bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychosis Endophenotypes: A Gene-Set-Specific Polygenic Risk Score Analysis
Authors: Wang Baihan , Irizar Haritz , Thygesen Johan H , Zartaloudi Eirini , Austin-Zimmerman Isabelle , Bhat Anjali , Harju-Seppänen Jasmine , Pain Oliver , Bass Nick , Gkofa Vasiliki , Alizadeh Behrooz Z , van Amelsvoort Therese , Arranz Maria J , Bender Stephan , Cahn Wiepke , Stella Calafato Maria , Crespo-Facorro Benedicto , Di Forti Marta ,   Genetic Risk and Outcome of Psychosis (GROUP) Study, Giegling Ina , de Haan Lieuwe , Hall Jeremy , Hall Mei-Hua , van Haren Neeltje , Iyegbe Conrad , Kahn René S , Kravariti Eugenia , Lawrie Stephen M , Lin Kuang , Luykx Jurjen J , Mata Ignacio , McDonald Colm , McIntosh Andrew M , Murray Robin M ,   Psychosis Endophenotypes International Consortium (PEIC), Picchioni Marco , Powell John , Prata Diana P , Rujescu Dan , Rutten Bart P F , Shaikh Madiha , Simons Claudia J P , Toulopoulou Timothea , Weisbrod Matthias , van Winkel Ruud , Kuchenbaecker Karoline , McQuillin Andrew , Bramon Elvira
Published: August 2023

Background and Hypothesis

Endophenotypes can help to bridge the gap between psychosis and its genetic predispositions, but their underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. This study aims to identify biological mechanisms that are relevant to the endophenotypes for psychosis, by partitioning polygenic risk scores into specific gene sets and testing their associations with endophenotypes.

Study Design

We computed polygenic risk scores for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder restricted to brain-related gene sets retrieved from public databases and previous publications. Three hundred and seventy-eight gene-set-specific polygenic risk scores were generated for 4506 participants. Seven endophenotypes were also measured in the sample. Linear mixed-effects models were fitted to test associations between each endophenotype and each gene-set-specific polygenic risk score.

Study Results

After correction for multiple testing, we found that a reduced P300 amplitude was associated with a higher schizophrenia polygenic risk score of the forebrain regionalization gene set (mean difference per SD increase in the polygenic risk score: −1.15 µV; 95% CI: −1.70 to −0.59 µV; P = 6 × 10−5). The schizophrenia polygenic risk score of forebrain regionalization also explained more variance of the P300 amplitude (R2 = 0.032) than other polygenic risk scores, including the genome-wide polygenic risk scores.

Conclusions

Our finding on reduced P300 amplitudes suggests that certain genetic variants alter early brain development thereby increasing schizophrenia risk years later. Gene-set-specific polygenic risk scores are a useful tool to elucidate biological mechanisms of psychosis and endophenotypes, offering leads for experimental validation in cellular and animal models.
Religion-Related Legitimations in Abortion Policy-Making in Poland. What Do They Tell Us About the Public Role of Religion?
Authors: Zielińska Katarzyna , Borowik Irena , Koralewska Inga , Zwierżdżyński Marcin
Published: August 2023

The existing research on and conceptualization of the public presence of religion usually builds on the Habermasian understanding of the public sphere. This has centered the discussion on the public presence of religion around the question of where such a presence is justified. Discourse theories offer an alternative understanding, stating that the public sphere is an area of struggles where diverse discourses compete to establish a definition of social reality as taken for granted and hegemonic. This shift opens the question of how a given definition of social reality becomes taken for granted, pointing to the role of legitimation. Against this background, our article argues that religion’s ability to serve as a valuable “resource” for building justifications in discursive struggles for hegemony could serve as indicators of its presence in the public sphere. Along these lines, we analyze religion’s legitimizing role in abortion policy-making in Poland.
Effects of copper, zinc, and manganese source and inclusion during late gestation on beef cow–calf performance, mineral transfer, and metabolism
Authors: Stephenson Emma L , Rathert-Williams Abigail R , Kenny Ann L , Nagy Dusty W , Shoemake Brian M , McFadden Thomas B , Tucker Heather A , Meyer Allison M
Published: August 2023

