bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virus-neutralizing monoclonal antibodies against bovine viral diarrhea virus and classical swine fever virus target conformational and linear epitopes on E2 glycoprotein subdomains
Authors: Roman-Sosa Gleyder , Meyer Denise , Dellarole Mariano , Wengen Doris à , Lerch Susanne , Postel Alexander , Becher Paul
Published: February 2025

The envelope glycoprotein E2 of pestiviruses plays a crucial role in viral entry and elicits a virus-neutralizing humoral immune response. Consequently, the epitopes recognized by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) on E2 are a significant focus in pestivirus research and diagnostics. In this study, we characterized a panel of murine mAbs against the E2 protein of classical swine fever virus (CSFV) and bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), two major pathogens for swine and cattle, respectively. The majority of mAbs neutralized the virus
in vitro
and recognized conformational epitopes, which were also detected by sera from infected animals. Notably, binding to these epitopes was retained after low-pH treatment, although conformational epitopes were disrupted upon disulfide bond reduction. The epitopes of the anti-CSFV mAbs were located in various domains of E2, including the interdomain linker sequences. Conversely, all but one of the anti-BVDV mAb epitopes were located in domain A. Moreover, the reactivity of one mAb suggests a conformational interdependence among the linker sequences of pestivirus E2. The panel of mAbs characterized in this study holds potential to support basic research on the mechanism of early pestivirus invasion and to assist in the design of E2-based diagnostic tools and vaccines.

IMPORTANCE

Classical swine fever virus (CSFV) and bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), which belong to the family Flaviviridae, cause economically significant diseases in pigs and cattle. The pestivirus glycoprotein E2 is located on the viral surface and is targeted by antibodies that neutralize virus infection. Due to its variability, E2 is a useful antigen for the development of diagnostic tests to differentiate between infections caused by different pestiviruses. In the present study, two panels of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) specifically reactive with either CSFV or BVDV E2 were characterized. Interestingly, the majority of mAbs neutralized the respective virus
in vitro
. Epitope mapping revealed that the mAbs recognized low-pH-resistant epitopes of conformational nature located in different domains of CSFV E2 (anti-CSFV mAbs) or in domain A of BVDV E2 (anti-BVDV mAbs). The recombinant proteins along with the characterized mAbs have the potential to develop improved pestivirus-specific diagnostic tests and vaccines.
Association of infection-induced antibody levels with risk of subsequent SARS–COV-2 reinfection among healthcare professionals, Rhode Island, 1 March 2020–17 February 2021
Authors: Shi Jianrong , Gabriel M. Gayle , Epperson Monica , Chan Phil A. , Jones Jefferson M. , Petersen Lyle R. , Briggs Hagen Melissa , Thornburg Natalie J. , Saydah Sharon , Midgley Claire M.
Published: February 2025

Numerous studies have investigated vaccine-induced correlates of protection (CoP) against severe acute respiratory syndrome–coronavirus 2 (SARS–CoV-2) infection, but data on infection-induced CoP are limited. Given differences between vaccine- and infection-induced immune responses, in conjunction with low vaccination in many US populations, a better understanding of infection-induced CoP is needed. We used residual sera from a mid-2020 Rhode Island serosurvey of healthcare professionals (HCP) and corresponding state-collected SARS–CoV-2 testing data through February 2021 to generate an analytic cohort of HCP with a first SARS–CoV-2 infection prior to serosurvey blood collection and multiple viral tests after blood collection to assess for reinfection (defined as a positive viral test ≥90 days after their first positive). We tested sera for levels of IgG and IgA targeting ancestral spike (S), receptor-binding domain (RBD), or nucleocapsid (N). We used adjusted Cox proportional hazard ratios to assess the association between categorical antibody level and the risk of subsequent reinfection. Among 170 HCP included in this analysis (median age = 47 years; interquartile range: 35–55 years), 30 were reinfected during the analytic period. Adjusted Cox proportional hazard ratios indicated that higher levels of anti-S or anti-RBD IgG were significantly associated with a lower risk of reinfection. These findings support the use of anti-S or anti-RBD IgG levels as markers of immunologic protection, such as in population serosurveys, or immune-bridging studies in settings of high prevalence of prior infection.  

IMPORTANCE

The measurement of antibodies in blood is a relatively simple process and commonly used to estimate overall levels of past infection in populations. But, if someone has antibodies, does this mean that they are protected from being infected again? And are people with higher levels of antibody better protected? There are good data in the literature exploring how antibodies from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination are associated with protection. But, there is still a lot to learn about protection conferred by antibodies that develop after a severe acute respiratory syndrome–coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. In our study, we measure the levels of six different antibody types developed after infection and compare levels to the risk of subsequent infection to better understand which antibody types are best associated with protection. Our data are important for improving studies that use antibodies as proxies for protection, such as population immunity estimates, or those assessing new prevention products.
Pathological characterization of female reproductive organs prior to miscarriage induced by Zika virus infection in the pregnant common marmoset
Authors: Imagawa Toshifumi , Tanaka Kazuo , Ito Masahiko , Matsuda Mami , Suzuki Tadaki , Ando Tsuyoshi , Yaguchi Chizuko , Miyamoto Kazuyoshi , Takabayashi Shuji , Suzuki Ryosuke , Takasaki Tomohiko , Itoh Hiroaki , Kosugi Isao , Suzuki Tetsuro
Published: February 2025

While Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in pregnant women is known to increase the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth, the mechanism by which ZIKV infection leads to the inability to continue a pregnancy is not clear. In our common marmoset models of ZIKV infection in pregnant individuals, miscarriage was observed in dams infected in the first or second trimester, and preterm delivery was observed in a dam infected in the third trimester. Serum progesterone levels were significantly lower prior to miscarriage or preterm delivery in the infected marmosets. To elucidate the pathology of the placental region just before the onset of ZIKV-induced miscarriage, we newly prepared an infected marmoset in the first trimester of pregnancy and euthanized it when the serum progesterone concentration was markedly reduced. Pathological analysis revealed significant degeneration in cells at the maternal-fetal interface, presumably trophoblasts. Cleaved-caspase was widely observed in the endometrial to placental region, and TNFα at 200 pg/mL was detected in the amniotic fluid, suggesting that apoptosis may progress in the endometrium and placenta, leading to decreased trophoblast function and miscarriage. ZIKV NS1 protein was found sporadically in the cellular degeneration area and widely in the basal layer of the endometrium. Furthermore, the viral protein was frequently detected in the follicles and corpus luteum of the ovary. The developed ZIKV infection model in pregnant marmosets would be useful not only to better understand the mechanism of ZIKV-induced miscarriage but also to analyze the effects of the viral infection on female reproductive tissues.

IMPORTANCE

Although several viruses, including Zika virus (ZIKV), are known to increase the risk of miscarriage upon viral infection, the mechanism by which miscarriage is induced by viral infection is largely unknown. This is partly due to the difficulty of pathological analysis of maternal tissues in the period following viral infection and prior to miscarriage. In this study, we predicted the occurrence of miscarriage by monitoring serum progesterone levels and performed pathological analysis of peri-placental tissues at a time point assumed to be just before miscarriage. This is the first report of trophoblast degeneration prior to miscarriage, suggesting that the experimental method used here is useful for analyzing the pathogenesis of virus infection-related miscarriage. Further immunostaining revealed that ZIKV NS1 was distributed not only in the uterus but also in the ovaries, with particularly pronounced staining of oocytes. Whether ZIKV infection affects female reproductive function should be clarified in the future.
Performance of stool-based Xpert MTB/RIF assay in the diagnosis of presumptive pulmonary tuberculosis in adults unable to expectorate sputum
Authors: Xue Yi , Chen Siyi , Zhang Weihe , Jia Junnan , Wang Fen , Dong Lingling , Zhao Liping , Huang Hairong , Yu Xia
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to compare the performance of stool-based Xpert MTB/RIF(Xpert) assay (Cepheid, USA) against that of smear, culture, and Xpert using respiratory tract specimens (RTS) and stool samples in the diagnosis of adult pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). This prospective study of patients with presumptive PTB was conducted at the Beijing Chest Hospital from January 2021 to December 2021. The smear test by fluorescence microscope, MGIT 960 liquid culture, and Xpert MTB/RIF assay was performed simultaneously on the RTS and stool samples. Patients were grouped based on the RTS examination results and clinical diagnosis. A total of 434 eligible patients were enrolled. Among these, 351 patients were diagnosed as PTB, while 83 patients were diagnosed as non-TB patients. Using RTS as standard sample, the sensitivity of smear on stool, culture on stool, Xpert on stool, and Xpert on RTS was 13.39% (47/351), 22.22% (78/351), 45.30% (159/351), and 66.10% (232/351), respectively. Furthermore, the specificity of Xpert on RTS and stool was 100% (83/83) for both specimens. Among the 48 patients with PTB confirmed by bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) examination, 16 had stool specimens with positive Xpert results. Similarly, among 200 patients diagnosed through sputum examination, 133 had positive Xpert results on stool specimens. Thus, Xpert on stool specimens may be a promising and practical strategy to improve PTB diagnosis, particularly among patients unable to expectorate sputum.

IMPORTANCE

This study aimed to assess the value of the Xpert MTB/RIF assay (Xpert) for diagnosing PTB using stool samples from adults in low HIV prevalence settings. Although the diagnostic yield of Xpert on stool samples is inferior to that of Xpert on RTS, stool-based Xpert may be useful in diagnosing patients with presumptive PTB who cannot expectorate sputum and do not opt for BALF collection.
Hyperpiliation, not loss of pilus retraction, reduces
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
pathogenicity
Authors: Kilmury Sara L. N. , Graham Katherine J. , Lamers Ryan P. , MacNeil Lesley T. , Burrows Lori L.
Published: February 2025

Type IVa pili (T4aP) are important virulence factors for many bacterial pathogens. Previous studies suggested that the retraction ATPase, PilT, modulates pathogenicity due to its critical role in pilus dynamics and twitching motility. Here we use a
Caenorhabditis elegans
slow-killing model to show that hyperpiliation, not loss of pilus retraction, reduces virulence of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
strains PAK and PA14. Hyperactivating point mutations in the
P. aeruginosa
PilSR two-component system that controls transcription of the major pilin gene,
pilA
, increased levels of surface pili to the same extent as deleting
pilT
, without impairing twitching motility. These functionally hyperpiliated PilSR mutants had significant defects in pathogenicity that were rescued by deleting
pilA
or through disruption of hyperpiliation via deletion of the type III secretion system needle-length regulator, PscP. Hyperpiliated
pilT
deletion or
pilO
point mutants showed similar PilA-dependent impairments in virulence, validating the phenotype. Together, our data support a model where a surfeit of pili reduces virulence, potentially through the prevention of effective engagement of contact-dependent virulence factors. These findings suggest that the role of T4aP retraction in virulence should be revised.

