bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychological Disorders in Patients With Resistant Hypertension and the Effect of Psychotherapy Combined With Antidepressant/Anxiolytics
Authors: Danyang Qiu , Guolong Yu
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVE

To explore the clinical characteristics and related influencing factors of psychological disorders in patients with resistant hypertension (RH), and to analyze the therapeutic effect of psychotherapy combined with antidepressant/anxiolytics.

METHODS

A total of 247 patients with RH were consecutively selected from the Cardiovascular Department of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University from May 2021 to August 2023. The general demographic data were collected, and the psychological disorders were evaluated by the generalized anxiety disorder-7 items scale (GAD-7), patient health questionnaire-9 items scale (PHQ-9), and patient health questionnaire-15 items scale (PHQ-15). The patients with RH complicated with psychological disorders were treated with psychotherapy combined with flupentixol melitracen-based drugs for 3 months on the basis of the original antihypertensive scheme. The antihypertensive efficacy, the number of antihypertensive drugs, and the changes in GAD-7, PHQ-9, and PHQ-15 were analyzed.

RESULTS

The detection rates of RH combined with anxiety, depression, and somatization were 41.7%, 38.5%, and 68.8%, respectively, and the total detection rate of mental disorders was 71.3%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that life stress (odds ratio [OR] = 3.842, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.752–8.427), PHQ-9 score (OR = 1.183, 95% CI 1.085–1.290), and PHQ-15 score (OR = 1.284, 95% CI 1.146–1.440) were independent risk factors for anxiety state, and the long course of disease (OR = 1.693, 95% CI 1.086–2.639), GAD-7 score (OR = 1.181, 95% CI 1.084–1.286), and PHQ-15 score (OR = 1.390, 95% CI 1.231–1.569) were independent risk factors for depression. The GAD-7 score (OR = 1.206, 95% CI 1.036–1.404) and PHQ-9 score (OR = 1.419, 95% CI 1.152–1.748) were independent risk factors for somatic symptoms. Somatic symptom score was significantly positively correlated with GAD-7 (rs = 0.705, P < 0.001) and PHQ-9 (rs = 0.742, P < 0.001), respectively. After treatment, the total effective rate was 94.9%, the blood pressure control rate was 83.5%, and in 51.3% of patients, the number of antihypertensive drugs taken decreased by ≥1. After treatment, the scores of GAD-7, PHQ-9, PHQ-15, and blood pressure were all decreased (all P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

RH patients have a high incidence of psychological disorders, with somatization symptoms as a prominent manifestation. Anxiety, depression, and somatization symptoms interact and influence each other. Psychotherapy combined with antidepressant/anxiolytic therapy can improve the antihypertensive effect, and improve their anxiety, depression, and somatization symptoms in RH patients with mental disorders.
Change surface regression for nonlinear subgroup identification with application to warfarin pharmacogenomics data
Authors: Liu Pan , Li Yaguang , Li Jialiang
Published: January 2025

Pharmacogenomics stands as a pivotal driver toward personalized medicine, aiming to optimize drug efficacy while minimizing adverse effects by uncovering the impact of genetic variations on inter-individual outcome variability. Despite its promise, the intricate landscape of drug metabolism introduces complexity, where the correlation between drug response and genes can be shaped by numerous nongenetic factors, often exhibiting heterogeneity across diverse subpopulations. This challenge is particularly pronounced in datasets such as the International Warfarin Pharmacogenetic Consortium (IWPC), which encompasses diverse patient information from multiple nations. To capture the between-patient heterogeneity in dosing requirement, we formulate a novel change surface model as a model-based approach for multiple subgroup identification in complex datasets. A key feature of our approach is its ability to accommodate nonlinear subgroup divisions, providing a clearer understanding of dynamic drug-gene associations. Furthermore, our model effectively handles high-dimensional data through a doubly penalized approach, ensuring both interpretability and adaptability. We propose an iterative 2-stage method that combines a change point detection technique in the first stage with a smoothed local adaptive majorize-minimization algorithm for surface regression in the second stage. Performance of the proposed methods is evaluated through extensive numerical studies. Application of our method to the IWPC dataset leads to significant new findings, where 3 subgroups subject to different pharmacogenomic relationships are identified, contributing valuable insights into the complex dynamics of drug-gene associations in patients.
Bone lesion cryotherapy: pictorial review and review of current evidence
Authors: Jenko Nathan , Henderson Robert D , Patel Anish T
Published: January 2025

Over the last 2 decades, the development of small probes has enabled percutaneous use of cryotherapy. Cryotherapy, also known as cryoablation, enables the treatment of much larger lesions than other thermal ablation techniques, particularly when using multiple evenly spaced probes. Using rapid cooling to as low as -200°C (at the tip of the probe), reliable, and predictable necrosis can be induced. Probes are usually percutaneously inserted under CT guidance under sedation or general anaesthesia, often as a day case. The procedure is safe with severe complications occurring rarely; the commonest complication is neural injury in lesions closely related to neurovascular bundles. Cryotherapy has been applied to the symptomatic and occasionally curative treatment of bone metastases and a range of primary bone lesions. This review summarizes the published evidence base for the use of cryotherapy in metastatic and primary bone lesions and describes the experience with cryotherapy at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Birmingham, a quaternary bone tumour referral hospital, where cryotherapy has been used for 3 years.
Patient Advisory Groups in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Collaborative Relationship Between Patients and Researchers
Authors: Yoo Linda , Shapiro Mara , Kahveci Ihsan , Hernandez Isabela , Whittemore Rachael , Kale Tanvi , Winders Samantha , Kamp Kendra
Published: January 2025

Background

Patient advisory groups are key to guiding research studies through meaningful engagement with the population of interest. Although patient advisory groups are greatly valuable to research studies, they are underutilized in inflammatory bowel disease research. Thus, this study aims to describe the development and implementation of a patient advisory group and evaluate the perspectives of researchers and members.

