bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial search on Johnson graphs by discrete-time quantum walk
Authors: Tanaka Hajime , Sabri Mohamed , Portugal Renato
Published: May 2022

The spatial search problem aims to find a marked vertex of a finite graph using a dynamic with two constraints: (1) the walker has no compass and (2) the walker can check whether a vertex is marked only after reaching it. This problem is a generalization of unsorted database search and has many applications to algorithms. Classical algorithms that solve the spatial search problem are based on random walks and the computational complexity is determined by the hitting time. On the other hand, quantum algorithms are based on quantum walks and the computational complexity is determined not only by the number of steps to reach a marked vertex, but also by the success probability, since we need to perform a measurement at the end of the algorithm to determine the walker’s position. In this work, we address the spatial search problem on Johnson graphs using the coined quantum walk model. Since Johnson graphs are vertex- and distance-transitive, we have found an invariant subspace of the Hilbert space, which aids in the calculation of the computational complexity. We have shown that, for every fixed diameter, the asymptotic success probability is 1/2 after taking

π

N

/

(

2

2

)

steps, where N is the number of vertices of the Johnson graph.
Random matrices associated with general barrier billiards
Authors: Bogomolny Eugene
Published: May 2022

The paper is devoted to the derivation of random unitary matrices whose spectral statistics is the same as statistics of quantum eigenvalues of certain deterministic two-dimensional barrier billiards. These random matrices are extracted from the exact billiard quantisation condition by applying a random phase approximation for high-excited states. An important ingredient of the method is the calculation ofS-matrix for the scattering in the slab with a half-plane inside by the Wiener–Hopf method. It appears that these random matrices have the form similar to the one obtained by the author in (2022J. Phys. A: Math. Theor.55024001) for a particular case of symmetric barrier billiards but with different choices of parameters. The local correlation functions of the resulting random matrices are well approximated by the semi-Poisson distribution which is a characteristic feature of various models with intermediate statistics. Consequently, local spectral statistics of the considered barrier billiards is (i) universal for almost all values of parameters and (ii) well described by the semi-Poisson statistics.
Effect of variation of silicone rubber RTV 52 and bluesil catalyst 60 R composition on bolus material for electron beam radiotherapy application
Authors: Hidayanto Eko , Sutanto Heri , Marhaendrajaya Indras , Jaya Gede Wiratma , Arifin Zaenal , Anam Choirul , Widyastuti Setjadiningrat Kuntjoro Lidya Purna , Saraswati Galih Puspa , Dougherty Geoff
Published: May 2022

A bolus is a material equivalent to soft tissue and is directly placed on the skin surface during radiotherapy. It is commonly used to increase the dose on the skin surface in electron beam radiation. A typical material for a bolus is silicone rubber (SR). We made a bolus with dimensions of 17 × 17 × 1 cm3 by varying silicone rubber (SR) RTV 52 and hardening material (bluesil catalyst 60 R) using a simple molded method. We characterized it using a CT scan to find the relative electron density (RED) and examined it using the electron beam of a linear accelerator (LINAC) at energies of 5 and 7 MeV to investigate the percentage of surface dose (PSD). The PSD value is relative to the dose at maximum doses (dmax). The RED value of the bolus was from 1.168 ± 0.021 to 1.176 ± 0.019, higher than the soft tissue (muscle) value of 1.043. The percentage of surface dose (PSD) test at 5 and 7 MeV LINAC energy showed that the highest PSD without using a bolus were 84.79

±

0.06% and 86.03

±

0.07%, respectively. With a bolus, the PSD values were 112.52

±

0.16% and 111.14

±

0.03%, respectively. The results indicate that bolus fabrication using SR RTV 52 and bluesil 60R is very effective for radiotherapy in the treatment of skin cancer due to an increase in surface dose.
L0 regularization-based compressed sensing with quantum–classical hybrid approach
Authors: Aonishi Toru , Mimura Kazushi , Okada Masato , Yamamoto Yoshihisa
Published: May 2022

L0-regularization-based compressed sensing (L0-RBCS) has the potential to outperform L1-regularization-based compressed sensing (L1-RBCS), but the optimization in L0-RBCS is difficult because it is a combinatorial optimization problem. To perform optimization in L0-RBCS, we propose a quantum–classical hybrid system consisting of a quantum machine and a classical digital processor. The coherent Ising machine (CIM) is a suitable quantum machine for this system because this optimization problem can only be solved with a densely connected network. To evaluate the performance of the CIM-classical hybrid system theoretically, a truncated Wigner stochastic differential equation (W-SDE) is introduced as a model for the network of degenerate optical parametric oscillators, and macroscopic equations are derived by applying statistical mechanics to the W-SDE. We show that the system performance in principle approaches the theoretical limit of compressed sensing and this hybrid system may exceed the estimation accuracy of L1-RBCS in actual situations, such as in magnetic resonance imaging data analysis.
Noise enhanced neural networks for analytic continuation
Authors: Yao Juan , Wang Ce , Yao Zhiyuan , Zhai Hui
Published: May 2022

