bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secondary Achilles Tendon Repair After Calcaneal Exostectomy for Haglund Deformity Using a Unique Surgical Technique
Authors: Hoffler Hayden L. , Raymond Bryan , Neerings Brian D.
Published: May 2024

Calcaneal exostectomy with Achilles tendon reattachment and repair is a common procedure used to treat insertional Achilles tendonitis and Haglund deformity. This was first described by Haglund in the early 1900s. Calcaneal exostectomy with Achilles tendon reattachment and repair reduces pain by removing the spur on the back of the heel. We describe a less common operative technique utilizing a Krackow suture technique to create another failure point during the repair of the Achilles tendon.

Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level V. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Survey of hepatitis B virus infection for liver cancer screening in China: A population-based, cross-sectional study
Authors: Xu Yongjie , Xia Changfa , Li He , Cao Maomao , Yang Fan , Li Qianru , Cao Mengdi , Chen Wanqing
Published: May 2024

Background:

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the primary cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in China. The target population for HCC screening comprises individuals who test positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). However, current data on the prevalence of HBV infection among individuals who are eligible for HCC screening in China are lacking. We aimed to assess the seroepidemiology of HBV infection among Chinese individuals eligible for HCC screening to provide the latest evidence for appropriate HCC screening strategies in China.

Methods:

Questionnaires including information of sex, age, ethnicity, marital status, educational level, source of drinking water, as well as smoking and alcohol consumption history and serum samples were collected from females aged 45–64 years and males aged 35–64 years in 21 counties from 4 provinces in eastern and central China between 2015 and 2023. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods were used to detect the serum HBV marker HBsAg.

Results:

A total of 603,082 individuals were enrolled, and serum samples were collected for analysis from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2023. The prevalence of HBsAg positive in the study population was 5.23% (31,528/603,082). The prevalence of HBsAg positive was greater in males than in females (5.60% [17,660/315,183]vs. 4.82% [13,868/287,899], χ2 = 187.52,P <0.0001). The elderly participants exhibited a greater prevalence of HBV infection than younger participants (χ2 = 41.73,P <0.0001). Birth cohort analysis revealed an overall downward trend in HBV prevalence for both males and females. Individuals born in more recent cohorts exhibited a lower prevalence of HBV infection as compared to those born earlier.

Conclusions:

The current prevalence of HBV infection remains above 5% in populations eligible for HCC screening in China. Further efforts should be made to increase the accessibility of HCC screening among individuals with HBV infection.
Meta-Analysis of 5-Fraction Preoperative Radiotherapy for Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Authors: Mayo Zachary S. , Fan Cong , Jia Xuefei , Parker Sean M. , Kocsis Jenna , Shah Chirag S. , Scott Jacob G. , Campbell Shauna R.
Published: May 2024

Objectives:

Studies investigating preoperative 5-fraction radiation therapy (RT) for soft tissue sarcoma (STS) are limited. We performed a meta-analysis to determine the efficacy and safety of this treatment paradigm.

Methods:

This study-level meta-analysis was conducted using Bayesian methods. Statistical estimation for risk of outcome rates was conducted by posterior mean and 95% highest posterior density (HPD) intervals. Studies with 2-year local control (LC) and description of major wound complications (MWC) per the CAN-NCIC-SR2 study were included and served as the primary endpoints. Secondary endpoints included rates of acute and late toxicity. A total of 10 studies were identified and 7 met the inclusion criteria. Subgroup analyses were performed for ≥30 Gy vs <30 Gy.

Results:

A total of 209 patients from 7 studies were included. Five studies used ≥30 Gy (n=144), and 2 studies <30 Gy (n=64). Median follow-up was 29 months (range: 21 to 57 mo). Primary tumor location was lower extremity in 68% and upper extremity in 22%. Most tumors were intermediate or high grade (95%, 160/169), and 50% (79/158) were >10 cm. The two-year LC for the entire cohort was 96.9%, and the rate of MWC was 30.6%. There was a trend toward improved LC with ≥ 30 Gy (95% HPD: 0.95 to 0.99 vs 0.84 to 0.99). There was no difference in MWC (95% HPD: 0.18 to 0.42 vs 0.17 to 0.55) or late toxicity between the groups.

Conclusions:

Preoperative 5-fraction RT for STS demonstrates excellent 2-year LC with MWC and toxicity similar to standard fractionation preoperative RT. Multi-institutional trials with a universal RT protocol are warranted.
Associations between use of chemical hair products and epigenetic age: Findings from the Sister Study
Authors: Chang Che-Jung , O’Brien Katie M. , Kresovich Jacob K. , Nwanaji-Enwerem Jamaji C. , Xu Zongli , Gaston Symielle A. , Jackson Chandra L. , Sandler Dale P. , Taylor Jack A. , White Alexandra J.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Hair products may be a source of harmful chemicals and have been linked to age-related health outcomes. We investigated whether the use of hair products is related to epigenetic age in a sample of Black (both Hispanic and non-Hispanic) and non-Hispanic White women.