Methods

The Comprehensive Self-Management for inflammatory bowel disease study patient advisory group was created in 2022. The patient advisory group members and researchers completed the Public and Patient Engagement Evaluation Tool via an online survey. Thematic analysis of responses was used to identify common themes, and descriptive statistics were reported.

Results

The patient advisory group comprised of patients with inflammatory bowel disease met quarterly. Eight members and three researchers evaluated the patient advisory group. The five emerging themes were (1) lived experience of patient advisory group members; (2) diversity and representation; (3) purposeful engagement; (4) positives of patient advisory group; and (5) improvements to patient advisory group. All members agreed or strongly agreed that the meetings were a good use of their time, and all researchers strongly agreed that the group added value to the research study.

Conclusion

Patient advisory groups can create unique and positive experiences for both members and researchers when feedback is meaningfully sought, intentional, and incorporated into the study. There is a need to continue creating and using patient advisory groups with the intention of identifying problems and finding solutions alongside the inflammatory bowel disease community.
“Disappeared Balloon” ——The Trap of Transseptal Puncture for a Large Closure Device of Atrial Septal Defect: A case report
Authors: Liu Chao , Peng Rongbing , Zhao Xianxian , Guo Zhifu , Yu Manli
Published: January 2025

Background

Several studies have demonstrated a notable increase in the incidence of atrial arrhythmias among individuals with atrial septal defect (ASD) occluder. Although the sequential dilation technique has been proposed as the mainstream technique for transseptal puncture with ASD occluder, it is associated with substantial risks and technical difficulties.

Case Summary

We report a patient who underwent catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation and had a large ASD occlude. A balloon was dislodged into the patient’s right superior pulmonary vein (RSPV) during a transseptal puncture and was successfully captured. The most notable feature of this case was the dislodgement of the dilation balloon, which has not been reported previously.

Discussion

Repeated and gradual dilation of the pathway with a pressure balloon is unavoidable during the establishment of the left atrial channel. It is not recommended to choose a coronary balloon and Run-through guidewire. Since only the tip of the coronary balloon is connected to the guide wire, it cannot stably guide the balloon through the puncture hole. When using OTW or peripheral vascular balloon, the balloon can stably attach to the guide wire as a whole, which allows movement along the puncture hole. The puncture hole can be safely expanded using a peripheral vascular balloon combined with a loach guidewire in subsequent expansion. In addition, it is important to avoid violent manipulation. After confirming the dislodgement of the balloon, it is imperative to remove it. Relying solely on oral anticoagulation may not sufficiently decrease the risk of thrombosis.
Noninvasive assessment of myocardial perfusion using ultrafast ultrasound: clinical study for congenital heart disease
Authors: Nguyen Minh B , Zhang Naiyuan , Mertens Luc L , Barron David , Honjo Osami , Venet Maelys , Baranger Jerome , Villemain Olivier
Published: January 2025

Aims

Myocardial perfusion impacts cardiac function following surgical repair of critical congenital heart disease (CCHD). Temporal variation assessment of myocardial blood volume throughout the cardiac cycle can be a surrogate for perfusion. Ultrafast power Doppler (UPD) is an ultrasound imaging technique capable of noninvasively quantifying myocardial blood volume changes. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the feasibility of perioperative transthoracic UPD assessment and to determine if UPD reflects physiologic changes in myocardial perfusion.

Methods and results

Five neonatal transposition of the great arteries (TGA) undergoing arterial switch operation (ASO), five hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) undergoing Stage 1 palliation (S1P), and five age/weight-matched controls were prospectively recruited. Transthoracic UPD acquisitions were performed before/after operations. Segmental perfusion in right/left ventricles (RV/LV) was assessed. The controls’ myocardial perfusion patterns are visually similar to published human references for both ventricles. Systolic/diastolic myocardial perfusion differences were modified by ASO in the RV (P = 0.03) but not for LV (P = 0.99). For HLHS patients, no difference after S1P was observed in either the RV (P = 0.16) nor the LV (P = 0.51).

