bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extraoral halitosis in functional dyspepsia and its association with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
Authors: Yang Lei , Gong Jing Jue , Mo Xiao Ju , Qian Xiao Xian
Published: February 2025

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and extraoral halitosis are often observed in functional dyspepsia (FD). We aimed to identify their associations for the first time. In this study, extraoral halitosis was diagnosed and assessed through the organoleptic score (OLS). Total symptom score (TSS) of FD, SIBO, gastric Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, and three exhaled volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) (hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and dimethyl sulfide (DMS)), were evaluated. Finally, 63 non-halitosis patients and 45 halitosis patients with extraoral halitosis were identified. Compared to non-halitosis patients, halitosis patients exhibited significantly higher TSS (86 [56, 123] vs 43 [34, 57], P< 0.001) and SIBO positivity rate (66.67% vs 11.11%, P < 0.001), but similar H. pylori positivity rate. The adjusted odds ratios of TSS and SIBO were 1.06 and 5.02, respectively. The area under curve of the combination of TSS and SIBO for predicting extraoral halitosis was 0.89. Positive correlations were observed between TSS and OLS (r= 0.64), and between TSS and exhaled DMS level (r = 0.86), respectively. The other two VSCs were undetectable or of little value. We conclude that: (1) Extraoral halitosis is closely associated with FD and SIBO; (2) DMS is its primary contributing VSC; (3) FD patients with SIBO as opposed to gastric H. pylori infection are more prone to extraoral halitosis; (4) Clinicians should be aware of SIBO in the management of extraoral halitosis in FD.
Purified adipose tissue-derived extracellular vesicles facilitate adipose organoid vascularization through coordinating adipogenesis and angiogenesis
Authors: Zhu Congxiao , Huang Zonglin , Zhou Hongru , Han Xuefeng , Li Lei , Yin Ningbei
Published: February 2025

One of the major challenges in the way of better fabricating vascularized adipose organoids is the destructive effect of adipogenic differentiation on preformed vasculature, which probably stems from the discrepancy between the in vivo physiological microenvironment and the in vitro culture conditions. As an intrinsic component of adipose tissue (AT), adipose tissue-derived extracellular vesicles (AT-EVs) have demonstrated both adipogenic and angiogenic ability in recent studies. However, whether AT-EVs could be employed to coordinate the angiogenesis and adipogenesis in the vascularization of adipose organoids remains largely unexplored. Herein, we present an efficient method for isolating higher-purity AT-EV preparations from lipoaspirates, and verify the superiority of AT-EV preparations’ angiogenic and adipogenic capabilities over those from unpurified lipoaspirates. Next, in the spheroid culture model, it was discovered that the addition of AT-EVs could effectively improve the aggregation through enhancing intercellular adhesion of monoculture spheroids composed of human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs), and helped produce vascularized adipose organoids with proper lipolysis and glucose uptake ability in the coculture spheroids comprised of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and HUVECs. Subsequently, it was observed that AT-EVs could exert a retaining effect on the vasculature of prevascularized coculture spheroids cultured in an adipogenic environment, compared to the reduced vascular networks where AT-EVs were absent. Altogether, these results indicate that AT-EVs, by means of releasing bioactive molecules that emulate the in vivo microenvironment, can modify non-replicative in vitro microenvironments, coordinate in vitro adipogenesis and angiogenesis, and facilitate the fabrication of vascularized adipose organoids.
Progress in optical frequency comb generation techniques towards flexible optical communication network
Authors: Sharma Vishal , Singh Surinder
Published: February 2025

A flexible optical communication network is needed to realize a backbone transport network for 6G communication and further higher generation communication technologies. However, the practical implementation of the higher generation network experiences some serious challenges due to the existing multicarrier generation technology i.e. an array of multiple discrete laser sources (less spectrally efficient, complex, bulkier and costlier). Recently, a multicarrier generation technique using the optical frequency comb has been extensively researched. It can reduce the complexity, cost, and size compared to the existing multicarrier generator. Moreover, it increases the utilization of available spectral efficiency due to its capability to tune the operating frequency and carrier spacing. So, considering these advantages, we reviewed the multiple optical frequency comb generation techniques, categorized as mode-locked laser, microresonator and electro-optic modulator based frequency combs. We identify the salient features of different frequency comb generation techniques by keeping the requirements of a flexible optical network in mind. We also reviewed the drawbacks and possible solutions proposed to improve the characteristics of the optical frequency comb. Further, we reviewed the optical frequency comb expansion techniques to broaden the spectrum of the optical frequency comb, which is the requirement in optical frequency comb suitable for communication applications. At last, we summarize the progress in the practical implementation of the optical frequency comb as a multichannel source in a flexible optical network.
Experimental investigation of mechanical properties and morphology of ramie, bamboo, and ramie-bamboo hybrid composites with silicon carbide and alumina nano-fillers
Authors: Kumar P Krishna , Lokeshwar Gaddam , Kiran Reddy Chamakura Uday , Arunjyotis  , Shetty Nagaraja , S M Shahabaz , Nargis Tanzila
Published: February 2025

