bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Giant Congenital Melanocytic Nevi of the Head and Neck: Clinical Update and Advances in Treatment
Authors: Applebaum Sarah A. , Weissman Joshua P. , Chwa Emily S. , Garg Stuti P. , Gosain Arun K.
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Giant congenital melanocytic nevi are rare lesions of various size, shape, color, and location with potential complications including malignant and neurocutaneous melanoma. Here we discuss the etiology and epidemiology of giant congenital melanocytic nevi, the indications and options for treatment, and current data regarding outcomes, as well as our preferred approach to patient management. Methods: Full text case reports, retrospective studies, prospective studies, clinical trials, and review articles regarding giant congenital melanocytic nevi in English were included in this analysis utilizing PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Google scholar databases. Results: Giant congenital melanocytic nevi pose a difficult diagnostic and reconstructive challenge for the plastic surgeon. Indications for treatment depend on the size of the nevus, pigmentation, established melanoma, persistent symptoms, maintenance of function, and psychological burden. A multidisciplinary approach should be applied to establish an individualized treatment plan for patients with giant congenital melanocytic nevi. Numerous surgical and nonexcisional options have been illustrated for the management of these lesions. Chemical peels and laser ablation are among the most common non-surgical approaches. When considering surgical treatment for lesions with malignant potential, a multimodal approach is generally employed, including serial excision, excision with skin grafting and/or skin substitutes, and tissue expansion. Conclusion: A proper understanding of the disease’s histology, natural history, complications, and treatment options are essential in the management of these complex lesions.
Sonographic Detection of Multicystic Dysplastic Kidneys
Authors: Kane Meghan , Stormo Janell
Published: February 2022

Multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK) is a common nonhereditary cystic dysplasia that can be detected antenatally. This disorder commonly manifests in utero and presents unilaterally; however, this patient’s case demonstrates bilateral MCDKs. The use of sonography is essential in diagnosing this disorder both antenatally and following birth. Bilateral MCDKs present as large anechoic cysts overtaking renal parenchyma and halting all normal renal physiologic functions. This case study demonstrates the importance of early detection, the progression of this disorder, as well as the large part sonographic imaging plays in visualizing the MCDK.
The genetic landscape of pancreatic head ductal adenocarcinoma in China and prognosis stratification
Authors: Yang Yefan , Ding Ying , Gong Yuxi , Zhao Sha , Li Mingna , Li Xiao , Song Guoxin , Zhai Boya , Liu Jin , Shao Yang , Zhu Liuqing , Pang Jiaohui , Ma Yutong , Ou Qiuxiang , Wu Xue , Zhang Zhihong
Published: February 2022

Background

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the major subtype of pancreatic cancer and head PDACs show distinct characteristics from body/tail PDACs. With limited studies based on Asian population, the mutational landscape of Asian PDAC remains unclear.

Methods

One hundred fifty-one Chinese patients with head PDAC were selected and underwent targeted 425-gene sequencing. Genomic alterations, tumor mutational burden, and microsatellite instability were analyzed and compared with a TCGA cohort.

Results

The genomic landscape of Chinese and Western head PDAC had identical frequently-mutated genes including KRAS, TP53, SMAD4, and CDKN2A. KRAS hotspot in both cohorts was codon 12 but Chinese PDACs containing more G12V but fewer G12R variants. Potentially pathogenic fusions, CHD2-BRAF and KANK1-MET were identified in two KRAS wild-type patients. Serum cancer antigens CA125 and CA19-9 were positively associated with SMAD4 alterations while high CEA was enriched in wild-type CDKN2A subgroup. The probability of vascular invasion was lower in patients with RNF43 alterations. The nomogram developed including histology grade, the mutation status of SMAD4, TGFBR2, and PREX2 could calculate the risk score of prognoses validated by Chinese and TCGA cohort.

Conclusions

Chinese head PDAC contained more KRAS G12V mutation than Western population. The well-performed nomogram may improve post-operation care in real-world practice.
Body composition in preschool children with short stature: a case-control study
Authors: Ji Yi-ting , Li Li-li , Cai Shi-zhong , Shi Xiao-yan
Published: February 2022

Background

Short stature is defined as height below 2 standard deviations of the population with the same age, gender. This study is aimed to assess the characteristics of body composition in preschool children with short stature.

Methods

Anthropometric measurements and body composition were assessed in 68 preschool children aged 3 to 6 years old with short stature and 68 normal controls matched on age and gender. Height, weight and body composition (total body water, protein, minerals, body fat mass, fat-free mass, soft lean mass, skeletal muscle mass, and bone mineral contents) in the two groups were measured and compared.

Results

The total body water, protein, minerals, body fat mass, fat-free mass, soft lean mass, skeletal muscle mass, and bone mineral contents were lower in preschool children with short stature than controls (P < 0.05). Body mass index and fat mass index did not differ between groups. Fat-free mass index was significantly lower in short stature group than controls (t = 2.17, P = 0.03). Linear regression analysis showed that there was a positive correlation between height and fat-free mass index [β, 1.99 (0.59, 3.39), P = 0.01], a negative correlation between height and body fat percentage [β, − 0.20 (− 0.38, − 0.01), P = 0.04]. The proportions of fat-free mass in the upper limbs were significantly lower (Right,t = − 2.78,Left t = − 2.76, P < 0.05, respectively) in short stature, although body fat distribution was not.

