bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting prostate cancer grade reclassification on active surveillance using a deep learning–based grading algorithm
Authors: Ding Chien-Kuang C , Su Zhuo Tony , Erak Erik , Oliveira Lia De Paula , Salles Daniela C , Jing Yuezhou , Samanta Pranab , Bonthu Saikiran , Joshi Uttara , Kondragunta Chaith , Singhal Nitin , De Marzo Angelo M , Trock Bruce J , Pavlovich Christian P , de la Calle Claire M , Lotan Tamara L
Published: June 2024

Deep learning (DL)–based algorithms to determine prostate cancer (PCa) Grade Group (GG) on biopsy slides have not been validated by comparison to clinical outcomes. We used a DL-based algorithm, AIRAProstate, to regrade initial prostate biopsies in 2 independent PCa active surveillance (AS) cohorts. In a cohort initially diagnosed with GG1 PCa using only systematic biopsies (n = 138), upgrading of the initial biopsy to ≥GG2 by AIRAProstate was associated with rapid or extreme grade reclassification on AS (odds ratio = 3.3, P = .04), whereas upgrading of the initial biopsy by contemporary uropathologist reviews was not associated with this outcome. In a contemporary validation cohort that underwent prostate magnetic resonance imaging before initial biopsy (n = 169), upgrading of the initial biopsy (all contemporary GG1 by uropathologist grading) by AIRAProstate was associated with grade reclassification on AS (hazard ratio = 1.7, P = .03). These results demonstrate the utility of a DL-based grading algorithm in PCa risk stratification for AS.
The survival benefit associated with complete macroscopic resection in epithelial ovarian cancer is histotype specific
Authors: Porter Joanna M , McFarlane Iona , Bartos Clare , Churchman Michael , May James , Herrington C Simon , Connolly Kathryn C , Ryan Neil A J , Hollis Robert L
Published: June 2024

Background

Complete macroscopic resection is a key factor associated with prolonged survival in ovarian cancer. However, most evidence derives from high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma, and the benefit of complete macroscopic resection in other histotypes is poorly characterized. We sought to determine which histotypes derive the greatest benefit from complete macroscopic resection to better inform future decisions on radical cytoreductive efforts.

Methods

We performed multivariable analysis of disease-specific survival across 2 independent patient cohorts to determine the magnitude of benefit associated with complete macroscopic resection within each histotype.

Results

Across both cohorts (Scottish: n = 1622; Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results [SEER]: n = 18 947), complete macroscopic resection was associated with prolonged disease-specific survival; this was more marked in the Scottish cohort (multivariable hazard ratio [HR] = 0.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.37 to 0.52 vs HR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.57 to 0.62 in SEER). In both cohorts, clear cell ovarian carcinoma was among the histotypes to benefit most from complete macroscopic resection (multivariable HR = 0.23 and HR = 0.50 in Scottish and SEER cohorts, respectively); high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma patients demonstrated highly statistically significant and clinically meaningful survival benefit, but this was of lower magnitude than in clear cell ovarian carcinoma and endometrioid ovarian carcinoma across both cohorts. The benefit derived in low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma is also high (multivariable HR = 0.27 in Scottish cohort). Complete macroscopic resection was associated with prolonged survival in mucinous ovarian carcinoma patients in the SEER cohort (multivariable HR = 0.65), but the association failed to reach statistical significance in the Scottish cohort.

Conclusions

The overall ovarian cancer patient population demonstrates clinically significant survival benefit associated with complete macroscopic resection; however, the magnitude of benefit differs between histotypes.
The profession that came in from the cold: Trust and distrust in espionage
Authors: Božič Branko , Keston-Siebert Sabina
Published: June 2024

Trust and distrust are important elements of the fiduciary relationship in the professions. Whether to trust or to distrust someone is a decision that has real consequences for success or failure of secret operations in undercover policing, in fraud investigation, or in audit. In this article, we focus on the spying profession as an extreme context in which we attempt to answer the question: how do spies navigate the trust/distrust dynamic in their work? The world of spies has often been out of bounds for those studying the professions and given that field studies in this context are extremely difficult, we analyzed biographies and autobiographies of secret agents. Based on our analysis, we identified different functions of trust and distrust: trust can be used as an instrument of manipulation and an option of last resort, while distrust is a protective mechanism aimed at shielding from vulnerability. We argue that a better understanding of trust and distrust dynamic may illuminate some of the behaviours of people in other professions.
Preparation, characteristic, biological activities, and application of polysaccharide from Lilii Bulbus: a review
Authors: Duan Xueqin , Li Huicong , Sheng Zhenwei , Zhang Weimin , Liu Yingqiu , Ma Wuren , Lu Dezhang , Ma Lin , Fan Yunpeng
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This review highlights the current knowledge of polysaccharide from Lilii Bulbus, including the extraction, purification, structure, structure modification, biological activities and application, which will hopefully provide reference for further research and development of polysaccharide from Lilii Bulbus.

Materials and Methods

Literature searches were conducted on the following databases: Pubmed, ACS website, Elsevier, Google Scholar, Web of Science and CNKI database. Keywords such as “Lilii Bulbus”, “polysaccharide”, “preparation”, “biological activities” and “application” were used to search relevant journals and contents, and some irrelevant contents were excluded.

