bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiation Communication: Thoughts and Considerations
Authors: Sugarman Steve , Hardin Holly
Published: February 2025

The importance of effective communication cannot be overstated. What you say and how you say it matters, and this is a basic truth of effective communication. A misunderstanding of radiation effects can lead people to make decisions they may not have otherwise made had they been more aware of the true nature of the potential hazard. When addressing topics that may cause anxiety in people, it is important to communicate in understandable terms while still relaying factual and useful information. It can be difficult to take a complicated topic and simplify it into terms that are easily understood, all while maintaining factual integrity. However, communication is more than simply the words we say. Most people understand the roles body language and physical appearance have on message reception. Additionally, many people overlook other considerations that may help to motivate behavior change, such as emotion, social networks, and group identity. While the communicator may not have a firm grasp on all communication complexities, one characteristic that should be embraced by all communicators is empathy. The word “radiation” can be a scary—or otherwise anxiety-inducing—word. It can cause stress and fear in many audiences, including first responder audiences. We must understand and address that people may be afraid or otherwise anxious before we tell them what to do. Whether helping an individual who has radiation-related concerns about an upcoming medical procedure or influencing the public’s willingness to accept protective action recommendations during a radiation emergency, the consequences of effective communications can be far reaching and significantly affect both small-scale and large-scale responses to radiological incidents.

Health Phys. 127(0):000-000; 2024
Clinical trials and real-world studies examining faricimab and high-dose aflibercept for wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema
Authors: Kalavar Meghana , Sridhar Jayanth
Published: February 2025

Purpose of review

The goal of this review is to summarize emerging clinical trial and real world evidence for faricimab and high dose aflibercept (8 mg), two recently approved treatments for wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema.

Recent findings

Faricimab, a bispecific monoclonal antibody targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiopoietin-2, and high-dose aflibercept have demonstrated significant potential for extending treatment intervals while maintaining efficacy. Pivotal clinical trials such as YOSEMITE, and RHINE established faricimab to be noninferior to standard anti-VEGF therapy with superior durability. Real-world data corroborated these results, demonstrating improved anatomic outcomes with extended treatment intervals, though improvements in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) remains varied. High-dose aflibercept has similarly demonstrated noninferiority in landmark clinical trials such as PHOTON and PULSAR, with extended dosing intervals. However, comprehensive real-world data for high dose aflibercept remains limited and warrants further investigation.

Both faricimab and high-dose aflibercept show promise in reducing treatment burden for wet age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema through extended dosing intervals while maintaining or improving clinical outcomes compared to standard anti-VEGF therapy. Faricimab has demonstrated this both in clinical trials as well as real-world studies, while high-dose aflibercept has demonstrated similar durability in trials but requires additional real-world evidence.
Associations Between Suicidal Ideation and Behaviors, Sexual Violence Victimization, and Sexual Orientation in Youth
Authors: Allen Larissa , Zelazny Jamie , Sereika Susan
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The relationship between sexual violence victimization (SVV) and suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) has been established. However, when applied to LGBTQ+ (i.e., lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) populations, the impact of SVV on the severity of STBs experienced requires further exploration. Suicide is a major public health problem, with youth aged 10–24 years accounting for 14% of all suicides seen in the United States. The association between SVV, STBs, and other psychopathologies, such as anxiety and depression, is stronger in sexual minorities (LGBQT+) than in the heterosexual population. A cross-sectional secondary analysis of the 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) was completed to investigate the association between SVV and STBs in LGBTQ+ youth populations when compared with their heterosexual peers and to determine if sexual orientation is a potential moderator in this relationship.

Methods

Sexual orientation, questions related to STBs, and sexual assault/rape and intimate partner violence experiences were extracted from the 2021 YRBS. Binary logistic regression considering the complex sample survey design of the YRBS was utilized to assess associations of SVV with STBs while controlling for sexual orientation.

Results

Sexual minority youth exhibit higher odds of both experiencing SVV and exhibiting STBs compared with their heterosexual peers. Some aspects of STBs in the presence of SVV are moderated by sexual orientation.

Conclusion

Further investigation is needed into this association in LGBTQ+ youth populations who have experienced sexual violence to better understand this relationship.
Understanding Interpersonal Violence Incidence in a U.S.–Mexico Border Community: A Geospatial Approach
Authors: Wholeben Melissa , Cheon Hyunjung , Goodson Amanda , Chakraborty Jayajit , Salazar Gloria , McCreary Robert
Published: February 2025

Background

Interpersonal violence (IV) is a global pandemic. Geographic borders represent unique spaces that are often shaped by cultural clashes, economic inequality, and jurisdictional complexities. Given the intricate social dynamics along the U.S.–Mexico border, this region provides a compelling yet understudied setting to advance research on the geographic dimensions of IV. However, communities situated alongside the U.S.–Mexico border are noticeably absent from this body of research, which is problematic as these regions often face unique social and structural challenges.

Method

This retrospective study examined the spatial distribution of a subset of zip code data that represented IV incidences between 2017 and 2022 in the El Paso, Texas region. The source of the IV data was medical records of patients that were seen by sexual assault nurse examiners for IV-related injuries at a Level 1 trauma center.

