bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benchmarking performance in Targhee sheep in development of a genetic reference flock
Authors: Wilson Carrie S , Taylor J Bret , Notter David R , Murphy Thomas W , Stewart Whitney C , Lewis Ronald M
Published: December 2024

The Targhee breed is important to range sheep production in the Western United States. The objective of this research was to integrate industry sires participating in national genetic evaluation through the National Sheep Improvement Program (NSIP) into the U.S. Sheep Experiment Station (USSES) flock, where the breed originated, to benchmark sire performance. Estimated breeding values (EBV) of industry sires (n = 16) and USSES sires (n = 12) from the 2023 NSIP Targhee genetic evaluation differed (P < 0.05) only for the NSIP Number Born EBV. This difference, and small (nonsignificant) differences favoring industry sires for maternal weaning weight, yearling fiber diameter, and yearling staple length EBV also resulted in greater (P < 0.05) Western Range Index scores for industry sires. The performance of sires’ direct progeny born 2016 to 2018 was compared for 17 traits. After data cleaning, there were 664 progeny (417 from industry sires and 247 from USSES sires) with 146 to 664 records per trait. Least squares means differed (P < 0.05) for grease fleece weight, side fiber diameter, and britch fiber diameter in favor of the industry sires. Production traits were measured from the progeny and other retained descendants of both sire genetic groups from 2016 through 2022. After data cleaning, there was a range of 1,138 to 1,493 records per trait. A three-generation pedigree was constructed and the proportional assignment of each lamb to each genetic group (e.g., 0.5 industry, 0.5 USSES) was included in an augmented relationship matrix. A univariate animal model was fitted for each lamb trait and a repeated measures model for each of the three ewe traits was fitted to estimate variance components and predict breeding values. Genetic group solutions did not differ (P > 0.05) for any of these traits but provided a means by which to compare the two groups. Establishment of a Targhee genetic reference flock at USSES has been initiated, which can be used to address issues of importance to the industry.
Redefining the severity of orofacial tissue damage caused by noma: a novel classification approach
Authors: Gebretsadik Heron Gezahegn
Published: December 2024

Background

Noma is a severe orofacial disease with high mortality and morbidity. Although severity scales exist, they fail to fully capture the extent of damage caused by the disease.

Methods

This study analysed 404 photos of 260 noma cases from Facing Africa (n=228) and Project Harar (n=32) to create a new severity classification system. Photos were displayed on a large screen for better visualization. Tissue damage was assessed in terms of width, depth and surface area using the American Burn Association's grading system. A mathematical formula was also developed to quantify the extent of noma-induced orofacial damage.

Results

Fifteen orofacial anatomical units vulnerable to noma were identified, leading to the development of a new severity classification system that enhances the assessment of noma. This system evaluates tissue damage qualitatively as minor, moderate or major and quantitatively using a purpose-built mathematical formula.

Conclusions

Current classification systems inadequately capture noma severity due to vague definitions and limited consideration of the affected anatomical units. The new approach addresses these gaps by considering all tissue damage, including dentition, and allows for precise qualitative and quantitative assessment of disease severity. Continued research and validation are essential to refine this method, improving its clinical and research applications and enhancing outcomes for noma patients worldwide.
Time‐of‐day control of mitochondria regulates NLRP3 inflammasome activation in macrophages
Authors: O'Siorain James R. , Cox Shannon L. , Payet Cloé , Nally Frances K. , He Yan , Drewinksi Tabea T. , Kennedy Oran D. , Dowling Jennifer K. , Mellett Mark , Early James O. , Curtis Annie M.
Published: December 2024

Macrophages are innate immune cells that orchestrate the process of inflammation, which varies across time of day. This ensures appropriate biological timing of the immune response with the external environment. The NLRP3 inflammasome mediates IL‐1‐family cytokine release via pyroptosis. Mitochondria play a multifaceted role regulating NLRP3 inflammasome activity. Mitochondria exhibit distinct metabolic changes across time of day, which are influenced by clock genes. However, whether the macrophage clock regulates the NLRP3 inflammasome via mitochondrial control remains unclear. We find heightened mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) and enhanced NLRP3 inflammasome activation from peritoneal exudate cells (PECs) isolated at circadian time (CT) 12 compared to CT 0. In vitro time‐of‐day synchronization of bone‐marrow derived macrophages (BMDMs) induced time‐dependent differences in NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Myeloid‐specific Bmal1‐deletion enhanced NLRP3 inflammasome activity in PECs at CT0 and in unsynchronized BMDMs compared to controls. Pharmacologically disrupting Δψm in synchronized cells reduced NLRP3 inflammasome activation to comparable levels, and the same occurred with Bmal1‐deletion. These results further demonstrate circadian clock timing of the NLRP3 inflammasome, which is dependent on mitochondrial function and driven through the circadian gene Bmal1.
Inhibition of AhR disrupts intestinal epithelial barrier and induces intestinal injury by activating NF‐κB in COPD
Authors: Tao Liuying , Zhang Qin , Liu Lan , Wang Kun , Wang Juanhui , Liu Xuefang , Zhao Peng , Li Jiansheng
Published: December 2024

