bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prediction of major intravascular hemolysis during pulsed electric field ablation of atrial fibrillation using a pentaspline catheter
Authors: Stojadinović Predrag , Ventrella Nicoletta , Alfredová Hana , Wichterle Dan , Peichl Petr , Čihák Robert , Ing Vanda Filová , Borišincová Eva , Štiavnický Petr , Hašková Jana , Franeková Janka , Kautzner Josef 
Published: October 2024

AbstractIntroductionPulsed electric field (PEF) has emerged as a promising energy source for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, data regarding the in‐vivo effect of PEF energy on erythrocytes during AF ablation procedures are scarce. This study aimed to quantify the impact of PEF energy on erythrocyte damage during AF ablation by assessing specific hemolytic biomarkers.MethodsA total of 60 patients (age: 68 years, males: 72%, serum creatinine: 91 µmol/L) with AF underwent catheter ablation of AF using PEF energy delivered by a multipolar pentaspline Farawave catheter (Farapulse, Boston Scientific, Inc.). Ablation beyond pulmonary vein isolation was performed at the operator's discretion. Peripheral venous blood was sampled for assessing the plasma levels of free hemoglobin (fHb), direct (conjugated) bilirubin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and creatinine before, immediately after the ablation, and on the next day.ResultsFollowing the PEF ablation with duration of [median (interquartile range)] 75 (58, 95) min, with 74 (52, 92) applications and PVI only in 27% of patients, fHb, LDH, and direct bilirubin significantly increased, from 40 (18, 65) to 493 (327, 848) mg/L, from 3.1 (2.6, 3.6) to 6.8 (5.0, 7.9) µkat/L, and from 12 (9, 17) to 28 (16, 44) µmol/L, respectively (all p < .0001). A strong linear correlation was found between the peak fHb and the number of PEF applications (R = 0.81, p < .001). The major hemolysis (defined as fHb >500 mg/L) was predicted by the number of PEF applications with the corresponding area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.934. The optimum cut‐off value of >74 PEF applications predicted the major hemolysis with 89% sensitivity and 87% specificity.ConclusionCatheter ablation of AF using PEF energy delivered from a pentaspline catheter is associated with significant intravascular hemolysis. More than 74 PEF applications frequently resulted in major hemolysis. However, the critical amount of PEF energy that may cause kidney injury in susceptible patients remains to be investigated.
Association Between Triglyceride Glucose Index and Chronic Kidney Disease in Normal‐Weight Chinese Adults With Hypertension
Authors: Yu Chao , Zhou Wei , Zhou Xinlei , Zhu Lingjuan , Wang Tao , Bao Huihui , Cheng Xiaoshu 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTThis study aimed to examine the association between the triglyceride‐glucose (TyG) index and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in normotensive adults with hypertension and further investigate potential effect modifiers of this association. A total of 7975 normoweight hypertensive participants were enrolled from the Chinese H‐type hypertension registry (CHHRS) cohort. The TyG index was calculated using the formula: ln (fasting triglyceride [mg/dL] × fasting plasma glucose [mg/dL])/2. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 of body surface area. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a 50% increased risk of CKD (OR: 1.50, 95% CI: 1.26–1.79) for each unit increase in the TyG index. A linear dose‐response relationship between the TyG index and CKD risk was observed using restricted cubic spline analysis. Compared to the first quartile of the TyG index, the fourth quartile showed a significantly higher risk of CKD (OR: 1.88; 95% CI: 1.41–2.50). Subgroup analysis identified a stronger association between the TyG index and CKD risk in males and individuals with a history of alcohol consumption (all p values for interaction < 0.05). In conclusions, the TyG index was significantly associated with an increased risk of CKD in normoweight adults with hypertension, particularly in males and those with a history of alcohol consumption.
