bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liver safety of tolvaptan in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease: interim data from a post-authorization safety study
Authors: Jaeger Thomas , Lohrmann Emanuel , Ezenekwe Adachukwu , Enekebe Kene , Kumar Retesh , Nunna Sasikiran , Fernandes Ancilla W , McCormick Linda , George Vinu
Published: October 2024

Background

After the risk of drug-induced liver injury was detected during tolvaptan clinical development for the treatment of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), a post-marketing pharmacovigilance study was required for European Union regulatory approval.

Methods

This is an interim analysis from a prospective, observational study enrolling patients prescribed tolvaptan for ADPKD in routine clinical practice. Data were obtained through physician records collected during regular care. Per the prescribing label, liver transaminases were to be monitored monthly for the first 18 months of treatment and once every 3 months thereafter. Patients and physicians were required to report adverse events suggestive of serious and potentially fatal liver injury. Data collection was from October 2016 to April 2022.

Results

Of 2074 patients (median follow-up 528 days), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) or aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels ≥3 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) were reported in 75 (3.6%) patients. At data cut-off, the enzyme elevations were confirmed for 65 patients. Among the 65 confirmed patients, in addition to transaminase elevations, there were 69 adverse events suggestive of liver injury. Tolvaptan was interrupted or withdrawn in 59/65 (90.8%) participants with confirmed ALT or AST ≥3 times the ULN, with most transaminase elevations and adverse events resolved or resolving at data cut-off. No liver enzyme elevations met laboratory criteria for Hy's law cases.

Conclusions

Transaminase elevations occurred post-marketing in a similar proportion of patients as reported in clinical trials (4.4–5.6%). Regular monitoring per label facilitates prompt detection of liver adverse events and intervention to mitigate the risk of severe injury.
Comparison of 2 Sets of Immunoassays Used in Modified 2-Tiered Testing Algorithms for the Diagnosis of Lyme Disease
Authors: Walsh Michael E , Sietsma Daniel J , Martin Isabella W , Brunelle Lynn A
Published: October 2024

Background

Since 2019, modified 2-tiered testing (MTTT) algorithms have been available for the diagnosis of Lyme disease. MTTTs replaced the standard algorithms that utilized enzyme immunoassays and immunoblots with sequential enzyme immunoassays that detect different antigens.

Methods

We compared the performance of serological assays from ZEUS Scientific Inc. and DiaSorin Inc. that are used for the diagnosis of Lyme disease. Serological results were compared with clinical information gathered by chart review.

Results

Percent positive agreement (PPA) and percent negative agreement (PNA) for total immunoglobulin G (IgG)/immunoglogulin M (IgM) (n = 120) were 64% (95% confidence interval 54% to 73%) and 100% (87% to 100%), respectively. PPA and PNA for IgG (n = 93) were 91% (80% to 97%) and 66% (52% to 78%), respectively. PPA and PNA for IgM (n = 93) were 75% (62% to 85%) and 95% (82% to 99%), respectively. Fewer positive total IgG/IgM results confirmed positive for either IgG or IgM for ZEUS compared to DiaSorin. Overall MTTT algorithm interpretation was concordant in 58% (55/95) of samples, and concordance improved when the results were limited to IgM in patients with symptom duration <30 days. Treatment with antibiotics was most strongly associated with IgM positivity.

Conclusions

This analysis highlights differences in the performance characteristics between commercially available diagnostic assays for Lyme disease. Our data suggest that the DiaSorin assays would result in fewer positive total IgG/IgM tests, decreasing the required number of confirmatory IgG and IgM tests. This would potentially lead to fewer patients treated with antibiotics.
Efficacy of phytase and/or chromium tripicolinate supplementation on dry matter and nitrogen digestibility and blood metabolites in grower pigs
Authors: Edmonds Michael S , Bergstrom Jon R , Weber Thomas E
Published: October 2024

