bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal Associations Between Psychological Resilience and Cognitive Function: Evidence From the U.S. Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Du Chenguang , Katz Benjamin , Li Mengting , Pernice Francesca Maria , Rickertsen Kali , Gu Fei , Hori Kazuki , Ding Xiaobin , Xu Hanzhang
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Reductions in psychological resilience and declining cognition are common among older adults. Understanding the longitudinal association between them could be beneficial for interventions that focus on age-related cognitive and psychological health. In this study, we evaluated the longitudinal associations between cognition and psychological resilience over time in a nationally representative sample of U.S. older adults.

Methods

A total of 9,075 respondents aged 65 and above from 2006 to 2020 health and retirement study (HRS) were included in the current study. Cognition was measured through a modified 35-point Telephone Interview Cognitive Screen, and psychological resilience in the HRS was calculated using a previously established simplified resilience score. Bivariate latent growth modeling was used to examine the parallel association between psychological resilience and cognitive function over a period of up to 12 years.

Results

Positive correlations existed between the intercepts (r = 0.20, SE = 0.07, p < .001) as well as the slopes (r = 0.36, SE = 0.03, p < .001) for psychological resilience and cognition. The initial level of cognition positively predicted the slope of psychological resilience (β=0.16, SE=0.01, p<.001), whereas a somewhat less robust effect was found for the slope of cognition and the initial level of psychological resilience (β=0.10,   SE=0.03,   p<.001), after controlling all other covariates.

Discussion

In a population-based sample of U.S. older adults, cognition and psychological resilience could mutually reinforce one another. Clinicians and policy makers may consider recommending tasks associated with improving cognitive function for interventions to bolster psychological resilience among older adults.
Why go back?: Advantages and challenges of longitudinal qualitative research in social pharmacy, and recommendations for social pharmacy researchers
Authors: Norris Pauline , George Molly , Symon Vanda , Keown Shirley , Richard Lauralie , Bhawan Sandhaya (Sandy) , Richards Rosalina
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Although most qualitative research is cross-sectional, particularly in social pharmacy/pharmacy practice, there are many advantages of using a longitudinal qualitative research (LQR) design, i.e. re-interviewing participants over a period of time.

Methods

This paper describes some advantages and challenges of LQR using our ‘Access to Medicines: Exploring Lived Experience to inform policy and programmes’ study as an illustration.

Key findings

Advantages of LQR include obtaining richer and more complete data, providing a greater understanding of change and lack of change, understanding pathways through complex systems, including people facing difficult social circumstances, and contributing to evaluation research. Challenges to be addressed include the implications of developing friendships with participants, deciding whether to assist participants, maintaining participant anonymity, the impact of the research on the researchers, and how to analyse the large volume of data generated.

Conclusions

We recommend piloting methods before starting a study, considering the resource implications of LQR, planning the analysis in advance, planning for how to deal with developing friendships with participants, considering threats to participant anonymity, and supporting researchers doing fieldwork.
Non-HDL Cholesterol May Be Preferred over Apolipoprotein B-100 for Risk Assessment when Evaluated by Receiver Operator Characteristic Curve Analysis
Authors: Levinson Stanley S
Published: December 2024

Background

Most studies found that apolipoprotein B (apo B)-100 is a superior marker for coronary risk to non-high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (C). Usually, studies use multivariant analysis with single-point odds/risk ratios. In multivariant analysis, when variables are highly correlated they are difficult to interpret. Effects cannot be well discriminated.

Methods

Brief review and examination of diagnostic sensitivity and specificity by receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves at decision levels so that discrimination can be well compared. Since apo B has additional expense, clinical value should be compared in an appropriate format. Apo B and cholesterols were measured in 382 angiographically defined patients.

Results

Non-HDLC and apo B were stronger markers than low-density lipoprotein (LDL)C, when examined by logistic regression, but as a result of strong collinearity, non-HDLC appeared weaker than LDLC in the presence of apo B, based on P values. This was true when analyzed with and without nonlipid risk factors. On ROC analysis, apo B and non-HDLC showed stronger C statistics than LDLC and total C. When analyzed alone apo B showed about 6.1% greater sensitivity than non-HDLC. After adjustment for nonlipid risk factors, the C statistics for apo B and non-HDLC were 0.74 and 0.73, and there was little difference in diagnostic specificity.

Conclusions

Risk is calculated from an algorithm that includes nonlipid risk factors similar to those examined here along with cholesterols. When assessed by the 10-year screening algorithm, these data support the view that non-HDLC would be less expensive than apo B with similar clinical efficacy.
Functional investigation of CYP304F1 in Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) by RNA interference
Authors: Xie Jingang , Ali Amjad , Li Yuan , Zhuang Ziyan , Liu Xiaoning
Published: December 2024

