hip, wrist, and vertebral fractures among adults aged ≥50 years. Changes in the prevalence over time were determined by joinpoint regression analysis. We also described the variation by fracture subtypes, sociodemographic characteristics, and their combination.

Results:

For adults aged ≥50 years in NHANES 2017-March 2020, we estimated that there was 2.6 million Americans with hip fractures, 14.6 million Americans with wrist fractures, and 5.2 million Americans with vertebral fractures. The prevalence of wrist fractures significantly increased from 8.7% (7.4% to 9.9%) in 1999–2000 to 12.8% (11.6% to 14.1%) in 2017-March 2020 among adults aged ≥50 years (P for trend = 0.04); significant increases were also observed in fractures that occurred at age <50 years, non-Hispanic White, high family income groups, and several combination subgroups (e.g., fractures occurred at age <50 y among women). The prevalence of vertebral fractures increased from 2.2% (1.7% to 2.8%) in 1999–2000 to 4.6% (3.7% to 5.5%) in 2017-March 2020 among adults aged ≥50 years (P for trend = 0.02); significant increases were also observed in 50–64 years, women, non-Hispanic White, high family income groups and several combination subgroups (e.g., fractures that occurred at age <50 y among women). We did not observe significant trend changes in the prevalence of hip fractures among adults aged ≥50 years between 1999 and 2020.

Conclusion:

The estimated prevalence of wrist and vertebral fractures significantly increased among US adults aged ≥50 years from 1999 to 2020, although hip fractures did not significantly change.
Validation of a Multiscale Computational Model Using a Mock Circulatory Loop to Simulate Cardiogenic Shock
Authors: Contarino Christian , Chifari Francesco , D’Souza Gavin A. , Herbertson Luke H.
Published: November 2023

The objectives of this study are to characterize the hemodynamics of cardiogenic shock (CS) through a computational model validated using a mock circulatory loop (MCL) and to perform sensitivity analysis and uncertainty propagation studies after the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Validation and Verification (V&V) guidelines. The uncertainties in cardiac cycle time (

), total resistance (

), and total volume (

) were quantified in the MCL and propagated in the computational model. Both models were used to quantify the pressure in the left atrium, aorta (Ao), and left ventricle (LV), along with the flow through the aortic valve, reaching a good agreement. The results suggest that 1)

is the main source of uncertainty in the variables under study, 2)

showed its greatest impact on the uncertainty of Ao hemodynamics, and 3)

mostly affected the uncertainty of LV pressure and Ao flow at the late-systolic phase. Comparison of uncertainty levels in the computational and experimental results was used to infer the presence of additional contributing factors that were not captured and propagated during a first analysis. Future work will expand upon this study to analyze the impact of mechanical circulatory support devices, such as ventricular assist devices, under CS conditions.
An Overview of Insulin Therapy in the Management of Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Hayes Marla J.
Published: November 2023

Diabetes is the most common diagnosis among home care patients. All patients with type 1 diabetes require insulin, and due to the progressive nature of type 2 diabetes, most will eventually need insulin therapy. The newer analog insulins that have been developed include long-acting, ultra-long-acting, rapid-acting, and ultra-rapid-acting. They mimic the body's natural insulin secretion and allow patients more flexibility in diet and lifestyle while achieving blood glucose control. This article provides an overview of insulin therapy and related patient care and teaching considerations.
The Congenital Syphilis Prevention Cascade: Reimagining a Missed Prevention Opportunities Framework for Effective Intervention
Authors: O'Callaghan Kevin P. , Johnson Jones Michelle L. , McDonald Robert , Jackson David A. , Grey Jeremy A. , Kreisel Kristen M. , Torrone Elizabeth
Published: November 2023

Congenital syphilis (CS) rates have risen in the United States since 2013. Prevention of CS requires testing and treatment of pregnant and pregnancy-capable persons at high risk for syphilis. We developed a CS Prevention Cascade to assess how effectively testing and treatment interventions reached pregnant persons with a CS outcome.
Expedited partner therapy: A multi-component initiative to boost provider counseling
Authors: Markowitz Melissa A. , Ackerman-Banks Christina M. , Oliveira Carlos R. , Fashina Oluwatomini , Pathy Shefali R. , Sheth Sangini S.
Published: November 2023

Background

Expedited partner therapy prescription remains low and highly variable throughout the United States, leading to frequent reinfections with Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhea. We examined provider counseling on expedited partner therapy before and after an electronic smart tools-based initiative.

