bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Gene expression plasticity in response to rapid and extreme elevation changes in Perdix hodgsoniae (Tibetan Partridge)
Authors: Wang Nan , Palacios Catalina , Brown Megan , Raba Teresa , Heid Jonathan , Ding Xujie , Ou Zhibu , Dahal Nishma , Lamichhaney Sangeet 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
Phenotypic plasticity is a vital biological process facilitating the persistence of organisms amid rapid environmental changes. Investigating the genetic basis of plastic traits necessitates transplantation experiments, but much of the existing research has focused on laboratory model systems. Transplant experiments in the wild may provide better understanding of how plasticity operates in the context of real-world challenges. However, performing transplantation experiments in non-model systems, such as birds, could be challenging. In this study, we aim to develop Perdix hodgsoniae (Tibetan Partridge) inhabiting the highlands of the Tibetan Plateau as a suitable system to study genetic basis underlying short-term plastic response to rapid changes in elevation. We did a first attempt of field-based transplantation experiment by exposing P. hodgsoniae individuals to extreme change in elevation from their native elevation (3,623 m) to a low elevation outside their natural distribution range (500 m). We compared changes in gene expression in these birds at different time points, pre-transplant (day 0), and post-transplant (days 3 and 22). The birds successfully survived transplantation and exhibited well-being after 22 days. We identified a total of 715 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) across these time points. Our analysis revealed a genome-wide decrease in expression following the transplantation, indicating that the birds possibly exhibited stress-induced transcriptional attenuation (SITA) because of the extreme change in elevation, suggesting a broader response at the transcriptional level, possibly as a mechanism to cope with extreme changes in the environment. Our analysis further suggested that heat stress posed an immediate challenge for the birds following the transplant, as we identified changes in expression in many genes associated with heat stress response. Our findings affirm the viability of conducting transplant experiments in the P. hodgsoniae and provides initial insights into gene expression changes associated with the plastic response to rapid changes in elevation in these birds.
Temporal stability in songs across the breeding range of Geothlypis philadelphia (Mourning Warbler) may be due to learning fidelity and transmission biases
Authors: Pitocchelli Jay , Albina Adam , Bentley R Alexander , Guerra David , Youngblood Mason 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
We found a stable pattern of geographic variation in songs across the breeding range of the Geothlypis philadelphia (Mourning Warbler) over a 36-year period. The Western, Eastern, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland regiolects found in 2005 to 2009 also existed in 1983 to 1988 and 2017 to 2019. Each regiolect contained a pool of syllables that were unique and different from the other regiolects. The primary syllable types that defined each regiolect were present throughout the study, but there were changes in the frequencies of variants of these syllable types in each regiolect. We developed an agent-based model of birdsong learning within each regiolect to explore whether these frequency changes were consistent with unbiased copying or 2 forms of transmission bias: frequency bias and content bias. Strong content bias, possibly for more complex syllables, best models the temporal dynamics across regiolects. In combination with a high estimated learning fidelity, this may explain why regiolects and syllable types were stable for 36 years. We also examined whether variation in physical parameters of song over time could be attributed to acoustic adaptation to breeding habitat, using Landsat variables as a proxy for vegetation characteristics of each male’s breeding territory. The physical parameters of the songs, which changed little over time, revealed no coherent relationships with the Landsat variables and therefore little evidence for acoustic adaptation.
Evaluating lead-free alternatives for radiation shielding in diagnostic radiology: a case study from a tertiary general hospital in Korea
Authors: Kim Eunhye , Kim Byeungeun , Han Taeho , Kim Jungmin , Jeong Hoiwoun , Chung Sookyung , Choi Harim 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
With the continued increase in the number of pieces of diagnostic medical radiography equipment being used, radiation shielding in radiology departments is becoming increasingly important. Lead is the most commonly used material for radiation protection; however, there are numerous disadvantages associated with the use of lead, including environmental hazards and harm to the human body. Alternative shielding materials that can be used as replacements include barium sulfate, tungsten, or bismuth. Among alternative materials, barium sulfate appears to be the most cost-effective and easiest to process. In the present study, before constructing shielding barriers, a barrier thickness program for lead-free barrier materials based on National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) Report No. 147 was used to determine the appropriate barrier thickness. The required thickness for lead-free boards for each type of diagnostic radiography room was calculated based on a tertiary general hospital in the Republic of Korea.
Bayesian-based analysis of the causality between 731 immune cells and erectile dysfunction: a two-sample, bidirectional, and multivariable Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Junhao , Liu Yidao , Zhan Peiqin , Gao Tianci , Zuo Jieming , Li Xiangyun , Zhang Fangfei , Wang Haifeng , Fu Shi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
The causal relationship between certain immune cells and erectile dysfunction (ED) is still uncertain.

