bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bronchodilator responsiveness in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: prevalence, significance, and clinical implications
Authors: Aggarwal Ashutosh N. , Agarwal Ritesh
Published: November 2024

Purpose of review

Bronchodilator responsiveness (BDR) is often considered a key feature distinguishing asthma from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, recent evidence suggests that BDR alone may not be a reliable discriminator between these conditions. There is still no consensus on BDR definitions and testing protocols. Additionally, it remains unclear whether BDR is linked to a specific COPD phenotype or influences treatment responses. Our review of recent literature attempts to clarify some of these issues.

Recent findings

A significant proportion of COPD patients demonstrate BDR, but the variability in testing procedures and definitions makes it challenging to draw any definite conclusion. There is no evident association between BDR and specific COPD characteristics. A few studies suggest that BDR may be associated with marginally better treatment response and disease outcomes in COPD. The impact of recent changes in BDR definitions on clinical practice remains to be fully understood.

There is still no clear, clinically relevant threshold to define BDR. BDR is an unreliable discriminator to differentiate asthma from COPD and is not consistently linked to any specific COPD phenotype, treatment response, or disease outcomes. Further research is needed to refine the definitions and implications of BDR in COPD.
The breadth and impact of the Global Lipids Genetics Consortium
Authors: Dron Jacqueline S. , Natarajan Pradeep , Peloso Gina M.
Published: November 2024

Purpose of review

This review highlights contributions of the Global Lipids Genetics Consortium (GLGC) in advancing the understanding of the genetic etiology of blood lipid traits, including total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and non-HDL cholesterol. We emphasize the consortium's collaborative efforts, discoveries related to lipid and lipoprotein biology, methodological advancements, and utilization in areas extending beyond lipid research.

Recent findings

The GLGC has identified over 923 genomic loci associated with lipid traits through genome-wide association studies (GWASs), involving more than 1.65 million individuals from globally diverse populations. Many loci have been functionally validated by individuals inside and outside the GLGC community. Recent GLGC studies show increased population diversity enhances variant discovery, fine-mapping of causal loci, and polygenic score prediction for blood lipid levels. Moreover, publicly available GWAS summary statistics have facilitated the exploration of lipid-related genetic influences on cardiovascular and noncardiovascular diseases, with implications for therapeutic development and drug repurposing.

The GLGC has significantly advanced the understanding of the genetic basis of lipid levels and serves as the leading resource of GWAS summary statistics for these traits. Continued collaboration will be critical to further understand lipid and lipoprotein biology through large-scale genetic assessments in diverse populations.
The Relationship Between Point-of-Care Tool Use and Nurses’ Self-Efficacy
Authors: Knowles Amy L. , Neal Penelope , Pell Christopher , Bloom Lindsey , Brown Julie
Published: November 2024

Background:

Despite benefits of evidence-based practice (EBP), barriers exist that prevent translation of evidence to point of care.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to examine types of EBP resources used by nurses, and correlate EBP resource use with nurse’s self-efficacy.

Method:

A descriptive correlational design was used.

Results:

A total of 52 nurses participated. A wide range of EBP resources were used including hospital policies/procedures, education provided by an employer, and internet searches. Participants had high levels of self-efficacy with nursing skills. Nurses with lower self-efficacy were more likely to use colleagues as an EBP resource and had fewer years of nursing experience.

Conclusions:

Nurses reported gaining information from a range of sources; unfortunately, not all sources were evidence-based. Removing barriers to EBP resource use and providing access to concise recommendations to nurses may improve use of EBP at the point of care.
Utilization of Neurology and Allied Health Services by People With Parkinson’s Disease in Israel: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Naamneh-Abuelhija Badera , Kafri Michal , Kestenbaum Meir , Shadmi Efrat , Mintz Igor , Shved Sarit , Giveon Shmuel , Kamah Sharon , Yogev-Seligmann Galit
Published: November 2024

Background:

Sustainable utilization of neurology and allied health professions’ services is pivotal for effective management of Parkinson disease (PD) and is correlated with positive health-related outcomes.

Objectives:

(1) To describe the utilization of neurology and allied health services by people with PD (PwP); (2) to explore the associations between demographic and structural variables and utilization; and (3) to test associations between utilization and unplanned hospitalizations.

Methods:

A retrospective observational cohort study of 1761 PwP in the years 2014-2019 was conducted. Utilization of neurology and allied health services was mapped. Regression models were examined to test associations between demographic and structural variables, utilization of neurology and physical therapy (PT), and unplanned hospitalizations.

Results:

Approximately 50% of the study population utilized neurology services. Utilization rate of allied health services ranged between 0% and 19%. The likelihood of utilizing neurology services increased for people with extended health insurance and people with more years since diagnosis and decreased for women and for people living at a great distance from a neurology service. The likelihood of utilizing PT increased for Jews and people with extended health insurance and decreased for people with more years since diagnosis and for people living at a great distance from a PT service. Among patients with fewer years since diagnosis (<5 years), those who utilized PT had a higher likelihood of unplanned hospitalization.

Conclusions:

Neurology and allied health services are underutilized by PwP, particularly by minorities and women. Policymakers should take proactive steps to increase utilization.

