bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extensive Pathologic Invasion and Prognostic Implication of Gastric-Type Cervical Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kamijo Kyosuke , Miyamoto Tsutomu , Oshima Shiori , Asaka Shiho , Shinagawa Manaka , Sato Yoshinori , Ando Hirofumi , Asaka Ryoichi , Fujioka Marina , Uchiyama Natsuki , Yokokawa Yusuke , Tanaka Yasuhiro , Kusama Yukiko , Takeshi Uehara , Kobayashi Yaeko , Shiozawa Tanri
Published: February 2025

Gastric-type adenocarcinoma (GAS) is the most common subtype of human papillomavirus (HPV)-independent cervical adenocarcinomas and is associated with a poor prognosis. We used a gross morphologic classification system and imaging analysis to compare the clinicopathological features of GAS and HPV-associated adenocarcinoma (HPVA) and identify factors contributing to the poor prognosis of GAS. This retrospective 2-center study analyzed 33 patients with GAS and 70 with HPVA (stages IB-IVB) who underwent surgery between 1997 and 2023. GAS had a higher rate of positive surgical margins (21.2% vs. 0%, respectively, P<0.001) and unclear tumor boundaries on gross morphologic findings (47.8% vs. 8.8%, respectively, P<0.001). Discrepancies between clinical and pathologic T classifications were more common in GAS, leading to frequent upstaging (51.5% vs. 28.6%, respectively, P=0.029). Imaging analysis revealed that GAS was associated with a smaller median tumor cell area (19.8% vs. 55.7%, respectively, P<0.001), which was significantly correlated with unclear tumor boundaries. Perineural invasion (PNI) was significantly more frequent in GAS (69.7% vs. 10.0%, respectively, P<0.001). A Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients with PNI had significantly poorer overall survival (P<0.001). A Cox multivariate analysis identified an advanced pathologic stage, positive peritoneal cytology, and positive surgical margins as independent risk factors. The present results indicate that GAS has a unique “stealth” invasion pattern, possibly caused by low tumor density, leading to undetectable tumor boundaries and positive surgical margins. This suggests a greater risk of incomplete resection than HPVA, leading to a poorer prognosis.
Feasibility and Optimization of Donation Advisor: a Decision Support Tool for Deceased Organ Donation and Transplantation
Authors: Dhanani Sonny , Ramchandani Rashi , Allan Jill , Hudek Natasha , Herry Christophe L. , Scales Nathan , Adhikari Neill K.J. , Brehaut Jamie C. , Burns Karen E.A. , Chassé Michaël , Iyengar Akshai M. , Meade Maureen O. , Ramsay Tim , Scales Damon C. , Selzner Markus , Sener Alp , Slessarev Marat , Talbot Heather , Weiss Matthew J. , Zaltzman Jeffrey , Seely Andrew J.E.
Published: February 2025

Background.

This study aimed to evaluate the ability of Donation Advisor (DA), a validated clinical decision support tool that uses continuous monitoring, variability analysis, and predictive models, to (i) predict likelihood of successful donation after circulatory determination of death (DCD) before withdrawal of life-sustaining measures (WLSM), and (ii) describe ischemia during WLSM in DCD patients.

Methods.

Eligible patients were screened at the 5 sites where DA was implemented. DA reports were generated in real time but shown to clinicians after the donation was complete (noninterventional). Clinicians were interviewed for improvement of the tool.

Results.

We enrolled 34 donor patients in the study; 27 had DCD attempts and 20 proceeded to organ recovery. DA reports were generated before WLSM in all 27 attempted DCD patients (100%) while post-WLSM ischemia reports were generated in 26 of 27 DCD attempts (96%). Nineteen of 34 involved clinicians completed interviews, 10 from intensive care, and 9 from transplantation team members. Following a user-centered design approach, feedback was used to create 5 versions. Revisions included additions, removals, clarifications, and formatting changes; the number of revisions decreased with each amendment. The report’s predictive scores were found to be useful by most practitioners (83%). We identified barriers and drivers to use the report in future practice, some of which may be addressed through improved education and awareness.

Conclusions.

DA can be deployed in real time during the DCD process. The usefulness and usability of the DA report has improved through user feedback; both barriers and drivers to implementation exist.
Genomics-Informed Drug Repurposing Strategy Identifies Novel Therapeutic Targets for Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease
Authors: Seagle Hannah M. , Akerele Alexis T. , DeCorte Joseph A. , Hellwege Jacklyn N. , Breeyear Joseph H. , Kim Jeewoo , Levin Michael , Khodurksy Samuel , Bress Adam , Lee Kyung , Meiler Jens , Gill Dipender , Lee Jennifer S. , Heberer Kent , Miller Donald R. , Reaven Peter , Chang Kyong-Mi , Lynch Julie A. , Khankari Nikhil K. , Shuey Megan M. , Edwards Todd L. , Vujkovic Marijana
Published: February 2025