Results

The retrospective study included 384 IV incidents. In terms of IV survivors' characteristics, the mean age of trauma survivors was 26 years (SD = 14 years), with the majority in the 25- to 59-year age range (39.4%). Most of the survivors were identified as Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish (78.2%). The findings illustrate the uneven spatial distribution of IV incidence rates in El Paso, emphasizing the presence of high-risk zones within the inner city.

Conclusion

This study examined the spatial distribution and characteristics of IV incidents in the El Paso region. The combination of spatial analysis, hotspot identification, and establishment overlay mapping offers a holistic perspective on the spatial dynamics of IV. The identification of hotspots and exploration of regions with high IV occurrence contribute to actionable insights for the development and implementation of targeted interventions. By understanding IV occurrence within the community, forensic nurses can target trauma survivor prevention efforts and integrate education and resources for nurses caring for survivors in emergency situations. In addition, forensic nurses become proactive agents of change, tackling IV at its source with targeted recognition, response, and safety protocols.
The state of prediction models in hematologic disease: a worrisome assessment
Authors: Wang Xichao , Zhang Ke , Wang Lei , Xu Jiaqi , Wang Yamin , Chen Suning , Tang Zaixiang
Published: February 2025

Purpose of review

The lack of optimal treatments for haematological disorders has led to the need for prediction models for diagnosis, therapeutic decision-making and life planning. In this review, the worrying current state of predictive models in the field is discussed.

Recent findings

Here, we reviewed 100 studies on prediction models in this field. Our analysis revealed a concerning state of affairs, with a prevalence of suboptimal research methodologies and questionable statistical practices. This includes insufficient sample sizes, inadequate model evaluations, lack of necessary reports of model results, etc. In this regard, we present statistical considerations in the development and validation process of numerous models. This will provide the reader with the statistical knowledge related to prediction model necessary to assess bias in studies, compare other published models and determine the clinical utility of models.

Awareness among authors, reviewers and editors of the required statistical considerations is crucial. Reinforcing these in all studies involving prediction models is needed. We all should encourage their use in evaluating existing studies and taking them fully into account in future studies.
The Predictive Value of Red Cell Distribution Width for the Risk of Sepsis in Patients with Acute Pancreatitis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yang Chao , Cao Haijun , Chen Shanshan , Ye Cheng , Feng Zemin , Zhang Haochen , Xu Li
Published: February 2025

Objectives:

This study was to evaluate the association between red cell distribution width (RDW) and sepsis in acute pancreatitis (AP) patients, and assess its predictive value for sepsis in AP patients.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study collected patients’ data from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care databases. Univariate and multivariate Cox models were exploited to compare the mortality within 30 days in AP patients with or without sepsis, with hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to estimate the association, with odds ratios (ORs) and 95%CIs calculated. The predictive value of RDW, white blood cell (WBC) sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA), SOFA+RDW, simplified acute physiology score II (SAPSII), SAPSII+RDW, bedside index of severity in acute pancreatitis (BISAP), BISAP+RDW for sepsis risk in patients with AP were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results:

A total of 327 AP patients developed sepsis. The high RDW level was linked to a higher sepsis risk in patients with AP, carrying a (95% CI) of 1.10. Delong test showed that the area under the curve (AUC) of SOFA+RDW, SAPSII+RDW and BISAP+RDW scoring models were significantly greater than those of SOFA, SAPSII and BISAP scoring models, respectively (0.822 vs 0.776; 0.708 vs 0.688; 0.609 vs 0.550, respectively).

Conclusion:

RDW is not only linked to sepsis risk, but also has a certain additive effect on SOFA, SAPSII and BISAP models, among which SOFA+RDW has the highest discrimination capacity for sepsis in AP patients.
Genomic medicine and personalized treatment: a narrative review
Authors: Khan Adil , Barapatre Anchal Ramesh , Babar Nadir , Doshi Joy , Ghaly Mohamd , Patel Kirtan Ghanshyam , Nawaz Shayan , Hasana Uswa , Khatri Swara Punit , Pathange Shilpa , Pesaru Abhinya Reddy , Puvvada Chaitanya Swaroop , Billoo Marium , Jamil Usama
Published: February 2025

Genomic medicine, which integrates genomics and bioinformatics into clinical care and diagnostics, is transforming healthcare by enabling personalized treatment approaches. Advances in technologies such as DNA sequencing, proteomics, and computational power have laid the foundation for individualized therapies that account for genetic variations influencing disease risk, progression, and treatment response. This review explores the historical milestones leading to current applications of genomic medicine, such as targeted therapies, gene therapies, and precision medicine, in fields including cardiovascular diseases, oncology, and rare genetic disorders. It highlights the use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) and third-generation sequencing (TGS) to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes, emphasizing the role of genomic data in advancing personalized treatments. Furthermore, emerging therapies such as CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing and adeno-associated viral vectors showcase the potential of gene therapy in addressing complex diseases, including rare genetic disorders. Despite promising advancements, challenges remain in fully integrating genomic medicine into routine clinical practice, including cost barriers, data interpretation complexities, and the need for widespread genomic literacy among healthcare professionals. The future of genomic medicine holds transformative potential for revolutionizing the diagnosis, treatment, and management of both common and rare diseases.
The Vitamin C paradigm: new frontiers in blood transfusion
Authors: Obeagu Emmanuel Ifeanyi
Published: February 2025

Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, is gaining attention in the field of transfusion medicine for its potential to enhance blood transfusion practices. Recent studies suggest that Vitamin C can significantly improve erythrocyte preservation by mitigating oxidative damage during storage, thereby maintaining cell membrane integrity and functionality. This preservation is crucial for ensuring the efficacy and safety of transfused blood, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes. In addition to its role in erythrocyte preservation, Vitamin C has been shown to modulate immune responses, which can be particularly beneficial in reducing the risks associated with transfusion-related immunomodulation (TRIM). By influencing both innate and adaptive immunity, Vitamin C can help mitigate adverse immune reactions and improve the overall clinical outcomes for transfusion recipients. These immune-modulating properties underscore the potential of Vitamin C to address some of the critical challenges in transfusion medicine. Furthermore, clinical trials have demonstrated that the incorporation of Vitamin C in transfusion protocols can lead to enhanced recovery rates and reduced incidence of transfusion-related complications. The multifaceted benefits of Vitamin C, including its antioxidant defense, immune support, and metabolic regulation, highlight its promise as a transformative agent in blood transfusion practices. As research continues to uncover the optimal use of Vitamin C in this context, it is poised to become a pivotal element in improving transfusion efficacy and patient care.
Comparative efficacy of tropicamide 1% and cyclopentolate 1% for cycloplegic refraction: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Bist Jeewanand , Paudel Nabin , Kandel Sandeep , Marasini Sanajay
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

Cyclopentolate 1% is considered the drug of choice for effective cycloplegic refraction in clinical population, although tropicamide 1% is also reported to have similar effects with better tolerability.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacies of tropicamide 1% and cyclopentolate 1% for cycloplegic refraction.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were systematically searched for articles published until March 20, 2024.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA, PARTICIPANTS, AND INTERVENTIONS

Randomized controlled trials that compared tropicamide 1% with cyclopentolate 1% in terms of differences in spherical equivalent refractive errors were included. The meta-analysis included only nonstrabismic participants with no restriction to age.

STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHOD

The included studies were appraised using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool-2. The meta-analysis was conducted using the random-effects model with restricted maximum likelihood estimation method.

RESULTS

Of 17 full-text reviews from 2555 identified studies, 4 randomized controlled trials were included in quantitative synthesis. The meta-analysis included 171 eyes of 171 participants (age range, 4 months to 50 years), in each group, with all types of refractive errors. The results showed no statistically significant differences in mean spherical equivalent refractive error values between the two groups (mean difference, −0.05; standard error, 0.16; p=0.774). There was no heterogeneity observed between the studies (I
2 = 0.00%, p=0.93). The outcome did not change when only children were included in the meta-analysis (age range, 4 months to 16 years; mean difference, −0.14; standard error, 0.21; p=0.508). In the risk-of-bias assessment, generally all studies were judged to have low risk of bias, but only one was judged to have low risk of bias across all seven domains.

CONCLUSIONS

Tropicamide 1% and cyclopentolate 1% showed similar efficacies for cycloplegic refraction in nonstrabismic children and adults. Considering patient tolerability and drug safety, it may be practical to use tropicamide 1% in routine cycloplegic refractions.
Reference values for instrumented Timed Up and Go—outcomes of vertical accelerations and angular velocities in healthy subjects
Authors: Santos Artur César Aquino dos , Matheus Denise , Battistella Linamara Rizzo
Published: February 2025

Background:

Gait is a fundamental function, and instrumented timed up and go (iTUG) has become a widely used gait analysis tool. Reference values of healthy populations are recommended when assessment technologies are used in clinical settings. The aim of this study is to establish reference values ​​for iTUG subphases (accelerations and angular speeds) among healthy subjects.

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study with 79 healthy subjects who took the iTUG test with a G-Walk inertial wearable system. The variables of vertical, anteroposterior, and lateral accelerations during the sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit subphases and the average rotation speed during the mid and final turnings were collected from the wearable device and stored in electronic media for analysis. Clinical and demographical characteristics were also collected and tested with simple linear regression as covariables of the gait characteristics. The bootstrapped fifth and 95th percentiles of the parameters were described as the reference values for iTUG measured by G-Walk.

Results:

The study analyzed 79 healthy volunteers. They were mostly women (67.07%), aged 40.40 (SD: 13.21). None of the demographic variables were associated with the iTUG parameters, therefore, no statistical correction was required. Vertical accelerations below 3 m/s2, anteroposterior below 2 m/s2, and lateral accelerations below 1 m/s2 during the sit-to-stand phase and 2 m/s2 during the stand-to-sit phase were considered atypical. Likewise, turnings below 60 deg/s exceed the established reference value.

