bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
B-184 Purifying High-Quality Genomic DNA From Frozen Blood Samples Stored up to 1.5 Years at -20°C
Authors: Wood A , Wang Y
Published: October 2024

Background

Maintaining DNA integrity in blood samples, from transport to storage to processing, is crucial to the success of downstream applications, especially regarding diagnostic applications. Additionally, due to the invasive nature of collecting blood samples, minimizing resampling to avoid excess patient pain and cost of collection and transportation are important to consider. Having the option to store and maintain portions of blood samples in the freezer enables future retesting without recollection. Since -20°C freezers generally are more affordable, require less energy, and have smaller footprints than -80°C freezers, demonstrating frozen blood stability at -20°C temperatures could decrease sampling burdens for labs with facility constraints.

Methods

Whole blood was collected into 9mL vacuum tubes (HemaSure-OMXP) from healthy donors. Aliquots of whole blood and buffy coat samples were stored at -20°C and thawed for genomic DNA extractions (QIAamp DNA Blood Mini Kit, Qiagen) at a range of different timepoints; frozen whole blood samples were processed at 0, 49, 141, and 148 days and frozen buffy coat samples were processed at 7, 27, 36, 185, 246, 373, 394, 584, and 604 days. Purified gDNA was quantified with Qubit (Broad Range dsDNA Assay, ThermoFisher) and qualified with Nanodrop One Microvolume UV-Vis Spectrophotometer (ThermoFisher) and TapeStation (Genomic DNA ScreenTape, Agilent Technologies).

Results

No significant decrease was observed for DNA yield and quality between fresh and frozen whole blood samples. Average DNA yields from 200 μL whole blood were 4.5 ± 2.2 μg and 5.3 ± 1.2 μg for fresh and frozen blood respectively. Average DNA integrity (DIN) was 6.9 ± 0.4 and 7.1 ± 0.3 for fresh and frozen blood respectively. Donor differences in blood samples can help explain the variance in DNA yields reported. No significant decrease was observed for DNA yield and quality in buffy coat samples frozen for longer at -20°C. In total, 84 whole blood and 25 buffy coat samples were processed in this study.

Conclusions

Although buffy coat samples tended to have higher yields than whole blood, due to the higher amount of white blood cells present, both sample types provided sufficient amounts of gDNA for downstream applications. Freezing blood samples for future testing can be effective at reducing the need for resampling without sacrificing the nucleic acid yield or quality of fresh samples. Additionally, as technological advancements are made for equipment and assays, frozen blood samples can be retested and compared to previous results for improved diagnostic decisions, done without requiring recollection from labs and patients.
B-227 Customized molecular tests for minimal residual disease: a tool for therapeutic decisions in follicular lymphoma patients
Authors: Tohami T , Yankolovitz D , Ortenberg R , Tawil H , Abadi U
Published: October 2024

Background

Monitoring of minimal residual disease (MRD) is based on accurate laboratory tests which can recognize a small fraction of malignant cells that survived the course of treatment. Several studies of the B-non-Hodgkin lymphoma group have been presented that MRD positivity at the end of treatment is a negative prognostic index. Follicular lymphoma (FL) is a chronic indolent malignancy, which response highly to immuno-chemotherapy followed by prolonged remissions but with inevitable relapse in most patients. The GALLIUM study showed that immuno-chemotherapy combinations, 6 cycles of bendamustine-obinutuzumab (BO), is the most efficacious treatment, but with severe side effects .In addition, 90% of patients achieved negative MRD from peripheral blood (PB) or bone marrow (BM) after only 3 BO cycles. These findings raise the possibility for MRD based treatment approach, where the duration of chemotherapy could be decided according to MRD status at mid-induction (MI). Identification of a marker in the PB and/or BM of each FL patient which will be use to the design of a sensitive RQ-PCR test for MRD detection for follow-up.

Methods

Qualitative PCR for translocation 14:18 and for the VDJ rearrangement sequence of the immunoglobulin heavy chain was used for marker identification. MRD monitoring was done by RQ-PCR. MRD monitoring for VDJ was designed specifically to each patients based on his VDJ sequence. MRD was assessed on PB and BM at MI.

Results

Marker for monitoring was identified at 11/21 patients in this study. After 3 combined therapy cycles, 7 patients were found to have MRD negativity by RQ-PCR therefore continue with immuno-therapy only. MRD positivity was assessed in BM of 3 patients (0.11%, 0.022%, and 0.133%). These 3 patients continued with the combined therapy. RQ-PCR sensitivity was 10-4-10-5.

Conclusions

This study will reveal the ability to use sensitive and specific MRD that has to be designed for each patient according to his marker and enable the establishment of a treatment with a high safety profile for FL patients. Correlation between MRD status and clinical and safety parameters will be assessed at the end of the study, 30 months after the first treatment, taking into account MRD status from different time point of the follow-up period.
B-236 New real-time PCR test for APOE genotyping in patients with Alzheimer’s disease before anti-amyloid therapy
Authors: Sabalza M , Meißner D , Denker A , Stallmann S , Milbredt S , Saschenbrecker S , Steller U
Published: October 2024

Background

In 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration approved LEQEMBI, a monoclonal antibody therapy targeting beta-amyloid plaques, for patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, anti-amyloid drug trials demonstrated an elevated risk for amyloid-related imaging abnormalities with cerebral edema (ARIA-E) in carriers of the AD risk allele apolipoprotein E epsilon 4 (APOE-ɛ4), especially in ɛ4/ɛ4 homozygous individuals [1-3]. Here, we report on the evaluation of a new real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for APOE genotyping.