Identification of drug-repurposing targets with genetic and biological support is an economically and temporally efficient strategy for improving treatment of diseases. We employed a cross-disciplinary approach to identify potential treatments for metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) using humans as a model organism. We identified 212 putative causal genes associated with MASLD using data from a large multi-ancestry genetic association study, of which 158 (74.5%) are novel. From this set we identified 57 genes that encode for druggable protein targets, and where the effects of increasing genetically predicted gene expression on MASLD risk align with the function of that drug on the protein target. These potential targets were then evaluated for evidence of efficacy using Mendelian randomization, pathway analysis, and protein structural modeling. Using these approaches, we present compelling evidence to suggest activation ofFADS1by icosopent ethyl as well asS1PR2by fingolimod could be promising therapeutic strategies for MASLD.
Modulated smooth muscle cells accumulate late in human coronary atherosclerosis and are temporally and spatially linked to necrotic core formation
Authors: Morales-Cano Daniel , Sharysh Diana , Albarrán-Juárez Julián , de Molina Antonio , Labrador-Cantero Verónica , Møller Cecilie Markvard , Carramolino Laura , Bentzon Jacob F.
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

Proliferation of arterial smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and their modulation to alternative mesenchymal phenotypes is a central mechanism in the growth of atherosclerotic lesions. The underlying processes have been studied extensively in mouse models, but a detailed analysis of when and where modulated SMCs accumulate in human atherosclerosis is lacking. The present study mapped modulated SMC subtypes during the progression of human coronary atherosclerosis and explored their associations with disease processes in human carotid plaques.

Methods

Multiplex immunostaining protocols based on single-cell RNA sequencing-validated markers were established to detect SMCs, modulated SMCs, and macrophages in sections of left anterior descending arteries from forensic autopsies. The material comprised 44 arterial segments from 38 individuals, encompassing samples with normal intima, eccentric intimal thickening, pathological intimal thickening, and fibroatheroma. A similar analysis of carotid endarterectomy samples allowed examination of the involvement of modulated SMCs in fibrosis, calcification, and apoptosis. Coronary and carotid sections were analyzed by machine learning-assisted cell classification, enabling phenotyping of entire plaques at high microscopic resolution.

Results

Cells co-expressing contractile and modulated SMC markers were present in normal human coronary arteries, but fully modulated SMCs, with complete loss of detectable contractile protein expression, did not accumulate substantially until the fibroatheroma stage, where they were located preferentially around the necrotic core. SMC subtypes showed no preferential co-localization with areas of fibrosis or calcification; however, osteoprotegerin secreted by modulated SMCs was found bound to calcium deposits. Modulated SMCs accounted for 35-53% of all apoptotic remnants for which a cell origin could be determined.

Conclusions

Fully modulated SMCs expand at the fibroatheroma stage, localize around the necrotic core region, and account for many apoptotic remnants in plaques.
Distinct White Matter Fiber Density Patterns in Bipolar and Depressive Disorders: Insights from Fixel-Based Analysis
Authors: Manelis Anna , Hu Hang , Satz Skye , Iyengar Satish , Swartz Holly A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Differentiating Bipolar (BD) and depressive (DD) disorders remains challenging in clinical practice due to overlapping symptoms. Our study employs fixel-based analysis (FBA) to examine fiber-specific white matter differences in BD and DD and gain insights into the ability of FBA metrics to predict future spectrum mood symptoms.

Methods

163 individuals between 18 and 45 years with BD, DD, and healthy controls (HC) underwent Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging. FBA was used to assess fiber density (FD), fiber cross-section (FC), and fiber density cross-section (FDC) in major white matter tracts. A longitudinal follow-up evaluated whether FBA measures predicted future spectrum depressive and hypomanic symptom trajectories over six months.

Results

Direct comparisons between BD and DD indicated lower FD in the right superior longitudinal and uncinate fasciculi and left thalamo-occipital tract in BD versus DD. Individuals with DD exhibited lower FD in the left arcuate fasciculus than those with BD. Compared to HC, both groups showed lower FD in the splenium of the corpus callosum and left striato-occipital and optic radiation tracts. FD in these tracts predicted future spectrum symptom severity. Exploratory analyses revealed associations between FD, medication use, and marijuana exposure.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight distinct and overlapping white matter alterations in BD and DD. Furthermore, FD in key tracts may serve as a predictor of future symptom trajectories, supporting the potential clinical utility of FD as a biomarker for mood disorder prognosis. Future longitudinal studies are needed to explore the impact of treatment and disease progression on white matter microstructure.
China Autism Brain Imaging Consortium: Charting Brain Growth in Chinese Children with Autism
Authors: Li Lei , Bai Miaoshui , Cai Kelong , Cao Doudou , Cao Xuan , Chen Jie , Fan Xue-Ru , Gao Peng , Gao Wenjing , He Dongzhi , Meng Fanchao , Jiang Xi , Ni Litong , Li Xiuhong , Lin Lizi , Liu Yingqiang , Liu Zhimei , Pan Ning , Qi Qi , Qin Bin , Shan Xiaolong , Shou Xiaojing , Wang Longlun , Wang Miaoyan , Wang Xin , Xu Dandan , Xu Yin , Xue Yang , Yang Ting , Zhang Yun , Cai Jinhua , Chen Huafu , Chen Aiguo , Jia Feiyong , Jiang Haoxiang , Jing Jin , Li Tingyu , Li Shijun , Wang Wei , Wang Jia , Wu Lijie , Yin Xuntao , Zhang Rong , Zuo Xi-Nan ,   China Autism Brain Imaging Consortium, Duan Xujun
Published: February 2025