Methods:

In a subset of 4358 participants aged 35–74 years from the Sister Study, we estimated cross-sectional associations between self-reported use of four chemical hair products (permanent dye, semipermanent dye, straighteners/relaxers, and hair permanents/body waves) in the year before enrollment (2003–2009) and three DNA methylation-based measures of epigenetic age (DunedinPACE, GrimAge age acceleration [GrimAgeAccel], and PhenoAge age acceleration [PhenoAgeAccel]) using survey-weighted multivariable linear regressions. Associations were estimated both overall and by self-identified race and ethnicity, adjusting for chronological age, socioeconomic and lifestyle factors, body mass index, menopausal status, and DNA methylation platform.

Results:

Associations between the use of hair products and the three epigenetic age measures were largely null. Use of hair permanents/body waves was modestly associated with higher DunedinPACE among all participants (β
ever-never = 0.010; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.001, 0.019) and with lower PhenoAgeAccel among Black women (β
ever-never = −1.53; 95% CI = −2.84, −0.21).

Conclusion:

In this US-based study, we found little evidence of associations between chemical hair product use and epigenetic age in Black and non-Hispanic White women. Observed associations were modest and largely not supported by dose–response relationships or were inconsistent across epigenetic age measures. Previously observed associations between chemical hair product use and aging-related health outcomes may not be explained by the biological aging pathways captured by DunedinPACE, GrimAgeAccel, or PhenoAgeAccel. Alternative biological pathways are worth investigating in racially diverse samples.
Bremsstrahlung Dose Rate Kernels in Tissue
Authors: Boozer David L. , Hamby David M.
Published: May 2024

Radionuclides emitting high-energy beta rays are frequently employed for therapeutic purposes in the field of medicine. However, it is widely recognized that such radionuclides have the potential to generate in vivo bremsstrahlung radiation. This research study focused on investigating the dose rate of bremsstrahlung radiation emanating from a radioactive source embedded in a patient. To accomplish this, we estimate the spectral energy distribution of the generated bremsstrahlung. By employing this spectral distribution, we present a novel method for estimating the bremsstrahlung dose rate kernel applicable to a given combination of source and material. This method considers photon buildup and attenuation, as well as the encapsulation of the radiation source. Furthermore, we provide formulas for both monoenergetic electrons and beta-transition electrons that account for radioactive decay.
Rotational stability of toric intraocular lenses by lens model and haptic design: systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis
Authors: Li Eric S. , Vanderford Elliott K. , Xu Yunshan , Kang Paul C.
Published: May 2024

Rotational stability is key for optimizing postoperative visual outcomes because even a small degree of rotation of a toric intraocular lens (IOL) from its target axis can result in a significant reduction in astigmatic correction. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the rotational stability of toric IOLs of different lens models and haptic designs. All published studies and clinical trials that investigate postoperative rotation of toric IOLs were searched and evaluated. Quality of studies was assessed using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies scale. A single-arm meta-analysis was performed in R4.3.1 software with subgroup analysis performed based on lens model and haptic design. 51 published studies of 4863 eyes were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled mean absolute rotation of all toric IOLs was 2.36 degrees (95% CI, 2.08-2.64). Postoperative rotation is dependent on many aspects of lens material and design. Modern commercially available toric IOLs exhibit exceptional rotational stability.
Sustained Treatment Response and Global Improvements With Long-term Valbenazine in Patients With Tardive Dyskinesia
Authors: Correll Christoph U. , Citrome Leslie , Singer Carlos , Lindenmayer Jean-Pierre , Zinger Celia , Liang Grace , Dunayevich Eduardo , Marder Stephen R.
Published: May 2024

Purpose/Background

Using data from KINECT® 4, a phase 3, 48-week study of valbenazine, post hoc analyses were conducted to assess long-term outcomes that are relevant to the real-world management of tardive dyskinesia (TD).

Methods/Procedures

Post hoc analyses of the participants of the KINECT 4 study who completed 48 weeks of open-label valbenazine (40 or 80 mg) treatment were conducted. Valbenazine effects on TD were evaluated using the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS), Clinical Global Impression of Change—TD (CGI-TD), and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC).

Findings/Results

Of 103 participants completing 48 weeks of treatment, 55% experienced clinically meaningful improvement (defined as ≥2-point reduction in AIMS total score [sum of items 1–7, evaluated by site raters]) by week 4; at week 48, 97% met this threshold. The percentage of completers who achieved AIMS total score response thresholds of ≥10% to ≥90% increased over time, with 86% of completers reaching ≥50% improvement. Of the 40 (39%) completers with AIMS ≥50% response at week 8, 38 (95%) sustained this response at week 48; 81% of those who did not meet this threshold at week 8 had achieved it by week 48. At week 48, more than 85% of completers achieved CGI-TD and PGIC ratings of “much improved” or “very much improved.”

Implications/Conclusions

The majority of participants who completed 48 weeks of treatment with once-daily valbenazine experienced substantial clinically meaningful and sustained TD improvements. These findings indicate that valbenazine can be a highly effective long-term treatment in patients with TD.
Usefulness of fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green for evaluation of bowel perfusion in the urgency setting: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Rizzo Roberta , Vallicelli Carlo , Ansaloni Luca , Coccolini Federico , Fugazzola Paola , Sartelli Massimo , Agnoletti Vanni , Baiocchi Gian Luca , Catena Fausto
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green (ICG) has been extensively utilized to assess bowel perfusion in oncologic surgery. In the emergency setting, there are many situations in which bowel perfusion assessment is required. Large prospective studies or RCTs evaluating feasibility, safety and utility of ICG in the emergency setting are lacking. The primary aim is to assess the usefulness of ICG for evaluation of bowel perfusion in the emergency setting.