Results

In general, the study of Lilium Bulbus polysaccharide extraction and purification, structure characterization and biological activity has made substantial progress, these findings highlight the lilium brownii polysaccharide enormous potential in biomedical applications, of lilium brownii polysaccharide laid a solid foundation for further research.

Discussion and Conclusions

However, it should be noted that the relevant mechanism of the effective effect of lily bulb polysaccharide still needs to be worked on by researchers. These findings highlight the great potential of lily polysaccharides in biomedical applications, and lay a solid foundation for further research on lily polysaccharides.
(041) SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION: A COMMON PROBLEM IN INDIVIDUALS WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
Authors: Sindhu T , Patel R , Bachmann M D G
Published: June 2024

Introduction

An estimated 2.8 million people worldwide are currently diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Moreover, cis-gender females are almost twice as likely to have the diagnosis than cis-gender males. Among the many physical symptoms secondary to MS, the ones related to the sex organs include numbness, vaginal dryness, erectile dysfunction and loss of libido, low desire, issues with lubrication, lack of sensation, difficulties with arousal, difficulties reaching orgasm and sexual pain. These symptoms are typically underreported, under diagnosed, and patients may find it difficult to address with a clinician. In addition, generalized fatigue, spasticity, muscle weakness, psychological changes, bowel and bladder dysfunction that also occur with MS can place strain on sexual relations with a partner and overall quality of life. Data suggest that 59.8% of cis gender females with MS report sexual dysfunction but only about 22.4% brought it up with a physician. Moreover, this study also found that 80% of these individuals wanted treatment for their sexual symptoms, highlighting the importance of exploring interventions for sexual dysfunction in MS patients.

Objective

This review investigated the options available for sexual dysfunction in cis gender females with MS.

Methods

Online databases such as Rutgers Library, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar with key phrases such as “MS and endocrine symptoms” and “MS and sexual changes”, were used.

Results

Data suggest that several non-pharmacological interventions may be effective in decreasing the severity of symptoms related to sexual dysfunction in individuals with MS. One study investigated the effectiveness of sex therapy and found that sex therapy improved quality of life for those reporting sexual dysfunction. Another study examined the effects of physical therapy on sexual symptoms and found that practices such as pelvic floor exercises also contributed to a decrease in symptom severity. Other data, reported that mindfulness psych-education group intervention also was instrumental in improving female sexual function. Further, the use of clitoral stimulation devices also were found to be highly recommended to improve sexual effects. Finally, several pharmacologic agents have been explored such as flibanserin and sildenafil, but their effectiveness was limited in regard to sexual function.

Conclusions

Sexual dysfunction is a major concern for individuals with MS. In this population, there is often a sense of embarrassment or feeling ashamed. Therefore, clinicians should create an open environment for patients to bring up this topic of sexuality in order to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. Additionally, more research is needed on effective treatment options, both short and long term for MS patients dealing with sexual dysfunction.

Disclosure

No.
(078) ASSESSMENT OF RESIDENT EDUCATION IN THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF COMMON CONDITIONS OF FEMALE SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION
Authors: Kohut-Jackson A , Dawson M , Negris O , Conrado J , Henry V , Horwitz R , Ponce S , Rubin R , Uloko M
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) affects 30-50% of women. Despite the fact that doctors from all specialties are likely to encounter patients with sexual health difficulties, just half of U.S. medical schools currently offer formal teaching in sexuality. Due to insufficient training in the female pelvic physical exam and minimal training on sexual health, FSD has been substantially underdiagnosed and undertreated.

Objective

The aim of our study was to assess the knowledge and confidence of residents on how to conduct a comprehensive vulvar examination, as well as to assess the comfortability with diagnosing and managing conditions of FSD.

Methods

This cross-sectional analytical survey study used Qualtrics to administer the survey. The target audience included urology residents, obstetrics and gynecology residents, dermatology residents, internal medicine residents, family medicine residents, and emergency medicine residents. The survey link and a brief description of the project were emailed to all residency program directors in these specialties who had valid email addresses provided in the FREIDA American Medical Association Residency Database. Program directors were requested to share the link to the anonymous online survey with their current resident cohorts.

Results

In total, n=141 residents completed the survey (n=19 OBGYN, n=18 urology, n=5 dermatology, n=37 family medicine, n=27 internal medicine, n=35 emergency medicine). Less than half of all respondents indicated they had received prior formal training in physical examination of the clitoris (23%), vulvar vestibule (45%), and pelvic floor (36%). Regarding FSD, the following percentage of respondents indicated they had received prior training in these conditions: 78% genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder, 36% hypoactive sexual desire disorder, 24% female orgasmic disorder, 33% female sexual arousal disorder. The majority of respondents reported feeling uncomfortable with the diagnosis and management of these conditions.

Conclusions

Residents are uncomfortable with diagnosing and managing common female sexual dysfunctions, owing to a lack of training in both vulvar examination and these conditions of FSD. This educational shortcoming persists across several specialties. Awareness of this knowledge and comfortability gap is critical for implementing the appropriate changes to resident education. Improving residents’ ability to diagnose and treat FSD is important for preparing the next generation of physicians to appropriately attend to the needs of female patients.

