bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 infection-induced worsening of recurrent CK-MB isozyme elevation due to macro-CK type 1 in a child: case report
Authors: Zhang Chenxi , Zhou Rui , Zhang Yue , Lei Xi , Zhang Yanmin
Published: November 2024

Background

Macro-creatine kinase (macro-CK) type 1, a macroenzyme composed of creatine kinase (CK) and immunoglobulin, is associated with hypothyroidism, tumour, autoimmune diseases, myositis, and cardiovascular diseases, and may even be found in the absence of associated pathology. However, its relationship with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection remains unreported.

Case summary

An 11-year-old male patient presented with recurrent myocardial enzyme abnormalities, mainly manifested as elevated activities of CK and CK isoenzyme [particularly CK-myocardial band (MB)] with activity inverse (CK-MB higher than CK). Dynamic examinations revealed a continuous increase in CK-MB activity closely related to infection, peaking immediately after COVID-19 infection (CK 1838 U/L and CK-MB 1644 U/L). Nonetheless, the patient remained asymptomatic, with the normal results of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and muscle biopsy and persistently normal results of echocardiogram and electrocardiogram. He had normal values of CK-MB mass and high-sensitivity troponin T (hs-cTnT) suggesting possible false elevation of CK-MB activity assayed via immunoinhibition-based CK-MB measurement. Macro-CK type 1 was confirmed by CK isoenzyme electrophoresis with a macro-CK type 1 band detected in the patient’s serum. The patient remained asymptomatic over a year’s follow-up.

Discussion

The sustained pseudoelevation of CK-MB activity caused by macro-CK type 1 is often misdiagnosed as myocardial damage. This diagnosis can be established via agarose gel electrophoresis of CK and CK mass assay. This case illustrates that COVID-19 infection closely correlates with macro-CK type 1 occurrence. It highlights the clinical value of understanding the relationship and emphasizes the importance of education for differential diagnosis to avoid misdiagnosing myocardial damage.
The evolution of reproductive leaf dimorphism in two globally distributed fern families is neither stepwise nor irreversible, unless further specialization evolves
Authors: Suissa Jacob S , Smith Makaleh
Published: November 2024

A contemporary interpretation of Dollo’s Law states that the evolution of a specialized structure is irreversible. Among land plants, reproductive specialization shows a trend toward increasing complexity without reversion, raising questions about evolutionary steps and the irreversibility of reproductive complexity. Ferns exhibit varied reproductive strategies; some are dimorphic (producing separate leaves for photosynthesis and reproduction), while others are monomorphic (where one leaf is used for both photosynthesis and spore dispersal). This diversity provides an opportunity to examine the applicability of Dollo’s Law in the evolution of reproductive leaf specialization. We analyzed 118 species in Blechnaceae and Onocleaceae, applying quantitative morphometrics and phylogenetic comparative methods to test the pillars of a modernized interpretation of Dollo’s Law. The evolution of dimorphism in Blechnaceae is neither stepwise nor irreversible, with direct transitions from monomorphism to dimorphism, including several reversions. In contrast, Onocleaceae exhibits an irreversibility to monomorphism only upon further specialization of fertile leaves for humidity-driven spore dispersal; this suggests that additional specialization, not dimorphism alone, may facilitate irreversibility. These results provide insight into the canalization of fertile-sterile leaf dimorphism in seed plants, where the addition of traits like heterospory and integuments lead to further specialization and potential irreversibility. These findings suggest that as new specialized traits evolve alongside preexisting ones, reversion may become increasingly unlikely.
Chromosome-Level Genome Assembly of the Australian Rainforest Tree Rhodamnia argentea (Malletwood)
Authors: Chen Stephanie H , Jones Ashley , Lu-Irving Patricia , Yap Jia-Yee S , van der Merwe Marlien , Bragg Jason G , Edwards Richard J
Published: November 2024

Myrtaceae are a large family of woody plants, including hundreds that are currently under threat from the global spread of a fungal pathogen, Austropuccinia psidii (G. Winter) Beenken, which causes myrtle rust. A reference genome for the Australian native rainforest tree Rhodamnia argentea Benth. (malletwood) was assembled from Oxford Nanopore Technologies long-reads, 10x Genomics Chromium linked-reads, and Hi-C data (N50 = 32.3 Mb and BUSCO completeness 98.0%) with 99.0% of the 347 Mb assembly anchored to 11 chromosomes (2n = 22). The R. argentea genome will inform conservation efforts for Myrtaceae species threatened by myrtle rust, against which it shows variable resistance. We observed contamination in the sequencing data, and further investigation revealed an arthropod source. This study emphasizes the importance of checking sequencing data for contamination, especially when working with nonmodel organisms. It also enhances our understanding of a tree that faces conservation challenges, contributing to broader biodiversity initiatives.
Medicare Part D beneficiaries’ self-reported barriers to switching plans and making plan comparisons at all
Authors: Bruine de Bruin Wändi , Hodson Nathan , Rabinovich Lila , Czarnowske Daniel , Heiss Florian , Winter Joachim , Wuppermann Amelie , McFadden Daniel
Published: November 2024

