bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oncological microdissection testicular sperm extraction (Onco‐microTESE) outcomes for fertility preservation of patients with testicular cancer with azoospermia or severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia
Authors: Fanshawe Jack B. , Hughes Thomas , Briggs Karen , Sandher Raveen , Khalaf Yacoub , Yap Tet , Kopeika Julia , Shabbir Majid
Published: November 2024

Objective

To determine the success rate of oncological microdissection testicular sperm extraction (onco‐microTESE) in patients with testicular cancer (TC) with azoospermia and severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT; <1 million/mL sperm) and to explore any factors that may predict success.

Patients and Methods

Case series of outcomes from all consecutive patients (42 testes in 38 patients) that presented or were referred to a single specialist tertiary referral centre for fertility management in the context of TC with severe OAT or azoospermia between August 2015 and August 2022. Biochemical, radiological, and histological parameters were collected for all patients. All patients underwent onco‐microTESE (simultaneous radical inguinal orchidectomy with ex vivo microTESE of the affected testis). Those with unsuccessful surgical sperm retrieval (SSR) from the affected testis underwent contemporaneous contralateral microTESE, if no contraindication was present. The primary outcome was successful SSR from the affected testicle sufficient for assisted reproductive techniques. Secondary outcomes included contralateral microTESE success, the time from referral to procedure, and the total successful fertility preservation rate.

Results

Initial onco‐microTESE was successful in 19 of 31 patients (61%) with azoospermia. Contralateral microTESE was successful in a further two of eight patients with azoospermia with failed onco‐microTESE. Overall, 22/31 patients with azoospermia (71%) had successful fertility preservation in this series. In addition, six of seven patients with severe OAT had further sperm harvested by onco‐microTESE to maximise their fertility preservation. All surgery was performed within median (interquartile range) of 7 (5–13) days from presentation.

Conclusions

Onco‐microTESE represents an effective method of fertility preservation for sub‐fertile patients with TC without delaying oncological treatment. Knowledge of the fertility status at first presentation is essential to allow for such additional options for optimal fertility preservation in TC.
Fluorescence confocal microscopy for margin assessment in prostatectomy: IP8‐FLUORESCE study protocol
Authors: Mayor Nikhil , Light Alexander , Silvanto Anna , Cullen Emma , Ng Peng Yun , Badreldin Almostafa , Khoubehi Bijan , Hellawell Giles , Fiorentino Francesca , Connor Martin J. , Shah Taimur T. , Ahmed Hashim U. , Winkler Mathias
Published: November 2024

Background

Radical prostatectomy (RP) represents the cornerstone of surgical treatment for prostate cancer. Assessing surgical margin status intraoperatively with current techniques remains challenging due to high costs in the context of an already stretched pathology workforce. Fluorescence confocal microscopy (FCM) is a promising technique to detect margins in prostate cancer surgery not bound by such limitations.

Study Design

The Imperial Prostate 8 – Fluorescence Confocal Microscopy for Rapid Evaluation of Surgical Cancer Excision (IP8‐FLUORESCE) study is a multicentre, prospective, ex vivo, ‘blinded’, comparative cohort study. It aims to assess the accuracy of digital FCM for detection of prostate cancer at surgical margins compared to traditional histopathology.

Endpoints

The primary endpoint is the accuracy of digital FCM for detection of prostate cancer at surgical margins on a per‐patient level, reported with sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values.

Patients and Methods

A total of 153 patients with localised prostate cancer undergoing robot‐assisted RP across three UK National Health Service tertiary referral centres will be recruited. Following RP, prostate specimens will undergo immediate immersion in Acridine Orange solution, scanning ‘en face’ with FCM using the Histolog® Scanner, and subsequent formalin fixation and paraffin embedding. Two independent, ‘blinded’ uro‐pathologists will report both the FCM images and the histopathology slides. Recruitment commenced on 17 August 2023.
Genetic, Clinical, and Biochemical Characterization of a Large Cohort of Palestinian Patients With Fanconi‐Bickel Syndrome
Authors: Hodrob Tamer , Abusalameh Alaaeddin , Ismail Ibrahim , Dweikat Imad , Rmeilah Sarah Abu , Sultan Mutaz , Libdeh Bassam Abu , Libdeh Abd‐Al‐Salam Abu , Shweiki Shaher , Damseh Nadirah
Published: November 2024

This study aims to investigate the clinical, biochemical, and genetic characteristics of Fanconi‐Bickel syndrome (FBS) in a cohort of 20 individuals from Palestine and to identify novel pathogenic variants. A retrospective analysis was conducted on medical records from Al‐Makassed Hospital's pediatric department spanning 2015 to 2023. Individuals diagnosed with FBS via molecular genetic testing were included in the study. Among the 20 genetically confirmed FBS patients, hepatomegaly was prevalent in 95%, whereas 70% exhibited both developmental delay and hypophosphatemic rickets, and 68.4% experienced growth retardation. Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) was universal. Elevated liver enzymes and alkaline phosphatase were common, along with hypophosphatemia (95%) and urinary abnormalities. Genetic analysis revealed five distinct SLC2A2 pathogenic variants, including three previously unreported variants: p.Gln23Arg (c.68A > G), p.Thr353Arg (c.1058_1059delinsGG), and an exon 7 deletion. This study presents the largest single‐center cohort of FBS patients, expanding our understanding of the disorder's phenotypic and genotypic spectrum. Despite FBS generally carrying a favorable prognosis, timely diagnosis remains crucial to prevent severe complications.
Endothelial Dysfunctions in Blood–Brain Barrier Breakdown in Alzheimer's Disease: From Mechanisms to Potential Therapies
Authors: Yue Qian , Leng Xinyue , Xie Ningqing , Zhang Zaijun , Yang Deguang , Hoi Maggie Pui Man
Published: November 2024