Disclosure

No.
(080) ADVANCING PRECLINICAL MEDICAL STUDENT EDUCATION: A COMPREHENSIVE CURRICULUM FOR TEACHING SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HISTORY TAKING TO MEDICAL STUDENTS THROUGH MULTIMODAL TEACHING TECHNIQUES
Authors: Polavarapu M , Yee C , Kling J , Parish S , Vegunta S
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Sexual and reproductive history taking is a fundamental yet often overlooked aspect of medical education. Most medical schools in North America do not provide adequate sexual health training to students, with 44% of schools lacking a sexual and reproductive health curriculum (1). Moreover, there are currently no national standards across medical schools for training students to take a sexual health history (2). Existing programs vary widely and often consist of limited hours or electives, leaving many medical graduates feeling unprepared (3).

Objective

To develop a multimodal course and standardized curriculum for first-year medical students.

Methods

Through a combination of video presentations, live demonstration, interactive lecture, and Group Observed Structured Clinical Experience (GOSCE) sessions with standardized patients, students were guided in learning and practicing sexual history taking skills. Post-course surveys were sent to all 52 students after completion of the course, with 46 students completing the survey (response rate 88%). Students were asked to rank their knowledge of the course topic on a scale from 1 (not at all knowledgeable) to 5 (extremely knowledgeable) both before and after participating.

Results

On average, there was a significant change in knowledge, regarding navigating sexual health biases and effectively obtaining a sexual history from patients, by 1.2 points after students partook in the course (p < 0.0001). The majority (80%) reported that there was the right amount of lecture and patient interactive learning. Ninety-six percent of students agreed that the course met the learning objectives and indicated they would use what they learned in the course in the future.

Conclusions

After participating in this multimodal sexual health course, students demonstrated an improvement in knowledge and indicated that the course met the learning objectives. These results suggest that multimodal teaching methods may address the gap in sexual health education.

Disclosure

No.
(093) IMPACT OF ENROLLMENT DIAGNOSIS ON EFFICACY ENDPOINTS IN AN EXPLORATORY, PHASE 2B, RANDOMIZED, DOUBLE-BLIND, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED CLINICAL TRIAL OF SILDENAFIL CREAM, 3.6% FOR THE TREATMENT OF FEMALE SEXUAL AROUSAL DISORDER
Authors: Thurman A , Cornell K , Symonds T , Dart C , Hatheway J , Friend D , Goldstein A
Published: June 2024

Introduction

There are no FDA-approved treatments for female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD). Women with FSAD also often have co-existing secondary female sexual dysfunction (FSD) diagnoses.

Objective

Post-hoc subset analysis of the effect of enrollment FSD diagnoses on efficacy of Sildenafil Cream, 3.6% for treatment of FSAD.

Methods

Phase 2b, exploratory, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study of Sildenafil Cream, 3.6% among premenopausal women with FSAD (NCT04948151). The change from baseline at week 12 in the arousal sensation (AS) domain (questions 6-9) of the 28-question sexual function questionnaire (SFQ28) was a co-primary efficacy endpoint. Changes from baseline in the mean number of satisfactory sexual experiences (SSEs) was a secondary endpoint. Exploratory efficacy endpoints included the Desire and Orgasm domains of the SFQ28. Enrollment FSD diagnoses were established during a clinical interview with independent experts. A retrospective review was performed of the clinical interviews for the intent-to-treat (ITT) population who completed the study (n=174) and enrollment diagnoses were categorized.

Results

Table 1 shows the breakdown of enrollment diagnoses by product group for the ITT population. Participants with FSAD and pain (n=6) were excluded. Although few women had FSAD as their sole diagnosis, when randomized to Sildenafil Cream, 3.6%, they had the largest mean increases in efficacy variables at week 12. Women with FSAD and secondary HSDD also experienced substantial benefit with Sildenafil Cream, 3.6% at week 12. Women with an enrollment diagnosis of FSAD with secondary FOD had the least benefit from Sildenafil Cream, 3.6% at week 12.

Conclusions

Data from this exploratory trial support the future target populations, including women with FSAD or FSAD with HSDD, will likely benefit the most from Sildenafil Cream, 3.6% treatment.

Disclosure

Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Dare Bioscience and Strategic Science and Technologies LLC.

Clarification: Industry initiated, executed and funded study.

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Dare Bioscience and Strategic Science and Technologies LLC.
(094) MEASURES OF FEMALE SEXUAL DISTRESS IN AN EXPLORATORY, PHASE 2B, RANDOMIZED, DOUBLE-BLIND, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED CLINICAL TRIAL OF SILDENAFIL CREAM, 3.6% FOR THE TREATMENT OF FEMALE SEXUAL AROUSAL DISORDER
Authors: Thurman A , Cornell K , Symonds T , Dart C , Hatheway J , Friend D , Goldstein A
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The diagnosis of female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD) requires that individuals experience clinically significant distress from their symptoms. Pre-trial content validity investigations were conducted by the sponsor to understand how women with FSAD best described their distress associated with this female sexual dysfunction (FSD) diagnosis.

Objective

Responses to the Female Sexual Distress Scale – Desire, Arousal, Orgasm (FSDS-DAO) survey among healthy premenopausal women enrolled in a Phase 2b, exploratory, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study of Sildenafil Cream, 3.6% for FSAD treatment (NCT04948151).

