bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overwintering of Usutu virus in mosquitoes, The Netherlands
Authors: Koenraadt C. J. M. , Münger E. , Schrama M. J. J. , Spitzen J. , Altundag S. , Sikkema R. S. , Munnink B. B. Oude , Koopmans M. P. G. , Blom R.
Published: December 2024

Analyses of mosquito-borne virus outbreaks have revealed the presence of similar virus strains over several years. However, it remains unclear how mosquito-borne viruses can persist over winter, when conditions are generally unfavorable for virus circulation. One potential route for virus persistence is via diapausing mosquitoes. We therefore studied whether Usutu virus (USUV), West Nile virus (WNV) and/or Sindbis virus (SINV) can be identified in diapausing mosquitoes in The Netherlands. Mosquito collections were carried out in November 2022 in hibernacula located in two areas with previously observed WNV and/or USUV activity. A total of 4857 mosquitoes, belonging to four species (groups) (Culex pipiens/torrentium, Culiseta annulata, Anopheles maculipennis s.l. and Culex territans), were collected. WNV-, USUV- and SINV-screening using a multiplex real-time RT-PCR assay was carried out on mono-specific mosquito pools. One Culex pipiens/torrentium pool tested positive for USUV RNA. Whole genome sequencing and subsequent phylogenetic analysis revealed that the virus belongs to USUV lineage Africa 3 and clusters with other USUV sequences derived from The Netherlands in 2022. This finding confirms our hypothesis of the potential of local overwintering of USUV in diapausing mosquitoes in The Netherlands.

Graphical Abstract
High leptin levels in blood are associated with chronic widespread pain in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Aronsson M. , Bergman S. , Lindqvist E. , Andersson M. L. E.
Published: December 2024

Background

High body mass index (BMI) has been shown to have an association with chronic widespread pain (CWP), both in Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and in other pain conditions such as fibromyalgia. Research on the adipose tissue and it’s adipokines, for example the well described leptin, is emerging. The objective of this study was to determine if there is an association between leptin levels in blood and CWP in patients with RA.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study 334 patients with RA filled in a questionnaire including a pain mannequin and questions on weight, length and waist circumference. Data from the pain mannequin was used to calculate CWP. The subjects also submitted blood samples to a biobank that were used for this study to determine leptin levels using an ELISA-method.

Results

Patients fulfilling the 2019 criteria for CWP in this study had significantly higher leptin levels, waist circumferences and BMI. There was a significant association between leptin levels and CWP, odds ratio (OR) 1.014 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.007–1.020), p < 0.001. The association remained after adjusting for BMI, gender and age OR 1.008 (95% CI 1.000-1.017), p 0.046. When leptin was divided into quartile groups a trend could be observed where higher leptin values gave higher OR for CWP.

Conclusions

This study showed an increased occurrence of CWP in RA-patients with high leptin levels. The association between leptin and CWP remained after adjusting for gender, age and BMI or waist circumference. This suggests that not just production of leptin in the adipose tissue, but also other factors such as leptin resistance may play a role. The association between leptin and CWP was strongest in the patients with the highest leptin levels.

Trial registration

This study is a cross-sectional study without intervention and the cohort used was initiated prior to the implementation of mandatory registration requirements, therefore it is not registered.
Readiness to implement contingency management to promote PrEP initiation and adherence among people who inject drugs: results from a multi-site implementation survey
Authors: Pickering Eleanor , Viera Adam , Sung Minhee L. , Davidson Daniel , Bailey Genie , Buchelli Marianne , Jenkins Mark , Kolakowski Jennifer , Maier Leah , Edelman E. Jennifer , Rash Carla J.
Published: December 2024

Background

Contingency management (CM), an incentive-based intervention to encourage target behaviors, effectively promotes medication adherence. However, efforts to extend CM to HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) have been lacking. As part of a randomized clinical trial to promote HIV Prevention among people who inject drugs (PWID), we examined the readiness of staff in community-based organizations serving PWID to implement CM for PrEP uptake and adherence in this population.

Methods

From April to August 2022, we conducted a survey of staff from four community-based organizations providing HIV testing, harm reduction, and outreach services in the northeastern United States. We assessed knowledge and attitudes regarding PrEP for PWID on five-point Likert scales (e.g., Poor to Excellent, Not at all to Extremely). Using a modified version of the Contingency Management Beliefs Questionnaire, we assessed the degree to which attitudes about CM for HIV prevention influenced interest in its adoption on a scale from “1-No influence at all” to “5-Very strong influence”. We explored endorsement patterns, along with average values of individual items and subscale scores.

Results

Among 271 staff invitations, 123 (45.4%) responded. The majority (88.6%) of respondents reported prior PrEP awareness, with a mean self-rated knowledge of 2.98 out of 5 (SD = 1.1). Attitudes towards PrEP, including its relevance to and importance for clients (both means = 4.3), efficacy (mean = 4.5), and safety (mean = 4.2), were positive. Items related to practicality and confidence in providing PrEP-related care had relatively lower ratings. Respondents endorsed influential generalized (mean = 2.1) and training-related (mean = 2.5) CM implementation barriers less frequently than positive attitudes towards CM (mean = 3.6). Staff favored adding CM to existing services (mean = 3.8), and highly endorsed it as “useful for targeting HIV prevention with PrEP” (mean = 3.7).

