bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Study on Associations Between Lung Cancer Prognosis and Diagnostic Criteria Set by the European Palliative Care Research Collaboration and the Asian Working Group for Cachexia
Authors: Katsushima Utae , Fukushima Takuya , Nakano Jiro , Ogushi Naoya , Fujii Kazuki , Nagata Yutaro , Kamisako Keisuke , Okuno Yukiko , Okazaki Yuta , Nakanishi Kentaro , Yoshida Kiyori , Ikoma Tatsuki , Takeyasu Yuki , Yamanaka Yuta , Yoshioka Hiroshige , Hase Kimitaka , Kurata Takayasu
Published: December 2024

Background

Cachexia is a poor prognostic factor in many advanced cancers. Cachexia diagnostic criteria of the European Palliative Care Research Collaboration (EPCRC) may underestimate cachexia in Asians; therefore, new criteria have been proposed by the Asian Working Group for Cachexia (AWGC). We compared both criteria to determine differences in diagnostic rates and their association with lung cancer prognosis.

Patients and Methods

This single‐center, retrospective cohort study considered lung cancer outpatients receiving chemotherapy. Survival was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier curves and log‐rank tests. The association between cachexia diagnosis and prognosis was examined for each set of criteria using a Cox proportional hazards model. C‐statistic analysis was performed to compare the discriminative power for prognosis.

Results

Among the 106 participants analyzed (median age, 75 [71–79] years; 75 males [70.8%]; 91 [85.9%] with performance status [PS] 0–1), 58 (54.7%) and 77 (72.6%) cachexia cases were diagnosed using the EPCRC and AWGC criteria, respectively. The latter encompassed all but one patient diagnosed using the EPCRC criteria. Patients with cachexia had a significantly poorer prognosis according to both criteria (EPCRC, p = 0.002; AWGC, p = 0.001). Both criteria had almost equal discriminative power for prognosis (EPCRC, C‐statistic = 0.658; AWGC, C‐statistic = 0.658). CRP in the AWGC criteria was most strongly related to prognosis.

Conclusions

Cachexia was an independent poor prognostic factor in lung cancer patients receiving chemotherapy under the AWGC and EPCRC criteria, both of which had similar prognostic discriminatory power. Among CRP, anorexia, and grip strength, elevated CRP may be the most prognostically relevant parameter in the AWGC criteria.
G protein‐coupled receptor–receptor interactions in gonadal physiology
Authors: Lazzaretti Clara , Ayoub Mohammed Akli , Casarini Livio
Published: December 2024

Background

Gonadotropins are glycoprotein hormones fundamental in the endocrine regulation of reproduction. They act on structurally similar members of G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) expressed exclusively in the gonads and support gametogenesis, sex steroid synthesis, and pregnancy. While it is a common opinion that the gonadotropin receptors act as a single molecule entity (monomer), increasing evidence underlines the formation of molecular complexes involving multiple receptors.

Objectives

To review current knowledge of membrane receptor‐receptor interactions in reproduction.

Results and Discussion

Homo/heteromers of gonadotropin receptors may act as allosteric modulators, act as biased agonist and/or cooperate in sustaining intracellular signals fundamental to support reproduction. Technical limitations lead to in vitro data that require to be confirmed in vivo to figure out the physiological impact of gonadotropin receptor assemblies.

Conclusions

Gonadotropin receptor homo/heteromers provide a new field of research that deserves attention for possible clinical and therapeutic implications in physiology and pathophysiology.
Facilitators and Barriers to Access to Midwife‐Led Birth Settings for Racialized Women in the UK: A Scoping Review
Authors: Melamed Anna , Rocca‐Ihenacho Lucia , Horn Anna , McCourt Christine , Rivers Frances , Daniele Marina Alice Sylvia
Published: December 2024

Background

In UK maternity care, racialized women have worse experiences and clinical outcomes than White women. Midwife‐led birth settings (MLBS), including home births and midwife‐led units, both freestanding and alongside hospitals, are all available as choices for low‐risk women in the UK. MLBS deliver optimal outcomes for low‐risk women with uncomplicated pregnancies, including for racialized women, and can offer culturally specific care, possibly mitigating existing social inequalities. Evidence suggests that racialized women access MLBS less than White women.

Aim

To map existing literature on facilitators and barriers to accessing MLBS for racialized women and to identify emerging themes.

Method

A scoping review of UK literature over the last 10 years using OVID, Ebsco Host, and gray literature. Search, selection, and data extraction were performed using PRISMA and JBI guidelines. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Fourteen articles met the inclusion criteria, only one addressing the research question directly and others containing some relevant material. Six themes were identified: admission criteria, information giving, the role of antenatal groups, bias and assumptions, beliefs about birth, and MLBS as empowering.

Conclusions

There is a lack of research on racialized women's access to MLBS. Community outreach, having midwifery services embedded in the community, defaulting to MLBS for women categorized as low risk, continuity of carer, and interventions achieving a reduction in care‐giver bias may improve access and outcomes.
Sarcopenia may increase cisplatin toxicity in bladder cancer patients with borderline renal function
Authors: Haile Eiftu S. , Lone Zaeem , Shin David , Nowacki Amy S. , Soputro Nicolas , Harris Kyle , Campbell Rebecca A. , Wood Andrew , Haywood Samuel C. , Eltemamy Mohamed , Haber Georges‐Pascal , Weight Christopher J. , Wood Hadley M. , Taliercio Jonathan J. , Nizam Amanda , Gupta Shilpa , Remer Erick M. , Almassi Nima
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To assess whether the effect of sarcopenia on neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) toxicity is modified by borderline renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] 40–65 mL/min) and whether sarcopenia and borderline renal function are independently associated with NAC toxicity risk.