Conclusions

The fat-free mass such as protein and bone minerals is lower in preschool children with short stature, suggesting the monitoring of fat-free mass for early identification and intervention.
Understanding the bigger picture: syndemic interactions of the immigrant and refugee context with the lived experience of diabetes and obesity
Authors: Ofosu Nicole Naadu , Luig Thea , Chiu Yvonne , Mumtaz Naureen , Yeung Roseanne O. , Lee Karen K. , Wang Nancy , Omar Nasreen , Yip Lydia , Aleba Sarah , Maragang Kiki , Ali Mulki , Dormitorio Irene , Campbell-Scherer Denise
Published: February 2022

Background

Providing contextually appropriate care and interventions for people with diabetes and/or obesity in vulnerable situations within ethnocultural newcomer communities presents significant challenges. Because of the added complexities of the refugee and immigrant context, a deep understanding of their realities is needed. Syndemic theory sheds light on the synergistic nature of stressors, chronic diseases and environmental impact on immigrant and refugee populations living in vulnerable conditions. We used a syndemic perspective to examine how the migrant ethnocultural context impacts the experience of living with obesity and/or diabetes, to identify challenges in their experience with healthcare.

Methods

This qualitative participatory research collaborated with community health workers from the Multicultural Health Brokers Cooperative of Edmonton, Alberta. Study participants were people living with diabetes and/or obesity from diverse ethnocultural communities in Edmonton and the brokers who work with these communities. We conducted 3 focus groups (two groups of 8 and one of 13 participants) and 22 individual interviews (13 community members and 9 brokers). The majority of participants had type 2 diabetes and 4 had obesity. We conducted a thematic analysis to explore the interactions of people’s living conditions with experiences of: 1) diabetes and obesity; and 2) healthcare and resources for well-being.

Results

The synergistic effects of pre- and post-immigration stressors, including lack of social network cultural distance, and poverty present an added burden to migrants’ lived experience of diabetes/obesity. People need to first navigate the challenges of immigration and settling into a new environment in order to have capacity to manage their chronic diseases. Diabetes and obesity care is enhanced by the supportive role of the brokers, and healthcare providers who have an awareness of and consideration for the contextual influences on patients’ health.

Conclusions

The syndemic effects of the socio-cultural context of migrants creates an additional burden for managing the complexities of diabetes and obesity that can result in inadequate healthcare and worsened health outcomes. Consequently, care for people with diabetes and/or obesity from vulnerable immigrant and refugee situations should include a holistic approach where there is an awareness of and consideration for their context.
Sociodemographic and behavioral influences on multimorbidity among adult residents of northeastern China
Authors: Shi Jikang , Guo Yanbo , Li Zhen , Liang Zhuoshuai , Pan Lingfeng , Yu Yang , Zhu Wenfei , Shao Aiyu , Chen Wenjun , Gao Chao , Liu Siyu , Liu Yawen , Cheng Yi
Published: February 2022

Background

Multimorbidity is defined as two or more chronic health conditions existing in an individual simultaneously. Multimorbidity has been associated with poor conditions, such as higher health care costs and the poor quality of life. Thus, identifying the risk factors of the multimorbidity is required for multimorbidity prevention.

Methods

This study was based on the Comprehensive Demonstration Research Project of Major Chronic Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control Technology in Northeast China initiated by China Medical University. The investigation was a cross-sectional study under a multistage stratified cluster random sampling design. Associations between multimorbidity and sociodemographic and behavioral factors in adult residents were investigated using univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 6706 participants were enrolled in this investigation, and the prevalence of multimorbidity was 21.2% among the adult residents of northeastern China. There existed differences of association between age and multimorbidity risks (65–69 years old: OR = 3.53, 95%CI: 2.04–6.12; 70–74 years old: OR = 5.26, 95%CI: 3.02–9.17). Participants who are overweight had significantly high multimorbidity risk (OR = 2.76, 95%CI: 1.50–5.24). Family history of hypertension and family history of diabetes were significantly associated with high multimorbidity risk (family history of hypertension: OR = 2.34, 95%CI: 1.96–2.79; family history of diabetes: OR = 1.77, 95%CI: 1.38–2.26). Compared with the frequency of fatigue (< 1 time/week or 1–2 times/week), that (≥3 times/week) was associated with high multimorbidity risk (OR = 1.39, 95%CI: 1.07–1.81). For fresh fruit consumption, compared with eating fruits regularly, eating rarely had a higher risk of multimorbidity (OR = 2.33, 95%CI: 1.90–2.85).

