bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
bpass stellar evolution models incorporating α-enhanced composition – I. Single star models from 0.1 to 316 M⊙
Authors: Byrne Conor M , Eldridge Jan J , Stanway Elizabeth R
Published: January 2025

Stellar evolution modelling is fundamental to many areas of astrophysics including stellar populations in both nearby and distant galaxies. It is heavily influenced by chemical composition. Observations of distant galaxies and nucleosynthesis calculations show that $\alpha$-process elements are enriched faster than iron group elements. We present a dense grid of single-star models calculated using the bpass stellar evolution code and covering masses ($0.1\le \mathrm{\mathrm{ M}}/$M$_\odot$$\le 316$), metallicity mass fractions ($10^{-5} \le Z \le 0.04$), and $\alpha$-to-iron abundance ratios ($-0.2\le$$[\alpha /\rm {Fe}]$$\le +0.6$). By comparing solar-scaled models to ones enriched in $\alpha$-process elements, we find that stellar radii, surface temperatures, Main Sequence lifetimes, supernova progenitor properties and supernova rates are all sensitive to changes in $[\alpha /\rm {Fe}]$. Lifetimes of low-mass stars differ by up to 0.4 dex, while surface temperatures of massive stars at the end of the Main Sequence also differ by around 0.4 dex. Inferred supernova rates when $[\rm {Fe}/\rm {H}]$ is unknown can be highly uncertain. Models with different $[\alpha /\rm {Fe}]$ but comparable iron abundances show smaller variations, indicating that while iron primarily defines the course of evolution; $\alpha$-enhancement none the less has an impact of up to 0.1 dex on stellar properties. Such changes are small for individual stars, but have a large cumulative effect when considering an entire stellar population as demonstrated by isochrone fitting to nearby clusters. Changes in radii and lifetimes have further consequences for a stellar population including binary stars, as they influence the timing, nature, and occurrence rate of mass transfer events.
Variety of disc wind-driven explosions in massive rotating stars – II. Dependence on the progenitor
Authors: Menegazzi Ludovica Crosato , Fujibayashi Sho , Shibata Masaru , Betranhandy Aurore , Takahashi Koh
Published: January 2025

We assess the variance of supernova(SN)-like explosions associated with the core collapse of rotating massive stars into a black hole-accretion disc system under changes in the progenitor structure. Our model of the central engine evolves the black hole and the disc through the transfer of matter and angular momentum and includes the contribution of the disc wind. We perform two-dimensional, non-relativistic, hydrodynamics simulations using the open-source hydrodynamic code athena++, for which we develop a method to calculate self-gravity for axially symmetric density distributions. For a fixed model of the wind injection, we explore the explosion characteristics for progenitors with zero-age main-sequence masses from 9 to 40 $\mathrm{ M}_\odot$ and different degrees of rotation. Our outcomes reveal a wide range of explosion energies with $E_\mathrm{expl}$ spanning from ${\sim} 0.3\times 10^{51}$ to $\gt 8\times 10^{51}$ erg and ejecta mass $M_\mathrm{ej}$ from ${\sim} 0.6$ to ${\gt} 10 \,\mathrm{ M}_\odot$. Our results are in agreement with some range of the observational data of stripped-envelope and high-energy SNe such as broad-lined type Ic SNe, but we measure a stronger correlation between $E_\mathrm{expl}$ and $M_\mathrm{ej}$. We also provide an estimate of the $^{56}$Ni mass produced in our models which goes from ${\sim} 0.04$ to ${\sim} 1.3\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$. The $^{56}$Ni mass shows a correlation with the mass and the angular velocity of the progenitor: more massive and faster rotating progenitors tend to produce a higher amount of $^{56}$Ni. Finally, we present a criterion that allows the selection of a potential collapsar progenitor from the observed explosion energy.
Ubiquitin protease Ubp1 cooperates with Ubp10 and Ubp12 to revert lysine-164 PCNA ubiquitylation at replication forks
Authors: Zamarreño Javier , Rodríguez Sergio , Muñoz Sofía , Bueno Avelino , Sacristán María P
Published: January 2025

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is essential for the faithful duplication of eukaryotic genomes. PCNA also orchestrates events necessary to address threats to genomic integrity, such as the DNA damage tolerance (DDT) response, a mechanism by which eukaryotic cells bypass replication-blocking lesions to maintain replisome stability. DDT is regulated by the ubiquitylation of PCNA and the consequent recruitment of specialized polymerases that ensure replication continuity. We have recently described that the deubiquitylases Ubp10 and Ubp12 modulate DDT events by reverting the ubiquitylation of PCNA in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This study identifies Ubp1 as a novel PCNA deubiquitylase that cooperates with Ubp10 and Ubp12 in the regulation of DDT during DNA replication. Ubp1, previously known as a cytoplasmic protein, also localizes to the nucleus, where it associates with DNA replication forks. Additionally, Ubp1 interacts with and deubiquitylates PCNA. Here, we provide evidence that Ubp1 collaborates with Ubp10 and Ubp12 to facilitate DNA replication by efficiently reverting PCNAK164 ubiquitylation at replication forks under conditions free from exogenous perturbations. Consequently, the deletion of UBP1, UBP10, and UBP12 leads to persistent ubiquitylation of PCNAK164 and a marked delay in S phase progression.
Oncohistone H3 E97K mutation facilitates CENP-A mislocalization and chromosomal instability in budding yeast
Authors: Ohkuni Kentaro , Au Wei-Chun , Kazi Amira Z , Balachandra Vinutha , Basrai Munira A
Published: January 2025