Conclusion

For TGA patients, the perfusion profile of the myocardium seems to be directly influenced by the intracavitary pressure (directly driving coronary perfusion pressure), namely if it was the systemic or sub-pulmonary ventricle. Our data suggests that UPD could noninvasively quantify myocardial perfusion variation. Myocardial perfusion patterns change in CCHD according to their haemodynamic and surgical status. Correlation with clinical outcomes requires further study.
Was There a Seymour–Paget Coup After All? Reconsidering Henry VIII’s Wills, Written and Unwritten
Authors: Head David M
Published: January 2025

Henry VIII’s will has provoked controversy almost from the moment of his death, and historians have debated its genesis and terms for generations. More recently, the issue of an ‘unwritten will’ making gifts and grants to those in Henry’s inner circle, documented only by the statements of Sir William Paget and two others before the Privy Council, has complicated the debate. Although Paget testified to an order of events, his account lacks dates, leading to conflicting claims over when and how both the gifts and grants and the will were agreed to by Henry, if at all. After a review of the historiography of the will, many, if not all, of the issues in contention are resolved in this article. Applying new and overlooked evidence, much of it relating to the fall of the Howards, the article substantiates a clear timeline of events, refuting claims that the will was altered or replaced after Henry’s death, or that Paget’s statement was misleading if not outright false.
Representation Zeta Functions of Groups of Type A2 in Positive Characteristic
Authors: Onn Uri , Prasad Amritanshu , Singla Pooja
Published: January 2025

We prove two conjectures regarding the representation growth of groups of type $A_{2}$. The first, conjectured by Avni, Klopsch, Onn, and Voll, regards the universality of representation zeta functions over local complete discrete valuation rings. The second is the Larsen–Lubotzky conjecture on the representation growth of irreducible lattices in groups of type $A_{2}$ in positive characteristic, assuming Serre’s conjecture on the congruence subgroup property.
Target site mutations and metabolic detoxification of insecticides in continental populations of Cimex lectularius and Cimex hemipterus (Hemiptera: Cimicidae)
Authors: Porras-Villamil Julián Felipe , Hansen Immo A , Uranga Lee A , Pinch Matthew , Schal Coby , Sáez-Durán Sandra , Bueno-Marí Rubén , Trelis María , Fuentes Màrius V , Gaire Sudip , Romero Alvaro
Published: January 2025

In recent decades, the common and the tropical bed bugs have experienced a resurgence in many parts of the world. The evolution of insecticide resistance in bed bug populations is considered a significant factor contributing to this resurgence. We analyzed samples of Cimex lectularius L. and Cimex hemipterus (F.) from Europe (Spain 41, Switzerland 2, the Czech Republic 1), Asia (Hong Kong 34), North America (USA 14, Mexico 3), and South America (Colombia 3) to assess the prevalence and mechanisms of insecticide resistance. We identified specimens morphologically and barcoded them by sequencing the mitochondrial Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and the 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) genes. Additionally, we screened segments of the voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) and the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) genes for point mutations associated with insecticide resistance and measured the activity of detoxifying enzymes. All samples from North America and Europe were identified as C. lectularius, whereas specimens from Hong Kong were C. hemipterus. Out of 64 C. lectularius samples tested for knockdown resistance (kdr) mutations, 90.6% contained at least 1 known mutation. All 35 C. hemipterus samples exhibited kdr mutations. A new mutation was identified in the pyrethroid target site in both common (F1524C) and tropical (F1450C) bed bugs. No resistance-associated mutations in the nAChR gene were found. Several populations that exhibited kdr mutations also showed elevated activity of detoxifying enzymes. The high frequency of kdr-associated mutations in bed bug populations from Spain and Hong Kong limits the efficacy of pyrethroids for their control.
A comprehensive analysis of R's application in ecological research from 2008 to 2023
Authors: Gao Meixiang , Ye Yanyan , Zheng Ye , Lai Jiangshan
Published: January 2025

The field of ecology has been greatly enhanced by the integration of computational tools and statistical methods, with the programming language R emerging as a pivotal and flexible tool for ecological inquiry. As ecological research accelerates, understanding the prevalent trends and specific usage patterns of R in recent studies is crucial. Our investigation explored the use of R and its packages in 125,494 scholarly articles across 40 ecology journals from 2008 to 2023. A considerable number of articles, 52,658 (41.96%), designated R as their principal analytical tool, demonstrating a steady linear growth in its utilization from 10.31% in 2008 to 66.88% in 2023. Twelve R packages, including "lme4," "vegan," "nlme," "MuMIn," "ape," "ggplot2," "car," "mgcv," "MASS," "raster," "multcomp," and "lmerTest," each played a pivotal role in contributing to more than 1,000 scholarly articles. The highest usage rate of the lme4 package indicates that mixed-effect models have a particularly important role in ecological research, and the application of these models has helped ecologists solve many important scientific problems. Journal-specific package preferences aligned with their scientific domains, while the rise in the average number of R packages per article signals a trend towards more complex analytical methods in ecology. Our findings indicate a reciprocal relationship between the development of R and ecological research, underscoring the need for collaboration among quantitative ecologists, R developers, and ecologists to further advance both the language and the field.
Rossby wave instability in magnetized protoplanetary discs – I. Azimuthal or vertical B-fields
Authors: Cui Can , Tripathi Ashutosh , Yu Cong , Lin Min-Kai , Youdin Andrew
Published: January 2025

