bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Association of Modified 5-Item Frailty Index on Perioperative Cochlear Implant Speech Perception
Authors: Fenton David , Dimitroyannis Rose , Nordgren Rachel , Asfour Nour , Sevier Joshua , Imbery Terence
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the potential association of perioperative hearing outcomes with frailty by Modified 5-Item Frailty Index (mFI-5).

Design

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

Setting

Single-institutional study conducted at a tertiary care hospital between January 2018 and January 2022.

Patients

All adult patients older than 50 years who underwent cochlear implantation (CI).

Interventions

Cochlear implantation.

Main Outcomes Measures

Hearing outcomes were measured using pre-CI and longitudinal post-CI quiet AzBio scores. Frailty was determined by mFI-5 scores (0 = not frail, 1 = prefrail, and 2+ = frail). Univariable and multivariable linear regressions, ordinal logistic regressions, and time-to-event curves were used to determine perioperative speech perception and likelihood of high-performance hearing (defined as ≥70% on AzBio).

Results

Of the 126 patients, the median age was 70 (63–77) years, 50% (63) were female, and 39% (49) identified as non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, or other. By mFI-5 scoring, 38% (48) had no frailty, with 34% (43) and 28% (35) scoring 1 and 2+, respectively. When adjusting for age, sex, race, and BMI, scoring 1 point on mFI-5 was associated with significantly lower pre-implantation and post-implantation AzBio scores (pre: = −15 [−26, −3.4], p < 0.05; post: = −14 [−25, −3.0], p < 0.05). When controlling for all covariates, prefrailty and frailty were associated with significantly decreased likelihood of high-performance hearing (prefrailty OR: 0.22 [0.07, 0.63], p < 0.01; frailty OR: 0.31 [0.10, 0.92], p < 0.05). Time-to-event curves demonstrate significantly reduced likelihood of reaching high-performance hearing within 7 months after CI in patients with mFI-5 scores >0 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion and Relevance

Our findings suggest that prefrailty is associated with worse pre-CI and post-CI hearing and lower likelihood of high-performance hearing within 7 months post-CI. Preoperative frailty screening in adult CI candidates may better inform providers of patients' long-term risk-to-benefit.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of Nursing students: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Badillo-Sánchez Nadine , Gómez-Salgado Juan , Allande-Cussó Regina , Yildirim Murat , López-López Daniel , Goniewicz Krzysztof , Prieto-Callejero Blanca , Fagundo-Rivera Javier
Published: January 2025

Background:

There is an increased prevalence of mental health problems in various population groups as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequences, especially regarding anxiety, stress, depression, fear, and sleep disturbances, require to be investigated longitudinally.

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on the mental health of Nursing students, as well as to examine other associated factors such as anxiety, fear, sleep disturbances, and coping strategies.

Method:

This systematic review and meta-analysis were designed following the PRISMA guidelines and were registered in PROSPERO with code CRD42024541904. PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Scopus electronic databases were utilized. Keywords indexed in the MeSH thesaurus were used (COVID-19, nurs* student and mental health), following the Condition Context Population (CoCoPop) strategy. A total of 3866 studies were obtained of which 36 were selected for inclusion in the review. The Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool was used to assess the methodological quality of the selected studies, all of which were cross-sectional, finally including those with a cutoff point equal to or greater than 4 out of 8.

Results:

The prevalence of total anxiety was found to be 33.6% in the meta-analysis. For depression, the prevalence was 37.92%, and for stress, it was 52.46%. The results of this study show increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, fear, and sleep disturbances among Nursing students that coincide with the different waves of the pandemic, changes in the study methodology, and the increase or decrease in reports of cases of infection. A relationship is observed between variations in these variables and the implementation of protective measures and vaccinations in different countries.

Conclusion:

As the pandemic progressed, hygiene and prevention measures became more effective, and the lethality of the virus decreased. The prevalence of the negative psychological effects also decreased from the onset in 2020 until the end of 2022. Due to the impact of the pandemic on global health, preventive measures should include personal, family, emotional, economic, educational, professional, and mental health approaches.
The effect of 4-phenylbutyrate and sodium 4-phenylbutyrate on genetic mutation diseases: A meta-analysis
Authors: Tang Wen , Cai Dihui , Song Yongfei , Liao Zufang , Lian Jiangfang
Published: January 2025

Background:

To determine the efficacy of 4-phenylbutyrate (4-PB) or sodium 4-phenylbutyrate (SPB) in treating diseases caused by genetic mutations.

Methods:

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE for studies of patients with genetic mutations treated with 4-PB or SPB. All data were tested using RStudio software.

Results:

4-PB or SPB corrected the “functional” production of mutant genes (0.88 [95% confidence interval {CI}: 0.73–1.00], P = .45, I
2 = 0%), restored mRNA transcription of mutant genes (0.50 [95% CI: 0.18–0.82], P = .13, I² = 47%), and improved symptoms (0.89 [95% CI: 0.78–1.00], P = .99, I² = 0%) and biochemical laboratory values (1.00 [95% CI: 0.89–1.00], P = .11, I² = 33%) in patients with inherited genetic diseases.