Recent research has shown the presence of blood–brain barrier (BBB) breakdown in Alzheimer's disease (AD). BBB is a dynamic interface consisting of a continuous monolayer of brain endothelial cells (BECs) enveloped by pericytes and astrocytes. The restricted permeability of BBB strictly controls the exchange of substances between blood and brain parenchyma, which is crucial for brain homeostasis by excluding blood‐derived detrimental factors and pumping out brain‐derived toxic molecules. BBB breakdown in AD is featured as a series of BEC pathologies such as increased paracellular permeability, abnormal levels and functions of transporters, and inflammatory or oxidative profile, which may disturb the substance transportation across BBB, thereafter induce CNS disorders such as hypometabolism, Aβ accumulation, and neuroinflammation, eventually aggravate cognitive decline. Therefore, it seems important to protect BEC properties for BBB maintenance and neuroprotection. In this review, we thoroughly summarized the pathological alterations of BEC properties reported in AD patients and numerous AD models, including paracellular permeability, influx and efflux transporters, and inflammatory and oxidative profiles, and probably associated underlying mechanisms. Then we reviewed current therapeutic agents that are effective in ameliorating a series of BEC pathologies, and ultimately protecting BBB integrity and cognitive functions. Regarding the current drug development for AD proceeds extremely hard, this review aims to discuss the therapeutic potentials of targeting BEC pathologies and BBB maintenance for AD treatment, therefore expecting to shed a light on the future AD drug development by targeting BEC pathologies and BBB protection.
Phospholipase D Family Member 4 Regulates Microglial Phagocytosis and Remyelination via the AKT Pathway in a Cuprizone‐Induced Multiple Sclerosis Mouse Model
Authors: Sun Ran , Ma Tengyun , Zhao Zheng , Gao Yan , Feng Juan , Yang Xue
Published: November 2024

Aims

Remyelination is an endogenous repair process that is often deficient in multiple sclerosis (MS). Stimulation of remyelination is thought to help limit the progression of MS. This study aimed to investigate the expression pattern and function of a microglial phagocytosis‐related gene, phospholipase D family member 4 (PLD4), in a cuprizone (CPZ)‐induced MS mouse model.

Methods

The extent of remyelination was assessed using LFB staining. Myelin phagocytosis assay was used to investigate the effect of Pld4 on microglial phagocytic activity.

Results

Pld4 was upregulated in the corpus callosum during demyelination and remyelination. AAV9‐mediated Pld4 deficiency impaired remyelination and reduced the number of Olig2‐positive cells. In the corpus callosum of Pld4‐deficient mice, the microglial phagocytosis marker MAC2 was reduced, accompanied by inhibition of TrkA/AKT signaling. Similarly, the phagocytosis assay showed that Pld4 knockdown significantly inhibited myelin debris phagocytosis by BV2 cells. The AKT activator SC79 reversed the Pld4 deficiency‐induced inhibition of microglial phagocytic activity and rescued the impaired remyelination in Pld4‐deficient mice.

Conclusion

PLD4 is upregulated in CPZ‐induced MS and modulates microglial phagocytosis and remyelination via the AKT pathway. Our findings provide experimental evidence for a better understanding of the molecular mechanism of MS.
One ring does not fit all: Evaluation of banding‐related injuries in tricolored bats
Authors: Perea Santiago , Ferrall Emily A. , Morris Katrina M. , Pattavina Pete E. , Castleberry Steven B.
Published: November 2024

The potential harm inflicted by forearm bands on bats has been debated for decades. To aid in decision‐making regarding bat marking, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of banding injuries using recapture data from a long‐term overwintering study in Georgia, USA, involving 776 banded tricolored bats (Perimyotis subflavus) with 284 recaptures. Most recaptured bats showed no visible injuries (77.8%); however, 22.2% of bats presented varying degrees of band‐related injuries. Although <25% of tricolored bats exhibited banding‐related injuries, sublethal effects of injuries are unknown and could add additional stressors to bat populations already facing multiple threats, including mortality from white‐nose syndrome. Thus, we recommend that banding bats, especially species that have experienced white‐nose syndrome‐related population declines, be appropriately justified and their use carefully considered. Our study contributes valuable knowledge to aid in informed decision‐making on the use of capture‐mark‐recapture methods in the research and management of bat communities.
Cost–benefit analysis as a decision tool for effective conservation planning—The case of the Nyerere Selous‐Udzungwa wildlife corridor in Tanzania
Authors: Hilton Tom , Smit Josephine B. , Jones Trevor , Mwalugelo Joseph , Lim Kim , Seidl Andrew , Jones Kelly W. , Bruyere Brett , Salerno Jonathan
Published: November 2024

