bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of the prevalence of isolated inter-scalene compression from simultaneous arterial and venous photoplethysmography in patients referred for suspected thoracic outlet syndrome
Authors: Lecoq Simon , Hersant Jeanne , Abraham Pierre
Published: July 2024

Objective. In patients with suspected thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS), diagnosing inter-scalene compression could lead to minimally invasive treatments. During photo-plethysmography, completing a 30 s 90° abduction, external rotation (‘surrender’ position) by addition of a 15 s 90° antepulsion ‘prayer’ position, allows quantitative bilateral analysis of both arterial (A-PPG) and venous (V-PPG) results. We aimed at determining the proportion of isolated arterial compression with photo-plethysmography in TOS-suspected patients. Approach. We studied 116 subjects recruited over 4 months (43.3 ± 11.8 years old, 69% females). Fingertip A-PPG and forearm V-PPG were recorded on both sides at 125 Hz and 4 Hz respectively. A-PPG was converted to PPG amplitude and expressed as percentage of resting amplitude (% rest). V-PPG was expressed as percentage of the maximal value (% max) observed during the ‘Surrender-Prayer’ maneuver. Impairment of arterial inflow during the surrender (As+) or prayer (Ap+) phases were defined as a pulse-amplitude either <5% rest, or <25% rest. Incomplete venous emptying during the surrender (Vs+) or prayer (Vp+) phases were defined as V-PPG values either <70% max, or <87% max. Main results. Of the 16 possible associations of encodings, As − Vs − Ap − Vp− was the most frequent observation assumed to be a normal response. Isolated arterial inflow without venous outflow (As + Vs−) impairment in the surrender position was observed in 10.3% (95%CI: 6.7%–15.0%) to 15.1% (95%CI: 10.7%–20.4%) of limbs. Significance. Simultaneous A-PPG and V-PPG can discriminate arterial from venous compression and then potentially inter-scalene from other levels of compressions. As such, it opens new perspectives in evaluation and treatment of TOS.
Investigating the influence of chromium layer thickness on thermal stability, adhesion and agglomeration of Cr/Ag/Cr sandwich layers in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)
Authors: Ghazavi Hossein , kolahdoozan Mojtaba , Solhjoei Nosratollah , Saadat Mohammad , Mirtalaie Sayed Hasan
Published: July 2024

This study explores the influence of chromium layer thickness on the thermal stability and agglomeration of Cr/Ag/Cr sandwich layers used in MEMS applications. Achieving uniform and consistent deposition of thin films is crucial for optimal device performance. Magnetron sputtering, a technique offering precise control over film properties, is commonly employed for depositing thin films in MEMS. Silver is a popular choice due to its desirable properties, but it tends to agglomerate at high temperatures. The researchers investigated the effect of chromium layer thickness on thermal stability and agglomeration. They deposited chromium layers of varying thicknesses onto silicon substrates, followed by a silver layer and another chromium layer to create a sandwich structure. Annealing was performed at different temperatures to assess thermal stability and prevent silver agglomeration. Thermal stability was evaluated by measuring electrical resistance using a four-point probe method, and surface topography was analyzed using a non-contact atomic force microscope. The goal was to identify the optimal chromium layer thickness to minimize agglomeration and maximize thermal stability. The results showed that a sandwich structure with a 5 nm top chromium layer (Si/Cr (5 nm)/Ag (100 nm)/Cr (5-10-15-20 nm)) exhibited decreased adhesion force with increasing annealing temperatures. The use of a chromium sandwich layer significantly reduced surface roughness, as indicated by reductions in Ra and RMS values. A 15 nm thick chromium layer above and below the silver layer provided the best thermal stability and prevented silver agglomeration, resulting in the highest degree of adhesion. This thickness also yielded optimal surface parameters for the chromium sandwich layers at the annealing temperatures. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that the thickness of the chromium layer influences thermal stability, agglomeration, and surface parameters in MEMS applications and enables better control over thin film deposition.
Characterizing nonclassical correlation via local channels
Authors: Rajendran Muthuganesan , Balakrishnan S
Published: July 2024

Local operation is an important tool to characterize the nonlocal aspects of multipartite quantum system. Exploiting the notion of resource theory of coherence, in this article, we establish a quantum correlation measure as the difference between the bipartite coherence and marginal state coherence. We study the Tsallis α-entropy (TαE) coherence based quantum correlation of bipartite state relative to different channels such as unitary channel, the twirling (unitary-induced) channel, projective measurements and weak measurements. It is shown that the quantum channel helps us to discriminate the product and classical-quantum states. We provide the operational interpretation of the correlation measure relative to the measurement in terms of classical uncertainty of channel. A closer connection between the correlation relative to the projective measurements and weak measurements is obtained in terms of measurement strength. As an illustration, we have studied the quantum correlations of well-known two-qubit states.
RSVP-based BCI for inconspicuous targets: detection, localization, and modulation of attention
Authors: Zhou Qian , Zhang Qi , Wang Baozeng , Yang Yang , Yuan Zijian , Li Siwei , Zhao Yuwei , Zhu Ying , Gao Zhongbao , Zhou Jin , Wang Changyong
Published: July 2024