Rossby wave instability (RWI) is considered the underlying mechanism to crescent-shaped azimuthal asymmetries, discovered in (sub-)millimeter dust continuum of many protoplanetary discs. Previous works on linear theory were conducted in the hydrodynamic limit. Nevertheless, protoplanetary discs are likely magnetized and weakly ionized. We examine the influence of magnetic fields and non-ideal magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) effects – namely, Ohmic resistivity, Hall drift, and ambipolar diffusion – on the RWI unstable modes. We perform radially global linear analyses, employing constant azimuthal ($B_\phi$) or vertical ($B_z$) background magnetic fields. It is found that, in the ideal MHD regime, magnetism can either enhance or diminish RWI growth. Strong non-ideal MHD effects cause RWI growth rates to recover hydrodynamic results. The sign of Hall Elsässer number slightly complicates the results. Vertical wavenumbers can diminish growth rates.
High-resolution imaging of the radio source associated with Project Hephaistos Dyson Sphere Candidate G
Authors: Ren T , Garrett M A , Siemion A P V
Published: January 2025

We present high-resolution e-MERLIN and EVN (e-VLBI) observations of a radio source associated with Dyson Sphere candidate G, identified as part of Project Hephaistos. The radio source, VLASS J233532.86−000424.9, is resolved into three compact components and shows the typical characteristics of a radio-loud active galactic nucleus (AGN). In particular, the European VLBI Network (EVN) observations show that it has a brightness temperature in excess of $10^{8}$ K. No radio emission is detected at the position of the M-dwarf star. This result confirms our earlier hypothesis, that at least some of the Dyson Sphere candidates of project Hephaistos are contaminated by obscured, background AGN, lying close to the line of sight of otherwise normal galactic stars. High-resolution radio observations of other Dyson Sphere candidates can be useful in distinguishing truly promising candidates from those contaminated by background sources.
Drosophila CG11700 may not affect male fecundity-lifespan tradeoff as previously reported
Authors: Zuo Dashuang , Liu Weiwei , Zhao Ruoping , Zhu Kesen , Wang Wen , Xiang Hui
Published: January 2025

Our recent investigations on the function of Drosophila CG11700 and CG32744 (Ubi-p5E) genes using CRISPR/Cas9 deletion technology could not repeat or confirm the results on CG11700 shown in our previous study, which was based on P-element excision assay (Zhan Z, Ding Y, Zhao R, Zhang Y, Yu H, Zhou Q, Yang S, Xiang H, Wang W. Rapid functional divergence of a newly evolved polyubiquitin gene in Drosophila and its role in the trade-off between male fecundity and lifespan. Mol Biol Evol. 2012:29(5):1407–1416. doi:10.1093/molbev/msr299). Here, by CRISPR/Cas9 editing, we generated mutants of CG32744 with the whole gene body fully deleted from the genome, and truncated mutants of CG11700 with N-terminal 103 aa deleted out of its total 301 aa peptide sequence. We carefully conducted the male fecundity assay and found that offsprings of the CG11700 mutant were not significantly more than the wild type, inconsistent with our previous report (Zhan et al. 2012). Meanwhile, we repeated the lifespan assay and did not find that the lifespan of the CG11700 mutant was significantly shorter than the wild type as reported (2012). The new results suggest that the CG11700 gene may not affect male fecundity-lifespan tradeoff as previously reported (Zhan et al. 2012). The new results are thus worthy of reporting to avoid possible misleading by the previous results to the scientific community.
BCG-Induced DNA Methylation Changes Improve Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine Immunity Without Decreasing the Risk for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection
Authors: Carrero Longlax Santiago , Koster Kent J , Kamat Ashish M , Lozano Marisa , Lerner Seth P , Hannigan Rebecca , Nishiguchi Tomoki , Abhimanyu  , Sheikh Daanish , Ladki Malik , Portillo Alexandra , Koirala Amrit , Patel Tajhal D , Spieler Zoe , Benjamin Aaron B , Lebedev Maxim , Ofili Theresa U , Hutchison Robert W , Udeani George , Opperman Lynne A , Neal Gabriel , Mandalakas Anna M , Netea Mihai G , Arditi Moshe , Avalos Pablo , Grimm Sandra L , Coarfa Cristian , Cirillo Jeffrey D , DiNardo Andrew R
Published: January 2025

Background

The BCG vaccine induces trained immunity, an epigenetic-mediated increase in innate immune responsiveness. Therefore, this clinical trial evaluated if BCG-induced trained immunity could decrease coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)–related frequency or severity.

Methods

A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of healthcare workers randomized participants to vaccination with BCG TICE or placebo (saline). Enrollment included 529 healthcare workers randomized to receive BCG or placebo. Primary analysis evaluated COVID-19 disease frequency, while secondary analysis evaluated coronavirus immunity in a subset of participants. Study enrollment ceased early in December 2020 following introduction of COVID-19–specific vaccines.

Results

Study enrollment was halted early, prior to reaching the targeted recruitment, and was not powered to detect a decrease in COVID-19 frequency. Symptomatic COVID-19 occurred in 21 of 263 and 10 of 266 participants in the BCG and placebo arms, respectively (P = .50, Fisher exact test). Participants vaccinated with BCG, but uninfected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), demonstrated increased coronavirus vaccine immunity (increase spike-inducible levels of tumor necrosis factor, interleukin 6, and interleukin 1β) 12 months after BCG vaccination compared to participants receiving placebo. Immune responsiveness to SARS-CoV-2 antigens correlated with BCG-induced DNA methylation changes.