Methods

In this quasi-experimental interrupted time series study, we implemented an initiative of electronic smart tools and education for expedited partner therapy in March 2020. We reviewed the records of patients with chlamydia and/or gonorrhea at an urban, academic obstetrics and gynecology clinic in the pre-implementation (March 2019-February 2020) and post-implementation (March 2020-February 2021) groups. Descriptive statistics and an interrupted time-series model were used to compare the percent of expedited partner therapy offered by clinicians to patients in each group.

Results

A total of 287 patient encounters were analyzed, 155 pre-intervention and 132 post-intervention. An increase in expedited partner therapy counseling of 13% (95% CI: 2-24%) was observed pre-intervention (27.1%; 42/155) versus post-intervention (40.2%; 53/132). Significant increases in provider counseling were seen for patients who were single (15%; 95% CI: 3-26%), ≥ 25 years old (21%; 95% CI: 6-37%), receiving public insurance (15%; 95% CI: 3-27%), seen by a registered nurse (18%; 95% CI: 4-32%), or seen for an obstetrics indication (21%; 95% CI: 4-39%). No difference was seen in patients’ acceptance of expedited partner therapy (p = 1.00).

Conclusions

A multi-component initiative focused on electronic smart tools is effective at increasing provider counseling on expedited partner therapy. Further research to understand patient perceptions and acceptance of expedited partner therapy is critical.
Examining Patient Preferences for Express, Telemedicine, and Standard Visits in a Sexual Health Clinic in New York City
Authors: Ratcliffe Judith , Paer Jeffrey , Quigee Daniela , Carnevale Caroline , Richards Paul , Lasota Elijah , Dandan Nadine , Scherer Matthew , Gordon Peter , Cohall Alwyn , Sobieszczyk Magdalena , Zucker Jason
Published: November 2023

This study, completed at an sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinic in 2019 to 2020, evaluated patient preferences for telemedicine, express, and standard visits. Active PrEP users preferred telemedicine and express visits, patients with prior STIs preferred express visits, and cisgender women preferred standard visits. Configuring STI clinic visit types requires shared decision making and individualization.
Prospective Clinical Prognostication of Endometrial Carcinomas Based on Next-Generation Sequencing and Immunohistochemistry—Real-World Implementation and Results at a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Davies Kurtis D. , Smith Lynelle P. , Guimaraes-Young Amy , Corr Bradley R. , Fisher Christine M. , Guntupalli Saketh R. , Berning Amber A. , Post Miriam D. , Pino Devon , Aisner Dara L. , Wolsky Rebecca J.
Published: November 2023

Based on findings from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Proactive Molecular Risk Classifier for Endometrial Cancer algorithm, endometrial carcinoma can now be stratified into 4 prognostically distinct subgroups based on molecular alterations and immunohistochemical (IHC) aberrations. In this study, we describe the de novo adoption and clinical reporting of prognostic subgroup classification based on next-generation sequencing (NGS) and IHC analyses of all endometrial carcinoma resections at a single institution, framed by the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, and Sustainment model. Results from the first 13 months show 188 tumors underwent analysis by a combination of IHC and a medium-sized (56 analyzed genes) NGS-based assay. All cases were assigned as either POLE (POLE-mutated) (5.3%), mismatch repair deficient (27.7%), no specific molecular profile (45.7%), or p53 abnormal (21.3%) inclusive of multiple-classifier cases. NGS-based analysis revealed additional distinctions among the subgroups, including reduced levels of PI3K pathway activation in the p53 abnormal subgroup, an increased rate of CTNNB1 activating mutation in the no specific molecular profile subgroup, and lower TP53 mutation variant allele frequencies in POLE and mismatch repair deficient subgroups compared with the p53 abnormal subgroup. Overall, we describe the testing protocol, reporting, and results of a combination of NGS and IHC to prospectively prognosticate endometrial carcinomas at a single tertiary care center.
Congenital and acquired symmastia: a novel correction technique
Authors: Aquino Jonathas Ubiraçaba , Felix Gabriel de Almeida Arruda , Feitosa Roney Gonçalves Fechine , Tumeh Rafael Alves , Neto Miguel Sabino
Published: November 2023

Background:

Symmastia, first defined by Spence in 1984, is a medical condition characterized by the convergence of breast tissues in the midline, resulting in the absence of adhesion between the skin and subcutaneous tissue over the presternal area. It can be either congenital or acquired. Currently, there is no universally accepted treatment for symmastia. This study presents a surgical approach, preoperative, and postoperative care for the correction of symmastia.

