bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breves reflexiones sobre la responsabilidad patrimonial del estado en México y la propuesta de su evolución a la remediación de la actividad irregular estatal
Authors: Salazar Pablo Jiménez , Jara Rito Abel Orozco
Published: February 2024

En México, la academia ha manifestado un interés permanente en perfeccionar la Responsabilidad Patrimonial de Estado y construir propuestas para su evolución. Uno de los proyectos más recientes y destacados para tal efecto, lo constituye la “Remediación de la actividad irregular del Estado” de la autoría de Magda Zulema Mosri Gutiérrez, por lo que el objetivo del presente trabajo consiste en retomar y analizar su paradigma emergente, desde una metodología jurídica documental y prospectiva que contribuya a la actualización de dicha institución, como medio de protección de los derechos humanos de los administrados.
Targeted Proteomics Reveals Functional Targets for Early Diabetes Susceptibility in Young Adults
Authors: Shah Ravi V. , Zhong Jiawei , Massier Lucas , Tanriverdi Kahraman , Hwang Shih-Jen , Haessler Jeffrey , Nayor Matthew , Zhao Shilin , Perry Andrew S. , Wilkins John T. , Shadyab Aladdin H. , Manson JoAnn E. , Martin Lisa , Levy Daniel , Kooperberg Charles , Freedman Jane E. , Rydén Mikael , Murthy Venkatesh L.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The circulating proteome may encode early pathways of diabetes susceptibility in young adults for surveillance and intervention. Here, we define proteomic correlates of tissue phenotypes and diabetes in young adults.

METHODS:

We used penalized models and principal components analysis to generate parsimonious proteomic signatures of diabetes susceptibility based on phenotypes and on diabetes diagnosis across 184 proteins in >2000 young adults in the CARDIA (Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults study; mean age, 32 years; 44% women; 43% Black; mean body mass index, 25.6±4.9 kg/m
2
), with validation against diabetes in >1800 individuals in the FHS (Framingham Heart Study) and WHI (Women’s Health Initiative).

RESULTS:

In 184 proteins in >2000 young adults in CARDIA, we identified 2 proteotypes of diabetes susceptibility—a proinflammatory fat proteotype (visceral fat, liver fat, inflammatory biomarkers) and a muscularity proteotype (muscle mass), linked to diabetes in CARDIA and WHI/FHS. These proteotypes specified broad mechanisms of early diabetes pathogenesis, including transorgan communication, hepatic and skeletal muscle stress responses, vascular inflammation and hemostasis, fibrosis, and renal injury. Using human adipose tissue single cell/nuclear RNA-seq, we demonstrate expression at transcriptional level for implicated proteins across adipocytes and nonadipocyte cell types (eg, fibroadipogenic precursors, immune and vascular cells). Using functional assays in human adipose tissue, we demonstrate the association of expression of genes encoding these implicated proteins with adipose tissue metabolism, inflammation, and insulin resistance.

CONCLUSIONS:

A multifaceted discovery effort uniting proteomics, underlying clinical susceptibility phenotypes, and tissue expression patterns may uncover potentially novel functional biomarkers of early diabetes susceptibility in young adults for future mechanistic evaluation.
Integrated Stress Response Potentiates Ponatinib-Induced Cardiotoxicity
Authors: Yan Gege , Han Zhenbo , Kwon Youjeong , Jousma Jordan , Nukala Sarath Babu , Prosser Benjamin L. , Du Xiaoping , Pinho Sandra , Ong Sang-Bing , Lee Won Hee , Ong Sang-Ging
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a primary driver of cardiac contractile failure; yet, the cross talk between mitochondrial energetics and signaling regulation remains obscure. Ponatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used to treat chronic myeloid leukemia, is among the most cardiotoxic tyrosine kinase inhibitors and causes mitochondrial dysfunction. Whether ponatinib-induced mitochondrial dysfunction triggers the integrated stress response (ISR) to induce ponatinib-induced cardiotoxicity remains to be determined.

METHODS:

Using human induced pluripotent stem cells–derived cardiomyocytes and a recently developed mouse model of ponatinib-induced cardiotoxicity, we performed proteomic analysis, molecular and biochemical assays to investigate the relationship between ponatinib-induced mitochondrial stress and ISR and their role in promoting ponatinib-induced cardiotoxicity.

RESULTS:

Proteomic analysis revealed that ponatinib activated the ISR in cardiac cells. We identified GCN2 (general control nonderepressible 2) as the eIF2α (eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α) kinase responsible for relaying mitochondrial stress signals to trigger the primary ISR effector—ATF4 (activating transcription factor 4), upon ponatinib exposure. Mechanistically, ponatinib treatment exerted inhibitory effects on ATP synthase activity and reduced its expression levels resulting in ATP deficits. Perturbed mitochondrial function resulting in ATP deficits then acts as a trigger of GCN2-mediated ISR activation, effects that were negated by nicotinamide mononucleotide, an NAD
+
precursor, supplementation. Genetic inhibition of ATP synthase also activated GCN2. Interestingly, we showed that the decreased abundance of ATP also facilitated direct binding of ponatinib to GCN2, unexpectedly causing its activation most likely because of a conformational change in its structure. Importantly, administering an ISR inhibitor protected human induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocytes against ponatinib. Ponatinib-treated mice also exhibited reduced cardiac function, effects that were attenuated upon systemic ISRIB administration. Importantly, ISRIB does not affect the antitumor effects of ponatinib in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS:

