bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Configuration-independent thermal invariants under flow reversal in thin vascular systems
Authors: Nakshatrala Kalyana B , Adhikari Kripa , Kumar Sandeep Rajendra , Patrick Jason F
Published: August 2023

Modulating temperature fields is indispensable for advancing modern technologies: space probes, electronic packing, and implantable medical devices, to name a few. Bio-inspired thermal regulation achieved via fluid flow within a network of embedded vesicles is notably desirable for slender synthetic material systems. This far-reaching study—availing theory, numerics, and experiments—reveals a counter-intuitive yet fundamental property of vascular-based fluid-flow-engendered thermal regulation. For such thin systems, the mean surface temperature and the outlet temperature—consequently, the heat extracted by the flowing fluid (coolant)—are invariant under flow reversal (i.e. swapping the inlet and outlet). Despite markedly different temperature fields under flow reversal, our newfound invariance—a discovery—holds for anisotropic thermal conductivity, any inlet and ambient temperatures, transient and steady-state responses, irregular domains, and arbitrary internal vascular topologies, including those with branching. The reported configuration-independent result benefits thermal regulation designers. For instance, the flexibility in the coolant’s inlet location eases coordination challenges between electronics and various delivery systems in microfluidic devices without compromising performance (e.g. soft implantable coolers for pain management). Last but not least, the invariance offers an innovative way to verify computer codes, especially when analytical solutions are unavailable for intricate domain and vascular configurations.
Beef embryos in dairy cows: calfhood growth of Angus-sired calves from Holstein, Jersey, and crossbred beef dams
Authors: Fuerniss Luke K , Young J Daniel , Hall Jerica R , Wesley Kaitlyn R , Benitez Oscar J , Corah Larry R , Rathmann Ryan J , Johnson Bradley J
Published: August 2023

Improved reproductive management has allowed dairy cow pregnancies to be optimized for beef production. The objective of this sire-controlled study was to characterize the effects of beef or dairy maternal genetics and the dairy management system on calf growth. Pregnancies were created with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of dam breed (Holstein or Jersey) and mating type (artificial insemination or implantation of an in vitro produced embryo from a commercial beef cow oocyte). Resulting calves were reared in a calf ranch. Additionally, commercial beef cows were inseminated and reared resulting calves on range. Therefore, the five treatments were Angus × Holstein (A × H; n = 19), Angus × Jersey (A × J; n = 22), Angus × beef gestated by Holstein (H ET; n = 18), Angus × beef gestated by Jersey (J ET; n = 8), and Angus × beef raised by beef (A × B; n = 20). Beginning at birth, calf body weight, cannon circumference, forearm circumference, top width, hip width, and hip height were measured approximately every 28 d until ~196 d of age. At birth, A × J calves weighed the least (P < 0.01). At 150 d of age, body weight was greatest (P < 0.05) among A × B calves, intermediate among H ET and A × H calves, and least among J ET and A × J calves (P < 0.05). Morphometric differences were detected between treatments (multivariate analysis of variance, P < 0.01). Primary discriminant function scores identified A × B calves having lesser values than A × J or A × H calves (analysis of variance [ANOVA], P < 0.01); A × B calves had greater cannon circumference, greater top width, and less hip height (standardized loadings of −0.47, −0.48, and 0.63, respectively). Secondary discriminant function scores identified J ET and H ET to have greater forearm circumference—a key indicator of muscling—than A × J or A × H (ANOVA, P < 0.01; standardized loading of 0.99). The dairy management system limited growth rate of beef genetics compared to the beef management system. In addition, Holstein dams transmitted greater growth potential than Jersey dams. Replacing maternal dairy genetics with beef genetics moderated frame size and created a more muscular phenotype.
Effects of Quaternary climatic oscillations over the Chacoan fauna: phylogeographic patterns in the southern three-banded armadilloTolypeutes matacus(Cingulata: Chlamyphoridae)
Authors: Ferreiro Alejandro Manuel , Pinotti Juan Diego , Poljak Sebastián , Soibelzon Esteban , Chiappero Marina B
Published: August 2023

The southern three-banded armadillo, Tolypeutes matacus, is one of the most representative species of the South American Chaco region. The susceptibility of this species to climatic changes and its good number of paleontological records has led to the study of their range dynamics for untangling the effects of Quaternary oscillations. These studies yielded contradictory results, suggesting expansion processes under opposite conditions: some during glacial periods and others during interglacial periods. Here, we assess the population structure of T. matacus in Argentina based on mitochondrial genes, and estimate demographic and spatial dynamics that contribute to unveiling the evolutionary process that moulded its biogeography. We found no clear phylogeographical breaks, although there were differences in the composition and frequency of haplotypes between the northern and southern localities studied. Demographic inferences indicate that the species has undergone population and range expansion processes. The higher diversity found in the north and the spatial diffusion analysis allow us to infer a north–south direction of this expansive process. Our results yield essential evidence for disentangling the evolution of this Chacoan species linked with Quaternary climates and provide genetic information about its populations that should be taken into account for the conservation of this threatened mammal.
Characterization of QoI-Fungicide Resistance in Cercospora Isolates Associated with Cercospora Leaf Blight of Soybean from the Southern United States
Authors: Shrestha Bishnu K. , Ward Brian M. , Allen Tom W. , da Silva Ernesto T. , Zulli Hannah , Dunford Will , Doyle Vinson , Bradley Carl A. , Buckley Blair , Chen Pengyin , Clubb Michael , Kelly Heather , Koebernick Jenny , Padgett Boyd , Rupe John C. , Sikora Ed J. , Spurlock Terry N. , Thomas-Sharma Sara , Tolbert Amanda , Zhou Xin-Gen , Price Paul P.
Published: August 2023

