bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term outcomes of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation in octogenarians
Authors: Kozhuharov N , Nabeela K , Jais P , Martin C , Sticherling C , Ginks M , Ullah W , Balasubramaniam R , Kalla M , Furniss S , M. Gallagher M , Hunter R , Wong T , Gupta D
Published: May 2024

Background

Catheter ablation is superior to standard medical therapy in controlling atrial fibrillation (AF). There is limited data on the long-term outcomes of AF ablation in octogenarians.

Purpose

This study aims to rigorously evaluate the efficacy and safety of AF catheter ablation in octogenarians, compared to non-octogenarians.

Methods

In this retrospective, multicentre, international study in 13 centres in the United Kingdom, France, and Switzerland, the long-term outcomes of 473 consecutive octogenarian patients undergoing catheter ablation for AF were compared to 473 propensity-matched non-octogenarian controls (median age 81.3 [80.0, 83.0] vs 64.4 [56.5, 70.7] years, 54.3% vs 35.1% females; p-value for both <0.001). The primary endpoint was the recurrence of atrial arrhythmia during 365 days' follow-up after an initial blanking period of 90 days (median follow-up time 322 [153, 365] days.

Results

Acute success of the ablation was achieved in 97% of octogenarians. When comparing non-octogenarians vs octogenarians, there were more complications in the octogenarians group (11.4% vs 7.0%, p=0.018), with the most common adverse events being vascular complications (3.8% vs 2.7%). The median follow-up time was 322 [153, 365] days. Through day 365, 131 (27.7%) octogenarians had a recurrence of atrial arrhythmia as compared to 111 (23.5%) non-octogenarians (odds ratio 1.49; 95% confidence interval 1.16-1.92; p=0.002). In a multivariable regression model including gender, previous AF ablation, vascular disease, chronic kidney disease, CHA2DS2-VASc score, left atrial dilatation, and indwelling cardiac implantable electronic device, age above 80 remained an independent predictor of recurrence of atrial arrhythmias throughout 365 days' follow-up.

Conclusion

Age over 80 is associated with higher rates of recurrence of atrial arrhythmia on 365 days' follow-up post-catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation.

Arrhythmia recurrence on follow-up
Impact of Pirfenidone on arrhythmic and clinical outcomes in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Im S I
Published: May 2024

Background/Introduction

Atrial fibrosis is an important substrate in atrial fibrillation (AF), particularly in the setting of structural heart disease. Previous study reported that Pirfenidone, an antifibrotic agent, was beneficial at reducing myocardial fibrosis.

Purpose

The objective of the present study is to evaluate the effects of Pirfenidone on arrhythmic and clinical outcomes in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

Methods

Our database of patients diagnosed with IPF from 2008 to 2023 was used to obtain echocardiography, electrocardiogram, and 24hr-holter monitoring data. Inclusion criteria were all IPF patients with/without Pirfenidone. And we compared arrhythmic events including atrial fibrillation, atrial premature complex, atrial tachycardia, ventricular arrhythmia and clinical outcomes according to use of Pirfenidone.

Results

Among 257 patients with IPF (74.0±8.9 years), 106 (41.2%) patients took Pirfenidone. Difference in the baseline characteristics was not observed. During the median 36-month follow-up, a lower incidence of arrhythmic events (P=0.001) and diastolic dysfunction (P=0.025) was observed in the Pirfenidone group. In univariate analysis, hypertension, coronary artery disease, higher body weight, longer PR interval, QRS duration, and less use of Pirfenidone were associated with arrhythmic events. In multivariate analysis, higher body weight and less Pirfenidone use were independent risk factors for arrhythmic events.

Conclusion(s)

The use of Pirfenidone was associated with less arrhythmic events and lower diastolic dysfunction compared with no use of Pirfenidone in the long-term follow-up. And obesity was associated with higher incidence of arrhythmic events in IPF patients.Table
Effect of fine particulate matter exposure on gestational diabetes mellitus risk: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wan Zhenyan , Zhang Shandan , Zhuang Guiying , Liu Weiqi , Qiu Cuiqing , Lai Huiqin , Liu Weiling
Published: May 2024

Background

The literature on the association between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) risk has focused mainly on exposure during the first and second trimesters, and the research results are inconsistent. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the associations between PM2.5 exposure during preconception, the first trimester and second trimester and GDM risk in pregnant women in Guangzhou.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 26 354 pregnant women was conducted, estimating PM2.5, particulate matter with a diameter >10 µm (PM10), sulphur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO) and ozone (O3) exposure during preconception and the first and second trimesters. Analyses were performed using Cox proportional hazards models and nonlinear distributed lag models.

Results

The study found that exposure to PM2.5 or a combination of two pollutants (PM2.5+PM10, PM2.5+SO2, PM2.5+CO and PM2.5+O3) was found to be significantly associated with GDM risk (P < 0.05). In the second trimester, with significant interactions found for occupation and anaemia between PM2.5 and GDM. When the PM2.5 concentrations were ≥19.56, ≥25.69 and ≥23.87 μg/m3 during preconception and the first and second trimesters, respectively, the hazard ratio for GDM started to increase. The critical window for PM2.5 exposure was identified to be from 9 to 11 weeks before conception.