Neutralizing ISR hyperactivation could prevent or reverse ponatinib-induced cardiotoxicity. The findings that compromised ATP production potentiates GCN2-mediated ISR activation have broad implications across various cardiac diseases. Our results also highlight an unanticipated role of ponatinib in causing direct activation of a kinase target despite its role as an ATP-competitive kinase inhibitor.
Neurological Improvement by One-Thirds Is Associated With Early Recanalization in Stroke With Large Vessel Occlusion
Authors: Che Bizhong , Kusuma Yohanna , Bush Steven , Dowling Richard , Williams Cameron , Houlihan Conor , Mitchell Peter J. , Yan Bernard
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

A proportion of large vessel occlusion strokes demonstrate early recanalization, obviating the initial intention to proceed to endovascular thrombectomy. Neurological improvement is a possible surrogate marker for reperfusion. We aimed to determine the optimal threshold of neurological improvement, as defined by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), which best associates with early recanalization.

METHODS:

We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients with large vessel occlusion transferred from primary stroke centers to a tertiary comprehensive stroke center in Melbourne, Australia, for possible endovascular thrombectomy from January 2018 to December 2022. Absolute and percentage changes in NIHSS between transfer, as well as other definitions of neurological improvement, were compared using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for association with recanalization as defined by the absence of occlusion in the internal carotid artery, middle cerebral artery (M1 or M2 segments), or basilar artery on repeat vascular imaging.

RESULTS:

Six hundred and fifty-four transferred patients with large vessel occlusion were included in the analysis: mean age was 68.8±14.0 years, 301 (46.0%) were women, and 338 (52%) received intravenous thrombolytics. The proportion of extracranial internal carotid artery, intracranial internal carotid artery, M1, proximal M2, and basilar artery occlusion was 18.8%, 13.6%, 48.3%, 15.0%, and 4.3%, respectively, on initial computed tomography angiogram. Median NIHSS
primary stroke center
and NIHSS
comprehensive stroke center
scores were 15 (interquartile range, 9–18) and 13 (interquartile range, 8–19), respectively. Early recanalization occurred in 82 (13%) patients. NIHSS reduction of ≥33% was the best tradeoff between sensitivity (64%) and specificity (83%) for identifying recanalization. NIHSS reduction of ≥33% had the highest discriminative ability to predict recanalization (area under the curve, 0.735) in comparison with other definitions of neurological improvement.

CONCLUSIONS:

One-third neurological improvement between the primary hospital and tertiary center was the best predictor of early recanalization.
Pericyte Microvesicles as Plasma Biomarkers Reflecting Brain Microvascular Signaling in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Gaceb Abderahim , Roupé Linnea , Enström Andreas , Almasoudi Wejdan , Carlsson Robert , Lindgren Arne G. , Paul Gesine
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Blood-based biomarkers have the potential to reflect cerebrovascular signaling after microvascular injury; yet, the detection of cell-specific signaling has proven challenging. Microvesicles retain parental cell surface antigens allowing detection of cell-specific signaling encoded in their cargo. In ischemic stroke, the progression of pathology involves changes in microvascular signaling whereby brain pericytes, perivascular cells wrapping the microcapillaries, are one of the early responders to the ischemic insult. Intercepting the pericyte signaling response peripherally by isolating pericyte-derived microvesicles may provide not only diagnostic information on microvascular injury but also enable monitoring of important pathophysiological mechanisms.

METHODS:

Plasma samples were collected from patients with acute ischemic stroke (n=39) at 3 time points after stroke onset: 0 to 6 hours, 12 to 24 hours, and 2 to 6 days, and compared with controls (n=39). Pericyte-derived microvesicles were isolated based on cluster of differentiation 140b expression and quantified by flow cytometry. The protein content was evaluated using a proximity extension assay, and vascular signaling pathways were examined using molecular signature hallmarks and gene ontology.

RESULTS:

In this case-control study, patients with acute ischemic stroke showed significantly increased numbers of pericyte-derived microvesicles (median, stroke versus controls) at 12 to 24 hours (1554 versus 660 microvesicles/μL;
P
=0.0041) and 2 to 6 days after stroke (1346 versus 660 microvesicles/μL;
P
=0.0237). Their proteome revealed anti-inflammatory properties mediated via downregulation of Kirsten rat sarcoma virus and IL (interleukin)-6/JAK/STAT3 signaling at 0 to 6 hours, but proangiogenic as well as proinflammatory signals at 12 to 24 hours. Between 2 and 6 days, proteins were mainly associated with vascular remodeling as indicated by activation of Hedgehog signaling in addition to proangiogenic signals.