Conclusion:

4-PB or SPB can be used to treat genetic diseases. However, they must be validated in high-quality randomized controlled trials before clinical use.
Nasopharyngeal tuberculosis suspected of malignancy: A case report
Authors: Chung Da Hyun , Lee Gil Joon
Published: January 2025

Rationale:

Nasopharyngeal tuberculosis (TB), a rare form of tuberculosis outside the lungs, can affect any organ or tissue in the body. It is difficult to diagnose because of nonspecific symptoms, often leading to delayed confirmation after the initial patient visit. Clinical manifestations such as cervical lymphadenopathy and irregular mucosal surfaces can be challenging to distinguish from nasopharyngeal cancer or malignant lymphoma.

Patient concerns:

In this case report, we present a patient initially suspected of having a malignant disease based on abnormal nasopharyngeal imaging findings.

Diagnoses:

Further examination revealed chronic granulomatous inflammation, and subsequent tuberculosis polymerase chain reaction (TB-PCR) confirmed the diagnosis of tuberculosis.

Interventions:

The patient is currently receiving anti-TB treatment with a 4-drug regimen, which has shown a good response with continuous reduction in lesion size.

Outcomes:

After anti-TB treatment, the lesion size gradually decreased and continued to decrease, showing a significant response.

Lessons:

Awareness and precise evaluation are key to avoiding misdiagnosis, particularly when confronted with diverse clinical presentations. Extrapulmonary tuberculosis, although relatively rare, presents unique diagnostic challenges. Nasopharyngeal tuberculosis, in particular, lacks a definitive diagnostic method, often necessitating a combination of clinical suspicion, imaging studies, microbiological tests, and histopathological examination for confirmation. The absence of specific symptoms and the variability in presentation further compound the diagnostic dilemma. Given the potential consequences of misdiagnosis, further exploration and discussion on this issue are warranted. Enhanced awareness among healthcare providers, coupled with advancements in diagnostic modalities, are essential in ensuring timely and accurate differentiation between nasopharyngeal malignancies and tuberculosis, thereby facilitating appropriate management and improving patient outcomes.
Comparative analysis of warm needle moxibustion and gua sha nursing care on sleep quality and psychological stress in insomnia patients undergoing eszopiclone tablet treatment: A retrospective study
Authors: Fan Linlin , Wu Caiyun , Lu Changxia
Published: January 2025

This retrospective study aims to assess the adjunctive efficacy of warm needle moxibustion and gua sha care in the treatment of eszopiclone tablets on sleep quality and psychological stress in insomnia patients. Data of 138 insomnia patients from Gansu Baoshihua hospital between January and December 2022 were collected. Patients were bifurcated into 2 groups: those solely treated with eszopiclone (n = 71) and those administered a combined regimen of eszopiclone, warm needle moxibustion, and gua sha (n = 67). Sleep quality, psychological stress, and daytime drowsiness were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10), and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), respectively. Adverse effects were also monitored. Baseline demographics and clinical characteristics were comparable between the 2 groups. Post-intervention, the intervention group exhibited significant reductions in PSQI and ESS scores (P < .05), whereas the control group showed no significant changes. The PSS-10 scores remained unchanged in both groups post-intervention. The intervention group reported a significant decrease in the prevalence of nausea and dizziness posttreatment (P < .05), with a notably lower post-intervention nausea prevalence compared to the control group (P < .05). Incorporating warm needle moxibustion and gua sha nursing care into the eszopiclone treatment regimen potentially amplify sleep quality while reducing side effects in patients with insomnia.
Chorionic-based intrahepatic cholestasis in pregnancy on perinatal outcome in twin pregnancies
Authors: Deng Na , Liu Yi , Qian Dan , Yi Wei , Luo Han , Zhang Diyuan , He Jiajia
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the impact of twin intrahepatic cholestasis in pregnancy (ICP) in different chorionicity scenarios on pregnancy outcome and risk factors. This retrospective study was designed to investigate the association between ICP and pregnancy outcomes and associated risk factors. Logistic regression analysis was used to verify the correlation between ICP and pregnancy outcome and the associated risk factors with the risk of ICP. Pregnant women with ICP had less gestational weight gain (16.19 ± 5.28 vs 17.78 ± 7.19, P = .018), a smaller number of deliveries (16.26% vs 26.40%, P = .016), and less spontaneous pregnancy (50.41% vs 61.73%, P = .019). The mean birth weight of pregnant women without ICP was lower (2328.07 ± 461.82 vs 2404.70 ± 504.58, P = .023), and the prepregnancy hepatitis B virus (HBV) antigen carrying rate was lower (12.20% vs 6.16%, P = .021). Pregnancy weight gain (0.95 (0.92, 0.99) P = .009) and the number of weeks in labor (0.88 (0.81, 0.96) P = .003) were negatively associated with the risk of ICP. Assisted reproductive technology use (1.38 (0.70, 1.79) P = .635) and HBV carrier before pregnancy (2.51 (1.42, 4.48) P = .002) were positively associated with ICP risk. In monochorionic twins, those with ICP were more likely to have abnormal amniotic fluid (15.79% vs 2.16%, P = .012), while those without ICP were less likely to have abnormal amniotic fluid (0.90 (0.83, 0.97) P = .004). In double chorion twins, the incidence of preterm birth was higher in women with ICP (40.00% vs 24.14, P = .002), and the risk of preterm birth was reduced in women without ICP (0.87 (0.79, 0.96) P = .005). In terms of neonatal outcomes, women with ICP were more likely to have a stillbirth (5.26% vs 0.48% P = .037), and stillbirth was less likely to occur without ICP (0.95 (0.92, 0.98) P = .002). Our study illustrates that twin pregnancies with maternal comorbid ICP have lower birth weight, degree of weight gain during pregnancy and prepregnancy HBV carriage is strongly associated with the development of ICP. ICP contributes to adverse perinatal outcomes such as stillbirth, preterm labor, and differentiates between different chorionic twin pregnancy outcomes. The risk of ICP is differently affected by the degree of weight gain during pregnancy, gestational week of delivery, assisted reproductive technology, and prepregnancy HBV carriage.
Analysis of factors affecting early necrosis of the affected finger after surgery in patients with reimplantation of severed fingers
Authors: Cai Tian-Lun
Published: January 2025

