bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detecting somatic variants in purified brain DNA obtained from surgically implanted depth electrodes in epilepsy
Authors: Mascarenhas Rumika , Merrikh Daria , Khanbabaei Maryam , Kaur Navprabhjot , Ghaderi Navid , Maroilley Tatiana , Liu Yiping , Soule Tyler , Appendino Juan Pablo , Jacobs Julia , Wiebe Samuel ,   the Calgary Comprehensive Epilepsy Program Collaborators, Hader Walter , Pfeffer Gerald , Tarailo‐Graovac Maja , Klein Karl Martin
Published: January 2025

Objective

Somatic variants causing epilepsy are challenging to detect, as they are only present in a subset of brain cells (e.g., mosaic), resulting in low variant allele frequencies. Traditional methods relying on surgically resected brain tissue are limited to patients undergoing brain surgery. We developed an improved protocol to detect somatic variants using DNA from stereoelectroencephalographic (SEEG) depth electrodes, enabling access to a larger patient cohort and diverse brain regions. This protocol mitigates issues of contamination and low yields by purifying neuronal nuclei using fluorescence‐activated nuclei sorting (FANS).

Methods

SEEG depth electrodes were collected upon extraction from 41 brain regions across 17 patients undergoing SEEG. Nuclei were isolated separately from depth electrodes in the affected brain regions (seizure onset zone) and the unaffected brain regions. Neuronal nuclei were isolated using FANS, and DNA was amplified using primary template amplification. Short tandem repeat (STR) analysis and postsequencing allelic imbalance assessment were used to evaluate sample integrity. High‐quality amplified DNA samples from affected brain regions, patient‐matched unaffected brain regions, and genomic DNA were subjected to whole exome sequencing (WES). A bioinformatic workflow was developed to reduce false positives and to accurately detect somatic variants in the affected brain region.

Results

Based on DNA yield and STR analysis, 14 SEEG‐derived neuronal DNA samples (seven affected and seven unaffected) across seven patients underwent WES. From the variants prioritized using our bioinformatic workflow, we chose four candidate variants in MTOR, CSDE1, KLLN, and NLE1 across four patients based on pathogenicity scores and association with phenotype. All four variants were validated using digital droplet polymerase chain reaction.

Significance

Our approach enhances the reliability and applicability of SEEG‐derived DNA for epilepsy, offering insights into its molecular basis, facilitating epileptogenic zone identification, and advancing precision medicine.
Comparative analysis of clinical, haematological and serum biochemical profiles in polo horses and their sedentary counterparts
Authors: Akinniyi O. O. , Okuneye D. T. , Alaba B. A. , Banwo O. G. , Koleosho S. A. , Jeremiah O. T. , Omobowale T. O.
Published: January 2025

Background

Regular exercise benefits horses' overall health; yet data on long‐term physiological adaptations in polo horses remains limited.

Objectives

The study aimed to compare the clinical, haematology and serum biochemical profiles of polo and sedentary horses.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Forty adult mares (20 sedentary and 20 polo), aged 10–15 years, were evaluated. The polo horses had competed in three major high‐goal and nine medium/low‐goal tournaments in the previous 12 months and received daily exercise, while the sedentary horses were for leisure and kept in their stalls most of the time with no physical activity. The study evaluated the following clinical parameters at rest: respiratory rate (RR), rectal temperature (RT), blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR). Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein via 10 mL syringes and analysed for haematological and biochemical parameters. Independent t test was used for statistical analysis, with a p ≤ 0.05 considered significant.

Results

Polo horses showed significantly lower (p < 0.05) resting respiratory rate, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure compared to sedentary horses. Haematologically, polo horses exhibited higher (p < 0.05) packed cell volume (37.2 ± 5.9% vs. 33.1 ± 3.0%), haemoglobin (12.1 ± 2.1 vs. 10.8 ± 1.0 g/dL), red blood cells (5.9 ± 1.1 vs. 5.2 ± 0.8 × 106/μL) and platelets (127.4 ± 17.7 vs. 108.1 ± 20.5 × 109/μL). Biochemically, polo horses demonstrated higher (p < 0.05) total protein, albumin, globulin, creatinine, total bilirubin, creatine kinase, and high‐density lipoprotein, while showing lower (p < 0.05) aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen, cholesterol, triglycerides and low‐density lipoprotein. No significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed in rectal temperature, diastolic blood pressure, most white blood cell parameters, glucose, electrolytes and several other biochemical markers.