Tuta absoluta has developed resistance to many biological insecticides, causing substantial agricultural and economic losses annually. P450s have been the most extensively studied enzymes in the context of insecticide metabolism in insect pests, and the detoxification metabolism of P450s in T. absoluta against biological insecticides remains poorly understood. In T. absoluta, CYP304F1 was screened from the comparative transcriptome of 2 regional populations in Xinjiang, China. The objective of the present study was to characterize and analyze CYP304F1 of T. absoluta and explore its role in detoxification of spinetoram as well as the growth and development of T. absoluta. Following cloning and sequence analysis of the target gene, it was named CYP304F1. Expression levels of CYP304F1 were then determined after spinetoram exposure and across various developmental instars and tissues. Finally, dsCYP304F1 was synthesized and utilized to assess the effects of post-RNAi on larval spinetoram susceptibility, growth, and development. Sequence analysis revealed that CYP304F1 harbors conserved domains characteristic of P450 proteins, exhibiting high conservation within the Lepidoptera clade. Treatment with an LC50 dose of spinetoram significantly upregulated CYP304F1 expression in T. absoluta larvae. Silencing CYP304F1 significantly enhanced larval susceptibility to spinetoram and prolonged leaf-mining duration and developmental time from the 2nd instar to 4th instar by 40% and 17.6%, respectively, compared to controls. And feeding on dsCYP304F1-treated leaves for 6 days resulted in 71% larval mortality. These results suggested that CYP304F1 played a crucial role in detoxification of spinetoram as well as in the growth and development of T. absoluta larvae.
Nonlinear transcriptomic responses to compounded environmental changes across temperature and resources in a pest beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: McCaw Beth A , Leonard Aoife M , Lancaster Lesley T
Published: December 2024

Many species are experiencing drastic and multidimensional changes to their environment due to anthropogenic events. These multidimensional changes may act nonadditively on physiological and life history responses, and thus may not be predicted by responses to single dimensional environmental changes. Therefore, work is needed to understand species’ responses to multiple aspects of change. We used whole-transcriptomic RNA-Sequencing and life history assays to uncover responses to singly-applied shifts in resource or temperature environmental dimensions, in comparison to combined, multidimensional change, in the crop pest seed beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus. We found that multidimensional change caused larger fecundity, developmental period and offspring viability life history changes than predicted by additive effects of 1-dimensional changes. In addition, there was little overlap between genes differentially expressed under multidimensional treatment versus under altered resource or temperature conditions alone. Moreover, 115 genes exhibited significant resource × temperature interaction effects on expression, including those involved in energy metabolism, detoxification, and enhanced formation of cuticle structural components. We conclude that single dimensional changes alone cannot determine life history and transcriptomic responses to multidimensional environmental change. These results highlight the importance of studying multidimensional environmental change for understanding the molecular and phenotypic responses that may allow organisms including insects to rapidly adapt simultaneously to multiple aspects of environmental change.
Subtle diurnal microbial rhythms in a large mammalian carnivore
Authors: Melville Dominik W , Rojas Connie A , Risely Alice , Theis Kevin R
Published: December 2024

Mounting evidence suggests that the cyclic interaction between host cells and the gut microbiota orchestrates metabolic and immunological homeostasis throughout the day. Yet, examples of gut microbial rhythms in natural populations are scarce, limiting our understanding of their downstream consequences for host health, particularly in mammals that demonstrate strong co-evolutionary links with their microbiota. Furthermore, disregarding diurnal microbial variation restricts our ability to account and control for them in future studies. Here, we re-analyzed gut microbiota data from a 23-year longitudinal field study of 12 wild adult female spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) in the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya to examine whether time of day was correlated with variation in gut microbial composition in this crepuscular–nocturnal carnivore. Overall, we found that gut microbial composition and structure, but not alpha diversity, slightly changed over the course of the day. Differences in microbiota composition between morning and afternoon became particularly apparent when restricting the analysis to the core microbiota (i.e., bacterial genera present in more than 85% of samples). Among the core microbiota, 11 genera—composed largely of the bacterial class Clostridia—varied in abundance with time of day, making this the second study to document gut microbial rhythms in a longitudinally sampled wildlife population. In contrast with the diurnal gut microbial oscillations of wild meerkats, those of hyenas are subtle, yet both species exhibit shifts specifically in the bacterial class Clostridia. This pattern implies that diurnal fluctuations are likely a characteristic of specific, common host-associated bacteria and their amplitude may be a product of host ecology. While our study detected diurnal trends, we encourage studies to employ a temporally denser sampling scheme. In this way, one can overlay short-term oscillations of the microbiome with information on host ecology and clarify consequences for the circadian phenotype of the host.
Market design and public policy for Battery Energy Storage System penetration: Case study Brazil
Authors: Zerbinatti Sato Heloisa
Published: December 2024

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) can serve as one of the solutions for grid reliability concerns derived from the increasing share of renewable sources in the Brazilian electricity mix. However, the economic feasibility of BESS projects in Brazil is currently uncertain, as regulatory gaps and systemic flaws in the current electricity market structure impose significant challenges for BESS operations. This article argues that Brazil must implement a new electricity market design to accommodate and value the capabilities of battery storage technology. Drawing insights from California’s successful adoption of BESS, this work proposes a solution for Brazil that includes a bid-based market with a two-settlement mechanism. Unlike California, the zonal-pricing approach better fits the reality of hydro predominance in the Brazilian electricity market. The typical water cascade problem in Brazil requires a tailor-made solution, such as separating financial transactions from the physical management of hydroelectric power plants. The transition to a new market design must enable policymakers and market participants to simulate their operations within the new market environment. The general purpose of this work is to invite law experts to participate in the discussions concerning a new electricity market architecture for Brazil by contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the economic issues involved in this subject.
Safety and Tolerability of a Brief Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain Group for Veterans at Increased Risk for Suicide
Authors: Martinson Amber , Roberge Erika M , Wong Shan , Pruitt Rebecca , Perkins John , Clinton-Lont Jamie
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Chronic pain is a significant risk factor for suicide, especially among Veterans. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety (i.e., the occurrence of suicidal behavior after treatment) and tolerability (i.e., treatment completion) of a Brief Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (Brief CBT-CP) group in primary care among a sample of Veterans with chronic noncancer pain deemed to be at an increased risk for suicide.