Cost benefit analysis (CBA) is used in many fields to ensure efficient allocation of scarce resources but is rarely applied in conservation. By using a common metric to evaluate projects in complex social‐ecological systems, CBA can help to maximize the impact of conservation funding. It can also help to interrogate issues of distributional equity, plan for effective community‐based conservation, and inform future research and strategic priorities. We demonstrate this using the example of the Nyerere Selous‐Udzungwa Wildlife Corridor in Tanzania, a wildlife corridor aiming to restore connectivity between two protected areas to enhance African elephant (Loxodonta africana) conservation outcomes and mitigate human–elephant conflict. We combine novel data on elephant crop depredation with crop price and productivity data, elephant valuation methods, and ecosystem service values to analyze corridor costs and benefits from contrasting global and local community perspectives. From the global perspective, we find benefits to outweigh costs by at least 4.6:1. From the communities' perspective, we find that while substantial benefits should secure buy‐in to the project, continued subsidy will be required to cover the costs. Our findings support generalized recommendations for application of CBA across diverse systems and conservation priorities.
Prevalence and risk factors for impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia: A registry‐based study of 10,202 adults with type 1 diabetes in Norway
Authors: Hernar Ingvild , Strandberg Ragnhild B. , Nilsen Roy M. , Cooper John G. , Skinner Timothy C. , Iversen Marjolein M. , Richards David A. , Lie Silje S. , Løvaas Karianne F. , Madsen Tone Vonheim , Ueland Grethe Å. , Haugstvedt Anne
Published: November 2024

Aims

The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia (IAH) and examine risk factors for IAH in adults with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based registry study of 10,202 adults (≥18 years) with type 1 diabetes using data from the Norwegian Diabetes Register for Adults. The registry used the 1‐item Gold scale, measuring hypoglycaemia symptom awareness. We calculated the overall prevalence of IAH (Gold score ≥4) (95% CI) and prevalence for subgroups based on demographic and clinical variables. We estimated IAH prevalence based on continuous scales of age, diabetes duration and HbA1c using predicted probabilities from generalised additive logistic regression models. Finally, we quantified the associations of selected variables on IAH prevalence using log‐binomial regression models.

Results

Overall, 18.0% reported IAH (95% CI 17.2, 18.7). The prevalence increased linearly with the participants' age, whereas the associations of diabetes duration and HbA1c with IAH were non‐linear with higher prevalence in both lower and higher tails of their distributions. Multiple severe hypoglycaemic events, female sex, age ≥ 65 years, diabetes duration ≤4 years or ≥ 30 years, multiple DKA events and CGM use were associated with higher risk for IAH. HbA1c 65–74 mmol/mol (8.1–8.9%) was associated with lower risk for IAH.

Conclusions

In this nationwide study, the IAH prevalence was 18.0%. Multiple hypoglycaemic events, female sex and diabetes duration were identified as important risk factors for IAH. Study findings highlight the complexity of self‐reported hypoglycaemia symptom awareness and emphasise the importance of routinely addressing symptom awareness in diabetes follow‐up.
Blood CD45+/CD3+ lymphocyte‐released extracellular vesicles and mortality in hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Suades Rosa , Greco Maria F. , Padró Teresa , de Santisteban Victoria , Domingo Pere , Benincasa Giuditta , Napoli Claudio , Greco Simona , Madè Alisia , Ranucci Marco , Devaux Yvan , Martelli Fabio , Badimon Lina
Published: November 2024

Background

The global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) represented a major public health concern. Growing evidence shows that plasma of COVID‐19 patients contains large numbers of circulating extracellular vesicles (cEVs) that correlate with disease severity and recovery. In this study, we sought to characterize the longitudinal cEV signature in critically ill COVID‐19 patients during hospitalization and its relation to mortality risk.

Methods

cEVs were quantitatively and phenotypically analysed in hospitalized non‐surviving COVID‐19 patients at baseline (n = 42) and before exitus (n = 40) and in 40 healthy volunteers as a reference group by high sensitivity nano flow cytometry using specific markers for parental cell sources and activation.

Results

Levels of cEV subtypes differed between patients with severe COVID‐19 and healthy subjects, specifically those from platelets and endothelial, inflammatory and viral infected cells, which associate to high mortality risk. In the longitudinal analysis from baseline to the time point immediately preceding death, no changes were found for platelet, pan‐leukocyte, and lung epithelial cell‐shed cEVs, while endothelial cell releases of EVs (eEVs) significantly differed. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2‐positive eEVs were significantly increased before death compared to admission whereas endoglin and E‐selectin‐containing eEVs did not change. Conversely, lymphocyte (ℓEV), monocyte, macrophage, pericyte and progenitor cell‐derived cEVs displayed significant reductions before exitus. Noteworthy, levels of CD45+/CD3+‐ℓEVs were significantly associated to the patient's survival time.