In the United States, individuals with disabilities and those aged ≥65 can supplement their Medicare with so-called stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plans. Beneficiaries can switch their stand-alone prescription drug plans annually, but most do not. Indirect evidence has raised concerns that non-switchers do not even make plan comparisons (labeled “inattention”), but direct evidence is scarce. Therefore, we surveyed 439 beneficiaries of Medicare Part D plans from a nationally representative adult sample after the 2024 open-enrollment period. Overall, 53% self-reported making no comparisons. Of those who did not compare, 98% did not switch (vs 67% of those who did compare). Multinomial regressions revealed that beneficiaries who neither compared nor switched were more likely than switchers to report difficulties with comparing and switching, experiencing no plan-related discontinuation, changes, or dissatisfaction, not using advisors or the plan-finder website, and receiving potentially confusing mailings. Non-switchers who did compare were similar to switchers in reporting few difficulties and relying on advisors and the plan-finder website, but they were less likely than switchers to report plan-related changes, discontinuation, or dissatisfaction, while being more likely to report receiving mailings and having no college degree. We discuss insights for policy-making.
Risk of cognitive decline among patients with dengue virus infection: a systematic review
Authors: Thangavelu Lakshmi , Abdelwahab Siddig Ibrahim , Farasani Abdullah , Ballal Suhas , Bansal Pooja , Nathiya Deepak , Kaur Kiranjeet , Kumar M Ravi , Sinha Aashna , Alrasheed Hayam A , Al-Subaie Maha F , Al Kaabi Nawal A , bshabshe Ali Al , Al Fares Mona A , Albayat Hawra , Rabaan Ali A , Pant Kumud , Zahiruddin Quazi Syed , Rao Arathi P , Khatib Mahalaqua Nazli , Alfaifi Hassan Ahmad , Mohan Syam , Sah Sanjit , Satapathy Prakasini
Published: November 2024

Dengue fever, caused by the dengue virus and transmitted through Aedes mosquitoes, is a growing public health concern, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Traditionally associated with febrile and hemorrhagic symptoms, recent research suggests a potential link between dengue and cognitive impairments. This systematic review assessed existing research to understand the association between dengue virus infection and cognitive impairments, including dementia, Alzheimer disease, memory loss, and confusion. This systematic review followed preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science up to January 18, 2024. Studies examining the prevalence and association of cognitive impairments in dengue patients were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed using Nested Knowledge software and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Of the 1129 articles identified, 5 were included in the review, covering a total of 200 873 participants from Taiwan, Brazil, and France. Evidence from population-based cohort studies indicated short-term cognitive impairments, including confusion and memory loss, in some dengue patients. Additionally, long-term risks of dementia, including Alzheimer disease and vascular dementia, were observed, particularly among older adults. Although the findings suggest there might be an association between dengue infection and cognitive decline, the mechanisms underlying this link remain unclear. This systematic review suggests that dengue virus infection may affect cognitive function in both acute and long-term contexts. However, the current evidence is not strong enough to establish a conclusive link. Further research with larger sample sizes and longitudinal studies is essential to confirm the impact of dengue virus on cognitive health.
Music as capitalist icon
Authors: Parkhurst Bryan
Published: November 2024

This paper criticizes interpreters who appeal to structural homologies in making claims about the meaning of (classical instrumental) music. Such appeals are prevalent in Marxist and post-Marxist musical aesthetics, where structural correspondences between music and society are accorded great significance, and their prevalence can be traced to Adorno’s use of (what this paper calls) “semantically ambitious homologies,” which can be traced to Freud’s use of them. I lay out this genealogy and argue that homology-based musical semantics, as it has been customarily practiced, is a nonstarter.
Major histocompatibility complex class II genes allele diversity in landlocked seals
Authors: Meschersky Ilya G , Meschersky Sergey I , Kryukova Natalia V , Solovyeva Maria A , Boltnev Evgeniy A , Klimov Fedor V , Rozhnov Viatcheslav V
Published: November 2024

The allelic diversity of exon 2 (DQB gene) and exon 3 (DRB gene) of major histocompatibility complex class II was studied for the first time in two species of the landlocked pinnipeds, Baikal (N = 79) and Caspian (N = 32) seals, and these were compared with the widespread Arctic species, the ringed seal (N = 13). The analysis of the second exon comprising the antigen-binding region revealed high allelic diversity in all three species, but the pattern of the diversity was the most specific for the Baikal seal. This species differs from the other two by the smallest number of alleles in the population, yet they have the largest number of alleles per individual and by the maximum similarity of individual genotypes. Presumably, this specificity is a consequence of the spatial and temporal homogeneity of the Lake Baikal environment. Analysis of the third exon encoding the conserved β2-domain showed that the Baikal seal differs by the greatest number of amino acid sequences per individual, while the Caspian seal has the lowest number of variants. A single variant of the β2-domain, the same as in the ringed seal, predominates in the Caspian seal, whereas in the Baikal seal the two other variants predominate. At the same time, three species-specific amino acid sequences were observed among minor variants in the Caspian seal, while only one was found in the Baikal seal. This fact may suggest a longer period of independent evolution in the Caspian seal compared to the Baikal seal.
Laparoscopic reoperation of the bile duct in a patient with situs inversus totalis: a case report
Authors: Zhu Shengchang , Luo Liang
Published: November 2024

