bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Refining α-synuclein seed amplification assays to distinguish Parkinson’s disease from multiple system atrophy
Authors: Wiseman James A. , Turner Clinton P. , Faull Richard L. M. , Halliday Glenda M. , Dieriks Birger Victor 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Parkinson’s disease (PD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) are two distinct α-synucleinopathies traditionally differentiated through clinical symptoms. Early diagnosis of MSA is problematic, and seed amplification assays (SAAs), such as real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC), offer the potential to distinguish these diseases through their underlying α-synuclein (α-Syn) pathology and proteoforms. Currently, SAAs provide a binary result, signifying either the presence or absence of α-Syn seeds. To enhance the diagnostic potential and biological relevance of these assays, there is a pressing need to incorporate quantification and stratification of α-Syn proteoform-specific aggregation kinetics into current SAA pipelines.

Methods
Optimal RT-QuIC assay conditions for α-Syn seeds extracted from PD and MSA patient brains were determined, and assay kinetics were assessed for α-Syn seeds from different pathologically relevant brain regions (medulla, substantia nigra, hippocampus, middle temporal gyrus, and cerebellum). The conformational profiles of disease- and region-specific α-Syn proteoforms were determined by subjecting the amplified reaction products to concentration-dependent proteolytic digestion with proteinase K.

Results
Using our protocol, PD and MSA could be accurately delineated using proteoform-specific aggregation kinetics, including α-Syn aggregation rate, maximum relative fluorescence, the gradient of amplification, and core protofilament size. MSA cases yielded significantly higher values than PD cases across all four kinetic parameters in brain tissues, with the MSA-cerebellar phenotype having higher maximum relative fluorescence than the MSA-Parkinsonian phenotype. Statistical significance was maintained when the data were analysed regionally and when all regions were grouped.

Conclusions
Our RT-QuIC protocol and analysis pipeline can distinguish between PD and MSA, and between MSA phenotypes. MSA α-Syn seeds induce faster propagation and exhibit higher aggregation kinetics than PD α-Syn, mirroring the biological differences observed in brain tissue. With further validation of these quantitative parameters, we propose that SAAs could advance from a yes/no diagnostic to a theranostic biomarker that could be utilised in developing therapeutics.
The kinetics of maternal and self-developed Streptococcus suis-specific antibodies
Authors: Vreman Sandra , Jansen Rutger , Bastian Mikael , Beckers Patricia , van Riet Miriam , Fijten Helmi , Fledderus Jan , de Greeff Astrid , Winkelman Hélène , Stockhofe-Zurwieden Norbert , Fabà Lluís , Wisselink Henk J. , Vrieling Manouk 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background

Streptococcus suis (S. suis) infections are responsible for a large disease burden in piglets during the nursery phase, compromising animal welfare and increasing antibiotic use. The immune gap caused by decreased maternal-derived antibodies (MDA) and insufficient levels or functionality of acquired antibodies in weaned pigs could play a role in the increased susceptibility to S. suis infections. To better understand this, two studies were performed. Study I evaluated the associations between sow antibodies in colostrum and serum, birth parameters (e.g., birth weight, colostrum intake and piglet growth) and the levels of S. suis-specific (serotypes 2 and 9) antibodies in one-day-old piglets from four farms. Subsequently, study II used one of these farms to evaluate S. suis-specific and total antibody kinetics in piglets (10 litters with 6 selected piglets per litter, total n = 60) from birth until 10 weeks of age. Additionally, tonsil swabs from sows and piglets were taken to evaluate the S. suis tonsillar carrier status (serotypes 2 and 9) before and after weaning.

Results
High variability in serum and colostrum antibody levels was observed between and within the four farms (study I). In study II, there was a decrease in S. suis-specific MDA after 24 h of age, with the lowest level occurring at approximately 18/19 days of age. Afterwards, there was an increase in specific antibodies, most likely due to acquired immunity. Colostrum intake, birth weight and 24-h weight gain after birth were important parameters that were positively associated with S. suis antibody levels in piglets after birth but also affected these antibody levels at a later age. All the piglet tonsils were colonized with S. suis serotype 9 before weaning, while the prevalence of serotype 2 increased after weaning.