Materials and methods:

The manuscript was drafted following the recommendations of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement (PRISMA). A systematic literature search was carried out through Pubmed, Scopus, and the ISI Web of Science. Assessment of included study using the methodological index for nonrandomized studies (MINORS) was calculated. The meta-analysis was carried out in line with recommendations from the Cochrane Collaboration and Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines, and the Mantel–Haenszel random effects model was used to calculate effect sizes.

Results:

10 093 papers were identified. Eighty-four were reviewed in full-text, and 78 were excluded: 64 were case reports; 10 were reviews without original data; 2 were letters to the editor; and 2 contained unextractable data. Finally, six studies22-27 were available for quality assessment and quantitative synthesis. The probability of reoperation using ICG fluorescence angiography resulted similar to the traditional assessment of bowel perfusion with a RD was −0.04 (95% CI: −0.147 to 0.060). The results were statistically significant P=0.029, although the heterogeneity was not negligible with a 59.9% of the I
2 index. No small study effect or publication bias were found.

Conclusions:

This first metanalysis on the use of IGC fluorescence for ischemic bowel disease showed that this methodology is a safe and feasible tool in the assessment of bowel perfusion in the emergency setting. This topic should be further investigated in high-quality studies.
Rising sun or strangled in the cradle? A narrative review of near-infrared fluorescence imaging-guided surgery for pancreatic tumors
Authors: Chen Kang , Teng Xiong , Zhou Ning , Cheng Wei
Published: May 2024

Near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF)-guided surgical navigation has become a promising and effective detection method in pancreatic tumor surgery. The imaging technique has gradually transitioned from the NIR-I region to the NIR-II region. Real-time assessment of the tumor boundary and determination of the ideal resection plane are essential for preserving the pancreatic parenchyma and its secretory functions. However, since the pancreatic parenchyma has a less rich blood supply than the liver, the application of contrast agents in pancreatic tumor surgery is still in its infancy. The application of indocyanine green (ICG) and methylene blue (MB) in intraoperative NIRF imaging of pancreatic tumors has become more mature, but due to the characteristics of nonspecific imaging, the imaging efficiency and depth need to be improved. Many tumor-specific imaging agents have been designed, but most of them have not gone past animal trials because of their high development and imaging costs, biotoxicity, and other limitations. In this article, we review recent reports of ICG, MB, and newly developed contrast agents and imaging devices. We focus on the current status and new developments in the application of these contrast agents and summarize the current clinical and preclinical studies on specific contrast agents. We synthesize relevant reports to discuss the difficulties and prospects of the application of fluorescent imaging agents in pancreatic tumors. We hope that reviewing previous studies and the current progress on contrast imaging technology will provide new perspectives for its future application and development in pancreatic tumor surgery, which should translate into better patient prognoses. The manuscript was written according to the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles (SANRA).
Hepatic artery restriction operation combined with ALPPS (HARO-ALPPS), a novel ALPPS procedure for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with severe fibrosis: retrospective clinical cohort study
Authors: Wen Zhang , Jin Zongrui , Xu Banghao , Zhu Hai , Wang Jilong , Chen Weitao , Zhang Jianyong , Huang Keyu , Lan Zhujing , Meng Bingcheng , Mao Weimin , Zhu Huaitao , Zhang Ling , Lu Tingting , Zeng Jingjing , Bao Li , Lau Wan Ye , Guo Ya
Published: May 2024

Background:

Associating liver partition with portal vein ligation for staged liver resection (ALPPS) has been used in the treatment of patients with advanced or massive liver cancer without sufficient future liver remnant, but concerns remain regarding tumor outcomes and surgical safety. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new procedure, hepatic artery restriction operation combined with ALPPS (HARO-ALPPS), in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients especially with severe fibrosis.

Methods:

This retrospective study analyzed 8 patients who underwent HARO-ALPPS for HCC and compared their outcomes with 64 patients who underwent conventional ALPPS. The primary outcomes assessed were liver regeneration ability (measured by relative and absolute kinetic growth rates), postoperative complications, and mortality. The secondary outcomes included overall survival and disease-free survival.

Results:

HARO-ALPPS significantly restricted the blood supply of the hepatic artery. One week after surgery, the blood flow of the right hepatic artery dropped to 62.1%. At the same time, HARO-ALPPS shows superior liver regeneration ability, which is particularly prominent in the background of liver fibrosis. No serious complications occurred after HARO-ALPPS. The overall survival rate of HARO-ALPPS was 75%, which was higher than that of ALPPS (64%, P=0.816).