Materials and Methods

Chart review was used to assess suicide history and treatment completion among Veterans who participated in a Brief CBT-CP group within a Primary Care-Mental Health Integration Clinic at a Veteran Affairs Medical Center. Suicide risk was stratified into 3 categories: Minimal (no current suicidal ideation or history of suicidal behavior), Elevated (current suicidal ideation or history of suicidal behavior), and High Risk (current suicidal ideation and history of suicidal behavior). Safety was assessed as the absence of suicidal behavior during and after Brief CBT-CP sessions. Tolerability was defined as completion of at least 4/6 sessions.

Results

Of the 261 Veterans who participated in a Brief CBT-CP group, 24.9% of Veterans were identified to be at Elevated Risk for suicide, and 1.5% of Veterans were identified to be at High Risk. Brief CBT-CP was identified as safe, as no deaths (by suicide or otherwise) or suicidal behaviors were observed while Veterans engaged in the treatment sessions. In fact, following completion of Brief CBT-CP, a 24.2% reduction in relative risk of suicidal behaviors was observed in the overall sample. Brief CBT-CP was also tolerable, with nearly 90% of Veterans completing at least 4 sessions (n = 229).

Conclusions

Brief CBT-CP appears to be a safe and well-tolerated treatment for Veterans with chronic noncancer pain who are also at risk for suicide.
Investigation of oscillations above the acoustic cut-off frequency for a sample of Kepler stars. I. Methodology for detecting stellar pseudo-modes
Authors: Millson L J , Broomhall A-M , Santos A R G , Kiefer R
Published: December 2024

Stellar oscillations with frequencies below the acoustic cut-off frequency are confined within resonant cavities in the stellar interior. However, waves with frequencies above the cut-off are not trapped, and are free to propagate into the stellar atmosphere. In solar power spectra, this is observed as a regular, repeating peak-like structure. Known as pseudo-modes, few previous studies have identified and analysed their nature in stars other than our Sun. In this work, we aimed to identify the presence of the pseudo-modes in a sample of 91 ${\it Kepler}$ stars, comprised mainly of the LEGACY sample and KOIs. To determine whether any statistically significant signal existed within the pseudo-modes, we utilised the power spectrum of the power spectrum (PSxPS) method. We generated a PSxPS for each star for a range of frequencies over which we expected to observe the pseudo-modes. Bootstrapping was then used to calculate the false alarm probability (FAP) for the peak at maximum PSxPS power. The presence of pseudo-modes was detected in 51 stars, which displayed a statistically significant peak (<5 per cent FAP) in the PSxPS. Over half had a peak at maximum power greater than the <1 per cent FAP level. We further examined the frequency of maximum PSxPS power, finding most stars had a frequency between one and one-half of the large frequency separation. Stars which showed evidence for a secondary significant (<5 per cent FAP) peak in the PSxPS were also recorded, and 19 stars were identified. The detection and characterisation of pseudo-modes may provide new insights into stellar magnetism.
Sex Chromosome Turnovers and Stability in Snakes
Authors: Pšenička Tomáš , Augstenová Barbora , Frynta Daniel , Kornilios Panagiotis , Kratochvíl Lukáš , Rovatsos Michail
Published: December 2024

For a long time, snakes were presented as a textbook example of a group with gradual differentiation of homologous ZZ/ZW sex chromosomes. However, recent advances revealed that the ZZ/ZW sex chromosomes characterize only caenophidian snakes and certain species of boas and pythons have nonhomologous XX/XY sex chromosomes. We used genome coverage analysis in four non-caenophidian species to identify their sex chromosomes, and we examined the homology of sex chromosomes across phylogenetically informative snake lineages. We identified sex chromosomes for the first time in 13 species of non-caenophidian snakes, providing much deeper insights into the evolutionary history of snake sex chromosomes. The evolution of sex chromosomes in snakes is more complex than previously thought. Snakes may have had ancestral XX/XY sex chromosomes, which are still present in a blind snake and some boas, and there were several transitions to derived XX/XY sex chromosomes with different gene content and two or even three transitions to ZZ/ZW sex chromosomes. However, we discuss more alternative scenarios. In any case, we document that (1) some genomic regions were likely repeatedly co-opted as sex chromosomes in phylogenetically distant lineages, even with opposite types of heterogamety; (2) snake lineages differ greatly in the rate of differentiation of sex chromosomes; (3) snakes likely originally possessed sex chromosomes prone to turnovers. The sex chromosomes became evolutionarily highly stable once their differentiation progressed in the megadiverse caenophidian snakes. Snakes thus provide an ideal system for studying the evolutionary factors that drive unequal rates of differentiation, turnovers and stability of sex chromosomes.
Long-term 4CMenB Vaccine Effectiveness Against Gonococcal Infection at Four Years Post–Program Implementation: Observational Case–Control Study
Authors: Wang Bing , Giles Lynne , Andraweera Prabha , McMillan Mark , Beazley Rebecca , Sisnowski Jana , Almond Sara , Mitchell Janine , Lally Noel , Bell Charlotte , Flood Louise , Ward James , Marshall Helen
Published: December 2024