Objective. While brain–computer interface (BCI) based on rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) is widely used in target detection, patterns of event-related potential (ERP), as well as the performance on detecting inconspicuous targets remain unknown. Moreover, participant-screening methods to excluded ‘BCI-blind’ users are still lacking. Approach. A RSVP paradigm was designed with targets of varied concealment, size, and location. ERPs (e.g. P300 and N2pc) and target detection accuracy were compared among these conditions. The relationship between participants’ attention scores and target detection accuracy was also analyzed to test attention level as a criterion for participant screening. Main results. Statistical analysis showed that the conditions of target concealment and size significantly influenced ERP. In particular, ERP for inconspicuous targets, such as concealed and small targets, exhibited lower amplitudes and longer latencies. In consistent, the accuracy of detection in inconspicuous condition was significantly lower than that of conspicuous condition. In addition, a significant association was found between attention scores and target detection accuracy for camouflaged targets. Significance. The study was the first to address ERP features among multiple dimensions of concealment, size, and location. The conclusion provided insights into the relationship between ERP decoding and properties of targets. In addition, the association between attention scores and detection accuracy implied a promising method in screening well-behaved participants for camouflaged target detection.
Endovascular stimulation of the pudendal nerve using a stent-mounted electrode array
Authors: Liu JingYang , Grayden David B , Keast Janet R , John Sam E
Published: July 2024

Objective. Previous preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated that pudendal nerve is a promising target for restoring bladder control. The spatial proximity between the pudendal nerve and its accompanying blood vessels in the pudendal canal provides an opportunity for endovascular neurostimulation, which is a less invasive approach compared to conventional chronically implanted electrodes. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of excitatory stimulation and kilohertz-frequency block of the compound pudendal nerve in sheep using a stent-mounted electrode array. Approach. In a set of acute animal experiments, a commercially available hexapolar electrode catheter was introduced in the unilateral internal pudendal artery to deliver bipolar electrical stimulation of the adjacent compound pudendal nerve. The catheter electrode was replaced with a custom-made stent-mounted electrode array and the stimulation sessions were repeated. Global electromyogram activity of the pelvic floor and related sphincter muscles was recorded with a monopolar electrode placed within the urethra concurrently. Main results. We demonstrated the feasibility of endovascular stimulation of the pudendal nerve with both electrode types. The threshold current of endovascular stimulation was influenced by electrode-nerve distance and electrode orientation. Increasing the axial inter-electrode distance significantly decreased threshold current. Endovascular kilohertz-frequency nerve block was possible with the electrode catheter. Significance. The present study demonstrated that endovascular stimulation of the pudendal nerve with the stent-mounted electrode array may be a promising less invasive alternative to conventional implantable electrodes, which has important clinical implications in the treatment of urinary incontinence. Endovascular blocking of pudendal nerve may provide an alternative solution to the bladder-sphincter dyssynergia problem in bladder management for people with spinal cord injury.
Delayed administration of interleukin-4 coacervate alleviates the neurotoxic phenotype of astrocytes and promotes functional recovery after a contusion spinal cord injury
Authors: Gottipati Manoj K , D’Amato Anthony R , Saksena Jayant , Popovich Phillip G , Wang Yadong , Gilbert Ryan J
Published: July 2024

Objective. Macrophages and astrocytes play a crucial role in the aftermath of a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). Infiltrating macrophages adopt a pro-inflammatory phenotype while resident astrocytes adopt a neurotoxic phenotype at the injury site, both of which contribute to neuronal death and inhibit axonal regeneration. The cytokine interleukin-4 (IL-4) has shown significant promise in preclinical models of SCI by alleviating the macrophage-mediated inflammation and promoting functional recovery. However, its effect on neurotoxic reactive astrocytes remains to be elucidated, which we explored in this study. We also studied the beneficial effects of a sustained release of IL-4 from an injectable biomaterial compared to bolus administration of IL-4. Approach. We fabricated a heparin-based coacervate capable of anchoring and releasing bioactive IL-4 and tested its efficacy in vitro and in vivo. Main results. We show that IL-4 coacervate is biocompatible and drives a robust anti-inflammatory macrophage phenotype in culture. We also show that IL-4 and IL-4 coacervate can alleviate the reactive neurotoxic phenotype of astrocytes in culture. Finally, using a murine model of contusion SCI, we show that IL-4 and IL-4 coacervate, injected intraspinally 2 d post-injury, can reduce macrophage-mediated inflammation, and alleviate neurotoxic astrocyte phenotype, acutely and chronically, while also promoting neuroprotection with significant improvements in hindlimb locomotor recovery. We observed that IL-4 coacervate can promote a more robust regenerative macrophage phenotype in vitro, as well as match its efficacy in vivo, compared to bolus IL-4. Significance. Our work shows the promise of coacervate as a great choice for local and prolonged delivery of cytokines like IL-4. We support this by showing that the coacervate can release bioactive IL-4, which acts on macrophages and astrocytes to promote a pro-regenerative environment following a SCI leading to robust neuroprotective and functional outcomes.
A novel membrane-on-chip guides morphogenesis for the reconstruction of the intestinal crypt-villus axis
Authors: Sibilio Sara , Mennella Raffaele , Gregorio Vincenza De , Rocca Alessia La , Urciuolo Francesco , Imparato Giorgia , Netti Paolo A
Published: July 2024