Conclusions

Sociodemographic indices (age, BMI, family history of hypertension, and family history of diabetes) and behavioral indices (fatigue status and fresh fruit consumption) increase the risks of multimorbidity. This study provides a necessary route to prevent and control multimorbidity in northeast China.
The risk of water, sanitation and hygiene on diarrhea-related infant mortality in eastern Ethiopia: a population-based nested case-control
Authors: Mebrahtom Samuel , Worku Alemayehu , Gage Daniel J.
Published: February 2022

Background

Diarrhea is still appeared to be as one of the leading global killers and disability-adjusted life-years lost, particularly in the infant and children. As per WHO, about 88% of diarrhea-related deaths are attributable to unsafe water, inadequate sanitation and insufficient hygiene, mainly in developing world. Thus, the main objective of this study was to find out the risk of such factors that contribute for diarrhea-related infant mortality in Eastern Ethiopia.

Methods

This study employed community based unmatched nested case-control study design in Eastern Ethiopia. The cases were infants who died from diarrheal disease while controls were those who survived their first year of life from September, 2016 to August, 2018. A total of 305 study subjects (61 cases and 244 controls) were included in the study. Infants dying from diarrhea were compared to four neighborhood controls in terms of several risk components of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene. Data were collected from mothers/care takers of infants using pre-tested structured questionnaires, and entered onto CSpro version 5.1 and transform to SPSS version 23 to analyzed potential risk factors.

Findings

Finding of this study revealed that the risk factors that found to be significantly associated with infant death from diarrhoea after adjustment for confounding variables included the age of mother with < 20 years old (P = 0.009, AOR: 0.01, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.47), unsafe drinking water storage (P = 0.013, AOR: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.81), infants in households without point-of-use water treatment practices (P = 0.004, AOR: 0.21, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.61), households with unimproved sanitation (P = 0.050, AOR: 0.36, 95% CI: 0.13, 1.00), unsafe disposing of child feces (P = 0.014, AOR: 0.34, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.81), and improper management of solid waste (P = 0.003, AOR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.66). These exposure factors had lower risk for the contribution of infants dying from diarrhoea than those with their reference group in the study area. However, infants in households with improper management of liquid waste management showed strongly significant association which had three times more likely to occur diarrhea-related infant death (P = 0.010, AOR: 3.43, 95% CI: 1.34, 8.76). Similarly, infants whose mother/caretaker practiced hand washing with less critical time (one-two occasions) had three times greater risk to infant death from diarrhea than those who had practice more than three critical times of hand washing (P = 0.027, AOR: 3.04, 95% CI: 1.13, 8.17).

Conclusion

This study suggests that infants in households with improper management of liquid waste and hand washing practices with fewer occasions (one-two critical time) are a greater risk of getting a diarrhea-related infant death. Therefore, efforts should be made to ensure intervention taking such risk factors into consideration, typically in the infantile period.
Gastrodin promotes the regeneration of peripheral nerves by regulating miR-497/BDNF axis
Authors: Yongguang Li , Xiaowei Wang , Huichao Yan , Yanxiang Zhang
Published: February 2022

Background

Gastrodin (GAS), is a kind of phenolic compound extracted from the traditional Chinese herbal medicine Gastrodia elata Blume (GEB). This study was aimed at probing into the protective effect of GAS on peripheral nerve injury (PNI) and the underlying mechanism.

Methods

A rat model with PNI was established, followed by intraperitoneal injection of GAS (20 mg/kg/day). Sciatic nerve function index (SFI) was used to analyze the function of sciatic nerve. The amplitude and latency of compound muscle action potential (CMAP) were examined by electrophysiology. Schwann cells (SCs) were isolated from fetal rats and treated with GAS 200 μg/mL, and H2O2-induced model of oxidative stress injury was established. EdU and Transwell assays were adopted to detect the viability and migration of SCs. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assays were applied to verify the binding site between miR-497 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) 3’UTR. MiR-497 expression was probed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). BDNF, neurofilament-200 (NF-200) and myelin basic protein (MBP) expression levels were detected by Western blotting. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, glutathione content (GSH) and catalase (CAT) activity in SCs were also measured.

Results

GAS treatment could significantly increase the SFI and amplitude of CMAP, shorten the refractory period, and ameliorate muscle atrophy of the rats with PNI. GAS treatment could markedly restrain miR-497 expression and increase the expression levels of BDNF, NF-200 and MBP in SCs. BDNF was confirmed as the target of miR-497 and BDNF overexpression could reverse the impacts of miR-497 overexpression on the proliferation, migration, and oxidative stress response of SCs.

Conclusions

GAS promotes the recovery of PNI via modulating miR-497 / BDNF axis and inhibiting oxidative stress.

Graphical abstract
Understanding how context and culture in six communities can shape implementation of a complex intervention: a comparative case study
Authors: Gaber Jessica , Datta Julie , Clark Rebecca , Lamarche Larkin , Parascandalo Fiona , Di Pelino Stephanie , Forsyth Pamela , Oliver Doug , Mangin Dee , Price David
Published: February 2022

Background

Contextual factors can act as barriers or facilitators to scaling-up health care interventions, but there is limited understanding of how context and local culture can lead to differences in implementation of complex interventions with multiple stakeholder groups. This study aimed to explore and describe the nature of and differences between communities implementing Health TAPESTRY, a complex primary care intervention aiming to keep older adults healthier in their homes for longer, as it was scaled beyond its initial effectiveness trial.