Conclusions

Our study results suggest that PM2.5 exposure during preconception and the first and second trimesters increases the risk of GDM, with the preconception period appearing to be the critical window for PM2.5 exposure.
Conifers Concentrate Large Numbers of NLR Immune Receptor Genes on One Chromosome
Authors: Woudstra Yannick , Tumas Hayley , van Ghelder Cyril , Hung Tin Hang , Ilska Joana J , Girardi Sebastien , A’Hara Stuart , McLean Paul , Cottrell Joan , Bohlmann Joerg , Bousquet Jean , Birol Inanc , Woolliams John A , MacKay John J
Published: May 2024

Nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat (NLR) immune receptor genes form a major line of defense in plants, acting in both pathogen recognition and resistance machinery activation. NLRs are reported to form large gene clusters in limber pine (Pinus flexilis), but it is unknown how widespread this genomic architecture may be among the extant species of conifers (Pinophyta). We used comparative genomic analyses to assess patterns in the abundance, diversity, and genomic distribution of NLR genes. Chromosome-level whole genome assemblies and high-density linkage maps in the Pinaceae, Cupressaceae, Taxaceae, and other gymnosperms were scanned for NLR genes using existing and customized pipelines. The discovered genes were mapped across chromosomes and linkage groups and analyzed phylogenetically for evolutionary history. Conifer genomes are characterized by dense clusters of NLR genes, highly localized on one chromosome. These clusters are rich in TNL-encoding genes, which seem to have formed through multiple tandem duplication events. In contrast to angiosperms and nonconiferous gymnosperms, genomic clustering of NLR genes is ubiquitous in conifers. NLR-dense genomic regions are likely to influence a large part of the plant's resistance, informing our understanding of adaptation to biotic stress and the development of genetic resources through breeding.
The Maintenance of Deleterious Variation in Wild Chinese Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Steux Camille , Szpiech Zachary A
Published: May 2024

Understanding how deleterious variation is shaped and maintained in natural populations is important in conservation and evolutionary biology, as decreased fitness caused by these deleterious mutations can potentially lead to an increase in extinction risk. It is known that demographic processes can influence these patterns. For example, population bottlenecks and inbreeding increase the probability of inheriting identical-by-descent haplotypes from a recent common ancestor, creating long tracts of homozygous genotypes called runs of homozygosity (ROH), which have been associated with an accumulation of mildly deleterious homozygotes. Counterintuitively, positive selection can also maintain deleterious variants in a population through genetic hitchhiking. Here, we analyze the whole genomes of 79 wild Chinese rhesus macaques across five subspecies and characterize patterns of deleterious variation with respect to ROH and signals of recent positive selection. We show that the fraction of homozygotes occurring in long ROH is significantly higher for deleterious homozygotes than tolerated ones, whereas this trend is not observed for short and medium ROH. This confirms that inbreeding, by generating these long tracts of homozygosity, is the main driver of the high burden of homozygous deleterious alleles in wild macaque populations. Furthermore, we show evidence that homozygous LOF variants are being purged. Next, we identify seven deleterious variants at high frequency in regions putatively under selection near genes involved with olfaction and other processes. Our results shed light on how evolutionary processes can shape the distribution of deleterious variation in wild nonhuman primates.
Association of Exposure to Ambient Air Pollutants With Cognitive Performance and Dementia Risk and the Mediating Role of Pulmonary Function: Evidence From the UK Biobank
Authors: Lin Fabin , Wang Lili , Shi Yisen , Chen Xuanjie , Lin Yixiang , Zheng Jiayi , Chen Ke , Ye Qinyong , Cai Guoen
Published: May 2024

Background

The pathways by which air pollution affects cognition remain to be explored. This study aimed to explore how single air pollutants [including nitrogen oxide (NOX), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5), PM10, and PM2.5–10], and air pollution mixture could affect cognitive function and the incidence of dementia, and determine whether pulmonary function (PF) could play a mediating role in the relationship.

Methods

Multiple statistical methods were employed to evaluate association of 5 air pollutants (NOX, NO2, PM2.5, PM10, and PM2.5–10) with cognitive function. Bootstrap method was used to estimate mediating role of PF in the association of air pollutants with cognition or the incidence of dementia.

Results

A mixture of air pollutants was associated with performance on 5 cognitive tests, and global cognition (p < .05). Significantly negative association was also identified between mixture of air pollutants and PF (β= −0.020, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −0.029 to −0.011). In addition, as PF scores increase, performance on all cognitive tests significantly improve, although the risk of dementia correspondingly decreases. It was noted that PF was shown to mediate the effects of air pollution mixtures on all cognitive tests as well as global cognition. For global cognition, PF mediated 6.08% of the association. PF was also found to have a mediating role in the association between NOX, NO2, PM2.5, and the risk of dementia.

Conclusions

Mixed air pollution may impact cognitive function, with PF potentially mediating this relationship.
Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Depressive Symptoms Among Older Adults: The Moderating Effect of Resilience
Authors: Li Ke , Tang Fengyan , Albert Steven M , Rauktis Mary E , Ohmer Mary L
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives

Social isolation has been recognized as a social problem with negative health consequences. Using data from 3 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, this study aimed to examine the long-term impact of social isolation on loneliness and depressive symptoms and to explore the moderating effect of resilience.