Mislocalization of overexpressed CENP-A (Cse4 in budding yeast) contributes to chromosomal instability (CIN) in yeasts, flies, and human cells. Overexpression of CENP-A is observed in many cancers and this correlates with poor prognosis. Here, we show that altered stoichiometry of histone H3 and expression of oncohistone mutation H3 E97K contributes to mislocalization of Cse4 and CIN. Oncohistone mutations in the globular domain of histone H3 such as H3 E97K occur in several cancers; however, their functional effects remain unexplored. We demonstrated that strains with reduced gene dosage of histone H3 (hht1Δ and hht2Δ) or oncohistone H3 E97K mutation exhibit enhanced Cse4–H4 interaction, an in vivo change in the conformational state of Cse4, and this contributes to mislocalization of Cse4. Oncohistone H3 E97K mutant protein was unstable and exhibited defects in interaction with histone H4. Notably, mislocalization of Cse4 and CIN phenotypes were observed in hht1Δ and oncohistone H3 E97K mutants expressing endogenous Cse4. In summary, our studies highlight the importance of histone H3 stoichiometry in preventing mislocalization of Cse4 for chromosomal stability and suggest that oncohistone H3 mutations may contribute to CIN in human cancers.
Consistent features observed in structural probing data of eukaryotic RNAs
Authors: Yamamura Kazuteru , Asai Kiyoshi , Iwakiri Junichi
Published: January 2025

Understanding RNA structure is crucial for elucidating its regulatory mechanisms. With the recent commercialization of messenger RNA vaccines, the profound impact of RNA structure on stability and translation efficiency has become increasingly evident, underscoring the importance of understanding RNA structure. Chemical probing of RNA has emerged as a powerful technique for investigating RNA structure in living cells. This approach utilizes chemical probes that selectively react with accessible regions of RNA, and by measuring reactivity, the openness and potential of RNA for protein binding or base pairing can be inferred. Extensive experimental data generated using RNA chemical probing have significantly contributed to our understanding of RNA structure in cells. However, it is crucial to acknowledge potential biases in chemical probing data to ensure an accurate interpretation. In this study, we comprehensively analyzed transcriptome-scale RNA chemical probing data in eukaryotes and report common features. Notably, in all experiments, the number of bases modified in probing was small, the bases showing the top 10% reactivity well reflected the known secondary structure, bases with high reactivity were more likely to be exposed to solvent and low reactivity did not reflect solvent exposure, which is important information for the analysis of RNA chemical probing data.
Evaluation of Postemergence Fungicides and Application Method on Sugar Beet for Control of Rhizoctonia Crown and Root Rot in Northwest Minnesota, 2024
Authors: Lien Austin Kyle , Chanda Ashok Kumar
Published: January 2025

Rhizoctonia root and crown rot (RCRR), caused by Rhizoctonia solani, is the most common root disease of sugar beet in Minnesota and eastern North Dakota. Mid-late season infection of plants results in root rot with dark brown to black lesions on the surface that are accompanied by internal rot leading to chlorotic and wilting foliage. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of conventional fungicides applied postemergence as a 7-in. band or broadcast for managing RCRR. The trial was conducted in 2024 in Crookston, MN on a moderately susceptible sugar beet variety (Beta vulgaris ‘Crystal 793RR’). Results from this trial will help sugar beet growers in making informed decisions about managing this disease.
Unraveling of cannulated screw threads during fixation of medial epicondyle humerus fractures in adolescents: short communication
Authors: Gupta Rajul , Shelby Marcus , Cornwall Roger , Mehlman Charles T. , Parikh Shital N.
Published: January 2025

Cannulated screws have significant advantages, including ease of insertion and increased accuracy, during fracture fixation. Unraveling of screw threads is an uncommon complication related to cannulated screws. This single-institution case series aims to highlight four cases of unraveling of cannulated screw threads during the fixation of medial epicondyle humerus fractures in adolescents. All four cases involved the use of 4.0 or 4.5 mm partially threaded cannulated screws from the same manufacturer. This phenomenon was replicated in two cadaveric humeri. The higher density of bone on the lateral aspect of the medial column of the distal humerus would likely contribute to this complication. Modifying the surgical technique to include predrilling prior to screw placement can potentially avoid this complication.
Prevalence of Asymptomatic Acetabular Labrum Abnormalities in the Active Pediatric Population
Authors: Jones Hunter , Chang I-Yuan Joseph , Chen Diana , Kalia Vivek , Alizai Hamza , Wilson Philip L. , Ellis Henry B.
Published: January 2025

Background:

The prevalence of labral tears in asymptomatic active adults has been reported, but the prevalence of labral tears and other incidental hip lesions in the asymptomatic active pediatric population remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of hip abnormalities detected on 3T MRI in an active pediatric population with no hip symptoms and to compare with hip abnormalities found in children and adolescents who underwent an MRI for a hip-related condition.