Conclusions

An evolving cEV profile able to discriminate prompt risk of death during hospitalization has been defined suggesting a role for circulating and vascular cell‐derived EVs in COVID‐19 pathogenesis.
Cereal aphid species: their natural enemies and efficiency of Lysiphlebus testaceipes (Cresson, 1880) to control Rhopalosiphum maidis (Fitch, 1856)
Authors: Haouas Dalila , Mdellel Lassaad , Zgolli Mayssa , Manai Mohamed Habib , Sarthou Jean Pierre
Published: November 2024

Cereal grains both for human consumption and animal feed are an essential component of global food systems. However, during production they are often targeted by various pest insects, including aphids. A survey was carried out from 2017 to 2021 in six cereal production sites in Tunisia to evaluate aphid diversity and identify natural enemies on Triticum turgidum subsp. durum (durum wheat), Hordeum vulgare (barley), Avena sativa (oat) and Triticum secale (triticale). Six aphid species belonging to four genera were recorded: Diuraphis noxia, Rhopalosiphum maidis, R. padi, Schizaphis graminum, Sitobion avenae and Sitobion fragariae. Among these, S. avenae and R. padi emerged as the most prevalent species across the majority of sites, infesting durum wheat, barley and triticale. Sc. graminum, R. maidis and D. noxia were less frequent, while S. fragariae was exclusively found on oat plants. Common aphid predators observed included Coccinella algerica, Hippodamia variegata and C. undecimpunctata, as well as syrphid flies such as Episyrphus balteatus and Sphaerophoria rueppellii. Lysiphlebus testaceipes was the sole parasitoid species detected, emerging exclusively from R. padi and R. maidis mummies. Furthermore, the study on the efficacy of L. testaceipes against R. maidis indicated that parasitism levels increased with the number of introduced parasitoid pairs. Aphid and natural enemy diversity were also evaluated.
Feed‐induced hypersalivation in horses from Austria, Germany and Switzerland
Authors: Böswald Linda Franziska , Gottschalk Christoph , Kaltner Florian , Merk Joana , Schwaiger Karin , Kienzle Ellen
Published: November 2024

Background

While previous reports come mostly from the southern Americas, several outbreaks of hypersalivation in horses were observed in Middle Europe from 2016 to 2018.

Objective

To describe feed‐induced hypersalivation in European horses.

Study design

Analysis of feedstuffs.

Methods

Veterinarians and horse or stable owners were encouraged to submit feedstuffs from case outbreaks of hypersalivation in which, infectious diseases or other systemic causes of the syndrome were ruled out and intoxication was suspected. Feedstuff analysis was performed, including gross examination, microscopic analysis of fine particles, and for hay and forage mycological culturing and mycotoxin testing.

Results

Eleven case outbreaks were investigated. Typical clinical findings in the horses were either foamy saliva around the mouth or serous salivation with puddles forming on the ground. Some horses also showed lesions of the gingival mucosa and/or the tongue. Foamy hypersalivation, sometimes combined with lesions of tongue and/or gingiva, was associated with finding of ergot sclerotia and ergot alkaloids in hay or pasture plants (ergocornin and ergocorninin having the highest concentrations). Serous hypersalivation with massive loss of fluid was associated with the fungus Rhizoctonia spp. As indicated by the detection of traces of swainsonine, mycotoxin production on the forage was seen as likely cause. The cessation of clinical signs took days to weeks after diet change, probably depending on the duration, type and amount of toxin intake.

Main limitations

Small number of case outbreaks, records of clinical findings and horses' management were incomplete and were reported by horse owners.

Conclusion

Hypersalivation due to mycotoxins in the feed has become an emerging problem for horses in middle Europe.
Ionizing radiation inhibits zebrafish embryo hatching through induction of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) expression
Authors: Kwon Eun Jung , Lee Hansong , Shin Unbum , Kim Eun‐sun , Myung Kyungjae , Kim Jeongmo , Park Jung‐Hoon , Kim Kihun , Lee Yoonsung , Oh Chang‐Kyu , Kim Yun Hak
Published: November 2024

Ionizing radiation (IR) has garnered growing attention because of its biological effects on aquatic organisms and humans. Here, we identify the most impacted organs and uncover the molecular mechanisms causing the changes in the context of vertebrate development using single‐cell RNA sequencing. Alterations in cellular composition and biological functions were explored using transcriptomic profiling of zebrafish embryos exposed to 5 Gy. Single‐cell RNA sequencing analyses unveiled notable shifts in the proportions of brain/central nervous system and hatching gland clusters. Although IR exposure led to increased expression of hatching enzymes, a significant but mild delay in hatching was observed following 5 Gy IR exposure. Gene Ontology analysis showed an increased expression of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), known as matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors, which was confirmed via whole‐mount in situ hybridization. Correlation analysis linked TIMPs to transcription factors cebpb and cebpd, which were significantly correlated post‐IR exposure. Although no morphological changes were observed in some organs, including the brain, the study reveals substantial alterations in developing vertebrates. Notably, despite increased hatching enzymes, elevated TIMPs in the hatching gland suggest a regulatory mechanism impacting hatching activity. This research contributes to comprehending the ecological repercussions of IR exposure, emphasizing the importance of safety measures for aquatic ecosystems and overall environmental health.
A new player in the game: identification of C1ql1 as a novel factor driving OPC differentiation
Authors: Van Broeckhoven Jana , Mussen Femke , Schepers Melissa , Vanmierlo Tim , Hellings Niels
Published: November 2024