Methods

After informed consent, enrollment diagnoses for each participant were established during a one-on-one clinical interview with independent experts. Baseline assessments were measured after a one-month, single-blind, placebo, run-in period. Participants were then randomized to Sildenafil Cream, 3.6% (n=101) versus Placebo (n=99) and used the investigational product (IP) as needed at home for 12 weeks, with monthly in-clinic assessments. The change from baseline at week 12 in question 14 (Q14) of the FSDS-DAO was a co-primary efficacy endpoint. All 15 FSDS-DAO questions begin with “How often did you feel, in the past 30 days” with a Likert score of 0 (Never) to 4 (Always).

Results

Although changes from baseline at week 12 in FSDS-DAO Q14 responses were not different among active versus placebo users in the intent-to-treat population (p=0.84) or the future target population (women with FSAD only or primary FSAD with secondary hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD)) (p=0.95), responses to several FSDS-DAO questions, showed reduced sexual distress among Sildenafil Cream, 3.6% users (Table 1). While Q14 asked specifically about concerns with sexual arousal, the other 5 questions asked about generalized sexual distress, using verbiage more congruent with pre-trial content validity investigations. Post-trial psychometric validation studies selected question 5 as the most appropriate for measuring sexual distress among this population.

Conclusions

Data from this exploratory trial support that women with a diagnosis of FSAD only or primary FSAD with secondary HSDD experienced reduced sexual distress after receiving Sildenafil Cream, 3.6%.

Disclosure

Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Dare Bioscience and Strategic Science and Technologies.

Clarification: Industry initiated, executed and funded study.

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Dare Bioscience and Strategic Science and Technologies.
(106) OVARIAN RESERVE AFTER LAPAROSCOPIC CYSTECTOMY OF ENDOMETRIOTIC CYSTS AND OTHER BENIGN CYSTS: 36-MONTHS FOLLOW-UP STUDY
Authors: Choi Y S , Cho S , Kim S H , Shin J
Published: June 2024

Introduction

There is a growing body of evidence that ovarian cystectomy may negatively impact ovarian reserve. It is unclear whether there are any differences in the long-term effect of ovarian reserve after ovarian cystectomy between women with endometrioma and those with other benign ovarian cysts. Although several studies have shown that AMH reduction is milder in nonendometriotic benign ovarian cysts compared with endometriomas, further studies are necessary because long-term studies are lacking.

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the long-term effects of laparoscopic cystectomy for endometriotic cysts and other benign cysts on ovarian reserve.

Methods

A total of 165 women aged 20-40 years who underwent laparoscopic cystectomy for endometriotic cysts (Endometrioma group, n=96) and other benign cysts (Non-endometrioma group, n=69) were included in this retrospective study. Ovarian reserve was measured by serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and compared before surgery and at 6, 12, 24 and 36 months after surgery.

Results

Baseline AMH levels were lower in the endometrioma group compared with the non-endometrioma group without statistical significance (4.43±3.52 ng/mL vs. 4.95±3.59 ng/mL; p =0.378). AMH levels of 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after surgery was significantly decreased when compared with preoperative levels in the endometrioma group. Decline of the AMH levels was statistically significant at 6 months and 24 months but not at 12 and 36 months in the non-endometrioma group. There was no further significant decrease in the AMH levels after 6 months of surgery in both groups. Decline of AMH levels at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after surgery from preoperative levels was significantly larger in the endometrioma group compared with the non-endometrioma group.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy reduced ovarian reserve irrespective of the type of cysts. Surgical excision of endometriotic cysts has a more detrimental and persistent damage on ovarian reserve compared with other benign ovarian cysts. After 6 months of surgery, no further significant fall in AMH levels was observed in the 36-month follow-up.

Disclosure

No.
(136) LABIA MINORA: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW
Authors: Adetunji A , Perelmuter S , Forer R , Burns R , Donthi S , Negris O , Sarup S , Rubin R
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The labia minora (LM) is a part of the external female genitalia that varies greatly in form and appearance, and changes at each developmental stage of a woman. Its highly neurovascular nature and proximity to the clitoris allows it to play a vital role in sexual function. Along with the labia majora, it helps to protect the opening of the urethra and vagina. The perception of a normal LM is dependent on cultural and social context and influences the kinds of procedures that are done on the LM.

Objective

This study aims to comprehensively review labial anatomy, development, pathology, its role in sexual function, perceptions of labial appearance, and labial procedures. The goal is to understand the mechanism and purpose of the evolution of the LM and its effects on anatomical and sexual function.

Methods

We reviewed journal articles from 1988 to 2023 concerning labial anatomy, physiology, pathology, piercings, tattoos, and labial procedures such as labiaplasty, genital mutilation, episiotomies. We also reviewed cultural perceptions of its structure, its role in sexual function and its composition and function in the transgender population.

Results

The LM is highly neurovascular and engorges with blood with sexual stimulation. The structural changes are influenced by hormone levels. Perception of normal appearance varies by cultural and societal norms, influencing procedures performed in the area. Due to the histological composition of the LM, it has many manifestations of dermatological diseases. The LM is also susceptible to infectious, neoplastic, drug-induced, inflammatory, autoimmune and other systemic diseases. Limited information exists on LM piercing and tattoos. The size discrepancies of the LM may cause psychological distress, with conflicting research on its impact on sexual sensitivity or function. Labial procedures such as labiaplasty may enhance sexual satisfaction while female genital mutilation may reduce sexual satisfaction. There is a lack of comprehensive documentation of techniques of LM creation in transgender women and a lack of long-term follow-up studies post-vaginoplasty. The lymphatic structure within the LM is poorly understood, emphasizing the need for further research.

