bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Chemical transformations of arsenic in the rhizosphere–root interface of Pityrogramma calomelanos and Pteris vittata
Authors: Corzo Remigio Amelia , Harris Hugh H , Paterson David J , Edraki Mansour , van der Ent Antony 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Pityrogramma calomelanos and Pteris vittata are cosmopolitan fern species that are the strongest known arsenic (As) hyperaccumulators, with potential to be used in the remediation of arsenic-contaminated mine tailings. However, it is currently unknown what chemical processes lead to uptake of As in the roots. This information is critical to identify As-contaminated soils that can be phytoremediated, or to improve the phytoremediation process. Therefore, this study identified the in situ distribution of As in the root interface leading to uptake in P. calomelanos and P. vittata, using a combination of synchrotron micro-X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and X-ray absorption near-edge structure imaging to reveal chemical transformations of arsenic in the rhizosphere–root interface of these ferns. The dominant form of As in soils was As(V), even in As(III)-dosed soils, and the major form in P. calomelanos roots was As(III), while it was As(V) in P. vittata roots. Arsenic was cycled from roots growing in As-rich soil to roots growing in control soil. This study combined novel analytical approaches to elucidate the As cycling in the rhizosphere and roots enabling insights for further application in phytotechnologies to remediated As-polluted soils.
Assessment of natural radioactivity levels in soil samples from Dejen district, Ethiopia
Authors: Cherie Gizachew Z , Deressu Tilahun T 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Gamma ray spectrometry was used to determine the activity concentrations of naturally occurring radionuclides in 12 soil samples collected at random from Dejen district, Ethiopia. In agricultural soils, the calculated mean activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K were 33.44 ± 2.01, 66.02 ± 4.54 and 214.16 ± 8.90 Bq kg−1, respectively, and in virgin soils, they were 38.05 ± 2.48, 61.78 ± 4.76 and 240.32 ± 10.79 Bq kg−1, respectively. The findings were discussed and compared to other studies’ findings. The mean values of absorbed dose rate, annual effective dose rate and radium equivalent activity in agricultural land soils are 67.24 nGyh−1, 0.083 mSvy−1 and 144.57 Bq kg−1, and in virgin land soils are 67.53 nGyh−1, 0.082 mSvy−1 and 144.90 Bq kg−1, respectively. These findings were discussed and compared to the internationally recommended value. As a result, it is possible to conclude that the soil samples are safe for residents and those involved in agricultural activities.
Amygdala resting-state functional connectivity alterations in patients with chronic insomnia disorder: correlation with electroencephalography beta power during sleep
Authors: Kweon Woojin , Lee Kyung Hwa , Choi Sang Ho , Shin Jiyoon , Seo Mincheol , Jeon Jeong Eun , Lee Ha Young , Park Chowon , Kim Sun-Young , Kim Jong Won , Chang Jun Hyuk , Lee Yu Jin 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Study Objectives
This study investigated alterations in resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) and hyperarousal biomarkers in patients with chronic insomnia disorder (CID), compared with good sleepers (GS). We also examined the relationships between altered RSFC and hyperarousal biomarkers.

Methods
Fifty patients with CID and 52 GS completed self-reporting questionnaires, and then underwent polysomnography and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. We analyzed RSFC in the amygdala (AMG) and anterior insula (aINS), which are core regions of the salience network that are likely to be involved in hyperarousal. We also analyzed electroencephalography (EEG) relative beta power and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters (e.g. low and high frequency) during sleep. We then tested between-group differences in the RSFC and hyperarousal biomarkers; we examined correlations of RSFC with EEG beta power and HRV.

Results
Compared with GS, patients with CID showed more negative RSFC between the right amygdala (R.AMG) and left supramarginal gyrus (L.SMG), but less positive RSFC between the left aINS and bilateral lateral prefrontal cortex. The R.AMG–L.SMG RSFC was negatively correlated with EEG beta power in central regions (C3: r = −0.336, p = 0.012; C4: r = −0.314, p = 0.024).

