bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Not Just Small Adults: Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment in Adolescent Tibial Shaft Fractures
Authors: Kiani Sara N. , Badrinath Raghav , Baldwin Keith D.
Published: January 2024

Background:

The standard of care for tibial shaft fractures in young children is nonoperative management, while in adults, operative treatment is considered the mainstay. There are no clear guidelines on preferred treatment for adolescents.

Purpose:

This paper aims to 1) identify clinical and radiographic characteristics predictive of malalignment and 2) determine if treatment type affects malalignment risk.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study identified patients aged 12 to 16 years old with a tibial shaft fracture at a Level 1 pediatric trauma center. The primary outcome of interest was malalignment, classified as meeting one or more of the following: >5° coronal angulation, >5° sagittal angulation, translation (cortical width or 100% displaced), and/or rotational deformity. Comparative analyses were done to identify risk factors for malalignment.

Results:

A total of 162 patients were included—initial treatment was “planned nonoperative” for 102 patients and “planned operative” for 60 patients. The malalignment rate was 34% in the planned nonoperative group versus 32% in the planned operative group. In a multivariate regression, older patients [odds ratio (OR)=−0.07, 95% CI: −0.13 to −0.01; P=0.024] and those with 100% initial displacement (OR=−0.35, 95% CI: −0.64 to −0.05; P=0.021) had decreased odds of malalignment, and having increased sagittal angulation (OR=0.02, 95% CI: 0.01-0.04; P=0.002) and a fibula fracture (OR=0.22, 95% CI: 0.03-0.41; P=0.023) increased the odds of malalignment. There was no difference in the rate of malalignment by initial treatment (P=0.289). Having a planned nonoperative treatment (OR=22.7, 95% CI: 14.0-31.5; P<0.001) and having a fibula fracture (OR=8.52, 95% CI: 0.59-16.45; P=0.035) increased the time immobilized.

Conclusions:

This study provides insight into factors affecting tibial shaft fracture alignment among patients aged 12 to 16 years. This study suggests that the risk of malalignment is higher among patients with increased initial sagittal angulation and concomitant fibula fractures, but the risk of malalignment is comparable in patients initially treated nonoperatively and operatively. Although healing parameters on average were similar, nonoperative treatment results in longer immobilization time and time for unrestricted weight bearing.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—retrospective comparative study.
Effect of Solitary Osteochondroma on Alignment and Length in the Lower Extremities
Authors: Park Hoon , Kim Hyun Woo , Park Kun-Bo , Kim Jae Hong , Chang Won June , Park Byoung Kyu
Published: January 2024

Background:

There is a lack of information about the effects of untreated solitary osteochondroma (SO) on longitudinal growth of the lower extremities in children and adolescents. This study aimed to assess the coronal alignment and length of the lower extremity in patients with SO around the knee and to identify the factors related to the development of deformities.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed 111 patients diagnosed with SO around the knee. The patients were classified into 2 groups depending on the location of the SO: 51 in the distal femur and 60 in the proximal tibia. Characteristics of the lesions, such as type, location, size, and distance from the joint line, were determined. Radiographic analysis of the lower limbs included mechanical lateral distal femoral angle, mechanical medial proximal tibial angle, whole-leg length, femoral length, and tibial length.

Results:

The mean age at the time of diagnosis was 12.3±3.4 years. No statistically significant differences were found between the affected and contralateral sides for mechanical lateral distal femoral angle and mechanical medial proximal tibial angle in either the distal femur or the proximal tibia groups. In patients with femoral lesions, the femoral and whole-leg lengths were significantly shorter on the affected side than on the unaffected side (P<0.001 and 0.002, respectively), and the mean differences were 2.1±3.6 and 2.1±4.4 mm, respectively. Univariate logistic regression analysis did not reveal any factors associated with limb length discrepancy (LLD). In patients with tibial lesions, no statistically significant differences were found in LLD.

Conclusions:

SOs around the knee did not cause clinically significant deformity of the lower extremity. However, in contrast to proximal tibia lesions, SO in the distal femur was associated with the shortening of the affected limb. Consideration should be given to the development of LLD in skeletally immature children with SO in the distal femur.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—retrospective comparative study.
Does Preoperative Back Pain Impact Patient-reported Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Isthmic Spondylolisthesis?
Authors: Nie James W. , Hartman Timothy J. , Zheng Eileen , Oyetayo Omolabake O. , MacGregor Keith R. , Federico Vincent P. , Massel Dustin H. , Sayari Arash J. , Singh Kern
Published: January 2024

Study Design:

Retrospective review.

Objective:

To determine postoperative clinical outcomes in patients undergoing minimally invasive (MIS) transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) for isthmic spondylolisthesis (IS).

Background:

Few studies have examined the postoperative clinical trajectory in patients undergoing MIS-TLIF specifically for IS.

Methods:

Patients were separated into two cohorts based on the previously defined Visual Analog Scale (VAS) back pain (BP) for severe pain: VAS-BP <7 and VAS-BP ≥7. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) of Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System–physical function (PF), 12-item Short Form (SF-12) Physical/Mental Component Score, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, VAS-BP, VAS leg pain, and Oswestry Disability Index were collected preoperatively and up to 2-year postoperatively. Minimum clinically important difference (MCID) was calculated through previously defined thresholds.