Conclusions:

Our study established reference values for subphases of the iTUG test measured with the wearable sensor G-Walk for a population of a major urban area.
Immediate effect of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) versus myofascial release technique (MFR) on hamstring flexibility and dynamic balance among young adults
Authors: Saxena Sonali , Aman Ifra , Sonali  , Asif Mohd. , Khan Ghazala , Zutshi Kalpana
Published: February 2025

Background:

A sedentary lifestyle can lead to many problems like the tightness of muscles, reduced flexibility, and balance hampering the daily activities of an individual. Person with sedentary lifestyle has adaptive changes taking place that can shorten the hip muscles. Limited extensibility of the hamstrings results in changes in the flexibility, and dynamic balance used while moving. Hamstring tightness is one of the factors that affect dynamic balance because it loses the ability to deform while being stretched. Soft tissue restrictions have been linked to poor flexibility and dynamic balance. To increase flexibility and dynamic balance, soft tissue mobilization techniques such as MFR and IASTM have been used. The purpose of this study was to determine the immediate effect of IASTM versus MFR on hamstring flexibility and dynamic balance among young adults.

Methods and Statistical Analysis:

Using the random method of selection, a total of 80 participants was chosen (group A and group B) based on the study’s inclusion criteria and their written consent was taken. A pretest was conducted for flexibility and dynamic balance. MFR and IASTM were given for 3 minutes in group A and group B, respectively, and the post-test was conducted. Statistical analysis was done through SPSS statistics 21.0, and a paired t test was used with an alpha level set at 0.05.

Result:

The study included a total of 80 participants, 40 in group A and 40 in group B. The mean age and BMI were 21.42 (±1.749495) years and 22.055 (±2.105636) kg/m2. Within the group, results showed that the mean for pre and postflexibility and dynamic balance for group A was 21.2023 and 25.8927, pre-right 28.5218, pre-left 28.7091 and post-right 30.2199, post-left 30.4345, respectively. The mean for pre and postflexibility and dynamic balance for group B was 26.0293 and 29.2973, pre-right 28.916, pre-left 28.8195 and post-right 30.6483, post-left 30.4125. Between-group results indicate the group A, precomposite and postcomposite score right [t(29)=−3.731, P=0.001<0.05], precomposite and postcomposite score left [t(29)=−3.334, P=0.002<0.05] and pre and post sit and reach [t(29)=−7.895, P=0.000<0.05] and the group B, precomposite and postcomposite score right [t(29)=−3.585, P=0.01<0.05], pre and post composite score left [t(29)=−5.086, P=0.000<0.05] and pre and post sit and reach [t(29)=−6.328, P=0.000<0.05].

Conclusions:

It has been concluded that both IASTM and MFR has a significant effect on dynamic balance and flexibility but IASTM is more effective to improve the flexibility.
THE EFFECTS OF NEUROMUSCULAR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION ADJUNCT TO LUMBAR STABILIZATION EXERCISES ON MULTIFIDUS MUSCLE THICKNESS, PAIN, DISABILITY, AND PSYCHOSOCIAL STATUS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN
Authors: Vardar Serenay , Yalcin Gokcenur , Aksungur Selin , Yavuzdemir Muhammet Ali , Unubol Tugba Ozsoy , Ata Emre
Published: February 2025

Objective

To assess the effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation combined with lumbar stabilization exercises on lumbar multifidus muscle thickness, disability, pain, depression, anxiety, and fear-avoidance beliefs in patients with chronic low back pain; and to examine the correlation between ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar multifidus.

Design

Forty patients aged 18-65 years were randomized into two groups: Group 1: exercise and Group 2: exercise + neuromuscular electrical stimulation. The participants underwent 15-session electrical stimulation and/or exercise (3 days/week). All outcome measures assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and 3 months after. Multifidus cross-sectional area on magnetic resonance imaging was measured only at baseline.

Results

Multifidus thickness increased, and pain decreased significantly in both groups, more prominent in Group 2. Disability, depression, and fear-avoidance beliefs scores significantly decreased in both groups, while anxiety decreased only in Group 1. Both magnetic resonance and ultrasound measurements demonstrated excellent inter-rater reliability and statistically significant correlations.

Conclusion

Both groups improved in terms of pain, disability, psychological status and muscle thickness. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation adjunct to lumbar stabilization exercises demonstrated enhanced effectiveness in increasing lumbar multifidus thickness.
Resting-State Functional Connectivity Does Not Predict Individual Differences in Perceived Psychological Stress Among Midlife Adults: Evidence From a Preregistered Cross-Validation Study
Authors: Spencer Chrystal , Rasero Javier , Reed Rebecca G. , Verstynen Timothy D. , Gianaros Peter J.
Published: February 2025

Objective

It is theorized that appraisals of perceived psychological stress are represented in the brain. However, a neural signature that reliably predicts perceived stress has yet to be fully characterized. Accordingly, the present preregistered study tested whether whole-brain resting-state functional connectivity patterns predict individual differences in perceived stress.

Methods

Participants (N = 417; 53% female; 24.2% non-White; aged 30–54 years) completed the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale and underwent a 5-minute resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging scan. Functional connectivity (FC) was computed between areas distributed across the brain. In total, 19,900 functional connections (edges) were retained for analyses. Cross-validated and multivariate machine learning methods were implemented. Using this approach, two penalized regression models with cross-validation—elastic net and ridge—were conducted to predict perceived stress from the edges.