Conclusions

The labia minora is important for arousal and sexual function and its changes over time is dependent on hormone levels. The appearance and structure drive the kinds of labial procedures that are conducted and significantly affects sexual health. There is a need for further studies of the labia minora to understand its complexities and evolution.

Disclosure

No.
(138) ARE WE THERE YET? ASSESSING OUR CURRENT STATE OF SEX MED EDUCATION
Authors: Davenport S , Stump H , Contractor M , MacPhedran S , Kingsberg S , Falsetta M L
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Sexual concerns are prevalent, but studies have demonstrated that patients often feel most comfortable if the clinician initiates the conversation. Many patients are hesitant to discuss sexual concerns with their providers for a variety of reasons including fear of judgment, lack of clinician knowledge, and concerns that these issues are abnormal or unusual. Clinician education plays an important role in helping to facilitate these difficult conversations. However, there has never been a broad assessment of education across medical training programs, while the most recent assessment of MD training programs occurred approximately a decade ago.

Objective

We set out to create and administer a survey to assess sexual medicine training across most major medical disciplines where sexual health matters may be discussed, including nurse practitioner, midwifery, physician, and physician assistant training.

Methods

A subcommittee of the ISSWSH Advocacy Committee was formed with members representing the medical disciplines to be surveyed. A survey was developed to gather data on sexual medicine education offered at nursing, midwifery, physician, and physician assistant training programs. The survey included a series of questions regarding content taught during these programs (checklists, open ended responses). The survey was approved by the Wake Forest IRB and distributed using RedCap to various institutions from the above disciplines throughout the United States.

Results

We received a total of 33 complete responses. 88.5% of respondents stated they used traditional lecture as their teaching method, whilst only 11.5% used simulation, and 7.7% used actual mechanical models. The majority of programs that responded spent 3-5 hours total dedicated to human sexuality and sexual function education. Interestingly, respondents noted that faculty involved in sexual medicine education were mostly OB/GYN in background (63%), followed by family medicine (18.5%) and urology (18.5%). While not all respondents indicated that their students were assessed on their knowledge after teaching, it was noted that the majority of programs that did respond indicated that examination was the most common mode of assessment. Only 33% of institutions noted having a regional or nationally recognized expert in the field.

Conclusion

It is essential that the accrediting bodies for medical programs incorporate the input of international societies such as ISSWSH (in collaboration with other sexual medicine organizations) to formulate an official statement and recommendations for a standardized curriculum for sexual medicine.
Vibrant Reading: A Transpacific Poetics of Filipinx American Vernacular Archives
Authors: Lafferty Olivia Anne
Published: June 2024

In 2020, my sister, a student of art history, and I gathered vernacular images from family members and other Filipinx American families living in San Diego, California. We curated the images in The Pakinggan Archive, an online archive formed in part as a response to popularized, US colonial images of “primitive“ Filipinxs. Pakinggan offers a platform for narrativizing diasporic Filipinx living in ways that, at times, divert the imperial gaze. Many images, however, still track residues of military empire-predominately via the overt or spectral presence of the US Navy. This article attends to the infiltration of empire into representations of vernacular Filipinx life and memorial practices. Engaging a transpacific critique, I develop vibrant reading as a synesthetic listening method for approaching the photographs as sensorial reliefs-sites where imperial narratives and trajectories of desire both emerge and collide. In theorizing vibrant reading, I first look to Rick Barot’s poetry in The Galleons (2020), which, like Pakinggan, depicts familial life as entangled with empire. Barot’s poem “The Galleons 5” enacts modes of approaching vernacular archives and employs what I call a poetics of polyvocal interference. Second, I attend to the ways the poem and archival photographs evidence what I am terming the tractability of these subjects-rendering Filipinx bodies deployable and readily managed as US imperial subjects. Ultimately, I offer a vibrant reading of the photographs, sounding out their affective landscapes that enunciate desires for retaining relation in proximate, present spaces and for finding familial connection against the backdrop of war.
Understanding the radio luminosity function of star-forming galaxies and its cosmological evolution
Authors: Jose Charles , Chamandy Luke , Shukurov Anvar , Subramanian Kandaswamy , Rodrigues Luiz Felippe S , Baugh Carlton M
Published: June 2024