Patients and Methods

All patients with muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) who underwent radical cystectomy (RC) between 2010 and 2022, with available cross‐sectional imaging prior to NAC initiation, were included. Skeletal mass was measured from axial computed tomography images obtained at the level of the L3 vertebral body, using Aquarius Intuition software. Sarcopenia was assigned based on consensus definitions of skeletal mass index. NAC toxicity was graded according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0. Binary logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of NAC‐associated renal toxicity.

Results

A total of 216 patients were included. Most patients had sarcopenia (83%) and received gemcitabine/cisplatin NAC (76%). In an unadjusted model, sarcopenia was associated with a significant risk of renal‐associated NAC toxicity (odds ratio [OR] 4.88, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.65–14.44; P = 0.004). In an effect modification model evaluating the interaction between sarcopenia and renal function, the OR for renal toxicity with sarcopenia among patients with eGFR 40–65 mL/min was 8.46 (95% CI 1.06–67.72) vs 3.11 (95% CI 0.81–11.88) among patients with normal renal function (P = 0.43).

Conclusion

Among MIBC patients who received NAC, sarcopenia was associated with higher odds of NAC‐associated renal toxicity and may increase risk of renal toxicity among patients with borderline renal function.
Assessment of Affordances in the Home Environment and Neurodevelopment of Children With Congenital Zika Syndrome
Authors: Borba Raíne , Falcão Juliane , Freitas Tatiane , Marques Cláudia , Nóbrega Lucélia , O. Ventura Liana , Sallum Juliana , V. Ventura Camila , Higino Taciana , Rocha Camilla , Wheeler Anne C.
Published: December 2024

Background

Congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) is characterized by brain abnormalities caused by in utero exposure to the Zika virus (ZIKV), resulting in significant neurodevelopmental, motor and visual impairments in affected children. These impairments hinder their ability to engage in social interactions and explore their surroundings. However, personalized and continuous sensory stimulation, particularly within the home environment, may play a crucial role in supporting motor and visual development in these children. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the relationship between sensory stimulation in the home environment and the motor and visual development of children with CZS.

Method

This cross‐sectional study included children with CZS. The Affordances in the Home Environment for Motor Development (AHEMD) instrument was administered to caregivers to assess motor stimulation opportunities at home. All children underwent neurodevelopmental milestone assessments using the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Bayley Scales of Infant Development‐Third Edition (BSID‐III). Gross motor function was further assessed with the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), and functional vision was evaluated by using the functional vision developmental milestones test (FVDMT).

Results

Eighty‐five children with a mean age of 39.9 ± 2.3 (24.0–42.0) months were included. Forty‐one children (48.2%) lived in homes with ‘very weak’ environmental stimulation. The children showed profound developmental delays in all domains of the BSID‐III with an average neurodevelopmental age of 39.9 ± 2.3 (24–42) months. On the GMFM, over 90.0% of children could not initiate or maintain the required movements and postures for sitting, crawling, standing, walking, running and jumping. A significant positive correlation was found between the variety of home sensory stimulation with the AHEMD and the scores at the BSID‐III motor scales as well as the GMFM. More fine motor materials in the home context correlated with better gross motor scores on the BSID‐III (p = 0.016), increased likelihood of passing the ‘sitting’ (p = 0.041) and ‘standing’ (p = 0.019) items of the GMFM. Children with less visual impairment in parameters of the FVDMT [‘eye contact’ (p = 0.032), ‘social smile’ (p = 0.031) and ‘movements to achieve’ (p = 0.007)] had more stimulating home environment.

Conclusion

Nearly half of the children with CZS who exhibited neurodevelopmental delays lived in homes lacking appropriate sensory stimulation. This study suggests that motor and visual development, including fine and gross motor skills as well as functional vision, may be benefited by the quantity and quality of play and stimulation opportunities available at home.
What hepatology clinicians and their patients with alcohol‐related liver disease think of wearable alcohol biosensors to aid abstinence from alcohol: A qualitative study
Authors: DiMartini Andrea , Behari Jaideep , Punzi Jon , Dunn Michael , Bataller Ramon , Jakicic John M. , McNulty Mary , Young Ryan C. , Dew Mary Amanda
Published: December 2024

Introduction

We aimed to determine acceptability and feasibility of innovative wearable alcohol biosensor monitors (ABM) for patients with alcohol‐related liver disease (ALD) and their clinicians.

Methods

Patients and clinicians at a tertiary care centre participated in qualitative interviews on usability, acceptability, feasibility, efficiency/effectiveness, impact of device on behaviour/clinical practice and preferences/barriers. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and coded using a constant comparison method for category themes.