Research Design and Methods

This study comprised 3,681 U.S. adults aged 60 and older at the baseline wave. Social isolation index was constructed using 5 indicators, including not married or cohabitating with a partner, no social participation, and less than monthly contacts with children, family members, or friends. Loneliness was measured by the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale and depressive symptoms were measured by the Center for Epidemiological Studies—Depression scale. The moderator of resilience was assessed by the simplified resilience score. Latent growth curve models with robust standard errors were estimated.

Results

The results of latent growth curve models showed that social isolation was significantly associated with more initial loneliness and depressive symptoms. However, social isolation was associated with a slower increasing rate of loneliness, but no significant relationship with the change rate of depressive symptoms. Furthermore, resilience significantly buffered the negative effect of social isolation on the initial level of depressive symptoms.

Discussion and Implications

The findings underscore the importance of enacting strategies and interventions targeting resilience to address social isolation and its negative consequences among older adults.
An efficient algorithm to retrieve multiple fundamental frequencies of harmonic interference in surface-NMR measurements
Authors: Ghanati Reza , Irons Trevor , Hatami Mohammad Reza
Published: May 2024

The successful recovery of hydrogeophysical parameters through surface-NMR measurements depends on the quality of the signal, which can be significantly degraded by harmonics from multiple noise sources with different fundamental frequencies in urban areas. Accurate estimation of the fundamental frequencies of harmonics is the main step in harmonic noise cancellation-based methods. The existing 1-D and 2-D model-based approaches involve a computationally expensive process that sets limits for processing of large surface-NMR data sets. In addition, the classical Nyman, Gaiser and Saucier estimation (NGSE) algorithm, despite its fast implementation, may not accurately recover harmonic components when there is no prior knowledge of the expected value of the frequency offset between the true fundamental frequencies and their nominal values. This lack of knowledge can make it difficult to accurately estimate the maximum number of harmonics and, consequently, result in an incorrect recovery of the fundamental frequency. To surmount these limitations, we propose an enhanced version of the NGSE approach based on an efficient maximum number of harmonics search approach to process surface-NMR signals corrupted by powerline harmonics with both single and multiple frequency content. We verify the efficiency of our algorithm on a synthetic data set embedded in simulated powerline harmonic signals, and real electromagnetic noise recordings, as well as a real surface-NMR data set. Our numerical experiments confirm that the proposed algorithm can retrieve the multiple fundamental frequencies simultaneously with a significant speedup ranging from 4 to 87 times, depending on whether the signal has single, dual, or triple frequency content, in the overall computation time compared to the model-based methods.
Antifungal drug penetration in soft tissue abscesses: a comparative analysis
Authors: Cancela Costa Alicia , Kritikos Antonios , Glampedakis Emmanouil , Da Silva Pereira Clara Jorge , Schaller Fabian , Mercier Thomas , Strasser Roland , Balmpouzis Zisis , Koutsokera Angela , Manuel Oriol , Buclin Thierry , Decosterd Laurent Arthur , Lamoth Frederic
Published: May 2024

Background

Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are severe and difficult-to-treat infections affecting immunocompromised patients. Antifungal drug penetration at the site of infection is critical for outcome and may be difficult to achieve. Data about antifungal drug distribution in infected human tissues under real circumstances of IFI are scarce.

Methods

Multiple samples were obtained from soft tissue abscesses of a lung transplant patient with Candida albicans invasive candidiasis who underwent recurrent procedures of drainage, while receiving different consecutive courses of antifungal therapy [itraconazole (ITC), fluconazole, caspofungin]. Antifungal drug concentrations were measured simultaneously at the site of infection (surrounding inflammatory tissue and fluid content of the abscess) and in plasma for calculation of the tissue/plasma ratio (R). The concentration within the infected tissue was interpreted as appropriate if it was equal or superior to the MIC of the causal pathogen.

Results

A total of 30 tissue samples were collected for measurements of ITC (n = 12), fluconazole (n = 17) and caspofungin (n = 1). Variable concentrations were observed in the surrounding tissue of the lesions with median R of 2.79 (range 0.51–15.9) for ITC and 0.94 (0.21–1.37) for fluconazole. Concentrations ranges within the fluid content of the abscesses were 0.39–1.83 for ITC, 0.66–1.02 for fluconazole and 0.23 (single value) for caspofungin. The pharmacodynamic target (tissue concentration ≥ MIC) was achieved in all samples for all three antifungal drugs.

