bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Myocardial Inflammation in Cardiac Transthyretin Amyloidosis: Prevalence and Potential Prognostic Implications
Authors: Müller Maximilian Leo , Brand Anna , Mattig Isabel , Spethmann Sebastian , Messroghli Daniel , Hahn Katrin , Violano Michele , Mitchell Joshua D. , Hare Joshua M. , Frustaci Andrea , Klingel Karin , Lüscher Thomas F. , Landmesser Ulf , Heidecker Bettina
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Despite previous histopathologic evidence for its presence, the role of myocardial inflammation in the development and progression of cardiac transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR-CA) remains insufficiently understood. Thus, this study sought to characterize the prevalence and potential prognostic implications of myocardial inflammation in ATTR-CA.

METHODS:

A retrospective observational study including patients with ATTR-CA diagnosed by endomyocardial biopsy was conducted. Myocardial inflammation was diagnosed through a review of routine endomyocardial biopsy reports. Baseline characteristics were compared using the Mann-Whitney
U
test and the Pearson χ
2
test. Clinical outcomes were monitored via follow-up visits or telephone calls. Primary outcomes were all-cause death and a composite end point of all-cause death or heart failure hospitalization. Kaplan-Meier analyses, as well as univariable and age- and sex-adjusted multivariable Cox regression analyses, were used to assess differences in overall and composite end point-free survival between patients with ATTR-CA with and without myocardial inflammation.

RESULTS:

A total of 103 patients with ATTR-CA (100 wild type; 3 variant) were enrolled. Median follow-up was 18.2 (8.0–31.1) months. Myocardial inflammation was prevalent in 32% (n=33/103) of patients with ATTR-CA. Among evaluable patients with myocardial inflammation, 96% (n=26/27) and 31% (n=9/29) had elevated CD68 (clusters of differentiation 68)–positive macrophage and CD3 (clusters of differentiation 3)–positive T-cell counts, respectively. Overall survival (
P
=0.017) and composite end point-free survival (
P
=0.014) were significantly impaired in patients with ATTR-CA with myocardial inflammation (n=33) compared with those without (n=70). Statistical significance for both associations was sustained after adjustment for age and sex, yielding adjusted hazard ratios of 4.72 (95% CI, 1.33–16.71;
P
=0.016) and 2.30 (95% CI, 1.04–5.11;
P
=0.041) for all-cause death and the composite end point, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings affirm previous evidence that myocardial inflammation is present in approximately one-third of all patients with ATTR-CA. Moreover, we provide first data indicating that myocardial inflammation may be associated with a higher risk of death and heart failure hospitalizations in ATTR-CA.
Daytime DNase-I Administration Protects Mice From Ischemic Stroke Without Inducing Bleeding or tPA-Induced Hemorrhagic Transformation, Even With Aspirin Pretreatment
Authors: Di Gaohong , Vázquez-Reyes Sandra , Díaz Blanca , Peña-Martinez Carolina , García-Culebras Alicia , Cuartero María I. , Moraga Ana , Pradillo Jesús M. , Esposito Elga , Lo Eng H. , Moro María A. , Lizasoain Ignacio
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Acute ischemic stroke treatment typically involves tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) or tenecteplase, but about 50% of patients do not achieve successful reperfusion. The causes of tPA resistance, influenced by thrombus composition and timing, are not fully clear. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), associated with poor outcomes and reperfusion resistance, contribute to thrombosis. DNase-I, which degrades neutrophil extracellular traps, could improve thrombolytic efficacy. However, more studies are needed to understand the impact of DNase-I in tPA-sensitive stroke models, the safety of coadministering DNase-I and tPA regarding hemorrhagic transformation (HT), optimal timing for use, and effects on aspirin-treated animals.

METHODS:

We used in situ thromboembolic stroke, a tPA-sensitive model, where late tPA administration causes HT. Middle cerebral artery occlusion was induced at different zeitgeber times (ZT) to study the optimal timing for administration. DNase-I, tPA, and aspirin were administered at various times to evaluate their effects.

RESULTS:

DNase-I reduced infarct volume and improved functional outcomes 24 hours post-middle cerebral artery occlusion by decreasing plasma and cortical neutrophil extracellular trap levels. DNase-I caused no bleeding or impact on HT induced by late tPA. Its protective effect was only seen when given during the daytime (rodent inactive phase; ZT4–7), not overnight (active phase; ZT13–16). Chronic aspirin pretreatment increased tPA-induced HT but did not change the protective effects of DNase-I, with or without tPA.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our study demonstrates that daytime (inactive phase) DNase-I administration is a safe and effective treatment for experimental stroke. This is particularly important given the 2 ongoing clinical trials for stroke patients.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT05203224 and NCT05880524.
Neural Correlates of the Musicianship Advantage to the Cocktail Party Effect
Authors: Ostrand Avery E. , Johnson Vinith , Gazzaley Adam , Zanto Theodore P.
Published: January 2025