Results

Patients (n = 23) were 56% female, mean 44 years old, 87% White, with moderate–severe liver disease. Some felt the ABMs appearance was unappealing; others felt it provided an opportunity for openness and education of others. While some found it feasible to wear, others felt it was unrealistic to wear 24/7. Importantly, there were many positive themes on effectiveness/efficiency—participants felt the ABM could better record their alcohol use and patterns of use than they could remember. Patients felt wearing the ABM motivated abstinence, gave accountability and was a source of security.

Clinicians (n = 13) were mostly hepatologists (77%), seeing on average 38 ALD patients/month. Clinicians felt seeing patterns and amounts of alcohol use could inform clinical decision making and treatments but expressed concern over the volume and complexity of data.

Discussion and Conclusions

Perspectives on ABMs for managing ALD were mixed among patients and providers. Future device designs may overcome acceptability barriers due to device appearance. However, for clinicians, the logistics of data gathering plus the complexity and volume of data produced by the ABM device requires considerable thought to make this an efficient tool for clinical use. Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT03533660: Alcohol biosensor monitoring for alcohol liver disease.
Professional Development of Expatriate Higher Education Faculty Through Informal and Incidental Learning on Social Media
Authors: Zhou Yinyin , Gu Haibo , Wang Qian , Tornquist Michelle , Zhang Xiaojun
Published: December 2024

While formal, digital‐technology‐based professional development for higher education faculty has been extensively studied, informal and incidental learning (IIL) within this area remain underexplored. Integrating the Broaden‐and‐Build Theory with the Informal and Incidental Learning framework, this study examines how positive emotions influence faculty's social media engagement and trigger work‐related IIL, which subsequently enhances professional learning. Interviews were conducted with nine expatriate faculty at a Sino‐British transnational university. The narrative analysis reveals how social media engagement, facilitated by positive emotions, connects personal interests with professional needs to generate self‐directed professional development. This study highlights the value of social‐media‐based learning by distinguishing nuances between informal learning and incidental learning. Findings suggest that social‐media‐based IIL addresses individualised, real‐world challenges like cross‐cultural competencies. Implications for higher education policymakers emphasise the need for building a holistic professional learning environment where faculty's self‐initiated IIL is possible through digital platforms to meet their diverse, tailored needs for professional growth.
Serous‐like breast carcinomas: immunophenotypic, genetic, and clinicopathologic characterization of a morphologically distinct group of tumours
Authors: Krings Gregor , Shamir Eliah R. , Laé Marick , Bean Gregory R. , Post Miriam D. , Schnitt Stuart J. , Chen Yunn‐Yi
Published: December 2024

Aims

Unusual morphologic patterns of breast carcinomas can raise diagnostic consideration for metastasis or special breast cancer subtypes with management implications. We describe rare invasive breast cancers that mimic serous carcinoma of the gynaecologic tract (serous‐like breast carcinomas, SLBC) and characterize their clinicopathologic, immunophenotypic, and genetic features.

Methods and Results

All patients were female (n = 15, median age 49 years) without a history of gynaecologic malignancy. SLBC were characterized histologically by angulated, branched, sometimes anastomosing glands with micropapillary and/or pseudopapillary luminal projections in desmoplastic stroma. Most SLBC were triple‐negative (TN, n = 10) or HER2‐positive (n = 2) and grade 2 or 3, while some were oestrogen receptor (ER) low‐positive/HER2‐negative and low‐grade (n = 3). CK5/6 was positive irrespective of grade or receptor status (10/10). All SLBC expressed GATA3 (14/15), TRPS1 (7/7), and/or mammaglobin (4/13). SOX10 was positive in most TN (9/10) and all ER low‐positive (3/3) cases, but negative in HER2‐positive tumours. WT1 was universally negative, and PAX8 was focal in one mammaglobin‐positive tumour. All ER‐negative SLBC were p53‐aberrant and 9/11 were p16‐aberrant, whereas ER‐positive tumours were wildtype for both markers (3/3). TP53 was the only frequently mutated gene, altered in all ER‐negative (10/10) but no ER‐positive (0/4) tumours. Clinical behaviour was variable. Only 1/6 patients achieved pathologic complete response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Conclusion

SLBC is a rare morphologic pattern of invasive breast carcinoma that mimics metastatic serous gynaecologic carcinoma, a potential diagnostic pitfall. SLBC are heterogeneous with respect to grade, receptor profile, and oncogenic driver alterations, without specific genetic underpinnings identified. Additional studies are warranted to further evaluate the clinical behaviour of these tumours.
Nuclear morphological characterisation of lobular carcinoma variants: a morphometric study
Authors: Katayama Ayaka , Makhlouf Shorouk , Toss Michael S , Oyama Tetsunari , Rakha Emad A
Published: December 2024

Background and aims

Lobular carcinoma (LC) of the breast exhibits diverse morphology and clinical behaviour. The pleomorphic variant (pLC) displays distinct cytonuclear features and aggressiveness compared to the classic variant (cLC). However, diagnosing pLC remains subjective. This study aims to refine LC's cytonuclear features, focusing on pLC.

Methods

Whole slide images of 59 LCs, including both in situ (LCIS) and invasive (ILC) lesions, were analysed. Nuclear measurements, including nuclear size and variability, were scored using QuPath image analysis software. For comparison, selected features were scored in normal cells (n = 10) and pleomorphism score‐matched invasive breast carcinoma (IBC) of NST type (n = 33). Additional visual assessment of the pleomorphic ILC (pILC) cohort (n = 90) was conducted for cytomorphological features characterisation.