Methods

The EURORealTime APOE (EUROIMMUN), which enables simultaneous testing for all six APOE genotypes (ɛ2/ɛ2, ɛ2/ɛ3, ɛ2/ɛ4, ɛ3/ɛ3, ɛ3/ɛ4, and ɛ4/ɛ4) by real-time PCR, was performed using genomic DNA (gDNA) isolated from EDTA blood samples. The PCR amplification results were evaluated using the EURORealTime Analysis Software (EUROIMMUN). Samples from healthy blood donors (HBD) were used to assess intra-assay, inter-assay and between-lot precision (n=6) as well as analytical sensitivity (n=21), with each APOE genotype represented by at least one sample. Assay accuracy was analyzed by comparing genotype assignments to the results of the CE-IVD-marked EUROArray APOE (EUROIMMUN) and bidirectional Sanger sequencing using 110 samples (100 AD, 10 HBD). APOE genotype frequencies were compared between patients (100 AD) and controls (250 HBD).

Results

Precision testing of the EURORealTime APOE resulted in 100% correct genotype calls. Assessment of the analytical sensitivity revealed valid and correct genotype assignment in all 21 samples, confirming 1 ng/µl as the recommended minimum gDNA concentration. The analytical accuracy amounted to 100% based on agreement with the two reference methods in 110/110 cases. Comparison of the APOE genotype distribution showed a higher proportion of ɛ4 allele carriers (i.e., ɛ2/ɛ4, ɛ3/ɛ4, and ɛ4/ɛ4) in AD patients than in HBD (50.0% vs. 25.2%). The prevalence of the ɛ4/ɛ4 genotype in these cohorts was 25.0% for AD patients compared with 2.8% for HBD.

Conclusions

The well-established high prevalence of the APOE-ɛ4/ɛ4 genotype in AD patients, together with the increased risk of ARIA-E in these homozygous carriers, substantiates the relevance of APOE genotyping prior to anti-amyloid treatment. The EURORealTime APOE test provides sensitive and reliable determination of APOE alleles, thus presenting a suitable tool to improve risk stratification for potential LEQEMBI recipients.
B-342 Teclistamab interference in serum protein electrophoresis and serum immunofixation electrophoresis in patients with recurrent or relapsed multiple myeloma
Authors: Whitt A , McCoy M H , Jortani S A
Published: October 2024

Background

Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) and serum immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) analyses are mainstays in the initial diagnosis, risk stratification, and evaluating treatment response in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) in accordance with the International Myeloma Working Group criteria. Published reports have demonstrated that therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) used to treat MM (e.g. anti-CD38 IgG-kappa) are detectable by SPEP and IFE, which may interfere with accurate evaluation of complete response. Recently, Teclistamab (Tecvayli®; Janssen Biotech, Horsham Township, PA), a humanized bispecific IgG-lambda mAb targeting B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) and CD3 on T cells was approved for treating patients with penta-refractory MM. In contrast with other IgG-kappa therapeutic mAbs, the degree to which Teclistamab may interfere with detection and quantification of monoclonal proteins is unknown. Therefore, we sought to assess the interference of Teclistamab therapy on routine SPEP and IFE analysis.

Methods

Patients treated with Teclistamab were identified by retrospective review of electronic medical records. Teclistamab (90 mg/mL) was spiked into a remnant patient sample with IgG lambda MM at a final concentration of 10 μg/mL, which corresponds to ½Cmax values in patients infused with Teclistamab. SPEP and IFE were performed using the Helena SPIFE Touch instrument. Computer-assisted densitometry was used to quantify monoclonal proteins in the gamma region of SPEP gels.

Results

In several patients with refractory MM treated with Teclistamab, IFE analysis revealed IgG lambda or lambda light chain monoclonal proteins, which were inconsistent with previously-identified monoclonal proteins (e.g. IgG kappa). In one patient diagnosed with IgG lambda MM, spiking 10 μg/mL Teclistamab increased M-spike abundance by approximately 0.15 g/dL when quantified by SPEP.

Conclusions

In patients with relapsed or refractory MM, treatment with Teclistamab may confound accurate clinical assessment of complete response by SPEP and IFE methods. Increased awareness of this preanalytical interference is necessary to guide clinical decision making.
Restoring the English March: interpreting 17th- and 18th-century drum music
Authors: Chapman John A
Published: October 2024

The English March (EM) defined the sound of the nation for four centuries, but its rhythm and sound have been almost entirely lost, despite the availability of music from the 17th and 18th centuries. Attempts over the past half-century to interpret the music have produced unsatisfactory translations, because they have had to augment the music provided and have not convincingly defined the rudiments depicted in the original sources. I argue that applying rules derived from white mensural notation and Arbeau’s Orchésographie to the EM’s rhythm produces a strong 34 interpretation. Additionally, a study of three surviving versions of the EM and a survey of 18th- and 19th-century drum rudiments allows us to form a complete picture of the rudimental complexity of the EM. The resulting beating represents the closest interpretation to the original EM that current resources allow, and therefore constitutes a major advance in the interpretation of early British military music.
A low-cost alternative to LiDAR for site index models: applying repeated digital aerial photogrammetry data in the modelling of forest top height growth
Authors: Janiec Piotr , Hawryło Paweł , Tymińska-Czabańska Luiza , Miszczyszyn Jakub , Socha Jarosław
Published: October 2024