CONCLUSIONS:

We demonstrate that the plasma of patients with acute ischemic stroke reflects (1) an early and time-dependent increase of pericyte-derived microvesicles and (2) changes in the protein cargo of microvesicles over time indicating cell signaling specifically related to inflammation and vascular remodeling.
Two new species and a new record of stygobitic freshwater snails (Gastropoda, Cochliopidae) from Candela, Coahuila, northern Mexico
Authors: CZAJA ALEXANDER , BECERRA-LÓPEZ JORGE LUIS , CORDERO-TORRES DIANA GABRIELA , ESTRADA-RODRÍGUEZ JOSÉ LUIS , CARDOZA-MARTÍNEZ GABRIEL FERNANDO , ALONZO-ROJO FERNANDO , ÁVILA-RODRÍGUEZ VERÓNICA
Published: February 2024

We describe two new species and a new record of stygobitic gastropods from small groundwater-fed springs in Candela, Coahuila, northern Mexico. Phreatomascogos garciasaucedoi n. sp. is described based on shell morphology and is the second species of this formerly monotypic genus. According to the current classification, we have transferred this genus to Cochliopidea. Phreatodrobia candelensis n. sp. is described, and represents the first record of the genus in Mexico extending its known range more than one hundred kilometers to the south. Also found with the new stygosnails was Coahuilix hubbsi Taylor, 1966, which was previously known only as an endemic species from the neighboring Cuatro Ciénegas valley. The reported new subterranean snails are restricted in their distributions to two small water sources only a few meters long which flow directly into a touristic zone with swimming pools and other recreation areas. Using NatureServe Ranking, both new species were assigned as critically imperiled. The very limited distribution and negative anthropogenic impacts within the sites should draw special conservation attention for the reported stygobionts.
An Intercomparison of Snow Mass Budget over Arctic Sea Ice Simulated by CMIP6 Models
Authors: Chen Shengzhe , Liu Jiping , Song Mirong , Inoue Jun , Ding Yifan
Published: February 2024

The Arctic has experienced rapid changes in recent decades. For the first time, we intercompare five snow mass budget processes over Arctic sea ice simulated by 22 models from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6) using new diagnostics that have not been available for previous CMIPs. Our analysis suggests that snowfall accumulation (melt) is the dominant process contributing to nearly 100% (70.4% ± 10.1%) of the annual snow growth (loss). Snow mass change through sea ice dynamics, snow–ice conversion, and sublimation contribute 10.9% ± 4.9%, 9.7% ± 5.9%, and 9.0% ± 7.7% to the total snow mass loss. The seasonal cycle of various snow processes simulated by most of the CMIP6 models generally follows similar variations. There is reduced snowfall accumulation, melt, and sea ice dynamics during 1993–2014. However, substantial temporal and spatial discrepancies are noteworthy between the CMIP6 models. There is a large spread of snowfall accumulation and snowmelt in summer and fall, snow–ice conversion from autumn to spring, sublimation in late spring and summer, and snow mass change due to sea ice dynamics from winter to midspring. About half the models show decreasing trends of snowfall accumulation during 1993–2014, with no trends in others. Divergent trends in snow–ice conversion and sublimation occur in the Greenland and Barents Seas. The discrepancies are attributed equally to internal variability and model structural differences. Future projections that remove the identified outlier models suggest a significant reduction in snowfall accumulation, snowmelt, and snow mass change due to sea ice dynamics in the Arctic Ocean from 2015 to 2099. Snow–ice conversion and sublimation are also projected to be reduced but with less confidence.
An Evaluation of NOAA Modeled and In Situ Soil Moisture Values and Variability across the Continental United States
Authors: Marinescu Peter J. , Abdi Daniel , Hilburn Kyle , Jankov Isidora , Lin Liao-Fan
Published: February 2024

Estimates of soil moisture from two National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) models are compared to in situ observations. The estimates are from a high-resolution atmospheric model with a land surface model [High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) model] and a hydrologic model from the NOAA Climate Prediction Center (CPC). Both models produce wetter soils in dry regions and drier soils in wet regions, as compared to the in situ observations. These soil moisture differences occur at most soil depths but are larger at the deeper depths below the surface (100 cm). Comparisons of soil moisture variability are also assessed as a function of soil moisture regime. Both models have lower standard deviations as compared to the in situ observations for all soil moisture regimes. The HRRR model’s soil moisture is better correlated with in situ observations for drier soils as compared to wetter soils—a trend that was not present in the CPC model comparisons. In terms of seasonality, soil moisture comparisons vary depending on the metric, time of year, and soil moisture regime. Therefore, consideration of both the seasonality and soil moisture regime is needed to accurately determine model biases. These NOAA soil moisture estimates are used for a variety of forecasting and societal applications, and understanding their differences provides important context for their applications and can lead to model improvements.

Significance Statement

Soil moisture is an essential variable coupling the land surface to the atmosphere. Accurate estimates of soil moisture are important for forecasting near-surface temperature and moisture, predicting where clouds will form, and assessing drought and fire risks. There are multiple estimates of soil moisture available, and in this study, we compare soil moisture estimates from two different National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) models to in situ observations. These comparisons include both soil moisture amount and variability and are conducted at several soil depths, in different soil moisture regimes, and for different seasons and years. This comprehensive assessment allows for an accurate assessment of biases within these models that would be missed when conducting analyses more broadly.
Spontaneous Oropharyngeal Bleeding Caused by Lingual Artery Pseudo-Aneurysm
Authors: Daou Anne-Marie , Hosri Jad , Mourad Marc
Published: February 2024

