bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recombination and structural variation in a large 8-founder wheat MAGIC population
Authors: Shah Rohan , Huang B Emma , Whan Alex , Fradgley Nick S , Newberry Marcus , Verbyla Klara , Morell Matthew K , Cavanagh Colin R
Published: February 2025

Identifying the genetic architecture of complex traits requires access to populations with sufficient genetic diversity and recombination. Multiparent Advanced Generation InterCross (MAGIC) populations are a powerful resource due to their balanced population structure, allelic diversity, and enhanced recombination. However, implementing a MAGIC population in complex polyploids such as wheat is challenging, as wheat harbors many introgressions, inversions, and other genetic factors that interfere with linkage mapping. By utilizing a comprehensive crossing strategy, additional rounds of mixing, and novel genotype calling approaches, we developed a bread wheat 8-parent MAGIC population of over 3000 genotyped recombinant inbred lines derived from 2151 distinct crosses. This effort resulted in a dense genetic map covering the complete genome. Further rounds of inter-crossing led to increased recombination in inbred lines, as expected. We identified structural variation highlighted by segregation distortion, along with epistatic allelic interactions between specific founders. We report on a novel and effective resource for genomic and trait exploration in hexaploid wheat, capable of detecting small genetic effects and epistatic interactions due to the high level of recombination and large number of lines. The interactions and genetic effects identified provide a basis for ongoing research to understand the basis of allelic frequencies across the genome, particularly where economically important loci are involved.
Randomized experimental test of a reduced-exposure message for an e-cigarette: effects on risk perceptions
Authors: Shiffman Saul , Kim Sooyong , McCaffrey Stacey
Published: February 2025

Adults who smoke (AWS) who switch completely to e-cigarettes reduce their exposures to many harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke. Those who believe e-cigarettes are less harmful than cigarettes are more likely to use e-cigarettes to switch away from smoking, yet most believe e-cigarettes are at least as harmful as cigarettes. This study assessed the effect on risk perceptions of communicating that switching can reduce exposure to harmful chemicals from cigarette smoke. In a randomized experiment, AWS (n = 3485), dual users (DU) of cigarettes and e-cigarettes (n = 1756), and nonusers (n = 7316) viewed an ad for JUUL with or without a reduced-exposure message, and completed assessments of perceived risk. Message exposure decreased perceived risk of JUUL among adults who smoke, while increasing perceived risk of smoking, thus increasing the perceived risk differential (PRD). Among DU, the message increased perceived risk of smoking, but did not change perceived risk of JUUL. Among nonusers, who rated the perceived risk of all assessed tobacco products higher than did AWS and DU, the message decreased perceived risk of JUUL, and did not affect perceived risk of smoking. Accurate modified exposure communications have potential public health benefit by shifting the PRD of smoking and e-cigarettes.
Phylogenomic resolution of marine to freshwater dinoflagellate transitions
Authors: Mtawali Mahara , Cooney Elizabeth C , Adams Jayd , Jin Joshua , Holt Corey C , Keeling Patrick J
Published: February 2025

Dinoflagellates are an abundant and diverse group of protists that inhabit aquatic environments worldwide. They are characterized by numerous unique cellular and molecular traits, and have adapted to an unusually broad range of life strategies, including phototrophy, heterotrophy, parasitism, and all combinations of these. For most microbial groups, transitions from marine to freshwater environments are relatively rare, as changes in salinity are thought to lead to significant osmotic challenges that are difficult for the cell to overcome. Recent work has shown that dinoflagellates have overcome these challenges relatively often in evolutionary time, but because this is mostly based on single gene trees with low overall support, many of the relationships between freshwater and marine groups remain unresolved. Normally, phylogenomics could clarify such conclusions, but despite the recent surge in data, virtually no freshwater dinoflagellates have been characterized at the genome-wide level. Here, we generated 30 transcriptomes from cultures and single cells collected from freshwater environments to infer a robustly supported phylogenomic tree from 217 conserved genes, resolving at least seven transitions to freshwater in dinoflagellates. Mapping the distribution of ASVs from freshwater environmental samples onto this tree confirms these groups and identifies additional lineages where freshwater dinoflagellates likely remain unsampled. We also sampled two species of Durinskia, a genus of “dinotoms” with both marine and freshwater lineages containing Nitzschia-derived tertiary plastids. Ribosomal RNA phylogenies show that the host cells are closely related, but their endosymbionts are likely descended from two distantly-related freshwater Nitzschia species that were acquired in parallel and relatively recently.
Reassessing the Cepheid-based distance ladder: implications for the Hubble constant
Authors: Högås Marcus , Mörtsell Edvard
Published: February 2025

