bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small but mitey: a gapless telomere-to-telomere assembly of an unidentified mite with a streamlined genome
Authors: Edwards Richard J , Chen Stephanie H , Halliday Bruce , Bragg Jason G
Published: February 2025

A draft assembly of the rainforest tree Rhodamnia argentea Benth. (malletwood, Myrtaceae) revealed contaminating DNA sequences that most closely matched those from mites in the family Eriophyidae. Eriophyoid mites are plant parasites that often induce galls or other deformities on their host plants. They are notable for their small size (averaging 200 μm), distinctive four-legged body structure, and heavily streamlined genomes, which are among the smallest known of all arthropods. Contaminating mite sequences were assembled into a high-quality gapless telomere-to-telomere nuclear genome. The entire genome was assembled on two fully contiguous chromosomes, capped with a novel TTTGG or TTTGGTGTTGG telomere sequence, and exhibited clear signs of genome reduction (34.5 Mbp total length, 68.6% arachnid BUSCO completeness). Phylogenomic analysis confirmed that this genome is that of a previously unsequenced eriophyoid mite. Despite its unknown identity, this complete nuclear genome provides a valuable resource to investigate invertebrate genome reduction.
Access to Neighborhood Amenities and Services and the Risk of 2-Year Nursing Home Placement among Persons Living with Dementia
Authors: Choi Yeon Jin , Fennell Gillian , Ailshire Jennifer A
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives

Older adults prefer to age in their homes and communities, but due to increased care needs associated with dementia, persons living with dementia are much more likely to move into nursing homes. Living in communities with greater access to neighborhood amenities and supports may reduce the risk of nursing home placement by helping persons living with dementia maintain their health and independence and lowering caregiving burden and stress. This study aims to identify neighborhood amenities and services that are associated with nursing home transitions among persons living with dementia.

Research Design and Methods

We used data from the 2004-2016 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), which includes 3,507 older adults with dementia, linked with the HRS Contextual Data Resource and the National Neighborhood Data Archive. Logistic regression models were estimated adjusting for sociodemographic and neighborhood characteristics.

Results

Findings suggest that access to more park areas, healthy food outlets, and home health services was associated with a lower risk of 2-year nursing home placement.

Discussion and Implications

These findings emphasize the importance of neighborhood amenities and services as essential components of supportive communities, enabling persons living with dementia to age in place.
Early Mortality and Medical Complexity Among Medicolegal Cardiovascular Disease Deaths: Comparing housed and unhoused decedents
Authors: King Ben , Swamy Shriya , Khorsandi Shaya
Published: February 2025

Background

There are extreme psychosocial, environmental, and behavioral risks to the health and well-being of persons experiencing homelessness . Within this complex and hazardous environment, there is an opportunity to gain clearer perspective into the role of accelerating cardiovascular disease (CVD) progression alongside the aging cohort effect in this population.

Method

Utilizing 2021 and 2022 data from the Harris County Medical Examiner, investigators analyzed cardiovascular disease-associated deaths for excess mortality and impact of age-related factors specific to persons experiencing homelessness. All medicolegal deaths involving CVD were examined to determine relative frequencies of secondary causes of death and the influence of age between housed individuals and individuals experiencing homelessness.Results: The examination of the CVD mortality cases among persons experiencing homelessness in 2021 (n=52) and 2022 (n=71) revealed important trends. The mean age for CVD deaths for persons experiencing homelessness was 58.6 and 60.6 years in 2021 and 2022 respectively. Despite this slight, recent increase, the average age for CVD death among persons experiencing homelessness is dramatically lower than the housed, medicolegal CVD deaths and the general population. Top-associated conditions were hypertension and atherosclerosis, regardless of housing status. However, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) were more common in CVD deaths of people experiencing homelessness.

Discussion

These findings re-emphasize the uniqueness and complexity of the risks for premature mortality in people experiencing homelessness. This underscores the call for social services and healthcare systems to be more responsive to the challenges faced by persons experiencing homelessness, with more integrated and targeted health and aging care interventions to address the specific needs of these marginalized individuals.
Sex
Authors: Breedlove S. Marc , Watson Neil V.
Published: February 2025

This chapter discusses sexual behaviors, sexual differentiation, and reproductive behavior, noting how they are shaped by learned associations and vary between individuals based on experience. It begins by describing the case of Bella, who was born with cloacal exstrophy but was assigned the gender of female after surgery, despite being born with male genitalia. Bella later transitioned to living as a boy and accepted this change without resistance. The chapter then explores reproductive behavior, which is divided into four stages: sexual attraction, appetitive behavior, copulation, and postcopulatory behavior. It explores how sexual attraction plays a crucial role in mate selection, influenced by traits such as physical ornaments, and is often synchronized with physiological readiness.
Introduction
Authors: Wolfe Jeremy M. , Levi Dennis M. , Holt Lori L. , Bartoshuk Linda M. , Herz Rachel S. , Klatzky Roberta L. , Merfeld Daniel M.
Published: February 2025

