bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimising Exome Captures in Species With Large Genomes Using Species‐Specific Repetitive DNA Blocker
Authors: Kesälahti Robert , Kumpula Timo A. , Cervantes Sandra , Kujala Sonja T. , Mattila Tiina M. , Tyrmi Jaakko S. , Niskanen Alina K. , Rastas Pasi , Savolainen Outi , Pyhäjärvi Tanja 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTLarge and highly repetitive genomes are common. However, research interests usually lie within the non‐repetitive parts of the genome, as they are more likely functional, and can be used to answer questions related to adaptation, selection and evolutionary history. Exome capture is a cost‐effective method for providing sequencing data from protein‐coding parts of the genes. C0t‐1 DNA blockers consist of repetitive DNA and are used in exome captures to prevent the hybridisation of repetitive DNA sequences to capture baits or bait‐bound genomic DNA. Universal blockers target repetitive regions shared by many species, while species‐specific c0t‐1 DNA is prepared from the DNA of the studied species, thus perfectly matching the repetitive DNA contents of the species. So far, the use of species‐specific c0t‐1 DNA has been limited to a few model species. Here, we evaluated the performance of blocker treatments in exome captures of Pinus sylvestris, a widely distributed conifer species with a large (> 20 Gbp) and highly repetitive genome. We compared treatment with a commercial universal blocker to treatments with species‐specific c0t‐1 (30,000 and 60,000 ng). Species‐specific c0t‐1 captured more unique exons than the initial set of targets leading to increased SNP discovery and reduced sequencing of tandem repeats compared to the universal blocker. Based on our results, we recommend optimising exome captures using at least 60,000 ng of species‐specific c0t‐1 DNA. It is relatively easy and fast to prepare and can also be used with existing bait set designs.
Adherence to the Swedish paediatric guidelines for urinary tract infections
Authors: Lindén Magnus , Rosenblad Therese , Hansson Sverker , Brandström Per 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAimTo audit adherence to the Swedish paediatric guidelines for urinary tract infections (UTIs) in infants. Secondary objectives were to compare findings on imaging performed according to the guidelines with imaging without guideline support and to identify predictors of non‐adherence.MethodsA prospective multicentre study of infants <1 year treated at paediatric hospitals for their first UTI. Adherence to recommendations was assessed for diagnosis, treatment, and imaging of the urinary tract with a follow‐up period of 1 year. Vesicoureteral reflux on voiding cystourethrography and findings on renal scintigraphy according to recommendations were compared to imaging without recommendation.ResultsA total of 1357 infants were included. Adherence to recommended diagnostic procedures, antibiotic treatment, and imaging was 86.1%, 91.0% and 64.2%, respectively. Non‐adherence to imaging recommendations was associated with inpatient management and smaller hospitals but was also more often due to excessive rather than refrained imaging.ConclusionHigh adherence rates to diagnostic and treatment recommendations indicate careful attention to infant UTI among paediatricians. Lower adherence to imaging recommendations raises concerns regarding the guideline algorithm; particularly, early DMSA scans seem to be challenging for smaller hospitals.
Altered Hippocampal Subfields Functional Connectivity in Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Patients With Residual Dizziness: A Resting‐State fMRI Study
Authors: Chen Zhengwei , Xiao Lijie , Liu Yueji , Wei Xiue , Wang Zhuo , Cao Xingyi , Liu Haiyan , Zhai Yujia , Rong Liangqun 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveTo explore alterations in functional connectivity (FC) focusing on hippocampal subfields in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) patients with residual dizziness (RD) after successful canalith repositioning procedure (CRP).MethodsWe conducted resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) on 95 BPPV patients, comprising 50 patients with RD and 45 without. Seed‐to‐voxel and seed‐to‐seed analyses were employed to examine changes in FC between the two groups. The hippocampal subfields, including the bilateral dentate gyrus (DG), cornu ammonis (CA), entorhinal cortex (EC), subiculum, and hippocampal amygdalar transition area (HATA) were selected as seeds. Additionally, we assessed the relationship between abnormal FC and clinical symptoms.ResultsSeed‐to‐voxel analysis indicated that, compared to non‐RD patients, those with RD exhibited decreased FC between the right DG and right parietal operculum cortex, right HATA and right precuneus, left HATA and left precuneus, left EC and cerebellar vermis 8/−crus 1, and between the left subiculum and left angular gyrus. Conversely, we observed increased FC between the left CA and left lingual gyrus, as well as between the right CA and right fusiform gyrus in RD patients. Furthermore, these variations in FC were significantly correlated with clinical features including the duration of RD and scores on the Hamilton Anxiety Scale and Dizziness Handicap Inventory.ConclusionBPPV patients with RD exhibited altered FC between hippocampal subfields and brain regions associated with spatial orientation and navigation, vestibular and visual processing, and emotional regulation. These findings offer novel insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms in BPPV patients with RD following successful CRP.