AAV9‐mediated CIRP gene transfer protects against cardiac dysfunction and remodelling in a rat model of myocardial infarction
Authors: Zhong Peng , Yang Shuang , Fang Can , Li Yanjun , Song Siwei , Chen Minxiao , Chen Jingru 
Published: October 2024

AbstractCold‐inducible RNA‐binding protein (CIRP) is a stress–response protein that has been shown to protect cardiomyocytes under a variety of stress conditions from apoptosis. Our recent study showed that the expression of CIRP protein in the heart was downregulated in patients with heart failure and an animal model of ischaemia heart failure, but its role in heart failure is still unknown. The present study aimed at evaluating the potential role of CIRP on the heart in an animal model of myocardial infarction (MI). MI model of rats was induced by the ligation of the left coronary artery. CIRP overexpression was mediated by direct intracardiac injection of adeno‐associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) vectors carrying a CIRP coding sequence with a cardiac‐specific promoter before the induction of the MI model. The effects of CIRP elevation on MI‐induced heart were analysed through echocardiographic, pathological and molecular analysis. Our results showed that the intracardiac injection of AAV9 successfully mediated CIRP upregulation in cardiomyocytes. Upregulation of cardiac CIRP prevented MI‐induced cardiac dysfunction and adverse remodelling, coupled with the reduced inflammatory response in the heart. Collectively, these results demonstrated the beneficial role of intracellular CIRP on the heart and suggest that CIRP may be a therapeutic target in ischaemic heart disease.
Integrated analysis of bulk and single‐cell RNA‐seq data reveals cell differentiation‐related subtypes and a scoring system in bladder cancer
Authors: Li Sheng , Zheng Fucun , Wang Zhipeng , Xiong Situ , Zeng Jin , Xu Songhui , Fu Bin , Liu Xiaoqiang 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBladder cancer (BLCA) exhibits notable molecular heterogeneity, influencing diverse clinical outcomes. However, the molecular subtypes associated with cell differentiation‐related genes (CDR) and their prognostic implications remain unexplored. Analysing two GEO single‐cell datasets, we identified genes linked to cell differentiation. Utilizing these genes, we explored distinct molecular subtypes. WGCNA analysis further identified CDR‐associated genes, and the CDR score system, constructed using Lasso and Cox regression, was developed. Clinical prognosis and variations in immune‐related factors among patient groups were assessed. Core genes were selected and confirmed through in vitro experiments. Two BLCA subtypes related to cell differentiation were identified: Subtype B demonstrated a favourable prognosis, while Subtype A exhibited significant immune cell infiltration. The CDR score system of nine genes revealed a positive correlation between higher scores and a poorer prognosis. The comprehensive analysis uncovered a positive association between CDR genes and M2 macrophages and unresponsiveness to immune therapy. Functional experiments validated that ANXA5 downregulation influences tumour cell migration without affecting proliferation. Our study reveals distinct cell differentiation‐related molecular subtypes and introduces the CDR scoring system in BLCA. ANXA5 emerges as a potential therapeutic target, offering promising avenues for personalized treatment strategies.
Lockd Enhances Mandibular Mesenchymal Stem Cell Proliferation While Inhibiting Osteogenic Capability via Binding With SUZ12 in the Inflammatory Microenvironment
Authors: Lu Yahui , Ruan Xiaolei , Xiao Gang , Dai Yueming , Li Gen , Cai Guanhui , Zheng Lihe , Guan Zhaolan , Sun Wen , Wang Hua 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTAimTo investigate the role of lncRNA Lockd in mandibular mesenchymal stem cell (M‐MSC) proliferation and osteogenic capability in the inflammatory microenvironment, focusing on its interaction with SUZ12.Materials and MethodsUsing lncR Lockd knockdown/overexpression cell models and a murine periodontitis model, we explored Lockd's effects on M‐MSC proliferation and osteogenic capability in the inflammatory microenvironment. Predictions from multiple databases and a series of rescue experiments revealed the regulatory role of the Lockd/SUZ12 signalling axis of M‐MSC in the inflammatory microenvironment.ResultsLockd was found to stimulate M‐MSC proliferation but impair osteogenic differentiation. The in vitro studies suggested that the activation of Lockd negatively inhibited the osteogenic differentiation process and may ultimately impact bone formation in periodontitis. Mechanistically, it was elucidated that Lockd interacts with SUZ12, a core component of the polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), and may affect the PRC2 complex's role in osteogenic gene expression.ConclusionsLockd boosts the proliferation of M‐MSCs but inhibits their osteogenic differentiation by interacting with SUZ12, potentially inhibiting osteogenic capability in the inflammatory microenvironment.