Environmental and forest structural information derived from remote sensing data has been found suitable for modelling forest height growth and site index and therefore forest productivity assessment, with the advances in airborne laser scanning (ALS) playing a major role in this development. While there is growing interest in the use of ALS-derived point clouds, point clouds from high-resolution digital aerial photography (DAP) are also often used for mapping and estimating forest ecosystem properties due to their lower acquisition costs. In this study, we document the applicability of bi-temporal DAP data for developing top height (TH) growth models for Scots pine stands. Our results indicate that DAP data can function as an alternative to traditional TH measurements used in growth modelling when corrected based on a limited sample of field-measured reference TH values. As the correction cannot be constant for each DAP dataset due to the different parameters during data acquisition, we propose a straightforward method for the bias correction of DAP-derived TH estimates. By undertaking iterative random sampling, we were able to find the minimum number of reference measurements needed to calculate the TH correction in order to achieve the desired accuracy of the TH estimations based on DAP. Here, we used ALS data as the reference data; however, the ALS measurements can be replaced by any other reliable source of TH values. The presented method for determining TH can be used not only for site index and forest growth modelling but also in forest inventories.
A vacuolar invertase gene SlVI modulates sugar metabolism and postharvest fruit quality and stress resistance in tomato
Authors: Wu Yu , Chen Haonan , Wu Mengbo , Zhou Yuanyi , Yu Chuying , Yang Qihong , Rolland Filip , Van de Poel Bram , Bouzayen Mondher , Hu Nan , Wang Yikui , Liu Mingchun
Published: October 2024

Sugars act as signaling molecules to modulate various growth processes and enhance plant tolerance to various abiotic and biotic stresses. Moreover, sugars contribute to the postharvest flavor in fleshy fruit crops. To date, the regulation of sugar metabolism and its effect in plant growth, fruit ripening, postharvest quality, and stress resistance remains not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the role of tomato gene encoding a vacuolar invertase, hydrolyzing sucrose to glucose and fructose. SlVI is specifically expressed during the tomato fruit ripening process. We found that overexpression of SlVI resulted in increased leaf size and early flowering, while knockout of SlVI led to increased fruit sucrose content, enhanced fruit firmness, and elevated resistance of postharvest fruit to Botrytis cinerea. Moreover, the content of naringenin and total soluble solids was significantly increased in SlVI knockout fruit at postharvest stage. Transcriptome analysis showed a negative feedback regulation triggered by sucrose accumulation in SlVI knockout fruit resulting in a downregulation of BAM3 and AMY2, which are critical for starch degradation. Moreover, genes associated with cell wall, cutin, wax, and flavonoid biosynthesis and pathogen resistance were upregulated in SlVI knockout fruit. Conversely, the expression levels of genes involved in cell wall degradation were decreased in knockout fruit. These results are consistent with the enhanced postharvest quality and resistance. Our findings not only provide new insights into the relationship between tomato fruit sucrose content and postharvest fruit quality, but also suggest new strategies to enhance fruit quality and extend postharvest shelf life.
Effect of add-on naldemedine treatment in patients with cancer and opioid-induced constipation insufficiently responding to magnesium oxide: a pooled, subgroup analysis of two randomized controlled trials
Authors: Kessoku Takaomi , Akamatsu Toshikazu , Morioka Yasuhide , Yokota Takaaki , Kobayashi Masayuki , Uchida Kohei , Koretaka Yuichi , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: October 2024

Objective

To evaluate the additive effect of naldemedine tosylate (naldemedine) on opioid-induced constipation in cancer patients insufficiently responding to magnesium oxide treatment.

Methods

We combined two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase IIb and III trials of naldemedine and conducted a post hoc subgroup analysis. We evaluated the effect and safety of naldemedine in 116 patients who received naldemedine in addition to magnesium oxide (naldemedine group) and 117 patients who received placebo in addition to magnesium oxide (placebo group). Both groups included patients insufficiently responding to magnesium oxide for opioid-induced constipation. Effect was assessed using spontaneous bowel movement responder rate, complete spontaneous bowel movement responder rate, changes in spontaneous bowel movements and complete spontaneous bowel movements. Safety was also assessed.

Results

During the 2-week treatment period, the responder rates for spontaneous bowel movement and complete spontaneous bowel movement were 73.3 and 43.1% in naldemedine group, respectively, which were significantly higher (P < 0.0001) than 41.9 and 14.5% in placebo group, respectively. Median time to first spontaneous bowel movement and first complete spontaneous bowel movement was significantly shorter (P < 0.0001) in the naldemedine group (4.0 and 21.3 h, respectively) than in the placebo group (27.7 and 211.7 h, respectively). The incidence of adverse events and diarrhoea was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the naldemedine group than in the placebo group, while the incidence of serious adverse events and severe diarrhoea was not significantly different between the naldemedine and placebo groups.