Conclusion:

Compared to conventional ALPPS, HARO-ALPPS exhibits a better liver regeneration ability, and favorable long-term outcomes. Further prospective studies are needed to validate these findings and evaluate the long-term oncologic outcomes of this novel procedure.
Clinical status and future prospects of neoadjuvant immunotherapy for localized mismatch repair-deficient cancers: a review
Authors: Li Jian
Published: May 2024

Frameshift mutations accumulate in cancers related to mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR), which has the potential to produce various neoantigens, representing a distinct subset of cancers that respond considerably to immunotherapy. In recent years, robust evidence has supported the first-line application of immunotherapy for patients with metastatic dMMR cancers, which provoked extensive investigations of the feasibility and efficacy of immunotherapy in up-front settings, including neoadjuvant therapy. Several completed trials with small sample sizes suggested that neoadjuvant immunotherapy can achieve an impressively high complete response rate, for the first time offering the potential of systemic therapy to cure cancer without the need for surgical resection. However, a difficult dilemma emerges: clinicians are now facing a selection between the standard of care with good evidence for proficient MMR but suboptimal for dMMR cancers and the emerging immunotherapy with promising results but only based on a limited number of patients with shorter duration of follow-up. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the biological rationale and clinical status of neoadjuvant immunotherapy in patients with dMMR cancers. Furthermore, I elaborate on particular issues that must be taken into consideration for further advancement in the field.
Linking Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling to Device-Induced Platelet Defects in Mechanically Assisted Circulation
Authors: Zhang Jiafeng , Han Dong , Chen Zengsheng , Wang Shigang , Sun Wenji , Griffith Bartley P. , Wu Zhongjun J.
Published: May 2024

Thrombotic and bleeding events are the most common hematologic complications in patients with mechanically assisted circulation and are closely related to device-induced platelet dysfunction. In this study, we sought to link computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling of blood pumps with device-induced platelet defects. Fresh human blood was circulated in circulatory loops with four pumps (CentriMag, HVAD, HeartMate II, and CH-VAD) operated under a total of six clinically representative conditions. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa activation and receptor shedding of GPIbα and GPVI. In parallel, CFD modeling was performed to characterize the blood flow in these pumps. Numerical indices of platelet defects were derived from CFD modeling incorporating previously derived power-law models under constant shear conditions. Numerical results were correlated with experimental results by regression analysis. The results suggested that a scalar shear stress of less than 75 Pa may have limited contribution to platelet damage. The platelet defect indices predicted by the CFD power-law models after excluding shear stress <75 Pa correlated excellently with experimentally measured indices. Although numerical prediction based on the power-law model cannot directly reproduce the experimental data. The power-law model has proven its effectiveness, especially for quantitative comparisons.
Factors associated with depression in patients undergoing rehabilitation for chronic pain: a cross-sectional analytical study at a referral hospital in Peru
Authors: De la Cerna-Luna Roger , Fernandez-Guzman Daniel , Machicado-Chipana Ines , Martinez-Zapata Vanessa , Serna-Chavez Paola , Paz-Cuellar Katherine
Published: May 2024

Despite the well-known impact of depression on patients with chronic pain and its association, few studies have evaluated its related factors in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation settings. The objective of the present study was to assess the factors associated with depression in adult patients undergoing rehabilitation for chronic pain at Hospital Rebagliati (HNERM) in Peru. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted between June and August 2023, involving 212 adult patients with chronic pain undergoing rehabilitation at HNERM. Data were collected through a survey, including sociodemographic information, pain characteristics, and depression assessment using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and generalized linear models to identify factors associated with depression. Among 212 participants, 17.9% had a depression diagnosis based on the PHQ-9 (cutoff score: 10 points). Factors associated with a higher frequency of depression included a time since pain diagnosis of 3–6 months [adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR): 1.15, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04–1.27], severe pain (aPR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.04–1.32), comorbidities (for 1: aPR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.08–1.35; for 2: aPR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.06–1.29; for ≥3: aPR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.10–1.47), use of ≥2 medications for pain management (aPR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.13–1.42), and receipt of psychological therapy (aPR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.09–1.46). Nonpharmacological interventions did not show an association with an increased prevalence of depression. These findings underscore the significance of adopting a comprehensive approach to chronic pain management, including the screening, assessment, and treatment of associated depression.
A Call for Nurses to Become Media Competent
Authors: Ferren Melora D.
Published: May 2024

In this column, Barbara Glickstein, a public health nurse, health reporter, and media strategist, shares insights about nurses' involvement and engagement in the media. She founded “Barbara Glickstein Strategies,” a company that trains healthcare leaders to become media competent to advance population health and public policy.
Inspiring High School Students to Be Future Nurses
Authors: Kolcun Kaitlyn , Susi Sarah , Muredzwa Rachel
Published: May 2024

As an outreach recruitment endeavor, a hospital system and an affiliated college of nursing collaborated to host an immersive nursing learning experience for diverse high school participants. The program included hospital tours, speakers, educational games, and wellness activities to promote pursual of nursing as a future career path. The authors describe details of the development of the program, lessons learned, program outcomes, and implications for future programs and applicability in different settings.
Baseline and on Treatment Biodistribution Variability of 18F-FLT Uptake in Patients With Advanced Melanoma: Brief Communication
Authors: van der Hiel Bernies , Aalbersberg Else A. , van den Eertwegh Alfons J.M. , Fischer Jitha , Boellaard Ronald , de Vos Filip Y.F.L. , Boers-Sonderen Marye J. , Stokkel Marcel P.M. , de Wit- van der Veen Linda J. , Haanen John B.A.G.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This prospective study evaluates the biodistribution of 18F-FLT PET in patients with advanced melanoma before and after treatment with BRAF/MEK inhibitors.