Conclusion

Regular polo training induces favourable physiological adaptations. Future research should track these changes longitudinally and inform improved training and care strategies for equine athletes.
Paraneoplastic pruritus in a 7‐year‐old Slovak Warmblood with malignant round cell tumour
Authors: Rovňanová N. , Kostolániová V. , Lešková K. , Csizmár S. H. , Žert Z.
Published: January 2025

A 7‐year‐old Slovak Warmblood gelding, used as a police horse, initially presented to the referral clinic as a 5‐year‐old, with a prominent nonhealing, itchy hypertrophic scar on the distal limb, which required surgical removal. After removal of the scar and successful closure of the skin, it was necessary to bandage the healing wound to prevent self‐mutilation as the site remained pruritic post‐operatively. Two years later, the horse was presented to the clinic again, but this time with pruritic and alopecic regions of the head, neck, limbs and base of the tail. Attempts to find the cause of dermal irritation included dermatological, parasitological, microbiological and ultrasonographic examination. Treatment with corticosteroids, antiparasitics and antibiotics were not successful. Further investigation, due to the horse's worsening general status, subsequently identified marked pleural effusion. Cytology of the pleural fluid confirmed there was, as suspected, neoplastic changes in the thoracic cavity. Upon post‐mortem, there were gross pathological changes of the lymphatic tissue of the cranial mediastinum, surroundings of the thoracic aorta and the lymph nodes of the abdominal cavity. Histology of the lymphatic nodes confirmed poorly differentiated round cell tumours. Histopathological findings suggested that there was a very aggressive form of lymphoma present. The pruritus, generalised moth‐eaten alopecia and self‐mutilation were the first symptoms of terminal disease in this case.
Factors affecting the mean electrical axis of the heart in trained Thoroughbreds
Authors: Felici M. , Pratelli P. , Gazzano A. , Cecchi F. , Incastrone G. , Bernabò N. , Baragli P.
Published: January 2025

Background

Assuming that the ventricular myocardium of horses is subjected to exercise‐induced hypertrophy, we hypothesised that the mean electrical axis (MEA) of the heart would change.

Objectives

To define a longitudinal study to detect any changes in the direction of the MEA in Thoroughbred horses using ECG.

Study design

ECGs were recorded on each horse in each training group at day 0 (T0), 1 month (T1) and 2 months (T2) of training.

Methods

A total of 43 Thoroughbred horses in training in Italy were recruited. The horses were divided into three groups according to age. The ECGs were recorded by positioning the electrodes according to Dubois's method for measuring MEA in the frontal plane. Intervals with artefact‐free QRS complexes in both bipolar DI and augmented unipolar aVF leads were selected, and the vector obtained was identified as the MEA. The statistical analysis was performed via generalised linear mixed model (GLMM) and principal component analysis (PCA).

Results

A statistically significant effect of time passing between T0 and T2 (p < 0.001) and an interaction between time and sex on the MEA was found (p = 0.04). PCA revealed that the population studied had different patterns, with three horses showing higher variability in the MEA direction.

Main limitations

There was no good sex balance in the age groups of the population studied, and there was no control group. The 1‐month sampling intervals of ECGs may have been too short. Confirmatory studies are needed.

Conclusions

We believe that our results are the first to suggest that training may lead to changes in MEA orientation in horses. Sex and individuality were found to influence MEA orientation and may have contributed to the difficulty in detecting training‐dependent changes in MEA to date.
Human Footprint and Forest Disturbance Reduce Space Use of Brown Bears (Ursus arctos) Across Europe
Authors: Hertel Anne G. , Parres Aida , Frank Shane C. , Renaud Julien , Selva Nuria , Zedrosser Andreas , Balkenhol Niko , Maiorano Luigi , Fedorca Ancuta , Dutta Trishna , Bogdanović Neda , Bragalanti Natalia , Chiriac Silviu , Ćirović Duško , Ciucci Paolo , Domokos Csaba , Fedorca Mihai , Filacorda Stefano , Finďo Slavomir , Groff Claudio , de Gabriel Hernando Miguel , Huber Djuro , Ionescu Georgeta , Jerina Klemen , Karamanlidis Alexandros A. , Kindberg Jonas , Kojola Ilpo , Mertzanis Yorgos , Palazon Santiago , Pop Mihai I. , Psaralexi Maria , Quenette Pierre Yves , Sergiel Agnieszka , Skuban Michaela , Zlatanova Diana , Zwijacz‐Kozica Tomasz , De Barba Marta
Published: January 2025

Three‐quarters of the planet's land surface has been altered by humans, with consequences for animal ecology, movements and related ecosystem functioning. Species often occupy wide geographical ranges with contrasting human disturbance and environmental conditions, yet, limited data availability across species' ranges has constrained our understanding of how human pressure and resource availability jointly shape intraspecific variation of animal space use. Leveraging a unique dataset of 758 annual GPS movement trajectories from 375 brown bears (Ursus arctos) across the species' range in Europe, we investigated the effects of human pressure (i.e., human footprint index), resource availability and predictability, forest cover and disturbance, and area‐based conservation measures on brown bear space use. We quantified space use at different spatiotemporal scales during the growing season (May–September): home range size; representing general space requirements, 10‐day long‐distance displacement distances, and routine 1‐day displacement distances. We found large intraspecific variation in brown bear space use across all scales, which was profoundly affected by human footprint index, vegetation productivity, and recent forest disturbances creating opportunity for resource pulses. Bears occupied smaller home ranges and moved less in more anthropized landscapes and in areas with higher resource availability and predictability. Forest disturbances reduced space use while contiguous forest cover promoted longer daily movements. The amount of strictly protected and roadless areas within bear home ranges was too small to affect space use. Anthropized landscapes may hinder the expansion of small and isolated populations, such as the Apennine and Pyrenean, and obstruct population connectivity, for example between the Dinaric Pindos population and the Alpine or Carpathian population. Our findings call for actions to maintain bear movements across landscapes with high human footprint, for example by maintaining forest integrity, to support viable bear populations and their ecosystem functions.
Co‐Expression of Dominant‐Negative TGF‐β Receptor 2 Enhances the Therapeutic Efficacy of Novel TREM1/DAP12‐BB‐Based CAR‐T Cells in Solid Tumours
Authors: Zhu Sichao , Hu Jianping , Lin Jie , Wang Chen , Wang Enxiu
Published: January 2025