Analytic continuation maps imaginary-time Green’s functions obtained by various theoretical/numerical methods to real-time response functions that can be directly compared with experiments. Analytic continuation is an important bridge between many-body theories and experiments but is also a challenging problem because such mappings are ill-conditioned. In this work, we develop a neural network (NN)-based method for this problem. The training data is generated either using synthetic Gaussian-type spectral functions or from exactly solvable models where the analytic continuation can be obtained analytically. Then, we applied the trained NN to the testing data, either with synthetic noise or intrinsic noise in Monte Carlo simulations. We conclude that the best performance is always achieved when a proper amount of noise is added to the training data. Moreover, our method can successfully capture multi-peak structure in the resulting response function for the cases with the best performance. The method can be combined with Monte Carlo simulations to compare with experiments on real-time dynamics.
Massively multiplexed affinity characterization of therapeutic antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 variants
Authors: Engelhart Emily , Lopez Randolph , Emerson Ryan , Lin Charles , Shikany Colleen , Guion Daniel , Kelley Mary , Younger David
Published: May 2022

Antibody therapies represent a valuable tool to reduce COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations. Multiple antibody candidates have been granted emergency use authorization by the Food and Drug Administration and many more are in clinical trials. Most antibody therapies for COVID-19 are engineered to bind to the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and disrupt its interaction with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Notably, several SARS-CoV-2 strains have accrued mutations throughout the RBD that improve ACE2 binding affinity, enhance viral transmission and escape some existing antibody therapies. Here, we measure the binding affinity of 33 therapeutic antibodies against a large panel of SARS-CoV-2 variants and related strains of clinical significance using AlphaSeq, a high-throughput yeast mating-based assay to determine epitopic residues, determine which mutations result in loss of binding and predict how future RBD variants may impact antibody efficacy.
Formulary management guiding principles for automated systems
Authors: Urbanski Christopher , Cello Ryan , Luby Brian , Gumpper Karl , Dumitru Doina
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Structural and financial changes in US healthcare are the driving forces reshaping care delivery and the technologies that clinicians use in their practice. Structural-level changes in healthcare organizations bringing facilities varying in size, systems, and complexity under the new integrated care delivery networks create unprecedented challenges. This paper develops guiding principles for formulary management in automated systems that facilitate medication management and alignment of medication information technology (IT) solutions in healthcare organizations ranging in size from a single facility to very large enterprise/multifacility networks.

This paper describes formulary management best practices for healthcare organizations as they follow crucial medication management processes: formulary item builds, urgent and nonformulary medication requests, and formulary item build testing and maintenance. As medication management practices are embedded in automated technologies that are similar yet nuanced, we pay special attention to practices and change control processes that maximize coordination among systems while preserving medication data integrity and reducing medication errors.

Conclusion

For increasingly complex healthcare systems with multiple medication management system demands, formulary drug database builds and maintenance are challenging and time-consuming. Formulary item build, testing, and maintenance processes involve multifunctional teams collaborating to ensure the integrity of data, prevent unexpected system incompatibilities, and improve patient safety by reducing medication errors. Ideally, formulary item build, testing, and maintenance processes produce consistent final drug records in IT systems meeting user needs.
Deconstructing human peri-implantation embryogenesis based on embryos and embryoids
Authors: Ai Zongyong , Yin Yu , Niu Baohua , Li Tianqing
Published: May 2022

The peri-implantation period from blastula to gastrula is one of the crucial stages of human embryo and stem cell development. During development, human embryos undergo many crucial events, such as embryonic lineage differentiation and development, structural self-assembly, pluripotency state transition, cell communication between lineages, and crosstalk between the embryo and uterus. Abnormalities in these developmental events will result in implantation failure or pregnancy loss. However, because of ethical and technical limits, the developmental dynamics of human peri-implantation embryos and the underlying mechanisms of abnormal development remain in a “black box.” In this review, we summarize recent progress made toward our understanding of human peri-implantation embryogenesis based on extended in vitro cultured embryos and stem cell–based embryoids. These findings lay an important foundation for understanding early life, promoting research into human stem cells and their application, and preventing and treating infertility. We also propose key scientific issues regarding peri-implantation embryogenesis and provide an outlook on future study directions. Finally, we sum up China’s contribution to the field and future opportunities.
MTOR-mediated interaction between the oocyte and granulosa cells regulates the development and function of both compartments in mice
Authors: Su You-Qiang , Yin Yaoxue , Guo Jing , Gong Xuhong , Tian Yufeng , Shi Lanying
Published: May 2022

Coordinated development of the germline and the somatic compartments within a follicle is an essential prerequisite for creating a functionally normal oocyte. Bi-directional communication between the oocyte and the granulosa cells enables the frequent interchange of metabolites and signals that support the development and functions of both compartments. Mechanistic target of rapamycin (MTOR), a conserved serine/threonine kinase and a widely recognized integrator of signals and pathways key for cellular metabolism, proliferation, and differentiation, is emerging as a major player that regulates many facets of oocyte and follicle development. Here, we summarized our recent observations on the role of oocyte- and granulosa cell-expressed MTOR in the control of the oocyte’s and granulosa cell’s own development, as well as the development of one another, and provided new data that further strengthen the role of cumulus cell-expressed MTOR in synchronizing oocyte and follicle development. Inhibition of MTOR induced oocyte meiotic resumption in cultured large antral follicles, as well as cumulus expansion and the expression of cumulus expansion-related transcripts in cumulus-oocyte complexes in vitro. In vivo, the activity of MTOR in cumulus cells was diminished remarkably by 4 h after hCG administration. These results thus suggest that activation of MTOR in cumulus cells contributes to the maintenance of oocyte meiotic arrest before the LH surge. Based on the observations made by us here and previously, we propose that MTOR is an essential mediator of the bi-directional communication between the oocyte and granulosa cells that regulates the development and function of both compartments.
Research progress on antibiotic resistance of Salmonella
Authors: Wang Yizhe , Ge Hengwei , Wei Xinyue , Zhao Xihong
Published: May 2022