Urban Violence and Maxillofacial Trauma: Sex Differences in a Cross‐Sectional Study From Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Authors: Fernandes Ighor Andrade , de Paula Liliam Pacheco Pinto , Bastos Juliana Vilela , da Silveira Pinto Rafaela , Falci Saulo Gabriel Moreira , de Paula Silva Carlos José 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackground/AimUrban violence represents a significant public health issue globally due to its profound impact on daily life and the high prevalence of victims seeking care in health services. This study aims to evaluate sex differences in victimization patterns, using maxillofacial trauma as a marker for urban violence.Material and MethodsThis cross‐sectional study analyzed data from medical records of patients treated for traumatic injuries at a referral hospital for traumatology in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, between January 2008 and December 2022. Statistical analysis included both descriptive and multivariate methods, with logistic regression used to examine the association between epidemiological variables and sex in cases of urban violence leading to maxillofacial trauma, especially those resulting from interpersonal violence and traffic accidents.ResultsA total of 6447 records were reviewed, with 32.5% of the cases involving female patients. Among female victims, the age group of 30 to 59 years was the most frequently affected. Violence predominantly occurred at night (75.8%) and on weekdays (52.8%), with most cases classified as naked aggression (71.4%). Women were less likely to sustain multiple fractures than men (OR = 0.72, 95% CI 0.57–0.92) when compared to dentoalveolar trauma. Additionally, female patients with facial trauma were more likely to receive conservative treatment compared to male patients (OR = 1.58, 95% CI 1.31–1.91).ConclusionSex differences are an important parameter in understanding victimization patterns associated with maxillofacial injuries resulting from urban violence. Is the findings suggest that men are more frequently victims of severe trauma and are more likely to undergo surgical treatment for maxillofacial fractures than women.
Vascular risk factors are associated with grey matter atrophy in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: John Nevin A. , Li Yingtong , De Angelis Floriana , Stutters Jonathan , Prados Ferran , Doshi Anisha , Calvi Alberto , Williams Thomas , Plantone Domenico , Phan Thanh , Gandini Wheeler‐Kingshott Claudia A. M. , Barkhof Frederik , Chataway Jeremy ,   MS‐SMART Investigators
Published: December 2024

AbstractBackgroundComorbidities including vascular risk factors can be associated with whole and regional brain atrophy in multiple sclerosis (MS). This has been examined in mixed MS cohorts in prospective or observational studies; however, the association between vascular comorbidities (VCM) in secondary progressive MS (SPMS) and brain atrophy has been less well studied. The aim was to investigate the cross‐sectional and longitudinal association between VCM, comorbidity burden and brain atrophy in SPMS.MethodsPost hoc analysis of 445 participants from the MS–Secondary Progressive multi‐arm trial (MS‐SMART)−a multi‐arm multicentre phase‐2b randomised placebo‐controlled trial of three agents in SPMS (NCT01910259). VCM (hypertension, hyperlipidaemia) but also asthma, hypothyroidism and osteoporosis were recorded. Regional and whole brain volume (WBV), and percentage brain volume change were calculated using SIENAX and SIENA, respectively. Multiple linear regression was used to investigate the cross‐sectional and longitudinal relationships between VCM, overall comorbidity count and whole brain, grey matter (GM) and white matter (WM) atrophy.ResultsThe cohort was predominantly female (67%), mean age 55 with median EDSS 6.0. In total, 13% and 9% had hypertension and hyperlipidaemia, respectively. In cross‐sectional regression models, VCM was associated with decreased cortical GM volume [(hypertension β = −0.30, 95%CI −0.54 to −0.06, p = 0.01) (hyperlipidaemia β = −0.37, 95%CI −0.64 to −0.09, p = 0.008)]; but not WBV. Having ≥2 comorbidities was also associated with decreased cortical GM volume (β = −0.36, 95%CI −0.61 to −0.10, p = 0.007). No relationship was observed between VCM/comorbidity count and whole brain or GM atrophy rate over 96 weeks.ConclusionsPeople with SPMS with VCM or increased overall comorbidity burden showed reduced whole brain and especially cortical grey matter volumes, but no significant impact on subsequent 2‐year atrophy rate was detected.