Spontaneous oropharyngeal bleeding is an uncommon but serious medical emergency mainly caused by accidental trauma or post-tonsillectomy. In extremely rare cases, it can be attributed to arterial pseudoaneurysm (PA) of head and neck vessels. The authors present the case of a young female patient presenting with recurring spontaneous oropharyngeal bleeding who was found to have a lingual artery PA on angiography. Due to the active nature of the hemorrhage and extensive blood loss, embolization of the tonsillar branch of the lingual artery was successfully performed. When evaluating patients with spontaneous oropharyngeal bleeding, one should suspect the presence of an arterial PA, especially if the bleeding recurs following initial conventional interventions.
Age and lymphocyte/monocyte ratio as prognostic factors for autologous transplantation in the treatment of patients with follicular lymphoma
Authors: Kenyeres Anna , Kiss Evelin , Simon Zsófia , Illés Árpád , Jóna Ádám
Published: February 2024

Objective

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is an indolent, lymphoproliferative disease of B-cell origin that has a heterogeneous disease course with varying outcomes. Certain patients may undergo autologous stem cell transplantation. We investigated the outcome of autologous stem cell transplantation in patients with FL.

Methods

Patients who received autologous stem cell transplantation at the University of Debrecen’s Department of Hematology between 2004 and 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. The overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) after transplantation of patients with FL were examined. Prognostic factors that may influence the course of the disease were chosen.

Results

Data were collected from 49 patients. OS was influenced only by age, whereas PFS was affected by age and the lymphocyte/monocyte ratio. The combination of age and lymphocyte/monocyte ratio defined a patient population with a particularly unfavorable prognostic risk profile: patients over 47 years of age with a pre-transplant lymphocyte/monocyte ratio greater than or equal to 2.675.

Conclusion

Age and lymphocyte/monocyte ratio were identified as useful prognostic factors for PFS in patients with FL following autologous stem cell transplantation.
Evaluation of an artificial intelligence U-net algorithm for pulmonary nodule tracking on chest computed tomography images
Authors: Takeshita Yuhei , Onozawa Shiro , Katase Shichiro , Shirakawa Yuya , Yamashita Kouji , Shudo Jun , Nakanishi Akihito , Akahori Sadato , Yokoyama Kenichi
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To apply image registration in the follow up of lung nodules and verify the feasibility of automatic tracking of lung nodules using an artificial intelligence (AI) method.

Methods

For this retrospective, observational study, patients with pulmonary nodules 5–30 mm in diameter on computed tomography (CT) and who had at least six months follow-up were identified. Two radiologists defined a ‘correct’ cuboid circumscribing each nodule which was used to judge the success/failure of nodule tracking. An AI algorithm was applied in which a U-net type neural network model was trained to predict the deformation vector field between two examinations. When the estimated position was within a defined cuboid, the AI algorithm was judged a success.

Results

In total, 49 lung nodules in 40 patients, with a total of 368 follow-up CT examinations were examined. The success rate for each time evaluation was 94% (345/368) and for ‘nodule-by-nodule evaluation’ was 78% (38/49). Reasons for a decrease in success rate were related to small nodules and those that decreased in size.

Conclusion

Automatic tracking of lung nodules is highly feasible.
A New Versatile Tool for Accurate Bracket Positioning—An In Vitro Study
Authors: Rathor Aarohi Singh , Jani Bharvi , Shah Alap , Prasad Anisha , Thakore Kinnari
Published: February 2024

Aim

To evaluate and compare the accuracy of bracket positioning in the incisogingival and mesiodistal aspects with the MBT gauge and new multipurpose bracket positioning tool.

Materials and Methods

Bracket positioning of maxillary anterior teeth ( n=30) was assessed on the typhodont model. The UNC-15 (University of North Carolina) probe was modified as an MBP tool. Five different malocclusions: (a) Class II Division 1 ( n=6); (b) Class II Division 2 ( n=6); (c) Class I with mesially inclined maxillary anterior teeth ( n=6); (d) Class I with crowding in maxillary anterior teeth-3 mm ( n=6); (e) Class I with different vertical heights of maxillary anterior teeth ( n=6). The measurements of the study were divided into three groups; Group A: Central Incisor, Group B: Lateral Incisor, and Group Canine, based on positioning with MBT Gauge and MBP tool. The measurements on each tooth were recorded using vernier calliper, on the basis of which the discrepancy in vertical and axial bracket positioning was assessed.

Results

The comparative evaluation of the MBT gauge and MBP Tool showed statistically insignificant differences between all the groups (p>0.05). The mean standard deviation with the MBT gauge was 0.5-0.7 mm, whereas with the MBP tool was only 0.05- 0.3 mm only; suggesting clinical relevance and acuity during bracket positioning.