IMPORTANCE

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is a major contributor to hospital-acquired infections and particularly problematic due to its intrinsic resistance to many front-line antibiotics. Strategies to combat this and other important pathogens include the development of anti-virulence therapeutics. We show that the pathogenicity of
P. aeruginosa
is impaired when the amount of T4aP expressed on the cell surface increases, independent of the bacteria’s ability to twitch. We propose that having excess T4aP on the cell surface may physically interfere with productive engagement of the contact-dependent type III secretion toxin delivery system. A better understanding of how T4aP modulate interaction of bacteria with target cells will improve the design of therapeutics targeting components involved in the regulation of T4aP expression and function to reduce the clinical burden of
P. aeruginosa
and other T4aP-expressing bacteria.
Human bocavirus-1 infection in hospitalized pediatric patients with acute respiratory tract infections
Authors: Tan Jie , Huang Ziyin , Tang Wenting , Liu Guangbing , Li Peiqun , Wen Jiaqi , Mo Lishai , Yan Chenglan , Dang Zhao , Huang Huiping , Li Qifei , Fu Chunyun
Published: February 2025

Human bocavirus-1 (HBoV1) is an emerging viral pathogen associated with acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs) in pediatric populations. This study aimed to evaluate the infection status and clinical characteristics of HBoV1 among hospitalized children suffering from ARTIs. A cohort of 5,021 pediatric patients with respiratory infections was analyzed using targeted next-generation sequencing to identify HBoV1 and other co-existing respiratory pathogens. Results indicated a detection rate of HBoV1 of 8.48%, predominantly among infants under 24 months, with a higher prevalence observed in males. Among the 426 children with HBoV1 detected, there were 17 cases (4%) of single HBoV1 infection, and 409 cases (96%) were co-infected with HBoV1 and other pathogens. The predominant infection pattern was HBoV1-bacteria-virus co-infection (155 cases). A total of 48 other pathogens were detected in children with HBoV1 co-infections, with rhinovirus and human herpesvirus being the most common. The median hospitalization duration for the children with HBoV1 was 8 days, and 16.26% required ICU admission for monitoring. The study offers a comprehensive analysis of the distribution of co-infecting pathogens, clinical features, and outcomes in hospitalized children with HBoV one infection.

IMPORTANCE

There is currently a poor understanding of the characteristics and clinical manifestations of human bocavirus-1 (HBoV1) infection. In the past decade, few studies have thoroughly analyzed co-infecting pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi and their patterns in relation to HBoV1. This study utilizes targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS) technology to identify HBoV1 and other common respiratory pathogens in 5,021 hospitalized children suffering from respiratory infections in the Guangxi region. It offers a detailed analysis of the distribution of co-infecting pathogens, infection patterns, laboratory findings, clinical manifestations, imaging features, complications, and prognoses related to HBoV1 infection in this population. The study highlights the high co-infection rates associated with HBoV1 and offers important insights for diagnosing, treating, and managing children with HBoV1 infection.
The establishment and optimization of a
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
detection system based on ERA-CRISPR/Cas12a
Authors: Yang Fo , Wu Qianlin , Zeng Xiaotong , Jiang Qiuyang , Zhang Shanshan , Wang Jin , Zhang Qi , Li Feng , Xu Dayong
Published: February 2025

Mycoplasma pneumoniae
(MP) is a significant pathogen associated with community-acquired pneumonia, with considerable infectious risks posed, particularly to children and immunocompromised individuals. The current methods for detecting MP in research and clinical settings are recognized as time-consuming, instrument-dependent, and prone to non-specific cross-reactivity. Therefore, the creation of a rapid and sensitive detection method is urgently required. In this study, the MP-ERA-Cas12a system, integrating enzyme restriction amplification (ERA) with clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas12a technology, was introduced. Three detection methods were evaluated: the two-pot system, a modified one-pot system, and a lateral flow assay (LFA) strip-based system. In the one-pot system, the amplification and detection steps were consolidated within a single reaction vessel, effectively minimizing the risk of contamination and false positives that may arise from the handling of multiple tubes. It was observed that the one-pot system generated a fluorescent signal within 1 h and produced 1.6 times higher fluorescence signal intensity compared to the two-pot system, achieving a detection limit of 1 copy/μL. In contrast, the LFA system facilitated rapid on-site screening, with visible band results appearing on the strip within 5 min of the reaction, and a detection limit of 10
2
copies/μL was achieved. High specificity for MP was demonstrated by all methods. Significant advantages, including rapid processing, the absence of complex instrumentation, and ease of use are offered by this detection system, making it particularly suitable for resource-limited clinical settings. The system is seen as an efficient tool for the early diagnosis of MP, with substantial public health and clinical relevance.