Results

pILC demonstrated larger nuclear area and higher nuclear variability with abundance of cytoplasm than cILC. Compared to lymphocytes, pILC demonstrated a median area ranging from 2.7 to 4.7 times larger. Cut‐off values for differentiating pILC from other ILC subtypes included median nuclear area > 48.2 μm2 and interquartile range (IQR) > 19.4, nuclear perimeter median > 25.2 μm and IQR > 5.3 and maximum diameter > 9.1 μm and IQR > 2.2. Multivariable logistic regression confirmed these parameters as independent predictors of pILC, with the maximum diameter being the most significant (P < 0.001). Visual assessment recognised two pILC subtypes: apocrine and non‐apocrine. Apocrine variant showed nuclear roundness, pale vesicular chromatin patterns and prominent nucleoli, while non‐apocrine variant exhibited greater nuclear size and shape variation.

Conclusions

Objective nuclear measurements, combined with cytoplasmic and architectural features, provide a robust framework for diagnosing LC subtypes, improving diagnostic accuracy and reproducibility.
A 4‐year follow‐up of root canal obturation using a calcium silicate‐based sealer and a zinc oxide‐eugenol sealer: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Bardini Giulia , Bellido Montse Mercade , Rossi‐Fedele Giampiero , Casula Laura , Dettori Claudia , Ideo Francesca , Cotti Elisabetta
Published: December 2024

Aim

This randomized clinical trial assessed the outcomes of nonsurgical root canal treatment (RCT), comparing a calcium silicate‐based sealer (CSBS) with the single‐cone technique (SC) with a zinc oxide‐eugenol (ZOE) sealer and warm vertical compaction (WVC).

Methodology

Ninety‐two single‐ and multi‐rooted teeth were divided into two groups and treated using either the SC with BioRoot™ RCS (BIO) or WVC with Pulp Canal Sealer™ EWT (PCS). Teeth with apical periodontitis (AP) in both groups were further divided into BIOAP and PCSAP subgroups. Standardized instrumentation and disinfection protocols were followed. Periapical index (PAI) was recorded, and clinical and radiographic follow‐ups were conducted at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48 months. Outcomes considered included success rate (under strict and loose criteria), extraction, length of filling, voids, and extrusion rate, as well as changes in PAI score from baseline. Outcome variables and prognostic factors were analysed using binary and multiple logistic regression at p < .05.

Results

Sixty‐seven teeth were included (recall rate, 73%). At 4‐year follow‐up, the overall success rates (BIO + PCS) were 89.6% by loose criteria and 83.3% by strict criteria. Subgroup success rates (BIOAP+PCSAP) were 88.5% by loose criteria and 80.4% by strict criteria. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of success rate, extraction rate, length of filling, voids, or extrusion (p > .05). The pattern of PAI reduction was similar in both groups (p = .806).

Conclusion

Treatment using the SC‐CSBS technique and the ZOE sealer with the WVC technique demonstrated a similar success rate.
Exercise and Sexuality in Women With Menopausal Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Yıldız Karaahmet Aysu , Dişli Çetinçay Duygu , Hotun Şahin Nevin
Published: December 2024

Aims

This systematic review and meta‐analysis study aim to assess the impact of different exercise modalities interventions in postmenopausal women on sexuality and the severity of menopausal symptoms.

Methods

The preparation of this systematic review and meta‐analysis rigorously adhered to the PRISMA 2020. This systematic review of the literature was conducted between May and June 2023, utilizing four electronic databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and ULAKBİM. Articles were screened using MeSH‐based keywords. Randomized Controlled Trials conducted within the last decade were included in the screening. Data analysis was performed using the Review Manager computer program.

Results

The analysis encompassed eight studies involving 1127 postmenopausal women. According to the results of the pooled random‐effects model, applied to women after 12 weeks of exercise, the data were significant, indicating a positive impact on sexuality (MD: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.72 to 1.01, Z = 11.47, p < 0.00001). Concerning the psychological symptoms of menopause, the data were also found to be significant, with improvements observed after 12 weeks of exercise in women (MD: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.49, Z = 2.15, p = 0.03).

Conclusion

This study provides evidence that a 12‐week exercise regimen administered during the postmenopausal period positively influences postmenopausal women's sexuality and ameliorates psychological menopausal symptoms. However, it does not appear to have an effect on vasomotor menopausal symptoms.

PROSPERO Number

CRD42023427991.
Dominant factors of thermal conduction in alkali silicate glasses and melts: A molecular dynamics study
Authors: Noguchi Yuma , Shimizu Masahiro , Sukenaga Sohei , Endo Rie , Nishi Tsuyoshi , Shimotsuma Yasuhiko , Miura Kiyotaka
Published: December 2024

