bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactive correlations between artificial light at night, health risk behaviors, and cardiovascular health among patients with diabetes: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhang Yi , Hu Keyan , Tang Ying , Feng Qing , Jiang Tian , Chen Liwen , Chen Xin , Shan Chunhan , Han Chen , Chu Wenhui , Ma Nanzhen , Hu Honglin , Gao Hui , Zhang Qiu
Published: October 2024

Background

Artificial light at night (ALAN) is a common phenomenon and contributes to the severe light pollution suffered by more than 80% of the world's population. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between outdoor ALAN exposure and cardiovascular health (CVH) in patients with diabetes and the influence of various modifiable factors.

Methods

A survey method based on the China Diabetes and Risk Factor Monitoring System was adopted. Study data were extracted for 1765 individuals with diabetes in Anhui Province. Outdoor ALAN exposure (nW/cm2/sr) within 1000 m of each participant's residential address was obtained from satellite imagery data, with a resolution of ~1000 m. Health risk behaviors (HRBs) were measured via a standardized questionnaire. A linear regression model was employed to estimate the relationship between outdoor ALAN, HRBs, and CVH.

Results

Participants' mean age was 59.10 ± 10.0 years. An association was observed between ALAN and CVH in patients with diabetes (β = 0.205) and exercise (β = −1.557), moderated by HRBs, or metabolic metrics. There was an association between ALAN, ALAN, vegetable intake, and CVH.

Conclusions

Exploring the relationship between ALAN exposure and cardiovascular and metabolic health provides policy data for improving light pollution strategies and reducing the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disease in patients with diabetes.

image
Propagating observation errors to enable scalable and rigorous enumeration of plant population abundance with aerial imagery
Authors: Zaiats Andrii , Caughlin T. Trevor , Cruz Jennyffer , Pilliod David S. , Cattau Megan E. , Liu Rongsong , Rachman Richard , Maliha Maisha , Delparte Donna , Clare John D. J.
Published: October 2024

Estimating and monitoring plant population size is fundamental for ecological research, as well as conservation and restoration programs. High‐resolution imagery has potential to facilitate such estimation and monitoring. However, remotely sensed estimates typically have higher uncertainty than field measurements, risking biased inference on population status.

We present a model that accounts for false negative (missed plants) and false positive (misclassified or double‐counted plants) error in counts from high‐resolution imagery via integration with ground data. We apply it to estimate the abundance of a foundational shrub species in post‐wildfire landscapes in the western United States. In these landscapes, plant recruitment is crucial for ecological recovery but locally patchy, motivating the use of spatially extensive measurements from unoccupied aerial systems (UAS). Integrating >16 ha of UAS imagery with >700 georeferenced field plots, we fit our model to generate insights into the prevalence and drivers of observation errors associated with classification algorithms used to distinguish individual plants, relationships between abundance and landscape context, and to generate spatially explicit maps of shrub abundance.

Raw counts of plant abundance in high‐resolution imagery resulted in substantial false negative and false positive observation errors. The probability of detecting (p) adult plants (0.25 m tall) varied between sites within 0.52 <  < 0.82, whereas the detection of smaller plants (<0.25 m) was lower, 0.03 <  < 0.3. On average, we estimate that 19% of all detected plants were false positive errors, which varied spatially in relation to topographic predictors. Abundance declined toward the interior of previous wildfires and was positively associated with terrain roughness.

Our study demonstrates that integrated models accounting for imperfect detection improve estimates of plant population abundance derived from inherently imperfect UAS imagery. We believe such models will further improve inference on plant population dynamics—relevant to restoration, wildlife habitat and related objectives—and echo previous calls for remote sensing applications to better differentiate between ecological and observational processes.
Election administration harms and ballot design: A study of Florida's 2018 United States Senate race
Authors: Morse Michael , Herron Michael C. , Meredith Marc , Smith Daniel A. , Martinez Michael D.
Published: October 2024

We introduce a typology of election administration harms and apply it to empirically study the consequences of ballot design. Our typology distinguishes between individual, electoral, and systemic harms. Together, it clarifies why ballot design can be a particular vulnerability in election administration. Using both ballot‐level and precinct‐level data, we revisit Florida's 2018 United States Senate race, in which Broward County's ballot design flouted federal guidelines and, according to critics, was pivotal to the outcome. We estimate that Broward's ballot design induced roughly 25,000 voters to undervote in a race determined by about 10,000 votes and that these excess undervotes were concentrated among low‐information voters. Broward's ballot did not, however, affect the outcome of the election. Nonetheless, flawed ballot designs are still concerning in an age of voter distrust. Given the risk that flawed ballots can cause systemic harm, we offer a roadmap for procedural reforms to improve ballot design.
Vitrectomy in Small idiopathic MAcuLar hoLe (SMALL) study: Internal limiting membrane peeling versus no peeling
Authors: Marolo Paola , Caselgrandi Paolo , Fallico Matteo , Parisi Guglielmo , Borrelli Enrico , Ricardi Federico , Gelormini Francesco , Ceroni Luca , Reibaldi Michele ,   SMALL Study Group
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To compare vitrectomy with and without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling in small idiopathic macular holes.