We explore the redshift evolution of the radio luminosity function (RLF) of star-forming galaxies using galform, a semi-analytic model of galaxy formation and a dynamo model of the magnetic field evolving in a galaxy. Assuming energy equipartition between the magnetic field and cosmic rays, we derive the synchrotron luminosity of each sample galaxy. In a model where the turbulent speed is correlated with the star formation rate, the RLF is in fair agreement with observations in the redshift range 0 ≤ z ≤ 2. At larger redshifts, the structure of galaxies, their interstellar matter, and turbulence appear to be rather different from those at z ≲ 2, so that the turbulence and magnetic field models applicable at low redshifts become inadequate. The strong redshift evolution of the RLF at 0 ≤ z ≤ 2 can be attributed to an increased number, at high redshift, of galaxies with large disc volumes and strong magnetic fields. On the other hand, in models where the turbulent speed is a constant or an explicit function of z, the observed redshift evolution of the RLF is poorly captured. The evolution of the interstellar turbulence and outflow parameters appear to be major (but not the only) drivers of the RLF changes. We find that both the small- and large-scale magnetic fields contribute to the RLF but the small-scale field dominates at high redshifts. Polarization observations will therefore be important to distinguish these two components and understand better the evolution of galaxies and their non-thermal constituents.
Mass ratio of binary black holes determined from LIGO/Virgo data restricted to small false alarm rate
Authors: Kinugawa Tomoya , Nakamura Takashi , Nakano Hiroyuki
Published: June 2024

We focus on gravitational wave events of binary black hole mergers up to the third observing run with the minimum false alarm rate smaller than $10^{-5}\, {\rm yr}^{-1}$. These events tell us that the mass ratio of two black holes follows $m_2/m_1=0.723$ with the chance probability of 0.00301 per cent for the chirp mass $M_{\rm chirp}\,\gt 18\, {\rm M}_{\odot }$. We show that the relation of $m_2/m_1=0.723$ is consistent with the binaries originated from population III stars which are the first stars in the Universe. On the other hand, it is found for $M_{\rm chirp}\,\lt\, 18 \,{\rm M}_{\odot }$ that the mass ratio follows $m_2/m_1=0.601$ with the chance probability of 0.117 per cent if we ignore GW190412 with $m_2/m_1\sim 0.32$. This suggests a different origin from that for $M_{\rm chirp}\ \gt\ 18 \,{\rm M}_{\odot }$.
Photoionization analysis of chemodynamical dwarf galaxies simulations. II. Detailed calculation of diffuse ionizing radiation
Authors: Melekh B , Buhajenko O , Koshmak I
Published: June 2024

Active star formation in dwarf galaxies shapes the morphology of the surrounding nebular environment and ensures the non-uniformity of the chemical elements spatial distribution in it due to the superwind region expansion. Ionizing radiation within the nebular gas produces observed emission lines used for modelling and diagnostics. We introduce a multicomponent photoionization modelling (MPhM) approach that incorporates detailed calculation of diffuse ionizing radiation (DCDIR) based on chemodynamical simulations (ChDSs). Our models aim to replicate crucial emission line intensity ratios within the observed range, employing a thin dense shell between the superwind region and the outer nebular environment to address ChDSs resolution limitations, which render them insensitive to the presence of a superwind shock. MPhM-generated emission line spectra within a small central synthetic aperture and a thin long-slit exhibit excellent agreement with observations, confirming the accuracy of the ionization structure of the nebular environment obtained using the MPhM + DCDIR approach. However, the outward-only approximation fails to reproduce the dwarf galaxies ionization structure. We determined the oxygen abundance using the $T_e$- and $R_{23}$-methods based on emission lines from MPhM + DCDIR. The resulting abundances align well with values obtained by averaging over the ‘observed’ volume within synthetic apertures, weighted by mass. The escape fraction of ionizing photons from the dwarf galaxy was found to be larger than that obtained using the outward-only approximation. Employing Kennicutt’s calibration corrected for near-UV data, the star formation rate (SFR) was calculated using the ${\rm H}\,\alpha$ luminosity from MPhM + DCDIR. The resulting SFR value is nearly 33 per cent higher than the true one.
[O iii] emission in z ≈ 2 quasars with and without broad absorption lines
Authors: Temple Matthew J , Rankine Amy L , Banerji Manda , Hennawi Joseph F , Hewett Paul C , Matthews James H , Nanni Riccardo , Ricci Claudio , Richards Gordon T
Published: June 2024

Understanding the links between different phases of outflows from active galactic nuclei is a key goal in extragalactic astrophysics. Here, we compare [O iii] $\lambda \lambda$4960, 5008 outflow signatures in quasars with and without broad absorption lines (BALs), aiming to test how the broad absorption troughs seen in the rest-frame ultraviolet are linked to the narrow line region outflows seen in the rest-frame optical. We present new near-infrared spectra from Magellan/FIRE that cover [O iii] in 12 quasars with $2.1\lt z\lt 2.3$, selected to have strong outflow signatures in C iv$\lambda$1550. Combining with data from the literature, we build a sample of 73 BAL, 115 miniBAL, and 125 non-BAL quasars with $1.5\lt z\lt 2.6$. The strength and velocity width of [O iii] correlate strongly with the C iv emission properties, but no significant difference is seen in the [O iii] emission-line properties between the BALs, non-BALs, and miniBALs once the dependence on C iv emission is taken into account. A weak correlation is observed between the velocities of C iv BALs and [O iii] emission, which is accounted for by the fact that both outflow signatures correlate with the underlying C iv emission properties. Our results add to the growing evidence that BALs and non-BALs are drawn from the same parent population and are consistent with a scenario wherein BAL troughs are intermittent tracers of persistent quasar outflows, with a part of such outflow becoming optically thick along our line of sight for sporadic periods of time within which BALs are observed.
Genomic Reconstruction of the Successful Establishment of a Feralized Bovine Population on the Subantarctic Island of Amsterdam
Authors: Gautier Mathieu , Micol Thierry , Camus Louise , Moazami-Goudarzi Katayoun , Naves Michel , Guéret Elise , Engelen Stefan , Lemainque Arnaud , Colas François , Flori Laurence , Druet Tom
Published: June 2024