This chapter explores how humans translate the physical world into a subjective experience through sensation and perception. It introduces the foundational role of sensory processes and explains how the nervous system converts physical stimuli into neural responses, a process called transduction. The chapter presents psychophysics as the scientific framework for measuring thresholds, scaling perceptual responses, and understanding signal detection. Sensory neuroscience elucidates the brain's mechanisms for processing sensory input and uses tools like neuroimaging to reveal how physical phenomena generate subjective experiences. Finally, the chapter highlights computational modeling as a vital method for simulating and predicting perceptual processes, bridging experimental data with theoretical understanding.
Vestibular Sensation
Authors: Wolfe Jeremy M. , Levi Dennis M. , Holt Lori L. , Bartoshuk Linda M. , Herz Rachel S. , Klatzky Roberta L. , Merfeld Daniel M.
Published: February 2025

This chapter delves into the multifaceted role of the vestibular system in sensory perception, balance, and spatial orientation. It highlights the system's evolutionary roots, showing its significance across vertebrates and its contributions to human locomotion and cognition. Spatial orientation involves three key modalities—angular motion, linear motion, and tilt perception—sensed by specialized vestibular organs such as semicircular canals and otolith organs. The chapter then explores multisensory integration, where vestibular inputs merge with visual, somatosensory, and motor signals to support dynamic perception and reflexes like the vestibulo-ocular reflex, which stabilizes vision during head motion. Vestibular system dysfunction causes symptoms such as dizziness, disorientation, and balance deficits, highlighting its vital but often unnoticed role in everyday life.
Suggested solutions for Chapter 24
Authors: Clayden Jonathan , Greeves Nick , Warren Stuart
Published: February 2025

This chapter provides solutions to the problems posed in Chapter 24 of Clayden, Greeves & Warren Organic Chemistry, second edition, on regioselectivity.
Suggested solutions for Chapter 33
Authors: Clayden Jonathan , Greeves Nick , Warren Stuart
Published: February 2025

This chapter provides solutions to the problems posed in Chapter 33 of Clayden, Greeves & Warren Organic Chemistry, second edition, on diastereoselectivity.
Invasive pneumococcal disease and impact of 7- and 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccines in Singapore children over twenty-four years
Authors: Li Jiahui , Yung Chee Fu , Kam Kai-Qian , Nadua Karen , Tan Natalie W H , Thoon Koh Cheng , Maiwald Matthias , Chong Chia Yin
Published: February 2025

Background

Data on burden of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) is lacking from Southeast Asia. With the introduction of higher-valency pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs), we aim to assess the impact of PCV introduction into Singapore’s national childhood immunisation schedule (NCIS) on IPD burden and serotype (ST) replacement.

Methods

Using IPD surveillance data from a single centre, we compared incidence of IPD in children <17 years prior to the introduction of the PCV into NCIS (2000-2009, Period 1) with that post-introduction (2010-2023, Period 2).

Results

Overall incidence of IPD from 2000 to 2023 was 3.9 per 100,000 children. The decline in IPD incidence between Period 1 and Period 2 was greatest in children aged ≤2 years (13.3 to 4.7 per 100,000 children, IRR 0.4 (95% CI 0.3-0.5), p<0.001). IPD due to PCV7-serotypes declined from 136 (68.0%) to 37 (22.0%) (OR 0.1 (95% CI 0.1-0.2), p<0.001), and IPD by PCV13-serotypes decreased from 161 (80.5%) to 118 (70.2%) (OR 0.6 (95% CI 0.4-0.9), p=0.03), in Periods 1 and 2 respectively. The proportion of children with IPD due to ST-19A increased from 13 (6.5%) to 65 (38.7%) in Period 1 and 2 (OR 9.1 (95% CI 4.8-16.7), p<0.001). None of the children could be confirmed to have IPD due to specific PCV15-non PCV13 serotypes or PCV20-non PCV13 serotypes.

Conclusion

Introduction of PCV into Singapore’s NCIS led to substantial reduction in IPD burden in children aged ≤2 years. ST-19A continues to pose a challenge as a disease-causing serotype post-PCV13 implementation in Singapore.
Vantage point photography and deep learning methods save time in monitoring seabird nesting colonies
Authors: Wilkin Rosalin , Anderson Jillian , Sahay Ishan , Ong Macus , Broadley Samantha , Gonse Marine , McClelland Greg , Joy Ruth
Published: February 2025

Monitoring seabird colonies is essential for assessing population health and sustainability amid increasing marine industry and climate change. Advancements in photography have led to high-resolution photogrammetry techniques for monitoring seabird colonies. However, manual counting of birds and nests in images, potentially over multiple dates and seasons is time-consuming and has limited a wider adoption of photogrammetry in colony monitoring. We addressed the task of automatically counting cormorants and their nests using an SLT camera, a Gigapan robotic camera mount, and image-stitching software. We applied this system to Vancouver’s Ironworkers Memorial Second Narrows Bridge, home to British Columbia’s largest Nannopterum auritum (Double-crested Cormorant) colony. The system takes overlapping images of the colony from a vantage point to create a panoramic image. We took 23 images of the bridge between April and September 2021. A subset of these images was used to train a deep-learning model that became the foundation of an automated pipeline to detect cormorants of different sizes, positions (standing, incubating, or sunning with wings outstretched), and nests (including only partial glimpses amongst the bridge girders). Our pipeline demonstrated potential for monitoring cormorant populations, by lowering manual effort while achieving high agreement with manual counts. Specifically, our pipeline reduced the manual time required to process images by 96%, while achieving an average agreement of 93.6% between manual and automated counts for both cormorants and nests. We found reduced performance from an application of our model to images of a novel colony; however, we suggest that with additional model training and fine-tuning our pipeline should provide an efficient and accurate alternative to manual counts for other colonial bird monitoring contexts. Our study showcases that high-resolution photogrammetry combined with deep learning methods enables the automatic identification and counting of birds and nests, significantly reducing the time and effort of long-term monitoring of colonially nesting birds.
Primary Care Utilization Within 1 Year After a Facilitated Postpartum–to–Primary Care Transition
Authors: Delgado Arlin , Liang Pichliya , Bender Tierra , Ray Alaka , James Kaitlyn E. , Ganguli Ishani , Cohen Jessica L. , Clapp Mark A.
Published: February 2025