Prior research has indicated musicians show an auditory processing advantage in phonemic processing of language. The aim of the current study was to elucidate when in the auditory cortical processing stream this advantage emerges in a cocktail-party-like environment. Participants (n = 34) were aged 18–35 years and deemed to be either a musician (10+-year experience) or nonmusician (no formal training). EEG data were collected while participants were engaged in a phoneme discrimination task. During the task, participants were asked to discern auditory “ba” and “pa” phonemes in two conditions: one with competing speech (target with distractor [TD]) and one without competing speech (target only). Behavioral results showed that musicians discriminated phonemes better under the TD condition than nonmusicians, whereas no performance differences were observed during the target only condition. Analysis of the EEG ERP showed musicianship-based differences at both early (N1) and late (P3) processing stages during the TD condition. Specifically, musicians exhibited decreased neural activity during the N1 and increased neural activity during the P3. Source localization of the P3 showed that musicians increased activity in the right superior/middle temporal gyrus. Results from this study indicate that musicians have a phonemic processing advantage specifically when presented in the context of distraction, which arises from a shift in neural activity from early (N1) to late (P3) stages of cortical phonemic processing.
Between Science and Architecture: Exhibiting Science and Technology in Interwar Europe
Authors: Surman Jan
Published: January 2025

Museums and exhibitions of science and technology have received considerable attention in recent historiography. However, little has been done to look beyond individual localities and national borders. Using Yehuda Elkana's concept of “images of knowledge,” this article shows how a comparison of four interwar projects located across Europe - in Czechoslovakia, Germany, the Soviet Union, and Switzerland - helps to highlight commonalities in the understanding of science at the time. Although these exhibition projects were located in different political systems and their proponents superficially presented irreconcilable ideas about science, their ideas about progress or the need to overcome national and disciplinary boundaries show a preponderance of similarities. However, the political-ideological divide is visible in the way they conceive of the relationship between science and society. Finally, by looking at how images of knowledge were co-produced at the interface of science, architecture, and politics, this article argues for a broadening of the source base to include non-scientific and non-human actors.
A new earthworm genus with two new species (Clitellata, Megascolecidae) from the Western Ghats mountain ranges of south-western peninsular India
Authors: NARAYANAN S. PRASANTH , THOMAS A.P. , JULKA J.M.
Published: January 2025

A new megascolecid earthworm genus, Aiyeriella Narayanan & Julka gen. nov., is established from the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot of India, with two new species, namely, A. quadritheca Narayanan & Julka, sp. nov., and A. longiprostata Narayanan & Julka, sp. nov. Material of the new genus and species were collected from the three southernmost districts of Kerala state, in the south-western portion of peninsular India. The present new genus can be distinguished from other related Indomalayan megascolecid genera by the presence of combined male and prostatic pores paired in seminal grooves on segment 18, with a single well-developed oesophageal gizzard in segment 5, penial setae, calciferous glands, intestinal caeca, and typhlosole absent, meronephric throughout the body, 10–14 in transverse bands of micromeronephridia behind clitellum and prostates tubuloracemose, paired, elongated, and strap-shaped.
A new miniature Priocharax from the río Putumayo drainage, Amazonas State, Colombia (Teleostei: Characiformes: Characidae) with an unusual skin flap between pelvic fins
Authors: MATTOX GEORGE MENDES TALIAFERRO , ACOSTA-SANTOS ASTRID , GREGORY JUAN D. BOGOTÁ- , AGUDELO EDWIN , LIMA FLÁVIO C. T.
Published: January 2025

The miniature fish genus Priocharax currently comprises nine valid species: P. ariel, P. britzi, P. conwayi, P. marupiara, P. nanus, P. phasma, P. pygmaeus, P. toledopizae and P. varii. Except for P. ariel and P. pygmaeus, all remaining species are endemic to Brazil. Priocharax is characterized by several paedomorphic features such as reductions in the laterosensory system, number of fin rays, and ossification of parts of the skull. The most striking reductive character of Priocharax is the larval rayless pectoral fin in which most of its endoskeletal part is absent. A new species of Priocharax is described herein from the río Putumayo drainage, Departamento Amazonas, Colombia. The new species is distinguished from all other congeners by a unique round flap of skin between contralateral pelvic fins.
Four new species of Nazeris Fauvel from Wumengshan Nature Reserve, Yunnan, China (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Paederinae)
Authors: YANG YI , HU JIA-YAO
Published: January 2025

Four new species of Nazeris Fauvel, 1873 from Wumengshan Nature Reserve, Yunnan, China are described and illustrated: N. wumengensis, sp. nov., N. zhaotongus, sp. nov. N. guohaoi, sp. nov. and N. serratimarginatus sp. nov. An identification key to the Nazeris species in Yunnan is provided.
Evaluation and Statistical Correction of Area-Based Heat Index Forecasts That Drive a Heatwave Warning Service
Authors: Loveday Nicholas , Carroll Maree
Published: January 2025

This study evaluates the performance of the area-based, district heatwave forecasts that drive the Australian heatwave warning service. The analysis involves using a recently developed approach of scoring multicategorical forecasts using the fixed risk multicategorical (FIRM) scoring framework. Additionally, we quantify the stability of the district forecasts between forecast updates. Notably, at longer lead times, a discernible overforecast bias exists that leads to issuing severe and extreme heatwave district forecasts too frequently. Consequently, at shorter lead times, forecast heatwave categories are frequently downgraded with subsequent revisions. To address these issues, we demonstrate how isotonic regression can be used to conditionally bias correct the district forecasts. Finally, using synthetic experiments, we illustrate that even if an area warning is derived from a perfectly calibrated gridded forecast, the area warning will be biased in most situations. We show how these biases can also be corrected using isotonic regression which could lead to a better warning service. Importantly, the evaluation and bias correction approaches demonstrated in this paper are relevant to forecast parameters other than heat indices.