Reconstructing the microscale villous organisation and functionality of the small intestine is essential for developing in vitro platforms tailored for absorption studies as well as for investigating intestinal morphogenesis in development and disease. However, the current fabrication techniques able to mimic the villus-crypt axis poses significant challenges in terms of reconstruction of the complex 3D microarchitecture. These challenges extend beyond mere structural intricacies to encompass the incorporation of diverse cell types and the management of intricate fluid dynamics within the system. Here, we introduce a novel microfluidic device called In-Crypts, which integrates a cell-instructive membrane aimed at inducing and guiding Caco-2 cells morphogenesis. Patterned topographical cues embossed onto the porous membrane induce the formation of a well-organized intestinal epithelium, characterized by proliferating crypt-like domains and differentiated villus-like regions. Notably, our cell-instructive porous membrane effectively sustains stem cells development, faithfully replicating the niche environment of in vivo intestinal crypts thus mirroring the cell biogeography observed in vivo. Moreover, by introducing dynamic fluid flow, we provide a faithful recapitulation of the native microenvironmental shear stress experienced by the intestinal epithelium. This stress plays a crucial role in influencing cell behaviour, differentiation, and overall functionality, thus offering a highly realistic model for studying intestinal physiology and pathology. The resulting intestinal epithelium exhibits significantly denser regions of mucus and microvilli, characteristic typically absent in static cultures, upregulating more than 1.5 of the amount expressed in the classical flattened configuration, enhanced epithelial cell differentiation and increased adsorptive surface area. Hence, the innovative design of In-Crypts proves the critical role of employing a cell-instructive membrane in argument the physiological relevance of organs-on-chips. This aspect, among others, will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of organism function, directly impacting drug discovery and development.
Design and manufacturing of soft electronics for in situ biochemical sensing
Authors: Xing Yi , Wang Jiaqi , Li Jinxing
Published: July 2024

Soft (flexible and stretchable) biosensors have great potential in real-time and continuous health monitoring of various physiological factors, mainly due to their better conformability to soft human tissues and organs, which maximizes data fidelity and minimizes biological interference. Most of the early soft sensors focused on sensing physical signals. Recently, it is becoming a trend that novel soft sensors are developed to sense and monitor biochemical signals in situ in real biological environments, thus providing much more meaningful data for studying fundamental biology and diagnosing diverse health conditions. This is essential to decentralize the healthcare resources towards predictive medicine and better disease management. To meet the requirements of mechanical softness and complex biosensing, unconventional materials, and manufacturing process are demanded in developing biosensors. In this review, we summarize the fundamental approaches and the latest and representative design and fabrication to engineer soft electronics (flexible and stretchable) for wearable and implantable biochemical sensing. We will review the rational design and ingenious integration of stretchable materials, structures, and signal transducers in different application scenarios to fabricate high-performance soft biosensors. Focus is also given to how these novel biosensors can be integrated into diverse important physiological environments and scenarios in situ, such as sweat analysis, wound monitoring, and neurochemical sensing. We also rethink and discuss the current limitations, challenges, and prospects of soft biosensors. This review holds significant importance for researchers and engineers, as it assists in comprehending the overarching trends and pivotal issues within the realm of designing and manufacturing soft electronics for biochemical sensing.
An integrated fuzzy logic and machine learning platform for porosity detection using optical tomography imaging during laser powder bed fusion
Authors: Ero Osazee , Taherkhani Katayoon , Hemmati Yasmine , Toyserkani Ehsan
Published: July 2024

Traditional methods such as mechanical testing and x-ray computed tomography (CT), for quality assessment in laser powder-bed fusion (LPBF), a class of additive manufacturing (AM), are resource-intensive and conducted post-production. Recent advancements in in-situ monitoring, particularly using optical tomography (OT) to detect near-infrared light emissions during the process, offer an opportunity for in-situ defect detection. However, interpreting OT datasets remains challenging due to inherent process characteristics and disturbances that may obscure defect identification. This paper introduces a novel machine learning-based approach that integrates a self-organizing map, a fuzzy logic scheme, and a tailored U-Net architecture to enhance defect prediction capabilities during the LPBF process. This model not only predicts common flaws such as lack of fusion and keyhole defects through analysis of in-situ OT data, but also allows quality assurance professionals to apply their expert knowledge through customizable fuzzy rules. This capability facilitates a more nuanced and interpretable model, enhancing the likelihood of accurate defect detection. The efficacy of this system has been validated through experimental analyses across various process parameters, with results validated by subsequent CT scans, exhibiting strong performance with average model scores ranging from 0.375 to 0.819 for lack of fusion defects and from 0.391 to 0.616 for intentional keyhole defects. These findings underscore the model’s reliability and adaptability in predicting defects, highlighting its potential as a transformative tool for in-process quality assurance in AM. A notable benefit of this method is its adaptability, allowing the end-user to adjust the probability threshold for defect detection based on desired quality requirements and custom fuzzy rules.
Persistent cytopenias after anti-BCMA CAR T-cell therapy are associated with reduced hematopoietic activity in posttreatment bone marrows
Authors: Patwardhan Pranav Pramod , Franz Joseph , Agha Mounzer , Rea Bryan
Published: July 2024

Objectives

We attempt to analyze bone marrow findings and correlation with cytopenia(s) after anti–B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell infusion in this study.