Phytase supplementation is widely used throughout the world for enhancing nutrient use efficiencies in pigs, while added chromium has been shown to help stabilize glucose metabolism by enhancing insulin sensitivity. Therefore, the objectives of this metabolism study were to examine the potential synergies of these additives to see if nutrient digestibilities and/or blood metabolites could be improved in grower pigs. A total of 12 Genesus terminal genetics grower pigs (20.7 kg) were allotted randomly in a crossover experiment with 4 periods and 4 dietary treatments based on a 2 × 2 factorial design via 2 groups. This provided 12 replicates per dietary treatment. Treatment (Trt) 1 consisted of a control diet without phytase while Trt 2 had decreased levels of soybean meal, calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) with added phytase (1,500 phytase units (FYT)/kg, HiPhorius; dsm-firmenich, Plainsboro, NJ). The nutrient release values for amino acids, calcium and phosphorus were via standard recommendations from dsm-firmenich for the phytase. Treatment 3 consisted of the control diet without phytase with 200 parts per billion (ppb) of added chromium from chromium tripicolinate (Chromax, Kent Nutrition Group, Inc., Muscatine, IA) while Trt 4 consisted of the diets with decreased levels of soybean meal, Ca and P with added HiPhorius (1,500 FYT/kg) and Chromax (200 ppb). With 6 metabolism crates available, 4, 1-wk-long periods were utilized to evaluate each of the 4 treatments with each pig with 2 groups evaluated and pooled for data analysis. The pigs were allowed a 4-d acclimation period followed by a 3-d collection period with the experimental diets fed at 4% body weight each day. Water was administered to each pig at 2.5 times the amount of feed fed each day. On the last day of the collection period, blood samples were collected before the meal (fasting) and then 2 h after the meal (postprandial). There were no significant differences among treatments for both fasting and postprandial glucose and insulin levels. Added phytase resulted in a reduction (P < 0.05) in fasting blood urea nitrogen (N). Nitrogen digestibility and retention and dry matter (DM) digestibility were all improved (P < 0.01) with pigs fed supplemental phytase. Supplemental chromium was without effect on any of the N and DM digestibility measurements. These data suggest that supplemental phytase has positive effects on improving N and DM digestibilities.
Prophylactic cranial irradiation for limited-stage small-cell lung cancer in the modern magnetic resonance imaging era may be omitted: a propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Ito Kei , Nakajima Yujiro , Minakami Shota , Machitori Yumiko , Hosomi Yukio , Hashimoto Kana , Saito Makoto , Murofushi Keiko Nemoto
Published: October 2024

We aimed to clarify whether prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) is associated with improved outcomes in limited-stage small-cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC) in the current era of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Data from patients with LS-SCLC who achieved a complete response to definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT) at two medical centers were retrospectively reviewed. Propensity score-matching was performed in a 2:1 ratio to balance the baseline characteristics of the no-PCI and PCI groups. The endpoints were the incidence of brain metastasis (BM), neurological causes of death and overall survival (OS). Overall, 80% patients underwent head MRI during the initial staging and 75 patients (no-PCI, n = 50; PCI, n = 25) were matched. Their baseline characteristics were generally well-balanced except for age; patients in the no-PCI group tended to be older. The median follow-up period was 29 months. Although the incidence of BMs tended to be higher in the no-PCI group (1-year BM occurrence: 26% vs 17%, P = 0.22), the incidence of multiple BMs (defined as >4 metastases) was similar between groups (1-year multiple BMs occurrence: 8% vs 9%, P = 0.65). The 2-year neurological causes of death and OS rate did not significantly differ between the groups (6% and 9%; P = 0.85; and 70% and 79%; P = 0.36, respectively). The 1-year occurrence of multiple BMs did not increase, even without PCI, when modern imaging modalities were integrated into the initial diagnosis, suggesting that PCI could be omitted after CRT, if MRI was incorporated into the initial diagnosis and follow-up.
Insulator-donor electron wavefunction coupling in pseudo-bilayer organic solar cells achieving a certificated efficiency of 19.18%
Authors: Sun Jiangkai , Ma Ruijie , Yang Xue , Xie Xiaoyu , Jiang Dongcheng , Meng Yuan , Li Yiyun , Cui Fengzhe , Xiao Mengfei , Zhang Kangning , Chen Yu , Xia Xinxin , Zhang Maojie , Du Xiaoyan , Ye Long , Ma Haibo , Gao Kun , Chen Feng , Li Gang , Hao Xiaotao , Yin Hang
Published: October 2024

The incorporation of polymeric insulators has led to notable achievements in the field of organic semiconductors. By altering the blending concentration, polymeric insulators exhibit extensive capabilities in regulating molecular configuration, film crystallinity, and mitigation of defect states. However, current research suggests that the improvement in such physical properties is primarily attributed to the enhancement of thin film morphology, an outcome that seems to be an inevitable consequence of incorporating insulators. Herein, we report a general and completely new effect of polymeric insulators in organic semiconductors: the insulator-donor electron wavefunction coupling effect. Such insulators can couple with donor polymers to reduce the energy barrier level and facilitate intramolecular electron transport. Besides the morphological effects, we observed that this coupling effect is another mechanism that can significantly enhance electron mobility (up to 100 times) through the incorporation of polymeric insulators in a series of donor systems. With this effect, we proposed a polymeric insulator blending approach to fabricate state-of-the-art pseudo-bilayer organic solar cells, and the PM6/L8-BO device exhibits a high efficiency of 19.50% (certificated 19.18%) with an improved interfacial electron transport property. This work not only offers a novel perspective on the quantum effect of polymeric insulators in organic semiconductors, but also presents a simple yet effective method for enhancing the performance of organic solar cells.
Healing with Systematic Wound Management after Minimally Invasive Treatment of Axillary Osmidrosis
Authors: Hu Xiaogen , Wang Chengyuan , Sun Cheng
Published: October 2024

Axillary osmidrosis (AO), the condition of armpit smell, can be treated with minimally invasive techniques. However, patients may experience wound complications and a relatively long recovery period after operation. In this case series, the researchers investigated the effectiveness of systematic wound management for wound healing after minimally invasive treatment of AO.