Background

A 4-component meningococcal B (4CMenB) vaccine program was introduced in adolescents in 2019 in South Australia. We aimed to evaluate long-term vaccine effectiveness (VE) and impact (VI) on gonococcal infection 4 years after implementation of the program.

Methods

Disease notification data were provided by SA Health. VE was estimated as the reduction in the odds of infection using the screening and case–control methods. Time-to-event analyses assessed vaccine effect on reinfections. VI was estimated as incidence rate ratios (IRRs) using negative binomial regression models.

Results

At 4 years after implementation of the program, 2-dose VE against gonococcal infection was 44.3% (95% CI, 35.1%–52.2%) using chlamydia patients as controls. Lower VE estimates were demonstrated in those >48 months post–4CMenB vaccination (26.2%; 95% CI, −2.6% to 47.0%) compared with those who had been vaccinated within ≤48 months (46.0%; 95% CI, 36.3%–54.2%). Slightly higher VE estimates were observed in females (48.7%; 95% CI, 36.9%–58.2%) compared with males (38.0%; 95% CI, 22.0%–50.7%). The risk of a second episode of gonococcal infection was lower in vaccinated gonococcal cases (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.682; 95% CI, 0.450–1.034). The adjusted IRR was 0.635 (95% CI, 0.421–0.957), with an observed 36.5% reduction in gonococcal infection.

Conclusions

4CMenB demonstrates moderate effectiveness against gonococcal infection, with a lower VE estimate after 4 years postvaccination. 4CMenB may reduce the risk of recurrent gonococcal infection. The requirement for a booster dose and dosing interval warrants evaluation.
Final results for mapping the Milky Way’s stellar halo with blue horizontal branch stars selected from the Subaru Hyper Suprime-Cam survey
Authors: Fukushima Tetsuya , Chiba Masashi , Tanaka Mikito , Hayashi Kohei , Homma Daisuke , Okamoto Sakurako , Komiyama Yutaka , Tanaka Masayuki , Arimoto Nobuo , Matsuno Tadafumi
Published: December 2024

We select blue horizontal branch stars (BHBs) from the internal data release of the Hyper Suprime-Cam Subaru Strategic Program to reveal the global structure of the Milky Way (MW) stellar halo. The data are distributed over a $\sim$1100 deg$^2$ area in the range of $18.5\lt g\lt 24.5$ mag, so that candidate BHBs are detectable over a Galactocentric radius of $r \simeq 36-575$ kpc. In order to select the most likely BHBs by removing blue straggler stars and other contaminants in a statistically significant manner, we develop and apply an extensive Bayesian method, as described in Fukushima et al. (2019). Our sample can be fitted to either a single power-law profile with an index of $\alpha =4.11^{+0.18}_{-0.18}$ or a broken power-law profile with an index of $\alpha _{\rm in}=3.90^{+0.24}_{-0.30}$ at r below a broken radius of $r_{\rm b}=184^{+118}_{-66}$ kpc and a very steep slope of $\alpha _{\rm out}=9.1^{+6.8}_{-3.6}$ at $r\gt r_{\rm b}$; the statistical difference between these fitting profiles is small. Both profiles are found to show prolate shapes having axial ratios of $q=1.47^{+0.30}_{-0.33}$ and $1.56^{+0.34}_{-0.23}$, respectively. We also find a signature of the so-called “splashback radius” for the candidate BHBs, which can reach as large as $r \sim 575$ kpc, although it is still inconclusive owing to rather large distance errors in this faintest end of the sample. Our results suggest that the MW stellar halo consists of two overlapping components: the in situ inner halo showing a relatively steep radial density profile and the ex situ outer halo with a shallower profile, being characteristic of a component formed from accretion of small stellar systems.
Generalized expectancy of threat in threatening compared to safe contexts
Authors: Aslanidou Asimina , Andreatta Marta , Wong Alex H.K , Wieser Matthias J
Published: December 2024