Methods

Relevant clinicopathologic data, including complete blood counts, neutrophil counts, relevant therapy history, and pre- and posttherapy bone marrow evaluations, were studied in 12 patients who received anti-BCMA CAR T-cell therapy.

Results

Bone marrow findings after CAR T-cell therapy were available in 6 of 12 cases, 3 of which showed markedly hypocellular marrow with either markedly reduced or essentially absent hematopoiesis. One case showed a hypocellular marrow with trilineage hematopoiesis, while the remaining 2 cases showed persistent involvement by plasma cell myeloma. Reticulin stains did not reveal significant fibrosis. Ten patients had anemia, and 8 patients had leukopenia and thrombocytopenia at day 90 posttherapy. Long-term follow-up showed persistent disease in 10 of 12 cases.

Conclusions

Prolonged cytopenias occur in most patients after BCMA CAR T-cell therapy with bone marrow evaluations demonstrating associated marked hypocellularity with minimal or no hematopoiesis without an increase in fibrosis.
Estimated Pulse Wave Velocity Is Associated With a Higher Risk of Dementia in the Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Heffernan Kevin S , Wilmoth Janet M , London Andrew S
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

In this paper, we use the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) to examine the relationship between an estimated measure of pulse wave velocity (ePWV) and cognitive impairment with no dementia and dementia, respectively.

METHODS

We modeled the relationship between ePWV and cognitive status in 2006/2008 using data from 8,492 men and women (mean age 68.6 years) controlling for age, blood pressure, sociodemographic, and socioeconomic characteristics (sex, race and ethnicity, education, income, wealth), health behaviors (smoking and physical activity), body mass index (BMI), health status and related medication use (history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and stroke), and cerebrovascular disease (CVD)-related biomarkers (C-reactive protein, cystatin-C, hemoglobin A1c, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein [HDL] cholesterol). We assess cognitive function with the 27-item Langa-Weir Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS) scale. ePWV is derived from an equation based on participant age and resting blood pressure.

RESULTS

In a model that controlled for the constituent components of ePWV (age, age squared, systolic and diastolic blood pressure), ePWV is associated with increased odds of having cognitive impairment with no dementia (OR = 2.761) and dementia (OR = 6.344) relative to a group with no cognitive impairment or dementia. After controlling for the constituent components of ePWV, sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics, health behaviors, BMI, health status and medication use, and CVD-related biomarkers, ePWV remains significantly associated with dementia (OR = 3.969) but not cognitive impairment with no dementia (OR = 1.782).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that ePWV may be a novel research tool and biomarker of vascular aging that can be used in large, population-representative studies to examine cognitive aging and dementia risk.
Previous Cesarean Section Delivery Increases the Risk for Seroma Development in Abdominoplasty Patients: Our Experience With 746 Patients
Authors: Skorochod Ron , Hadad Eran , Wolf Yoram
Published: July 2024

Background

Complications after body-contouring surgery are a field of great interest. Recognition of patient-related characteristics contributing to a greater risk for complication is of the utmost importance in improving the quality of care and safety profile of aesthetic procedures. Previous history of cesarean section (CS) and its impact on adverse events after abdominoplasty has yet to be investigated and defined.

Objectives

Our objective was to evaluate the effect of previous cesarean section on the risk for adverse events in abdominoplasty.

Methods

The medical records of 746 eligible patients were reviewed, and relevant information was extracted. Stratification of patients based on a previous history of CS was followed by statistical analysis of differences between the groups. Relevant regression models were implemented to further understand the data.

Results

Seven hundred forty-six patients were included in the study, of which 308 (43.1%) had history of CS delivery. The group did not differ in baseline demographic and surgical details, except for a greater hemoglobin level in the non-CS patients (P = .007). Analysis of complication rates revealed a statistically significant increase in the risk for seroma development in the group of patients with a history of CS delivery (P = .031), which correlated to a 65% increase in the risk for complications (odds ratio = 1.65, 95% CI 1.07-2.56).

Conclusions

A medical history of CS increases the risk for seroma development in the postoperative period following abdominoplasty. Several potential pathogenic mechanisms exist, and further prospective research is needed to further characterize the association.