Antibiotic abuse results in various antibiotic resistance among a number of foodborne bacteria, posing a severe threat to food safety. Antibiotic resistance genes are commonly detected in foodborne pathogens, which has sparked much interest in finding solutions to these issues. Various strategies against these drug-resistant pathogens have been studied, including new antibiotics and phages. Recently, a powerful tool has been introduced in the fight against drug-resistant pathogens, namely, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-CRISPR associated (CRISPR-Cas) system aggregated by a prokaryotic defense mechanism. This review summarizes the mechanism of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella and resistance to common antibiotics, analyzes the relationship between Salmonella CRISPR-Cas and antibiotic resistance, discusses the changes in antibiotic resistance on the structure and function of CRISPR-Cas, and finally predicts the mechanism of CRISPR-Cas intervention in Salmonella antibiotic resistance. In the future, CRISPR-Cas is expected to become an important tool to reduce the threat of antibiotic-resistant pathogens in food safety.
Reconstruction of full-length LINE-1 progenitors from ancestral genomes
Authors: Campitelli Laura F , Yellan Isaac , Albu Mihai , Barazandeh Marjan , Patel Zain M , Blanchette Mathieu , Hughes Timothy R
Published: May 2022

Sequences derived from the Long INterspersed Element-1 (L1) family of retrotransposons occupy at least 17% of the human genome, with 67 distinct subfamilies representing successive waves of expansion and extinction in mammalian lineages. L1s contribute extensively to gene regulation, but their molecular history is difficult to trace, because most are present only as truncated and highly mutated fossils. Consequently, L1 entries in current databases of repeat sequences are composed mainly of short diagnostic subsequences, rather than full functional progenitor sequences for each subfamily. Here, we have coupled 2 levels of sequence reconstruction (at the level of whole genomes and L1 subfamilies) to reconstruct progenitor sequences for all human L1 subfamilies that are more functionally and phylogenetically plausible than existing models. Most of the reconstructed sequences are at or near the canonical length of L1s and encode uninterrupted ORFs with expected protein domains. We also show that the presence or absence of binding sites for KRAB-C2H2 Zinc Finger Proteins, even in ancient-reconstructed progenitor L1s, mirrors binding observed in human ChIP-exo experiments, thus extending the arms race and domestication model. RepeatMasker searches of the modern human genome suggest that the new models may be able to assign subfamily resolution identities to previously ambiguous L1 instances. The reconstructed L1 sequences will be useful for genome annotation and functional study of both L1 evolution and L1 contributions to host regulatory networks.
Genetic Profiling of Colorectal Carcinomas of Patients with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: de Krijger Manon , Carvalho Beatriz , Rausch Christian , Bolijn Anne S , Delis-van Diemen Pien M , Tijssen Marianne , van Engeland Manon , Mostafavi Nahid , Bogie Roel M M , Dekker Evelien , Masclee Ad A M , Verheij Joanne , Meijer Gerrit A , Ponsioen Cyriel Y
Published: May 2022

Background

Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) run a 10-fold increased risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC) compared to patients with IBD only. The aim of this study was to perform an extensive screen of known carcinogenic genomic alterations in patients with PSC-IBD, and to investigate whether such changes occur already in nondysplastic mucosa.

Methods

Archival cancer tissue and nondysplastic mucosa from resection specimens of 19 patients with PSC-IBD-CRC were characterized, determining DNA copy-number variations, microsatellite instability (MSI), mutations on 48 cancer genes, and CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP). Genetic profiles were compared with 2 published cohorts of IBD-associated CRC (IBD-CRC; n = 11) and sporadic CRC (s-CRC; n = 100).

Results

Patterns of chromosomal aberrations in PSC-IBD-CRC were similar to those observed in IBD-CRC and s-CRC, MSI occurred only once. Mutation frequencies were comparable between the groups, except for mutations in KRAS, which were less frequent in PSC-IBD-CRC (5%) versus IBD-CRC (38%) and s-CRC (31%; P = .034), and in APC, which were less frequent in PSC-IBD-CRC (5%) and IBD-CRC (0%) versus s-CRC (50%; P < .001). Cases of PSC-IBD-CRC were frequently CIMP positive (44%), at similar levels to cases of s-CRC (34%; P = .574) but less frequent than in cases with IBD-CRC (90%; P = .037). Similar copy number aberrations and mutations were present in matched cancers and adjacent mucosa in 5/15 and 7/11 patients, respectively.