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition characterized by atypical brain growth. While advances in neuroimaging and openly sharing large-sample datasets such as the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange (ABIDE) have improved understanding of ASD, most studies focus on adolescents and adults, with early brain development-critical for diagnosis and intervention-remaining underexplored. Existing research predominantly involves Western samples, offering limited insight and generalizability into non-Caucasian populations. We introduce the China Autism Brain Imaging Consortium (CABIC) (https://php.bdnilab.com/resources/), a grassroots effort by researchers across the country to aggregate previously collected multi-site structural MRI datasets and phenotypic information from 1,451 autistic children and 1,119 typically developing children, covering an age range from early childhood to school age (1.0 - 12.92 years). Here, we present this resource and depict brain growth charts to push forward a more comprehensive understanding of the brain development in Chinese autism children. We constructed brain growth charts that reveal a developmental shift in autistic children, transitioning from early overgrowth to delayed maturation. Regional analyses identified distinct atypical trajectories across specific brain regions. Individual deviation scores quantified inter-subject variability, characterizing the heterogeneity of brain development in ASD. Comparative analyses between CABIC and ABIDE highlighted differences potentially attributable to ethnicity and culture, advancing our understanding of cross-population neurodevelopmental diversity. CABIC MRI datasets will be shared publicly to foster investigation of the potential neural mechanisms underlying ASD in non-Western populations and support efforts toward precision medicine for autistic individuals across diverse backgrounds.
Maintenance of pyrophosphate homeostasis in multiple subcellular compartments is essential inPlasmodium falciparum
Authors: Nwankwo Ikechukwu , Ke Hangjun
Published: February 2025

Pyrophosphate is a byproduct of numerous cellular reactions that use ATP or other nucleoside triphosphates to synthesize DNA, RNA, protein, and other molecules. Its degradation into monophosphate is thus crucial for the survival and proliferation of all life forms. The human malaria parasitePlasmodium falciparumencodes two classes of pyrophosphatases to hydrolyze pyrophosphate. The first consists ofP. falciparumproton pumping vacuolar pyrophosphatases (PfVP1 and PfVP2), which localize to the parasite’s subcellular membranes and work as proton pumps. The second includesP. falciparumsoluble pyrophosphatases (PfsPPases), which have not been well characterized. Interestingly, the gene locus of PfsPPase encodes two isoforms, PfsPPase1 (PF3D7_0316300.1) and PfsPPase2 (PF3D7_0316300.2). PfsPPase2 contains a 51- amino acid organellar localization peptide that is absent in PfsPPase1. Here, we combine reverse genetics and biochemical approaches to identify the localization of PfsPPase1 and PfsPPase2 and elucidate their individual functions. We show that PfsPPases are essential for the asexual blood stage. While PfsPPase1 solely localizes to the cytoplasm, PfsPPase2 exhibits multiple localizations including the mitochondrion, the apicoplast, and, to a lesser extent, the cytoplasm. Our data suggest thatP. falciparumhas taken a unique evolutionary trajectory in pyrophosphate metabolism by utilizing a leader sequence to direct sPPases to the mitochondrion and apicoplast. This differs from model eukaryotes as they generally encode multiple sPPases at distinct genetic loci to facilitate pyrophosphate degradation in cytosolic and organellar compartments. Our study highlights PfsPPases as promising targets for the development of novel antimalarial drugs.
Connectomic analysis of astrocyte-synapse interactions in the cerebral cortex
Authors: Yener Yagmur , Motta Alessandro , Helmstaedter Moritz
Published: February 2025

Astrocytes, a main type of glia cells in the cortex, provide metabolic support to neurons, and their possible function as a synaptic partner has given rise to the notion of "tripartite" synapses, suggesting a contribution to neuronal computations. For astrocytes to serve such purposes, the interactions with synapses in neuronal circuits require a level of specificity beyond overall synaptic support. A systematic mapping of the astrocyte-connectome relationship would enable the testing of these hypotheses - such analysis is however still lacking, in particular for circuits in the cerebral cortex. Here, utilizing previously published connectomic data of more than 200,000 synapses, we systematically analyzed the spatial relation between astrocytes and synapses in mouse somatosensory cortex. We developed a quantitative assessment of astrocyte-synapse proximity, finding that only 22.7% of synapses are contacted by astrocytic processes for more than 50% of their synaptic circumference. This non-ubiquitous astrocytic attachment would render astrocyte-synapse specificity plausible. Astrocytic coverage depended strongly on synapse types, with thalamocortical shaft synapses being the most covered by astrocytic processes. We furthermore observed a strong dependence of astrocytic synaptic coverage on synapse size, which was exclusive for excitatory spine synapses. We then investigated the possible relation of astrocytic synaptic coverage to neuronal activity and synaptic plasticity, finding ultrastructural evidence for substantially reduced astrocytic support at synapses consistent with long-term depression, but not for astrocytic coverage dependence on baseline neuronal presynaptic activity. Together, our data demonstrate a high level of specificity of astrocyte-synapse interactions for particular synaptic types. They indicate the potential relevance of astrocytic coverage for synapse stability, in particular for large synapses, suggesting a contribution to long-term maintenance of learned synaptic states. These methods will allow a systematic testing of hypotheses about glial-neuronal interaction in various brain regions, disease models and species including human.
Data-driven approach for modeling the temporal and spectral evolution of kilonova systematic uncertainties
Authors: Jhawar Sahil , Wouters Thibeau , Pang Peter T. H. , Bulla Mattia , Coughlin Michael W. , Dietrich Tim
Published: February 2025