The study explores the mechanical and morphological studies of ramie, bamboo, and hybrid ramie-bamboo composites with silicon carbide (SiC) and alumina (Al2O3) nano-fillers. The composites were fabricated using the hand-layup method followed by compression moulding. Mechanical characteristics such as tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness were investigated as per the ASTM standards. Surface characterization was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to understand the surface characteristics and failure behavior of composites. Experimental results indicated that the maximum tensile strength (50.16 MPa), impact strength (6.30 kJ m−2), and hardness (79.4) were obtained for the ramie-bamboo hybrid composite, while the pure ramie composite exhibited the greatest flexural strength (101.4 MPa). SEM analysis revealed good fiber-matrix bonding within the hybrid composites. Ramie-bamboo hybrid composites with nano-fillers showed lower strength values due to the agglomeration of nano-fillers. The present findings provide insight into optimizing hybrid natural fiber composites for enhanced mechanical performance.
Implementation of numerical modeling algorithms to examine the filtration of multiphase flow through the gas hydrate stability zone in the Ross Sea.
Authors: Alekseeva Natalia , Popov Sergey , Poveshchenko Yury , Podryga Viktoriia , Kazakevich Grigory , Chuvilin Evgeny , Coffin Richard
Published: February 2025

In the Ross Sea region (Antarctica), evidence of warming, ice melt, and high levels of thermogenic gas hydrates indicate that deep-seated hydrocarbons significantly contribute to carbon cycles in the region. A fluid dynamics filtration model has been developed to describe the movement of liquid and gas in a porous medium containing gas hydrate inclusions, while considering phase transitions. The study investigates structural changes in the gas hydrate stability zone as methane moves from the hydrate-melt zone to the seabed. This is achieved through algorithms based on balances of gas and water masses, and total energy while considering Darcy's law. A numerical fluid dynamics model is employed to study the potential introduction of deep-seated carbon to the Ross Sea ice shelf region for the first time, considering a gas hydrate stability zone under local thermodynamic equilibrium. The calculation results support the phenomenon of free gas from deep sediments migrating to a shallow zone with gas hydrate stability conditions, partially converting into hydrate, while the remaining gas is capable of migrating higher into the water column. The process is accompanied by the formation of a three-phase (gas, hydrate, H2O) hydrate-equilibrium zone, replacing the initially two-phase (hydrate, H2O) gas hydrate stability zone. The modeling results explain the discrepancy between the radiocarbon dating of the core and the study of the history of the ice sheet in the region.
Extrusion bioprinting: Meeting the promise of the human tissue biofabrication?
Authors: Holland Ian
Published: February 2025

Extrusion is the most popular bioprinting platform. Predictions of human tissue and whole-organ printing have been made for the technology. However, after decades of development, extruded constructs lack the essential microscale resolution and heterogeneity observed in most human tissues. Extrusion bioprinting has had little clinical impact with the majority of research directed away from the tissues most needed by patients. The distance between promise and reality is a result of technology hype and inherent design flaws that limit the shape, scale and survival of extruded features. By more widely adopting resolution innovations and softening its ambitions the biofabrication field could define a future for extrusion bioprinting that more closely aligns with its capabilities.
Changes in land-leaching nitrogen and its linkages to lake algal blooms in China
Authors: Kong Mengxiang , Guan Qi , Feng Lian , Zheng Chunmiao , Tang Jing
Published: February 2025

Over the past 50 years, nutrient discharge into freshwater ecosystems has significantly increased due to intensive fertilizer application in China. This has led to frequent environmental issues associated with nutrient enrichment, such as algal blooms, in a number of individual lakes. However, the linkages between terrestrial nutrient sources and algal bloom occurrence (BO) at large scales remains under-explored. Here, we simulated the long-term changes in nitrogen (N) leaching from terrestrial ecosystems using a dynamic vegetation model Lund–Potsdam–Jena general ecosystem simulator at the national scale from 1979 to 2018, and examined its connection to satellite-derived BO in 56 large lakes across China. Our findings reveal that N leaching exhibited significantly increasing trends in 74.5% of the national landmass, with an overall rate of 0.40 kg N ha−1 yr−2 for the past four decades. Using a 95% quantile regression model, we analyzed the linkage between N leaching and BO from 2003 to 2018. The results indicated significantly positive correlations in the lakes of the Yangtze Plain during autumn and the lakes of northern China and the Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau during both summer and autumn. These findings suggest that terrestrial N discharge critically contributes to algal bloom variations in warmer seasons. Our study provides a comprehensive understanding of escalating N discharge from terrestrial ecosystems and highlights the potential benefits of fertilization management in mitigating and controlling inland water eutrophication in China.
Minimizing the Risks
Authors: Möschel Mathias
Published: February 2025