Tech‐driven excellence: A quantitative analysis of cutting‐edge technology impact on professional sports training
Authors: Huang Meiyan , Yongquan Tang 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAimIn recent years, the integration of cutting‐edge technology into professional sports training (ST) has revolutionized the way athletes prepare for competition. The study aims to quantitatively analyse the impact of cutting‐edge technology on enhancing performance, efficiency, and outcomes in professional ST programs.PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate how advanced technologies influence training effectiveness in professional sports, with a focus on performance enhancement, injury prevention, and overall athlete development.MethodsThis study utilized a quantitative descriptive research design to assess technology's impact on ST. A sample of 450 sports professionals, selected through purposive sampling, completed structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using SPSS to identify correlations between technology use and training outcomes.FindingsThe research findings indicate that athletes utilizing virtual reality (VR), AR, and wearable technology (WT) in their training exhibit significant improvements in performance metrics (PM) and a reduction in injury risks compared to those relying on traditional training methods.ResultThe study results demonstrate that technology‐assisted training improves cognitive skills (CS), decision‐making, and psychological aspects like motivation and focus. Additionally, advanced analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) enable more effective, personalized coaching strategies, enhancing overall training outcomes.OriginalityThis study's contribution lies in its novel approach, demonstrating virtual and augmented reality, wearable tech, and advanced analytics enhance ST by improving performance, CS, and resilience, while also reducing injuries and speeding up recovery.ConclusionThis research significantly advances the sports science domain by offering empirical evidence supporting technology integration, filling prevalent gaps in the current literature.
A Novel Approach to Identifying Appropriate Candidates for Transvenous Lead Extraction
Authors: Beccarino Nicholas J. , Guntaka Saimanoj , Needelman Brandon , Thangavelu Rachel , Gabriels James K. , Epstein Laurence M. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe need for transvenous lead extractions (TLEs) in the setting of cardiac implantable electronic device‐(CIED) related infections continues to rise. Delays in referral for TLE in this setting are common and are associated with increased mortality.ObjectiveTo describe the outcomes of a comprehensive approach, including an electronic medical record (EMR)‐based notification algorithm designed to identify patients with active CIED‐related infections to facilitate timely TLE.MethodsFollowing an interdepartmental education initiative at a high‐volume extraction center, an EMR based notification algorithm generated alerts for all inpatients with a CIED who received intravenous antibiotics or had positive blood cultures between September 2022 and February 2024. Patients deemed to be high risk underwent an electrophysiology consultation and were managed at the discretion of the treating electrophysiologist. Demographics, procedural details, and clinical outcomes were analyzed.Results1829 notifications were screened over the study period. Thirty‐nine consults were generated (2%). Of these patients, 18 TLEs were performed (46%). Patients who underwent TLE had MSSA (56%), MRSA (22%), enterococcus (11%), Serratia (5.6%), or S. gallolyticus (5.6%) bacteremia. The median time from the review to consultation was 1 day (IQR: 0, 1 days) and review to TLE was 2 days (IQR: 1, 2.75 days). Survival in the extraction group was 67% after a median follow‐up period of 133 days (IQR: 59, 223 days).ConclusionA comprehensive approach, including an EMR‐based notification algorithm allowed for the early identification of patients who were appropriate candidates for TLE due to CIED‐related infections. Use of this algorithm facilitated timely TLEs.