Conclusion

The MBP tool is relatively accurate and comparable to the MBT gauge as the horizontal and vertical arm of the MBP tool facilitates proper visualization by coinciding with the long axis of the tooth on the typhodont model leading to augmented precision.
Medical Supplies Delivery Route Optimization under Public Health Emergencies Incorporating Metro-based Logistics System
Authors: Sun Kai , Gu Yuhang , Wan Fei Ma Katelyn , Zheng Changjiang , Wu Fei
Published: February 2024

To effectively mitigate the spread of infections during public health crises, precise and timely distribution of medical supplies is crucial. This paper proposes the integration of the metro-based underground logistics system (M-ULS) into the delivery process to address the vehicle routing problem (VRP). Considering various factors related to the metro-based VRP in public health emergencies, we formulate a mixed-integer nonlinear function model that aims to minimize total delivery costs while maximizing the load factor of medical vans and the average demand index concerning demand urgency and satisfaction rate of medical centers. To achieve this, we develop an improved adaptive genetic algorithm (IAGA) that incorporates adaptive crossover, adaptive mutation, and an elitist strategy. A case study is conducted to verify and analyze the performance of the optimized model and solving algorithm. Extensive numerical experiments are carried out to assess the economical and efficient advantages of M-ULS and the computational efficiency and solution quality of IAGA. Sensitivity analysis is conducted to evaluate the impact of medical van capacity on the routes. Lastly, we consider inter-medical-center transfer (IMCT) to further enhance emergency health response.
Evaluation of Spin Bias in Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses of Rotator Cuff Repair With Platelet-Rich Plasma
Authors: Moulton Samuel G. , Hartwell Matthew J. , Feeley Brian T.
Published: February 2024

Background:

The use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in orthopaedics continues to increase. One common use of PRP is as an adjunct in rotator cuff repair surgery. Multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses have summarized the data on PRP use in rotator cuff repair surgery. However, systematic reviews and meta-analyses are subject to spin bias, where authors’ interpretations of results influence readers’ interpretations.

Purpose:

To evaluate spin in the abstracts of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of PRP with rotator cuff repair surgery.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A PubMed and Embase search was conducted using the terms rotator cuff repair and PRP and systematic review or meta-analysis. After review of 74 initial studies, 25 studies met the inclusion criteria. Study characteristics were documented, and each study was evaluated for the 15 most common forms of spin and using the AMSTAR 2 (A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews, Version 2) rating system. Correlations between spin types and study characteristics were evaluated using binary logistic regression for continuous independent variables and a chi-square test or Fisher exact test for categorical variables.

Results:

At least 1 form of spin was found in 56% (14/25) of the included studies. In regard to the 3 different categories of spin, a form of misleading interpretation was found in 56% (14/25) of the studies. A form of misleading reporting was found in 48% (12/25) of the studies. A form of inappropriate extrapolation was found in 16% (4/25) of the studies. A significant association was found between misleading interpretation and publication year (odds ratio [OR], 1.41 per year increase in publication; 95% CI, 1.04-1.92; P = .029) and misleading reporting and publication year (OR, 1.41 per year increase in publication; 95% CI, 1.02-1.95; P = .037). An association was found between inappropriate extrapolation and journal impact factor (OR, 0.21 per unit increase in impact factor; 95% CI, 0.044-0.99; P = .048).

Conclusion:

A significant amount of spin was found in the abstracts of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of PRP use in rotator cuff repair surgery. Given the increasing use of PRP by clinicians and interest among patients, spin found in these studies may have a significant effect on clinical practice.
Moving Forward While Looking Back: Understanding the Influence of a “Test All” SAK Mandate on Sexual Assault Case Attrition
Authors: Pattavina April , Morabito Melissa S. , Rapisarda Sabrina S. , Williams Linda M.
Published: February 2024

The discovery of thousands of untested sexual assault kits (SAKs) in police jurisdictions across the United States has prompted federal, state, and local agencies to enact policies regarding SAK testing. One legislative response has been to implement “test all” SAK policies. Such policies are expected to remove discretion from the kit submission process and provide crucial forensic evidence needed to guide sexual assault investigations. This study presents the impact of a “test all” policy in a single jurisdiction and investigates whether the increased number of DNA matches expected to come from more testing after implementation increased the likelihood of arrest. Results indicate that the impact of a DNA match on arrest increased after the mandate. The study concludes with a discussion of implications for sexual assault investigations and recommendations for future research.
Evaluation of Medication Errors by Prescription Audit at a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital
Authors: Navadia Kaushal P. , Patel Chetna R. , Patel Jeenal M. , Pandya Sajal K.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The prescription errors and prescribing fault analysis was assessed, the rationality of the prescriptions was checked, and the medication error was categorized according to the NCC MERP Index.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional, observational study was designed as per STROBE guidelines and conducted for 2 months in the pharmacy stores after approval of the Institutional Review Board. Patients’ written informed consent was taken before getting their prescriptions, and each of the prescriptions procured in this way was photographed for record. The completeness of 320 prescriptions of outpatients of all age groups regarding the details about the doctor and the patient and clinical diagnosis/indication was analyzed. The rationality of prescription was based on WHO core drug use indicators. Descriptive analysis was done by using Microsoft Excel.

Results

A total of 320 prescriptions were analyzed from eight departments. Information about patients and prescribers was mentioned in 100% of prescriptions. The diagnosis (40%), an indication was written in 195 prescriptions. Instructions for dispensing drugs (89%), instructions to patients (90%), duration of treatment (100%), follow-up visits (19%), and non-pharmacological instructions (13%) were mentioned. In total, 82% of prescriptions were legible. In a total of 1004 drugs, 92% of drugs were prescribed with a generic name, 100% from the essential drug list. The route and frequency of drug administration were mentioned for all drugs. According to NCCMERP, the category of medication errors falls under category B.