Results:

A total of 160 patients were recorded, with 58 patients in the VAS-BP <7 cohort. The VAS-BP <7 cohort demonstrated significant improvement in all PROMs at one or more postoperative time points. The VAS-BP ≥7 demonstrated significant improvement at 3 or more postoperative time points in all PROMs except for SF-12 Mental Component Score. The VAS-BP <7 cohort reported significantly superior preoperative and postoperative PROMs in all domains, except for SF-12 Physical Component Score. The VAS-BP ≥7 cohort had higher MCID achievement rates at one or more time points in multiple PROMs.

Conclusion:

Patients undergoing MIS-TLIF for IS demonstrated significant postoperative improvement in PF, mental function, pain, and disability outcomes independent of preoperative severity of BP. Patients with lower preoperative BP demonstrated superior outcomes in PF, mental function, pain, and disability. However, patients with greater preoperative BP achieved higher rates of MCID in mental function, BP, and disability outcomes. Patients with greater severity of preoperative BP undergoing MIS-TLIF for IS may experience greater rates of clinically relevant improvement in mental function, BP, and disability outcomes.
The Effects of Preoperative Epidural Steroid Injection on Pseudarthrosis Following Lumbar Fusion
Authors: Coskun Ergin , Wellington Ian J. , Desai Shivam , Singh Hardeep , Mallozzi Scott S. , Moss Isaac L.
Published: January 2024

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

The goal of this study is to evaluate the effects of preoperative lumbar epidural steroid injection on the rate of pseudarthrosis following lumbar spine fusion surgery.

Summary of Background Data:

Epidural corticosteroids help to reduce nerve root edema and suppress proinflammatory cytokines in patients with radiculopathy. Corticosteroids may inhibit bone formation and reduce bone matrix synthesis rates. Thus, there is concern that corticosteroids may reduce lumbar fusion capability, potentially resulting in increased rates of symptomatic pseudarthrosis.

Materials and Methods:

We identified all patients who underwent 1-level or 2-level lumbar fusion surgery between 2018 and 2022. Patients were categorized into one of 3 groups: no preoperative epidural steroid injection (ESI) history (group 0), preoperative ESI within 90 days of surgery (group 1), or most recent ESI >90 days before surgery (group 2). The primary outcome of this study was pseudarthrosis. Binominal regression analyses were performed to determine the relationships between potential risk factors (sex, age, body mass index, smoking history, diabetes status, history of systemic steroid use, preoperative ESI, perioperative intravenous steroid administration, type of surgery, and postoperative ESI within 6 mo) and the development of postoperative pseudarthrosis.

Results:

A total of 446 patients were included in this study. Of those, 106 patients (23.7%) did not have a preoperative ESI (group 0), 132 patients (29.5%) had an ESI within 90 days of surgery (group 1), and 208 patients (46.6%) had their most recent ESI >90 days before surgery (group 2). The overall incidence of pseudarthrosis following lumbar fusion was 8.7% (39 of 446). Although the incidence of pseudarthrosis following ESI at any time point was higher than in our control cohort (group 0), this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

This study found no increased risk of postoperative pseudarthrosis in patients who underwent 1-level or 2-level lumbar fusions after preoperative ESI.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Cerebral Oximetry During Pediatric In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: A Multicenter Study of Survival and Neurologic Outcome
Authors: Raymond Tia T. , Esangbedo Ivie D. , Rajapreyar Prakadeshwari , Je Sangmo , Zhang Xuemei , Griffis Heather M. , Wakeham Martin K. , Petersen Tara L. , Kirschen Matthew P. , Topjian Alexis A. , Lasa Javier J. , Francoeur Conall I. , Nadkarni Vinay M. ,   for the pediatric Resuscitation Quality (pediRES-Q) Collaborative Investigators
Published: January 2024

Objectives:

To determine if near-infrared spectroscopy measuring cerebral regional oxygen saturation (crSo
2) during cardiopulmonary resuscitation is associated with return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and survival to hospital discharge (SHD) in children.

Design:

Multicenter, observational study.

Setting:

Three hospitals in the pediatric Resuscitation Quality (pediRES-Q) collaborative from 2015 to 2022.

Patients:

Children younger than 18 years, gestational age 37 weeks old or older with in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation greater than or equal to 1 minute and intra-arrest crSo
2 monitoring.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

Primary outcome was ROSC greater than or equal to 20 minutes without extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Secondary outcomes included SHD and favorable neurologic outcome (FNO) (Pediatric Cerebral Performance Category 1–2 or no change from prearrest). Among 3212 IHCA events (index and nonindex), 123 met inclusion criteria in 93 patients. Median age was 0.3 years (0.1–1.4 yr) and 31% (38/123) of the cardiopulmonary resuscitation events occurred in patients with cyanotic heart disease. Median cardiopulmonary resuscitation duration was 8 minutes (3–28 min) and ROSC was achieved in 65% (80/123). For index events, SHD was achieved in 59% (54/91) and FNO in 41% (37/91). We determined the association of median intra-arrest crSo
2 and percent of crSo
2 values above a priori thresholds during the: 1) entire cardiopulmonary resuscitation event, 2) first 5 minutes, and 3) last 5 minutes with ROSC, SHD, and FNO. Higher crSo
2 for the entire cardiopulmonary resuscitation event, first 5 minutes, and last 5 minutes were associated with higher likelihood of ROSC, SHD, and FNO. In multivariable analysis of the infant group (age < 1 yr), higher crSo
2 was associated with ROSC (odds ratio [OR], 1.06; 95% CI, 1.03–1.10), SHD (OR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01–1.07), and FNO (OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.02–1.08) after adjusting for presence of cyanotic heart disease.