This chapter suggests some normative solutions to address the potential risks posed by ex-ministers if and when they become constitutional judges. The proposals are not intended to be one-size-fit-all, but rather are an à la carte menu from which to draw depending on the context. They range from the least invasive ones, such as requiring a legal education and/or some years of professional experience, via interventions in nomination/appointment procedures, such as introducing certain enhanced majorities or having mixed nomination systems, to more technical interventions concerning the introduction or procedural improvement and increased transparency of abstention and recusal rules, or the introduction of cooling-off periods, to the most extreme form: outright prohibition.
Concluding Thoughts—Looking Back To Move Forward
Authors: Möschel Mathias
Published: February 2025

This final chapter summarizes some points of the book and then situates some of the analyses in their broader context by looking at constitutional or legislative reform proposals that have taken place in the four jurisdictions analysed in this book and that could impact some of the thoughts provided here as well as by referring to the changing political realities that are happening outside the analysed jurisdictions but that could have an impact on how to think about the practice of having ex-ministers as constitutional judges. In particular, this chapter suggests that in a climate and trend of illiberalism and constitutional backsliding, what may have been perceived so far as an acceptable practice may not look so innocuous in the future.
Effects of osteoporosis treatment and multicomponent integrated care on intrinsic capacity and happiness among rural community-dwelling older adults: the Healthy Longevity and Ageing in Place (HOPE) randomised controlled trial
Authors: Chang Ya-Hui , Hung Chih-Chien , Chiang Yen-Yi , Chen Chiu-Ying , Liao Ling-Chiao , Ma Matthew Huei-Ming , Hwang Juey-Jen , Hsu Chih-Cheng , Li Chung-Yi , Fu Shau-Huai , Wang Chen-Yu
Published: February 2025

Background

Monitoring and improving intrinsic capacity (IC) and well-being are essential for older adults to maintain functional abilities. However, evidence of effective interventions to improve IC and happiness is scarce. This study examined the effects of multicomponent interventions in the Healthy Longevity and Ageing in Place (HOPE) randomised controlled trial on IC and happiness among rural community-dwelling older adults.

Methods

This cluster randomised trial was conducted in rural communities in Taiwan (NCT05104034). Participants aged ≥50 were enrolled from September 2021 to April 2022 and randomly assigned by community level to one of three groups: multicomponent integrated care (MIC), osteoporosis care (OC) and usual care (UC). MIC included osteoporosis, sarcopenia and polypharmacy care, along with exercise and nutritional support. OC was a resource-conservative, focusing on osteoporosis screening and treatment alone. IC and happiness were measured at baseline and 12 months after follow-up. IC was assessed across cognition, locomotion, vitality, sensory and psychological domains per World Health Organization Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) guidelines. Happiness was measured using the 10-item Chinese Happiness Inventory. Generalised estimating equations were used to estimate the effect of the intervention.

Results

567 residents were recruited from 30 congregate meal service centres. Mean IC score increased across all the groups, though the happiness score decreased. Compared to UC, the MIC group exhibited a significantly greater improvement in IC scores (adjusted estimate = 0.30, standard error (SE) = 0.11, P = .01), whereas OC did not show significant effects. Smaller reductions in happiness scores were observed in both the MIC (adjusted estimate = 1.46, SE = 0.48, P = .003) and OC groups (adjusted estimate = 0.95, SE = 0.48, P = .05).

Conclusion

MIC, including osteoporosis and pharmaceutical care, along with exercise and nutritional support, is an effective strategy to enhance IC and happiness compared to osteoporosis treatment alone and UC. This underscores the importance of comprehensive strategies for promoting healthy ageing in rural communities.
The relationship between alcohol consumption and outcomes after gastrointestinal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Angus Rebecca , Leow Tjun Wei , Humes David , Adiamah Alfred
Published: February 2025

The study aimed to summarise the evidence of the association between preoperative alcohol consumption and postoperative complications in gastrointestinal surgeries. Comprehensive searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were undertaken to identify original studies investigating the association between preoperative alcohol consumption and postoperative complications occurring within 30 days of surgery. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality risk and secondary outcomes included postoperative complications such as surgical site infections and risk of anastomotic leak. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using a random effects model. In total, 3601 reports were identified and reviewed for eligibility, then data was extracted from 26 studies that met inclusion criteria. 13 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The total number of patients in the meta-analysis was 686 181 including 20 163 with a high alcohol intake. Clearly defined high preoperative alcohol consumption was associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications including 30-day mortality (OR = 1.56; 95% CI: 1.07–2.28). The risk of anastomotic leak was significantly increased in those undergoing colorectal surgery with a high alcohol intake, OR 2.17 (95% CI: 1.74–2.72). An increase in risk was also found for surgical site infections in those undergoing gastrointestinal surgery with high alcohol intake. (OR = 1.32; 95% CI: 1.15–1.53). Preoperative alcohol consumption was associated with an increased risk of 30-day mortality, anastomotic leak and surgical site infections. Preoperative modulation of alcohol intake may influence post-operative complications after gastrointestinal surgery.
Comparison of the Beck Anxiety Inventory and the Geriatric Anxiety Scale in an Older Adult Neurology Clinic Sample
Authors: Stypulkowski Katie , Rodrigues Jessica , Cieri Filippo , Pudumjee Shehroo B , Butler Pagnotti Rachel M , Wong Christina G
Published: February 2025

Objective

The Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) is a commonly used anxiety measure, but it was not specifically designed for use among older adults. Previous research has raised concern that it may inflate anxiety ratings among older adults because of its emphasis on physical symptoms. The Geriatric Anxiety Scale (GAS) is designed for older adults but has not been examined in a neurology clinic setting. This study sought to compare the psychometric properties of the BAI and the GAS in an older adult neurology clinic sample. An exploratory aim was to determine the influence of motor symptoms on anxiety scores.