Conclusion

The study suggested the addition of naldemedine as an effective treatment option for opioid-induced constipation in cancer patients insufficiently responding to magnesium oxide treatment.
A randomized phase III study evaluating dexamethasone-based mouthwash to prevent chemotherapy-induced stomatitis in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Kuba Sayaka , Soutome Sakiko , Hagiwara Yasuhiro , Kikawa Yuichiro , Iwamoto Takayuki , Sangai Takafumi , Harao Michiko , Yamaguchi Takeshi , Taji Tomoe , Igarashi Ataru , Kajimoto Yusuke , Sakurai Naomi , Yamanouchi Kosho , Watanabe Kenichi , Maeda Noriko , Suzuki Masahiko , Maeda Shigeto , Toh Uhi , Ebata Akiko , Iwakuma Nobutaka , Matsunuma Ryoichi , Yamaguchi Miki , Mukai Hirofumi ,   CSPOR-BC, Kuba Sayaka
Published: October 2024

Stomatitis, which is a common side effect of chemotherapy, currently lacks a standardized approach for its prevention. Therefore, this multicenter, randomized, open-label, controlled phase III trial aims to assess the efficacy and safety of a dexamethasone-based mouthwash for preventing chemotherapy-induced stomatitis in patients with early breast cancer. We will randomly assign 230 patients with early breast cancer scheduled to receive chemotherapy in a 1:1 ratio to either the dexamethasone-based mouthwash group (10 ml, 0.1 mg/ml; swish for 2 min and spit 4 times daily for 8 weeks) or the mouthwash-with-tap-water group. The incidence of stomatitis, measured using electronic patient-reported outcomes, is the primary endpoint.
Epithelioid sarcoma of the pretragus: a rare pediatric entity with an unusual site
Authors: El Mohtarim Rihane , Sassi Samia , El Ansari Nawal , Rguieg Naji , El Ghafouli Sara , Rouas Lamiaa , Lamalmi Najat
Published: October 2024

Epithelioid sarcoma (ES) is a rare soft tissue tumor that is commonly misdiagnosed. It is a mesenchymal tumor that shows both mesenchymal and epithelial features. It tends to occur in the distal upper extremity in children and young adults but may appear in any location and any age group. Less than 1% of ES involve the head and neck. Clinically, the tumor can be mistakenly confused with a benign lesion as it can mimic nonspecific ulcers or infected warts. Histologically, ES is characterized by a nodular architecture and epithelioid appearance of cells centered with necrosis, mimicking a granulomatous process. We present the clinical history of a 12-year-old male who presented with an ES of the pretragus with a brief review of the literature to raise awareness on this rare entity and to discuss the challenges in managing histopathological differential diagnosis in front of this unusual clinical presentation.
Flowers meet Newton: testing the role of gravitational pull in resupination of orchid flowers
Authors: Cardoso João C F , Johnson Steven D , Oliveira Paulo E
Published: October 2024

Resupination refers to the developmental orientation changes of flowers through ~180°, leaving them effectively upside-down. It is a widespread trait present in 14 angiosperm families, including the Orchidaceae, where it is a gravitropic phenomenon actively controlled by auxins. Here, we demonstrate that the passive gravitational pull on flower parts can have an additional influence on resupination. We studied a lady’s slipper orchid in which some flowers naturally fail to resupinate. We conducted a manipulative experiment removing floral parts and showed that both the probability of complete resupination and the degree of flower vertical movement (from 0° to 180°) are related to the mass of floral organs. During flower development, the tip of the ovary slightly curves actively (14.75°) due to gravitropism. This promotes a lever arm effect so that the gravitational pull acting on flower mass creates a torque that bends the ovary, orienting the flower into a resupinate position that is accessible to pollinators. The role of the mass of floral organs in resupination provides new insights into flower development and its role in pollination mechanisms.
Obtaining 3D Atomic Reconstructions from Electron Microscopy Images Using a Bayesian Genetic Algorithm: Possibilities, Insights, and Limitations
Authors: Stoops Tom , De Backer Annick , Lobato Ivan , Van Aert Sandra
Published: October 2024

The Bayesian genetic algorithm (BGA) is a powerful tool to reconstruct the 3D structure of mono-atomic single-crystalline metallic nanoparticles imaged using annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy. The number of atoms in a projected atomic column in the image is used as input to obtain an accurate and atomically precise reconstruction of the nanoparticle, taking prior knowledge and the finite precision of atom counting into account. However, as the number of parameters required to describe a nanoparticle with atomic detail rises quickly with the size of the studied particle, the computational costs of the BGA rise to prohibitively expensive levels. In this study, we investigate these computational costs and propose methods and control parameters for efficient application of the algorithm to nanoparticles of at least up to 10 nm in size.
Invasive candidiasis in a pediatric tertiary hospital: Epidemiology, antifungal susceptibility, and mortality rates
Authors: Rodrigues Luiza Souza , Siqueira Adriele Celine , Vasconcelos Thaís Muniz , Ferreira Amanda Maria Martins , Spalanzani Regiane Nogueira , Krul Damaris , Medeiros Érika , Sestren Bianca , Lanzoni Laura de Almeida , Ricieri Marinei Campos , Motta Fábio Araújo , Estivalet Terezinha Inez , Dalla-Costa Libera Maria
Published: October 2024