Conclusions:

Higher crSo
2 during pediatric IHCA was associated with increased rate of ROSC, SHD, and FNO. Intra-arrest crSo
2 may have a role as a real-time, noninvasive predictor of ROSC.
Evaluating the efficacy of combination and single-agent immunotherapies in real-world patterns of disease progression and survival of metastatic melanoma patients
Authors: Ko Brian , Tao Kevin , Brennan Lachlan , Rakhade Swanand , Chan Cynthia X. , Moone Jee-Young , Zhu Richard , Sher Ariel , Wang Samuel , Bracero Yadriel , Fullerton Ben , McLellan Beth , Geskin Larisa J. , Saenger Yvonne M.
Published: January 2024

To describe survival outcomes in patients with metastatic melanoma in a real-world setting receiving combination and single-agent immunotherapy outside the clinical trial context. We conducted a retrospective single-institution study of patients with metastatic melanoma in a real-world setting. Survival was calculated using log-rank test. Contingency tables were analyzed using Fisher’s Exact test. CD8 + T-cell densities were measured using quantitative immunofluorescence and analyzed using Mann-Whitney U test. The median overall survival (OS) for 132 patients was 45.3 months. Brain metastasis did not confer a higher risk of death relative to liver and/or bone disease (39.53 versus 30.00 months, respectively; P = 0.687). Anti-PD-1 monotherapy was the most common first-line treatment, received by 49.2% of patients. There was no significant difference in OS between patients receiving single-agent anti-PD-1 and combination anti-PD-1 plus CTLA-4 (39.4 months versus undefined; P = 0.643). Patients treated with combination therapy were more likely to be alive without progression at the last follow-up than those who received monotherapy (70.4% versus 49.2%; P = 0.0408). Median OS was 21.8 months after initiation of second-line therapy after anti-PD-1 monotherapy. CD8+ T-cell densities were higher in patients who achieved disease control on first-line immunotherapy (P = 0.013). In a real-world setting, patients with metastatic melanoma have excellent survival rates, and treatment benefit can be achieved even after progression on first-line therapy. Combination immunotherapy may produce more favorable long-term outcomes in a real-world setting. High pretreatment CD8+ T-cell infiltration correlates with immunotherapy efficacy.
Multimodal Imaging Characterization of Butterfly Hair–Induced Keratitis
Authors: Yuan Yue , Wang Shanshan , Guo Dadong , Zhao Zengchao , Zheng Fangqiang , Xu YongYu , Jin Ziqun , Bi Hongsheng , Wen Ying
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

Multimodal imaging was performed to characterize butterfly hair–induced keratitis based on anterior segment optical coherence tomography and in vivo confocal microscopy.

Methods:

This study was a case report.

Results:

A 6-year-old girl presented with acute keratitis induced by multiple butterfly hairs. Severe itching and pain developed immediately after rubbing her left eye, leading to significant pain and moderate vision loss, even after undergoing twice removal of the corneal epithelium. The hair-like foreign bodies were distributed at various depths inside the corneal stroma, even extending into the anterior chamber. The symptoms and corneal infiltration gradually decreased within 6 months with the use of topical steroids and immunosuppressors. The hairs located in the superficial and middle stromal layers of the cornea disappeared at the 6-month follow-up, but the hairs in the deep stromal layer tended to move deeper. The diagnosis was confirmed by in vivo confocal microscopy and microphotography. The migration tendency of the hairs into the intraocular space was observed using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT).

Conclusions:

Butterfly hair–induced keratitis can be controlled by the treatment with topical steroids and immunosuppressors, but the hairs tend to move into the eyes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of corneal in vivo confocal imaging of butterfly hairs.
The implications of sarcopenia in the treatment and prognosis of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Weledji Elroy P. , Gianotti Luca , Oldani Massimo , Uggeri Fabio
Published: January 2024