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the effect of a behavioral science–informed intervention designed to facilitate postpartum–to–primary care transitions on primary care visits and screenings within 1 year postpartum for individuals with chronic conditions or pregnancy conditions with long-term health risks.

METHODS:

This was a planned secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial of a behavioral science–informed intervention designed to increase primary care practitioner (PCP) visits within 4 months postpartum compared with routine care. The intervention included default PCP visit scheduling with nudge reminders and use of tailored language. The primary outcome for this secondary analysis was attending an annual examination or health care maintenance visit with a PCP within 1 year postpartum. Visits with a PCP for any reason and receipt of screenings or services by a PCP (eg, weight, blood pressure, mood screening) were also compared. Outcomes were compared between groups with χ2 testing.

RESULTS:

All 353 participants were followed through 1 year after their due dates: 173 in the control group and 180 in the intervention group. More patients in the intervention group attended an annual examination with a PCP within 1 year compared with the control group (59.0% vs 39.3%, P<.001) and had a PCP visit for any reason (72.8% vs 61.3%, P=.02). A significantly higher rate of mental health disorder screening was observed in the intervention group (63.9% vs 55.5%, P=.046); significant differences in other screenings were not observed.

CONCLUSION:

This relatively simple and low-cost intervention designed to facilitate transition from postpartum to primary care within the first 4 months demonstrated benefits for PCP engagement within the first year postpartum.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION:

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05543265.
MEsh FIxation STudy in Laparoendoscopic Repair of M3 Inguinal Hernias
Authors: Zamkowski Mateusz , Maciej Śmietański , Paula Franczak , Dominik Górski , Jacek Grabias , Michał Janik , Aleksander Król , Kryspin Mitura , Olaf Mędraś , Łukasz Nawacki , Michał Romańczuk , Przemysław Rymkiewicz , Sławomir Saluk , Przemysław Sroczyński , Leszek Sułkowski , Dominik Wieczorek , Marcin Włodarczyk
Published: February 2025

Objective:

To evaluate the efficacy of non-fixation versus fixation of meshes in laparoendoscopic repair of M3 inguinal hernias in terms of recurrence, postoperative pain, and surgical complications.

Summary Background Data:

International guidelines recommend mesh fixation for large M3 inguinal hernias during laparoendoscopic repairs due to high recurrence rates. However, emerging experimental and registry data suggest that anatomically shaped, rigid and three-dimensional meshes may maintain stability without fixation. This study aimed to address this knowledge gap through a multicenter randomized controlled trial.

Methods:

The MEFISTO Trial is a prospective, multicenter, double-blind, randomized controlled trial conducted in 12 surgical centers. A total of 204 patients with M3 inguinal hernias were randomized into two groups: a non-fixation group using three-dimensional, rigid, anatomical meshes. Fixation group using flat lightweight meshes fixed with tissue adhesive. The primary outcome was the recurrence rate at 12 months. The secondary outcomes included postoperative pain (Visual Analog Scale) and surgical site occurrence. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods for non-inferiority studies.

Results:

The recurrence rate at 12 months was 3.1% and 2.1% in the non-fixation and fixation groups respectively (P = 0.6847). No differences were observed in pain at discharge, 7–10 days post-surgery, or 12 months post-surgery. No significant differences were found in surgical complications or operative times between groups.

Conclusions:

Non-fixation of three-dimensional meshes is non-inferior to fixation of flat lightweight meshes for M3 inguinal hernia repair. These findings support the potential revision of international hernia management guidelines to incorporate non-fixation approaches with appropriate mesh types.
Chlamydia trachomatis genomes from rectal samples: description of a new clade comprising ompA-genotype L4 from Argentina
Authors: Büttner Karina Andrea , Wegner Fanny , Bregy Vera , Entrocassi Andrea Carolina , Gallo Vaulet María Lucía , López Aquino Deysi , La Rosa Luciana , Svidler López Laura , Puolakkainen Mirja H. , Hiltunen-Back Eija , Imkamp Frank , Egli Adrian , Seth-Smith Helena M.B. , Rodríguez Fermepin Marcelo ,   On behalf of the ESCMID Study Group for Mycoplasma and Chlamydia infections (ESGMAC)*
Published: February 2025

Graphical Abstract

We describe a new lineage of Chlamydia trachomatis lymphogranuloma venereum identified in Argentina, carrying ompA-genotype L4. We also present further diversification of the globally circulating L2b lineage.
Circuit-Based Understanding of Fine Spatial Scale Clustering of Orientation Tuning in Mouse Visual Cortex
Authors: Yu Peijia , Yang Yuhan , Gozel Olivia , Oldenburg Ian , Dipoppa Mario , Rossi Federico , Miller Kenneth , Adesnik Hillel , Ji Na , Doiron Brent
Published: February 2025