To determine effects of Cu, Zn, and Mn source and inclusion during late gestation, multiparous beef cows [n = 48; 649 ± 80 kg body weight (BW); 5.3 ± 0.5 body condition score (BCS)] were individually-fed hay and supplement to meet or exceed all nutrient recommendations except Cu, Zn, and Mn. From 91.2 ± 6.2 d pre-calving to 11.0 ± 3.2 d post-calving, cows received: no additional Cu, Zn, or Mn (control, CON), sulfate-based Cu, Zn, and Mn (inorganic, ITM) or metal methionine hydroxy analogue chelates (MMHAC) of Cu, Zn, and Mn at 133% recommendations, or a combination of inorganic and chelated Cu, Zn, and Mn (reduce and replace, RR) to meet 100% of recommendations. Data were analyzed with treatment and breeding group (and calf sex if P < 0.25 for offspring measures) as fixed effects, animal as experimental unit, and sampling time as a repeated effect for serum, plasma, and milk measures over time. Post-calving cow liver Cu was greater (P ≤ 0.07) in MMHAC compared with all other treatments. Calves born to RR had greater (P ≤ 0.05) liver Cu than ITM and CON, and MMHAC had greater (P = 0.06) liver Cu than CON. Liver Mn was less (P ≤ 0.08) for RR calves than all other treatments. Calf plasma Zn was maintained (P ≥ 0.15) from 0 to 48 h of age in ITM and MMHAC but decreased (P ≤ 0.03) in CON and RR. Gestational cow BW, BCS, and metabolites were not affected (P ≥ 0.13) by treatment, but gestational serum thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were greater (P = 0.01) for CON than MMHAC. Treatment did not affect (P ≥ 0.13) calf birth size, vigor, placental size and minerals, or transfer of passive immunity. Neonatal calf serum Ca was greater (P ≤ 0.05) for MMHAC than all other treatments; other calf serum chemistry and plasma cortisol were not affected (P ≥ 0.12). Pre-suckling colostrum yield, and lactose concentration and content, were greater (P ≤ 0.06) for MMHAC compared with ITM and RR. Colostral triglyceride and protein concentrations were greater (P ≤ 0.08) for RR than MMHAC and CON. Cow lactational BW and BCS, milk yield and composition, and pre-weaning calf BW and metabolism were not affected (P ≥ 0.13) by treatment. Lactational serum TBARS were greater (P = 0.04) for RR than CON at day 35 and greater (P ≤ 0.09) for MMHAC at day 60 than all other treatments. Source and inclusion of Cu, Zn, and Mn altered maternal and neonatal calf mineral status, but calf size and vigor at birth, passive transfer, and pre-weaning growth were not affected in this study.
ADME characterization and PBK model development of 3 highly protein-bound UV filters through topical application
Authors: Li Hequn , Bunglawala Fazila , Hewitt Nicola J , Pendlington Ruth , Cubberley Richard , Nicol Beate , Spriggs Sandrine , Baltazar Maria , Cable Sophie , Dent Matthew
Published: August 2023

Estimating human exposure in the safety assessment of chemicals is crucial. Physiologically based kinetic (PBK) models which combine information on exposure, physiology, and chemical properties, describing the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) processes of a chemical, can be used to calculate internal exposure metrics such as maximum concentration and area under the concentration-time curve in plasma or tissues of a test chemical in next-generation risk assessment. This article demonstrates the development of PBK models for 3 UV filters, specifically octyl methoxycinnamate, octocrylene, and 4-methylbenzylidene camphor. The models were parameterized entirely based on data obtained from in vitro and/or in silico methods in a bottom-up modeling approach and then validated based on human dermal pharmacokinetic (PK) data. The 3 UV filters are “difficult to test” in in vitro test systems due to high lipophilicity, high binding affinity for proteins, and nonspecific binding, for example, toward plastic. This research work presents critical considerations in ADME data generation, interpretation, and parameterization to assure valid PBK model development to increase confidence in using PBK modeling to help make safety decisions in the absence of human PK data. The developed PBK models of the 3 chemicals successfully simulated the plasma concentration profiles of clinical PK data following dermal application, indicating the reliability of the ADME data generated and the parameters determined. The study also provides insights and lessons learned for characterizing ADME and developing PBK models for highly lipophilic and protein-bound chemicals in the future.
Immunotoxicity of N-butylbenzenesulfonamide: impacts on immune function in adult mice and developmentally exposed rats
Authors: Johnson Victor J , Rider Cynthia V , Luster Michael I , Brix Amy , Burleson Gary R , Cora Michelle , Elmore Susan A , Frawley Rachel P , Lopez Franklin R , Mutlu Esra , Shockley Keith R , Pierfelice Jessica , Burback Brian , Co Caroll A , Germolec Dori R
Published: August 2023

N-butylbenzenesulfonamide (NBBS) is a high-production volume plasticizer that is an emerging contaminant of concern for environmental and human health. To understand the risks and health effects of exposure to NBBS, studies were conducted in adult-exposed mice and developmentally exposed rats to evaluate the potential for NBBS to modulate the immune system. Beginning between 8 and 9 weeks of age, dosed feed containing NBBS at concentrations of 0, 313, 625, 1250, 2500, and 5000 ppm was continuously provided to B6C3F1/N female mice for 28 days. Dosed feed was also continuously provided to time-mated Harlan Sprague Dawley (Sprague Dawley SD) rats at concentrations of 0-, 250-, 500-, and 1000-ppm NBBS from gestation day 6 to postnatal day 28 and in F1 rats until 11–14 weeks of age. Functional assessments of innate, humoral, and cell-mediated immunity were conducted in adult female mice and F1 rats following exposure to NBBS. In female mice, NBBS treatment suppressed the antibody-forming cell (AFC) response to SRBC with small increases in T-cell responses and natural killer (NK)-cell activity. In developmentally exposed rats, NBBS treatment-related immune effects were sex dependent. A positive trend in NK-cell activity occurred in male F1 rats while a negative trend occurred in female F1 rats. The AFC response to SRBC was decreased in female F1 rats but not in male F1 rats. These data provide evidence that oral exposure to NBBS has the potential to produce immunomodulatory effects on both innate and adaptive immune responses, and these effects appear to have some dependence on species, sex, and period of exposure (developmental vs adult).
Eocene origin of anemone-carrying behaviour in polydectine crabs (Brachyura: Xanthidae)
Authors: Gries Lennart , Paule Juraj , Sonnewald Moritz , Nilsson Maria A
Published: August 2023