Video Abstract available

for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A496)
The role of lymphatic vessels in cardiac injury and repair
Authors: Wang Taiwei , Fan Xuanxuan , Gao Chaoyue , Wu Ye , Luo Lin , Shu Yue , Zhao Jiahui , Zhen Ke , Liu Huirong , Zhang Suli , Liu Yisi
Published: November 2024

The cardiac lymphatic system plays a vital role in maintaining interstitial fluid balance, immune cell homeostasis, and overall cardiac health. Despite its importance, the involvement of cardiac lymphatics in heart disease has only recently garnered significant research attention. This review explores the structural, molecular, and functional characteristics of the cardiac lymphatic network and its role in cardiac injury and the subsequent repair process, including conditions such as myocardial infarction, ischemia-reperfusion injury, infective endocarditis, atherosclerosis, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. Studies demonstrate that cardiac lymphatics facilitate the clearance of interstitial fluid, proteins, and immune cells, contributing to inflammation resolution and tissue repair. However, dysfunctions in the lymphatic system can exacerbate pathologic processes, leading to myocardial edema, fibrosis, and cardiac remodeling. Emerging evidence suggests that targeted modulation of lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic function may offer new therapeutic avenues for treating cardiovascular diseases. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of the cardiac lymphatic system’s contribution to cardiac injury and repair, aiming to lay the groundwork for future research and therapeutic development in this burgeoning field.
Prediction of interpersonal personality for people living with HIV using machine learning
Authors: Han Shuyu , Yang Xianxia , Jia Changli , Wang Xiaomeng , Chen Yundi , Xie Xin , Hu Yan , Zhang Yukun , Yang Zhongfang , Zhang Lili , Wang Zhiwen
Published: November 2024

Background:

The ultimate goals of HIV treatment and care have changed from viral suppression to improving quality of life due to the development of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Social functioning is an important aspect of quality of life, which is also associated with many health outcomes. Interpersonal personality influences individuals’ tendencies and preferences in the process of interpersonal communication. This study aims to develop and validate a prediction model of interpersonal personality for people living with HIV (PLWH) using machine learning.

Methods:

We recruited participants from 7 HIV/AIDS-designated hospitals in China from 2022 to 2023. This study included 3040 participants and collected 16 demographic and clinical variables according to the social determinants of health (SDOH) framework. A standard questionnaire was used to collect data on interpersonal personality. Five machine learning algorithms were applied to make predictions: random forest (RF), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), gradient boosting machine (GBM), bidirectional recurrent neural network (BRNN), and neural network (NNet).

Results:

XGBoost was found to have the best prediction performance, with a root mean square error (RMSE) value of 2.53. We used XGBoost to analyze the 16 variables and found that the top 5 most heavily weighted variables were CD4+ T-cell count, age, months since ART, months since HIV diagnosis, and viral load, suggesting that these 5 variables had the greatest impact on PLWH’s interpersonal personality. The performance of the XGBoost model was evaluated, and significant correlations (P<0.05) were found between the measured and predicted scores.

Conclusions:

The interpersonal personality of PLWH can be predicted by demographic and clinical variables, with high importance weights for HIV-related clinical variables. It may be influenced and shaped by HIV infection, which highlights the profound impact of HIV infection on PLWH even in the future functional cure era. Medical professionals should be aware that interventions can be designed to buffer the impact of HIV infection on the interpersonal personality of PLWH. Subjective needs and preferences that are influenced by interpersonal personality are important for the development of social support interventions for PLWH.
Electroconvulsive therapy research in BRICS and G7 countries: A bibliometric analysis from 2005 to 2024
Authors: Guo Qinghua , Wang Yong , Guo Libo , Shang Shaomei
Published: November 2024

Objectives:

Over the last two decades, global mental health challenges have significantly increased, drawing attention to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as a potential remedy for serious mental conditions. This article aimed to examine the patterns of collaboration networks, publication dynamics, and key areas of ECT research in BRICS and G7 nations.

Methods:

Through bibliometric evaluation, this study analyzed publication volume, collaboration networks, keyword burst detection, and citation patterns of 3,595 articles published between 2005 and 2024, from the Web of Science Core Collection database, published between 2005 and 2024. The analysis focused on outputs from BRICS and G7 countries and limited to publications in English. The descriptive analytics, network visualization, and burst detection techniques were used.

Results:

Findings showed a notable surge in ECT-focused publications post-2015, signaling a heightened worldwide interest in mental health. Analysis of keyword trends identified three pivotal stages in ECT research evolution: initial concerns over ECT’s efficacy and safety, broadening of its application scope, and the recent refinement of treatment methodologies alongside the formulation of international guidelines. Examination of collaborative networks underscored dense interconnections among G7 nations, in stark contrast to the more localized collaborations within BRICS.