Results

Across the elastic net and ridge regression models, whole-brain resting-state FC patterns failed to predict individual differences in perceived stress. However, in exploratory analyses, they successfully generalized in cross-validation to predict age for both models (elastic net: r = 0.193, p < .0001, 95% CI = 0.099–0.284, RMSE = 6.661, MAE = 5.715, R
2 = 0.037; ridge: r = 0.197, p < .0001, 95% CI = 0.103–0.287), RMSE = 6.613, MAE = 5.8140, R
2 = 0.039).

Conclusion

These results suggest that resting-state FC patterns may not reliably predict individual differences in self-reported perceived stress among midlife adults.
Associations Between Growth Differentiation Factor 15 and Anxiety and Depression in the General Population: The Akershus Cardiac Examination 1950 Study
Authors: Dypvik Ragnhild , Fjukstad Katrine Kveli , Lydersen Stian , Berge Trygve , Tveit Arnljot , Røsjø Helge , Omland Torbjørn , Einvik Gunnar , Lyngbakken Magnus Nakrem
Published: February 2025

Objective

Several studies suggest a bidirectional association between inflammation, and anxiety and depression. Elevated inflammatory cytokines generate and aggravate neuroinflammation, which may play a part in developing psychological symptoms. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) is a novel biomarker possibly reflecting fibrosis and inflammation. The aim of the current study was to investigate the associations between levels of GDF-15 and symptoms of anxiety and depression in the general population.

Methods

We measured GDF-15 in middle-aged persons participating in the Akershus Cardiac Examination 1950 Study. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), with HADS ≥8 denoting significant symptoms. We used multivariable regression analysis to assess the associations between GDF-15 and HADS, adjusting for levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), demographics, and comorbidities.

Results

A total of 3638 participants had valid assessment of HADS and measurements of GDF-15 and CRP. The mean age was 63.9 (SD 0.65) years, and 48.8% were women. In adjusted models, levels of GDF-15 were associated with the continuous HADS-D score (β = 0.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.12 to 0.43) and HADS-D score ≥8 (odds ratio = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.12 to 1.78), but not with the continuous HADS-A score (β = 0.06, 95% CI = −0.12 to 0.24) or HADS-A score ≥8 (odds ratio = 1.06, 95% CI = 0.88 to 1.27).

Conclusions

Levels of GDF-15 are independently associated with symptoms of depression in the general population. Our results reinforce the notion that inflammation may be a contributing factor for the development of clinical depression.

Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01555411 (Akershus Cardiac Examination [ACE] 1950 Study), https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01555411
Inflammatory and Cardiovascular Responses to Active and Passive Acute Psychological Stress
Authors: Linsley Victoria G. , Bishop Nicolette C. , Roberts Matthew J. , Hamrouni Malik , Demashkieh Mayada , Paine Nicola J.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Acute psychological stress is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), possibly through promoting a heightened inflammatory profile. Active stressors are commonly used to investigate cardiovascular and immune reactivity; however, this response may not translate to other stress modalities. We aimed to decipher potential differences in immune responses to passive and active stressors.

Methods

Eighty-eight participants completed this study. After a baseline period, a passive (International Affective Picture System [IAPS]) and active stress task (Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test [PASAT]) were completed in a randomized order, with 45-minute rest post-tasks. Cardiovascular measures (including SBP, DBP, HR) were collected continuously. Blood samples were collected after each time point determining inflammatory responses, including circulating and stimulated interleukin-6 (IL-6), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), TNF-α, and P- and E-selectin.

Results

Cardiovascular measures were higher during the PASAT than IAPS (p < .001). Circulating IL-6 levels increased from baseline to 45-minutes after both tasks (p ≤ .001), with no difference between 45-minute post-PASAT and 45-minute post-IAPS (p > .05). SIRI increased from baseline to post-IAPS (p = .013), 45-minute post-IAPS (p = .004), and 45-minute post-PASAT (p < .001). No difference in SIRI between 45-minute post-PASAT and 45-minute post-IAPS existed. NLR increased from baseline to 45-minute post-PASAT (p = .008). There were no significant time effects for TNF-α, P-selectin, or E-selectin (all p > .05).

Conclusion

Both stressors increased circulating IL-6 levels and SIRI. Cardiovascular measures were higher during the active task, but the magnitude of inflammatory responses did not significantly differ between tasks. Regardless of stress modality, an immune response ensues, potentially increasing the risk of CVD over time.
Water has different effects on adhesive strength during placement versus loading of spider silk attachment discs
Authors: Steklis Bernd F. , Rupert Kaden L. , Blackledge Todd A.
Published: February 2025