IMPORTANCE

This study successfully combined enzyme restriction amplification (ERA) with the specific detection capabilities of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas12a. Based on the two-pot system established before, the one-pot system and lateral flow assay (LFA) system were developed for
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
(MP) detection. The MP-ERA-Cas12a system eliminates the need to open the lid during the reaction, reducing aerosol contamination, and minimizing the risk of false positives. The method does not require the use of advanced instruments or equipment and shows strong specificity while not being affected by other pathogens. As a new method of MP detection, the MP-ERA-Cas12a system has an important practical application prospect.
Supplemental Material: Fossil feathers from the Colli Albani volcanic complex (Late Pleistocene, Central Italy) preserved in zeolites
Authors: Rossi Valentina , al. et
Published: February 2025

Material and methods, geological setting, supplementary results, references, and figures. 
PD-1 inhibitor-induced thyroiditis and ACTH deficiency
Authors: Shah Nayab , Prentice David , Jayasundera Chandrin
Published: February 2025

A woman in her 70s on pembrolizumab for non-small cell lung cancer experienced progressive fatigue, intractable nausea and reduced mobility since commencing her cancer treatment. After repeat admissions and prolonged inpatient stay from compounded septicaemia, a diagnosis of programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) inhibitor-induced hypophysitis was confirmed, with remarkable improvement on commencement of cortisol replacement.

While this side effect is known to oncologists, the non-specific symptoms and a lack of familiarity with PD-1 inhibitor and programmed cell death ligand 1 inhibitor therapies in other medical fields can result in diagnostic delays if not actively searching for hypophysitis.

Intractable nausea, vomiting and weight loss, even in the absence of hyponatraemia or hypoglycaemia, should trigger physicians to consider hypophysitis.
A psychosocial approach to violence against women in an emergency medical department in the COVID-19 context: challenges and limitations
Authors: Ramírez-Maza Daniela , Guerra Anlen Andrea , Hernández-Nuñez. Myriam Eunice , Landa-Ramírez Edgar
Published: February 2025

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the incidence of partner-violence against women in several countries including developing countries in North America has worsened. In response, international and national institutions have recommended the introduction of healthcare protocols for women survivors of intimate-partner violence against women. This article presents the case of a woman who went to an emergency department seeking medical and psychological care for the intimate partner violence she experienced. It documents the physical and psychological conditions detected, the psychosocial interventions provided and the systematic factors that perpetuate revictimisation and impede access to legal protection and safety for women survivors of violence. Drawing on the conclusions reached in the presented case study, as well as recommendations extracted from international guidelines and research literature, the authors propose a protocol for the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of survivors of intimate partner violence seeking medical care in an emergency department.
Marked exacerbation of resolving macrophage activation syndrome in a patient with adult-onset Still’s disease following one dose of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor
Authors: Petrassi Alana , Buechler Connor , Pulipati Priyanjali , Gertner Elie
Published: February 2025

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a frequent complication of adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) and is characterised by organ dysfunction, cytopenia and coagulopathy. There are few data regarding the use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) as a treatment for neutropenia in MAS due to AOSD. This case describes a previously healthy mid-20s patient who was diagnosed with AOSD and subsequently MAS. Although his clinical symptoms and ferritin levels responded well to steroids, interleukin-1 inhibition and Janus kinase inhibition, he developed prolonged and profound neutropenia for which he received one dose of G-CSF. His MAS flared markedly, requiring intensive immunosuppression and significantly prolonging his hospital stay. This report illustrates that G-CSF carries the risk of worsening inflammation leading to MAS, particularly in auto-inflammatory conditions such as AOSD.
Anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap for facial reconstruction following orbital necrotising fasciitis
Authors: Ahmed Zahra , Shtarbanov Petko , Hever Pennylouise , Schouppe Ernest , Ponniah Allan , Nikkhah Dariush
Published: February 2025

Periorbital necrotising fasciitis is an extremely rare and life-threatening condition, often requiring complex reconstructive strategies. The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is a fasciocutaneous flap often employed for cancer and trauma reconstruction. We report the successful utilisation of the ALT flap as a single-stage operation for reconstruction of a large tissue defect following extensive debridement and orbital exenteration using the reconstructive elevator as a framework for decision-making. The elderly patient recovered quickly, and the ALT flap provided suitable soft tissue coverage with future plans for elective flap debulking made to improve facial cosmesis.
Seronegative autoimmune encephalitis associated with ovarian teratoma and uterine STUMP tumour
Authors: Niblock Christopher , Richards Abigail , Makkuni Damodar , Needham Edward James
Published: February 2025

This case report details a case of probable seronegative autoimmune encephalitis (AE) secondary to either an ovarian teratoma or a uterine smooth muscle tumour of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP). AE is a neurological disorder often associated with specific autoantibodies. However, cases can occur without identifiable antibodies, necessitating a broader diagnostic approach. We present a woman in her 30s who exhibited sudden-onset acute behavioural disturbance and psychiatric symptoms. Initial investigations, including both infective and autoimmune screening, returned negative. Further investigations revealed an adnexal mass and raised ovarian tumour markers. Both an ovarian teratoma and a uterine STUMP were resected. Postoperatively, the patient demonstrated significant clinical improvement, with resolution of neurological symptoms and normalisation of cognitive function.
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease mimicking limbic encephalitis as a cause of rapid neurological deterioration
Authors: Rajasingam Vinod , Craig Donald P Peter , Hwang Yun , Satgunaseelan Laveniya , Buckland Michael , Tomazini Martins Rodrigo
Published: February 2025

Background

A broad range of inflammatory and neurodegenerative conditions manifest with progressive cognitive and behavioural changes. A diagnostic challenge is the differentiation of limbic encephalitis (LE) from Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). LE and CJD are distinct neurological conditions with distinct variations in their clinical course, with overlapping clinical presentations. LE can be subdivided into autoimmune paraneoplastic and non-paraneoplastic subtypes, under the umbrella of autoimmune LE. CJD is the most prevalent form of human prion disease and the subtype sporadic CJD (sCJD) the most common.