Patients and Methods

Eighteen BRAF-positive unresectable stage IIIc or IV melanoma patients referred for 18F-FLT PET/CT before (BL) and during (D14) BRAF/MEK inhibition were included. 18F-FLT accumulation in the liver, bone marrow, blood, and muscle was quantified.

Results

Baseline interpatient 18F-FLT uptake had a coefficient-of-variation between 17.5% and 21.5%. During treatment, liver uptake increased (SUVmeanBL = 4.86 ± 0.98, SUVmeanD14 = 6.31 ± 1.36, P < 0.001) and bone marrow uptake decreased (SUVmeanBL = 7.67 ± 1.65, SUVmeanD14 = 6.78 ± 1.19, P < 0.025). Both changes were unrelated to baseline metabolic tumor volume or tumor response.

Conclusions

To assess 18F-FLT PET, both liver and bone marrow uptake may be used as normal tissue references at baseline, but 18F-FLT biodistribution significantly changes in longitudinal response studies when treated with BRAF/MEK inhibitors.
Beard Contamination With 131I Diagnosed by SPECT/CT in a Patient With Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Makarewicz Jacek , Rudzki Jan
Published: May 2024

Abnormal focal accumulation of 131I is generally a reliable indicator of differentiated thyroid cancer metastases. However, many examples of false-positive 131I uptake were reported, some of them of unusual nature. We report a case of 32-year-old man with differentiated thyroid cancer who underwent thyroid remnants ablation with radioiodine. An area of considerable 131I uptake projecting onto lateral cervical areas was detected on posttherapy planar whole-body scan. Neck SPECT/CT scan was done to elucidate localization of the uptake, and activity was found in the patient’s beard.
Thoracic SMARCA4-Deficient Undifferentiated Tumor Mimicking a Pleural Mesothelioma on 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Chen Xueqi , Chen Guoqian , Li Qian , Fu Zhanli
Published: May 2024

A 72-year-old woman, who was a nonsmoker, presented with chest distress persisting for over 10 days. Plain chest CT revealed thickening of the left pleura accompanied by hydrothorax. Subsequent 18F-FDG PET/CT showed irregular thickening involving the visceral, parietal, and interlobular pleura on the left side, with diffuse high avidity of 18F-FDG. The left pleural mesothelioma was suspected initially, but pathological examination from biopsied specimen later confirmed a thoracic SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated tumor.
68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT Detected Bone Metastasis Earlier Than 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT and 99mTc-MDP Bone Scintigraphy in a Patient With Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Zheng Jieling , Zhu Hongxu , Shao Zezhong , Miao Weibing
Published: May 2024

A 53-year-old man with newly diagnosed nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) underwent 99mTc-MDP bone scintigraphy for the potential bone metastases, and paired 68Ga-DOTATATE and 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT for initial staging. 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT identified 2 abnormal foci with increased tracer uptake in the cervical vertebra and the ilium, whereas 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT and bone scan detected only the ilium lesion. A subsequent biopsy confirmed NPC metastasis in the ilium. Furthermore, baseline and follow-up bone scintigraphy revealed that the positive lesion in the cervical vertebra, as indicated in 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT, was also a bone metastasis. This case highlighted the potential superiority of 68Ga-DOTATATE in NPC.
Pediatric Head and Neck Dog Bites in the United States: A NEISS Database Investigation of Risk Factors and Escalation of Care
Authors: Peifer Sophia J. , LoTurco Holly , Duffield Stuart J. , Zhang Karen , Javier Nadine , Herman Bjorn
Published: May 2024

Pediatric patients experience increased morbidity secondary to head and neck dog bites. The authors examined risk factors among pediatric head and neck dog bite patients and which factors are associated with admission to inform prevention efforts. All patients who suffered head and neck dog bites from 2013-2022 in the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database were reviewed. Demographics among discharged and escalation of care (EOC) patients were compared using multinomial logistic regression (MLR), and linear regression was employed to analyze yearly emergency room (ER) visit incidence. Among 949 pediatric patients, 57.2% were male, 43.4% were 2–6 years old, and 77.7% sustained face or mouth injuries. Attacks were commonly provoked (60.5%), occurred in the home (82.3%), and involved a dog known to the patient (61.7%). The most common dog breed involved was Pitbull (33.1%). MLR revealed increased EOC among patients with neck injury (OR=11.82, SE=0.68, P<0.001), orbital injury (OR=12.91, SE=0.55, P<0.001), unprovoked attacks (OR=2.67, SE=0.16, P<0.001), and those under 2 years old (OR=1.83, SE=0.19, P=0.002). There was a significant yearly rise in the number of pediatric head and neck dog bites (model coefficient=6.467, SE=1.40, P=0.002). Overall, increased caution around particular dog breeds in households with children under 2 years old may decrease head and neck dog bite injuries. While pediatricians should perform general safety education, enhanced knowledge of risk factors is essential for proper inpatient counseling by surgical specialists.
Mechanism matters: Differential benefits of cold-stored whole blood for trauma resuscitation from a prospective multicenter study
Authors: Dilday Joshua , Gallagher Shea , Matsushima Kazuhide , Schellenberg Morgan , Inaba Kenji , Hazelton Joshua P. , Oh John , Gurney Jennifer , Martin Matthew ,   the EAST Whole Blood Multicenter Collaborative
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Resuscitation with cold-stored low-titre whole blood (LTOWB) has increased despite the paucity of robust civilian data. Most studies are in predominately blunt trauma and lack analysis of specific subgroups or mechanism of injury. We sought to compare outcomes between patients receiving LTOWB versus balanced component therapy (BCT) after blunt (BL) and penetrating (PN) trauma.