Invasive infections caused by non-albicans Candida are increasing worldwide. However, there is still a lack of information on invasive candidiasis (IC) in the pediatric setting, including susceptibility profiles and clonal studies. We investigated the clinical, epidemiologic, and laboratory characteristics of IC, possible changes in antifungal susceptibility profiles over time, and the occurrence of clonality in our tertiary children's hospital. We analyzed 123 non-duplicate Candida isolates from sterile sites of pediatric patients in a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil, between 2016 and 2021. Data on demographics, comorbidities, and clinical outcomes were collected. Candida species distribution, antifungal susceptibility profiles, biofilm production, and molecular epidemiology of isolates were assessed using reference methods. The range of IC incidence was 0.88–1.55 cases/1000 hospitalized patients/year, and the IC-related mortality rate was 20.3%. Of the total IC cases, 42.3% were in patients aged < 13 months. Mechanical ventilation, parenteral nutrition, and intensive care unit (ICU) admission were common in this group. In addition, ICU admission was identified as a risk factor for IC-related mortality. The main site of Candida spp. isolation was blood, and non-albicans Candida species were predominant (70.8%). No significant clonal spread was observed among isolates of the three most commonly isolated species, and 99.1% of all isolates were biofilm producers. Non-albicans Candida species were predominant in this study. Notably, clonal expansion and emergence of antifungal drug resistance were not observed in our pediatric setting.
Spatially–resolved gas-phase metallicity in Seyfert galaxies
Authors: Armah Mark , Riffel Rogério , Dahmer-Hahn L G , Davies R I , Dors O L , Kakkad Darshan , Riffel Rogemar A , Rodríguez-Ardila A , Ruschel-Dutra D , Storchi-Bergmann T
Published: October 2024

We explore the relations between the gas-phase metallicity radial profiles (few hundred inner parsec) and multiple galaxy properties for 15 Seyfert galaxies from the AGNIFS (Active Galactic Nuclei Integral Field Spectroscopy) sample using optical Integral Field Unit (IFU) observations from Gemini Multi-Object Spectrographs (GMOS) and Multi Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE) processed archival data. The data were selected at z ≲ 0.013 within black hole mass range [6 < log (MBH/M⊙) < 9] with moderate 14–150 keV X-ray luminosities $\left[42\, \lesssim \, \log L_X (\rm erg\, s^{-1})\, \lesssim \, 44\right]$. We estimated the gas-phase metallicity using the strong-line methods and found mean values for the oxygen dependent (Z ∼ 0.75 Z⊙) and nitrogen dependent (Z ∼ 1.14 Z⊙) calibrations. These estimates show excellent agreement with ΔZ ≈ 0.19 dex and ΔZ ≈ 0.18 dex between the mean values from the two strong-line calibrations for GMOS and MUSE respectively, consistent with the order of metallicity uncertainty via the strong-line methods. We contend that our findings align with a scenario wherein local Seyferts have undergone seamless gas accretion histories, resulting in positive metallicity profile over an extended period of time, thereby providing insights into galaxy evolution and the chemical enrichment or depletion of the universe. Additionally, we argue that metal-poor gas inflow from the local interstellar medium (ISM) and accreted through the circumgalactic medium (CGM) onto the galaxy systems regulates the star formation processes by diluting their central metallicity and inverting their metallicity gradients, producing a more prominent anti-correlation between gas-phase metallicity and Eddington ratio.
Teaching mathematics for economists: partial results of the implementation of a study and research path
Authors: Benítez Velma , Parra Verónica
Published: October 2024

This work emerges from the problem of the monumentalisation of knowledge. This didactic phenomenon, introduced in the anthropological approach to the didactic of mathematics, describes the school study of mathematics from an analogy with a visit to a museum. Mathematics is studied as if it were a work of art that is only available for veneration and has no other use than to be exhibited. This phenomenon is more acute in careers where mathematics takes on more of an instrumental role, as in the case of the training of economists. The aim of this article is to present the partial results of the implementation of a type of mathematics teaching known as research and study paths (RSP), carried out in the first year of a university in Argentina. This type of teaching is proposed to address the phenomenon of monumentalisation. The implementation of the RSP was carried out during the first 4-month period of 2021 (16 weeks), with a group of 35 students from a Mathematical Analysis course. This course is common in the training of professionals in Economics: Public Accountants, Business Administration graduates and Economics graduates. The SRP links Economics and Mathematics and its generating question is Q0: How much benefit do producers and consumers receive from a competitive market? The results obtained so far are promising, in terms of the generating power of the question and the concreteness of the study of mathematics in a co-disciplinary way to Economics. The group of students achieved relative autonomy in the use of mathematics, not only to solve problems but also to generate economic models, communicate and defend the results of their productions.
A Pangenomic Analysis of the Diversity and Biological Functioning of the Genus Azotobacter
Authors: Abdul Aziz Mughair , Ahmad Manzoor , Rahman Shafeeq , Masmoudi Khaled
Published: October 2024

Azotobacter is a diverse genus of free-living soil bacteria that fixes atmospheric nitrogen and act as a biocontrol agent for different phytopathogens. This study utilized the genomic sequences from four different Azotobacter species, comprising thirty strains, to construct the genus pangenome. Through comparative genomics and pangenomics analysis, we elucidated the genomic diversity and functional relationship between and within the species of the Azotobacter genus. The selected Azotobacter strains exhibited an ANI of ≥ 85%, with core genes constituting up to 9% and a large proportion of 55% of unique genes. This indicated the sharing of a highly open pangenome of the Azotobacter genus. The COG analysis revealed that core, unique, and accessory genes play a significant role in the Azotobacter’s metabolic and information storage processes. The KEGG enrichment evaluation showed general functioning, amino acid transport and metabolism, as the major biological processes of the Azotobacter’s genomic content. Furthermore, the predominant BGCs present in the genomic structure of Azotobacter genus exhibited a 27% participation in the production of NRP-metallophores, 17% for the NI-siderophores and 17% for type III polyketide synthase (T3PKS). The genomic content analysis of the core genome revealed various genes that encoded for acid and universal stress proteins, playing a role in Azotobacters adaptation. For the biological functioning attributes, it was found that alginate production, riboflavin transporters, nitrogen-responsive regulatory flavoprotein, nitrogen-related phosphotransferase, and molybdenum cofactor genes were involved in its core genome for the major functioning of its nitrogen fixation.
Bibliometric Analysis (2000-2024) of Research on Artificial Intelligence in Nursing
Authors: Monaco Federica , Andretta Vincenzo , Bellocchio Umberto , Cerrone Valentina , Cascella Marco , Piazza Ornella
Published: October 2024