Cercospora leaf blight (CLB) of soybean, caused by Cercospora cf. flagellaris, C. kikuchii, and C. cf. sigesbeckiae, is an economically important disease in the southern United States. Cultivar resistance to CLB is inconsistent; therefore, fungicides in the quinone outside inhibitor (QoI) class have been relied on to manage the disease. Approximately 620 isolates from plants exhibiting CLB were collected between 2018 and 2021 from 19 locations in eight southern states. A novel polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assay based on two genes, calmodulin and histone h3, was developed to differentiate between the dominant species of Cercospora, C. cf. flagellaris, and C. cf. sigesbeckiae. A multilocus phylogenetic analysis of actin, calmodulin, histone h3, ITS rDNA, and transcription elongation factor 1-α was used to confirm PCR-RFLP results and identify remaining isolates. Approximately 80% of the isolates collected were identified as C. cf. flagellaris, while 15% classified as C. cf. sigesbeckiae, 2% as C. kikuchii, and 3% as previously unreported Cercospora species associated with CLB in the United States. PCR-RFLP of cytochrome b (cytb) identified QoI-resistance conferred by the G143A substitution. Approximately 64 to 83% of isolates were determined to be QoI-resistant, and all contained the G143A substitution. Results of discriminatory dose assays using azoxystrobin (1 ppm) were 100% consistent with PCR-RFLP results. To our knowledge, this constitutes the first report of QoI resistance in CLB pathogen populations from Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, and Texas. In areas where high frequencies of resistance have been identified, QoI fungicides should be avoided, and fungicide products with alternative modes-of-action should be utilized in the absence of CLB-resistant soybean cultivars.
Development of a Standardized Soybean Cyst Nematode Screening Assay in Pennycress and Identification of Resistant Germplasm
Authors: Basnet Pawan , Meinhardt Clinton G. , Dhital Bishnu , Nguyen Alice , Gillman Jason D. , Joshi Trupti , Mitchum Melissa G. , Scaboo Andrew M.
Published: August 2023

The prospect of incorporating pennycress as an oilseed cover crop in the Midwest’s corn-soybean rotation system has drawn researcher and farmer attention. The inclusion of pennycress will be beneficial as it provides an excellent soil cover to reduce soil erosion and nutrient leaching while serving as an additional source for oilseed production and income. However, pennycress is an alternative host for soybean cyst nematode (SCN), which is a major biological threat to soybean that needs to be addressed for sustainable pennycress adoption into our current production systems. To develop a standardized SCN resistance screening strategy in pennycress, we tested and optimized five parameters: (i) germination stimulants, (ii) inoculation timing, (iii) inoculation rate, (iv) experimental incubation time, and (v) susceptible checks. The standardized SCN resistance screening protocol includes the following: (i) treating pennycress seeds with gibberellic acid for 24 h, (ii) transplanting seedlings 12 to 15 days after initiating germination and inoculating 10 to 12 days after transplantation, (iii) inoculating at a rate of 1,500 eggs/100 cc soil (1,500 eggs per plant), (iv) processing roots at 30 days after inoculation, and (v) using susceptible pennycress accession Ames 32869 to calculate the female index. The standardized protocol was used to quantify the response of a diverse set of pennycress accessions for response against SCN HG type 1.2.5.7 and HG type 7. While there were no highly resistant pennycress lines identified, 15 were rated as moderately resistant to HG type 1.2.5.7, and eight were rated moderately resistant to HG type 7. The resistant lines identified in this study could be utilized to develop SCN-resistant pennycress cultivars. The study also opens a new avenue for research to understand SCN-pennycress interactions through molecular and genomic studies. This knowledge could aid in the successful inclusion of pennycress as a beneficial cover/oilseed crop in the United States Midwest.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Genome-Wide Association Study Reveals a QTL Region for Ashy Stem Blight Resistance in PRA154 Andean Common Bean
Authors: Viteri Diego M. , Linares-Ramírez Angela M. , Shi Ainong
Published: August 2023