From January 2016 to December 2021, 64 patients with AO underwent systematic wound management after minimally invasive treatment. Systematic wound management included three consecutive steps of wound irrigation with 0.9% sodium chloride, suction drainage, and compression dressing. The researchers retrospectively evaluated wound healing results and recorded complications. Of the patients, 60 (93.8%) had good primary wound healing results, 1 (1.5%) developed a hematoma, and 3 (4.7%) had partial epidermis necrosis. The hematoma was easily evacuated, and the partial epidermis necrosis recovered spontaneously without obvious scarring. No other adverse effects were observed.

The results of this case series indicate that systematic wound management is reliable and practical and provides good wound healing results after minimally invasive treatment of AO.
Lumbar Fusion Surgical Prophylaxis Using Cefazolin vs. Vancomycin in the Penicillin-Allergic Patient
Authors: Carter Michael , Narayanan Rajkishen , Toci Gregory , Huang Rachel , Dalton Jonathan , Tomlak Alexa , Lee Yunsoo , Mumtaz Shiraz , Sabitsky Matthew , Pasha Asad , Vanichkachorn Andrew , Kim Andrew , Syal Amit , Kurd Mark , Kaye Ian David , Canseco Jose , Hilibrand Alan , Vaccaro Alexander , Schroeder Gregory , Kepler Christopher
Published: October 2024

Study Design.

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective.

To compare peri- and postoperative infection rates among patients with mild to moderate penicillin allergies who receive cefazolin vs vancomycin as prophylaxis for lumbar fusion. Additionally, we sought to determine if patients receiving cefazolin exhibited any clinical symptoms suggestive of drug-induced hypersensitivity reactions, and to compare those rates to patients who received vancomycin.

Summary of Background Data.

Cefazolin has been historically linked to hypersensitivity reactions in penicillin-allergic patients due to cross-reactivity. As a result, vancomycin is often given to these patients instead. To our knowledge, no studies have directly compared these two antibiotics in penicillin-allergic patients undergoing lumbar fusion.

Methods.

Patients with mild to moderate documented penicillin allergies who underwent lumbar fusion from 2017-2022 and received prophylactic cefazolin or vancomycin were studied. Demographic, surgical information, and hospital length of stay (LOS) were recorded. We identified drug sensitivity reactions, in hospital infections, 90-day readmissions related to infectious etiologies and need for irrigation and debridement (I&D) to treat a surgical site infection.

Results.

222 patients received cefazolin, while 180 received vancomycin. Patients receiving vancomycin had more medical comorbidities, while patients receiving cefazolin had slightly more levels fused. No significant differences existed between cohorts in postoperative infection rate. One patient given cefazolin developed a mild drug-induced skin reaction that was treated with topical steroids. No significant differences existed between cohorts in 90-day readmissions or need for I&D surgery. On bivariate analysis, patients given cefazolin had a longer LOS but this was attributed to confounding variables on multivariate analysis.

Conclusions.

Cefazolin and vancomycin are comparable at preventing postoperative infections among patients with mild to moderate documented reactions to penicillin. Our findings also suggest that penicillin-allergic patients are not at higher risk of developing drug-related hypersensitivity reactions in response to cefazolin exposure when compared to those who received vancomycin.
Operative Timing in Cervical Spine Trauma
Authors: Dalton Jonathan , Huang Rachel , Narayanan Rajkishen , Kaye Ian David , Kepler Christopher K.
Published: October 2024

Study Design:

Narrative review.

Objective:

To review existing literature regarding surgical timing in cervical trauma with a focus on acute traumatic central cord syndrome.

Summary of Background Data:

Traumatic central cord syndrome is the most common incomplete spinal cord injury. Substantial basic science literature has proposed ischemic and secondary injury-driven mechanisms underpinning the urgency of operative intervention. However, only recently has a relative consensus emerged in the clinical literature regarding the safety, efficacy, and necessity of early operative intervention for acute traumatic central cord syndrome.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted of studies in PubMed Central and Cochrane Database related to timing in cervical spine trauma.

Conclusions:

Recently, several major systematic reviews and consensus statements have endorsed the importance and safety of early (<24 h) operative decompression in the setting of traumatic spinal cord injury. Despite decades of conflicting data, a similar trend appears to be emerging for traumatic central cord syndrome. These clinical developments join a large body of basic science work regarding the importance of early decompressive surgery in relieving acute ischemic insult and minimizing the effects of secondary injury. However, further work is needed to delineate optimal surgical timing, especially regarding “ultra-early” (<8 h) protocols, and to aid in creating accelerated screening pathways.
Pediatric Cervical Spine Trauma
Authors: Zhang Justin K. , Hongsermeier-Graves Natasha , Savic Boris , Nadel Jeffrey , Sherrod Brandon A. , Brockmeyer Douglas L. , Iyer Rajiv R.
Published: October 2024

Study design

Narrative review.

Objective:

To provide an updated overview of pediatric cervical spine trauma.

Summary of background data:

Pediatric cervical spine trauma can cause debilitating morbidity and mortality and neurological impairment. The unique anatomic features of the developing cervical spine can predispose children to injuries.