Conclusions
Total Ig against S. suis in serum declined after birth and the lowest level was detected just before weaning. Farmers and veterinarians should focus on piglets with low birth weights and late-born piglets because these parameters reduce both the S. suis-specific MDA preweaning and the specific antibodies acquired postweaning. Colostrum intake and 24 h-weight gain also affect the level of S. suis specific antibodies on day 1.
Black rice (Oryza sativa L.) and its anthocyanins: mechanisms, food applications, and clinical insights for postprandial glycemic and lipid regulation
Authors: Thilavech Thavaree , Suantawee Tanyawan , Chusak Charoonsri , Suklaew Phim On , Adisakwattana Sirichai 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Postprandial hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia are key contributors to chronic metabolic disturbances, thereby promoting the onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Current dietary interventions aim to effectively control postprandial glucose and lipid levels while ensuring adequate antioxidant intake. Black rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivations have gained attention for their resistant starch content and phytochemical compositions. Notably, black rice is rich in anthocyanins, known for their anti-diabetic and antioxidant effects. This review demonstrates the potential of black rice in regulating postprandial glycemic and lipid responses, thus extending its applications to the development of functional food products. Based on in vitro studies, black rice anthocyanins exhibit a variety of mechanisms, including the inhibition of carbohydrate and fat digestive enzymes, binding to bile acids, interference with cholesterol micellization, and the inhibition of glucose and cholesterol uptake in enterocytes. Utilizing black rice flour and its anthocyanin-rich extracts in food products enhances health benefits by suppressing starch digestibility and increasing phytochemical content and antioxidant capacity. Clinical studies support the potential of black rice and its food derivatives to effectively manage postprandial glycemic and lipidemic responses while increasing plasma antioxidant capacity. However, comprehensive, long-term investigations are crucial to delineate the optimal dosage and duration of black rice consumption and further elucidate its positive effects on metabolic responses.

Graphical Abstract
Impact of patient compliance with inhaler therapy on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease severity: a rural tertiary care perspective
Authors: S. Nandakishore K. , Ballal Preethiraj , Katipalla Anirudha , P. Shruthi Rai , T. Supreetha , T. Dixith , Srinivas Sanjay , Dhanusha Shree , Pujar Pramod , Sudeesh Sushmitha , M. Vignesh T. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Inhaled medications have been the cornerstone of treatment for the exacerbations as well as stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) which is one of the leading cause of deaths in the recent times. Inadequate knowledge on handling of inhalers leads to noncompliance which in turn results in increased hospital visits limelighting the negative impact on the morbidity status. The aim of our study was to assess the compliance of inhalers and to correlate the level of compliance to the morbidity of COPD as assessed by number of hospital visits.

Methods
In our cross-sectional observational study conducted in the rural medical college hospital in Dakshina Kannada of Karnataka, 69 subjects with COPD were evaluated for the compliance of inhaler usage, and the morbidity related to the disease was assessed with number of hospital visits in the past 6 months. Appropriate statistical analysis was used in evaluation.

Results
Out of 69 patients, 24 patients visited the health care facility at least 3 times or more. Of these 24 patients, 20 (83.33%) of them were not compliant with inhalers. Among the 45 patients who visited the health care facility less than 2 times, 28 (62.22%) patients were compliant with inhalers. This relationship was found to be statistically significant proving that the higher the number of visits, the lesser the compliance and vice versa.

Conclusions
Our study highlights the importance of patient education about compliance to inhalers which is an economical and effective modality which has significant impact on reduction of exacerbations and morbidity.
Different audiometric findings with different symptoms for diagnosing superior semicircular canal dehiscence symptoms: a retrospective study of 12 cases
Authors: Başöz Behmen Meliha , Tuğrul Selahattin , Konukseven Ozlem 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Due to the patients with no symptoms for dehiscence but having audiological different findings who came to clinic, this study aims to evaluate the audiological characteristics of 12 cases diagnosed with superior semicircular canal dehiscence and to compare the findings with the literature.

