bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Synchronized Expansion and Contraction of Olfactory, Vomeronasal, and Taste Receptor Gene Families in Hystricomorph Rodents
Authors: Niimura Yoshihito , Biswa Bhim B , Kishida Takushi , Toyoda Atsushi , Fujiwara Kazumichi , Ito Masato , Touhara Kazushige , Inoue-Murayama Miho , Jenkins Scott H , Adenyo Christopher , Kayang Boniface B , Koide Tsuyoshi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Chemical senses, including olfaction, pheromones, and taste, are crucial for the survival of most animals. There has long been a debate about whether different types of senses might influence each other. For instance, primates with a strong sense of vision are thought to have weakened olfactory abilities, although the oversimplified trade-off theory is now being questioned. It is uncertain whether such interactions between different chemical senses occur during evolution. To address this question, we examined four receptor gene families related to olfaction, pheromones, and taste: olfactory receptor (OR), vomeronasal receptor type 1 and type 2 (V1R and V2R), and bitter taste receptor (T2R) genes in Hystricomorpha, which is morphologically and ecologically the most diverse group of rodents. We also sequenced and assembled the genome of the grasscutter, Thryonomys swinderianus. By examining 16 available genome assemblies alongside the grasscutter genome, we identified orthologous gene groups among hystricomorph rodents for these gene families to separate the gene gain and loss events in each phylogenetic branch of the Hystricomorpha evolutionary tree. Our analysis revealed that the expansion or contraction of the four gene families occurred synchronously, indicating that when one chemical sense develops or deteriorates, the others follow suit. The results also showed that V1R/V2R genes underwent the fastest evolution, followed by OR genes, and T2R genes were the most evolutionarily stable. This variation likely reflects the difference in ligands of V1R/V2Rs, ORs, and T2Rs: species-specific pheromones, environment-based scents, and toxic substances common to many animals, respectively.
A tale of two pumps: Blue light and abscisic acid alter Arabidopsis leaf hydraulics via bundle sheath cell H+-ATPases
Authors: Torne-Srivastava Tanmayee , Grunwald Yael , Dalal Ahan , Yaaran Adi , Moshelion Menachem , Moran Nava 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The bundle sheath cell (BSC) layer tightly enveloping the xylem throughout the leaf is recognized as a major signal-perceiving “valve” in series with stomata, regulating leaf hydraulic conductance (Kleaf) and thereby radial water flow via the transpiring leaf. The BSC blue light (BL) signaling pathway increases Kleaf and the underlying BSC water permeability. Here, we explored the hypothesis that BSCs also harbor a Kleaf-downregulating signaling pathway related to the stress phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA). We employed fluorescence imaging of xylem sap in detached leaves and BSC protoplasts from different genotypes of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) plants, using pH and membrane potential probes to monitor physiological responses to ABA and BL in combination with pharmacological agents. We found that BL-enhanced Kleaf required elevated BSC cytosolic Ca2+. ABA inhibited BL-activated xylem-sap-acidifying BSC H+-ATPase AHA2 (Arabidopsis H+-ATPase 2), resulting in depolarized BSCs and alkalinized xylem sap. ABA also stimulated BSC vacuolar H+-ATPase (VHA), which alkalinized the BSC cytosol. Each pump stimulation, AHA2 by BL and VHA by ABA (under BL), also required Ca2+. ABA stimulated VHA in the dark depending on Ca2+, but only in an alkaline external medium. Taken together with earlier findings on the pH sensitivity of BSC osmotic water permeability (i.e. aquaporin activity), our results suggest a Ca2+-dependent and pH-mediated causative link between the BL- and ABA-regulated activities of two BSC H+-ATPases and Kleaf.
Umeclidinium plus vilanterol versus fluticasone propionate plus salmeterol for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials
Authors: Zhai Chunjuan , Wang Fen , Xu Ruie , Sun Xia , Ma Wenbin , Wang Li 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Umeclidinium plus vilanterol (UMEC/VI) is an inhaled long-acting muscarinic antagonist/long-acting beta2-agonist (LAMA/LABA), recently approved as once-daily maintenance therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This meta-analysis aims to assess the efficacy and safety of UMEC/VI compared with fluticasone propionate plus salmeterol (FP/SAL).