Fear of threatening contexts often generalizes to similar safe contexts, but few studies have investigated how contextual information influences cue generalization. In this study, we explored whether fear responses to cues would generalize more broadly in a threatening compared to a safe context. Forty-seven participants underwent a differential cue-in-context conditioning protocol followed by a generalization test, while we recorded psychophysiological and subjective responses. Two faces appeared on a computer screen in two contexts. One face (CS+) in the threat context (CTX+) was followed by a female scream 80% of the time, while another face (CS−) was not reinforced. No faces were reinforced in the safe context (CTX−). In the generalization test, the CSs and four morphs varying in similarity with the CS+ were presented in both contexts. During acquisition, conditioned responses to the cues were registered for all measures and the differential responding between CS+ and CS− was higher in CTX+ for US-expectancy ratings and skin conductance responses, but the affective ratings and steady-state visual evoked potentials were not context-sensitive. During test, adaptive generalized responses were evident for all measures. Despite increased US-expectancy ratings in CTX+, participants exhibited similar cue generalization in both contexts, suggesting that threatening contexts do not influence cue generalization.
Nocturnal short-term heart rate variability reflects impaired daytime vigilance better than overnight heart rate variability in suspected obstructive sleep apnea patients
Authors: Hietakoste Salla , Karhu Tuomas , Lombardi Carolina , Armañac-Julián Pablo , Bailón Raquel , Duce Brett , Sillanmäki Saara , Töyräs Juha , Leppänen Timo , Myllymaa Sami , Kainulainen Samu
Published: December 2024

In obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), heart rate variability (HRV) decreases and performance in psychomotor vigilance task (PVT) worsens with more severe hypoxic load. Nevertheless, the association between HRV and PVT performance is poorly understood. Thus, we hypothesize that nocturnal short-term HRV is better related to daytime psychomotor vigilance compared with overnight HRV. To investigate this hypothesis, we retrospectively analyzed the electrocardiograms from polysomnographies of 546 consecutive patients with suspected OSA. We determined overnight HRV and short-term HRV in nonoverlapping 5-min segments and performed stepwise linear regression analyses to associate HRV with the median reaction time (RT) in the PVT. The short-term decrease in the median interval between two successive normal R peaks (NN interval), root mean square of successive NNs, and normalized high-frequency band power were all significant (p < 0.001) indicators of longer median RTs. However, the overnight HRV parameters did not indicate worsening median RT. Instead, increased hypoxic load and N3 duration were associated with longer median RT in men but not in women. The association of HRV and cardiorespiratory coupling with PVT performance was generally weak. Nocturnal short-term HRV evaluation reflected a state of vigilance better than the average overnight HRV. Thus, the overnight HRV analysis might not be optimal for patients with OSA. Utilizing the HRV analysis in a time-series manner and combined with the hypoxic load and sleep stages could bring new aspects to the health assessment of patients with OSA.
Investigation of the Driver Injury Risks in Small Overlap Impact with Automatic Emergency Braking
Authors: Fan Tiqiang , Nie Zhenlong , Wan Xinming , Liu Yu , Yang Peilong , Chen Jianzhuo , Ren Lihai
Published: December 2024

The forward displacement caused by the precrash braking may influence occupant injury risks in frontal impacts. However, the occupant injury mechanisms in the small overlap impact (SOI) with autonomous emergency braking (AEB) systems are not yet fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the driver injury mechanisms in SOI with AEB via finite element modelling using the THUMS occupant model and a validated vehicle model. Simulations were conducted under the braking-crash loadings which combined the simplified braking curves with representative SOI accelerations. Simulation results indicated a considerable increase in occupant thoracic compression owing to forward displacement induced by AEB, though the risk of brain injury remained uncertain. The presence of AEB in SOI changed occupant injury patterns, showing varied injury risk trends across different body regions. The main injury mechanisms under AEB crash load conditions were the reduced buffering effect of the restraint system and increased ride-down efficiency caused by AEB, contributing to greater uncertainty in overall occupant injury risk.
Role of Soil Moisture in Disease Development of Charcoal Rot of Strawberries Caused by Macrophomina phaseolina
Authors: Pedroncelli Lindsey , Biscaro Andre , Putman Alexander I.
Published: December 2024

Charcoal rot, caused by the soilborne fungus Macrophomina phaseolina, is one of the most economically important diseases affecting strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) production in California. Previous studies on non-strawberry hosts have shown that proper soil moisture management can limit pathogen colonization of plants and decrease disease severity. We performed field and greenhouse studies for two seasons with the objective of investigating the role of soil moisture in disease development and management of charcoal rot of strawberries. Bare-root transplants of cultivars Monterey and Fronteras were inoculated or not inoculated and maintained at either a high, optimal, or low soil moisture level using tensiometers. Randomly selected plants from each treatment were sampled for pathogen colonization every 4 weeks after planting, and all plants were visually rated for disease severity every 2 weeks after symptom onset. In both seasons, low soil moisture significantly increased charcoal rot mortality among inoculated plants compared to optimal soil moisture by 16 and 24 percentage points, respectively. In the first season, mortality was significantly lower in the high compared to the optimal soil moisture treatment. Colonization of crowns was increased by low soil moisture among inoculated plants in the first season, but soil moisture did not influence root colonization in either year of the study. In the greenhouse, charcoal rot severity was highest in the low soil moisture treatment. These results indicate that soil moisture has a limited influence on colonization of strawberries by M. phaseolina and that maintaining optimal soil moisture can help prevent excess charcoal rot mortality.
Relationship Between Paraspinal Sarcopenia and Lumbar Alignment and Facet Joint Osteoarthritis in Patients with Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Authors: Liu Song , Hu Wenjun , Lin Youxi , Liao Nianchun , Shi Huihong , Chen Jianan , Chen Yanbo , Zhang Zhaoqiang , Gao Bo , Huang Dongsheng , Gao Wenjie , Liang Anjing
Published: December 2024

Study Design.

