bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among various occupational workers in India: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mishra SukhDev , Avinash G , Kundu Madan G , Verma Jyotsna , Sheth Ankit , Dutta Abhijit
Published: December 2024

Objectives: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are among the most common occupational diseases, affecting various sectors such as agriculture, small-scale industries, handicrafts, construction, and banking. These disorders, caused by overexertion and repetitive motion, lead to work absenteeism, productivity loss, and economic impacts. The aim of the study was to determine the magnitude of musculoskeletal disorders among different occupational workers in India.

Methods: We identified studies reporting the prevalence of WMSDs using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire in different databases between 2005 and 2023 through searches on SCOPUS, PubMed Central, and Google Scholar. The required information was then extracted. A random effects model was used to pool estimates of prevalence with 95% CIs. Publication bias was assessed by applying funnel plots.

Results: The 12-month prevalence of WMSDs was reported across several occupational groups, and the meta or the pooled prevalence was estimated as 0.76 (95% CI, 0.70 to 0.82) along with substantial variability in the prevalence estimates between different industries and studies. The meta-prevalence for low back pain was estimated as 0.60 (95% CI, 0.54 to 0.66). The meta-prevalence for neck pain was estimated as 0.40 (95% CI, 0.34 to 0.47) whereas for shoulder pain it was estimated as 0.36 (95% CI, 0.30 to 0.42), respectively. The risk of bias was statistically nonsignificant, and overall publication bias was low as per visual inspections from funnel plots.

Conclusions: WMSDs are prevalent across various Indian industries in significant proportions, particularly in agriculture, health care, and mining, leading to significant productivity loss and economic impact. The variation in prevalence highlights the need for sector-specific interventions. Addressing WMSDs requires comprehensive ergonomic and policy measures. Effective strategies are essential to mitigate these disorders’ widespread impact.
A case of Lemmel’s syndrome: a rare cause of non-neoplastic obstruction of the biliary tract
Authors: Riaz Tahira , Riaz Saood Ahmed
Published: December 2024

We report the case of a 77-year-old woman with jaundice but no evidence of choledocholithiasis or other alterations of the biliary tree except for a duodenal diverticulum. Lemmel’s syndrome was diagnosed and an endoscopic sphincterotomy with stenting was performed. Lemmel’s syndrome is a rare disease that must be considered as a cause of obstructive jaundice.
Impact of displacement due to climate change on female genital mutilations
Authors: Bellizzi Saverio , Darwish Mohammad , Elnakib Shatha
Published: December 2024

Climate change emerged as a driver of internal displacement, indirectly affecting social phenomena such as female genital mutilation (FGM) through migration-related socio-economic and cultural disruptions. While scattered evidence suggests an increase in FGM, more robust evidence is needed to clarify linkages and optimize actions to counteract this human right breach.
Radiation safety
Authors: Buechel Ronny R.
Published: December 2024

Potential adverse effects of ionizing radiation may be classified as stochastic and deterministic. Whereas deterministic effects are clearly defined with known cut-offs, the risk of stochastic effects is, by nature, difficult to assess. Several theories have been established to this end, with the so-called linear non-threshold (LNT) theory among the most commonly applied. Whereas the true risks of low-dose radiation exposure from medical imaging remain unknown, there is a consensus that imagers should adhere to the principle of ‘as low as reasonably achievable’ (ALARA). This chapter provides an overview of the most important concepts and terms used in the field of radiation safety, and provides some information on best practices to reduce radiation dose exposure.
Radionuclide imaging in heart failure
Authors: Giannopoulos Andreas
Published: December 2024

Molecular radionuclide imaging of heart failure patients can provide incremental information on diagnosis and long-term prognosis, in addition to individualizing treatment strategies. Although radionuclide assessment of left and right ventricular function is not a first-line examination, ventriculography and gated myocardial perfusion imaging can provide with relatively accurate, reproducible information on left and right ventricular function. Evaluation of left ventricular dyssynchrony and myocardial perfusion can identify patients who will likely benefit from cardiac resynchronization therapy and guide optimal lead positioning. Myocardial perfusion and viability evaluation with radiotracers allow for identification of jeopardized myocardium and potentially enable individualized medical or interventional management. Finally, nuclear imaging of the cardiac autonomic nervous system assessing myocardial innervation can personalize risk stratification and guide device therapy.
Radionuclide imaging in myocardial and other disorders
Authors: Jellis Christine , Dweck Marc R. , Hutt Erika , Cremer Paul C.
Published: December 2024

This chapter provides information on the role of nuclear cardiology in the evaluation of primary and secondary disorders. A special subchapter is dedicated to the possible role of nuclear cardiology in oncology and myocardial toxicity. Moreover, imaging of infection and other forms of inflammations is explained.
Radionuclide imaging in heart and lung disease
Authors: Gimelli Alessia
Published: December 2024

Although computed tomography angiography now has been widely adopted for evaluation of pulmonary embolism and pulmonary vasculature, nuclear-based techniques can still have significant utility in the evaluation of lung pulmonary perfusion and right ventricular size and function, as well as right and left ventricular denervation in pulmonary hypertension. This chapter reviews current professional societal guidelines for these indications, as well as case examples to highlight the utility of nuclear techniques in right-sided cardiac pathologies.
The MeerKAT Pulsar Timing Array: the 4.5-yr data release and the noise and stochastic signals of the millisecond pulsar population
Authors: Miles Matthew T , Shannon Ryan M , Reardon Daniel J , Bailes Matthew , Champion David J , Geyer Marisa , Gitika Pratyasha , Grunthal Kathrin , Keith Michael J , Kramer Michael , Kulkarni Atharva D , Nathan Rowina S , Parthasarathy Aditya , Porayko Nataliya K , Singha Jaikhomba , Theureau Gilles , Abbate Federico , Buchner Sarah , Cameron Andrew D , Camilo Fernando , Moreschi Beatrice E , Shaifullah Golam , Shamohammadi Mohsen , Krishnan Vivek Venkatraman
Published: December 2024