The study aimed to investigate the factors associated with early necrosis of the finger after reimplantation of broken fingers. Sixty-seven cases of reimplantation of severed fingers in our hospital between January 2023 and December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent reimplantation of severed fingers and were divided into early necrosis group and non-necrosis group according to the presence or absence of early necrosis of the finger body 7 days after surgery. The relevant data of the 2 groups were collected, and the statistically significant items were screened by univariate analysis, and then by multifactorial logistic regression analysis to determine the high-risk factors for early necrosis after reimplantation of the severed finger. Among 67 patients, 13 cases showed early postoperative necrosis, with a necrosis rate of 19.40% (13/67). The difference between the 2 groups was significant (P < .05) in the comparison of smoking history, finger type (little finger), preoperative ischemic duration, vasospasm, type of injury (crush injury), postoperative infection, and low skin temperature. Multifactorial analysis showed that smoking history (OR = 7.255, 95% CI: 1.767–29.782), little finger (OR = 7.040, 95% CI: 1.897–26.130), preoperative ischemia ≥ 8 hours (OR = 15.714, 95% CI: 3.095–79.798), vasospasm (OR = 5.850, 95% CI: 1.563–21.894), crush injury (OR = 5.667, 95% CI: 1.393–23.059), postoperative infection (OR = 5.600, 95% CI: 1.544–20.312), and postoperative hypothermia of the skin (OR = 7.096, 95% CI: 1.872–26.906) were the necrotic post-replantation necrosis after amputation of the finger high-risk factors (OR > 1, P < .05). The risk of early necrosis of the affected finger after reimplantation of an amputated finger is closely related to smoking history, pinky size, preoperative ischemic time of more than 8 hours, vasospasm, crush injuries, postoperative infections, and postoperative hypothermic skin temperature. Preventive measures need to be taken in advance to reduce the risk of necrosis in the affected finger.
Association between preoperative serum albumin levels and length of stay in elderly patients with hip fractures: A nonlinear relationship
Authors: Zhang Wanjing , Huang Qiuyu , Zhang Daxue , Yang Shiwei
Published: January 2025

Previous studies have provided relatively limited evidence in examining the impact of preoperative serum albumin levels on the length of hospital stay (LOS) in patients with hip fractures. This study aimed to elucidate the association between preoperative serum albumin levels and LOS in elderly patients with hip fractures. This retrospective cohort study included 1444 elderly patients undergoing surgical treatment for hip fractures at the Second People’s Hospital of Shenzhen from January 2012 to December 2021. The main exposure variable was serum albumin level, and the outcome variable was LOS. A generalized additive model was used to identify the nonlinear relationship between serum albumin levels and LOS, and saturation effects were calculated using a two-piecewise linear regression model. Subgroup analysis was conducted using stratified logistic regression. The median LOS was 10 (8–15) days among all included patients. After adjusting for potential confounding factors (age, sex, comorbidities, hypertension, coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, duration of surgery, surgical method, intraoperative blood loss, red cell distribution width, estimated glomerular filtration rate, blood urea nitrogen, postoperative pneumonia, and transfer to ICU), a nonlinear relationship was found between serum albumin levels and LOS, with a turning point at 3.06. On the left side of the turning point, the effect size was not statistically significant (β = 1.84, 95% CI −1.00 to 4.68, P = .2042), while on the right side of the turning point, for every 1 g/dL increase in albumin, LOS decreased by 1.05 days (β = −1.05, 95% CI −1.90 to −0.20, P = .0162). A nonlinear relationship was observed between preoperative serum albumin levels and LOS in elderly patients with hip fractures. When albumin levels were >3.06 g/dL, they were negatively correlated with LOS. This has important implications for clinicians in the development of nutritional improvement strategies.
Audio-Based Care for Managing Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders in Adults
Authors: Patel Sheila V. , Saavedra Lissette M. , Rodriguez Borja Ivette , Philbrick Sarah , Schwimmer Manny , Ruwala Richa , Viswanathan Meera
Published: January 2025

Background:

Telehealth services can increase access to care by reducing barriers. Telephone-administered care, in particular, requires few resources and may be preferred by communities in areas that are systemically underserved. Understanding the effectiveness of audio-based care is important to combat the current mental health crisis and inform discussions related to reimbursement privileges.