Ashy stem blight (ASB) caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goidanich affects the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) at all growing stages. Higher levels of resistance were observed in Andean common beans, but specific resistant quantitative trait loci (QTLs) conferring resistance to this pathogen have not been reported in this gene pool. The objectives of this research were to: (i) conduct a genome-wide association study (GWAS) and QTL mapping for resistance in the Andean breeding line PRA154; and (ii) identify single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers and candidate genes for ASB resistance. Phenotyping was conducted under greenhouse conditions by inoculating the 107 F6:7 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from the cross between the susceptible cultivar ‘Verano’ and the partial-resistant breeding line PRA154 twice with the M. phaseolina isolate PRI21. Genotyping was performed with 109,040 SNPs distributed across all 11 P. vulgaris chromosomes. A novel major QTL was located between 28,761,668 and 31,263,845 bp, extending 2.5 Mbp on chromosome Pv07, and the highest significant SNP markers were Chr07_28761668_A_G, Chr07_29131720_G_A, and Chr07_31263845_C_T with the highest LOD (more than 10 in most of the cases) and R-squared values, explaining 40% of the phenotypic variance of the PRI21 isolate. The gene Phvul.007G173900 (methylcrotonyl-CoA carboxylase alpha chain and mitochondrial 3-methylcrotonyl-CoA carboxylase 1 [MCCA]) with a size of 10,891 bp, located between 29,131,591 and 29,142,481 bp on Pv07, was identified as one candidate for ASB resistance in PRA154, and it contained Chr07_29131720_G_A. The QTL and genetic marker information could be used to assist common bean breeders to develop germplasm and cultivars with ASB resistance through molecular breeding.
The integrative role of orexin-1 and orexin-2 receptors within the hippocampal dentate gyrus in the modulation of the stress-induced antinociception in the formalin pain test in the rat
Authors: Bolouri-Roudsari Arad , Baghani Matin , Askari Kobra , Mazaheri Sajad , Haghparast Abbas
Published: August 2023

The stressful experiences, by triggering a cascade of hormonal and neural changes, can produce antinociception commonly referred to as stress-induced antinociception (SIA). Orexin neuropeptides have an essential role in stress responses and pain modulation. The dentate gyrus receives orexinergic projections and has been shown to be involved in pain processing. The current study investigated the possible role of orexin-1 and orexin-2 receptors (OX1r and OX2r, respectively) within the dentate gyrus in SIA in a rat model of formalin-induced pain behavior in one hind paw. Male Wistar rats weighing 230–250 g underwent stereotaxic surgery and a cannula was implanted in their brains, above the dentate gyrus region. Either SB334867 or TCS OX2 29 (OX1r and OX2r antagonists, respectively) was microinjected into the dentate gyrus region at a range of doses at 1, 3, 10, and 30 nmol (control group received DMSO 12% as vehicle), 5 min before the forced swim stress (FSS) exposure. The formalin test was performed to assess pain-related behaviors. The results indicated that FSS exposure relieves pain-related behavior in the early and late phases of the formalin test. Blockade of intra-dentate gyrus OX1 or OX2 receptors reduced the antinociceptive responses induced by FSS in the formalin test, with more impact during the late phase. Our findings support the potential role of intra-dentate gyrus orexin receptors as target sites of orexin neurons in painful and stressful situations. Therefore, understanding the exact mechanisms of SIA and the role of the orexinergic system in this phenomenon can lead to identifying the strategies to guide future research and offer a new approach to discovering new pain therapeutic agents.
Contingency learning in zebrafish exposed to apomorphine- and levetiracetam
Authors: van der Westhuizen Christoffel , Botha Tarryn L. , Finger-Baier Karin , Brouwer Geoffrey de , Wolmarans De Wet
Published: August 2023

Cognitive rigidity (CR) refers to inadequate executive adaptation in the face of changing circumstances. Increased CR is associated with a number of psychiatric disorders, for example, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and improving cognitive functioning by targeting CR in these conditions, may be fruitful. Levetiracetam (LEV), clinically used to treat epilepsy, may have pro-cognitive effects by restoring balance to neuronal signalling. To explore this possibility, we applied apomorphine (APO) exposure in an attempt to induce rigid cue-directed responses following a cue (visual pattern)-reward (social conspecifics) contingency learning phase and to assess the effects of LEV on such behaviours. Briefly, zebrafish were divided into four different 39-day-long exposure groups (n = 9–10) as follows: control (CTRL), APO (100 µg/L), LEV (750 µg/L) and APO + LEV (100 µg/L + 750 µg/L). The main findings of this experiment were that 1) all four exposure groups performed similarly with respect to reward- and cue-directed learning over the first two study phases, 2) compared to the CTRL group, all drug interventions, but notably the APO + LEV combination, lowered the degree of reward-directed behaviour during a dissociated presentation of the cue and reward, and 3) temporal and spatial factors influenced the manner in which zebrafish responded to the presentation of the reward. Future studies are needed to explore the relevance of these findings for our understanding of the potential cognitive effects of LEV.
Bartonella henselae Infection With Concurrent Latent Syphilis in a Patient With Unexplained Generalized Lymphadenopathy
Authors: Gui Shannon Ying , Mourad Omar , Kapoor Andrew
Published: August 2023