Methods

We conducted a comparative case study with six communities in Ontario, Canada implementing Health TAPESTRY. We focused on differences between three key elements: interprofessional primary care teams, volunteer program coordination, and the client experience. Sources of data included semi-structured focus groups and interviews. Data were analyzed through the steps of thematic analysis. We then created matrices in NVivo by splitting the qualitative data by community and comparing across the key elements of the Health TAPESTRY intervention.

Results

Overall 135 people participated (39 clients, 8 clinical managers, 59 health providers, 6 volunteer coordinators, and 23 volunteers). The six communities had differences in size and composition of both their primary care practices and communities, and how the volunteer program and Health TAPESTRY were implemented. Distinctions between communities relating to the work of the interprofessional teams included characteristics of the huddle lead, involvement of physicians and the volunteer coordinator, and clarity of providers’ role with Health TAPESTRY. Key differences between communities relating to volunteer program coordination included the relationship between the volunteers and primary care practices, volunteer coordinator characteristics, volunteer training, and connections with the community. Differences regarding the client experience between communities included differing approaches used in implementation, such as recruitment methods.

Conclusions

Although all six communities had the same key program elements, implementation differed community-by-community. Key aspects that seemed to lead to differences across categories included the size and spread of communities, size of primary care practices, and linkages between program elements. We suggest future programs engaging stakeholders from the beginning and provide clear roles; target the most appropriate clients; and consider the size of communities and practices in implementation.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03397836.
Hospital performance comparison of inpatient fall rates; the impact of risk adjusting for patient-related factors: a multicentre cross-sectional survey
Authors: Bernet Niklaus S , Everink Irma HJ , Schols Jos MGA , Halfens Ruud JG , Richter Dirk , Hahn Sabine
Published: February 2022

Background

Comparing inpatient fall rates can serve as a benchmark for quality improvement. To improve the comparability of performance between hospitals, adjustments for patient-related fall risk factors that are not modifiable by care are recommended. Thereafter, the remaining variability in risk-adjusted fall rates can be attributed to differences in quality of care provided by a hospital. Research on risk-adjusted fall rates and their impact on hospital comparisons is currently sparse. Therefore, the aims of this study were to develop an inpatient fall risk adjustment model based on patient-related fall risk factors, and to analyse the impact of applying this model on comparisons of inpatient fall rates in acute care hospitals in Switzerland.

Methods

Data on inpatient falls in Swiss acute care hospitals were collected on one day in 2017, 2018 and 2019, as part of an annual multicentre cross-sectional survey. After excluding maternity and outpatient wards, all inpatients older than 18 years were included. Two-level logistic regression models were used to construct unadjusted and risk-adjusted caterpillar plots to compare inter-hospital variability in inpatient fall rates.

Results

One hundred thirty eight hospitals and 35,998 patients were included in the analysis. Risk adjustment showed that the following factors were associated with a higher risk of falling: increasing care dependency (to a great extent care dependent, odds ratio 3.43, 95% confidence interval 2.78–4.23), a fall in the last 12 months (OR 2.14, CI 1.89–2.42), the intake of sedative and or psychotropic medications (OR 1.74, CI 1.54–1.98), mental and behavioural disorders (OR 1.55, CI 1.36–1.77) and higher age (OR 1.01, CI 1.01–1.02). With odds ratios between 1.26 and 0.67, eight further ICD-10 diagnosis groups were included. Female sex (OR 0.78, CI 0.70–0.88) and postoperative patients (OR 0.83, CI 0.73–0.95) were associated with a lower risk of falling. Unadjusted caterpillar plots identified 20 low- and 3 high-performing hospitals. After risk adjustment, 2 low-performing hospitals remained.

Conclusions

Risk adjustment of inpatient fall rates could reduce misclassification of hospital performance and enables a fairer basis for decision-making and quality improvement measures. Patient-related fall risk factors such as care dependency, history of falls and cognitive impairment should be routinely assessed.
Competition between type I activin and BMP receptors for binding to ACVR2A regulates signaling to distinct Smad pathways
Authors: Szilágyi Szabina Szófia , Amsalem-Zafran Ayelet R. , Shapira Keren E. , Ehrlich Marcelo , Henis Yoav I.
Published: February 2022

Background

Activins and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) play critical, sometimes opposing roles, in multiple physiological and pathological processes and diseases. They signal to distinct Smad branches; activins signal mainly to Smad2/3, while BMPs activate mainly Smad1/5/8. This gives rise to the possibility that competition between the different type I receptors through which activin and BMP signal for common type II receptors can provide a mechanism for fine-tuning the cellular response to activin/BMP stimuli. Among the transforming growth factor-β superfamily type II receptors, ACVR2A/B are highly promiscuous, due to their ability to interact with different type I receptors (e.g., ALK4 vs. ALK2/3/6) and with their respective ligands [activin A (ActA) vs. BMP9/2]. However, studies on complex formation between these full-length receptors situated at the plasma membrane, and especially on the potential competition between the different activin and BMP type I receptors for a common activin type II receptor, were lacking.