Objectives:

We compared the effectiveness of audio-based care to usual care for managing mental health and substance use disorders (MHSUD).

Design:

We used systematic review methods to synthesize available evidence.

Studies:

We searched for English-language articles reporting randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of adults diagnosed with MHSUD published since 2012.

Outcomes:

We abstracted data on clinical outcomes, patient-reported health and quality of life, health care access and utilization, care quality and experience, and patient safety.

Results:

We included 31 RCTs of participants diagnosed with depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), other serious mental illness (SMI), anxiety, insomnia, or substance use disorder (SUD). Most of the evidence was for interventions targeting depression, PTSD, and SUD. The evidence demonstrates promise for: (1) replacing in-person care with audio care for depression, other SMI, and SUD (very low to moderate certainty of comparable effectiveness); and (2) adding audio care to monitor or treat depression, PTSD, anxiety, insomnia, and SUD (low to moderate certainty of evidence favoring audio care for clinical outcomes).

Conclusions:

MHSUD can be managed with audio care in certain situations. However, more evidence is needed across conditions, and specifically for anxiety and other conditions for which no research was identified.
Epidemiology of epiretinal membranes using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography in an Iranian elderly population
Authors: Hashemi Hassan , Nabovati Payam , Aghamirsalim Mohammadreza , Hajizadeh Fedra , Hashemi Alireza , Khabazkhoob Mehdi
Published: January 2025

SIGNIFICANCE

Epidemiological information about the epiretinal membrane is important for better clinical management and understanding of the nature and burden of this disease. There are some gaps in our understanding of the epidemiology of epiretinal membranes, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of epiretinal membrane using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) in an Iranian elderly population.

METHODS

This report is a part of a population-based study conducted on the elderly population 60 years and older from Tehran, the capital of Iran, using multistage stratified random cluster sampling. Study participants underwent measurement of visual acuity, autorefraction, subjective refraction, and slit-lamp biomicroscopy. The epiretinal membranes were diagnosed by a retinal specialist from OCT images (Spectralis OCT).

RESULTS

A total of 1298 individuals were analyzed for this report. Of these, 58.9% were female, and the mean age of the participants was 67.4 ± 6.4 years. The prevalence rates of all epiretinal membranes, primary epiretinal membrane, and secondary epiretinal membrane were 6.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 4.6 to 7.5%), 4.7% (95% CI, 3.0 to 6.3%), and 10.1% (95% CI, 6.6 to 13.6%), respectively. According to the multiple logistic regression model, the interaction between age and diabetes (odds ratio [OR], 1.09; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.18, p=0.048) and the presence of posterior vitreous detachment (OR, 2.89; 95% CI, 1.45 to 5.78, p=0.003) were significantly linked to a higher prevalence of primary epiretinal membrane. Additionally, a significant inverse relationship was found between the prevalence of primary epiretinal membrane and the number of years of education (OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.85 to 0.97; p=0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of primary epiretinal membrane in Tehran, Iran, was found to be lower than that reported in the majority of earlier studies. Posterior vitreous detachment, interaction between age and diabetes, and lower education level were risk factors of primary epiretinal membrane in this study.
Ectopic Tooth in the Maxillary Sinus With Odontogenic Keratocyst: Treated by Caldwell-luc Surgery and Bone Lid Technique
Authors: Tang Xinjia , Shi Jianhong , Shao Qi , Tian Yuanye
Published: January 2025

Odontogenic keratocysts (OKCs) are an invasive type of odontogenic cyst that rarely occurs in the maxilla. This article presents a case of OKC complicated with ectopic teeth occurring in the maxillary sinus. This article collects a case of a 19-year-old female patient with an ectopic tooth in the maxillary sinus associated with an OKC. The physician opted for the Caldwell-Luc approach to remove the ectopic tooth, the cyst, and the affected mucosa. Concurrently, the bone fragment at the window site was repositioned by applying the bone lid technique after the lesion had been cleared. Postoperative follow-up revealed that the bone fragment had achieved good continuity, effectively reconstructing the anatomical form of the lateral maxillary sinus wall. To clear the large sinus contents and the affected mucosa, physicians may employ the Caldwell-Luc approach combined with a bone lid technique for maxillary sinus antrostomy. Treated by Caldwell-Luc surgery and bone lid technique, the surgical field can be fully exposed, facilitating the surgeon’s removal of the affected mucosa and cyst. Moreover, the bone fragments can be repositioned precisely after the lesion is cleared and normal facial features can be restored after bone reconstruction.
Persistent Mortality Risk From Device-related Healthcare-associated Infection in Kidney Transplant Recipients Despite Multifaceted Interventions Action Calls for a Zero-tolerance Policy
Authors: Peruzzo Maria Bethânia , Oliveira Calegari Luana , Demarchi Foresto Renato , Tedesco-Silva Helio , Medina Pestana José , Requião-Moura Lúcio
Published: January 2025

Background.