Methods
A systematic search was conducted by a trained medical research librarian across MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM) for randomized controlled trials comparing UMEC/VI with FP/SAL in COPD patients. Two reviewers independently assessed the risk of bias and extracted data. The primary outcome was 0–24 h weighted mean (wm) forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), trough FEV1. The secondary outcomes were other lung functions, symptoms, quality of life, and safety.

Results
Three studies with 2119 patients were included in the meta-analysis. UMEC/VI showed improvement in 0–24 h wm FEV1 (mean difference (MD) 0.08 L, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.06 to 0.10, P &lt; 0.01, moderate quality) and trough FEV1 (MD 0.09 L, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.11, P &lt; 0.01, moderate quality) in comparison with FP/SAL. UMEC/VI statistically significantly improved all other lung functions compared with FP/SAL. However, there were no significant differences between UMEC/VI and FP/SAL in rescue-medication use, symptomatic endpoints, and health outcomes. UMEC/VI also demonstrated fewer drug-related adverse effects (risk ratio 0.47, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.82, P = 0.01, low quality).

Conclusions
UMEC/VI, when compared with FP/SAL, demonstrated significant improvements in lung functions with fewer drug-related adverse effects. However, the conclusion was limited by the scarcity of studies and long-term trials.
PyExoCross: a Python program for generating spectra and cross-sections from molecular line lists
Authors: Zhang Jingxin , Tennyson Jonathan , Yurchenko Sergei N 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
PyExoCross is a Python adaptation of the ExoCross Fortran application, PyExoCross is designed for post-processing the huge molecular line lists generated by the ExoMol project and other similar initiatives such as the HITRAN and HITEMP data bases. PyExoCross generates absorption and emission stick spectra, cross-sections, and other properties (partition functions, specific heats, cooling functions, lifetimes, and oscillator strengths) based on molecular line lists. PyExoCross calculates cross-sections with four line profiles: Doppler, Gaussian, Lorentzian, and Voigt profiles in both sampling and binned methods; a number of options are available for computing Voigt profiles which we test for speed and accuracy. PyExoCross supports importing and exporting line lists in the ExoMol and HITRAN/HITEMP formats. PyExoCross also provides conversion between the ExoMol and HITRAN data formats. In addition, PyExoCross has extra code for users to automate the batch download of line list files from the ExoMol data base.
Radiological environmental impact analysis of the uranium mining site in Mika, Nigeria using time series forecast model
Authors: Bakut Victor Ntyak , Kim Juyoul 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This study employs time series forecasting, specifically Seasonal Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average, to predict the radiological impact of uranium mining in Mika, Nigeria. By utilizing meteorological data to model the dispersion of radioactive emissions to receptors, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of potential health and environmental consequences. The study observed a slight change in the Total Effective Dose Equivalent (TEDE) at the nearest residence northeast receptor between the actual and the forecasted data. The findings could be largely because of the basement complex rock formations that characterized the Mika region. The study recommend proper monitoring and evaluation should be done before full-scale mining can be carried out. However, the TEDE is generally below the International Atomic Energy Agency recommended level of 1 mSv per y for public exposure. The research demonstrates the significance of predictive modeling in managing and mitigating the radiological risks associated with uranium mining activities. Findings contribute to informed decision-making and sustainable resource extraction practices in Mika, Nigeria.
Are cisnormative surveys adequate to assess sexual well-being in trans men post–genital gender-affirming surgery?
Authors: Loria Matthew , Van Dorn Chloe , Bobrow Aidan , Gautam Aishwarya , Fraiman Elad , McNamara Megan , Gupta Shubham , Mishra Kirtishri 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Introduction
For transmasculine spectrum individuals, there is a lack of validated surveys to assess sexual well-being (SWB) post–genital gender-affirming surgery. Currently, either providers are designing their own SWB surveys or surveys designed for cisgender men are being used.

Objective
This study investigated the applicability of SWB surveys validated for cisgender men to transmasculine spectrum individuals post–genital gender-affirming surgery (TMSX). Recognizing the paucity of validated tools for assessing SWB in transmasculine individuals post–genital gender-affirming surgery (TMSX), we evaluated current surveys for their inclusiveness and relevance to this population.