Method

Participants included 68 adults age 60+ referred for a neuropsychological evaluation in an outpatient neurology clinic. Measures included the BAI, GAS, and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Psychometric properties were determined. A McNemar test compared the proportion of anxiety classifications between the BAI and GAS. Referral source (cognitive disorder versus movement-oriented teams) was used as a proxy for grouping patients who were likely to have prominent motor symptoms versus those who were not. An independent t-test compared scale performance between these groups to examine the influence of motor symptoms on anxiety ratings.

Results

Both scales had good internal consistency (GAS α = 0.93; BAI α = 0.88). Convergent validity (GAS and BAI: r = 0.81, p < .001) and discriminant validity (GAS and MoCA, r = 0.18, p = .20) were supported. The BAI detected anxiety among 40% of participants, while the GAS detected anxiety among 56%, which was a statistically significant difference (p = .002). Anxiety ratings did not differ based on referral source (t(66) = −1.59, p = .12).

Conclusion

Both scales had good psychometric properties, though the GAS detected a higher rate of anxiety compared to the BAI despite having less focus on motor symptoms that could be attributed to age-related physical changes or movement disorders. The GAS may capture aspects of anxiety not assessed by the BAI among older adults.
Prey or protection? Access to food alters individual responses to competition in black widow spiders
Authors: Ratz Tom , Montiglio Pierre-Olivier
Published: February 2025

Animals influence the phenotype and reproductive success of their conspecifics through competitive interactions. Such effects of competition can alter the intensity of selection and ultimately change the rate of evolution. However, the magnitude of the effects of competition, and their evolutionary impact, should vary depending on environmental conditions and individual responses among competitors. We tested whether a key environmental variable, resource availability, affects the response to competition in black widow spiders by manipulating access to prey and the level of competition. We examined if focal spiders modify their web structure and aggressiveness towards prey stimuli when a competitor is present, and whether these responses depend on prior prey access. We also tested if any effects of competition vary with individual differences among competitors. Access to resources changed how individuals respond to competition. Spiders with limited access to prey were less likely to attack prey stimuli in the presence of a conspecific competitor than spiders with greater access to prey, suggesting that limiting resources hinders competitive responses. In contrast, all spiders built better-protected webs in the presence of competitors, regardless of prior access to prey. Crucially, these responses differed among focal spiders and depended on individual competitors. Our findings highlight the importance of environmental conditions and individual differences in mediating the impact of social interactions on phenotypes and eventually on their evolution.
Development of an optimized cell-based selection system for phage display libraries
Authors: Czarnecka Malgorzata , Findik Nicole , Schlör Anja , Hanack Katja
Published: February 2025

The discovery of antibodies through phage display is significantly influenced by antigen presentation during panning, particularly for membrane-anchored proteins, which pose challenges due to their complex structures. Traditional approaches, such as whole cells expressing the target protein, often result in low antigen density and high background signals. In this study, we describe an alternative method using stably transfected cell lines that express the target antigen on their surface, regulated by an intracellular enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) signal. This system enables high-throughput flow cytometry-based screening of phage display libraries to isolate human antibodies that recognize the native conformation of membrane proteins. Using human epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) and human neuroplastin 65 (NP65) as model antigens, we established an optimized screening workflow with polyclonal phage pools. Selected EpCAM-specific single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) from a naïve library were recombinantly expressed with an IgG4 scaffold and characterized for specific binding. This approach provides an effective platform for the identification of antibodies against membrane proteins in their native state.
RUNCOV: a one-pot triplex real-time RT-LAMP as a point-of-care diagnostic tool for detecting SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Robène Isabelle , Jouen Emmanuel , Maillot-Lebon Véronique , Fenelon Babbitha T , Hascoat Jérémy , Pecrix Yann , Richard Damien , Jaffar-Bandjee Marie-Christine , Mavingui Patrick , Chiroleu Frédéric , Becker Nathalie , Poubeau Patrice , Ramiandrisoa Mahery , Sin Michel , Costet Laurent , Laurent Annie , Laurent Philippe , Chabirand Aude , Moreau Aurélie , Reynaud Bernard , Jeuffrault Eric , Cetre Sossah Catherine
Published: February 2025