Methods:

Between January 2014 and December 2020, a surgical technique was performed on 100 patients, including 59 with congenital symmastia and 41 with acquired symmastia. The technique involved creating a thin skin flap and attaching it to the sternum to reconstruct the intermammary V-shaped region.

Results:

All patients in both groups underwent subglandular implant placement, with textured/polyurethane prostheses used in 97% of cases. Three cases did not use any implants. In the corrective surgery, patients received smaller, round implants, following the steps of the surgical approach devised by the author. The median satisfaction scores were high in both groups.

Conclusion:

The surgical approach described in this study is a safe, one-time procedure with a low risk of complications and high patient satisfaction. The technique is reproducible and provides consistent outcomes.
An Investigation Into Whether the Facial Nerve and Auditory Nerve can be Protected by Removal of the Posterior Wall of the Internal Auditory Canal Under 30° Neuroendoscopy During Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery
Authors: Yang Siming , Wang Jianbiao , Yang Chi , Li Zhengyuan , Qiao Yang , Wang Cunzhi , Wang Jingtao , Hong Wenming , Wang Bin
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical technique of microresection of vestibular schwannoma by removing the posterior wall of the internal auditory canal (IAC) under neuroelectrophysiological monitoring and 30° neuroendoscopy, with respect to the protection of facial and auditory nerve function. Forty-five cases of microscopic resection of auditory neuromas were performed through a posterior approach to the inferior occipital sigmoid sinus using a 30° neuroendoscope to assist in the removal of the posterior wall of the IAC during surgery. Patients underwent cranial enhancement magnetic resonance imaging examination and functional assessment of the facial and auditory nerves before and after surgery, and clinical data were collected for retrospective analysis. All tumors were removed in 41 patients, and most of the tumors were removed in 4 patients. The facial nerve was anatomically preserved in 43 patients (95.6%), and the percentage of facial nerve function preservation (House-Brackmann grade I–II) was 84.4%. Forty patients (88.9%) had anatomical preservation of the auditory nerve, with a 66.7% functional preservation rate. At 3 to 39 months of follow-up, 45 patients were reviewed with 3.0 T-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging, and no tumor recurrence was observed in any of the patients. Microscopic resection of auditory neuroma through the posterior approach of the inferior occipital sigmoid sinus with intraoperative use of 30° neuroendoscopic assistance to abrade the posterior wall of the IAC can eliminate dead space in certain anatomical areas during surgery and minimize surgical damage to the facial and auditory nerves, which is the basis for preservation of facial and auditory nerve function.
Staphylococcus aureus associated with post-operative wound infections in Western Kenya reveals genomic hotspots for pathogen evolution
Authors: MOGOI NICHOLAS NYABERA , Sifuna Anthony Wawire , Okoth Patrick Kirsteen , Reva Oleg , Malaba Rose , Negesa Ruth , Nyongesa Peter Kuloba , Osoro Ezra Kombo , Welch Martin
Published: November 2023

Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common pathogens associated with hospital infections. Although S. aureusinfections have been well studied in developed countries, far less is known about the biology of the pathogen in sub-Saharan Africa. Here, we report on the isolation, antibiotic resistance profiling, whole genome sequencing, and genome comparison of six multi-drug resistant isolates of S. aureus obtained from a referral hospital in Kakamega, western Kenya. Five of the six isolates contained a 20.7-kb circular plasmid carrying blaZ (associated with resistance to b-lactam antibiotics). These five strains all belonged to the same sequence type, ST152. Despite the similarity of the plasmid these isolates, whole genome sequencing revealed that the strains differed, depending on whether they were associated with hospital-acquired or community-acquired infections. The most striking difference was the larger number of horizontally-acquired genomic islands (GIs) in the nosocomial isolates. The data indicate that adaptation to the hospital environment may also be linked with mutations in the uvrAB genes.
Hydrogenimonas cancrithermarum sp. nov., a hydrogen- and thiosulfate-oxidizing mesophilic chemolithoautotroph isolated from diffuse-flow fluids on the East Pacific Rise, and an emended description of the genus Hydrogenimonas
Authors: Mino Sayaka , Fukazawa So , Tsuchiya Jiro , McNichol Jesse C. , Sievert Stefan M. , Yamaki Shogo , Ando Yasuhiro , Sawabe Tomoo
Published: November 2023