As representative compositions of the mold flux used in the continuous casting of steel, the temperature and composition dependence of the thermal conductivity of alkali silicate glasses and melts was investigated in the range of 300–1700 K using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. MD simulations can exclude disturbances such as radiation, convection, and impurities, and extract only the effect of phonons on the thermal conduction. Thermal conductivity determined by the laser flash (LF) method was reported to be three times higher than that obtained by the unsteady hot wire (HW) method in the high‐temperature range of 1250–1550 K for 33.3Na2O–66.7SiO2 (mol%). This study shows that (1) the thermal conductivity estimated by MD simulations was closer to the experimental value of the LF method than those of the HW method above 1200 K, which suggests that the LF method is reliable and that the effect of radiation on the thermal conductivity is not significant. (2) The decrease in the thermal conductivity measured by the LF method in the range of 1250–1550 K was attributed to the decrease in the bulk modulus of the 33.3Na2O–66.7SiO2 melt. (3) In a series of Na2O–SiO2 melts, the sound velocity calculated by MD decreased with increasing Na2O content, which is consistent with Shiraishi's ultrasonic wave measurements.
Effects of urban life on the gut microbiota and the susceptibility to avian malaria infection in a population of the house sparrow Passer domesticus
Authors: Stanković Daliborka , Eira Pereira Hugo J. , Raković Marko , Skorić Stefan , Chakarov Nayden
Published: December 2024

Life in urban areas may alter the gut microbiota and host physiology, leading to a higher susceptibility to pathogens. In contrast, specific members of the gut microbiota community have been shown to mitigate the intensity of malaria infection. House sparrows, living in close proximity to humans, are exposed to a unique environment with human‐shaped diets emerging as a particularly influential factor. In addition, sparrows host a significant number of avian haemosporidian and other blood parasites. We examined how the gut bacterial community of house sparrows varied across two close urban sites in the city of Belgrade and the potential impact of blood parasite infection on the gut microbiota. Our results show that diversity and composition of the gut microbiota were only influenced by the sampling location, likely due to variations in food resources, particularly the availability of bird feed at one of the sites (a zoo). In summary, our results suggest the local microbial adaptations to differing levels of urbanisation habitats, in this case most likely driven by artificial alterations in food resources, but not reaching to effects on the blood parasite fauna.
Chemical signatures in the preen oil of pied flycatchers: testing reproducibility and exploring ontogeny
Authors: Jeanjean Laurence , Caspers Barbara A. , Schmoll Tim , Gilles Marc
Published: December 2024

Preen oil – the secretion from the uropygial gland of birds – may have diverse functions in avian reproduction: protection against eggshell bacteria, olfactory crypsis against nest predators and olfactory mate choice. To investigate such functions, we should first characterise variation in preen oil composition, but also confirm that previously described patterns are robust. Replication studies are crucial to test the reproducibility of previous findings, but are rarely undertaken in chemical ecology. Here, we conducted an almost exact replication of a previous study on the chemical composition of preen oil in a wild passerine bird, the pied flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca. We aimed to estimate the reproducibility of the previous results using larger sample sizes and following a pre‐registered analysis. In addition, we explored the ontogeny of preen oil composition by comparing nestling and adult preen oil. In line with previous findings, preen oil composition was similar between breeding partners and not repeatable within individual females across breeding stages. Female preen oil changed across breeding stages more clearly than in the original study (higher richness, diversity and volatility during incubation than nestling‐rearing), further refuting a role of preen oil in olfactory crypsis in this species. Unlike the original study, we found no difference in chemical profiles between sexes (nestling‐rearing), casting doubt on the proposed role of preen oil as a sex semiochemical in this species. Nestling preen oil differed from adults, was more similar to adult males than to adult females, but was not more similar to parents than to non‐parents. We found family chemical signatures, which, along with the breeding pair signature, suggests an influence of the nest environment on preen oil composition. Our study highlights the importance of replication and provides novel insights into the function and development of preen oil.
Peri‐Carpathian Forest‐Steppe Grasslands: Distribution, Indicator Species and Extreme Species Richness
Authors: Roleček Jan , Dřevojan Pavel , Hájková Petra , Willner Wolfgang , Janišová Monika , Lengyel Attila , Chorney Illya , Kuzemko Anna , Goia Irina , Vassilev Kiril , Hájek Michal
Published: December 2024

Aim

We aim to refine the definition of peri‐Carpathian forest‐steppe grasslands, provide an updated distribution map, identify consensus indicator species and summarise data on their extreme species richness.

Location

East‐Central Europe (Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Ukraine).

Taxon

Vascular plants.

Methods

A total of 127 vegetation plots from large vegetation databases and field sampling were classified as the Brachypodio‐Molinietum association based on two criteria: (1) the existing formal definition and (2) a threshold of consensus indicator species derived from a literature review. The plots were mapped, and their basic habitat conditions were characterised. Habitat affiliations of consensus indicator species were expressed using the diagnostic species lists in the EuroVegChecklist. Maximum species richness values were extracted from the plot data and summarised.

Results

Peri‐Carpathian forest‐steppe grasslands of the Brachypodio‐Molinietum association have been recorded across a large area of East‐Central Europe, particularly in the lower to middle altitudes of the Western and Eastern Carpathians and their foothills and adjacent regions. These grasslands typically occur in moderately warm, relatively precipitation‐rich regions with deep soils, primarily on plateaus and gentle slopes of up to 10°, developed predominantly over less consolidated Mesozoic and Tertiary sedimentary rocks. We identified 60 consensus indicator species, mostly species of forest‐steppe habitats, with species of mesic grasslands also well represented. The current maxima of vascular plant species richness exceed 110 species per 10–16 m2. These maxima have been recorded in three regions: the Prut‐Siret Interfluve in western Ukraine, the NW Transylvanian Basin in Romania and the White Carpathian Mts in the Czech Republic.