Conclusion

To reduce medication errors, we can implement an electronic system, involve clinical pharmacologists, utilize prescription charts, and organize nationwide workshops on rational prescription writing. We should encourage regular prescription audits and reporting to improve the healthcare system in the country.
Knowledge and Attitude of the General Public Toward Palliative Care in Jordan: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Altarifi Ahmad A. , Baker Mohammed , Abedal-Kareem Kenda , Abu-Ishqair Abdullah , AbuMelhim Zaina , Abu Shetayyah Salman , Almhdawi Khader A.
Published: February 2024

Palliative care is directed to relieve the symptoms of serious and life-threatening illnesses. Unfortunately, it’s usually provided lately in the disease course in developing countries due to a lack of awareness about its concept, which deprives many patients of its benefits. This study aims to investigate the knowledge and attitude of the Jordanian general public toward palliative care. A cross-sectional study was conducted using an electronic questionnaire via social media platforms. Knowledge about palliative care was measured using the “Palliative Care Knowledge Scale” (PaCKS), whereas the attitude was measured using an edited version of the “Frommelt Attitudes Toward Care of the Dying -B(FATCOD-B)” tool. The inclusion criteria were adults older than 18 years old who live in Jordan. Any subject who was younger than 18 years old, refused to give informed consent, and working or studying in a healthcare-related profession was excluded. 329 respondents filled out the survey (females = 214 (65%), mean age = 32.7 ± (13.63) years). Only 67 respondents (20.4%) heard about palliative care previously. The average knowledge score (out of 13) was 6.8 (±4.2). The average attitude score (out of 5) was 3.0 (±.4). Higher knowledge self-evaluation, older age, and higher income were factors associated with a higher level of knowledge and favorable attitude toward palliative care. Our study showed a moderate knowledge and neutral attitude toward palliative care. Further awareness campaigns should be conducted to raise the awareness of the Jordanian society regarding the objectives of palliative care.
Parent Fidelity Mediates the Effect of Project ImPACT on Vocal Complexity
Authors: Edmunds Sarah R. , Hantman Rachel M. , Yoder Paul J. , Stone Wendy L.
Published: February 2024

Younger siblings of autistic children are at a high likelihood (HL) of autism, language, and/or cognitive delays. Vocal complexity, a continuous measure of the developmental maturity of vocal communication, is facilitated by parent-child interaction and predicts language outcomes. This study examined whether parents’ intervention fidelity to Project ImPACT, a 12-week, parent-mediated, naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention (NDBI), mediated the effect of Project ImPACT on parents’ verbal responsiveness (post-intervention) and children’s vocal complexity (3 months post-intervention). Participants were 54 12- to 24-month-old HL child-parent dyads who received 12 weeks of Project ImPACT ( n = 28) or business-as-usual ( n = 26) . Project ImPACT indirectly improved both parents’ verbal responsiveness and children’s vocal complexity by improving parents’ use of the intervention techniques. The efficacy of Project ImPACT in supporting early social communication might be attributed to how Project ImPACT helps parents improve the quality and frequency of their use of the intervention strategies across children’s everyday settings.
Expression of PSMA in Tumor-Associated Vasculature Predicts Poorer Survival in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Is Likely Associated With PD-L1
Authors: Li Rena X. , Hao Yansheng , Ettel Mark
Published: February 2024

Background

PSMA (prostate-specific membrane antigen) is a type II transmembrane glycoprotein recently found to be expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We aimed to characterize the expression pattern of PSMA in HCC and its association with clinicopathologic parameters and other biomarkers.

Methods

Immunohistochemical studies for PSMA were performed on a previously established tissue microarray of 103 surgically resected HCC.

Results

Conceivable PSMA expression in ≥5% tumor-associated vasculature (TAV) was considered positive, and was identified in 56 (54.4%) tumors. Eight (7.8%) tumors also showed membranous/cytoplasmic and/or canalicular staining in tumor cells. By chi-square tests, only PSMA-positive TAV was associated with moderate-to-poorly differentiated HCC and the modified higher tumor stage ( P < .05). PSMA-positive TAV was not associated with age, sex, or expression of glypican-3, keratin 7, CD3, CD8, HHLA-2, but marginally correlated with programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression ( P = .052). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed PSMA-positive TAV as an independent risk factor for poorer disease-specific survival ( P = .008). Co-expression of PD-L1 did not ameliorate the adverse prognostication of PSMA-positive TAV. Membranous/cytoplasmic/canalicular expression of PSMA alone was not prognostically significant.

Conclusions

Our study confirmed that PSMA-positive TAV is a prospective diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for HCC. Co-expression of PSMA with PD-L1 may suggest potential crosstalk between the 2 proteins, likely regulating the tumor microenvironment.
Coagulation Testing in Real-World Setting: Insights From a Comprehensive Survey
Authors: Bang Hae In , Lee Ja Young , Kim Hyun-Young , Shin Saeam , Nam Myung Hyun , Kim In-Suk , Kim Ji Myung , Yoon Jong-Hyun , Shin Myung-Geun , Hwang Sang Mee , Kong Sun-Young
Published: February 2024

The objective of this survey was to gain a real-world perspective on coagulation testing by evaluating the availability of various coagulation laboratory tests, assessing specific analytic and postanalytic steps in clinical laboratories in Korea.