Conclusions

Respondents generally supported the use of CM to promote HIV prevention among PWID and favored adding it to their existing services. Though respondents understood the value of both PrEP and CM to support HIV prevention activities, findings corroborate research citing relative lack of knowledge and confidence regarding PrEP management among clients, potentially detracting from implementation readiness.

Trial Registration Number

NCT04738825.
Decoding burn trauma: biomarkers for early diagnosis of burn-induced pathologies
Authors: Khalaf Fadi , Touma Daniella , Pappas Alexandra , Hatim Lareina , Wojtowicz-Piotrowski Stephanie , Jeschke Marc G.
Published: December 2024

Burn injuries represent a significant global challenge due to their multifaceted nature, characterized by a complex cascade of metabolic and immune dysfunction that can result in severe complications. If not identified and managed promptly, these complications can escalate, often leading to fatal outcomes. This underscores the critical importance of timely and precise diagnosis. Fortunately, biomarkers for burn-induced pathologies and outcomes have emerged as powerful diagnostic and prognostic tools. These biomarkers enable early diagnosis and intervention, facilitate risk assessment, support patient-specific treatment, monitoring of disease progression, and therapeutic efficacy, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes. However, while previous studies have provided valuable biomarkers for the detection of burn-induced pathologies, many of these were constrained by the techniques and sample sizes available at the time, which can limit the generalizability of the findings. This review highlights numerous biomarkers studied in the literature to date, underscoring the need to replicate these findings in more diverse and representative populations. It also emphasizes the importance of advancing research efforts to develop more efficient, accurate, and cost-effective approaches for integrating biomarkers into clinical practice.
Brazilian Curie isothermal mapping: the THERMOMAG model
Authors: Guimaraes Suze N. P. , de Jesus Beatriz L. , Vieira Fábio P.
Published: December 2024

Geothermally, the lithosphere can be defined as the outermost layer of the Earth in which heat is primarily transferred by conduction. It typically includes the crust and upper mantle. Crustal structural provinces are segments of the crust that have the same range of geochronologic ages and thermogeologic histories. The crustal geothermal regime on the continent is determined by many factors, including heat flow, vertical and lateral variations in thermal conductivity, radiogenic heat production, tectonic history, and surface thermal processes. Studying the thermal structure of the crust by geotectonically characterizing the upper lithospheric layer makes it possible to understand the internal heat flow as an energy source potential, which remains unknown due to limited exploration research. This study presents a crustal heat distribution model using direct temperature data and indirect estimates derived from crustal magnetic field information, the THERMOMAG model. The subsurface layers are identified in order to characterize the entire magnetized crust, thus delimiting the Curie surface (isothermal limit of 580 °C), which is directly linked to the exploration of crustal energy resources. Spectral analysis of the aeromagnetic data was used to estimate the depth of the layer related to the deepest crustal sources and their spatial distribution, thus comparing these discoveries with geothermal fields known from direct modeling. The cross-check in the values for the Curie isotherm inserted by the thermomagnetic model allowed a correction in the values obtained indirectly, called the thermomagnetic correction factor (β) which is directly correlated to the amount of data distributed in the different provinces. The results of this model suggest that the greatest Curie depths in Brazil (> 44 km) are located in the São Francisco and Parnaiba provinces, and for the others, the mean values are 23 km. The regions of geothermal anomalies are found essentially in the northwest region of Paraná province, the northern part of Tocantins West province, the south-central part of Tocantins East province, the north-central part of São Francisco province, and the northeast region of Borborema province. The Brazilian structural provinces have thermal conductivity values ranging from 2.1 to 2.7 W/mK.
Modification in ICU design may influence circadian serum cholinesterase activities: a proof-of-concept pilot study
Authors: Schmidt Sebastian , Heinrich Maria , Wernecke Klaus-Dieter , Spies Claudia , Hancke Laura , Mueller Anika , Luetz Alawi
Published: December 2024

Background

Deficits in cholinergic function are assumed to cause cognitive decline. Studies have demonstrated that changes in serum cholinesterase activities are associated with a higher incidence of delirium in critically ill patients. Additionally, basic research indicates that the cholinergic and circadian systems are interconnected, with each system influencing the functionality of the other. This data analysis of a proof-of-concept pilot study investigates whether modification in ICU design, including dynamic light therapy, may influence the circadian oscillation of serum cholinesterase activities.

Methods

We enrolled adult critically ill patients who were on mechanical ventilation and had an anticipated ICU stay of at least 48 h. The patients were treated in either modified or standard ICU rooms. The modified rooms received extensive architectural modifications, including a new dynamic lighting system. Serum acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activities were measured every four hours for up to three 24-h assessment periods.

Results

We included 64 patients in the data analysis (n = 34 patients in modified rooms, n = 30 in standard rooms). The median values of serum acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activities showed different patterns. Acetylcholinesterase activities differed significantly between the groups during the first assessment period (p = 0.04) and the second assessment period (p = 0.045). The intensity of light, as quantified by the effective circadian irradiance, significantly influenced the activities of acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase throughout all assessment periods for patients in both groups (p < 0.001). The analysis showed significant interaction (p < 0.001), indicating that the differences in acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activities between the groups were inconsistent over time but apparent during specific periods of the day.