Conclusions

This unique dataset of antifungal drug penetration in infected human soft tissue abscesses suggests that ITC, fluconazole and caspofungin could achieve appropriate concentrations in soft tissue abscesses.
Insight on Pediatric Burn Morbidity and Mortality at a Tertiary Indian Burn Care Center: A Case for Burn Prevention
Authors: Kumar Neeraj , Eisner Zachary J , Saha Shivangi , Kumar Vinay , Singhal Maneesh
Published: May 2024

Pediatric burns pose a significant health burden in low and middle-income countries. Despite efforts to address burn prevention and management, morbidity and mortality rates remain high, particularly among children. Understanding pediatric burn epidemiology and predictors of clinical outcomes is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies and improving patient care. This retrospective cohort study analyzed pediatric burn patients admitted to a tertiary burn centre in India between March 2022 and December 2023. Demographic data, burn characteristics, treatments, complications, and outcomes were collected. Statistical analysis, including logistic and linear regression, was conducted to identify predictors of mortality, sepsis, and hospital stay length. Among 332 pediatric burn patients, the median age was 3 years, with a male predominance. Scald burns were the most common, followed by electrical and flame burns. Median total body surface area (TBSA) burned was 20%, with the upper and lower extremities most affected. The incidence of electrical burns increased with age and was associated with a longer length of stay. Mortality rate was 14.2%, with age >10 years, male gender, and TBSA >30% predicting mortality. Complications like sepsis significantly increased mortality risk, while deep burns were associated with longer hospital stays. This study underscores the importance of targeted prevention efforts and specialized care. Scald burns among young children highlight the need for safer cooking practices, while the high incidence of electrical burns in older children suggests that age-specific education interventions are necessary. Predictors of mortality identified can guide risk assessment and resource allocation, emphasizing the importance of infection control and wound management strategies in improving outcomes.
Impact of changes in commuting mode on body weight among Japanese workers: a longitudinal study
Authors: Fukunishi Atsuko , Machida Masaki , Kikuchi Hiroyuki , Nakanishi Yutaka , Inoue Shigeru
Published: May 2024

Objective

The health benefits of active commuting have been reported. However, few studies have assessed commuting modes using objective methods. This study clarified the association between changes in objectively measured commuting modes and body weight among Japanese workers.

Methods

This longitudinal study used data from the annual health examinations and personnel records of a company with branches in all prefectures of Japan. Data from 2018 and 2019 were used as the baseline and follow-up data, respectively. The commuting mode was assessed using the commuting mode code included in the personnel records and classified into 3 types: walking, public transport, and car or motorcycle. The participants were classified into 9 categories based on the combination of their commuting modes in 2018 and 2019. Body weight was measured objectively during health examinations. The 1-year changes in body weight were calculated for the 9 categories and assessed using an analysis of covariance with adjustments for covariates.

Results

The analysis included 6551 workers (men: 86.8%; mean age: 42.8 years). Overall, body weights tended to increase (+0.40 kg/y). The participants who switched to more active commuting, such as from car or motorcycle to walking (−0.13 kg/y), from car or motorcycle to public transport (+0.10 kg/y), and from public transport to walking (−0.07 kg/y), exhibited small weight gains or losses. A similar trend was observed even after adjustment.

Conclusions

Changing to a more active commuting mode may prevent weight gain among workers.
The rehabilitation treatment beliefs questionnaire—revised: assessing adolescents’ treatment beliefs
Authors: Metzner Gloria , Glattacker Manuela
Published: May 2024

Objective

While there are several studies on children’s and adolescents’ beliefs about illness and medication treatment, there is limited research on their treatment beliefs in the context of rehabilitation. The Rehabilitation Treatment Beliefs Questionnaire (RTBQ) was the first instrument available to assess pediatric patients’ rehabilitation-related treatment beliefs. However, the RTBQ had some limitations that we aimed to address in this study: We revised the content of the RTBQ to include previously unaddressed dimensions of rehabilitation-related treatment beliefs, and we thoroughly tested its psychometric properties based on a sizeable, multicenter sample of adolescents with different chronic diseases.

Methods

Across 11 pediatric rehabilitation clinics throughout Germany, eligible patients aged 12–18 years with any chronic physical or mental health condition were invited to participate in an online survey. Psychometric evaluation included item analysis, exploratory factor analysis, internal consistency and construct validity.

Results

The sample comprised N = 294 adolescents (M = 14.2 years) with various chronic conditions. Psychometric testing demonstrated a coherent factor structure with 6 interpretable scales covering process and outcome expectations, expectations of one’s own role in the treatment process, structural expectations, concerns, and emotions, the latter three representing previously unaddressed dimensions of rehabilitation-related treatment beliefs. Internal consistency was acceptable to good. Construct validity analyses showed mostly hypotheses-consistent correlations with related constructs.

Conclusions

The revised RTBQ provides a psychometrically well-tested, adolescent-specific, and disease-generic instrument that captures multiple dimensions of rehabilitation-related treatment beliefs. Practical implications include identifying adolescents’ beliefs about rehabilitation treatment in order to actively involve them in their illness management.
Primary epithelioid angiosarcoma of the mandibular gingiva: diagnostic pitfalls, about an unusual entity
Authors: El ouazzani Hafsa , Hamidi Olaya , Habimana Alain , Dani Bouchra , Boulaadas M , Zouaidia Fouad , Cherradi Nadia
Published: May 2024