The Hubble constant (H0) is a key parameter in cosmology, yet its precise value remains contentious due to discrepancies between early- and late-universe measurement methods, a problem known as the “Hubble tension.” In this study, we revisit the Cepheid-based distance ladder calibration, focusing on two potential sources of bias in the period-luminosity relation (PLR): (1) the assumed prior for the residual parallax offset of the Milky Way (MW) Cepheids and (2) systematic differences between Cepheid periods in anchor galaxies versus supernova host galaxies. To address the latter, we adopt two different strategies alongside a renewed MW Cepheid calibration. The first strategy involves resampling anchor and host Cepheids from a common distribution of periods. This approach provides a conservative estimate of H0 = (72.18 ± 1.76) km/s/Mpc, including the renewed MW analysis. The increased uncertainty reflects the reduced sample size—about 700 Cepheids per resampling compared to 3200 in the original dataset. This method reduces the Hubble tension from 5.4 σ (as reported by the SH0ES collaboration with H0 = (73.17 ± 0.86) km/s/Mpc) to 2.4 σ. The second strategy allows the PLR slope to vary with the period, yielding H0 = (72.35 ± 0.91) km/s/Mpc, including the renewed MW analysis, and the tension reduced to 4.4 σ. A statistical comparison of the model with the single-linear PLR shows a significant preference for the broken PLR (p-value <0.001). Both strategies consistently indicate a downward shift of approximately −1 km/s/Mpc in H0. Our findings underscore the importance of careful consideration of Cepheid population characteristics for precise H0 calibrations.
Music-based interventions in mild cognitive impairment and kidney disease: a scoping review on behalf of CONNECT Action (Cognitive Decline in Nephro-Neurology European Cooperative Target)
Authors: Giordano Filippo , Rotella Stefania , Capasso Giovambattista , Fiorentino Marco , Gesualdo Loreto
Published: February 2025

Background

Music-based interventions (MBIs) have shown promise in enhancing cognitive and behavioral functions in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the clinical application of MBIs in MCI and explore their potential use in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, PsycInfo, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases for studies published between January 2013 and October 2023. The search focused on MBIs applied to MCI and CKD patients. We collected data on study design, type of MBIs administered and main clinical outcomes.

Results

Sixteen studies were included in this review, ten of which were randomized control trials (RCTs). MBIs ranged from passive music listening (4 studies) to active participation in music-making (vocal or singing activities, play instruments and improvisation, music interventions associated with physical activity, musical stimulation). While no studies specifically focused on CKD patients, cognitive improvements were generally more significant with active interventions, whereas behavioral benefits were more associated with receptive approaches.

Conclusions

MBIs showed potential benefits in improving cognitive and depressive symptoms associated with MCI. Given the high prevalence of MCI in CKD patients, future studies should investigate the application of MBIs in this population.
Neural Cell Competition Sculpting Brain from Cradle to Grave
Authors: Li Yu Zheng , Gao Lisen , Sun Xue-Lian , Duan Lihui , Jiang Man , Wu Qing-Feng
Published: February 2025

Darwinian selection, operating within the cellular ecosystem of multicellular organisms, drives a pervasive surveillance mechanism of cell-cell competition that shapes tissue architecture and function. While cell competition eliminates suboptimal cells to ensure tissue integrity across various tissues, neuronal competition specifically sculpts neural networks to establish precise circuits for sensory, motor, and cognitive functions. However, our understanding of cell competition across diverse neural cell types in both developmental and pathological contexts remains limited. Here, we review recent advances on the phenomenon, mechanisms, and potential functions of neural cell competition, ranging from neural progenitors, neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, to microglia. Physiological neural cell competition governs cellular survival, proliferation, arborization, organization, function, and territorial colonization, whereas dysregulated neural cell competition may cause neurodevelopmental disorders, accelerate aging, exacerbate neurodegenerative diseases, and drive brain tumor progression. Future work leveraging cell competition mechanisms may help to improve cognition and curb diseases.
Motor Impairment and Disuse Are Independent Predictors of Vascular Outcomes Poststroke
Authors: Miller Tiev , Ouyang Huixi , Tsang Charlotte S L , Calderón-Juárez Martín , Ying Michael T C , Pang Marco Y C
Published: February 2025

Importance

Cardiorespiratory fitness is reduced after stroke due to inactivity which may cause structural and functional changes to blood vessels in the extremities. Identifying clinical factors contributing to vascular function may be important for tailoring rehabilitation programs that reduce secondary disease risk and adverse events.

Objective

The study objective was to compare measures of arterial and intramuscular blood flow between the paretic and nonparetic upper limbs of individuals with stroke and healthy comparators. Associations between these parameters and stroke-related impairment were also examined.

Design

This was a cross-sectional study.

Setting

The setting was a university laboratory.

Participants

Participants were individuals with stroke (n = 64; mean age = 60.8 [SD = 7.7] years) and matched controls (n = 64; mean age = 59.4 [SD = 7.8] years).

Main Outcomes/Measures

Brachial artery blood flow volume (Vflow) and arterial diameter (AD) were measured using Doppler ultrasound. Intramuscular blood perfusion of the biceps brachii was estimated using the vascularity index (VI). Motor recovery and perceived use of paretic upper limbs were assessed with the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) and Motor Activity Log (MAL), respectively.