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is frequently associated with intestinal comorbidities. Damage to the intestinal barrier plays a crucial role in these disorders, leading to increased intestinal and systemic inflammation, and thereby promoting the progression of COPD. This study aims to investigate the mechanism of intestinal epithelial barrier damage, focusing on the roles of the Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) and NF‐κB in COPD‐related intestinal damage. A COPD rat model was induced by cigarette smoke and bacterial infection, while Caco‐2/HT29 intestinal epithelial cells were treated with TNF‐α or IL‐1β to assess intestinal disorder and the underlying mechanisms of barrier damage. COPD rats exhibited significant lung function decline, pathological damage, and inflammatory response in lung tissues. Additionally, significant intestinal injury was observed, accompanied by pronounced colonic pathological damage, an enhanced inflammatory response, and intestinal barrier disruption. This was evidenced by decreased expression of apical junction proteins and elevated serum diamine oxidase levels. Pro‐inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α or IL‐1β significantly downregulated the expression of apical junction proteins in Caco‐2/HT29 cells, reduced transepithelial electrical resistance of Caco‐2 cells, and increased FD‐4 permeability. Moreover, TNF‐α or IL‐1β induction activated NF‐κB in Caco‐2/HT29 cells, with a similar activation observed in the colonic tissues of COPD rats. The NF‐κB inhibitor PDTC suppressed this activation and protected against intestinal epithelial barrier damage. Furthermore, AhR inhibition was observed both in vitro and in vivo. The AhR activator FICZ inhibited NF‐κB activation and mitigated intestinal epithelial barrier damage, whereas the AhR inhibitor CH223191 inhibited AhR and exacerbated intestinal epithelial barrier damage by facilitating NF‐κB activation. However, the NF‐κB inhibitor PDTC did not significantly affect AhR. Additionally, TNF‐α/IL‐1β inhibited the binding of AhR and p‐NF‐κB. Consequently, AhR inhibition can downregulate the expression of apical junction proteins, probably through activation of NF‐κB signaling leading to intestinal epithelial barrier damage. This study confirmed the presence of lesions in the lungs and intestines of COPD rats, as well as the associated damage to the intestinal epithelial barrier. The inhibition of AhR followed by the activation of NF‐κB has been identified as a critical mechanism underlying the injury to the intestinal epithelial barrier.
Study on the Effectiveness of Ultrasound-guided Pulsed Radiofrequency Therapy for Shoulder Pain Caused by Trigger Points
Authors: Shen Wei , Xie Nan-hai , Cong Xin-yu , Zheng Yong-jun
Published: December 2024

Objectives:

This study compares ultrasound-guided pulsed radiofrequency (UG-PRF) with ultrasound-guided dry needling (UG-DN) for treating painful shoulder periarthritis (PSP).

Materials and Methods:

Twenty-four patients with PSP were chosen from the Pain Department of the Sixth People’s Hospital of Nantong between August 2022 and December 2023. They were divided into 2 groups, UG-PRF (n = 12) and UG-DN (n = 12), using a random number table. Both groups received 1 treatment session and stretching exercises afterwards. The study aims to analyze and compare the levels of pain severity (measured by Visual Analog Scale) and shoulder joint function (assessed using Shoulder Pain And Disability Index) among patients before treatment, at the 4-week mark posttreatment, and at the 12-week mark posttreatment.

Results:

There was no significant difference between the 2 groups initially. After treatment, the UG-PRF group had a larger decrease in Visual Analog Scale score compared with the UG-DN group at 4 weeks (−1.3 ± 0.4; 95% CI: −2.2 ∼ −0.5) and 12 weeks posttreatment (−1.1 ± 0.5; 95% CI: −2.1 ∼ −0.0). Moreover, the UG-PRF group displayed markedly lower scores on the Shoulder Pain And Disability Index in comparison to the UG-DN group at both the 4-week (−17.3 ± 6.9; 95% CI: −31.7 ∼ −2.9) and 12-week (−17.0 ± 7.4; 95% CI: −32.3 ∼ −1.7) follow-up assessments. Furthermore, 87.5% of patients reported clinically significant improvements according to the Patient Global Impression of Change evaluation.

Conclusion:

Both UG-PRF and UG-DN therapy are effective treatments for PSP, with UG-PRF showing better results in reducing pain and improving shoulder mobility.
Occurrence of Opioid-Related Neurocognitive Symptoms Associated With Long-term Opioid Therapy
Authors: León Casey , Sung Minhee L. , Reisman Joel I. , Liu Weisong , Kerns Robert D. , Gordon Kirsha S. , Mitra Avijit , Kwon Sunjae , Yu Hong , Becker William C. , Li Wenjun
Published: December 2024

Objective:

Neurocognitive symptoms (NCSs) may be early indicators of opioid-related harm. We aimed to evaluate the incidence and potential attribution of opioid-related NCS among patients on long-term opioid therapy (LOT) by using natural language processing to extract data from the electronic health records within the Veterans Health Administration.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients prescribed LOT in 2018. NCS were identified from clinical notes across 3 periods: 6 months before LOT initiation, during LOT, and 1-year post-LOT discontinuation. Opioid-related NCS included cognitive impairment, sedation, light-headedness, altered mental status, and intoxication. We calculated incidence rates, incidence rate ratios, and hazard ratios to evaluate the occurrence and potential opioid attribution of NCS across these periods.