Methods

We reviewed the pediatric cervical spine trauma literature in PubMed and EMBASE.

Results:

Pediatric cervical spine injury occurs in 1%–2% of pediatric trauma. The most frequent cause is motor vehicle collisions, with sports-related injuries being more common in older children. Larger head-to-body ratios and tissue elasticity can predispose young children to a greater risk of injury higher in the craniocervical junction and cervical spine. Standardized protocols and classification systems, such as the Pediatric Cervical Spine Clearance Working Group protocol and the AO Spine Injury and Subaxial Cervical Spine Injury Classifications, are valuable in triage as well as for assessing the need for operative versus nonoperative management. In general, operative approaches and principles are similar to those in adults, with modern instrumentation and fusion techniques achieving high rates of successful arthrodesis.

Conclusions:

Effective management and treatment of pediatric cervical spine injuries depends on early and accurate diagnosis, a thorough understanding of pediatric spinal anatomy, and a versatile surgical armamentarium.
Enabling Technologies in the Management of Cervical Spine Trauma
Authors: Menta Arjun K. , Fuleihan Antony A. , Li Marvin , Azad Tej D. , Witham Timothy F.
Published: October 2024

Study Design:

Narrative review.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to explore and evaluate the role of novel technologies in enhancing the diagnosis, surgical precision, and rehabilitation of cervical spine trauma, and to discuss their potential impact on clinical outcomes.

Summary of Background Data:

Traumatic cervical spine injuries are challenging to manage due to their complex anatomy, the potential for long-term disability, and severe neurological deficits. Traditional management approaches are being supplemented by emerging technologies that promise to improve patient care and outcomes.

Methods:

A literature review was conducted to identify and analyze advancements in imaging, navigation, robotics, and wearable technologies in the context of cervical spine trauma. The review focuses on the potential of these technologies to improve early detection, surgical accuracy, and postoperative recovery.

Results:

Technological innovations, including advanced imaging techniques, machine learning for diagnostics, augmented reality, and robotic-assisted surgery, are transforming the management of cervical spine trauma. These tools contribute to more efficient, accurate, and personalized treatment approaches, potentially improving clinical outcomes and reducing patient care burdens.

Conclusions:

Although these technologies hold great promise, challenges such as implementation costs and the need for specialized training must be addressed. With continued research and interdisciplinary collaboration, these advancements can significantly enhance the management of cervical spine trauma, improving patient recovery and quality of life.

Level of Evidence:

Level V.
A Pair of Hearts: Two Cases of Mitral Valve Gonococcal Endocarditis
Authors: Pearce Carolyn F. , Johnson Kelly A. , Meshkaty Nessa , Tang Eric
Published: October 2024

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection. Manifestations include asymptomatic infection and disseminated, life-threatening disease. We present two cases of mitral valve gonococcal endocarditis and discuss epidemiologic trends in disseminated gonococcal infection, acknowledging antimicrobial resistance, genetic variability in gonococcal strains, and contextual factors related to the COVID-19 pandemic and STI control.
Experiences of life and intersectionality of people with low vision: A qualitative approach
Authors: Oviedo-Cáceres María del Pilar , Arias-Valencia Samuel , Hernández-Quirama Andrea
Published: October 2024

SIGNIFICANCE

Low vision is a public health priority disability condition. People with this condition face multiple types of discrimination in a society that is not accustomed to diversity.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to describe the life experience of people with low vision from an intersectional perspective in Medellín, Colombia.

METHODS

A qualitative ethnographic case study was conducted, considering the intersectional perspective as an analytical element to comprehend the everyday experience of people with low vision. Twenty-nine interviews were conducted with 10 participants, along with 16 participant observation exercises in their daily lives, with prior informed consent.

RESULTS

Participants experienced discrimination due to their visual condition, which had negative implications for the development of their life projects. Three categories emerged: Discrimination in everyday contexts: ocularcentrism, gender challenges in the lives of people with low vision, and challenges in seeking vision rehabilitation services.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the study show that people experience discrimination, exclusion, and stigmatization in their daily activities, which vary according to the traditionally assigned roles of gender, social class, age, and educational level, among others. Given the complexity of the experience, it is important for health and visual rehabilitation professionals to broaden their perspective and transition toward vision rehabilitation models that address the various dimensions affected by this condition.
Postradiotherapy Response Assessment Using 18F-FDG PET/CT in Salivary Gland Carcinoma—A Multicenter Study
Authors: Chen Po-Yuan , Cheng Nai-Ming , Lin Chien-Yu , Chang Kai-Ping , Lu Yi-An , Tsai Tsung-You , Chen Miao-Fen , Fang Fu-Min , Hsu Cheng-Lung , Hsieh Rodney Cheng-En
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This multicenter study investigates the efficacy of 18F-FDG PET/CT in postradiotherapy (post-RT) response evaluation in salivary gland carcinoma (SGC).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 115 SGC patients who underwent definitive or adjuvant RT followed by 18F-FDG PET/CT between 2004 and 2021. Most tumors were parotid gland malignancies (50%). The most common histological subtypes were adenoid cystic (29%) and mucoepidermoid carcinomas (18%).