We conducted a bibliometrics analysis utilizing the Web of Science database, selecting 1925 articles concerning artificial intelligence (AI) in nursing. The analysis utilized the network visualization tool VOSviewer to explore global collaborations, highlighting prominent roles played by the United States, China, and Japan, as well as institutional partnerships involving Columbia University and Harvard Medical School. Keyword analysis identified prevalent themes and co-citation analysis highlighted influential journals. A notable increase in AI-related publications in nursing was observed over time, reflecting the growing interest in AI in nursing. However, high-quality clinical research and increased scientific collaboration are needed.
Pathophysiology and clinical implications of coronary artery calcifications
Authors: Saba Luca , Costa Francesco , Cau Riccardo
Published: October 2024

Purpose of review

To provide a summary of current understanding of coronary artery calcifications (CACs), outlining the role of calcium in atherosclerosis to comprehend the clinical implications of CAC.

Recent findings

CAC serves as a reliable indicator of coronary artery disease (CAD) and it is associated with cardiovascular events. In recognition of its significance, recent global guidelines have integrated CAC assessment into risk evaluation protocols, highlighting its role as a noninvasive tool for evaluating and stratifying patients’ risk for cardiovascular events. Beyond the amount of CAC values, also, calcium morphology had been linked to cardiovascular events.

By leveraging CAC assessment, healthcare providers can effectively up or down reclassify patients’ risk and tailor preventive strategies accordingly. This comprehensive approach may involve lifestyle modifications, meticulous management of risk factors, and judicious use of preventive medications to mitigate the likelihood of future cardiovascular events, or withhold treatments in those without signs of CAC, to optimize resource use.

The identification of CAC burden and morphology through noninvasive imaging modalities can reclassify the prediction of future cardiovascular risk and serve as a risk modifier for atherosclerosis. These data underscore the utility of selectively using CAC assessment in both primary and secondary prevention strategies for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Carbon Footprint of Fluorinated Gases Used in Endothelial Keratoplasty
Authors: Borgia Alfredo , Airaldi Matteo , Kaye Stephen , Romano Vito , Dell’Omo Roberto , Gadhvi Kunal , Moussa George , Raimondi Raffaele
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to examine the direct impact on carbon emissions attributed to the use of fluorinated gases in endothelial keratoplasty (EK) procedures using gas tamponade and to evaluate the respective carbon footprint of different gas delivery systems used in EK procedures.

Methods:

In this retrospective, single-center environmental impact study, all corneal procedures using fluorinated gases between January 2021 and January 2024 at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital were reviewed and included. The CO2 equivalent emissions were calculated based on the mass of each fluorinated gas used, following the guidelines of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Results:

Of 357 total procedures (160 Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty [44.8%], 118 Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty [33.1%], and 79 rebubbling [22.1%]), single-use sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) canisters were used in 278 (77.9%) procedures. SF6 canisters used in corneal transplantation emitted nearly 1.5 tons of CO2 over 3 years. The 30-mL canisters emitted twice the CO2 per GBP compared to SF6 15-mL canisters and 4 times that of C2F6 or C3F8 15-mL canisters.

Conclusions:

Fluorinated gas use in corneal transplantation has a significant environmental impact, which can be reduced by the use of smaller single-use canisters with lower carbon footprint, although manufacturing and disposal concerns remain. Our findings advocate for a more environmentally conscious approach to EK, favoring the use of smaller, more cost-efficient canisters and considering air as an alternative tamponade where possible.
Meningeal KATP channels contribute to behavioral responses in preclinical migraine models
Authors: Mei Hao-Ruei , Lam Myan , Kulkarni Shrivatsa Ravindra , Ashina Håkan , Ashina Messoud , Dussor Gregory
Published: October 2024

Human experimental studies have shown that levcromakalim, an ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channel opener, induces migraine attacks in people with migraine but not in healthy volunteers. However, the exact site of action for KATP channels in migraine pathophysiology remains unclear. This study investigates the role of these channels in the meninges in eliciting behavioral hypersensitivity responses in mice. The effects of KATP channel signaling were assessed using preclinical migraine models induced by repetitive stress or dural stimulation. Prolactin, CGRP, sodium nitroprusside (SNP), and KATP channel openers or blockers were administered systemically or onto the dura of mice followed by behavioral testing using periorbital von Frey or facial grimace measurements. Repetitive stress sensitized mice to a normally subthreshold systemic dose of levcromakalim. The KATP blocker glibenclamide significantly reduced responses to systemic SNP following repetitive stress. In naive mice, direct dural application of levcromakalim or SNP elicited periorbital hypersensitivity. Responses to dural levcromakalim were inhibited by coinjection with glibenclamide or sumatriptan. By contrast, injection of levcromakalim in the periorbital skin did not induce hypersensitivity. Moreover, repetitive stress sensitized mice to dural injection of normally subthreshold doses of levcromakalim or SNP. Finally, dural coinjection of glibenclamide inhibited periorbital hypersensitivity induced by CGRP or prolactin in female mice. These studies demonstrate that the meninges can be one site of action for the migraine-triggering effects of KATP channel openers. They also show that NO donors, CGRP, and prolactin can produce behavioral hypersensitivity through opening of KATP channels in the meninges.
Promoting Safer Opioid Practices and Professional Collaboration Through Interprofessional Simulation
Authors: Fasolka Brian , Robertiello Gina N. , Knapp Michelle , Latimer Beth , Roitman Janna
Published: October 2024