Methods
Our methodology involved analyzing surveys validated in English-speaking North American cisgender men. We conducted a systematic review, yielding 31 surveys, out of which 12 met our inclusion criteria. These were then assessed against the 10 domains of holistic SWB as identified by Özer et al. Each survey was scored based on its reflection of these domains, thus generating an SWB score. Additionally, we performed a thematic analysis to identify areas needing modification for better applicability to TMSX.

Results
Our findings indicate an average SWB score of 5.17 out of 10 across the surveys. The surveys predominantly addressed sexual function, with a marked underrepresentation of domains like quality of life, sexuality, and sexual pleasure. This underscores the tendency of these surveys to focus more on the biological mechanisms of sex, rather than on a nuanced biopsychosocial understanding. Thematic analysis revealed significant gaps, such as the irrelevance of questions about erections and ejaculations for TMSX, and the need for greater emphasis on psychosocial factors.

Conclusion
Given these gaps and the inadequacy of most cisnormative surveys, we recommend the creation of a novel, validated SWB survey specifically for TMSX. This should be developed in collaboration with a multidisciplinary panel and TMSX community advisory board, ensuring a tool that truly reflects the unique SWB needs of this population.
Clinical and Radiographic Results After Treatment of Traumatic Syndesmotic Instability Using a Novel Screw-Suture Syndesmotic Fixation Device
Authors: Shaath M. Kareem , Williams Warren A. , Kelly John J. , Garrett Christopher H. , Munro Mark W. , Avilucea Frank R. , Langford Joshua R. , Haidukewych George J. 
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVES:
The objective of this study was to report early outcomes of a novel screw-suture syndesmotic device compared with suture button fixation devices when treating traumatic syndesmotic instability.

METHODS:

Design:
Retrospective chart review.

Setting:
Single academic Level 1 Trauma Center.

Patient Selection Criteria:
All adult patients who had syndesmotic fixation with the novel device [novel syndesmotic repair implant (NSRI) group] compared with a suture button device (SB group) between January 2018 and December 2022.

Outcome Measures and Comparisons:
Medial clear space and tibiofibular overlap measurements were compared immediately postoperatively and at the final follow-up. Patients were followed for a minimum of 1 year or skeletal healing.

RESULTS:
Fifty-nine patients (25 female) with an average age of 47 years (range 19–78 years) were in the NSRI group compared with 52 patients (20 female) with an average age of 41 years (range 18–73 years) in the SB group. There were no significant differences when comparing body mass index, diabetes, or smoking status between groups (P > 0.05). There was no difference when comparing the postoperative and final medial clear space measurements in the NSRI group compared with the SB group (P = 0.86; 95% confidence interval, −0.32 to 0.27). There was no difference when comparing the postoperative and final tibiofibular overlap measurements in the NSRI group compared with the SB group (P = 0.79; 95% confidence interval, −0.072 to 0.09). There were 3 cases of implant removal in the NSRI group compared with 2 in the SB group (P = 0.77). There was 1 failure in the NSRI group and none in the SB group. The remaining patients were all fully ambulatory at the final follow-up (P = 0.35).

CONCLUSIONS:
A novel screw-suture syndesmotic implant provides the fixation of a screw, and the flexibility of a suture had similar radiographic outcomes compared with suture button fixation devices in treating ankle syndesmotic instability.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:
Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Pathogenic Gene Variants Identified in Patients Presenting With Perthes or Perthes-like Hip Disorder
Authors: Marchelli Gabrielle , Mercado Candelaria , Gill Corey S. , Kim Harry K.W. 
Published: April 2024

Aims:
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (LCPD) is a diagnosis of exclusion. Various conditions, such as skeletal dysplasias, can closely mimic LCPD and these must be ruled out to provide appropriate treatment, prognosis, and counseling. Traditionally, genetic testing has not been readily available in pediatric orthopaedic practice. Furthermore, the clinical value of genetic testing patients with LCPD is unclear. With the advance of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology, genetic testing has become clinically available as a lab test. The purposes of this study were to assess the clinical utility of genetic testing in select patients with LCPD and to determine the patient characteristics of those who tested positive for skeletal dysplasia.