Conclusions
Decreased RSFC between the R.AMG and L.SMG in patients with insomnia may reflect the difficulty in cortical top-down regulation of the AMG, indicating daytime hyperarousal. Individuals who experience hyperarousal during the daytime may also exhibit cortical hyperarousal during sleep, as indicated by increased EEG beta power.
The effects of closed-loop auditory stimulation on sleep oscillatory dynamics in relation to motor procedural memory consolidation
Authors: Baxter Bryan S , Mylonas Dimitrios , Kwok Kristi S , Talbot Christine E , Patel Rudra , Zhu Lin , Vangel Mark , Stickgold Robert , Manoach Dara S 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Study Objectives
Healthy aging and many disorders show reduced sleep-dependent memory consolidation and corresponding alterations in non-rapid eye movement sleep oscillations. Yet sleep physiology remains a relatively neglected target for improving memory. We evaluated the effects of closed-loop auditory stimulation during sleep (CLASS) on slow oscillations (SOs), sleep spindles, and their coupling, all in relation to motor procedural memory consolidation.

Methods
Twenty healthy young adults had two afternoon naps: one with auditory stimulation during SO upstates and another with no stimulation. Twelve returned for a third nap with stimulation at variable times in relation to SO upstates. In all sessions, participants trained on the motor sequence task prior to napping and were tested afterward.

Results
Relative to epochs with no stimulation, upstate stimuli disrupted sleep and evoked SOs, spindles, and SO-coupled spindles. Stimuli that successfully evoked oscillations were delivered closer to the peak of the SO upstate and when spindle power was lower than stimuli that failed to evoke oscillations. Across conditions, participants showed similar significant post-nap performance improvement that correlated with the density of SO-coupled spindles.

Conclusions
Despite its strong effects on sleep physiology, CLASS failed to enhance motor procedural memory. Our findings suggest methods to overcome this failure, including better sound calibration to preserve sleep continuity and the use of real-time predictive algorithms to more precisely target SO upstates and to avoid disrupting endogenous SO-coupled spindles and their mnemonic function. They motivate continued development of CLASS as an intervention to manipulate sleep oscillatory dynamics and improve memory.
The causal associations of altered inflammatory proteins with sleep duration, insomnia and daytime sleepiness
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Zhao Wangcheng , Liu Kun , Chen Ziliang , Fei Quanming , Ahmad Namra , Yi Minhan 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Study Objectives
Growing evidence linked inflammation with sleep. This study aimed to evaluate the associations and causal effects of sleep traits including insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), and sleep duration (short: &lt;7 h; normal: 7–9 h; long: ≥9 h), with levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukins.

Methods
Standard procedures of quantitative analysis were applied to estimate the expression differences for each protein in compared groups. Then, a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed to explore their causal relationships with published genome-wide association study summary statistics. The inverse-variance weighted was used as the primary method, followed by several complementary approaches as sensitivity analyses.