Conclusions

The excess risk of CRC in patients with PSC-IBD was not explained by copy number aberrations, mutations, MSI, nor CIMP status, in cancer tissue, nor in adjacent mucosa. These findings set the stage for further exome-wide and epigenetic studies.
Vitamin D Deficiency is Common in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis After Total Proctocolectomy with Ileal Pouch Anal Anastomosis
Authors: Rizvi Anam , Trivedi Parth , Bar-Mashiah Ariel , Plietz Michael , Khaitov Sergey , Sylla Patricia , Greenstein Alexander , Dubinsky Marla C , Kayal Maia
Published: May 2022

Lay Summary

In a retrospective study of 412 patients with ulcerative colitis who underwent total proctocolectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis and had subsequent pouchoscopy, low 25-hydroxyvitamin D was common and was not significantly associated with age, sex, ethnicity, or precolectomy medication use.
Effectiveness and Safety of Antibiotic Prophylaxis for Persons Exposed to Cases of Invasive Group A Streptococcal Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Khan Faizan , Bai Zemin , Kelly Shannon , Skidmore Becky , Dickson Catherine , Nunn Alexandra , Rutledge-Taylor Katie , Wells George
Published: May 2022

Among close contacts of patients with invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infection, the benefits and harms of chemoprophylaxis are uncertain. We conducted a systematic review of studies that reported on persons who, after being exposed to a case of laboratory-confirmed or probable iGAS, received any antibiotic prophylaxis for the prevention of GAS infection or carriage. Thirty-seven studies including 26 outbreak investigations and 11 case series or reports were included with predominantly descriptive information that suggested that antibiotic prophylaxis may be effective in preventing GAS infection or GAS carriage, with very few serious adverse events. However, current available evidence is scant (with limited information on contacts of iGAS cases) and largely based on studies with weak design and small sample size. Therefore, definitive conclusions on effectiveness of antibiotic prophylaxis cannot be drawn. Well designed prospective studies are required to establish the benefit-harm profile of antibiotic prophylaxis for secondary prevention of GAS disease among close contacts of iGAS cases.
Specific bFGF targeting of KIM-1 in ischemic kidneys protects against renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats
Authors: Song Siqi , Hou Xianglin , Zhang Weiwei , Liu Xinyu , Wang Wei , Wang Xiaoya , Cao Wenxuan , Xia Yujun , Chen Wei , Shi Chunying
Published: May 2022

Renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is one of the major causes of acute kidney injury. However, there is still no effective treatment for this disease. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) has been reported to be beneficial for recovery from ischemic diseases. It is vital to increase the local concentration and reduce the diffusion of bFGF in vivo for renal I/R injury therapy. A targeted growth factor delivery system that responds to specific biological signals in the regenerative environment to guide release has been highlighted in tissue repair. In the present study, a specific peptide was fused with bFGF and called bFGF-kidney injury targeting (KIT-bFGF), and this compound specifically targeted kidney injury molecule-1 both in hypoxic renal HK-2 cells in vitro and ischemic kidneys in vivo after intravenous injection. When administered to rat models of renal I/R injury, KIT-bFGF attenuated renal tubule damage and fibrosis, and promoted functional recovery compared to the effects of native bFGF and the control. We also investigated the mechanism by which KIT-bFGF activated the ERK1/2 and Akt signaling pathways to significantly reduce apoptosis and protect against ischemic injury in the kidney. These results demonstrated that targeted delivery of KIT-bFGF could be an effective strategy for the treatment of renal I/R injury.
Barriers to participation and lifestyle change among lower versus higher income participants in the National Diabetes Prevention Program: lifestyle coach perspectives
Authors: Baucom Katherine J W , Bauman Tali , Gutierrez Chavez Manuel , Nemirovsky Yanina , Aguirre Monique C , Ramos Carmen , Asnaani Anu , Gutner Cassidy A , Ritchie Natalie D , Shah Megha
Published: May 2022

Individuals from socioeconomically disadvantaged groups have lesser participation and success in the National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP). Barriers to NDPP participation and lifestyle change were examined from the perspective of Lifestyle Coaches serving lower versus higher income participants. Lifestyle Coaches (n = 211) who serve lower income (n = 82) or higher income (n = 129) participants reported on observed barriers to NDPP participation and lifestyle change and ranked the three most significant barriers to (a) NDPP participation and (b) lifestyle change. Group differences in number/type of barriers were examined using t-tests and chi-square analyses, and ranking differences were examined using multilevel cumulative logit models. Lifestyle Coaches of lower income (versus higher income) participants reported two additional barriers on average. Ranked barriers to participation were similar between groups, and notably included physical/emotional barriers. However, for lifestyle change, those serving lower income groups were more likely to rank lack of access to healthy grocery stores, but less likely to rank low motivation and lack of family support. Lifestyle Coaches of lower income participants were less likely to rank long wait period prior to enrollment as the most significant barrier to participation, and to rank lack of time off from work as the most significant barrier to lifestyle change. Despite more barriers observed among lower versus higher income participants, overlap in the most significant barriers highlights the potential utility of widely addressing common barriers among NDPP participants. In particular, physical and emotional barriers have been overlooked, yet deserve greater attention in future research and practice.
Assessment of melanoma precision prevention materials incorporating MC1R genetic risk information
Authors: Lacson John Charles A , Forgas Stephanie M , Doyle Scarlet H , Qian Lu , Del Rio Jocelyn , Valavanis Stella , Carvajal Rodrigo , Gonzalez-Calderon Guillermo , Kim Youngchul , Roetzheim Richard G , Vadaparampil Susan T , Kanetsky Peter A
Published: May 2022