Methods

Retrospective multicentre study including consecutive eyes with ≤250 μm idiopathic macular hole treated with vitrectomy. The primary outcome was hole closure rate. Best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) change, closure patterns on optical coherence tomography, rates of external limiting membrane (ELM) and ellipsoid zone (EZ) recovery, and rate of complications were also investigated.

Results

In total, 693 eyes were included. Hole closure rate was 98% in the peeling and 85% in the no‐peeling group (p < 0.001). At 12 months, mean BCVA change was 0.38 ± 0.22 logMAR in the peeling and 0.45 ± 0.21 logMAR in the no‐peeling group (p = 0.02); 66% versus 80% of eyes had a U‐shaped morphology, respectively; EZ recovery rate was 75% and 93%, respectively (p = 0.02). In the no‐peeling group, eyes with a vitreomacular traction (VMT) showed a 96% closure rate, comparable to the peeling group (p = 0.40). The incidence of adverse events was similar except for dissociated optic nerve fibre layer (55% in the peeling vs. 9% in the no‐peeling group, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In small idiopathic macular holes, ILM peeling provides a higher closure rate compared to no‐peeling; however, if a VMT is present closure rates are comparable. In closed macular holes, the no‐peeling technique provides advantages in terms of visual outcome and anatomical recovery.
Treatment of Subclinical Hyperthyroidism and Incident Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Jay Mohammad , Huan Peter , Cliffe Nikki , Rakoff Jonah , Morris Emily , Kavsak Peter , Luthra Meera , Punthakee Zubin
Published: October 2024

Context

Treating overt hyperthyroidism prevents atrial fibrillation (AF). Though subclinical hyperthyroidism (SH) has been associated with AF, it is unknown whether treating SH prevents AF.

Objective

We aimed to identify the association between treating SH and incident AF.

Design

In a pharmacoepidemiologic retrospective cohort study, patients diagnosed with SH between 2000 and 2021 were followed.

Patients

Outpatients ≥ 18 years with biochemical SH and without prior AF, hypothyroidism, thyroid cancer, pituitary disease, or pregnancy were included.

Main Outcomes

The primary outcome was incident AF. Secondary outcomes were ECG and echocardiographic features associated with AF.

Results

Of 2169 patients screened, 360 (131 treated and 229 untreated) were followed up for a mean of 4.27 years. In the treated and untreated groups, AF occurred in 4 (3.1%) and 15 (6.6%) patients (p = 0.15), and AF incidence was 0.8% and 1.4%/year (p = 0.31), respectively. The hazard ratio (HR) for treatment as a time‐dependent variable was 0.60 (95% CI 0.19–1.92; p = 0.39). As some cases of AF were documented nearly simultaneously with SH treatment, a sensitivity analysis was performed reassigning two patients diagnosed with AF < 30 days after starting SH treatment to the untreated group. Here, in the treated and untreated groups, AF occurred in 1.6% and 7.4% (p = 0.02), and AF incidence was 0.4% and 1.8%/year (p = 0.02), respectively. The HR was 0.25 (0.06–1.13; p = 0.07). There were no differences in ECG or echocardiographic features.

Conclusion

There was an overall trend towards lower incidence and prevalence of AF following treatment of SH, supporting the need for larger scale studies.
Evaluation of an Algorithmic‐Level Left‐Corner Parsing Account of Surprisal Effects
Authors: Schuler William , Yue Shisen
Published: October 2024

This article evaluates the predictions of an algorithmic‐level distributed associative memory model as it introduces, propagates, and resolves ambiguity, and compares it to the predictions of computational‐level parallel parsing models in which ambiguous analyses are accounted separately in discrete distributions. By superposing activation patterns that serve as cues to other activation patterns, the model is able to maintain multiple syntactically complex analyses superposed in a finite working memory, propagate this ambiguity through multiple intervening words, then resolve this ambiguity in a way that produces a measurable predictor that is proportional to the log conditional probability of the disambiguating word given its context, marginalizing over all remaining analyses. The results are indeed consistent in cases of complex structural ambiguity with computational‐level parallel parsing models producing this same probability as a predictor, which have been shown reliably to predict human reading times.
The effect of eccentric arm cycling on muscle damage and injury‐related biomarkers
Authors: Gottschalk Frode , Gennser Mikael , Eiken Ola , Elia Antonis
Published: October 2024

Purpose

There is a scarcity of information regarding the effect of upper‐body eccentric exercise on biomarkers of muscle damage. This study sought to investigate the effect of eccentric arm cycling on muscle damage [exercise‐induced muscle damage (EIMD)].

Method

Ten subjects performed a 15 min eccentric arm cycling protocol (cadence 49 ± 7 rpm, power absorbed 248 ± 34 W). Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of the elbow flexors was evaluated at rest and at 5 min, 24 h, and 48 h post‐exercise. In addition, blood samples were drawn at rest and thereafter at 30 min, 24 h, and 48 h intervals after exercise for quantification of creatine kinase (CK), myoglobin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and endothelin (ET‐1) concentrations. Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) was assessed using a category ratio scale (0–10).