Methods:

After IRB approval, pediatric patients self-reporting as athletes and presenting with isolated, acute-onset knee pain requiring knee MRI were prospectively recruited to undergo 3T MRI of their asymptomatic contralateral hip (ASx). A comparison group of pediatric subjects who underwent an MRI for hip pain was enrolled retrospectively (Sx). All MRI scans were anonymized and randomized. Fifty subjects were enrolled for each cohort. Two fellowship-trained musculoskeletal radiologists independently evaluated MRIs for abnormal hip lesions, including labral tears. Inter-reader reliability was evaluated using Cohen Kappa. χ2 or Fisher exact test was used to compare the prevalence of hip lesions between the 2 cohorts.

Results:

The average patient age was 14.9 years for both cohorts (range 9 to 18 y) and 48% were male. In the ASx group, incidental labral tears were found in 18%, labral/paralabral cysts 6%, cartilage lesion 0%, subchondral cyst 0%, ligamentum teres tear 0%, femoral fibrocystic change 0%, cam lesion 30%, acetabular bone edema 0%, acetabular rim fracture 0%. The prevalence of labral tears (30%, P-value 0.16) and cam lesion (36%, P-value 0.52) in the Sx group was not significantly different from the ASx cohort. No significant correlation was found between the presence of femoral neck osseous bump and labral tear, labral cyst, or paralabral cyst in either cohort.

Conclusions:

Labral tears were present on 3T MRIs of active pediatric patients with and without hip pain. Although MRI is essential to confirm the surgeon’s suspicion and to detect unexpected pathology, clinical examination and history are crucial in pinpointing clinically relevant abnormal imaging findings.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Defining Substantial Clinical Benefits of PROMIS Pain Interference and Physical Function in Patients Undergoing Lumbar and Thoracolumbar Spine Surgery
Authors: Yakdan Salim , Frumkin Madelyn R. , Javeed Saad , Plog Benjamin A. , Zhang Justin K. , Benedict Braeden , Botterbush Kathleen , Goodin Burel R. , Piccirillo Jay F. , Buchowski Jacob M. , Rodebaugh Thomas L. , Ray Wilson Z. , Kelly Michael P. , Greenberg Jacob K.
Published: January 2025

Study Design.

Prospective cohort study.

Objective.

This study aims to define Substantial Clinical Benefit (SCB) thresholds for PROMIS physical function (PF) and pain interference (PI) in lumbar or thoracolumbar spine surgery population.

Summary of Background Data.

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are widely used in spine surgery to assess treatment efficacy. SCB is a relatively new concept that represents a substantial improvement perceived by the patient.

Methods.

This is a prospective study that included adults aged 21-85 years, undergoing lumbar/ thoracolumbar surgery for degenerative spine disease, and reporting at least 3/10 back or leg pain on a numeric rating scale. PROMs including Oswestry Disability Index, PROMIS PF, and PROMIS PI were collected preoperatively and at one year postoperatively. The North American Spine Surgery Patient Satisfaction (NASS) Index was collected one year postoperatively. SCB thresholds of absolute and percentage changes were calculated using anchor-based methods with ODI and NASS index as anchors. ROC analysis was used to determine optimal SCB cutoffs.

Results.

We included 137 patients. Using a fixed 19-point reduction in ODI as an anchor yielded SCB thresholds of 6.8 and 11.3 points for PROMIS PF and PI respectively. When using a dynamic anchor based on preoperative disability (50% ODI improvement), SCB thresholds were defined as achieving 18 and 27% of maximum possible improvement for PROMIS PF and PI respectively. Using NASS index, thresholds were 11 points or 24% for PROMIS PF, and 11.2 points or 21% for PROMIS PI. ROC values ranged from 0.81 to 0.9, with the dynamic ODI anchor cutoffs demonstrating the best discrimination.

Conclusion.

Our study is the first to define SCB thresholds for PROMIS PF and PROMIS PI using both fixed and dynamic cutoffs based on preoperative disability in lumbar and thoracolumbar patients. These thresholds will help in patient counseling and outcome evaluation for spine surgery research.
Real-world Plasma Exposure of Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir in Chinese Hospitalized Patients With COVID-19: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Ma Zhiyuan , Bai Mengru , Shen Shuying , Zhou Junshan , Dong Rong , Zhang Jiangjun , Weng Yayun , Li Li , Li Yongchen , Liu Dan , Yan Wei , Lin Nengming , Xia Jianmei
Published: January 2025

Background:

Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir is licensed for the treatment of mild-to-moderate coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in patients at an increased risk of progression to severe disease. However, data on the real-world plasma exposure to nirmatrelvir/ritonavir remain limited, particularly in Chinese patients. This study aimed to assess the nirmatrelvir/ritonavir trough concentration (Ctrough) and identify its critical factors in hospitalized Chinese patients treated with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir 300 mg/100 mg twice daily over a 5-day course.

Methods:

A high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay was developed and validated to measure the nirmatrelvir/ritonavir Ctrough. Correlation analyses were performed to identify the variables influencing nirmatrelvir/ritonavir Ctrough.

Results:

Among the 110 patients, 100% had plasma concentrations above the antiviral in vitro 90% effective concentration. The median Ctrough of nirmatrelvir was 4.55 mcg/mL (15.6× 90% effective concentration), ranging from 0.65 to 12.44 mcg/mL. Nirmatrelvir Ctrough in normal and mild renal impairment cohorts were comparable (4.09 ± 1.97 mcg/mL and 4.57 ± 2.21 mcg/mL) but significantly increased in the moderate renal impairment cohort (6.41 ± 2.31 mcg/mL). Sex, age, and obesity were not significantly associated with nirmatrelvir exposure.