Oligodendrocytes (OLGs) are the myelin‐producing cells in the central nervous system (CNS). Following injury, these cells are prone to death, leading to demyelination and, eventually, axonal loss and neurodegeneration. Upon injury, the damaged CNS repopulates the lesion with oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) that consequently mature into OLGs to repair the myelin damage and prevent further axonal loss. In this issue, Altunay et al. identified that complement component 1, q subcomponent‐like‐1 (C1ql1), a factor known to play a role in neuron–neuron synapses, is also expressed by OPCs and drives their differentiation into OLGs. These data suggest that C1ql1 or other downstream factors could be therapeutic targets in the context of demyelinating disorders in which remyelination fails, such as in multiple sclerosis (MS).
Near‐Term Forecasting of Terrestrial Mobile Species Distributions for Adaptive Management Under Extreme Weather Events
Authors: Dobson Rachel , Willis Stephen G. , Jennings Stewart , Cheke Robert A. , Challinor Andrew J. , Dallimer Martin
Published: November 2024

Across the globe, mobile species are key components of ecosystems. Migratory birds and nomadic antelope can have considerable conservation, economic or societal value, while irruptive insects can be major pests and threaten food security. Extreme weather events, which are increasing in frequency and intensity under ongoing climate change, are driving rapid and unforeseen shifts in mobile species distributions. This challenges their management, potentially leading to population declines, or exacerbating the adverse impacts of pests. Near‐term, within‐year forecasting may have the potential to anticipate mobile species distribution changes during extreme weather events, thus informing adaptive management strategies. Here, for the first time, we assess the robustness of near‐term forecasting of the distribution of a terrestrial species under extreme weather. For this, we generated near‐term (2 weeks to 7 months ahead) distribution forecasts for a crop pest that is a threat to food security in southern Africa, the red‐billed quelea Quelea quelea. To assess performance, we generated hindcasts of the species distribution across 13 years (2004–2016) that encompassed two major droughts. We show that, using dynamic species distribution models (D‐SDMs), environmental suitability for quelea can be accurately forecast with seasonal lead times (up to 7 months ahead), at high resolution, and across a large spatial scale, including in extreme drought conditions. D‐SDM predictive accuracy and near‐term hindcast reliability were primarily driven by the availability of training data rather than overarching weather conditions. We discuss how a forecasting system could be used to inform adaptive management of mobile species and mitigate impacts of extreme weather, including by anticipating sites and times for transient management and proactively mobilising resources for prepared responses. Our results suggest that such techniques could be widely applied to inform more resilient, adaptive management of mobile species worldwide.
Managing the Global Wetland Methane‐Climate Feedback: A Review of Potential Options
Authors: Ury Emily A. , Hinckley Eve‐Lyn S. , Visioni Daniele , Buma Brian
Published: November 2024

Methane emissions by global wetlands are anticipated to increase due to climate warming. The increase in methane represents a sizable emissions source (32–68 Tg CH4 year−1 greater in 2099 than 2010, for RCP2.6–4.5) that threatens long‐term climate stability and poses a significant positive feedback that magnifies climate warming. However, management of this feedback, which is ultimately driven by human‐caused warming and thus “indirectly” anthropogenic, has been largely unexplored. Here, we review the known range of options for direct management of rising wetland methane emissions, outline contexts for their application, and explore a global scale thought experiment to gauge their potential impact. Among potential management options for methane emissions from wetlands, substrate amendments, particularly sulfate, are the most well studied, although the majority have only been tested in laboratory settings and without considering potential environmental externalities. Using published models, we find that the bulk (64%–80%) of additional wetland methane will arise from hotspots making up only about 8% of global wetland extent, primarily occurring in the tropics and subtropics. If applied to these hotspots, sulfate might suppress 10%–21% of the total additional wetland methane emissions, but this treatment comes with considerable negative consequences for the environment. This thought experiment leverages results from experimental simulations of sulfate from acid rain, as there is essentially no research on the use of sulfate for intentional suppression of additional wetland methane emissions. Given the magnitude of the potential climate forcing feedback of methane from wetlands, it is critical to explore management options and their impacts to ensure that decisions made to directly manage—or not manage—this process be made with the best available science.
Multi‐Omics Inform Invasion Risks Under Global Climate Change
Authors: Chen Yiyong , Gao Yangchun , Zhang Zhixin , Zhan Aibin
Published: November 2024

Global climate change is exacerbating biological invasions; however, the roles of genomic and epigenomic variations and their interactions in future climate adaptation remain underexplored. Using the model invasive ascidian Botryllus schlosseri across the Northern Hemisphere, we investigated genomic and epigenomic responses to future climates and developed a framework to assess future invasion risks. We employed generalized dissimilarity modeling and gradient forest analyses to assess genomic and epigenomic offsets under climate change. Our results showed that populations with genomic maladaptation did not geographically overlap with those experiencing epigenomic maladaptation, suggesting that genomic and epigenomic variations play complementary roles in adaptation to future climate conditions. By integrating genomic and epigenomic offsets into the genome–epigenomic index, we predicted that populations with lower index values were less maladapted, indicating a higher risk of future invasions. Native populations exhibited lower offsets than invasive populations, suggesting greater adaptive potentials and higher invasion risks under future climate change scenarios. These results highlight the importance of incorporating multi‐omics data into predictive models to study future climate (mal)adaptation and assess invasion risks under global climate change.
Joyful encounters: Dance, touch, and embodied ethics in times of COVID‐19
Authors: Biglieri Sara
Published: November 2024