Results

Myoglobin was increased from baseline at 30 min post‐exercise (+114%, 46.08 ± 22.17 µg/L, p = 0.018). Individual peak values were higher than baseline values for CK (+72.8%, 204 ± 138 U/L, p = 0.046) and LDH (+17%, 3.3 ± 0.88 nmole/min/mL, p = 0.017), but not for ET‐1 (+9%, 1.4 ± 0.48 pg/mL, p = 0.45). DOMS was reported at 24 h (median 4) and 48 h (median 4) post‐exercise and MVC of the elbow flexors were reduced from baseline (216 ± 44 N) at 5 min (−34%, 147 ± 61 N, p < 0.001), 24 h (−17%, 181 ± 56 N, p = 0.005) and 48 h (−9%, 191 ± 54 N, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Eccentric arm cycling incites EIMD with reduced MVC and elevation of myoglobin, CK and LDH.
Elite Dynamics and China's Influence in Latin America
Authors: Bull Benedicte , Rosales Antulio
Published: October 2024

The rise of China as a trading partner, lender and investor is among the most significant developments in the global political economy over the last two decades. This shift has created important new opportunities for developing countries, but it has also introduced new challenges, with benefits and drawbacks unevenly distributed across different nations. This article argues that understanding the developmental consequences of China's involvement requires studying not only Chinese priorities and modalities but also the interests and strategies of local elites. The development of Latin America has been profoundly influenced by these elite interests, which are shaped by the region's integration into the global economy. Elites may leverage the benefits of the relationship to China to enhance their rent‐seeking capabilities and limit competition, thereby hindering development and perpetuating inequality in Latin America. This argument is examined through the contrasting cases of Chile and Venezuela; while Chile's approach to China has been dominated by private sector elites, Venezuela's approach has been driven by governmental elites. In both cases, integration with China is shaped by and has in turn strengthened interests and strategies of the elites.
Risk Management in Deadly Times: The U.S. Life Insurance Industry in the 1918–9 Influenza Pandemic
Authors: Cortes Gustavo S. , Verdickt Gertjan
Published: October 2024

Using a novel, hand‐collected dataset of U.S. life insurance companies during the influenza pandemic of 1918–9, we show that high‐exposure life insurers charged higher prices on new policies vis‐à‐vis less exposed firms. Although the disease surprisingly increased the mortality rates among younger adults, it also increased awareness of the importance of life insurance. We argue that price increases were a crucial risk management tool. Coupled with a surge in demand and coverage, it prevented further financial distress. Although devastating for public health, the influenza pandemic was not too severe for the life insurance industry.
WONOEP appraisal: The role of glial cells in focal malformations associated with early onset epilepsies
Authors: Cases‐Cunillera Silvia , Quatraccioni Anne , Rossini Laura , Ruffolo Gabriele , Ono Tomonori , Baulac Stéphanie , Auvin Stéphane , O'Brien Terence J. , Henshall David C. , Akman Özlem , Sankar Raman , Galanopoulou Aristea S.
Published: October 2024

Epilepsy represents a common neurological disorder in patients with developmental brain lesions, particularly in association with malformations of cortical development and low‐grade glioneuronal tumors. In these diseases, genetic and molecular alterations in neurons are increasingly discovered that can trigger abnormalities in the neuronal network, leading to higher neuronal excitability levels. However, the mechanisms underlying epilepsy cannot rely solely on assessing the neuronal component. Growing evidence has revealed the high degree of complexity underlying epileptogenic processes, in which glial cells emerge as potential modulators of neuronal activity. Understanding the role of glial cells in developmental brain lesions such as malformations of cortical development and low‐grade glioneuronal tumors is crucial due to the high degree of pharmacoresistance characteristic of these lesions. This has prompted research to investigate the role of glial and immune cells in epileptiform activity to find new therapeutic targets that could be used as combinatorial drug therapy. In a special session of the XVI Workshop of the Neurobiology of Epilepsy (WONOEP, Talloires, France, July 2022) organized by the Neurobiology Commission of the International League Against Epilepsy, we discussed the evidence exploring the genetic and molecular mechanisms of glial cells and immune response and their implications in the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental pathologies associated with early life epilepsies.
Involvement of healthcare staff in hospital hygiene during emergency hemodialysis
Authors: El Mahdi Razzok , Imane Machmachi , Adil Maleb , Hassane Mekhfi , Yassamine Bentata
Published: October 2024

Background

Healthcare‐associated infections are still a worrying health problem that complicates patient care and increases morbidity and mortality. The incidence of infections in hemodialysis patients is still high and they constitute the second cause of hospitalization and death in this category.

Aims

The study's objective was to evaluate nursing and medical staff's involvement in hospital hygiene.

Methods

This is an observational study that took place within the hemodialysis unit of a Moroccan university hospital from March 2021 to June 2021. A surface swabbing technique for bacteriological examination was also carried out.