Conclusions:

Nirmatrelvir Ctrough was high in Chinese patients with COVID-19, and therapeutic drug monitoring should not be routinely recommended, except in patients with renal impairment.
Cardiac sarcoidosis; update for the heart failure specialist
Authors: Birnie David H.
Published: January 2025

Purpose of review

This review presents contemporary data on epidemiology, common presentations, investigations and diagnostic algorithms, treatment and prognosis. It particularly focuses on topics of most relevance to heart failure specialists, including what left ventricle (LV) function changes can be expected after treatment and outcomes to all standard and advanced heart failure therapies.

Recent findings

Around 5% of sarcoidosis patients have clinically manifest cardiac sarcoidosis (CS), presenting with significant arrhythmias (such as conduction disturbances and ventricular arrhythmias) or newly developed unexplained heart failure. These cardiac symptoms (including sudden cardiac death) may be the initial manifestations of CS. While cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) is the preferred method for identifying fibrosis in the myocardium, FDG-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) helps in identifying active inflammation within the myocardium and aids in managing immunosuppressive treatment. The concept of isolated CS is much debated. However very importantly, recent data have shown that some patients diagnosed with ‘clinically and imaging isolated CS’ are subsequently found to have genetic cardiomyopathy. The management of CS involves a comprehensive approach including medications for immunosuppression, all standard heart failure medication and, in high-risk patient's implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs). In CS patients with terminal heart failure who do not respond to medical and surgical interventions, heart transplantation and ventricular assist devices should be considered. Long-term results after transplantation are generally favorable and comparable to non-CS patients. The degree of left ventricular dysfunction remains a crucial prognostic factor in CS cases. Outcomes for CS have very significantly improved, over the last two decades due to earlier diagnosis, advanced heart failure treatments, and the strategic use of ICD therapy.

Outcomes for CS have significantly improved, over the last two decades due to earlier diagnosis, advanced heart failure treatments, and the strategic use of ICD therapy.
Multidimensional Classification and Prediction of Outcome Following Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Ponsford Jennie L. , Spitz Gershon , Pyman Phillipa , Carrier Sarah , Hicks Amelia J. , Nguyen Jack V. , Sander Angelle M. , Sherer Mark
Published: January 2025

Objectives: This study aimed to identify outcome clusters among individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI), 6 months to 10 years post-injury, in an Australian rehabilitation sample, and determine whether scores on 12 dimensions, combined with demographic and injury severity variables, could predict outcome cluster membership 1 to 3 years post-injury. Setting: Rehabilitation hospital. Participants: A total of 467 individuals with TBI, aged 17 to 87 (M = 44.2 years), 70% male, with mean post-traumatic amnesia 24 days (range 0.5-455 days), were assessed a mean of 3.4 years post-injury (range 0.5-10 years). A subgroup of 138 participants was also evaluated as rehabilitation inpatients and followed up 1 year post-injury. Design: Prospective observational study. Main Measures: TBI Quality of Life subscales (Upper Extremity, Pain Interference, Headache Pain, Anxiety, Resilience, Emotional and Behavioral Dyscontrol, General Cognitive Concerns, Independence, and Economic Quality of Life Scale), Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory, Family Assessment Device General Functioning Scale, Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV Letter-Number-Sequencing and Coding, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Trail Making Test Part A, Verbal Fluency Test, Word Memory Test, Participation Assessment with Recombined Tools-Objective, and Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended. Results: K-means cluster analysis revealed 5 clusters across 12 dimensions: Good Outcome, High Cognition, Poor Cognition, Poor Outcome, and Poor Adjustment, aligning with Sherer and colleagues’ clusters. Inpatient assessments (n = 138) identified profiles predictive of outcome group membership. Participants with Good Outcomes exhibited lower anxiety and higher independence, self-esteem, and resilience, despite some cognitive deficits. High Cognition correlated with robust Economic and Family Support. Poor Cognition aligned with impaired cognitive function but positive psychosocial ratings suggest limited self-awareness. Poor Outcome featured low initial cognitive scores and poor psychosocial adjustment. Poor Adjustment participants, without inpatient cognitive impairments, reported persistent pain, physical symptoms, and emotional distress. Conclusions: Findings support the evaluation of cognitive and psychosocial factors during rehabilitation to predict outcomes with potential to inform rehabilitative interventions to optimize outcomes.
Therapeutic Effects of Quercetin on Renal Fibrosis and Injury
Authors: Wang Wenbiao , Wu Wenjing
Published: January 2025

Quercetin is a natural flavonoid found in a variety of herbs and is the main active ingredient in several herbal formulas for treating kidney disease. Numerous studies have shown that quercetin can effectively attenuate acute kidney injury (AKI) by inhibiting renal inflammation, ferroptosis, and cell apoptosis. Quercetin ameliorates renal fibrosis in chronic kidney disease (CKD) by attenuating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, inflammation, cellular senescence, and other mechanisms. Therefore, quercetin may be a potential drug for the treatment of kidney diseases. In this review, recent advances in the therapeutic effects on and the mechanisms of quercetin in AKI and CKD are discussed.
Intermittent Fetal Heart Monitoring Through Moyo Doppler Improves Nonreassuring Fetal Heart Rate Detection in Hospital of Ethiopia
Authors: Fikadu Kassahun , Kote Mesfin , Hailemariam Zeleke , Shibru Tamiru , Koira Getahun , Chufamo Nega , Mulugeta Aregahegn , Belgu Belete , Mazengia Fikadu , Ayele Tadesse Awoke
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

This study was aimed to assess the effect of intermittent fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring using Moyo Doppler compared with fetoscope in hospitals of Ethiopia, 2023.