This article explores the practice of Contact Improvisation during the COVID‐19 pandemic, focusing on how dance serves as a means of repair. Drawing on Erin Manning's posthumanist philosophy, woven into both the theoretical and embodied practice of dance, it envisions touch as a social‐relational bond capable of opening pathways to affective intensities, particularly the experience of joy. Employing and experimenting with affective ethnography, I explore the ethico‐political aspects of touch, extending ongoing discussions of ethics as deeply embodied. Specifically, I show how this exploration could lead to theorizing an “embodied ethic of repair”, enabling future‐oriented response‐ability and reclaiming joy as an affective force for navigating forthcoming bio‐political, social, and environmental challenges in and for organizations.
Note on the Fittingness of Negative Naming in Sacred Theology: The Corpus Dionysiacum and Father Bernard Lonergan, SJ1
Authors: Sherwood David Francis
Published: November 2024

Within a broadly Thomistic frame, this paper shows how simple apophaticism in the theology of Pseudo‐Dionysius the Areopagite is the more fitting mode of knowing the triune God, beyond the use of all divine names. Specifically, we will proceed using the work of Father Bernard Lonergan, SJ on theological fittingness. After setting forth Father Lonergan's understanding of fittingness, the paper will proceed through Dionysius's cataphatic names, apophatic names, and apophatic silence. The cataphatic and apophatic names, while true, useful, and fittingly said of God, will be shown to be imperfectly applied to God. As such, their fittingness pales in comparison to the simple silence of the intellect orientated towards God, despite such pure apophaticism's dissimilarity to normal human intellectual operations.
Lessons Learned From Clinical Trials of Immunotherapeutics for COVID‐19
Authors: Lee Inyeong , Lupfer Christopher R.
Published: November 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic caused by the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus was arguably one of the worst public health disasters of the last 100 years. As many infectious disease experts were focused on influenza, MERS, ZIKA, or Ebola as potential pandemic‐causing agents, SARS‐CoV‐2 appeared to come from nowhere and spread rapidly. As with any zoonotic agent, the initial pathogen was able to transmit to a new host (humans), but it was poorly adapted to the immune environment of the new host and resulted in a maladapted immune response. As the host‐pathogen interaction evolved, subsequent variants of SARS‐CoV‐2 became less pathogenic and acquired immunity in the host provided protection, at least partial protection, to new variants. As the host‐pathogen interaction has changed since the beginning of the pandemic, it is possible the clinical results discussed here may not be applicable today as they were at the start of the pandemic. With this caveat in mind, we present an overview of the immune response of severe COVID‐19 from a clinical research perspective and examine clinical trials utilizing immunomodulating agents to further elucidate the importance of hyperinflammation as a factor contributing to severe COVID‐19 disease.
Exploring the Strengths and Resilience of Siblings of People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Lee Chung Eun , Shikarpurya Sehrish
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

Siblings play a crucial role in shaping and guiding the experiences of their brother or sister with a disability across the lifespan. However, little is known about the positive outcomes of their roles and experiences as siblings. Understanding the positive outcomes challenges stereotypes and the stigma associated with disabilities and allows for a more holistic view of sibling experiences.

Methods

We conducted a survey with 140 adult siblings of people with disabilities to explore their strengths, resilience and community belonging.

Results

We found that siblings highly rated their perceived strengths across various domains. Furthermore, siblings maintained high levels of resilience and most belonged to various organisations for social support. We also noted several strengths‐based factors that predicted siblings' resilience.

Conclusion

Our findings offer significant insights into siblings' inherent and developed strengths and the role of community networks in promoting sibling resilience and expanding their support systems.
Assessing Associations of Nurse‐Managed Hypertension Care on Pharmacotherapy, Lifestyle Counseling, and Prevalence of Comorbid Cardiometabolic Diseases in All Patients With Hypertension That Are Treated in Primary Care in Stockholm, Sweden
Authors: Ivarsson Charlotte , Bergqvist Monica , Wändell Per , Lindblom Sebastian , Norrman Anders , Eriksson Julia , Hasselström Jan , Sandlund Christina , Carlsson Axel C.
Published: November 2024

The aim was to study if nurse‐managed hypertension care was associated with differences in pharmacotherapy, lifestyle counseling, and prevalence of comorbid cardiometabolic diseases among patients receiving care at primary health care centers. To assess the extent of nurses' involvement in the hypertension care, a questionnaire was distributed to all primary health care centers in Region Stockholm. Age‐adjusted logistic regression models were used to analyze the results, odds ratios with 99% confidence intervals. Data was acquired from VAL, the administrative databases of Region Stockholm in Sweden, encompassing all individuals 30 years or older with a registered hypertension diagnosis who attended to the primary health care center they were registered at. Our analysis comprised 119 267 patients diagnosed with hypertension registered in one of the 224 included primary health care centers. Of the 81 primary health care centers that responded to the questionnaire, 54 reported having nurse‐managed hypertension care. Nurse‐managed hypertension care was not significantly associated with differences in pharmacotherapy or patients’ comorbidity, except for diabetes. Primary health care centers with nurse‐managed hypertension care had a 10% greater adherence to national guidelines for lifestyle counseling (33.5%) compared to those without nurse‐managed hypertension care (22.5%). Regardless of the organizational form of hypertension care management, more men received lifestyle counseling according to guidelines compared to women. In‐house routines for hypertension care, with designated nurses, and booking systems were associated with more lifestyle counseling, which has been associated with signs of better hypertension care.
The oncogenic functions of SPARCL1 in bladder cancer
Authors: Li Changjiu , Yuan Hui , Chen Jun , Shang Kun , He Huadong
Published: November 2024