Sarcopenia is the subclinical loss of skeletal muscle and strength and has been extensively studied in both cancer and surgical patients. Patients with sarcopenia are particularly vulnerable to major physiological stressors including surgery and surgical complications. Sarcopenia has thus gained significant recognition as an important prognostic factor for both complications and survival in cancer patients. The aim of this review was to evaluate the current literature on the effect of sarcopenia on the treatment and prognosis of pancreatic cancer. The prevalence of sarcopenia in pancreatic cancer patients range between 20 and 65% due to the heterogeneous groups of patients, difference in disease stage, and the different methods of measuring sarcopenia. Sarcopenia would be more accurately assessed by utilizing both imaging and clinical data, such as frailty. Although malnutrition could be responsible for the attenuated healing process of pancreatic anastomosis the relationship between sarcopenia and outcome following pancreaticoduodenectomy is debated. Most studies showed a higher risk of postoperative pancreatic fistula formation in patients with concurrent sarcopenia and high fat mass (sarcopenic obesity). Sarcopenia seems generally to be associated with lower survival. The assessment of sarcopenia can therefore lead to changes in management strategy, patient selection, and improved informed consent prior to surgical resection of pancreatic cancer. An improved prediction of clinically relevant pancreatic fistula formation after pancreatic surgery using preoperative computed tomography scan, including a fistula risk score using sarcopenic obesity and subcutaneous fat area will be useful. Although treatment for sarcopenia still remains an area of research a protocol to improve nutrition and fitness preoperatively may improve sarcopenia and surgical outcome.
Development and external validation of a novel model for predicting new clinically important atrial fibrillation after thoracoscopic anatomical lung cancer surgery: a multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tong Chaoyang , Niu Zhenyi , Zhu Hongwei , Li Tingting , Xu Yuanyuan , Yan Yan , Miao Qing , Jin Runsen , Zheng Jijian , Li Hecheng , Wu Jingxiang
Published: January 2024

Background:

New clinically important postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common arrhythmia after thoracoscopic anatomical lung cancer surgery and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The full spectrum of predictors remains unclear, and effective assessment tools are lacking. This study aimed to develop and externally validate a novel model for predicting new clinically important POAF.

Methods:

This retrospective study included 14 074 consecutive patients who received thoracoscopic anatomical lung cancer surgery from January 2016 to December 2018 in Shanghai Chest Hospital. Based on the split date of 1 January 2018, we selected 8717 participants for the training cohort and 5357 participants for the testing cohort. For external validation, we pooled 2941 consecutive patients who received this surgical treatment from July 2016 to July 2021 in Shanghai Ruijin Hospital. Independent predictors were used to develop a model and internally validated using a bootstrap-resampling approach. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROCs) and Brier score were performed to assess the model discrimination and calibration. The decision curve analysis (DCA) was used to evaluate clinical validity and net benefit. New clinically important POAF was defined as a new-onset of POAF that causes symptoms or requires treatment.

Results:

Multivariate analysis suggested that age, hypertension, preoperative treatment, clinical tumor stage, intraoperative arrhythmia and transfusion, and operative time were independent predictors of new clinically important POAF. These seven candidate predictors were used to develop a nomogram, which showed a concordance statistic (C-statistic) value of 0.740 and good calibration (Brier score; 0.025). Internal validation revealed similarly good discrimination (C-statistic, 0.736; 95% CI: 0.705–0.768) and calibration. The decision curve analysis showed positive net benefits with the threshold risk range of 0–100%. C-statistic value and Brier score were 0.717 and 0.028 in the testing cohort, and 0.768 and 0.012 in the external validation cohort, respectively.

Conclusions:

This study identified seven predictors of new clinically important POAF, among which preoperative treatment, intraoperative arrhythmia, and operative time were rarely reported. The established and externally validated model has good performance and clinical usefulness, which may promote the application of prevention and treatment in high-risk patients, and reduce the development and related adverse outcomes of this event.
Preoperative opioid use and postoperative return to work following spinal surgery in workers’ compensation settings: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tefera Yonas G. , Gray Shannon , Nielsen Suzanne , Collie Alex
Published: January 2024

Background:

Opioid use prior to spinal surgery is common among patients with workers’ compensation (WC) claims. Extended opioid use for pain management in this population is associated with several adverse outcomes including delayed return to work (RTW).

Objective:

This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to assess the evidence on the association of preoperative opioid use with stable RTW and RTW within 1-year after spinal surgery.

Material and methods:

The authors searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Emcare, CINAHL Plus, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to 14 January 2023. The authors included studies that compared any preoperative opioid use with no opioid use, and those that enabled a comparison of different durations of preoperative opioid use. The primary outcome was stable RTW after spinal surgery. Secondary outcomes were RTW within 1-year after surgery and cost of WC claims. A random effect model was assumed to pool the effect estimate. The GRADE approach was applied to evaluate the certainty of evidence.

Results:

From 2589 records, 10 studies were included, and of these, nine were considered for quantitative synthesis. All studies were observational with eight retrospective cohort and two case–control studies. Five studies each investigated cervical and lumbar disorders. With moderate certainty evidence, the odds of postoperative stable RTW reduced by half (OR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.43–0.59; 5549 participants) in patients using opioids preoperatively. Similarly, moderate certainty evidence from 2348 participants demonstrated that the odds of RTW within 1-year after surgery were reduced by more than half in patients with preoperative opioid prescriptions (OR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.36–0.59).

Conclusions:

This systematic review and meta-analysis shows that preoperative opioid use is associated with a reduction in odds of postoperative RTW by half in patients with WC-funded spinal surgery.
Crocin inhibit the metastasis of MDA-MB-231 cell line by suppressing epithelial to mesenchymal transition through WNT/β-catenin signalling pathway
Authors: Ghorbanzadeh Vajihe , Hassan ALJAF Karwan Anwar , Wasman Hunar Mustafa , Dariushnejad Hassan
Published: January 2024

Background:

Triple-negative breast cancer has the poorest prognosis and survival rates compared to other breast cancer subtypes due to its invasive behaviours. This type of cancer does not respond to biological therapies and exhibits resistance to available treatment options. Therefore, it is imperative to discover new therapeutics to address this challenge.