A novel mesophilic, hydrogen- and thiosulfate-oxidizing bacterium, strain ISO32T, was isolated from diffuse-flow hydrothermal fluids from the Crab Spa vent on the East Pacific Rise. Cells of ISO32T were rods, being motile by means of a single polar flagellum. The isolate grew at a temperature range between 30 and 55 °C (optimum, 43 °C), at a pH range between 5.3 and 7.6 (optimum, pH 5.8) and in the presence of 2.0–4.0 % NaCl (optimum, 2.5 %). The isolate was able to grow chemolithoautotrophically with molecular hydrogen, thiosulfate or elemental sulfur as the sole electron donor. Thiosulfate, elemental sulfur, nitrate and molecular oxygen were each used as a sole electron acceptor. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences placed ISO32T in the genus

Hydrogenimonas

of the class

Epsilonproteobacteria

, with

Hydrogenimonas thermophila

EP1-55–1 %T as its closest relative (95.95 % similarity). On the basis of the phylogenetic, physiological and genomic characteristics, it is proposed that the organism represents a novel species within the genus

Hydrogenimonas

, Hydrogenimonas cancrithermarum sp. nov. The type strain is ISO32T (=JCM 39185T =KCTC 25252T). Furthermore, the genomic properties of members of the genus

Hydrogenimonas

are distinguished from those of members of other thermophilic genera in the orders

Campylobacterales

(

Nitratiruptor

and

Nitrosophilus

) and

Nautiliales

(

Caminibacter

,

Nautilia

and

Lebetimonas

), with larger genome sizes and lower 16S rRNA G+C content values. Comprehensive metabolic comparisons based on genomes revealed that genes responsible for the Pta–AckA pathway were observed exclusively in members of mesophilic genera in the order

Campylobacterales

and of the genus

Hydrogenimonas

. Our results indicate that the genus

Hydrogenimonas

contributes to elucidating the evolutionary history of

Epsilonproteobacteria

in terms of metabolism and transition from a thermophilic to a mesophilic lifestyle.
Unveiling Urban Complexity: Research note on integrating OpenStreetMap to enhance representation of fine-scale landscape heterogeneity
Authors: Gelmi-Candusso Tiziana A. , Rodriguez Peter , Fortin Marie-Josée
Published: November 2023

Landscape heterogeneity has an impact on wildlife behavior, their interactions, and their persistence. Urban landscapes are among the world’s most heterogeneous landscapes, yet current global landcover maps classify developed land in a single landcover type. This limits the spatial scale at which urban ecologists can approach research questions. OpenStreetMap (OSM), an open-source mapping platform, can be leveraged to enhance the representation of landscape heterogeneity in developed areas. For this, we extracted OSM features with attributes representing infrastructure, land use and green cover, integrating these into a continental landcover map through a globally applicable computational framework. We validated our OSM-enhanced landcover layer against existing remote sensing, aerial photography, and local governmental maps for 33 cities in North America. Our framework’s output provides an 89% accurate representation of landscape heterogeneity. We discuss caveats, potential improvements, and ecological applications. Our OSM-based landcover enhancement framework will facilitate the use of open-source landscape information for improved ecological modeling and urban planning.
A simple and reliable method for claustrum localization across age in mice
Authors: Shaker Tarek , Dagpa Gwyneth J. , Cattaud Vanessa , Marriott Brian A. , Sultan Mariam , Almokdad Mohammed , Jackson Jesse
Published: November 2023

1.