Results

The median follow-up was 65 months. Post-RT anatomic images (CT/MRI) revealed complete response (CR) in 51 patients (44%). Among 53 patients with partial response or stable disease, only 17 (32%) patients experienced locoregional recurrence, with a 5-year locoregional control rate of 69%. Post-RT 18F-FDG PET/CT documented metabolic CR in 81 patients (70%). Metabolic complete responders had significantly higher 5-year locoregional control (90% vs 43%), distant metastasis–free survival (80% vs 48%), progression-free survival (76% vs 24%), and overall survival rates (89% vs 42%) compared with non–complete responders (all P < 0.001), as confirmed in both univariate and multivariate analyses. It identified additional viable tumors in 18 cases (16%) and facilitated salvage local therapies in 7 patients (6%). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of post-RT 18F-FDG PET/CT were 63%, 91%, 70%, 88%, and 84%, respectively, in predicting locoregional recurrence. 18F-FDG PET/CT showed significantly higher sensitivity ﻿(88% vs 36%, P = 0.011) in tumors with pre-RT SUVmax ≥7.39 compared with those with SUVmax <7.39.

Conclusions

Post-RT 18F-FDG PET/CT demonstrates high negative predictive value and specificity, with metabolic CR predicting excellent outcomes. Additionally, it exhibits higher sensitivity for high-SUVmax SGC, facilitating early detection of viable tumors.
Simultaneous Reconstruction of Voluntary and Spontaneous Smiles and Eyelid Closure With Triple Latissimus Dorsi Muscle Flaps
Authors: Matsusaka Ryousuke , Okazaki Mutsumi , Tanaka Kentaro , Uemura Noriko , Mori Hiroki , Homma Tsutomu , Kanayama Koji
Published: October 2024

Using the free latissimus dorsi muscle flap for dynamic reconstruction for established facial paralysis helps reconstruct various facial dysfunctions, depending on nerve and muscle arrangements. The authors divided the latissimus dorsi muscle into 3 flaps, 2 placed in the cheek area to reconstruct a “voluntary and spontaneous smile” and 1 fixed to the fascia implanted in the eyelid to treat lagophthalmos in a 1-stage procedure in a 61-year-old woman who underwent tumor resection for a left facial nerve schwannoma and developed complete facial paralysis. Fascia lata and free latissimus dorsi muscle grafting were performed. Spontaneous smile was reconstructed using the contralateral facial nerve as a motor source. Voluntary smile and eyelid closure were reconstructed using the ipsilateral masseter nerve, dividing the latissimus dorsi muscle flap into 3 muscle bodies. This procedure restored her smile and eyelid closure ability, with a nearly normal overall facial impression, making it a valuable technique for 1-term reconstruction of smiles and eyelid closure.
Easternmost distribution of Asian hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax, du Buysson 1905) in Slovakia: Urgent need for advanced detection and interregional monitoring
Authors: Kolics Balázs , Kolics Éva , Ács Zoltán , Proková Helena Mališová , Senková Katarína Baldaufová , Senko Dušan
Published: October 2024

The invasive Asian hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) continues its spread across Europe, posing a significant threat to biodiversity, viticulture, and apiculture. Species identification on the first individuals caught in Slovakia was confirmed via molecular analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. Radio telemetry was employed to track foraging hornets, leading to the discovery of the nest within inaccessible private property. Mastering and utilizing manual tracking techniques assisted by radio telemetry, alongside public awareness campaigns and regional monitoring programs, are crucial in Slovakia and neighbouring countries to mitigate the potential ecological and economic impacts of this invasive species.
An Ionic Sensor acts in Parallel to dSarm to Promote Neurodegeneration
Authors: Avetisyan Adel , Barria Romina , Sheehan Amy , Freeman Marc R.
Published: October 2024

How neurons to sense when they are terminally dysfunctional and activate neurodegeneration remains poorly defined. The pro-degenerative NAD+hydrolase dSarm/SARM1 can act as a metabolic sensor by detecting pathological changes in NAD+/NMN and subsequently induce catastrophic axon degeneration. Here we showDrosophilawith-no-lysine kinase (dWnk), which can directly sense Cl-, K+and osmotic pressure, is required for neurodegeneration induced by depletion of the NAD+biosynthetic enzyme dNmnat. dWnk functions in parallel to dSarm and acts through the downstream kinase Frayed to promote axon degeneration and neuronal cell death. dWnk and dSarm ultimately converge on the BTB-Back domain molecule Axundead (Axed) to execute neurodegeneration. Our work argues that neurons use direct sensors of both metabolism (dSarm/SARM1) and ionic/osmotic status (dWnk) to evaluate cellular health and, when dysfunctional, promote neurodegeneration though a common axon death signaling molecule, Axundead.
Netupitant Exhibits Potent Activity onMycobacterium tuberculosisPersisters
Authors: Eldesouky Hassan E. , Jones Richard M. , Gleason Natalie , Mohammed Shabber , Xing Enming , Li Pui-Kai , Sherman David R.
Published: October 2024

InMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb), persisters are genotypically drug-sensitive bacteria that nonetheless survive antibiotic treatment. Persisters represent a significant challenge to shortening TB treatment and preventing relapse, underscoring the need for new therapeutic strategies. In this study, we screened 2,336 FDA-approved compounds to identify agents that enhance the sterilizing activity of standard anti-TB drugs and prevent the regrowth of persisters. Netupitant (NTP), an FDA-approved antiemetic, emerged as a promising candidate with bacteriostatic activity on its own. However, in combination with isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF), NTP eliminated viable Mtb cells within 7 days, achieving a >6-log reduction in colony-forming units (CFUs) compared to the 2.5-log reduction observed with INH-RIF alone. NTP also demonstrated broad-spectrum efficacy, enhancing the activity of multiple TB drugs, including ethambutol, moxifloxacin, amikacin, and bedaquiline. Notably, NTP retained its potency under hypoxic and caseum-mimicking conditions, both of which are known to enrich for non-replicating, drug-tolerant cells. Interestingly, under hypoxic conditions, NTP demonstrated strong tuberculocidal activity, achieving an approximate 4-log CFU reduction, whereas high-dose INH-RIF was ineffective. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that NTP primarily disrupts cellular bioenergetics, with significant downregulation observed in activities associated with the electron transport chain, oxidative phosphorylation, NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase, succinate dehydrogenase, and ATP synthesis. While further studies are required to decipher the mechanism of action and resistance profile of NTP, and to assess itsin vivoefficacy, these findings underscore its potential as a promising adjunct to existing TB therapies.
Limits on scalar dark matter interactions with particles other than the photon via loop corrections to the scalar-photon coupling
Authors: Flambaum V. V. , Samsonov I. B.
Published: October 2024

There is limited information about the interaction strength of a scalar dark matter candidate with hadrons and leptons for a scalar particle mass exceeding 10−3  eV while its interaction with photon is well studied. The scalar-photon coupling constant receives quantum corrections from one-loop Feynman diagrams which involve the scalar-lepton, scalar-quark, and scalar-W-boson vertices. We calculate these one-loop quantum corrections and find new limits on the scalar particle interactions with electron, muon, tau, quarks, nucleons, gluons, Higgs, and W-bosons by repurposing the results of experiments measuring the scalar-photon interaction. Limits on interactions of heavy leptons and quarks have been obtained for the first time, and limits on other interactions in certain mass intervals are 2 to 15 orders of magnitude stronger than those presented in previous publications and exclude the resolution of the muon g−2 anomaly with scalar particle.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Elastic and inelastic scattering of flat-top solitons
Authors: Khawaja U. Al , Alotaibi M. O. D. , Sakkaf L. Al
Published: October 2024

We investigate the interaction between two flat-top solitons within the cubic-quintic nonlinear Schrödinger equation framework. Our study results point towards a significant departure of flat-top solitons' collisional characteristics from the conventional behaviors exhibited in the scattering dynamics of two bright solitons. Our investigation outlines specific regimes corresponding to the dual flat-top solitons' elastic and inelastic collisions. We determine regimes in the parameter space where exchange in the widths of the interacting flat-top solitons is possible, even within the elastic collision domain. We find a periodic occurrence of completely elastic scattering of flat-top solitons in terms of the solitons' parameters. Investigating the internal energy transfers between the solitons and the emitted radiation reveals the origin of inelasticity in flat-top soliton collisions. We perform a variational calculation that accounts for the amount of radiation produced by the collision and hence provides further insight into the physics underlying the loss of elasticity of collisions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Monetary shocks and house prices in Europe
Authors: Coën Alain , Pourcelot Alexis
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to analyse the effect of conventional and unconventional monetary policy shocks on housing price dynamics in Europe (2000–2020). We propose a pan-European comparative analysis at a city market level, contrary to the previous literature.

Design/methodology/approach

We build a quarterly market dataset for 13 European cities (Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, London, Birmingham and Manchester). We proceed in two steps. First, we develop a structural VAR (vector autoregression) model. Second, we conduct a forecast error variance decomposition analysis.

Findings

We show that a contractionary policy rate has a negative influence on house prices with relevant differences. A balance sheet shock displays a heterogeneous effect on housing prices. Globally, we observe that a conventional monetary policy shock explains a larger share of total housing price variance than an unconventional monetary policy shock. Finally, our results report that conventional and unconventional monetary policy shocks have a greater impact in more liberalized credit markets.

Originality/value

We develop a pan-European analysis of house prices at a market level for a sample of 13 European cities. A parsimonious structural VAR model is used to study the dynamics of conventional and unconventional monetary policies on house prices in major European markets: Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, London, Birmingham and Manchester. Our results highlighting the relative importance of conventional and unconventional monetary shocks, identify the existence of heterogeneous effects of monetary policies in European city markets.
Biological traits and biome features mediate responses of terrestrial bird demography to droughts
Authors: Zhang Lyu Bing , Ma Zilong , Liu Yang
Published: October 2024

Changing drought regimes are a rising threat to biodiversity, yet their impacts on wildlife vary greatly. Acknowledging the factors associated with these consequences brings novel insights into species vulnerability resulting from extreme climatic events and facilitates effective mitigation of climate change risks.