Primary angiosarcoma of the oral cavity is a rare malignant vascular neoplasm variably recapitulating endothelial cells and is generally associated with a worse prognosis. The epithelioid subtype is even uncommon in this localization. To our knowledge, only seven cases of primary oral epithelioid angiosarcoma have been reported until 2021. This histopathological variant is characterized by solid and sheet-like growth patterns that may be misinterpreted as other lesions with epithelioid cells. Herein, we present a new case of primary epithelioid angiosarcoma of the mandibular gingiva to discuss histopathological differential diagnoses and potential diagnostic pitfalls.
Odoribacter splanchnicus bacteremia secondary to acute appendicitis: a case report with review of literature
Authors: Sasi Sreethish , Nair Arun Prabhakaran , Doiphode Sanjay , Gutti Tejeswi Shashidhar , Kolleri Jouhar , Al-Maslamani Muna
Published: May 2024

This report describes a rare instance of Odoribacter splanchnicus bacteremia secondary to acute appendicitis in a young man. Initially presenting with symptoms typical of appendicitis, he was diagnosed through clinical examination, laboratory tests, and computed tomography imaging, which confirmed an inflamed appendix with sealed perforation and abscess. O. splanchnicus, a Gram-negative anaerobe commonly found in the human gut, was identified as the causative agent through blood culture. The patient underwent successful laparoscopic appendectomy and was treated with intravenous amoxicillin–clavulanate, leading to a full recovery. This case highlights the potential of O. splanchnicus to act as an opportunistic pathogen in the context of intra-abdominal inflammation. It underscores the diagnostic challenges posed by O. splanchnicus, and the efficacy of advanced diagnostic tools like matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry in identifying such rare infections.
Surgical removal of an ectopic haemodialysis catheter in the brachiocephalic artery: a case report
Authors: Adnan Isqandar , Zailani Nurul Hafizah , Varma Vimal , Mansor Mardhiah Sarah Harnani , Mokhtar Raja Amin Raja , Amir Muhammad 'Abid
Published: May 2024

Percutaneous central vein catheterization is commonly performed to access venous circulation for various clinical indications. However, unintentional arterial puncture may occur which can result in catastrophic complications. We report a case of an inadvertent right brachiocephalic artery cannulation in a 77-year-old lady planned for haemodialysis via a percutaneous internal jugular vein vascular access performed under ultrasound guidance. As an intravascular stent is not favourable in view of the close proximity of the right common carotid artery to the site of puncture as well as the risk of massive bleeding upon simple removal of the catheter, an open surgical removal via a median sternotomy was performed. Acquiring the competency in procedural skills, an understanding of the surgical anatomy and anticipating impending complications are of paramount importance in preventing as well as in mitigating the above complication.
An evolutionary view of the function of CC-type glutaredoxins in plant development and adaptation to the environment
Authors: El Baidouri Moaïne , Reichheld Jean-Philippe , Belin Christophe
Published: May 2024

Land plants have to face an oxidizing, heterogeneous, and fast changing environment. Redox-dependent post-translational modifications emerge as a critical component of plant responses to stresses. Among the thiol oxidoreductase superfamily, class III CC-type glutaredoxins (called ROXYs) are land plant specific, and their evolutionary history is highly dynamic. Angiosperms encode many isoforms, classified into five subgroups (Aα, Aβ, Bα, Bβ, Bγ) that probably evolved from five common ancestral ROXYs, with higher evolutionary dynamics in the Bγ subgroup compared with the other subgroups. ROXYs can modulate the transcriptional activity of TGA transcription factor target genes, although their biochemical function is still debated. ROXYs participate in the control of proper plant development and reproduction, and are mainly negative regulators of plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. This suggests that most ROXYs could play essential and conserved functions in resetting redox-dependent changes in transcriptional activity upon stress signaling to ensure the responsiveness of the system and/or avoid exaggerated responses that could lead to major defects in plant growth and reproduction. In Arabidopsis Bγ members acquired important functions in responses to nitrogen availability and endogenous status, but the rapid and independent evolution of this subclass might suggest that this function results from neofunctionalization, specifically observed in core eudicots.
Current Research on Matching Trauma-Focused Therapies to Veterans: A Scoping Review
Authors: Higgins Kristen S , Nolan Dougal , Shaheen Andrea , Rudnick Abraham
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Trauma-focused (psycho)therapies (TFTs) are often used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) of (military) veterans, including prolonged exposure (PE), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. However, research thus far has not conclusively determined predictors of TFTs’ success in this population. This scoping review’s objectives are 1) to explore whether it is possible, based on currently available evidence, to match TFTs to veterans to maximize their outcomes, (2) to identify possible contraindications and adaptations of TFTs for this population, and (3) to identify gaps in the literature to guide future research.

Materials and Methods

Standard scoping review methodology was used. “White” and “gray” literature searches resulted in 4963 unique items identified. Following title and abstract screening and full-text analysis, 187 sources were included in the review. After data extraction, a narrative summary was used to identify common themes, discrepancies between sources, and knowledge gaps.

Results

Included publications most often studied CPT and PE rather than eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. These TFTs were at least partly effective with mostly moderate effect sizes. Attrition rates were slightly higher for PE versus CPT. There was variance in the methodological quality of the included studies.

