bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação da higiene e condições do ambiente de processamento de um pastifício
Authors: Schmidt Carla Adriana Pizarro , Ciello Camila , Anversi Gabriela Fernandes , Gonçalves Valéria Cristina , Slongo Vanesa Cristina , Ferronatto Gabrieli Beatriz , Seabra Junior Edward , Pereira Celeide , Feltrin Valdemar Padilha
Published: March 2021

A manutenção de condições higiênico-sanitárias adequadas durante o processo de fabricação é indispensável para garantir a saúde do consumidor e o destaque dos empreendimentos alimentícios. A implementação de programas de boas práticas de fabricação pode assegurar a manutenção da qualidade e segurança dos alimentos. Objetivou-se avaliar as boas práticas de fabricação e classificar de acordo com a RDC 275/02 uma agroindústria de pastifício que opera no Oeste do estado do Paraná, estabelecendo uma relação com a avaliação microbiológica de superfícies, equipamentos e ambiente. A empresa após a avaliação foi classificada no Grupo 2, atendendo a 58% dos itens avaliados. As não conformidades foram relacionadas aos resultados das análises microbiológicas e com base no observado, foram sugeridas possíveis melhorias a serem adotadas pela agroindústria, possibilitando a sua subida de nível na classificação bem como melhoria na qualidade de seus serviços e produção. Ações de extensão universitária como essas podem levar a ampliação da capacitação técnica por meio do fornecimento de treinamento e informações àos proprietários e funcionários das empresas, ampliando a divulgação do conhecimento científico. Dessa forma, este estudo foi de grande valia, para a empresa acompanhada, para outras empresas do ramo, para o meio científico e acadêmico, que com a leitura deste estudo de caso poderão verificar na prática a avaliação de um estabelecimento produtor de alimentos, e levar em conta as muitas possibilidades de melhoria apresentadas, com vistas a atingir a excelência na tão almejada qualidade.
Impactos hidroclimáticos de curto prazo no padrão hidrodinâmico de Rio de Estuário Amazônico, Amapá (AP), Brasil
Authors: Felix Neto José da Costa , Souza Luany Jaine de Araújo , Abreu Carlos Henrique Medeiros de , Bárbara Viníciu Fagundes , Cunha Helenilza Ferreira Albuquerque , Dias Marcos Tavares , Cunha Alan Cavalcanti da
Published: March 2021

O objetivo do trabalho foi analisar o padrão da precipitação, da vazão e do nível de marés semidiurnas na Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Matapi em 2015, quando ocorreu o mais intenso fenômeno El Niño dos últimos 100 anos. Para tanto, foram quantificados os índices pluviométricos da área da bacia, monitorada a vazão em uma seção do manancial com um Accustic Doppler Profiller e acompanhada a variação do nível da coluna d’água com um sensor de pressão durante ciclos completos de marés semidiurnas ocorridos nos meses de abril, junho, setembro, outubro e dezembro/2015. Os dados climáticos foram estatisticamente testados para a série temporal de precipitação 1961-2010, bem como comparados com os da literatura. Os resultados confirmaram 2015 como um ano climatologicamente atípico, promovendo descargas líquidas significativamente reduzidas em relação às séries disponíveis (Friedman: α<0,05). Especificamente, o padrão hidrodinâmico foi representado por curvas de histerese bem correlacionadas (0,76≤R2≤0,82), que indicam a diferença entre o comportamento dos fluxos de enchente e vazante das marés. Conclui-se que a variação da precipitação resultou da influência do fenômeno El Niño sobre o padrão hidrodinâmico do rio Matapi em 2015 (p<0,05), sendo de relevante interesse científico seu monitoramento para fins de gestão hídrica, principalmente em tempos de aquecimento global.
Sensitivity of the CMIP5 models to precipitation in Tropical Brazil
Authors: Barreto Naurinete de Jesus da Costa , Mendes David , Lucio Paulo Sérgio
Published: March 2021

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the ability of the fifth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) models to simulate weekly rainfall over Tropical Brazil. Twenty-four years of the historical experiment of sixteen models for the austral summer and fall seasons were evaluated. In the analyzes performed in this study, frequency distribution and correlation were used to evaluate temporal variability. Principal Component Analysis to ascertain the characteristics of the dominant pattern of each model. The results suggest that some models have difficulty in simulating the spatial pattern of regional precipitation, especially related to the frequency of events and temporal variation, however, the dominant pattern found by the Principal Component Analysis showed that at least six models (ACCESS1-0, CanESM2, EC-EARTH, GFDL-CM3, MIROC5 and MRI-CGCM3) reasonably represented the temporal-space precipitation regime over Tropical Brazil.
Effectiveness of Physical Therapy in Addressing Sexual Dysfunction in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Gopal Arpita , Sydow Rebecca , Block Valerie , Allen Diane D.
Published: March 2021

Background:

Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently report sexual dysfunction, a condition that may result in low sexual satisfaction and decreased quality of life. Although sexual dysfunction is usually treated pharmacologically, physical therapists, especially those trained in pelvic floor physical therapy (PT), are well-equipped to address a variety of impairments that contribute to poor sexual function. The current evidence for effectiveness of PT interventions in improving sexual dysfunction, sexual satisfaction, and the emotional well-being aspect of quality of life was analyzed.