Few studies have examined cognitive responses to mailed precision prevention materials. MC1R is a robust, well-described melanoma susceptibility marker. The purpose was to assess cognitive responses to generic or precision prevention materials incorporating MC1R genetic risk. Non-Hispanic White participants (n = 1134) enrolled in a randomized controlled trial received either precision prevention materials incorporating MC1R genetic risk (higher/average) or generic prevention (standard) materials. Six months after baseline, 808 (71.3%) participants reported on the amount of prevention materials read (5-point scale); believability and clarity of materials; intention to change preventive behaviors (7-point Likert scale); and recall of their MC1R genetic risk. Comparisons were conducted using Kruskal–Wallis and chi-squared tests. Overall, participants read most to all (Mdn = 4, IQR = 2) of the prevention materials, reported high believability (Mdn = 7, IQR = 1) and clarity (Mdn = 7, IQR = 1), and moderate intention to change preventive behaviors (Mdn = 5, IQR = 2). Higher-risk participants reported slightly less clarity (Mdn = 6, IQR = 2) than either average-risk (Mdn = 6, IQR = 1, p = 2.50 × 10−3) or standard participants (Mdn = 7, IQR = 1, p = 2.30 × 10−5); and slightly less believability (Mdn = 6, IQR = 1) than standard participants (Mdn = 7, IQR = 1, p = .005). Higher-risk participants were 2.21 times as likely (95% CI = 1.43–3.43) to misremember or forget their risk compared to average-risk participants; misremembering was observed only among higher-risk participants (14%). Mailed precision prevention information were mostly read, highly believable and clear, and resulted in moderate levels of intention to change sun protection behaviors, bolstering the feasibility of population-level precision prevention. Defensive reactions may explain lower clarity, believability, and higher incorrect risk recall among higher-risk participants.
CE: Guideline-Directed Cardiac Devices for Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Leavitt Mary Ann
Published: May 2022

Heart failure affects over 6.2 million adults in the United States and is expected to affect over 8 million by 2030. The U.S. one-year mortality rate is almost 30% among Medicare beneficiaries. Technological advances have produced several new cardiac devices that are available for therapy and symptom management. This article reviews current device therapies for heart failure and uses a composite case to demonstrate how bedside nurses can help patients understand treatment options related to their disease process and care for them through this experience.
Comparative Study of Circumferential Decompression and Posterior Decompression in Palliative Surgery for Metastatic Thoracic Spinal Tumors
Authors: Otsuki Bungo , Miyazaki Kunihiko , Kakutani Kenichiro , Fujibayashi Shunsuke , Shimizu Takayoshi , Murata Koichi , Takahashi Yoshimitsu , Nakayama Takeo , Kuroda Ryosuke , Matsuda Shuichi
Published: May 2022

Study Design:

This was a case-control study.

Objective:

The present study aimed to evaluate the significance of circumferential tumor resection around the spinal cord in palliative decompression surgery for patients with metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) in the thoracic spine.

Summary of Background Data:

Although the benefits of palliative surgery for MSCC are well known, the significance of circumferential tumor resection with cord compression has not yet been clarified.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively compared the outcomes of 45 and 34 patients with incomplete paralysis of modified Frankel grade B–D caused by MSCC with anterior cord compression (epidural spinal cord compression grade ≥2) treated at 2 different university hospitals (H1 and H2, respectively). All patients in H1 hospital underwent posterior decompression only, while all patients in H2 hospital underwent full circumferential decompression. We analyzed factors that affect the postoperative ambulatory status. evaluated by the modified Frankel classification.

Results:

No significant differences were observed in the epidural spinal cord compression grade, spinal instability neoplastic score, new Katagiri score, revised Tokuhashi score, or postoperative survival between patients in H1 and H2 hospitals. A multivariable logistic regression analysis identified preoperative radiotherapy [odds ratio (OR): 0.23, 95% confidential interval (CI): 0.056–0.94] as a negative risk factor and postoperative chemotherapy (OR: 5.9, 95% CI: 1.3–27.0) as a positive risk factor for an improved ambulatory status. Five and 6 patients in H1 and H2 hospitals, respectively, showed deterioration in the ambulatory status. An older age (OR: 1.1, 95% CI: 1.0–1.2) and preoperative radiotherapy (OR: 10.3, 95% CI: 1.9–55.4) were extracted as significant independent risk factors for deterioration in the ambulatory status. Circumferential decompression did not improve the clinical results of patients regardless of the degree of paralysis.