Methods:

In this study, a TNBC cell line was utilized to investigate the anti-metastatic effect of crocin on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Cell proliferation was assessed using the MTT assay, and the effects of crocin on migration were monitored through transwell and wound healing experiments. The expression of specific epithelial-mesenchymal transition marker genes was evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction, and β-catenin expression was also examined through real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

The findings revealed that crocin significantly inhibits cell proliferation and migration of tumour cells in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, crocin decreased the expression of Vimentin, Snail, Zeb-1, and β-catenin. Additionally, crocin increased the expression of E-cadherin in the MDA-MB-231 cell line.

Conclusions:

The results demonstrated an association between crocin and the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway. In conclusion, this study establishes that crocin holds promise as a potential therapeutic option for triple-negative breast cancer.
Challenges in Male Partner Referral among Trichomonas vaginalis-Infected Women
Authors: Pearlman Rebecca L. , Van Gerwen Olivia T. , Aaron Kristal J. , Kissinger Patricia J. , Muzny Christina A.
Published: January 2024

This study assessed feasibility of male partner referral by T. vaginalis-infected women. Of 93 women approached, only 20 enrolled. Only 1 male partner contacted the study but was unable to be reached for scheduling. Other public health interventions are necessary to engage women and their male partners of T. vaginalis-infected women in care.
Returning to work after dysvascular lower limb amputation—A novel multivariate approach to examine relative contributions of biopsychosocial predictors
Authors: Lee Szu-Ping , Chien Lung-Chang , Shih Hui-Ting , Ho Sabrina , Clemens Sheila
Published: January 2024

Background:

Returning to work is a key outcome of rehabilitation and social re-integration after lower limb amputation. It is important to understand what biopsychosocial factors contribute to returning to work after dysvascular amputation.

Objective:

Examining relative contributions of functional and contextual predictors of returning to work in participants with lower limb amputation due to diabetes and other dysvascular diseases.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional.

Methods:

Return-to-work outcome, biopsychosocial characteristics including physical functioning, self-efficacy & perceived ability, and socioeconomical support data were collected from a purposive sample (n = 57) in a multi-state collaborative research network. Grouped Weighted Quantile Sum model analysis was conducted to evaluate relative contributions of biopsychosocial predictors.

Results:

Less than 30% of the participants returned to work after their amputation. Physical functioning (odds ratio = 10.19; 95% CI 2.46−72.74) was the most important predictor group. Working before amputation, prosthetic mobility, and access to rehabilitation care were also identified as key factors associated with returning to work.

Conclusions:

Fewer than 1 in 3 participants with dysvascular amputation returned to work, despite an average age of only 54 years at the time of amputation. Physical functioning was shown to be the most important predictor, while socioeconomic factors such as a lack of access to care also contribute to not returning to work after dysvascular amputation.
Four Atypical Cases of Subclinical Rhythmic Electroencephalogram Discharge of Adults: Case Series and Review
Authors: Gonzalez Aura , Pana Raluca , Dubeau Francois , Kobayashi Eliane
Published: January 2024

Subclinical rhythmic EEG discharge of adults is an uncommon variant that represents a diagnostic challenge in the clinical practice because it can be mistaken for an electrographic seizure. We present a case series of four patients who underwent EEG because of suspicious events or an unclear medical history of epilepsy. In all cases, the EEG revealed atypical features including focal and asymmetric distribution, presentation during NREM and REM sleep, rhythmic activity in the delta range with a notched appearance and blocked by eyes opening.
Actinoplanes sandaracinus sp. nov., a novel ligninase- producing and cellulose-degrading actinobacterium isolated from soil
Authors: Wang Zishan , Xu Yan , Zhou Changjian , Sun Xiujun , Huang Zhenzhen , He Chuan , Yao Siqi , Zhao Junwei , Wang Xiangjing , Song Jia , Xiang Wensheng
Published: January 2024

A novel ligninase-producing and cellulose-degrading actinobacterium, designated strain NEAU-A12T, was isolated from a soil sample collected from Aohan banner, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, PR China. A polyphasic taxonomic study was used to establish the status of strain NEAU-A12T. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that strain NEAU-A12T belonged to the genus

Actinoplanes

and showed the highest similarity (98.3 %) to

Actinoplanes palleronii

DSM 43940T, while showing less than 98.3 % similarity to other members of the genus

Actinoplanes

. The phospholipid profile contained diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol and glycosylphosphatidylinositol. The diagnostic sugars in cell hydrolysates were determined to be arabinose, glucose and xylose. The cell wall contained meso-diaminopimelic acid as the diagnostic diamino acid. The predominant menaquinones were MK-9(H4), MK-9(H6) and MK-9(H2). The major fatty acids were C15 : 0, C16 : 0, C16 : 1
 ω7c and C17 : 0. Meanwhile, genomic analysis revealed a genome size of 10 192 524 bp and a DNA G+C content of 70.6 mol%, and indicated that strain NEAU-A12T had the potential to degrade lignin and cellulose, as well as produce bioactive compounds. In addition, the average nucleotide identity values between strain NEAU-A12T and its reference strains