Conclusion

Implementing a comprehensive set of changes to the design of ICU rooms, including a dynamic lighting system, may influence the course of the activity patterns of acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase in critically ill patients. Modifications to environmental factors could potentially offer neuroprotective benefits and facilitate the realignment of circadian rhythms within the cholinergic system.

Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02143661. Registered May 21, 2014.
Influence of surface pretreatment using cold-active atmospheric pressure plasma on bond strength of CAD-CAM-fabricated hybrid ceramic crowns: an in-vitro study
Authors: Kostadinov Georgi , Görgen Carolin-Isabel , Schmidtmann Irene , Weibrich Gernot , Abou-Ayash Samir , Wentaschek Stefan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study assesses the impact of Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma (CAP) pretreatment on the bond strength of two-piece hybrid ceramic abutment crowns in implant dentistry. The objective is to ascertain whether CAP can be employed as an alternative or complementary technique to conventional methods.

Methods

80 titanium bases and 80 VITA ENAMIC® polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (PICN) crowns were divided into 8 groups (n = 10) based on different surface pretreatments of the crowns before cementation: no treatment (A), hydrofluoric acid (HF) (B), HF and silane (C), silane (D), CAP (AP), HF and CAP (BP), HF, CAP, and silane (CP), and CAP and silane (DP). Bond strength (BS) was measured after thermocycling (5000 cycles at 5 °C/55 °C), and statistical analysis was performed using three-way ANOVA.

Results

The highest bond strength (BS) was recorded in the conventionally pretreated group C. Both HF and silane alone had significant effects (p < 0.0001), but CAP alone did not (p = 0.9377). Significant interactions were found between silane and CAP (p = 0.0222), and HF and CAP (p = 0.0046). The combined effects exceeded individual effects. Although group C showed the highest BS, no significant interaction was found between HF and silane (p = 0.6270). Three-factor interactions were significant (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

In the setting used, CAP could not replace conventional pretreatment. The highest BS of a group without HF was achieved by combining silane with CAP. However, BS of this pretreatment was approximately 24% lower than that of the conventional pretreatment.

Graphical Abstract
Handgrip Strength has Declined Among Adults, Particularly Males, from Shanghai Since 2000
Authors: Wang Dao , Liu Yang , Lang Justin J. , Klug Marilyn G. , McGrath Ryan , Tomkinson Grant R.
Published: December 2024

Background

Handgrip strength (HGS) is an excellent marker of general strength capacity and health among adults. We aimed to calculate temporal trends in HGS for adults from Shanghai between 2000 and 2020.

Methods

Adults aged 20–59 years from Shanghai, China, were included. Representative cross-sectional HGS data (n = 127,756) were collected in 2000, 2005, 2010, 2014, and 2020. HGS was measured using isometric dynamometry and was adjusted for body size (i.e., height-squared). Trends in mean adjusted HGS were calculated using general linear models with adjustments for age, sex, location, occupation, blood pressure, and exercise time. Trends in distributional characteristics were described visually and calculated as the ratio of coefficients of variation (CVs).

Results

We found a significant, small decline in mean adjusted HGS (effect size (ES) [95%CI]: −0.21 [−0.22, −0.20]) since the year 2000. Negligible temporal differences were found across age, location, and occupation groups, with a 2.8-fold greater decline for men than for women. Overall, distributional variability declined negligibly (ratio of CVs [95% CI]: 0.92 [0.91, 0.93]). We also observed a negligible trend (ES < 0.20) in distributional asymmetry among adults with low adjusted HGS (below the 25th percentile) and a small decline (ES = 0.20−0.49) in adults with high adjusted HGS (above the 75th percentile).

Conclusions

There was a recent small decline in adjusted HGS for adults from Shanghai, which was greater for men than for women and nonuniform across the population. A decline in adjusted HGS may represent a decline in the general/functional health of the population.
Unravelling variants in Farber disease: diagnostic and prenatal challenges in atypical presentations
Authors: Kumari Pritti , Shah Krati , Kotecha Udhaya , Chauhan Lakshita , Aggarwal Rohina
Published: December 2024

Farber disease (FD; OMIM #228000), also known as Farber's lipogranulomatosis, is a rare lysosomal storage disease caused by acid ceramidase deficiency. Clinically, FD is typically identified by a triad of symptoms: subcutaneous nodules, joint pain, and voice hoarseness. However, diagnosing mild or attenuated variants can be difficult, as some symptoms may be absent or overlooked. In such cases, genetic testing is essential for confirming the diagnosis and enabling prenatal diagnosis.