Conclusions:

Preoperative radiotherapy interfered with the recovery of paralysis, and postoperative chemotherapy improved the ambulatory status. Clinical outcomes did not significantly differ between total circumferential decompression and posterior decompression, although further validation in a small number of cases is needed, such as patients with Frankel grade D.
Bariatric Surgery Lowers Rates of Spinal Symptoms and Spinal Surgery in a Morbidly Obese Population
Authors: Passias Peter G. , Fernandez Laviel , Horn Samantha R. , Ihejirika Yael U. , Wang Erik , Vasques-Montes Dennis , Shepard Nicholas , Segreto Frank A. , Bortz Cole A. , Brown Avery E. , Pierce Katherine E. , Alas Haddy , Lafage Renaud , Neuman Brian J. , Sciubba Daniel M. , Afthinos John , Lafage Virginie , Schoenfeld Andrew J.
Published: May 2022

Study Design:

Retrospective analysis of New York State Inpatient Database years 2004–2013.

Objective:

Assess rates of spinal diagnoses and procedures before and after bariatric surgery (BS).

Summary of Background Data:

BS for morbid obesity helps address common comorbidity burdens and improves quality of life for patients. The effects of BS on spinal disorders and surgical intervention have yet to be investigated.

Materials and Methods:

Patients included in analysis if they underwent BS and were seen at the hospital before and after this intervention. Spinal conditions and rates of surgery assessed before and after BS using χ2 tests for categorical variables. Multivariable logistic regression analysis used to compare rates in BS patients to control group of nonoperative morbidly obese patients. Logistic testing controlled for comorbidities, age, biological sex.

Results:

A total of 73,046 BS patients included (age 67.88±17.66 y, 56.1% female). For regression analysis, 299,504 nonbariatric, morbidly obese patients included (age 53.45±16.52 y, 65.6% female). Overall, rates of spinal symptoms decreased following BS (7.40%–5.14%, P<0.001). Cervical, thoracic, lumbar spine diagnoses rates dropped from 3.28% to 2.99%, 2.91% to 2.57%, and 5.39% to 3.92% (all P<0.001), respectively. Most marked reductions seen in cervical spontaneous compression fractures, cervical disc herniation, thoracic radicular pain, spontaneous lumbar compression fractures, lumbar spinal stenosis, lumbar spondylosis. Controlling for comorbidities, age and sex, obese nonbariatric patients more likely to have encounters associated with several cervical, thoracic or lumbar spinal diagnoses and procedures, especially for cervical spontaneous compression fracture, radicular pain, lumbar spondylosis, lumbar spinal stenosis, posterior procedures. BS significantly lowered comorbidity burden for many specific factors.

Conclusions:

BS lowered rates of documented spinal disorders and procedures in a morbidly obese population. These findings provide evidence of additional health benefits following BS, including reduction in health care encounters for spinal disorders and rates of surgical intervention.
A novel method of intraovarian instillation of platelet rich plasma to improve reproductive outcome in young Indian women with diminished ovarian reserve
Authors: Parikh Firuza R. , Sawkar Sujatha G. , Agarwal Sapna , Makwana Prashant K. , Khandeparkar Meenal S. , Naik Nandkishor J. , Sanap Mangesh V. , Joshi Spruha P. , Athalye Arundhati S.
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

To evaluate the effects of intraovarian platelet-rich plasma (IOPRP) instillation in young Indian women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR).

Methods:

This prospective, ongoing, cohort study was performed by recruiting 45 consenting Indian women with DOR (group A). Up to 3 cycles of IOPRP instillation were performed after minimal ovarian stimulation. Outcome measures were changes in antral follicle counts (AFC), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels, an increase in total and mature oocytes retrieved and establishment of pregnancy. The pregnancy rates in 51 women with the same inclusion criteria during the same time period were compared (group B).

Results:

In group A, baseline mean AFC was 3.44±2.35 (n=45); mean AFC increased after IOPRP-1 (3.89±2.21, n=45, P=0.1198<0.05 vs. baseline), IOPRP-2 (4.91±2.79, n=33, P=0.0056<0.05 vs. baseline), and IOPRP-3 (4.95±2.84, n=19, P=0.0002<0.05 vs. baseline). Mean AMH was 0.85±0.44 ng/mL. The changes in average AMH levels showed significance after IOPRP-2 (P=0.048<0.05). In group B, mean baseline AFC was 4.74±2.19, mean baseline AMH was 0.98±0.38 ng/mL. In group A, frozen embryo transfer was performed in 32/45 women and 15 clinical pregnancies were established. In group B, 44/51 women underwent frozen embryo transfer, 11 clinical pregnancies were established. The clinical pregnancy rate per transfer was 46.88%/embryo transfer in group A versus 25%/embryo transfer in group B.

Conclusions:

IOPRP instillation can improve AFC and can enhance pregnancy results in women with DOR. Increase in AMH levels and the number of total and mature oocytes was observed after 2 IOPRP. Significantly higher pregnancy rates (P=0.0009<0.05) were observed in women with IOPRP versus matched controls without IOPRP.
Sex Differences in Depressive Symptom Networks Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Lee Chiyoung , Hu Xiao
Published: May 2022

Background

Compared to male individuals, an increased prevalence of depression has been reported in older female individuals consistently over time. Sex (male/female) differences in depressive symptom networks may help explain the underlying causes of this increased vulnerability for female individuals.

Objective

This cross-sectional study investigated the sex (male/female) differences in depressive symptom networks among community-dwelling older adults in South Korea.