METHODS

Secondary analysis of a prospective multicenter study of patients receiving either LTWOB-containing or BCT resuscitation was performed. Patients were grouped by mechanism of injury (BL vs. PN). A generalized estimated equations model using inverse probability of treatment weighting was employed. Primary outcome was mortality and secondary outcomes were acute kidney injury, venous thromboembolism, pulmonary complications, and bleeding complications. Additional analyses were performed on no-traumatic brain injury (TBI), severe torso injury, and LTOWB-only resuscitation patients.

RESULTS

There were 1,617 patients (BL 47% vs PN 54%) identified; 1,175 (73%) of which received LTOWB. PN trauma patients receiving LTOWB demonstrated improved survival compared to BCT (77% vs. 56%; p < 0.01). Interval survival was higher at 6 hours (95% vs. 88%), 12 hours (93% vs. 80%), and 24 hours (88% vs. 57%) (all p < 0.05). The survival benefit following LTOWB was also seen across PN non-TBI (83% vs. 52%), and severe torso injuries (75% vs. 43%) (all p < 0.05). After controlling for age, sex, injury severity, and trauma center, LTWOB was associated with decreased odds of death (odds ratio, 0.31, p < 0.05) in PN trauma. However, no difference in overall mortality was seen across the BL groups. Both PN and BL patients receiving LTOWB had more frequent acute kidney injury compared to BCT (19% vs. 7% and 12% vs 6%, respectively; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Low-titre whole blood resuscitation was independently associated with decreased mortality following PN trauma, but not BL trauma. Further analysis in BL trauma is required to identify subgroups that may demonstrate survival benefit.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level III.
Anthropogenic disturbance affects calling and collective behaviour in corvid roosts
Authors: Broad Hannah R. , Dibnah Alex J. , Smith Anna E. , Thornton Alex
Published: May 2024

Acoustic communication plays an important role in coordinating group dynamics and collective movements across a range of taxa. However, anthropogenic disturbance can inhibit the production or reception of acoustic signals. Here, we investigate the effects of noise and light pollution on the calling and collective behaviour of wild jackdaws (
Corvus monedula
), a highly social corvid species that uses vocalizations to coordinate collective movements at winter roosting sites. Using audio and video monitoring of roosts in areas with differing degrees of urbanization, we evaluate the influence of anthropogenic disturbance on vocalizations and collective movements. We found that when levels of background noise were higher, jackdaws took longer to settle following arrival at the roost in the evening and also called more during the night, suggesting that human disturbance may cause sleep disruption. High levels of overnight calling were, in turn, linked to disruption of vocal consensus decision-making and less cohesive group departures in the morning. These results raise the possibility that, by affecting cognitive and perceptual processes, human activities may interfere with animals’ ability to coordinate collective behaviour. Understanding links between anthropogenic disturbance, communication, cognition and collective behaviour must be an important research priority in our increasingly urbanized world.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘The power of sound: unravelling how acoustic communication shapes group dynamics’.
Group vocal composition and decision-making during roost finding in Spix’s disk-winged bats
Authors: Sagot Maria , Rose Nicole , Chaverri Gloriana
Published: May 2024

Theoretical work suggests that having many informed individuals within social groups can promote efficient resource location. However, it may also give rise to group fragmentation if members fail to reach consensus on their direction of movement. In this study, we investigate whether the number of informed individuals, exemplified by bats emitting calls from different roosts, influences group cohesion in Spix’s disk-winged bats (
Thyroptera tricolor
). Additionally, we explore the role of signal reliability, quantified through signalling rates, in group consensus on where to roost. These bats use contact calls to announce the location of a roost site and recruit conspecifics. The groups they form exhibit high levels of cohesion and consist of both vocal and non-vocal bats, with vocal behaviour being consistent over time. Our findings revealed that an increase in the number of roosts broadcasting calls is strongly associated with the likelihood of groups fragmenting among multiple roosts. Additionally, we found that a majority of group members enter the roost with higher calling rates. This phenomenon can mitigate the risk of group fragmentation, as bats emitting more calls may contribute to greater group consensus on roosting locations, thereby reducing the likelihood of individuals separating and enhancing overall group cohesion. Our results highlight the potential costs of having too many information producers for group coordination, despite their established role in finding critical resources.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘The power of sound: unravelling how acoustic communication shapes group dynamics’.
The ecology of zebra finch song and its implications for vocal communication in multi-level societies
Authors: Loning Hugo , Griffith Simon C. , Naguib Marc
Published: May 2024

Acoustic signalling is crucial in affecting movements and in social interactions. In species with dynamic social structures, such as multi-level societies, acoustic signals can provide a key mechanism allowing individuals to identify and find or avoid each other and to exchange information. Yet, if the spacing between individuals regularly exceeds the maximum signalling range, the relation between movements and signals becomes more complex. As the best-studied songbird in captivity, the zebra finch (
Taeniopygia castanotis
) is a species with individually distinct songs that are audible over just a few metres and a widely ranging dynamic multi-level social organization in the wild, raising questions on the actual role of its song in social cohesion and coordination. Here, we provide an overview of birdsong in social organizations (networks) and use the ecology of the zebra finch and male song to discuss how singing can facilitate social cohesion and coordination in species where the signal range is very short. We raise the question of the extent to which zebra finches are a representative species to understand the function of song in communication, and we broaden current views on the function of birdsong and its individual signature.