Case presentation

A couple presented with a history of losing two children at 1.5 years of age, both of whom exhibited severe developmental delay, hypotonia, weak cry, and progressive skin lesions. Neither child underwent genetic testing, and no DNA samples were preserved. Subsequent parental carrier screening identified a heterozygous variant of uncertain significance (VUS) in the ASAH1 (N-Acylsphingosine Amidohydrolase 1) (OMIM #613468) gene in both parents. Exome sequencing was later performed on the couple’s third affected child, revealing compound heterozygous variants in the ASAH1 gene, consistent with those found in the parents. This case presented with atypical manifestations of FD, necessitating comprehensive investigations, including laboratory tests, radiological assessments, genetic analysis, and histopathological examination of skin biopsy samples. These findings led to the identification of likely pathogenic mutations in ASAH1. Based on these results, prenatal diagnosis was successfully conducted in the couple's fourth pregnancy.

Conclusion

This case illustrates the challenges of diagnosing FD when atypical presentations and genetic variants of uncertain significance are involved. The absence of classic symptoms like subcutaneous nodules and the presence of an ASAH1 gene variant complicated the diagnosis and delayed options for prenatal diagnosis in future pregnancies. It underscores the critical role of genetic testing and the need to reclassify VUS through detailed genotype–phenotype correlations to enhance diagnostic accuracy and support timely interventions.
A novel multi-input/multi-output fuzzy logic controller based on golden eagle optimization for solar energy conversion system
Authors: Atia Doaa M.
Published: December 2024

In the future, renewable energies will be the driving force that transforms the world. Solar energy technology, including both photovoltaic and solar thermal, can be combined into one unit called hybrid photovoltaic thermal (PVT). This technology offers low-carbon electricity and provides heat energy simultaneously for various applications. Solar energy is a viable option to meet heat demand across varied industries due to environmental and energy management challenges. The paper discusses the development of a modified multi-input/multi-output fuzzy logic controller (MIMO-FLC) for industrial processes using PVT technology. It explains the design and implementation of the controller using MATLAB Simulink. In addition, the paper explores nature-inspired optimization techniques to obtain and tune the scaling parameters of MIMO-FLC. The main target was to determine the scaling parameters of the MIMO-FLC using three nature-inspired optimization methods: golden eagle optimization, gray wolf optimization, and whale optimization for control of the load temperature of multiple industrial processes. A multi-objective optimization was suggested to minimize the Integral of Time Absolute Error of MIMO-FLC to improve the dynamic operation of the system. Finally, comparing the proposed optimization techniques, simulations, and analyses shows that the proposed method outperforms effectively. These results indicate that the proposed techniques provide a better and more efficient solution to the problem under study. The primary finding of the study is that a centralized MIMO-FLC can effectively manage multiple factors and interrelationships within the system. The results are more coordinated and efficient temperature regulation across different processes. Additionally, lowering the need for many individual controllers simplifies the overall system structure, which makes the system easier to implement and maintain.
The efficacy of 3-ounce water swallow test as a screening tool for dysphagic children: a study in a tertiary hospital
Authors: Ahmed Salwa Ahmed Abd Elhay , Abdelgoad Ahmed Abdelhamid , Khaled Dina Mohamed Fouad
Published: December 2024

Background

In children, oropharyngeal dysphagia increases the risk of aspiration, pneumonia, and even mortality. It has been demonstrated that dysphagia screening improves health outcomes. The purpose of the study is to investigate the clinical value of the 3-oz water swallow test for detecting aspiration risk and the possibility for oral feeding in children and determine whether it is a suitable tool for identifying swallowing issues.

Method

This study included 90 children with dysphagia: 48 boys and 42 girls, aged 2–12 years old with an average age of 6.2 ± 2.3 years, and 80% of them were older than 3 years. Sixty percent were orally fed, while 40% were on modified oral feeding. More than half the children (53.3%) had dysphagia for more than 1 week. All study participants underwent 3-oz water swallow test and flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing test consecutively.

Results

The flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing revealed 42 positive cases (46.7%) and 48 negative (53.3%). The 3-oz water swallow test yielded 39 positive cases (i.e., failed) and 51 negatives (i.e., passed the test), with no statistically significant difference from the flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing test results (p = 0.701). There were no statistically significant differences between positive and negative cases regarding their age, gender, or mode of feeding. However, positive cases had significantly longer duration of dysphagia than negative cases (p = 0.001). The best-fit model (3-oz water swallow test model) includes the following: the 3-oz water swallow test result, age, gender, and the dysphagia duration. This model accurately identified aspiration risk among dysphagic children in 76.7% compared to 70.0% by the 3-oz water swallow test alone.

Conclusion

The use of 3-oz water swallow test in children with dysphagia was recommended in consideration with the three mentioned predictor variables with a well-trained, good observer clinician who will be ready for any complications in order to be able to take the best and safest decision to the patient.
A new perspective on the clinical features of vestibular migraine
Authors: Kesici Gülin Gökçen , Kaplan Büşra
Published: December 2024

Background

Diagnosis of vestibular migraine (VM) is complicated by its variable clinical presentation and lack of pathognomonic tests.