Significance Statement

Heatwaves have terrible impacts on society. Understanding the performance of heatwave forecasts and warnings is important so that we can understand how they can be improved to reduce negative health impacts. We demonstrate techniques to evaluate the performance, biases, and stability of area-based forecasts that are used by a warning service. We illustrate how area-based forecasts can be improved through conditional bias correction. Additionally, we conduct a synthetic experiment that shows that deriving an area-based warning from a perfectly calibrated gridded forecast may lead to biased warnings.
Nowcasting in Triple-System Estimation
Authors: Zult Daan B. , van der Heijden Peter G. M. , Bakker Bart F. M.
Published: January 2025

Multiple systems estimation uses samples that each cover part of a population to obtain a total population size estimate. Ideally, all available samples are used, but if some samples are available (much) later, one may use only the samples that are available early. Under some regularity conditions, including sample independence, two samples are enough to obtain an asymptotically unbiased population size estimate. However, the assumption of sample independence may be unrealistic, especially when the samples are derived from administrative sources. The assumption of sample independence can be relaxed when using three or more samples, which is therefore generally recommended. This may be a problem if the third sample is available much later than the first two samples. Therefore, in this paper we propose a new approach that deals with this issue by utilizing older samples, using the so-called expectation maximization algorithm. This leads to a population size nowcast estimate that is asymptotically unbiased under more relaxed assumptions than the estimate based on two samples. The resulting nowcasting model is applied to the problem of estimating the number of homeless people in The Netherlands, leading to reasonably accurate nowcast estimates.
Influences of Feedback Gains on Vehicle–Bridge Coupled Vibration for a Mid-Mounted Maglev Train
Authors: Jing Liu , Min Zhang , Feifei Zuo , Weihua Ma
Published: January 2025

Levitation control systems play a vital role in ensuring the operational performance of medium and low speed maglev trains. Improper gain values may induce excessive vibrations in vehicles and bridges, potentially leading to collisions. This research investigates the influence of feedback gains on the levitation subsystem and the vehicle-bridge coupled system, leveraging a newly designed maglev vehicle equipped with mid-mounted suspension and a state feedback control strategy. A dynamic model of the vehicle-bridge coupled system was developed, incorporating control strategies, track irregularities, and bridge flexibility, and was validated through experimental data. The dynamic responses of the bogie and bridge under varying gain values were analyzed in-depth. By examining pole locations and frequency responses, the mechanisms through which each gain impacts the coupled system were clarified. The study identifies that gains associated with acceleration, velocity, and displacement each have unique stability domains that interact with one another. To maintain system stability, the gains must adhere to the Routh-Hurwitz stability criterion while fulfilling specific bandwidth and damping requirements. Gains set too low or too high may result in levitation failures. Recommended ranges for these gains are as follows: acceleration (0.2–0.6), velocity (30–100), and displacement (5,000–10,000). These findings could provide valuable guidance for designing control systems that enhance the stability and safety of maglev train operations.
A Comparison of Wound Related Complications Between Intramedullary and Lateral Plate Osteosynthesis After Fibula Osteotomy in the Lateral Approach Total Ankle Replacement
Authors: Phegan Michael , Wines Andrew
Published: January 2025

Background:

Total ankle replacement (TAR) has evolved in the last decade from a procedure rife with complication and failure to a promising alternative to arthrodesis. The ability to maintain ankle joint range of motion is showing great promise in patient-reported outcomes, postsurgical pain, as well as long-term sequalae of joint fusion. Although TAR can be performed via either an anterior or lateral approach both with their own sets of benefits and potential complications, the consensus seems to be that one is no better than the other when performed by high-volume surgeons.

Methods:

Data were gathered over a 6-year period looking at an age- and gender-matched cohort of lateral approach TARs with either plate osteosynthesis or fibula nail fixation in the management of the fibula osteotomy and compared reoperation and infection rates with the working hypothesis that nail fixation would afford better outcomes. Secondary outcomes including rates of fibula union, tourniquet time as an adjunct to procedure length, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in the form of FAOS Quality scores were included.

Results:

A total of 234 TARs were analyzed. Forty-five of these used intramedullary nail fixation (IM), and a control group of 45 plate osteosynthesis (PO) fixation cases was correlated. The Foot and Ankle International guidelines on reporting for complications arising from total ankle arthroplasty that resulted in reoperation were applied to the data set, and it was noted that 13 of 19 reoperations were noted in the PO group, which was statistically significant. Also of note, 12 of 16 patients treated with antibiotics, which included all those cases within the reoperation group, were noted to come from the PO group. This was also of statistical significance. Interestingly, the rate of fibula nonunion in the PO group was lower (8.88%) than that of the IM group (23.25%).