Spiders use piriform silk attachment discs to adhere threads during web construction and to secure safety lines. Water could degrade attachment disc adhesion by either interfering with placement of the discs or later reducing adhesion during loading. We tested the effect of water on the adhesion of attachment discs for the spider
Latrodectus hesperus
, which spins webs in mostly dry environments. We compared adhesion for discs spun on wet versus dry glass that were subsequently loaded in either wet or dry conditions. Attachment discs placed on wet glass showed similar adhesion to discs placed on dry glass. However, water significantly decreased both peak force of adhesion and work of adhesion when loading occurred under wet conditions, regardless of initial placement conditions. Furthermore, failure mode shifted from rupture of draglines in dry loading conditions to adhesive failure of discs in wet loading conditions. Our results show the importance of considering both the conditions in which biological structures are produced and those in which the structures perform as potentially independent factors for performance. Our results also suggest that adhesion in wet conditions can challenge some spiders, potentially leading to specialization of attachment discs for riparian or aquatic species.
Mid-Late Holocene coral calcification dynamics: deciphering climatic and environmental effects
Authors: Deng Guangchao , Chen Xuefei , Deng Wenfeng , Kang Huiling , Zhao Jian-xin , Wei Gangjian
Published: February 2025

Over the past four decades, a marked decrease in coral calcification has occurred across the world’s tropical reefs, closely linked to climate change and the impact of human activity. However, how natural and human-induced factors influence coral calcification remains unclear due to limited understanding of the geological past. This study addresses this gap by investigating the calcification parameters of 82
Porites
corals from the northern South China Sea, with growth periods covering distinct climatic epochs during the Mid-Late Holocene, including the Holocene Climate Optimum, 4.2 ka BP event, Medieval Climate Anomaly, Little Ice Age and Current Warm Period. Our findings show a gradual increase in coral skeletal density towards the present, and varied linear extension and calcification rates between warm and cold phases and between pre- and post-industrial periods. This suggests that temperature plays a pivotal role in controlling coral calcification, with contingent influences from volcanic activity and solar radiation. Notably, the linear extension and calcification rates were significantly reduced during the Current Warm Period, suggesting a surpassing impact of contemporary human activities over the natural variability on coral calcification. This raises concerns about the future prospects of coral reefs in the face of ongoing climate change and increasing impact of human activity.
Repeated evolution of photoperiodic plasticity by different genetic architectures during recurrent colonizations in a butterfly
Authors: Shoshan Anna B. , Pindeler Ugo , Wheat Christopher W. , Gotthard Karl
Published: February 2025

In cases of recurrent colonizations of similar habitats from the same base population, it is commonly expected that repeated phenotypic adaptation is caused by parallel changes in genetic variation. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that similar phenotypic variation may also evolve by alternative genetic pathways. Here, we explore the repeated evolution of photoperiodic plasticity for diapause induction across Swedish populations of the speckled wood butterfly,
Pararge aegeria
. This species has colonized Scandinavia at least twice, and population genomic results show that one of the candidate regions associated with spatial variation in photoperiodism is situated on the Z-chromosome. Here, we assay hybrid crosses between several populations that differ in photoperiodic plasticity for sex-linked inheritance of the photoperiodic reaction norm. We find that while a cross between more distantly related populations from the two different colonization events shows strong sex-dependent inheritance of photoperiodic plasticity, a cross between two more closely related populations within the oldest colonization range shows no such effect. We conclude that the genotype–phenotype map for photoperiodic plasticity varies across these populations and that similar local phenotypic adaptation has evolved during recurrent colonization events by partly non-parallel genetic changes.
Thalassobellus suaedae gen. nov., sp. nov., a marine bacterium of the family Flavobacteriaceae isolated from a halophyte Suaeda japonica
Authors: Lee Su Yeon , Rho Ami , Choi Jy Young , Choi Jaeho , Lee Bo Min , Cho Byung Cheol , Hwang Chung Yeon
Published: February 2025

Two Gram-stain-negative, facultative anaerobic, rod-shaped and non-gliding bacteria, designated as HL-DH10T and HL-DH14, were isolated from the halophyte Suaeda japonica in a mudflat, Republic of Korea. Based on the results of 16S rRNA gene pairwise analysis, the two isolates were the members of the family Flavobacteriaceae, and Aestuariibaculum suncheonense SC17T was the most closely related to strains HL-DH10T and HL-DH14 with 96.3% and 95.4% sequence similarity, respectively. The average nt identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between strains HL-DH10T and HL-DH14 and other related species were all less than 79.2% and 21.9%, respectively. The genomic DNA G+C contents of strains HL-DH10T and HL-DH14 were 32.0% and 31.5%, respectively. Cells of these strains showed optimal growth at 25 °C, pH 6.5–7.0 and 2.5–4.0% (w/v) sea salts. The major respiratory quinone was menaquinone-6. The major cellular fatty acids were iso-C15:0 (14.0–16.0%), iso-C15:1 G (10.0–12.0%), iso-C17:0 3-OH (12.4–13.9%), iso-C15:0 3-OH (11.8–14.9%) and anteiso-C15:0 (9.4–10.6%). The polar lipids consisted of phosphatidylethanolamine, an unidentified aminophospholipid, two to three unidentified aminolipids and three unidentified lipids. The comprehensive phylogenetic, genomic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic results indicate that strains HL-DH10T and HL-DH14 are considered to represent a novel genus of Flavobacteriaceae. Hence, we propose the novel genus Thalassobellus suaedae gen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain is HL-DH10T (=KCCM 90512T=JCM 36598T).
Utility of hypervariable region in hepatitis E virus for genetic evolution analysis and epidemiological studies
Authors: Kim Dong-Hwi , Kim Da-Yoon , Kim Jae-Hyeong , Lim Kyu-Beom , Cho Andrew Y. , Lee Joong-Bok , Park Seung-Yong , Song Chang-Seon , Lee Sang-Won , Lee Dong-Hun , Kim Do-Geun , Choi In-Soo
Published: February 2025