Results

Two-hundred fifty-eight vestibular attacks of 141 patients were evaluated. In a total of 141 patients, 26% of patients reported no headache. A total of 81% of the patients without headache reported pressure heaviness in the head and head numbness and reported aggravation of these symptoms by routine physical activity. In the group of pVM, 23 patients could not be classified as dVM; they had present or past history of migraine but did not have migrainous characteristics in at least 50% of their vestibular attacks, and 15 of these patients were diagnosed with dVM during follow-up. At least mild central ocular signs were observed in 59 (22%), and impairment in vVOR test (horizontal and/or vertical) was observed in 81 (31%) of 258 vestibular attacks. In vHIT test, 68 (26%) attacks with low VOR gain and refixation saccades and 151 (58%) attacks with normal VOR gain and pathological saccades were detected.

Conclusions

The heterogeneity in clinical and vestibular tests detected in this study, both in patients and in different attacks of the same patients, revealed the importance of taking a detailed history in the diagnosis of VM.
The development of the Egyptian 24-h movement guidelines for adults aged 18–50 years old: an integration of sleep, sedentary behavior, and physical activity by the Egyptian Academy of Bone and Muscle Health
Authors: El Miedany Yasser , Toth Mathias , Plummer Susan , Elgaafary Maha , Mahran Safaa , Elwakil Walaa
Published: December 2024

Background

With a focus on promoting healthy aging, the Egyptian Academy of Bone and Muscle Health followed a structured guideline development process to create the Egyptian 24-h movement clinical guideline for adults aged 18 to 50. This guideline is in continuation with the earlier published 24-h movement guidelines for children and older adults. Online databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library) were searched for relevant peer-reviewed studies that met the a priori inclusion criteria.

Results

A large body of evidence was used to inform the guidelines as a total of 56 studies met the inclusion criteria. Leveraging evidence from the review of the literature led to the development of 30 statements answering the 7 key questions. Recommendations were also given for specific conditions including inactivity or insufficiently active adults, chronic conditions disability as well as pregnancy and postpartum. Based on this, the final guideline was developed providing evidence-based recommendations for a “Healthy 24-h day”, based on the integration of resistance training, aerobic activity, balance and flexibility activity, sleep pattern, and sedentary behavior.

Conclusion

The developed guidelines are meant to help in the decision-making process and are intended for use by adults both nationally and internationally; also, for endorsement by the policymakers. The developed 24-h movement guidelines provide specific targets for each movement behavior, towards which adult Egyptians can work to achieve better health.
Systematic Review: Efficacy of Medical Therapy on Outcomes Important to Adult Patients With X-Linked Hypophosphatemia
Authors: Ali Dalal S , Mirza Reza D , Alsarraf Farah , Hussein Salma , Abu Alrob Hajar , Appelman-Dijkstra Natasha M , Beck-Nielsen Signe Sparre , Biosse-Duplan Martin , Brandi Maria Luisa , Carpenter Thomas O , Chaussain Catherine , Cohen-Solal Martine , Crowley Rachel K , Dandurand Karel , Florenzano Pablo , Fukumoto Seiji , Gagnon Claudia , Goodyer Paul , Grasemann Corinna , Imel Erik A , Jan de Beur Suzanne M , Lehman Anna , Lewiecki E Michael , Morgante Emmett , Ward Leanne M , Khan Aliya A , Guyatt Gordon
Published: December 2024

Context

Understanding the effects of burosumab compared to conventional therapy or no treatment on patient-important outcomes in adults with X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is essential to guide evidence-based treatment recommendations.

Objective

To examine the highest certainty evidence addressing the management of XLH in adults to inform treatment recommendations.

Methods

We searched Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central up to May 2023. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies of individuals aged 18+ with clinically or genetically confirmed XLH. Manuscripts comparing burosumab to no treatment or conventional therapy (phosphate and active vitamin D) and conventional therapy to no treatment were included. Two reviewers independently determined eligibility, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias (RoB). GRADE methodology was used to assess evidence certainty.

Results

We screened 4114 records, after removing duplicates, and assessed 254 full texts. One RCT and 2 observational studies were eligible. The RCT of burosumab vs no treatment had low RoB. Burosumab probably improves pain from fracture/pseudofracture healing (moderate certainty) but has little or no impact on direct pain measures (moderate certainty). Burosumab may reduce the need for parathyroidectomy (low certainty) but has little or no impact on fatigue (high certainty), stiffness (moderate certainty), and mobility (low certainty) over 24 weeks. Burosumab may increase dental abscess risk (low certainty). Indirect evidence comparing burosumab to conventional therapy provided low certainty regarding burosumab vs conventional therapy. Two observational studies on conventional therapy vs no treatment had high RoB and very low certainty regarding the impact of conventional therapy on patient-important outcomes.

Conclusion

No formal comparisons between burosumab and conventional therapy in adults exist. Evidence for conventional therapy vs no treatment is very uncertain. Our review highlights the need for more data on the long-term effects of burosumab and conventional therapy on patient-important outcomes in adult patients with XLH.
Significance of Thyroid-Stimulating Immunoglobulin and Thyrotropin Receptor Antibody in Graves Disease
Authors: Peng Rongguang , Xie Pu , Jin Zhou , Zhou Wenzhong , Wang Yanqiu , Chen Xinxin , Yin Qinglei , Shen Liyun , Meng Lingyang , Ye Lei , Zhou Yulin , Wang Shu
Published: December 2024

Context

Thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) and thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb) are specific biomarkers for Graves disease (GD), but their clinical characteristics are not fully understood.