Situs inversus totalis is a rare congenital anomaly, where the positions of major internal organs are reversed from their normal arrangement. This anatomical abnormality significantly increases the complexity of surgeries, especially in laparoscopic reoperations of the bile duct for patients with a history of abdominal surgery. Traditional anatomical landmarks and surgical steps need to be adjusted according to the patient’s unique anatomy. This not only makes intraoperative identification of structures more challenging but also introduces greater uncertainty during the procedure. This case report summarizes the successful laparoscopic reoperation of the bile duct in a patient with situs inversus totalis, providing important reference and guidance for future similar procedures.
Diagnostic uncertainty and management of low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm—a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Lu Charles , Embel Veysel K , Fox Mackenzie E , Donne Robin , Parker Glenn S
Published: November 2024

Low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm (LAMN) is a rare entity identified in ~1% of patients undergoing appendectomy. The presentation often varies, making diagnosis challenging. Timely identification and treatment are critical to prevent rupture, which may lead to pseudomyxoma peritonei. We describe the case of a 41-year-old male who presented for evaluation of acute right lower quadrant abdominal pain. The clinical impression was consistent with appendicitis with a clinical suspicion for underlying malignancy. The patient was brought to the operating room for an exploratory laparotomy and right hemicolectomy, revealing low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm. The diagnosis of low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm can be challenging given the variable presentation and imaging findings. Early recognition and treatment are imperative to prevent progression to pseudomyxoma peritonei. Our case report seeks to contribute to the ongoing literature and provide a review of the current knowledge.
Host-dependent specialized metabolism of nitrogen export in actinorhizal nodules induced by diazotrophic Actinomycetota Frankia cluster-2
Authors: Berckx Fede , Nguyen Thanh Van , Hilker Rolf , Wibberg Daniel , Battenberg Kai , Kalinowski Jörn , Berry Alison , Pawlowski Katharina
Published: November 2024

Frankia cluster-2 strains are diazotrophs that engage in root nodule symbiosis with actinorhizal plants of the Cucurbitales and the Rosales. Previous studies have shown that an assimilated nitrogen source, presumably arginine, is exported to the host in nodules of Datisca glomerata (Cucurbitales), while a different metabolite is exported in the nodules of Ceanothus thyrsiflorus (Rosales). To investigate if an assimilated nitrogen form is commonly exported to the host by cluster-2 strains, and which metabolite would be exported in Ceanothus, we analysed gene expression levels, metabolite profiles, and enzyme activities in nodules. We conclude that the export of assimilated nitrogen in symbiosis seems to be a common feature for Frankia cluster-2 strains, but the source of nitrogen is host dependent. The export of assimilated ammonium to the host suggests that 2-oxoglutarate is drawn from the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle at a high rate. This specialized metabolism obviates the need for the reductive branch of the TCA cycle. We found that several genes encoding enzymes of central carbon and nitrogen metabolism were lacking in Frankia cluster-2 genomes: the glyoxylate shunt and succinate semialdehyde dehydrogenase. This led to a linearization of the TCA cycle, and we hypothesized that this could explain the low saprotrophic potential of Frankia cluster-2.
SlMIPS2, a myo-inositol phosphate synthase, regulates phosphate homeostasis by influencing SlPHL1 and SlSPX2 levels in tomato seedlings
Authors: Roychowdhury Abhishek , Kaushik Dolly , Bhosale Jayashri Babaji , Srivastava Rajat , Kumar Rahul
Published: November 2024

Phosphorus (P) is an essential macronutrient utilized by plants to support various metabolic processes during growth and development. Recent studies have revealed the pivotal role of inositol hexakis/pyrophosphates (InsP6–8), the derivatives of myo-inositol (MI), in facilitating the interaction between SYG1/PHO81/XPR1 (SPX) and phosphate starvation response (PHR) proteins. myo-Inositol phosphate synthase (MIPS) catalyses the first committed step in MI biosynthesis. Although the role of MIPS genes in mediating stress responses in plants is well elucidated, their role in phosphate (Pi) deficiency remains largely unexplored. This study demonstrates that out of the five MIPS genes encoded by the tomato genome, only SlMIPS2 is sharply induced at an early stage of Pi starvation in tomato seedlings. Silencing of SlMIPS2 led to improved seedling growth with enhanced total soluble Pi and total P levels in silenced plants under high Pi availability. SlMIPS2 silencing also caused a significant reduction in MI and InsP6 content in tomato seedlings. These seedlings with depleted InsP6 levels accumulated lower levels of SlSPX2 protein. In contrast, stabilized SlPHL1 levels were noticed in these plants, directly implicating this transcription factor in activating phosphate-starvation-inducible genes in the SlMIPS2-silenced seedlings, even under high Pi conditions. The results assign a novel role to SlMIPS2 in regulating cellular InsP6 levels and SPX–PHR interactions to control Pi homeostasis in tomato seedlings.
Military Medical Simulations—Scoping Review
Authors: Caffery Sophia J , Ferrari Brock D , Hackett Matthew G
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The military employs a wide variety of training paradigms to prepare a ready medical force. Simulation-based training is prominently used in the military for all roles of care to provide the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to render care from the battlefield to the hospital. The purpose of this scoping review is to synthesize the body of research in military healthcare simulation, highlight trends in the literature, and identify research gaps.