This article is part of the theme issue 'The power of sound: unravelling how acoustic communication shapes group dynamics'.
Identification of anaerobic and aerobic bacteria that can be associated with DFI and their therapeutic in Elnaw teaching hospital
Authors: Ahmed Fathi Sharief , Ibrahim Hiba Siddig , Saeed Mohammed Ibrahim
Published: May 2024

Diabetic foot infection (DFI) is one of the diabetic complications that show a higher concern in the public health especially in developing countries. Globally, adults with diabetes represent 463 million in 2019 according to the International Diabetes Federation.
The main aim of this study was to identify the anaerobic and aerobic bacteria that causing DFI and their therapeutic regimen on diabetic patients in diabetic clinic room in Elnaw teaching hospital - Khartoum state.
The study showed that there was no infection by anaerobic organism and the most frequently isolated organisms were  gram negative rods (70%)  which represents (65%) on diabetic patients.
The commonest isolated organism was S.aureus (30%) followed by E.coli (25%) in control group (non-diabetic), while Klebsiella.spp and S.aureus with (20%) for each; were isolated from the clinic room swabs.
Early diagnosis, optimal management and effective antibiotic therapy are necessary to prevent DFI and amputation.
Clinical and genomic features of a Listeria monocytogenes fatal case of meningitis in Madagascar
Authors: Rasoanandrasana Saïda , RABENANDRASANA Mamitina Alain Noah , Ravaoharisoa Lucia Mélanie , Randrianaivo Narindra , Rahajamanana Vonintsoa Lalaina , Rakotovao-Ravahatra’ Zafindrasoa Domoina , Moura Alexandra , Lecuit Marc , Rakotovao Andriamiadana Luc
Published: May 2024

Listeriosis constitutes a significant public health threat due to its high mortality rate. This study investigates the microbiological and genomic characteristics of Listeria monocytogenes isolates in Madagascar, where listeriosis is a notifiable disease. The analysis focuses on a fatal case of meningeal listeriosis in a 12-year-old child. Genomic analysis revealed a novel cgMLST type (L2-SL8-ST8-CT11697; CC8, serogroup Iia) with typical virulence and antibiotic resistance profiles. These isolates, unique to Madagascar, formed an independent clade in the phylogenetic tree. This study presents the first genomic characterization of Listeria isolates in Madagascar, highlighting the necessity of ongoing genomic surveillance to strengthen listeriosis prevention and control strategies in the region.
Bacteriological profile of community peritonitis operated in a Moroccan Hospital
Authors: BAZHAR SAMIA , Benaissa Elmostafa , Ziad Fatima , Laamara Leila , Ben Lahlou Yassine , Chadli Mariama , Elouennass Mostafa
Published: May 2024

Introduction. Peritonitis is characterized by acute inflammation of the peritoneum, often resulting from digestive organ perforation or intra-abdominal septic focus. It may be either of infectious or noninfectious origin. The germs involved are those of the digestive flora (Enterobacteriaceae and Anaerobic), while gram-positive cocci and yeasts can be isolated in nosocomial infections. Our study aims to isolate and identify the germs involved in community-acquired peritonitis, in order to assess their susceptibility to the antibiotics available in our Country.
 
Methods. This is a retrospective study of bacteriological profile of community peritonitis in Rabat Morocco. A total of 150 adult patients with peritonitis, were admitted and samples were collected intraoperatively for bacteriological examination between July 1, 2022 and April 30, 2023.
 
Results. Among the 150 patients, 101 (67.8%) were males and 48 (32.2%) were females, with sex/ratio of 2.1. The mean age of the patients was 40.5 years +/- 20.12. The distribution of germs was dominated by Escherichia coli (44%). Overall, 70% of Escherichia coli isolated, had a resistance to Ampicillin but no resistance to Ampicillin has been reported by Enterococcus.
 
Discussion. In the present study, we were interested in the bacteriological profile of community peritonitis, in order to adapt the antibiotic therapy to our bacterial ecology. 
Our findings indicate a concerning trend of increasing resistance among Escherichia coli to the commonly used Amoxicillin/Clavulanic Acid combination in our clinical setting.
 