Based on 319 observations from 29 peer‐reviewed studies on birds—a well‐monitored taxonomic group—we extract the responses of demographic metrics to droughts for 204 species across eight terrestrial biomes to examine the consequences of droughts. According to relevant studies, we chose the factors potentially moderating bird demography under droughts and compiled the data for these factors from published datasets. A meta‐analysis is performed to determine the drought effect on bird demography at individual and population levels, accounting for the influence of species traits, timescale and severity of droughts, as well as biome features.

The results show that droughts have an overall negative effect on bird demography, and the effect is mediated by different factors at each level. For individuals exposed to droughts, declines in demographic rates are found to be related to narrower extents of occurrence of species, and a significant overall reduction in demographic rates is identified for individuals residing in deserts and xeric shrublands. At the population level, declines in abundance or reproductive performance are generally identified for invertivores, frugivores, nectarivores and omnivores; short‐lived species with small clutch sizes also show greater susceptibilities under the impacts of droughts. Our findings additionally suggest that the demographic vulnerability of bird individuals and populations could be affected by the duration and magnitude of drought episodes.

Although our results are subject to publication bias, these conclusions advance the assessment of vulnerability to extreme climatic events that used to be based on equally weighted species traits and support bird conservation by prioritizing the declining populations of species with drought‐susceptible traits.
Digital government initiatives for sustainable innovations, digitalization, and emission reduction policies to balance conservation impact
Authors: Wang Ye , Umair Muhammad , Oskenbayev Yessengali , Saparova Ainur
Published: October 2024

The rapid advancement of digital technologies in China, America, India, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Indonesia, Germany, Iran, South Korea, and Russia presents both significant opportunities and challenges for achieving sustainable development, particularly in balancing economic growth with environmental conservation. This study rigorously assesses the impact of digital government initiatives on sustainable innovations and emission reduction policies from 2002 to 2022, focusing on their ability to balance ecological and economic influences. By employing a sophisticated model that integrates second‐generation tests to confirm cross‐sectional dependence and gradient variation, this research ensures the precision of its findings. The analysis reveals that digitalization, clean energy adoption, and the utilization of these countries' abundant natural resources over this two‐decade period have contributed substantially to reducing their ecological footprints. However, the study also identifies structural discontinuities in the linear trends and intercepts due to the integration of these technologies. By incorporating variables such as e‐commerce, income from natural resources, economic growth, conservation‐friendly technologies, sustainable energy sources, and carbon dioxide emissions, the model provides a comprehensive evaluation. The results highlight a consistent decline in ecological impact driven by technological and economic advancements. The policy implications are clear: to sustain and enhance these positive trends, governments must continue to promote digitalization and innovation while carefully managing the integration of new technologies to prevent potential disruptions.
Co‐production of a vulnerability assessment for aquatic and riparian ecosystems in the southwestern United States
Authors: Smith D. Max , Friggens Megan M.
Published: October 2024

To address impacts of climate change and other stressors on stream ecosystems, managers must prioritize resources and locations for conservation actions to facilitate effective cross‐boundary solutions. Through a science management partnership, we co‐produced a spatially explicit landscape assessment framework for cold‐water fish habitat and riparian corridors in three large watersheds of the southwestern United States. Using literature review and stakeholder workshops, we developed indicators of vulnerability and built spatial datasets depicting areas of low to high vulnerability based on exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity for each resource. We found that, in general, vulnerability was greater for cold‐water fish habitat than for riparian corridors. The Little Colorado River and San Juan River watersheds had the highest percentages of subwatersheds with high vulnerability of cold‐water fish habitat. Conversely, the Upper Rio Grande watershed had the highest percentage with high vulnerability of riparian corridors. Assessments like ours facilitate the management of water resources at the scale of watersheds or river basins and incorporate physical characteristics, land‐use history, current management practices, and status of imperiled species into actionable management plans.
Correlation between forceps grasp count and skill proficiency in single‐incision laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure: A retrospective single‐center study
Authors: Sanmoto Yohei , Kawami Akio , Goto Yudai , Jimbo Takahiro , Gotoh Chikashi , Masumoto Kouji
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between forceps grasp count and procedure time in single‐incision laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure surgeries and the evolution of these metrics with accumulated experience.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 741 procedures performed by surgeons between 2015 and 2023. Surgical videos were analyzed to calculate the procedure time, defined as the time required for suturing around the hernial orifice, and the forceps grasp count. Correlations were evaluated using Spearman's rank correlation coefficients. Changes in experience were assessed using linear regression.