Methods
We evaluated a case-series of 12 cases aged 11–59 years with a pre-diagnosis of semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) by clinical history and audiological evaluation between 2019 and 2022 and a final diagnosis by high-resolution computed tomography. Audiological evaluation includes air-bone conduction and speech audiometry, tympanometry, and acoustic reflex test.

Results
Unilateral dehiscence was observed in 6 cases, and bilateral dehiscence was observed in the other 6. Considering types of hearing loss, we observed 5 normal hearing, 1 mixed type, 2 conductive type, and 4 sensorineural type. Also, numerous clinical characteristics were observed: vestibular complaints (9/12), chronic imbalance (9/12), Tullio phenomenon (6/12), Hennebert sign (6/12), and tinnitus (5/12). Patients with symptoms no audiological findings and patients with audiological findings no symptoms were seen with dehiscence diagnosis.

Conclusion
Various symptoms and findings were observed in patients with semicircular canal dehiscence. While patients with no symptoms for diagnosing dehiscence are presented, audiological findings with low-frequency hearing loss and air–bone gap can be landmark. In addition, patients with SSCD symptoms, even if they do not have audiometric findings, should be further evaluated with radiological evaluation.
Fracture characteristics of slag-based geopolymer mortars with recycled aggregates under mode I and mode II Loading
Authors: Rohit Poleboyana , Rao T. D. Gunneswara , Chandrasekhar M. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
This study investigates the fracture characteristics of slag-based geopolymer mortars (SGPM) incorporating recycled fine aggregates (RFA) from construction demolition waste. The research examines both tensile (mode I) and shear (mode II) fracture behaviors, analyzing the effects of different notch-to-depth ratios (0.20, 0.25, 0.30) and varying RFA replacement levels (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%). The experimental results reveal that increasing notch-to-depth ratios leads to increased brittleness, reducing fracture energy in both modes. Higher RFA levels further decrease overall strength and fracture energy, with a more significant impact on mode II. Mode II fracture energy is notably higher, approximately 23 times greater than mode I. The findings highlight the importance of balancing notch-to-depth ratios and RFA content to optimize SGPM’s mechanical performance for sustainable construction applications. This study concludes that while SGPM with RFA offers environmental benefits, careful consideration of RFA proportions and notch-to-depth ratios is crucial to maintain desired structural properties.
Impact of Setmelanotide on Metabolic Syndrome Risk in Patients With Bardet-Biedl Syndrome
Authors: Haqq Andrea M , Poitou Christine , Chung Wendy K , Forsythe Elizabeth , Conroy Rushika , Dollfus Hélène , Malhotra Sonali , Touchot Nicolas , Okorie Uzoma , Beales Philip , Clément Karine , Argente Jesús 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Context
Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare genetic disease associated with disruptions in melanocortin-4 receptor pathway signaling that can contribute to increased risk for metabolic syndrome and obesity-related comorbidities.

Objective
Here, MetS-Z-BMI scores, a continuous measure based on body mass index (BMI), were calculated to determine metabolic syndrome severity and response to treatment with the melanocortin-4 receptor agonist setmelanotide in BBS.

Methods
All patients from a phase 3 study (NCT03746522) of setmelanotide with data required for the calculation of MetS-Z-BMI scores were included. Mean MetS-Z-BMI score was determined at baseline and Week 52; subgroup analyses were conducted by sex, age, genotype, and response to setmelanotide.

Results
MetS-Z-BMI scores were evaluable for 22 of 32 patients enrolled. Baseline mean (SD) MetS-Z-BMI score across patients was 1.1 (0.5); baseline mean (SD) odds ratios of future cardiovascular disease or type 2 diabetes were 3.1 (1.5) and 3.7 (1.7), respectively, for adults and 10.2 (4.7) and 2.8 (1.3), respectively, for pediatric patients. Overall, mean (SD) MetS-Z-BMI score at Week 52 was reduced by 0.34 (0.62). Mean (SD) MetS-Z-BMI scores significantly differed depending on achievement of predetermined weight-based thresholds of ≥10% weight loss (patients aged ≥18 years) or ≥0.3-point reduction in BMI Z score (patients aged &lt;18 years) at Week 52 (achievers, −0.64 [0.54]; nonachievers, 0.08 [0.47]; P = .0043). No significant difference was observed with other subgroup comparisons.