Liquidity Transformation and Fragility in the U.S. Banking Sector
Authors: CHEN QI , GOLDSTEIN ITAY , HUANG ZEQIONG , VASHISHTHA RAHUL 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTLiquidity transformation, a key role of banks, is thought to increase fragility, as uninsured depositors face an incentive to withdraw money before others (a so‐called panic run). Despite much theoretical work, however, there is little empirical evidence establishing this mechanism. In this paper, we provide the first large‐scale evidence of this mechanism. Banks that engage in more liquidity transformation exhibit higher fragility, as captured by stronger sensitivities of uninsured deposit flows to bank performance and greater levels of uninsured deposit outflows when performance is poor. We also explore the effects of deposit insurance and systemic risk.
Substance use among Latinx youth: The roles of sociocultural influences, family factors, and childhood adversity
Authors: Okine Lucinda , Unger Jennifer B. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractSubstance use among youth is associated with adverse consequences and may increase vulnerability to addiction and psychiatric disorders later in life. Sociocultural factors such as discrimination have been associated with substance use, while positive cultural resources, such as enculturation and familism, have demonstrated protective outcomes. However, few studies have highlighted how family factors influence substance use among Latinx youth during their transition from adolescence to young adulthood. This study used longitudinal data to explore the associations between sociocultural factors, family factors, childhood adversity, and substance use among Latinx youth. The data were from a longitudinal study of acculturation and substance use among Latinx youth in Southern California (n = 1257, 52.1% female, mixed socioeconomic status). The average age was 14.5 (SD = 0.39). Data collection began in 2005 and ended in 2016. Hierarchical regression models showed that discrimination was associated with higher problematic alcohol susceptibility. Childhood adversity was associated with higher odds of tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana use. Parental communication was associated with lower odds of problematic alcohol and marijuana use. To promote youth well‐being, preventive efforts should prioritize reducing childhood adversity and discrimination, while fostering positive family relationships. Overall, our findings suggest the need for interventions targeting various systemic levels to effectively address substance use among Latinx youth.
Melatonin, Melatonin Receptors and Sleep: Moving Beyond Traditional Views
Authors: Comai Stefano , Gobbi Gabriella 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTSleep, constituting approximately one‐third of the human lifespan, is a crucial physiological process essential for physical and mental well‐being. Normal sleep consists of an orderly progression through wakefulness, non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, all of which are tightly regulated. Melatonin, often referred to as the “hormone of sleep,” plays a pivotal role as a regulator of the sleep/wake cycle and exerts its effects through high‐affinity G‐protein coupled receptors known as MT1 and MT2. Selective modulation of these receptors presents a promising therapeutic avenue for sleep disorders. This review examines research on the multifaceted role of melatonin in sleep regulation, focusing on selective ligands targeting MT1 and MT2 receptors, as well as studies involving MT1 and MT2 knockout mice. Contrary to common beliefs, growing evidence suggests that melatonin, through MT1 and MT2 receptors, might not only influence circadian aspects of sleep but likely, also modulate the homeostatic process of sleep and sleep architecture, or could be the molecule linking the homeostatic and circadian regulation of sleep. Furthermore, the distinct brain localization of MT1 and MT2 receptors, with MT1 receptors primarily regulating REM sleep and MT2 receptors regulating NREM sleep, is discussed. Collectively, sleep regulation extends beyond the circulating levels and circadian peak of melatonin; it also critically involves the expression, molecular activation, and regulatory functions of MT1 and MT2 receptors across various brain regions and nuclei involved in the regulation of sleep. This research underscores the importance of ongoing investigation into the selective roles of MT1 and MT2 receptors in sleep. Such research efforts are expected to pave the way for the development of targeted MT1 or MT2 receptors ligands, thereby optimizing therapeutic interventions for sleep disorders.