Kilonovae, possible electromagnetic counterparts to neutron star mergers, provide important information about high-energy transient phenomena and, in principle, also allow us to obtain information about the source properties responsible for powering the kilonova. Unfortunately, numerous uncertainties exist in kilonova modeling that, at the current stage, hinder accurate predictions. Hence, one has to account for possible systematic modeling uncertainties when interpreting the observed transients. In this work, we provide a data-driven approach to account for time-dependent and filter-dependent uncertainties in kilonova models. Through a suite of tests, we find that the most reliable recovery of the source parameters and description of the observational data can be obtained through a combination of kilonova models with time- and filter-dependent systematic uncertainties. We apply our new method to analyze AT2017gfo. While recovering a total ejecta mass consistent with previous studies, our approach gives insights into the temporal and spectral evolution of the systematic uncertainties of this kilonova. We consistently find a systematic error below 1 mag between 1 to 5 days after the merger. Our work addresses the need for early follow-up of kilonovae at earlier times, and improved modeling of the kilonova at later times, to reduce the uncertainties outside of this time window.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Particle content of
(scalar curvature)2
gravities revisited
Authors: Karananas Georgios K.
Published: February 2025

Studying the spectrum of (scalar curvature)2 gravities on Minkowski background inevitably results in a catch-22: any consistent interpretation of the particle dynamics dictates that no accidental gauge symmetries emerge, a requirement that cannot be fulfilled when these theories are studied on Minkowski. Being artifacts of the linearized approximation on top of Minkowski spacetime, accidental symmetries do not persist at higher orders and degrees of freedom are reintroduced via interactions, suggesting that the analysis of the particle content is hindered by strong coupling effects. Such undesirable symmetries are absent already at the leading nontrivial order in perturbations on nonflat backgrounds, e.g. de Sitter spacetime, which are the appropriate ones for studying the particle dynamics of these theories.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Extrinsic vs intrinsic criticality in systems with many components
Authors: Ngampruetikorn Vudtiwat , Nemenman Ilya , Schwab David J.
Published: February 2025

Biological systems with many components often exhibit seemingly critical behaviors, characterized by atypically large correlated fluctuations. Yet the underlying causes remain unclear. Here we define and examine two types of criticality. criticality arises from interactions within the system which are fine-tuned to a critical point. criticality, in contrast, emerges without fine-tuning when observable degrees of freedom are coupled to unobserved fluctuating variables. We unify both types of criticality using the language of learning and information theory. We show that critical correlations, intrinsic or extrinsic, lead to diverging mutual information between two halves of the system, and are a feature of learning problems, in which the unobserved fluctuations are inferred from the observable degrees of freedom. We argue that extrinsic criticality is equivalent to standard inference, whereas intrinsic criticality describes , in which the amount to be learned depends on the system size. We show further that both types of criticality are on the same continuum, connected by a smooth crossover. In addition, we investigate the observability of Zipf's law, a power-law rank-frequency distribution often used as an empirical signature of criticality. We find that Zipf's law is a robust feature of extrinsic criticality but can be nontrivial to observe for some intrinsically critical systems, including critical mean-field models. We further demonstrate that models with global dynamics, such as oscillatory models, can produce observable Zipf's law without relying on either external fluctuations or fine-tuning. Our findings suggest that while possible in theory, fine-tuning is not the only, nor the most likely, explanation for the apparent ubiquity of criticality in biological systems with many components. Our work offers an alternative interpretation in which criticality, specifically extrinsic criticality, results from the adaptation of collective behavior to external stimuli.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Green intellectual capital disclosure, CEO gender and corporate performance: an analysis of Italian listed companies
Authors: Ferri Salvatore , Gotti Giacomo , Morrone Carla
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Considering the relevance of “green” as well as of “intellectual capital” in the current economy, scholars and practitioners are increasingly interested into the so-called Green Intellectual Capital (GIC). Against this backdrop, as the research is at an early stage with still no clear evidence, this article intends to investigate the relationship between GIC disclosure and firm’s performance, also analyzing the moderation role of CEO gender.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking into account the theoretical background, the quali-quantitative analysis focuses on a sample of Italian listed companies during the period 2020–2022. To check the relationships, a content analysis has been conducted to measure the level of GIC disclosed and then generalized least squares, ordinary least squares and lasso regression have been employed to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Results show that GIC disclosure produces a negative relationship with financial performance. In the meantime, findings point out that a female CEO moderates this relationship, boosting financial outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

The study offers actionable managerial implications thanks to the proposed set of items to monitoring GIC. At the same time, it underlines how leadership styles can contribute to leverage green knowledge. Moreover, it seeks to contribute to the current literature and offers intriguing insights for policymakers.