Conclusion
MetS-Z-BMI score reductions were observed after 52 weeks of treatment, suggesting that setmelanotide may decrease metabolic syndrome severity and risk of future obesity-related comorbidities in those with BBS.
The Impact of Program and Geographic Signaling on Anesthesia Residency Applications, Interviews, and the Match
Authors: Dutoit Andrea P. , Teeter Emily G. , Wolpaw Jed T. , Martin Timothy W. , Manohar Crystal M. , Long Timothy R. , Abramowicz A. Elisabeth , Stahl David L. , Shostrom Valerie K. , Hoffman Julie T. , Martinelli Susan M. 
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:
Increased specialty competitiveness, alongside the inception of virtual interviews, has increased the number of applications submitted to the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) in anesthesiology. ERAS introduced signals to provide applicants with a means to demonstrate interest in a select group of residency programs. In the 2023 to 2024 application cycle, anesthesiology applicants had the opportunity to send 5 gold and 10 silver signals in a tiered system.

METHODS:
This multicenter, cross-sectional (exempt) research survey was created by members of the executive council of the Association of Anesthesiology Core Program Directors (AACPD) and housed and distributed through REDCap and the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Publicly available contact information of anesthesiology core program directors was obtained from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) website and membership roster of the AACPD. In total, 174 anesthesiology programs were identified. A survey invitation was distributed on March 12, 2024, to all programs via e-mail with reminders. The survey closed on April 30, 2024. Survey responses were collected anonymously, with instructions to provide 1 response per program. All statistical summaries and analyses were performed using SAS 9.3 (SAS Institute).

RESULTS:
The survey was sent to all 174 identified programs, with a response rate of 48.9%. Small programs were defined as having <44 residents, medium 44 to 62 residents, and large >62 residents. Small programs received significantly fewer applications (median 1255) than medium (1420) and large (1558) programs (P = .0005). There was a statistically significant difference in the number of gold signals received based on program size, with large programs receiving significantly more than medium (169 vs 116, P = .0238) or small programs (168 vs 71, P < .0001). Applicants sending gold signals were more likely to receive an interview compared to those who sent silver signals (56.7% vs 31%, P ≤ .0001). Of the those interviewed, applicants who sent gold signals comprised 42% (28.7%–52.6%), whereas applicants who sent silver signals comprised 45.5% (33%–54.7%). Applicants who did not send a program signal but signaled geographically made up a smaller portion of the interview group at 3% (0%–15.4%). The percentage of matched residents sending gold signals made up 66.7% (47.1%–82.4%) of a program’s match list, whereas those sending silver signals were 25% (11.1%–33.3%) of the matched cohort.

CONCLUSIONS:
Anesthesiology applicants who sent program signals were selected for a large majority of available interview positions, and interviewed applicants who submitted gold and silver signals comprised the vast majority of matched resident cohorts.
Maternal, Clinical, and Radiographic Outcomes: A Retrospective Analysis of Anesthesia and Delivery Modality in Chiari I Malformation
Authors: Pulido Sonia , Huang Jesse , Mendoza-Elias Nasya , Das Paramita 
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
The traditional management of pregnant patients with Chiari I malformation (CM-I) heavily favors cesarean section and general anesthesia to limit the perceived risk of maternal neurological complications attributed to vaginal delivery and neuraxial anesthesia. The aim of this study was to compare reported neurological symptoms and radiographic presentations before and after childbirth performed by patients with CM-I, with and without associated syrinx.

METHODS:
Neurological symptoms, mode of delivery, administered anesthesia, extent of cerebellar tonsillar descent, and syrinx diameter and length were recorded before and after delivery from electronic medical records of 36 patients with CM-I who delivered between January 2008 and August 2022. Data were analyzed using paired Student t-tests.