Conclusions

Due to early study closure, the study was not powered to evaluate COVID-19 frequency. Secondary analysis demonstrated that 12 months following vaccination, BCG increased coronavirus vaccine immunity compared to those who did not receive BCG. This increase in COVID-19 vaccine immunity correlated with BCG-induced DNA methylation changes.
Disentangling protein metabolic costs in human cells and tissues
Authors: Chagoyen Mónica , Poyatos Juan F
Published: January 2025

While more data are becoming available on gene activity at different levels of biological organization, our understanding of the underlying biology remains incomplete. Here, we introduce a metabolic efficiency framework that considers highly expressed proteins (HEPs), their length, and biosynthetic costs in terms of the amino acids (AAs) they contain to address the observed balance of expression costs in cells, tissues, and cancer transformation. Notably, the combined set of HEPs in either cells or tissues shows an abundance of large and costly proteins, yet tissues compensate this with short HEPs comprised of economical AAs, indicating a stronger tendency toward mitigating costs. We additionally observe that short proteins are prevalent HEPs across individual cells and tissues, whereas long ones are more specific. Furthermore, the precise proportion of short, long, economical, or costly HEP classes indicates that particular cell types and tissues align more closely with the metabolic efficiency model, with some tissues displaying behavior akin to their constituent cells. Finally, tumors typically increase the production of short and low-cost HEPs compared with matched normal tissues, while genes that decrease their high expression levels in tumors often tend to be associated with high costs. Overall, the metabolic efficiency framework serves as a useful simplifying model for interpreting genome-wide expression data across scales.
Efficacy of biorational fungicide-containing programs for control of brown rot blossom blight in peach, 2024
Authors: Gura William P. , Schnabel Guido , Hopkins Jeffrey
Published: January 2025

Brown rot blossom blight, caused by the fungal pathogen Monilinia fructicola, is a significant disease of peach in humid peach production regions of the southeastern United States. Blighted blossoms and infected twigs provide secondary inoculum for subsequent fruit infections. Necrotic flowers turn brown and stick firmly to the twig in a gummy mass. This report evaluates the efficacy of spray programs with biorational fungicides for the management of brown rot blossom blight. The trial was conducted in 2024 in Seneca, SC on 10-year-old Prunus persica ‘Juneprince’ peaches. Results from these trials will help advise U.S. peach producers in developing management programs for this disease.
Efficacy of fungicide programs for control of brown rot in peach in South Carolina, 2024
Authors: Gura William P. , Schnabel Guido , Gelain Jhulia , Hopkins Jeffrey
Published: January 2025

Brown rot, caused by the fungal pathogen Monilinia fructicola, is one of the most devastating diseases of peach in humid peach production regions of the southeastern United States. On mature or ripening fruit, brown rot typically develops as a rapidly spreading, firm, brown decay. This report evaluates the efficacy of spray programs with conventional fungicides for the management of brown rot. The trial was conducted in 2024 in Seneca, SC on 10-year-old Prunus persica ‘Juneprince’ peaches. Results from these trials will help advise U.S. peach producers in developing management programs for this disease.
Preclinical evidence that fibroblast growth factor receptor pathway inhibition by BGJ398 enhances small cell lung cancer response to chemotherapy
Authors: Shen Yingying , Jiang Yan , Wu Junyao , Wang Chenyu , Huang Jiao bo kun , Liu Jie , Chen Sen
Published: January 2025

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a highly aggressive form of lung cancer with limited therapeutic options and poor prognosis. In this study, we explored the therapeutic potential of BGJ398, a selective fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) inhibitor, alone and in combination with standard chemotherapy (cisplatin and paclitaxel) in SCLC. High-throughput screening of kinase inhibitors was performed on three SCLC cell lines (NCI-H446, NCI-H69, and NCI-H182), identifying BGJ398 as one of the most potent and selective inhibitors. BGJ398 demonstrated significant synergy with cisplatin and paclitaxel in vitro, as indicated by combination index values below 1. In vivo, combination treatments significantly inhibited tumor growth and extended survival in SCLC xenograft models compared to monotherapies. Notably, the combination of BGJ398 with cisplatin exhibited the most pronounced tumor suppression and survival benefits. Immunohistochemistry analysis confirmed that BGJ398 effectively inhibited FGFR signaling pathways, reducing levels of phosphorylated FGFR, protein kinase B, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase. These findings suggest that BGJ398, particularly in combination with chemotherapy, holds significant promise as a treatment strategy for SCLC, providing enhanced anti-tumor efficacy and improved survival outcomes.
Nelonemdaz Treatment for Patients With Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Chun Byeong Jo , Yeom Seok Ran , Chung Sung Phil , Lee Young Hwan , Lee Jungsoo , Kim Yun-Hee , Lee Ji Sung , Lee Jin Soo , An Chun San , Gwag Byoung Joo , Choi Jin-Ho
Published: January 2025

Objectives:

Nelonemdaz is a N-methyl d-aspartate receptor subtype 2B-selective N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist and a potent free-radical scavenger that might ameliorate hypoxic-ischemic brain injury after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). We investigated the efficacy of nelonemdaz for patients with OHCA.