Simulation-enhanced interprofessional education is widely viewed as an effective teaching pedagogy to foster effective communication and teamwork for healthcare students. Pharmacists and registered nurses must learn to work collaboratively during their educational programs in order to be prepared for the complexities of modern healthcare. This study evaluated prelicensure pharmacy and prelicensure nursing students' perceptions of professional collaboration before and after caring for a standardized patient exhibiting opioid dependence secondary to inappropriate use of an opioid analgesic. Statistically significant gains in communication, collaboration, roles and responsibilities, patient-centered care, conflict management, and team functioning were measured for both pharmacy and nursing students after the interprofessional simulation. This study adds to the existing evidence that suggests simulation-enhanced interprofessional education is an effective teaching strategy; however, this study demonstrates its usefulness for students learning about safer opioid analgesic practices.
Improving Linkage for Patients With Injection-Drug-Use-Related Endocarditis and Osteomyelitis to Medications for Opioid Use Disorder Through a Telephone Intervention
Authors: Harris Cheyenne , Roy Payel Jhoom , Mitchell Ann M. , Anderson Maighdlin W.
Published: October 2024

The opioid overdose crisis has continued to worsen, with a concomitant increase in serious injection-related infections, such as endocarditis and osteomyelitis. Usual care of these infections involves long-term intravenous antibiotics, typically administered via a peripherally inserted central venous catheter (PICC) at home. In patients with a history of opioid use disorder who inject drugs, a PICC has long been viewed as a high-risk intervention that may contribute to illicit substance use due to ease of venous access; thus, providers are often uncomfortable discharging these patients home to complete their antibiotics. As a result, many patients remain hospitalized or are discharge to skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) in order to complete their antibiotics. Challenges to this model include difficulty finding SNFs that will accept these patients, inability for these SNFs to continue their medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), and inability to coordinate care with outpatient MOUD providers at SNF discharge. This quality improvement project sought to increase linkage to outpatient MOUD on SNF discharge via a telephone intervention. A total of 11 patients qualified for this intervention. Although patients were still in an SNF, 4/7 (57.1%) of patients were successfully contacted. Once they were discharged from the SNF, only 3/10 (30.0%) of patients were successfully reached. Of those 30.0% who were contacted, all of them had attended their outpatient MOUD appointment. We suggest that future linkage interventions in this population may benefit from utilizing existing care team members to facilitate linkage, to maximize the rapport built during an inpatient stay.
The Effect of Addiction Course on Nursing Students' Stigmatizing Attitudes Toward Individuals With Substance Use Disorder
Authors: Aşık Elif
Published: October 2024

Background

The approach of nursing department students who will practice the nursing profession in the future, which they adopt for individuals with addiction, bears importance. This study was conducted to evaluate the changes in stigmatizing attitudes of nursing students who took the addiction course toward individuals with substance use disorder.

Method

The study was conducted in a single group in a pretest–posttest order. Necessary approvals (institution and ethics committee) were obtained to carry out the study. The study sample was made up of 76 students who took an addiction course in the 2020–2021 academic year and who agreed to participate in the research. A questionnaire form and the Alcohol and Substance Addiction Stigmatizing Attitudes Scale were used as data collection tools. Cronbach's alpha value of the scale was found as 0.90. In addition to descriptive statistics, the paired sample t test was used in the analysis of the data from the dependent groups.

Results

The mean age of the participating students was 21.2 ± 0.73 years, and 93.4% were female. In the pretest, 10 (13.2%) students reported that they smoked, and seven students (9.2%) reported that they used alcohol. There were no individuals who used any substance other than cigarette or alcohol in the sample. The mean score of the students on the Alcohol and Substance Addiction Stigmatizing Attitudes Scale was 13.89 ± 5.16 in the pretest and 7.34 ± 5.51 in the posttest. This difference was found as statistically significant (p < .01).