Participants were surveyed using a 65-question questionnaire specifically focused on their coagulation testing practices related to prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), plasma-mixing studies, lupus anticoagulant (LA) tests, platelet function tests, coagulation factor assays, and the composition of hemostasis and thrombosis test panels. The survey was performed between July and September 2022.

The survey achieved a 77.9% (81 of 104) response rate. PT or aPTT tests were performed directly at all participating institutions, followed by D-dimer and fibrinogen tests, platelet function test, and plasma-mixing studies in order of frequency. Variations existed in the performance of mixing test and LA assessment. Patterns of coagulating testing differed depending on the size of the hospital. The survey revealed that most laboratories conducted coagulation tests following the international guidelines such as Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines and the Korean Laboratory Certification system. However, some coagulation tests, including mixing test and LA tests, are yet to be standardized in Korea.

Continuous education on coagulation test methods and internal and external quality control are required to encourage laboratories to enhance the performance of coagulation testing.
Influence of aspirin on obstetric outcomes in women with pre-gestational diabetes mellitus: a South-Western Sydney cohort study
Authors: Jeyaruban Andrew , Shanmugalingam Renuka , Wu Pamela , Cao Rena , Wong Vincent W , Wong Tang , Flack Jeff , Makris Angela
Published: February 2024

Aim

To investigate the effect of aspirin on obstetric outcomes in women with pre-gestational diabetes mellitus (PGDM).

Method

Retrospective audit of pregnant women with PGDM from two centres in South-Western Sydney was conducted. Women were categorised into the aspirin group (prescribed aspirin before 16 weeks, gestation) and non-aspirin group (not prescribed aspirin or prescribed aspirin at or after 16 weeks, gestation). The outcomes examined were pre-eclampsia, pre-term delivery and birthweight percentile.

Results

Of 494 women, 52 (10.5%) were in the aspirin group. Pre-eclampsia developed in 57 (12.0%) women. There was no association between aspirin use and pre-eclampsia (8 (15.4%) vs 49 (11.1%), P = 0.2). Aspirin use was not associated with difference in birthweight percentile and rate of pre-term deliveries when adjusted for maternal age, gravidity and other comorbidities.

Conclusion

There was no difference in the rates of pre-eclampsia, pre-term delivery, or birthweight percentile between women with PGDM in aspirin group compared to women in non-aspirin group.
Sinonasal DLBCL: molecular profiling identifies subtypes with distinctive prognosis and targetable genetic features
Authors: Eriksen Patrick R. G. , de Groot Fleur , Clasen-Linde Erik , de Nully Brown Peter , de Groen Ruben , Melchior Linea C. , Maier Andrea D. , Minderman Marthe , Vermaat Joost S. P. , von Buchwald Christian , Pals Steven T. , Heegaard Steffen
Published: February 2024

Primary sinonasal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (PSDLBCL) is a rare lymphoma with a variable prognosis and a unique relapse/dissemination pattern involving the central nervous system and skin. The underlying molecular mechanisms leading to this heterogeneity and progression pattern remain uncharted, hampering patient-tailored treatment. To investigate associated mechanisms, we analyzed clinical data and used immunohistochemistry, gene-expression profiling, cytogenetics, and next-generation sequencing in a cohort of 117 patients with PSDLBCL. The distribution in cell-of-origin (COO) was 68 (58%) activated B-cell (ABC), 44 (38%) germinal center B-cell (GCB), and 5 (4%) unclassifiable. COO was significantly associated with progression-free survival (PFS) and lymphoma-specific mortality (LSM) in both the overall cohort (5-year PFS: ABC, 43% vs GCB, 73%; LSM: ABC, 45% vs GCB, 14%) and in the subgroup of patients receiving immunochemotherapy (5-year PFS: ABC, 55% vs GCB, 85%; LSM: ABC, 28% vs GCB, 0%). ABC lymphomas were mainly MCD class, showing a high prevalence of MYD88 (74%) and CD79B (35%) mutations compared with GCB lymphomas (MYD88 23%; CD79B 10%) (P < .01). The ABC subtype frequently displayed cMYC/BCL2 coexpression (76% vs 18% GCB; P < .001) and HLA-II loss (48% vs 10% GCB; P < .001). PD-L1 expression and copy-number alterations were rare. All lymphomas were Epstein-Barr virus-negative. Our data suggest molecular profiling as a potent tool for detecting prognostic subgroups in PSDLBCL, exposing links to known relapse/dissemination sites. The ABC subgroup’s MCD genetic features, shared with lymphomas at other nonprofessional lymphoid sites, make them potential candidates for targeted B-cell and toll-like receptor signaling therapy.
Cysteine-binding adjuvant enhances survival and promotes immune function in a murine model of acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Slezak Anna J. , Chang Kevin , Beckman Taryn N. , Refvik Kirsten C. , Alpar Aaron T. , Lauterbach Abigail L. , Solanki Ani , Kwon Jung Woo , Gomes Suzana , Mansurov Aslan , Hubbell Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2024