Methods

The analysis was based on the 2019 Korean Community Health Survey data targeting adults aged 65 years or older. Using network analysis, depressive symptom networks were constructed according to the items listed in the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 for propensity score-matched male and female groups. Strength centrality and network stability were tested. A network comparison test was performed to investigate the difference between the networks based on the invariance of global strength, network structure, edge strength, and specific centrality measures.

Results

Symptoms central to the network were similar between sexes, which were suicidal ideation, hopelessness, and psychomotor retardation/agitation. However, the global structure and network structure differed between sexes. The female symptom network showed more strengthened edges. Notably, four edges—loss of interest–hopelessness, sleep disturbance; low energy/fatigue; loss of interest–concentration difficulty; and worthlessness–concentration difficulty—were more pronounced in the female network. Strength centrality did not differ between the two networks.

Discussion

Our results may help guide future research and clinical interventions for female depression. In addition, educating health professionals on the differences in depressive symptom presentation will be crucial to ensuring that older female adults receive appropriate treatment.
A Suggested Formula for Postmortem Estimation of Brain Edema Using Morphometric Parameters in Egyptian Population
Authors: Abd El-Hai Amira A. , Shokry Dina A. , Elghamry Hoda , Hassan Hanan Hosny , Basyoni Hoda Ahmed , Razik Heba Abdo Abdel
Published: May 2022

Objective

The purpose of this study was to find a mathematical relation that would be able to determine the existence of brain edema with a certain degree of accuracy, away from the subjective impressions of each examiner.

Patients and Methods

The analyzed study sample consists of 100 brains that underwent forensic autopsy in the Egyptian Forensic Medicine Authority, Zagazig department, from January 2017 to June 2018. Measurements of morphometric parameters of the skull were used to determine the volume and diameters of the cranial cavity. Subjects were divided histologically into 2 groups according to the presence or absence of brain edema.

Results

Using this methodological approach, 88% of the brains would be correctly classified as edematous, and 12% would be incorrectly classified as edematous. It was found that the mean ± SD value of brain weight was 1377.1 ± 124.5 g. The mean ± SD value of the brain volume was 1319.7 ± 58.5 cm3. The mean value of brain density was 1.04 ± 0.09 g/dL. It was found that there was a significant difference between subjects with brain edema and those without brain edema regarding measured and estimated brain weight, brain volume, and brain density. There was no statistically significant difference between age and sex regarding brain weight, brain volume, longitudinal diameter, width, and height of the skull.

Conclusions

The study results will significantly facilitate the daily routine macroscopic assessment of brain edema based on scientifically determined principles. However, any estimation must still be used with caution and in combination with clinical information and macroscopic and histological findings.
Employment as HIV Prevention: An Employment Support Intervention for Adolescent Men Who Have Sex With Men and Adolescent Transgender Women of Color
Authors: Hill Brandon J. , Motley Darnell N. , Rosentel Kris , VandeVusse Alicia , Fuller Charlie , Bowers Shannon M.E. , Williams Meghan , Kipke Michele , Kuhns Lisa , Pashka Nicole , Reisner Sari , DeMonte Justin B. , Goolsby Rachel W. , Rupp Betty M. , Slye Nicole , Strader Lisa C. , Schneider John A. , Razzano Lisa , Garofalo Robert
Published: May 2022

Background:

The purpose of this study was to adapt and pilot-test an employment support, primary HIV intervention tailored to the needs of adolescent men who have sex with men and adolescent transgender women of color.

Setting:

The intervention was implemented in 2 settings: controlled environment (Phase 1) and real-world community-based (Phase 2) setting in Chicago, IL.

Methods:

Eighty-seven adolescent men who have sex with men and adolescent transgender women of color ages 16–24 participated in Work2Prevent, a 4-session employment and HIV prevention intervention, designed to increase job-readiness and reduce HIV risk. Intervention sessions consisted of group activities: educational games, roleplaying/modeling behavior, and self-regulation exercises. Participants were assessed at baseline, postintervention, and 8-month (Phase 1) or 3-month follow-up (Phase 2).

Results:

Participants evaluated Work2Prevent as feasible and acceptable, rating intervention quality, usefulness, and satisfaction highly. Overall, 59.6% (Phase 1) and 85.0% (Phase 2) participants attended 2 or more sessions. At 8 months, Phase 1 participants reported a mean increase of 11.4 hours worked per week. Phase 2 participants reported a mean increase of 5.2 hours worked per week and an increase in job-seeking self-efficacy. Phase 2 participants also reported a decrease in transactional sex work.