Results:

Among 55,652 patients, 3.1% experienced opioid-related NCS, with the highest incidence observed during LOT. Prevalence of NCS was greater in patients who were: between 55 and 64 (3.6%) or 65 and 74 years old (3.2%), Asian (4.8%, P = 0.02), and had received treatment for substance use disorders (7.1%, P = 0.01). In adjusted proportional hazards models, identified Asian race (hazard ratio: 2.20 [95% CI: 1.09-4.44], P = 0.03), and cooccurring conditions dementia (1.50 [1.12-2.00], 0.01), depression (1.31 [1.14-1.49], <0.01), posttraumatic stress disorder (1.18 [1.02-1.37], 0.02), substance use disorder (1.62 [1.36-1.92], 0.01), cardiovascular disease (1.18 [1.01-1.37], 0.04), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (1.16 [1.01-1.33], 0.03), cirrhosis (1.73 [1.34-2.24], 0.01), chronic kidney disease (1.41 [1.19, 1.66]; 0.01) and traumatic brain injury (1.42 [1.06-1.91], 0.02) were associated with increased likelihood of NCS. Likelihood of NCS increased with LOT dose and decreased with LOT duration.

Conclusion:

This study suggests that opioid-related NCS are most likely to occur during LOT, indicating a potential temporal association with opioid use. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring NCS in patients on LOT as part of a broader strategy to mitigate opioid-related harms.
Use of Mothers Milk Odor and White Noise on Pain Management in Preterm Infants
Authors: Otlu Burcu , Esenay Figen I.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Recurrent pain experienced by preterm infants during hospitalization is significant due to its short and long-term negative consequences.

Purpose:

This randomized controlled trial examined the effect of the mother’s own milk odor and white noise on pain management during heel lance in preterms.

Methods:

The data were collected in the neonatal intensive care unit and postpartum services between May and October 2022. The study included 66 infants born between 34 and 37 weeks. Infants were randomly assigned to either the mother’s own milk odor, white noise, or control groups. Data were collected using the Premature Infant Pain Profile—Revised Form, Descriptive Information Form, and Follow-Up Chart. Pain was evaluated 5 and 2 minutes before the procedure, at the time and 5 minutes after the procedure by 2 independent nursing academicians/lecturers through video recordings. Frequency, mean, standard deviation, chi-square test, one-way ANOVA and repeated measures were used for data analysis.

Results:

All groups were similar regarding the descriptive characteristics. The control group had higher heart rates before and after the procedure than the mother’s own milk odor and white noise group. Oxygen saturation was higher and pain scores were lower in the white noise and mother’s own milk odor group compared to the control group during and after the procedure. There was no difference between the mother’s milk odor and white noise groups at any time.

Implications for Practice and Research:

The odor of the mother’s milk and white noise may effectively manage pain during heel lance in preterms. Neonatal nurses can adopt these methods as effective non-pharmacological pain management methods.
Validation of Lactational Mastitis Diagnosis Codes in Electronic Health Care Data
Authors: DeSilva Malini B. , Seburg Elisabeth M. , Ehresmann Kirsten , Vazquez-Benitez Gabriela , Daida Yihe G. , Vesco Kimberly K. , Kharbanda Elyse O. , Palmsten Kristin
Published: December 2024

Background:

Electronic health record data are an underused source for lactation-related research. The validity of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM)-coded lactational mastitis is unknown.

Methods:

We assessed lactational mastitis diagnosis code validity by medical record review. We included patients from three health care systems with a live birth between December 2020 and September 2022 whose infant had ≥1 well visit and for whom there was electronic health record documentation of lactation in patient or infant records. We used ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes (N61.0 and O91.2) to identify patients with suspected lactational mastitis and assessed antibiotic dispensings. We performed medical record reviews on a random sample to determine whether suspected lactational mastitis cases met definitions for “probable” (breast symptoms with systemic symptoms) or “possible” (breast symptoms without systemic symptoms) lactational mastitis. We report positive predictive values (PPV) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results:

Among 19,660 eligible patients, 1,023 (5.2%) had either N61.0 or O91.2 diagnosis code and 768 (3.9%) had a diagnosis code and antibiotic dispensed. Chart reviews of 119 identified PPV of 76% (95% CI: 67.3, 82.9) for probable and 97% (95% CI: 91.6, 98.7) for probable or possible lactational mastitis. Restricting to those dispensed an antibiotic (n = 87), PPVs improved to 80% (95% CI: 69.6, 87.4) for probable and 100% (95% CI: 95.8, 100) for probable or possible lactational mastitis.

Conclusions:

Diagnosis codes alone have good PPV for lactational mastitis. PPV for lactational mastitis improves when including antibiotic data, although case numbers decrease. Future research may consider the use of ICD-10 codes alone for the identification of lactational mastitis.
Sexual orientation and sexual functioning in midlife women veterans
Authors: Muratore Laura A. , Blanken Anna E. , Huang Alison J. , Gibson Carolyn J.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Midlife women experience menopause- and aging-related health changes that may impact sexual functioning. Research has historically relied on heteronormative constructs of sexuality, and little is known about the experiences of sexual minority women (SMW) during menopause. We therefore examined whether indices of sexual function differed between SMW and heterosexual midlife women Veterans.