Clinical and experimental studies have advanced our understanding of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection; however, translating the findings to improve prevention and clinical outcomes remains challenging. Phylogenetic analyses of HEV show inconsistencies due to variations in the nucleotide regions studied. This study examined specific HEV regions to facilitate comprehensive molecular and phylogenetic analyses by examining the complete genome and commonly studied partial genome regions. We compared topological similarities between phylogenetic trees and evaluated evolutionary divergence using base substitutions and pairwise distances. The hypervariable region (HVR) showed the closest topology (Robinson–Foulds, Jaccard Robinson–Foulds and clustering information) to the complete genome and a higher mutation rate, resulting in longer branch lengths and clearer genotypic distinctions. Pairwise analysis revealed greater intra- and intergenotypic diversity in the HVR than in other regions. The higher base substitution rate and longer branch lengths of HVR suggest its key role in genotype evolution. Classifying HEV using HVR instead of the other partial genomic regions can reveal subtypes that more accurately reflect the genetic characteristics of HEV. Future research could focus on HVRs to better compare clinical symptoms and genetic features of HEV.
Supporting the implementation of Osteoarthritis Management Programs in low-and middle-income settings: Understanding clinician training outcomes alongside perceived program barriers and facilitators in Malawi
Authors: Mkumbuzi Nonhlanhla S. , Jiya Esther , Chisati Enock M. , Kemp Joanne L. , Barton Christian , Ezzat Allison
Published: February 2025

Objective

To examine Malawian physiotherapists’ knowledge and beliefs about Osteoarthritis (OA) and their perceived capabilities to deliver an Osteoarthritis Management Program (OMP) to people with knee and hip OA; and to identify OMP barriers and facilitators in Malawi.

Design

Two-phased mixed methods formative evaluation

Methods

Phase 1: Malawian physiotherapists participated in the GLA:D®Australia training course and answered quantitative pre-and-post course questions that were descriptively summarized, and analysed using McNemar’s test, where appropriate. Phase 2: semi-structured focus groups generated qualitative data that were thematically analysed and mapped to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Mixed methods data were integrated through triangulation.

Results

Eleven Malawian physiotherapists [9 (82%) female, 10 (91%) with 5–10 years clinical experience] participated. Post training course, participants’ knowledge of OA management increased regarding the benefits of therapeutic exercise (p=0.002), importance of weight management (p=0.004), and acceptable symptoms profile (p=0.008). Participants’ confidence and beliefs in managing knee and hip OA also increased. Implementation barriers included program costs, current medical management of OA with painkillers, and infrastructure challenges. Implementation facilitators included the content and organisation of GLA:D®, the ability to adapt the program, and OA awareness and education among other health professionals.

Conclusion

Knowledge, confidence, and beliefs in managing knee and hip OA improved post GLA:D®training in Malawian physiotherapists. Increasing education of physiotherapists, other health professionals and the general public about evidence-based OA management and making contextual adaptions to the GLA:D®training and program structure may facilitate future implementation of OMP, such as GLA:D®, in low-and-middle income countries.
Reconsidering Silent Variant UnveilsSGCA’s Role in Atypical Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Horowitz-Cederboim Smadar , Hoffman-Lipschuetz Ronit , Durst Ronen , Harel Tamar , Shpitzen Shoshi , Shauer Ayelet , Zwas Donna R , Eilat Avital , Tomer Orr , Meiner Vardiella
Published: February 2025

We investigated an atypical form of limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type R3 (LGMDR3) associated with a homozygous synonymous variant inSGCAthat significantly expands the recognized clinical phenotype to include prominent cardiac involvement. While LGMDR3, caused by pathogenic variants inSGCA, typically presents as progressive muscle weakness with relatively limited cardiac manifestations, the individuals in our study developed substantial left ventricular dysfunction, arrhythmias, and even life-threatening ventricular tachyarrhythmias.

Five consanguineous families, initially evaluated through exome sequencing, showed no conclusive results until a focused genotype-phenotype correlation reanalysis pinpointed a single homozygous synonymousSGCAvariant. Despite its location distant from canonical splice sites, this variant disrupted normal mRNA splicing, leading to aberrant transcripts and, presumably, a nonfunctional or structurally altered α-sarcoglycan protein. Cardiac assessments, including echocardiography, Holter monitoring, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, revealed a spectrum of findings from mild asymptomatic dysfunction to severe dilated cardiomyopathy and malignant arrhythmias requiring implantable cardioverter-defibrillators.