Secreted protein, acidic and rich in cysteine‐like 1 (SPARCL1) belongs to the SPARC family of matricellular proteins. However, underlying functions of SPARCL1 in bladder cancer (BCa) remain understudied. We performed an integrated search for the expression patterns of SPARCL1 in relation to various clinicopathological features of BCa. We then carried out Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis, and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Furthermore, we investigated the correlations between SPARCL1 and immunological features, such as tumour mutation burden (TMB), immune activation processes, immune checkpoint expression, tumour immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) scores, and chemotherapeutic sensitivity in BCa. Our analysis revealed that SPARCL1 was downregulated across multiple cancers. In BCa, elevated SPARCL1 was linked with advanced histopathologic stage, higher T and N stage, and poorer prognosis in the clinical cohort. In vitro experiments demonstrated that increased SPARCL1 expression inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Additionally, highly expressed SPARCL1 was linked to elevated immune, stromal and ESTIMATE scores, as well as an increase in naive B cells, M2 macrophages, and resting mast cells. We observed a moderate correlation between SPARCL1 expression and CD163, VSIG4 and MS4A4A, which are markers of M2 macrophages. Furthermore, SPARCL1 expression was positively related to TMB, immune activation processes, TIDE scores, immune checkpoint expression, and chemotherapeutic sensitivity in BCa. Our study highlights the potential involvement of SPARCL1 in macrophage recruitment and polarization and suggests its utility as a biomarker for prognosis in BCa.
Blood metabolomic profile in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain
Authors: Kuo Hung‐Chou , Lin Chia‐Ni , Tsai Sung‐Sheng , Chen Chiung‐Mei , Lyu Rong‐Kuo , Chu Chun‐Che , Ro Long‐Sun , Liao Ming‐Feng , Chang Hong‐Shiu , Weng Yi‐Ching , Hwang Jawl‐Shan
Published: November 2024

Aims

This study aimed to identify metabolic markers for diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and Methods

Blood metabolite levels in the amino acid, biogenic amine, sphingomyelin, phosphatidylcholine (PC), carnitines, and hexose classes were analyzed in nondiabetic control (n = 27), T2DM without DPNP (n = 58), and T2DM with DPNP (n = 29) using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Variable importance projection (VIP) evaluation by partial least squares discriminant analysis was performed on clinical parameters and metabolites.

Results

Sixteen variables with VIP > 1.0 (P < 0.05) were identified across all patient groups, and 5 variables were identified to discriminate between the two T2DM groups. DPNP patients showed elevated fasting blood glucose, glutamate, PC aa C36:1, lysoPC a C18:1, and lysoPC a C18:2, while low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, phenylalanine, and tryptophan were reduced. Glutamate, lysoPC a C18:1, and lysoPC a C18:2 discriminated T2DM with DPNP from those without DPNP with an AUC of 0.671. The AUC was improved to 0.765 when ratios of metabolite pairs were considered.

Interpretation

Blood metabolites include glutamate, and phospholipid‐related metabolites implicated in neuropathic pain may have the potential as biomarkers for DPNP. Further investigation is required to understand the mechanism of action of these altered metabolites in DPNP.
Türkiye's responses to the 2023 earthquakes: An application of family adjustment and adaptation response model
Authors: Söylemez Yudum , Aydın Tuba
Published: November 2024

After devastating earthquakes struck Türkiye in February 2023, the country faced the challenge of addressing the psychosocial needs of the survivors. This article uses the Family Adjustment and Adaptation Response (FAAR) model to conceptualize Türkiye's responses to the earthquakes in terms of its demands (i.e., cumulative strains and current stressors), capabilities (i.e., existing resources and coping mechanisms), and meaning/belief systems (i.e., shared meaning, religion/spirituality, and positive outlook/hope). A historical context is provided to better understand the cumulative tensions and resilience of the country, seeking ways to strengthen effective crisis responses in anticipation of an even bigger earthquake in the coming years. Additionally, this article may spark a conversation among family practitioners in different countries about how to collaborate on mobilizing resources during challenging times.
Feasibility, safety, and clinical outcomes of modified laparoscopic cervicoisthmic cerclage for refractory cervical insufficiency: A single‐arm clinical trial—Part 1
Authors: Seo Kohei , Ishikawa Tetsuya , Suzuki Yusuke , Izdebski Tatsuya , Goto Minako , Okuyama Ayumi , Oba Tomohiro , Otsuki Katsufumi , Sekizawa Akihiko , Ichizuka Kiyotake
Published: November 2024

Aim

To assess the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of modified laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage in patients with refractory cervical insufficiency.

Methods

This single‐arm clinical trial examined women with refractory cervical insufficiency who underwent modified laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage at a specialized center in Japan between December 2017 and May 2022. Various parameters related to patient demographics, surgical techniques, outcomes, and complications were evaluated.