Aim
The study sought to investigate the causal effect of 731 types of immune cells on ED through Mendelian randomization (MR) using genome-wide association studies (GWAS).

Methods
Genetic instruments for 731 immune cells were identified through GWAS, and ED data were obtained from the FinnGen database. Univariable and multivariable bidirectional MR studies were conducted to explore potential causal relationships between these immune cells and ED. The inverse-variance weighted method was primarily used, with Cochran’s Q test and MR-Egger intercept test assessing pleiotropy and heterogeneity. Bayesian weighted Mendelian randomization (BWMR) was also employed.

Outcomes
Six immune cells were identified as related to ED. CD45 on Natural Killer (NK) cells, CD33dim HLA DR+ CD11b + Absolute Count, CD19 on IgD- CD38dim B cells, and CD3 on CD39+ resting CD4 regulatory T cells were identified as risk factors, whereas CD20 on IgD+ CD38dim B cells and Activated & resting CD4 regulatory T cell %CD4+ T cells were protective factors. Further multivariable MR analysis confirmed that 5 of these immune cells independently impacted ED, except for CD45 on NK cells. Reverse MR analysis indicated that ED occurrence decreases certain immune cell counts, but BWMR found no causal relationship for CD20 on IgD+ CD38dim B cells.

Results
Our MR analysis confirmed a potential bidirectional causal relationship between immune cells and ED, providing new insights into potential mechanisms and therapeutic strategies.

Clinical Translation
This study provides evidence for the impact of certain immune cells on the development of ED and suggests potential therapeutic targets.

Strengths and Limitations
We performed both univariable and multivariable MR to strengthen the causal relationship between exposures and outcomes. However, the population in this study was limited to European ancestry.

Conclusion
Our MR analysis confirmed a potential bidirectional causal relationship between immune cells and ED. This provides new insights into potential mechanisms of pathogenesis and subsequent therapeutic strategies.
The Need for Automatic Review of Death Penalty Cases in Botswana: A Commentary on Pholo v the State
Authors: Dambe Baboki Jonathan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Given the irreversible nature of the death penalty, automatic review of death penalty cases is a necessary safeguard. The process mitigates against errors committed by the trial court and ensures that only those who are deserving are executed. In acknowledgement of this necessity, Rule 44 of the Rules of the Court of Appeal empowered the Court of Appeal of Botswana to automatically review all death penalty cases. In undertaking this review, the Court was required to satisfy itself on the soundness of the conviction and also confirm that the trial court had properly addressed the question of extenuating circumstances. However, on the 4th November 2022, in Pholo v The State,1 the Court of Appeal declared that Rule 44 was ultra vires the Court of Appeal Act. Consequently, the Court of Appeal held that it did not have jurisdiction to automatically review death penalty cases. This paper assesses the reasoning of the Court in the case and the implications of the judgment. The paper recommends amendment of the Court of Appeal Act to properly clothe the Court of Appeal with jurisdiction to automatically review death penalty cases.
The role of radiotherapy in extensive-stage small cell lung cancer after durvalumab-based immunochemotherapy: A retrospective study
Authors: Chen Lingjuan , Kong Yi , Tong Fan , Zhang Ruiguang , Ding Peng , Zhang Sheng , Wang Ye , Zhou Rui , Pu Xingxiang , Chen Bolin , Liang Fei , Tan Qiaoyun , Xu Yu , Wu Lin , Dong Xiaorong 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of subsequent radiotherapy (RT) following first-line treatment with durvalumab plus chemotherapy in patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC).