Methods

Data were drawn from a cross-sectional survey designed to examine midlife women Veterans' experiences of menopause and aging. Participants self-reported sexual orientation, sociodemographic characteristics, vaginal symptoms, past-month engagement in sexual activity, and pain with sexual activity with structured-item responses. Sexual function was assessed with validated questionnaires. Logistic and linear regression models examined group differences adjusted for age, education, race, menopause status, and body mass index.

Results

In this sample (n = 232, mean age = 56.0, SD = 5.14), 25% self-identified as SMW. Relative to heterosexual women, SMW were more likely to endorse recent sexual activity (odds ratio [OR], 2.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 11.13-4.30), less likely to report pain during sex (OR, 0.07; 95% CI, 0.16-0.32), less likely to report past-month vaginal symptoms (OR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.17-0.66), and endorsed lower impact of vaginal symptoms on sexual function (β = −0.24; 95% CI, −0.97 to −0.26). Both groups reported high levels of distress related to sexual dysfunction (sample mean = 19.9, SD = 8.0).

Conclusions

Midlife SMW Veterans reported better sexual functioning and less impact of vaginal symptoms compared with heterosexual peers. Despite this, both groups reported high levels of distress related to sexual function.
The range and variation in serum estradiol concentration in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women treated with transdermal estradiol in a real-world setting: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Glynne Sarah , Reisel Daniel , Kamal Aini , Neville Amy , McColl Lynsey , Lewis Rebecca , Newson Louise
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The aims of the study are to explore the range and variation in serum estradiol concentration, and to estimate the prevalence of “poor absorption” (women using licensed estradiol doses with subtherapeutic levels), in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women using transdermal estradiol in the real world.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional analysis in a specialist menopause clinic in the UK.

Results

Serum samples were obtained from 1,508 perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. A total of 61.87% were using licensed doses. The median estradiol concentration was 355.26 pmol/L (interquartile range 198.44-646.15 pmol/L). A reference interval for the whole cohort was defined as 54.62-2,050.55 pmol/L. There was substantial interindividual variation across the dose range. Variance was greater in younger women (P = 0.002) and gel users (P = 0.002). There was a trend toward greater variance in women using higher doses, but the association failed to reach statistical significance (P = 0.074). One in four women (24.84%) using the highest licensed dose had subtherapeutic levels (<200 pmol/L). Older women (≥50 y) and patch users were more likely to have low levels (odds ratio 1.77, 95% confidence interval 1.22-2.62, P = 0.003; and odds ratio 1.51, 95% confidence interval 1.18-1.95, P = 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

The reference interval for perimenopausal and postmenopausal women using on-label and off-label doses of transdermal estradiol in the real world is wide, and there is considerable interindividual variation. The number of estradiol users with low estradiol levels (<200 pmol/L) is higher than previously recognized. Measurement of serum estradiol can be helpful to identify women who may benefit from an off-label dose. Dose customization is key to ensure that all women can reap the benefits of HT.
Delphi-Based Global Consensus on Adopting Endothelial Keratoplasty: An Endothelial Keratoplasty Learners Group Initiative
Authors: Bhogal Maninder , Gupta Nidhi , Giobellina Ticiano , Kobayashi Akira , Males John , Mehta Jodhbir S. , Romano Vito , Allan Bruce , Busin Massimo , Cursiefen Claus , Fogla Rajesh , Gorovoy Mark , McKee Yuri , Koo Ellen , Kocaba Viridiana , Mejia Luis Fernando , Moriyama Aline , Patel Sanjay , Pereira Nicolas Cesario , Price Francis W. , Rapuano Christopher J. , Talley Rostov Audrey , Saad Alain , Sharma Namrata , Slomovic Allan , Sutton Gerard , Terry Mark , Tu Elmer , Veldman Peter , Pineda Roberto , Vaddavalli Pravin K.
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

To identify areas of consensus among experts on the performance of endothelial keratoplasty by using a modified Delphi approach, to help create a framework for novice surgeons to adopt these procedures.

Methods:

Thirty-one international experts in endothelial keratoplasty participated. Two rounds of electronic survey were followed by a hybrid, virtual meeting. Consensus was set at 75%, and results with agreement between 70% and 75% were deemed as achieving near consensus.

Results:

A consensus was reached for 98 statements covering the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative aspects of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) and Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty/Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty. Four statements achieved near consensus, and consensus could not be achieved for 11 statements. For DMEK, the panel supported a peel technique to prepare tissue for endothelium out DMEK, implanted via an injector and supported by a near full air/gas fill as a baseline procedure onto which more advanced techniques can be built. DMEK tissue should be marked to ensure correct orientation. An inferior peripheral iridotomy should be used to prevent pupil block when a near full air/gas fill in used in endothelial keratoplasty (EK). Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty was considered preferable to Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty where access to microkeratome preparation was available.