Results

Side × group interactions were observed for AD (F = 22.6) and VI (F = 4.00). Post hoc analyses showed lower AD and VI for paretic sides (stroke group), greater Vflow for dominant sides (comparators), and greater percent side-to-side differences (%SSDs) in AD and VI for the stroke group than for comparators. %SSDs in Vflow, AD, and VI demonstrated weak correlations with impairment (MAL, FMA) (ρ = 0.253 to 0.347). MAL was an independent predictor of %SSD in Vflow (β = −0.286), and FMA was an independent predictor of %SSDs in AD (β = −0.307) and VI (β = 0.371).

Conclusions/Relevance

Relative to the nonparetic and bilateral limbs of comparators, arterial size and intramuscular blood flow in the paretic upper limbs of individuals with stroke were significantly reduced. Motor impairment and disuse emerged as independent predictors of all vascular outcomes and may be potential intervention targets for reducing cardiovascular disease risk after stroke.
Towards Enhancing Drug Development Methodology to Treat Cognitive Impairment Associated With Schizophrenia and Other Neuropsychiatric Conditions: Insights From 2 Decades of Clinical Trials
Authors: Horan William P , Kalali Amir , Brannan Stephen K , Drevets Wayne , Leoni Matthew , Mahableshwarkar Atul , Martin William J , Rao Srinivas , Reuteman-Fowler Corey , Sauder Colin , Savitz Adam , Singh Jaskaran , Tiller Jane , Walker Gary , Wendland Jens R , Harvey Philip D
Published: February 2025

Cognitive impairment is a core feature and leading cause of functional disability in schizophrenia and other neuropsychiatric disorders. The Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia (MATRICS) initiative in the early 2000s marked a pivotal moment for drug development, establishing consensus on methodology for treatment studies, including assessment strategies and trial designs, for cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia (CIAS). Despite extensive industry-sponsored and academic drug development efforts over the last 2 decades using these strategies no pharmacological treatments have been approved for CIAS. Drawing on pharmaceutical industry experience and scientific developments since the MATRICS initiative, we review lessons learned about the practical and operational complexities of conducting large-scale CIAS clinical trials. Based on this collective experience, we identify elements of the MATRICS guidelines that may warrant reconsideration and suggest some new approaches to streamline the drug development pathway, without weakening standards for evidence. Our goal is to initiate an open exchange among all stakeholders about possible enhancements to drug development methodology that optimize our ability to develop new treatments for cognitive impairment in schizophrenia and other neuropsychiatric disorders.
Does It Matter Who You Ask For Time Use Data?
Authors: Sharma Deepti , Swaminathan Hema , Lahoti Rahul
Published: February 2025

Time-use statistics are recall intensive and sensitive to measurement error. This study uses a nationally representative time-use survey from India to investigate how self and proxy reporting impacts the reported time spent on various activities by men and women. Proxy informants tend to report higher time use for both men and women on employment activities (14 to 26 percent) and lower time use on production for self-consumption, unpaid domestic work, and care work (5 to 33 percent) as compared to self-reports. On average, women proxies differ more from self-reports when reporting about both men and women in their households as compared to men proxies. Investigating the mechanisms we find that the self–proxy differences are systematic and not attributable solely to random measurement error. Information asymmetry between the self and proxy respondents plays a key role—spouses and self–proxy respondents with similar characteristics have smaller reporting differences than non-spouses and other respondents. Gendered perception of what activities are classified as work influences the differences in reporting, which highlights asymmetric measurement error.
Variation in Corticosteroid Prescribing Practices for Patients With Septic Shock
Authors: Soni Kanupriya , Minturn John S. , Davis Billie S. , Bukowski Leigh A. , Kahn Jeremy M. , Barbash Ian J.
Published: February 2025

OBJECTIVES:

Understanding sources of variation in acute care delivery may inform targeted strategies to promote evidence-uptake. We sought to characterize physician-level and ICU-level variation in corticosteroid prescribing for patients with septic shock.

DESIGN:

We performed a retrospective cohort study using the electronic health record of a multihospital health system. We identified ICU patients with septic shock admitted between 2018 and 2020. Using medication administration data, we determined which patients received corticosteroids within 2 days of vasopressor initiation. We linked each patient to their attending physician of record using digital signatures from clinical documentation. We then fit a hierarchical mixed-effects logistic regression model to identify factors associated with corticosteroid use and quantify variation in corticosteroid administration across physicians and ICUs.

SETTING:

Twenty-six ICUs across nine hospitals in the United States.

PATIENTS:

ICU patients with septic shock.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Of 5322 patients with vasopressor dependent septic shock, 1294 (24.3%) were treated with corticosteroids within 2 days of vasopressor initiation. We linked these patients to 174 unique attending physicians across 26 ICUs. At the ICU-level, median corticosteroid use was 21.8% (interquartile range [IQR], 18.5–25.7%). At the physician-level, median corticosteroid use was 22.0% (IQR, 11.9–32.7%). In the mixed-effects regression controlling for patient and physician characteristics, 16.5% of the variation in corticosteroid administration was attributable to the ICUs and 10.1% was attributable to the physicians.