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy has exhibited remarkable efficacy in the treatment of haematological malignancies, yet its application in solid tumours is hindered by the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment (TME). In this study, a novel SS1‐TREM1/DAP12‐BB CAR‐T cell was devised to target ovarian cancer and further engineered to co‐express the dominant‐negative TGF‐β receptor 2 (DNR) to combat CAR‐T cell exhaustion in TME. The incorporation of DNR effectively blocked TGF‐β signalling, thereby enhancing CAR‐T cell survival and antitumor activity in a TGF‐β1‐rich environment. In vivo evaluations demonstrated that DNR co‐expression potentiated the antitumor efficacy of TREM1/DAP12‐BB CAR‐T cells and conferred resilience against tumour rechallenge. These findings underscore the broad potential of DNR co‐expression in CAR design, presenting a novel therapeutic strategy for patients with recurrent ovarian cancer.
Characterisation of Water and Heat Fluxes of Typical Crops and Simulation of Evapotranspiration in Saline‐Alkali Soil of the Yellow River Delta, China
Authors: Haonan Qiu , Shihong Yang , Guangmei Wang , Xiaoling Liu , Jie Zhang , Yi Xu , Shide Dong , Hanwen Liu , Zewei Jiang
Published: January 2025

The investigation of water and heat flux variation patterns in saline‐alkali land is significant due to the distinctive characteristics that affect crop growth, and surface energy flux and evapotranspiration are two key factors affecting saline‐alkali land. Surface energy fluxes and evapotranspiration of three crops (wheat, maize, and soybean) in saline‐alkali soils were observed using an EC (eddy covariance) system. The energy balance closure of the three crops was evaluated at the daily scale with regression slopes of 0.82 for wheat, 0.83 for maize, and 0.65 for soybean. During the growing season, wheat, maize, and soybean exhibited average LE (latent heat) to Rn (net radiation) ratios of 0.66, 0.55, and 0.65, respectively. Notably, LE dominated the consumption of Rn. The correlation analysis showed that the three crops in saline‐alkali soil had the highest correlation with Rn and photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) and a negative correlation with humidity (RH). Notably, crops in saline‐alkali soil exhibited more pronounced nocturnal evapotranspiration (ET) variations in the middle and late growth stages compared to other dryland cropping systems. Based on the observed ET data and meteorological factors, this paper constructed ET prediction models for three crops in saline‐alkali soil at 30‐min and daily scales using back propagation neural network (BP), random forest (RF), and k‐neighbourhood (KNN). BP exhibits better model performance. In most cases, the results showed that the best model performance of wheat, maize, and soybeans at the 30‐min scale were R2 = 0.812, RMSE = 0.0449 mm; R2 = 0.683, RMSE = 0.0858 mm; R2 = 0.802, RMSE = 0.0672 mm. The work in this study contributes to the understanding of the changing patterns of water–heat fluxes in crops in saline‐alkali soil and enables prediction of crop evapotranspiration in saline soils.
Integrated experimental and thermodynamic modeling study of phase equilibria in the PbO‐CaO‐AlO1.5 system in air
Authors: Khartcyzov Georgii , Shevchenko Maksym , Nekhoroshev Evgenii , Jak Evgueni
Published: January 2025

The present study focused on the phase equilibria in the PbO‐CaO‐AlO1.5 and PbO‐CaO systems in air. The high‐temperature phase equilibria in these systems were studied using the high‐temperature equilibration and quenching technique. The compositions of phases present in the quenched samples were then measured using the electron probe X‐ray microanalysis. The liquidus of the PbO‐CaO‐AlO1.5 system in air, including Ca3Al2O6, Ca12Al14O33, (Ca,Pb)Al2O4, CaAl4O7, (Ca,Pb)Al12O19, Ca2PbO4, corundum (Al2O3), lime (CaO), massicot (PbO), Pb9Al8O21, PbAl2O4, and PbCa2Al8O15 primary phase fields as well as the immiscibility gap in the liquidi of Ca3Al2O6, Ca12Al14O33, and (Ca,Pb)Al2O4 have been experimentally characterized. The experimental data obtained were used for the thermodynamic optimization of a self‐consistent set of parameters of the thermodynamic model for all phases of the PbO‐CaO‐AlO1.5 system in air, in agreement with the Cu‐Pb‐Zn‐Fe‐Ca‐Si‐Al‐Mg‐O‐S‐(As, Sn, Sb, Bi, Ag, Au, Ni, Cr, Co, and Na) gas/oxide liquid/matte/speiss/metal/solids system in support of the development and optimization of pyrometallurgical processes. The predicted liquidus projection of the PbO‐CaO‐AlO1.5 system was presented for the first time in the complete range of temperatures and compositions.
Exploring the Impact of Thermal Processing on the Quality Attributes of Honey: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Bhure Rohan Avinash , Alam Masud , Nanda Vikas , Pawar Vikas M. , Saxena Sachin
Published: January 2025