Conclusion:

Our results confirmed that the rates of reoperation and infection were statistically significantly improved with the use of nail fixation over plate fixation. This was tempered by a concerningly high nonunion rate. This article shows promising results for the use of a simple technique in improving long-term outcomes in ankle arthroplasty.
Optimization design and vibration reduction performance analysis of vehicle suspension structure
Authors: Li Fanjie , Ma Pingping , Zhao Yulai , Li Xiaopeng , Wen Bangchun
Published: January 2025

To improve the vibration reduction performance of vehicle suspension, two kinds of suspension structures (Inerter spring damper, ISD) consisting of inerter, spring and damper are proposed based on electromechanical similarity theory. A single-wheel vehicle system model with I1 and I2 ISD suspension structures is established. Through numerical simulation of single-wheel vehicle system model, the vibration responses of ISD suspension structures I1 and I2 and traditional suspension structures in single-wheel vehicle system are analyzed, and the influence of inertia-capacitance coupling between main and auxiliary parts in ISD suspension structure on vibration reduction performance is discussed. The results show that compared with the traditional suspension structure, the vibration reduction performance of the I1 and I2 ISD suspension structures are improved to a great extent, and the I1 ISD suspension structure is better than the I2 ISD suspension structure. To comprehensively consider the vibration reduction performance of the ISD suspension structure, a compromise optimization method is adopted to determine the inertia-capacitance coupling value.
Testing for myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies: Who, what, where, when, why, and how
Authors: Budhram Adrian , Flanagan Eoin P
Published: January 2025

Testing for myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein immunoglobulin G antibodies (MOG-IgG) is essential to the diagnosis of MOG antibody-associated disease (MOGAD). Due to its central role in the evaluation of suspected inflammatory demyelinating disease, the last 5 years has been marked by an abundance of research into MOG-IgG testing ranging from appropriate patient selection, to assay performance, to utility of serum titers as well as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) testing. In this review, we synthesize current knowledge pertaining to the “who, what, where, when, why, and how” of MOG-IgG testing, with the aim of facilitating accurate MOGAD diagnosis in clinical practice.
Wheel flat detection using long short-term memory and transformer models with a 1:10 scale railway test rig
Authors: Cui Yong , Kim Euiyoul , Yan Shizhe , Yu Qing
Published: January 2025

In railway systems, the detection of wheel flats is essential for ensuring safety and reducing maintenance costs. This study compares the performance of Long Short-Term Memory and Transformer models in detecting wheel flats using data from a 1:10 scale railway test rig. The findings indicate that the Transformer model significantly outperforms the Long Short-Term Memory model, especially when feature-level sensor fusion is employed, achieving an average error as low as 0.0069 mm with percentage of error at 5.30%, minimizing the maximum error to 0.0985 mm. The study emphasizes the potential of Transformer models in railway diagnostics, particularly for applications requiring high accuracy and reliability. The insights gained from this research have practical implications for improving the precision of wheel flat detection in real-world railway operations, enhancing both safety and efficiency.
Analysis of “Dose Accuracy and Reliability of a Connected Insulin Pen System”
Authors: Seley Jane Jeffrie
Published: January 2025

In an article in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, Backfish and coauthors examined the dose accuracy and reliability of the Tempo Pen and Tempo Smart Button connected insulin pen system. This study sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company found that this system met the International Organization for Standardization 11608-1:2014 requirements for dose accuracy at a range of doses, as well as the data transfer requirements after all injections. While these results are very encouraging, they were based on simulated human factors data while data from a human factors validation study where individuals successfully dialed and administered correct doses was not reported. There is a need for further studies in a variety of populations that would greatly benefit from this enhanced insulin pen technology to facilitate optimization of dose adjustments based on accurate and reliable insulin dosing data.
Exploring reverse silicate weathering across geological time: a review
Authors: Baldermann Andre , Banerjee Santanu , Löhr Stefan C. , Rudmin Maxim , Warr Laurence N. , Chakraborty Arpita
Published: January 2025

Marine clay mineral authigenesis, referred to as reverse (silicate) weathering, is one of the first-order controls on seawater pH through the generation of acidity and thus plays a significant role in controlling carbon cycling between marine sediments, oceans and the atmosphere over geological timescales. Reverse weathering is mainly regulated by the rates of silicate and carbonate weathering on the continents, the reactivity of detritus supplied to the oceans and the rates of seafloor weathering. These processes provide essential dissolved components (e.g. K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Si(OH)4, Al3+, Fe2+/3+) to the marine porewater inventory that cause authigenic clay minerals, such as odinite, glauconite, celadonite and greenalite, to form close to the sediment–seawater interface. Such clay mineral reactions impact the sedimentary cycling versus sequestration of chemical elements, importantly Si, Fe, Mg and K, and consequently contribute to the fluctuations in climate and seawater composition recorded in marine archives over geological time. This review explores the links between reverse silicate weathering and the climate system across geological timescales and provides estimates of the elemental uptake fluxes associated with modern-day clay mineral authigenesis. Novel isotope proxies (e.g. δ41K and δ30Si) and promising new dating techniques (e.g. in situ Rb/Sr geochronology) provide improved constraints on the timing, kinetics and environmental significance of clay mineral reactions on the ocean floor. We also consider recent geoengineering developments linked to reverse weathering reactions, such as ongoing attempts to reduce atmospheric CO2 concentrations via marine alkalinity enhancement and the application of marine clay mineral-based slow-release fertilizers to soils to optimize nutrient availability.
Monocytes serve as Shiga toxin carriers during the development of hemolytic uremic syndrome
Authors: Sun Xinlei , Qu Shuang , Zhou Fenglian , Shi Fujie , Wu Yunfei , Gu Lin , Liu Minghui , Bian Zhen , Shi Lei , Liu Zhihong , Liu Yuan , Zen Ke
Published: January 2025