The crabs in the subfamily Polydectinae (family Xanthidae) have adapted a defence behaviour in which living invertebrates are used as protection from predators. The polydectine crabs carry a living invertebrate, a sea anemone or nudibranch, in each claw, which is positioned in front of the body and waved to scare off attackers. In an attempt to trace the origin of this behaviour, we sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome of 19 crabs (encompassing 12 genera) from museum samples. The complete mitochondrial genomes were included in a larger dataset with previously published sequences and analysed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference. The divergence times of the polydectine crab radiation were estimated using the mitochondrial dataset and fossil calibration points. Our results show that the anemone-carrying polydectine crabs consist of at least three deep evolutionary lineages that evolved in the Late Eocene. All three lineages share the unique behaviour suggesting that it emerged in the ancestor to Polydectinae nearly 40 million years ago and has persisted in all living species.
Evaluating The Effect Of Pregabalin In The Treatment Of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Bismaya Kumar , Singh Varun Kumar , Pathak Abhishek , Kumar Anand , Mishra Vijaya Nath , Joshi Deepika , Chaurasia Rameshwar Nath
Published: August 2023

Objective:

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of pregabalin for control of symptoms in mild to moderate idiopathic Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Methods:

In this randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 146 mild to moderate idiopathic CTS patients were randomized into pregabalin (n=74) and placebo group (n=72). Per protocol analysis was done in 131 patients; pregabalin (n=65) and placebo (n=66). Drug titration dose was 50 mg once daily for 1st week, twice daily for 2nd week and thrice daily for next 6 weeks. Primary outcome included change in Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) and Functional Status Scale (FSS) of Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire after 8th week. Secondary outcome was the change in clinical and electrophysiological grading after 8 weeks of therapy.

Results:

There was a statistically significant improvement in the mean SSS (14.92±3.72 vs. 16.55±4.45; P=0.025) and FSS (10.77±2.64 vs. 12.0±2.55; P=0.007) in the pregabalin group after 8 weeks. Mean clinical and electrophysiological grading changed significantly from 2.3±0.7 to 2.1±0.8 (P=0.001) and 1.9±0.7 to 1.8±0.8 (P=0.020) respectively in pregabalin group but not in placebo group.

Discussion:

This study demonstrates that pregabalin is effective in ameliorating symptoms and improving functional outcomes in mild to moderate idiopathic CTS.
The Rates of Postmastectomy Immediate Breast Reconstruction during the Initial Months of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sadri Babak S. , Cunning Jessica , Kincaid Hope , Standlick Alyssa , Allen Lauren , Murphy Robert X.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic-related changes may have led to changes in immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) rates. We aimed to evaluate these changes before, during, and after the initial wave of COVID-19.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed women who underwent mastectomy with or without IBR from January 1 to September 30, 2019 and from January 1 to September 30, 2020, and compared demographic, clinical, and surgical variables between defined time periods.

Results:

A total of 202 mastectomies were included. Fewer patients underwent IBR during the initial surge of COVID-19 (surge period) compared with the months before (presurge period; 38.46% versus 70.97%, P = 0.0433). When comparing the postsurge period with a year before (postsurge control), fewer patients underwent reconstruction even after the initial surge had passed (53.13% versus 81.25%, P = 0.0007). Those who underwent IBR were older than the year before (59.34 versus 53.06, P = 0.0181). The median number of postoperative visits in the postsurge period was 8.50 (interquartile range: 6–12) compared with 14 (interquartile range: 8–20.50) in the year before (P = 0.0017). The overall incidences of complications and unanticipated resource utilization were also significantly lower in the postsurge period compared with the year before [5.88% versus 30.77% (P = 0.0055), and 14.71% versus 28.85% (P = 0.0103), respectively].

Conclusions:

IBR rates were lower even after the initial surge than at the year before. Furthermore, during the pandemic, IBR patients were older, had fewer follow-up visits, and fewer reported complications.
Game Changers: Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Innovations of the Last 100 Years
Authors: Asghari Arya , O’Connor Madeline J. , Attalla Philopatir , Ewing Emily , Lee Clara J. , Greene Arin , Lee Clara N. , Lifchez Scott , Sacks Justin M. , Gosman Amanda
Published: August 2023

Background:

Innovation is an essential aspect of plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS), whether it involves improving current processes or implementing radical change that disrupts the status quo. Collaborating and sharing innovations help advance the field of PRS as a whole.

Methods:

An anonymous survey was administered to members of the American Association of Plastic Surgeons on their opinions of the top five innovations in PRS of the last 100 years.

Results:

A list of 69 unique innovations were compiled; the top five innovations overall were microsurgery, myocutaneous flaps, craniofacial surgery, negative pressure wound therapy, and organ transplantation. This list was reviewed by the American Association of Plastic Surgeons Technology Committee, and expanded to 100 unique innovations.

Conclusions:

We discuss why the above innovations were essential to the development of PRS, as well as the unique factors that can make a new product or procedure into something that remodels the field of PRS.
Antidepressant-Associated Treatment Emergent Mania
Authors: Nuñez Nicolas A. , Coombes Brandon J. , Melhuish Beaupre Lindsay , Romo-Nava Francisco , Gardea-Resendez Manuel , Ozerdem Aysegul , Veldic Marin , Singh Balwinder , Sanchez Ruiz Jorge A. , Cuellar-Barboza Alfredo , Leung Jonathan G. , Prieto Miguel L. , McElroy Susan L. , Biernacka Joanna M. , Frye Mark A.
Published: August 2023

Background

The purpose of this study was to review the association between the SLC6A4 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and antidepressant (AD)-associated treatment emergent mania (TEM) in bipolar disorder alongside starting a discussion on the merits of developing risk stratification models to guide when not to provide AD treatment for bipolar depression.