Conclusion

The current literature on TFTs to treat PTSD in veterans contains several knowledge gaps, including regarding treatment matching. Future research should examine effectiveness of these treatments using multiple sources of outcomes, longer time periods, combination with other treatment, outcomes outside of PTSD symptoms (such as functioning), and resilience.
Searching for OB-type pre-supernova binary companions inside supernova remnants
Authors: Dinçel B , Uzuner M , Neuhäuser R , Pannicke A , Yerli S K , Ankay A , Mugrauer M , Torres G
Published: May 2024

We searched for OB-runaway stars inside supernova remnants (SNRs) as a pre-supernova binary companion. As the majority of massive stars are found in close binary systems, a runaway star ejected by the orbital energy after the supernova (SN) is expected to be found. Considering a binary mass fraction, q = 0.25−1.0, the runaway star is likely to have an OB spectral type. We selected 12 SNRs at Galactic longitudes 109°−189°. Using Gaia astrometry, we selected stars having consistent distances with those of the SNRs and showing a peculiar proper motion directed away from the central region of the SNRs. We also determined the radial distribution of the extinction towards the SNRs and estimated the spectral types of the OB-runaway candidates through Gaia and Two Micron All Sky Survey photometry. We found two candidates among 12 SNRs. By spectroscopic observations, Gaia DR3 195632152560621440 inside SNR G166.0 + 4.3 was found to be an evolved A3 type star that cannot be the pre-SN binary companion to the progenitor. Gaia DR3 513927750767375872 inside SNR HB 3 is the only OB-runaway candidate (2D space velocity of 33.3 ± 3.3 km s−1). Based on photometric study, the star can be an early B-type main-sequence star with a slightly higher extinction relative to the SNR; however, it might instead be an evolved A-type star at the same distance. The other 11 SNRs do not host an OB-runaway star within their central regions. Although the runaway search was performed in a large interval of distance and extinction, we also estimated distances to the SNRs.
INSPIRE: INvestigating Stellar Population In RElics – VI. The low-mass end slope of the stellar initial mass function and chemical composition
Authors: Maksymowicz-Maciata Michalina , Spiniello Chiara , Martín-Navarro Ignacio , Ferré-Mateu Anna , Bevacqua Davide , Cappellari Michele , D’Ago Giuseppe , Tortora Crescenzo , Arnaboldi Magda , Hartke Johanna , Napolitano Nicola R , Saracco Paolo , Scognamiglio Diana
Published: May 2024

The INSPIRE project has built the largest sample of ultra-compact massive galaxies (UCMGs) at 0.1 < z < 0.4 and obtained their star formation histories (SFHs). Due to their preserved very old stellar populations, relics are the perfect systems to constrain the earliest epochs of mass assembly in the Universe and the formation of massive early-type galaxies. The goal of this work is to investigate whether a correlation exists between the degree of relicness (DoR), quantifying the fraction of stellar mass formed at z > 2, and the other stellar population parameters. We use the Full-Index-Fitting method to fit the INSPIRE spectra to single stellar population (SSP) models. This allows us to measure, for the first time, the slope of the IMF, as well as stellar metallicity [M/H], [Mg/Fe], [Ti/Fe], and [Na/Fe] ratios, and study correlations between them and the DoR. Similarly to normal-sized galaxies, UCMGs with larger stellar masses have overall higher metallicities. We found a correlation between the IMF slope and the DoR, that, however, breaks down for systems with a more extended SFH. An even stronger dependency is found between the IMF and the fraction of mass formed at high-z. At equal velocity dispersion and metallicity, galaxies with a higher DoR have a larger dwarf-to-giant ratio, i.e. a bottom heavy IMF, than that of low-DoR counterparts. This might indicate that the cosmic epoch and therefore different formation scenarios influence the fragmentation of the star formation cloud and hence might be the explanation for IMF variations detected in massive ETGs.
From stellar nurseries to old stellar populations: a multiwavelength case of NGC 1055
Authors: Topal Selçuk
Published: May 2024

Given the complex nature of galaxies’ interstellar medium (ISM), multiwavelength data are required to probe the interplay among gas, dust, and stellar populations. Spiral galaxies are ideal laboratories for such a goal as they are rich in gas and dust. Using carbon monoxide (CO) along with GALEX far-ultraviolet (FUV) and Spitzer near-infrared (NIR) data we probe the correlations amongst the properties of stellar populations, gas, and dust over the disc of the spiral galaxy NGC 1055 at multiple angular resolutions, that is, 2, 4, and 17 arcsec corresponding to a linear size of 144, 288, and 1.2 kpc, respectively. Our results indicate an asymmetry in the physical conditions along the galaxy’s disc, that is, the gas is slightly more extended and brighter, and molecular gas mass is higher on the disc’s eastern side than the western side. All physical properties (i.e. molecular gas mass, CO line ratios, stellar mass, and NIR emission) decrease from the centre going outwards in the disc with some exceptions (i.e. the extinction, FUV radiation, and the [3.6]−[4.5] colour). Our analysis indicates that the colour gets bluer (metallicity increases) halfway through the disc, then redder (metallicity decreases) going outwards further in the disc.
Testing quantized inertia on Proxima Centauri
Authors: McCulloch M E
Published: May 2024