Shiga toxin (Stx)-induced hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) poses a life-threatening complication for which a definitive treatment remains elusive. To exert its cytotoxic effect on renal cells, Stx must be delivered from the infected intestines to the kidney. However, the mechanism underlying Stx delivery remains unclear. Here we pinpoint monocytes as the primary carriers responsible for transporting Stx2 to the renal region. Through single-cell sequencing analysis of Stx2-B-bound peripheral white blood cells sorted by flow cytometry, we observe that nearly all monocytes exhibit strong Stx2-B binding, whereas less than 10% of neutrophils are associated with Stx2-B, albeit with a lower affinity. Further examination of the single-cell dataset and cell binding assays suggest that monocytes likely bind to Stx2-B through the Toll-like receptor 4. Remarkably, Stx-laden monocytes demonstrate their ability to transport Stx2 to human renal glomerular endothelial cells (HRGEC), subsequently inducing apoptosis in HRGEC. In a mouse model of Stx1/2-positive EDL933 infection-induced HUS, the presence of Stx2-positive monocytes in peripheral blood and infiltrated kidney tissues was observed. Finally, depleting monocytes through the usage of a CD14 neutralizing antibody or blocking monocyte chemotaxis via inhibition of CCL2 notably mitigates kidney injury and dysfunction caused by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/Stx2 treatment. Our findings unveil the pivotal role of monocytes in Stx delivery during STEC infection and offer a promising therapeutic approach for Stx-induced HUS.
Cu-Ag/SBA-15 nano catalysts for the control of microorganisms in water
Authors: Ganji Saidulu , Kola Ramesh , Gullapelli Kumaraswamy , Martha Ramesh
Published: January 2025

Because of their uniform and regular channels, adjustable pore size, large surface area, controllable wall composition, high hydrothermal stability, ease of functional modification, and good accessibility of larger reactant molecules, mesoporous siliceous SBA-15 is of excellent catalyst carrier that is highly versatile and has been used extensively to prepare a variety of supported catalysts with ideal catalytic properties. In this study, we report the synthesis, characterization, and catalytic application of Cu-Ag/ SBA-15 nanoalloy catalysts towards the control of microorganisms in drinking water has been reported. The Cu-Ag/SBA-15 nanoalloy catalysts with different molar mass ratio of copper to silver (Cu:Ag = 1: 0, 0.75: 0.25, 0.5: 0.5, 0.25: 0.75, 0: 1) keeping 1weight % total loading of copper and silver metals on SBA-15 support have been prepared by incipient wetness impregnation method and characterized by various characterization techniques like, low angle XRD, wide angle XRD, N2-physcisorption and scanning electron microscopy techniques. The anti-bacterial activity of the catalysts was measured qualitatively by testing the presence of coliforms in water after contacting with the catalyst at room temperature. These nanoalloy catalysts found to be effective in controlling the microorganisms in drinking water. Among the series of the catalysts prepared, 0.25Cu-0.75Ag /SBA-15 catalyst showed superior catalytic activity. The high catalytic performance of the catalyst is due to its high surface area.
A resource of longitudinal RNA-seq data of Holstein cow rumen, duodenum, and colon epithelial cells during the lactation cycle
Authors: Gao Yahui , Liu George E. , Ma Li , Li Cong-jun , Baldwin Ransom L
Published: January 2025

Objective

As one of the most important ruminant breeds, Holstein cattle supply a significant portion of milk and dairy for human consumption, playing a crucial role in agribusiness. The goal of our study was to examine the molecular adaptation of gastrointestinal tissues that facilitate milk synthesis in dairy cattle.

Data description

We performed RNA-seq analysis on epithelial cells from the rumen, duodenum, and colon at eight different time points: Days 3, 14, 28, 45, 120, 220, and 305 in milk, as well as the dry period. Samples were taken from five multiparous dairy cows as biological replicates per tissue per stage, except for Days 14 and 28, for which the sample size was three. These tissues each serve critical and distinct roles in the digestion and absorption of nutrients and are all vital for providing the necessary substrates required for milk production. Understanding the intricate connections between the tissues involved in providing nutrients necessary to support milk synthesis and their role in digestion can deepen the understanding of lactation physiology. This resource aims to deliver in-depth insights into cattle lactation, highlighting the distinct traits of gastrointestinal tissues and illuminating the intricate transcriptomic dynamics throughout the lactation period.
Time and cost of linking administrative datasets for outcomes assessment in a follow-up study of participants from two randomised trials
Authors: Shahbaz Mohammad , Harding Jane E. , Milne Barry , Walters Anthony , Underwood Lisa , von Randow Martin , Jacob Lena , Gamble Greg D. ,   for the ANCHOR Study Group, Crowther Caroline A , Dalziel Stuart R , Eagleton Carl L , McKinlay Chris JD
Published: January 2025