A. palleronii

DSM 43940T,

Actinoplanes regularis

DSM 43151T,

Actinoplanes philippinensis

DSM 43019T,

Actinoplanes xinjiangensis

DSM 45184T and

Actinoplanes italicus

DSM 43146T were 80.3, 80.3, 84.1, 84.3 and 84.0 %, respectively. The levels of digital DNA–DNA hybridization between them were found to be 23.6 % (21.3–26.1 %), 23.8 % (21.5–26.3 %), 28.3 % (25.9–30.8 %), 28.6 % (26.0–30.9 %) and 28.4 % (26.2–31.1 %), respectively. Based on phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and genotypic data, strain NEAU-A12T is considered to represent a novel species of the genus

Actinoplanes

, for which the name Actinoplanes sandaracinus sp. nov. is proposed, with NEAU-A12T (=CCTCC AA 2020039T=DSM 112043T) as the type strain.
Proposal of three novel insect-associated Commensalibacter species: Commensalibacter melissae sp. nov., Commensalibacter communis sp. nov. and Commensalibacter papalotli sp. nov.
Authors: Botero Juliana , Vandamme Peter
Published: January 2024

A recent modification of the Note to Rule 25a of the International Code for Nomenclature of Bacteria is used a posteriori by the List Editors of the International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology to justify the refusal to validate species protologues published in supplementary material prior to this formal decision. Authors are therefore forced to ask permission to reuse published data for the valid publication of such names. In the present letter we re-publish the species protologues of Commensalibacter melissae sp. nov., Commensalibacter communis sp. nov. and Commensalibacter papalotli sp. nov.
An assessment of the airborne longevity of group A Streptococcus
Authors: Oswin Henry P. , Blake Evie , Haddrell Allen E. , Finn Adam , Sriskandan Shiranee , Reid Jonathan P. , Halliday Alice , Goenka Anu
Published: January 2024

Graphical abstract
Advancing Aquaculture Monitoring through Self-Powered Remote Systems: Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting Approach
Authors: Mehdipour Iman , Fachechi Luca , Rizzi Francesco , Vittorio Massimo De
Published: January 2024

This paper introduces the conceptualization and implementation of a sea wave piezoelectric energy harvesting system designed for a self-powered IoT buoy sensor, tailored for the remote monitoring of water quality variables in fish farming. The developed autonomous system undertakes periodic measurements of temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen, with the gathered data transmitted locally through a low-power wide-area network protocol to a gateway. The gateway is intricately connected to a cloud service, facilitating efficient data storage and visualization. At the heart of this innovation lies a novel buoy design capable of harnessing energy from sea surface waves. The proposed piezoelectric energy harvesting system comprises two pivotal components: an energy transfer mechanism responsible for capturing incident sea surface wave energy and a piezoelectric fin serving as the transducer. Extensive data analysis of sea wave patterns spanning nearly 25 years informs the design process. Subsequently, a prototype is meticulously crafted, fabricated, and rigorously tested in a controlled environment, showcasing promising results. The outcome is a self-powered remote monitoring tool poised to revolutionize fish farming scenarios by enabling seamless, automatic data acquisition, and storage.
Unravelling the conundrum of nucleolar NR2F1 localization: A comparative analysis of NR2F1 antibody-based approachesin vitroandin vivo
Authors: Bertacchi Michele , Theiß Susanne , Ahmed Ayat , Eibl Michael , Loubat Agnès , Maharaux Gwendoline , Phromkrasae Wanchana , Chakrabandhu Krittalak , Camgöz Aylin , Schaaf Christian , Studer Michèle , Laugsch Magdalena
Published: January 2024

As a transcription factor,NR2F1regulates spatiotemporal gene expression during development and in adulthood. AberrantNR2F1causes a rare neurodevelopmental disorder known as Bosch-Boonstra- Schaaf Optic Atrophy Syndrome. In addition, alteredNR2F1expression is frequently observed in various cancers and is considered a prognostic marker or potential therapeutic target. In this context, NR2F1 has been shown to localize not only in the nucleus but also in the nucleoli, suggesting a novel non-canonical role in this compartment. Hence, we studied this phenomenon employing variousin vitroandin vivomodels in different antibody-dependent approaches. Examination of seven commonly used anti-NR2F1 antibodies in different human cancer and stem cells as well as in wild type and null mice revealed that the nucleolar localization of NR2F1 is artificial and does not play a functional role. Our subsequent comparative analysis demonstrated for the first time which anti-NR2F1 antibody best fits which approach. As our data allow for correct data interpretation, making them publicly available may have far-reaching implications for NR2F1 research in health and disease. More generally, the study also underlines the need to optimize any antibody-mediated technique.
High-resolution low-cost LCD 3D printing of microfluidics
Authors: Shafique Houda , Karamzadeh Vahid , Kim Geunyong , Morocz Yonatan , Sohrabi-Kashani Ahmad , Shen Molly L. , Juncker David
Published: January 2024