Pulsar timing arrays (PTAs) are ensembles of regularly observed millisecond pulsars timed to high precision. Each pulsar in an array could be affected by a suite of noise processes, most of which are astrophysically motivated. Analysing them carefully can be used to understand these physical processes. However, the primary purpose of these experiments is to detect signals that are common to all pulsars, in particular signals associated with a stochastic gravitational wave background. To detect this, it is paramount to appropriately characterize other signals that may otherwise impact array sensitivity or cause a spurious detection. Here, we describe the second data release and first detailed noise analysis of the pulsars in the MeerKAT Pulsar Timing Array, comprising high-cadence and high-precision observations of 83 millisecond pulsars over 4.5 yr. We use this analysis to search for a common signal in the data, finding a process with an amplitude of $\log _{10}{A_{\mathrm{ CURN}}} = -14.25^{+0.21}_{-0.36}$ and spectral index $\gamma _\mathrm{CURN} = 3.60^{+1.31}_{-0.89}$. Fixing the spectral index at the value predicted for a background produced by the inspiral of binary supermassive black holes, we measure the amplitude to be $\log _{10}{A_{\mathrm{ CURN}}} = -14.28^{+0.21}_{-0.21}$ at a significance expressed as a Bayes factor of $\ln (\mathcal {B}) = 4.46$. Under both assumptions, the amplitude that we recover is larger than those reported by other PTA experiments. We use the results of this analysis to forecast our sensitivity to a gravitational wave background possessing the spectral properties of the common signal we have measured.
A first measurement of galaxy merger rate increasing in dynamically colder protoclusters at cosmic noon
Authors: Liu Shuang , Zheng Xian Zhong , Gonzalez Valentino , Yang Xiaohu , Huang Jia-Sheng , Shi Dong Dong , Xu Haiguang , Yuan Qirong , Zhang Yuheng , Wen Run , Qiao Man , Yang Chao , Lyu Zongfei
Published: December 2024

The process of galaxy cluster formation likely leaves an imprint on the properties of its individual member galaxies. Understanding this process is essential for uncovering the evolutionary connections between galaxies and cosmic structures. Here, we study a sample of 10 protoclusters at $z\sim 2$–3 in different dynamical states that we estimate based on spectroscopic data of their members. We combine the dynamical information with Hubble Space Telescope imaging to measure galaxy sizes and pair fractions. Our analysis reveals a clear anticorrelation between the velocity dispersion of the protocluster and its galaxy pair fractions (indicative of merger rates). The velocity dispersion also anticorrelates with the dispersion in size among the member galaxies. These correlations may be explained by protoclusters in colder dynamical states maintaining a velocity dispersion and galaxy number density that boosts galaxy mergers, which in turn contributes to the structural expansion and compaction of galaxies. Our findings offer constraints for cosmological models regarding the evolution of galaxy morphology across different stages in the assembly of protoclusters.
Plant response to intermittent heat stress involves modulation of mRNA translation efficiency
Authors: Dannfald Arnaud , Carpentier Marie-Christine , Merret Rémy , Favory Jean-Jacques , Deragon Jean-Marc
Published: December 2024

Acquired thermotolerance (also known as priming) is the ability of cells or organisms to survive acute heat stress if preceded by a milder one. In plants, acquired thermotolerance has been studied mainly at the transcriptional level, including recent descriptions of sophisticated regulatory circuits that are essential for this learning capacity. Here, we tested the involvement of polysome-related processes [translation and cotranslational mRNA decay (CTRD)] in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) thermotolerance using two heat stress regimes with and without a priming event. We found that priming is essential to restore the general translational potential of plants shortly after acute heat stress. We observed that mRNAs not involved in heat stress suffered from reduced translation efficiency at high temperatures, whereas heat stress-related mRNAs were translated more efficiently under the same condition. We also showed that the induction of the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway in acute heat stress is favored by a previous priming event and that, in the absence of priming, ER-translated mRNAs become preferential targets of CTRD. Finally, we present evidence that CTRD can specifically regulate more than a thousand genes during heat stress and should be considered as an independent gene regulatory mechanism.
Vector space ramsey numbers and weakly Sidorenko affine configurations
Authors: Frederickson Bryce , Yepremyan Liana
Published: December 2024

For $B \subseteq \mathbb F_q^m$, the nth affine extremal number of B is the maximum cardinality of a set $A \subseteq \mathbb F_q^n$ with no subset, which is affinely isomorphic to B. Furstenberg and Katznelson proved that for any $B \subseteq \mathbb F_q^m$, the nth affine extremal number of B is $o(q^n)$ as $n \to \infty$. By counting affine homomorphisms between subsets of $\mathbb F_q^n$, we derive new bounds and give new proofs of some previously known bounds for certain affine extremal numbers. At the same time, we establish corresponding supersaturation results. We connect these bounds to certain Ramsey-type numbers in vector spaces over finite fields. For $s,t \geq 1$, let $R_q(s,t)$ denote the minimum n such that in every red–blue coloring of the one-dimensional subspaces of $\mathbb F_q^n$, there is either a red s-dimensional subspace or a blue t-dimensional subspace of $\mathbb F_q^n$. The existence of these numbers is a special case of a well-known theorem of Graham, Leeb and Rothschild. We improve the best-known upper bounds on $R_2(2,t)$, $R_3(2,t)$, $R_2(t,t)$ and $R_3(t,t)$.
Graded Hecke algebras and equivariant constructible sheaves on the nilpotent cone
Authors: Solleveld Maarten
Published: December 2024