Originality/value

This paper addresses the still unclear relationship between GICD and performance, providing new cues regarding the role of women in CEO positions. Furthermore, in doing so, it focuses on Italian listed companies, a context still uncharted. Finally, the methodology represents a novelty in approaching these topics.
The relative influences of long‐term fire management and woody cover on termite abundance and activity in an Australian tropical savanna
Authors: Rochelmeyer Ellen , Evans Theo , Eggleton Paul , Murphy Brett P. , Levick Shaun R. , Stobo‐Wilson Alyson M. , Richards Anna E.
Published: February 2025

Tropical savannas typically experience high fire frequencies, with prescribed fire commonly used as a management tool. Termites play an important role in the ecological functioning of tropical savannas, yet we have a limited understanding of how fire affects these important ecosystem engineers. To account for the effects of fire management on ecosystem structure and function, we need to understand the links between fire management and termite communities.

This study used a long‐term (18‐year) fire experiment in a tropical savanna near Darwin, northern Australia, to investigate the effects of different fire regimes on termite species composition, abundance and activity. We measured termite abundance and activity using a combination of baiting and reduced transect survey methods and compared these with fire activity (summarised fire frequency and intensity) and woody cover.

Termite species richness was similar across all fire treatments, and the level of fire activity had a minimal effect on species composition, which was more strongly influenced by woody cover. Wood‐feeding termite abundance and the consumption of wood baits were negatively correlated with fire activity and positively correlated with woody cover. Soil/wood interface‐feeding termites showed no correlation with fire activity but a positive correlation with woody cover. Significant negative mediation effects of fire activity through woody cover were detected on the abundance of wood‐ and soil/wood interface feeders and wood and straw bait consumption. Grass‐feeding termites were encountered too infrequently to draw conclusions about their correlation with fire activity and woody cover; however, straw bait consumption was positively correlated with fire activity.

Synthesis and applications. The effects of fire on termite abundance and activity are primarily indirect, mediated through changes in vegetation structure. As high fire activity is associated with reduced woody cover, maintaining regimes of frequent, high‐intensity fires over the long term has the potential to affect ecosystem function. While minimising the occurrence of high‐intensity, late dry season fires is consistent with fire management goals in these savannas, care is still required to avoid the negative consequences of high fire frequencies.
Thicker than blood: Exploring the importance of carceral bonds for those formerly serving juvenile life without parole sentences
Authors: Bennett J. Z. , Henson Abigail , Martinez Grace A.
Published: February 2025

The Montgomery vs. Louisiana ruling in 2016 on the unconstitutionality of mandatory juvenile life without the possibility of parole resulted in the resentencing of thousands of cases and the release of hundreds of individuals sentenced as youth to die in prison. Although a breadth of research has explored the consequences of long‐term confinement as it relates to the effects on health, education, employment history, and familial relationships, no existing research has examined the impact of navigating and sustaining meaningful friendships during and after serving a juvenile life without parole (JLWOP) sentence. This novel qualitative study draws from semistructured life‐history interviews (N = 30) with middle‐aged men and women who served time (mean = 33 years incarcerated) under a mandatory JLWOP sentence and were later released. Using the temporal debt framework, findings reveal how the carceral setting forces temporal withdrawals from loved ones in the community, resulting in asynchrony and strain during reentry. Alternatively, the temporal deposits made to similarly situated incarcerated individuals eased the prison experience and reintegration process. The study has implications for parole policies prohibiting engagement among those with felony convictions.
A Population‐Based Correlation Analysis Between Hemoglobin A1c and Hemoglobin Levels
Authors: Zhang Tingyu , Shi Tianyi , Cao Min , Ji Yunxi , Xue Yanbin , Yao Huayan , Yin Qiaomei , Cui Bin , Xie Zhen , He Ping
Published: February 2025

Background

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is widely used to assess long‐term glycemic control in individuals with diabetes. However, various conditions that affect hemoglobin levels or the lifespan of red blood cells can compromise the accuracy of HbA1c measurements. Despite extensive research, the relationship between HbA1c and hemoglobin remains unclear. This study aims to clarify this relationship by examining its correlation across diverse age and gender cohorts.

Methods

Data from 217,991 participants aged 20 to 69 years were collected from health examination centers in Southwest China. Standardized methodologies were used to measure HbA1c and hemoglobin levels. Generalized additive models (GAM) were utilized to analyze non‐linear relationships and adjust for potential confounding variables. Gender‐specific reference intervals (RIs) for hemoglobin were also established.

Results

A gender‐specific association was observed between HbA1c and hemoglobin levels. In men, HbA1c levels decreased with increasing hemoglobin. Among women, a negative correlation was observed in premenopausal women (aged ≤ 45 years), whereas postmenopausal women (aged > 45 years) showed a positive correlation, with HbA1c levels increasing as hemoglobin levels rose. Additionally, HbA1c levels increased with age in both genders, with a more pronounced rise in women after the age of 45.