The Alpha Centauri system has two close stars Alpha and Beta (A & B) and one much further away: Proxima Centauri. All three stars are co-moving with similar chemistry, which implies they are bound, but the fast orbit of Proxima implies it is gravitationally unbound given the visible mass of A and B. This problem cannot be fixed with the addition of dark matter, which must be uniform on such scales, or adding mass to A and B (their mass is well constrained) or by Modified Newtonian Dynamics. A new model for inertia called Quantized Inertia (QI) has been proposed that solves the galaxy rotation problem by reducing the inertia of low-acceleration stars at the galaxies’ edge in a new way, thus keeping them bound without the need for dark matter. It is shown here that if QI is applied to Proxima Centauri in the same way, it predicts the observed orbital velocity, within the bounds of observational uncertainty, and binds Proxima, without the need for extra mass.
Alternative translation initiation by ribosomal leaky scanning produces multiple isoforms of the Pif1 helicase
Authors: Lama-Diaz Tomas , Blanco Miguel G
Published: May 2024

In budding yeast, the integrity of both the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes relies on dual-targeted isoforms of the conserved Pif1 helicase, generated by alternative translation initiation (ATI) of PIF1 mRNA from two consecutive AUG codons flanking a mitochondrial targeting signal. Here, we demonstrate that ribosomal leaky scanning is the specific ATI mechanism that produces not only these, but also novel, previously uncharacterized Pif1 isoforms. Both in-frame, downstream AUGs as well as near-cognate start codons contribute to the generation of these alternative isoforms. This has crucial implications for the rational design of genuine separation-of-function alleles and provides an explanation for the suboptimal behaviour of the widely employed mitochondrial- (pif1-m1) and nuclear-deficient (pif1-m2) alleles, with mutations in the first or second AUG codon, respectively. We have taken advantage of this refined model to develop improved versions of these alleles, which will serve as valuable tools to elucidate novel functions of this helicase and to disambiguate previously described genetic interactions of PIF1 in the context of nuclear and mitochondrial genome stability.
Species-specific design of artificial promoters by transfer-learning based generative deep-learning model
Authors: Xia Yan , Du Xiaowen , Liu Bin , Guo Shuyuan , Huo Yi-Xin
Published: May 2024

Native prokaryotic promoters share common sequence patterns, but are species dependent. For understudied species with limited data, it is challenging to predict the strength of existing promoters and generate novel promoters. Here, we developed PromoGen, a collection of nucleotide language models to generate species-specific functional promoters, across dozens of species in a data and parameter efficient way. Twenty-seven species-specific models in this collection were finetuned from the pretrained model which was trained on multi-species promoters. When systematically compared with native promoters, the Escherichia coli- and Bacillus subtilis-specific artificial PromoGen-generated promoters (PGPs) were demonstrated to hold all distribution patterns of native promoters. A regression model was developed to score generated either by PromoGen or by another competitive neural network, and the overall score of PGPs is higher. Encouraged by in silico analysis, we further experimentally characterized twenty-two B. subtilis PGPs, results showed that four of tested PGPs reached the strong promoter level while all were active. Furthermore, we developed a user-friendly website to generate species-specific promoters for 27 different species by PromoGen. This work presented an efficient deep-learning strategy for de novo species-specific promoter generation even with limited datasets, providing valuable promoter toolboxes especially for the metabolic engineering of understudied microorganisms.
Health-related quality of life in surgically treated asymptomatic meningioma patients: A population-based matched cohort study
Authors: Näslund Olivia , Jakobsson Stina , Thurin Erik , Skoglund Thomas , Pettersson-Segerlind Jenny , Brynedal Boel , Jakola Asgeir S , Bartek Jiri
Published: May 2024

Background

Asymptomatic patients with meningiomas are increasingly detected, where management can be challenging in terms of surgery versus watchful waiting. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is an important factor in clinical decision-making, albeit not greatly studied in this patient group. The aim of this paper is to map the HRQoL among patients with surgically removed asymptomatic meningioma as compared to the general population.

Methods

Patients with first-time surgically treated asymptomatic meningioma between 2007 and 2013 were identified. Patients were invited in 2017 to answer a survey regarding different aspects of quality of life, using EuroQoL (EQ)-5D-3L, perceived health, lifestyle, and occupancy. Data from electronic patient records was obtained. The patients were matched based on age and gender with data from the Stockholm Region Public Health Cohort database.

Results

There was no difference in EQ-5D-3L or visual analog scale between the patients and their matched controls. Patients and controls experienced ill health to the same extent, but patients felt to a greater extent that this impacted their way of life. In 36% of patients, preoperative occupation was not resumed, mostly due to cognitive symptoms. Additionally, the study suggested social detachment in this cohort, as significantly more patients were living alone and had less emotional support compared to controls.