Graded Hecke algebras can be constructed geometrically, with constructible sheaves and equivariant cohomology. The input consists of a complex reductive group G (possibly disconnected) and a cuspidal local system on a nilpotent orbit for a Levi subgroup of G. We prove that every such “geometric” graded Hecke algebra is naturally isomorphic to the endomorphism algebra of a certain $G \times \mathbb{C}^\times$-equivariant semisimple complex of sheaves on the nilpotent cone $\mathfrak g_N$ in the Lie algebra of G.

From there we provide an algebraic description of the $G \times \mathbb{C}^\times$-equivariant bounded derived category of constructible sheaves on $\mathfrak g_N$. Namely, it is equivalent with the bounded derived category of finitely generated differential graded modules of a suitable direct sum of graded Hecke algebras. This can be regarded as a categorification of graded Hecke algebras.

This paper prepares for a study of representations of reductive p-adic groups with a fixed infinitesimal central character. In sequel papers [34, 35], that will lead to proofs of the generalized injectivity conjecture and of the Kazhdan–Lusztig conjecture for p-adic groups.
MRAnnotator: multi-anatomy and many-sequence MRI segmentation of 44 structures
Authors: Zhou Alexander , Liu Zelong , Tieu Andrew , Patel Nikhil , Sun Sean , Yang Anthony , Choi Peter , Lee Hao-Chih , Tordjman Mickael , Deyer Louisa , Mei Yunhao , Fauveau Valentin , Soultanidis Georgios , Taouli Bachir , Huang Mingqian , Doshi Amish , Fayad Zahi A , Deyer Timothy , Mei Xueyan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To develop a deep learning model for multi-anatomy segmentation of diverse anatomic structures on MRI.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective study, 44 structures were annotated using a model-assisted workflow with manual human finalization in 2 curated datasets: an internal dataset of 1518 MRI sequences (843 patients) from various clinical sites within a health system, and an external dataset of 397 MRI sequences (263 patients) from an independent imaging center for benchmarking. The internal dataset was used to train an nnU-Net model (MRAnnotator), while the external dataset evaluated MRAnnotator’s generalizability across significant image acquisition distribution shifts. MRAnnotator was further benchmarked against an nnU-Net model trained on the AMOS dataset and 2 current multi-anatomy MRI segmentation models, TotalSegmentator MRI (TSM) and MRSegmentator (MRS). Performance throughout was quantified using the Dice score.

Results

MRAnnotator achieved an overall average Dice score of 0.878 (95% CI: 0.873, 0.884) on the internal dataset test set and 0.875 (95% CI: 0.869, 0.880) on the external dataset benchmark, demonstrating strong generalization (P = .899). On the AMOS test set, MRAnnotator achieved comparable performance for relevant classes (0.889 [0.866, 0.909]) to an AMOS-trained nnU-Net (0.895 [0.871, 0.915]) (P = .361) and outperformed TSM (0.822 [0.800, 0.842], P < .001) and MRS (0.867 [0.844, 0.887], P < .001). TSM and MRS were also evaluated on the relevant classes from the internal and external datasets and were unable to achieve comparable performance to MRAnnotator.

Conclusion

MRAnnotator achieves robust and generalizable MRI segmentation across 44 anatomic structures. Future direction will incorporate additional anatomic structures into the datasets and model. Model weights are publicly available on GitHub. The external test set with annotations is available upon request.
Insights into the 2023 ACR/EULAR antiphospholipid syndrome classification criteria: findings from a cohort of 205 patients with primary APS
Authors: Zen Margherita , Tonello Marta , Carta Francesco , Calligaro Antonia , Favaro Maria , Del Ross Teresa , Hulej Greta , Rahmé Zahrà , Ruffatti Amelia , Doria Andrea
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The 2023 American College of Rheumatology / European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (ACR/EULAR) antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) classification criteria distinguish between anticardiolipin (aCL) or anti-β2-glycoprotein I (aβ2GPI) IgG vs IgM isotypes, having isolate IgM positivity a low weight, insufficient for APS classification, and define aCL and aβ2GPI thresholds based on fixed cut-off values. We aimed to assess the performance of the 2023 ACR/EULAR criteria in a cohort of primary vascular APS patients (PAPS), previously classified according to the Sydney criteria. Additionally, we evaluated the risk of thrombotic recurrence in patients re-classified or not according to the new criteria.

Methods

PAPS patients meeting the Sydney criteria with previous vascular manifestations followed between 1992 and 2023 were re-evaluated to identify cases that would not be classified as PAPS based on the 2023 ACR/EULAR criteria.

Results

Our cohort included 205 PAPS patients: 171 met the ACR/EULAR classification criteria, 34 (16.6%) did not due to insufficient score in the laboratory domain caused by isolate IgM positivity (23 patients) or aPL positivity at a titer >99th percentile but <40 units (11 patients). Notably, 9/34 (26%) patients not confirmed as PAPS had a thrombotic relapse during follow-up. The rate of thrombotic recurrence was similar between patients who fulfilled or not the new criteria.