Unexplained lymphadenopathy is a common clinical presentation. It has a wide differential diagnosis including infectious, malignant, lymphoproliferative, and autoimmune causes. We describe an unusual case of generalized lymphadenopathy in the setting of initial seropositivity for syphilis but a lack of response to appropriate treatment. Bartonella henselae serology was sent, given specific exposure history, and returned as positive and, with the development of ocular symptoms consistent with ocular bartonellosis, solidified a diagnosis of cat scratch disease with concurrent latent syphilis. In many cases where the etiology is not immediately evident or there exist conflicting diagnostic testing results, clinicians should identify the relevant infectious workup based on a systematic approach to history-taking to balance the risk of missing diagnoses and overdiagnosis.
A Case of Helicobacter heilmannii Gastritis in a Patient With Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Granger Madison , Knights Sheena
Published: August 2023

Helicobacter heilmannii is an uncommon Helicobacter that is a cause of gastritis in humans similar to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Treatment of H. heilmannii is not well studied, but traditional H. pylori regimens have shown success in case reports. Most case reports are in immunocompetent hosts, so little is known about the interplay between H. heilmannii and the immune system. We report a case of H. heilmannii infection in a patient with well-controlled human immunodeficiency virus infection who was treated with quadruple therapy (tetracycline, metronidazole, bismuth, and proton pump inhibitor) and had successful eradication of his infection.
Prolonged Epstein-Barr Virus DNA Detection in a Case of Infantile Infectious Mononucleosis
Authors: Sato Masayuki , Nagamori Tsunehisa , Izumi Kengo , Takahashi Hironori , Manabe Hiromi , Taketazu Genya , Shirai Masaru
Published: August 2023

Infectious mononucleosis (IM) caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a relatively common disease in adolescents and children. There have been few reports on serial changes in EBV DNA load in IM infants, and we herein describe the precise clinical course as well as the kinetics of EBV DNA load in a case of infantile IM. An 11-month-old girl presented with persistent fever, splenomegaly, and rash and was diagnosed with IM on the basis of her EBV DNA load despite the absence of a significant increase in anti–viral capsid antigen-IgM. The result of a cytomegalovirus antigenemia assay was also positive during the acute phase, but this quickly changed to negative. However, despite the spontaneous resolution of symptoms and seroconversion, the EBV DNA load result remained positive for more than 1 year. Although the potential impact from cytomegalovirus infection is uncertain, we speculate that prolonged EBV DNA load may occur in immunocompetent infantile IM patients.
Retrospective Review of Periurethral Lymph Node Dissection in Clinically Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Holdren Charla , Pulford Christopher , Keating Kevin , Peifer David , Eames Richard , Wisnewski Samuel , Maatman Thomas
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of positive periurethral lymph nodes during robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and to investigate the relationship between secondary end points of tumor staging, PSA, and Gleason score.

Materials and Methods:

This study is a retrospective review of 1177 RARPs performed from October 2011 to February 2022. Using pathology reports, the study population was condensed to 58 patients who had periurethral lymph node tissue. This population was then analyzed for the prevalence of malignant tissue in the specimen. A secondary analysis was performed for data on PSA, Gleason score (preoperative and postoperative), and tumor-nodes-metastases (TNM) staging.

Results:

Retrospective analysis demonstrated 9 of 58 specimens (15.5%) to be positive for malignancy. There was a statistically significant (P < .004) correlation between lymph node status and PSA. The average PSA was 17.60 (SD = 15.54) for those with positive periurethral lymph nodes and 7.96 (SD = 6.65) for those with negative periurethral lymph nodes. There was no statistically significant association between lymph node status and preoperative Gleason scores. There was, however, a statistically significant difference across lymph node status and postoperative Gleason scores (X2 (3) = 11.09, P = .01).

Conclusion:

Positive periurethral lymph nodes demonstrated higher average PSAs, postoperative Gleason scores, and TNM staging. Further analysis is required to evaluate potential prognostic implications.
Skincare from the inside out: a pilot project addressing social determinants of health through dermatology
Authors: Kimball Kelly M. , Cowan Rachael A. , Krevh Rachel , Nicholson Adrianna , Shah Payas , Gurumurthy Shreya , Graham Jacqueline
Published: August 2023

Background:

Many women’s shelters across the nation have programs that emphasize and empower women through career workshops and skills training. However, what is not typically addressed is their dermatological and mental health needs, which are equally important.

Objective:

Through this pilot project, we aim to address the diverse interrelated issues concerning the whole woman and her body/mind systems including skin cancer awareness, skincare, healthy sun habits, self-esteem, mental health, and stress management. By addressing the woman holistically, we hope to positively impact the way she views and values herself.

Methods:

We partnered with a local women’s shelter to host a seminar focused on dermatological and mental health education. Pre- and post-seminar surveys were collected from participants. Surveys were anonymous and aimed to evaluate the success and efficiency of the workshop to guide and improve future seminars. The seminar had three workshops: skin cancer and sun protection, skincare, and mental health and wellness. Upon completion of the seminar, the attendees were provided with the opportunity to receive free skin examinations by two board-certified dermatologists, and referrals were made to Northeast Ohio Medical University’s Student-Run Free Clinic. Upon completion of the seminar, attendees were provided with items such as sunscreen, skincare, and mental health resources.

Results:

The “Skincare from the Inside Out” pilot project proved to be beneficial to residents of both Norma Herr Women’s Shelter.