Conclusions:

This study provides critical insights into the global research landscape of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) among BRICS and G7 nations. The findings emphasize the growing importance of ECT as a treatment for severe mental disorders, particularly in light of the ongoing global mental health crisis. Future studies is needed to compare ECT with emerging therapies, personalize treatment outcomes, and expand to underrepresented populations to further enhance the efficacy and accessibility of ECT worldwide.
Bone Matrix-forming Tumors
Authors: Diaz-Perez Julio A. , Rosenberg Andrew E.
Published: November 2024

Bone matrix-forming tumors are a group of neoplasms that exhibit differentiation toward any stage of osteoblast development. Their clinicopathologic features can resemble one another, yet their clinical management may vary significantly. Therefore, appropriate treatment requires accurate diagnosis, which can be challenging, especially with limited biopsy specimens. Recently, the driver genetic alterations underlying these neoplasms have been discovered, and their protein products can be targeted for diagnosis and therapy. Herein, we summarize the recent advances in our understanding of bone matrix-forming tumors and emphasize the integration of molecular genetics into their conventional clinicopathologic evaluation.
TFE3-rearranged Head and Neck Neoplasms
Authors: Agaimy Abbas , Michal Michael , Abdelsatir Ali , Abdelsatir Azza A. , Abdulrahim Sawsan , Laco Jan , Ihrler Stephan , Tögel Lars , Stoehr Robert , Bishop Justin A. , Din Nasir Ud , Michal Michal
Published: November 2024

TFE3 rearrangements characterize histogenetically, topographically, and biologically diverse neoplasms. Besides being a universal defining feature in alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS) and clear cell stromal tumor of the lung, TFE3 fusions have been reported in subsets of renal cell carcinoma, perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa), epithelioid hemangioendothelioma and ossifying fibromyxoid tumors. TFE3-related neoplasms are rare in the head and neck and may pose diagnostic challenges. We herein describe 22 TFE3 fusion neoplasms affecting 11 males and 11 females aged 4 to 79 years (median, 25) and involving different head and neck sites: sinonasal cavities (n = 8), tongue (n = 4), oral cavity/oropharynx (n = 3), salivary glands (n = 2), orbit (n = 2), and soft tissue or unspecified sites (n = 3). Based on morphology and myomelanocytic immunophenotype, 10 tumors qualified as ASPS, 7 as PEComas (3 melanotic; all sinonasal), and 5 showed intermediate (indeterminate) histology overlapping with ASPS and PEComa. Immunohistochemistry for TFE3 was homogeneously strongly positive in all cases. Targeted RNA sequencing/FISH testing confirmed TFE3 fusions in 14 of 16 successfully tested cases (88%). ASPSCR1 was the most frequent fusion partner in ASPS (4 of 5 cases); one ASPS had a rare VCP::TFE3 fusion. The 6 successfully tested PEComas had known fusion partners as reported in renal cell carcinoma and PEComas (NONO, PRCC, SFPQ, and PSPC1). The indeterminate tumors harbored ASPSCR1::TFE3 (n = 2) and U2AF2::TFE3 (n = 1) fusions, respectively. This large series devoted to TFE3-positive head and neck tumors illustrates the recently proposed morphologic overlap in the spectrum of TFE3-associated mesenchymal neoplasms. While all PEComas were sinonasal, ASPS was never sinonasal and occurred in diverse head and neck sites with a predilection for the tongue. The indeterminate (PEComa-like) category is molecularly more akin to ASPS but shows different age, sex, and anatomic distribution compared with classic ASPS. We report VCP as a novel fusion partner in ASPS and PSPC1 as a novel TFE3 fusion partner in PEComa (detected in one PEComa). Future studies should shed light on the most appropriate terminological subtyping of these highly overlapping tumors.
Perspectives on Public Health Department Accreditation: Lessons Learned From Ohio’s Accreditation Mandate
Authors: Oberly Tonni , Singh Simone R. , Bush Stevens Amy , Blair-Ackison Robin , Sheeran Anna , Lang Britt
Published: November 2024

Context:

Ohio is the only state that requires local health departments (LHDs) to be accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). As of May 2024, 80% of Ohio’s 111 LHDs achieved accreditation, making Ohio the state with the highest proportion of accredited LHDs in the country.

Objectives:

This study examined the experience of public health accreditation in Ohio including the perceived value of PHAB accreditation for LHDs. It also explored the extent to which perspectives on the value of mandatory accreditation differed between state and local health officials.

Design:

Data for this study was obtained from 5 focus group interviews with 41 participants, representing state and local perspectives on PHAB accreditation in Ohio. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded using inductive and deductive coding for a thematic analysis.

Results:

Focus group participants outlined numerous advantages that accreditation has brought to their organizations. Commonly cited benefits include enhancements in quality improvement and performance management, strengthened collaborations and partnerships, improved communications, and optimized resource use. Challenges in achieving accreditation involved the financial expenses associated with the process and constraints on staffing resources. State officials generally expressed positive views on the accreditation mandate, perceiving it as a pathway to modernize the public health system and ensure consistency in service delivery across communities. In contrast, local stakeholders offered more nuanced perspectives and voiced concerns about the intentions behind the mandate.

Conclusions:

The experience of health officials in Ohio offers lessons for both PHAB and officials in other states working to increase public health department accreditation levels. Successful implementation of accreditation mandates requires trust between state and local partners, open communication, and clarity of purpose. Moreover, attaining accreditation necessitates substantial resources, including technical assistance, financial support, and a robust workforce.
Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate/Emtricitabine Prophylaxis Has No Effect on Bone Mineral Density and Bone Mineral Content in African Breastfeeding Women Receiving Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis for HIV
Authors: Kistan Gaysheen , Sebitloane Motshedisi , Lombard Carl , Godlwana Zukiswa , Desmond Alicia C. , Clark Richard , Rooney James F. , Gray Glenda , Moodley Dhayendre
Published: November 2024

Background:

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) when used as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) during pregnancy is considered safe overall, however, there is insufficient evidence of its effect on maternal bone. We compared bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) at the lumbar spine (LS) and hip of African breastfeeding women exposed and not exposed to TDF-containing PrEP in a randomized control trial (RCT).