The feral cattle of the subantarctic island of Amsterdam provide an outstanding case study of a large mammalian population that was established by a handful of founders and thrived within a few generations in a seemingly inhospitable environment. Here, we investigated the genetic history and composition of this population using genotyping and sequencing data. Our inference showed an intense but brief founding bottleneck around the late 19th century and revealed contributions from European taurine and Indian Ocean Zebu in the founder ancestry. Comparative analysis of whole-genome sequences further revealed a moderate reduction in genetic diversity despite high levels of inbreeding. The brief and intense bottleneck was associated with high levels of drift, a flattening of the site frequency spectrum and a slight relaxation of purifying selection on mildly deleterious variants. Unlike some populations that have experienced prolonged reductions in effective population size, we did not observe any significant purging of highly deleterious variants. Interestingly, the population’s success in the harsh environment can be attributed to preadaptation from their European taurine ancestry, suggesting no strong bioclimatic challenge, and also contradicting evidence for insular dwarfism. Genome scan for footprints of selection uncovered a majority of candidate genes related to nervous system function, likely reflecting rapid feralization driven by behavioral changes and complex social restructuring. The Amsterdam Island cattle offers valuable insights into rapid population establishment, feralization, and genetic adaptation in challenging environments. It also sheds light on the unique genetic legacies of feral populations, raising ethical questions according to conservation efforts.
Decolonizing “Decolonization” and Knowledge Production beyond Eurocentrism
Authors: Onyebuchi Eze Michael
Published: June 2024

I historicize decolonial theories within the context of epistemic contestations and knowledge production in Africa. I offer a critical appraisal of decolonization as simulated within Western academic institutions and argue that the current tempo of decolonization movements is by no means an accident of history; it is, in fact, a residual narrative of colonial epistemology. I offer internal critique and discuss the limitations of decolonization as an intellectual strategy, before addressing how Western academics have appropriated the discourse in a manner fitting an intellectual crusade. The decolonial scholar is, at the same time, perpetuating the mandate of colonial epistemology by substituting coloniality with subjective displacement. Finally, I suggest a modest proposal for adopting a new framework that admits the epistemic virtues of decolonization while eschewing its limitations and internal contradictions. My argument is that decolonization studies, as understood in contemporary African philosophy, has remained afflicted with the same disease it seeks to cure by (i) uncritical affiliation with historical generalizations, (ii) failure to recognize that history is no location of innocence and (iii) recolonization of non-Western ontologies through epistemic imperialism and network legitimation.
ATRT-05. AGE ABOVE 12 MONTHS, ABSENCE OF SYNCHRONOUS, MULTIFOCAL DISEASE AND PATHOGENIC GERMLINE VARIANTS AT C-TERMINI ARE POSITIVE PROGNOSTIC FACTORS IN CHILDREN WITH RTPS1 (RHABDOID-TUMOR-PREDISPOSITION-SYNDROME)
Authors: Fruehwald Michael C , Boros Matej , Dahlum Sonja , Bens Susanne , Johann Pascal D , Kachanov Denis , Hauser Peter , Kratz Christian P , Hernaiz-Driever Pablo , Eyrich Matthias , Sumerauer David , Milde Till , Reinhard Harald , van de Wetering Marianne , Gil-da-Costa Maria Joao , Elisabetta Schiavello , Kerl Kornelius , Furtwaengler Rhoikos , Kordes Uwe , Gerss Joachim , Hasselblatt Martin , Nysom Karsten , Nemes Karolina
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Rhabdoid-Tumor-Predisposition-Syndrome is due to germline mutations in SMARCB1 (rarely SMARCA4). We pursued a comprehensive clinical and (epi-)genetic characterization of RTPS families.

METHODS

90 affected children from 16 countries were compared to 252 with sporadic rhabdoid tumors (01/2004 - 01/2021). Tumors and blood were examined for structural or single nucleotide variants (SV, SNV) in SMARCB1/SMARCA4. In 83% (70/84) of RTPS1-patients complete genetic data were available. Trio-exome (n=25) and 850k-methylation analysis of tumors (52/84) and blood (n=51), parents (n=44) and unaffected siblings (n=4) was performed.

RESULTS

RTPS1 and 2 were diagnosed in 84 (48 females, 36 males) and 6 patients respectively. Median age at diagnosis (RTPS1 only) was 5 (0 – 203) months (18 months, 0-211 in controls, p<0,001). ATRT were present in 55% (46/84), extracranial, extrarenal malignant RT (eMRT) and RT of the kidney (RTK) in 8% (7/84). 26% (22/84) presented with synchronous tumors (SYN). Homozygous SVs were less frequent in the RTPS-tumors [20% (14/84) vs 47% (82/174), p<0,001]. ATRT-MYC was significantly more common among RTPS1 while ATRT-SHH was less common. Trio blood DNA-methylation analysis separated samples of parents but not siblings from RTPS patients. Likely (DNA-methylation) age was a major confounder. The analysis of trio-exomes is ongoing. 5-year-OS and -EFS in RTPS1-patients were 18,4±4.5% and 14±3,9%, (controls: 48,2 ±3,5%, 40,3±3,2%). VOD (venoocclusive disease) was significant in patients < 2 months [18,5% (12/65) vs. 3,3% (3/92), p=0.005]. RTPS1-patients rarely achieved a CR [32% (27/84) vs. 52% (129/249), p=0,002]. In an adjusted multivariate model prognostic factors were male sex [HR: 1.7 (1.0 – 2.9)], age ≤12 months [HR: 2.1 (1.0 – 4.3)], and diagnosis of ATRT [HR: 0.6 (0.3 – 0.9)].