RESULTS:
Thirty two vaginal deliveries and 44 cesarean sections performed on 36 mothers were included. 60 deliveries used neuraxial anesthesia. Average tonsillar descent prepartum and postpartum was 9.3 ± 4.28 mm and 9.4 ± 4.81 mm, respectively (P = .215). Average syrinx diameter prepartum and postpartum was 5.2 ± 2.72 mm and 5.2 ± 2.31 mm, respectively (P = .611). There was no significant difference between prepartum and postpartum average tonsillar descent measurements among cesarean sections (P = .115) or vaginal deliveries (P = .620). There was no significant difference in syrinx diameter or length between prepartum and postpartum in cesarean section patients or in vaginal deliveries. Of the 76 deliveries, 2.6% of patients had worsened Chiari symptoms postoperatively, both are cesarean deliveries. Logistic regression demonstrated no significant worsening of Chiari-related symptoms, regardless of delivery or anesthesia type.

CONCLUSION:
Our findings suggest that patients with CM-I may deliver vaginally and receive neuraxial anesthesia with low risk of neurological complications or radiographic worsening. As these patients were not prospectively selected, limitations exist, and it remains important to consider the severity of the patient's clinical and radiographic presentation when selecting anesthetic and delivery modality.
Autonomous function of Antennapedia in adult muscle precursors directly connects Hox genes to adult muscle development
Authors: Singh Aakriti , van den Burgh Meike , Boopathy Vigneshwarr , van Nierop Y Sanchez Patrick , Bageritz Josephine , Lohmann Ingrid , Domsch Katrin 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT
The evolutionarily conserved Hox genes define segment identities along the anterior-posterior axis and are expressed in most cell types within each segment, performing specific functions tailored to cellular needs. It has been suggested previously that Drosophila adult flight muscles in the second thoracic segment (T2) develop without direct Hox gene input, relying instead on ectodermal signals to shape their identity. However, our research, leveraging single-cell transcriptomics of Drosophila wing discs and Hox perturbation experiments using CRISPR technology and gain-of-function assays, unveiled a more intricate regulatory landscape. We found that the Hox protein Antennapedia (Antp) is essential for adult flight muscle development, acting in two crucial ways: by regulating the cell cycle rate of adult muscle precursors (AMPs) through repression of proliferation genes, and by guiding flight muscle fate via regulation of Hedgehog (Hh) signalling during cell fate establishment. Antp, along with its co-factor Apterous (Ap), directly interacts with the patched (ptc) locus to control its expression in AMPs. These findings challenge the notion of T2 as a ‘Hox-free’ zone, highlighting the indispensable role of low-level Antp expression in adult muscle development.
Detecting Atrial Fibrillation Using Smartwatches
Authors: Kulczycka-Rowicka Agnieszka , Podolec Julianna , Ciraolo Silvia , Wojda Joanna , Sobiński Adam , Kościuszko Zuzanna , Kurza Katarzyna , Czerwonka Matylda , Lesiczka-Fedoryj Katarzyna , Walczak Anna 
Published: February 2025

The purpose of research:
Atrial fibrillation is a globally widespread medical issue. In many cases, atrial fibrillation is paroxysmal, which makes its detection challenging and can delay the implementation of appropriate treatment. The aim of this review is to analyze the latest information on the use of smartwatches in detecting atrial fibrillation.

Research materials and methods:
This review draws on data sourced from the current literature and clinical reports from various sources. The search involved the use of keywords like “atrial fibrillation”, "smartwatch," "cardiac arrhythmia, "detecting arrhythmias”, “arrhythmia” and "wearable devices”.

Basic results:
The findings indicate that the detection of atrial fibrillation (AF) using commercially available smartwatches demonstrates a very high level of diagnostic accuracy but still has room for improvement.

Conclusions:
Atrial fibrillation is a very common problem among patients and the number of sick people increases every year. Detecting these arrhythmias is therefore extremely important to counteract potential, dangerous complications and implement appropriate prevention. Smartwatches are a promising tool supporting the diagnosis of cardiac arrhythmias and monitoring already diagnosed diseases. Further research and continuous improvement of technologies are needed so that it is possible to use them in everyday medical practice.