Methods:

This is a secondary data analysis of an RCT where pregnant women were randomized to initiating PrEP during pregnancy or delayed initiation of PrEP until breastfeeding cessation. BMD and BMC at the LS and hip were measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at 6, 26, 50, and 74 weeks postpartum. In an exploratory analysis, BMD at the hip and LS were evaluated against varying tenofovir levels during pregnancy.

Results:

Of 300 women in the RCT who had a DXA at 6 weeks postpartum, 102 (66%) women in the Immediate PrEP arm and 105 (72%) in the Delayed PrEP arm had a 74-week DXA scan. Adjusting for breastfeeding duration and body mass index, there were no significant differences in BMD or BMC at the hip and LS between treatment arms. There was no consistent dose–effect of tenofovir diphosphate detected during pregnancy on BMD at the hip (P = 0.231) or the LS (P = 0.277).

Conclusions:

After adjusting for breastfeeding and body mass index, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate when given as oral PrEP during pregnancy had no deleterious effect on BMD and BMC at the hip and LS of African breastfeeding women.
Outcome and Renal Safety of PSMA-Targeted Radioligand Therapy in mCRPC Patients With Preexisting Impaired Renal Function
Authors: Bastian Moritz B. , Sieben Maike , Burgard Caroline , Blickle Arne , Speicher Tilman , Bartholomä Mark , Maus Stephan , Petto Sven , Schaefer-Schuler Andrea , Ezziddin Samer , Rosar Florian
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the outcome and renal safety of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)–radioligand therapy (RLT) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate carcinoma (mCRPC) and preexisting renal impairment.

Methods

Ninety-four patients with preexisting renal impairment were included in this retrospective analysis. Inclusion criterion was a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of ≤60 mL/min (equivalent to Common Terminology Criteria of Adverse Events [CTCAE] ≥2). Patients underwent either [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 RLT exclusively (n = 63) or additionally in augmented manner with [225Ac]Ac-PSMA-617 (n = 31). The median number of administered cycles was 4 (range, 1–16 cycles) with a mean cumulative activity of 29.9 ± 16.3 GBq (range, 6.9–87.2 GBq) [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617. Main blood parameters of interest were creatinine, cystatin C, and the respective GFR values. Changes in GFR were categorized according to CTCAE v5.0.

Results

In the entire cohort, mean best PSA response was −56.73% ± 45.71%, with 63 of 94 patients (67%) experiencing partial remission. The median progression-free survival and overall survival were 6.7 and 14.1 months, respectively. Under PSMA-RLT, 5 of 94 patients (5.3%) improved to CTCAE grade 0, and 23 of 94 (24.5%) improved to CTCAE grade 1. Three of 94 patients (3.2%) improved from CTCAE grade 3 to grade 2, and only 5 of 94 (5.3%) decreased. The majority (58/94 [61.7%]) of patients stayed stable in terms of CTCAE grading.

Conclusion

PSMA-RLT is an effective and safe treatment in mCRPC patients with preexisting impaired renal function (CTCAE ≥2). In daily clinical practice, patients should not be categorically excluded from enrolment to PSMA-RLT due to renal impairment.
Dual-Tracer 18F-FDG and 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT Imaging of Heterogeneous Phenotypes of Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer for Predicting Response to Novel Hormone Therapy
Authors: Bian Linjie , Li Panli , Wang Xiangwei , Zuo Yan , Liu Xuwei , Bai Liyan , Lei Jialiang , Guo Haoyao , Hu Silong , Liu Chang , Song Shaoli
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study evaluated interlesion heterogeneity in prostate cancer using dual-tracer imaging (PSMA and FDG) and explored its predictive value for novel hormone therapy (NHT).

Patients and Methods

A total of 205 prostate cancer patients (23 biochemical recurrences, 68 metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancers, 114 metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancers [mCRPC]) who underwent dual 18F-FDG and 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT imaging were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 62 mCRPC patients received NHT. Patients were classified into 3 groups: PSMA+FDG−, PSMA+FDG+, and PSMA-FDG+. SUVratio, the ratio of PSMA-SUVmax to FDG-SUVmax, was evaluated for its predictive value on progression-free survival (PFS).

Results

The proportion of PSMA+FDG− patients decreased from biochemical recurrence to mCRPC stages, whereas FDG+ cases increased significantly (P = 0.001). In the NHT cohort, group 3 (PSMA-FDG+) had significantly shorter median PFS than group 1 (133 vs 497 days; P = 0.027). In group 2, patients with a high SUVratio had better median PFS than those with a low SUVratio (368 vs 147 days; P = 0.031).