Given the risk of zoonotic disease emergence, including new SARS-CoV-2 variants of COVID-19, rapid diagnostic tools are urgently needed to improve the control of the spread of infectious diseases. A one-pot triplex real-time RT-LAMP (reverse-transcription-loop-mediated isothermal amplification) assay, based on two regions of the genome SARS-CoV-2 - specifically the Orf1ab and N genes, along with one internal control, the human RNase P gene, was developed. The multiplexing relies on the distinct melting peaks produced during an annealing step. This tool, named RUNCOV, was compared to the gold standard reverse-transcription real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) assay. A simple sample preparation step was designed alongside the assay, making it ready for use on site, as a point-of-care diagnostic tool. RUNCOV is rapid (typically less than 40 minutes), highly sensitive and specific. When tested on clinical samples with known SARS-CoV-2 status, its limit of detection (LOD) ranges between 5-20 copies per reaction and its diagnostic sensitivity (97.44%) and specificity (100%) values are high compared to the RT-qPCR gold standard. These results were supported with an extensive in silico analysis of over 14 million genomes, demonstrating this tool was capable of detecting all known SARS-CoV-2 variants, including the most recent ones KP.3.1.1 and BA2.86.1. This molecular assay is portable, as demonstrated when it was used successfully in La Réunion in different contexts outside the laboratory.
Inclusive science communication as a tool to address One Health challenges
Authors: Kelp Nicole
Published: February 2025

Solving the multisectoral, complex challenges involved in One Health requires inclusive collaboration and communication. Unfortunately, many natural scientists have not been trained in the social science research that informs effective science communication. In this Overview, I review the principles of inclusive science communication—intentionality, reflexivity, and reciprocity—and discuss how these principles can promote more effective communication with communities about One Health topics. In addition, I implicate the need for equitable science policy to support inclusive science communication. Finally, I provide a framework of self-reflection questions for scientists to grow as reflective and effective science communicators.
Hemispheric asymmetry of the white matter microstructure in schizophrenia patients with persistent auditory verbal hallucinations
Authors: Li Jinguang , He Jingqi , Ren Honghong , Li Chunwang , Li Zongchang , Chen Xiaogang , He Ying , Tang Jinsong
Published: February 2025

The link between hemispheric asymmetry and auditory verbal hallucinations in schizophrenia is underexplored with neuroimaging evidence. This study examined white matter asymmetries in schizophrenia patients. Diffusion tensor imaging data from 52 patients with persistent auditory verbal hallucinations, 33 who never experienced auditory verbal hallucinations, and 40 healthy controls were analyzed. Asymmetry indices for fractional anisotropy, axial diffusivity, radial diffusivity, and mean diffusivity were calculated for the whole-brain white matter skeleton and 22 pairs of regions of interest. The persistent auditory verbal hallucination group showed reduced fractional anisotropy asymmetry index in the whole-brain white matter skeleton compared to healthy control and never experienced auditory verbal hallucination groups, indicating altered asymmetry. Region of interest analysis revealed decreased fractional anisotropy asymmetry index in nine pairs and increased mean diffusivity AI in two pairs in the persistent auditory verbal hallucination group. Greater rightward asymmetry in the superior longitudinal fasciculus correlated with more severe auditory verbal hallucinations in persistent auditory verbal hallucination patients. No significant asymmetry differences were found between never experienced auditory verbal hallucinations and healthy control groups. Ridge regression analysis demonstrated that including the fractional anisotropy asymmetry index of the superior longitudinal fasciculus increased the explained variance in auditory verbal hallucination severity. These findings highlight distinct white matter asymmetry patterns in persistent auditory verbal hallucination patients, suggesting that hemispheric asymmetry plays a key role in the pathology of auditory verbal hallucinations in schizophrenia.

Highlights
J-aggregation of chlorophyll-a derivatives inserting fluorinated phenylene linker
Authors: Hisahara Yuma , Nakano Takeo , Tamiaki Hitoshi
Published: February 2025

Chlorophyll-a derivatives inserting an ethynylene and fluorinated phenylene linker between the chlorin π-skeleton and hydroxymethyl group were prepared as chlorosomal chlorophyll models. The self-aggregation of these derivatives was investigated by means of electronic absorption and circular dichroism spectroscopy. The spectroscopic results revealed that the electronic interactions between the chlorin core and the peripheral fluorinated aromatic π-systems had a large effect on the optical properties of the synthetic chlorophyll-a derivative self-assemblies.
Executive Summary: State-of-the-Art Review: Complexities in Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Infections: A Contemporary Practical Approach
Authors: Chesdachai Supavit , Baddour Larry M , Tabaja Hussam , Madhavan Malini , Anavekar Nandan , Zwischenberger Brittany A , Erba Paola Anna , DeSimone Daniel C
Published: February 2025

Cardiac implantable electronic device infections (CIEDIs) present substantial challenges for infectious diseases specialists, encompassing diagnosis, management, and complex decision-making involving patients, families, and multidisciplinary teams. This review, guided by a common clinical case presentation encountered in daily practice, navigates through the diagnostic process, management strategies in unique scenarios, long-term follow-up, and critical discussions required for CIEDIs.
Microtomography to traditional dental radiograph: projecting 3-dimensional initial proximal caries lesion annotations for enhanced radiographic delineation
Authors: Gonzalez-Valenzuela Ricardo E , Vu Quoc T D , Mettes Pascal , Loos Bruno G , Marquering Henk , Berkhout Erwin
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This study was undertaken to generate high-quality radiographic annotations of initial proximal carious lesions based on micro-CT scans. Specifically, we projected manually and automatically acquired annotations of micro-CT scans onto corresponding traditional dental radiographs.