Objective

To clarify the clinical features and prognostic significance of TSI and TRAb in patients with GD.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective data analysis and a follow-up study. Medical records of patients newly diagnosed with GD were examined. TSI and TRAb correlations were assessed using Passing-Bablok regression and Bland-Altman plot. Patients were categorized into unresolved (Group A) and resolved (Group B) hyperthyroidism based on thyroid function after 1 month of therapy. The relationship between thyroid function and changes in TRAb and TSI was analyzed. Logistic regression identified relapse risk factors, including TSI levels at antithyroid drugs (ATDs) withdrawal in the follow-up study.

Results

Data from 957 patients (762 female and 195 male) revealed a strong correlation between TRAb and TSI (r = 0.873, P < .001). Compared to group B, group A showed minimal antibody decline (100% [interquartile range (IQR) 87.91%-115.1%] and 100% [IQR 85.03%-118.3%], respectively). Among 206 patients followed for over 12 months after ATD discontinuation, the relapse rate was 41.26%. Relapse was more frequent in patients with positive TSI (54.84% vs 35.42%, P < .05). Positive TSI levels at withdrawal, past history of GD, age, and mild thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy were independent relapse predictors.

Conclusion

TSI and TRAb are strongly correlated in GD, with slow antibody decline linked to unresolved hyperthyroidism. Discontinuing ATDs may be considered when both TSI and TRAb are negative.
Patient-matched tumours, plasma, and cell lines reveal tumour microenvironment- and cell culture-specific microRNAs
Authors: Ludwig Latasha , Vanderboon Emma N. , Treleaven Heather , Wood R. Darren , Schott Courtney R. , Wood Geoffrey A.
Published: December 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that are present in all cell types and bodily fluids and are commonly dysregulated in cancer. miRNAs in cancer have been studied by measuring levels in cell lines, tumour tissues, and in circulation; however, no study has specifically investigated miRNA expression in patient-matched samples across all three sample types. Canine osteosarcoma is a well-established spontaneously occurring model of human osteosarcoma for which matched samples are available. We analysed a panel of miRNAs by real-time quantitative PCR and compared across patients and sample types. While some miRNAs are highly expressed in all three sample types, tumour tissue and cell lines had the most in common. There were several miRNAs that were highly expressed in plasma and tumour tissue but not in cell lines and likely represent miRNAs produced in the tumour microenvironment. Two highly expressed miRNAs were exclusive to plasma and are known to be expressed in circulating cells. This study highlights the importance of considering sample type when studying miRNAs in cancer and demonstrates the power of using patient-matched samples.
Spectral scanning and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) enable separation and characterization of C. elegans autofluorescence in the cuticle and gut
Authors: Hulsey-Vincent Heino J. , Cameron Elizabeth A. , Dahlberg Caroline L. , Galati Domenico F.
Published: December 2024

Caenorhabditis elegans gut and cuticle produce a disruptive amount of autofluorescence during imaging. Although C. elegans autofluorescence has been characterized, it has not been characterized at high resolution using both spectral and fluorescence lifetime-based approaches. We performed high resolution spectral scans of whole, living animals to characterize autofluorescence of adult C. elegans. By scanning animals at 405 nm, 473 nm, 561 nm, and 647 nm excitations, we produced spectral profiles that confirm the brightest autofluorescence has a clear spectral overlap with the emission of green fluorescent protein (GFP). We then used fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) to further characterize autofluorescence in the cuticle and the gut. Using FLIM, we were able to isolate and quantify dim GFP signal within the sensory cilia of a single pair of neurons that is often obscured by cuticle autofluorescence. In the gut, we found distinct spectral populations of autofluorescence that could be excited by 405 nm and 473 nm lasers. Further, we found lifetime differences between subregions of this autofluorescence when stimulated at 473 nm. Our results suggest that FLIM can be used to differentiate biochemically unique populations of gut autofluorescence without labeling. Further studies involving C. elegans may benefit from combining high resolution spectral and lifetime imaging to isolate fluorescent protein signal that is mixed with background autofluorescence and to perform useful characterization of subcellular structures in a label-free manner.
The novel ECM protein SNED1 mediates cell adhesion via the RGD-binding integrins α5β1 and αvβ3
Authors: Pally Dharma , Kapoor Nandini , Naba Alexandra
Published: December 2024

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex meshwork comprising over 100 proteins. It serves as an adhesive substrate for cells and, hence, plays crucial roles in health and disease. We have recently identified a novel ECM protein, SNED1, and have found that it is required for neural crest cell migration and craniofacial morphogenesis during development and in breast cancer, where it is necessary for the metastatic dissemination of tumor cells. Interestingly, both processes involve the dynamic remodeling of cell–ECM adhesions via cell surface receptors. Sequence analysis revealed that SNED1 contains two amino acid motifs, RGD and LDV, known to bind integrins, the largest class of ECM receptors. We thus sought to investigate the role of SNED1 in cell adhesion. Here, we report that SNED1 mediates breast cancer and neural crest cell adhesion via its RGD motif. We further demonstrate that cell adhesion to SNED1 is mediated by the RGD integrins α5β1 and αvβ3. These findings are a first step toward identifying the signaling pathways activated downstream of the SNED1–integrin interactions guiding craniofacial morphogenesis and breast cancer metastasis.
Variations in humeral and femoral strains across body sizes and limb posture in American alligators
Authors: Iijima Masaya , Munteanu V. David , Blob Richard W.
Published: December 2024