Results

The study enrolled 30 women with a median age of 36 years. The modified laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage was technically successful in all cases. The delivery rate and fetal survival rate at 28 days in the third trimester were both 93%. Surgical complication involving small bowel injury occurred in one case and was promptly repaired. No fetal complications or pregnancy losses occurred within 28 days of the procedure. Perinatal outcomes included a cesarean section rate of 93%, a neonatal intensive care unit admission rate of 30%, and an overall fetal survival rate of 93%. Additionally, no absence or reversal of end‐diastolic flow in the uterine artery was identified at the time of cerclage in any of the cases.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the feasibility and safety of modified laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage for refractory cervical insufficiency. The procedure achieved a high delivery rate in the third trimester and a good overall fetal survival rate. The study findings highlight the importance of anatomical precision during thread placement in modified laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage. This technique is promising for treating refractory cervical insufficiency and potentially preventing second‐trimester losses and extreme preterm births.
Comparison Between Ecological Momentary Assessment and Self‐Report of Awake Bruxism Behaviours in a Group of Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Saracutu Ovidiu Ionut , Manfredini Daniele , Bracci Alessandro , Val Matteo , Ferrari Marco , Colonna Anna
Published: November 2024

Objective

The aim of this investigation was to compare the self‐reported frequency of awake bruxism (AB) behaviours by means of a validated single‐observation point questionnaire (i.e., Oral Behaviour Checklist [OBC]) with the frequency reported in real‐time with an Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) over 1 week.

Materials and Methods

One hundred healthy young adults took part in the study. The frequency of some activities belonging to the spectrum of AB behaviours (i.e., teeth contact, mandible bracing, teeth clenching, teeth grinding) was evaluated using the EMA approach with smartphone technology support over 1 week. The OBC questionnaire was used to evaluate the self‐reported frequency of the same AB behaviours. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was adopted to test the correlation between the average score of each OBC question considered (i.e., teeth contact, mandible bracing, teeth clenching, teeth grinding) and the average frequency of the corresponding EMA item.

Results

Statistical analysis showed a weak‐to‐moderate level of correlation between the two different AB assessment methods. Mandible bracing showed the highest level of correlation, while teeth grinding had the lowest one.

Conclusions

While the OBC represents a valid and easy‐to‐administer screening tool for evaluating bruxism behaviours, the EMA approach provides a more detailed real‐time report on AB behaviours.
Relationship Between Mandibular Position, Activation of the Masticatory Musculature and Free‐Throw Accuracy in Female Basketball Players
Authors: Delgado‐Delgado Raquel , Benito‐de‐Pedro Ana Isabel , Aguilera‐Rubio Ángela , Conde‐Vázquez Orlando , Jiménez‐Herranz Maura , Albarova‐Corral Isabel , Benito‐de‐Pedro María
Published: November 2024

Background

Current research relates jaw clenching to athletic performance, in terms of force and agility. However, the impact of jaw clenching on sports accuracy is unclear.

Objectives

To analyse the impact of jaw position and chewing type on free‐throw accuracy and electromyographic (EMG) activity of masticatory muscles during free‐throws.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study with 25 female basketball players aged 18–44. Each participant executed 18 free‐throws under three different jaw conditions: mandibular rest, maximum intercuspation, and with interdental cotton rolls, in randomised order.

Results

Chewing type and jaw position were not associated with shooting accuracy (p = 0.106; p = 0.778). There was a positive correlation between EMG activity of the right masseter and free‐throw accuracy at maximum intercuspation (rs = 0.402; p = 0.046). In contrast, negative correlations were found with other muscles when the occlusal vertical dimension was altered (rs = −0.619, p = 0.001; rs = −0.490; p = 0.013; rs = −0.534; p = 0.006). The chewing type affected the EMG of the left masseter in the altered occlusal vertical dimension (H = 6.969; p = 0.031). Significant differences in EMG recordings were observed across different mandibular positions during free‐throws (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

While jaw positioning and chewing type do not impact free‐throw accuracy in amateur female basketball players, the EMG activity of masticatory muscles is linked to shooting performance. This highlights the need for further research on motor behaviour of masticatory muscles in precision sports, especially for athletes using intraoral devices.
Starch intake and changes in dental caries among adults: A longitudinal study in Finland
Authors: Jangda F. H. , Suominen A. L. , Lundqvist A. , Männistö S. , Golkari A. , Bernabé E.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To evaluate the association between starch intake (amount and type) and changes in dental caries among adults over 11 years.

Methods

Data from 1679 adults, aged 30 years and over, who participated in three consecutive surveys in Finland were pooled for analysis. Participants completed a validated semi‐structured 128‐item food frequency questionnaire at baseline, from which total starch intake (g/day and % energy intake) and the intake (g/day) of seven food groups high in starch (potatoes, potato products, roots and tubers, refined grains, pasta, wholegrains, and legumes) were estimated. Dental caries was determined during clinical examinations and summarized using the DMFT score, which was treated as a repeated outcome. The association between baseline starch intake and 11‐year‐change in DMFT score was tested in linear mixed‐effects models adjusted for sociodemographic factors, behaviors, sugar intake, and health status.

Results

The mean DMFT score was 21.9 (95%CI: 21.6, 22.2) in 2000 (baseline), increasing by 0.47 (95% CI: 0.38, 0.56) in 2004/05, and additionally by 0.33 (95%CI: 0.20, 0.45) in 2011. Total starch intake was not associated with change in DMFT. This finding was similar irrespective of how starch intake was expressed (g/day or %EI). Of the seven food groups evaluated, only the intake of pasta was inversely associated with the DMFT score at baseline, but not with the change in DMFT over time.

Conclusion

Neither the amount nor the type of starch intake was associated with changes in dental caries over 11 years among Finnish adults.