Results
A total of 44 publications with 51 879 participants were included in the quantitative analysis. Our results showed that the levels of CRP, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and TNF-α were higher from 0.36 to 0.58 (after standardization) in insomnia compared with controls, while there was no significant difference between participants with EDS and controls. Besides, there was a U/J-shaped expression of CRP and IL-6 with sleep durations. In MR analysis, the primary results demonstrated the causal effects of CRP on sleep duration (estimate: 0.017; 95% confidence intervals [CI], [0.003, 0.031]) and short sleep duration (estimate: −0.006; 95% CI, [−0.011, −0.001]). Also, IL-6 was found to be associated with long sleep duration (estimate: 0.006; 95% CI, [0.000, 0.013]). These results were consistent in sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions
There are high inflammatory profiles in insomnia and extremes of sleep duration. Meanwhile, elevated CRP and IL-6 have causal effects on longer sleep duration. Further studies can focus on related upstream and downstream mechanisms.
Plasma neurofilament light chain as a potential biomarker of neurodegeneration in murine brain
Authors: Sano Tomoya , Masuda Yasushi , Yasuno Hironobu , Shinozawa Tadahiro , Watanabe Takeshi 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Reliable fluid biomarkers for evaluating neurotoxicity have yet to be established. However, recent studies have reported neurofilament light chain as a fluid biomarker of several neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, we investigated changes in the cerebrospinal fluid and plasma levels of neurofilament light chain in mice treated with trimethyltin as a neurotoxicant. Trimethyltin diluted with saline was administered by intraperitoneal injection to mice at dose levels of 0 (vehicle control), 1.0, and 2.6 mg/kg body weight (dosage volume: 10 mL/kg). At 3 or 7 days after administration, animals were euthanized by exsanguination under 2–3% isoflurane inhalation anesthesia. Increased neurofilament light chain levels in both the cerebrospinal fluid and plasma were observed in animals from the trimethyltin 2.6 mg/kg body weight group, which indicated the brain lesions including neuronal cell death. Animals from the trimethyltin 1.0 mg/kg body weight group exhibited changes neither in neurofilament light chain levels in the cerebrospinal fluid and plasma nor in the histopathology of the brain at any time point. These data indicate that plasma neurofilament light chain can serve as a useful peripheral biomarker for detecting brain lesions such as neuronal necrosis in mice.
In vitro inhibition of human cytochrome P450 enzymes by licoisoflavone B from Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. ex DC
Authors: Chen Luying , Nikolic Dejan , Li Guannan , Liu Jialin , van Breemen Richard B 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. ex DC, one of the 3 pharmacopeial species of licorice and widely used in dietary supplements, can inhibit certain cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. Thereby, G. uralensis preparations have the potential to cause pharmacokinetic drug interactions when consumed along with prescription medicines. One compound (1.34 mg dry weight) responsible for inhibiting CYP2B6, CYP2C8, and CYP2C9 was isolated using bioactivity-guided fractionation from 250 g dried roots, stolons, and rhizomes. The enzyme kinetics and mechanisms of inhibition were determined using human liver microsomes, recombinant enzymes, and UHPLC-MS/MS-based assays. Identified as licoisoflavone B, this compound displayed reversible inhibition of CYP2C8 with an IC50 value of 7.4 ± 1.1 µM and reversible inhibition of CYP2C9 with an IC50 value of 4.9 ± 0.4 µM. The enzyme kinetics indicated that the mechanism of inhibition was competitive for recombinant CYP2C8, with a Ki value of 7.0 ± 0.7 μM, and mixed-type inhibition for recombinant CYP2C9, with a Ki value of 1.2 ± 0.2 μM. Licoisoflavone B moderately inhibited CYP2B6 through a combination of irreversible and reversible mechanisms with an IC50 value of 16.0 ± 3.9 µM.
Cross-platform social media analysis regarding ACL injury and surgery
Authors: Hasley Hunter L. , Bukowiec Lainey G. , Zaifman Jay M. , Malik Martin , Batko Brian , Kissin Yair D. , Kelly Michael 
Published: August 2023

Background:
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury affects a broad patient population, but there is limited knowledge on how ACL injury is discussed across social media platforms. This study aims to develop an extensive snapshot of the social media milieu for understanding who uses social media platforms, what topics users discuss, and how these platforms vary regarding ACL injury and surgery.

Methods:
We utilized a qualitative, descriptive design with quantitative statistical analysis including Kruskal-Wallis tests and Fisher’s Exact tests with post hoc analyses to examine new posts across Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok using ACL-specific search terms from August 2021 to January 2022. Posts were analyzed by authorship, content characterization, and engagement.

Results:
Across social media sites, 760 posts were examined involving ACL surgery and injury. There was statistically significant difference among the platforms when comparing categories of authorship (P<0.001). There were statistically significant differences where physicians (P<0.001) and patients (P<0.001) posted, with physicians representing 20.6% and 19.5% of posts on Facebook and Twitter, respectively. TikTok displayed the highest patient authorship (83.5%) and greatest content engagement. There were also significant differences among platforms regarding content characterization (P<0.001).