Materials and Methods

Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis process, the databases of PubMed, Google Scholar, and targeted conferences were searched for articles focused on simulation-based training in the military healthcare community. Inclusion criteria required that the studies assessed a healthcare simulation intervention and had military participants. Data were gathered on population parameters (branch of service and provider level) as well as study parameter (simulation modality, medical domain, and outcome measures). Outcome measures were categorized according to the Kirkpatrick model of training evaluation.

Results

A total of 43 articles met inclusion criteria. Article summaries and descriptive data on the participant populations and study parameters are provided in Tables 1, 2, and Supplementary Table S1.

Conclusions

Participant populations were inclusive of all the services and roles of care, suggesting appropriate representation of the broad military healthcare community. The majority of literature has studied physical simulations, such as manikins or task trainers. Few studies employed augmented or virtual reality as the training intervention, likely because of the nascency of the technology. Trauma care was the focus of 65% of the studies; this is attributable to the criticality of trauma care within battlefield medicine and casualty response. Related to study outcomes, participant reactions, such as usability and user acceptance, and immediate learning outcomes were heavily studied. Retention and behavioral changes were rarely studied and represent a significant research gap. Future research assessing mixed reality technologies would be beneficial to determine whether the technology warrants inclusion in programs of instruction. Finally, studies with outcome measures including long-term knowledge and skills retention, behavioral change, or patient outcomes are strongly recommended for future research.
The baryon census and the mass-density of stars, neutral gas, and hot gas as a function of halo mass
Authors: Dev Ajay , Driver Simon P , Meyer Martin , Robotham Aaron , Obreschkow Danail , Popesso Paola , Comparat Johan
Published: November 2024

We study the stellar, neutral gas content within haloes over a halo mass range $10^{10} \text{ to } 10^{15.5} \text{M}_\odot$ and hot X-ray gas content over a halo mass range $10^{12.8} \text{ to } 10^{15.5} \text{M}_\odot$ in the local universe. We combine various empirical data sets of stellar, H i, and X-ray observations of galaxies, groups, and clusters to establish fundamental baryonic mass versus halo mass scaling relations. These scaling relations are combined with halo mass function to obtain the baryon densities of stars, neutral gas, and hot gas ($T\gt 10^6 \text{K}$), as a function of halo mass. We calculate the contributions of the individual baryonic components to the cosmic baryon fraction. Cosmic stellar mass density ($\Omega _\text{star}=2.09^{+0.21}_{-0.18} \times 10^{-3}$), cosmic H i mass density ($\Omega _\rm{H\,{\small I}}=0.49^{+0.25}_{-0.12} \times 10^{-3}$), and cosmic neutral gas mass density ($\Omega _\text{neutral gas}=0.71^{+0.39}_{-0.18} \times 10^{-3}$) estimates are consistent with previous more direct method measurements of these values, thereby establishing the veracity of our method. We also give an estimate of the cosmic hot plasma density ($\Omega _\text{hot gas}=2.58^{+2.1}_{-0.66} \times 10^{-3}$).
Stellar stripping efficiencies of satellites in numerical simulations: the effect of resolution, satellite properties, and numerical disruption
Authors: Martin G , Pearce F R , Hatch N A , Contreras-Santos A , Knebe A , Cui W
Published: November 2024

The stellar stripping of satellites in cluster haloes is understood to play an important role in the production of intracluster light. Increasingly, cosmological simulations have been utilized to investigate its origin and assembly. However, such simulations typically model individual galaxies at relatively coarse resolutions, raising concerns about their accuracy. Although there is a growing literature on the importance of numerical resolution for the accurate recovery of the mass-loss rates of dark matter (DM) haloes, there has been no comparable investigation into the numerical resolution required to accurately recover stellar mass-loss rates in galaxy clusters. Using N-body simulations of satellite galaxies orbiting in a cluster halo represented by a static external potential, we conduct a set of convergence tests in order to explore the role of numerical resolution and force softening length on stellar stripping efficiency. We consider a number of orbital configurations, satellite masses, and satellite morphologies. We find that stellar mass resolution is of minor importance relative to DM resolution. Resolving the central regions of satellite DM haloes is critical to accurately recover stellar mass-loss rates. Poorly resolved DM haloes develop cored inner profiles and, if this core is of comparable size to the stellar component of the satellite galaxy, this leads to significant overstripping. To prevent this, relatively high DM mass resolutions of around $M_{\rm DM}\sim 10^{6}$ M$_{\odot }$, better than those achieved by many contemporary cosmological simulations, are necessary.
The Three-Tier Structural Legal Deficit Undermining the Protection of Employees’ Personal Data in the Workplace
Authors: Albin Einat
Published: November 2024

—Even though personal data protection is a fundamental right, and legislation and the courts aim to pursue it, in practice, employees have no meaningful protection of their personal data within the workplace and have few opportunities to act, individually or collectively, to ensure the security of their data. In this article, I argue that a central reason for this state of affairs is the intersection of labour law and personal data protection regulation that creates a three-tier structural legal deficit. The three tiers are: the basic structure of labour law that ensures employer prerogative to use new technologies that are based on datafication almost unlimitedly; the consumer orientation of personal data protection regulation under the General Data Protection Regulation; and lack of specific labour law tools to protect personal data. By building on the structural understanding of the law, and by unravelling the three tiers, the article proposes robust labour law tools to enhance the protection of employees’ personal data.
The role of NGOs and humanitarian organizations in enhancing surgical capacity in Africa: lessons learned and future directions—a narrative review
Authors: Tukur Hajar Nasir , Uwishema Olivier , Soufan Fatima , Tamir Ruth Girum , Wellington Jack
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Significant inequities exist in surgical care accessibility across marginalized African communities. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and humanitarian groups are vital in supporting Africa’s surgical infrastructure. This narrative review explores the current status of surgical care in Africa, highlighting NGO initiatives, past challenges, and future opportunities.