Conclusions:

The Delphi process allowed areas of consensus on the performance of EK to be established by a group of international experts. The statements generated are a helpful framework for novice surgeons learning EK. Further research is needed to help determine what specific tomographic features indicate EK, when guttae are considered visually significant and how to approach combined aphakia and endothelial dysfunction.
Deep Learning Algorithms for Studying the Impact of Tumor Suppressor Gene Mutations on Breast Cancer
Authors: Gaysar Samah , Mustafa Zeinab , Zein A. M.
Published: December 2024

Breast cancer is the most common site of cancer causing death in women around the world. It is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy in women, and mutations in the tumor suppressor p53 are commonly detected in the most aggressive subtypes. Rapid advances in biological research over recent years have significantly enriched biological and medical data resources. Deep learning–based techniques have been successfully utilized to process data in this field, and they have exhibited state-of-the-art performances even on high-dimensional, nonstructural, and black-box biological data. In this article, we propose a deep learning approach by using recurrent neural networks to evaluate and assess the contribution of genetic mutations in the TP53 gene in the breast cancer. Moreover, preprocessing of the breast dataset (the genetic dataset used comprises TP53 gene sequences, for normal and breast cancer cases; 100 sequences of each class, obtained from NCBI, Ensembl, IGSR, and TCGA) was done by machine learning algorithms such as k-nearest neighbors and principal component analysis and artificial neural networks. The experimental results show that under a different dataset, the mutation on TP53 appears in about 80% of this dataset; accuracy achieved by the recurrent neural network model was 92%, and the precision was 91%. Finally, to enhance the performance and applicability of the model, it is recommended to focus on preprocessing stage and use different and cross-section modules.
Utilizing Unique Device Identifiers to Enhance Adverse Event Analysis
Authors: Valdes Thelma , Robinson Deja , Fellhauer Deborah , Waheed Saphia , Konduri Indira
Published: December 2024

On September 24, 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other stakeholders marked the 10-year anniversary of the publication of the FDA Unique Device Identifier (UDI) Final Rule. The infrastructure for the UDI system is in place—UDI is on the label of medical devices for which UDI requirements apply, unless an exception or alternative applies, and key device identification information, including the device identifier portion of the UDI, is available in the Global Unique Device Identification Database. The focus now is on adoption and implementation of UDI throughout the healthcare ecosystem to realize the intent of the UDI Rule, which is to enhance patient safety through accurate device identification. To that end, this article provides an example of the utility of the UDI for evaluating device performance as a device evolves over time. The example demonstrates that UDI can facilitate identification of the specific version or model of a device that has malfunctioned and/or contributed to an adverse event by enabling more accurate data aggregation compared with other identifying information, potentially leading to key safety insights.
Metabolic markers derived from 18F-FDG PET/CT in suspected recurrent ovarian carcinoma: predictive value for disease burden and prognosis
Authors: Jain Bela , Khandelwal Yogita , Ora Manish , Mishra Prabhakar , Lal Punita , Gambhir Sanjay
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aims to assess the role of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/computed tomography (CT) in suspected recurrent ovarian carcinoma. Several clinical and PET parameters were assessed to evaluate disease burden and prognosis.

Methods

We did a single-center, retrospective study in patients with suspected recurrent ovarian carcinoma who underwent 18F-FDG PET/CT. The disease burden on the scan was evaluated. We calculated several semiquantitative markers, including standard uptake values (SUV), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG). Survival analysis was done with clinical parameters, CA-125 levels, disease distribution, and metabolic markers.

Results

Fifty-two patients were included in the study. Half of the patients had suspected recurrence within 12 months of primary diagnosis. PET/CT scan suggested disease in 35 (67.3%) patients. Multiple metastatic sites were noted in 21 (40.4%) patients. Extra-abdominal metastases were seen in 15 (28.8%) patients. Eight patients had 18F-FDG avid disease despite a low CA-125 level (<35 IU). Young patients (<50 years), extra-abdominal disease, multiple metastases, and higher restaging were associated with poor outcomes. Meanwhile, treatment history, CA-125 level, and post-PET/CT treatment had no significant effect on survival. MTV@40% SUV (>17.21) and TLG@40% SUV (>68.7) had the sensitivity of 87.5% and 75% for predicting disease outcome.

Conclusion

Recurrent ovarian carcinoma commonly presents with multiple metastasis and extra-abdominal metastases. 18F-FDG PET/CT-guided patterns of disease distribution were significant markers for poor prognosis. Disease burden on PET/CT-derived semiquantitative parameters was associated with poor outcomes.
Development of organ transplantation in China and organ donation
Authors: Wang Shaofa , Chen Xiaoping
Published: December 2024

This article provides a concise overview of the development of organ transplantation in China. Inspired by international advancements in organ transplantation, China embarked on its own organ transplantation research journey in 1958. The clinical evaluation phase is marked by the first cadaveric kidney transplant in 1960 and the first living-donor kidney transplant in 1972. By 1989, the annual number of successful kidney transplants had surpassed 1000. However, 57 liver transplants were performed between 1977 and 1983; limitations in technology and the scarcity of cyclosporine A resulted in unfavorable outcomes for most recipients, with the majority succumbing within 3 months of surgery. These factors led to a near-complete halt in liver, heart, and lung transplants for the following decade. With all 4 conditions met—(1) mature surgical techniques, (2) powerful immunosuppressive agents available for clinical use, (3) new organ preservation solutions that ensure the quality and transportation of donor organs, and (4) reasonable and legal sources of organs—China's organ transplantation field has experienced rapid development. In 2014, there were 9652 organ transplants, and this number grew to 20,225 by 2022. Despite the progress, China's organ donation rate per million remains relatively low, 3.86 ranking 48th globally in 2022, underscoring the need for increased public awareness and support for organ donation.
Transformation of lung adenocarcinoma into small cell lung cancer after treatment with epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Kuang Linwu , Li Yangkai
Published: December 2024

Epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors effectively improve the prognosis of patients with epidermal growth factor receptor–mutant lung adenocarcinoma. However, acquired resistance inevitably develops with small cell lung cancer transformation emerging as a rare but increasingly frequent mechanism of tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance. This transformation poses significant challenges to the health of patients with lung cancer and complicates their clinical management. This article comprehensively reviews the diagnostic, predictive, mechanistic, and therapeutic aspects of small cell lung cancer transformation to enhance our understanding and clinical awareness of this phenomenon.
Are Mucinous Carcinomas of the Breast Hard on Elastography?
Authors: Singla Veenu , Gulati Malvika , Singh Tulika , Bal Amanjit , Khare Siddhant
Published: December 2024

Mucinous carcinomas are a rare type of invasive breast carcinoma characterized by large quantities of extracellular mucin on histopathological examination. These tumors can be easily missed or misdiagnosed. Due to large quantities of mucin, these tumors are presumed to be “soft” masses. This pilot study aims to evaluate the strain and shear wave elastography features of these tumors. Out of 485 referred patients with breast cancer between November 2022 and January 2023, 8 cases were diagnosed as mucinous carcinoma breast on histopathology. These were evaluated with strain and shear wave ultrasound elastography in addition to mammography and B-mode ultrasound. Tsukuba elasticity score, fat-to-lesion ratio (FLR), and distance ratios were calculated on strain elastography. Mean elasticity values as well as elasticity ratio were evaluated on shear wave elastography. On mammography, 3/8 masses were equal density, 2/8 were low density, 2/8 were high density, and 1/8 showed extensive calcifications. Microlobulated margins were seen in 6/8 masses, and the rest (2/8) showed circumscribed margins. On ultrasound, 4 masses appeared isoechoic, and the remaining 4 were hypoechoic. On strain elastography, 7/8 (87.5%) masses had Tsukuba elasticity scores of 4 and above; 6/8 had FLR >4.8 and 6/8 had distance ratios >1. The mean elasticity value on shear wave was 149.12 kPa, and the shear wave elasticity ratio was 8.9. Interestingly, despite the presence of large quantities of extracellular mucin in these tumors, mucinous tumors have elastography findings similar to solid malignant breast masses. Hence, elastography is a useful tool in detecting these often-benign-looking masses.
Role of ubiquitin-proteasome pathway in budded virus egress and GP64 surface distribution in Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus
Authors: Pan Shijia , Xu Ying , Li Xinyu , Sun Luping , Hao Bifang , Huang Jinshan
Published: December 2024

The Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) is a DNA virus that affects the silkworm, B. mori, causing substantial economic losses in sericulture. This study investigates the mechanisms underlying budded virus egress, focusing on the roles of the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway (UPP) machinery. BmNPV produces two virion types: budded virions (BVs) and occlusion-derived virions (ODVs), which differ in their envelope origins and functions. Recent findings suggest similarities in the budding pathways of BmNPV and Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV), involving plasma membrane budding and multivesicular body (MVB) pathways. The study reveals that specific UPP-related proteins, including 26S proteasome non-ATPase regulatory subunit 14 (PSMD14), polyubiquitin, proteasome alpha subunit 6 (PSMA6) and proteasome zeta subunit (PSMZ), are involved in BV egress. Using recombinant viruses and UPP inhibitors, we demonstrate the necessity of these proteins for GP64 secretion and effective BV release. RNA interference and cell surface display of GP64 analyses further validate the critical role of UPP in BmNPV BV egress and protein secretion. This research enhances our understanding of the mechanisms behind BmNPV MVB budding and GP64 secretion while also identifying potential targets for controlling the virus in sericulture.
Flexibility in PAM Recognition Expands DNA Targeting in xCas9
Authors: Hossain Kazi A. , Nierzwicki Lukasz , Orozco Modesto , Czub Jacek , Palermo Giulia
Published: December 2024

xCas9 is an evolved variant of the CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing system, engineered to improve specificity and reduce undesired off-target effects. How xCas9 expands the DNA targeting capability of Cas9 by recognizing a series of alternative Protospacer Adjacent Motif (PAM) sequences while ignoring others is unknown. Here, we elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying xCas9's expanded PAM recognition and provide critical insights for expanding DNA targeting. We demonstrate that while wild-type Cas9 enforces stringent guanine selection through the rigidity of its interacting arginine dyad, xCas9 introduces flexibility in R1335, enabling selective recognition of specific PAM sequences. This increased flexibility confers a pronounced entropic preference, which also improves recognition of the canonical TGG PAM. Furthermore, xCas9 enhances DNA binding to alternative PAM sequences during the early evolution cycles, while favouring binding to the canonical PAM in the final evolution cycle. This dual functionality highlights how xCas9 broadens PAM recognition and underscores the importance of fine-tuning the flexibility of the PAM-interacting cleft as a key strategy for expanding the DNA targeting potential of CRISPR-Cas systems. These findings deepen our understanding of DNA recognition in xCas9 and may apply to other CRISPR-Cas systems with similar PAM recognition requirements.
VULVOVAGINAL CANDIDIASIS: KNOWLEDGE, PRACTICES AND OCCURRENCE AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN RECEIVING ANTENATAL CARE IN A TEACHING HOSPITAL, GHANA
Authors: Edziah Florence Shine , Acheampong Princess Ruhama , Tawiah Philip Apraku , Amengor Cedric Dzidzor , Kpene Godsway Edem , Amponsah Grace Otobea , Baffoe Priscilla Appiah , Korankye Georgina
Published: December 2024