Design:

A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, multicenter phase II trial.

Setting:

This trial enrolled 105 patients at five sites in South Korea between November 18, 2018, and February 23, 2023.

Participants:

OHCA patients undergoing targeted temperature management.

Interventions:

Patients were randomly assigned to high-dose (5250 mg), low-dose (3250 mg), and placebo groups at a 1:1:1 ratio.

Measurements and Main Results:

Patients with a median age of 61 years (82% male) were assigned to the high-dose (n = 37), low-dose (n = 35), and placebo (n = 33) groups. The primary outcome, the serum level of neuron-specific enolase (NSE) at 48–52 hours, was evaluated in 93 patients. There was no difference in serum NSE between high-dose (median and interquartile range; 23.7, 15.0–69.9) and placebo (17.5, 13.6–113.0) groups, or between low-dose (26.6, 16.2–83.4) and placebo groups (all p > 0.05). Brain MRI fractional anisotropy was significantly higher in the high-dose group compared with the placebo group (0.465, 0.449–0.485 vs. 0.441, 0.431–0.464; p = 0.028), but not between low-dose (0.462, 0.439–0.480) and placebo groups (p > 0.05). At day 90, the common odds ratio (95% CI) indicating a numerically favorable shift in the modified Rankin Scale was 1.25 (0.48–3.24) and 1.22 (0.47–3.20) in the high-dose and low-dose groups, respectively, compared with placebo group (all p > 0.05). No serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusions:

Nelonemdaz treatment of patients after OHCA did not reduce serum NSE levels compared with controls. Patients treated with high-dose nelonemdaz showed higher brain MRI fractional anisotropy suggesting less cerebral white matter damage.
Matching Into Integrated Plastic Surgery: The Impact of USMLE Step 1 Transition to Pass/Fail: Did the 2019 Predictions Come True in 2024?
Authors: Boyd Lyndsay R. , Lin Lawrence O. , Janis Jeffrey E.
Published: January 2025

Background:

The first class of integrated plastic surgery residency applicants with pass/fail (P/F) step 1 assessments occurred during the 2023–2024 Match cycle. This study analyzes the results of a 2024 postmatch survey to program directors (PDs) regarding the impact of the conversion to P/F step 1 scoring and compares the results to the 2019 survey that attempted to predict how this conversion would influence decision-making when it was initially announced.

Methods:

A 26-item survey evaluating PDs’ perspectives on applicant characteristics and the application process following P/F step 1 scoring was distributed March 2024. Data were analyzed using summary tables, marginal homogeneity tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests.

Results:

Thirty-seven plastic surgery PDs completed the survey (response rate = 46.3%). The top 3 most important metrics for determining applicant interview invitations after step 1 P/F conversion were participation in an away rotation, letters of recommendation, and involvement in research, while ultimately match rank list order emphasized quality of the applicant’s interview. A total of 68.1% of PDs agree that it was more difficult to differentiate applicants without a numerical step 1 score. A total of 51.5% of PDs reported using step 2 clinical knowledge scores to screen applicants. PDs’ opinions on factors influencing the 2023–2024 Match cycle did not significantly change from predictions studied in 2019.

Conclusions:

Program directors felt that in the 2023–2024 cycle, it was more difficult to differentiate between applicants, leading to increased emphasis on other characteristics such as away rotations, letters of recommendation, step 2 clinical knowledge scores, and research. There was no difference from what was predicted.
Characterization of Cutaneous Radiation Syndrome in a Mouse Model Using [18F]F- Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Mujahid Alaa , Alotaibi Bashayr , DeMellier Chloe , Gallegos Carlos , Sherwani Mohammad , Alexandrian Ara , Sorace Anna , Brady Amy , George Remo
Published: January 2025

Ionizing radiation on the skin has the potential to cause various sequelae affecting quality of life and even leading to death due to multi-system failure. The development of radiation dermatitis is attributed to oxidative damage to the skin’s basal layer and alterations in immune response, leading to inflammation. Past studies have shown that [18F]F-2-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography ([18F]F-FDG PET/CT) can be used effectively for the detection of inflammatory activity, especially in conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa, psoriasis, and early atherosclerosis. Since currently there are no specific tests for radiation dermatitis, our study aimed to validate whether radiation dermatitis induced in mice can be accurately visualized and measured using [18F]F-FDG PET/CT. We induced cutaneous radiation syndrome in BALB/c mice with different radiation absorbed doses and monitored symptom development through photography, PET imaging, and histopathology, marking the first attempt at non-invasively quantifying radiation dermatitis effects at the molecular level using PET imaging. Our results showed that there were progressive changes in the dorsal skin of irradiated mice, with notable differences between those exposed to varying doses of radiation. Erythema, epilation, and desquamation were more pronounced in mice exposed to lower doses (25 Gy and 35 Gy) than at 45 Gy; however, by the third week, severe skin deterioration, including ulceration and dermal atrophy, was evident in mice irradiated with 35 Gy and 45 Gy. PET/CT imaging revealed increased [18F]F-FDG uptake in the irradiated dorsal skin area of all mice compared to controls, with more pronounced avidity for the lesion in the 25 Gy and 35 Gy than the 45 Gy. Comparison of tissue-normalized SUVMax values showed that both the 25 Gy and 35 Gy mice exhibited fourfold [18F]F-FDG uptake in the dorsal skin compared to controls, while a twofold uptake was seen at 45 Gy, thus indicating substantial metabolic changes in the dorsal skin induced by radiation exposure. Histopathological analyses correlated with the above findings, demonstrating generalized hypertrophy and epidermal thickening in all irradiated mice compared to controls, with thicker epidermis observed with higher radiation doses and increased destruction of microvasculature. In conclusion, PET/CT emerges as a successful tool for imaging cutaneous radiation syndrome, with the observed dermal changes in irradiated mice closely aligning with metabolic alterations of the affected area.
Potential Protective or Pathogenic Roles of Parabacteroides distasonis in Diseases: A Narrative Review
Authors: Luo Chaozhong , Gao Hainv
Published: January 2025