Results

Surgeons demonstrated a significantly longer procedure time (585 s vs. 437 s, p < .001) and higher grasp counts (22 times vs. 17 times, p < .001) for surgeries performed on male patients than on female patients. Grasp count was strongly correlated with procedure time (male patients: r = .800; female patients: r = .758, p < .001). With accumulated experience, both procedure time and grasp count decreased, although novice surgeons showed delayed improvement in forceps manipulation compared with improvement in procedure time.

Conclusion

Grasp count was strongly correlated with procedure time in single‐incision laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure. Accumulated experience improved both metrics, with novice surgeons possibly requiring more time to acquire efficient forceps manipulation skills. Efficient forceps manipulation is a valuable metric for evaluating surgical skills.
Exploring the Unconscious Dynamics of the Balint Group Process
Authors: Morris Stephen , Jones Gwion
Published: October 2024

This preliminary study should be regarded as a pilot piece of research designed specifically to explore some of the unconscious dynamics that operate within the Balint Group process. A brief history is offered by introduction, which aims to set this research in the wider context of the influences that shaped Michael Balint's thinking, particularly the view that the primary obstacles in therapeutic work derive from the analyst's own resistances. The study itself attempts to highlight the presence or absence of ‘domains of implicit relational knowing’ between Balint Group participants, within which ‘moments of meeting’ may take place, leading to a change in the thinking/feeling of the Presenter about their case. It is suggested that such domains emerge through unconscious interactions and that the Group Matrix contains and fosters such activity. The rationale for the use of a 7‐point scale of participants' subjective evaluations of feeling attuned/connected or mis‐attuned/unconnected towards the Group, the Presenter and the Conductor is drawn from Attachment/Neuroscience research. The data gathered from two groups, each engaging in two presentations, reveal patterns of identical scores suggesting the presence of ‘domains’, and marked discrepancy scores suggesting their absence. Sufficient ‘domains’ accompanied a change in thinking/feeling for the Presenter, while few ‘domains’ and marked discrepancy scores did not do so. These observations are tentatively discussed with reference to the early origins of unconscious communications.
Two Stage Sinus Lifting Using Nanohydroxyapatite Particles Versus Deproteinized Bovine Bone: Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Nour Mahmoud , Shawky Mohamed , Abaas Rofaida A. , Hakam Maha , Atef Mohammed
Published: October 2024

Background

Sinus floor elevation is one of the predictable techniques for augmentation of vertically deficient posterior maxillary alveolar ridges. Several biomaterials were reported to be successful for sinus augmentation, including xenografts and hydroxyapatite. The aim of this study was to compare the quality and quantity of generated bone using xenografts versus nanohydroxyapatite in sinus augmentation.

Methodology

Twenty‐four patients/sinuses were randomly assigned into two groups; in the control group, patients underwent sinus floor elevation and augmentation using deproteinized bovine bone (DBB), whereas in the study group, the sinus was augmented using nanohydroxy‐apatite bone (NHA). For each patient, the amount of bone height was assessed preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and 6 months postoperatively. Furthermore, the quality of the newly formed bone was assessed via histological and histomorphometric analyses after 6 months postoperatively.

Results

Both biomaterials showed a good level of consolidation. In the study group, the mean bone height after 6 months was 11.72 ± 1.24 compared to 12.01 ± 1.16 mm in the control group which was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The mean bone area percent of newly formed bone was 29.84% ± 6.7% for NHA group and 34.73 ± 7.9 for DBB group. Moreover, the mean percent of residual grafting material was 32.43% ± 11.53% for NHA group compared to 30.43% ± 8.27% for DBB group. Histologically, there was no significant difference between both groups regarding different parameters (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The two‐stage sinus floor augmentation using NHA and DBB revealed no statistically significant difference regarding both the quality and the quantity of the regenerated bone. Studies with larger samples and longer follow up are recommended.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03184857.
Self‐assembling peptides for successful hemostasis in advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Fukunaga Shusei , Nakata Akinobu , Fujiwara Yasuhiro
Published: October 2024

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A gay autoethnography: Gender, sexuality, and organizations
Authors: de Moura Renan Gomes
Published: October 2024

Would the effeminate boy be an outsider or a fruit that grew far from the tree? Understanding the trajectory of a male child with effeminate traits can unveil practices of various institutions regarding boys and men with these characteristics, bringing to light organizational practices that are not limited to homophobia but also to “effeminophobia.” This autoethnography is an exercise in reclaiming one's own history, marked by violent exclusions, domination, and subjugation, with the aim of explaining how heterosexual normativity impacts the bodies and subjectivities of effeminate individuals. This account begins in the 1990s in the city of Barra do Piraí, a locality located in the interior of Rio de Janeiro, which was governed by male domination and influenced by a colonial culture. In this context, it is important to note that I do not consider it possible to define a period for analysis in terms of years, but rather within a biological time frame, encompassing the stages of life. Therefore, this delimitation begins in childhood and extends into adulthood. This autoethnography is dedicated to discussing effeminophobia directed toward children and adults in various institutions, especially in the workplace. To do so, it utilizes the social and professional trajectory of a young gay man who managed to become an adult.