Evaluation of gabapentin administration on neurologic examination in 2 different age groups of healthy cats
Authors: DuPont Allison , Zidan Natalia , Lueck Lizabeth C. , Cameron Starr 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBackgroundGabapentin is often administered PO for preappointment or in‐hospital anxiolysis in cats. A previous study reported mild changes on the neurologic examination after administration.ObjectivesInvestigate the effects of gabapentin on anxiety, sedation, compliance, and neurologic examination in 2 age groups of cats.AnimalsThirty‐one young cats and 12 geriatric cats perceived by their owners to be healthy and neurologically normal.MethodsProspective double‐blinded clinical crossover study. Assessment of baseline sedation and anxiety was performed before initial neurologic examinations and after gabapentin administration (100 mg/cat). Assessments were repeated 90 to 120 minutes after administration. Ease of handling pregabapentin and postgabapentin was assessed in the younger cats. All examinations were performed by a board‐certified veterinary neurologist and scoring of examinations was performed by a different, masked board‐certified neurologist.ResultsSixteen cats (50%) in the younger cohort and 6 cats (50%) in the geriatric cohort exhibited an increase in their overall neurologic examination score postgabapentin administration, mainly through new or progressive postural reaction deficits and gait changes. Anxiety and sedation scores were significantly changed in the geriatric population (P < .01, P = .004, respectively); however, only sedation scores were significantly increased in the younger cats after gabapentin administration (P = .004).Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceAll study participants showed mild neurologic changes after gabapentin administration, most markedly noted in the geriatric population. Dose reduction of gabapentin for preappointment anxiolysis and neurologic examination in geriatric patients should be considered.
Applicability and validity of the reaction time‐based concealed information test in a prison sample
Authors: Haberler Julian , Suchotzki Kristina , Meinhardt Maria , Gamer Matthias 
Published: October 2024

AbstractPurposeThe reaction time‐based Concealed Information Test (RT‐CIT) can be used to reveal crime‐related memories based on an analysis of response latencies in a computerized task. While laboratory research shows high validity of the RT‐CIT in student samples, only very few studies have been conducted with forensic target groups.MethodsWe investigated the applicability and validity of the RT‐CIT in prison inmates and examined the influence of a response deadline (RD) on RT‐CIT validity. In a within‐subjects design, participants memorized a criminal activity and subsequently underwent two identical RT‐CITs differing only in the length of the RD (2000 ms vs. 1000 ms). In the first experiment, the 2000 ms condition was always presented first and in the second experiment the order was switched.ResultsResults revealed large effect sizes and classification accuracies with both RDs and strong order effects with larger effects in the respective first RD conditions.ConclusionsIn sum, the RT‐CIT has the potential for detecting concealed knowledge in forensic settings and even a relatively demanding RD of 1000 ms seems feasible for such samples. Further research should extend this investigation of the RT‐CIT in forensic settings, preferably investigating the effects of faking attempts and increasing the ecological validity of the research design.