Background

Vulvovaginal Candidiasis is a condition commonly caused byCandida albicans. It is the second most common infection of the female genitalia affecting many women worldwide. Studies have identified unhealthy genital care practices associated with the infection among women including expectant mothers. Knowledge of the various signs and symptoms is crucial for early detection, reporting, and treatment. Good knowledge may influence healthy practices limiting the infection and its complications. This study assessed the relationship between knowledge, practices and occurrence of Vulvovaginal candidiasis among pregnant women accessing antenatal care at a teaching hospital in Ghana.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 336 pregnant women receiving antenatal care at the Ho Teaching Hospital. A structured questionnaire was employed in assessing their knowledge on the infection and some practices regarding vaginal hygiene. Hospital records of these participants were further checked to verify the occurrence of the infection among them. Analysis to identify associations between outcome variables and risk factors as well as significance level was carried out.

Results

Out of the 336 gestational mothers involved in the study, 27% were found to have been diagnosed with candidiasis at the time of the study. Pregnant women who usually use antibiotics had 2.25 increased odds of developing Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC) compared to those who do not [OR:2.25 95CI:1.33-3.79; p-value = 0.003]. Again, a greater percentage of the study participants, 85% had good knowledge whiles 5% had poor knowledge.

Conclusion

The occurrence of VVC was elevated in the study jurisdiction. Frequent antibiotic use was found as a significant factor associated with the occurrence of the infection.
Shaping behaviors through social experience and their proposed sensitivity to stress
Authors: Rosenkranz J. Amiel
Published: December 2024

Mammals have evolved with a range of innate drives, such as thirst and hunger, that promote motivated behaviors to ensure survival. A drive for social engagement promotes social interaction and bond formation. While a stable social environment maintains the opportunity for resource sharing and protection, an additional benefit is provided by the social transmission of information. Social experiences, and information obtained from conspecifics, can be used to learn about threats and opportunities in the environment. This review examines the primary forms of social learning and how they can shape behavior. Additionally, while there is much known about the effects of stress on learning and memory, there is much less known about its effects on social learning and memory. This review will therefore dissect the major factors that contribute to social learning and propose how stress may impact these factors. This may serve as a way to formulate new hypotheses about how stress might impact social learning and the effects of social experiences on behavior.
Nonlinear spectral dispersion in resonant Auger scattering from
SF6
for studying nuclear potentials and dynamics
Authors: Kimberg V. , Travnikova O. , Krasnov P. , Boudjemia N. , Marchenko T. , Guillemin R. , Ismail I. , Koulentianos D. , Santos A. C. F. , Céolin D. , Piancastelli M. N. , Püttner R. , Gel'mukhanov F. , Simon M.
Published: December 2024

In this study, we integrate experimental observations and theoretical models to elucidate the complex phenomena observed in the resonant S K-edge Auger scattering spectra of the SF6 molecule. A two-dimensional spectral map, constructed of incident photon energy and kinetic energy of the emitted Auger electron, is shown to be a versatile tool for understanding a character of the core-excited potential energy surface and change of the molecular geometry. Our findings reveal how the distinct dispersion behavior of multiple spectral lines enables mapping of ultrafast dynamics within the short-lived core-excited states. Our results confirm the presence of nuclear dynamics in the S1s−16a1g1 and S1s−16t1u1 core-excited states, while dynamics is absent in the S1s−17t1u1 state. Using a combination of analysis, simulations with Coulomb model potentials, and a simple analytical approximation, we qualitatively demonstrate how the varying characteristics of spectral dispersion—classified as Raman, non-Raman, and anti-Raman—mirror the relative gradients of the intermediate and final states in the resonant x-ray scattering process. This insight allows for the effective mapping of molecular potential energy curves, offering a prospective tool on the underlying mechanisms of resonant Auger scattering and its potential for probing molecular dynamics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Nuclear correlation functions using first-principle calculations of lattice quantum chromodynamics
Authors: Chakraborty Debsubhra , Srivastava Piyush , Kumar Arpith , Mathur Nilmani
Published: December 2024