Conclusion

Among PAPS patients classified by Sydney criteria, 16.6% did not meet 2023 ACR/EULAR criteria. One quarter of them had a thrombotic relapse, confirming a pro-thrombotic profile. Inappropriately using these criteria as diagnostic in clinical practice could result in the lack of adequate antithrombotic therapy, exposing these patients to the risk of a new thrombotic event.
Ginkgo biloba extract alleviates ferroptosis in lung epithelial cells induced by cigarette smoke extract through miR-3,619-5p/GPX4 axis
Authors: Xu Anhui , Xu Yanmei , Chen Hongbo , Xiang Linhua , Zhao Xiao
Published: December 2024

Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE), a therapeutic drug, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that protect cells from harmful substances. Although GBE has been extensively studied in the prevention and treatment of lung diseases, its mechanism of action in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is unclear. In the present study, cigarette smoke extract (CSE) and cigarette smoke (CS) were used to induce COPD in cell and animal models. The expression of related genes and proteins was detected, and cell damage and lung tissue damage were evaluated via CCK-8 assays, flow cytometry analyses, ELISA, and HE staining. In HBE cells, the expression of miR-3,619-5p was upregulated after CSE induction. However, GBE treatment alleviated the impact of CSE on HBE cell damage and alleviated COPD in vivo. In addition, GBE treatment increased the expression of GPX4 by inhibiting the expression of miR-3,619-5p, and it reduced the release of the IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α inflammatory factors. Moreover, GBE treatment decreased the production of ROS and MDA, as well as decreased the expression of the ferroptosis-related protein ACSL4, and it promoted the production of GSH and the expression of FTH1. Further, GBE treatment improved cell viability, inhibited ferroptosis, and ultimately alleviated COPD. The present findings suggest that GBE alleviates the progression of COPD through the inhibitory effect of the miR-3,619-5p/GPX4 axis on the ferroptosis process and that GBE may be an effective treatment option for COPD.
Too rough to be a Hypsibius: multipopulation survey accentuates the phylogenetic position and apomorphies of Hypsibius scabropygus (Eutardigrada: Hypsibiidae)
Authors: Gąsiorek Piotr , Sørensen Martin V , Lillemark Marie Rathcke , Leerhøi Frederik , Tøttrup Anders P
Published: December 2024

Tardigrade taxonomy is undergoing a turbulent phase of reclassifying various species that have previously been gathered within large wastebasket genera, such as Diphascon or Hypsibius. The application of genetic sequencing, paired with detailed analysis of fine morphological features in 3D using scanning electron microscopy, allow for revealing new phenotypic characters used in systematics. At the same time, resampling of previously well-sampled regions, such as the Western Palaearctic, delivers fresh and precious data. In this paper, the second from a series of publications integratively addressing the tardigrade fauna of Denmark, we focus on Hypsibius scabropygus and related species, which appeared to be common and abundant in cryptogam samples. As previously suggested by scarce molecular and morphological evidence, Hypsibius scabropygus is considerably different from other representatives of the genus Hypsibius by the presence of ramazzottiid characters. These include Ramazzottius-like claws with thinned, and thus more flexible, primary branches of external/posterior claws, apophyses for the insertion of the stylet muscles asymmetrical with respect to the frontal plane, rudimentary elliptical sensory organs, buccal tube slightly bent in posterior portion, and, finally, eggs with distinct chorion granulation laid in exuviae (known for some hypsibiids and acutuncids), and not smooth, which is otherwise typical for most hypsibiids. Consequently, the group of Hypsibius species with two small granular macroplacoids in the pharynx and pronounced cuticular sculpturing in the form of dorsoposterior protuberances or whole-dorsal tubercles is erected as Parahypsibius gen. nov. New DNA barcodes strongly support the monophyly of Hypsibiidae and recent changes in the classification of Pilatobiinae. We argue that some still poorly resolved nodes in the hypsibiid tree are the result of incomplete representation of particularly uncommon evolutionary lineages. Our abundant cryptogam samples from across Denmark demonstrate the value of involving local communities and utilizing citizen science in biodiversity monitoring and documentation.
Rhizopus stolonifer exhibits necrotrophic behavior when causing soft rot in ripe fruit
Authors: Mesquida-Pesci Saskia Desiree , Morales-Cruz Abraham , Rodriguez-Pires Silvia , Figueroa-Balderas Rosa , Silva Christian James , Sbodio Adrian , Gutierrez-Baeza Elia , Raygoza Petros Martin , Cantu Dario , Blanco-Ulate Barbara
Published: December 2024

Rhizopus stolonifer is known for causing soft rot in fruit and vegetables during postharvest. Although it has traditionally been considered a saprophyte, it appears to behave more like a necrotrophic pathogen. In this study, we propose that R. stolonifer invades host tissues by actively killing host cells and overcoming the host defense mechanisms, as opposed to growing saprophytically on decaying plant matter. We tested this hypothesis by characterizing R. stolonifer infection strategies when infecting four fruit hosts (tomato, grape, strawberry, and plum). We started by generating a high-quality genome assembly for R. stolonifer using PacBio sequencing. This led to a genome size of 45.02 Mb, an N50 of 2.87 Mb, and 12,644 predicted loci with protein-coding genes. Next, we performed a transcriptomic analysis to identify genes that R. stolonifer preferentially uses when growing in fruit versus culture media. We categorized these infection-related genes into clusters according to their expression patterns during the interaction with the host. Based on the expression data, we determined that R. stolonifer has a core infection toolbox consisting of strategies typical of necrotrophs, which includes a set of 33 oxidoreductases, 7 proteases, and 4 cell wall degrading enzymes to facilitate tissue breakdown and maceration across various hosts. This study provides new genomic resources for R. stolonifer and advances the knowledge of Rhizopus-fruit interactions, which can assist in formulating effective and sustainable integrated pest management approaches for soft rot prevention.
Efficacy of Perineural Dexmedetomidine in Ultrasound-guided Interscalene Block on Rebound Pain After Shoulder Arthroscopy
Authors: Huan Xiang , Zhang Ting , Zhou Meiyan , Wang Liwei
Published: December 2024

Objectives:

This prospective, randomized, double-blind trial was performed to investigate the effect on rebound pain incidence of mixing dexmedetomidine (DEX) with local anesthetics in a combined injection interscalene block (ISB) during shoulder arthroscopy.