Methods

Studies that examined the association between clinical and genetic risk factors, specifically monoaminergic transporter genetic variation, and TEM were identified. A meta-analysis was performed using the odds ratio to estimate the effect size under the Der-Simonian and Laird model.

Results

Seven studies, referencing the SLC6A4 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and TEM (total N = 1578; TEM+ =594, TEM− = 984), of 142 identified articles were included. The time duration between the start of the AD to emergence of TEM ranged from 4 to 12 weeks. There was a nominally significant association between the s allele of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and TEM (odds ratio, 1.434; 95% confidence interval, 1.001–2.055; P = 0.0493; I
2 = 52%). No studies have investigated norepinephrine or dopamine transporters.

Conclusion

Although the serotonin transporter genetic variation is commercially available in pharmacogenomic decision support tools, greater efforts, more broadly, should focus on complete genome-wide approaches to determine genetic variants that may contribute to TEM. Moreover, these data are exemplary to the merits of developing risk stratification models, which include both clinical and biological risk factors, to guide when not to use ADs in bipolar disorder. Future studies will need to validate new risk models that best inform the development of personalized medicine best practices treating bipolar depression.
Screening for Anxiety and Depression Symptoms Using Concussion Symptom Scales Among Varsity Athletes
Authors: Roberts Samantha D. , Champigny Claire , Feldman Samantha J. , Flora David B. , Wojtowicz Magdalena
Published: August 2023

Objective:

This study examined associations between Sport Concussion Assessment Tool-5 (SCAT-5) symptom reporting and gold-standard measures of anxiety and depression, and explored the utility SCAT-5 symptom subscales to identify anxiety and depression symptomology.

Design:

Prospective cross-sectional study.

Setting:

York University in Toronto, Canada.

Participants:

Preseason data were collected for varsity athletes (N = 296) aged between 17 and 25 years (M = 20.01 years, SD = 1.69 years; 52% male).

Main Outcome Measures:

The SCAT-5 symptom evaluation scale was used to assess baseline symptoms. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder Index-7 (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) were used to assess symptoms of anxiety and depression, respectively.

Results:

Endorsement of SCAT-5 symptoms of feeling anxious, sadness, irritability, and feeling more emotional had the strongest correlations with the GAD-7 (r’s > 0.400; P’s < 0.001). Sadness, trouble falling asleep, concentration problems, feeling slowed down, anxious, irritability, mental fog, fatigue, and memory problems had the highest correlations with the PHQ-9 (r’s >0 .400; P’s < 0.001). The Emotional subscale from the SCAT-5 predicted mild to severe anxiety on the GAD-7 (P < 0.001). The Sleep, Cognitive, and Emotional subscales predicted mild to severe depression on the PHQ-9 (P’s < 0.05).

Conclusions:

These findings provide better delineation of symptoms endorsed on the SCAT-5 symptoms that aid in identification of athletes with symptoms of anxiety or depression who may be at risk for developing a clinical disorder or experiencing persistent symptoms after a concussion.
A Case Report of Migraine With Aura Worsened After Starting Apixaban and Literature Review
Authors: Alhayek Nour , Harahsheh Ehab , Dumitrascu Oana , Green Anthony L.
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Multiple medications have been related to triggering headache attacks or worsening headache frequency or severity in patients with migraine disease. However, the impact of direct oral anticoagulants on headache frequency and severity in patients with migraine disease is unclear. Current literature is scarce and controversial.

Case Report:

A 45-year-old male with a history of migraine with aura for the last 20 years underwent percutaneous transcatheter closure of an atrial septal defect due to right ventricular enlargement and systolic dysfunction. The intervention was complicated by postprocedural atrial fibrillation, for which he was started on apixaban. Shortly after starting the apixaban, the patient experienced an increase in the frequency and severity of his migraine with aura episodes that were persistent until he discontinued this medication 7 months later. Following the discontinuation of apixaban, the patient’s frequency and severity of migraine episodes returned to baseline almost immediately.

Conclusion:

Novel oral anticoagulants, including apixaban, may be associated with an increase in the frequency and severity of migraine attacks in patients with migraine disease. Larger observational studies are required to investigate further the impact of direct oral anticoagulants on migraine disease.
Efficacy and Safety of Human Urinary Kallidinogenase for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wang Ruixian , Zhang Yanjun , Shao Yajuan , Yang Xiujuan , Chen Lei
Published: August 2023

Background:

The aim of this study was to investigate the outcomes of human urinary kallidinogenase (HUK) after recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator treatment in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods:

In this retrospective study conducted from December 2018 to August 2020, 313 patients with AIS patients who received recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator treatment were enrolled. Among them, 148 patients received basic therapy, and 165 patients received HUK treatment. Demographics and clinical characteristics were analyzed after treatment, and patients were monitored for stroke recurrence for 12 months. National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and modified Rankin Scale scores were used to assess the efficacy of treatment. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for recurrence.