Methods

A narrative review was conducted using PubMed/Medline, ScienceDirect, and other relevant organizational websites.

Results

Over 90% of patients in Africa lack access to proper surgical care due to funding shortages, inadequate resources, and a lack of skilled personnel. NGOs have addressed these gaps through successful initiatives, including fundraising and training, although past failures emphasize the need for clearer objectives and sustainable strategies.

Discussion

Future efforts should prioritize addressing cultural sensitivities, setting realistic goals, and leveraging telemedicine. NGOs and humanitarian organizations will remain critical to improving surgical care for underserved populations in Africa.
Advancements in nanohydroxyapatite: synthesis, biomedical applications and composite developments
Authors: Zhao Rui , Meng Xiang , Pan Zixian , Li Yongjia , Qian Hui , Zhu Xiangdong , Yang Xiao , Zhang Xingdong
Published: November 2024

Nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) is distinguished by its exceptional biocompatibility, bioactivity and biodegradability, qualities attributed to its similarity to the mineral component of human bone. This review discusses the synthesis techniques of nHA, highlighting how these methods shape its physicochemical attributes and, in turn, its utility in biomedical applications. The versatility of nHA is further enhanced by doping with biologically significant ions like magnesium or zinc, which can improve its bioactivity and confer therapeutic properties. Notably, nHA-based composites, incorporating metal, polymeric and bioceramic scaffolds, exhibit enhanced osteoconductivity and osteoinductivity. In orthopedic field, nHA and its composites serve effectively as bone graft substitutes, showing exceptional osteointegration and vascularization capabilities. In dentistry, these materials contribute to enamel remineralization, mitigate tooth sensitivity and are employed in surface modification of dental implants. For cancer therapy, nHA composites offer a promising strategy to inhibit tumor growth while sparing healthy tissues. Furthermore, nHA-based composites are emerging as sophisticated platforms with high surface ratio for the delivery of drugs and bioactive substances, gradually releasing therapeutic agents for progressive treatment benefits. Overall, this review delineates the synthesis, modifications and applications of nHA in various biomedical fields, shed light on the future advancements in biomaterials research.
Association between slow wave sleep and blood pressure in insomnia
Authors: Ren Rong , Zhang Ye , Feng Xujun , Shi Yuan , Nie Yuru , Wang Yongming , Somers Virend K , Covassin Naima , Tang Xiangdong
Published: November 2024

Study Objectives

The majority of patients with insomnia exhibit abnormal sleep in objective testing (e.g. decreased sleep duration, decreased slow wave sleep [SWS]). Previous studies have suggested that some of these objective measures of poor sleep, such as decreased sleep duration, are associated with a higher risk of hypertension in insomnia. We examined the relationship between SWS and morning and evening blood pressure (BP) levels in patients with clinically diagnosed insomnia.

Methods

A total of 229 normal sleepers and 1378 insomnia patients were included in this study. Insomnia was defined based on standard diagnostic criteria with symptoms lasting ≥6 months. All participants underwent in-laboratory polysomnography. Patients were classified into quartiles of percent SWS. Evening and morning hypertension were defined using BP measurements taken in the evening before and in the morning after polysomnography, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between insomnia, SWS, and hypertension.

Results

Insomniacs with <3.5% SWS (OR 3.27, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.31 to 7.66) and those with 3.5%–10.2% SWS (OR 2.38, 95% CI: 1.28 to 5.91) had significantly greater odds of morning hypertension compared to normal sleepers. No associations were seen in insomnia with 10.2%–15.8% SWS and with >15.8% SWS. Significant effect modifications by sex (p = .043) were found, as decreased SWS was associated with morning hypertension only in men. Odds of evening hypertension were not significantly associated with SWS.

Conclusions

Decreased SWS is associated with morning hypertension in a dose-dependent manner in insomnia, especially in men.
Enhanced delta-gamma phase-amplitude coupling during phasic rapid eye movement sleep in isolated rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder
Authors: Noh Tae-Gon , Choi Kang-Min , Jun Jin-Sun , Shin Jung-Won , Byun Jeong-Ick , Sunwoo Jun-Sang , Jung Ki-Young
Published: November 2024

Study Objectives

This study aims to analyze phase-amplitude coupling (PAC) patterns during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep in patients with isolated REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD), compared with demography-matched healthy control (HC) participants.