Methods:

Forty-seven patients were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomly assigned to 2 groups: Group DEX and Group Control received ultrasound-guided ISB using 12 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine with 50 ug of DEX or without DEX﻿. Pain scores at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours after surgery were assessed with Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NRS). Additional analgesic requirements and side effects in the first 48 hours postoperatively, as well as sleep disturbance on the night and other complications of surgery were examined.

Results:

The incidence of rebound pain was significantly ﻿lower in the Group DEX than in the Group ﻿Control. Perineural DEX decreased pain scores at 12 and 24 hours postoperatively. Group DEX had a prolonged time for the first analgesic request, PCA sufentanil consumption in Group DEX was less than Group Control during the first 48 hours postoperatively. The number of patients with sleep disturbance and nausea and vomiting in the DEX Group was lower on the first night postoperative.

Discussion:

Perineural DEX﻿ added to ISB exerts a beneficial effect on the incidence of rebound pain after ISB in patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopy. Perineural DEX﻿ facilitated the implementation of multimodal analgesia in the early stage after operation.
Recent global patterns in skin cancer incidence, mortality, and prevalence
Authors: Wang Mingyue , Gao Xinghua , Zhang Li
Published: December 2024

Background:

Skin cancer is a common skin disease whose incidence and mortality rates have been showing yearly increases. In this report, we update the most recent data on skin cancer as obtained from GLOBOCAN 2022.

Methods:

The incidence and mortality rates of skin cancer (melanoma of skin and non-melanoma skin cancer) in GLOBOCAN 2022 were reviewed. These data were analyzed and the characteristics of incidence and mortality across five continents and top five countries and regions in each continent are presented. In addition, correlations between Human Development Index (HDI) and age-standardized incidence and mortality rates of these two skin cancers are described.

Results:

The GLOBOCAN 2022 data indicated that melanoma was the 17th most common cancer. An estimated 331,722 people were diagnosed with melanoma globally and approximately 58,667 died from this disease. For non-melanoma skin cancer, it ranks as the 5th most common cancer, and an estimated 1,234,533 people were diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer globally and approximately 69,416 died from this disease. The incidence of skin cancer varies across geographic regions and countries, with a predominance observed in Oceania, North America, and Europe. Australia was ranked first in terms of incidence, while incidence rates in Africa and Asia were very low. Despite these regional differences in incidence, there was little geographic variation in mortality rates. Currently, the number of deaths from non-melanoma skin cancer exceeds that of melanoma of skin. HDI was positively associated with the incidence of both types of skin cancers, with a positive correlation obtained between HDI and mortality from melanoma of skin and a negative correlation between HDI and mortality from non-melanoma skin cancer.

Conclusions:

Skin cancer remains a major disease burden worldwide. Substantial variations are observed across countries and regions. Further research on skin cancer will be required to provide a rationale for more effective preventions and treatments of this condition.
Penile enhancement: A comprehensive and current perspective
Authors: Chen Yuan , Jiang Yinuo , Li Xiao , Wang Bin , Guo Xiaofeng , Mai Zihang , Deng Weifen , Zhu Yuanchang , Han Baoquan , Sun Zhongyi
Published: December 2024

An increasing number of men with healthy and normal penises want to enlarge their penis. Therefore, this review evaluated the mental health status of men who complained of a small penis and examined the state of nonsurgical and surgical treatments for male patients seeking penile enlargement, along with a risk assessment for each. Various medical, tractional, injectable, and surgical modalities have been investigated for penile augmentation. However, the development of new products and surgical techniques, such as Penuma, and tissue engineering may yield fewer complications, good operative effects, shorter operative times, and high patient satisfaction, bringing hope to patients interested in penile enlargement.
Associations of reproductive hormones and stress-related factors with menopausal symptoms
Authors: Brimienė Ieva , Šiaudinytė Monika , Ilkevič Erik , Mazgelytė Eglė , Karčiauskaitė Dovilė , Songailienė Jurgita , Kaminskas Andrius , Petrėnas Tomas , Utkus Algirdas , Burokas Aurelijus , Grikšienė Ramunė
Published: December 2024

Objective

The main aim was to evaluate the relationships between menopausal symptoms, endogenous hormones, and stress-related factors.

Methods

Participants were recruited through online advertisements at Vilnius University and social networks. Sixty-three White Lithuanian women aged 50.2 ± 2.9 years without any known diseases or conditions that could affect menopausal symptoms, hormone levels, or mental health were selected to participate in the cross-sectional study. The Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire was used to assess the intensity of menopausal symptoms in four domains (vasomotor, psychosocial, physical, and sexual). The levels of reproductive hormones were measured in blood serum. To evaluate the level of chronic stress, we used the Perceived Stress Scale 10 (PSS-10) and the assessment of hair glucocorticoids (cortisol, cortisone). Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to estimate the associations between menopausal symptoms severity, endogenous hormones, and stress-related factors.