Background

For the follow-up of participants in randomised trials, data linkage is thought a more cost-efficient method for assessing outcomes. However, researchers often encounter technical and budgetary challenges. Data requests often require a significant amount of information from researchers, and can take several years to process. This study aimed to determine the feasibility, direct costs and the total time required to access administrative datasets for assessment of outcomes in a follow-up study of two randomised trials.

Methods

We applied to access administrative datasets from New Zealand government agencies. All actions of study team members, along with their corresponding dates, were recorded prospectively for accessing data from each agency. Team members estimated the average time they spent on each action, and invoices from agencies were recorded. Additionally, we compared the estimated costs and time required for data linkage with those for obtaining self-reported questionnaires and conducting in-person assessments.

Results

Eight agencies were approached to supply data, of which seven gave approval. The time from first enquiry to receiving an initial dataset ranged from 96 to 854 days. For 859 participants, the estimated time required to obtain outcome data from agencies was 1,530 min; to obtain completed self-reported questionnaires was 11,025 min; and to complete in-person assessments was 77,310 min. The estimated total costs were 20,827 NZD for data linkage, 11,735 NZD for self-reported questionnaires, and 116,085 NZD for in-person assessments. Using this data, we estimate that for a cohort of 100 participants, the costs would be similar for data linkage and in-person assessments. For a cohort of 5,000 participants, we estimate that costs would be similar for data linkage and questionnaires, but ten-fold higher for in-person assessments.

Conclusions

Obtaining administrative datasets demands a substantial amount of time and effort. However, data linkage is a feasible method for outcome ascertainment in follow-up studies in New Zealand. For large cohorts, data linkage is likely to be less costly, whereas for small cohorts, in-person assessment has similar costs but is likely to be faster and allows direct assessment of outcomes.
SQUARE-IT: a proposed approach to square the identified research problem in the literature with the objectives, the appropriate clinical research question, and the research hypothesis
Authors: Alfuth Martin , Klemp Jonas , Schmidt Annette , Streese Lukas , Ramadanov Nikolai , Prill Robert
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this article is to design and introduce the SQUARE-IT approach to help scientists and clinicians in research to align important research problems with the objectives, the appropriate clinical research questions to be answered, and the research hypotheses to be investigated in medical and therapeutic specialties. Research ideas can be generated primarily through simple methods such as brainstorming and mind mapping. However, transforming ideas into a valid research question is not as easy as it may seem, as the mere presence of an idea does not guarantee that the researcher has already uncovered existing knowledge on a particular topic or identified the actual research problem. Therefore, the SQUARE-IT items are developed, described, and critically discussed with reference to the scientific literature. They ask whether the identified research problem is ‘Specific’, ‘Quantifiable’, ‘Usable’, ‘Accurate’, ‘Restricted’, ‘Eligible’, ‘Investigable’, and ‘Timely’. Before formulating the focused clinical question, SQUARE-IT can be used as a preparatory step to enable researchers to organize the relevant information that has been explored to date and to assess whether additional information is needed, thereby identifying current research gaps. In addition, it should facilitate the effectiveness and efficiency of evidence-based practice to ensure high quality patient care. Using SQUARE-IT as a framework, further elaboration of the approach and addition of other aspects are warranted to advance the discussion and improve methods of evidence-based practice in medical and therapeutic specialties for quality improvement of patient care.
Validation of preoperative predictor score for difficult laparascopic cholecystectomy and a modified intraoperative grading score of the difficulty of laparascopic cholecystectomy: from a resource limited setting
Authors: Ahmed Nurhussen Mossa , Djote Surafel Mulatu , Alemayehu Getachew Desta , Amtataw Wondwossen , Ahmed Sitotaw Mossa
Published: January 2025

Background

Difficult laparascopic cholecystectomy has greater risk of biliary, vascular and visceral injuries. A tool to predict the difficulty help to prepare a head and avoid complications.

Aim

the aim of this study is validation of preoperative predictor score and a modified intraoperative grading score for difficulty of laparascopic cholecystectomy.

Methods

This study was a cross sectional, hospital based study on 200 patients. There are total of 10 scores for preoperative predictor score and 16 scores for the modified intraoperative grading of LC. Structured checklist questionnaire was used.

Result

prevalence of difficult LC was 40%. age greater than or equal to 50years, history of admission for acute cholecystitis, BMI > 30, palpable GB, impacted stone on imaging, adhesion burying GB, time to identify cystic artery/duct, bile/stone spillage and type of ligature were statistically significantly factors for difficult laparascopic cholecystectomy.