Conclusion. Consequently, there is a need to reassess the empiric antibiotic prescribed for the management of community-acquired peritonitis.
Haplotype determination of the Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus by Nanopore sequencing and linkage of single nucleotide variants
Authors: Wennmann Jörg T. , Lim Fang-Shiang , Senger Sergei , Gani Mudasir , Jehle Johannes A. , Keilwagen Jens
Published: May 2024

Naturally occurring isolates of baculoviruses, such as the Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV), usually consist of numerous genetically different haplotypes. Deciphering the different haplotypes of such isolates is hampered by the large size of the dsDNA genome, as well as the short read length of next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques that are widely applied for baculovirus isolate characterization. In this study, we addressed this challenge by combining the accuracy of NGS to determine single nucleotide variants (SNVs) as genetic markers with the long read length of Nanopore sequencing technique. This hybrid approach allowed the comprehensive analysis of genetically homogeneous and heterogeneous isolates of BmNPV. Specifically, this allowed the identification of two putative major haplotypes in the heterogeneous isolate BmNPV-Ja by SNV position linkage. SNV positions, which were determined based on NGS data, were linked by the long Nanopore reads in a Position Weight Matrix. Using a modified Expectation–Maximization algorithm, the Nanopore reads were assigned according to the occurrence of variable SNV positions by machine learning. The cohorts of reads were de novo assembled, which led to the identification of BmNPV haplotypes. The method demonstrated the strength of the combined approach of short- and long-read sequencing techniques to decipher the genetic diversity of baculovirus isolates.
Atp1a2 and Kcnj9 are candidate genes underlying sensitivity to oxycodone-induced locomotor activation and withdrawal-induced anxiety-like behaviors in C57BL/6 substrains
Authors: Goldberg Lisa R , Baskin Britahny M , Adla Yahia , Beierle Jacob A , Kelliher Julia C , Yao Emily J , Kirkpatrick Stacey L , Reed Eric R , Jenkins David F , Cox Jiayi , Luong Alexander M , Luttik Kimberly P , Scotellaro Julia A , Drescher Timothy A , Crotts Sydney B , Yazdani Neema , Ferris Martin T. R , Johnson William Evan , Mulligan Megan K , Bryant Camron D
Published: May 2024

Opioid use disorder is heritable, yet its genetic etiology is largely unknown. C57BL/6J and C57BL/6NJ mouse substrains exhibit phenotypic diversity in the context of limited genetic diversity which together can facilitate genetic discovery. Here, we found C57BL/6NJ mice were less sensitive to oxycodone (OXY)-induced locomotor activation versus C57BL/6J mice in a conditioned place preference paradigm. Narrow-sense heritability was estimated at 0.22-0.31, implicating suitability for genetic analysis. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping in an F2 cross identified a chromosome 1 QTL explaining 7-12% of the variance in OXY locomotion and anxiety-like withdrawal in the elevated plus maze. A second QTL for EPM withdrawal behavior on chromosome 5 near Gabra2 (alpha-2 subunit of GABA-A receptor) explained 9% of the variance. To narrow the chromosome 1 locus, we generated recombinant lines spanning 163-181 Mb, captured the QTL for OXY locomotor traits and withdrawal, and fine-mapped a 2.45-Mb region (170.16-172.61 Mb). Transcriptome analysis identified five, localized striatal cis-eQTL transcripts and two were confirmed at the protein level (KCNJ9, ATP1A2). Kcnj9 codes for a potassium channel (GIRK3) that is a major effector of mu opioid receptor signaling. Atp1a2 codes for a subunit of a Na+/K+ ATPase enzyme that regulates neuronal excitability and shows functional adaptations following chronic opioid administration. To summarize, we identified two candidate genes underlying the physiological and behavioral properties of opioids, with direct preclinical relevance to investigators employing these widely used substrains and clinical relevance to human genetic studies of opioid use disorder.
Pan-cancer Analysis of Homologous Recombination Deficiency in Cell Lines
Authors: Dodson Anne E. , Shenker Sol , Sullivan Pamela , Middleton Chris , McGuire Michael , Chipumuro Edmond , Mishina Yuji , Tobin Erica , Cadzow Louise , Wylie Andrew A. , Sangurdekar Dipen
Published: May 2024

Homologous Recombination Deficiency (HRD) drives genomic instability in multiple cancer types and renders tumors vulnerable to certain DNA damaging agents such as PARP inhibitors. Thus, HRD is emerging as an attractive biomarker in oncology. A variety of in silico methods are available for predicting HRD; however, few of these methods have been applied to cell lines in a comprehensive manner. Here we utilized two of these methods, “CHORD” and “HRDsum” scores, to predict HRD for 1,332 cancer cell lines and 84 non-cancerous cell lines. Cell lines with biallelic mutations inBRCA1orBRCA2, which encode key components of the homologous recombination pathway, showed the strongest HRD predictions, validating the two methods in cell lines. A small subset ofBRCA1/2-wildtype cell lines were also classified as HRD, several of which showed evidence of epigeneticBRCA1silencing. Similar to HRD in patient samples, HRD in cell lines was associated with p53 loss, was mutually exclusive with microsatellite instability and occurred most frequently in breast and ovarian cancer types. In addition to validating previously identified associations with HRD, we leveraged cell line-specific datasets to gain new insights into HRD and its relation to various genetic dependency and drug sensitivity profiles. We found that in cell lines, HRD was associated with sensitivity to PARP inhibition in breast cancer, but not at a pan-cancer level. By generating large-scale, pan-cancer datasets on HRD predictions in cell lines, we aim to facilitate efforts to improve our understanding of HRD and its utility as a biomarker.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Homologous Recombination Deficiency (HRD) is common in cancer and can be exploited therapeutically, as it sensitizes cells to DNA damaging agents. Here we scored over 1,300 cancer cell lines for HRD using two different bioinformatic approaches, thereby enabling large-scale analyses that provide insight into the etiology and features of HRD.