Retrospective study analysis.

Objective.

To explore association between degenerative spinal conditions and paraspinal sarcopenia in patients with severe degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS).

Background.

Paraspinal muscles plays an essential role in stabilizing the spine. Paraspinal sarcopenia is progressively recognized as a crucial parameter influencing clinical outcomes in the field of spine surgery. The association between degenerative spinal conditions and paraspinal sarcopenia in patients with severe DLSS has been rarely investigated.

Materials and Methods.

This study was conducted on consecutive patients who underwent posterior lumbar interbody fusion at L4/5 single-level for lumbar spinal stenosis between January 2019 and July 2023. The study assessed paraspinal sarcopenia based on the fatty infiltration and Goutallier classification systems (GCS) of multifidus muscle on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging. The study evaluated the association between demographic/radiographic factors and paraspinal sarcopenia in patients with DSLL. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was then performed to adjust for confounding.

Results.

A total of 129 patients were included, including 38 patients with mild paraspinal sarcopenia, 52 patients with moderate paraspinal sarcopenia, and 39 patients with severe paraspinal sarcopenia. Correlation analysis indicated that age (r=0.366, P<0.001), pelvic incidence (PI) (r=0.407, P<0.001), lumbar lordosis (LL) (r=0.362, P=0.023) were positively correlated with paraspinal sarcopenia, while weight (r=−0.422, P<0.001), cross-sectional area (CSA) of psoas (r=−0613, P<0.001), facet joint angle (FA) (r=−0.447, P=0.016), and The Hounsfield Unit values of L1-L4 (L1-4 HU) (r=0.298, P=0.005) were negatively correlated with paraspinal sarcopenia. Ordinal logistic regression showed that the Facet joint osteoarthritis (FJOA) (odds ratio=2.82, P=0.017), PI (odds ratio=1.15, P<0.001), age (odds ratio=1.14, =0.001), and female (odds ratio=5.26, P=0.04) were associated with paraspinal sarcopenia.

Conclusions.

Our study demonstrated FJOA, PI, age, and female were associated with paraspinal sarcopenia. The assessments of paraspinal muscles cross-sectional area were not associated with the severity of fatty infiltration.
Neuromuscular Blockade Reversal with Sugammadex Reduces Cardiac Complications and OR Time for Prone Lumbar Spinal Fusion Compared to Neostigmine
Authors: Dalton Jonathan , Heard Jeremy , Huang Rachel , Ezeonu Otitochukwu , Nardone Bryan , Dwosh Ryan , Kepler Christopher K.
Published: December 2024

Study Design.

Retrospective cohort study

Objective.

To evaluate inpatient complication profiles of patients receiving neuromuscular blockade reversal via sugammadex versus neostigmine/glycopyrrolate.

Summary of Background Data.

Sugammadex is a neuromuscular blockade reversal agent that binds non-depolarizing muscle relaxants. This is a different mechanism from traditional reversal agents such as the combination drug neostigmine (acetylcholinesterase inhibitor)/glycopyrrolate (antimuscarinic agent). Sugammadex has theoretical advantages related to more predictable and rapid reversal, and decreased autonomic side effects. While these agents have been compared in non-spine literature, there is minimal research examining their impact during prone lumbar fusion.

Methods.

All adult patients who underwent a primary one- or two-level posterior lumbar fusion (L4-S1) at a single academic center (2018-2021) were retrospectively identified. Neuromuscular blockade reversal agents (sugammadex or NG), demographics, surgical characteristics, and surgical outcomes were collected through a Structured Query Language search and confirmed by chart review. Bivariate analysis and multivariate linear regression were performed. Alpha was set at P<0.05.

Results.

In the NG group, more patients had ≥1 inpatient complication (31.2% vs. 19.9%, P=0.012) and cardiac complication (19.1% vs. 11.3%, P=0.040). NG had higher total (0.40±0.66 vs. 0.28±0.62, P=0.046) and cardiac (0.23±0.50 vs. 0.13±0.37, P=0.009) complication rates per person. Operative time was longer amongst patients reversed with NG (182±55.9 vs. 174±55.9, P=0.039). Multivariable linear regression for inpatient complications demonstrated that sugammadex (estimate=−0.124, P=0.045) was negatively predictive of inpatient complications, while Elixhauser (estimate=0.073, P<0.001) was positively predictive.

Conclusion.