Methods:
A total of 122 patients with ES-SCLC from three hospitals during July 2019 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analysis was performed to address potential confounding factors. The primary focus of our evaluation was to assess the impact of RT on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results:
After IPTW analysis, 49 patients received durvalumab plus platinum–etoposide(EP) chemotherapy followed by RT (Durva + EP + RT) and 72 patients received immunochemotherapy (Durva + EP). The median OS was 17.2 months vs. 12.3 months (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.38, 95% CI: 0.17–0.85, P = 0.020), and the median PFS was 8.9 months vs. 5.9 months (HR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.32–0.97, P = 0.030) in Durva + EP + RT and Durva + EP groups, respectively. Thoracic radiation therapy (TRT) resulted in longer OS (17.2 months vs. 14.7 months) and PFS (9.1 months vs. 7.2 months) compared to RT directed to other metastatic sites. Among patients with oligo-metastasis, RT also showed significant benefits, with a median OS of 17.4 months vs. 13.7 months and median PFS of 9.8 months vs. 5.9 months compared to no RT. Continuous durvalumab treatment beyond progression (TBP) prolonged OS compared to patients without TBP, in both the Durva + EP + RT (NA vs. 15.8 months, HR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.14–1.63, P = 0.238) and Durva + EP groups (12.3 months vs. 4.3 months, HR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.10–0.81, P = 0.018). Grade 3 or 4 adverse events occurred in 13 (26.5%) and 13 (18.1%) patients, respectively, in the two groups; pneumonitis was mostly low-grade.

Conclusion:
Addition of RT after first-line immunochemotherapy significantly improved survival outcomes with manageable toxicity in ES-SCLC.
A NOVEL FOUR-POINT SCLERAL FIXATION TECHNIQUE WITH A HYDROPHOBIC INTRAOCULAR LENS
Authors: Ghazi Nicola G. , Goldsmith Jason , Weston James , Sabah Shafiya , Teo Jeremy C.M. 
Published: September 2024

Purpose:
To describe a new surgical technique that combines four-point, flanged polypropylene scleral fixation with a hydrophobic intraocular lens (IOL).

Methods:
Using the Envista MX60 and 6.0 polypropylene, scleral four-point fixation was achieved using a flanged-suture technique five times in a model eye and in a case series of eight patients, retrospectively reviewed. The polypropylene is passed through each eyelet in a novel configuration Loop to Optic and Trailing ends to Outside. Conjunctival peritomies, scleral flaps/pockets, glue, and suture knots are avoided. The load needed for haptic fracture and scanning electron microscopy at fracture sites were studied.

Results:
Haptic fracture occurred once following the first model eye implantation due to excessive suture tension. The fracture load was similar between the Loop to Optic and Trailing end to Outside and the simple-pass technique (1.08 ± 0.52 N vs. 1.09 ± 0.32 N), suggesting no safety compromise. Scanning electron microscopy did not disclose the cheese-wiring effect. Over a mean follow-up of 10.8 months (range: 3–19; median 11.5 months), all cases experienced visual improvement with best-achieved-postoperative uncorrected visual acuity of 20/25 to 20/200, and the IOL was well-centered. Postoperative IOL tilt averaged 2.9° (range: 0–9.6; median: 2.9°). Two patients developed postoperative cystoid macular edema treated topically. The first case developed flange extrusion that was readily repaired in the clinic.

Conclusion:
This novel technique adds two main advantages to previously described flanged-suture techniques: 1) four-point fixation of a hydrophobic IOL; 2) immediate application at the time of initial complicated cataract surgery because it requires no additional supply, IOL, or instrumentation.
NONPHARMACOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF INTRAVITREAL DEXAMETHASONE IMPLANT INJECTIONS
Authors: Kiristioglu Mehmet Omer , Ucan Gunduz Gamze , Abdullayeva Nigar , Doganay Selim , Yalcinbayir Ozgur 
Published: September 2024

Purpose:
This study aims to evaluate the nonpharmacological safety profile of intravitreal dexamethasone implants in cases with different etiologies.

Methods:
This retrospective university-based study analyzed clinical reports of patients receiving 0.7 mg dexamethasone implant injections between 2013 and 2023. The study recorded patient demographics, injection indications, and follow-up data. Complications caused by the injection procedure and adverse events other than pharmacological side effects within a 3-month period were included.