In sensory cortex of brain it is often the case that neurons are spatially organized by their functional properties. A hallmark of primary visual cortex (V1) in higher mammals is a columnar functional map, where neurons tuned to different stimuli features are regularly organized in space. However, rodent visual cortex is at odds with this rule and lacks any spatially ordered functional architecture, and rather neuron feature preference is haphazardly organized in patterns termed "salt-and-pepper". This sharp contrast in feature organization between the visual cortices of rodents and higher mammals has been a persistent mystery, fueled in part by abundant evidence of conserved cortical physiology between species. In this work, we applied a novel GCaMP indicator that are localized in the nucleus of neurons during two photon imaging in mouse V1, which enabled us to overcome most spurious spatially correlated activity due to fluorescence contamination, and to ensure a faithful observation of functional organization over space. We found that the orientation tuning properties of distant neuron pairs (> 20 um) are irregularly and randomly organized, while neuron pairs that are extremely close (< 20 um) have strongly correlated orientation tuning, indicating a narrow yet strong spatially clustered organization of orientation preference, which we term "micro-clustered" organization. Exploring a circuit based model of recurrently coupled mouse V1 we derived two key predictions for the micro cluster: spatially localized recurrent connections over a comparable narrow spatial scale, and common relative spatial spreads of balanced excitation and inhibition in the network over broad spatial scales. These predictions are validated by both anatomical and optogenetic-based physiological circuit mapping experiments. Altogether, our work takes an important step in building a circuit-based theory of visual processing in mouse V1 over spatial scales that are often ignored, yet contain powerful synaptic interactions.
Rethinking Experiences of Birth in Our Operating Theatre (REBOOT): A Qualitative Study of Patient and Staff Experiences of Birth in the Operating Theatre
Authors: McKimmie‐Doherty M. , Sweet L. , Blackman B. , O'Donohoe R. , Sheridan N. , Coghlan E.
Published: February 2025

Background

Birth in the operating theatre is increasing in prevalence and includes elective and emergency caesarean section and instrumental vaginal births. Birth in the operating theatre is a well‐documented risk factor for negative subjective patient outcomes. Despite this, there has been little research into women's experiences of birth in theatre or staff perspectives on how they may create and contribute to a more positive theatre birth environment.

Aim

To explore both the women and caregiver's experiences of birth in the operative theatre and to identify ways to deliver and optimise woman‐centred care.

Materials and Methods

This qualitative prospective study used experience based co–design principles and enrolled both women who gave birth in the operating theatre and staff who cared for them. All participants underwent semi‐structured interviews to discuss their birth experiences. Thematic analysis was then undertaken to identify key themes from both the caregiver and patient perspective.

Results

Key themes centered around communication and maintaining an empowering birth environment. Participants acknowledged the need for clear and respectful communication between women, their support person, and the multidisciplinary team, particularly within emergency situations. Supporting and maintaining an empowering birth environment was achieved through advocacy, autonomy, and inclusion of a support person at all stages of the theatre journey.

Conclusions

Communication and an empowering birth environment significantly influenced the subjective experience of birth within the operating theatre. Results from this study may be used to identify system adaptations and improvements to support more positive birth experiences in the operating theatre.
Prototype master protocol for benchmarking of real‐world follow‐up data in glaucoma
Authors: Hujanen Pekko , Tuulonen Anja , Leinonen Sanna , Vepsäläinen Kristian , Jóhannesson Gauti , Vaajanen Anu , Lehtonen Eemil , Uusitalo‐Jarvinen Hannele
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to create a prototype master protocol for benchmarking glaucoma real‐world data (RWD). Benchmarking is part of the digital innovation strategy of the Finnish aces‐rwm ecosystem (automation of care and evaluation of the system with real‐world monitoring).

Methods

We collected glaucoma RWD in 2012–17 at Tampere University Hospital (Tays) and compared them to six published RWD sets (one in Sweden and five in England). Visual field (VF) data at Tays were retrieved from the perimeter, and clinical RWD were collected manually. At baseline, VF data were available in 2511 of 4121 glaucoma patients (61%), of whom 1413 patients (56%) had 5 years of VF follow‐up by 2017 (34% of all 4121 patients). Mean deviation (MD) data were analysed in multiple ways, considering also age and intraocular pressure (IOP).

Results

In most data sets, higher age was related to faster progression. At Tays, the distributions of progression rates were similar in better and worse eyes. The proportions of eyes at Tays with the medium rate of MD progression (17% for 0.5–1.5 dB/year) and the fast rate (6% for >1.5 dB/year) were similar to the published RWD trial in England. The published datasets show significant variability in how their findings were reported.