Conclusion

The preoperative scoring is statistically and clinically a good test for predicting the difficult level of laparascopic cholecystectomy (area under ROC = 0.948). The modified intraoperative measure of LC score is a statistically and clinically a good test for classifying the operative outcome of LC (area under ROC = 0.94).
Identifying households with children who have complex needs: a segmentation model for integrated care systems
Authors: Piroddi Roberta , Astbury Andrea , Baker Wesam , Daras Kostantinos , Rafferty Joe , Buchan Iain , Barr Benjamin
Published: January 2025

Background

Adversity in childhood is increasing in the United Kingdom. Complex health and social problems affecting children cluster in families where adults also have high need, but services are rarely aligned to support the whole family. Household level segmentation can help identify households most needing integrated support. Thus, the aim was to develop a segmentation model to identify those households with children who have high levels of complex cross-sectoral needs, to use as a case-finding tool for health and social care services, and to describe characteristics of identified households, to inform service integration.

Method

Working with stakeholders—in an English region of 2.7m population- we agreed a definition of families having complex needs which would benefit from service integration – including households with high intensity use, who had both physical and mental health problems amongst both adults and children and wider social risks. We then used individual and household linked data across multiple health and social care services to identify these households, providing an algorithm to be used in a case finding interface. Finally, to understand the needs of this segment, and to identify unmet need, to tailor support, we used descriptive statistics and Poisson regression to profile the segment and compare them with the rest of the population.

Results

Twenty one thousand and five hundreds twenty seven households (8% of the population of the region) were identified with complex needs, including 89,631 people (41,382 children), accounting for 34% of health and social care costs for families with children, £362 million in total, of which 42% was on children in care of local authorities. The households had contact with 3–4 different services, had high prevalence of mental health problems, most frequently co-morbid with respiratory problems, with high mental health emergency service use particularly amongst teenage girls many of whom had no prior elective treatment for conditions.

Conclusion

Our model provides a potentially useful tool for identifying households that could benefit from better integration of services and targeted family support that can help break intergenerational transfer of adversity.
Nationwide guideline implementation: a qualitative study of barriers and facilitators from the perspective of guideline organizations
Authors: Thoonsen Andrea C. , Gans Anika , Broeders Toby T. , van Beusekom Ilse , Delnoij Diana M. J. , de Bruijne Martine C. , Merten Hanneke
Published: January 2025

Background

Although the number of Dutch guidelines is growing, their uptake and impact in clinical practice lag behind. Dutch guideline organizations, including guideline developers, governmental agencies, health insurers and other national organizations, play a crucial role in developing, authorizing and/or supporting the use of guidelines. They influence end users' awareness, accessibility, understanding, acceptability and applicability of guidelines. In this study, we explored the barriers and facilitators that representatives of guideline organizations perceive in nationwide guideline implementation.

Methods

In this qualitative study, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 35 representatives of 24 different guideline organizations. We employed framework analysis, using the updated Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), and thematic analysis to guide our data analysis and synthesis.

Results

We found 45 different implementation barriers and 35 implementation facilitators. We identified seven overarching themes of interrelated barriers and facilitators that extended across the stakeholders involved and domains within the updated CFIR. These included 1) healthcare demand and resource availability, 2) implementation knowledge and expertise, 3) guideline characteristics: representation, evidence base and design, 4) partnerships and collaboration, 5) characteristics of guideline implementation planning, execution and evaluation strategies, 6) characteristics of healthcare professionals: need, capability, opportunity and motivation, and 7) legal and regulatory compliance.

Conclusions

We obtained valuable insights into the complex dynamics of barriers and facilitators perceived by guideline organizations in nationwide guideline implementation. Our findings help explain why healthcare professionals and healthcare facilities may (not), slowly or inconsistently adhere to guideline recommendations in practice. The identified barriers and facilitators provide guidance for policymakers to re-evaluate and improve nationwide quality and guideline implementation policies, to eventually improve clinical practice and health outcomes for patients.
Does diabetes modify the triglyceride–glucose index associated with cardiovascular events and mortality? A meta-analysis of 50 cohorts involving 7,239,790 participants
Authors: Zhang Jun , Zhan Qiye , Deng Zhihao , Lin Ling , Feng Zhaolan , He Huabin , Zhang Deju , Zhao Huilei , Gu Xiang , Yin Xiaoping , Yu Peng , Liu Xiao
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Previous studies highlighted the association between the triglyceride–glucose (TyG) index and cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes. However, whether diabetes affects TyG-cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is still unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the association between the TyG index and CVD risk, stratified by diabetes status, as well as the potential modifying effect of diabetic status.

Methods/design

The PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases were searched for studies on the associations between the TyG index and cardiovascular events and mortality in patients with and without diabetes from inception to December 2, 2024. The random effects model was employed to pool the effect sizes.

Results

A total of 50 cohort studies (7,239,790 participants) were included. The mean age of participants was 31.46 years (diabetes mellitus [DM]: 65.18; non-DM: 31.23), and 40.66% of participants were female (DM: 36.07%; non-DM: 40.70%). The associations between the TyG index and cardiovascular events (HR: 1.72 vs. 1.55, P = 0.55), major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (HR: 2.02 vs. 1.91, P = 0.84), stroke (HR: 1.46 vs. 1.39, P = 0.77) and cardiovascular death (HR: 1.85 vs. 1.60, P = 0.56) were similar among DM and non-DM individuals. However, the associations between the TyG index and ischemic heart disease (IHD) (HR: 2.20 vs. 1.57, P = 0.03) as well as all-cause mortality (HR: 1.94 vs. 1.24, P = 0.01) were stronger in DM patients than in non-DM patients.