Conclusions

Dual-tracer imaging reveals interlesion heterogeneity in prostate cancer, and SUVratio may help predict early response to NHT.
Incidental Detection of Prostatic Lesion on 18F-FDG PET/CT and 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT Leading to Diagnosis of Second Primary Prostatic Adenocarcinoma in a Patient of Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Gondhane Abhay Indrasingh , Parghane Rahul V. , Basu Sandip
Published: November 2024

Second primary malignancies are being increasingly detected in the setting of thyroid cancer, because of adoption of the advanced imaging modalities including PET/CT. Herein, we present a patient of papillary thyroid carcinoma who initially underwent total thyroidectomy with bilateral neck dissection followed by 131I radioactive iodine therapy. A prostatic lesion was incidentally detected on 18F-FDG PET/CT scan, which was intensely 18F-FDG avid and also showed intense focal 68Ga–prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) uptake on 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT scan. This led to the diagnosis of prostatic adenocarcinoma as a second primary cancer in this patient with papillary thyroid carcinoma.
Prognosticators of Optic Nerve Imaging in Malignant Pseudotumor Cerebri Syndrome
Authors: Chaulk Alexandria L. , McCarty Jennifer L. , Patel Rajan P. , Chuang Alice Z. , Adesina Ore-ofe O.
Published: November 2024

Background:

Pseudotumor cerebri (PTC) syndrome is a disorder of increased intracranial pressure, most commonly affecting overweight women of childbearing age. Malignant PTC (MPTC) is a rare presentation that involves rapidly worsening vision, often necessitating surgical intervention to prevent permanent vision loss. The goal of this study was to determine whether radiographic findings of PTC are predictive of MPTC and the final visual outcome.

Methods:

Charts of patients diagnosed with PTC based on the modified Dandy criteria were reviewed. Snellen best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), automated perimetry mean deviation (APMD), and papilledema grade were documented from the initial and final follow-up examinations. The MRI images were read by 2 neuroradiologists blinded to the clinical diagnosis, and consensus findings were obtained. The patients were classified into malignant and nonmalignant PTC groups. Malignant was defined as BCVA ≤ 20/200 or APMD ≤ −7 dB, and acute onset of symptoms. The sensitivity and specificity of each MRI finding for detecting MPTC was determined. Generalized linear model with random effect and backward model selection was performed to identify which radiographic findings were predictive of final BCVA, APMD, and papilledema grade.

Results:

Overall, 114 eyes (57 malignant/57 nonmalignant) were included. No MRI finding has both sensitivity and specificity for MPTC reaching 60%. The highest sensitivity (86%) was flattening of the posterior globes and unilateral or bilateral transverse sinus stenosis. The highest specificities were completely empty sella (86%), enhancement (84%), and diffusion restriction (81%) of the prelaminar optic nerves. The presence of vertical tortuosity of the optic nerves was predictive of better final BCVA (P = 0.003) and better final APMD (P = 0.011). While papilledema grade was higher in MPTC, no MRI finding was predictive of papilledema grade.

Conclusions:

No single MRI finding has both high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing MPTC. Vertical tortuosity of the optic nerves may be predictive of better final BCVA and APMD.
Gill regeneration in the mayfly
Cloeon
uncovers new molecular pathways in insect regeneration
Authors: Martin-Blanco Carlos A. , Navarro Pablo , Esteban-Collado José , Serras Florenci , Almudi Isabel , Casares Fernando
Published: November 2024

The capacity to regenerate lost organs is widespread among animals, and yet the number of species in which regeneration has been experimentally probed using molecular and functional assays is very small. This is also the case for insects, for which we still lack a complete picture of their regeneration mechanisms and the extent of their conservation. Here, we contribute to filling this gap by investigating regeneration in the mayfly
Cloeon dipterum
. We focus on the abdominal gills of
Cloeon
nymphs, which are critical for osmoregulation and gas exchange. After amputation, gills re-grow faster than they do during normal development. Direct cell count and EdU assays indicate that growth acceleration involves an uniform increase in cell proliferation throughout the gill, rather than a localized growth zone. Accordingly, transcriptomic analysis reveals an early enrichment in cell cycle-related genes. Other gene classes are also enriched in regenerating gills, including protein neddylation and other proteostatic processes. We then showed the conservation of these mechanisms by functionally testing protein neddylation, the activin signalling pathway or the mRNA-binding protein Lin28, among other genes, in
Drosophila
larval/pupal wing regeneration. Globally, our results contribute to elucidating regeneration mechanisms in mayflies and the conservation of mechanisms involved in regeneration across insects.
Comparative mitogenomic analysis and phylogeny of Veneridae with doubly uniparental inheritance
Authors: Xu Tao , He Chuandong , Han Xiao , Kong Lingfeng , Li Qi
Published: November 2024

Doubly uniparental inheritance (DUI) is an atypical animal mtDNA inheritance system, reported so far only in bivalve species, in which two mitochondrial lineages exist: one transmitted through the egg (F-type) and the other through the sperm (M-type). Although numerous species exhibit this unusual organelle inheritance, it is primarily documented in marine and freshwater mussels. The distribution, function and molecular evolutionary implications of DUI in the family Veneridae, however, remain unclear. Here, we investigated 17 species of Veneridae, compared mitochondrial genomes of DUI species and reconstructed their phylogenetic framework. Different sex-linked mitochondrial genomes have been identified in the male gonads and adductor muscles of 7 venerids, indicating the presence of DUI in these species. Analysis of the unassigned regions (URs) of the mitochondrial genome in DUI species revealed that 13 out of 44 URs contained repetitive sequences, with nine being long unassigned regions (LURs). All LURs were capable of forming secondary structures, and most of them exhibited patterns of significant sequence similarity to elements known to have specific functions in the control regions of sea urchins and mammals. The F/M phylogeny showed that DUI venerids exhibit both taxon-specific patterns and gender-specific patterns, with
Gafrarium dispar
experiencing masculinization events.
Late Triassic
†Cryptovaranoides microlanius
is a squamate, not an archosauromorph
Authors: Whiteside David I. , Chambi-Trowell Sofía A. V. , Benton Michael J.
Published: November 2024