Results

Age (the unstandardized β [B] = 0.12), follicle-stimulating hormone concentration (B = 0.9), and PSS-10 score (B = 0.08) were associated with the total Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire score (all P < 0.05). The vasomotor domain was related to age (B = 0.19), follicle-stimulating hormone (B = 1.24), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate concentration (B = −2.8) (all P < 0.05). The psychosocial domain was associated with the PSS-10 score (B = 0.13, P < 0.001). The physical domain was associated with the number of sleep hours (B = −0.35, P = 0.02). The sexual domain was negatively related to testosterone concentration (B = −3.5, P = 0.01).

Conclusions

The results of the present study show that not only hormonal changes but also other factors, such as age, hours of sleep, and experienced stress, are associated with the intensity of menopausal symptoms.
Evaluation of an artificial intelligence-based intraocular lens calculator
Authors: Wang Li , Burwinkel Hendrik , Bensaid Nicolas , Koch Douglas D.
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate the ZEISS AI IOL Calculator (ZEISS AI) and compare its accuracy in refractive prediction to the Barrett Universal II (BUII) and Kane formulas.

Setting:

Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX.

Design:

Retrospective case series.

Methods:

The ZEISS AI IOL Calculator (ZEISS AI) is an artificial intelligence (AI) based IOL-optimized formula. The refractive prediction errors (PEs) were calculated in the entire dataset and subgroups of short eyes (axial length (AL) ≤ 22.5 mm) and long eyes (AL ≥ 25.0 mm). The standard deviation (SD), root-mean-square absolute error (RMSAE), mean absolute error (MAE), median absolute error (MedAE), and percentage of eyes within ±0.25 D, ±0.50 D, ±0.75 D, and ±1.00 D of PEs were calculated. Values with ZEISS AI were compared to those from Barrett Universal II (BUII) and Kane. Advanced statistical methods were applied using R.

Results:

A dataset of 10,838 eyes was included. Compared to ZEISS AI, BUII produced significantly greater SDs, RMSAEs, and MAEs in the whole group and short eyes, and the Kane had greater SD, RMSAE, and MAE in short eyes (all adjusted P<0.05); the BUII had significantly lower percentages of eyes within ±0.50 D of PEs in the whole group (80.0% vs 81.2%) and in short eyes (71.3% vs. 76.1%), and the Kane had lower percentage of eyes within ±0.50 D of PEs in short eyes (71.9% vs. 76.1%) (all adjusted P<0.05).

Conclusion:

The ZEISS AI IOL Calculator had superior performance compared to the BUII and Kane formulas, especially in short eyes.
Neonatal Eating Assessment Tool—Mixed Breastfeeding and Bottle-feeding: Reference values and factors associated with problematic feeding symptoms in healthy, full-term infants
Authors: Pados Britt Frisk , Johnson Jamarii , Nelson Madeline
Published: December 2024

Background:

The Neonatal Eating Assessment Tool—Mixed Breastfeeding and Bottle-feeding (NeoEAT—Mixed Feeding) is a parent-report assessment of symptoms of problematic feeding in infants who are feeding by both breast and bottle.

Purpose:

To establish reference values for the NeoEAT—Mixed Feeding and evaluate factors that contribute to symptoms of problematic feeding in healthy, full-term infants.

Methodology:

Parents of 409 infants less than 7 months old completed an online survey. Median and percentile scores are presented for infants aged 0–2, 2–4, 4–6, and 6–7 months old.

Results:

Neonatal Eating Assessment Tool—Mixed Feeding total score and scores for the Gastrointestinal Tract Function and Energy & Physiologic Stability subscales decreased with increasing infant age. Infant Regulation and Feeding Flexibility subscale scores remained stable over time, whereas Sensory Responsiveness subscale scores increased with increasing infant age. Infants with more gastrointestinal and gastroesophageal symptoms had higher NeoEAT—Mixed Feeding total scores.

Conclusions:

In healthy, full-term infants, symptoms of problematic feeding generally improve over the first 7 months, with the exception of symptoms related to sensory responsiveness. Gastrointestinal and gastroesophageal reflux symptoms are related to symptoms of problematic feeding.

Implications:

The reported reference values may be used to identify infants in need of further assessment, referral, and intervention. In healthy, full-term infants with concurrent gastrointestinal symptoms and problematic feeding, interventions targeted at gastrointestinal symptoms may help to improve symptoms of problematic feeding as well.
Illness Perception and Risk Management Behaviors Among Patients With Gynecologic Cancer at Risk of Lower Extremity Lymphedema
Authors: Chen Jing , Guan Siyu , Jiang Chaonan , Yang Zhiqi , Guo Zijun , Zhang Huiling , Huang Yaqian , Li Mingfang , Yan Jun
Published: December 2024

Background

Patients with gynecologic cancer who undergo lymphadenectomy are at increased risk of lower extremity lymphedema (LEL). They are encouraged to be alert to the possibility of LEL and take risk-management measures throughout life. However, we know little about the perception for LEL and adherence to risk-management measures of Chinese patients with gynecologic cancer.

Objective

To assess the illness perception and risk management behaviors of Chinese gynecologic cancer patients and further examine the effect of illness perception on risk management behaviors.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study. From June to December 2023, gynecologic cancer patients at risk of LEL were surveyed (n = 223). Questionnaires on illness perception and risk management behaviors specifically for LEL were utilized. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, univariate analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis were used for data analysis.