Methods

We utilized the Diagnostic Insights for Radiographic Early-caries with micro-CT (ACTA-DIRECT) dataset of manually annotated initial proximal carious lesions in micro-CT scans and radiographs, the former serving as reference-standard. Production of high-quality radiographic annotations entailed the following: (1) acquiring a reference-standard (for a semi-automated approach) or generating a fully automated micro-CT-based annotation (for a fully automated approach); (2) simulating the corresponding radiograph by projecting the micro-CT scan to find the suitable projection parameters; and (3) superimposing micro-CT-based caries annotations onto radiographs, using identical projection parameters. To evaluate the subsequent accuracy of the annotations on radiograph, we assessed the sensitivity, specificity, and International Caries Classification and Management System (ICCMS) staging of micro-CT-based automated annotations. Projection accuracy was qualitatively gauged.

Results

Micro-CT-based automated annotations outperformed conventional annotations achieving a sensitivity of 50% (95% CI: 42%-59%) compared to 42% (95% CI: 34%-51%) and specificity of 99% (95% CI: 96%-100%) compared to 92% (95% CI: 87%-94%). Among correctly identified micro-CT-based automated annotations, 94% (61/65) were also accurately classified; and 80% of micro-CT projections were ranked as suitably similar to corresponding radiographs.

Conclusions

Micro-CT imaging offers resource-rich depictions, enabling more accurate annotations than those achievable through conventional means. By projecting micro-CT-based annotations of initial proximal caries onto radiographs, some limitations of the conventional radiograph annotation process may be overcome.
Machine learning and metabolomics identify biomarkers associated with the disease extent of ulcerative colitis
Authors: Ge Changchang , Lu Yi , Shen Zhaofeng , Lu Yizhou , Liu Xiaojuan , Zhang Mengyuan , Liu Yijing , Shen Hong , Zhu Lei
Published: February 2025

Background and aims

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a metabolism-related chronic intestinal inflammatory disease. Disease extent is a key parameter of UC. Using serum metabolic profiling to identify noninvasive biomarkers of disease extent may inform therapeutic decisions and risk stratification.

Methods

The orthogonal partial least squares–discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) was performed to identify the metabolites. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression, random forest-recursive feature elimination, and support vector machine-recursive feature elimination algorithms were used to screen metabolites. Five machine learning algorithms (eXtreme Gradient Boosting, K-NearestNeighbor, Naive Bayes, random forest [RF], and SVM) were used to construct the prediction model.

Results

A total of 220 differential metabolites between the patients with UC and healthy controls (HCs) were confirmed by the OPLS-DA model. Machine learning screened 8 essential metabolites for distinguishing patients with UC from HCs. A total of 23, 6, and 6 differential metabolites were obtained through machine learning between groups E1 and E2, E1 and E3, and E2 and E3. The RF model had a prediction accuracy of up to 100% in all 3 training sets. The serum levels of tridecanoic acid were significantly lower, and pelargonic acid was significantly higher in patients with extensive colitis than in the other groups. The serum level of asparaginyl valine in patients with rectal UC was significantly lower than that in the E2 and E3 groups.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed the metabolic landscape of UC and identified biomarkers for different disease extents, confirming the value of metabolites in predicting the occurrence and progression of UC.
Nonconventional dysplasia in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal adenocarcinoma: a case-cohort study
Authors: Urquhart Siri A , Pallipamu Namratha , Voruganti Hima Varsha , Baraskar Bhavana , Muddaloor Pratyusha , Sethi Arshia K , Redij Renisha , Aedma Keirthana , Gopalakrishnan Keerthy , Poigai Arunachalam Shivaram , Burger Kelli N , Mahoney Douglas W , Kassmeyer Blake A , Lennon Ryan J , Kisiel John B , Coelho-Prabhu Nayantara
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) face increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). While the natural history of conventional dysplastic precursor lesions has been well-studied, the neoplastic potential of recently described nonconventional (NC) IBD-associated colonic mucosal lesions is unclear. We aimed to assess the incidence of antecedent NC lesions in patients with IBD who developed CRC.

Methods

A case-cohort study was performed to include patients with a diagnosis of IBD with or without CRC who underwent at least 2 surveillance endoscopic procedures at our institution between 1/1/2007 and 5/31/2023. NC lesions included serrated change and indefinite for dysplasia. Detection rates pre- and post-introduction of high-definition (HD) surveillance colonoscopy were compared.