Level of Evidence: 3
Population genomics of four co-distributed frog species in a barrier island system
Authors: Nava Martinez Maria , Amador Luis , Wiley Daniele L F , McDaniels Chris X , Barrow Lisa N
Published: July 2024

In nature, small populations are often of concern because of limited genetic diversity, which underlies adaptive potential in the face of environmental change. Assessing patterns of genetic variation within co-distributed species sampled across varied landscapes can therefore illuminate their capacity to persist over time. We sequenced new genome-wide sequence data (double-digest restriction site-associated DNA sequencing) for four frog species (Anaxyrus terrestris, Hyla cinerea, Hyla squirella, and Rana sphenocephala) sampled from two barrier islands and the adjacent mainland of northern Florida. We calculated genomic diversity metrics and analysed spatial patterns of genomic variation for each species. We found higher genomic diversity within mainland individuals compared to island individuals for all species, suggesting a consistent effect of small island area on diversity across species. Three species (all but A. terrestris) showed significant signatures of isolation by distance, and some clustering analyses indicated separation of island and mainland individuals within species. We identified subtle differences in the strength of these patterns among species, with the strongest genetic differentiation observed in R. sphenocephala. Finally, we found evidence of recent migration between island and mainland populations for all species, which likely explains the limited genetic structure observed and contributes to the persistence of these small populations.
Needle-free jet injector treatment with bleomycin is efficacious in patients with severe keloids: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Bekkers Vazula Z , Zdunczyk Katarzyna M , Bik Liora , Ten Voorde Wouter , Aarts Pim , Oerlemans Femke , Bohoslavsky Roman , Haedersdal Merete , Prens Errol P , Rissmann Robert , van Doorn Martijn B A
Published: July 2024

Background

Severe keloids are difficult to treat. Corticosteroid injections with needles are painful and associated with frequent recurrences. Therefore, more effective, safe and patient-friendly alternative treatments are urgently needed.

Objectives

To assess the efficacy, tolerability and patient satisfaction of intralesional bleomycin treatment using a needle-free electronic pneumatic jet injector (EPI) in severe keloids.

Methods

Patients with severe keloids were included in this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial with split-lesion design. Three EPI treatments with bleomycin or saline were administered every 4 weeks in the intervention and control sides. Outcome measures were change in scar volume assessed by three-dimensional imaging, Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS), skin perfusion with laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI), spilled volume, procedure-related pain, adverse events and patient satisfaction.

Results

Fourteen patients (nine female, five male) were included. The estimated mean keloid volume was significantly reduced by 20% after EPI-assisted bleomycin, compared with a slight increase of 3% in the control side (P < 0.01). The estimated mean POSAS patient and observer scores decreased by respectively 28% and 20% (P = 0.03 and P = 0.001). LSCI showed no significant change in perfusion. EPI treatment was preferred over previous needle injections in 85% of patients. The estimated mean spilled volume after EPI was around 50%, and numerical rating scale pain scores were moderate. Adverse events included bruising, hyperpigmentation and transient superficial necrosis.

Conclusions

A course of three EPI-assisted bleomycin injections is efficacious and well tolerated in severe keloids. Moreover, EPI was preferred by most patients and may serve as a patient-friendly alternative treatment.
The european registry for patients with mechanical circulatory support (EUROMACS): fourth paediatric EUROMACS (Paedi-EUROMACS) report
Authors: Rohde Sofie , van Puyvelde Joeri , Veen Kevin M , Schweiger Martin , Biermann Daniel , Amodeo Antonio , Martens Thomas , Damman Kevin , Gollmann-Tepeköylü Can , Hulman Michael , Iacovoni Attilio , Krämer Ulrike S , Loforte Antonio , Napoleone Carlo Pace , Nemec Petr , Netuka Ivan , Özbaran Mustafa , Polo Luz , Pya Yuri , Ramjankhan Faiz , Sandica Eugen , Sliwka Joanna , Stiller Brigitte , Kadner Alexander , Franceschini Alessio , Thiruchelvam Timothy , Zimpfer Daniel , Berger Felix , Davies Ben , Dashkevich Alexey , Stark Christoffer , Meyns Bart , de By Theo M M H , Miera Olivier
Published: July 2024

OBJECTIVES

The use of ventricular assist devices in children is increasing. However, absolute numbers in individual centers and countries remain small. Collaborative efforts such as the Paedi-EUROMACS are therefore essential in order to combine international experience with paediatric ventricular assist devices. In this paper, the results from the fourth Paedi-EUROMACS report are presented.

METHODS

All paediatric (<19 years) patients supported by a ventricular assist device from the EUROMACS database were included. Patients are stratified into a congenital heart disease group and a group with a non-congenital aetiology. Endpoints included mortality, transplantation and recovery. Cox proportional hazard models were used to explore associated factors for mortality, cerebrovascular accident, and pump thrombosis.

RESULTS

590 primary implantations were included. The congenital group was significantly younger (2.5 versus 8.0 years respectively, p < 0.001) and were more commonly supported by a pulsatile flow device (73.5% vs 59.9%, p < 0.001). Mortality was significantly higher in the congenital group (30.8 vs 20.4%; p = 0.009) than in the non-congenital group. However, in multivariable analyses, congenital heart disease was not significantly associated with mortality (HR 1.285, CI 0.8111–2.036, p = 0.740). Pump thrombosis was the most frequently reported adverse event (377 events in 132 patients; 0.925 events per patient-year) and was significantly associated with BSA (HR 0.524 CI 0.333–0.823, p = 0.005), congenital heart disease (HR 1.641 CI 1.054–2.555, p = 0.028) and pulsatile flow support (HR 2.345 CI 1.406–3.910, p = 0.001) in multivariable analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