The anatomical organization of the rodent claustrum remains obscure due to lack of clear borders that distinguish it from neighboring forebrain structures. Defining what constitutes the claustrum is imperative for elucidating its functions. Methods based on gene/protein expression or transgenic mice have been used to spatially outline the claustrum but often report incomplete labeling and/or lack of specificity during certain neurodevelopmental timepoints. To reliably identify claustrum cells in mice, we propose a simple immunolabelling method that juxtaposes the expression pattern of claustrum-enriched and cortical-enriched markers. We determined that claustrum cells immunoreactive for the claustrum-enriched markers Nurr1 and Nr2f2 are devoid of the cortical marker Tle4, which allowed us to differentiate the claustrum from adjoining cortical cells. Using retrograde tracing, we verified that nearly all claustrum projection neurons lack Tle4 but expressed Nurr1/Nr2f2 markers to different degrees. At neonatal stages between 7 and 21 days, claustrum projection neurons were identified by their Nurr1-postive/Tle4-negative expression profile, a time-period when techniques used to localize the claustrum in adult mice are ineffective. Finally, exposure to environmental novelty enhanced the expression of the neuronal activation marker cFos in the claustrum region. Notably, cFos labeling was mainly restricted to Nurr1-positive cells and nearly absent from Tle4-positive cells, thus corroborating previous work reporting novelty-induced claustrum activation. Taken together, this method will aid in studying the claustrum during postnatal development and may improve histological and functional studies where other approaches are not amenable.
Microvascular engineering for the development of a non-embedded liver sinusoid with a lumen: when endothelial cells do not lose their edge
Authors: Monroy-Romero Ana Ximena , Nieto-Rivera Brenda , Xiao Wenjin , Hautefeuille Mathieu
Published: November 2023

Microvascular engineering seeks to exploit known cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions in the context of vasculogenesis to restore homeostatic or disease development of reliable capillary modelsin vitro. However, current systems generally focus on recapitulating microvessels embedded in thick gels of extracellular matrix, overlooking the significance of discontinuous capillaries, which play a vital role in tissue-blood exchanges particularly in organs like the liver. In this work, we introduce a novel method to stimulate the spontaneous organization of endothelial cells into non-embedded microvessels. By creating an anisotropic micropattern at the edge of a development-like matrix dome using Marangoni-flow, we achieved a long, non-random orientation of endothelial cells, laying a premise for stable lumenized microvessels. Our findings revealed a distinctive morphogenetic process leading to mature lumenized capillaries, demonstrated with both murine and human immortalized liver sinusoidal endothelial cell lines (LSECs). The progression of cell migration, proliferation and polarization was clearly guided by the pattern, initiating the formation of a multicellular cord that caused a deformation spanning extensive regions and generated a wave-like folding of the gel, hinged at a laminin depleted zone, enveloping the cord with gel proteins. This event marked the onset of lumenogenesis, regulated by the gradual apico-basal polarization of the wrapped cells, leading to the maturation of vessel tight junctions, matrix remodeling, and ultimately the formation of a lumen—recapitulating the development of vesselsin vivo. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the process strongly relies on the initial gel edge topography, while the geometry of the vessels can be tuned, from a curved to a straight structure. We believe our facile engineering method, guiding an autonomous self-organization of vessels without the need for supporting cells or complex prefabricated scaffolds, holds promise for future integration into microphysiological systems featuring discontinuous, fenestrated capillaries.

Graphical abstract
Oligo-barcodes illuminate holocentric karyotype evolution inRhynchospora(Cyperaceae)
Authors: Mata-Sucre Yennifer , Parteka Leticia Maria , Ritz Christiane , Gatica-Arias Andrés , Félix Leonardo P. , Thomas Willian Wayt , Souza Gustavo , Vanzela André L. L. , Pedrosa-Harand Andrea , Marques André
Published: November 2023