Conclusions

Although surgically treated patients with asymptomatic intracranial meningioma have similar overall HRQoL compared to the general population, surgery has an impact on return to work and cognitive function.
Assessing sleep in primary brain tumor patients using smart wearables and patient-reported data: Feasibility and interim analysis of an observational study
Authors: Pascoe Maeve M , Wollet Alex R , De La Cruz Minyety Julianie , Vera Elizabeth , Miller Hope , Celiku Orieta , Leeper Heather , Fernandez Kelly , Reyes Jennifer , Young Demarrius , Acquaye-Mallory Alvina , Adegbesan Kendra , Boris Lisa , Burton Eric , Chambers Claudia P , Choi Anna , Grajkowska Ewa , Kunst Tricia , Levine Jason , Panzer Marissa , Penas-Prado Marta , Pillai Valentina , Polskin Lily , Wu Jing , Gilbert Mark R , Mendoza Tito , King Amanda L , Shuboni-Mulligan Dorela , Armstrong Terri S
Published: May 2024

Background

Sleep–wake disturbances are common and disabling in primary brain tumor (PBT) patients but studies exploring longitudinal data are limited. This study investigates the feasibility and relationship between longitudinal patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and physiologic data collected via smart wearables.

Methods

Fifty-four PBT patients ≥ 18 years wore Fitbit smart-wearable devices for 4 weeks, which captured physiologic sleep measures (eg, total sleep time, wake after sleep onset [WASO]). They completed PROs (sleep hygiene index, PROMIS sleep-related impairment [SRI] and Sleep Disturbance [SD], Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire [MEQ]) at baseline and 4 weeks. Smart wearable use feasibility (enrollment/attrition, data missingness), clinical characteristics, test consistency, PROs severity, and relationships between PROs and physiologic sleep measures were assessed.

Results

The majority (72%) wore their Fitbit for the entire study duration with 89% missing < 3 days, no participant withdrawals, and 100% PRO completion. PROMIS SRI/SD and MEQ were all consistent/reliable (Cronbach’s alpha 0.74–0.92). Chronotype breakdown showed 39% morning, 56% intermediate, and only 6% evening types. Moderate-severe SD and SRI were reported in 13% and 17% at baseline, and with significant improvement in SD at 4 weeks (P = .014). Fitbit-recorded measures showed a correlation at week 4 between WASO and SD (r = 0.35, P = .009) but not with SRI (r = 0.24, P = .08).

Conclusions

Collecting sleep data with Fitbits is feasible, PROs are consistent/reliable, > 10% of participants had SD and SRI that improved with smart wearable use, and SD was associated with WASO. The skewed chronotype distribution, risk and impact of sleep fragmentation mechanisms warrant further investigation.

Trial Registration

NCT04 669 574
Lysophosphatidylcholine binds α-synuclein and prevents its pathological aggregation
Authors: Zhao Chunyu , Tu Jia , Wang Chuchu , Liu Wenbin , Gu Jinge , Yin Yandong , Zhang Shengnan , Li Dan , Diao Jiajie , Zhu Zheng-Jiang , Liu Cong
Published: May 2024

Accumulation of aggregated α-synuclein (α-syn) in Lewy bodies is the pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD). Genetic mutations in lipid metabolism are causative for a subset of patients with Parkinsonism. The role of α-syn's lipid interactions in its function and aggregation is recognized, yet the specific lipids involved and how lipid metabolism issues trigger α-syn aggregation and neurodegeneration remain unclear. Here, we found that α-syn shows a preference for binding to lysophospholipids (LPLs), particularly targeting lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) without relying on electrostatic interactions. LPC is capable of maintaining α-syn in a compact conformation, significantly reducing its propensity to aggregate both in vitro and within cellular environments. Conversely, a reduction in the production of cellular LPLs is associated with an increase in α-syn accumulation. Our work underscores the critical role of LPLs in preserving the natural conformation of α-syn to inhibit improper aggregation, and establishes a potential connection between lipid metabolic dysfunction and α-syn aggregation in PD.
“It's the Wild West Out There”: A Qualitative Study of the Views and Preparedness of Health Professionals in Helping Young Adult E-cigarette Users to Quit
Authors: Rahman Nicola , Sebar Bernadette , Sofija Ernesta
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Young adults (YA) are attempting to quit vaping, with many accessing smoking cessation programs with a lack of reported efficacy, highlighting the need for targeted vaping cessation support. Young people report seeing health professionals (HPs) as potential sources of support in the quitting process. Additionally, the current changing regulatory landscape around vaping in Australia potentially increases the number of those seeking health professional help for cessation. However, limited research exists on HPs’ views and preparedness to assist YA with their vaping cessation; thus, this exploratory study aimed to gain insights into their readiness to support YA in quitting vaping.

Aims and Methods

Data were gathered via eight co-design workshops (two groups each of two hours duration and six semi-structured interviews of 1-hour duration), facilitated online with 12 HPs. Data underwent thematic analysis.

Results

HPs expressed a need for more information in supporting YA to quit vaping, with them presently relying on informal pathways of support and information for their practice. Participants reported a lack of evidence-based guidelines and a reluctance to prescribe nicotine vapes, expressing conflict with the changing regulatory landscape in Australia.

Conclusions

Our findings identify a significant gap in health professional preparedness in supporting vaping cessation. HPs are working within a rapidly evolving regulatory environment and are feeling unprepared to address the widely spread issue of vaping, especially among young people. We demonstrate the critical need for guidelines and training of HPs to enable them to better support young people in quitting vaping.

Implications

This qualitative study offers unique insights into the views and readiness of Australian HPs to support young people to quit vaping, specifically in the context of recent regulatory reforms. The results highlight the need for evidence-based guidance and training for HPs to inform their vaping cessation support practice.