Limitations:

Limitations of this study were the small sample size (n = 15), due to participation limitations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, to reduce the morbidity and mortality of dermatologic conditions associated with homelessness, it is imperative to address upstream social determinants of health. Future development of this pilot project will aim toward educating medical professionals on the unique and complex dermatologic and mental health needs of women experiencing homelessness.
The Promise of Regenerative Medicine in the Reconstruction of Auricular Cartilage Deformities
Authors: Seifi Mehrdad , Motamed Sadrollah , Rouientan Abdolreza , Bohlouli Mahboubeh
Published: August 2023

There are many physiologic and psychologic challenges associated with ear cartilage deformities which are incredibly distasteful to patients, particularly children. The development of regenerative medicine (RM) sciences has opened up a new window for the reconstruction of auricular cartilage because it allows the creation of a structure similar to the auricular in appearance and function. As part of this review, we discuss the role that each RM tool, including tissue engineering, cells, and biomolecules, plays in developing engineered auricular tissue. In previous studies, it was shown that the simultaneous use of natural and synthetic biomaterials as well as three-dimensional printing techniques could improve the biological and mechanical properties of this tissue. Another critical issue is using stem cells and differentiated cartilage cells to produce tissue-specific cellular structures and extracellular matrix. Also, the importance of choosing a suitable animal model in terms of handling and care facilities, physiologic similarities to humans, and breed uniformity in the preclinical assessments have been highlighted. Then, the clinical trials registered on the clinicaltrials.gov website, and the commercialized product, called AuriNovo, have been comprehensively explained. Overall, it is important to provide engineered auricular cartilage structures with acceptable safety and efficacy compared with standard methods, autologous cartilage transplantation, and prosthetic reconstruction in RM.
HbA1c/C-peptide ratio is associated with angiographic thrombus burden and short-term mortality in patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Toprak Kenan , Kaplangöray Mustafa , Memioğlu Tolga , İnanir Mehmet , Omar Bahadir , Taşcanov Mustafa Beğenç , Biçer Asuman , Demirbağ Recep
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Angiographic high thrombus burden (HTB) is associated with increased adverse cardiovascular events in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). HbA1c and C-peptide are two interrelated bioactive markers that affect many cardiovascular pathways. HbA1c exhibits prothrombogenic properties, while C-peptide, in contrast, exhibits antithrombogenic effects. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the value of combining these two biomarkers in a single fraction in predicting HTB and short-term mortality in patients with STEMI.

Methods

1202 patients who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) for STEMI were retrospectively included in this study. The study population was divided into thrombus burden (TB) groups and compared in terms of basic clinical demographics, laboratory parameters and HbA1c/C-peptide ratios (HCR). In addition, short-term mortality of the study population was compared according to HCR and TB categories.

Results

HCR values were significantly higher in the HTB group than in the LTB group (3.5 ± 1.2 vs. 2.0 ± 1.1;P < 0.001; respectively). In the multivariable regression analysis, HCR was determined as an independent predictor of HTB both as a continuous variable [odds ratio (OR): 2.377; confidence interval (CI): 2.090–2.704;P < 0.001] and as a categorical variable (OR: 5.492; CI: 4.115–7.331;P < 0.001). In the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, HCR predicted HTB with 73% sensitivity and 72% specificity, and furthermore, HCR's predictive value for HTB was superior to HbA1c and C-peptide. The Kaplan-Meier cumulative survival curve showed that short-term mortality increased at HTB. In addition, HCR strongly predicted short-term mortality in Cox regression analysis.

Conclusions

In conclusion, HCR is closely associated with HTB and short-term mortality in STEMI patients.
Association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (4G/5G) of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and the risk factors for placenta-related obstetric complications
Authors: Donmez Hanife Guler , Beksac Mehmet Sinan
Published: August 2023

Background

Placenta-related obstetric complications (PROCs) such as miscarriage, fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia, and preterm birth are the major causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to search the relevance of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) polymorphisms and co-morbidities and the risk factors for PROCs such as miscarriage, fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia, and preterm birth.

Method

This retrospective study analyzed the PAI-1 genotype in a cohort of 268 multiparous women with poor obstetric history. Poor obstetric history was defined as the presence of at least one of the PROCs and/or poor gestational outcomes at the previous pregnancy/pregnancies.

Results

5G allele frequency was higher than the 4G allele frequency in the cohort (0.767 vs. 0.233). The frequencies of having at least one risk factor are relatively similar among the different PAI-1 genotypes (P > 0.05). However, the presence of MTHFR polymorphisms (homozygous and compound heterozygous forms of C677T and A1298G) and hereditary thrombophilia (Factor V Leiden and prothrombin G20210A gene mutations, and FXIII deficiency) were found to be associated with PAI 4G/4G (P = 0.048) and 5G/5G (P = 0.022) genotypes, respectively. Significant differences were not observed in other risk factors and co-morbidities such as autoimmune disorders, chronic inflammatory diseases, history of venous thromboembolism, carbohydrate metabolism disorders, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases depending on PAI-1 genotypes (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

MTHFR polymorphisms were found to be associated with PAI 4G/4G genotype, while 5G/5G genotype was observed more frequently in hereditary thrombophilia cases.
Mechanisms relating to sleeping position to the endotypes of sleep disordered breathing
Authors: Messineo Ludovico , Joosten Simon , Perger Elisa
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity varies considerably depending on the body position during sleep in certain subjects. Such variability may be underpinned by specific, body position-related changes in OSA pathophysiological determinants, or endotypes. Also head position relative to trunk may influence OSA endotypes. However, no studies to our knowledge have reviewed the endotype variations according to head or body position up to now.