Conclusions

This study represents a first step toward the development of a master protocol for real‐world benchmarking of glaucoma care. Further refinement of the protocol will encourage and require national and international collaboration in order to produce comprehensive and comparable real‐world EHR data sets.
Sex Differences in Body Composition and MASLD in Children With Overweight and Obesity
Authors: Uretzky Adi , Cohen‐Sela Eyal , Yackobovitch‐Gavan Michal , Ben Simon Asaf , Midlij Eyas , Zaitoon Hussein , Borger Ophir , Interator Hagar , Amir Achiya Z. , Moran‐Lev Hadar , Brener Avivit , Lebenthal Yael
Published: February 2025

Aim

To explore the relationships between body composition, indices of hepatic fibrosis, and sonographic evidence of hepatic steatosis in children with overweight and obesity.

Methods

One hundred and seventy individuals (age 12.7 ± 3.4 years, 38.2% boys) with overweight/obesity (BMI z‐score 2.02 ± 0.54) underwent bioelectrical impedance analysis (fat percentage, truncal‐to‐total fat ratio, muscle‐to‐fat ratio [MFR]). Hepatic assessments included ultrasonography to detect liver steatosis, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST)/ALT ratio, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score (NFS). A forward logistic regression model, adjusting for sex, age, and socio‐economic position, was conducted.

Results

The odds for sonographic hepatic steatosis increased by 3.8‐fold for each SD decrease in MFR z‐score (OR = 0.263, 95% CI [0.067–1.031], p = 0.05). The strongest correlation among boys was between MFR z‐score and AST/ALT ratio (r = 0.530, p < 0.001), whereas the strongest correlation among girls was between fat percentage and NFS (r = 0.503, p < 0.001). Individuals with sonographic hepatic steatosis had higher fat mass (p = 0.003), lower MFR z‐score (p = 0.020), greater insulin resistance (p = 0.018), and atherogenic dyslipidemic index (p = 0.037) compared to those without.

Conclusions

We identified sex differences in the association between body composition and hepatic fibrosis indices. The relationship between adverse body composition and increased odds of hepatic steatosis underscores the importance of its assessment within this at‐risk population.
Oral hyoscine butylbromide exerts spasmolytic effects in both gastrointestinal and urogenital tissues in rats
Authors: Traserra Sara , Appelqvist Terence , Lange Robert , Corsetti Maura , Jimenez Marcel
Published: February 2025

Background and Purpose

Hyoscine butylbromide (HBB) has a low oral (PO) bioavailability. Further, limited data on its activity on non‐gastrointestinal (GI) smooth muscle spasms after oral dosing are available, causing its effects beyond the GI tract to be questioned. This pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) study, conducted using female rats, aimed to cover this gap.

Experimental Approach

PK study: HBB and atropine (as a comparator agent) were administered PO and IV to rats, and concentrations in plasma and tissues (colon, uterus and urinary bladder; CUB) were measured. PD study 1: concentration–response curves of HBB and atropine (10−9–10−4 M) were obtained for carbachol‐induced (10−5 M) pre‐contracted tissues; PD study 2: CUB were pre‐incubated with HBB and atropine at maximum concentrations (Cmax) from PK studies and carbachol concentration–response curves (10−9–10−4 M) were obtained; PD study 3: HBB and atropine were administered PO and IV to rats as for PK study, CUB tissues were collected at 0.5 h (IV) and 4 h (PO), and carbachol concentration–response curves (10−9–10−4 M) obtained.

Key Results

PO HBB showed higher Cmax in CUB tissues than in plasma. HBB and atropine reduced, concentration‐dependently, carbachol‐induced contractions in CUB tissues. PO HBB showed highest spasmolytic activity in colon (40%), followed by uterus (30%) and urinary bladder (10%).

Conclusion and Implications

This is the first comparison of PO and IV HBB and atropine in GI and non‐GI tissues. Despite low bioavailability, PO HBB accumulated and exerted spasmolytic effects in tissues beyond the GI tract.
Primary Cutaneous Spindle Cell Sarcoma With FN1::FGFR1 Fusion
Authors: Shah Ahmed , Lo Ying‐Chun , Torres‐Mora Jorge
Published: February 2025

We report a case of a primary cutaneous spindle cell sarcoma (SCS) with FN1::FGFR1 fusion. The tumor lacked the typical histologic and immunohistochemical features associated with other FN1‐rearranged neoplasms, such as phosphaturic mesenchymal tumors (PMT) and calcified chondroid mesenchymal neoplasms (CCMN). Unlike PMTs, which often feature a cartilaginous matrix and are associated with tumor‐induced osteomalacia (TIO), the present case lacked these characteristics and did not show FGF23 mRNA expression. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells showed patchy staining for CD34 but were negative for markers such as ERG, desmin, S100, and pan‐TRK. The fusion event in this case involves the loss of the FGFR1 Ig1 (D1) domain, a mechanism proposed to drive oncogenesis by releasing FGFR1 from autoinhibition. Despite the preservation of other FGFR1 domains, no evidence of FGF23 signaling was detected, and the patient had no clinical history of TIO. This case underscores the complexity of oncogenesis in FN1::FGFR1‐rearranged neoplasms, a form of “promiscuous” gene fusion, where similar fusions lead to diverse tumor phenotypes. It emphasizes the importance of incorporating molecular testing in diagnosing spindle cell sarcomas, particularly those occurring in acral sites, to identify this underrecognized entity.
Adverse events and impact on quality of life of antibody‐drug conjugates in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Perachino Marta , Blondeaux Eva , Molinelli Chiara , Ruelle Tommaso , Giannubilo Irene , Arecco Luca , Nardin Simone , Razeti Maria Grazia , Borea Roberto , Favero Diletta , Lanzavecchia Chiara , Chiappe Edoardo , Tomasello Loredana , Mariamidze Elene , Jankovic Kristina , Stana Mihaela , Ottonello Silvia , Scavone Graziana , de Moura Leite Luciana , Spinaci Stefano , Saura Cristina , Lambertini Matteo
Published: February 2025

Background

Antibody‐drug conjugates are novel effective therapies for metastatic breast cancer. Nevertheless, their toxicity profile can significantly affect patients' quality of life over time.