Therapeutic vaccination has long been a promising avenue for cancer immunotherapy but is often limited by tumor heterogeneity. The genetic and molecular diversity between patients often results in variation in the antigens present on cancer cell surfaces. As a result, recent research has focused on personalized cancer vaccines. Although promising, this strategy suffers from time-consuming production, high cost, inaccessibility, and targeting of a limited number of tumor antigens. Instead, we explore an antigen-agnostic polymeric in situ cancer vaccination platform for treating blood malignancies, in our model here with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Rather than immunizing against specific antigens or targeting adjuvant to specific cell-surface markers, this platform leverages a characteristic metabolic and enzymatic dysregulation in cancer cells that produces an excess of free cysteine thiols on their surfaces. These thiols increase in abundance after treatment with cytotoxic agents such as cytarabine, the current standard of care in AML. The resulting free thiols can undergo efficient disulfide exchange with pyridyl disulfide (PDS) moieties on our construct and allow for in situ covalent attachment to cancer cell surfaces and debris. PDS-functionalized monomers are incorporated into a statistical copolymer with pendant mannose groups and TLR7 agonists to target covalently linked antigen and adjuvant to antigen-presenting cells in the liver and spleen after IV administration. There, the compound initiates an anticancer immune response, including T-cell activation and antibody generation, ultimately prolonging survival in cancer-bearing mice.
Transcriptomic analysis of developing sorghum grains to detect genes related to cell wall biosynthesis and remodelling
Authors: Costes Camille , Navarro Sanz Sergi , Calatayud Caroline , Soriano Alexandre , Mameri Hamza , Terrier Nancy , Francin-Allami Mathilde
Published: February 2024

Objective

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is the fifth most important grain produced in the world. Interest for cultivating sorghum is increasing all over the world in the context of climate change, due to its low input and water requirements. Like other cultivated cereals, sorghum has significant nutritional value thanks to its protein, carbohydrate and dietary fiber content, these latter mainly consisting of cell wall polysaccharides. This work describes for the first time a transcriptomic analysis dedicated to identify the genes involved in the biosynthesis and remodelling of cell walls both in the endosperm and outer layers of sorghum grain during its development. Further analysis of these transcriptomic data will improve our understanding of cell wall assembly, which is a key component of grain quality.

Data description

This research delineates the steps of our analysis, starting with the cultivation conditions and the grain harvest at different stages of development, followed by the laser microdissection applied to separate the endosperm from the outer layers. It also describes the procedures implemented to generate RNA libraries and to obtain a normalized and filtered table of transcript counts, and finally determine the number of putative cell wall-related genes already listed in literature.
Single-cell RNA sequencing of mid-to-late stage spider embryos: new insights into spider development
Authors: Medina-Jiménez Brenda I. , Budd Graham E. , Janssen Ralf
Published: February 2024

Background

The common house spiderParasteatoda tepidariorumrepresents an emerging new model organism of arthropod evolutionary and developmental (EvoDevo) studies. Recent technical advances have resulted in the first single-cell sequencing (SCS) data on this species allowing deeper insights to be gained into itsearlydevelopment, but mid-to-late stage embryos were not included in these pioneering studies.

Results

Therefore, we performed SCS on mid-to-late stage embryos ofParasteatodaand characterized resulting cell clusters by means ofin-silicoanalysis (comparison of key markers of each cluster with previously published information on these genes).In-silicoprediction of the nature of each cluster was then tested/verified by means of additionalin-situhybridization experiments with additional markers of each cluster.

Conclusions

Our data show that SCS data reliably group cells with similar genetic fingerprints into more or less distinct clusters, and thus allows identification of developing cell types on a broader level, such as the distinction of ectodermal, mesodermal and endodermal cell lineages, as well as the identification of distinct developing tissues such as subtypes of nervous tissue cells, the developing heart, or the ventral sulcus (VS). In comparison with recent other SCS studies on the same species, our data represent later developmental stages, and thus provide insights into different stages of developing cell types and tissues such as differentiating neurons and the VS that are only present at these later stages.
Unified mRNA Subcellular Localization Predictor based on machine learning techniques
Authors: Musleh Saleh , Arif Muhammad , Alajez Nehad M. , Alam Tanvir
Published: February 2024

Background

The mRNA subcellular localization bears substantial impact in the regulation of gene expression, cellular migration, and adaptation. However, the methods employed for experimental determination of this localization are arduous, time-intensive, and come with a high cost.

Methods

In this research article, we tackle the essential challenge of predicting the subcellular location of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) through Unified mRNA Subcellular Localization Predictor (UMSLP), a machine learning (ML) based approach. We embrace an in silico strategy that incorporate four distinct feature sets: kmer, pseudo k-tuple nucleotide composition, nucleotide physicochemical attributes, and the 3D sequence depiction achieved via Z-curve transformation for predicting subcellular localization in benchmark dataset across five distinct subcellular locales, encompassing nucleus, cytoplasm, extracellular region (ExR), mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER).

Results

The proposed ML model UMSLP attains cutting-edge outcomes in predicting mRNA subcellular localization. On independent testing dataset, UMSLP ahcieved over 87% precision, 94% specificity, and 94% accuracy. Compared to other existing tools, UMSLP outperformed mRNALocator, mRNALoc, and SubLocEP by 11%, 21%, and 32%, respectively on average prediction accuracy for all five locales. SHapley Additive exPlanations analysis highlights the dominance of k-mer features in predicting cytoplasm, nucleus, ER, and ExR localizations, while Z-curve based features play pivotal roles in mitochondria subcellular localization detection.

Availability

We have shared datasets, code, Docker API for users in GitHub at: https://github.com/smusleh/UMSLP.