Bone loading is a crucial factor that constrains locomotor capacities of terrestrial tetrapods. To date, limb bone strains and stresses have been studied across various animals, with a primary emphasis on consistent bone loading in mammals of different sizes and variations in loading regimes across different clades and limb postures. However, the relationships between body size, limb posture and limb bone loading remain unclear in animals with non-parasagittally moving limbs, limiting our understanding of the evolution of limb functions in tetrapods. To address this, we investigated in vivo strains of the humerus and femur in juvenile to subadult American alligators as they walked with various limb postures. We found that principal strains on the ventromedial cortex of the femoral midshaft increased with larger sizes among the three individuals displaying similar limb postures. This indicates that larger individuals experience greater limb bone strains when maintaining similar limb postures to smaller individuals. Axial and shear strains in the humerus were generally reduced with a more erect limb posture, while trends in the femur varied among individuals. Given that larger alligators have been shown to adopt a more erect limb posture, the transition from sprawling to erect limb posture, particularly in the forelimb, might be linked to the evolution of larger body sizes in archosaurs, potentially as a means to mitigate limb bone loading. Moreover, both the humerus and femur experienced decreased shear loads compared with axial loads with a more erect limb posture, suggesting proportional changes in bone loading regimes throughout the evolution of limb posture.
Field respirometry in a wild maternity colony of Bechstein's bats (Myotis bechsteinii) indicates high metabolic costs above but not below the thermoneutral zone
Authors: Wolf Janis M. , Lehmann Philipp , Kerth Gerald
Published: December 2024

In a warming world, it is crucial to understand how rising temperature affects the physiology of organisms. To investigate the effect of a warming environment on the metabolism of heterothermic bats during the costly lactation period, we characterised metabolic rates in relation to roost temperature, the bats' thermoregulatory state (normothermia or torpor), time of day and age of juveniles. In a field experiment, we heated the communal roosts of a wild colony of Bechstein's bats (Myotis bechsteinii) every other day while measuring metabolic rates using flow-through respirometry. As expected, metabolic rates were lowest when the bats were in torpor. However, when bats were normothermic, colder temperatures had little effect on metabolic rates, which we attribute to the thermoregulatory benefits of digestion-induced thermogenesis and social thermoregulation. In contrast, metabolic rates increased significantly at temperatures above the thermoneutral zone. Contrary to our expectations, metabolic rates were not lower in heated roosts, where temperatures remained close to the bats' thermoneutral zone, than in unheated roosts, where temperatures were more variable. Our results show that torpor and digestion-induced thermogenesis are effective mechanisms that allow bats to energetically buffer cold conditions. The finding that metabolic rates increased significantly at temperatures above the thermoneutral zone suggests that the physiological and behavioural abilities of Bechstein's bats to keep energy costs low at high temperatures are limited. Our study highlights that temperate-zone bats are well adapted to tolerate cold temperatures, but may lack protective mechanisms against heat, which could be a threat in times of global warming.
«Seamos Primavera»
Authors: Πανιεράκης Μάριος
Published: December 2024

Στην παρούσα εργασία εξετάζουμε –υπό αγωνιστικό πρίσμα– τα αιτήματα που εκφράστηκαν στο κίνημα διεκδίκησης του λόφου Καστέλι. Αν στο ξερίζωμα της κατάληψης Ρόζα Νέρα (Μαύρο Ρόδο) ακολούθησε η αντανακλαστική εναντίωση στην περίφραξη του λόφου Καστέλι, το περιεχόμενο των αιτημάτων διατηρεί δυνητικά τον διαχωρισμό του χώρου από τους συλλογικούς δρώντες και συμβάλλει στη γέννηση του κεφαλαίου. Στην πορεία της διατριβής διαπερνάμε το περιεχόμενο αυτών των αιτημάτων. Θα καταλήξουμε στη θέση ότι τα αιτήματα είναι ο πυρήνας της αντίφασης του προλεταριάτου. Έτσι, αντιμετωπίζοντας το αίτημα ως μορφή, προτείνουμε το άνοιγμα της κατηγορίας του αιτήματος αποκαλύπτοντας τον ανταγωνισμό που υπάρχει εντός της.
Understanding Consumer Intentions to Purchase Local and Second-hand Fashion in Indonesia
Authors:   Institut Teknologi dan Bisnis Diniyyah Lampung, Wardana M. Azka Kesuma , Kurniawan Rudi
Published: December 2024

Abstract. The fashion industry in Indonesia continues to grow, including trends in local fashion products and second-hand clothing. This study aims to determine the factors that shape consumers' purchase intention towards these fashion products by analyzing the influence of self-efficacy, product specifications, socio-cultural factors, and the mediating role of hedonic motivation. Using a quantitative approach with online questionnaires and purposive sampling (at least 200 respondents), the study used Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) Partial Least Square (PLS) 4.0 for validity testing, reliability, and structural analysis. The results showed that self-efficacy has a significant positive effect on the purchase intention of local fashion products and second-hand clothing. Product specifications and socio-cultural factors have a significant positive effect on purchase intention for local fashion products, but not for second-hand clothing. Hedonic motivation does not mediate the effect of self-efficacy, product specifications, and socio-cultural factors on purchase intention of local fashion products, but mediates the effect of self-efficacy and socio-cultural factors on purchase intention of second-hand clothing. The findings offer insights for marketing strategy and brand management in the local and second-hand fashion industry, emphasizing the importance of consumer trust and specific factors that influence purchase decisions.