Results:

There were no differences in baseline clinical characteristics between the 2 groups in the database. After 14 days of treatment, the HUK group had significantly lower NIHSS and modified Rankin Scale scores than the control group (P<0.01). The recurrence rates in the HUK and control groups were 12.84% and 21.82%, respectively, with patients treated with HUK having better outcomes (P<0.001). Logistic analysis indicated that high homocysteine levels and high NIHSS scores at diagnosis were risk factors for AIS recurrence. In addition, HUK treatment was found to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Conclusion:

Treatment with HUK after intravenous thrombolysis can significantly improve the neurological function of AIS patients and reduce stroke recurrence.
Trends in Antiseizure Medication Prescribing Among Nursing Home Residents With and Without a Seizure Diagnosis
Authors: Winter Jonathan D. , Kerns J. William , Winter Katherine M. , Richards Alicia , Sabo Roy T.
Published: August 2023

Objectives:

Evaluate current prevalence and changes in prescribing of antiseizure medications (ASMs) in Virginia nursing homes for residents with and without seizures.

Methods:

Retrospective cohort. De-identified claims extracted from the Virginia All-Payers-Claims-Database defined annual and biennial cohorts of all insured long-stay residents with and without any claims-based seizure diagnoses. ASM prescribing prevalence rates for these cohorts were analyzed from 2011 to 2016. Multiple logistic regression compared prescribing prevalence rates within and between these 2 groups.

Results:

Annual cohorts averaged 57,190. 65.6% Female, 38% white. 80% public insurance, 20% commercial secondary. Between 2011 and 2016, the claims-based prevalence of seizure diagnoses decreased (17.1% to 10.5%). However, ASM prescribing prevalence increased (10.4% to 11.6%). Increases were entirely among residents who never had any seizure-epilepsy claim, whereas ASM prescribing among residents with seizures decreased. Different drugs were used for patients with and without seizures. For residents without seizures, 85% of ASMs prescribed have alternative indications for mood or pain symptoms, and large gains in gabapentin and modest but significant increases in valproate, lamotrigine, carbamazepine, and topiramate prescribing were detected. Among residents with seizures, ASMs without alternative indications were more common (59%), with marked reductions in phenobarbital and phenytoin but significant increases in levetiracetam and lacosamide use observed.

Conclusions:

Long-stay ASM use is changing. ASM gains are unrelated to seizure-epilepsy prevalence. ASM prescribing increased only among residents without seizures, where ASMs with expanded indications were preferred. Long-stay ASM prescribing and prescribing indication should be included in mandatory CMS reporting similar to other CNS-active medications.
Endometrial/Endometrioid Stromal Tumors With Extensive Whorling and CTNNB1 Translocation
Authors: Boyraz Baris , da Cruz Paula Arnaud , Deveraux Kelly A. , Tran Ivy , da Silva Edaise M. , Young Robert H. , Snuderl Matija , Weigelt Britta , Oliva Esther
Published: August 2023

Endometrial/endometrioid stromal tumors are rare and morphologically heterogenous, and their diagnosis may be challenging. We identified 3 endometrial/endometrioid stromal tumors with identical and previously undescribed histologic features and herein report their morphologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular profiles. Patients were 53, 62, and 79 years. Tumors were well-circumscribed, tan-yellow solid masses measuring 10.0, 11.0, and 18.7 cm, and were intramyometrial (n=2) or in the broad ligament (n=1). All showed small, tight whorls of epithelioid to slightly spindled tumor cells with minimal cytoplasm and negligible mitoses, multifocally associated with hyalinization and myxoid change set in a loose fibroblastic background with small, delicate vessels. This morphology was seen throughout in 1 tumor and in ∼20% and 70% of the 2 others with the remaining areas showing sex cord–like differentiation. Tumor cells expressed CD10 (3/3, 1 focal), calretinin (3/3 diffuse), WT1 (3/3 diffuse), estrogen receptor (1/1, diffuse). RNA-sequencing was successful in 1 tumor and revealed aGREB1-CTNNB1in-frame fusion. All 3 tumors harbored aCTNNB1translocation by fluorescence in situ hybridization correlating with nuclear β-catenin expression. Whole-genome DNA methylation analysis classified all 3 tumors within the low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma reference class with flat copy number profiles. One patient (79-y-old) died of unrelated causes 2 months after surgery and the other 2 were alive without disease after 13 and 75 months. We have described a rare subset of endometrial/endometrioid stromal tumors with extensive whorling and aCTNNB1translocation, expanding the morphologic and molecular spectrum of these neoplasms.
Exploratory Study of a New Technique of Pixelated Chromoendoscopy in the Diagnosis of Early Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Su Zhe , Chen Wei , Cao Xiangming , Deng Lichun , Zhang Yongqiang
Published: August 2023

Background:

Chromoendoscopy is an effective method for early screening of esophageal cancer, but diagnosis can depend on subjective judgment. The study aimed to explore a new technique of pixelated chromoendoscopy in the diagnosis of early esophageal cancer.

Patients and Methods:

The study included patients with symptoms of esophageal cancer who attended Jiangyin People’s Hospital between January 2015 and July 2021. Chromoendoscopy was performed on each patient. The images then underwent digital analysis; the lesion area (the sensitive region) was pixelated by dividing it into the smallest image unit and the red, green, and blue color components. The diagnostic performance of pixelated chromoendoscopy was evaluated by calculating the area under the receiver operating characteristic.