Results

The study revealed some shortcomings regarding hand hygiene which was respected by the nurses in only 17.5% of sessions and in 42.2% by the doctors. Other shortcomings in asepsis measures, were also noted such as the non‐change of gloves after skin preparation (1.03%) and before manual compression. The serological status of patients concerning HBV, HVC, and HIV was also not always known (31.1%). The bacteriological samples from the surfaces also showed colonization of the medical devices and the ultrasound scanner used for the ultrasound‐guided introduction of the central catheters. The results of the study showed some deviations concerning the recommendations; however, they are comparable to other studies conducted internationally, especially in terms of hand hygiene.

Conclusion

Our study results highlight some shortcomings adherence to hygiene measures like inconsistent disinfection of medical devices and dialysis stations, as well as insufficient hand hygiene practices among some staff members. However, we observed an improvement in practices following the implementation of awareness‐raising sessions. To maintain improved hygiene practices and prevent infections, it is crucial to provide ongoing training for staff, ensure adequate resources, and regularly monitor compliance with hygiene standards.
Determination of osteopontin in monitoring retinal damage in metabolic syndrome
Authors: D'Amico Ramona , Siracusa Rosalba , Cordaro Marika , Fusco Roberta , Interdonato Livia , Franco Gianluca Antonio , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Di Paola Rosanna , Impellizzeri Daniela
Published: October 2024

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is becoming an increasing public health challenge. Many of the individual components of MetS are associated with ocular changes, but it is not yet clear what the association is. It is known that MetS can lead to diabetes and hence its consequences such as retinopathy. Osteopontin (OPN) is a phosphoglycoprotein that appears to be implicated in diabetic retinopathy. Given the involvement of OPN in retinal damage, the aim of this research was to evaluate OPN expression and its variation over time in a model of MetS induced by 30% fructose consumption for 1, 2 and 3 months. The weight of the animals and the consumption of food and fructose/water were evaluated during the experiment. The results showed a time‐dependent increase in weight and liquid consumption in animals treated with fructose, while there was no significant difference in food consumption. Subsequently, the biochemical parameters confirmed that the animals treated with fructose, over time, underwent alterations like those found in patients with MetS. We then moved on to the evaluation of OPN and microglia. In both cases, we observed a time‐dependent increase in OPN and Iba‐1 in fructose consumption. Furthermore, the results showed a gradual loss of ZO‐1 and occludin levels over time. Thus identification of OPN in patients with MetS could be used as an early marker of retinal damage, and this could help to prevent the complications related to the progression of this pathology.
Enhanced hepatoprotective effects of empagliflozin and vitamin D dual therapy against metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis in mice by boosted modulation of metabolic, oxidative stress, and inflammatory pathways
Authors: Farrash Wesam F. , Idris Shakir , Elzubier Mohamed E. , Khidir Elshiekh B. A. , Aslam Akhmed , Mujalli Abdulrahman , Almaimani Riyad A. , Obaid Ahmad A. , El‐Readi Mahmoud Z. , Alobaidy Mohammad A. , Salaka Afnan , Shakoori Afnan M. , Saleh Alaa M. , Minshawi Faisal , Samkari Jamil A. , Alshehre Sallwa M. , Refaat Bassem
Published: October 2024

Although single treatment with sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) or vitamin D3 (VD3) inhibited metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis (MASH) development in diabetic patients, their combination has not been explored previously. Hence, this study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of SGLT2i (empagliflozin) and/or VD3 against MASH in type 2 diabetic mice. Forty Mice were assigned into negative (NC) and positive (PC) controls, SGLT2i, VD3, and SGLT2i + VD3 groups. All animals, except the NC group, received high‐fructose/high‐fat diet (8 weeks) followed by diabetes induction. Diabetic mice then received another cycle of high‐fructose/high‐fat diet (4 weeks) followed by 8 weeks of treatment (five times/week) with SGLT2i (5.1 mg/kg/day) and/or VD3 (410 IU/Kg/day). The PC group demonstrated hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia, elevated liver enzymes, and increased non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease activity score (NAS) with fibrosis. Hepatic glucose transporting molecule (SGLT2) with lipogenesis (SREBP‐1/PPARγ), oxidative stress (MDA/H2O2), inflammation (IL1β/IL6/TNF‐α), fibrosis (TGF‐β1/α‐SMA), and apoptosis (TUNEL/Caspase‐3) markers alongside the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway increased in the PC group. Conversely, hepatic insulin‐dependent glucose transporter (GLUT4), lipolytic (PPARα/INSIG1), antioxidant (GSH/GPx1/SOD1/CAT), and anti‐inflammatory (IL‐10) molecules with the inhibitor of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway (PTEN) decreased in the PC group. Whilst SGLT2i monotherapy outperformed VD3, their combination showed the best attenuation of hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia, and fibrosis with the strongest modulation of hepatic glucose‐transporting and lipid‐regulatory molecules, PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, and markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis. This study is the first to reveal boosted hepatoprotection for SGLT2i and VD3 co‐therapy against diabetes‐induced MASH, possibly via enhanced metabolic control and modulation of hepatic PI3K/AKT/mTOR, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidative, and anti‐fibrotic pathways.
Prevalence of Autosomal Monosomy and Trisomy Estimated Using Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Genotype Intensity Chip Information in a Large Population of Juvenile Dairy and Beef Cattle
Authors: Ryan Cliona A. , Purfield Deirdre C. , Matthews Daragh , Rathje Claudia , Valldecabres Ainhoa , Berry Donagh P.
Published: October 2024