Conclusion

This study highlights significant gender‐ and age‐related differences in the relationship between HbA1c and hemoglobin. The findings suggest that estrogen‐related metabolic changes may influence HbA1c levels, with potential implications for diabetes management and hormone therapy in postmenopausal women.
First records of the gall midge genus Pseudasphondylia Monzen, 1955 (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) from Australia
Authors: Adair Robin J. , Kolesik Peter
Published: February 2025

Two new species of Pseudasphondylia Monzen, 1955 are described and are the first records of this genus in Australia and for the plant families Myrtaceae and Chenopodiaceae. Pseudasphondylia melanopileus sp. nov. forms inconspicuous galls on the fruits of Melaleuca ericifolia (Myrtaceae) in southern Victoria. Pseudasphondylia nitrariaceia sp. nov. causes semi‐woody galls on the inflorescences of Chenopodium nitrariaceum (Chenopodiaceae) and is widespread in low‐rainfall regions of south‐eastern Australia. Descriptions of adults and immature stages and DNA sequences of the cytochrome oxidase unit I mitochondrial gene segment are given for each of the new species.
Arterial trauma due to central venous catheter insertion: an analysis of incidents reported to the National Reporting and Learning System for England and Wales 2013–2023
Authors: Hart Peter W. , Beddoes Penelope , Burtle David , Bradshaw Michelle L.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Arterial trauma is a rare, but potentially life‐threatening complication of central venous catheter insertion, with limited evidence to guide its prevention and management. We aimed to identify incidents from two national databases of incident reports to better characterise this complication and its consequences.

Methods

We extracted and analysed reports from the National Reporting and Learning System and the Strategic Executive Information System over a 10‐year period, including incidents involving arterial insertion of a dilator or catheter. Arterial puncture by needle or guidewire was included if moderate or severe harm resulted.

Results

We identified 241 arterial trauma incidents including diverse device types, settings and insertion techniques. Arterial trauma occurred despite the reassuring visual appearance of blood in 35 (15%) incidents and despite guidewire visualisation by ultrasound in 53 (22%) incidents. After catheter insertion, a chest radiograph was the most common method which failed to identify arterial cannulation in 20 (27%) cases of delayed recognition. Outcomes included 24 (10%) strokes and 10 (4%) deaths. After excluding femoral and peripherally‐inserted catheters, stroke was associated with delayed diagnosis (RR 3.57, 95%CI 2.04–6.24) and arterial drug administration (RR 2.67, 95%CI 1.48–4.82). However, stroke (eight, 6%) and death (three, 2%) still occurred despite immediate recognition of arterial trauma, underscoring the dangers of arterial dilatation.

Discussion

Whilst some incidents involved potential risk factors (e.g. operator inexperience, landmark technique, paediatric lines and emergent insertion) arterial trauma nevertheless occurs when experienced operators undertake seemingly routine procedures. Our findings complement previous research on serious harm from this complication and support the need for robust and objective pre‐dilatation checks. It is essential that these findings inform the perception, discussion and mitigation of risk associated with central venous catheter insertion to prevent avoidable patient harm.
Long‐term multicentre analysis of robot‐assisted radical cystectomy for non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Tillu Neeraja , Ben‐David Reuben , Skokic Viktor , Rich Jordan M. , Kolanukuduru Kaushik P. , Dey Linda , Rautiola Juhana , Björklund Johan , Almoflihi Mohammed , Eraky Ahmed , Miranda Gus , Cacciamani Giovanni , Desai Mihir , Mehrazin Reza , Sfakianos John P. , Wiklund Peter
Published: February 2025

Objective

To evaluate the 12‐year survival outcomes of patients with non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) who underwent robot‐assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD), focusing on those upstaged to ≥pT2 or with node‐positive disease.

Materials and Methods

A multicentre, prospectively maintained database (2004–2022) was reviewed to identify patients who had undergone RARC. Univariable and multivariable models were used to assess upstaging (≥pT2, ≥pN1), and Kaplan–Meier curves were used to predict cancer‐specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

Among 355 patients with NMIBC (295 men, 60 women), 12.68% had pT2, 8.2% had pT3, 4.2% had pT4, 5.4% had pN1, and 2.8% had pN2 disease. Age ≥ 83 years (odds ratio [OR] 19.7), presence of carcinoma in situ (CIS), in combination with Ta/ T1 bladder cancer (OR 2.7), squamous cell carcinoma (OR 6.6), and variant histology (OR 6.2), predicted upstaging. A body mass index ≥28 kg/m2 (OR 0.4) and Tis alone (OR 0.1) reduced upstaging. The OS rate for the entire cohort was 93% at 1 year, 87% at 5 years and 49% at 12 years. The CSS rate was 97% at 1 year, 83% at 5 years and 76% at 12 years. At 12 years, OS was better in the non‐upstaged cohort (52%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 37%–74%) vs the upstaged cohort (39%, 95% CI 26%–57%). CSS was higher in the non‐upstaged cohort (79%, 95% CI 71%–88%; P < 0.001) vs the upstaged cohort (68%, 95% CI 56%–82%; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study provides the longest follow‐up data on RARC in NMIBC. The presence of CIS, variant histology, and pT1 on transurethral resection of the bladder tumour were predictors of upstaging, which correlated with higher recurrence and worse survival. RARC with ICUD is a minimally invasive option for NMIBC patients who need to undergo early cystectomy, offering comparable long‐term outcomes.
Perioperative clinical and radiological predictors of late post‐traumatic seizures in surgically treated patients with depressed skull fractures: A prospective observational study
Authors: Lekuya Hervé Monka , Vandersteene Jelle , Kateete David Patrick , Makumbi Fredrick , Cose Stephen , Kalala Jean‐Pierre Okito , Galukande Moses , Baert Edward
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aimed to identify perioperative clinical and radiological factors that predict the risk of developing late posttraumatic seizures (PTS) within 24 months of injury among surgically managed traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients with depressed skull fracture (DSF).