Exploring nuclear physics through the fundamental constituents of the strong force—quarks and gluons—is a formidable challenge. While numerical calculations using lattice quantum chromodynamics offer the most promising approach for this pursuit, practical implementation is arduous, especially due to the uncontrollable growth of quark-combinatorics, the so-called Wick-contraction problem of nuclei. We present here two novel methods providing a state-of-the art solution to this problem. In the first, we exploit randomized algorithms inspired from computational number theory to detect and eliminate redundancies that arise in Wick contraction computations. Our second method explores facilities for automation of tensor computations—in terms of efficient utilization of specialized hardware, algorithmic optimizations, as well as ease of programming and the potential for automatic code generation—that are offered by new programming models inspired by applications in machine learning (e.g., ensorlow). We demonstrate the efficacy of our methods by computing two-point correlation functions for Deuteron, Helium-3, Helium-4, and Lithium-7, achieving at least an order of magnitude improvement over existing algorithms with efficient implementation on GPU-accelerators. Additionally, we discover an intriguing characteristic shared by all the nuclei we study: specific spin-color combinations dominate the correlation functions, hinting at a potential connection to an as-yet-unidentified symmetry in nuclei. Moreover finding them beforehand can reduce the computing time further and substantially. Our results, with the efficiency that we achieved, suggest the possibility of extending the applicability of our methods for calculating properties of light nuclei, potentially up to A∼12 and beyond.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Scotoseesaw model implied by dark right-handed neutrinos
Authors: Van Dong Phung , Van Loi Duong
Published: December 2024

We find a dark gauge symmetry U(1)D that transforms nontrivially only for three right-handed neutrinos, ν1,2,3R. The anomaly cancellation demands that they have a dark charge D=0,−1,+1 assigned to ν1,2,3R, respectively. The dark charge is broken by two units down to a dark parity, i.e., U(1)D→PD=(−1)D, which stabilizes a dark matter candidate. Interestingly, the model manifestly supplies neutrino masses via joint seesaw and scotogenic mechanisms, called scotoseesaw.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Discrete leptonic flavor symmetries: UV mediators and phenomenology
Authors: Palavrić Ajdin
Published: December 2024

Given the absence of a definitive top-down indication for understanding the peculiar structure of the lepton sector, discrete flavor symmetries offer a profound perspective for examining the intricate patterns of lepton masses and mixings. In this work, drawing upon previous studies on the interplay of flavor symmetries with the potential UV completions from a purely bottom-up perspective, three well-motivated discrete flavor groups, suitable for portraying the leptonic sector as well as the neutrino masses, specifically A4, A5, and S4, are explored within this framework, leading to the comprehensive classification of the new physics (NP) mediators, along with the tree-level matching relations onto dimension-6 Standard Model effective field theory operators. Particular emphasis is placed on the , for which a phenomenological analysis is carried out in order to constrain various NP mediators, where significant focus is directed towards the examination of the charged lepton flavor violation operators, which, for the wide range of applicable cases, offer the leading constraint.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Attenuation of cosmic ray electron boosted dark matter
Authors: Herbermann Tim , Lindner Manfred , Sen Manibrata
Published: December 2024

We consider a model of boosted dark matter (DM), where a fraction of DM is upscattered to relativistic energies by cosmic ray electrons. Such interactions responsible for boosting the DM also attenuate its flux at the Earth. Considering a simple model of constant interaction cross section, we make analytical estimates of the variation of the attenuation ceiling with the DM mass and confirm it numerically. We then extend our analysis to a Z′-mediated leptophilic DM model. We show that the attenuation ceiling remains nearly model independent for DM and mediator particles heavier than the electron, challenging some previous discussions on this topic. Using the XENONnT direct detection experiment, we illustrate how constraints based on energy-dependent scattering can significantly differ from those based on an assumed constant cross section. This highlights the importance of reevaluating these constraints in the context of specific models.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Unraveling
T
duality: Magnetic quivers in rank-zero little string theories
Authors: Mansi Lorenzo , Sperling Marcus
Published: December 2024

An intriguing class of 6D supersymmetric theories are known as little strings theories, which exhibit a rich network of T-dualities. A robust feature of these theories are their Higgs branches. Focusing on the little string theories that are realized on a single curve of zero self-intersection, we utilize brane systems to derive the magnetic quivers. Using a variety of techniques (including branching rules, brane dynamics, F-theory geometry, quiver subtraction, and the decay and fission algorithm), we detail the Higgs branch Hasse diagram and determine the transverse slices for every elementary Higgs branch RG-flow. Building on these insights, we pursue two directions: first, we infer potential T-dual models by linking changes in 2-group structure constants along Higgs branch RG-flows to the RG-flow transition types encoded in the Hasse diagram. Second, we conjecture an algorithm for the non-Abelian flavor symmetry of the compactified little string theory by inspecting the magnetic quivers of all T-dual frames.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Exponentiation of parametric Hamiltonians via unitary interpolation
Authors: Schilling Michael , Preti Francesco , Müller Matthias M. , Calarco Tommaso , Motzoi Felix
Published: December 2024

The effort to generate matrix exponentials and associated differentials, required to determine the time evolution of quantum systems, frequently constrains the evaluation of problems in quantum control theory, variational circuit compilation, or Monte Carlo sampling. We introduce two ideas for the time-efficient approximation of matrix exponentials of linear multiparametric Hamiltonians. We modify the Suzuki-Trotter product formula from an approximation to an interpolation scheme to improve both accuracy and walltime. This allows us to achieve high fidelities within a single interpolation step, which can be computed directly from cached matrices. Furthermore, we define the interpolation on a grid of system parameters, and show that the interpolation infidelity converges with fourth-order accuracy in the number of interpolation bins.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024