Recent findings

Several findings illustrate that supine OSA is mostly attributable to unfavorable upper airway anatomy compared to lateral position. However, a reduced lung volume, with consequent ventilatory instability (or elevated loop gain), may also play a role. Furthermore, preliminary findings suggest that prone and reclined positions may have a beneficial effect on collapsibility and loop gain.

Sleeping supine induces many unfavorable pathophysiological changes, especially in certain predisposed OSA patients. Little is known on the influence of other sleep positions on key endotypic traits.
Unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma at dawn of immunotherapy era: real-world data from the French prospective CHIEF cohort
Authors: Nguyen-Khac Eric , Nahon Pierre , Ganry Olivier , Ben Khadhra Hajer , Merle Philippe , Amaddeo Giuliana , Ganne-Carrie Nathalie , Silvain Christine , Peron Jean-Marie , Mathurin Philippe , Anty Rodolphe , Uguen Thomas , Decaens Thomas , Riachi Ghassan , Bouattour Mohamed , Baron Aurore , Bronowicki Jean-Pierre , Pageaux Georges-Philippe , Rosmorduc Olivier , Ducournau Gérard , Gilberg Mélina , Tanang Alexandre , Dupin Julien , Gilbert-Marceau Anika , Blanc Jean-Frédéric ,   for the French CHIEF cohort group
Published: August 2023

Background and objectives

Hepatocellular carcinoma epidemiological data are limited in France. The Epidemio Liver Immunotherapy Tecentriq outcome research (ELITor) retrospective study, based on real-world data from the Carcinome HépatocellulaIrE en France (CHIEF) French cohort of hepatocellular carcinoma patients, aimed to get insight into the treatment patterns, the sociodemographic, clinical, biological, and etiological characteristics, and the quality of life of patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methods and results

Between 1 September 2019 and 4 December 2020, 367 patients from the CHIEF cohort received at least one locoregional (52.8%) chemoembolization or radioembolization or systemic treatment (88.3%) and were selected for ELITor. Most patients had a Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) C (93.2%) hepatocellular carcinoma stage and were affected by cirrhosis (67.7%). Alcohol was confirmed as the main etiology both as a single etiology (29.1%) and in association with other risk factors (26.9%), mainly metabolic disorders (16.2%).

Tyrosine-kinase inhibitors, mainly sorafenib, were the most administered systemic treatments in first line. Patients who received at least one combination of atezolizumab and bevacizumab during the study period (N = 53) had a better performance status and less portal hypertension frequency than the overall population and more hepatitis B virus infection and fewer metabolic disorders as single etiology. Overall, the global health score before treatment (62.3 ± 21.9) was in line with that of reference cancer patients and worsened in 51.9% of the cases after first-line palliative-intent treatment.

Conclusion

This study provided real-life data on advanced hepatocellular carcinoma characteristics and treatment patterns and described the first patients to receive the atezolizumab-bevacizumab combination before it became the new standard of care for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.
Apoptosis and inflammatory genes variants in primary non-response to anti-TNF therapy in Crohn’s disease patients
Authors: Lykowska-Szuber Liliana , Walczak Michal , Dobrowolska Agnieszka , Skrzypczak-Zielinska Marzena
Published: August 2023

Anti-TNF therapy has indeed revolutionized the treatment of Crohn’s disease, leading to higher rates of response and remission in patients. However, a significant proportion of 20–40% of patients do not respond to the initial therapy, others experience a secondary loss of response with ongoing treatment. Adverse drug reactions also occur in some patients. The effectiveness of anti-TNF treatment may be influenced by genetic variability, including FCGR3A, ADAM17, TNFRSF1A, TNFRSF1B, FAS, FASL, IL1B, CASP9, and MIF genes. In this article, we provide an overview of the current knowledge and findings in the pharmacogenetics of anti-TNF drugs in CD focusing on the aspect of apoptosis and inflammatory genes variants in primary non-response. Pharmacogenetic investigations have been conducted to identify genetic markers that can predict response to anti-TNF therapy. However, large multi-center validation studies and multi-loci algorithms development are required to effectively prognose the treatment effect. The identification of predictive markers of response to anti-TNF therapy can help clinicians make informed decisions about treatment options and minimize adverse drug reactions in patients.
Clinical course and prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and haemophilia
Authors: Matsuda Noritaka , Imai Norihiro , Yokoyama Shinya , Yamamoto Kenta , Ito Takanori , Ishizu Yoji , Honda Takashi , Okamoto Shuichi , Kanematsu Takeshi , Suzuki Nobuaki , Matsushita Tadashi , Ishigami Masatoshi , Kawashima Hiroki
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Although patients with haemophilia are known to develop hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at a lower age than patients without, there are few reports on the clinical course and prognosis of HCC.