CONCLUSIONS:

Both ICUs and physicians contribute to observed variation in the use of corticosteroids for vasopressor dependent septic shock. These findings underscore the need for multilevel interventions to standardize evidence-based practices in critical care.
Society of Critical Care Medicine Guidelines on Adult Critical Care Ultrasonography: Focused Update 2024
Authors: Díaz-Gómez José L. , Sharif Sameer , Ablordeppey Enyo , Lanspa Michael J. , Basmaji John , Carver Thomas , Taylor Jayne Chirdo , Gargani Luna , Goffi Alberto , Hynes Allyson M. , Hernandez Antonio , Kasal Jan , Koratala Abhilash , Kort Smadar , Lindbloom Peter , Liu Rachel , Livezey Pete , Lobo Viveta , Malone Susan , Mayo Paul , Mitchell Carol , Niu Ng , Panebianco Nova , Parekh Madhavi , Price Susana , Sarwal Aarti , Teran Felipe , Via Gabriele , Vieillard-Baron Antoine , Weekes Anthony , Wiley Brandon , Lewis Kimberley , Nikravan Sara
Published: February 2025

RATIONALE:

Critical care ultrasonography (CCUS) is rapidly evolving with new evidence being published since the prior 2016 guideline.

OBJECTIVES:

To identify and assess the best evidence regarding the clinical outcomes associated with five CCUS applications in adult patients since the publication of the previous guidelines.

PANEL DESIGN:

An interprofessional, multidisciplinary, and diverse expert panel of 36 individuals including two patient/family representatives was assembled via an intentional approach. Conflict-of-interest policies were strictly followed in all phases of the guidelines, including task force selection and voting.

METHODS:

Focused research questions based on Population, Intervention, Control, and Outcomes (PICO) for adult CCUS application were developed. Panelists applied the guidelines revision process described in the Standard Operating Procedures Manual to analyze supporting literature and to develop evidence-based recommendations as a focused update. The evidence was statistically summarized and assessed for quality using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. The evidence-to-decision framework was used to formulate recommendations as strong or conditional.

RESULTS:

The Adult CCUS Focused Update Guidelines panel aimed to understand the current impact of CCUS on patient important outcomes as they related to five PICO questions in critically ill adults. A rigorous systematic review of evidence to date informed the panel’s recommendations. In adult patients with septic shock, acute dyspnea/respiratory failure, or cardiogenic shock, we suggest using CCUS to guide management. Given evidence supporting an improvement in mortality, we suggest the use of CCUS for targeted volume management as opposed to usual care without CCUS. Last, there was insufficient data to determine if CCUS should be used over standard care without CCUS in the management of patients with cardiac arrest.

CONCLUSIONS:

The guidelines panel achieved strong agreement regarding the recommendations for CCUS to improve patient outcomes. These recommendations are intended for consideration along with the patient’s existing clinical status.
Environmental Sustainability in ICUs: A Report From the Society of Critical Care Medicine Sustainability Task Force
Authors: Domico Michele , Meyer Matthew J. , Blackburn Laura , Toomey Shari A. , Gooch Megan E. , Nadkarni Vinay M. , Huckleberry Yvonne , Draper Andy , Palmieri Tina L. , Nazer Lama H. , Nader Amjad , Valcin E. Kate , Evans Susan , Al-Hakim Tamara , Murthy Srinivas
Published: February 2025

Objectives:

The charge of the newly formed Society of Critical Care Medicine Sustainability Task Force is to describe actionable items supporting environmental stewardship for ICUs, to discuss barriers associated with sustainability initiatives and outline opportunities for future impact.

Data Sources:

Ovid Medline, EBSCOhost CINAHL, Elsevier Embase, and Scopus databases were searched through to March 2024 for studies reporting on environmental sustainability and critical care.

Study Selection:

Systematic reviews, narrative reviews, quality improvement projects, randomized clinical trials, and observational studies were prioritized for review. Bibliographies from retrieved articles were scanned for articles that may have been missed.

Data Extraction:

Data regarding environmental sustainability initiatives that aimed to quantify, manage, or mitigate pollution and/or carbon emissions with a focus on ICUs, barriers to change, and opportunities for development were qualitatively assessed.

Data Synthesis:

ICUs are resource-intensive and as such, methods to attenuate carbon emissions and waste can play a substantial role in mitigating the sizable burden of healthcare-related pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Several initiatives and strategies exist for clinicians and providers to engage in environmental stewardship, with specific attention to avoiding low-value care while maintaining or improving patient safety and high-quality care. Increased focus on sustainability can be met with resistance to change, including institutional, financial, and behavioral barriers. Collaboration and innovative thinking create valuable opportunities for clinicians, patients, families, and policymakers to advocate for patient and planetary health.

Conclusions:

Within the healthcare system, ICUs are well positioned to lead sustainability action, policy, and practice. Critical care teams have the capability and the moral responsibility to mitigate the negative impact of critical care medicine upon our environment and become change agents promoting sustainable healthcare for the benefit of human health.
Effects of visual impairment and its restoration on electroencephalogram during walking in aged females
Authors: Ao Mingxin , Huang Hongshi , Li Xuemin , Ao Yingfang
Published: February 2025

Background:

Visual input significantly influences cerebral activity related to locomotor navigation, although the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to analyze the effects of chronic visual impairment and its rehabilitation on sensorimotor integration during level walking in patients with age-related cataract.