Results

We employed a combination of IgG-mediated patching-immobilization of several type I receptors in the absence or presence of ligands with fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) measurements on the lateral diffusion of an activin type II receptor, ACVR2A, to demonstrate the principle of competition between type I receptors for ACVR2. Our results show that ACVR2A can form stable heteromeric complexes with ALK4 (an activin type I receptor), as well as with several BMP type I receptors (ALK2/3/6). Of note, ALK4 and the BMP type I receptors competed for binding ACVR2A. To assess the implications of this competition for signaling output, we first validated that in our cell model system (U2OS cells), ACVR2/ALK4 transduce ActA signaling to Smad2/3, while BMP9 signaling to Smad1/5/8 employ ACVR2/ALK2 or ACVR2/ALK3. By combining ligand stimulation with overexpression of a competing type I receptor, we showed that differential complex formation of distinct type I receptors with a common type II receptor balances the signaling to the two Smad branches.

Conclusions

Different type I receptors that signal to distinct Smad pathways (Smad2/3 vs. Smad1/5/8) compete for binding to common activin type II receptors. This provides a novel mechanism to balance signaling between Smad2/3 and Smad1/5/8.
Immunological characterization of the chemically prepared ghosts of Salmonella Typhimurium as a vaccine candidate
Authors: Rabea Sameh , Yassin Aymen S. , Mohammed Aly Fahmy , Salem-Bekhit Mounir M. , Alanazi Fars K. , Esmail Eman Amin , Moneib Nayera A. , Hashem Abd Elgawad M.
Published: February 2022

Background

Bacterial ghosts are the evacuated bacterial cellular membranes from most of the genetic and protein contents which preserved their surface characters. Recently, bacterial ghosts exploited for different biomedical applications, for instance, vaccination. The purpose of this study is to measure the immunogenic protective response of bacterial ghosts of Salmonella Typhimurium in animals and to allow future testing this response in humans. The immunologic response was qualitatively, quantitatively, and functionally measured. We have measured the humoral and cellular immune responses, such as immunoglobulins elevation (IgG), increased granulocytes, serum antibacterial activity, clearance of virulence in feces and liver, and the survival rate.

Results

The bacterial ghosts’ vaccine was able to protect 100% of subcutaneously vaccinated rats and 75% of adjuvant subcutaneously vaccinated rats. The lowest survival rate was in the orally vaccinated group (25%). The maximum level of serum IgG titers, as well as serum and feces bactericidal activity (100% eradication), was exhibited in the subcutaneously vaccinated group with adjuvant vaccines followed by the subcutaneously vaccinated one. Additionally, the highest granulocytes’ number was observed in the adjuvant vaccine subcutaneously immunized group. The bacterial load in liver homogenate was eliminated in the subcutaneously vaccinated rats after the virulence challenge.

Conclusions

The bacterial ghosts of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium that prepared by Tween 80 Protocol showed an effective vaccine candidate that protected animals, eliminated the virulence in feces and liver. These findings show that chemically induced bacterial ghosts of Salmonella Typhimurium can be a promising vaccine.
Comprehensive analysis of retracted journal articles in the field of veterinary medicine and animal health
Authors: Christopher Mary M.
Published: February 2022

Background

Retractions are a key proxy for recognizing errors in research and publication and for reconciling misconduct in the scientific literature. The underlying factors associated with retractions can provide insight and guide policy for journal editors and authors within a discipline. The goal of this study was to systematically review and analyze retracted articles in veterinary medicine and animal health. A database search for retractions of articles with a veterinary/animal health topic, in a veterinary journal, or by veterinary institution-affiliated authors was conducted from first available records through February 2019 in MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Retraction Watch, and Google Scholar. Annual frequency of retractions, journal and article characteristics, author affiliation and country, reasons for retraction, and retraction outcomes were recorded.

Results

Two-hundred-forty-two articles retracted between 1993 and 2019 were included in the study. Over this period, the estimated rate of retraction increased from 0.03/1000 to 1.07/1000 veterinary articles. Median time from publication to retraction was 478 days (range 0-3653 days). Retracted articles were published in 30 (12.3%) veterinary journals and 132 (81.5%) nonveterinary journals. Veterinary journals had disproportionately more retractions than nonveterinary journals (P = .0155). Authors/groups with ≥2 retractions accounted for 37.2% of retractions. Authors from Iran and China published 19.4 and 18.2% of retracted articles respectively. Authors were affiliated with a faculty of veterinary medicine in 59.1% of retracted articles. Of 242 retractions, 204 (84.3%) were research articles, of which 6.4% were veterinary clinical research. Publication misconduct (plagiarism, duplicate publication, compromised peer review) accounted for 75.6% of retractions, compared with errors (20.6%) and research misconduct (18.2%). Journals published by societies/institutions were less likely than those from commercial publishers to indicate a reason for retraction. Thirty-one percent of HTML articles and 14% of PDFs were available online but not marked as retracted.