Case presentation

This case study presents a 68-year-old man with a 6-week history of progressive cognitive decline and behavioural changes, ultimately leading to a dire clinical state. The initial symptoms included confusion, intermittent headaches and episodes of aggression towards his wife, preceded by 2 weeks of visual hallucinations. On examination, the patient displayed an ataxic gait, with signs of cerebellar dysfunction. The clinical course evolved, marked by myoclonic jerks, culminating in a decline in both his Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score and overall clinical status.

Conclusion

The patient’s rapidly deteriorating condition over 6 weeks was thought to be too rapid for sCJD, and the patient was treated initially as an LS. However, post-mortem biopsy findings confirmed CJD. Asymmetric periodic discharges on EEG, asymmetric neuroimaging changes and the manifestation of psychiatric symptoms should not preclude the diagnosis of sCJD. This case highlights the importance of recognising the potential rapid deterioration of sCJD, which would alert clinicians to earlier diagnosis and management.
Prevalence and proposed aetiologies of dystonias or yips in athletes playing overhand sports: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Knox Jordan , Shah Karishma , McFarland Mary M , Casucci Tallie , Jones Kyle Bradford
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Sports-related dystonia, also called the yips, are often seen in athletes in multiple sports. In this condition, an athlete abruptly loses the ability to perform a repetitive motion performed thousands of times. Such occurrences are often assumed to be psychological in nature, and thus evaluation for other causes is often lacking. All reviews on the topic have failed to focus on athletes in overhand sports. This scoping review will evaluate the available evidence regarding upper extremity focal dystonias (yips) in athletes participating in overhand sports in any worldwide clinical or sport setting.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct our scoping review with guidance from the latest version of the Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI) Manual for Evidence Synthesis, a widely accepted methodology for conducting reviews. We organised our research question and inclusion criteria to the JBI’s mnemonic; Participants: athletes that participate in overhand sports; Concept: upper extremity focal dystonias or yips; and Context: any worldwide clinical or sports setting. Search results were retrieved on 26–27 June 2024, in the following databases: MEDLINE (Ovid) 1946–2024, SPORTDiscus (EBSCOhost) 1800–2024, APA PsycINFO (EBSCOhost) 1872–2024, Embase (Elsevier) 1974–2024, Web of Science Core Collection (Clarivate) 1900–2024, Sports Medicine & Education Index (ProQuest) 1970–2024 and Dissertations and Theses Global (ProQuest) 1861–2024. Using Covidence, two reviewers from a team of three will independently screen titles and abstracts, screen full text articles for inclusion, and independently extract data from our included studies. Results will be presented as a narrative descriptive analysis along with tabular data on the prevalence, diagnostic criteria and treatment for yips in athletes of overhand sports.

Ethics and dissemination

As this describes a scoping protocol, ethical approval is not necessary. Review findings will be submitted to peer-reviewed publications and presentations at local and national conferences.

Trial registration number

This protocol is registered with the Open Science Framework.
Protocol for a randomised controlled trial of a weight maintenance intervention to promote fat loss in pregnant individuals with obesity
Authors: Redman Leanne M , Phelan Suzanne , Apolzan John W , Beyl Robbie A , Altazan Abby D , Dickey Madison S , Simeon Emerson , Flanagan Emily W , Cabre Hannah E , Sparks Joshua R , Kebbe Maryam , Caughey Aaron B , Valent Amy M , Hsia Daniel S , Yin Elaine , Keadle Sarah K
Published: February 2025

Introduction

In pregnancy, people with obesity or excess adiposity are prone to excess gestational weight gain (GWG) and have the highest risks for multiple maternal morbidities. Epidemiological studies suggest that the lowest incidence of adverse maternal and infant outcomes occurs with GWG lower than current recommendations (<5 kg) and with gestational weight maintenance, resulting in fat mass loss, in those with obesity. Data from randomised clinical trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy of a fat mass loss intervention on pregnancy outcomes. The objective of this proof-of-principle randomised controlled trial is to test the effect of a gestational fat mass loss intervention in pregnant individuals with obesity on changes in weight, fat mass and cardiometabolic disease risk factors.