Aneuploidy, a genetic condition characterised by the deletion (monosomy) or duplication (trisomy) of a chromosome, has been extensively studied in humans, particularly in the context of trisomy on chromosome 21, also known as Down syndrome. Research on autosomal aneuploidy in live‐born cattle has been limited to case reports, resulting in a lack of prevalence estimates of aneuploidy in cattle. Furthermore, the viability or lethality of aneuploidy on specific autosomes in cattle has not been well documented. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of autosomal aneuploidy in a large population of new‐born and juvenile beef and dairy cattle using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chip genotype intensity data. Of the population of 779,138 cattle genotyped when younger than 15 months of age, 139 cattle (i.e., 0.017%) were diagnosed with one case of autosomal trisomy. Trisomy in only 10 different autosomes were detected (BTA 4, 6, 12, 15, 20, 24, 26, 27, 28 and 29) albeit the one case of trisomy detected on Bos taurus autosome (BTA) 4 was in an additional population of 341,927 cattle that were genotyped at > 15 months of age and was therefore excluded from prevalence estimates to minimise bias. The prevalence of trisomy per chromosome was generally inversely related to the length of the chromosome. Although the number of affected individuals was few, there was no evidence of differences in prevalence by breed, inbreeding level or parental age. The parental origin of the detected cases of trisomy was maternal for 92% of the cases. No cases of monosomy were detected despite the large dataset, which included calves genotyped at birth, indicating the potential lethal nature of monosomy in cattle. Cytogenetic testing was used to verify three of the animals with detected autosomal trisomy who were still alive. Eighteen of the 139 animals identified with autosomal trisomy were recorded as being stillborn, resulting in a prevalence of autosomal aneuploidy in live‐born cattle of 0.015%. Of the 121 live‐born cattle with autosomal trisomy, a total of 68 died on farm at, on average (standard deviation), 6.8 (8.7) months of age. All animals with autosomal trisomy on BTA 6, 12, 15, 20 or 24 were either stillborn or died on farm within 15 days of birth. This study is the first report of trisomy on BTA 4, 6, 15, 20 and 27 in live‐born cattle, as well as the first to document fertile cows with trisomy on BTA 4, 27 or 28. Given that genotype intensity SNP data from SNP‐chips are readily available, identifying animals affected with autosomal aneuploidy as well as quantifying and monitoring the incidence can be easily undertaken.
Prediction of major intravascular hemolysis during pulsed electric field ablation of atrial fibrillation using a pentaspline catheter
Authors: Stojadinović Predrag , Ventrella Nicoletta , Alfredová Hana , Wichterle Dan , Peichl Petr , Čihák Robert , Ing Vanda Filová , Borišincová Eva , Štiavnický Petr , Hašková Jana , Franeková Janka , Kautzner Josef
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Pulsed electric field (PEF) has emerged as a promising energy source for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, data regarding the in‐vivo effect of PEF energy on erythrocytes during AF ablation procedures are scarce. This study aimed to quantify the impact of PEF energy on erythrocyte damage during AF ablation by assessing specific hemolytic biomarkers.

Methods

A total of 60 patients (age: 68 years, males: 72%, serum creatinine: 91 µmol/L) with AF underwent catheter ablation of AF using PEF energy delivered by a multipolar pentaspline Farawave catheter (Farapulse, Boston Scientific, Inc.). Ablation beyond pulmonary vein isolation was performed at the operator's discretion. Peripheral venous blood was sampled for assessing the plasma levels of free hemoglobin (fHb), direct (conjugated) bilirubin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and creatinine before, immediately after the ablation, and on the next day.

Results

Following the PEF ablation with duration of [median (interquartile range)] 75 (58, 95) min, with 74 (52, 92) applications and PVI only in 27% of patients, fHb, LDH, and direct bilirubin significantly increased, from 40 (18, 65) to 493 (327, 848) mg/L, from 3.1 (2.6, 3.6) to 6.8 (5.0, 7.9) µkat/L, and from 12 (9, 17) to 28 (16, 44) µmol/L, respectively (all p < .0001). A strong linear correlation was found between the peak fHb and the number of PEF applications (R = 0.81, p < .001). The major hemolysis (defined as fHb >500 mg/L) was predicted by the number of PEF applications with the corresponding area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.934. The optimum cut‐off value of >74 PEF applications predicted the major hemolysis with 89% sensitivity and 87% specificity.