Methods:

This prospective case series enrolled 14 female patients (68.4 ± 4.7 years) with age-related cataract, scheduled for consecutive cataract surgeries at the Department of Ophthalmology in Peking University Third Hospital from June 2019 to June 2020. Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals during level walking were recorded using a portable EEG system before and 4 weeks after visual restoration. Walking speed was assessed using the Footscan system. Spectral power of the theta and alpha bands was analyzed with repeated-measures analysis of variance, with Assignment (rest and walking), Phase (preoperative and postoperative), and Electrode sites (F3, Fz, F4, O1, and O2) as within-subject factors.

Results:

Compared to the visual impairment state, theta band power significantly decreased after visual restoration (13.16 ± 1.58 μV2
vs. 23.65 ± 3.48 μV2, P = 0.018). Theta activity was notably reduced during walking (17.24 ± 2.43 μV2
vs. 37.86 ± 6.62 μV2, P = 0.017), while theta power at rest was not statistically significant difference between the two phases (9.44 ± 1.24 μV2
vs. 9.08 ± 1.74 μV2, P = 0.864). Changes in walking speed were correlated with alterations in theta power at O1 (r = −0.574, P = 0.032) and O2 (r = −0.648, P = 0.012) during rest. Alpha band power remained stable during walking and was unaffected by visual status.

Conclusions:

Chronic visual impairment from age-related cataract triggers enhanced cerebral activation of sensorimotor integration to compensate for visual decline during locomotion. This cerebral over-activation is effectively alleviated by visual restoration.
Aortic Valve Replacement Versus Conservative Management in Patients With Asymptomatic Aortic Stenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Shahid Sufyan , Jain Hritvik , Shahzad Maryam , Dey Debankur , Batool Ayesha , Passey Siddhant , Patel Rahul , Vempati Roopeessh
Published: February 2025

Aortic valve replacement (AVR) is recommended for symptomatic severe aortic stenosis (AS) patients. However, evidence of its role in asymptomatic patients with severe AS remains controversial. Hence, a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing AVR to conservative management in patients with asymptomatic severe AS was conducted. A systematic literature search was performed on electronic databases including MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL Library until November 2024. A random effects model was used to pool individual risk ratios (RRs) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using Review Manager Version 5.4.1 to calculate pooled effect estimates. Three randomized controlled trials with 1203 patients (42% females) were included. On pooled analysis, AVR significantly reduced the risk of hospitalization for heart failure (RR = 0.11, CI: 0.02–0.56, P = 0.008) compared with conservative care. However, there were no significant differences between the 2 groups in all-cause mortality (RR = 0.63, CI: 0.36–1.11, P = 0.11), stroke (RR = 0.59, CI: 0.35–1.01, P = 0.05), myocardial infarction (RR = 0.43, CI: 0.06–2.92, P = 0.38), or thromboembolic events (RR = 0.54, CI: 0.13–2.29, P = 0.40). In asymptomatic patients with severe AS, AVR significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization due to heart failure, with comparable risks in terms of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, and thromboembolic events compared with conservative management.
Treatment of Mild-to-moderate Progressive Hemifacial Atrophy by Acellular Dermal Matrix Combined With Preoperative Digital Evaluation
Authors: Cheng Xinhao , Dong Haijiang , Yan Chengxiang , Li Zhibin , Xie Baihui , Li Yu , Liu Huilong , Zhang Yijun , Wang Ximei
Published: February 2025

Background:

Progressive hemifacial atrophy (PHA) is a rare condition marked by the gradual degeneration of skin, soft tissues, muscles, and, in advanced stages, bone. The primary approach for managing PHA involves surgical interventions to reconstruct and restore the facial contour. The current treatments each present several limitations. Therefore, there is a critical need for innovative therapeutic methodologies for PHA soft-tissue reconstruction.

Methods:

Eight patients diagnosed with Guerrerosantos II and III PHA were included in the study. Preoperative 3-dimensional facial scans were digitally analyzed, and corresponding 3-dimensional-printed models were generated to assess soft-tissue deficiencies. Based on this evaluation, acellular dermal matrix (ADM) was tailored to a stepped, multilayered composite dermis of a specific shape and size. It was then anatomically anchored at precise locations and supplemented with volume filler and ligament-mimicking repairs.

Results:

The location, volume, and thickness of the ADM postoperatively were highly compatible with preoperative evaluations, significantly improving the facial contour and morphological and volumetric differences. All patients achieved good healing without other complications and reported improved postoperative scores on the FACE-Q craniofacial modules (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Structural repair of PHA using ADM, guided by preoperative digital assessments, provides a safe, effective, and relatively stable outcome. This approach is innovative for achieving precise facial reconstruction.
Impact of Single Long Stents Versus Overlapping Stents on Clinical Outcomes in Primary PCI
Authors: Machado Guilherme Pinheiro , Negreira-Caamaño Martin , Márquez Daniel Tébar , Moura Schmidt Marcia , Pagnoncelli Alan , Neves de Araujo Gustavo , Cadaval Goncalves Sandro , Wainstein Marco , Schaan de Quadros Alexandre , Jurado-Román Alfonso , Wainstein Rodrigo
Published: February 2025

Background:

Patients with long coronary lesions undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) have higher rates of adverse clinical events. Both stent length and stent overlap are associated with worse outcomes; however, data comparing very long stent (VLS) to overlapping stents (OSs) are limited, particularly during pPCI. This study aimed to compare the impact of a single VLS versus ≥2 OSs on clinical outcomes in a multicenter registry of patients undergoing pPCI.