Conclusions

It was established in this study that the addiction course reduced the stigmatizing attitudes of nursing students toward individuals with substance use disorder.
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy following liver transplantation: A multicenter cohort study
Authors: Matar Abraham J. , Keiler James , Bolognese Alexandra C. , Cimeno Arielle , Whitmore Colin , Wehrle Chase J. , Aucejo Federico , Fedorova Ekaterina , Aufhauser David , Subramanian Ram , Kazimi Marwan M. , Maharaj Valmiki , Aby Elizabeth S. , Magliocca Joseph , Kim Steven C.
Published: October 2024

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) is an acute, stress-mediated, reversible cardiomyopathy that occurs in the absence of hemodynamically significant coronary artery disease. We aimed to investigate the characteristics and outcomes of patients who developed TCM following liver transplantation (LT) in a multicenter study. Adult patients from 6 centers across the United States who developed TCM according to Mayo Clinic criteria following LT between 2008 and 2023 were included. Demographics, perioperative and long-term outcomes, and treatment modalities were assessed. Fifty-five patients were included. The center incidence of TCM ranged from 0.1% to 0.5%. The majority were female (54.5%) and Caucasian (87.2%), and the median age at transplant was 59 years. The primary etiologies for LT were alcohol-associated cirrhosis (49.1%) and metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease cirrhosis (21.8%). The median time from LT to TCM diagnosis was 4 days. TCM was associated with a 60.9% reduction in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) from a pretransplant median LVEF of 64.0%–25.0%. The most common treatment for TCM was diuretics (67.3%) and afterload reduction (54.5%), with only 27.3% of patients requiring vasopressor support. At a median follow-up of 31.5 months, 1-year and 3-year overall survivals (OSs) were 86.3% and 69.4%, respectively. A repeat echocardiogram performed at a median of 84 days demonstrated that 45/55 patients (81.8%) had recovered LVEF ≥50%. Patients with LVEF recovery to ≥50% had significantly improved OS compared to those without LVEF recovery >50% (106.4 vs. 12.2 mo, p= 0.001). TCM following LT is associated with a significant reduction in LVEF; however, the majority of patients recover LVEF to >50% with minimal perioperative mortality. Importantly, follow-up assessment of LVEF has significant implications as lack of recovery is associated with worse OS.
68Ga-FAPI PET in Visualizing Acute Ischemic Stroke at Risk of Hemorrhagic Transformation
Authors: Kim Jahae , Park Hye-Jin , Cho Sang-Geon , Park Ki-Seong , Choi Kang-Ho
Published: October 2024

Hemorrhagic transformation is a serious complication of ischemic stroke, which occurs at a rate of between 18% and 42%. 68Ga-FAPI PET can visualize acute cerebral infarction at risk of hemorrhagic transformation in the brain. We report a case of 68Ga-FAPI PET imaging in a patient with recurrent ischemic stroke. 68Ga-FAPI PET imaging revealed FAPI uptake in acute ischemic stroke with hemorrhagic transformation, but did not in some acute infarction and chronic infarction without hemorrhagic transformation. These findings suggest potential role of 68Ga-FAPI PET in the evaluation of acute ischemic stroke with the risk of hemorrhagic transformation.
Multiple Myeloma Presented With Testicular Involvement at Initial Diagnosis on 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Filizoglu Nuh , Kesim Selin
Published: October 2024

Extramedullary involvement is a rare presentation of multiple myeloma (MM), and testicular involvement is even rarer. Testicular involvement associated with poor prognosis and orchiectomy is necessary for definitive diagnosis. Although 18F-FDG PET/CT is well-known for its ability to detect extramedullary involvement and assess treatment response in MM, testicular involvement of MM on 18F-FDG PET/CT at initial diagnosis has not yet been reported. Herein, we present a rare case of MM with testicular involvement at initial diagnosis.
The Effects of the COVID-19 Mask Mandate on Complication Rates in Postmastectomy Tissue Expansion
Authors: Braswell Ann Carol , Bald Madeline , Fonseca Gabriela , Soto Edgar , Fang Hua Amanda , Patcha Prasanth
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Tissue expansion is a commonly used breast reconstructive strategy. Although the procedure is regarded as safe, tissue expander to implant-based breast reconstruction is reported to have the highest rates of postoperative infection among plastic surgery operations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, face masks were required at all hospital facilities at our institution. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of COVID-19 mask mandate on in-office breast tissue expansion procedures.

Methods

An institutional review board–approved, retrospective review was completed on all patients who underwent unilateral or bilateral tissue expansion following mastectomy at a single institution in 2017 (prior to the COVID-19 mask mandate) and 2021 (following implementation of the mandate). Variables included were demographics, procedure information, and postoperative outcomes.

Results

The analysis included 118 patients in the premandate group and 147 patients in the postmandate group. There was no difference in age, body mass index, smoking status, or diabetes mellitus between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). More patients in the postmandate group underwent bilateral reconstruction as opposed to unilateral when compared with the premandate group (70.7% vs 55.9%, P = 0.014). There were no differences in major complication rate (26.3% vs 30.6%, P = 0.495) or minor complication rate 30.5% vs 26.5%, P = 0.495) between the pre–mask and post–mask mandate groups.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that the use of face masks did not play a significant role in complication rates relating to in-office tissue expansion procedures. It remains up to the discretion and comfortability of the provider if masks should be worn during the procedure.
Migraine/Headache “Tender Spots” Represent Referred Pain From Nerve Compression/Neuromas and Are Not “Trigger Points”
Authors: Cheng Jonathan , Dellon A Lee
Published: October 2024

To minimize confusion in description of the clinical examination of the patient with migraine/headaches and implement peripheral nerve concepts into the surgical approach to treating the patient with migraines, the historical origin of the phrase “trigger point” is explored. The symptoms of migraine/headache are due to stimulation of the cranial/peripheral nerve being interpreted as due to stimulation of the meningeal innervation. Use of the phrase “extraction of trigger points” is discouraged in favor of either neurolysis of a compressed nerve or resection of a neuroma, depending upon the peripheral nerve pathology.