Methods

At baseline, electroencephalogram data from 13 iRBD patients and 10 HCs during REM sleep were analyzed. During follow-up, four patients (converters) later converted to alpha-synucleinopathies. Phasic and tonic REM states were determined by eye movement in 3 s epochs. PAC was compared between the groups, and correlations with clinical indicators were investigated. Additionally, the contribution of each electrode to PAC components was assessed.

Results

Patients with iRBD exhibited increased delta (1–3 Hz)-gamma (30–50 Hz) PAC only during the phasic REM state, but not during the tonic state, compared to the HCs (p < .05). Elevated PAC in patients negatively correlated with the REM atonia index (p = 0.011) and olfactory function (p = 0.038). Increase PACs were predominent in the fronto-temporo-occipital regions (corrected p < .05). Furthermore, patients showed reduced gamma-amplitude contributions of the parietal region (corrected p < .05). This reduction exhibited a progressively decreasing trend from HC to nonconverters, and further to converters (p for trend = 0.044).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest PAC patterns during REM sleep could provide pathophysiological insights for iRBD. The widespread increase of PAC and reduced gamma-amplitude contribution in the parietal region suggest PAC during phasic REM sleep as potential biomarkers for disease progression in iRBD.
A review of the safety and efficacy of inflatable penile prosthesis ectopic reservoir placement
Authors: Atwater Britney , Krug Aaron , Gross Martin S , Marty-Roix Robyn , Chapin Laura , Morey Allen F
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Patient medical and surgical history factors, such as prior prostatectomy, may lead surgeons to opt for ectopic reservoir placement rather than the standard reservoir location in the retropubic space (RPS) during inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) placement.

Objective

To examine the safety and effectiveness of ectopic reservoir placement used with three-piece IPPs in relation to reservoir placement in the RPS.

Methods

A systematic review of MEDLINE/Pubmed and Embase databases was performed for literature between 1970 and 2022. Clinical studies and case reports describing three-piece IPP reservoir placement and clinical outcomes on AMS 700, similar products (such as Coloplast Titan), and three-piece IPPs where the manufacturer is not specified were included.

Results

Seventy articles were identified that reported clinical outcomes on three-piece IPP reservoir placement, which included data on 9565 patients. Of these, 67% of the reservoirs (n = 6413) were placed in ectopic locations. These locations were defined as submuscular (n = 5207), retroperitoneal (n = 405), sub-external oblique (n = 50), peritoneal (n = 42), subcutaneous (n = 10), and did not specify the ectopic location (n = 694). A total of 670 patients had ectopic placement of the AMS 700 reservoirs specifically. Overall, there were no elevated rates in safety outcomes between RPS and ectopic placement. Fourteen studies directly compared safety and/or efficacy outcomes between RPS and ectopic placement and did not report any significant differences between patient groups.

Conclusions

Ectopic reservoir placement of three-piece IPPs, including AMS 700, is comparable in terms of safety, efficacy, and patient satisfaction to RPS reservoir placement. Ectopic reservoir placement of the AMS 700 device is also similarly comparable to ectopically placed reservoirs of other IPPs as reported in the literature. Surgeons should consider ectopic implantation for patients at higher risk of complications associated with reservoir placement into the RPS.
A systematic review on the prevalence of a silent female disorder in Arabic-speaking countries and the Middle East: sexual dysfunctions and the role of culture
Authors: Zakhour Stephanie , Gonçalves Walter , Sardinha Aline , Levitan Michelle , Nardi Antonio Egidio
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) remains a silent problem, especially in Arabic-speaking countries and the Middle East and most of the data are from Western countries. Sociocultural determinants haven’t been getting the same attention as biological and psychological factors when studying sexual health.

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of FSD in the Arab and Middle Eastern world and understand the sociocultural determinants related.

Methods

On January 13, 2024, we searched electronic databases including Pubmed, Scielo, PsycArticles, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar, Middle East Current Psychiatry, and Journal of Middle East Women’s Studies, following PRISMA guidelines. Female participants, aged at least 16 years old from Middle East or Arabic-speaking countries, including North Africa, and cross-sectional studies in Arabic, English, and/or French were included. After careful screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts, ineligible articles were excluded.

Results

A total of 19 papers were included in the present review. The most common FSD in each country were as follows: in Egypt, Turkey, Morocco, and Jordan, desire problems. In Iran, orgasm problems, and pain. In Palestine, pain. In Saudi Arabia, arousal. Sociocultural determinants such as language, poor sexual education, poor sexual self-awareness—and of partners—, lack of training, and help-seeking were related to FSD.