Methods:

This study included patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who underwent pPCI using a single VLS (≥38 mm) or ≥2 OS (total stent length, ≥38 mm) in the culprit lesion. After propensity score matching based on tortuosity, calcification, Killip class, culprit lesion length ≥40 mm, and culprit vessel, the final cohort for analysis was selected. The primary endpoint was a combination of mortality and target lesion failure (reinfarction, stent thrombosis, or new revascularization) at 2 years.

Results:

Among 647 consecutive STEMI patients who underwent pPCI between March 2016 and September 2022, 353 received VLS and 294 received OSs. After propensity score matching, 264 patients remained (132 in each group). The occurrence of the primary outcome (VLS: 12.9 vs. OS: 15.9%; P = 0.86), all-cause mortality (VLS: 7.6 vs. OS: 9.8%; P = 0.51), and target lesion failure (VLS: 8.3 vs. OS: 6.8, P = 0.64) were similar between the 2 groups.

Conclusions:

In this cohort of real-world patients with STEMI undergoing pPCI, we found no significant difference in outcomes between VLS and OSs. Both strategies are reasonable treatment options for STEMI patients.
Bivalirudin Versus Heparin in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Krittanawong Chayakrit , Ahuja Tania , Wang Zhen , Qadeer Yusuf Kamran , Moras Errol , Virk Hafeez Ul Hassan , Alam Mahboob , Jneid Hani , Sharma Samin
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

Data on outcomes between unfractionated heparin and bivalirudin anticoagulation during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in acute coronary syndromes remain inconclusive. We aimed to systematically analyze PCI outcomes by comparing unfractionated heparin and bivalirudin.

Methods:

We systematically searched Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Ovid Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, and Web of Science from database inception in 1966 through January 2024 for studies evaluating PCI outcomes comparing unfractionated heparin and bivalirudin. Two investigators independently reviewed the data. Conflicts were resolved through consensus. Random-effects meta-analyses were used.

Results:

A total of 10 prospective trials were identified that enrolled 42,253 individuals who presented with an acute coronary syndrome. Our analysis found that heparin when compared to bivalirudin was associated with an increased risk of trial-based definition of major bleeding [relative risk (RR): 1.68, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.29–2.20], nonaccess site complications (RR: 4.6, 95% CI: 1.75–12.09), thrombolysis in myocardial infarction major bleeding (RR: 1.70, 95% CI: 1.20–2.41), major bleeding risks (RR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.49–2.36), cardiovascular disease death (RR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.02–1.57), and thrombocytopenia (RR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.07–2.62). There were no statistically significant differences between heparin and bivalirudin for all-cause mortality, major adverse cardiovascular event, stroke, reinfarction, target vessel revascularization, and acute or stent thrombosis.

Conclusions:

The present meta-analysis demonstrates bivalirudin reduces major bleeding when used for anticoagulation during PCI in patients with acute coronary syndromes and is not associated with an increased risk of stent thrombosis or major adverse cardiovascular event.
Self-Collected Vaginal Specimens for HPV Testing: Recommendations From the Enduring Consensus Cervical Cancer Screening and Management Guidelines Committee
Authors: Wentzensen Nicolas , Massad L. Stewart , Clarke Megan A. , Garcia Francisco , Smith Robert , Murphy Jeanne , Guido Richard , Reyes Ana , Phillips Sarah , Berman Nancy , Quinlan Jeffrey , Lind Eileen , Perkins Rebecca B. ,   Enduring Consensus Cervical Cancer Screening and Management Guidelines Committee
Published: February 2025

Objective

The Enduring Consensus Cervical Cancer Screening and Management Guidelines Committee developed recommendations for the use of self-collected vaginal specimens for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing in health care settings.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed, external systematic reviews were evaluated, and HPV genotype agreement between self-collected vaginal and clinician-collected cervical specimens was summarized. Recommendations considered available data, public comments, and expert consensus. Recommendations were ratified through a vote by the Consensus Stakeholder Group.

Results

Clinician-collected cervical specimens are preferred and self-collected vaginal specimens are acceptable for primary HPV screening of asymptomatic average-risk individuals. Repeat testing in 3 years is recommended following HPV-negative screens using self-collected vaginal specimens. Colposcopy with collection of cytology and biopsies is recommended following positive tests for HPV types 16 and 18. Clinician-collected cytology or dual stain for triage testing is recommended following positive tests for HPV 45, 33/58, 31, 52, 35/39/68, or 51 or for pooled HPV other types but negative for HPV 16 or 18. Repeat HPV testing in 1 year is recommended following a positive test for HPV types 56/59/66 and no other carcinogenic types. Minimal data exist on use of self-collected vaginal specimens for surveillance following abnormal screening test results, colposcopy or treatment, and therefore, clinician-collected cervical specimens are preferred.