Keywords: Fashion, local product, second-hand, purchase intention, hedonic motivation
Economic ecosystems
Authors: Popov Evgeniy , Veretennikova Anna , Komarova Oxana , Koh Ivan , Semyachkov Konstantin , Selezneva Dar'ya , Simonova Viktoriya , Fedoreev Sergey , Chelak Igor' , Cherepanov Vitaliy
Published: December 2024

The first Russian monograph on the systematic description of economic ecosystems. Econometrics is presented as a concept for analyzing the economy of a digital society and describes the principles of using digital technologies. The influence of social networks on the development of business processes, as well as regional and substantive differentiation of social networks are discussed. The author's theory of ecosystem analysis is presented. The stakeholder and analytical models of the company's ecosystem are considered. The author's development of the potential for digitalization of the company's ecosystem is presented. The development of a shared economy in the social sphere and the development of crowdlanding platforms were discussed. The author's theory of the analysis of equity economy instruments is presented. The institutional configuration of urban ecosystems is considered. The evolution of ecosystem projects of smart cities is presented.
It is addressed to researchers and university professors specializing in the fields of economic theory, institutional economics, regional economics, microeconomics and minieconomics.
Miradas hacia la Revolución de Octubre asturiana (1934): un análisis de su cobertura mediática y visual en el periodismo madrileño.
Authors: Díaz Rodríguez Noemi
Published: December 2024

Este artículo proporciona un estudio sobre la cobertura mediática y, especialmente, el
componente fotográfico; de varias rotativas españolas hacia un suceso derivado de la condición periférica
del país: el reducto revolucionario del octubre de 1934 en Asturias. Se ha procedido al vaciado hemerográfico
de 9 cabeceras madrileñas, analizando el tipo de discurso trasladado al lector con énfasis en sus reportajes
gráficos. A partir de aquí, el interés radica en la hipótesis de cómo los medios de comunicación y, sobre
todo, las iconografías civiles resultantes del citado conflicto han favorecido a la creación de la crónica negra
regional.
Insights from the nursing frontline for those interested in driving positive change in the NHS
Authors: Thomas Sue
Published: December 2024

This occasional section draws attention to books that are a worthwhile read for neuroscience nurses.
IRS-VLC physical layer security scheme: a dual-strategy against eavesdropping and attacks
Authors: Liu Changling , Feng Lifang , Wang Jianping , Sun Haijian , Hu Rose Qingyang , Lu Huimin
Published: December 2024

This study introduces a
comprehensive physical layer security (PLS) scheme in visible light
communication (VLC) systems using non-Lambertian beamforming and
intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRSs). It withstands eavesdropping
and attacks to secure indoor VLCs, even with imperfect channel state
information (CSI). In conventional VLC systems, the required
illuminance maintaining normal communication is about 80 lux.
The proposed scheme reduces the illuminance in a potential
eavesdropping area to 5.2 lux by manipulating the direction and
intensity of the optical signals, which leads to eavesdropping
failure. Meanwhile, the proposed scheme is jamming-resistant.
Simulations demonstrate that the system adopting the proposed security
scheme has a SINR of 40.32 dB with jamming attacks, compared to
26.13 dB in typical VLC systems, so the resisting interference
ability is improved by 54%. Eavesdropping resistance and attack
resilience make VLC security in sensitive contexts more
robust.
Optimizing telemetry forwarding for distributed failure recovery in packet-optical networks
Authors: Lechowicz Piotr , Natalino Carlos , Cugini Filippo , Paolucci Francesco , Monti Paolo
Published: December 2024

Fast network recoverability from hard and soft failures is crucial for network operators to deliver uninterrupted services. Streaming telemetry has been studied as a solution for enabling fast and accurate failure detection in optical networks. However, significant delay is incurred when relying on a centralized entity (e.g., software-defined network controller) to collect, process, and act on telemetry data. Programmable switches (e.g., P4-based) allow telemetry data to be processed at line speed, enabling local on-device (distributed) decisions. These devices can be used to deploy quick and local mitigation to failures while a global solution is being computed on a longer time scale. However, designing network-wide streaming telemetry with distributed decisions remains an open challenge. In this work, we specify the joint optimization of packet-optical networks with on-device failure recovery, considering multiple aspects of the problem. The problem is modeled using linear programming and solved for multiple network realizations. The solutions can be used to program each switch in the network to detect failures and quickly recover the traffic. Results show that the proposed model decreases the required number of register entries to store telemetry data while assuring high recoverability and a minimized number of wavelengths.