Methods

This is a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials of antibody‐drug conjugates currently approved for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer [trastuzumab‐emtansine (T‐DM1), trastuzumab deruxtecan (T‐DXd) and sacituzumab‐govitecan (SG)] versus standard therapy to evaluate the risk of adverse events, discontinuation rate due to toxicity, impact on quality of life according to EORTC QLQ‐C30 scale and subdomains. Relative risks (RR) and hazard ratios (HR) with 95% CIs were calculated using random effects models.

Results

Nine trials with a total of 5753 patients were included. The most common adverse events of any grade for T‐DM1 included thrombocytopenia (RR 7.14, 95% CI 4.13–12.36) and increased alanine‐transaminase (ALT) (RR 2.04, 95% CI 1.43–2.91), for T‐DXd were nausea (RR 2.39, 95% CI 1.90–3.00) and anemia (RR 1.55, 95% CI 1.27–1.90), while for SG were neutropenia (RR 1.30, 95% CI 1.14–1.49), diarrhea (RR 3.62, 95% CI 2.97–4.42) and nausea (RR1.90, 95% CI 1.65–2.19). Severe adverse events such as interstitial lung disease and left ventricular dysfunction were peculiar of T‐DXd. Antibody‐drug conjugates significantly delayed clinical deterioration of global health status by EORTC QLQ‐C30 (HR .71, 95% CI .59–.86), physical, emotional and social functioning, pain and fatigue symptoms.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis offers consolidated data on adverse events associated with antibody‐drug conjugates and their effects on patients' quality of life, emphasizing differences based on the specific agent. These findings underscore the critical need for effective strategies to prevent, diagnose and manage these toxicities.
Rare earth silicate in SiCf/SiC composites: Toward water‒oxygen corrosion resistance in high‐temperature gas environment
Authors: Pu Longjiao , Zhang Qing , Ye Fang , Cheng Laifei , Guo Guangda
Published: February 2025

Silicon carbide fiber‐reinforced silicon carbide ceramic matrix (SiCf/SiC) composites are considered as one of the preferred materials for aero‐engine hot‐end components; however, they will face serious performance degradation when exposed to the complex and harsh environment of high temperature and water‒oxygen corrosion coupling. How to solve the problem of SiCf/SiC composites is a growing concern in the international community. Rare earth silicate materials usually have the advantages of good high‐temperature stability, low oxygen permeability constant, and thermal expansion coefficient matching with SiC, which are internationally recognized as the preferred systems for the new generation of environmental barrier coatings (EBCs); meanwhile, the use of rare earth compounds for matrix modification of SiCf/SiC composites to improve their resistance to water‒oxygen corrosion has gained wide attention. Therefore, the recent progress in rare earth silicate EBCs and modified SiCf/SiC composites are reviewed. Finally, the challenges and prospects of rare earth silicate in improving the water‒oxygen corrosion resistance of SiCf/SiC composites are presented.
Assessment of Feasibility and Outcomes of RUS Surgical Navigation System During Robot‐Assisted Partial Nephrectomy for Small Renal Masses
Authors: Lee Sangmin , Lee Hyun Young , Song Cheryn
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This phase I trial evaluated the RUS 3D virtual surgical navigation system's feasibility during robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy.

Methods

In ten patients who underwent robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy at Asan Medical Center, a 3D virtual anatomical model was reconstructed from preoperative computerized tomography scans. The 3D model was integrated with the surgeon's console through TilePro, providing manipulable virtual anatomy during surgery. Following standard robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy procedures performed by a single experienced surgeon using the navigation system, perioperative parameters were compared with a control group of 30 patients matched for tumor and body morphometric characteristics.

Results

The navigation system was well integrated into the surgical workflow without technical issues, providing accurate anatomical visualization, particularly of the regional calyces and intrarenal vessel branches. The navigation group had shorter operative times (122 vs. 144.7 min) and less frequent collecting system entry (40% vs. 66.7%). For equivalent tumor size, resected specimen volume was significantly smaller in the navigation group (6.8 vs. 16.7 cm3, p = 0.035). The navigation group also experienced a shorter hospital stay (p = 0.046) and a more modest decrease in glomerular filtration rate postoperatively (8.9% vs. 12.2%). There were no perioperative complications in either group.