Methods and analysis

In this two-site randomised parallel group, 100 women (30% black; 30% Hispanic) with pre-existing obesity (31.0≤body mass index≤55.0 kg/m2) are randomised to usual care (Provider Directed Group) or usual care plus a fat mass loss intervention with food provision (Weight Maintenance Group). The primary outcomes of the trial (Healthy Mamas/Mamis Saludables) are weight, fat mass (via three-compartment model) and cardiometabolic disease risk factors (ie, blood pressure, lipids, glucose, insulin) from baseline (~13 weeks gestation) to ~35 weeks gestation and at 2 weeks postpartum. Secondary aims evaluate the safety of the fat mass loss intervention during pregnancy and test the hypotheses that compared with usual care, the intervention will have no significant adverse effect on fetal growth, neonatal size, infant body composition and other adverse events. Mediators (eg, eating, activity) and moderators (eg, parity, obesity grade, race/ethnicity) of intervention effects are also examined. Finally, the study will explore the effect of prenatal fat mass loss on reducing the incidence of adverse obstetrical outcomes, including non-elective caesarean delivery, gestational diabetes, hypertension and pre-eclampsia.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial has been approved by the Pennington Biomedical Research Center Institutional Review Board, is monitored by an independent data and safety monitoring board and will be conducted in agreement with the Declaration of Helsinki. All results, positive, negative and inconclusive, will be disseminated at national and/or international scientific meetings and in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Trial registration number

NCT04731688.
Improving compliance with conducting HEADSS biopsychosocial assessment for adolescents in a paediatric inpatient setting
Authors: Tan Juliet Sher Kit , Neo Jeslyn Hwee Teng , Yao Sarah Hui Wen , Loh Kent Mun , Kalyanasundaram Ragavendra , Koe Amelia Suan-Lin , Kho Charlene Yuen Shuan , Rahmat Nurazila , Lim Joyce Soo Ting , Ng Yong Hong , Koh Sam Chang Hoe , Chang Alvin Shang Ming , Chew Elaine Chu Shan
Published: February 2025

Adolescence is a period during which teenagers are at a high risk of developing mental health problems. Early recognition and intervention for mental health symptoms can prevent progression of high-risk behaviours or worsening of serious psychiatric conditions. The HEADSS assessment is an internationally recognised tool used to facilitate the biopsychosocial evaluation of an adolescent comprising domains in home, education, eating behaviours, activities, drug exposure, sexual activity, sleep, mood and suicidality. A self-administered HEADSS screening tool, comprising 11 questions, was developed and implemented in our hospital for all adolescents admitted to inpatient wards. The HEADSS screening tool is initiated by a nurse and, when screened positive, triggers a HEADSS assessment performed by a clinician to evaluate various domains of HEADSS. A hospital-wide audit reflected poor compliance with HEADSS assessments being conducted, despite domains of concern being flagged during HEADSS screening. A multidisciplinary team was created to address this issue. Following a root cause analysis, the team implemented the following interventions: improving the clarity and specificity of the HEADSS screen, improving communication between nursing and medical staff via educational update sessions and automated handover reports and implementing a targeted HEADSS assessment to focus on domains of concern. There was a statistically significant improvement in the median percentage of compliance to HEADSS assessment to 85% (from 40% at baseline) after implementing these measures. This improvement in compliance with HEADSS assessments resulted in an increase in referrals to mental health and allied health professionals, providing at-risk youth with necessary mental health support and interventions at the early stages of their difficulties.
Protective effects of melatonin on stroke in diabetic mice: central and peripheral inflammation modulation
Authors: Liu Cuiying , Guo Jiayi , Guan Longfei , Li Junfa , Xu Baohui , Zhao Heng
Published: February 2025

Background

Melatonin protects against ischaemic stroke in diabetic animal models, though the mechanisms involving brain and peripheral immune responses remain underexplored. We aimed to clarify how melatonin interacts with these immune responses to protect against stroke in diabetic mice.

Methods

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) was induced in mice using streptozotocin. RNA sequencing of brain tissue and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was performed 24 hours poststroke. Inflammatory responses were evaluated 72 hours after ischaemia/reperfusion.

Results

Melatonin reduced infarction and improved neurological function in T1DM mice. In the ischaemic brain, melatonin downregulated inflammatory factor expression, with bioinformatics identifying 62 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to inflammation and 11 associated with inflammasomes. Western blotting confirmed reductions in NLRP3, HMGB1 and Cleaved Caspase-1 expression. Flow cytometry showed reduced infiltration of CD8+T cells and neutrophils. Melatonin decreased IL-6, IL-1β and IL-4 levels. In PBMCs, RNA sequencing revealed 939 DEGs following melatonin treatment. Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes analysis indicated that downregulated DEGs were involved in metabolic pathways, and upregulated DEGs were enriched in the Jak-STAT signalling pathway. GO analysis showed that downregulated DEGs were enriched in the cytosol, and upregulated DEGs related to macromolecule modification. Protein–protein interaction analysis revealed that melatonin affected 38 inflammation-associated genes linked to key cytokines (Il6, Il1b, Ifng, Il4). Flow cytometry indicated melatonin increased CD8+T cells, monocytes and neutrophils in the blood, suggesting a reversal of immunosuppression. Multiplex cytokine assays showed melatonin decreased IL-6 and IFN-γ levels.