Although multifaceted control intervention actions (bundles) are highly effective in reducing the risk of device-related healthcare-associated infections (d-HAIs), no studies have explored their impact on the outcomes of kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) or the extent of risk reduction achievable through the bundle implementation.

Methods.

Seven hundred ninety-eight prevalent KTRs admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) requiring invasive devices were included: 449 patients from the bundle preimplementation period and 349 from the postimplementation period. The primary outcome was mortality within 90 d of ICU admission. Using Poisson regression models, the magnitude of risk reduction for d-HAIs after the bundle implementation and the impact of d-HAIs on the risk of death was estimated.

Results.

The 90-d survival rate was significantly lower in patients with d-HAIs (37.7% versus 71.7%; P < 0.001). The bundle implementation reduced the risk of d-HAIs by 58% (relative risk, 0.42; P = 0.005). Despite the significant reduction in d-HAIs after the bundle implementation, d-HAIs were associated with a 2.6-fold higher risk of death (hazard ratio [HR], 2.63; P < 0.001) regardless of the study period. Additional variables associated with increased risk of death included age (HR, 1.03; P < 0.001), baseline immunosuppression (HR based on mycophenolate versus others 0.74; P = 0.02), time since transplantation (HR, 1.003; P < 0.001), platelet count at ICU admission (HR, 0.998; P < 0.001), and sepsis as the reason for ICU admission (HR, 1.67; P < 0.001).

Conclusions.

The persistent risk associated with d-HAIs, despite the implementation of multifaceted control intervention actions in an ICU specialized in KTR care, underscores the need for a zero-tolerance policy toward d-HAIs.
Spatiotemporal changes in soil properties predict plant health at continental scale
Authors: Wang Ningqi , Jiang Gaofei , Hou Yugang , Li Changqin , Meng Yuanduo , Chen Peijie , Zhang Yuling , Yang Tianjie , Wang Xiaofang , Mei Xinlan , Pommier Thomas , Banerjee Samiran , Rillig Matthias C. , Dini-Andreote Francisco , Friman Ville-Petri , Xu Yangchun , Jousset Alexandre , Shen Qirong , Wei Zhong
Published: January 2025

Abiotic and biotic soil properties are strong predictors of plant yield globally1–5, but they become unreliable over large areas when plant health is threatened by pathogen6–8. Here we present a novel approach to predict plant health based on spatiotemporal changes in soil chemical and biological properties. We first demonstrate that plant health and soil properties consistently respond to environmental change (organic fertilization) regardless of the soil type or geographical origin. Second, we experimentally show that trackable shifts in soil properties reliably explain soil suppressiveness to theRalstonia solanacearumbacterial pathogen and that a scalable spatiotemporal model predicts plant health with 84% accuracy across multiple climatic zones and cropping systems. Our results suggest that this tight coupling between soil properties and plant health could facilitate the development of agricultural practices aimed at sustainably improving crop yields while safeguarding crop health.
An integrated single-cell and spatial transcriptomic atlas of thyroid cancer progression identifies prognostic fibroblast subpopulations
Authors: Loberg Matthew A. , Xu George J. , Chen Sheau-Chiann , Chen Hua-Chang , Wahoski Claudia C. , Caroland Kailey P. , Tigue Megan L. , Hartmann Heather A. , Gallant Jean-Nicolas , Phifer Courtney J. , Ocampo Andres , Wang Dayle K. , Fankhauser Reilly G. , Karunakaran Kirti A. , Wu Chia-Chin , Tarabichi Maxime , Shaddy Sophia M. , Netterville James L. , Rohde Sarah L. , Solorzano Carmen C. , Bischoff Lindsay A. , Baregamian Naira , Murphy Barbara A. , Choe Jennifer H. , Wang Jennifer R. , Huang Eric C. , Sheng Quanhu , Kagohara Luciane T. , Jaffee Elizabeth M. , Belcher Ryan H. , Lau Ken S. , Ye Fei , Lee Ethan , Weiss Vivian L.
Published: January 2025

Thyroid cancer progression from curable well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma to highly lethal anaplastic thyroid carcinoma is distinguished by tumor cell de-differentiation and recruitment of a robust stromal infiltrate. Combining an integrated thyroid cancer single-cell sequencing atlas with spatial transcriptomics and bulk RNA-sequencing, we define stromal cell subpopulations and tumor-stromal cross-talk occurring across the histologic and mutational spectrum of thyroid cancer. We identify distinct inflammatory and myofibroblastic cancer-associated fibroblast (iCAF and myCAF) populations and perivascular-like populations. The myCAF population is only found in malignant samples and is associated with tumor cell invasion,BRAFV600Emutation, lymph node metastasis, and disease progression. Tumor-adjacent myCAFs abut invasive tumor cells with a partial epithelial-to-mesenchymal phenotype. Tumor-distant iCAFs infiltrate inflammatory autoimmune thyroid lesions and anaplastic tumors. In summary, our study provides an integrated atlas of thyroid cancer fibroblast subtypes and spatial characterization at sites of tumor invasion and de-differentiation, defining the stromal reorganization central to disease progression.
Knockdown of PR-DUB subunitcalypsoin the developingDrosophilaeye and wing results in mis-patterned tissues with altered size and shape
Authors: Luf Max , Begani Priya , Bowcock Anne M. , Pfleger Cathie M.
Published: January 2025