Results

The participants exhibited suboptimal LEL risk management behaviors, with the physical activity dimension receiving the lowest score (3.24 ± 1.02). Patients’ self-perceived understanding of LEL was relatively low (2.88 ± 0.83). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the identity, cause, and control dimensions of illness perception, as well as several demographic and disease variables, were significant predictors of patients’ LEL risk management behaviors.

Conclusions

The LEL risk management behaviors of patients with gynecologic cancer need to be improved. Consideration of perceptions of identity, cause, and control is crucial for enhancing LEL risk management behaviors.

Implications for Practice

Health professionals can implement targeted health education based on an assessment of patients’ perceptions of LEL, thereby promoting lymphedema risk management.
Primary Lymphoma of the Female Genital Tract: A Needle in a Haystack
Authors: Ali Khadiga M. , Saleh Gehad A. , Ali Nahla , Hamdy Omar , Alghandour Reham , Hossam Amr , Masoud Rokia , Hassan Amany
Published: December 2024

Primary lymphoma of the female genital tract (PLFGT) is a rare entity with nonspecific symptoms. Its prognosis relies on accurate and quick diagnosis and therapy despite the lack of standardized management guidelines. This study aimed to explore the clinicopathologic and radiologic characteristics; and differential diagnoses of women with lymphoma of the female genital tract (FGT) treated at the same institution. A retrospective study was conducted on 22 cases diagnosed with lymphoma of their FGT during the study period from June 2016 and December 2023. Medical records and radiologic, pathologic, management, and survival data were collected. The mean age was 49.45 yr, and the mean follow-up duration was 48 mo. Only 15 cases were diagnosed with PLFGT, while the remaining 7 cases were secondary to the disease. The ovary was the predominant site (9 cases), and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was the main histologic subtype (90.9%). Eleven (50%) patients underwent surgery. PLFGT demonstrated a more favorable outcome (60% achieved complete remission). Treatment strategies and Ann Arbor staging were significantly correlated with overall survival. To avoid misdiagnosis, it is essential to include lymphoma in the differential diagnosis of histologically difficult gynecologic neoplasms. Increasing awareness about this rare entity and providing a preoperative diagnosis is paramount to avoid unnecessary gynecologic surgery.
Effect of Vaginal Prolapse Repair and Midurethral Sling on Urgency Incontinence Symptoms
Authors: Mezes Christina M. , Russell Gregory B. , Gutman Robert E. , Iglesia Cheryl , Rardin Charles , Kenton Kimberly , Collins Sarah , Matthews Catherine A.
Published: December 2024

Importance

Limited evidence exists on the effect of combined native tissue vaginal prolapse repair with midurethral sling on urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) symptoms.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of combined native tissue vaginal prolapse repair with midurethral sling on UUI symptoms at 12 months postoperatively and identify risk factors for persistent UUI.

Study Design

This secondary analysis utilized data from a randomized trial comparing retropubic versus single-incision slings in women undergoing treatment of stress incontinence and vaginal prolapse with native tissue vaginal repair and midurethral sling. Responses to Question 16 of the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 were grouped into no and mild UUI (0, 1) versus moderate and severe UUI (2, 3, 4), and associations between UUI symptoms and patient and surgical characteristics were explored.

Results

At baseline, 196/254 (77%) reported at least moderate UUI bother, whereas 58 (23%) had no bother. At 12 months postoperatively, persistent, resolved and de novo UUI were 41%, 59%, and 11%, respectively. At baseline, higher body mass index (odds ratio [OR], 1.08 95% CI, 1.02–1.14; P = 0.005) and symptomatic SUI (OR, 4.76; 95% CI, 2.53–9.01; P < 0.001) were associated with UUI. At 12 months, age (OR, 1.18, 95% CI, 1.04–1.35; P = 0.012) and Charlson Comorbidity Index (OR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.00–1.45; P = 0.049) were associated with UUI. Colpocleisis was the only significant protective factor for the presence of UUI at 12 months (OR, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.13–0.97; P = 0.043).

Conclusion

At 12 months postoperatively, almost 60% saw resolution of baseline UUI symptoms, especially those undergoing colpocleisis.
A Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study of Antibiotics for OnabotulinumtoxinA
Authors: Morocco Elise , Lua-Mailland Lannah , Werth Adrienne , Carr Danielle , Rabice Sarah , Ashmore Sarah , Duong Vi , Wilkes Margaret , Nilsson Wesley , Ferzandi Tanaz
Published: December 2024

Importance

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common complication of intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA (BTX-A) injection. Despite this, there are no evidence-based guidelines on antibiotic prophylaxis.

Objectives

Our primary aim was to determine whether antibiotic prophylaxis decreased symptomatic, culture-proven UTI rates within 6 weeks of intradetrusor BTX-A injection. Our secondary aims were to determine if there are differences between antibiotic regimens and to identify risk factors for developing a UTI.

Study Design

This was a prospective, observational multicenter cohort study of female patients receiving BTX-A for idiopathic overactive bladder. We compared patients who received antibiotics (nitrofurantoin or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole) to those who did not. To detect a 15% difference in UTI rates between groups (80% power, alpha = 0.05), 270 participants were needed.

Results

A total of 282 participants ultimately received BTX-A and were included in the analysis. One hundred eighty-one (62.6%) were in the antibiotic cohort and 101 (35.8%) were in the no-antibiotic cohort. The overall rate of symptomatic, culture-proven UTI was 12.1%, and there was no difference between the antibiotic and no-antibiotic cohort (10.6% vs 14.9%, respectively; P = 0.29). On multivariable logistic regression, UTI was associated with older age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.07; 95% CI, 1.02–1.11), BTX-A dose of 200 units (aOR, 4.24; 95% CI, 1.45–12.35), and self-catheterization (aOR, 26.0; 95% CI, 3.62–186.5). The odds of symptomatic UTI were lower among postmenopausal participants (aOR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.02–0.68) and participants in the Northeast United States (aOR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.08–0.72).