Nectar collected by bees from diverse origins, at different time points throughout the year, under different environmental conditions, and from diverse flora influences the composition of the honey. However, intensive migratory beekeeping practices and unhygienic extraction methods can compromise its aesthetic appeal, nutritional quality, and microbiological safety. Thermal treatment is a critical step in industrial honey processing, aimed at extending shelf life by reducing moisture content, improving viscosity for efficient handling, transportation, and packaging. Despite these advantages, thermal processing can adversely affect honey's quality by increasing hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) levels and reducing diastase activity, both key indicators of honey's freshness and quality. Although typical HMF levels in honey are generally considered safe, concerns about its potential carcinogenicity in specific food items, though minimal, underscore the need for careful processing. This review comprehensively examines the effects of thermal treatments on honey's quality attributes, including its nutritional, sensory, and microbiological properties. It also highlights strategies to moderate the negative impacts of heat treatment, ensuring the production of high‐quality honey with lower HMF content and preserved bioactivity. Future research directions are discussed to optimize processing techniques, addressing safety concerns while maintaining honey's unique biological and functional properties.
Effects of a self‐efficacy‐centered self‐management program on neurogenic bladder after spinal cord injury: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tang Xiangxiang , Liu Qian , Su Xiaoping , Yu Zepeng
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The present research aimed to investigate the effects of a self‐efficacy‐centered self‐management program on persons with neurogenic bladder (NGB) after spinal cord injury (SCI).

Design

A randomized controlled trial.

Materials and Methods

Eighty‐two individuals with NGB after spinal cord injury (SCI) were randomized into either the control or intervention group. The control group received standard admission and discharge education and follow‐up. The intervention group received the self‐efficacy‐centered self‐management program. Self‐efficacy was assessed at preintervention, 4, 8, and 12 weeks post‐intervention. Self‐management ability, the incidence of urinary tract infection (UTI), residual urine volume, bladder safety capacity, and quality of life were assessed at 12 weeks post‐intervention.

Results

Of the 82 recruited participants, only 79 participants (control group: n = 39, 67% males, intervention group: n = 40, 58% males) received the full intervention. A significant difference was observed in self‐efficacy score between the control and intervention groups (2.54 ± .247 versus 2.71 ± .218, mean difference = .174, 95% confidential interval: .070–.278, p = .001) at 12 weeks post‐intervention. The intervention group demonstrated significantly better outcomes than the control group at 12 weeks post‐intervention in self‐management ability, urinary tract infection (UTI) incidence, residual urine volume and bladder safety capacity. There were significant differences in quality of life (vitality [VT] and mental health [MH] subscales) between the two groups.

Conclusions

The self‐efficacy‐centered self‐management program developed in this study can significantly increase participants' self‐efficacy and bladder self‐management ability, thereby improving their bladder functional status and quality of life.
Sustainable Sociability: Allowing Sociability Through Door Design in the Age of Social Media, a Practical Exploration of Modularity With Traditional Techniques
Authors: Hafeez Xahra , Hafeez Sana
Published: January 2025

This research presents the development of innovative modular doors specifically designed to foster interpersonal connections in digital environment of today. The door is analyzed both as a symbol and as a site of projective identification, exploring how it represents emotional or psychological states and how people may project their identity onto it. The present analysis looks at thresholds and doors in cultural anthropology and how they impact human behaviors due to their shape, form and function in variety of cultures and different time periods. The second aspect of the research deals with the designing of modular doors which cater to our current social needs. These doors create opportunities by integrating flexible, open designs that reduce acoustic and visual barriers for spontaneous interactions. Making social engagement more natural and frequent while keeping a balance between connectivity and privacy. The findings suggest that such designs can play a crucial role in promoting more meaningful face‐to‐face interactions. It also brings the focus back from industrial and mass‐produced products to handmade pieces by using sustainable materials, locally sourced and crafted by artisans in Pakistan.
From Hopeful Heroes to Cynical Martyrs: Identity Work and the Path‐Dependent Identification with Maladaptive Logics
Authors: Botha Lindie , Hamann Ralph
Published: January 2025

Scholars have long attended to both the persistence and change of institutional logic–identity constellations, but we know less about why and how organizational members might cling to a logic despite its evident maladaptive character and the resulting emotional upheaval. Based on a 5‐year ethnography of a conservation organization's paramilitary campaign against rhino poaching, we induct a process model to show how the crisis‐induced adoption of a new logic and the corresponding identity work can have path‐dependent effects that tip hopeful heroism into cynical martyrdom and a dogged commitment to a maladaptive logic, with negative organizational implications. We identify three forms of identity work that act as self‐reinforcing mechanisms of this path dependence: polarizing, normalizing, and cynical coping. Elaborating the intersection of scholarship on institutions, identity work, identification, and path dependence, we explain how an initially valorized identity can twist into a darker, dysfunctional version of itself, with path‐dependent mechanisms contributing to organizational rigidity in the face of crises.
Desperate Journeys to Europe: Sensebreaking in Extreme Contexts
Authors: Chaudhry Amna , Amis John M.
Published: January 2025