Results:

The study finally enrolled 86 patients (aged 51.34 ± 5.82 y), including 54 males and 32 females. Pathologic diagnosis identified 54 cases in the cancer group and 32 cases in the non-cancer group. Traditional judgment had a diagnostic sensitivity of 70.73% and specificity was 75.00%. Pixelated chromoendoscopy sensitivity was 80.49%, and specificity was 83.33%. The area under the receiver operating characteristic was 0.814, at a cutoff value of 0.625, indicating a good prediction effect.

Conclusions:

These results showed that pixelated chromoendoscopy might improve the rate of esophageal cancer diagnoses from early screening.
Outcomes of Non-intubated Versus Intubated Thoracoscopic Surgery for Primary Spontaneous Pneumothorax
Authors: Yanik Fazli , Karamustafaoglu Yekta Altemur , Yoruk Yener
Published: August 2023

Background:

This study aimed to compare the outcomes of non-intubated video-assisted thoracic surgery (N-VATS) and intubated video-assisted thoracic surgery (I-VATS) for primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP).

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed 120 consecutive patients who underwent VATS for PSP. The patients were divided into N-VATS and I-VATS groups. Demographics, clinical characteristics, postoperative results, pain scores, follow-up results, and management were evaluated and compared between the groups. Local anesthesia and deep sedation (ketamine 2 mg/kg IV and propofol 2 mg/kg IV slow infusion) were administered under spontaneous ventilation in the N-VATS group.

Results:

The groups did not differ significantly in terms of age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiology score, pneumothorax side, or smoking history (P>0.05). The mean operation time, anesthesia time, oral intake opening time, and mobilization time were significantly shorter in the N-VATS group (26.04±4.61 vs. 48.26±7.82 min, 42.14±6.40 vs. 98.16±12.4 min, 2.1±0.4 vs. 8.4±1.2 h, and 4.2±0.9 vs. 2.6±1.4 between N-VATS and I-VATS, respectively; P<0.05). The surgical outcomes did not differ in terms of minor complications (12%-13%) and recurrence rates (5.1%-6.4%) during a mean follow-up period of 88.4±10.2 mo. No cases of conversion to open surgery or mortality were observed. General anesthesia and intubation were not required for any patient in the N-VATS group.

Conclusions:

Our results revealed no differences in minor complications or recurrence rates between groups. However, the N-VATS group had significantly shorter operation, anesthesia, oral intake opening, and mobilization times. The most important advantage of N-VATS for PSP is its fast recovery while avoiding the risks of general anesthesia and intubation. Further prospective studies with larger sample sizes are warranted.
Comparing the prevalence of statistical reporting inconsistencies in COVID-19 preprints and matched controls: a registered report
Authors: van Aert Robbie C. M. , Nuijten Michèle B. , Olsson-Collentine Anton , Stoevenbelt Andrea H. , van den Akker Olmo R. , Klein Richard A. , Wicherts Jelte M.
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 outbreak has led to an exponential increase of publications and preprints about the virus, its causes, consequences, and possible cures. COVID-19 research has been conducted under high time pressure and has been subject to financial and societal interests. Doing research under such pressure may influence the scrutiny with which researchers perform and write up their studies. Either researchers become more diligent, because of the high-stakes nature of the research, or the time pressure may lead to cutting corners and lower quality output. In this study, we conducted a natural experiment to compare the prevalence of incorrectly reported statistics in a stratified random sample of COVID-19 preprints and a matched sample of non-COVID-19 preprints. Our results show that the overall prevalence of incorrectly reported statistics is 9–10%, but frequentist as well as Bayesian hypothesis tests show no difference in the number of statistical inconsistencies between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 preprints. In conclusion, the literature suggests that COVID-19 research may on average have more methodological problems than non-COVID-19 research, but our results show that there is no difference in the statistical reporting quality.
Mirror exposure following visual body-size adaptation does not affect own body image
Authors: Chazelle Thomas , Guerraz Michel , Palluel-Germain Richard
Published: August 2023

Prolonged visual exposure to large bodies produces a thinning aftereffect on subsequently seen bodies, and vice versa. This visual adaptation effect could contribute to the link between media exposure and body shape misperception. Indeed, people exposed to thin bodies in the media, who experience fattening aftereffects, may internalize the distorted image of their body they see in the mirror. This preregistered study tested this internalization hypothesis by exposing 196 young women to an obese adaptor before showing them their reflection in the mirror, or to a control condition. Then, we used a psychophysical task to measure the effects of this procedure on perceptual judgements about their own body size, relative to another body and to the control mirror exposure condition. We found moderate evidence against the hypothesized self-specific effects of mirror exposure on perceptual judgements. Our work strengthens the idea that body size adaptation affects the perception of test stimuli rather than the participants' own body image. We discuss recent studies which may provide an alternative framework to study media-related distortions of perceptual body image.
Continuous low-intensity predation by owls (Strix aluco) on bats (Nyctalus lasiopterus) in Spain and the potential effect on bat colony stability
Authors: Kelm Detlev H. , Langheld Manuel , Nogueras Jesús , Popa-Lisseanu Ana G. , Ibáñez Carlos
Published: August 2023