This fourth Paedi-EUROMACS report highlights the increasing use of paediatric ventricular assist devices. The patient populations with congenital and non-congenital aetiology exhibit distinct characteristics and clinical outcomes.
Enzymatic characterization of five thioredoxins and a thioredoxin reductase from Myxococcus xanthus
Authors: Tanifuji Ryota , Kimura Yoshio
Published: July 2024

Thioredoxin (Trx) is a disulfide-containing redox protein that functions as a disulfide oxidoreductase. Myxococcus xanthus contains five Trxs (Trx1–Trx5) and one Trx reductase (TrxR). Trxs typically have a CGPC active-site motif; however, M. xanthus Trxs have slightly different active-site sequences, with the exception of Trx4. The five Trxs of M. xanthus exhibited reduced activities against insulin, 5,5'-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB), cystine, glutathione disulfide (GSSG), S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), and H2O2 in the presence of TrxR. Myxococcus xanthus adenylate kinase and serine/threonine phosphatase activities, which were increased by the addition of dithiothreitol, were activated by the addition of Trxs and TrxR. Among these, Trx1, which has a CAPC sequence in its active site, exhibited the highest reducing activity with the exception of GSNO. Myxococcus xanthus TrxR showed weak reducing activity towards DTNB, GSSG, GSNO, and H2O2, suggesting that it has broad substrate specificity, unlike previously reported low-molecular-weight TrxRs. TrxR reduced oxidized Trx1 as the best substrate, with a kcat/Km value of 0.253 min−1 µM−1, which was 10–28-fold higher than that of the other Trxs. These results suggest that all Trxs possess reducing activity and that Trx1 may be the most functional in M. xanthus because TrxR most efficiently reduces oxidized Trx1.
PACS-1 variant protein is aberrantly localized in Caenorhabditis elegans model of PACS1/PACS2 syndromes
Authors: Byrd Dana T , Han Ziyuan Christina , Piggott Christopher A , Jin Yishi
Published: July 2024

PACS (phosphofurin acidic cluster sorting) proteins are known for their roles in sorting cargo proteins to organelles and can physically interact with WD40 repeat-containing protein WDR37. PACS1, PACS2, and WDR37 variants are associated with multisystemic syndromes and neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by intellectual disability, seizures, developmental delays, craniofacial abnormalities, and autism spectrum disorder. However, the functional effects of syndromic variants at the cellular level remain unknown. Here, we report the expression pattern of Caenorhabditis elegans orthologs of PACS and WDR37 and their interaction. We show that cePACS-1 and ceWDR-37 colocalize to somatic cytoplasm of many types of cells and are mutually required for expression, supporting a conclusion that the intermolecular dependence of PACS1/PACS2/PACS-1 and WDR37/WDR-37 is evolutionarily conserved. We further show that editing in PACS1 and PACS2 variants in cePACS-1 changes protein localization in multiple cell types, including neurons. Moreover, expression of human PACS1 can functionally complement C. elegans PACS-1 in neurons, demonstrating conserved functions of the PACS–WDR37 axis in an invertebrate model system. Our findings reveal effects of human variants and suggest potential strategies to identify regulatory network components that may contribute to understanding molecular underpinnings of PACS/WDR37 syndromes.
How structural racism, neighborhood deprivation, and maternal characteristics contribute to inequities in birth outcomes
Authors: Gangopadhyaya Anuj , Dubay Lisa , Johnston Emily , Pancini Vincent
Published: July 2024

Decades of disparities in health between infants born to Black and White mothers have persisted in recent years, despite policy initiatives to improve maternal and reproductive health for Black mothers. Although scholars have increasingly recognized the critical role that structural racism plays in driving health outcomes for Black people, measurement of this relationship remains challenging. This study examines trends in preterm birth and low birth weight between 2007 and 2018 separately for births to Black and White mothers. Using a multivariate regression model, we evaluated potential factors, including an index of racialized disadvantage as well as community- and individual-level factors that serve as proxy measures for structural racism, that may contribute to White–Black differences in infant health. Finally, we assessed whether unequal effects of these factors may explain differences in birth outcomes. We found that differences in the effects of these factors appear to explain about half of the underlying disparity in infant health.
A genome assembly of decaploid Houttuynia cordata provides insights into the evolution of Houttuynia and the biosynthesis of alkaloids
Authors: Huang Peng , Li Zhu , Wang Huan , Huang Jinqiang , Tan Guifeng , Fu Yue , Liu Xiubin , Zheng Shang , Xu Peng , Sun Mengshan , Zeng Jianguo
Published: July 2024