This case broadens current understanding of LGMDR3 and its molecular underpinnings, ultimately guiding more personalized management strategies for affected individuals. It illustrates that thorough and ongoing variant interpretation is crucial, particularly in consanguineous populations where seemingly benign alterations may confer significant phenotypic consequences. By integrating carefully curated genomic data with clinical insights, clinicians can better identify patients at risk, tailor surveillance protocols, and implement timely interventions. In doing so, this discovery not only refines our appreciation of the intricate interplay between genetic variants and their phenotypic manifestations, but also underscores the importance of precision medicine approaches in the evolving landscape of inherited cardiomyopathies.
Variants inBSN, encoding the presynaptic protein Bassoon, result in a novel neurodevelopmental disorder with a broad phenotypic range
Authors: Guzman Stacy G , Ruggiero Sarah M , Ganesan Shiva , Ellis Colin A , Harrison Alicia G , Sullivan Katie R , Stark Zornitza , Brown Natasha J , Kana Sajel L , Tuttle Anabelle , Tenorio Jair , Lapunzina Pablo , Nevado Julián , McDonald Marie T , Jensen Courtney , Wheeler Patricia G , Stange Lila , Morrison Jennifer , Keren Boris , Heide Solveig , Keating Meg W , Butler Kameryn M , Lyons Mike A , Jain Shailly , Yeganeh Mehdi , Thompson Michelle L , Schroeder Molly , Nguyen Hoanh , Granadillo Jorge , Johnston Kari M , Murali Chaya N , Bosanko Katie , Burrow T Andrew ,   CHOP Birth Defects Biorepository,   Penn Medicine Biobank, Morgan Syreeta , Watson Deborah J , Hakonarson Hakon , Helbig Ingo
Published: February 2025

Disease-causing variants in synaptic function genes are a common cause of neurodevelopmental disorders and epilepsy. Here, we describe 14 individuals withde novodisruptive variants inBSN, which encodes the presynaptic protein Bassoon. To expand the phenotypic spectrum, we identified 15 additional individuals with protein-truncating variants (PTVs) from large biobanks. Clinical features were standardized using the Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO) across all 29 individuals, which revealed common clinical characteristics including epilepsy (13/29 45%), febrile seizures (7/29 25%), generalized tonic-clonic seizures (5/29 17%), and focal onset seizures (3/29 10%). Behavioral phenotypes were present in almost half of all individuals (14/29 48%), which comprised ADHD (7/29 25%) and autistic behavior (5/29 17%). Additional common features included developmental delay (11/29 38%), obesity (10/29 34%), and delayed speech (8/29 28%). In adults withBSNPTVs, milder features were common, suggesting phenotypic variability including a range of individuals without obvious neurodevelopmental features (7/29 24%). To detect gene-specific signatures, we performed association analysis in a cohort of 14,895 individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). A total of 66 clinical features were associated withBSN, including febrile seizures (p=1.26e-06) and behavioral disinhibition (p = 3.39e-17). Furthermore, individuals carryingBSNvariants were phenotypically more similar than expected by chance (p=0.00014), exceeding phenotypic relatedness in 179/256 NDD-related conditions. In summary, integrating information derived from community-based gene matching and large data repositories through computational phenotyping approaches, we identifyBSNvariants as the cause of a new class of synaptic disorder with a broad phenotypic range across the age spectrum.
FedWeight: Mitigating Covariate Shift of Federated Learning on Electronic Health Records Data through Patients Re-weighting
Authors: Zhu He , Li Na , Li Xiaoxiao , Liu Dianbo , Buckeridge David , Li Yue
Published: February 2025

Federated Learning (FL) has emerged as a promising approach for research on real-world medical data distributed across different organizations, as it allows analysis of distributed data while preserving patient privacy. However, one of the prominent challenges in FL is covariate shift, where data distributions differ significantly across different clinical sites, like hospitals and outpatient clinics. These differences in demographics, clinical practices, and data collection processes may lead to significant performance degradation of the shared model when deployed for a target population. In this study, we propose a Federatively Weighted (FedWeight) framework to mitigate the effect of covariate shift on Federated Learning. Leveraging the data distribution estimated by density estimator models, we re-weight the patients from the source clinical sites, making the trained model aligned with the data distribution of the target site, thus mitigating the covariate shift between source and target sites. To make our approach also applicable to unsupervised learning, we integrate Fed-Weight into a novel federated embedded topic model (ETM), namely FedWeight-ETM. We evaluated FedWeight in cross-site FL within the eICU dataset and also cross-dataset FL between eICU and MIMIC-III data. Compared with the baseline, FedWeight-corrected FL models demonstrate superior performance for predicting patient mortality, ventilator use, sepsis diagnosis, and length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU). Moreover, FedWeight outper-forms FedAvg in identifying important features relevant to the clinical outcomes. Leveraging Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP), the FedWeight-corrected classifiers reveal subtle yet significant associations between drugs, lab tests, and patient outcomes. Using FedWeight-ETM, we identified known disease topics involving renal or heart failure predictive of future mortality at the ICU readmission. Together, FedWeight provides a robust FL framework to address the challenge of covariate shift from clinical silos in predicting critical patient out-comes and providing meaningful clinical features.