Owls prey on bats, but information on owl predation is scarce, its impact on bat mortality is unclear, and reports on behavioural responses, including roost-switching and fission–fusion behaviour, are equivocal. To study the link between owl predation and anti-predator behaviour in bats, we evaluated seven months of video recordings at roosts and the behaviour of 51 passive integrated transponder (PIT)-tagged bats and bats without tags in a geographically isolated colony of greater noctule bats (Nyctalus lasiopterus) in Spain. We found the tawny owlStrix alucoto almost continuously huntN. lasiopterus, from perches and on the wing, well after the bats emerged at dusk and when they returned to their roosts. We recorded 39 unsuccessful and three successful attacks. Nonetheless, we found no evidence that owl predation modifies bat behaviour. While the bats constituted only a very small proportion of the owls' diet, owl predation accounted for an estimated 30–40% of bat mortality, which may have a significant impact on small, local or isolated bat populations, in particular, and thereby shape regional bat distributions. We hypothesize that low roost availability may also affect the bats’ potential response to predation, which could lead to natural predation having an excessive impact on bat populations.
Macroevolutionary patterns in the pelvis, stylopodium and zeugopodium of megalosauroid theropod dinosaurs and their importance for locomotor function
Authors: Lacerda Mauro B. S. , Bittencourt Jonathas S. , Hutchinson John R.
Published: August 2023

During the Mesozoic, non-avian theropods represented one of the most successful clades globally distributed, with a wide diversity of forms. An example is the clade Megalosauroidea, which included medium- to large-bodied forms. Here, we analyse the macroevolution of the locomotor system in early Theropoda, emphasizing the Megalosauroidea. We scored the
Spinosaurus
neotype in a published taxon-character matrix and described the associated modifications in character states, mapping them onto a phylogeny and using these to study disparity. In the evolution of Megalosauroidea, there was the mosaic emergence of a low swollen ridge; enlargement of the posterior brevis fossa and emergence of a posterodorsal process on the ilium in some megalosauroids; emergence of a femoral head oriented anteromedially and medially angled, and appearance of posterolaterally oriented medial femoral condyles in spinosaurids. The greatest morphological disparity is in the ilium of megalosaurids; the ischium seems to have a high degree of homoplasy; there is a clear distinction in the femoral morphospace regarding megalosauroids and other theropods; piatnitzkysaurids show considerable disparity of zeugopodial characters. These reconstructions of osteological evolution form a stronger basis on which other studies could build, such as mapping of pelvic/appendicular musculature and/or correlating skeletal traits with changes in locomotor function.
Investigating multi-material hydrogel three-dimensional printing for
in vitro
representation of the neo-vasculature of solid tumours: a comprehensive mechanical analysis and assessment of nitric oxide release from human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Asciak Lisa , Gilmour Lauren , Williams Jonathan A. , Foster Euan , Díaz-García Lara , McCormick Christopher , Windmill James F. C. , Mulvana Helen E. , Jackson-Camargo Joseph C. , Domingo-Roca Roger
Published: August 2023

Many solid tumours (e.g. sarcoma, carcinoma and lymphoma) form a disorganized neo-vasculature that initiates uncontrolled vessel formation to support tumour growth. The complexity of these environments poses a significant challenge for tumour medicine research. While animal models are commonly used to address some of these challenges, they are time-consuming and raise ethical concerns.
In vitro
microphysiological systems have been explored as an alternative, but their production typically requires multi-step lithographic processes that limit their production. In this work, a novel approach to rapidly develop multi-material tissue-mimicking, cell-compatible platforms able to represent the complexity of a solid tumour's neo-vasculature is investigated via stereolithography three-dimensional printing. To do so, a series of acrylate resins that yield covalently photo-cross-linked hydrogels with healthy and diseased mechano-acoustic tissue-mimicking properties are designed and characterized. The potential viability of these materials to displace animal testing in preclinical research is assessed by studying the morphology, actin expression, focal adhesions and nitric oxide release of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. These materials are exploited to produce a simplified multi-material three-dimensional printed model of the neo-vasculature of a solid tumour, demonstrating the potential of our approach to replicate the complexity of solid tumours
in vitro
without the need for animal testing.
Parasitoid–host eavesdropping reveals temperature coupling of preferences to communication signals without genetic coupling
Authors: Jirik Karina J. , Dominguez Jimena A. , Abdulkarim Iya , Glaaser Johanna , Stoian Emilia S. , Almanza Luis J. , Lee Norman
Published: August 2023

Receivers of acoustic communication signals evaluate signal features to identify conspecifics. Changes in the ambient temperature can alter these features, rendering species recognition a challenge. To maintain effective communication, temperature coupling—changes in receiver signal preferences that parallel temperature-induced changes in signal parameters—occurs among genetically coupled signallers and receivers. Whether eavesdroppers of communication signals exhibit temperature coupling is unknown. Here, we investigate if the parasitoid fly
Ormia ochracea
, an eavesdropper of cricket calling songs, exhibits song pulse rate preferences that are temperature coupled. We use a high-speed treadmill system to record walking phonotaxis at three ambient temperatures (21, 25, and 30°C) in response to songs that varied in pulse rates (20 to 90 pulses per second). Total walking distance, peak steering velocity, angular heading, and the phonotaxis performance index varied with song pulse rates and ambient temperature. The peak of phonotaxis performance index preference functions became broader and shifted to higher pulse rate values at higher temperatures. Temperature-related changes in cricket songs between 21 and 30°C did not drastically affect the ability of flies to recognize cricket calling songs. These results confirm that temperature coupling can occur in eavesdroppers that are not genetically coupled with signallers.
Impact of a ventilator care bundle on critically ill mechanically ventilated patients at a tertiary care center in northern India
Authors: Harsvardhan Rajesh , Mehra Pallavi , Misra Richa , Azim Afzal , Patnaik Rupali
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Effective implementation of a care bundle is proven to decrease the occurrence of VAE, duration of mechanical ventilation, and length of stay in any ICU.