Accuracy of Non‐Invasive Imaging Techniques for the Diagnosis of MASH in Patients With MASLD: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cathcart Jennifer , Barrett Rachael , Bowness James S. , Mukhopadhya Ashis , Lynch Ruairi , Dillon John F. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTBackground and AimsMetabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a growing public health problem. The secondary stage in MASLD is steatohepatitis (MASH), the co‐existence of steatosis and inflammation, a leading cause of progression to fibrosis and mortality. MASH resolution alone improves survival. Currently, MASH diagnosis is via liver biopsy. This study sought to evaluate the accuracy of imaging‐based tests for MASH diagnosis, which offer a non‐invasive method of diagnosis.MethodsEight academic literature databases were searched and references of previous systematic reviews and included papers were checked for additional papers. Liver biopsy was used for reference standard.ResultsWe report on 69 imaging‐based studies. There were 31 studies on MRI, 27 on ultrasound, five on CT, 13 on transient elastography, eight on controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) and two on scintigraphy. The pathological definition of MASH was inconsistent, making it difficult to compare studies. 55/69 studies (79.71%) were deemed high‐risk of bias as they had no preset thresholds and no validation. The two largest groups of imaging papers were on MRI and ultrasound. AUROCs were up to 0.93 for MRE, 0.90 for MRI, 1.0 for magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and 0.94 for ultrasound‐based studies.ConclusionsOur study found that the most promising imaging tools are MRI techniques or ultrasound‐based scores and confirmed there is potential to utilise these for MASH diagnosis. However, many publications are single studies without independent prospective validation. Without this, there is no clear imaging tool or score currently available that is reliably tested to diagnose MASH.
Decrypting Corals: Does Regulatory Evolution Underlie Environmental Specialisation of Coral Cryptic Lineages?
Authors: Gallery Dominique N. , Rippe John P. , Matz Mikhail V. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTA recent sequencing study has shown that two common Caribbean corals, Montastraea cavernosa and Siderastrea siderea, each consist of four genetically distinct lineages in the Florida Keys. These lineages are specialised to a certain depth and, to a lesser extent, to nearshore or offshore habitats. We hypothesised that the lineages' environmental specialisation is at least in part due to regulatory evolution, which would manifest as the emergence of groups of coregulated genes (‘modules’) demonstrating lineage‐specific responses to different reef environments. Our hypothesis also predicted that genes belonging to such modules would show greater genetic divergence between lineages than other genes. Contrary to these expectations, responses of cryptic lineages to natural environmental variation were essentially the same at the genome‐wide gene coexpression network level, with much fewer differences in gene expression between lineages compared to between habitats. Moreover, none of the identified coregulated gene expression modules exhibit elevated genetic divergence between lineages. Possible explanations of these unexpected results range from the leading role of algal symbionts and/or microbiome in adaptation to strong action of spatially varying selection equalising gene expression patterns despite different genetic background. We discuss how future studies could assist in discriminating between these possibilities.
Sexual Selection on Non‐Ornamental Traits Is Underpinned by Evidence of Genetic Constraints on Sex‐Biased Expression in Dusky Pipefish
Authors: Tosto Nicole M. , Rose Emily , Mason Heather D. , Mank Judith E. , Flanagan Sarah P. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTSpecies lacking distinct secondary sex characteristics, such as differences in size or morphology, are often thought to experience lower levels of sex‐specific selection in comparison to highly sexually dimorphic organisms. However, monomorphism in classic visible traits could be a result of genetic or physiological constraints that prevent the sexes from reaching divergent fitness optima. Additionally, biochemical and molecular work have revealed a variety of less easily observed phenotypes that nonetheless exhibit profound dimorphism. Sex‐specific selection could act on these more subtle, less visible, traits. We investigate sex‐specific selection in the polygynandrous dusky pipefish (Syngnathus floridae), which lacks distinct secondary sexual characteristics such as size, colour and morphological dimorphism. Using experimental breeding populations, we revealed that although males and females have similar opportunities for sexual selection, only males experience significant sexual selection pressures on body size. We also investigated patterns of sex‐biased and sex‐specific gene expression in gonads, livers and gills, and tested whether genes with highly divergent expression patterns between the sexes are more likely to be tissue‐specific, and therefore relieved of genetic constraints. Sex bias in gene expression was widespread, although the reproductive organs had the most sex‐biased and sex‐specific genes. Sex‐specific selection on gene expression in gills was primarily related to immune response, whereas the liver and gonads had a wide variety of cellular processes, as well as reproductive proteins, showing sex‐biased expression. These sex‐biased genes showed higher organ‐specificity in their expression patterns, suggesting that pleiotropic constraints might have historically impacted the evolution of sex‐specific expression patterns. Altogether, we find evidence for ongoing and historical sex‐specific selection in the dusky pipefish.