Methods:

The PubMed, CINAHL, and PEDro databases were searched through December 2019. Articles were included if participants had a clinical diagnosis of MS, reported sexual dysfunction or pain with intercourse, and had an intervention within the PT scope that addressed sexual dysfunction. Means and SDs were extracted from each study independently by two authors. Effect sizes (d) and 95% CIs were calculated within and across studies.

Results:

Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Combined effects were significant and large across six studies for sexual function (d = 0.82, 95% CI, 0.57–1.06), moderate across seven studies for sexual satisfaction (d = 0.65, 95% CI, 0.43–0.87), and moderately large across two studies for emotional well-being (d = 0.78, 95% CI, 0.17–1.40). Between-group differences reached significance for sexual satisfaction (d = 0.29, 95% CI, 0.03–0.55).

Conclusions:

Sexual function, sexual satisfaction, and emotional well-being can all be effectively addressed with various PT interventions. Highly effective interventions included pelvic floor muscle training and mindfulness. Future research should compare PT interventions with non-PT controls to determine best practice in this population.
An extraordinary case of oral leukocytoclastic vasculitis demonstrating igd deposition around dermal vessels and within mucosal keratinocytes
Authors: Abreu-Velez Ana Maria , Smoller Bruce R. , Howard Michael S.
Published: March 2021

Cutaneous vasculitides include a widespread and heterogeneous cluster of diseases affecting the blood vessels that are clinically characterized by polymorphic skin lesions, including palpable purpura, urticarial and/or necrotic-ulcerative lesions. Often, they can be manifestations of a systemic disease. Selected cases occur in the mouth. A 75-year-old female presented to her physician for the sudden appearance of blisters in her mouth, with severe orodynia and no history of other diseases or medication intake. A skin biopsy of the oral mucosa yielded a diagnosis of leukocytoclastic vasculitis. The direct immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry stains demonstrated deposits of IgD, IgG, IgA, IgM, kappa, lambda, C1q, C3c, albumin and fibrinogen at the upper dermal neurovascular plexus. IgD also demonstrated positive nucleolar staining of the keratinocytes. Our case involves a rare presentation of oral cutaneous vasculitis with immune deposits of several immunoglobulins, complement, albumin and fibrinogen. Our case adds importance to studies of the IgD role in antigenic complex immune responses, especially in the mouth.
Analysis of optical measurement precision limit for close-to-atomic scale manufacturing
Authors: Zhan Hai-Yang , Xing Fei , Zhang Li ,   Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
Published: March 2021

Measurement technology with nanometer scale or higher level precision is the basis and guarantee for developing atomic and close-to-atomic scale manufacturing. Optical measurement has the advantages of high precision, wide range and real-time measurement. The precision of localizing a single imaging spot’s center is not limited by the diffraction limit and could reach nanometer scale. However, the shot noise of light and the dark current noise of the detector bring about a precision limit for optical measurement. Based on the Cramer-Rao lower bound theory, a precision limit estimation method for general imaging profiles is developed in this paper. Taking the typical Airy spot for example, the influences of the parameters such as signal-to-noise ratio, energy concentration and processing method on the positioning precision limit are analyzed, and suggestions and conclusions for improving the measurement precision are given. The precision limit of a laboratory imaging spot is calculated, which verifies that the conclusions are also suitable for the imaging profiles similar to the Airy spot. The research provides the analytical method and theoretical guidance for the application and optimization of optical measurement in atomic and close-to-atomic scale manufacturing.
Aneurysmal Bone Cyst of the Medial Cuneiform: A Case Report
Authors: Bingol Olgun , Ozdemir Guzelali , Yasar Niyazi Erdem , Deveci Alper
Published: March 2021