The current results demonstrate that sugammadex may create less risk for cardiac complications, and is likely associated with more rapid reversal and decreased OR time during prone lumbar fusion. However, additional research is needed to further validate these findings, especially amongst patients with cardiac comorbidities.
Baricity of spinal bupivacaine and the incidence of hypotension in non-obstetric surgery
Authors: Van Herreweghe Imré , Ghysels Eline , Gielen Jens , Buck Robbert , Flesher Elizabeth , Cops Jirka , Saldien Vera , Mesotten Dieter , Hadzic Admir
Published: December 2024

Bupivacaine is commonly used for spinal anaesthesia. The baricity of bupivacaine (isobaric vs. hyperbaric) may influence the spread, level of the block and the subsequent haemodynamic effects of the spinal anaesthesia. This review considers the available literature on the effect of baricity on the haemodynamic sequelae of spinal anaesthesia with bupivacaine. A literature search was conducted of the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases up to February 2024, following PRISMA guidelines. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing isobaric and hyperbaric bupivacaine in non-obstetric surgeries were included. Ten studies comprising 586 patients were included. While the literature suggests a trend towards greater incidence of hypotension with hyperbaric bupivacaine, no statistically significant difference was found. Variations in bupivacaine doses and volumes, spinal techniques and definitions of hypotension hindered definitive conclusions. Lower doses relevant to current practice also remain underexplored.
Depression and anxiety management in cirrhosis
Authors: Zimbrean Paula C. , Jakab Simona S.
Published: December 2024

Depressive and anxiety symptoms are more prevalent in patients with cirrhosis compared to the general population. Between 2009 and 2019, the prevalence of depression in cirrhosis increased by 80%, while the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder increased by over 400%. When present, anxiety and depression are linked to lower health-related quality of life, more severe symptoms (eg, fatigue), and poorer response to medical treatment. Screening instruments for depression and anxiety have shown acceptable validity in patients with cirrhosis. However, the diagnosis of depression and anxiety disorder remains challenging in this population and should follow the established criteria for general populations. Treatment interventions are numerous and include patient education and support around liver disease, pharmacological agents, and psychotherapy. Antidepressants are the treatment of choice for patients with depressive or anxiety disorder and cirrhosis. However, consideration must be given to dose adjustment and choice of agent due to changes in their metabolism in patients with liver disease. Psychotherapy may be used as a stand-alone therapy or concomitantly with pharmacotherapy. The high prevalence and complexity of depressive and anxiety symptoms in patients with cirrhosis support the integrated care approach in which patients are cared for by multidisciplinary teams.
Genome-wide meta-analysis associates donor-recipient non-HLA genetic mismatch with acute cellular rejection post-liver transplantation
Authors: Nieuwenhuis Lianne M. , Li Yanni , Loza Bao-Li , Lambeck Annechien J.A. , Hu Shixian , Gacesa Ranko , Voskuil Michiel D. , Hepkema Bouke G. , Jansen Bernadien H. , Blokzijl Hans , Verkade Henk-Jan , van den Heuvel Marius C. ,   TransplantLines Investigators, Asrani Sumeet , Testa Giuliano , Klintmalm Goran , Trotter James , Olthoff Kim M. , Shaked Abraham , Keating Brendan J. , Weersma Rinse K. , Festen Eleonora A.M. , de Meijer Vincent E.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Acute cellular rejection (ACR) remains a common complication causing significant morbidity post-liver transplantation. Non–human leukocyte antigen (non-HLA) mismatches were associated with an increased risk of ACR in kidney transplantation. Therefore, we hypothesized that donor-recipient non-HLA genetic mismatch is associated with increased ACR incidence post-liver transplantation.

Methods:

We conducted an international multicenter case-control genome-wide association study of donor-recipient liver transplant pairs in 3 independent cohorts, totaling 1846 pairs. To assess genetic mismatch burden, we calculated sum scores for single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) mismatch based on all non-HLA functional SNPs, specifically SNPs coding for transmembrane or secreted proteins as they more likely affect the immune system. We analyzed the association between the non-HLA mismatch scores and ACR in a multivariable Cox regression model per cohort, followed by a weighted meta-analysis.

Results:

During the first year post-transplantation, 90 of 689 (13%), 161 of 720 (22%), and 48 of 437 (11%) recipients experienced ACR in cohorts 1–3, respectively. Weighted meta-analyses showed that higher mismatch in functional non-HLA SNPs was associated with an increased incidence of ACR (HR 5.99; 95% CI: 1.39–20.08; p=0.011). Moreover, we found a larger effect of mismatch in SNPs coding for transmembrane or secreted proteins on ACR (HR 7.54; 95% CI 1.95–28.79; p=0.003). Sensitivity analyses showed that imputed HLA mismatch did not affect the associations between both non-HLA mismatch scores and ACR.

Conclusions:

Donor-recipient mismatch of functional non-HLA SNPs overall and, especially, of SNPs encoding transmembrane or secreted proteins correlated with 1-year ACR post-liver transplantation. Identifying high-risk immunological burdens between pairs may prevent early graft rejection and aid in personalizing immunosuppressive therapy. Future studies are, however, needed to validate our findings using a genotyped HLA cohort.
Crosstalk between the tumor microenvironment and tumor cells through exosomes: Roles in tumor metabolism and progression
Authors: Shi Ying-Hui , Du Jian , Pan Wen , Zhang Hai-Yang , Ba Yi
Published: December 2024

Tumor proliferation, metabolism, metastasis, and chemoresistance are intimately related to the tumor microenvironment (TME). The metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells is a hallmark of their adaptation to hypoxic and nutrient-deficient TMEs. Exosomes, a type of extracellular vesicle, have been found to regulate the crosstalk between tumor cells and the TME, affecting tumor metabolic reprogramming. In this review, we introduce the metabolic characteristics of tumor cells; describe the crosstalk between tumor cells and the TME in terms of glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism through exosomes; and provide an overview of the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of exosomes. A better understanding of tumor metabolism would provide a broader perspective about the mechanisms underlying tumor pathology and would facilitate the search for therapeutic targets and guide more individualized tumor treatment.
Association of plant-based diets with risk of upper gastrointestinal tract cancers: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ma Shan-Rui , Zhang Yue-Ying , Fan Zhi-Yuan , He Fei-Fan , Wei Wen-Qiang
Published: December 2024

Background

Diets rich in red or processed meat have been linked to an increased risk of cancers within the digestive system. It has been suggested that a plant-based diet may have protective effects against digestive system cancers. This study aimed to determine the association between plant-based diets and upper gastrointestinal tract cancers (UGTCs).