Conclusions

The integration of the 3D navigation system into robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy was both feasible and safe, providing enhanced anatomical information while maintaining a consistent level of operative risk. The use of the navigation system resulted in reduced renal parenchymal volume resected, suggesting potential benefits in renal function preservation.
Accuracy of Ionizing‐Radiation‐Based and Non‐Ionizing Imaging Assessments for the Diagnosis of Periodontitis: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Discepoli Nicola , De Rubertis Isabella , Wasielewski Cecile , Troiano Giuseppe , Carra Maria Clotilde
Published: February 2025

Aims

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of periapical, bitewing or panoramic radiographs (standard 2D radiographs) in detecting and monitoring periodontitis (PICO 1) and to assess the clinical relevance of alternative and emerging diagnostic methods (e.g., cone‐beam computed tomography [CBCT], magnetic resonance imaging [MRI], ultrasound imaging [USG]) compared to standard 2D radiographs or clinical/intra‐surgical examination in the diagnosis and surveillance of the disease (PICO 2).

Materials and Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted through MEDLINE EMBASE, Scopus and Cochrane Library. When feasible (n > 2 comparable studies), a meta‐analysis of diagnostic accuracy was performed.

Results

For PICO 1, 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. Pooled‐data analysis from three studies showed a sensitivity of 0.77 (95% confidence interval, CI: 0.66–0.85), specificity of 0.76 (95% CI: 0.64–0.84) and accuracy of 0.82, with a diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of 137.99 (95% CI: 6.99–368.90). For PICO 2, 51 articles were included dealing with different techniques. The meta‐analysis for CBCT (three studies) showed a pooled sensitivity and specificity of 0.98 (95% CI: 0.96–1.00) and 0.98 (95% CI: 0.95–1.00), respectively, and a diagnostic accuracy of 0.99 in the detection of furcation involvement compared to intra‐surgical measurements.

Conclusions

Standard 2D radiographs appear to have adequate diagnostic accuracy for periodontitis, while CBCT is highly sensitive and specific to detect and classify furcation involvement. The role of non‐ionizing techniques (MRI and USG) in diagnosing periodontitis remains under investigation.
Exploring automated tracking of chemicals through their conditions of use to support life cycle chemical assessment
Authors: Chea John D. , Meyer David E. , Smith Raymond L. , Takkellapati Sudhakar , Ruiz‐Mercado Gerardo J.
Published: February 2025

Modeling the fate of chemicals across their life cycle when considering all potential uses can be challenging because of the data gaps arising from issues like confidential business information (data accessibility) and complex processing schemes (involvement in formulations, reactions, and separations) across multiple industries, products, and applications. Thus, assessing chemicals for safety and/or sustainability requires developing an extensive knowledge of chemical releases along the various conditions of use (CoU) to identify potential impacts on human health and the environment. The first step in this process is mapping the flow of a chemical throughout its various downstream uses, which can be time‐intensive. Here, a chemical mapping methodology is developed to qualitatively assess the allocation of a chemical of interest from its manufacture through its CoU in consumer, commercial, and industrial products. The chemical flow mapping combines knowledge from searches of publicly available data sources based on the chemical's Chemical Abstracts Service number to determine viable chemical flow paths. Examples of data sources when applying this approach to chemicals in the United States include the Chemical Data Reporting database, the Toxics Release Inventory, the North American Industry Classification System, and the Chemical and Products Database. The methodology is demonstrated using case studies of methylene chloride and triphenyl phosphate. The value of this approach is its ability to be automated and enable rapid determination of the life cycle chemical flow for expedited chemical assessment.
Sun Protection Used by Cyclists in Southern Brazil
Authors: de Freitas Eduarda Mazurkievz , Purim Kátia Sheylla Malta
Published: February 2025

Background

Cycling is a practice that is increasing globally. However, there is a paucity of studies regarding sun protection usage among cyclists.

Methods

The present study uses a cross‐sectional design. An online survey was conducted using the Google Forms platform, and a self‐administered form was used to gather the participant's sociodemographic details, sporting practices, and sun protection usage habits. The full questionnaire file can be found as Supporting Information. Descriptive statistics were analyzed using Microsoft Excel, and the chi‐square test of independence was performed to determine the association between the variables using a contingency table.

Results

The study sample comprised 379 cyclists, predominantly men (69.7%), and most cyclists were observed to be using some type of cycling‐related application (81.3%). Approximately 67.3% of the cyclists used sunscreen. The sunscreen was applied once a day (45.4%), and the usage of sunscreen was lower in men (58%) and those with higher phototypes (69.2%). Furthermore, using long‐sleeved shirts and sunglasses while cycling was 49.3% and 75.5% of the participants, respectively. Among the participants who did not use sun protection, 35% cycled for over 7 h a week.

Conclusion

The results indicate that cyclists must be encouraged to use sun protection, especially men and athletes with higher phototypes. Such use could be optimized in this population, associating the technologies related to the practice of cycling with health promotion.
Fit‐Focused Secondary Control and Psychological Well‐being of Older Married Couples in Japan and the United States
Authors: Takemura Akiko , Okabayashi Hideki , Morling Beth
Published: February 2025

Fit‐focused secondary control (FFSC)—the process of adjusting some aspect of the self and accepting circumstances as they are—is an important coping strategy for older adults' well‐being. However, for older married couples, it is unclear whether one partner's FFSC is related to both their own and their partner's psychological well‐being and whether cultural differences exist in this relationship. An online survey was administered to 199 Japanese and 208 American older married couples to assess their positive affect, negative affect, marital satisfaction, and their adjustment and acceptance strategies to marital disagreements and pleasurable shared activities. The actor–partner interdependence model showed that husband and wife FFSC was positively associated with individual and partner positive affect and marital satisfaction but negatively associated with individual negative affect. Cultural differences were observed: the association between husband and wife FFSC and partner marital satisfaction was stronger for Japanese couples than for American couples. These findings suggest that FFSC predicts the psychological well‐being not only of individuals but also of those around them.
Comparison of viscoelastic coagulation parameters, blood loss and surgical time between asymptomatic heartworm antigen‐positive and negative dogs presented for elective gonadectomy
Authors: Newmans B. K. , Fudge J. M. , Clarkin‐Breslin R. , Silverstein D. C. , Verocai G. G.
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate viscoelastic profiles in heartworm antigen‐positive versus antigen‐negative dogs using a point‐of‐care viscoelastic device. A secondary objective was to compare intraoperative bleeding and surgical duration between these same groups.