The aneurysmal bone cysts, usually found in the tibia, femur, pelvis, or humerus, are expansile pseudotumor lesions of unknown etiology. An aneurysmal bone cyst is rarely seen in the medial cuneiform. In this case report, a 43-year-old man with an aneurysmal bone cyst in the left medial cuneiform is presented. The cyst was curetted, and the defect was filled with an en bloc iliac crest graft. A screw was placed to fix the graft in the proper position. In the 2-year follow-up of the patient, recurrence was not detected radiologically.
Aerobic Bacteriological Profile and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of the Isolates from Pyogenic Infections done in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Gunasekaran J , Deepika K , Dhanasekaran A
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Pyogenic infections are characterised by acute and chronic inflammation with exudate formation. It is a serious threat leading to sepsis with gram positive organism being the major cause. The source of infection could be either endogenous or exogenous. There is a recent change in the spectrum with gram negatives being the most common cause than the gram positives. Aim: To analyse the aerobic organisms involved in causing the various pyogenic infections with their current susceptibility pattern. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 750 culture positive pus and wound swabs received in the Department of Microbiology from various departments of the hospital between June 2018-June 2019 was done and data was recorded. Results: Out of 942 total samples analysed, 750 were culture positive with gram negative being 508 and gram positive being 242. The predominant organism of pyogenic infection was Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Among gram positive, the most common organism was Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Pyogenic infections were predominant in males and monomicrobial was common over polymicrobial infections. Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamases (ESBL) was seen highest in Escherichia coli at the rate of 47.8% and Multi-Drug Resistance (MDR) was high among Klebsiella species and non-fermenting Gram Negative Bacilli (GNB) other than Pseudomonas spp and Acinetobacter spp. Conclusion: There is a changing trend with gram negative organisms being the commonest cause of pyogenic infections as evidenced across India. Spurious use of drugs would help in reducing the spread of drug resistant isolates. Antibiotic policy formulation would help in empiric therapy with reduction in infection rates.
Bacteriological Profile of Pyoderma Cases Attending the Dermatology Department in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Singh Nipa , Pradhan Shakti Sovan , Sahoo Thana Sundar , Mohapatra Ipsa , Jena Jagadananda , Pattnaik Dipti
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Pyoderma, a commonly found skin disease among the general population in developing countries, is a challenge to the dermatologists due to its changing spectrum and antibiotic susceptibility pattern. Aim: To know the prevalence of different types of pyoderma, causative organisms, their antibiotic susceptibility with special reference to prevalence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Materials and Methods: It was a prospective cross-sectional study which includes 402 clinically diagnosed cases of pyoderma who presented to the Department of Dermatology (both outdoor and indoor) from 15th May 2019-15th December 2019. Detailed history was taken and thorough clinical examination was done. Relevant investigations including bacterial culture and sensitivity were done. Descriptive statistics for both clinical and bacteriological characteristics were generated. Statistical comparison of categorical variables was undertaken using Chi-square test and a p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of pyoderma was 2.9%. Most of the pyoderma was observed in the 11-30 years of age group. Primary pyoderma (78.9%) was more common than secondary pyoderma, furuncle (45.1%) being the most common among primary pyodermas and infected eczema (43.5%) among secondary pyodermas. Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant organism isolated in 229 cases (out of 385 isolates, 59.5%). All the Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated were sensitive to vancomycin, 96.9% were sensitive to linezolid. Conclusion:Staphylococcus aureus was the primary pathogen causing pyodermas in this study. The antibiotic susceptibility pattern of the organisms isolated must be taken into account before starting therapeutic treatment.
Primary Thyroid Lymphoma in an Adult Male: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Dambhare-Wasnik Poonam , Gupta Ashish Kumar
Published: March 2021

Primary Thyroid Lymphoma (PTL) is a rare entity prevalent in middle to old aged females. They are predominantly B-cell Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL), among which Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype. Here, the authors have described a case of PTL in a male patient which is extremely rare. The patient presented with a swelling over anterior aspect of neck and dysphagia since two months. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) of thyroid swelling and following immunocytochemistry showed B-cell NHL. Histopathological and Immunohistochemical (IHC) examination was also done thereafter on right hemithyroidectomy specimen, which revealed a non-germinal centre type of DLBCL. Histopathological examination revealed an antecedent chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis in this patient. With this case, it was evident that early diagnosis of thyroid lymphoma can be possible with FNAC. However, false negative diagnosis can occur on non-representative aspiration sample. Besides this, it is challenging for a pathologist to subtype the lymphoma on cytology smear. Hence, histopathological examination along with Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is imperative for accurate diagnosis of PTL. The patient had received three cycles of chemotherapy and follow-up of 11 months was uneventful.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Wound Colonisation by Staphylococcus Species at Tertiary Care Hospital: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Sucheta J Lakhani , Sunil Hatkar , Som J Lakhani
Published: March 2021

Introduction: The Staphylococcus species do not directly cause infection but invade an already existing wound and causing extensive tissue necrosis and enlarging an already existing wound. The human host factor plays a major role in the pathogenesis by making a suitable environment for pathogens, like diabetic mellitus, hypertension, and so on. The emergence of methicillin resistant strains worsens the clinical output and very few therapeutic alternatives are left to treat such infections. Aim: The present study was attempted to see the relation of Staphylococcus species with host factors among wound infections. Materials and Methods: The specimens taken from various types of wound infection were screened for Staphylococcusspecies as per standard microbiological guidelines. The clinical history of the patients were taken from the ‘patient’s case record form’ and Medical Record Department (MRD) section. The data was statistically analysed, p-value ≤0.05 was considered significant. Results: A total of 421 Staphylococcus species were isolated from various clinical samples, out of which 159 (37.7%) were isolated from wound infections. Of which 142 (89.3%) were S.aureus and 17 (10.7%) were S.epidermidis. Diabetic mellitus 29 (18.2%) and hypertension 11 (7%) were found to be a major host factor facilitating the infection. Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was 100 (62.9%) while Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE) was not found in the single strain. Inducible clindamycin resistant strains among wound infection were found to be 58 (36.5%). Conclusion: Staphylococcal wound infections should be carefully treated to prevent microbial spread especially in immune-compromised patients, better patient recovery, and reducing healthcare costs.
Platform Clinical Trials for the Efficient Evaluation of Multiple Treatments
Authors: Webb Steve A. , Derde Lennie P. G.
Published: February 2025

This Guide to Statistics and Methods provides an overview of platform trials, describes the characteristics that make them more efficient for evidence generation, and discusses their limitations.
What Courts Are Asking Medicine About Social Media
Authors: Lawrence Matthew B. , Hickman Allison , LoPilato Allison , Welsh Justine W.
Published: February 2025

This Viewpoint discusses the need for researchers and clinicians to consider questions of legal relevance in designing their studies and communicating their findings to help in developing policies regarding social media to improve children’s well-being.
Heterogeneity of Primary Outcomes in Large Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Trials Published in Prominent Medical Journals
Authors: Shepshelovich Daniel , Yahav Dafna , Rome Danielle R. , Goldvaser Hadar , Richter Ilan , Hermann Emilia A. , Barr R. Graham
Published: February 2025

This cohort study examines heterogeneity in primary end points reported by randomized clinical trials of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease published in prominent medical journals.
Growing Health Concern Regarding Gambling Addiction in the Age of Sportsbooks
Authors: Yeola Atharva , Allen Matthew R. , Desai Nimit , Poliak Adam , Yang Kevin H. , Smith Davey M. , Ayers John W.
Published: February 2025

Importance

The US Supreme Court decision Murphy v National Collegiate Athletic Association allowed states beyond Nevada to legalize sports betting, including online wagers. How sports betting has evolved and its association with gambling harms has not been studied.