Background:

To facilitate more prompt identification of a hypoxic fetus, Laerdal Global Health has recently introduced the Moyo FHR monitor. Nevertheless, there exists limited knowledge regarding its efficacy derived from multicenter contextual trials conducted in resource-constrained environments, specifically in Ethiopia.

Methods:

This randomized trial (PACTR202305607000259) enrolled 2518 low-risk laboring women in the study during the study period, using a simple randomization technique from September 28, 2022, to February 28, 2023. A total of 1259 and 1259 were followed by Moyo and Pinard fetoscope, respectively. A P-value of less than .05 was considered significant.

Results:

The abnormal FHR was detected among 60 women (5.1%) and 30 women (2.4%) (P = .001) in the Moyo and Pinard fetoscope arms, respectively.

Conclusion:

The Moyo FHR monitor has demonstrated efficacy in detecting abnormal FHRs when compared with the Pinard fetoscope.

Implications for Practice and Research:

It is recommended that healthcare systems in low-resource settings consider implementing the Moyo device for FHR monitoring.
A model of care redesign within rheumatology: A mixed methods approach integrating nurse practitioners and physician assistants
Authors: Carnago Lisa , Holbrook Kristin , Leverenz David , Dimsdale Allison
Published: January 2025

Background:

Increasing patient demand and clinician burnout in rheumatology practices have highlighted the need for more efficient models of care (MOC). Interprofessional collaboration is essential for improving patient outcomes and clinician satisfaction.

Local problem:

Our current MOC lacks standardization and formal integration of Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Physician Assistants (PAs), resulting in reduced clinician satisfaction and limited patient access. To optimize care quality, clinician satisfaction, and patient access, we sought to develop an interprofessional MOC tailored to an academic rheumatology practice.

Methods:

We used a mixed methods sequential-exploratory design within a quality improvement (QI) framework to create a blueprint for MOC redesign.

Intervention:

Intervention development proceeded in four phases: needs assessment, data collection, socializing key ideas, and team design and planning.

Results:

In the needs assessment phase, divisional leadership was interviewed to identify shared goals for an optimized MOC. Data collection included surveys distributed to 12 physicians and 8 NPs/PAs, addressing 11 key domains related to current and future MOC needs. In phase 3, we communicated key findings to divisional leadership, clinicians, and staff. Phase 4 involved iterative team building and MOC design. Survey results revealed low satisfaction with the current MOC and a strong preference for parallel practice, standardization, and formal NP/Physician Assistant integration. Several barriers to MOC implementation were also identified.

Conclusion:

Redesigning the MOC in rheumatology requires aligning clinician, leadership, and organizational priorities. A mixed methods QI approach effectively uncovers clinical needs and potential barriers, supporting the successful implementation of a new MOC.
Metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver and kidney stones: what is going on?
Authors: Cunneely Owen P. , Roberts Anne , Fargue Sonia , Knight John , Assimos Dean G. , Wood Kyle D.
Published: January 2025

Purpose of review

Metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is increasing throughout the world, affecting nearly one in three individuals. Kidney stone disease, which is also increasing, is associated with MASLD. Common risk factors for both, including obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome, are likely drivers of this association. We present here a review of the associations and possible interconnections between these two common disease processes.

Recent findings

Epidemiological studies are discordant regarding the impact of sex on this association and on the impact of MASLD on incident stone risk. The nature of kidney stones is rarely taken into account.

A favorable milieu for uric acid kidney stone formation may be created by a lower urine pH resulting from defective ammonium production associated with insulin resistance, common in MASLD.

Endogenous oxalate synthesis, a major risk factor for calcium oxalate kidney stones, may be increased in MASLD via decline in the activity of enzymes involved in the detoxification of glyoxylate, the immediate precursor of oxalate.

The nature of kidney stones associated with MASLD and factors driving this association remain to be elucidated. Potential mechanisms identified underlying this include an increase in the risk factors for both uric acid and calcium oxalate kidney stones.
Essential Primary Health Care Skills
Authors: Ziegler Erin , Dickson Kaitlin , Silva Amina , Pirani Sarah , Tyerman Jane , Luctkar-Flude Marian
Published: January 2025

Background:

Practice-based learning is essential in nurse practitioner (NP) education to ensure public safety and prepare students for independent practice. However, lack of clinical placement opportunities results in variability in clinical experience, necessitating educational innovation.

Purpose:

To evaluate the usability, engagement, and impact of the Essential Skills for Nurse Practitioners virtual simulations (VS).

Methods:

Four VS covering concussion management, Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD), memory concerns in older adults, and prescribing medical cannabis were evaluated across 3 Canadian universities using self-assessment competency rubrics and the Classroom Instructional Support Perception (CRiSP) scale.