Materials and Methods

Dogs presented for elective surgical gonadectomy were screened for the presence of heartworm antigen using a commercial antigen detection test. Viscoelastic testing was performed in equal numbers of asymptomatic heartworm antigen‐positive and ‐negative dogs. Viscoelastic data recorded included Clot Time, Clot Formation Time, α‐angle, Maximum Clot Formation, Amplitude at 10 minutes (A10), Amplitude at 20 minutes (A20), Lysis Index at 30 minutes (LI30) and Lysis Index at 45 minutes (LI45). Other data included intraoperative blood loss via the gravimetric technique and surgical time (incision to closure).

Results

A total of 60 dogs (30 heartworm antigen‐negative and 30 heartworm antigen‐positive) were enrolled in the study. There were no significant differences between Clot Time, Clot Formation Time, α‐angle, LI30 and LI45 between heartworm antigen‐positive and ‐negative dogs; however, Maximum Clot Formation, A10 and A20 were higher in heartworm antigen‐positive dogs. All viscoelastic results were within previously published normal reference ranges. No significant differences in surgical gonadectomy duration or intraoperative blood loss were observed between groups for male or female dogs.

Clinical Significance

Apparently healthy heartworm antigen‐positive dogs were relatively hypercoagulable as defined by viscoelastic testing compared to heartworm antigen‐negative dogs. There was no apparent additional risk of bleeding in dogs with subclinical heartworm infection.
Simulation of Conducted Responses in Microvascular Networks: Role of Gap Junction Current Rectification
Authors: Djurich Sara , Lee Grace V. , Secomb Timothy W.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Local control of blood flow depends on signaling to arterioles via upstream conducted responses. Here, the objective is to examine how electrical properties of gap junctions between endothelial cells (EC) affect the spread of conducted responses in microvascular networks of the brain cortex, using a theoretical model based on EC electrophysiology.

Methods

Modeled EC currents are an inward‐rectifying potassium current, a non‐voltage‐dependent potassium current, a leak current, and a gap junction current between adjacent ECs. Effects of varying gap junction conductance are considered, including asymmetric conductance, with higher conductance for forward currents (positive currents from upstream to downstream, based on blood flow direction). The response is initiated by a local increase in extracellular potassium concentration. The model is applied to a 45‐segment synthetic network and a 4881‐segment network from mouse brain cortex.

Results

The conducted response propagates preferentially to upstream arterioles when the conductance for forward currents is at least 20 times that for backward currents. The response depends strongly on the site of stimulation. With symmetric gap junction conductance, the network acts as a syncytium and the conducted response is dissipated.

Conclusions

Upstream propagation of conducted responses may depend on the asymmetric conductance of EC gap junctions.
Interactions between macro‐ and micro‐climate: Effects on phenolic compound production in Nardus stricta at high elevations
Authors: Moreira X. , Durán J. , Rodríguez A. , Cao A. , Correia M. , Serôdio J. , Rodríguez‐Echeverría S.
Published: February 2025

Phenolic compounds are key to plant defence, offering protection as antioxidants, UV shields, and antimicrobials. Their production is largely shaped by environmental conditions. It is believed that plants at lower elevations increase phenolic content to counter herbivory, while those at higher elevations rely on phenolics to manage abiotic stresses, such as climate variability. Microhabitat warming also affects phenolic levels, but responses differ, depending on broader climatic contexts: plants in warmer, lower‐elevation environments show limited adaptability, whereas high‐elevation plants demonstrate greater plasticity. Despite the importance of these environmental interactions, many small‐scale abiotic studies lack sufficient spatial replication across broader gradients like elevation or latitude, while large‐scale studies frequently overlook microscale factors.

This study investigated the effects of macroclimate factors and microhabitat warming on phenolic production in Nardus stricta across five semi‐natural grassland sites (1546–1875 m a.s.l.) in Portugal's Serra da Estrela. Warming was simulated using open‐top chambers over two growing seasons, after which leaf samples were analysed for phenolic compounds, and soil nutrients were measured.

The N. stricta plants at the highest elevation site contained significantly higher leaf flavonoid concentrations. Microhabitat warming led to a significant decrease in flavonoid concentrations, but only at the highest elevation site. These effects occurred independently of soil nutrient levels, suggesting direct thermal effects or stress responses might be involved.

Our findings highlight the complex interactions between macro‐ and microenvironmental factors in shaping plant chemistry, underscoring critical considerations for plant resilience in the face of climate change. This understanding is essential for developing strategies to support plant and ecosystem adaptation to changing climates.