Hypothesis/Gap statement

There are few studies from India on the compliance rate of the ventilator care bundle and its impact on Ventilator Associated Event (VAE) rate as well as ICU course.

Aim

We assessed the compliance rate to six components of the ventilator care bundle and its impact on the rate of VAE and ICU course of patients admitted to the Critical Care Medicine ward at our centre.

Methodology

This prospective, observational, single-center cohort study included 68 patients who received mechanical ventilation in a 20-bed, adult mixed medical-surgical ICU at a tertiary care institute.

Results

The median duration of mechanical ventilation was 9 days. The compliance to the ventilator care bundle was partial (<6 components) among 52 patients while full compliance was observed in only 16 patients. The overall percentage compliance to six ventilator care bundle components was 99% for PUD-P followed by 98% for Assessment of Sedation (AS), 94% for Head of Bed Elevation (HoBE), 86% for Daily Oral Care with Chlorhexidine(O-CHX), 82% for Subglottic Suction Drainage (SSD) and 72% for Deep Venous Thrombosis Prophylaxis (DVT-P). The median duration of mechanical ventilation & length of stay in ICU decreased to 6 & 11 days respectively among patients with full bundle compliance. The baseline VAE rate was 11.3/1000 ventilator-days which decreased to 9.2/1000 ventilator-days during the study. Acinetobacter baumannii was the most common isolate (n= 37) out of which 90% were carbapenem resistant.

Conclusion

Full bundle compliance was observed to be associated with a reduction in VAE rate as well as the duration of mechanical ventilation and length of stay in the ICU.
Membrane staining and phospholipid tracking in Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 using the phosphatidylcholine mimic propargyl-choline
Authors: Graham Chris LB , Bryant Jack , Roper David I , Banzhaf Manuel
Published: August 2023

The use of membrane-specific dyes for in vivo fluorescent microscopy is commonplace. However, most of these reagents are non-specific and cannot track specific lipid species movement, instead often acting as non-covalent lipid associated probes or requiring uptake of whole lipids and acyl tails into the membrane. This issue has been solved in eukaryotic cell biology by use of click-chemistry liable phospholipid headgroup pulse-labels. Here we describe a method for in vivo phospholipid labelling by fluorescent imaging in Pseudomonas aeruginosa using a phosphatidylcholine (PC) mimic, “propargyl-choline”(PCho). This click-chemistry liable headgroup mimic is visible by microscopy and allows the covalent labelling of lipids. Fluorescence of the cell membranes, visible in heterogenous patches, is dependent on PCho concentration and is localised in the membrane fraction of cells, demonstrating that it is suitable for membrane labelling and cell imaging.
How to enlarge lesion size in temperature control mode using an irrigation catheter with a flexible-tip of laser-cut kerfs
Authors: Takigawa Masateru , Yamaguchi Junji , Goya Masahiko , Iwakawa Hidehiro , Yamamoto Tasuku , Iwakawa Hidehiro , Amemiya Miki , Ikenouchi Takashi , Negishi Miho , Kawamura Iwanari , Goto Kentaro , Shigeta Takatoshi , Nishimura Takuro , Takamiya Tomomasa , Tao Susumu , Ohuchi Katsuhiro , Suzuki Sayaka , Miyazaki Shinsuke , Sasano Tetsuo
Published: August 2023

Background & Objectives

The TactiFlexTMSE irrigation catheter installs a laser-cut flexible tip with a thermocouple embedded 0.3mm from the tip, being used with temperature-control mode. We aimed to elucidate a safer method to enlarge the lesion size using this catheter.

Methods

RF-applications were performed at a range of powers (35W, 40W, and 45W), CFs (10g/20g), and durations (60s, 120s, and 180s) using perpendicular/parallel catheter orientation with normal saline irrigation (NS-irrigation) and Half NS-irrigation (HNS-irrigation) in an ex-vivo model (Step 1). Further, similar RF-applications of 35W/40W/45W for 60s/120s/180 in NS-irrigation and 35W/40W for 60s/120s/180s in HNS-irrigation) were performed in 4 swine (Step 2). Lesion characteristics and the incidence of steam-pops were assessed.

Results

In this ex-vivo experiment, 47(16.3%) steam-pops (13 in NS-irrigation vs 34 in HNS-irrigation, p=0.001) were observed in 288 lesions. In NS-irrigation group, the most aggressive setting (45W/180s, n=7/13, 54%) played a large part of steam-pop occurrence. Lesion size proportionally increased with longer ablation duration, but not with HNS-irrigation. The optimal cut-off of %impedance-drop to predict steam-pops was 20% with the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of 78.3%, 80.6%, 43.4%, and 95.1%, respectively. In the in-vivo experiment, steam-pops were not observed with NS-irrigation (n=0/35), but were with HNS-irrigation (6/21, 29%). Lesion size proportionally increased with longer ablation duration, but not with HNS-irrigation partially because of the higher incidence of temperature-guard use (p=0.07). The optimal cut-off of %impedance-drop to predict steam-pops was 24% with the sensitivity= 83.0%, specificity=52.0%, PPV= 17.2%, and NPV= 96.3%, respectively, but 20% may be used with a safety margin.

Conclusions

Although this novel catheter is generally safe, increasing ablation duration instead of using HNS-irrigation may be recommended for larger lesions.