Results:

Competencies improved significantly across all VS, with highest improvement in concussion management. CRiSP results indicated high usability and engagement with all VS, underscoring their effectiveness.

Conclusions:

Findings indicate VS can enhance students’ readiness to manage complex clinical situations and help address clinical placement shortages.
Latent Profile Analysis of Fatigue Subtypes in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Kuo Hsuan-Ju , Huang Ya-Ching , Benner Aprile D. , García Alexandra A.
Published: January 2025

Background

People with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) commonly report a higher fatigue intensity than the general population. However, effective fatigue management is lacking because little is known about other fatigue characteristics, including timing, distress, and quality, as well as the potential fatigue subtypes experienced in people with T2DM.

Objective

To describe fatigue intensity, timing, distress, and quality, and identify fatigue subtypes in people with T2DM.

Methods

This cross-sectional, descriptive study included a sample of 150 participants with T2DM recruited from two diabetes outpatient clinics in Taiwan. Fatigue intensity, timing, and distress were measured using the Fatigue Symptom Inventory. Fatigue quality was measured using the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory. Fatigue subtypes were identified using a latent profile analysis.

Results

Participants reported a mild fatigue intensity, experiencing fatigue for about 22% of the day with worse fatigue in the afternoon and evening and having mild disturbances. Three fatigue subtypes were identified. The “high/persistent fatigue with mild distress” subtype was characterized by high fatigue intensity and duration with severe general, physical, and mental fatigue that mildly interfered with functioning. The “moderate/frequent fatigue with minimal distress” group showed moderate levels of fatigue intensity and duration levels with intermediate of general, physical, and mental fatigue and minimal fatigue disturbances. The “no fatigue and distress” subtype was characterized by overall low fatigue scores.

Discussion

We identified fatigue characteristics and subtypes in people with T2DM, providing insights into better fatigue management. People with T2DM reported having mild but persistent fatigue. The latent profile analysis revealed that fatigue is likely composed of a mixture of physical and mental components. Nurses should assess both the physical and mental aspects of fatigue while addressing features of the fatigue characteristics in tailored management strategies to alleviate all aspects of fatigue in people with T2DM.
Validation of the Dutch version of the Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale-C in patients with advanced cancer receiving systemic treatment
Authors: Braam Cheyenne I. W. , Kolsteren Evie E. M. , Poort Hanneke , Hillen Marij A. , van der Graaf Winette T. A. , Prins Judith B. , Kwakkenbos Linda , Custers José A. E.
Published: January 2025

Background:

An emerging group of patients with advanced cancer receiving systemic treatment lives long term with ongoing uncertainty, but no valid measure of uncertainty was available for this group. Our aims were to translate the Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale-Community (MUIS-C) into the Dutch language and evaluate its psychometric properties in patients with advanced cancer receiving systemic treatment.

Methods:

Patients (N = 111) with diverse advanced cancer diagnoses and treatments (53% male, mean age 66 years) completed the MUIS-C, which was translated into the Dutch language using a forward-backward translation procedure. Floor and ceiling effects, structural validity, internal consistency, and construct validity were evaluated.

Results:

No floor and ceiling effects for the MUIS-C were found. Exploratory factor analysis revealed two factors (lack of clarity, unpredictability). Internal consistency was adequate (Cronbach's α = 0.82). All a priori hypotheses regarding convergent and divergent validity were confirmed and supported construct validity.

Conclusions:

Results suggest that the Dutch MUIS-C is a valid and reliable measure for assessing illness uncertainty in patients with advanced cancer and support its use in future studies among patients with advanced cancer receiving systemic treatment.
Unearthing the Unexpected
Authors: Ghandili Mehrnoosh , Giffen Mark A.
Published: January 2025

The ossa cordis (OC), or cardiac bone, is a bony structure within the cardiac skeleton of mammals, believed to maintain heart shape during systole and enhance contraction efficiency. Found in large mammals, especially ruminants, and has recently been described in chimpanzees; however, OC has not previously been described in humans. Herein, we present an incidental finding of OC in the heart of a 39-year-old man who suffered a stab wound to chest. A thorough postmortem examination revealed a 0.8 × 0.6 × 0.4-cm, well-defined, boomerang-shaped, bony structure embedded in atrioventricular node location in the right atrium within the triangle of Koch. The heart showed cardiomegaly and moderate atherosclerosis in the left anterior descending and right coronary arteries but was otherwise normal, without fibrosis, valvular abnormalities, or degenerative changes. Histological analysis revealed mature bone with trilineage hematopoietic elements. This finding highlights anatomical similarities between human hearts and other species, raising questions about whether OC in humans and primates is linked solely to degenerative cardiac disorders or represents a normal aspect of mammalian heart development and aging. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of an OC in a human.
Ovarian Carcinomas
Authors: Prat Jaime , D’Angelo Emanuela , Espinosa Iñigo
Published: January 2025