Conclusions

Human papillomavirus testing of self-collected vaginal specimens expands cervical cancer screening options and has potential to increase access for currently underscreened individuals. Laboratory and clinical workflows will need to be modified to ensure adequate specimen processing and follow-up.
Maximizing Professional-Led Sexual Well-being Support in Cancer Care: Findings From a Qualitative Process Evaluation Following Healthcare Professionals’ Engagement With an eLearning Resource
Authors: Cassells Claire Victoria , Semple Cherith Jane , Stothers Sheena Ruth , Bingham Sharon Linsey
Published: February 2025

Background

Provision of healthcare professional (HP)–led sexual support in cancer care is lacking, perpetuated by barriers including a lack of HP awareness of sexual concerns and strategies to help patients and partners cope. In response, the Maximizing Sexual Wellbeing|Cancer Care eLearning resource (MSW|CC) was developed and demonstrated efficacy in reducing HPs’ attitudinal barriers to the provision of sexual support. However, the mechanisms for such change are not yet known.

Objective

A qualitative process evaluation was used to explore mechanisms that influence HP engagement with MSW|CC and its adoption into practice.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted with HPs providing cancer care in Northern Ireland upon MSW|CC completion. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed.

Results

Seventeen participants were interviewed, and 4 key themes were identified: (1) MSW|CC raises HPs’ awareness of the need for holistic sexual support as part of routine clinical care; (2) MSW|CC prepares and equips HPs to provide sexual support in cancer care; (3) MSW|CC is coherent, engaging, and acceptable; and (4) MSW|CC: moving forward.

Conclusion

Participants derived benefits from MSW|CC, deeming it an acceptable resource. Insights into MSW|CC mechanisms of success were identified, including language to address sexual concerns, alongside patient referral resources. Perceived MSW|CC shortcomings from an earlier study were confirmed as a software issue.

Implications for Practice

Healthcare professionals require training and resources to enhance sexual support provision in cancer care. Proactive implementation strategies used to maximize HP engagement with MSW|CC could equip HPs with tools to improve patient sexual outcomes after cancer.
Machine Learning-Based Pediatric Early Warning Score: Patient Outcomes in a Pre- Versus Post-Implementation Study, 2019–2023
Authors: Mayampurath Anoop , Carey Kyle , Palama Brett , Gonzalez Monica , Reid Joe , Bartlett Allison H. , Churpek Matthew , Edelson Dana , Jani Priti
Published: February 2025

Objectives:

To describe the deployment of pediatric Calculated Assessment of Risk and Triage (pCART), a machine learning (ML) model to predict the risk of the direct ward to the ICU transfer within 12 hours, and the associated improved outcomes among hospitalized children.

Design:

Pre- vs. post-implementation study.

Setting:

An urban, tertiary-care, academic hospital.

Patients:

Pediatric (age < 18 yr) admissions from May 1, 2019, to April 30, 2023.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

Patients were divided into baseline, pre-pCART implementation (May 1, 2019, to April 30 2021), and post-pCART implementation (May 1, 2021, to April 30, 2023) cohorts. First-ward admissions with a high-risk score (pCART score ≥ 92) were considered as the main cohort. The primary outcome was the occurrence of critical events, defined as invasive mechanical ventilation, vasoactive drug administration, or death within 12 hours of the first high-risk pCART score. There were 2763 and 3943 patients in the baseline and implementation cohorts, respectively. pCART implementation was associated with a decrease in the percentage of the primary outcome from baseline 1.4% to 0.4% (p < 0.001), which converted to more than two-thirds lower adjusted odds of the primary outcome (odds ratio, 0.22 [95% CI, 0.11–0.40]; p < 0.001). pCART implementation was also associated with a decreased prevalence of critical events at 24 and 48 hours after a first high-risk score. We failed to identify any association between cohort period and overall hospital and ICU length-of-stay, number of ICU transfers, and time to ICU transfer. However, there was a difference in hospital length-of-stay among a subpopulation of patients transferred to the ICU (median 6 vs. 7 d; p < 0.001). Analysis of compliance metrics indicates sustained compliance achievements over time.

Conclusions:

The deployment of pCART, a ML-based pediatric risk stratification tool, for clinical decision support for pediatric ward patients, was associated with lower odds of critical events among high-risk patients.
The dynamics of ACR and DNA methylation impact asymmetric subgenome dominance in allotriploidBrassicaspecies
Authors: Quan Chengtao , Dou Shengwei , Dai Cheng
Published: February 2025