Holocentric karyotypes are assumed to rapidly evolve through chromosome fusions and fissions due to the diffuse nature of their centromeres. Here, we took advantage of the recent availability of a chromosome-scale reference genome forRhynchospora breviuscula, a model species of this holocentric genus, and developed the first set of oligo-based barcode probes for a holocentric plant. These probes were applied to 13 additional species of the genus, aiming to investigate the evolutionary dynamics driving the karyotype evolution inRhynchospora. The two sets of probes were composed of 27,392 (green) and 23,968 (magenta) oligonucleotides, and generated 15 distinct FISH signals as a unique barcode pattern for the identification of all five chromosome pairs of theR. breviusculakaryotype. Oligo-FISH comparative analyzes revealed different types of rearrangements, such as fusions, fissions, putative inversions and translocations, as well as genomic duplications among the analyzed species. Two rounds of whole genome duplication (WGD) were demonstrated inR. pubera, but both analyzed accessions differed in the complex chain of events that gave rise to its large, structurally diploidized karyotypes with 2n= 10 or 12. Considering the phylogenetic relationships and divergence time of the species, the specificity and synteny of the probes were maintained up to species with a divergence time of ∼25 My. However, karyotype divergence in more distant species hindered chromosome mapping and the inference of specific events. This barcoding system is a powerful tool to study chromosomal variations and genomic evolution in holocentric chromosomes ofRhynchosporaspecies.
Towards a Biohybrid Lung? Impacted Endothelial Layer Integrity in Inflammatory Conditions
Authors: Cheremkhina Maria , Babendreyer Aaron , Neullens Christopher T. , Krapp Susanne , Pabst Alessa , Ohl Kim , Tenbrock Klaus , Ruetten Stephan , Ludwig Andreas , Cornelissen Christian G. , Thiebes Anja Lena , Jockenhoevel Stefan
Published: November 2023

Limited hemocompatibility, inflammation, and sepsis are frequent complications during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Endothelialisation of gas exchange membranes has been proposed to overcome these limitations and general feasibility has been demonstrated. However, these investigations used biohybrid devices under standardin vitroculture conditions neglecting patients’ inflammatory status in clinics. In this study, we investigate human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) behaviour on gas exchange membranes under inflammatory conditions in a microfluidic model system using immunocytochemistry, scanning electron microscopy, flow cytometry, and qPCR. While co-culture with healthy control peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) does not change endothelial layer integrity, confluence of the endothelial layer is substantially reduced upon inflammation via lipopolysaccharide (LPS) activated PBMCs. Cell adhesion molecules are increasingly expressed under inflammatory conditions, consistent with an increased leukocyte adhesion. An upregulation of several genes linked to inflammation is observed: ICAM-1, VCAM-1, E-Selectin, IL6, IL8, IL10, and MCP-1. Our findings suggest that endothelial cells struggle to maintain their layer integrity within a biohybrid device when exposed to inflammatory conditions. This raises the question of whether endothelialisation is an effective advancement of current technologies considering the frequent inflammatory status in ECMO patients. Yet the presented setup qualifies as sepsisin vitromodel replicating the physiological vascular leak phenomenon to aid future investigations in biohybrid lung research.
Ubiquitin protease Ubp1 cooperates with Ubp10 and Ubp12 to revert Lysine-164 PCNA ubiquitylation at replication forks
Authors: Zamarreño Javier , Bueno Avelino , Sacristán María P.
Published: November 2023

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is essential for the faithful duplication of eukaryotic genomes. PCNA orchestrates events necessary to deal with threats to genomic integrity, such as the DNA damage tolerance (DDT) response. DDT is a mechanism by which eukaryotic cells bypass replication-blocking lesions to prevent replisome instability. DDT pathways are regulated by the ubiquitylation of PCNA and the consequent recruitment of specialized polymerases and mechanisms able to guarantee the continuity of replication. We have previously described that the deubiquitylases Ubp10 and Ubp12 associate with replication forks and modulate DDT events by reverting the ubiquitylation of PCNA inSaccharomyces cerevisiae. The results of this study unveil Ubp1 as a new PCNA deubiquitylase, which cooperates with Ubp10 and Ubp12 in the regulation of DDT during DNA replication. Ubp1 is known as a cytoplasmic protein, however, we found that it also localizes to the nucleus where it binds to chromatin and associates with DNA replication forks. In addition, Ubp1 interacts with and deubiquitylates PCNA. The ablation of Ubp1, Ubp10, and Ubp12 enhances both the accumulation of ubiquitylated PCNA and the DNA replication defects observed in cells depleted for Ubp10 and Ubp12, supporting a cooperative role among the three enzymes.