Results

In total, 87 patients with IBD and CRC and 200 patients with IBD without CRC were identified. Of the cases, a majority had ulcerative colitis (n = 52, 60%), most commonly with extensive involvement (n = 46, 89%). Conventional (hazard ratio [HR] 2.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.34-3.52) and NC (HR 2.28, 95% CI 1.59-3.26) lesions were associated with increased risk of CRC. Conventional lesions in the post-HD era appeared to have a stronger association with CRC (HR 2.79, 95% CI 1.62-4.77) than NC lesions (HR 1.62, 95% CI 0.86-3.06).

Conclusions

Both conventional and NC lesions seem to be associated with increased risk of CRC. Conventional lesions are more strongly associated with CRC than NC lesions in the post-HD era, but misclassifications in the pre-HD era may have resulted in a biased increased risk estimate for NC lesions.
The role of cardiovascular multimodality imaging in the evaluation of Anderson–Fabry disease: from early diagnosis to therapy monitoring
Authors: Cameli Matteo , Pieroni Maurizio , Pastore Maria Concetta , Brucato Antonio , Castelletti Silvia , Crotti Lia , Dweck Marc , Frustaci Andrea , Gimelli Alessia , Klingel Karin , Kuchynka Petr , Kuusisto Johanna , Lazaros George , Mandoli Giulia Elena , Merlo Marco , Moon James , Muraru Denisa , Pantazis Antonis , Rigopoulos Angelos G , Ristic Arsen , Elif Sade Leyla , Sheppard Mary N , Tschöpe Carsten , Petersen Steffen E , Imazio Massimo , Bohbot Yohann , Cikes Maja , Garg Pankaj , Keenan Niall , Petrescu Aniela , Stankovic Ivan , Szabo Liliana , Uusitalo Valtteri
Published: February 2025

Anderson–Fabry disease (AFD) is a rare genetic disease with X-linked transmission characterized by a defect in the enzyme alpha-galactosidase A, which impairs glycosphingolipid metabolism and leads to an excessive storage of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) within lysosomes. AFD involves renal, cardiac, vascular, and nervous systems and is mainly observed in male patients with onset in childhood, although cardiac manifestation is often shown in adults. AFD cardiomyopathy is caused by the accumulation of Gb3 within myocytes first showed by left ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction, leading to restrictive cardiomyopathy and systolic heart failure with biventricular involvement. The diagnosis of AFD cardiomyopathy may be insidious in the first stages and requires accurate differential diagnosis with other cardiomyopathies with hypertrophic phenotype. However, it is fundamental to promptly initiate specific therapies that have shown promising results, particularly for early treatment. A careful integration between clinical evaluation, genetic tests, and cardiac imaging is required to diagnose AFD with cardiac involvement. Basic and advanced echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance, and nuclear imaging may offer pivotal information for early diagnosis (Graphical Abstract), and the management of these patients is often limited to centres with high expertise in the field. This clinical consensus statement, developed by experts from the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Working Group on Myocardial and Pericardial Diseases and the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging of the ESC, aims to provide practical advice for all clinicians regarding the use of multimodality imaging to simplify the diagnostic evaluation, prognostic stratification, and management of cardiac involvement in AFD.
Homemade stent shields: fortifying against coronary perforation in STEMI patients amidst intensive glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors—a case report
Authors: Hanif Muhammad Imran , Tariq Sheikh Minahil
Published: February 2025

Background

Coronary artery perforation (CAP), though rare, is a serious complication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) that demands prompt, tailored management. Swift recognition and intervention are essential. Typically, a covered stent is used to seal the perforation and restore vessel integrity. However, if unavailable, a homemade covered stent can be crafted and deployed. The choice of treatment depends on bleeding severity, patient stability, and available resources.

Case summary

A 70-year-old male with a history of diabetes and hypertension presented with severe chest pain persisting for 7–8 h, radiating to the left arm and jaw, accompanied by diaphoresis and nausea. His baseline electrocardiogram revealed an extensive anterior wall myocardial infarction, prompting immediate transfer to the catheterization laboratory for primary PCI. During the procedure, an unfortunate complication of CAP leading to cardiac tamponade was successfully managed by pericardiocentesis. With the unavailability of commercial covered stents, an improvised covered stent was fashioned and deployed, effectively sealing the perforation despite ongoing administration of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors and heparin which was initiated following acute stent thrombosis. The patient's haemodynamic status stabilized during hospitalization, and he was discharged in a stable condition.