Conclusion

Catheter ablation of AF using PEF energy delivered from a pentaspline catheter is associated with significant intravascular hemolysis. More than 74 PEF applications frequently resulted in major hemolysis. However, the critical amount of PEF energy that may cause kidney injury in susceptible patients remains to be investigated.
Association Between Triglyceride Glucose Index and Chronic Kidney Disease in Normal‐Weight Chinese Adults With Hypertension
Authors: Yu Chao , Zhou Wei , Zhou Xinlei , Zhu Lingjuan , Wang Tao , Bao Huihui , Cheng Xiaoshu
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to examine the association between the triglyceride‐glucose (TyG) index and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in normotensive adults with hypertension and further investigate potential effect modifiers of this association. A total of 7975 normoweight hypertensive participants were enrolled from the Chinese H‐type hypertension registry (CHHRS) cohort. The TyG index was calculated using the formula: ln (fasting triglyceride [mg/dL] × fasting plasma glucose [mg/dL])/2. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 of body surface area. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a 50% increased risk of CKD (OR: 1.50, 95% CI: 1.26–1.79) for each unit increase in the TyG index. A linear dose‐response relationship between the TyG index and CKD risk was observed using restricted cubic spline analysis. Compared to the first quartile of the TyG index, the fourth quartile showed a significantly higher risk of CKD (OR: 1.88; 95% CI: 1.41–2.50). Subgroup analysis identified a stronger association between the TyG index and CKD risk in males and individuals with a history of alcohol consumption (all p values for interaction < 0.05). In conclusions, the TyG index was significantly associated with an increased risk of CKD in normoweight adults with hypertension, particularly in males and those with a history of alcohol consumption.
AAV9‐mediated CIRP gene transfer protects against cardiac dysfunction and remodelling in a rat model of myocardial infarction
Authors: Zhong Peng , Yang Shuang , Fang Can , Li Yanjun , Song Siwei , Chen Minxiao , Chen Jingru
Published: October 2024

Cold‐inducible RNA‐binding protein (CIRP) is a stress–response protein that has been shown to protect cardiomyocytes under a variety of stress conditions from apoptosis. Our recent study showed that the expression of CIRP protein in the heart was downregulated in patients with heart failure and an animal model of ischaemia heart failure, but its role in heart failure is still unknown. The present study aimed at evaluating the potential role of CIRP on the heart in an animal model of myocardial infarction (MI). MI model of rats was induced by the ligation of the left coronary artery. CIRP overexpression was mediated by direct intracardiac injection of adeno‐associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) vectors carrying a CIRP coding sequence with a cardiac‐specific promoter before the induction of the MI model. The effects of CIRP elevation on MI‐induced heart were analysed through echocardiographic, pathological and molecular analysis. Our results showed that the intracardiac injection of AAV9 successfully mediated CIRP upregulation in cardiomyocytes. Upregulation of cardiac CIRP prevented MI‐induced cardiac dysfunction and adverse remodelling, coupled with the reduced inflammatory response in the heart. Collectively, these results demonstrated the beneficial role of intracellular CIRP on the heart and suggest that CIRP may be a therapeutic target in ischaemic heart disease.
Integrated analysis of bulk and single‐cell RNA‐seq data reveals cell differentiation‐related subtypes and a scoring system in bladder cancer
Authors: Li Sheng , Zheng Fucun , Wang Zhipeng , Xiong Situ , Zeng Jin , Xu Songhui , Fu Bin , Liu Xiaoqiang
Published: October 2024

Bladder cancer (BLCA) exhibits notable molecular heterogeneity, influencing diverse clinical outcomes. However, the molecular subtypes associated with cell differentiation‐related genes (CDR) and their prognostic implications remain unexplored. Analysing two GEO single‐cell datasets, we identified genes linked to cell differentiation. Utilizing these genes, we explored distinct molecular subtypes. WGCNA analysis further identified CDR‐associated genes, and the CDR score system, constructed using Lasso and Cox regression, was developed. Clinical prognosis and variations in immune‐related factors among patient groups were assessed. Core genes were selected and confirmed through in vitro experiments. Two BLCA subtypes related to cell differentiation were identified: Subtype B demonstrated a favourable prognosis, while Subtype A exhibited significant immune cell infiltration. The CDR score system of nine genes revealed a positive correlation between higher scores and a poorer prognosis. The comprehensive analysis uncovered a positive association between CDR genes and M2 macrophages and unresponsiveness to immune therapy. Functional experiments validated that ANXA5 downregulation influences tumour cell migration without affecting proliferation. Our study reveals distinct cell differentiation‐related molecular subtypes and introduces the CDR scoring system in BLCA. ANXA5 emerges as a potential therapeutic target, offering promising avenues for personalized treatment strategies.
Lockd Enhances Mandibular Mesenchymal Stem Cell Proliferation While Inhibiting Osteogenic Capability via Binding With SUZ12 in the Inflammatory Microenvironment
Authors: Lu Yahui , Ruan Xiaolei , Xiao Gang , Dai Yueming , Li Gen , Cai Guanhui , Zheng Lihe , Guan Zhaolan , Sun Wen , Wang Hua
Published: October 2024

Aim

To investigate the role of lncRNA Lockd in mandibular mesenchymal stem cell (M‐MSC) proliferation and osteogenic capability in the inflammatory microenvironment, focusing on its interaction with SUZ12.

Materials and Methods

Using lncR Lockd knockdown/overexpression cell models and a murine periodontitis model, we explored Lockd's effects on M‐MSC proliferation and osteogenic capability in the inflammatory microenvironment. Predictions from multiple databases and a series of rescue experiments revealed the regulatory role of the Lockd/SUZ12 signalling axis of M‐MSC in the inflammatory microenvironment.