The deubiquitinating enzyme BAP1, the catalytic subunit of the PR-DUB complex, is implicated in several cancers, in the familial cancer syndrome BAP1 Tumor Predisposition Syndrome, and in the neurodevelopmental disorder Küry -Isidor syndrome. InDrosophila,there are numerous reports in the literature describing developmental patterning phenotypes for several chromatin regulators including the discovery of Polycomb itself, but corresponding adult morphological phenotypes caused by developmental dysregulation ofDrosophila BAP1orthologcalypso(caly) are less well-described. We report here that knockdown ofcalyin the eye and wing produce concomitant chromatin dysregulation phenotypes. RNAi tocalyin the early eye reduces survival and leads to changes in eye size and shape including eye outgrowths, some of which resemble homeotic transformations whereas others resemble tumor-like outgrowths seen in other fly cancer models. Mosaic eyes containingcalyloss-of-function tissue phenocopycalyRNAi. Knocking downcalyacross the wing disrupts wing shape and patterning including effects on wing vein pattern. This phenotypic characterization reinforces the growing body of literature detailing developmental mis-patterning driven by chromatin dysregulation and serves as a baseline for future mechanistic studies to understand the role of BAP1 in development and disease.

ARTICLE SUMMARY

PR-DUB catalytic subunit deubiquitinating enzyme BAP1 plays an important role in tumor suppression and chromatin regulation. Whereas many chromatin regulators are well-characterized for their roles in patterning, the mis-patterning phenotypes in adult structure for dysregulating BAP1 orthologcalypso(caly) in development are less well described. We report mis-patterned adult eye and wing phenotypes caused bycalyRNAi in the developing eye and wing respectively.
Modulation of cellular ageing regulates Integrated Stress Response signalling to control blood cell homeostasis
Authors: Ghosh Kishalay , Iyer Rohit Krishnan , Sood Saloni , Islam Mohamed Sabeelil , Labad Jyotsana G. , Khadilkar Rohan Jayant
Published: January 2025

Organismal ageing is associated with a decline in cellular and molecular functions. One of the hallmarks of ageing is stem cell exhaustion which occurs due to dynamic changes in the stem cell – niche microenvironment. Ageing affects stem cell potency impacting self-renewal and differentiation trajectories. Blood cell homeostasis in the hematopoietic system is tightly regulated by a fine balance between stemness and differentiation. Here, we employ theDrosophilahematopoietic organ, the larval lymph gland (LG) to investigate the impact of modulating cellular ageing on organ homeostasis. LG consists of a Posterior Signalling Center (PSC) that acts as a stem cell niche and maintains the prohemocytes housed in the Medullary Zone (MZ). Cortical Zone (CZ) consists of differentiated hemocytes namely plasmatocytes, crystal cells and lamellocytes. Intricate signalling networks active in the PSC and MZ orchestrate and regulate homeostasis. In this study, we characterize the effect of genetic perturbation of the molecular circuitry of ageing locally and systemically to investigate its effect on LG blood cell homeostasis. Genetic modulation of cellular ageing displays traditional hallmarks of ageing validating our model in the LG. Our results indicate that induction of accelerated ageing both locally and systemically leads to a reduction in stem cell niche size, DNA damage accumulation and increased progenitor differentiation whereas decelerated ageing shows an opposite trend. We show that the Integrated Stress Response (ISR) pathway is activated upon inducing accelerated ageing in the LG hemocytes possibly to recoup back to homeostatic conditions. Furthermore, LG’s of ISR pathway mutants or upon perturbation of ISR pathway components in prohemocytes show increased blood cell differentiation indicating disruption of homeostasis. Genetic epistasis analysis shows that ectopic over-expression of ISR pathway genes in an accelerated ageing scenario over and above the existing levels can rescue the defects in blood cell homeostasis. Overall, our study explores how modulation of cellular aging locally or systemically can impact tissue homeostasis. Our research paves way to understand the cellular mechanisms underlying an aged versus young stem cell-niche microenvironment and how its abrogation may lead to onset of disease.
microRNA-210 enhances cell survival and paracrine potential for cardiac cell therapy while targeting mitophagy
Authors: Alonaizan Rita , Purnama Ujang , Malandraki-Miller Sophia , Gunadasa-Rohling Mala , Lewis Andrew , Smart Nicola , Carr Carolyn
Published: January 2025

The therapeutic potential of presumed cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs) in heart regeneration has garnered significant interest, yet clinical trials have revealed limited efficacy due to challenges in cell survival, retention, and expansion. Priming CPCs to survive the hostile hypoxic environment may be key to enhancing their regenerative capacity. We demonstrate that microRNA-210 (miR-210), known for its role in hypoxic adaptation, significantly improves CPC survival by inhibiting apoptosis through the downregulation ofCasp8ap2, reduction of caspase activity, and decreased DNA fragmentation. Contrary to the expected induction of Bnip3-dependent mitophagy by hypoxia, miR-210 did not upregulateBnip3, indicating a distinct anti-apoptotic mechanism. Instead, miR-210 reduced markers of mitophagy and increased mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative metabolism, suggesting a role in metabolic reprogramming. Furthermore, miR-210 enhanced the secretion of paracrine growth factors from CPCs, which promotedin vitroendothelial cell proliferation and cardiomyocyte survival. These findings elucidate the multifaceted role of miR-210 in CPC biology and its potential to enhance cell-based therapies for myocardial repair by promoting cell survival, metabolic adaptation, and paracrine signalling.
Post-transcriptional cross- and auto-regulation buffer expression of the human RNA helicasesDDX3XandDDX3Y
Authors: Rengarajan Shruthi , Derks Jason , Bellott Daniel W. , Slavov Nikolai , Page David C.
Published: January 2025