Conclusions

Our study did not find a lower rate of symptomatic, culture-proven UTI among participants who took antibiotics compared with those who did not.
Detection of vanA genes in vancomycin susceptible Enterococcus faecium isolates; implications for additional testing
Authors: Jordan Victoria , Varadhan Hemalatha
Published: December 2024

To assess the frequency of silent vancomycin resistance, phenotypically susceptible Enterococcus faecium isolates underwent genotypic testing using Cepheid’s Xpert vanA/vanB PCR. 6% of isolates had silent vanA genes. However, the clinical relevance of silent van genes, and the lack of rapid, random-access genotypic methods poses an ongoing challenge to laboratories.
Antiviral peptide targeting P protein oligomerization: proof of concept for mononegaviruses
Authors: Hara Koyu , Nantachit Nattika , Watanabe Hiroshi
Published: December 2024

In Mononegavirales, phosphoproteins (P) are essential polymerase cofactors, forming oligomers and interacting with viral components to facilitate replication. Previous studies have demonstrated that a P-derived peptide (PFr) from the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), containing the oligomerization domain (OD) and C-terminal domain (CTD), effectively inhibits RSV replication. Here, we extend this approach to paramyxoviruses, including HPIV3, MeV and MuV. Customized PFrs exhibited potent inhibitory effects against their respective viruses, with IC50 values below 100 nM, while showing minimal cytotoxicity. These findings highlight the potential of targeting P oligomerization as a broad-spectrum antiviral strategy for paramyxoviruses and other mononegaviruses.
Measurement of the
Se78(n,γ)Se79
cross section up to 600 keV at the n_TOF facility at CERN
Authors: Sosnin N. V. , Lederer-Woods C. , Garg R. , Battino U. , Cristallo S. , Dietz M. , Heinitz S. , Krtička M. , Reifarth R. , Valenta S. , Vescovi D. , Aberle O. , Alcayne V. , Amaducci S. , Andrzejewski J. , Audouin L. , Bécares V. , Babiano-Suarez V. , Bacak M. , Barbagallo M. , Bečvář F. , Bellia G. , Berthoumieux E. , Billowes J. , Bosnar D. , Brown A. , Busso M. , Caamaño M. , Caballero L. , Calviño F. , Calviani M. , Cano-Ott D. , Casanovas A. , Cerutti F. , Chen Y. H. , Chiaveri E. , Colonna N. , Cortés G. , Cortés-Giraldo M. A. , Cosentino L. , Damone L. A. , Diakaki M. , Domingo-Pardo C. , Dressler R. , Dupont E. , Durán I. , Eleme Z. , Fernández-Domínguez B. , Ferrari A. , Finocchiaro P. , Furman V. , Göbel K. , Gawlik-Ramięga A. , Gilardoni S. , Glodariu T. , Gonçalves I. F. , González-Romero E. , Guerrero C. , Gunsing F. , Harada H. , Heyse J. , Jenkins D. G. , Jericha E. , Käppeler F. , Kadi Y. , Kimura A. , Kivel N. , Kokkoris M. , Kopatch Y. , Kurtulgil D. , Ladarescu I. , Leeb H. , Lerendegui-Marco J. , Lo Meo S. , Lonsdale S. J. , Manna A. , Martínez T. , Masi A. , Massimi C. , Mastinu P. , Mastromarco M. , Matteucci F. , Maugeri E. A. , Mazzone A. , Mendoza E. , Mengoni A. , Michalopoulou V. , Milazzo P. M. , Murphy A. St. J. , Musumarra A. , Negret A. , Nolte R. , Ogállar F. , Oprea A. , Patronis N. , Pavlik A. , Perkowski J. , Piersanti L. , Porras I. , Praena J. , Quesada J. M. , Radeck D. , Ramos-Doval D. , Rauscher T. , Rochman D. , Rubbia C. , Sabaté-Gilarte M. , Saxena A. , Schillebeeckx P. , Schumann D. , Smith A. G. , Stamatopoulos A. , Tagliente G. , Tain J. L. , Talip T. , Tarifeño-Saldivia A. , Tassan-Got L. , Torres-Sánchez P. , Tsinganis A. , Ulrich J. , Urlass S. , Vannini G. , Variale V. , Vaz P. , Ventura A. , Vlachoudis V. , Vlastou R. , Wallner A. , Woods P. J. , Wright T. , Žugec P. ,   n_TOF Collaboration
Published: December 2024

The Se78(n,γ)Se79 cross section has a high impact on the abundances of Se78 produced during the slow neutron capture process (s process) in massive stars. A measurement of the Se78 radiative neutron capture cross section has been performed at the Neutron Time-of-Flight facility at CERN using a set of liquid scintillation detectors that have been optimized for a low sensitivity to neutrons. We present resonance capture kernels up to 70 keV and cross section from 70 to 600 keV. Maxwellian-averaged cross section (MACS) values were calculated for stellar temperatures between kT=5 and 100 keV, with uncertainties between 4.6% and 5.8%. The new MACS values result in substantial decreases of 20–30% of Se78 abundances produced in the s process in massive stars and AGB stars. Massive stars are now predicted to produce subsolar Se78/Se76 ratios, which is expected since Se76 is an s-only isotope, while solar Se78 abundances have also contributions from other nucleosynthesis processes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024