Results

Lockd was found to stimulate M‐MSC proliferation but impair osteogenic differentiation. The in vitro studies suggested that the activation of Lockd negatively inhibited the osteogenic differentiation process and may ultimately impact bone formation in periodontitis. Mechanistically, it was elucidated that Lockd interacts with SUZ12, a core component of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), and may affect the PRC2 complex's role in osteogenic gene expression.

Conclusions

Lockd boosts the proliferation of M‐MSCs but inhibits their osteogenic differentiation by interacting with SUZ12, potentially inhibiting osteogenic capability in the inflammatory microenvironment.
Liquidity Transformation and Fragility in the U.S. Banking Sector
Authors: CHEN QI , GOLDSTEIN ITAY , HUANG ZEQIONG , VASHISHTHA RAHUL
Published: October 2024

Liquidity transformation, a key role of banks, is thought to increase fragility, as uninsured depositors face an incentive to withdraw money before others (a so‐called panic run). Despite much theoretical work, however, there is little empirical evidence establishing this mechanism. In this paper, we provide the first large‐scale evidence of this mechanism. Banks that engage in more liquidity transformation exhibit higher fragility, as captured by stronger sensitivities of uninsured deposit flows to bank performance and greater levels of uninsured deposit outflows when performance is poor. We also explore the effects of deposit insurance and systemic risk.
Substance use among Latinx youth: The roles of sociocultural influences, family factors, and childhood adversity
Authors: Okine Lucinda , Unger Jennifer B.
Published: October 2024

Substance use among youth is associated with adverse consequences and may increase vulnerability to addiction and psychiatric disorders later in life. Sociocultural factors such as discrimination have been associated with substance use, while positive cultural resources, such as enculturation and familism, have demonstrated protective outcomes. However, few studies have highlighted how family factors influence substance use among Latinx youth during their transition from adolescence to young adulthood. This study used longitudinal data to explore the associations between sociocultural factors, family factors, childhood adversity, and substance use among Latinx youth. The data were from a longitudinal study of acculturation and substance use among Latinx youth in Southern California (n = 1257, 52.1% female, mixed socioeconomic status). The average age was 14.5 (SD = 0.39). Data collection began in 2005 and ended in 2016. Hierarchical regression models showed that discrimination was associated with higher problematic alcohol susceptibility. Childhood adversity was associated with higher odds of tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana use. Parental communication was associated with lower odds of problematic alcohol and marijuana use. To promote youth well‐being, preventive efforts should prioritize reducing childhood adversity and discrimination, while fostering positive family relationships. Overall, our findings suggest the need for interventions targeting various systemic levels to effectively address substance use among Latinx youth.
Melatonin, Melatonin Receptors and Sleep: Moving Beyond Traditional Views
Authors: Comai Stefano , Gobbi Gabriella
Published: October 2024

Sleep, constituting approximately one‐third of the human lifespan, is a crucial physiological process essential for physical and mental well‐being. Normal sleep consists of an orderly progression through wakefulness, non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, all of which are tightly regulated. Melatonin, often referred to as the “hormone of sleep,” plays a pivotal role as a regulator of the sleep/wake cycle and exerts its effects through high‐affinity G‐protein coupled receptors known as MT1 and MT2. Selective modulation of these receptors presents a promising therapeutic avenue for sleep disorders. This review examines research on the multifaceted role of melatonin in sleep regulation, focusing on selective ligands targeting MT1 and MT2 receptors, as well as studies involving MT1 and MT2 knockout mice. Contrary to common beliefs, growing evidence suggests that melatonin, through MT1 and MT2 receptors, might not only influence circadian aspects of sleep but likely, also modulate the homeostatic process of sleep and sleep architecture, or could be the molecule linking the homeostatic and circadian regulation of sleep. Furthermore, the distinct brain localization of MT1 and MT2 receptors, with MT1 receptors primarily regulating REM sleep and MT2 receptors regulating NREM sleep, is discussed. Collectively, sleep regulation extends beyond the circulating levels and circadian peak of melatonin; it also critically involves the expression, molecular activation, and regulatory functions of MT1 and MT2 receptors across various brain regions and nuclei involved in the regulation of sleep. This research underscores the importance of ongoing investigation into the selective roles of MT1 and MT2 receptors in sleep. Such research efforts are expected to pave the way for the development of targeted MT1 or MT2 receptors ligands, thereby optimizing therapeutic interventions for sleep disorders.
Evaluation of gabapentin administration on neurologic examination in 2 different age groups of healthy cats
Authors: DuPont Allison , Zidan Natalia , Lueck Lizabeth C. , Cameron Starr
Published: October 2024

Background

Gabapentin is often administered PO for preappointment or in‐hospital anxiolysis in cats. A previous study reported mild changes on the neurologic examination after administration.

Objectives

Investigate the effects of gabapentin on anxiety, sedation, compliance, and neurologic examination in 2 age groups of cats.

Animals

Thirty‐one young cats and 12 geriatric cats perceived by their owners to be healthy and neurologically normal.