CONCLUSION

We describe significant positive outcome predictors such as age >12 months, absence of SYN, diagnosis of ATRT, localized disease, PGV located at C-termini and female sex in RTPS1-patients.
ATRT-06. PEDIATRIC INI1-NEGATIVE ATYPICAL TERATOID RHABDOID TUMORS TREATED WITH TAZEMETOSTAT AS MAINTENANCE THERAPY IN THE RELAPSE SETTING: AN ITALIAN SINGLE-CENTRE EXPERIENCE
Authors: Nigro Olga , Biassoni Veronica , Schiavello Elisabetta , Casanova Michela , Bergamaschi Luca , Gattuso Giovanna , Puma Nadia , Sironi Giovanna , Colombo Valeria , Podda Marta Giorgia , Chiaravalli Stefano , Meazza Cristina , Spreafico Filippo , Ferrari Andrea , Terenziani Monica , Luksch Roberto , Massimino Maura
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Rhabdoid tumors are aggressive malignancies, primarily affecting children ≤3 years. Common sites of primary localization are kidney, central nervous system (atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor -AT/RT-) or soft tissues. Although high-dose chemotherapy (HD-CT) with radiotherapy (RT) has significantly increased EFS and OS rates, more than 50% of patients diagnosed with AT/RT still die of tumor progression.

METHODS

From February 2021 to January 2024 three patients with AT/RT were treated with tazemetostat after first-line treatment (complete resection, CT, RT).

RESULTS

At diagnosis, patient 1 presented with a lesion in the lamina quadrigemina and a renal mass; patient 2 and 3 with a lesion in the posterior cranial fossa. Median age at diagnosis was 8 months (3-34 months). Patient 1 died due to the progression of the disease (OS 24 months); patient 2 ended treatment with tazemetostat on December 2023; for patient 3 the treatment is still ongoing. Patient 1 started tazemetostat at the end of first-line treatment, as maintenance therapy. Before starting treatment with tazemetostat, patient 2 performed a re-irradiation on the tumor bed; patient 3 performed surgery and then RT on a new-onset spinal lesion. Median time of treatment with tazemetostat was 9 months (6-12 months). Patient 1 showed an EFS of 9 months. EFS of patients 2 and 3 has exceeded this timepoint. For patient 2 the treatment is ongoing (in total 6 months of treatment), with a complete response of the disease (CR); patient 3 ended treatment after 12 months, with a CR. Tazemetostat was overall well tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the small number of patients, we feel able to state that the use of tazemetostat as a single agent in the relapse setting could represent a therapeutic promise as maintenance therapy. Future studies with a larger number of patients are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
ATRT-18. ALISERTIB USED IN PEDIATRIC ATRT
Authors: Fraustro Milena , Maddox Breyonna , Valdes Lilibet Fernandez , Lopez Elizabeth , Niazi Toba , Maher Ossama , Khatib Ziad
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Atypical rhabdoid tumor (ATRT) is a rare and aggressive primary CNS tumor caused by variants or deletions in the tumor suppressor gene SMARCB1 (aka INI 1). SMARCB1 targets Aurora A kinase (AURKA), an important oncoprotein of the cell cycle. AURKA dysregulation can lead to genomic instability through its oncogenic effects. Alisertib is a selective AURKA inhibitor that has been explored for treatment in various cancers, including pediatric malignancies.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of five patients diagnosed with ATRT, treated with Alisertib, at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital from 2019 - 2024.

RESULTS

of the 5 patients; three were females and two males, with a median age at diagnosis of 2 years. Only one patient had a germline mutation while the rest had somatic mutations. Prior to starting Alisertib therapy, all five patients received chemotherapy per multiple protocols; four patients underwent focal radiation therapy, three patients underwent resection, and two patients underwent tandem autologous transplants. All five patients were treated solely with Alisertib, median dose of 60 mg/m2 PO daily. Two patients had reduced doses during therapy secondary to cytopenia. One patient completed therapy over 13 months with partial response based on imaging. One patient presented progression of disease while on therapy and for that reason treatment was stopped. Three patients continue treatment: two with only Alisertib, one using Avastin and Sirolimus concurrently.

CONCLUSIONS

Prognosis in patients with ATRT is usually poor given its aggressive nature and high rate of recurrence despite intervention. It is important to note that treatment of ATRT is highly individualized and typically involves a combination of therapeutic modalities. While Alisertib is one of the newest treatment options, there’s limited literature of clinical improvement in patients with ATRT using this treatment. Therefore, further research on novel treatment options is warranted for the future.