IMPORTANCE

PCNA ubiquitylation regulates DDT mechanisms to bypass genotoxic lesions during replication and that PCNA deubiquitylation is required to limit the extent of bypass events. This study shows thatSaccharomyces cerevisiaePCNA is ubiquitylated during an unperturbed S-phase progression and that three ubiquitin proteases (Ubp1, Ubp10, and Ubp12) work together facilitating DNA replication by efficiently controlling ubiquitylation of PCNA at replication forks.
Lymphatic Dysfunction Models an Autoimmune Emphysema Phenotype of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Summers Barbara , Kim Kihwan , Lu Tyler M. , Houghton Sean , Trivedi Anjali , Quintero Joselyn Rojas , Cala-Garcia Juan , Pannellini Tania , Polverino Francesca , Lis Raphaël , Reed Hasina Outtz
Published: November 2023

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a heterogeneous disease that is characterized by many clinical phenotypes. One such phenotype of COPD is defined by emphysema, pathogenic lung tertiary lymphoid organs (TLOs), and autoantibody production. We have previously shown that lymphatic dysfunction can cause lung TLO formation and lung injury in mice. We now sought to uncover whether underlying lymphatic dysfunction may be a driver of lung injury in cigarette smoke (CS)-induced COPD. We found that lung TLOs in mice with lymphatic dysfunction produce autoantibodies and are associated with a lymphatic endothelial cell subtype that expresses antigen presentation genes. Mice with underlying lymphatic dysfunction develop increased emphysema after CS exposure, with increased size and activation of TLOs. CS further increased autoantibody production in mice with lymphatic dysfunction. B-cell blockade prevented TLO formation and decreased lung injury after CS in mice with lymphatic dysfunction. Using tissue from human COPD patients, we also found evidence of a lymphatic gene signature that was specific to patients with emphysema and prominent TLOs compared to COPD patients without emphysema. Taken together, these data suggest that lymphatic dysfunction may underlie lung injury in a subset of COPD patients with an autoimmune emphysema phenotype.
Dissociating Goal from Outcome During Action Observation
Authors: Liu Shuchen , Wurm Moritz F. , Caramazza Alfonso
Published: November 2023

Understanding the goal of an observed action requires computing representations that are invariant to specific instantiations of the action. For example, we can accurately infer the goal of an action even when the agent’s desired outcome is not achieved. Observing actions consistently recruits a set of frontoparietal and posterior temporal regions, often labeled the "action observation network" (AON). While progress has been made in charting which regions of the AON, are involved in understanding goals of observed actions, it is not clear where goals are represented independently of outcomes. We used fMRI-based multivariate pattern analysis to identify such regions. Participants watched videos of successful and failed attempts of actions with different goals involving 2 different object types. We found that bilateral anterior inferior parietal lobe and right ventral premotor cortex distinguished between object-specific action goals regardless of outcomes. Left anterior inferior parietal lobe encodes action goals regardless of both outcomes and object types. Our results provide insights into the neural basis of representing action goals and the different roles of frontoparietal and posterior temporal regions in action understanding.
Jasmonic acid and methyl jasmonate attenuate neuroinflammation via crosstalk with the prostaglandin E2/receptor EP2 signaling axis
Authors: Ward Emily L , Chen Philip E , Hussien-Ali Alaa
Published: November 2023

The jasmonates are a class of oxylipin phytohormones known to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer effects in mammalian cells. We investigated the ability of three jasmonate compounds (jasmonic acid, methyl jasmonate, and 12-OPDA) and two structurally distinct jasmonate precursors (alpha-linolenic acid and palmitic acid) to attenuate inflammation in anin vitromodel of neurodegenerative disease, for which the mechanisms of action have not been well identified. The study modeled chronic neuroinflammation in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells using exogenous prostaglandin E2(PGE2) treatment. Prostaglandin E2caused concentration-dependent levels of inflammation and SH-SY5Y cell death, which were attenuated by the jasmonates and their precursors. To this end, structural similarities between the jasmonates and PGE2were correlated with increased potency of their anti-inflammatory effects. Downstream biomarkers of signaling through the pro-inflammatory E prostanoid receptor subtype 2 (EP2) were then quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods. Of the compounds tested, only jasmonic acid and methyl jasmonate attenuated inflammation in the SH-SY5Y cells via crosstalk with the PGE2/EP2 signaling axis. Additionally, structural models and molecular binding simulations serve as evidence for our hypothesis that JA and MeJA achieve this crosstalk through competitive inhibition of the receptor EP2. This novel finding has implications in the study of neurodegenerative diseases for which the disease pathology is related to chronic neuroinflammation, including Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and multiple sclerosis (MS). In addition, these findings add to the understanding of the relationship between pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E2signaling and disease severity.