Methods

Prospective double‐blinded clinical crossover study. Assessment of baseline sedation and anxiety was performed before initial neurologic examinations and after gabapentin administration (100 mg/cat). Assessments were repeated 90 to 120 minutes after administration. Ease of handling pregabapentin and postgabapentin was assessed in the younger cats. All examinations were performed by a board‐certified veterinary neurologist and scoring of examinations was performed by a different, masked board‐certified neurologist.

Results

Sixteen cats (50%) in the younger cohort and 6 cats (50%) in the geriatric cohort exhibited an increase in their overall neurologic examination score postgabapentin administration, mainly through new or progressive postural reaction deficits and gait changes. Anxiety and sedation scores were significantly changed in the geriatric population (P < .01, P = .004, respectively); however, only sedation scores were significantly increased in the younger cats after gabapentin administration (P = .004).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

All study participants showed mild neurologic changes after gabapentin administration, most markedly noted in the geriatric population. Dose reduction of gabapentin for preappointment anxiolysis and neurologic examination in geriatric patients should be considered.
Applicability and validity of the reaction time‐based concealed information test in a prison sample
Authors: Haberler Julian , Suchotzki Kristina , Meinhardt Maria , Gamer Matthias
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The reaction time‐based Concealed Information Test (RT‐CIT) can be used to reveal crime‐related memories based on an analysis of response latencies in a computerized task. While laboratory research shows high validity of the RT‐CIT in student samples, only very few studies have been conducted with forensic target groups.

Methods

We investigated the applicability and validity of the RT‐CIT in prison inmates and examined the influence of a response deadline (RD) on RT‐CIT validity. In a within‐subjects design, participants memorized a criminal activity and subsequently underwent two identical RT‐CITs differing only in the length of the RD (2000 ms vs. 1000 ms). In the first experiment, the 2000 ms condition was always presented first and in the second experiment the order was switched.

Results

Results revealed large effect sizes and classification accuracies with both RDs and strong order effects with larger effects in the respective first RD conditions.

Conclusions

In sum, the RT‐CIT has the potential for detecting concealed knowledge in forensic settings and even a relatively demanding RD of 1000 ms seems feasible for such samples. Further research should extend this investigation of the RT‐CIT in forensic settings, preferably investigating the effects of faking attempts and increasing the ecological validity of the research design.
Accuracy of Non‐Invasive Imaging Techniques for the Diagnosis of MASH in Patients With MASLD: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cathcart Jennifer , Barrett Rachael , Bowness James S. , Mukhopadhya Ashis , Lynch Ruairi , Dillon John F.
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a growing public health problem. The secondary stage in MASLD is steatohepatitis (MASH), the co‐existence of steatosis and inflammation, a leading cause of progression to fibrosis and mortality. MASH resolution alone improves survival. Currently, MASH diagnosis is via liver biopsy. This study sought to evaluate the accuracy of imaging‐based tests for MASH diagnosis, which offer a non‐invasive method of diagnosis.

Methods

Eight academic literature databases were searched and references of previous systematic reviews and included papers were checked for additional papers. Liver biopsy was used for reference standard.

Results

We report on 69 imaging‐based studies. There were 31 studies on MRI, 27 on ultrasound, five on CT, 13 on transient elastography, eight on controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) and two on scintigraphy. The pathological definition of MASH was inconsistent, making it difficult to compare studies. 55/69 studies (79.71%) were deemed high‐risk of bias as they had no preset thresholds and no validation. The two largest groups of imaging papers were on MRI and ultrasound. AUROCs were up to 0.93 for MRE, 0.90 for MRI, 1.0 for magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and 0.94 for ultrasound‐based studies.

Conclusions

Our study found that the most promising imaging tools are MRI techniques or ultrasound‐based scores and confirmed there is potential to utilise these for MASH diagnosis. However, many publications are single studies without independent prospective validation. Without this, there is no clear imaging tool or score currently available that is reliably tested to diagnose MASH.
Decrypting Corals: Does Regulatory Evolution Underlie Environmental Specialisation of Coral Cryptic Lineages?
Authors: Gallery Dominique N. , Rippe John P. , Matz Mikhail V.
Published: October 2024

A recent sequencing study has shown that two common Caribbean corals, Montastraea cavernosa and Siderastrea siderea, each consist of four genetically distinct lineages in the Florida Keys. These lineages are specialised to a certain depth and, to a lesser extent, to nearshore or offshore habitats. We hypothesised that the lineages' environmental specialisation is at least in part due to regulatory evolution, which would manifest as the emergence of groups of coregulated genes (‘modules’) demonstrating lineage‐specific responses to different reef environments. Our hypothesis also predicted that genes belonging to such modules would show greater genetic divergence between lineages than other genes. Contrary to these expectations, responses of cryptic lineages to natural environmental variation were essentially the same at the genome‐wide gene coexpression network level, with much fewer differences in gene expression between lineages compared to between habitats. Moreover, none of the identified coregulated gene expression modules exhibit elevated genetic divergence between lineages. Possible explanations of these unexpected results range from the leading role of algal symbionts and/or microbiome in adaptation to strong action of spatially varying selection equalising gene expression patterns despite different genetic background. We discuss how future studies could assist in discriminating between these possibilities.