According to histopathology and molecular genetics, there are 5 major subtypes of ovarian carcinomas: high-grade serous (70%), endometrioid (10%), clear cell (10%), mucinous (3% to 4%), and low-grade serous (<5%) carcinomas. These tumors, which constitute over 95% of cases, represent distinct diseases with different prognoses and therapy. This review outlines contemporary advances in molecular pathology, which have expanded our knowledge of the biology of epithelial ovarian cancer and are also important to patient management. We also comment on some controversial points of the FIGO staging classification that we proposed in 2014.
Delayed Superficial Temporal Artery Pseudoaneurysm Following Minor Trauma in a Post-facelift Patient
Authors: Kang Daihun
Published: January 2025

A 37-year-old woman with a history of facelift surgery presented with a painless temporal mass after surfboard trauma. Physical examination revealed a 1 cm pulsatile mass, and ultrasound confirmed a superficial temporal artery pseudoaneurysm. Surgical excision was complicated by adhesions from previous facial surgery and steroid injections. Histopathology showed vessel wall disruption and fibrosis consistent with pseudoaneurysm. This case highlights the potential risk of vascular complications in patients with prior aesthetic procedures, emphasizing the need for careful evaluation of persistent swelling in this population. Surgeons should exercise caution during temporal region procedures and maintain vigilance for delayed vascular complications in previously operated areas.
Management of adhesive small bowel obstruction during pregnancy in the United States
Authors: Ashbrook Matthew J. , Cheng Vincent , Longo Emma , Kohrman Nathan , Matsuo Koji , Martin Matthew J. , Inaba Kenji , Matsushima Kazuhide
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Adhesive small bowel obstruction (ASBO) is a rare, nonobstetrical abdominal emergency. Optimal management of ASBO during pregnancy remains unknown. This study analyzes management trends and outcomes of pregnant patients with ASBO in the United States.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample was queried for pregnant women diagnosed with ASBO from January 2003 to September 2015. Patients were grouped into three management strategies: nonoperative management (NOM), immediate operation (from admission to hospital day 1), or delayed operation (after hospital day 1). Multivariable regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between management strategies and maternal or perinatal complications. The impact of delayed operation on patient outcomes was also assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 4,266 pregnant patients with ASBO were identified: 1,974 (46.3%) were managed nonoperatively, 1,177 (27.6%) underwent immediate operation, and 1,115 (26.1%) underwent delayed operation. The rate of NOM did not significantly change over the study period. Compared with NOM, immediate operation was not associated with increased complication rates, whereas delayed operation was associated with higher rates of maternal septic shock (odds ratio [OR], 5.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09–29.21; p = 0.04) and preterm labor, delivery, or abortion (OR, 2.41; 95% CI, 1.56–3.72; p < 0.001). In analysis of patients who underwent surgery, each day of delay in operation was associated with a 14% higher chance of preterm labor, delivery, or abortion (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.08–1.21; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Pregnant patients presenting with ASBO were often managed operatively. Delay to operation was associated with increased odd of maternal and perinatal complications. Surgeons should be involved early in determining the optimal management for ASBO.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level IV.
Swarms can be rational
Authors: Kaminka Gal A.
Published: January 2025

The emergence of collective order in swarms from local, myopic interactions of their individual members is of interest to biology, sociology, psychology, computer science, robotics, physics and economics.
Cooperative swarms
, whose members unknowingly work towards a common goal, are particularly perplexing: members sometimes take individual actions that maximize collective utility, at the expense of their own. This seems to contradict expectations of individual rationality. Moreover, members choose these actions without knowing their effect on the collective utility. I examine this puzzle through game theory, machine learning and robots. I show that in some settings, the
collective utility
can be transformed into
individual rewards
that can be measured locally: when interacting, members individually choose actions that receive a reward based on how quickly the interaction was resolved, how much individual work time is gained and the approximate effect on others. This internally measurable reward is individually and independently maximized by learning. This results in a equilibrium, where the learned response of each individual maximizes both its individual reward and the collective utility, i.e. both the swarm and the individuals are rational.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘The road forward with swarm systems’.
Rolling horizon coverage control with collaborative autonomous agents
Authors: Papaioannou Savvas , Kolios Panayiotis , Theocharides Theocharis , Panayiotou Christos G. , Polycarpou Marios M.
Published: January 2025

This work proposes a coverage controller that enables an aerial team of distributed autonomous agents to collaboratively generate non-myopic coverage plans over a rolling finite horizon, aiming to cover specific points on the surface area of a three-dimensional object of interest. The collaborative coverage problem, formulated as a distributed model predictive control problem, optimizes the agents’ motion and camera control inputs, while considering inter-agent constraints aiming at reducing work redundancy. The proposed coverage controller integrates constraints based on light-path propagation techniques to predict the parts of the object’s surface that are visible with regard to the agents’ future anticipated states. This work also demonstrates how complex, non-linear visibility assessment constraints can be converted into logical expressions that are embedded as binary constraints into a mixed-integer optimization framework. The proposed approach has been demonstrated through simulations and practical applications for inspecting buildings with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

This article is part of the theme issue ‘The road forward with swarm systems’.
Effect of Antibiotic Administration on Blastocystis Persistence and Gut Microbiome-Metabolome Dynamics in an Irritable Bowel Syndrome Longitudinal Case Study

Authors: Newton Jamie M. , Edwards William JS , Thompson Gary S. , Gentekaki Eleni , Tsaousis Anastasios D.
Published: January 2025