Conclusions

The rate of retraction in the field of veterinary and animal health has increased by ~ 10-fold per 1000 articles since 1993, resulting primarily from increased publication misconduct, often by repeat offenders. Veterinary journals and society/institutional journals could benefit from improvement in the quality of retraction notices.
Fine particulate matter and polycystic ovarian morphology
Authors: Fruh Victoria , Cheng Jay Jojo , Aschengrau Ann , Mahalingaiah Shruthi , Lane Kevin J.
Published: February 2022

Background

Polycystic ovary morphology (PCOM) is an ultrasonographic finding that can be present in women with ovulatory disorder and oligomenorrhea due to hypothalamic, pituitary, and ovarian dysfunction. While air pollution has emerged as a possible disrupter of hormone homeostasis, limited research has been conducted on the association between air pollution and PCOM.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal cohort study using electronic medical records data of 5,492 women with normal ovaries at the first ultrasound that underwent a repeated pelvic ultrasound examination during the study period (2004–2016) at Boston Medical Center. Machine learning text algorithms classified PCOM by ultrasound. We used geocoded home address to determine the ambient annual average PM2.5 exposures and categorized into tertiles of exposure. We used Cox Proportional Hazards models on complete data (n = 3,994), adjusting for covariates, and additionally stratified by race/ethnicity and body mass index (BMI).

Results

Cumulative exposure to PM2.5 during the study ranged from 4.9 to 17.5 µg/m3 (mean = 10.0 μg/m3). On average, women were 31 years old and 58% were Black/African American. Hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI) comparing the second and third PM2.5 exposure tertile vs. the reference tertile were 1.12 (0.88, 1.43) and 0.89 (0.62, 1.28), respectively. No appreciable differences were observed across race/ethnicity. Among women with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2, we observed weak inverse associations with PCOM for the second (HR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.66, 1.33) and third tertiles (HR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.50, 1.57).

Conclusions

In this study of reproductive-aged women, we observed little association between PM2.5 concentrations and PCOM incidence. No dose response relationships were observed nor were estimates appreciably different across race/ethnicity within this clinically sourced cohort.
Exosomes as a new frontier of cancer liquid biopsy
Authors: Yu Dan , Li Yixin , Wang Maoye , Gu Jianmei , Xu Wenrong , Cai Hui , Fang Xinjian , Zhang Xu
Published: February 2022

Liquid biopsy, characterized by minimally invasive detection through biofluids such as blood, saliva, and urine, has emerged as a revolutionary strategy for cancer diagnosis and prognosis prediction. Exosomes are a subset of extracellular vesicles (EVs) that shuttle molecular cargoes from donor cells to recipient cells and play a crucial role in mediating intercellular communication. Increasing studies suggest that exosomes have a great promise to serve as novel biomarkers in liquid biopsy, since large quantities of exosomes are enriched in body fluids and are involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes. However, the further clinical application of exosomes has been greatly restrained by the lack of high-quality separation and component analysis methods. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview on the conventional and novel technologies for exosome isolation, characterization and content detection. Additionally, the roles of exosomes serving as potential biomarkers in liquid biopsy for the diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and prognosis prediction of cancer are summarized. Finally, the prospects and challenges of applying exosome-based liquid biopsy to precision medicine are evaluated.
NCAPG promotes the oncogenesis and progression of non-small cell lung cancer cells through upregulating LGALS1 expression
Authors: Sun Huanhuan , Zhang Hong , Yan Yan , Li Yushi , Che Gang , Zhou Cuiling , Nicot Christophe , Ma Haiqing
Published: February 2022

Background

Numerous common oncogenic driver events have been confirmed in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Although targeted therapy has revolutionized NSCLC treatment, some patients still do not respond. NCAPG, also known as non-SMC condensin I complex subunit G, was positively associated with proliferation and migration in several tumor types.

Methods

We used transcriptional sequencing and TCGA database analysis to identify NCAPG as a new therapeutic target for NSCLC. The oncogenic roles of NCAPG in NSCLC tumor growth and metastasis were detected in vitro and in vivo. Ncapg+/+ or Ncapg+/− mice with urethane treatment were analyzed for oncogenesis of NSCLC.

Results

We investigated NCAPG as a new oncogenic driver which promoted NSCLC tumorigenesis and progression. We used transcriptome sequencing and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database analysis to screen and found that NCAPG was negatively correlated with NSCLC survival. Using immunohistochemistry, we demonstrated that NCAPG overexpression was an independent risk factor for NSCLC survival. Functionally, NCAPG knockdown inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells in vitro and in vivo. We exposed wildtype or Ncapg+/− mice to urethane and discovered that urethane-induced lung tumors were reduced in Ncapg+/− mice. Mechanistically, the function of NCAPG in promoting initiation and progression of NSCLC was closely related to LGALS1, which was also upregulated in NSCLC and might interact directly with NCAPG.