Conclusion

Poststroke melatonin therapy reduces ischaemic brain damage in T1DM mice by modulating central and peripheral inflammatory responses.
Analysis of VRTN, NR6A1 and LTBP2 gene polymorphisms in Lijiang pigs and their association with the number of thoracic vertebrae
Authors: JIN siqi , Dong Xinxing , Duan Jie , Lan Guoxiang , Yan Dawei
Published: February 2025

To explore the polymorphisms of the VRTN, NR6A1, and LTBP2 genes and their association with thoracic vertebrae count in Lijiang pigs, genotyping these genes’ exons and the VRTN promoter region was conducted in 205 individuals. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Sanger sequencing were used for this purpose. Genotype and allele frequencies of the identified variants were calculated, and their associations with thoracic vertebrae count were analyzed. A total of eight missense mutations and one insertion mutation were identified. Moderate polymorphism was detected in VRTN (g.97622607G>A, g.97623006G>A, g.97623046C>T), NR6A1 (g.265347265T>C), and LTBP2 (SSC7:97765472C>G), while VRTN (g.976158896_976158897ins291) and LTBP2 (SSC7:97770379T>C) showed low polymorphism. Importantly, the VRTN variant g.976158896_976158897ins291 and the LTBP2 variant SSC7:97770379T>C were significantly associated with thoracic vertebrae count (P<0.01). Further, the NR6A1 variant g.265347265T>C was also significantly associated with thoracic vertebrae count (P<0.05). The variants g.976158896_976158897ins291 of VRTN, g.265347265T>C of NR6A1, andSSC7:97770379T>C of LTBP2 significantly influence the number of thoracic vertebrae, providing valuable insights for the molecular breeding of Lijiang pigs concerning this trait.
EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF DYNAMIC MANAGERIAL CAPABILITIES ON INNOVATION: A TYPOLOGY-BASED APPROACH
Authors: GHAVAMIPOUR MOHSEN , BOOSHEHRI ALIREZA , TAVAKOLI GHOLAMREZA
Published: February 2025

This study examines the interplay between Dynamic Managerial Capabilities (DMCs) and innovation performance in Iran’s industrial sector. We propose a novel framework that categorises managers based on three DMC components — managerial human capital, social capital, and cognitive capabilities — and investigates their combined effects on innovation. Using a sample of 344 managers, data were analysed through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Findings reveal that specific DMC profiles, particularly those that align with the firm’s strategic context, significantly enhance innovation outcomes. The results underscore the importance of tailored managerial development strategies in fostering innovation within dynamic and complex environments. This study contributes to the strategic management literature by offering practical insights for optimising organisational performance through the strategic configuration of managerial capabilities.
Introducing More-Than-Human Design in Practice
Authors: Rosén Anton Poikolainen , Heitlinger Sara
Published: February 2025

In this forum, we explore more-than-human design practices that consider the interactions and interdependencies between humans and nonhuman others, including animals, plants, water, bacteria, sensors, and data. ---
Anton Poikolainen Rosén and Sara Heitlinger, Editors
Challenges and Potentials of Pro-Social Collaborative Play in Extended Realities
Authors: Tawde Vinaya , Kriglstein Simone , Mittmann Gloria , Spahl Wanda
Published: February 2025

In this section, we feature reports from conferences, symposia, workshops, and similar events, focusing on discussions where the boundaries of HCI and UX are being challenged and where debate is lively and ongoing.
Game Rules as Player Tools: Introspective Rulebook Method
Authors: Balcı Doruk , Stenros Jaakko , Sotamaa Olli
Published: February 2025

The rules we play by carry a structural role in our gameplay experiences as they shape the context and the agency we play through. While rules have long been part of scholarship around play and games, an overwhelming majority of these works carry an implicitly formalist approach, framing the rules as an unchanging part of the artifact. In this article, we highlight works that contribute to a diverse notion of rules and argue that a conscious and reflective understanding of rules can be a tool to shape and experiment with our agencies in games. We also introduce a novel game research method, Introspective Rulebook Method, a living document where the researcher-player reflects on and transforms the rules they play by, as a tool to invent alternative play-practices and metagames. Overall, our work here contributes to a broad understanding of game rules, and the capacity we carry in shaping the games we play.
Examining the Impact of Robot Norm Violations on Participants’ Trust, Discomfort, Behaviour, and Physiological Responses - A Mixed Method Approach
Authors: Lawrence Steven , Azizi Negin , Fan Kevin , Jouaiti Melanie , Hoey Jesse , Nehaniv Chrystopher L. , Dautenhahn Kerstin
Published: February 2025

As robots increasingly permeate diverse domains like healthcare, education, service industries, and homes, accurately understanding humans’ responses to and behaviour towards robots is crucial. While many HRI studies focus on either quantitative or qualitative approaches, we advocate a mixed-method approach. This study investigated robot norm violations by implementing a scenario where a mobile manipulator robot and a human, in-person, carry out a physical, competitive task. Sixty-two participants were recruited and randomly assigned to either an experimental or a control condition (balanced for age/gender). The scenario was a competitive scavenger hunt game where participants took turns with a robot. We investigated the robot behaviours’ effects on trust, discomfort, competence, enjoyment, participant behaviour, and physiological changes. The mixed-method approach integrated physiological measurements, behavioural observations, and qualitative responses, thus offering a comprehensive account of human-robot interaction dynamics in the context of norm violations. Questionnaire results reveal significant shifts in human perceptions and attitudes when social norms are violated by robots, compared to a norm-compliant control condition. Specifically, trust and enjoyment decrease, discomfort increases, and the robot’s perceived competence is compromised. These findings are extended through additional analyses of participants’ physiological changes, behaviours, and responses to open-ended questions. Behavioural observations indicated increased verbal engagement and emotional responses, while physiological data showed elevated stress levels in the experimental group. Our study highlights the advantage of a mixed-methods approach combining different qualitative and quantitative data, providing a more comprehensive picture of participants’ perceptions of a robot, and how they react and respond to robot norm violations.
Impact Analysis of Inter-network Degree Correlation on Cascading Failures in Cyber-Physical Systems
Authors: Ding Lin , Xu Zi-Kang , Xu Xiao-Ke
Published: February 2025