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted at Mulago Hospital, Uganda, involving mild‐to‐moderate TBI patients with DSF, followed up perioperatively and at outpatient clinics, and additionally via phone interviews for up to 24 months. The study monitored the incidence and recurrence of late PTS.

Results

The cohort included 171 patients with DSF, with a median age of 24 years (interquartile range = 15–31), 89.5% of whom were male, and 49.73% were assault victims. Approximately 73.1% had mild TBI, and 25% had a history of immediate or early PTS. The frontal bone was most commonly involved (46.2%). Over 24 months, nine patients (5.3%) experienced their first late PTS within 6 months, and a total of 20 reported late PTS by the end of follow‐up (277.17 person‐years, with 37 lost to follow‐up). Incidence rate of late PTS was higher among those with a history of immediate and early PTS (.1319 vs. .0527, p = .0449). Multivariate analysis identified the absence of basal cisterns, midline shift (MLS) ≥ 5 mm, and dural tear as significant predictors of late PTS, with increased risks of sevenfold, fourfold, and >2.5‐fold, respectively. Furthermore, abnormal basal cisterns were associated with a higher risk of late PTS recurrence.

Significance

A history of immediate or early PTS and abnormal radiological findings such as absent basal cisterns, MLS ≥ 5 mm, and dural tear are strong predictors of late PTS in DSF patients. The risk of developing late PTS gradually increases over time. We recommend aggressive management of increased intracranial pressure during the acute phase of TBI and systematic antiseizure prophylaxis to potentially mitigate the risk of late PTS. We also emphasize the importance of implementing long‐term management and surveillance strategies for high‐risk patients.
Characterising equine abdominal lipomata: Can histological features improve the understanding of pathogenesis and risk?
Authors: Gillen Alexandra , Archer Debra , Ireland Joanne , Rocchigiani Guido
Published: February 2025

Background

Strangulating lipomata are the most common cause of small intestinal strangulating obstruction. Evaluation of histological features of pathological and non‐pathological lipomata, and the histological properties of omental and retroperitoneal fat have not been described.

Objectives

To characterise histological features of equine abdominal lipomata, omental and retroperitoneal adipose tissue, and associations between them.

Study design

Prospective observational anatomic (gross and histological).

Methods

Horses undergoing emergency laparotomy for management of abdominal pain in a single hospital were recruited. Signalment was recorded. Gross features of lipomata that were a cause of strangulating obstruction (pathological lipomata [PAL]), and lipomata that were currently not causing an intestinal obstruction (pedunculated [PEL] or non‐pedunculated [NPL]) were recorded. Lipomata that were removed intra‐operatively, or following owner‐requested euthanasia, as well as omentum or retroperitoneal adipose tissue, where excised routinely as part of routine management (or post‐euthanasia) were fixed in 10% neutral‐buffered formalin prior to staining (haematoxylin and eosin, picrosirius red). Descriptive statistical analyses were performed. Pearson's chi‐square, Fisher's exact or Kruskal–Wallis tests, as appropriate, were used to assess associations. Significance was p < 0.05.

Results

Seventy‐four horses were enrolled; 71 lipomata, 48 retroperitoneal adipose samples, and 26 omental samples underwent evaluation. Increasing age was predictive of lipomata presence and PAL/PEL. Neither omental nor retroperitoneal adipose tissue histological features were correlated with lipomata presence or type. PAL were more likely to exhibit capsule formation (PAL: 70%, NPL: 42%, p = 0.03), and had a higher vascular density (median 10.6; IQR: 8.8–16.8; p = 0.05), compared with NPL. PEL were more likely to exhibit steatonecrosis (PEL: 92%, NPL: 33%, p = 0.01) and had increased mineralisation (PEL: 67%, NPL: 17%, p = 0.05) compared with NPL.

Main limitations

Small sample size.

Conclusions

Histological features of omental and retroperitoneal fat do not predict presence of lipomata or type. However, there are histological features of PAL and PEL which may be related to pathological potential.
Root Morpho‐Physiological Characteristics and Yield Formation of Rice Under Combined Salinity‐Drought Stress
Authors: Meng Tianyao , Wang Lulu , Zhu Wang , Zhu Guanglong , Wei Huanhe , Xu Ke , Dai Qigen , Zhou Guisheng
Published: February 2025