Main Conclusions

The extremely species‐rich peri‐Carpathian forest‐steppe grasslands are confined to a geographically well‐defined area of East‐Central Europe. The observed fine‐scale species richness of vascular plants is currently the highest known in the world. In addition to similar habitat conditions, the presence of an ancient forest‐steppe species pool appears to be a prerequisite for such extreme species richness. Recent paleoecological evidence supports this hypothesis.
Incidence and Predictors of Adverse Events Among Patients Awaiting Left Atrial Appendage Closure
Authors: Pieper Justin , Bhuta Sapan , Poliner Michael , Hansen Brian J. , Ward Chad C. , Savona Salvatore J. , Augostini Ralph S. , Kalbfleisch Steven J. , Afzal Muhammad R. , Houmsse Mahmoud , Daoud Emile G. , Hummel John D.
Published: December 2024

Background

There is a paucity of data regarding the optimal timing of left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) and whether scheduling delays increase the risk for adverse outcomes.

Objectives

This study sought to assess the incidence and predictors of adverse events among patients awaiting LAAC.

Methods

This single‐center retrospective study assessed all patients who underwent LAAC from January 2017 to March 2020. The primary study endpoints were the rate and characteristics of adverse events occurring from the time of initial shared decision to pursue LAAC until the time of LAAC. Adverse events were defined as clinically significant bleeding or anemia, thromboembolic complications, or death. Patients were censored after successful closure or the first adverse event.

Results

Two hundred and sixty‐five patients underwent LAAC with demographics notable for age 73.5 ± 8.1 years, 98 (37%) females, left ventricular ejection fraction 52.3% ± 10.4%, CHA2DS2‐VASc 4.8 ± 1.4, and HAS‐BLED 3.2 ± 1.2. Median time from shared decision to insurance approval and insurance approval to LAAC were 18 (IQR 28) and 44 (IQR 40) days, respectively. Seventeen (6%) patients suffered an adverse event, including 15 (88%) cases of bleeding or anemia and 2 (12%) cases of thromboembolism. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that increased time to LAAC (odds ratio [OR] 1.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.15, 1.50], p < 0.001) and higher HAS‐BLED score (OR 1.67, CI [1.11, 2.59], p = 0.017) were associated with significantly increased risk for adverse events.

Conclusion

Prolonged time to LAAC and higher HAS‐BLED score portend an increased risk for adverse events while awaiting LAAC. Expedited closure is warranted in high‐risk patients.
Peripheral myelin: From development to maintenance
Authors: Schumacher Nathalie , Vandenbosch Renaud , Franzen Rachelle
Published: December 2024

Peripheral myelin is synthesized by glial cells called Schwann cells (SCs). SC development and differentiation must be tightly regulated to avoid any pathological consequence affecting peripheral nerve function. Neuropathic symptoms can arise from developmental issues in SCs, as well as in adult life through processes affecting mature SCs. In this review we focus on SC differentiation from the immature towards the myelinating and non‐myelinating SC stages, defining molecular mechanisms outlining radial sorting, a multi‐stepped event essential for immature SC differentiation and myelination. We also describe mechanisms regulating myelin sheath maintenance and SC homeostasis during aging. Finally, we will conclude with some remaining questions in the field of SC biology.

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Data Measurement, Instruments and Sampling
Authors: Slater Paul , Hasson Felicity
Published: December 2024

Data measurement, instrument selection, and sampling are fundamental elements in quantitative research and data collection. Data measurement is the systematic assignment of numeric values or categories to variables to permit measurement with precision and accuracy. Instrument selection involves selecting the right tool or method to collect data effectively and accurately and ensure the reliability and validity of the data. Sampling is the process of selecting a subset of individuals or items from a larger population to best represent that population, free of bias and generalizable. Understanding these key terms ensures that data collected is valid, reliable, and appropriate for future statistical analysis and interpretation.
Clinical presentation, diagnostic findings and short‐term outcome in French bulldogs with presumptive spinal only meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin: 15 cases (2016‐2023)
Authors: Boudou R. , Troupel T. , Bedu A. S. , Dussaux A. , Dutil G. , Frankar H. , Giraud L. , Papageorgiou S. , van Caenegem N. , Jeandel A.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To describe clinical presentation, diagnostic findings and outcome of presumptive spinal only meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin in French bulldogs, and to compare clinical presentation between intervertebral disc herniation and spinal only meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin in this breed.

Material and Methods

Medical records of French bulldogs diagnosed with presumptive spinal only meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin in seven referral centres were reviewed. Clinical presentation was compared to a group of French bulldogs with intervertebral disc herniation.

Results

Fifteen French bulldogs were included. Median age at presentation was 31 months. Most dogs were presented with a chronic onset (54%), and the median duration of clinical signs before diagnosis was 21 days. The most common presentation was ambulatory paresis and proprioceptive ataxia (80%). Spinal pain was uncommon (20%). There was no preferential location between the cervical and thoracolumbar segments. In all but one case, magnetic resonance imaging revealed broad focal or multifocal, poorly defined, intramedullary lesions that typically appeared hyperintense on T2W images and isointense on T1W images with parenchymal and/or meningeal contrast enhancement in 12 dogs (80%). Median total nucleated cell count in cerebrospinal fluid was 15 cells/mm3 with predominance of mononuclear cells in all cases. Follow‐up (available for 12 dogs, ranging from 1 month to 1 year) indicated initial positive response to various immunosuppressive treatments in all but one case, with subsequent suspected relapse in three cases. Dogs with spinal only meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin had longer clinical sign duration compared to intervertebral disc herniation cases (60 dogs) (21 days compared to 3 days, respectively) and less frequent spinal pain during examination (20% compared to 75%, respectively).