Parabacteroides distasonis is a gram-negative, non-spore-forming, rod-shaped, anaerobic bacterium, and an important gut colonizer first isolated from human feces in 1933. Over more than 90 years of research, P. distasonis has been found to be associated with liver diseases such as liver fibrosis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, gastrointestinal diseases such as colitis and colorectal tumors and metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes, potentially playing a protective or pathogenic role in the occurrence and progression of these diseases. Herein, we elaborate on the biological characteristics, antibiotic resistance and potential roles of P. distasonis in these diseases, aiming to provide researchers with comprehensive information about P. distasonis and promote in-depth investigations into its safety and protective effects.
The Role of Tranexamic Acid in Oculoplastic Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Fujimura Alexandre Yamada , Cyrino Laura Goldfarb , Alves Ribeiro Vitor Expedito , Amaral Dillan Cunha , Maia Renata Martins , da Anunciação Ginguerra Maria Antonieta , Matayoshi Suzana
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

This study investigates the role of tranexamic acid in oculoplastic surgery.

Methods:

We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane for randomized clinical trials comparing tranexamic acid (TXA) with placebo. We used the R software, applying mean difference for continuous outcomes and standard mean difference for continuous outcomes assessed on different scales.

Results:

We included 9 randomized clinical trials totaling 897 patients. Tranexamic acid did not reduce intraoperative bleeding, with a mean difference of −14.83 mL (95% confidence interval [CI]: −36.65 to 6.98). In the subgroup of patients undergoing dacryocystorhinostomy, there was a more pronounced trend, with a mean difference of −29.65 mL (95% CI: −61.07 to 1.76), though without statistical significance. In addition, TXA reduced the degree of periorbital ecchymosis, with a mean difference of −0.69 (95% CI: −1.13 to −0.25), and this reduction was more notable and only statistically significant with intravenous administration (mean difference of −0.78, 95% CI: −1.34 to −0.22). Regarding the surgeon’s satisfaction with hemostasis and the visibility of the surgical field, only 2 studies demonstrated statistically significant results, both using intravenous TXA administration. The other 4 studies did not report any improvement: 2 used the subcutaneous route, and the remaining 2 used the intravenous route for TXA administration. Finally, no reduction in the surgical time was observed with the use of TXA in oculoplastic procedures.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, TXA did not reduce intraoperative bleeding. However, despite the weak evidence in this outcome, the drug significantly decreased the degree of periorbital ecchymosis in patients undergoing blepharoplasty using intravenous administration.
T-Shaped Wedge Resection of the Upper Eyelid: An Alternative to the Pentagonal Wedge
Authors: Ghadiali Larissa K. , Zemsky Christine , Gerber Austin , Campbell Benjamin C. , Jiro Marycon C. , Casper Daniel S. , Lee Hui Bae Harold , Nunnery William R. , Burgett Richard , Burgett Kendall , Winn Bryan J.
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

To report the experience with an alternative to the upper eyelid pentagonal wedge resection technique which results in improved cosmesis due to a greater alignment of incisions with relaxed skin tension lines.

Methods:

A retrospective review of all patients who underwent the T-shaped wedge resection by the authors from 2009 to 2017. A horizontal eyelid crease incision is made across the upper eyelid skin. A rectangular full-thickness excision extending to the eyelid crease anteriorly, with an additional superior triangle of posterior lamellar excision is performed. The anterior lamella above the eyelid crease is left intact and the eyelid crease incision is used to distribute the relative excess anterior lamellar tissue above the eyelid crease to the horizontally shortened tissue below the crease.

Results:

One hundred and four eyelids of 102 patients were included. The mean patient age was 57 and the procedure was performed on 49 right upper eyelids and 55 left upper eyelids. The indications for eyelid resection were benign lesions (n = 57), basal cell carcinoma (n = 27), trichiasis (n = 15), and squamous cell carcinoma (n = 3). Two patients experienced mild postoperative lagophthalmos, which did not require surgical repair. All patients were satisfied with their postoperative appearance. No patients required reoperation related to their procedure.