†Cryptovaranoides microlanius
from the latest Triassic of England was described in 2022 as a crown-clade squamate, of importance as the oldest such modern-type lizard, extending their temporal range downward by 35 Myr. This view was challenged in 2023, and
†Cryptovaranoides
was reinterpreted as an archosauromorph. These decisions matter because the original view has an impact on our understanding of the early stages of squamate evolution; the revised view removes the species from such a role. The revisers emphasized the need to make careful observations of the fossils and to interpret the morphological data appropriately in terms of relationships; here, we find many errors of observation and interpretation in the work of the revisers, and we correct these with reference to the fossils, both in the rock and in the computed tomography scans we had made for the original description. We show that when the observational errors are corrected and the taxa recoded, every phylogenetic analysis confirms our original conclusion that
†Cryptovaranoides
is not an archosauromorph, but a lepidosauromorph, a lepidosaur, a pan-squamate and a crown squamate.
Cross-sectional personal network analysis of adult smoking in rural areas
Authors: Mihăilă Bianca-Elena , Hâncean Marian-Gabriel , Perc Matjaž , Lerner Jürgen , Oană Iulian , Geantă Marius , Molina José Luis , Cioroboiu Cosmina
Published: November 2024

Research on smoking behaviour has primarily focused on adolescents, with less attention given to middle-aged and older adults in rural settings. This study examines the influence of personal networks and sociodemographic factors on smoking behaviour in a rural Romanian community. We analysed data from 76 participants, collected through face-to-face interviews, including smoking status (non-smokers, current and former smokers), social ties and demographic details. Multilevel regression models were used to predict smoking status. The results indicate that social networks are essential in shaping smoking habits. Current smokers were more likely to have smoking family members, reinforcing smoking within familial networks, while non-smokers were typically embedded in non-smoking environments. Gender and age patterns show that women were less likely to smoke, and older adults were more likely to have quit smoking. These findings suggest that targeted interventions should focus not only on individuals but also on their social networks. In rural areas, family-based approaches may be particularly effective due to the strong influence of familial ties. Additionally, encouraging connections with non-smokers and former smokers could help disrupt smoking clusters, supporting smoking cessation efforts.
Green turtle tracking leads the discovery of seagrass blue carbon resources
Authors: Mann Hugo F. , Wildermann Natalie E. , Fu Chuancheng , Barrios-Garrido Hector , Shimada Takahiro , Pluma Naira , Duarte Carlos M.
Published: November 2024

Seagrass meadows are natural carbon sinks, and their conservation and restoration play a crucial role in climate change mitigation and adaptation. However, blue carbon projects are hindered, in most nations, by major gaps in understanding the distribution and extent of seagrasses. Here, we show how satellite tracking of green turtles (
Chelonia mydas
) provided a major advance in identifying novel seagrass blue carbon resources in the Red Sea. By tracking 53 nesting green turtles, we identified 38 distinctive foraging sites. All ground-truthed foraging sites (100%) identified a seagrass meadow, surpassing the 40% (
n
= 30) accuracy of satellite imagery-based inferences. Sampling from these turtle-derived locations represents a greater range of depths than previously sampled in the Red Sea providing a carbon stock estimate of 4.89 ± 0.83 kg
C
org
(organic carbon) m
−2
. By improving estimates of seagrass extent and associated blue carbon, our approach can support the conservation of blue carbon resources in data-deficient regions worldwide.
No evidence for inequity aversion in non-human animals: a meta-analysis of accept/reject paradigms
Authors: Ritov Oded , Völter Christoph J. , Raihani Nichola J. , Engelmann Jan M.
Published: November 2024

Disadvantageous inequity aversion (IA), a negative response to receiving less than others, is a key building block of the human sense of fairness. While some theorize that IA is shared by species across the animal kingdom, others argue that it is an exclusively human evolutionary adaptation to the selective pressures of cooperation among non-kin. Essential to this debate is the empirical question of whether non-human animals are averse towards unequal resource distributions. Over the past two decades, researchers have reported that individuals from a wide range of taxa exhibit IA; tasks where participants can reject or accept a given distribution of rewards delivered the bulk of this evidence. Yet these results have been questioned on both conceptual and empirical grounds. In the largest empirical investigation of non-human IA to date, we synthesize the primary data from 23 studies using accept/reject tasks, covering 60 430 observations of 18 species. We find no evidence for IA in non-human animals in these tasks. This finding held across all species in the dataset and pre-registered subsets (all species reported to exhibit IA, primates reported to exhibit IA, chimpanzees and capuchin monkeys). Alternative interpretations of the data and implications for the evolution of fairness are discussed.
Uncovering the circadian transcriptome of
Nasonia vitripennis
: insights into a non-canonical insect model
Authors: Tauber Eran
Published: November 2024