Conclusions

This study indicates that NCAPG is one of the essential factors for NSCLC oncogenesis and progression, providing a new target for prognosis prediction and treatment of NSCLC.
Elevated expression of the rhythm gene NFIL3 promotes the progression of TNBC by activating NF-κB signaling through suppression of NFKBIA transcription
Authors: Yang Weiwei , Li Jing , Zhang Minghui , Yu Haichuan , Zhuang Yuan , Zhao Lingyu , Ren Lili , Gong Jinan , Bi Hongjie , Zeng Lixuan , Xue Yang , Yang Jinjin , Zhao Yan , Wang Shuoshuo , Gao Shuangshu , Fu Zitong , Li Dongze , Zhang Jinxing , Wang Tianzhen , Shan Ming , Tang Bo , Li Xiaobo
Published: February 2022

Background

Epidemiological studies have confirmed that abnormal circadian rhythms are associated with tumorigenesis in breast cancer. However, few studies have investigated the pathological roles of rhythm genes in breast cancer progression. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the aberrant expression of 32 rhythm genes in breast cancer and detect the pathological roles and molecular mechanisms of the altered rhythm gene in regulating the progression of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC).

Methods

The aberrant expression of rhythm genes in breast cancer was screened by searching the GEPIA database and validated by using qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry staining. Bioinformatics analysis combined with luciferase reporter experiment and chromatinimmunopercitation (ChIP) were used to investigate the molecular mechanism about aberrant expression of identified rhythm gene in breast cancer. The pathological roles of identified rhythm gene in TNBC progression was evaluated by colony formation assay, wound healing experiment, transwell assay, subcutaneous tumor formation and the mouse tail vein injection model through gain-of-function and loss-of-function strategies respectively. mRNA array, bioinformatics analysis, luciferase reporter experiment, ChIP and immunoflurescence assay were employed to investigate the key molecules and signaling pathways by which the identified rhythm gene regulating TNBC progression.

Results

We identified that nuclear factor interleukin 3 regulated (NFIL3) expression is significantly altered in TNBC compared with both normal breast tissues and other subtypes of breast cancer. We found that NFIL3 inhibits its own transcription, and thus, downregulated NFIL3 mRNA indicates high expression of NFIL3 protein in breast cancer. We demonstrated that NFIL3 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of TNBC cells in vitro and in vivo, and higher expression of NFIL3 is associated with poor prognosis of patients with TNBC. We further demonstrated that NFIL3 enhances the activity of NF-κB signaling. Mechanistically, we revealed that NFIL3 directly suppresses the transcription of NFKBIA, which blocks the activation of NF-κB and inhibits the progression of TNBC cells in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, we showed that enhancing NF-κB activity by repressing NFKBIA largely mimics the oncogenic effect of NFIL3 in TNBC, and anti-inflammatory strategies targeting NF-κB activity block the oncogenic roles of NFIL3 in TNBC.

Conclusion

NFIL3 promotes the progression of TNBC by suppressing NFKBIA transcription and then enhancing NF-κB signaling-mediated cancer-associated inflammation. This study may provide a new target for TNBC prevention and therapy.

Graphical Abstract
PLCG2 is associated with the inflammatory response and is induced by amyloid plaques in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Tsai Andy P. , Dong Chuanpeng , Lin Peter Bor-Chian , Messenger Evan J. , Casali Brad T. , Moutinho Miguel , Liu Yunlong , Oblak Adrian L. , Lamb Bruce T. , Landreth Gary E. , Bissel Stephanie J. , Nho Kwangsik
Published: February 2022

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by robust microgliosis and phenotypic changes that accompany disease pathogenesis. Accumulating evidence from genetic studies suggests the importance of phospholipase C γ 2 (PLCG2) in late-onset AD (LOAD) pathophysiology. However, the role ofPLCG2in AD is still poorly understood.

Methods

Using bulk RNA-Seq (N=1249) data from the Accelerating Medicines Partnership-Alzheimer’s Disease Consortium (AMP-AD), we investigated whetherPLCG2expression increased in the brains of LOAD patients. We also evaluated the relationship betweenPLCG2expression levels, amyloid plaque density, and expression levels of microglia specific markers (AIF1 and TMEM119). Finally, we investigated the longitudinal changes ofPLCG2expression in the 5xFAD mouse model of AD. To further understand the role ofPLCG2in different signaling pathways, differential gene expression and co-expression network analyses were performed using bulk RNA-Seq and microglial single-cell RNA-Seq data. To substantiate the human analyses, we performed differential gene expression analysis on wild-type (WT) and inactivatedPlcg2mice and used immunostaining to determine if the differentially expressed genes/pathways were altered by microglial cell coverage or morphology.

Results

We observed significant upregulation ofPLCG2expression in three brain regions of LOAD patients and significant positive correlation ofPLCG2expression with amyloid plaque density. These findings in the human brain were validated in the 5xFAD amyloid mouse model, which showed disease progression-dependent increases inPlcg2expression associated with amyloid pathology. Of note, increasedPlcg2expression levels in 5xFAD mice were abolished by reducing microglia. Furthermore, using bulk RNA-Seq data, we performed differential expression analysis by comparing cognitively normal older adults (CN) with 75th percentile (high) and 25th percentile (low)PLCG2gene expression levels to identify pathways related to inflammation and the inflammatory response. The findings in the human brain were validated by differential expression analyses between WT andplcg2inactivated mice.PLCG2co-expression network analysis of microglial single-cell RNA-Seq data identified pathways related to the inflammatory response including regulation of I-kappaB/NF-kappa B signaling and response to lipopolysaccharide.