Conclusion:

Work2Prevent is one of the first structural primary HIV interventions to specifically focus on adolescent employment readiness. Findings suggest Work2Prevent is feasible and acceptable, improved adolescent employment outcomes, and reduced HIV risk associated with transactional sex work. Our study underscores the need for alternative pathways, such as addressing socioeconomic determinants, to prevent adolescent HIV infection.
The Aortic Ductus Diverticulum—Innocent Bystander or Potential Source of Thromboembolic Stroke?
Authors: Celik Erkan , Goertz Lukas , Nelles Christian , Hammes Jochen , Achenbach Tobias , Kabbasch Christoph , Persigehl Thorsten , Maintz David , Bunck Alexander Christian
Published: May 2022

Objective

Due to reversal blood flow in the diastolic phase, outpouchings at the aortic isthmus may carry the risk of thrombus formation and subsequent thromboembolism. The objective was to evaluate the association between aortic ductus diverticula (ADDs) and ischemic brain alterations in cerebral magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 218 patients who received both a dedicated computed tomography angiography of the thoracic aorta and a brain magnetic resonance imaging was performed. Two radiologists independently reviewed all examinations for the presence of ADD as well as ischemic alterations of the brain. The association between this anatomical variant and ischemic brain alterations was evaluated by univariate and bivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

ADDs were identified/present in 35 of 218 patients (16%). Ischemic brain alterations were found in 57% of patients (20/35) with an ADD and in 42% of the control group (77/183, P = 0.1). The presence of an ADD did not prove to be an independent risk factor for ischemic brain alterations after multivariate adjustment (odds ratio = 1.7, 95% confidence interval = 0.72–3.96, P = 0.225).

Conclusions

In the present study, ADDs were not significantly associated with ischemic brain alterations. Therefore, ADDs seem to be an innocent bystander with respect to the pathogenesis of ischemic brain alterations.
Activated AXL Protects Against Hepatic Ischemia-reperfusion Injury by Upregulating SOCS-1 Expression
Authors: Wang Zhen , Liu Deng , Yan Qi , Liu Fang , Zhan Mengting , Qi Shunli , Fang Qi , Yao Lei , Wang Weizhi , Zhang Ruixin , Du Jian , Chen Lijian
Published: May 2022

Background.

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is the main factor affecting the morbidity and mortality associated with perioperative complications of liver transplantation and major hepatectomy. AXL is a member of the TYRO3, AXL, MERTK family and is involved in immune and apoptosis processes in multiple organs. However, the role of AXL in hepatic I/R injury remains to be elucidated.

Methods.

Mice pretreated with rmGas6 or R428 and mice tail vein injected with adeno-associated virus knockdown suppressor of cytokine signaling protein-1 (SOCS-1) underwent liver I/R surgery to detect the function of activated AXL in vivo. Primary hepatocytes undergo hypoxic reoxygenation injury in vitro.

Results.

AXL expression was significantly upregulated, and phosphorylated-AXL was substantially downregulated in liver transplantation patients and hepatic I/R surgery mice. A mouse model of hepatic I/R injury showed that AXL activation reduced liver inflammation and liver cells apoptosis. The inhibition of AXL activation (AXL-specific inhibitor R428) aggravated hepatic I/R injury, resulted in larger areas of liver injury, aggravated inflammatory response, and increased apoptosis of liver cells. In addition, activated AXL promotes the expression level of SOCS-1 and inhibits toll-like receptor 4 and its downstream signaling pathways. Finally, SOCS-1 was knocked down with an adeno-associated virus, and activated AXL failed to protect against hepatic I/R injury.

Conclusions.

AXL activation protects the liver from I/R injury by upregulating SOCS-1 and inhibiting the toll-like receptor 4/myeloid differentiation factor-88/nuclear factor kappa-B signaling axis. Targeting AXL may be a new therapeutic option for ameliorating hepatic I/R injury.
High Oxygenation During Normothermic Regional Perfusion After Circulatory Death Is Beneficial on Donor Cardiac Function in a Porcine Model
Authors: Moeslund Niels , Long Zhang Zhang , Bo Ilkjaer Lars , Ryhammer Pia , Cramer Christine , Palmfeldt Johan , Pedersen Michael , Erasmus Michiel Elardus , Tsui Steven , Eiskjaer Hans
Published: May 2022

Background.

Thoracoabdominal normothermic regional perfusion (NRP) is a new method for in situ reperfusion and reanimation of potential donor organs in donation after circulatory death by reperfusion of the thoracic and abdominal organs with oxygenated blood. We investigated effects of high oxygenation (HOX) versus low oxygenation (LOX) during NRP on donor heart function in a porcine model.

Methods.

Pigs (80 kg) underwent a 15-min anoxic cardiac arrest followed by cardiac reanimation on NRP using a heart-lung bypass machine with subsequent assessment 180 min post-NRP. The animals were randomized to HOX (FiO2 1.0) or LOX (FiO2 0.21 increased to 0.40 during NRP). Hemodynamic data were obtained by invasive blood pressure and biventricular pressure-volume measurements. Blood gases, biomarkers of inflammation, and oxidative stress were measured.

Results.

Eight of 9 animals in the HOX group and 7 of 10 in the LOX group were successfully weaned from NRP. Right ventricular end-systole elastance was significantly improved in the HOX group compared with the LOX group, whereas left ventricular end-systole elastance was preserved at baseline levels. Post-NRP cardiac output, mean arterial, central venous, and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure were all comparable to baseline. Creatinine kinase-MB increased more in the LOX group than the HOX group, whereas proinflammatory cytokines increased more in the HOX group than the LOX group. No difference was found in oxidative stress between groups.

Conclusions.

All hearts weaned from NRP showed acceptable hemodynamic function for transplantation. Hearts exposed to LOX showed more myocardial damage and showed poorer contractile performance than hearts reperfused with high oxygen.