Objective

To describe how US sports betting evolved after Murphy v National Collegiate Athletic Association and offer insights into the potential health effects of sportsbooks, which are platforms for wagering on sporting events.

Exposure

Enactment of (1) Murphy v National Collegiate Athletic Association nationally and (2) the opening of retail or online sportsbooks in states.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this longitudinal study, aggregate US internet search trends for gambling addiction and wagers on sports were described before and after the emergence of legalized sportsbooks.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Internet searches per 10 million queries that mentioned gambling and addiction, addict, anonymous, or hotline (such as gambling addiction hotline) made to Google from January 1, 2016, through June 30, 2024.

Results

The number of states with operational sportsbooks increased from 1 during 2017 to 38 during 2024. Total sports wagers increased from $4.9 billion during 2017 to $121.1 billion during 2023, with 94% of wagers during 2023 being placed online. There were 23% (95% CI, 15%-30%) more searches nationally for gambling addiction help-seeking after Murphy v National Collegiate Athletic Association. Massachusetts (47%; 95% CI, 21%-79%), New Jersey (34%; 95% CI, 21%-45%), New York (37%; 95% CI, 26%-50%), and Pennsylvania (50%; 95% CI, 35%-66%) each had more searches than expected after the opening of any sportsbooks in their state. Additional analyses suggest the opening of online, vs retail, sportsbooks corresponded with a larger increase in searches.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this time series study suggest that access to sportsbooks, sports wagers, and potential help-seeking for gambling addiction increased substantially and highlight the need to address the health implications of sportsbooks, including recognition and treatment of gambling problems and their broader societal implications.
Trends and Disparities in the Use of Immunotherapy for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer in the US
Authors: Freeman Jincong Q. , Huo Dezheng , Shubeck Sarah P. , Chen Nan , Yarlagadda Sudha R. , Nanda Rita , Howard Frederick M.
Published: February 2025

Importance

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) disproportionately affects Black women. Immunotherapy improves outcomes in early-stage TNBC (esTNBC) and metastatic TNBC (mTNBC). However, racial and ethnic disparities in immunotherapy receipt and its potential association with oncologic outcomes are unknown.

Objective

To examine trends and racial and ethnic disparities in immunotherapy receipt and differences in pathologic complete response (pCR) and overall survival (OS) in TNBC.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study analyzed the 2019-2021 National Cancer Database. Data were analyzed from April 1 to August 31, 2024. The esTNBC cohort included patients with stage II to III TNBC treated with neoadjuvant therapy in 2021. The mTNBC cohort included patients with stage IV TNBC treated from 2019 to 2021, with all patients having received chemotherapy with or without immunotherapy.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Immunotherapy use, pCR, and OS with respect to race and ethnicity.

Results

A total of 10 724 patients with TNBC were included (mean [SD] age, 56.1 [13.7] years; 473 [4.4%] Asian or Pacific Islander, 2569 [24.0%] Black, 981 [9.1%] Hispanic, 6465 [60.3%] White, and 236 [2.2%] other). Immunotherapy use increased from 5.5% in 2017 to 38.8% in 2021 for mTNBC and from 4.2% in 2017 to 48.0% in 2021 for esTNBC. Of 7655 cases of esTNBC diagnosed in 2021, immunotherapy use was lower in Black patients (788 of 1715 [45.9%]), but this difference was not significant after adjusting for insurance status, treatment facility type, and other key variables. Among patients with esTNBC receiving immunotherapy, pCR was similar by race and ethnicity. Of 3069 cases of mTNBC diagnosed from 2019 to 2021, immunotherapy use was higher in Asian or Pacific Islander patients (36 of 97 [37.1%]) and lower in Black patients (238 of 848 [28.1%]). Black patients had lower odds of immunotherapy receipt than White patients (adjusted odds ratio, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.49-0.80) even after controlling for confounders. Among patients receiving immunotherapy, OS was similar between Black and White patients (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.64-1.32).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of TNBC, Black patients with mTNBC were less likely to have received immunotherapy, even after controlling for socioeconomic factors. In both esTNBC and mTNBC cohorts, patients who received immunotherapy attained similar outcomes across racial and ethnic groups; thus, efforts should be made to ensure equal access to immunotherapy.
Calcium Intake and Risk of Colorectal Cancer in the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study
Authors: Zouiouich Semi , Wahl David , Liao Linda M. , Hong Hyokyoung G. , Sinha Rashmi , Loftfield Erikka
Published: February 2025

Importance

Calcium intake is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), although it remains unclear whether this association varies by calcium source or tumor site. Moreover, there are disparities in calcium intake by race and ethnicity, but the impact of low calcium consumption on CRC risk in specific racial and ethnic populations is unclear.