Conclusions

FSD is prevalent in Arabic-speaking countries and the Middle East, yet little to no attention is given to this matter. Causes for FSD are mainly cultural, and Arab and Middle Eastern healthcare professionals lack training. Culturally sensitive, evidence-based studies regarding sexual health need to be conducted.
Administration of sodium hyaluronate to adult horses prior to and immediately after exercise does not alter the range of motion in either the tarsus or metacarpophalangeal joints
Authors: Riley Julia W , Chance Lara M , Barshick Madison R , Johnson Sally E
Published: November 2024

Hyaluronic acid (HA), a glycosaminoglycan found in joint synovial fluid, is administered to horses as an anti-inflammatory with lubrication properties. This experiment examined the effects of HA administered before and shortly after an exercise test on metacarpophalangeal (MCP; fetlock) and tibiotarsal (hock) joint range of motion (ROM). Horses were injected intravenously (IV) with placebo (4 mL, saline) or HA (4 mL, 40 mg) 24 h before performing a standardized exercise test (SET) on a high-speed treadmill and again at 6-h post-SET. Passive fetlock flexion was measured at 4 and 24 h post-SET. Hock flexion and extension were measured at 24 h post-SET by videography and kinematic evaluation at the trot. Parameters of the SET were sufficient to cause peak lactate values of 6.6 ± 0.15 mM and a maximum heart rate of 203.6 ± 4.8 bpm. A minor gain (P = 0.08) in fetlock flexion prior to SET was observed in HA horses that were not retained at either 4 or 24 h post-SET. Hock flexion in both limbs was greater (P < 0.05) at 24 h post-SET, independent of treatment. Horses receiving HA exhibited reduced (P = 0.04) right hock extension. No differences in either right or left hock ROM were observed between control and HA-treated horses. From these results, it is concluded that IV HA injections surrounding an exercise stressor offer no substantive gains in either fetlock or hock ROM.
The role of nucleation in sickle cell pathophysiology: opportunities for innovative treatments
Authors: Obeagu Emmanuel Ifeanyi , Akinleye Callistus Adewale , Obeagu Getrude Uzoma
Published: November 2024

Sickle Cell Anemia (SCA) is driven by the polymerization of hemoglobin S (HbS), where the nucleation process plays a central role in initiating sickling episodes. Advances in structural biology and computational modeling have significantly deepened our understanding of this process. High-resolution crystallography has elucidated the structural changes in deoxygenated HbS that promote nucleation, revealing critical interactions between valine-substituted β-globin chains. Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) has provided detailed visualizations of early-stage polymerization, capturing the formation of small HbS aggregates, which are essential for understanding the dynamics of nucleation in physiological conditions. Additionally, computational modeling has offered valuable insights into the kinetics of HbS nucleation, enabling the prediction of polymer formation under varying oxygen tensions. Molecular dynamics simulations have been instrumental in identifying key factors that modulate nucleation, such as intracellular HbS concentration, pH, and ionic strength. These simulations also suggest that heterogeneous nucleation, facilitated by cellular surfaces or macromolecules, may accelerate the sickling process, highlighting potential therapeutic targets for disrupting this interaction. Together, these techniques have led to new opportunities for innovative treatments. For instance, voxelotor, a drug developed using structural insights, binds to HbS and prevents its deoxygenation, reducing nucleation rates. Other strategies, such as CRISPR-based gene editing and allosteric modulators, are emerging as potential therapeutic avenues for altering nucleation kinetics, offering hope for more effective treatments to mitigate the clinical severity of SCA.
Unraveling the role of PBK in glioblastoma: from molecular mechanisms to therapeutic targets
Authors: Zhang Yizheng , Luan Mingyuan
Published: November 2024

Background:

This study investigates the gene expression characteristics of glioma-initiating cells (GIC), an important subgroup of glioblastoma (GBM), after knockdown of PBK (PDZ-binding kinase). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between PBK knockdown GIC and control groups were screened through bioinformatics methods. The authors analyzed the mechanisms and roles of these DEGs in GBM tumorigenesis and patient prognosis.

Methods:

Microarray data (GSE53800) were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, selecting 18 GIC cell line samples with or without PBK knockdown. Each control and knockdown group contained three samples. DEGs were screened using R software. GO enrichment analysis, KEGG pathway analysis, PPI network analysis, and hub gene identification were conducted to explore DEG mechanisms. Western blot analysis was also performed to detect EIF4E protein expression, one of the key hub genes, after PBK knockdown in the HS683 glioma cell line.

Results:

A total of 175 upregulated and 145 downregulated genes were identified. GO analysis showed that DEGs were mainly enriched in the positive regulation of cell proliferation, cell adhesion, and angiogenesis. KEGG pathway analysis revealed that DEGs were mainly involved in neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, calcium signaling, and HIF-1 signaling pathways. Western blot results indicated that EIF4E was downregulated after PBK knockdown.

Conclusion:

A group of genes, such as EIF4E, were closely associated with PBK expression and functions. These findings may provide insight into the molecular mechanism of PBK in GBM.
Cohort profile: The Cancer Risk Associated with the Body Art of Tattooing (CRABAT) study
Authors: Hosseini Bayan , McCarty Rachel , Zins Marie , Goldberg Marcel , Ribet Céline , Schreiver Ines , Ezzedine Khaled , Schüz Joachim , Foerster Milena
Published: November 2024

Tattooing, involving the injection of pigments into the skin, has become increasingly popular, with up to 40% of individuals under 40 years old tattooed in high-income countries. Despite regulatory measures, tattoo inks may contain hazardous substances such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, primary aromatic amines, and metallic impurities, many of which are classified as carcinogens. Research on systemic health risks, particularly cancer, associated with intradermal ink exposure remains limited. Complications like contact allergies and inflammatory skin reactions are more frequently reported among tattooed individuals. However, cancer risks from tattooing, especially for internal cancers like lymphoma, are challenging to assess. Existing case-control studies indicate mixed findings regarding hematologic cancers, with one large study reporting a 20% increased lymphoma risk among tattooed individuals in the first two years post-tattooing.