Results:
In this study, 3,430 dexamethasone implant injections were made into 1,471 eyes of 1,091 patients. Nonpharmacological complications developed in 611 injections (17.8%). Subconjunctival hemorrhage was noted as the leading nonpharmacological complication (n = 576, 16.8%). Sight-threatening 35 nonpharmacological adverse events and complications (1.0%) were recorded. Cases of anterior chamber migration, vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment, endophthalmitis, hypotony, and implant misplacement were observed. Cases requiring intensive treatments and additional surgical interventions were encountered.

Conclusion:
The injection of the dexamethasone implant may lead to nonpharmacological complications caused by the mechanical impact of the injection or improper positioning of the implant, potentially resulting in vision loss. Severe outcomes such as corneal decompensation, retinal detachment, and endophthalmitis can ensue, emphasizing the gravity of these complications. Careful selection of patients and adherence to proper injection techniques are essential in reducing these risks.
Association Between Pterygium and Ocular, Periocular, and Systemic Inflammatory Conditions: a Large-Scale National Study
Authors: Lev Ari Omer , Kerman Tomer , Eyni Yotam , Hazan Itai , Rosenberg Elli , Knyazer Boris , Tsumi Erez 
Published: September 2024

Purpose:The purpose of this study was to examine the incidence of ocular, periocular, and systemic inflammatory conditions among patients with pterygium and assess if these conditions are risk factors of pterygium development.Methods:A case–control study was conducted using electronic medical records from Clalit Health Services in Israel between 2001 and 2022. Patients diagnosed with pterygium were included; for each case, 3 controls were matched based on birth year, sex, and ethnicity. Mixed models were used to assess differences in the groups' demographic characteristics of ocular and systemic diseases. Generalized estimating equation logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and adjust for confounders.Results:A total of 94,652 patients diagnosed with pterygium and 378,608 matched controls were included in the study. The average age of patients with pterygium was 53 ± 16 years; 54% were male. A significant association was found between pterygium and vernal keratoconjunctivitis (OR 2.12, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.90–2.36), chronic allergic conjunctivitis (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.58–1.82), blepharitis (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.61–1.70), and chalazion (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.23–1.33). A significant association was also found between pterygium and systemic conditions as unspecified systemic allergy (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.04–1.13), asthma (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.04–1.11), and atopic dermatitis (OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.08–1.19).Conclusions:Various inflammatory and allergic diseases—ocular, periocular, and systemic—increase the risk of pterygium. Further research is needed to investigate the role of inflammation in pterygium development.
Comparative Evaluation of Topical Monotherapy (Natamycin or Natasol) and Combination Therapy (Natamycin and Voriconazole) in Mild-Moderate Fungal Keratitis
Authors: Reddy Divya Challa , Asif Mohamed Ibrahime , Bari Aafreen , Velpandian Thirumurthy , Agarwal Tushar , Maharana Praful Kumar , Sinha Rajesh , Satpathy Gita , Dada Tanuj , Titiyal Jeewan Singh , Sharma Namrata 
Published: September 2024

Purpose:
To compare the efficacy of monotherapy (natamycin 5% or Natasol 1%) versus combination therapy (natamycin 5% and voriconazole 1%) in the treatment of mild-moderate fungal keratitis.

Methods:
In a prospective, comparative, interventional study, 60 eyes of 60 patients with mild-moderate fungal keratitis were included and randomized in 3 groups based on the topical antifungal therapy received: group 1, natamycin 5%; group 2, Natasol 1% (1% w/v aqueous natamycin); and group 3, combination of natamycin 5% and voriconazole 1%.

Results:
51 of 60 cases (85%) resolved with medical management only. Trauma was the major predisposing factor. Aspergillus species was the most common organism isolated. There was comparable decrease in the corneal infiltrate area from 16.92 ± 7.24, 15.12 ± 7.15, and 20.39 ± 4.81 mm2 in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively (P > 0.05) at all follow-ups [days 3, 7, 30, 60, and 90]. There was a trend of early reepithelization in the Natasol group. The area of epithelial defect was comparable at baseline among all 3 groups (P = 0.24) and was statistically smaller in the Natasol group at 1-month follow-up (P = 0.01). The duration to complete epithelization was shortest in the Natasol group (37 ± 10 days; P = 0.02) compared with group 1 (45 ± 12 days) and group 3 (49 ± 12 days). The corrected distance visual acuity improved significantly and comparably in all groups (P = 0.4).