Objective

To investigate the association between calcium intake and CRC risk, considering the source of calcium and tumor site and across racial and ethnic groups.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study analyzed data from the National Institutes of Health–AARP Diet and Health Study. Participants were aged 50 to 71 years at baseline (October 1995 to May 1996), had self-reported good health and neither extremely high nor low caloric or calcium intake, and were followed up until the date of their first primary cancer diagnosis, death, loss to follow-up, or end of follow-up (December 31, 2018). Data were analyzed from April 2022 to April 2024.

Exposure

Calcium intake was estimated from dietary sources (dairy and nondairy), supplements, and total intake.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was CRC incidence. Multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs using the lowest sex-specific quintile of calcium intake as the reference.

Results

Among 471 396 participants who were cancer-free at baseline, mean (SD) baseline age was 62.0 (5.4) years and 59.5% were male. During 7 339 055 person-years of follow-up (median, 18.4 years [IQR, 9.2-22.5 years]), 10 618 first primary CRC cases were identified. Mean (SD) total calcium intake for the lowest quintile (Q1) was 401 mg/d (104 mg/d) for females and 407 mg/d (95 mg/d) for males and for the highest quintile (Q5) was 2056 mg/d (412 mg/d) for females and 1773 mg/d (444 mg/d) for males. Dairy, nondairy, and supplemental sources contributed a mean (SD) of 42.1% (43.5%), 34.2% (24.5%), and 23.7% (38.3%) of total calcium intake, respectively. Higher total calcium intake (Q5 vs Q1) was associated with a lower risk of CRC (hazard ratio [HR], 0.71; 95% CI, 0.65-0.78; P < .001 for trend), with consistent results across calcium sources and tumor sites. Among non-Hispanic Black participants, the mean (SD) calcium intake was 382 mg/d (108 mg/d) for Q1 and 1916 mg/d (466 mg/d) for Q5, with no association of total calcium intake with CRC risk (Q5 vs Q1: HR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.32-1.13; P = .12 for trend); there was no evidence of effect measure differences by race and ethnicity.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, higher calcium intake was consistently associated with reduced CRC risk across tumor sites and sources of calcium. Increasing calcium intake, especially among groups with lower consumption, may be associated with reductions in avoidable differences in CRC risk.
Knowledge Translation Interventions to Address Gaps in Rectal Cancer Care
Authors: Kennedy Erin D. , Pooni Amandeep , Schmocker Selina , Brown Carl , MacLean Anthony , Baxter Nancy N. , Williams Lara , Simunovic Marko , Liberman Sender , Drolet Sébastien , Neumann Katerina , Jhaveri Kartik , Kirsch Richard
Published: February 2025

Importance

Over the last 2 decades, increasing use of multimodal strategies has led to significant improvements in oncologic outcomes for patients with rectal cancer. However, uptake of these strategies varies among centers, suggesting that best evidence is not always implemented into practice.

Objectives

To identify gaps in care and initiate knowledge translation interventions to close existing gaps.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This 3-year multifaceted, prospective quality improvement study was conducted at 8 high-volume rectal cancer centers across Canada. From April 2016 to December 2018, patients with stage I to III rectal cancer undergoing total mesorectal excision were enrolled. Data were analyzed from January 2022 through December 2023.

Interventions

Process measures for multimodal strategies to optimize rectal cancer care were selected and prospectively collected for patients with stage I to III rectal cancer undergoing total mesorectal excision. Knowledge translation interventions were implemented to increase uptake of these strategies.

Main Outcome and Measure

Change in uptake of process measures over the study period, with measures taken every 3 months, from time 1 (baseline) to time 7 (18 months).

Results

Among 645 patients with stage I to III rectal cancer (389 male [60.3%]; mean [SD] age, 68.1 [8.2] years), iterative results showed that uptake of 6 of 12 process measures (eg, presentation at multidisciplinary cancer conference: 22 of 77 patients [28.6%] at time 1 to 64 of 91 patients [70.3%] at time 7; P < .001) and 1 pathology measure (inadequate lymph node retrieval: 15 of 77 patients at time 1 [19.5%] to 6 of 91 patients at time 7 [6.6%]; P = .002) improved over time. Positive circumferential resection margin, positive distal margin, and inadequate lymph node retrieval rates at 2 years were 44 patients (6.8%), 10 patients (1.6%), and 79 patients (12.2%), respectively.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, there was an improvement in 6 process measures and 1 pathology measure for patients with stage I to III rectal cancer. Furthermore, this study led to standardized processes of care for rectal cancer that may facilitate continuous quality improvement and multicenter trials across Canada.
Multimorbidity and Peak Oxygen Uptake in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Rehabilitation
Authors: Gomes Pauline F. , Chacin-Suarez Audry , Miller Sophie A. , Fischer Karen M. , Olson Thomas P.
Published: February 2025

This cohort study examines changes in oxygen consumption among patients with multiple morbidities undergoing cardiac rehabilitation.
Computer Vision in Clinical Neurology
Authors: Friedrich Maximilian U. , Relton Samuel , Wong David , Alty Jane
Published: February 2025

Importance

Neurological examinations traditionally rely on visual analysis of physical clinical signs, such as tremor, ataxia, or nystagmus. Contemporary score-based assessments aim to standardize and quantify these observations, but these tools suffer from clinimetric limitations and often fail to capture subtle yet important aspects of human movement. This poses a significant roadblock to more precise and personalized neurological care, which increasingly focuses on early stages of disease. Computer vision, a branch of artificial intelligence, has the potential to address these challenges by providing objective measures of neurological signs based solely on video footage.