Conclusion

TyG index showed association with cardiovascular events, mortality, and all-cause mortality independent of diabetic status, with low to moderate certainty. The associations for IHD and all-cause death were stronger in diabetic patients than in individuals without diabetes. Future studies should explore the role of diabetes in the TyG index-associated CVD outcomes and mortality.

Graphical abstract
Impact of cariprazine on body weight and blood pressure among adults with bipolar I disorder, schizophrenia, or major depressive disorder in a real-world setting
Authors: Correll Christoph U. , Cutler Andrew J. , Laliberté François , Germain Guillaume , MacKnight Sean D. , Boudreau Julien , Wade Sally W. , Nabulsi Nadia , Nguyen Huy-Binh , Parikh Mousam
Published: January 2025

Background

Atypical antipsychotics are a common treatment for serious mental illness, but many are associated with adverse effects, including weight gain and cardiovascular issues, and real-world experience may differ from clinical trial data. Cariprazine has previously demonstrated a favorable safety and tolerability profile in clinical trials. Here, we evaluated the effects of cariprazine on body weight and blood pressure for bipolar I disorder (BP-I), schizophrenia, or as adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) using real-world data.

Methods

Symphony Health’s Integrated Dataverse® with electronic medical record access (3/1/2015–10/31/2018) was used to identify adults (≥ 18 years) diagnosed with BP-I depression, BP-I mania/mixed, schizophrenia, or MDD, with ≥ 2 cariprazine dispensings (first dispensing = index) and continuous clinical activity for ≥ 12 months pre-index (baseline) and ≥ 3 months post-index. The on-treatment period spanned from index to cariprazine discontinuation, exposure to another atypical or long-acting injectable antipsychotic, or end of clinical activity/data availability. Outcomes included estimated annual linear trajectories for weight, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) during baseline and on treatment. Changes were estimated using linear mixed-effects models fitted over measurements pre-index and on treatment; 95% CIs were derived from nonparametric bootstrap procedures.

Results

The body weight analysis included 612 patients (BP-I, n = 331 [BP-I depression, n = 172; BP-I mania/mixed, n = 159]; schizophrenia, n = 75; MDD, n = 206). The mean patient age was 43.4 years, 75.2% were female, and the mean (SD) on-treatment period was 219 (185) days. Among patients with measurements before and during cariprazine treatment, estimated annual weight trajectories were + 3.55 (95% CI 2.38, 4.59) kg/year before cariprazine initiation and + 0.91 (− 1.17, 2.82) kg/year during cariprazine treatment. Additionally, annual linear trajectories evaluated across the on-treatment period were + 0.31 (− 0.42, 1.01) kg/m2/year for BMI, − 2.38 (− 4.27, − 0.76) mmHg/year for SBP, and − 0.57 (− 1.75, 0.61) mmHg/year for DBP.

Conclusion

In this real-world analysis, cariprazine was associated with an estimated weight gain of + 0.91 kg/year and had minimal impact on BMI and blood pressure when evaluated up to 12 months.
Feasibility and accuracy of continuous intraabdominal pressure monitoring with a capsular device in human pilot trial
Authors: Liao Chien-Hung , Spain David A. , Chen Chih-Chi , Cheng Chi-Tung , Lin Wei-Cheng , Ho Dong-Ru , Lin Heng-Fu , Catena Fausto
Published: January 2025

Background

Intrabdominal pressure (IAP) is an important parameter. Elevated IAP can reduce visceral perfusion, lead to intraabdominal hypertension, and result in life-threatening abdominal compartment syndrome. While ingestible capsular devices have been used for various abdominal diagnoses, their application in continuous IAP monitoring remains unproven.

Method

We conducted a prospective clinical trial to evaluate the feasibility of IAP measurement using a digital capsule PressureDOT, an ingestible capsule equipped with wireless transmission capability and a pressure sensor, then compared its reliability with conventional intravesical method. Patients undergoing laparoscopic or robotic surgeries were recruited. During surgery, we created pneumoperitoneum by inflating CO2 into the peritoneal cavity and IAP was simultaneously monitored using both the ingestible capsules and intravesical measurements from Foley catheter. We assessed the feasibility of signal transmission and the accuracy of pressure measurements.

Results

Six patients were enrolled in this pilot study. No adverse events were reported, and the average first-intake time was within 24 h. All capsules were successfully expelled, with an average excretion time of 81 h. In the summarized data, the mean IAPdot is 0.6 mmHg lower than the IAPivp, with a standard deviation of 1.68 mmHg. However, capsule measurements showed excellent correlation with intravesical IAP measurements, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.916 (95% CI: 0.8821–0.9320).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the feasibility and safety of using digital capsules for continuous IAP monitoring, providing the agreement between IAP measurements from digital capsules and conventional intravesical measurement within a near-normal pressure.