Houttuynia cordata Thunb., commonly known as yuxingcao in China, is known for its characteristic fishy smell and is widely recognized as an important herb and vegetable in many parts of Asia. However, the lack of genomic information on H. cordata limits the understanding of its population structure, genetic diversity, and biosynthesis of medicinal compounds. Here we used single-molecule sequencing, Illumina paired-end sequencing, and chromosome conformation capture technology to construct the first chromosome-scale decaploid H. cordata reference genome. The genome assembly was 2.63 Gb in size, with 1348 contigs and a contig N50 of 21.94 Mb further clustered and ordered into 88 pseudochromosomes based on Hi-C analysis. The results of genome evolution analysis showed that H. cordata underwent a whole-genome duplication (WGD) event ~17 million years ago, and an additional WGD event occurred 3.3 million years ago, which may be the main factor leading to the high abundance of multiple copies of orthologous genes. Here, transcriptome sequencing across five different tissues revealed significant expansion and distinct expression patterns of key gene families, such as l-amino acid/l-tryptophan decarboxylase and strictosidine synthase, which are essential for the biosynthesis of isoquinoline and indole alkaloids, along with the identification of genes such as TTM3, which is critical for root development. This study constructed the first decaploid medicinal plant genome and revealed the genome evolution and polyploidization events of H. cordata.
Inhibitory Immune Checkpoints Predict 7-Day, In-Hospital, and 1-Year Mortality of Internal Medicine Patients Admitted With Bacterial Sepsis
Authors: Mearelli Filippo , Nunnari Alessio , Rombini Annalisa , Chitti Federica , Spagnol Francesca , Casarsa Chiara , Bolzan Giulia , Martini Ilaria , Marinelli Anna , Rizzo Stefania , Teso Cristiana , Macor Alessandra , Fiotti Nicola , Barbati Giulia , Tascini Carlo , Costantino Venera , Di Bella Stefano , Di Girolamo Filippo Giorgio , Bove Tiziana , Orso Daniele , Berlot Giorgio , Klompas Michael , Biolo Gianni
Published: July 2024

Background

Sepsis is a life-threatening syndrome with complex pathophysiology and great clinical heterogeneity, which complicates the delivery of personalized therapies. Our goal was to demonstrate that some biomarkers identified as regulatory immune checkpoints in preclinical studies could guide the stratification of patients with sepsis into subgroups with shared characteristics of immune response or survival outcomes.

Methods

We assayed the soluble counterparts of 12 biomarkers of immune response in 113 internal medicine patients with bacterial sepsis.

Results

IL-1 receptor-associated kinase M (IRAK-M) exhibited the highest hazard ratios (HRs) for increased 7-day (1.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.17–3.20) and 30-day mortality (1.61; 95% CI, 1.14–2.28). HRs of IRAK-M and galectin-1 for predicting 1-year mortality were 1.52 (95% CI, 1.20–1.92) and 1.64 (95% CI, 1.13–2.36), respectively. Patients with elevated serum levels of IRAK-M and galectin-1 had clinical traits of immune suppression and low survival rates.

Conclusions

Two inhibitory immune checkpoint biomarkers (IRAK-M and galectin-1) helped identify 3 distinct sepsis phenotypes with distinct prognoses. These biomarkers shed light on the interplay between immune dysfunction and prognosis in patients with bacterial sepsis and may prove to be useful prognostic markers, therapeutic targets, and biochemical markers for targeted enrollment in therapeutic trials.
Skimming the skaters: genome skimming improves phylogenetic resolution of Halobatinae (Hemiptera: Gerridae)
Authors: Chang Jia Jin Marc , Raupach Michael J , Cheng Lanna , Damgaard Jakob , Hongjamrassilp Watcharapong , Ip Yin Cheong Aden , Ng Matthew Hui-Chieh , Chan Wan Wen Rochelle , Kunning Ismael , Liang Bryna Jia Ying , Maggioni Davide , Mana Ralph R , Mishra Himanshu , Mowe Maxine A D , Wainwright Benjamin J , Whitney Jonathan L , Wolfe Kennedy , Yeo Darren C J , Huang Danwei
Published: July 2024

Gerromorpha Popov, 1971 is a fascinating and diverse insect lineage that evolved about 200 Mya to spend their entire life cycle on the air–water interface and have since colonized all types of aquatic habitats. The subfamily Halobatinae Bianchi, 1896 is particularly interesting because some species have adapted to life on the open ocean—a habitat where insects are very rarely found. Several attempts have been made to reconstruct the phylogenetic hypotheses of this subfamily, but the use of a few partial gene sequences recovered only a handful of well-supported relationships, thus limiting evolutionary inferences. Fortunately, the emergence of high-throughput sequencing technologies has enabled the recovery of more genetic markers for phylogenetic inference. We applied genome skimming to obtain mitochondrial and nuclear genes from low-coverage whole-genome sequencing of 85 specimens for reconstructing a well-supported phylogeny, with particular emphasis on Halobatinae. Our study confirmed that Metrocorini Matsuda, 1960, is paraphyletic, whereas Esakia Lundblad, 1933, and Ventidius Distant, 1910, are more closely related to Halobatini Bianchi, 1896, than Metrocoris Mayr, 1865, and Eurymetra Esaki, 1926. We also found that Ventidius is paraphyletic and in need of a taxonomic revision. Ancestral state reconstruction suggests that Halobatinae evolved progressively from limnic to coastal habitats, eventually attaining a marine lifestyle, especially in the genus Halobates Eschscholtz, 1822, where the oceanic lifestyle evolved thrice. Our results demonstrate that genome skimming is a powerful and straightforward approach to recover genetic loci for robust phylogenetic analysis in non-model insects.
The revised patient attitudes to deprescribing (rPATD) questionnaire: an investigation using a large anonymized database
Authors: Weiss Marjorie , Deslandes Rhian , Hughes Louise
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Stopping or “deprescribing” one or more of a patient’s medications is a growing focus for clinical practice and health service research. A deprescribing questionnaire survey, the revised Patient’s Attitudes Towards Deprescribing (rPATD), has been developed and validated in Australia. The aim of this study was to explore the use of the rPATD in a large Welsh population.