Observations

Recent studies highlight the potential of computer vision to measure disease severity, discover novel biomarkers, and characterize therapeutic outcomes in neurology with high accuracy and granularity. Computer vision may enable sensitive detection of subtle movement patterns that escape the human eye, aligning with an emerging research focus on early disease stages. However, challenges in accessibility, ethics, and validation need to be addressed for widespread adoption. In particular, improvements in clinical usability and algorithmic robustness are key priorities for future developments.

Conclusions and Relevance

Computer vision technologies have the potential to revolutionize neurological practice by providing objective, quantitative measures of neurological signs. These tools could enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve treatment monitoring, and democratize specialized neurological care. Clinicians should be aware of these emerging technologies and their potential to complement traditional assessment methods. However, further research focusing on clinical validation, ethical considerations, and practical implementation is necessary to fully realize the potential of computer vision in clinical neurology.
Receipt of Federal Income Support by Eligible Low-Birth-Weight Infants
Authors: Guo Muqi , Martin Michelle Woodford , Kavanagh Nolan M. , Chen Jarvis T. , Hemmeter Jeffrey , Kawachi Ichiro , Parker Margaret , McConnell Margaret
Published: February 2025

Importance

While many infants with low birth weight (LBW) are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), more evidence is needed about whether they receive benefits and whether income supports reach infants from the most socioeconomically disadvantaged households.

Objective

To assess receipt of SSI among LBW-eligible infants (infants eligible due to LBW) and targeting of SSI to LBW and income-eligible infants across county-level measures of socioeconomic disadvantage.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study used administrative data from the SSI program, vital records, and the American Community Survey. It included a population-based sample of 185 920 LBW infants born between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2018, from 482 US counties, with 2003 revised birth certificates, Social Security Administration–defined LBW, and survival of more than 31 days, and born in a county-year with at least 20 LBW infants surviving their first month of life. Analyses were conducted from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2023.

Exposures

Three measures of county-level socioeconomic disadvantage: poverty rates, median household income, and completion of postsecondary degrees.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Receipt of SSI among (1) infants who qualified due to LBW and (2) LBW- and likely income-eligible infants. In addition, whether receipt varied by county-level measures of socioeconomic disadvantage was evaluated using Poisson regression models.

Results

A total of 185 920 LBW-eligible infants were included in the study. During the study period, the proportion of LBW-eligible infants who received SSI was 0.38 (95% CI, 0.36-0.40). SSI receipt was higher in more disadvantaged counties measured by county poverty rates or median household income. After adjusting income eligibility, the proportion receiving SSI reached 0.65 (95% CI, 0.49-0.86). However, SSI receipt among LBW- and likely income-eligible infants decreased as the level of county socioeconomic disadvantage increased.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study, most LBW infants who were eligible for SSI did not receive benefits. Likely income-eligible infants living in socioeconomically disadvantaged counties were covered by SSI at lower levels than those in more advantaged counties. More intensive outreach or reduced application burden may be necessary to ensure equitable access to social safety net programs in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities.
Brain lipidomic profiles of sleep enhancement through co‐administration of alprazolam and CGS21680
Authors: Zhang Yi , Xia Xingle , Jin Qian , Yang Guixiang , Cao Manzhu , Zong Xingxing , Shi Jingjing , Wang Chen , Li Liqin
Published: February 2025

Alprazolam and CGS21680 are both drugs known for their sleep and sedation effects. The study aimed to utilize mass spectrometry imaging to assess the regulatory changes in brain lipids of mice by the sleep‐enhancing effects of the co‐administration of alprazolam and CGS21680. A seven‐day continuous administration mouse model was established using alprazolam and CGS21680. Glycerophosphoinositols were elevated in nine regions, glycerophosphoglycerols rising in six brain regions, and glycerophosphoserines increasing in six regions. Other lipid classes exhibited reductions, with fatty acids decreasing in 10 regions, carnitines in seven regions, ceramides in nine regions, and diacylglycerols in 10 regions. The research provides valuable insights into sleep‐related regulation pathways by delineating the regulation of various lipid biomarkers in multiple brain regions.
Piezo1 channels enhance anabolic signaling activation induced by electrical stimulation of cultured myotubes
Authors: Vilchinskaya Natalia A. , Sergeeva Ksenia V. , Shenkman Boris S. , Mirzoev Timur M.
Published: February 2025