Conclusions

Our results provide further evidence thatPLCG2plays an important role in AD pathophysiology and may be a potential target for microglia-targeted AD therapies.
Aggressive (deep) angiomyxoma of the vulva: a case report
Authors: Goyal Lajya Devi , Garg Priyanka , Badyal Rama , Bhalla Shivali
Published: February 2022

Background

Aggressive angiomyxoma of the vulva is a benign, slow-growing tumor originating from myxoid cells of connective tissue. The tumor is known for multiple local recurrences with a low tendency to metastasize. Only around 350 cases have been documented in the scientific literature so far.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 40-year-old North Indian, unmarried woman with a swelling on the left labium majora for 7 years, along with surface ulceration over the mass. Local examination showed a well-circumscribed, 8 × 8 cm pedunculated  mass arising from the left labium majora with an overlying ulcer measuring 6 cm × 4 cm. After taking informed written consent, wide local excision of the mass and surrounding margins was done under anesthesia. Histopathology was suggestive of aggressive angiomyxoma. Immunohistochemistry was done, which was positive for estrogen and progesterone receptors. Her postoperative recovery was uneventful. The patient was given three doses of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (injection, leuprolide 3.75 mg) once a month. No recurrence has been reported so far on follow-up visits for 1 year.

Conclusion

Aggressive angiomyxoma is one of the differential diagnoses for vulvovaginal growth in a female. As the tumor is well known for local recurrences, correct diagnosis and appropriate management using a multidisciplinary approach are crucial to managing such patients.
Talking Science: Undergraduates’ Everyday Conversations as Acts of Boundary Spanning That Connect Science to Local Communities
Authors: Shah Hana , Simeon Josue , Fisher Kathleen Quardokus , Eddy Sarah L.
Published: February 2022

Undergraduate biology majors are engaging in conversations about science with people in their personal networks. They engage in, and struggle with, translating science into common language and providing sufficient background information for laypeople to understand the concepts. Lack of credibility with their audiences was sometimes a problem.
Residual moveout in angle gathers for converted waves
Authors: Zhang Shukui , Lu Shaoping
Published: February 2022

Multicomponent seismic data have been increasingly collected, for example, with ocean-bottom node/cable surveys. Although the converted waves recorded in multicomponent seismic data have the potential to better illuminate the areas underneath complex structures than P-waves, they have not been widely used in depth imaging. Common industry practice is still limited to P-waves only mainly because the successful imaging of converted waves in prestack depth migration relies on accurate velocity models for P- and S-waves. However, the S-wave velocity model estimation via analysis of converted-wave moveout and tomography is still immature. We derive a general residual moveout (RMO) relation as a function of incident angle or as a reflection angle for converted waves, which can be used for converted-wave tomography based on angle-domain common-image gathers. Our derivation does not have certain limitations, such as slowly changing reflection angles or constant P/S-wave velocity ratios, as in existing algorithms available in the literature. Therefore, the proposed RMO equations are more accurate and can be helpful for S-wave velocity model building. The derived equations are validated using different numerical tests.
Enhancing body waves in passive seismic reflection exploration: A case study in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Fang Jie , Liu Yu , Liu Guofeng
Published: February 2022

Among all geophysical exploration methods, seismic exploration is undoubtedly the most important due to its ability to allow depth exploration at high resolutions. Traditionally speaking, the method needs an active seismic source, such as dynamite, to generate energy and perform reflection and refractions. An active source usually means high cost, and it also can be quite difficult to implement when surface conditions are particularly complex. The use of passive seismic for reflection exploration does not require an active seismic source. It has the potential of providing a low-cost alternative technique in some exploration areas. The main issues related to passive-source body-wave exploration include suppressing the surface waves retrieved from sources located at or near the surface, as well as enhancing the body waves from random sources at depth. We address these problems by developing a preprocessing workflow to suppress the surface waves and the other unwanted coherent noise events in the original data without seriously affecting the remaining body waves. We also propose a method for separating surface and body waves based on the signal-to-noise ratio of the frequency-domain signals. Next, we use crosscorrelation to generate virtual shot gathers, just like the active ones, and use conventional seismic data processing steps to generate the final seismic imaging. By analyzing the passive data set collected from Inner Mongolia, we have verified the applicability of the proposed method, and the retrieved final stack section indicates good consistency with an active seismic stack section along the same line. Accordingly, we assert that the application of this data processing method will contribute to the body-wave imaging and the inversion analysis of passive seismic records.
Homogenization of periodic structures: One layer is “bulk”
Authors: Hossain A. N. M. Shahriyar , Tsukerman Igor , Markel Vadim A.
Published: February 2022

In homogenization theories of periodic electromagnetic structures, such as photonic crystals or metamaterials, it is commonly assumed that the accuracy of the effective medium representation is affected by the thickness of the sample in two different ways. The first factor is the optical length (OL) of wave propagation within the sample. For a large OL, minor deviations in the wave number may strongly affect transmission and reflection. The second factor is the putative convergence to bulk characteristics (CB), once the number of layers in the sample has approached or passed a certain threshold. The theoretical analysis and numerical examples of this letter show that, while the OL influence is real, CB is not actually relevant; in a sense, one layer is already “bulk”.