Methods

The rPATD was made available through HealthWise Wales, a platform that enables people in Wales to volunteer to participate in research. Questionnaire data were explored descriptively and using a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) on the original four factors in the rPATD (Burden, Appropriateness, Concern, and Involvement).

Key findings

A total of 1759 patients completed questionnaires. The mean age was 58.6, each prescribed on average 3.69 medicines (range 1–34). In total 75.1% (1303/1735) agreed or strongly agreed that they would be willing to have a medicine deprescribed, if suggested by a doctor, and 19.0% (333/1749) would like to try stopping a medicine. A CFA was performed using maximum likelihood and showed a mediocre fit (RMSEA = 0.083). A Mann–Whitney U test revealed an association between feeling the burden of medicine taking or expressing a belief in the inappropriateness of their medication and a greater willingness to stop medicine if suggested by a doctor (BURDEN Z = −5.6, P≤.0001; appropriateness Z = −9.6, P≤.0001).

Conclusions

Willingness to have a medicine deprescribed was lower than in previous research, likely due to a range of reported factors. The potential value of rPATD has been demonstrated for future UK-wide applications.
Necrotic mega-stomach from superior mesenteric artery syndrome
Authors: Tse Andrew , Phan Natalie , Ayoubi Salah , Fenton-Lee Douglas
Published: July 2024

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome is a rare cause of proximal bowel obstruction due to duodenal compression by the SMA. The morbidity and mortality associated with delayed diagnosis and its complications make it an important differential cause for bowel obstruction. We report a case of mega-stomach secondary to SMA syndrome requiring total gastrectomy. An 18-year-old male presented with vomiting, abdominal pain and shock after a buffet. Computed tomography (CT) imaging revealed a grossly distended stomach (113 × 187 × 350mm) and a transition point at the third part of the duodenum, along with pneumatosis and portal venous gas. Emergency gastroscopy showed blood and necrotic mucosa. Laparotomy confirmed full thickness necrosis and the patient underwent a total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction. Postoperatively, he had a brief intensive care stay and recovered without complications. This case underscores the importance of considering SMA syndrome during presentations of acute gastric dilatation.
Improving the Accuracy of Bulk Fitness Assays by Correcting Barcode Processing Biases
Authors: McGee Ryan Seamus , Kinsler Grant , Petrov Dmitri , Tikhonov Mikhail
Published: July 2024

Measuring the fitnesses of genetic variants is a fundamental objective in evolutionary biology. A standard approach for measuring microbial fitnesses in bulk involves labeling a library of genetic variants with unique sequence barcodes, competing the labeled strains in batch culture, and using deep sequencing to track changes in the barcode abundances over time. However, idiosyncratic properties of barcodes can induce nonuniform amplification or uneven sequencing coverage that causes some barcodes to be over- or under-represented in samples. This systematic bias can result in erroneous read count trajectories and misestimates of fitness. Here, we develop a computational method, named REBAR (Removing the Effects of Bias through Analysis of Residuals), for inferring the effects of barcode processing bias by leveraging the structure of systematic deviations in the data. We illustrate this approach by applying it to two independent data sets, and demonstrate that this method estimates and corrects for bias more accurately than standard proxies, such as GC-based corrections. REBAR mitigates bias and improves fitness estimates in high-throughput assays without introducing additional complexity to the experimental protocols, with potential applications in a range of experimental evolution and mutation screening contexts.
Empowering Health and Identity: The Vital Role of Gender-affirming Care for Individuals With HIV
Authors: Touleyrou Lauren , Newman Gretchen , Heisler Shira , Chopra Teena
Published: July 2024

Comprehensive healthcare for all includes gender-affirming hormone therapy for transgender and nonbinary individuals. It is the unique privilege of HIV providers, who take care of a disproportionate number of transgender people, to provide gender-affirming hormone therapy along with antiretroviral therapy. It could increase viral suppression rates, increase overall health outcomes, and decrease gender health disparities.
Explanation and Plenitude in Non-Well-Founded Set Theories
Authors: Cameron Ross P
Published: July 2024

Non-well-founded set theories allow set-theoretic exotica that standard ZFC will not, such as a set that has itself as its sole member. We distinguish plenitudinous non-well-founded set theories, such as Boffa set theory, that allow infinitely many such sets, from restrictive theories, such as Finsler–Aczel or AFA, that allow exactly one. Plenitudinous non-well-founded set theories face a puzzle: nothing seems to explain the identity or distinctness of various of the sets they countenance. I aim to sharpen this puzzle, make clear who it does and does not apply to, and to argue in favor of a plenitudinous theory like Boffa.