Conclusions:
Topical Natasol 1% tends to shorten the time to complete epithelization in cases of mild-moderate fungal keratitis compared with topical natamycin 5% and combination therapy of natamycin 5% and voriconazole 1%.
Clinical Features, Adverse Events and Treatment Outcomes of Multidrug/Rifampicin-resistant Tuberculosis in Children and Adolescents: An Eight-year Retrospective Cohort Study in Bandung, Indonesia
Authors: Nataprawira Heda M. , Gafar Fajri , Sari Chindy A. , Alffenaar Jan-Willem C. , Marais Ben J. , Ruslami Rovina , Menzies Dick 
Published: September 2024

Background:
Data on childhood and adolescent multidrug/rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (MDR/RR-TB) in Indonesia are lacking. We aimed to assess clinical features, adverse events (AEs) and treatment outcomes of childhood and adolescent MDR/RR-TB.

Methods:
A retrospective cohort study was performed in children and adolescents <18 years old treated for MDR/RR-TB at Hasan Sadikin General Hospital in Bandung, Indonesia, between June 2016 and March 2024. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for predictors of all-cause mortality.

Results:
Among 84 included patients, 69 (82%) were adolescents 10–17 years of age, 54 (64%) were female, 54 (64%) were malnourished and 55 (65%) had culture-confirmed disease. Among 69 (82%) patients with known outcomes, 48 (70%) were successfully treated, 14 (20%) died (including 5 pretreatment deaths) and 7 (10%) were lost to follow-up (LTFU) (including 5 pretreatment LTFU). Predictors of all-cause mortality included shortness of breath on admission [aOR: 6.4, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.3–49.1], high bacillary burden on Xpert MTB/RIF assay (aOR: 17.0, 95% CI: 1.6–260.5) and the presence of lung cavities on chest radiograph (aOR: 4.8, 95% CI: 1.1–23.3). Among 74 patients who initiated treatment, 39 (53%) had at least one grade 1–2 AE, and 4 (5%) had one grade 3–4 AE each, including hepatotoxicity, QT prolongation, hearing loss and rash/hyperpigmentation.

Conclusion:
Younger children were underrepresented among those treated for MDR/RR-TB, indicating reduced access to care. Severe AEs were uncommon during MDR/RR-TB treatment. Baseline indicators of extensive disease were associated with all-cause mortality. The high proportion of pre-treatment mortality and LTFU may reflect complex patient pathways limiting access to care.
COVID-19-associated autoimmune encephalitis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Chen Yang-Chuan , Hong Shu-Ting , Chen Yuan-Feng , Lin Pan , Chen Xiao-Xin , Wu Yang-Zong 
Published: September 2024

Rationale:
This article reports a case of coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-associated autoimmune encephalitis (AE) and reviews the relevant literature to investigate the clinical manifestations, auxiliary inspection, diagnosis and treatment, and prognosis of AE associated with COVID-19.

Patient concerns:
A 68-year-old female with fatigue developed altered consciousness after 2 days of fever, thereafter testing positive for COVID-19. The protein levels in the lumbar puncture cerebrospinal fluid were elevated, and cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan indicated T2-weighted hyperintensity in the temporal lobe.

Diagnoses:
The patient was diagnosed with COVID-19-associated AE.

Interventions:
After admission, the patient received pulse steroid therapy with methylprednisolone. Additionally, gastric protection, blood glucose control, nutritional support, and other treatments were administered.

Outcomes:
The symptoms were significantly relieved by steroid pulse therapy. At the 3-month follow-up, the patient had recovered completely without any obvious discomfort.

Lessons:
The possibility of AE should be considered if neurological symptoms occur a few days after infection with COVID-19, with early diagnosis and immediate steroid pulse therapy resulting in better outcomes.