Aim

We aimed to investigate the clinical course and prognosis of patients with HCC and haemophilia.

Methods

Twenty-two patients with haemophilia, who were initially diagnosed with HCC between 2003 and 2021, were included. Their clinical courses and prognoses were retrospectively analysed. The results were compared with those of the 24th Nationwide Follow-up Survey of Primary Liver Cancer.

Results

All 22 patients were male; of these, 20 patients had haemophilia A, and 2 had haemophilia B. The mean age of diagnosis was 63 years (range 45–78 years) which is lower than the mean of 72 years reported in the Nationwide Survey. The mean diameter of the largest tumour was 30 mm (range 11–70 mm), and 18 tumours (82%) were solitary at the initial diagnosis. Standard treatments for HCC were performed in all patients. Sixty-one transarterial chemoembolisation, 28 RFA, 10 hepatectomies, and 2 radiation treatments were performed, and molecular-targeted agents were administered to 5 patients during their clinical courses. No deaths were associated with complications of HCC treatments. The median survival time after initial treatment was 6.4 years (range 0.9–18.7 years) which did not differ much from the median survival time of 5.8 years in the Nationwide Survey.

Conclusion

Standard treatment for HCC could improve the prognosis of patients with HCC and haemophilia.
The number of hepatocellular carcinoma foci as predictor of poor response to tumor-directed therapies in patients awaiting liver transplantation: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Aydin Yucel , Koksal Ali R. , Thevenot Paul , Nunez Kelley , Elgamal Mohamed , Koksal Ulkuhan I. , Sandow Tyler , Moehlen Martin , Regenstein Frederic , Tahan Veysel , Cohen Ari
Published: August 2023

Background and aims

Tumor-directed therapies (TDTs) are a constitutive part of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment in patients awaiting liver transplantation (LT). While most patients benefit from TDTs as a bridge to LT, some patients drop out from the waiting list due to tumor progression. The study aimed to determine the risk factors for poor treatment outcome following TDTs among patients with HCC awaiting LT.

Methods

A total of 123 patients with HCC were evaluated with 92 patients meeting Milan Criteria enrolled in the prospective cohort study. Tumor response was evaluated using the modified Response Evaluation Criteria for Solid Tumors for HCC 1 month after the procedure. The risk factors for progressive disease (PD) and dropout were evaluated.

Results

After TDT, 55 patients (59.8%) achieved complete or partial response (44.6% and 15.2% respectively), 17 patients (18.5%) had stable disease, and 20 patients (21.7%) were assessed as PD. Multivariate analysis revealed a significant and independent association between the number of HCC foci and PD (P = 0.03, OR = 2.68). There was no statistically significant association between treatment response and demographics, MELDNa score, pre-and post-treatment alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), cumulative tumor burden the largest tumor size, or TDT modality. PD was the major cause of dropout in our cohort. Pre-treatment AFP levels ≥200 ng/ml had a strong association with dropout after TDTs (P = 0.0005).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the presence of multifocal HCC is the sole prognostic factor for PD following TDTs in HCC patients awaiting LT. We recommend prioritizing patients with multifocal HCC within Milan criteria by exception points for LT to improve the dropout rate.
A radiomics nomogram based on 18F-FDG PET/CT and clinical risk factors for the prediction of peritoneal metastasis in gastric cancer
Authors: Xie Jiageng , Xue Beihui , Bian Shuying , Ji Xiaowei , Lin Jie , Zheng Xiangwu , Tang Kun
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Peritoneal metastasis (PM) is usually considered an incurable factor of gastric cancer (GC) and not fit for surgery. The aim of this study is to develop and validate an 18F-FDG PET/CT-derived radiomics model combining with clinical risk factors for predicting PM of GC.

Method

In this retrospective study, 410 GC patients (PM − = 281, PM + = 129) who underwent preoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT images from January 2015 to October 2021 were analyzed. The patients were randomly divided into a training cohort (n = 288) and a validation cohort (n = 122). The maximum relevance and minimum redundancy (mRMR) and the least shrinkage and selection operator method were applied to select feature. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was preformed to develop the predicting model. Discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness were used to evaluate the performance of the nomogram.

Result

Fourteen radiomics feature parameters were selected to construct radiomics model. The area under the curve (AUC) of the radiomics model were 0.86 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.81–0.90] in the training cohort and 0.85 (95% CI, 0.78–0.92) in the validation cohort. After multivariable logistic regression, peritoneal effusion, mean standardized uptake value (SUVmean), carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) and radiomics signature showed statistically significant differences between different PM status patients(P < 0.05). They were chosen to construct the comprehensive predicting model which showed a performance with an AUC of 0.92 (95% CI, 0.89–0.95) in the training cohort and 0.92 (95% CI, 0.86–0.98) in the validation cohort, respectively.