Polyploidy plays a crucial role in the evolution and diversification of eukaryotes, often leading to structural and functional imbalances as multiple subgenomes merge. Numerous studies have demonstrated the phenomenon of asymmetric subgenome dominance in polyploid species. However, the subgenomic dominance resulting from interspecific hybridization with accessible chromatin regions (ACRs) and DNA methylation remains largely unexplored in allotriploids. We generated two allotriploid hybrids ofBrassicaspecies (ArAnCn) by crossing the allotetraploidBrassica napus(AnAnCnCn) with the diploidBrassica rapa(ArAr). Our results revealed that the Ansubgenome exhibits the highest levels of gene expression among the three subgenomes (Ar, An, and Cn) in F1hybrids. However, the Cnsubgenome that actually exerts dominance over Anand Ar, as evidenced by the abundance of dominant triplet homologous genes. We found that the Cnsubgenome contains a significantly higher density of ACRs than Anand Arsubgenomes, and the expression levels of dominant triplet homologous genes are closely associated with the presence of ACRs in proximal and genic. Interestingly, variations in DNA methylation levels alone do not fully explain the expression advantages observed in F1hybrids. We then discovered that reduced CHH methylation in F1hybrids might be associated with decreased expression ofBnaDCL3andBnaDRM2in the RNA-directed DNA methylation pathway. Furthermore, the mutantsBnadcl3CRandBnardr2CRexhibited a selective preference for 24-nt small RNA and non-CG methylation in the Anand Cnsubgenomes. Overall, this study elucidates the relationship between ACRs, DNA methylation, and asymmetric subgenome dominance in resynthesis allotriploid species.
Large-scale study of human memory for meaningful narratives
Authors: Georgiou Antonios , Can Tankut , Katkov Mikhail , Tsodyks Misha
Published: February 2025

The statistical study of human memory requires large-scale experiments, involving many stimulus conditions and test subjects. While this approach has proven to be quite fruitful for meaningless material such as random lists of words, naturalistic stimuli, like narratives, have until now resisted such a large-scale study, due to the quantity of manual labor required to design and analyze such experiments. In this work, we develop a pipeline that uses large language models (LLMs) both to design naturalistic narrative stimuli for large-scale recall and recognition memory experiments, as well as to analyze the results. We performed online memory experiments with a large number of participants and collected recognition and recall data for narratives of different sizes. We found that both recall and recognition performance scale linearly with narrative length; however, for longer narratives, people tend to summarize the content rather than recalling precise details. To investigate the role of narrative comprehension in memory, we repeated these experiments using scrambled versions of the narratives. Although recall performance declined significantly, recognition remained largely unaffected. Recalls in this condition seem to follow the original narrative order rather than the actual scrambled presentation, pointing to a contextual reconstruction of the story in memory. Finally, using LLM text embeddings, we construct a simple measure for each clause based on semantic similarity to the whole narrative, that shows a strong correlation with recall probability. Overall, our work demonstrates the power of LLMs in accessing new regimes in the study of human memory, as well as suggesting novel psychologically informed benchmarks for LLM performance.
Baryon stopping and charge deposition in heavy-ion collisions due to gluon saturation
Authors: Garcia-Montero Oscar , Schlichting Sören
Published: February 2025

We compute baryon and electric charge deposition in high-energy heavy-ion collisions using the color glass condensate effective field theory, where at leading order, charge is deposited through multiple scatterings of valence quarks with a saturated gluon target. A simplified phenomenological formula is derived to describe charge deposition, from which the parametrical dependence with collisional energy and geometry can be extracted. We present an approximate analytical prediction of the so-called baryon stopping parameter αB, which shows excellent agreement with the state-of-the art extractions of αB from experimental data. These results are further validated using the framework, by computing charge deposition at midrapidity across a range of collision energies (sNN=62.4–5020GeV).

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Late-time asymptotic solutions, attractor, and focusing behavior of spin hydrodynamics
Authors: Wang Dong-Lin , Yan Li , Pu Shi
Published: February 2025

We have investigated the late-time asymptotic solutions, attractor, and focusing behavior of minimal causal spin hydrodynamics in Bjorken expansion. Using the method of dominant balance, we derive the late-time asymptotic solutions of the evolution equation for spin density and identify the specific conditions necessary for the spin density to exhibit a power-law decay. We then analyze both the late-time and early time attractors for the decay rate of spin density. Additionally, we report the focusing behavior in spin hydrodynamics, which has not been found in conventional relativistic hydrodynamics in Bjorken expansion. Our findings suggest that spin density can be treated as a conventional hydrodynamic variable at late times under certain conditions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Plasmon-polariton modes on a single electron wave packet
Authors: Akimov I. M. , Kazinski P. O. , Sokolov A. A.
Published: February 2025

The explicit expression for the photon polarization operator in the presence of a single electron is found in the in−in formalism in the one-loop approximation out of the photon mass shell. This polarization operator describes the dielectric permittivity of a single electron wave packet in coherent scattering processes. The plasmons and plasmon-polaritons supported by a single electron wave packet are described. The two limiting cases are considered: the wavelength of the external electromagnetic field is much smaller than the typical scale of variations of the electron wave packet and the wavelength of the external electromagnetic field is much larger than the size of the electron wave packet. In the former case, there are eight independent plasmon-polariton modes. In the latter case, the plasmons boil down to the dynamical dipole moment attached to a point electron. Thus, in the infrared limit, the electron possesses a dynamical electric dipole moment manifesting itself in coherent scattering processes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025