Mechanically activated (MA) Piezo1 channels play an important role in both normal physiology and pathological dysfunction in multiple tissues and organs. In skeletal muscle cells, Piezo1 channels are involved in the regulation of postnatal myogenesis and muscle regeneration after injury. To further understand the role of MA Piezo1 channels as potential critical sensors of mechanical perturbations during muscle contractions, we studied the possible contribution of MA Piezo1 channels to enhanced protein synthetic response of C2C12 myotubes to mechanical simulation. C2C12 myotubes were subjected to mechanical stimulation by electrical pulse stimulation (EPS) alone or EPS in combination with Yoda1, Gadolinium or Yoda1 + Gadolinium. EPS alone elicited an increase in anabolic signaling and protein synthesis (PS). Incubation with Yoda1 during EPS enhanced anabolic signaling and PS compared to EPS alone. Gadolinium or Yoda1 + gadolinium during EPS abolished or diminished the Yoda1 + EPS‐induced effects on anabolic signaling and PS. Our work demonstrates that chemical activation of Piezo1 channels during mechanical stimulation contributes to enhanced protein anabolism in C2C12 myotubes.
Commissioning of Halcyon enhanced leaf model in the Eclipse treatment planning system: Focus on simple slit fields and VMAT dose calculation
Authors: Miyasaka Ryohei , Shirai Mari , Igari Mitsunobu , Kojima Yume , Kozawa Yuki , Kawachi Toru , Hara Ryusuke
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The dual‐layer multileaf collimator (MLC) in Halcyon adds complexities to the dose calculation process owing to the variability of dosimetric characteristics with leaf motion. Recently, an enhanced leaf model (ELM) was developed to refine the MLC model in the Eclipse treatment planning system. This study investigates the performance of the Halcyon ELM by verifying doses for simple slit fields and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans.

Materials and methods

Dose calculations were performed with Acuros XB using the ELM. To commission the leaf–tip model, the dosimetric leaf gap (DLG) was calculated (referred to as DLGELM) and compared with Halcyon measurements. The DLGs were assessed under conditions both with and without leaf trailing between the MLC layers. The tongue‐and‐groove (TG) model was evaluated by comparing leaf–edge profiles and the outputs of the asynchronous sweeping gap. Furthermore, eleven VMAT plans were validated against chamber doses and Delta4 measurements.

Results

DLGELM demonstrated variation between layers, measuring 0.42 mm for the proximal layer and 0.23 mm for the distal layer, and showed a correspondence with the measured DLGs in 0.1 mm. Additionally, ELM reduced the discrepancy between calculated and measured DLGs when accounting for leaf trailing. In the TG model test, ELM calculations successfully mirrored the measured leaf–edge profiles. Moreover, the median dose difference between ELM calculations and chamber doses was −0.8% in asynchronous sweeping gaps. In the VMAT dose verification, the incorporation of ELM enhanced the target dose and resulted in a gamma pass rate (2%/2 mm) exceeding 95%.

Conclusion

Halcyon ELM considerably improved the accuracy of simulating actual leaf–tip transmission, both with and without leaf trailing, and it effectively accounted for the additional blocking caused by TG design. Furthermore, the introduction of ELM in Eclipse considerably enhanced the VMAT dose calculation. ELM addresses the limitations of traditional leaf models and reduces uncertainties in Halcyon dose calculations.
High‐Throughput Immunoassays for Cavin‐4 IgG: A Diagnostic Tool for Immune‐Mediated Rippling Muscle Disease
Authors: LaFrance‐Corey Reghann G. , Kherbek Haidara , Harinesan Nimalan , Milone Margherita , Paramasivan Naveen K. , Sarker Pallab , Knight Andrew M. , Karsten Carley , Dasari Surendra , Liewluck Teerin , Litchy William J. , Pittock Sean J. , Mills John R. , Dubey Divyanshu
Published: February 2025

Cavin‐4 was identified as a potential autoantigen for immune‐mediated rippling muscle disease (iRMD). To validate this, we developed and tested various immunoassays, including a cell‐based assay (CBA), cavin‐4 recombinant protein ELISA, and multi‐peptide ELISA. Among 19 iRMD patients, all exhibited muscle rippling, and 13 had percussion‐induced mounding. All immunoassays demonstrated clinical and analytical specificities greater than 95%. The protein ELISA had the highest sensitivity (94.7%) and specificity (99.9%), outperforming CBA (sensitivity 89.5%, specificity 99.6%) and the multi‐peptide ELISA (sensitivity 79.0%, specificity 97.2%). Our results suggest that the cavin‐4 protein ELISA is a promising tool for high‐throughput clinical testing in iRMD.
Thickness Insensitive UV Blocking Layer Meliorating Carrier Extraction and Deep Trap towards Stable Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Xie Xianglun , Wang Xinkang , Zhang Jiafeng , Zhang Lianjie , Dou Yuejia , Zhang Kai , Huang Fei , Wang Jin‐Dou , Wang Jun , Chen Junwu
Published: February 2025

The photostability of organic solar cells (OSCs) is extremely crucial to their commercial application. Herein, double‐layered anode interface layer (DL‐AIL) with ultraviolet (UV) absorber BP2 is constructed by layer‐by‐layer processing to simultaneously improve power‐conversion efficiencies (PCEs) and photostability of OSCs. The DL‐AIL exhibits good UV absorbance and photon utilization due to the effective Förster energy transfer from BP2 to polymer donor. High electric conductivity, optimal work function, and improved surface roughness can be obtained as well. The DL‐AIL based devices also achieve higher PCEs with excellent thickness insensitivity, attributed to the remarkable increase on electric conductivity of DL‐AIL and reduced transport resistance. More intriguingly, even under irradiation in air by xenon lamp with UV band, an extrapolated T80 lifetime of the device based on DL‐AIL with 85 nm thick can reach 1306 h, which is approximately 54 times of that of PEDOT:PSS based device. Furthermore, the degradation mechanism of OSCs with different AIL is revealed by transient charge extraction, capacitance‐voltage and capacitance‐frequency. The incorporation of BP2 layer delivers improved charge carrier density and constrained deep trap in the aged devices. Consequently, this new finding demonstrates that the DL‐AIL strategy can promote the efficiency and long‐term stability of OSCs.
Carbon‐Sphere Supported Cu9S5/NiS2 Involving Inter‐Doping to Promote Fast and Stable Potassium Ion Storage
Authors: Wang Lu , Kong Zhen , Muhammad Mamoor , Wang Bin , Wang Fengbo , Jing Zhongxin , Qu Guangmeng , Yang Xiaofan , Feng Jinkui , Dou Jianmin , Kong Yueyue , Xu Liqiang
Published: February 2025