Clinical Significance

Spinal only meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin is an uncommon cause of myelopathy in French bulldogs that should be particularly considered in young adults with non‐acute and non‐painful presentation.
Objective sleep monitoring at home in older adults: A scoping review
Authors: Ghazi Sarah Nauman , Behrens Anders , Berner Jessica , Sanmartin Berglund Johan , Anderberg Peter
Published: December 2024

Inadequate sleep in older adults is linked to health issues such as frailty, cognitive impairment and cardiovascular disorders. Maintaining regular sleep patterns is important for healthy aging, making effective sleep monitoring essential. While polysomnography is the gold‐standard for diagnosing sleep disorders, its regular use in home settings is limited. Alternative objective monitoring methods in the home can offer insights into natural sleep patterns and factors affecting them without the limitations of polysomnography. This scoping review aims to examine current technologies, sensors and sleep parameters used for home‐based sleep monitoring in older adults. It also aims to explore various predictors and outcomes associated with sleep to understand the factors of sleep monitoring at home. We identified 54 relevant articles using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and an AI tool (Research Rabbit), with 48 studies using wearable technologies and eight studies using non‐wearable technologies. Further, six types of sensors were utilized. The most common technology employed was actigraphy wearables, while ballistocardiography and electroencephalography were less common. The most frequent objective parameters of sleep measured were total sleep time, wakeup after sleep onset and sleep efficiency, with only six studies evaluating sleep architecture in terms of sleep stages. Additionally, six categories of predictors and outcomes associated with sleep were analysed, including Health‐related, Environmental, Interventional, Behavioural, Time and Place, and Social associations. These associations correlate with total sleep time, wakeup after sleep onset and sleep efficiency, and include in‐bed behaviours, exterior housing conditions, aerobic exercise, living place, relationship status, and seasonal thermal environments.
Unsuccessful Direct Acting Antiviral Hepatitis C Treatment Among People With HIV: Findings From an International Cohort
Authors: Harney Brendan L. , Sacks‐Davis Rachel , van Santen Daniela K. , Stewart Ashleigh C. , Matthews Gail V. , Carson Joanne M. , Klein Marina B. , Lacombe Karine , Wittkop Linda , Salmon Dominque , Leleux Olivier , Merchadou Laurence , van der Valk Marc , Smit Colette , Prins Maria , Boyd Anders , Berenguer Juan , Jarrin Inmaculada , Rauch Andri , Hellard Margaret E. , Doyle Joseph S.
Published: December 2024

Background

Historically, hepatitis C virus (HCV) was difficult to treat among people with HIV. However, treatment with direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) results in 90%–95% of people being cured. There is a need to understand why a proportion of people are not cured. We aimed to examine characteristics that may indicate an increased probability of unsuccessful DAA HCV treatment.

Methods

Data were from the International Collaboration on Hepatitis C Elimination in HIV Cohorts. People who commenced DAA HCV treatment between 2014 and 2019 were included. Unsuccessful treatment was defined as a positive HCV RNA test at a person's first RNA test at least 4 weeks (SVR4+) following the end of treatment. Multivariable mixed‐effects logistic regression was used to examine characteristics associated with unsuccessful treatment.

Results

Of 4468 people who commenced DAA treatment, 4098 (91.7%) had an SVR test 4+ weeks following the end of treatment, 207 (5%) of whom were unsuccessfully treated. Compared to a CD4+ cell count > 500 cells/mm3, cell counts < 200 (aOR 1.81, 95%CI 1.00–3.29) and between 200 and 349 (aOR 1.95, 95%CI 1.30–2.93) were associated with increased odds of unsuccessful treatment. Among 1921 people with data on injection drug use in the 12 months prior to treatment, there was some evidence that recent injection drug use was associated with increased odds of unsuccessful treatment; however, this was not statistically significant (aOR 1.67, 95%CI 0.99–2.82).

Conclusions

The overwhelming majority of people were successfully treated for HCV. Overall, 5% of those with an SVR4+ test were unsuccessfully treated; this was more likely among people with evidence of immunodeficiency and those who reported recently injecting drugs.
Genetic Variants Influence the Severity of Oral Mucositis in Pediatric Osteosarcoma Patients
Authors: Zieger Renata de Almeida , Botton Mariana Rodrigues , Curra Marina , Gabriel Amanda de Farias , Thieme Stefanie , Jardim Luisa Comerlato , Martins Marco Antonio Trevizani , Matte Ursula da Silveira , Brunetto André Tesainer , Gregianin Lauro José , Roesler Rafael , Sonis Stephen T. , Siebert Marina , Martins Manoela Domingues
Published: December 2024

Background

The variability in patients' risk of oral mucositis (OM) has been, in part, attributed to differences in host genomics. The aim better define the role of genomics as an OM risk by investigating the association between genetic variants and the presence and severity of OM in pediatric patients with osteosarcoma (OS) undergoing chemotherapy (CT).