Background: Blastocystis, the most prevalent microbial eukaryote in humans, has a global distribution. Studies have linked its presence with distinct gut microbiome and metabolome profiles compared to those where the organism is absent. However, the interplay of antibiotics administration, Blastocystis and the surrounding gut microbiome remains understudied. This case study aimed to explore antibiotic consumption and the presence of Blastocystis with subsequent changes in the gut microbiome and metabolome of an individual diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Methods: Stool samples from an IBS patient, collected at 12 time points, were tested for Blastocystis presence using RT-PCR targeting the SSUrRNA gene, followed by sequencing of positive samples. Illumina sequencing determined the gut microbiome composition, while one-dimensional proton NMR spectroscopy was used to analyse the metabolome composition. Statistical analyses were conducted to identify relationships between antibiotic consumption, bacterial diversity, metabolome composition, and Blastocystis presence.
Results: Antibiotics significantly impacted the gut microbiome, with diversity declining early in the antibiotic course, then recovering later and post-course. Blastocystis was detected early, late, and post-course but was not detectable mid-course, coinciding with the decline in bacterial diversity. Significant differences were observed between Blastocystis-positive and Blastocystis-negative samples with bacterial composition significantly changing between samples collected before, early, and after the antibiotic course compared to those collected mid-course. Metabolite groups, including short-chain fatty acids, amino acids, and succinate, exhibited changes throughout the antibiotic course, indicating that gut metabolite composition is affected by antibiotic consumption.
 
Discussion/Conclusion: While antibiotics did not significantly impact Blastocystis colonisation, they did cause a mid-course decline in microbial diversity and Blastocystis presence. The study also revealed significant alterations in important metabolites such as SCFAs and amino acids throughout the antibiotic course, with an altered metabolome observed post-course. This case study underscores the complex interactions between antibiotics, gut microbiota, and metabolites, highlighting the resilience of Blastocystis in the gut ecosystem.
Parapipe: A Pipeline for Parasite Next-Generation Sequencing Data Analysis Applied to Cryptosporidium
Authors: Morris Arthur V , Robinson Guy , Chalmers Rachel , Caccio Simone , Connor Tom
Published: January 2025

2. Abstract

Cryptosporidium, a protozoan parasite of significant public health concern, is responsible for severe diarrheal disease, particularly in immunocompromised individuals and young children in resource-limited settings. Analysis of whole genome next generation sequencing (NGS) data is critical in improving our understanding of Cryptosporidium epidemiology, transmission, and diversity. However, effective analysis of NGS data in a public health context necessitates the development of robust, validated computational tools. We present Parapipe, an ISO-accreditable bioinformatic pipeline for high-throughput analysis of protozoan NGS data. Built using Nextflow DSL2 and containerised with Singularity, Parapipe is modular, portable, scalable, and designed for use by public health laboratories.
Using both simulated and real Cryptosporidium datasets, we demonstrate the power of Parapipe’s genomic analysis for generating epidemiological insights. We highlight how whole genome analysis yields substantially greater phylogenetic resolution than conventional gp60 molecular typing in C. parvum. Uniquely, Parapipe facilitates the integration of mixed infection analysis and phylogenomic clustering with epidemiological metadata, representing a powerful tool in the investigation of complex transmission pathways and identification of outbreak sources.
Parapipe significantly advances genomic surveillance of Cryptosporidium, offering a streamlined, reproducible analytical framework. By automating a complex workflow and delivering detailed genomic characterisation, Parapipe provides a valuable tool for public health agencies and researchers, supporting efforts to mitigate the global burden of cryptosporidiosis.
“Continuous Neural Correlates of Imbalanced Reinforcement Learning in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Healthy Individuals”
Authors: Sakai Yuki , Sakai Yutaka , Abe Yoshinari , Narumoto Jin , Tanaka Saori C.
Published: January 2025

Aim

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by imbalanced reinforcement learning. This study investigated neural correlates of this imbalance by examining resting-state functional connectivity (rs-fMRI) in non-medicated OCD patients and healthy controls (HCs) exhibiting varying degrees of memory trace imbalance.

Methods

We employed network-based statistics (NBS), suitable for identifying network-level alterations of rs-fMRI data from 49 OCD patients and 53 HCs (Core Discovery Dataset: Core-DS) to identify a significant network. We validated this network in an independent dataset of 10 OCD patients and 18 HCs (Independent Validation Dataset: IndV-DS). Additionally, we compared functional connectivity in the identified network between subgroups of HCs with imbalanced (OCD-like) and balanced learning profiles (Extension Dataset: Ext-DS; n=10 each).

Results

NBS identified an ‘OCD network’ with increased connectivity in OCD patients (padjusted= 0.022), comprising regions in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), parietal cortex, retrosplenial cortex, and hippocampal formation. This network’s increased connectivity in OCD patients was replicated in IndV-DS (p = 0.0027). Importantly, imbalanced HCs showed a significant increase in functional connectivity, particularly between the DLPFC and presubiculum, in the identified ‘OCD network’, compared to balanced HCs (p = 0.0051, padjusted= 0.066).

Conclusion

Increased functional connectivity in the ‘OCD network,’ especially between the DLPFC and presubiculum, is present in both OCD patients and a subgroup of HCs with learning imbalances. These findings provide evidence for a continuous neural basis of imbalanced reinforcement learning, suggesting a continuum of traits associated with OCD between patients and “healthy” individuals.