The Y-linked geneDDX3Yand its X-linked homologDDX3Xsurvived the evolution of the human sex chromosomes from ordinary autosomes.DDX3Xencodes a multifunctional RNA helicase, with mutations causing developmental disorders and cancers. We find that, among X-linked genes with surviving Y homologs,DDX3Xis extraordinarily dosage sensitive. Studying cells of individuals with sex chromosome aneuploidy, we observe that when the number of Y Chromosomes increases,DDX3Xtranscript levels fall; conversely, when the number of X Chromosomes increases,DDX3Ytranscript levels fall. In 46,XY cells, CRISPRi knockdown of eitherDDX3XorDDX3Ycauses transcript levels of the homologous gene to rise. In 46,XX cells, chemical inhibition of DDX3X protein activity elicits an increase inDDX3Xtranscript levels. Thus, perturbation of eitherDDX3XorDDX3Yexpression is buffered: by negative cross-regulation ofDDX3XandDDX3Yin 46,XY cells and by negative auto-regulation ofDDX3Xin 46,XX cells.DDX3X–DDX3Ycross-regulation is mediated through mRNA destabilization—as shown by metabolic labeling of newly transcribed RNA—and buffers total levels of DDX3X and DDX3Y protein in human cells. We infer that post-transcriptional auto-regulation of the ancestral (autosomal)DDX3Xgene transmuted into auto- and cross-regulation ofDDX3XandDDX3Yas these sex-linked genes evolved from ordinary alleles of their autosomal precursor.
Development and application of a linear optics model for dielectric wall accelerators
Authors: Lund Christopher M. , Jung Paul M. , Maher Morgan J. , Bancheri Julien , Planche Thomas , Baartman Rick , Seuntjens Jan
Published: January 2025

Proton therapy presents an interesting and important challenge to accelerator physics. Practical restrictions such as room size, gantry weight, and cost have led to a demand for more compact and affordable devices. Success would benefit a significant number of patients every year. Dielectric wall accelerators could provide this breakthrough, but there is limited work available regarding their feasibility or possible integration into medical devices, and no solutions exist for longitudinal beam control. In this work, we discuss the development of a linear beam dynamics model for dielectric wall accelerators. The model is implemented as part of the open-source code . It is tested against the rf LINAC subroutine in and is used to study bunch injection and transport. Building on recent work, the effect of time-varying fields on beam dynamics is also investigated. Conditions for limiting transverse beam size and maintaining longitudinal stability are discussed, and considerations are given to accelerator and beamline design.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Crystal structures of three salts of the triphenylsulfonium ion
Authors: Artis Rylan , Callaway Waylan , Heyward Elizabeth , Reyes Naomi , Roberts Gavin , Van Ostenbridge Kaitlyn , Padgett Clifford W. , Lynch Will E.
Published: January 2025

The reactions of triphenylsulfonium chloride ([TPS][Cl]) with various acids in methanol yield the corresponding salts triphenylsulfonium triiodide, C18H15S+·I3
− or [TPS][I3] (I), triphenylsulfonium perchlorate, C18H15S+·ClO4
− or [TPS][ClO4] (II), and triphenylsulfonium hexafluorophosphate, C18H15S+·PF6
− or [TPS][PF6] (III), as crystalline products. These crystals were structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. In all three compounds, the sulfur atom in the triphenylsulfonium cation adopts a distorted trigonal–pyramidal geometry. [TPS][I3] (I) and [TPS][PF6] (III) both crystallize in the space group P21/n, while [TPS][ClO4] (II) crystallizes in P21. The S—C bond lengths are comparable across the three salts, and the S—C—S bond angles are consistently between 102 and 106°. Hirshfeld surface analyses reveal that each structure is dominated by hydrogen-based intermolecular contacts, supplemented by anion-specific interactions such as I...H in (I), O...H in (II), and F...H in (III). These contacts organize the ions into mono-periodic ribbon- or chain-like arrangements. No significant π–π stacking is observed.
Methyl 2-amino-4-(morpholin-4-yl)benzo[d]thiazole-6-carboxylate tetartohydrate
Authors: Uran Erik , Cotman Andrej Emanuel , Lozinšek Matic
Published: January 2025

The title compound, C13H15N3O3S·0.25H2O, crystallizes in the triclinic space group P
1 and features four organic molecules in the asymmetric unit alongside one water molecule. The extended structure exhibits both hydrogen bonds (O—H...O, N—H...O and N—H...N) and chalcogen (C—S...O) contacts, leading to a complex three-dimensional network.
Development and integration of urban natural sciences for sustainable development and education
Authors: Gladkov Evgeny A. , Gladkova Olga Victorovna
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to discuss the development of different fields of urban natural science as separate academic disciplines.