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. We searched the PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science databases for articles published up to September 30, 2023. We pooled the risk ratios (RRs) with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using fixed- or random-effects models.

Results

Our meta-analysis included 16 studies (30 results). The data revealed a strong inverse association between a high intake of plant-based diets and UGTC (RR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.49–0.72), specifically gastric cancer (GC, RR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.42–0.67) and esophageal cancer (EC, RR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.42–0.96). This relationship was not significant for gastric cardia cancer (GCA) or esophagogastric junctional cancer (EGJC, RR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.47–1.22). A subgroup analysis showed the association was significant in studies from Asia and Europe, as well as in studies utilizing indices such as a vegetarian diet, Mediterranean diet, the Plant-Based Diet Index, and principal component analysis dietary patterns. There was no indication of publication bias among the analyzed studies.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis highlights the potential health benefits of plant-based diets in preventing UGTC, particularly regarding esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and GC. Nevertheless, additional research is required to validate these results and explore the underlying mechanisms.
Unlocking the sun’s potential: Vitamin D’s role in battling colorectal cancer
Authors: Ling Qing-Er , Ni Si-Qi , Jiao Yi , Liu Ling-Xiang
Published: December 2024

Vitamin D, a fat-soluble hormone precursor primarily derived from sunlight exposure, exerts pleiotropic effects within the body, including anticancer activity. Research has demonstrated an association between vitamin D and colorectal cancer (CRC) from both geoecological and epidemiological perspectives, wherein vitamin D intake and circulating levels have clinical significance for the development of CRC and confer a protective effect against the disease. As such, a sensible increase in sunlight exposure may be an accessible approach to reducing cancer risk and a low-cost treatment when used in conjunction with vitamin D supplements. This article comprehensively explores the established and emerging mechanisms thought to underlie the impact of vitamin D on CRC. It encompasses recent insights from clinical trials and epidemiological studies, along with recommendations, diverse viewpoints, and future prospects regarding the utilization of vitamin D in the management of CRC.
Lumbosciatica revealed hereditary bisalbuminemia in Burkina Faso: First case report
Authors: Diabri Banyama Marie , Bayala Yannick Laurent Tchenadoyo , Aziz Abdoul , Ilboudo Kiswendsida Alain , Zabsonré/Tiendrébeogo Wendlassida Joëlle Stéphanie , Ouedraogo Dieu-Donné
Published: December 2024

Rationale:

Bisalbuminemia, a rare qualitative anomaly of albumin detected through serum protein electrophoresis, can be hereditary or acquired. This study reports the first case of hereditary bisalbuminemia within a Burkinabe family.

Patient concerns:

The patient, Mrs. ZS, aged 66, has been experiencing persistent right lumbosciatalgia for 2 years, recently becoming disabling.

Diagnoses:

Examination reveals lumbar spinal syndrome and radicular syndrome without impairment of sensitivity or motor function. Serum protein electrophoresis for Mrs. ZS shows an atypical profile with a doubling of the albumin peak, confirmed by 2 separate analyses in different laboratories. Additional examinations, including complete blood count, CRP, creatinine, and lipase levels, yield normal results. Imaging reveals a disc protrusion from L3 to S1 in conflict with the dural sheath, diagnosed as common adult lumbalgia due to disc protrusion.

Interventions:

Mrs. ZS receives oral corticosteroid therapy, with a significant improvement in symptoms by the 15th day.

Outcomes:

One year later, during family investigations, bisalbuminemia is confirmed in Mrs. ZS and discovered in her daughter.

Lessons:

This study underscores the importance of considering hereditary bisalbuminemia in the evaluation of electrophoretic profiles, providing a clinical and biological insight into a rare condition within the Burkinabe population. Collaboration between clinicians and biologists is essential for understanding and managing such anomalies.
18F-DCFPyL in the Detection of Prostate Cancer Spread to the Lumbosacral Plexus
Authors: Segala Silmara R. , Sutherland Duncan , Bauman Glenn , Driscoll Brandon , Chin Joseph , Romsa Jonathan , Zukotynski Katherine A
Published: December 2024

In most cases, prostate cancer spreads locally to the seminal vesicles, via lymphatics to pelvic and abdominal lymph nodes, and hematogenously to the bones. Direct invasion along nerve roots is exceptionally rare but can occur. Here, we present a case with 18F-DCFPyL PET/CT images showing neoplastic involvement of the lumbosacral plexus in a patient with recurrent prostate cancer.