This paper uncovers the ways in which sensebreaking processes are initiated and then unfold over time in extreme contexts. Using semi‐structured interviews with irregular migrants from Pakistan undertaking perilous journeys to Europe, this research makes two major contributions to the literatures on extreme contexts and sensebreaking. First, we develop two temporal modes of sensebreaking: sensebreaking with the past and sensebreaking with the future. We reveal the role of liminal spaces in sensebreaking and explain why sensebreaking needs to be reconceptualized as an inherently protracted, often indeterminate, process. Second, we uncover the triggers and drivers of sensebreaking in extreme contexts. We identify two states that precipitate sensebreaking, derealization and disorientation. We theorize the ways in which they are triggered by emotional and physical disruptions and their role in sustaining sensebreaking over time. We also explicate how temporal irregularities, particularly time contortion and time appropriation, influence the development of sensebreaking in extreme contexts.
Validation of the Morningness–Eveningness Scale for Children (MESC) with ambulatory circadian monitoring of temperature, light exposure and activity
Authors: Puig‐Navarro Yaiza , Díaz‐Morales Juan F.
Published: January 2025

The external validity of the Morningness–Eveningness Scale for Children was analysed via objective measures of skin temperature, light exposure and motor activity with the ambulatory circadian monitoring methodology. A total of 138 adolescents (57 boys and 81 girls) aged 12–13 years, who in addition to completing the Morningness–Eveningness Scale for Children to determine their circadian typology wore a wrist activity device (Kronowise 3.0; Kronohealth SL) during school days and a weekend, participated. Circadian parameters, such as mesor, amplitude and acrophase, were estimated for skin temperature, light exposure and motor activity, as were sleep parameters, such as risetime, bedtime and social jetlag. The results indicated that during the weekend E‐type adolescents experienced later acrophases in temperature, light and activity than I‐type and M‐type adolescents did, whereas boys experienced earlier acrophases in temperature and activity. When school weekdays were compared with the weekend, there was a weekend delay in the acrophases of temperature (1:03), light exposure (2:03) and activity (3:15). The results obtained in this study provide external validity for applying the Morningness–Eveningness Scale for Children in the naturalistic context of high school while considering sex and type‐of‐day differences as important variables in chronopsychological studies.
Identity, Collective Action and Inaction: The Role of Self‐Esteem and Psychological Benefits
Authors: Shultziner Doron
Published: January 2025

This paper proposes a theoretical framework of collective action that integrates three aspects of identity—social identity, moral convictions, and self‐esteem. The paper explains how these identity aspects relate to each other and how they affect collective action or inaction. The paper presents a framework that returns to and focuses on the underlying cognitive motivations to engage in collective action while paying special attention to the mechanism of maintaining positive self‐esteem and the benefits that people may gain from participation in collective action. These benefits explain both the personal incentives for action or inaction and the positive feedback loops of action on self‐esteem which reinforce additional mobilization and explain why some individuals participate more than their peers. The framework draws from existing theories and empirical studies to formulate testable hypotheses and stresses the importance of studying both participants and non‐participants of the same affected social group.
Optimization of the Use of APRI and FIB‐4 for Ruling Out Liver Cirrhosis in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients With Normal Alanine Aminotransferase
Authors: Zhang Zhiyi , Wang Jian , Zhu Li , Li Yiguang , Zhang Shaoqiu , Pan Yifan , Chen Yuxin , Yin Shengxia , Yan Xiaomin , Liu Xingxiang , Qiu Yuanwang , Wu Chao , Li Jie , Zhu Chuanwu , Huang Rui
Published: January 2025

The exclusion of cirrhosis is important in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with normal alanine aminotransferase (ALT). We aimed to optimise the performance of the aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI) and fibrosis score based on four factors (FIB‐4) to exclude cirrhosis in these patients. Five hundred and eighty four patients with normal ALT who underwent liver biopsy were included in the study. The patients were divided into derivation and external validation sets. A grid search method was used to identify new cut‐offs with a negative predictive value (NPV) of > 95% and a sensitivity of > 90% for detecting cirrhosis. The proportion of patients with cirrhosis in the derivation and validation sets was 19.4% and 7.5%, respectively. The conventional cut‐offs of APRI (77.6%) and FIB‐4 (41.8%) had high rates of cirrhosis misclassification. A new APRI cut‐off of 0.21 had a sensitivity of 97.0% and an NPV of 95.6%, and only two (3.0%) patients with cirrhosis were misclassified in the derivation set. Using a new FIB‐4 cut‐off of 0.53, with a sensitivity of 98.5% and NPV of 96.2%, only one (1.5%) patient with cirrhosis was misclassified. External validation showed similar results. Using the new cut‐offs of APRI and FIB‐4, cirrhosis could be completely excluded for HBeAg‐positive patients or those aged > 40 years. The conventional cut‐offs had high misclassification rates for cirrhosis. The new cut‐offs of APRI (≤ 0.21) and FIB‐4 (≤ 0.53) could be used to exclude cirrhosis in CHB patients with normal ALT levels with a low misclassification rate.
Development and Evaluation of SYBR Green Real‐Time PCR for Rapid and Specific Identification of Trichophyton indotineae
Authors: Rouhi Faezeh , Aboutalebian Shima , Rezaei‐Matehkolaei Ali , Jahanshiri Zahra , Shidfar Mohammad‐Reza , Chadeganipour Amir‐Shayan , Shadzi Shahla , Kharazi Mahboobeh , Erami Mahzad , Mirhendi Hossein
Published: January 2025