Methods:
This is an IRB-approved, retrospective study of 63 consecutive patients who presented with Perthes-like symptoms and/or x-ray findings and who had genetic testing. The reason(s) for genetic testing included bilateral hip disease, family history of LCPD, short stature, suspected skeletal dysplasia, atypical radiographic findings, and/or combinations of these reasons.

Results:
Of the 63 patients, 19 patients (30%) were found to have a pathogenic gene variant. In 8 of the 19, a variety of skeletal dysplasia was diagnosed. The remaining 11 patients were found to be carriers of autosomal recessive disorders. All 19 patients were referred for genetic counseling. Of the 8 patients found to have skeletal dysplasia, 3 had bilateral disease, 3 were <10 percentile in height, 1 had a family history of “LCPD,” and 3 had atypical x-ray findings. In addition to the pathogenic variants, numerous genetic variants of unknown significance were found with 2 gene variants showing exactly the same variant found in 2 unrelated patients.

Conclusions:
With 30% of the patients showing pathogenic results, genetic testing of select patients with Perthes-like disease is valuable in detecting an underlying genetic disorder or a carrier status of a genetic disorder.
Coping in Women With Breast Cancer Awaiting a Surgical Intervention: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Fortunato Sarah , Danielis Matteo , Zanotti Renzo 
Published: April 2024

Background:
Breast cancer affects a woman’s body and mind in complex ways and is more than just a physical condition that requires medical treatment.

Objective:
To investigate how women with breast cancer undergoing surgical treatment cope with and adjust to the disease.

Methods:
A cross-sectional study between April 12 and July 22, 2022. This study adhered to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines.

Results:
A total of 125 women participated (median age 52). Most (64.8%) responded rationally, 25.4% emotionally, and 9.8% nonprevailing. About 76.2% used problem-focused coping. Women living with others had better adaptation than those alone. Emotional appraisal increased the likelihood of poor adaptation compared to rational appraisal. Nonprevailing coping was linked to a 6-fold increase in psychosocial maladjustment (OR, 5.88; 95% CI,1.14-30.30).

Conclusions:
The study indicates that women with breast cancer tend to adopt problem-focused coping strategies, with rational responses correlating with better psychological adaptation outcomes, while emotional or nonprevailing responses may lead to poorer adjustment.

Implications for Practice:
Coping strategies should be shared by oncology nurses with targeted women, especially if their potential for postdiagnosis positive psychological change is considered.

What is Foundational:
Women diagnosed with breast cancer eligible for surgical treatment may undergo a positive psychological transformation, as the majority exhibit a problem-focused, rational approach to the disease.
Lasers for the Treatment of Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Rosenthal Amanda , Juhasz Margit L.W. , Chang Crystal , Gharavi Nima M. 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND
Lasers may present an alternative treatment modality for the management of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC).

OBJECTIVE
To investigate lasers as a definitive treatment of NMSC.

METHODS
A comprehensive search was performed on MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, and the National Institutes of Health (www.clinicaltrials.gov). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis was used to finalize a list of relevant literature studies evaluating the role of laser therapy for NMSC. Articles published through May 1, 2023, were included.

RESULTS
The authors identified 37 studies investigating nonablative and ablative lasers alone and in combination with other lasers, noninvasive imaging, and additional modalities for the treatment of basal cell carcinomas, 10 focusing on squamous cell carcinoma in situ and 3 focusing on the treatment of both basal and squamous cell carcinomas.

CONCLUSION
Although surgical management continues to be superior to laser therapy for the management of high-risk and cosmetically sensitive tumors, laser therapy may be an acceptable alternative for low-risk lesions on the trunk and extremities. However, further studies are needed to optimize parameters, determine maximal efficacy, and provide long-term follow-up before the adoption of laser therapy for NMSC into daily clinical practice.
The association of race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status on the severity of menopause symptoms: a study of 68,864 women
Authors: Kochersberger Alison , Coakley Aeowynn , Millheiser Leah , Morris Jerrine R. , Manneh Claire , Jackson Alicia , Garrison Jennifer L. , Hariton Eduardo 
Published: April 2024

AbstractObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate if and how race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status (SES) are associated with the severity of menopause symptoms in a large, diverse sample of women.MethodsFor this cross-sectional study conducted between March 24, 2019, and January 13, 2023, a total of 68,864 women were enrolled from the Evernow online telehealth platform. Participants underwent a clinical intake survey, which encompassed demographic information, detailed medical questionnaires, and a modified Menopause Rating Scale. The modified scale was adapted for ease of use online and is available in the supplementary material along with the full intake. Symptom severity was evaluated using a multivariate binomial generalized linear model, accounting for factors such as race, ethnicity, age, body mass index, smoking status, bilateral oophorectomy status, and SES. Odds ratios (OR) and CIs were calculated based on the linear regression coefficients.ResultsOf the participants, 67,867 (98.6%) were included in the analysis after excluding outliers and those with unknown oophorectomy status. The majority of respondents identified as White (77.4%), followed by Hispanic (9.0%), Black (6.7%), two or more races/ethnicities (4.4%), Asian (1.2%), Indigenous/First Nations (0.8%), Middle Eastern (0.3%), and South Asian (0.2%). Notably, individuals identifying as Black (hot flashes OR, 1.91; 97.5% CI, 1.75-2.09;P< 0.001), Hispanic (skin/hair changes OR, 1.58; 97.5% CI, 1.45-1.71;P< 0.001), Indigenous/First Nations (painful sex OR, 1.39; 97.5% CI, 1.19-2.75;P= 0.007), Middle Eastern (weight changes OR, 2.22; 97.5% CI, 1.25-4.37;P= 0.01), or with two or more races/ethnicities (skin/hair changes OR, 1.41; 97.5% CI, 1.26-1.58;P< 0.001) reported higher levels of symptom severity compared with their White counterparts. Conversely, Asian and South Asian participants reported lower symptom severity. Even after incorporating SES into the linear model, racial and ethnic groups with lower SES (Black, Hispanic, Indigenous, and multiple ethnicities) exhibited slight shifts in OR while maintaining high statistical significance (Black [hot flashes OR, 1.87; 97.5% CI, 1.72-2.04;P< 0.001], Hispanic [skin/hair changes OR, 1.54; 97.5% CI, 1.42-1.68;P< 0.001], Indigenous/First Nations [painful sex OR, 1.74; 97.5% CI, 1.17-2.70;P= 0.009], multiple ethnicities [skin/hair changes OR, 1.41; 97.5% CI, 1.26-1.58;P< 0.001]).ConclusionsOur study suggests that the relationship between race and ethnicity and the severity of menopause symptoms is not solely explained by differences in SES but is itself an independent factor. Understanding and addressing social, cultural, and economic factors are crucial to reduce disparities in menopausal symptoms.
Accuracy of Three-dimensional Scan Technology and Its Possible Function in the Field of Hand Surgery
Authors: Rudari Michele , Breuer Joseph , Lauer Hannes , Stepien Lukas , Lopez Elena , Dragu Adrian , Alawi Seyed A. 
Published: April 2024

Background:
Three-dimensional (3D) technology has become a standard manufacturing element in many industries and has gained significant interest in plastic surgery. The 3D scans are widely used for patient communication, virtual surgery planning, and intraoperative tool manufacturing, providing a more comprehensive view of procedures and their outcomes compared with 2D visualization.

Methods:
We evaluated the performance of six commercially available 3D scanners by acquiring 3D models of a human hand and a 3D-printed replica of a human hand. We performed objective comparisons between the 3D models of the replica using color mapping techniques. Moreover, we compared the results of the human hand 3D scans.

Results:
We achieved the highest precision with the Artec Space Spider 3D scanner (Artec 3D) when scanning the 3D-printed replica. The SD was ±0.05 mm, and the scan did not have major defects that needed manual correction. On the human hand scan, we achieved the best results using the Artec Eva (Artec 3D), the resulting scan was an accurate digital representation of the scanned human hand.

Conclusions:
In our study, the Artec Space Spider 3D scanner demonstrated superior precision when scanning a 3D-printed replica, deviating only slightly from the original data, making it an optimal choice for nonmoving objects such as casts or medical instruments. For scanning human hands, the Artec Eva 3D scanner exhibited the highest performance, offering accuracy comparable to the Artec Space Spider, but with the added benefit of being able to scan larger objects.