Conclusion:

The T-shaped wedge resection is an alternative to the traditional pentagonal wedge resection of the upper eyelid. This technique uses the natural upper eyelid crease to redistribute the relative excess skin above the defect, rather than extending the excision superior to the eyelid crease which can alter the contour of the crease and potentially create a vertical scar above the crease.
Cognitive dysfunction, psychiatric distress, and functional decline after liver transplantation
Authors: Ruck Jessica M. , Murriel Emily C. , Fortune Hernandez Nicole , Jefferis Alexa A. , McAdams DeMarco Mara , Vannorsdall Tracy D. , Segev Dorry L. , King Elizabeth A. , Oh Esther S.
Published: January 2025

Impaired cognition in liver recipients has been studied in the immediate post-transplant period but is poorly understood long-term, despite its importance to quality of life. In a single-center cohort of liver recipients transplanted 2010-2022 and >1 years post-transplant, we assessed cognitive performance using a telephone-based battery. We compared depression, anxiety, and self-reported function by cognitive performance using descriptive statistics. Among 120 participants (median age 65, median 7.3 y post-transplant), 25% had below-expectation cognition, 53% at-expectation cognition, and 22% above-expectation. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. Below-expectation performance was most commonly observed in verbal learning (28%) and verbal memory (22%). Overall, 46% had symptoms of depression (38%) and/or anxiety (28%); anxiety was less common among those with above-expectation cognition (0%) versus below-expectation (34%) or at-expectation cognition (38%, P=0.01). Impaired global daily function was reported by 36% of recipients but was not associated with objective cognitive performance. Below-expectation cognition was prevalent among 25% of liver recipients at least 1 year post-transplant and was associated with higher likelihood of reporting psychiatric distress. These findings underscore the need for longitudinal assessment of cognitive and mental health outcomes among liver transplant recipients.
Consolidation in an Era of Population Health and Value-Based Care
Authors: Janda Ken , King Ben , Adepoju Omolola , Chavez Summer , Bejarano Geronimo , Braun Robert Tyler , Ho Vivian , Liaw Winston
Published: January 2025

Consolidation of health care providers, and vertical integration of physicians with hospitals and/or payers has accelerated over the past 15 years. Although there is potential for consolidation to improve patient care, efficiencies and reduce overhead costs, participants in our conference identified that almost all research on consolidation has shown increased cost without improvement in outcomes or the experience of care. To provide a framework for considering the impact of consolidation, future research and analysis we offer 4 themes: (1) to move forward, we need to look back at historical drivers, value creation, and unintended consequences; (2) not all consolidation is created equally; (3) real-time, continuous evaluation is critical for improvement; and (4) a policy blueprint is desperately needed. We offer several specific ideas for policy changes.
“This Is Loneliness, Helplessness, Desolation…”: Exploring the Emotions and Emotion Regulation Experiences of Mothers of Children Diagnosed With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Şengün İnan Figen , Tör Nurdağ Fazilet
Published: January 2025

Background

Caring for children with leukemia presents significant challenges and stress for mothers, which can negatively affect their psychological well-being. However, emotion regulation plays a vital role in maintaining psychological well-being during such stressful situations.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the emotions and emotion regulation strategies of mothers of children diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Methods

The research used a phenomenological approach. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 14 mothers in Turkey. The data were analyzed using content analysis. The COREQ checklist was used for reporting the research.

Results

Four themes and their subthemes emerged from the data: (1) emotional tides: anchor to hope from emotional suffering (emotional suffering and anchor to hope), (2) sources of emotions (meaning and effects of cancer, the child’s suffering and happiness, the burden of societal stigma, motherhood in the shadow of cancer, and social support and strains in relationships), (3) emotion regulation strategies (suppression, cognitive strategies, and behavioral strategies), and (4) difficulties of emotion regulation (lack of strategy, inability to notice and express emotions, and behaving impulsively).

Conclusions

Mothers of children diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia often experience distressing emotions and struggle to maintain positive emotions and regulate their distress. They tend to rely on maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies, such as suppression, catastrophizing, and rumination.

Implications for Practice

Nurses should recognize the emotional challenges faced by mothers and implement psychoeducational interventions that include adaptive emotion regulation strategies. This support can help mothers navigate the difficult emotions encountered during their child’s cancer journey.
Mechanisms of Post-Stroke Stiff Knee Gait: A Narrative Review
Authors: Krajewski Kellen T. , Correa J. Sebastian , Siu Ricardo , Cunningham David , Sulzer James S.
Published: January 2025

Stiff-Knee gait (SKG) is a dysfunction commonly observed post-stroke characterized by a decreased swing phase knee flexion angle. Importantly, SKG can impair walking, ultimately reducing overall activity and participation. Interventions for SKG have shown mixed results, and combined with more recent observational evidence, suggest that there are other potential causes requiring the need to re-examine the etiology of SKG. The aim of this review is to compile and appraise the current state of the science regarding the neurophysiological and biomechanical impairments of individuals post-stroke with SKG. This narrative review will address the following topics to better understand SKG: operationally define SKG and further detail its presentation, describe the potential neurophysiological and biomechanical mechanisms of SKG, and synthesize findings. We explore evidence for quadriceps hyperreflexia, abnormal tone, motor incoordination, and impaired propulsion. We conclude that SKG needs a commonly accepted definition, that more attention needs to be devoted to understanding its mechanisms, and that in prospective designs, larger sample sizes are needed to account for the heterogeneity of the condition.