Background

Since 2017, dermatophytosis caused by the newly introduced species Trichophyton indotineae has gained new interest worldwide due to the rise in terbinafine resistance and difficulty in the treatment of recalcitrant infections. Distinguishing T. indotineae from other Trichophyton species based on morphological features is impossible and DNA sequencing is necessary for accurate identification. Though early identification of the species is not solely sufficient for the treatment of infected cases, it is important for clinicians to take the next appropriate modalities such as antifungal susceptibility testing especially when the patients have extensive skin lesions recalcitrant to therapy by terbinafine. Here, we developed a rapid diagnostic scheme using SYBR Green real‐time PCR for the specific detection/identification of T. indotineae.

Methods

DNA was extracted from 397 dermatophyte isolates and two SYBR Green real‐time PCR assays targeting the C120‐287 and E054‐58 intergenic loci were developed. Using a collection of 132 T. indotineae and 128 non‐T. indotineae strains, all had already been identified by ITS‐PCR‐sequencing and 137 unknown dermatophyte isolates, the assays were evaluated.

Results

In both real‐time PCR assays, 130 out of 132 T. indotineae strains were positive while all non‐T. indotineae species were negative. Among 137 unknown tested isolates, 72 were identified as T. indotineae based on two real‐time PCR assays, while 65 showed no peak and were considered non‐T. indotineae. Based on PCR‐sequencing as the reference standard, the SYBR Green real‐time PCR assays demonstrated a sensitivity of 98.48% and a specificity of 100%.

Conclusion

The developed diagnostic assays using SYBR Green real‐time PCR provided a rapid and accurate method for the distinction of cultured T. indotineae isolates and can be considered to evaluate for the detection of T. indotineae directly from clinical samples.
Glioblastoma, IDH‐wildtype manifesting as intracranial hemorrhage: A case report highlighting the clinical utility of digital polymerase chain reaction in integrated diagnoses
Authors: Nikai Yukino , Satomi Kaishi , Saito Kuniaki , Gomyo Miho , Matsushita Yuko , Kato Kenichiro , Nagahama Kiyotaka , Isomura Aya , Hayashi Akimasa , Yamagishi Yuki , Sasaki Nobuyoshi , Kobayashi Keiichi , Tsuchiya Kazuhiro , Nagane Motoo , Ichimura Koichi , Shibahara Junji
Published: January 2025

The manifestation of glioblastoma, IDH‐wildtype (GB) as intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Molecular characteristics, including TERT promoter mutation, EGFR amplification, and chromosome 7 gain/10 loss, were incorporated to diagnose GB in the fifth edition of the World Health Organization Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System. When molecular analyses fail to detect low fractions of these genetic alterations, the integrated diagnosis of GB can be enigmatic. This case report describes a 58‐year‐old man presenting with ICH, masking an underlying GB. Initial histopathology of the evacuated hematoma revealed a small number of atypical glial cells, but a definitive diagnosis was deferred. Subsequent surgery and molecular analysis, including digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR), confirmed the presence of a TERT C228T mutation in the promoter area, leading to an integrated diagnosis of GB. The patient experienced a favorable clinical outcome following surgery, radiation, temozolomide, and tumor‐treating field therapy, without recurrence after 50 months. This case underscores the importance of meticulous histological examination of ICH and exemplifies the clinical utility of dPCR as a complementary diagnostic tool. The effectiveness of dPCR is particularly noteworthy, even in scenarios with minimal tumor cell content, reinforcing its value in the integrated diagnosis of GB.
Audio‐visual concert performances synchronize audience's heart rates
Authors: Czepiel Anna M. , Fink Lauren K. , Scharinger Mathias , Seibert Christoph , Wald‐Fuhrmann Melanie , Kotz Sonja A.
Published: January 2025

People enjoy engaging with music. Live music concerts provide an excellent option to investigate real‐world music experiences, and at the same time, use neurophysiological synchrony to assess dynamic engagement. In the current study, we assessed engagement in a live concert setting using synchrony of cardiorespiratory measures, comparing inter‐subject, stimulus–response, correlation, and phase coherence. As engagement might be enhanced in a concert setting by seeing musicians perform, we presented audiences with audio‐only (AO) and audio‐visual (AV) piano performances. Only correlation synchrony measures were above chance level. In comparing time‐averaged synchrony across conditions, AV performances evoked a higher inter‐subject correlation of heart rate (ISC‐HR). However, synchrony averaged across music pieces did not correspond to self‐reported engagement. On the other hand, time‐resolved analyses show that synchronized deceleration‐acceleration heart rate (HR) patterns, typical of an “orienting response” (an index of directed attention), occurred within music pieces at salient events of section boundaries. That is, seeing musicians perform heightened audience engagement at structurally important moments in Western classical music. Overall, we could show that multisensory information shapes dynamic engagement. By comparing different synchrony measures, we further highlight the advantages of time series analysis, specifically ISC‐HR, as a robust measure of holistic musical listening experiences in naturalistic concert settings.
Tripartite Symbiosis Between Legumes, Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Nitrogen Fixing Rhizobia: Interactions and Regulation
Authors: Gorgia Polyxeni , Tsikou Daniela
Published: January 2025