Conclusions:
This study breaks down a snapshot of social media revolving around ACL injury and surgery demonstrating differences in authorship, content, and engagement of posts across platforms. These findings demonstrate the frequent use of social media by patients to address unmet clinical needs and can help surgeons and patients connect on the same platforms.

Level of Evidence:
Level IV.
The Role of Thoracic Tilt in Identifying Thoracic Compensation and Predicting Proximal Junctional Kyphosis in Degenerative Lumbar Scoliosis
Authors: Qiu Weipeng , Zhou Siyu , Han Gengyu , Chen Zimu , Chen Ze , Ding Linyao , Sun Zhuoran , Li Weishi 
Published: August 2023

Study Design.A retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients.Objective.To investigate the clinical value of thoracic tilt (TT) in characterizing thoracic compensation and predicting proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) in degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS).Summary of Background Data.Thoracic compensation has been shown to be associated with the development of PJK, while thoracic shape and morphology in patients with DLS remain understudied.Methods.Patients with DLS who underwent long-segment fusion were divided into a PJK group and a non-PJK group. Asymptomatic elderly volunteers were recruited as healthy controls. Thoracic parameters were measured in both cohorts, including the TT, T1-L1 pelvic angle (TLPA), T12 slope, thoracic kyphosis (TK, T4-T12), global thoracic kyphosis (GTK, T1-T12), and thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK, T10-L2). Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between TT and the development of PJK, adjusting for confounders. Multivariate linear regression was used to establish the predictive formula for TT.Results.A total of 126 patients with DLS were enrolled, of which 37 (29.4%) developed PJK. Compared with 110 healthy controls, DLS patients had significantly greater TT, TLPA, T12 slope, and TLK as well as smaller TK and GTK (allP<0.001). Preoperatively, the PJK group showed significantly greater TT (P=0.013), TLPA (P<0.001), and TLK (P=0.034) than the non-PJK group. No significant differences were found in TK and GTK before surgery. Postoperatively, the PJK group showed significantly greater TT (P<0.001), TLPA (P<0.001), TLK (P<0.001), and proximal junctional angle (P<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that greater postoperative TT was associated with the development of PJK. Multivariate linear regression analysis suggested that the regression formula was postoperative TT=0.675×T12slope+0.412×TK+0.158×TLK−4.808 (R2=0.643,P<0.001).Conclusions.The novel sagittal parameter TT can be used for the evaluation of thoracic compensation. Greater preoperative TT might represent a decompensated state of TK. Rebalancing the TT in a sagittal neutral position might help to prevent PJK in patients with DLS.
Effect of Lumbar Fusion and Pelvic Fixation Rigidity on Hip Joint Stress
Authors: Kozaki Takuhei , Lundberg Hannah J. , Mell Steven P. , Samartzis Dino , Kawakami Mamoru , Yamada Hiroshi , Inoue Nozomu , An Howard S. 
Published: August 2023

Study Design.
This study compared hip stress among different types of lumbopelvic fusion based on finite element (FE) analysis.

Objective.
We believe that the number and placement of S2 alar iliac (AI) screws and whether the screws loosen likely influence hip joint stress in the FE model.

Summary of Background Data.
Spinopelvic fixation has been shown to increase the risk of progression for hip joint osteoarthritis. The biomechanical mechanism is not well understood. We hypothesize that the rigid pelvic fixation may induce stress at adjacent joints.

Materials and Methods.
A three-dimensional nonlinear FE model was constructed from the L4 vertebra to the femoral bone. From the intact model, we made four fusion models, each with different lower vertebrae instrumentation: (1) intact, (2) L4-S1 fusion, (3) L4-S2 AI screw fixation, (4) L4-S2 AI screw fixation with S2 AI screw loosening, and (5) L4-S1 and dual sacral AI screw fixation. A compressive load of 400 N was applied vertically to the L4 vertebra, followed by an additional 10 Nm bending moment about different axes to simulate either flexion, extension, left lateral bending, or right axial rotation. The distal femoral bone was completely restrained. The von Mises stress and angular motion were analyzed across the hip joints within each fusion construct model.