A Novel Injectable Polypeptide Nanoparticle Encapsulated siRNA Targeting TGF‐β1 and COX‐2 for Localized Fat Reduction II: Phase I Clinical Trial
Authors: Nestor Mark S. , Hetzel John , Awad Nardin , Bhupalam Vishnu , Lu Patrick , Molyneaux Michael 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundRising demand for non‐invasive body contouring is driven by aesthetics and the obesity epidemic. Deoxycholic acid (DCA) is the only FDA‐approved injectable for fat reduction but can cause side effects and significant local skin reactions (LSR). RNA interference, using small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules, offers targeted fat reduction by silencing genes involved in fat maintenance. STP705, a siRNA injectable targeting TGF‐β1 and COX‐2, has shown promising preclinical results both in vitro and in animal models.AimsTo evaluate the safety and tolerability of STP705 for localized fat reduction in subjects undergoing abdominoplasty.MethodsThis phase I dose‐ranging, randomized, vehicle‐controlled trial involved eight females undergoing abdominoplasty who received subcutaneous STP705 injections at varying concentrations and volumes in designated abdominal zones. Safety assessments, including physical exams, lab tests, ECGs, and local skin reactions (LSRs), were conducted at baseline and follow‐ups. Histopathologic evaluations of biopsies collected during abdominoplasty assessed adipocyte apoptosis and tissue remodeling.ResultsSTP705 demonstrated a favorable safety profile with no clinically significant changes in lab values, vital signs, or ECGs. Adverse events (AEs) were rare and transient. The incidence, intensity, and duration of LSRs were low throughout the study. Histological analysis revealed adipocyte destruction, fat remodeling, and necrosis.ConclusionSTP705 was safe and very well‐tolerated and showed preliminary efficacy in inducing adipocyte apoptosis and tissue remodeling, suggesting a safer alternative or adjunct to existing fat reduction therapies. These findings support further trials to establish the safety and efficacy of STP705 for targeted fat reduction and body contouring.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05422378
A comparative analysis of gamete production in distylous Primula: Associations with floral traits and elevation
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Zeng Gui , Barrett Spencer C. H. , Xu Yuan , Hao Kai , Luo Shixiao , Zhang Dianxiang 
Published: December 2024

AbstractDespite the importance of gamete production this topic has rarely been investigated in angiosperms using comparative approaches. Here, we investigated pollen and ovule numbers per flower in 73 species and 99 populations of Primula comprising both distylous and homostylous reproductive systems. We investigated whether phylogenetic relationships influenced associations between variation in gamete production, floral traits and elevation, and whether the evolutionary breakdown of distyly to homostyly resulted in parallel changes to gamete production. We used a Bayesian approach facilitated by the MCMCglmm method to model pollen and ovule traits across species and determined whether they exhibited phylogenetic signals. We detected significant positive correlations between pollen number and elevation in both the long‐styled and short‐styled morphs (L‐morph and S‐morph, respectively), whereas ovule number was not influenced by elevation. Pollen production was significantly higher in the L‐morph than in the S‐morph, but there was no significant difference between morphs in ovule number. Pollen volume exhibited a positive correlation with the style length of compatible morphs. The transition from distyly to homostyly was associated with significant decreases in pollen production but not ovule number. Our findings demonstrate the importance of elevation on pollen production, perhaps because of selection to improve pollen‐transfer efficiency in uncertain pollinator environments. In contrast, ovule number variation appears to be more constrained by phylogenetic relationships. Our comparative analyses of a well defined angiosperm lineage highlight the complex interactions between intrinsic and extrinsic factors influencing gamete production in plants and emphasize the importance of considering pollen and ovule data separately.