Legume plants can interact with nitrogen‐fixing rhizobia bacteria and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) simultaneously, forming a tripartite symbiotic association. Co‐inoculation studies performed on a variety of legumes have shown that rhizobia and AMF influence each other when they co‐occur in tripartite association and affect host plant nutrition and performance. Although single plant‐microbe interactions have been extensively studied, our understanding in the field of tripartite interactions is insufficient and current knowledge cannot predict the symbiotic outcome, which appears to depend on many parameters. In this review we examine the current state of research on the legume‐rhizobium‐AMF tripartite symbiosis. We investigate the dynamic interaction between the two microsymbionts and the effect of one microbe on the other, both at the physiological and the molecular levels, and the result of dual inoculation on host plant growth, fitness and response to stresses. Rhizobia and AMF interact both extraradically and intraradically, effects on microbe and host plant gene expression levels are observed, AMF positively regulates nodulation, while rhizobia can affect AMF root colonisation either positively or negatively. Factors observed to regulate the establishment and function of the tripartite symbiosis, such as the rhizobia‐AMF combination, host plant identity and environmental conditions are discussed.
Efficacy of recycled glass sand as a soil substrate for salt marsh restoration
Authors: Levine Ansley J. , Sparks Eric , Biber Patrick , Woodrey Mark S.
Published: January 2025

Recycled glass sand (cullet) is a potential alternative to soil fill in salt marsh restoration projects, given its similarity to natural silica sands. However, the ability for common salt marsh plants to grow in glass sand has not yet been tested. An outdoor mesocosm experiment assessed the ability of the dominant mid‐marsh plant, Juncus roemerianus, and the high marsh plant, Spartina patens, to grow in various mixtures of glass sand versus fill soil. Results showed that J. roemerianus can survive in glass sand, but growth declined as the proportion of sand increased. However, S. patens grew comparably, if not better, in treatments with up to 75% glass sand. In the face of increased coastal land loss and a global sediment deficit, the use of glass sand in mid‐to‐high elevation salt marsh restoration projects can simultaneously divert glass from landfills and promote more sustainable coastal restoration strategies.
Body Composition Measurements as Predictive Variables for Outcomes of Canine Appendicular Osteosarcoma Treated With Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy
Authors: Altwal Johnny , Griffin Lynn , Martin Tiffany Wormhoudt
Published: January 2025

Body composition measurements (BCM), obtained via computed tomography (CT), have been used as predictors of survival, tumour recurrence, and post‐surgical infections in human oncology. There are no reports on using BCM to predict outcomes of dogs with cancer. Elevated BCM is hypothesised to place extra stress on bones weakened by cancer. Pathologic fracture following stereotactic body radiation therapy for canine appendicular osteosarcoma (OSA) frequently results in limb amputation or euthanasia. Additional tools are needed to better predict the risk of fracture development. Our objectives were to determine if any relationships could be identified between BCM and the occurrence of a pathologic fracture and/or survival time in dogs with naturally occurring OSA. Forty‐seven dogs with a confirmed OSA and whole‐body CT pre‐SBRT were included. Several BCM were evaluated, including abdominal volume, visceral adipose tissue volume, whole‐body volume, whole‐body adipose tissue volume, normalised cross‐sectional area of the epaxial muscles at the mid‐body of the 13th thoracic vertebra, and attenuations of adipose tissue and epaxial muscles. No BCMs were correlated with survival time. The volume of the entire body (cm3) was significantly positively associated with development of a fracture. No other BCM were correlated with the development of a fracture. The volume of the abdomen (cm3) among our patient subset was positively correlated with the volume of the entire body, and the volume of visceral adipose tissue (cm3) was positively correlated with the total body volume of adipose tissue (cm3). Additional research is needed to verify whether these findings are replicable in larger sample sizes and in prospective settings.
The Association Between Lower Limb Joint Position Sense and Different Aspects of Gait Pattern in Individuals With Bilateral Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Sarvestani Mohadeseh , Orakifar Neda , Mofateh Razieh , Seyedtabib Maryam , Karimi Mehrnoosh , Mehravar Mohammad
Published: January 2025