Results.
Hip joint cartilage stress and range of motion increased for all postures as pelvic fixation became more rigid. The dual sacral AI screw fixation model increased stress and angular motion at the hip joint more than intact model. Our results suggest that more rigid fixation of the pelvis induces additional stress on the hip joint, which may precipitate or accelerate adjacent joint disease.

Conclusions.
Dual sacral AI fixation led to the highest stress while loosening of S2 AI decreased stress on the hip joint. This study illustrates that more rigid fixation among lumbosacral fusion constructs increases biomechanical stress on the hip joints.
Patient-specific Implants for Treating Atrophic Mandibles
Authors: Shilo Dekel , Capucha Tal , Blanc Ori , Shilo Yaacobi Dafna , Emodi Omri , Rachmiel Adi 
Published: August 2023

Summary:
Extremely atrophic mandibles are difficult to treat. Most patients choose to live with removable dentures. However, what if the atrophy is so extreme that spontaneous fractures occur? The objective of this report is to offer a single-stage augmentation method, which uses patient-specific crib-shaped implants (PSI) combined with autogenous free bone grafts. PSI were planned using three-dimensional (3D) segmentation and 3D virtual-planning software. Implants were designed according to the patient’s mandible with a mesh-like structure and included large holes for allowing blood supply recovery. During surgery, the PSI fitted perfectly. In cases exhibiting malposition of the mandibular fragments, repositioning was performed using 3D virtual planning. When repositioning mandibular segments, the PSI served as a guide for the correct positioning. Iliac-crest bone graft was harvested and fixed as an onlay over the residual mandibular basal bone. External approach was used to avoid contamination. Six months following surgery, fixation wires were removed, and dental implants were positioned in the newly formed bone. The PSI allowed for rigid fixation, thus leading to optimal incorporation of the iliac-crest bone graft. No further augmentation was required. Bony continuity for future stability and secession of the spontaneous fractures was achieved. Dental implants were placed effortlessly. Treating extremely atrophic mandibles is an entity of its own and is considered one of the most challenging in craniofacial reconstruction. It mostly requires multiple operations with high rates of failure. We offer a novel method of 3D mandibular reconstruction, both vertically and horizontally, showing promising results and achieving enough bone for further dental rehabilitation.
Measuring Platinum Levels in Hair in Women with Silicone Breast Implants and Systemic Symptoms
Authors: Spit K.A. , Azahaf S. , de Blok C.J.M. , Nanayakkara P.W.B. 
Published: August 2023

Background:
It has been suggested that compounds present in silicone breast implants (eg, silicone particles or heavy metals such as platinum) migrate into the body and can cause systemic symptoms in susceptible women, causing what is known as breast implant illness. This pilot study investigates possible associations between hair platinum levels in patients with breast implants and breast implant illness, and evaluates its possible use for diagnostic purposes.

Methods:
Patients were included from the silicone outpatient clinic at Amsterdam University Medical Centre. Platinum concentration in hair samples of 10 women with breast implants and systemic symptoms (group A) was compared with that in 10 women with breast implants but no symptoms (group B), and a control group of 10 women without implants or symptoms (group C), using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Radiological imaging was used to assess implant ruptures or silicone leakage.

Results:
A median platinum concentration of 0.09 μg per kg [IQR 0.04–0.15] was found in group A, 0.08 μg per kg [IQR 0.04–0.12] in group B, and 0.04 μg per kg [IQR 0.02–0.13] in group C, with no statistical significant difference between the groups (Kruskal-Wallis test, P = 0.43). No correlation between radiologically proven implant leakage and platinum level was found.

Conclusions:
There was no statistically significant difference in hair platinum levels in women with or without silicone breast implants or breast implant illness. Therefore, based on this pilot study, we do not recommend this test for clinical use. Given the small sample size, more research is required to fully assess its possible use for diagnostic purposes.