Conclusion

The nomogram based on 18F-FDG PET/CT radiomics features and clinical risk factors can be potentially applied in individualized treatment strategy-making for GC patients before the surgery.
Evaluation of the correlation between Altmetric attention score and citation number of top 50 articles in hip fractures: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Fallah Yousef , Soleimani Mohammad , Shafiei Seyyed Hossein , Pishkuhi Mahin Ahmadi
Published: August 2023

Background:

Publications quality evaluation gets more attention nowadays, because of its impact on researchers ranking and academic journals. Beside traditional bibliometric tools, altemetric metrics have been introduced as tools to evaluate the dissemination of a study by the number of views, mentions, and posts on different websites and social medias.

Method:

In this study, the authors evaluate the correlation between citation number as a traditional tool and altmetric attention score (AAS) as a new method. Scopus database was searched to find the 50 most cited manuscripts on “hip fractures” title from January 2015 to December 2020. After excluding irrelevant subjects, AAS of included articles was collected from the Altmetric.com website. At the last stage, the data were analyzed using statistical tests.

Results:

According to statistical analysis, R
2 was 0.121, and the P-value was 0.017, which shows a weak but statistically significant relationship between citation and AAS. The relationship between the number of mentions on Twitter and the AAS was linear.

The differences observed between the two groups were significant only in “Readers on Mendeley” and “Dimensions”. Results shown that the impact factor of the journal and the AAS of articles had no significant relationship (R
2=0.001, P-value=0.986).

Conclusion:

Findings showed that social media does not seem to be ineffective in disseminating published articles. It has also been shown that Twitter can play a significant role in the propagation of articles on social networks. It is not unreasonable to say that the accessibility of a journal affects the dissemination of an article on social media. In the end, the authors found that the impact factor of the journal could not significantly affect the AAS.
Ectopic primary ductal breast carcinoma of the vulva: a case report and literature review
Authors: Mansour Marah , Zahra Orgwan , Nabulsi Dalia , Alhamwi Aya , Chahin Maya , alani Wael Raghid , Yousef Diaa , Kanbour Ilda , Kurdi Bashar , Mohammad Deeb Ahmad
Published: August 2023

Background:

Ectopic breast tissue (EBT) is normally found along the rudimentary mammary line, which is located from the axilla to the inguinal region and disappears during embryogenesis. Up to 6% of females around the world suffer from EBT. EBT cancer is rare, with only a few reports in the literature. The diagnosis, and treatment of these rare cases can be very difficult and complex.

Case presentation:

The authors report an interesting case of a 74-year-old female patient with a vulvar lump located on the mons pubis associated with ulceration, pain, and size increase. The histopathological study demonstrated an invasive ductal carcinoma grade 2 arising from EBT in the vulva. Within 4 months of follow-up, the patient’s condition was stable.

Clinical discussion and conclusions:

Throughout this paper, the authors aim to highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges since there are no current guidelines for treatment for such cases. Furthermore, this article describes this rare disease and includes surgical details, difficulties, diagnostic methods, and treatment options.
The expression of hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients: a cross-sectional study in Indonesia
Authors: Pangarsa Eko Adhi , Rizky Daniel , Tandarto Kevin , Naibaho Ridho M. , Kurniawan Sigit P. , Istiadi Hermawan , Puspasari Dik , Santoso Antonius Gunawan , Setiawan Budi , Santosa Damai , Haryana Sofia Mubarika , Suharti Catharina
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Hypoxia fuels cancer growth by supporting blood vessel formation, suppressing immune response, and helping cancer cells adapt to harsh surroundings. This happens when cancer cells react to low oxygen levels by activating hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α). High levels of HIF-1α can indicate an aggressive form of cancer and resistance to treatment in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients. This study aimed to identify which factors are linked to HIF-1α distribution using immunohistochemistry in DLBCL patients.

Method:

This study conducted at a hospital in Indonesia between 2020 and 2022 aimed to investigate factors associated with HIF-1α expression in DLBCL patients. Newly diagnosed DLBCL patients were categorized into two groups based on HIF-1α distribution (<40% and ≥40%). Various factors were analyzed between the two groups using statistical tests such as χ2, Mann–Whitney U, and Spearman correlation tests.

Results:

In this study, 40 participants diagnosed with DLBCL were divided into two groups based on their HIF-1α distribution. The group with HIF-1α distribution greater than or equal to 40% had a higher incidence of extranodal involvement, including primary extranodal disease, compared to the group with less than 40% distribution. This difference was statistically significant. The authors also found that haemoglobin level statistically significant (P=0.041) in this research. The Spearman test analysis showed negative correlation between haemoglobin (P = <0.05, r = −0.44) and positive correlation of soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R) (P = <0.05, r = 0.5) with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), as well as between tumour volume (P = <0.05, r = 0.37) with sIL-2R. Additionally, there was a positive correlation between VEGF and sIL-2R (P = <0.05, r= 0.5).

Conclusion:

Patients with higher HIF-1α expression (≥40%) had more extranodal involvement and primary extranodal disease in this study of 40 DLBCL patients. Haemoglobin level, sIL-2R, and VEGF were also identified as potential biomarkers.