Because of inadequate freshwater resources and poor irrigation facilities, salinity and drought often co‐occur for rice production in saline lands. The root is the primary and most vulnerable organ for detecting and perceiving salinity and drought stresses in soil. Still, little information is available on the root morpho‐physiological characteristics and grain yield of rice when subjected to the combined salinity‐drought stress. The present study was conducted under two salinity levels (NS, non‐salinity treatment; S, salinity treatment) and three drought levels imposed from jointing to heading (ND, non‐drought treatment; MD, moderate drought treatment; SD, severe drought treatment). Salinity and drought treatments shortened the duration from heading to maturity by 5–9 days and total growth duration by 3–6 days. Grain yield was reduced (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05) under salinity and drought, and the reduction was more significant under their combined stress. The aggravated yield loss under the combined salinity‐drought was attributed to lower yield components relative to salinity and drought alone. The combined stress caused greater decreases in root and shoot biomass and root/shoot ratio at heading and maturity, although there was an increase in harvest index. Individual salinity and drought, and especially their combined stress, reduced root length and root volume at heading and maturity and increased reduction rates of root length and root volume after heading. Root‐bleeding rate and root oxidative activity after heading were decreased under salinity and drought, and the decreases were greater under the combined salinity‐drought stress; similar trends were detected for flag leaf photosynthetic rate and zeatin (Z) and zeatin riboside (ZR) contents in the root‐bleeding sap and flag leaf. Our results suggested a greater yield penalty of rice when subjected to the combined stress of salinity and drought. Individual salinity, drought, and especially their combined stresses deteriorated root morphology and physiology, which shortened growth duration, accelerated plant senescence, weakened leaf photosynthesis and biomass accumulation, and led to poor grain yield.
Quantitative analysis of human umbilical vein endothelial cell morphology and tubulogenesis
Authors: Mignone Viviane , Arruda Maria Augusta , Kilpatrick Laura , Moore Benjamin , Woolard Jeanette , Hill Stephen , Goulding Joëlle
Published: February 2025

Primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells can grow as both a monolayer in culture and also as a capillary‐like network making them an ideal model system in order to study vascular remodelling. Image‐based analysis can allow assessment of cell morphology and motility but is dependent on accurate cell segmentation which requires high‐contrast images not normally achievable without fluorescent markers. Here, ptychography is employed as a label‐free image‐based modality in order to extract quantitative metrics of morphology and tubulogenesis from cultured HUVECs over time in an automated multiwell assay. Phase‐specific parameters of dry mass, optical thickness and sphericity were extracted and assessed alongside other metrics of cell number and shape. Tubulogenesis could be captured dynamically without any imaging artefacts from use of a basement membrane matrix and metrics of tube number, growth and branching exported alongside morphology metrics at early time‐points. Utilising ptychography‐based image analysis, all VEGF165a isoforms studied, elicited a concentration‐dependent effect on cell elongation and survival within a HUVEC monolayer. Pharmacologically relevant parameters of potency (EC50) and efficacy were derived, exemplifying this label‐free approach for the multiparameter and multiwell quantitative study of vascular remodelling in physiologically relevant cells at 37°C.
Co‐Creation of Complementary Food for Operational Rations: An Exploratory and Collaborative Case Study Between Brazilian Military Personnel
Authors: de Abreu Vitor Luiz F. , Tavares Filho Elson R. , Monteiro Sabrina S. , Esmerino Erick A.
Published: February 2025

In the development of operational rations, products designed to meet military demands must support adequate nutritional intake to enhance performance in missions and operations. In this sense, the present study adopted a co‐creation methodology to develop a product intended for inclusion in operational rations, guided by the perceptions of Brazilian military personnel with experience in using these rations. An online questionnaire was conducted to collect both structured and unstructured data, framed as a co‐creation task involving 360 members of the Brazilian Army. The results revealed a clear preference for a product with a high protein content (specifically, whey protein), chocolate flavor, bar format, and soft texture among different presentations, flavors, and formulations. This approach addresses existing questions about developing optimal products for military personnel and offers industrial and academic insights for tailored product development in specialized sectors.
Time‐integrated δ2H in n‐alkanes and carbohydrates from boreal needles reveal intra‐annual physiological and environmental signals
Authors: Angove Charlotte , Wiesenberg Guido L. B. , Lehmann Marco M. , Saurer Matthias , Tang Yu , Sahlstedt Elina , Speckert Tatjana C. , Schiestl‐Aalto Pauliina P. , Rinne‐Garmston Katja T.
Published: February 2025

Reliable insights from key δ2H bioindicators, n‐alkanes and carbohydrates, are hindered by our limited understanding of isotope fractionation processes related to leaf water and primary assimilates. We addressed this with the first study to investigate time‐integrated intra‐annual δ2H signals of n‐alkanes and carbohydrates in a natural forest.

We sampled 1‐yr‐old needles (1N) and current‐year needles (0N) from five Scots Pine trees in a coniferous forest in Hyytiälä, Finland, biweekly during 2019. The δ2H of their n‐alkanes (δ2Halkane), water‐soluble carbohydrates (δ2HWSC) and starch (δ2Hstarch) were evaluated for time‐integrated physiological (gas‐exchange) and environmental (hydrological) signals.

Time integration was critical for interpreting δ2HWSC and δ2Halkane. Time‐integrated net assimilation rate (T:An), the strongest signal in δ2HWSC, correlated negatively with 1N δ2HWSC (early season) and positively with 0N δ2HWSC (late season). Unexpectedly, δ2Halkane exhibited stronger environmental signals in 1N than in 0N, with the most pronounced being physiologically mediated hydrological signals.

T:An is a major signal in intra‐annual δ2HWSC in a boreal forest, subject to seasonal interactions with needle age and δ2Hstarch. There could be enough de novo n‐alkane synthesis in situ to enhance the reliability of δ2Halkane as a hydrological indicator, bringing promise to interpretations of the n‐alkane palaeohydrological record.