Discussion

Our case is a pioneering instance of using a homemade stent with glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors and heparin in a STEMI patient with CAP. This novel approach was successful, demonstrating its feasibility and safety. Our experience suggests that improvised stenting techniques could be a viable option in complex coronary interventions, especially when commercial alternatives are unavailable. Further validation may broaden treatment options and improve outcomes in interventional cardiology.
The Heart Team Approach to Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Thevathasan Tharusan , Pöss Janine , Montisci Andrea , Schmack Bastian , Eghbalzadeh Kaveh , Ott Sascha , Tavazzi Guido , Schrage Benedikt , D’Ettore Nicoletta , Pappalardo Federico
Published: February 2025

Cardiac arrest is a critical emergency in cardiovascular medicine, requiring rapid, multidisciplinary interventions to enhance patient survival and neurological outcomes. This review explores the unique challenges of managing out-of-hospital and in-hospital cardiac arrest, with a focus on mechanical circulatory support and extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation for selected patients. While out-of-hospital cardiac arrest management should prioritize rapid transport to specialized centers, in-hospital cardiac arrest may allow for immediate, patient-tailored interventions. Post-cardiac arrest syndrome adds complexity, often requiring nuanced mechanical circulatory support escalation and weaning. Standardized protocols, ethical considerations, and further research are essential to refine patient selection and improve outcomes, ultimately advancing cardiac arrest care.
Digest: Clinal variation in plant traits is shaped by plastic and evolutionary responses to water regimes and herbivory
Authors: Hsu Gen-Chang
Published: February 2025

How do water regime and herbivory shape phenotypic variation in plants along environmental gradients? Using a multifactorial field common garden approach, Jameel et al. (2024) showed that water availability and herbivore abundance influence the expression of foliar and reproductive traits in the perennial forb Boechera stricta. The concordance between phenotypic plasticity, phenotypic clines, and the direction of selection demonstrates the adaptive nature of plasticity in ecologically relevant traits. Furthermore, the experimental manipulations highlight which agents of selection drive the evolution of these traits.
Reach of the Instagram profile @microbioworld in popularizing mycology and microbiology
Authors: dos Reis Jefferson Brendon Almeida , Schirmer Sofia Coradini
Published: February 2025

Online social networks have revolutionized scientific communication, making platforms like Instagram indispensable for sharing complex topics, including mycology. This study evaluated three key factors in assessing the impact of social media on scientific dissemination: follower profiles, reach, and engagement levels. We used the professional Instagram account @microbioworld as a case study. Account performance data were collected over a 90-day period (12 August–9 November 2024). Post performance was evaluated using data from selected posts published between 11 January and 11 November 2024. By the end of our sampling period, the account reached a total of 45 959 followers, with the majority aged 25–34 years (44.8%). It reached 108 631 unique accounts, with 22.4% being followers and 77.6% non-followers, generating 236 860 impressions and 15 750 interactions. Likes accounted for 83.3% of engagement. Posts featuring microorganism cultures achieved the highest engagement and reach. Sentiment analysis, using Bing and AFINN lexicons, revealed that over 89% of sentiments expressed in comments were positive. These findings demonstrate how Instagram can disseminate microbial content, foster positive perceptions of microorganisms, and emphasize their ecological importance, encouraging audience involvement with mycology and microbiology.
Comprehensive survey of kombucha microbial communities of diverse origins and fermentation practices
Authors: Ben Saad Emna , Friedrich Anne , Fischer Frédérique , Courot Olivier , Schacherer Joseph , Bleykasten Claudine
Published: February 2025

Kombucha is a unique, naturally fermented sweetened tea produced for thousands of years, relying on a symbiotic microbiota in a floating biofilm, used for successive fermentations. The microbial communities consist of yeast and bacteria species, distributed across two phases: the liquid and the biofilm fractions. In the fermentation of kombucha, various starters of different shapes and origins are used, and there are multiple brewing practices. By metabarcoding, we explored here the consortia and their evolution from a collection of 23 starters coming from various origins summarizing the diversity of kombucha fermentation processes. A core microbiota of yeast and bacteria has been identified in these diverse kombucha symbiotic consortia, revealing consistent core taxa across symbiotic consortium of bacteria and yeasts from different starters. The common core consists of five taxa: two yeast species from the Brettanomyces genus (B. bruxellensis and B. anomalus) and bacterial taxa Komagataeibacter, Lactobacillus, and Acetobacteraceae, including the Acetobacter genus. The distribution of yeast and bacteria core taxa differs between the liquid and biofilm fractions, as well as between the “mother” and “daughter” biofilms used in successive fermentations. In terms of microbial composition, the diversity is relatively low, with only a few accessory taxa identified. Overall, our study provides a deeper understanding of the core and accessory taxa involved in kombucha fermentation.
Two Concepts of Liberty in Paradise Lost
Authors: Woodford Benjamin
Published: February 2025

John Milton’s Paradise Lost portrays a conflict between two types of freedom, one espoused by God, the other by Satan. These two freedoms reflect Isaiah Berlin’s definitions of positive and negative liberty. God leaves the angels and Adam and Eve free to choose without interference (negative freedom), while Satan links freedom to self-mastery (positive freedom). An all-powerful, creator God and Satan’s dictatorial leadership result in dependence being a crucial aspect of both versions of freedom; consequently, neither God nor Satan espouses republican liberty. The poem suggests that the freedom created by God, although it relies on an arbitrary deity, is the only possible path to freedom.