Maybe later: Term limits and strategy behind candidate entry
Authors: Newton Jordon 
Published: December 2024

AbstractWhile academics have examined how term limits affect elected officials, little work has gone into understanding the way they alter challenger behavior. I argue that they reduce the number of candidates who challenge incumbents, leading to a lock‐in effect. By increasing the frequency of open races, term limits incentivize potential challengers to wait for an open race. To demonstrate this, I analyze primary data from 85 legislative chambers in 44 states over a two‐decade period to see how term limits alter challenger entry patterns. I show that term‐limited incumbents face fewer challengers in their last two terms in office and challenges are weaker, while competition for open races ramps up. In doing so, I provide a major insight into how term limits alter challenger decision‐making to run for entry‐level office while improving our understanding of candidate entry by accounting for multiple potential points of entry.
Impact of short‐ and long‐duration thermal stress on antioxidant enzyme activity in Parthenium beetles
Authors: Yadav Priyanka , Patel Arvind Kumar , Singh Parinita , Verma Sourabh , Chowdhury Ritabrata , Kumar Bhupendra 
Published: December 2024

AbstractInsects encounter variable temperature conditions in their natural habitats. Under non‐optimal temperatures, they experience thermal stress and oxidative damage, which are mitigated by antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and lipid peroxidation (LPO). While short‐term effects of thermal stress on antioxidant enzyme activities in insects are well understood, the long‐term effects are less explored. We investigated both short‐term (3 and 6 h) and long‐term (24 h) effects of thermal stress on SOD, CAT and LPO activities in the Parthenium beetle, Zygogramma bicolorata Pallister at cold (15°C), control/optimal (25°C) and hot (35°C) temperatures. Although Z. bicolorata is an effective biocontrol agent for noxious Parthenium weed, no prior study assessed the impact of thermal stress on antioxidant enzyme activities in this beetle. Our results revealed that antioxidant enzymes activities increased above control levels in both larvae and adults when exposed to thermal stress for short durations. Under long‐term thermal stress, CAT and LPO activities decreased below control levels, while SOD activity increased. Regardless of temperature conditions, early larval instars exhibited higher enzyme activities compared to later instars. In adults, males showed higher SOD and CAT activities, whereas LPO activity did not differ significantly between sexes. Our findings suggest that short‐term thermal stress can stimulate protective enzyme activity in these beetles and help them adapt to suboptimal temperatures. However, prolonged exposure may lead to excessive stimulation, potentially inhibiting protective enzyme activity and causing the beetles to activate alternative pathways to manage thermal stress. Moreover, fourth instars and adult females are the most thermal stress‐tolerant stages for Parthenium biocontrol.
Within‐ and between therapist variability in movement and physiological synchrony and its effects on symptom change
Authors: Uhl Jessica , Altmann Uwe , Rafaeli Eshkol , Bungart Patrick , Lutz Wolfgang 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe predictive power of movement and electrodermal activity (EDA) synchrony has been demonstrated in various studies. Although most studies have examined each synchrony modality separately, a growing interest in the simultaneous investigation of multiple modalities has emerged. Previous research has demonstrated the importance of disentangling within and between‐dyad effects, however within and between‐therapist effects have yet to be investigated. The aim of the present study was to test whether movement and EDA synchrony (measured both within and between therapists) predict across‐session symptom change in two types of interventions (emotion‐focused vs. cognitive). The results are based on 990 session segments of 90 clients with test anxiety who were treated with a six‐session treatment program by 22 therapists, treating 3–15 clients each. Movement synchrony (on the basis of motion energy analysis (MEA) values) and EDA synchrony were quantified using cross‐correlations. Symptom severity was assessed before each session using the state test anxiety measure. Movement and EDA synchrony correlated negatively (−0.19, p < .001). Moreover, higher movement synchrony as well as an interaction between movement and EDA synchrony was significantly associated with symptom improvement within, but not between therapists. In addition, an interaction between EDA synchrony and cognitive (versus emotion‐focused) interventions was significantly associated with symptom improvement. These results provide initial evidence that therapists' average levels of synchrony may matter less than how synchronous they are with a specific client.