The study of the circadian clock has greatly benefited from using
Drosophila
as a model system. Yet accumulating evidence suggests that the fly might not be the canonical insect model. Here, I have analysed the circadian transcriptome of the jewel wasp
Nasonia vitripennis
by using RNA-seq in both constant darkness and constant light (in contrast to flies, the wasps are rhythmic under continuous light). I identify approximately 6% of the transcriptome as cycling under constant conditions, revealing a bimodal distribution of phases and low cycling amplitude. I examine the biological processes under circadian control in
Nasonia
, identifying clock control of functions such as metabolism, light response and a variety of neural processes, drawing comparisons between
Nasonia
and
Drosophila
. Although there was little similarity between cycling genes in
Drosophila
and
Nasonia
, the functions fulfilled by cycling transcripts were similar in both species. Interestingly, of the known
Drosophila
core clock genes, only
Pdp1e
,
shaggy
and
Clock
showed significant cycling in
Nasonia
, highlighting the potential diversity in molecular clock mechanisms across insect species.
Implementing Precision Medicine for Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Insights from The DCM Consortium
Authors: Jordan Elizabeth , Ni Hanyu , Parker Patricia , Kinnamon Daniel D. , Owens Anjali , Lowes Brian , Shenoy Chetan , Martin Cindy M. , Judge Daniel P. , Fishbein Daniel P. , Stoller Douglas , Minami Elina , Kransdorf Evan , Smart Frank , Haas Garrie J. , Huggins Gordon S. , Ewald Gregory A. , Diamond Jamie , Wilcox Jane E. , Jimenez Javier , Wang Jessica , Tallaj Jose , Drazner Mark H. , Hofmeyer Mark , Wheeler Matthew T. , Wever Pinzon Omar , Shah Palak , Gottlieb Stephen S. , Katz Stuart , Shore Supriya , Tang W. H. Wilson , Hershberger Ray E. ,   DCM Precision Medicine study of the DCM Consortium
Published: November 2024

Background

Clinical genetic evaluation of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is implemented variably or not at all. Identifying needs and barriers to genetic evaluations will enable strategies to enhance precision medicine care.

Methods

An online survey was conducted in June 2024 among cardiologist investigators of the DCM Consortium from US advanced heart failure/transplant (HF/TX) programs to collect demographics, training, program characteristics, genetic evaluation practices for DCM, and implementation needs. An in-person discussion followed.

Results

Twenty-five cardiologists (28% female, 12% Hispanic, 68% White) participated in the survey and 15 in the discussion; genetics training backgrounds varied greatly. Clinical genetic testing for DCM was conducted by all programs with annual uptake ranging from 5%-70% (median 25%). Thirteen respondents (52%) did not use selection criteria for testing whereas others selected patients based on specific clinical and family history data. Eight (32%) ordered testing by themselves, and the remainder had testing managed mostly by a genetic counselor or others with genetic expertise (16/17; 94%). Six themes were distilled from open-ended responses regarding thoughts for the future and included access to genetics services, navigating uncertainty, knowledge needs, cost concerns, family-based care barriers, and institutional infrastructure limitations. Following an in-person discussion, four areas were identified for focused effort: improved reimbursement for genetic services, genetic counselor integration with HF/TX teams, improved provider education resources, and more research to find missing heritability and to resolve uncertain results.

Conclusions

HF/TX programs have implementation challenges in the provision of DCM genetic evaluations; targeted plans to facilitate precision medicine for DCM are needed.
Pupil Abnormality Frequency in the First 72 Hours Improves IMPACT score in Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Veerapaneni Divya , Sakthiyendran Naveen Arunachalam , Kim So Yeon , Nguyen Chuong , Daneshmand Ali , Abdalkader Mohamad , Mohammed Shariq , Dupuis Josée , Sheth Kevin N. , Gilmore Emily J. , Greer David , Ong Charlene J.
Published: November 2024

Importance

In patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), baseline pupillary assessment is common. However, the incidence and frequency of pupil abnormalities within the first several days remain poorly characterized.

Objectives

Our aim was to test the association between pupil abnormality frequency over the first 72 hours of admission and clinical outcomes.

Design

We conducted a retrospective observational study of patients with a primary diagnosis of TBI with at least three quantitative pupillometry measurements within 72 hours at a single-center ICU from 2018 to 2022.

Outcomes and Measures

Neurological Pupil index (NPi), a quantitative composite metric for pupil reactivity, was obtained at each clinical neurologic assessment over 72 hours. Pupil measurements were defined as abnormal if they had a NPi of <3 in either eye, NPi asymmetry ≥0.7, or pupil size asymmetry ≥1mm. We tested the association of increased frequency of pupil abnormalities over 72 hours and unfavorable discharge disposition (death, hospice, or long-term care) using multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for confounders. We then compared whether the IMPACT model was improved by the frequency of pupil abnormalities using goodness-of-fit.