Here, we present the Cancer Risk Associated with the Body Art of Tattooing (CRABAT) study, that is, to our knowledge, the first larger study that prospectively investigates tattoo-related cancer risks. CRABAT follows up over 110,000 participants for long-term health effects within the French Constances cohort with objective cancer data linkage. Of ∼13,000 participants that were tattooed in 2020, detailed tattoo exposure assessment via a validated tattoo exposure questionnaire was conducted in 2023 (response rate >60%). With its robust dataset through linkage to the Constances variable pool, CRABAT enables the analysis of exposure-response relationships, and addresses potential confounders such as sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, and alternative pathways such as tattoo-related infections. Body word count: 2498 words
Detection of Epileptic Spasms Using Foundational AI and Smartphone Videos: A Novel Diagnostic Approach for a Rare Neurological Disorder
Authors: Miron Gadi , Halimeh Mustafa , Tietze Simon , Holtkamp Martin , Meisel Christian
Published: November 2024

Infantile epileptic spasm syndrome (IESS) is a severe neurological disorder characterized by epileptic spasms (ES). Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial but often delayed due to symptom misidentification. Smartphone videos can aid in diagnosis, but availability of specialist review is limited. We fine-tuned a foundational video model for ES detection using social media videos, thus addressing this clinical need and the challenge of data scarcity in rare disorders. Our model, trained on 141 children with 991 seizures and 127 children without seizures, achieved high performance (area under the receiver-operating-curve (AUC) 0.96, 83% sensitivity, 95% specificity) including validation on external datasets from smartphone videos (93 children, 70 seizures, AUC 0.98, false alarm rate (FAR) 0.75%) and gold-standard video-EEG (22 children, 45 seizures, AUC 0.98, FAR 3.4%). This study demonstrates the potential of smartphone videos for AI-powered analysis as the basis for accelerated IESS diagnosis and novel strategy for diagnosis of rare disorders.
In vivo genome editing of human hematopoietic stem cells for treatment of blood disorders by mRNA delivery
Authors: Xu Saijuan , Liang Dan , Wang Qiudao , Cheng Yan , Xie Da , Gui Yang , Zhang Haokun , Feng Changrui , Zhao Feiyan , Ren Wendan , Sun Gongrui , Yang Yang , Li Lin , Lai Yongrong , Fu Bin , Lu Yuming , Wang Zi Jun , Wu Yuxuan
Published: November 2024

Ex vivoautologous hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) gene therapy provides promising new treatments for hematological disorders. However, current methods involve complex processes and chemotherapeutic conditioning, leading to limited accessibility for treatment and significant side effects. Here, we developed an antibody-free targeted lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for mRNA delivery to HSCsin vivo, enabling efficient base editing of the HBG target in human HSCs to reactivate fetal hemoglobin in derived erythroid cells. Delivery of ABE8e/sgRNA mRNA with optimized structure LNPs achieves efficientin vivobase editing of HBG in transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia (TDT) patients derived HSCs engrafted in immunodeficientNCG-Xmice, showing restored globin chain balance in erythroid cells. Our research indicated that utilizing LNPs for delivery of genome editor achieves efficient editing of endogenous genes of human HSCs. Notably, this non-viral delivery system eliminates the need for harvesting or mobilizing HSCs, providing a potent and one-time treatment potential for blood disorders like sickle cell disease (SCD) and TDT.

Highlights

Antibody-free targeted LNPs system achieves efficient mRNA delivery and base editing in human bone marrow cells including HSCs via one-time intravenous injection.

Delivery of ABE8e/sgRNA mRNA with optimized LNPs achieves efficientin vivobase editing of HBG in TDT patients derived HSCs engrafted in immunodeficientNCG-Xmice, showing restored globin chain balance in erythroid cells.

LNPs efficiently deliver gene editing system to the BM forin vivoediting of human HSCs, providing preclinical evidence for the next generation non-viral gene therapy for blood disorders.
Absorbing molecules make both abdomen and back transparent in live mice
Authors: Tie Xin , Sun Ting , Xiao Guixiu , Zhao Yanjie , Su Jing , Xie Xiaoqi , Yin Wanhong
Published: November 2024

The field of tissue clearing has experienced rapid advancements in the past decades. Tissue clearing techniques primarily rely on physical or chemical approaches to match the refractive indices of cells and their surrounding medium, thereby reducing light scattering and rendering the tissue optically transparent. By doing so, it becomes possible to utilize fluorescence imaging and 3D reconstruction techniques to observe and analyze the contents and structures of tissues at a cellular level. However, effective research on in vivo tissue clearing remains limited due to the involvement of toxic substances and the removal of water or lipids. A recent article inSciencereports a technique that achieves tissue transparency in live animals with absorbing molecules, marking a significant advancement in the field of in vivo tissue clearing. Although this work has great potential for imaging and light-based therapeutics, some labs found it difficult to reproduce the reported results. In this study, we report the successful reproduction of the findings, provide experimental details that we identified as key to reproducibility, present a new transparency effect observed in the back of live mice, which was not shown in the original paper, and offer insights into the future development and applications of in vivo clearing reagents.