Inter-network
degree correlation (IDC) has been widely proven to be important to the performance of cyber-physical systems (CPSs) facing cascading failures by comparing the limited extreme cases, such as maximally-positive, maximally-negative, and completely random interdependent networks. In this paper, we develop a novel system model for providing a more realistic and detailed analysis on how IDC observed in an actual CPS relates to cascades occurring on it. Unlike existing models that often assume homogeneous network operating characteristics, and only focus on symmetric interdependency between coupled networks while ignoring asymmetric interdependency, our proposed model captures heterogeneous flow characteristics of a physical network and a cyber network composing a specific CPS and considers two types of their symmetric and asymmetric interdependency to simulate cascading failure
processes
in practical situations. Furthermore, not limited to the extreme IDCs, CPSs with tunable IDC are generated and investigated systematically by introducing null models. Experimental results reveal that the relationship between IDC and cascading robustness of a CPS is dependent on its interdependency mechanism. In the case of symmetric interdependency, increasing IDC can significantly make the system more robust; while in the case of asymmetric one, the robustness is nearly unchanged. The study highlights the necessity of considering realistic interdependency mechanisms when designing
inter-network
structure optimization schemes against cascading failures in CPSs.
Assessing Completeness of Clinical Histories Accompanying Imaging Orders Using Adapted Open-Source and Closed-Source Large Language Models
Authors: Larson David B. , Koirala Arogya , Cheuy Lina Y. , Paschali Magdalini , Van Veen Dave , Na Hye Sun , Petterson Matthew B. , Fang Zhongnan , Chaudhari Akshay S.
Published: February 2025

A fine-tuned, open-source large language model (Mistral-7B; Mistral AI) effectively extracted clinical history elements from imaging orders with substantial agreement with radiologists and rivaled a closed-source model (GPT-4 Turbo; OpenAI).
Case 338
Authors: Shah Amar , Zulfiqar Maria
Published: February 2025

History

A 25-year-old female patient presented to the emergency department with worsening abdominal discomfort over the past 2–3 months. The patient had not experienced fever, chills, or dysuria. Past medical history was notable for two completed pregnancies; otherwise, there was no pertinent medical history or family history. At physical examination, the patient was uncomfortable but not in acute distress. There was tenderness to palpation in the right upper quadrant and epigastric region, but no rebound tenderness or guarding. Vital signs were blood pressure of 141/85 mm Hg, pulse rate of 91/min, and temperature of 37.2 °C. The serum β–human chorionic gonadotropin test result was negative for pregnancy, and urinalysis showed no leukocyte esterase or nitrites. Routine blood investigations, including white blood cell count, were within normal limits. Initial evaluation with contrast-enhanced CT of the abdomen and pelvis was performed ( Fig 1 ), followed by MRI of the abdomen without and with intravenous contrast material ( Fig 2 ).
Microbiome's Effect on White Matter in Autism
Authors: Canada Katherine , Evans Tanya M. , Pelphrey Kevin
Published: February 2025

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by deficits in social communication and restricted, repetitive behavioral patterns. While other physiological presentations in individuals with ASD are heterogeneous, neuroimaging studies have consistently revealed a developmental pattern of initial white matter hypermyelination followed by reduced myelination compared to typically developing peers. Multiple studies have demonstrated that core ASD symptoms, including impairments in social skills, language acquisition, learning capabilities, motor performance, and sensory processing, correlate significantly with white matter dysregulation measured through diffusion tensor imaging. Longitudinal studies have shown that decreased gut microbiome diversity, particularly reductions in beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, correlates with symptom severity. Emerging mechanistic evidence suggests bidirectional relationships between microbiome composition and white matter development, both directly through metabolites like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that regulate oligodendrocyte function and subsequent myelination, and indirectly through modulation of neuroinflammatory pathways. By integrating molecular-level gut physiology findings with macro-level brain imaging data, we may identify novel therapeutic approaches targeting the gut-brain axis in ASD management.
Supplementary figure 7 from Single-Cell Transcriptomic Analysis Identifies Senescent Osteocytes That Trigger Bone Destruction in Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Kaur Japneet , Adhikari Manish , Sabol Hayley M. , Anloague Aric , Khan Sharmin , Kurihara Noriyoshi , Diaz-delCastillo Marta , Andreasen Christina Møller , Barnes Charles Lowry , Stambough Jeffrey B. , Palmieri Michela , Reyes-Castro Olivia , Zarrer Jennifer , Taipaleenmäki Hanna , Ambrogini Elena , Almeida Maria , O’Brien Charles A. , Nookaew Intawat , Delgado-Calle Jesus
Published: February 2025

Supplementary figure 7