Results

Of 131 patients, median age was 59 years, and 30% were women. Thirty-five percent had unfavorable discharge disposition. Pupil abnormalities occurred in 62%, 61%, and 88% of mild, moderate, and severe TBI patients, respectively. Odds ratio of unfavorable discharge for every 1% increase in pupil abnormality frequency was 1.03 (95% Cl, 1.01-1.05), equivalent to one additional abnormal pupil measurement within a 72-hour period. The adjusted IMPACT TBI model’s goodness-of-fit improved with pupil abnormality frequency (X2=5.67,p=0.02).

Conclusions and Relevance

Pupil abnormalities occur commonly in TBI and have the highest frequency in severe TBI. Increased pupil abnormality frequency is associated with unfavorable discharge disposition and improves performance of prognostic TBI models.

Key Points

The goal of this study was to test the association between pupil abnormality frequency over the first 72 hours of admission and unfavorable discharge disposition and whether it improved the IMPACT model. In this retrospective observational study of 131 TBI patients at a single-center, we found that an increased frequency of pupil abnormalities across 72-hours significantly correlated with unfavorable discharge in patients and improved the IMPACT model’s goodness-of-fit. These findings highlight the potential of long-term pupillary metrics and their role as not only a prognostic indicator in patients but also a tool that improves the performance of prognostic TBI models.
Windows of Susceptibility to Air Pollution During and Surrounding Pregnancy in Relation to Longitudinal Maternal Measures of Adiposity and Lipid Profiles
Authors: India Aldana Sandra , Demateis Danielle , Valvi Damaskini , Just Allan C. , Gutiérrez-Avila Iván , Estrada-Gutierrez Guadalupe , Téllez Rojo Martha María , Wright Robert O. , Baccarelli Andrea A. , Wu Haotian , Keller Kayleigh P. , Wilson Ander , Colicino Elena
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Pregnancy is a critical window for long-term metabolic programming of fetal effects stemming from airborne particulate matter ≤2.5μm (PM2.5) exposure. Yet, little is known about long-term metabolic effects of PM2.5exposure during and surrounding pregnancy in mothers. We assessed potential critical windows of PM2.5exposure during and surrounding pregnancy with maternal adiposity and lipid measures later in life. We included 517 pregnant women from the PROGRESS cohort with adiposity [body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), % body fat] and lipids [total cholesterol, high-density-lipoprotein (HDL), low-density-lipoprotein (LDL)] measured repeatedly at 4, 6 and 8 years post-delivery. Monthly average PM2.5exposure was estimated at each participant’s address using a validated spatiotemporal model. We employed distributed lag interaction models (DLIMs) adjusting for socio-demographics and clinical covariates. We found that a 1 μg/m3increase in PM2.5exposure throughout mid-/late-pregnancy was associated with higher WC at 6-years post-delivery, peaking at 6 months of gestation: 0.04 cm (95%CI: 0.01, 0.06). We also identified critical windows of PM2.5exposure during and surrounding pregnancy associated with higher LDL and lower HDL both measured at 4 years post-delivery with peaks at pre-conception for LDL [0.17 mg/dL (95%CI: 0.00, 0.34)] and at the 11thmonth after conception for HDL [-0.07 mg/dL (95%CI: -0.11, -0.02)]. Stratified analyses by fetal sex indicated stronger associations with adiposity measures in mothers carrying a male, whereas stronger associations were observed with lipids in mothers carrying a female fetus. Stratified analyses also indicated potential stronger deleterious lagged effects in women with folic acid intake lower than 600mcg/day during pregnancy.
Effects of Prenatal Substance Exposure on Longitudinal Tri-Ponderal Mass Index Trajectories from Pre- to Early Adolescence in the ABCD study
Authors: Li Ru , Wigley Isabella Mariani , Suuronen Ilkka , Jolly Ashmeet , Tuulari Jetro J.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The long-term relationship between prenatal substance exposure (PSE) and obesity development remains inconclusive and poorly understood. This study aimed to explore the heterogeneity in adiposity developmental trajectories from pre- to early adolescence and investigate the influence of PSE on these patterns.

Methods

Five waves of data from 7 881 children enrolled in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study (Release 5.1) were analyzed. Tri-Ponderal Mass Index (TMI) was used to assess adiposity levels. PSE (e.g., tobacco, alcohol, caffeine, and marijuana) was collected via maternal self-report. Latent growth mixture modeling was conducted to identify TMI trajectories, followed by multinomial logistic regression to examine the role of PSE in TMI profiles, controlling for various factors.

Results

Three trajectories were identified:Stable TMI(86.6%),Increasing TMI(12.5%), andDecreasing TMI(0.9%). The risk of exhibiting anIncreasing TMIwas associated with prenatal exposure to tobacco (β = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.26–1.86, p < .001) and caffeine (daily use: β = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.16–1.68, p < .001; weekly use: β = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.13–1.69, p < .05), with dose-dependent effects. Notably, tobacco exposure both before (β = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.27–1.89, p < .001) and after awareness of pregnancy (β = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.10–2.08, p < .05) contributed to this risk, with no significant benefit from maternal cessation after pregnancy awareness. Multiple PSE substantially elevated the risk of increasing adiposity (β = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.27–2.27, p < .001).

Conclusions

Obesity risk can emerge long before adolescence, even during prenatal development. The findings regarding the long-term influence of prenatal substance exposure on adiposity development during adolescence highlight the importance of preconception and prenatal health interventions to mitigate the risk of obesity in offspring.