The fabrication of microfluidic devices has progressed from cleanroom manufacturing to replica molding in polymers, and more recently to direct manufacturing by subtractive (e.g., laser machining) and additive (e.g., 3D printing) techniques, notably digital light processing (DLP) photopolymerization. However, many methods require technical expertise and while DLP 3D printers remain expensive at a cost ∼15-30K USD with ∼8M pixels that are 25-40 µm in size. Here, we introduce (i) the use of low-cost (∼150-600 USD) liquid crystal display (LCD) photopolymerization 3D printing with ∼8M-58M pixels that are 18-35 µm in size for direct microfluidic device fabrication and (ii) a poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate-based ink developed for LCD 3D printing (PLInk). We optimized PLInk for high resolution, fast 3D printing and biocompatibility while considering the illumination inhomogeneity and low power density of LCD 3D printers. We made lateral features as small as 75 µm, 22-µm-thick embedded membranes, and circular channels with a 110 µm radius. We 3D printed microfluidic devices previously manufactured by other methods, including an embedded 3D micromixer, a membrane microvalve, and an autonomous capillaric circuit (CC) deployed for interferon-γ detection with excellent performance (limit of detection: 12 pg mL-1, CV: 6.8%), and we demonstrated compatibility with cell culture. Finally, large area manufacturing was illustrated by printing 42 CCs with embedded microchannels in <45 min. LCD 3D printing together with tailored inks pave the way for democratizing access to high-resolution manufacturing of ready-to-use microfluidic devices by anyone, anywhere.
Evolutionary impact ofin vitroadaptation on virulence in the pathogenZymoseptoria tritici
Authors: Jallet A. J. , Robert-Siegwald G. , Genissel A.
Published: January 2024

All species are living in variable environments. integrating the impact of changing environments into plant-pathogen studies becomes essential. This integration is key to expanding our understanding of the evolutionary dynamics governing plant-pathogen interactions.

After subjecting Zymoseptoria tritici to 500 generations of experimental evolution in vitro under various temperature regimes, we assessed the evolved lineages’ virulence levels across six wheat cultivars. Additionally, we performed whole-genome sequencing on ten evolved lineages to identify accumulated mutations

Our study revealed a reduction in virulence among several evolved lineages, with variability based on the host genotype. We observed trans-lineage segregating mutations in the genome, encompassing both synonymous and non-synonymous mutations within the secretome. Intriguingly, despite 500 generations of experimental evolution, no loss of dispensable chromosomes was detected

These findings suggest that the abiotic environment can significantly influence the dynamic evolution of the plant pathogenZ. tritici.
A Comprehensive Allele Specific Expression Resource for the Equine Transcriptome
Authors: Heath Harrison D. , Peng Sichong , Szmatola Tomasz , Bellone Rebecca R. , Kalbfleisch Theodore , Petersen Jessica L. , Finno Carrie J.
Published: January 2024

Background

Allele-specific expression (ASE) analysis provides a nuanced view of cis-regulatory mechanisms affecting gene expression.

Results

In this work, we introduce and highlight the significance of an equine ASE analysis, containing integrated long- and short-read RNA sequencing data, along with insight from histone modification data, from four healthy Thoroughbreds (2 mares and 2 stallions) across 9 tissues.

Conclusions

This valuable publicly accessible resource is poised to facilitate investigations into regulatory variation in equine tissues and foster a deeper understanding of the impact of allelic imbalance in equine health and disease at the molecular level.
Insights into Human Epileptogenesis with Proteomic Profiling
Authors: Zhou Najing , Di Yang , Zhang Di , Gang Wei , Zhang Huiran , Yuan Yi , Zhang Aitao , Dai Jie , Du Xiaona , Li Wenling , Zhang Hailin
Published: January 2024

Epilepsy affects millions globally, and drug-resistant epilepsy remains a challenge. Molecular mechanisms underlying epilepsy remain elusive. Protein profiling through proteomics offers insight into biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Human brain tissue from epilepsy surgeries was analyzed using data-independent acquisition (DIA) proteomics. Samples were categorized into Core (epileptogenic focus), Border (marginal excision tissue), and Nonepileptic control groups. Differential expression proteins (DEPs) were identified and shared proteins were analyzed. 163 DEPs were identified which may has potential roles in the initiation of epileptic electrical firing, 412 DEPs which indicating the difference between epilepsy and Nonepilepsy patients and 10 DEPs consistently altered in Core which indicating potential roles in epileptogenesis. Notably, P35754/GLRX, O75335/PPFIA4, and Q96KP4/CNDP2 were consistently expressed differently in all group pairs. From validation experiments, the expression of Kv3.2 significant reduced in the Core group compare to border group by immunohistochemistry and knockdown of Kv3.2 increased seizure susceptibility and altered neuronal excitability through our cellular and animal experimentation.
MntJULiP and Jutils: Differential splicing analysis of RNA-seq data with covariates
Authors: Lui Wui Wang , Yang Guangyu , Florea Liliana
Published: January 2024