Design/methodology/approach

Notwithstanding the priority role of cities in our lives, many urban natural and technical sciences are not separate disciplines. There are many studies on urban biology, urban biotechnology, urban geology, the fields of urban engineering and medical sciences, but these directions have not yet emerged as separate disciplines. Perhaps the separation of many urban natural sciences into separate academic disciplines is premature. However, in order to improve the interconnection between the different interdisciplinary fields related to urban sciences, it is more appropriate to consider the different urban natural sciences as separate academic disciplines.

Findings

The integration of different urban natural sciences for sustainable urban development and environmental protection is of greatest interest. It is challenging to mitigate the adverse effects of ecological problems on the environment without integrating insights from diverse fields of natural science. Perhaps the allocation of urban natural sciences as a separate field of science is debatable. However, the designation of urban natural sciences as a separate field in educational programmes is relevant. The separate disciplines of “urban botany”, “urban biotechnology”, “urban physical geography” and other urban natural sciences in university curricula will contribute to the development of urban sciences.

Originality/value

At this time, there is not a single article where the various urban natural environmental sciences have been considered together. The design of educational programmes in the fields of urban natural sciences is important for education.
Enhanced melting dynamics of phase change material (PCM) based energy storage system combining modified fin and nanoparticles under solar irradiation
Authors: Nandi Anjan , Biswas Nirmalendu
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the thermal performance enhancements of phase change materials (PCMs) through the integration of extended fins and CuO nanoparticles under the impact of solar irradiation. The research focuses on improving the melting behavior and thermal efficiency of PCM-based energy storage systems to facilitate the design of more efficient energy storage solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is conducted on a top-heated rectangular thermal system filled with pure PCM and nanoparticle-enhanced PCM (NePCM) mixed with 0.01% Wt. CuO nanoparticles, with varying fin configurations considering PCM volume and surface area of fins constraint. The shape of the fin is modified from single to multiple numbers, maintaining the same surface area. The analysis is carried out both experimentally and numerically for the without fin case, and the study is extended numerically (utilizing the finite volume method) considering different sizes and positions of the fins. The study evaluates the impact of nanoparticle inclusion, fin geometry variations and the thermal performance of three different types of PCM (lauric acid, RT-35HC and P-58). Numerical results are validated against the in-house experimental results.

Findings

The study successfully validates the numerical simulations with experimental data, enhancing the credibility of the findings for real-world applications. The addition of 0.01% Wt. CuO nanoparticles to PCM resulted in a 16.36% enhancement in energy storage, as observed experimentally, whereas the numerical simulation showed an 8.55% increase. The inclusion of CuO nanoparticles accelerated the melting process across all fin configurations, with a notable enhancement parameter of 16.51% for the single fin arrangement. The introduction of a single fin structure increased the energy storage rate, but further additions of fins led to diminishing returns, with a maximum energy storage rate of 35.19 J/min achieved with CuO-enhanced PCM in the presence of single fin. The study also highlights RT-35HC as the most effective PCM, offering the highest energy storage and fastest melting speed, making it ideal for rapid thermal response applications.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could explore different types and concentrations of nanoparticles as well as a broader range of fin geometries and materials to further enhance the performance of PCM-based energy storage systems. Long-term experimental validation under real-world conditions would also enhance the applicability and reliability of the findings.

Originality/value

This study provides valuable insights into optimizing thermal energy storage systems by combining nanoparticle enhancement and fin geometry optimization. The results offer practical guidance for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of PCM-based energy storage units in various applications.
Start-up funding negotiations with venture capitalists: understanding the behaviors and strategies of experienced entrepreneurs
Authors: Glade Christian , Kesting Peter , Smolinski Remigiusz , Kanbach Dominik K.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study explores the negotiation behaviors and strategies employed by experienced entrepreneurs to secure venture capital (VC) funding.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative approach, we conducted interviews with 32 accomplished founders with track records in securing VC funding. Our conceptual underpinning rests upon an existing negotiation competency model. This study employed a systematic and iterative data analysis method, following an inductive approach grounded in Gioia et al.’s (2013) methodology to conceptualize the unprocessed interview data.

Findings

We identified three dimensions characterizing entrepreneurial negotiation behavior in VC negotiations: negotiation competencies, power tactics, and negotiation style. Furthermore, we identified specific behaviors in these dimensions and explored how entrepreneurs apply these skills in the VC context.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes a nuanced understanding of entrepreneurs’ negotiation behaviors, opening avenues for further research on effective strategies in entrepreneurial finance.

Practical implications

Entrepreneurs can leverage the identified negotiation strategies to enhance their skills and navigate VC negotiations more effectively, potentially leading to better funding outcomes. Furthermore, training programs can be crafted to encourage the cultivation of these behaviors.

Originality/value

This study is the first to systematically examine the negotiation behaviors and strategies employed by experienced entrepreneurs in VC negotiations, revealing entrepreneurs’ specific behaviors and elucidating how these behaviors are employed within negotiations to provide practical insights.