Potassium ion batteries (PIBs) are highly anticipated beside lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) owing to the abundant K resources, comparable standard electrode potential, and high theoretical capacity & high energy density, while the large radius of K+ ion usually results in the anode materials challenged by structural collapse, sluggish kinetics, and fast capacity decay. Herein, a composite with Cu9S5/NiS2 nanoparticle (≈15 nm) uniformly inlaid on hollow carbon‐sphere (NCS) is designed, where the firmly anchored Cu9S5/NiS2 particle and sturdy carbon‐sphere skeleton synergistically endow high structural‐stability and satisfactory electron/ion accessibility for the NCS composite and inter‐doping for Cu9S5/NiS2 from the introduction of highly conductive copper have further improved the conductivity of NCS composite for conversion reactions during potassiation/depotassiation. The structural features enable the NCS electrode to achieve a high capacity of ≈600 mAh g−1 even at a mass loading of 3.76 mg cm−2, stable cyclic performance for 1500 cycles, and fast electrochemical kinetics in half‐cell, and the full‐cell has also demonstrated a high capacity of ≈600 mAh g−1 and long‐term cyclic performance for 550 cycles. The electrochemical mechanism has also been revealed experimentally and theoretically, providing an instructive strategy for the construction of highly stable and fast electrode materials for potassium ion storage.
Chiral Switch of Gadopiclenol: New Standards in MRI Probes
Authors: Napolitano Roberta , Guidolin Nicol , Boccalon Mariangela , Fringuello Mingo Alberto , Colombo Serra Sonia , Buonsanti Federica , Fretta Roberta , Demitri Nicola , Bényei Attila , Botta Mauro , Giovenzana Giovanni Battista , Tedoldi Fabio , Baranyai Zsolt
Published: February 2025

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) plays a vital role in the accurate diagnosis of numerous human diseases and disorders, with Gd(III)‐based contrast agents (GBCAs) being used in ≈30%–40% of procedures, resulting in ≈30 million doses administered annually worldwide. The careful design of a rigid macrocyclic chelator featuring a highly hydrophilic periphery leads to the development of gadopiclenol, the first bis‐hydrated Gd(III)‐based MRI contrast agent, recently approved for clinical use by both the FDA and EMA. The stereochemistry of the coordinating arms is found to play a crucial role in the remarkable thermodynamic stability and inertness of the Gd(III)‐complex with the RRR/SSS‐stereoisomer of this heptadentate chelating agent, ensuring its safety in vivo. The exceptional stability of the most effective gadopiclenol enantiomeric pair (RRR/SSS), coupled with a relaxivity 2 to 3 times higher than that of currently used GBCAs, has enabled the use of reduced doses while ensuring non‐inferior image contrast.
Excited State Structure and Decay Rates for Aggregates
Authors: Shuai Zhigang , Sun Qi , Ren Jiajun , Jiang Tong , Li Weitang
Published: February 2025

Electronic excited state in molecular aggregate or exciton states continue to attract great attention due to the increasing demands for applications of molecular optoelectronics and sensing technology. The working principle behind the application is closely related to the excited state structure and dynamic processes in molecular aggregate. In our previous review article (Aggregate 2021; 2: e91), we focused more on the molecular mechanism for aggregation‐induced emission process. Here, we are going to summarize our recent progress on theoretical investigations on the effects of excitonic coupling (J) and the intermolecular charge transfer (CT) on the excited state structure and dynamic processes. These are in general missing for molecular quantum chemistry studies. We will first present a novel definition of exciton coherence length which can present a bijective relation with the radiative decay rate and obviously we have clarified the confusion appeared in literature. Then, we will look at the CT effect for aggregate starting from a simple three‐state model coupled with quantum chemical calculation for molecular dimer and we focus on the intensity borrowing, which can turn H‐aggregate into emissive when the electron transfer and hole transfer integrals possessing the same sign and being large enough. We are able to propose a molecular descriptor to design molecular materials possibly possessing both high photoluminescence quantum yield and carrier mobility. Finally, we introduce our work on the modified energy gap law for non‐radiative decay rate in aggregates. We found there exist optimal J to minimize the non‐radiative decay loss.
Advances in the activity of resveratrol and its derivatives in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Peng Yaling , Zheng Xing , Zhang Si , Luo Zhongqin , Song Li , Chen Hongfei , Yao Xu
Published: February 2025

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the leading cause of human death worldwide, are diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels and include arrhythmias, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, hypertension, and so on. Resveratrol (RSV) is a natural nonflavonoid phenolic compound with antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anticancer, and cardiovascular protection functions. RSV has shown significant protective effects against CVD. However, RSV's clinical application is limited by its tendency to be oxidized and metabolized easily. Therefore, it is necessary to optimize the RSV structure. This review will introduce the activity, synthesis, and structure–activity relationships of RSV derivatives, and the mechanism of the action of RSV in CVDs in recent years.