Methods

A longitudinal observational retrospective study was conducted. Severity of OM was assessed daily using World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. Blood samples were collected, and DNA was extracted. 54 coding regions were analyzed for 17 candidate genes using next‐generation sequencing.

Results

A total of 164 CT cycles were evaluated in 14 pediatric patients being treated for OS with HDMTX (66.9%) and doxorubicin + cisplatin (34.1%). OM was diagnosed in 129 cycles (78.7%). Whereas the presence of OM was associated with ABCA3 (rs13332514) in HDMTX cycles, OM severity was associated with ABCC2 (rs2273697) in multivariate analysis. In doxorubicin + cisplatin, genetic variants of ABC family genes (ABCC2 and ABCC6) were associated with OM in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

Oral mucositis risk and severity in a pediatric population being treated for OS with HDMTX, doxorubicin, and cisplatin were associated with genes in the ABC family (ABCA3, ABCC2, and ABCC6 genes).
Divergence and shift in the migratory life history of a salmonid fish during the transition to a new environment
Authors: Nakanishi Yuta , Ohta Tamihisa , Iizuka Tsuyoshi , Kishi Daisuke , Noda Shohei , Shida Takeya , Ueda Rui , Sato Takuya
Published: December 2024

Migration strategy requires complex life‐history decisions, and how variation in migration strategies can increase or decrease during migration to novel environments is fundamentally important for population persistence and adaptation for migratory animals. An anadromous form of red‐spotted masu salmon exhibited limited sea migratory patterns probably due to high migration costs in its southernmost habitat range. Contrary to this, we here found that the masu salmon have increased and shifted their migratory patterns when they migrate to freshwater lakes (i.e. adfluvial migration). Adfluvial migrants spent 1–3 years in lakes whereas anadromous migrants spend only half a year at sea. In addition, adfluvial migrants returned to the river to reproduce after maturation, whereas all anadromous migrants did so before maturation. Furthermore, males often adopted migratory tactics, shifting the migration propensity from female‐biased to unbiased, in a lake. The diversification of the years of migration and the shifts in return‐migration timing and sex‐ratio of migrants were only found in deep lakes, where migrants can continue migrating in the favour of the cold water of lakes. The present study demonstrated that a migratory salmonid extensively diversified and shifted its migratory life history, often requiring complex adjustments in life history traits with a genetic basis, in novel environments.
Characterization of Myocardial Recovery in Patients With Tachycardiomyopathy
Authors: Bachani Neeta , Shah Harshad , Bansal Raghav , Soorampally Vijay , Panicker Gopi Krishna , Lokhandwala Yash
Published: December 2024

Background

The degree and time course of improvement in left ventricular (LV) function with treatment in patients with tachycardiomyopathy (TCMP) is highly variable. This study aims to clinically characterize the recovery of TCMP based on the extent and course of improvement in LV function and identify predictors of complete myocardial recovery.

Methods

In this prospective, single‐center, observational study, patients with suspected TCMP who underwent successful tachyarrhythmia termination/control were included. Clinical and echocardiographic assessment of LV function was done at baseline, within 1 h after tachyarrhythmia termination, 24 h later, and at 12 weeks follow‐up.

Results

Ninety‐nine patients were enrolled in the study. Six patients had immediate normalization of LV ejection fraction (LVEF) with reversion to sinus rhythm and were labeled as “pseudo‐TCMP”; the remaining 93 patients were included in the analysis. Based on complete versus partial normalization of LVEF at 12‐week follow‐up, 50 patients (53.8%) were labeled as completely recovered TCMP and 43 (46.2%) as partially recovered TCMP respectively. Causative arrhythmias included atrial fibrillation (38%), focal atrial tachycardia (28%), atrial flutter (22%), ventricular arrhythmias (11%), and orthodromic re‐entrant tachycardia (2%). The LVEF at presentation was 0.25 ± 0.05 which improved to 0.36 ± 0.11 within 1 h after tachycardia termination (p < 0.0001), 0.41 ± 0.14 24 h later (p = 0.009) and to 0.52 ± 0.12 at 12 weeks follow‐up (p < 0.0001). Male gender was the only differentiating statistically significant variable between completely recovered and partially recovered TCMP, 24 (48%) versus 30 (69.7%) respectively (p = 0.0339).

Conclusion

Nearly half of the TCMP patients have complete recovery of LV function at 12 weeks follow‐up, while the other half have a partial recovery only. There was no robust predictor of complete myocardial recovery.
A Nowcasting System for Hydrometeorological Hazard Assessment of Landslides and Flooding – Part 1: Conceptual Formulation
Authors: Abi Karam Hugo
Published: December 2024

This study presents a novel very short-term hydro-meteorological forecasting system integrating precipitation data from Hydroestimator/NOAA. The system employs a variational version of the TopModel hydrological model alongside landslide and flood hazard models. Operating in continuous 15-minute cycles, it produces scalar and probabilistic two-dimensional hazard fields to support decision-making during extreme events across the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, at a spatial resolution of 4 km. The evaluation of this system considers performance indicators based on contingency tables. Emphasizing a balanced approach between computational efficiency and product utility, this study aims to provide a robust analysis of the system's predictive capabilities in addressing hydro-meteorological challenges.