Differences in alternative splicing patterns can reveal important markers of phenotypic differentiation, including biomarkers of disease. Emerging large and complex RNA-seq datasets from disease and population studies include multiple confounders such as sex, age, ethnicity and clinical attributes, which demand highly specialized data analysis tools. However, few methods are equipped to handle the new challenges. We describe an implementation of our programs MntJULiP and Jutils for differential splicing detection and visualization from RNA-seq data that takes into account covariates. MntJULiP detects intron-level differences in alternative splicing from RNA-seq data using a Bayesian mixture model. Jutils visualizes alternative splicing variation with heatmaps, PCA and sashimi plots, and Venn diagrams. Our tools are scalable and can process thousands of samples within hours. We applied our methods to the collection of GTEx brain RNA-seq samples to deconvolute the effects of sex and age at death on the splicing patterns. In particular, clustering of covariate adjusted data identifies a subgroup of individuals undergoing a distinct splicing program during aging. MntJULiP and Jutils are implemented in Python and are available fromhttps://github.com/splicebox/.
Downstream-of-gene (DoG) transcripts contribute to an imbalance in the cancer cell transcriptome
Authors: Avila-Lopez Pedro A. , Xu Jessica , Muhammad Nefertiti , Yang Guang-Yu , Lauberth Shannon M.
Published: January 2024

Downstream-of-gene (DoG) transcripts are an emerging class of noncoding RNAs. However, it remains largely unknown how DoG RNA production is regulated and whether alterations in DoG RNA signatures exist in major cancers. Here, through transcriptomic analyses of matched tumors and non-neoplastic tissues and cancer cell lines, we reveal a comprehensive catalogue of DoG RNA signatures. Through separate lines of evidence, we support the biological importance of DoG RNAs in carcinogenesis. First, we reveal DoG RNAs are tissue-specific and differentially expressed in tumors versus paired normal tissues with their respective host genes involved in tumor promoting versus tumor suppressor pathways. Second, increased DoG RNA number and length is associated with poor patient prognosis. Third, depletion of essential enzyme Topoisomerase I in colon cancer alters RNA polymerase II chromatin engagement leading to termination defects and induction of DoG RNAs. Our results underlie the significance of DoG RNAs in diversifying the cancer transcriptome.
Integrating Equation Coding with Residual Networks for Efficient ODE Approximation in Biological Research
Authors: Yi Ziyue
Published: January 2024

Traditional biological research heavily relies on experimental methodologies, which often lead to inefficiencies in communication and knowledge transfer. These methodologies frequently result in redundant trial-and-error experiments, posing challenges in standardizing results and impeding rapid knowledge dissemination. The complexity of biological systems and the sheer volume of experimental data generate a demand for precise mathematical models like Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs) to articulate biological interactions. However, practical implementation of ODE-based models is hampered by their need for data curation, making them less feasible for everyday research applications. To address these limitations, we introduce LazyNet, a novel computational model that employs logarithmic and exponential functions embedded within a Residual Network (ResNet) architecture to approximate ODEs. LazyNet simplifies complex mathematical operations, reducing the dependency on large datasets and extensive computational resources. This study tests LazyNet across various biological scenarios, including HIV dynamics, gene regulatory networks, and mass spectrometry analysis of small molecules. Our results demonstrate that LazyNet can efficiently assimilate and predict complex biological processes, significantly enhancing model training speed and reducing the reliance on empirical experimentation. Therefore, a promising tool for advancing biological research and fostering more accurate and efficient scientific explorations.
Fluidic shear stress alters clathrin dynamics and vesicle formation in endothelial cells
Authors: Nawara Tomasz J. , Sztul Elizabeth , Mattheyses Alexa L.
Published: January 2024

Endothelial cells (ECs) experience a variety of highly dynamic mechanical stresses. Among others, cyclic stretch and increased plasma membrane tension inhibit clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) in non-ECs cells. How ECs overcome such unfavorable, from biophysical perspective, conditions and maintain CME remains elusive. Previously, we have used simultaneous two-wavelength axial ratiometry (STAR) microscopy to show that endocytic dynamics are similar between statically cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and fibroblast-like Cos-7 cells. Here we asked whether biophysical stresses generated by blood flow could favor one mechanism of clathrin-coated vesicle formation to overcome environment present in vasculature. We used our data processing platform – DrSTAR – to examine if clathrin dynamics are altered in HUVECs grown under fluidic sheer stress (FSS). Surprisingly, we found that FSS led to an increase in clathrin dynamics. In HUVECs grown under FSS we observed a 2.3-fold increase in clathrin-coated vesicle formation and a 1.9-fold increase in non-productive flat clathrin lattices compared to cells grown in static conditions. The curvature-positive events had significantly delayed curvature initiation in flow-stimulated cells, highlighting a shift toward flat-to-curved clathrin transitions in vesicle formation. Overall, our findings indicate that clathrin dynamics and CCV formation can be modulated by the local physiological environment and represents an important regulatory mechanism.

Significance

Targeted nanomedicine holds a great promise of improved drug bioavailability and specificity. While some cargoes must cross the blood-tissue barrier, the understanding of endocytic pathways in the context of vasculature is limited, which is an obstacle to targeted nanomedicine delivery. In this pilot study we show that the physiological local vascular environment must be considered in the context of internalization of growth factors, membrane proteins, therapeutics, or pathogens. Studies in non-ECs or ECs not cultured under fluidic shear stress do not properly recapitulate clathrin dynamics and will lead to incorrect conclusions.