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) can have more pronounced effects on joint position sense (JPS) accuracy and gait characteristics. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between lower limb JPS and different aspects of gait pattern including gait asymmetry and variability and spatiotemporal coordination in individuals with bilateral KOA. In this cross-sectional study, lower limb JPS of 43 individuals with bilateral KOA (mild and moderate) were measured. Participants’ gait patterns during treadmill walking with self-selected comfortable speed were assessed. The correlations between JPS errors and gait parameters of limb with moderate KOA were analyzed. Positive relationships were found between stance time symmetry index and JPS errors of hip abduction (r = .46, P = .003), ankle plantar flexion (r = .33, P = .03), and ankle dorsiflexion (r = .33, P = .03). Positive relationship was found between single limb support time symmetry index and hip abduction JPS error (r = .41, P = .008). Significant negative associations were found between coefficient of variation of step length and JPS errors of knee extension (r = .47, P = .002) and ankle plantar flexion (r = .33, P = .003). Results did not show any significant relationship between lower limb JPS errors and walk ratio. It is likely that lower limb JPS deficits are partially responsible for some changes in gait patterns observed in individuals with bilateral KOA.
Supplemental Material: A positive correlation between C/L-band radar backscatter and grain size of coarse alluvial deposits in the Mojave Desert
Authors: Maue Anthony D. , al. et
Published: January 2025

Text S1: Additional background on radar backscatter simulations. Figure S1: Grain size distributions of study sites. Figure S2: Radar backscatter as a function of correlation length. Figure S3: Images of study sites. Table S1: Grain size statistics. Table S2: Grain sorting and shape statistics. Table S3: Alluvial fan lithologies. Table S4: Study site roughness measurements. Table S5: Akaike information criterion for various regressions. Table S6: Radar backscatter measured for each study site and residuals from regressions.
Remote guidance: enabling tele-supervised community-based rehabilitation worker intervention to facilitate communication in a child with cleft lip and palate
Authors: Nallamuthu Aishwarya , Prabhu Vandhana , Jayakumar Sivamani , Venkatraman Krupa
Published: January 2025

Cleft lip and palate (CLP) significantly impact speech and language development in children. In remote areas, access to specialised services is often limited, necessitating innovative approaches for effective service delivery. This case report explores the potential of tele-supervised intervention provided by community-based rehabilitation workers (CBRWs) to enhance communication outcomes for children with CLP. A comprehensive therapy programme was developed, targeting the child’s speech needs and led by a CBRW under remote supervision from speech-language pathologists (SLPs). The SLPs provided real-time guidance to the CBRWs in stimulus selection, trial administration, response monitoring and reinforcement strategies. The tele-supervised intervention led to significant improvement in the child’s communication outcomes by encouraging active participation and correct exercise execution. This approach also enhanced service delivery in remote areas by improving access to specialised services, building the capacity of local healthcare providers and facilitating ongoing professional development.
Sucking blister in a newborn: atypical localisation
Authors: Martins Mariana , Gonçalo Ana Mafalda , Mateus Mário , Silva Jorge Santos
Published: January 2025

A meticulous examination of the oral cavity is an essential part of the initial newborn assessment. The differential diagnosis can involve benign and self-limiting lesions to those lesions compromising quality of life. We present a clinical case of a newborn born with a purple, hard tumour on the hard palate that spontaneously regressed, being thus compatible with the case of a sucking blister. Neonatal sucking blisters typically result from vigorous sucking in utero, most commonly of the hand or forearm; however, more atypical locations may be involved. These benign blisters should be differentiated from other newborn conditions by their presentation, characteristic morphology and self-limiting course. A high index of clinical suspicion is necessary to avoid unnecessary investigations and treatments.
Healthcare professionals face ethical challenges in managing care for neurodevelopmental disorders: a qualitative study in Lebanon
Authors: Saleh Mustafa , Chanbour Hani , Saoudi Lara , Nader Ingrid , Hayek Maryse
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the ethical challenges faced by healthcare professionals (HCPs) in managing children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) in Lebanon. The primary research question addressed how HCPs navigate ethical dilemmas related to patient autonomy, surrogate decision-making and communication in the context of severe cognitive impairments.

Design

Qualitative, cross-sectional study using semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was applied to identify key ethical challenges in clinical practice.

Setting

Participants recruited from a range of healthcare specialties, including paediatric neurology, general paediatrics and psychiatry, and registered with the Lebanese Order of Physicians.

Participants

Sixteen HCPs, including paediatric neurologists and psychiatrists, participated in the study. Participants were selected based on their experience in treating children and adolescents with NDDs. There were no exclusion criteria based on gender, ethnicity or years of experience.

Interventions

No formal interventions were applied. Participants were interviewed about their experiences and ethical challenges in managing patients with NDD.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was the identification of ethical dilemmas faced by HCPs in clinical decision-making with patients with NDD. Secondary outcomes included insights into the strategies employed by HCPs to balance patient autonomy with surrogate decision-making and the communication challenges they face with patients’ families.

Results

Thematic analysis revealed several key ethical challenges, including (1) balancing patient autonomy with the need for surrogate decision-making, (2) tailoring healthcare to individual cognitive abilities and (3) navigating the complexities of communication with patients and their families. Participants emphasised the importance of assessing decision-making capacity on a case-by-case basis. The study also highlighted the need for specialised, patient-centred approaches that respect autonomy while considering the practical limitations imposed by severe cognitive impairments.

Conclusions

This study provides critical insights into the ethical considerations faced by HCPs in managing children and adolescents with NDDs. Further research is needed to develop training programs for HCPs that address these ethical challenges and promote patient-centred decision-making.