bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor (MPNST) With Smooth Muscle Differentiation of the Uterus—A Case Report With Emphasis on Diagnostic Pitfalls and Value of DNA Methylation Analysis
Authors: Cheung Horace M. H. , Liu Anthony P. Y. , Yeung Maximus C. F. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTWith no more than two dozen cases reported in the literature, malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is a rare primary mesenchymal neoplasm arising in the female genital tract. Most cases occurred in middle‐aged adults with high grade histology, unfavorable clinical outcome, and no history of neurofibromatosis type 1. Its extreme rarity in this site no doubt poses a diagnostic challenge during routine clinical practice. In the following, we report an additional case of uterine MPNST occurring in a 49‐year‐old Chinese woman, which was initially misdiagnosed as a leiomyosarcoma. The primary tumor showed two distinctive components—a high‐grade poorly differentiated component with markedly pleomorphic spindle cells arranged in a peritheliomatous pattern; and a leiomyosarcoma‐like (LMS‐like) component with tumor cells displaying obvious myoid differentiation. The patient suffered a recurrence less than 2 years later with the recurrent tumor demonstrating similar features to the high‐grade component of the primary tumor. The patient eventually succumbed 46 months later after developing another recurrence despite receiving targeted therapy and chemotherapy. On retrospective molecular analysis, no clinically relevant fusion transcript was detected on RNA sequencing. Interestingly instead, DNA methylation analysis showed the tumor clustered with the “MPNST” group in the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) sarcoma classifier. The tumor was also found to have EED gene homozygous deletion, multiple copy number alterations and loss of H3K27me3 expression in both high‐grade and LMS‐like components. Combining histology with all the ancillary tests results, the diagnosis was most consistent with MPNST. Our case highlights the diagnostic pitfalls for MPNST arising in the female genital tract and the potential clinical utility of DNA methylation analysis.
Pharmacometric Analysis to Describe Pharmacokinetics and Exposure‐Efficacy Response of Ivermectin in Adolescents Infected with Trichuris trichiura
Authors: Ajayi David T. , Orherhe Ochuko M. , Pillai Goonaseelan (Colin) , Mouksassi Samer , Steffens Britta , Bräm Dominic , Sprecher Viviane , Hofmann Daniela , Buettcher Michael , Coulibaly Jean T. , Ali Said M. , Keiser Jennifer , Pfister Marc 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe efficacy of the combination therapy of albendazole and ivermectin against Trichuris trichiura infection is higher in Tanzania than in Côte d'Ivoire. This study therefore aimed to investigate the difference between the population pharmacokinetics (PK) at these study sites and to determine if an exposure‐response analysis could explain the low efficacy of the combination therapy in Côte d'Ivoire. Twenty‐four participants (aged 12‐19 years) receiving single doses of ivermectin (200 µg/kg) and albendazole (400 mg) were included in the population PK modeling. A regression analysis was performed to investigate the relationship between the reduction of fecal whipworm eggs and different exposure metrics (peak concentration, area under the plasma drug concentration‐time curve [AUC], and time above a certain threshold). The PK profile of ivermectin was best described by a one‐compartment model, first‐order absorption, and no delay in absorption, with the absorption rate constant estimated as 0.26 per h, an apparent volume of distribution of 162.43 L, and an apparent clearance of 7.82 L/h. In Tanzania, all patients showed a very high reduction in egg count independent of exposure. In Côte d'Ivoire, a relationship was found between higher ivermectin exposure and egg reduction, although not statistically significant. There was no significant difference between the PK profiles at both study sites, despite a difference in clinical outcome. Model‐based simulations indicate that higher ivermectin doses such as 400 and 600 µg/kg may be associated with reduced egg count. Larger clinical studies are warranted to explore further the exposure‐efficacy response relationship at 200 µg/kg and higher ivermectin doses in adults and children.
Light–dark cycles improve the 3HV molar fraction in PHBV produced by photoheterotrophic bacteria from odd‐chain fatty acids and cheese whey
Authors: Montiel‐Corona Virginia , Puyol Daniel , Buitrón Germán 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDPoly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) is the most promising biopolymer for replacing petroleum‐derived plastics from polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) copolymers. The mechanical properties of PHBV improve as the content of the 3‐hydroxyvalerate monomer (3HV) increases. However, there is no information about the effect of light/dark cycles on PHA composition produced by phototrophic purple bacteria. This work aimed to improve the molar fraction of 3HV in the PHBV copolymer formed by a mixed phototrophic culture enriched in Rhodopseudomonas palustris, combining the effect of the illumination regime and using odd‐chain fatty acids and cheese whey as carbon sources.RESULTSUnder continuous lighting, the PHBV concentration (mg L−1) and 3HV molar fraction (%) were 508 ± 25 mg L−1 (1%), 193 ± 10 mg L−1 (22%), 252 ± 10 mg L−1 (1%), and 286 ± 10 mg L−1 (3%) for valerate, propionate, lactate, and fermented cheese whey, respectively. Interestingly, under light/dark cycles, the 3HV molar fraction increased 23‐fold when using valerate (light/dark cycle of 30 min), 12‐fold with lactate, and 1.5‐fold with fermented cheese whey. The PHBV content (% w/w) reached was 20–25%, 14–16%, 12–15%, and 8–12% for valerate, propionate, lactate, and fermented cheese whey, respectively.CONCLUSIONCombining odd‐chain fatty acids and light–dark cycles was an excellent strategy to improve the 3HV molar fraction in PHBV. This study shows for the first time that the 3HV molar fraction production is positively affected by light/dark cycles using odd‐chain fatty acids. Using light/dark cycles brings a double benefit: improving the molar fraction of 3HV in the polymer and decreasing the illumination‐associated cost. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Old but gold: Is the Judet procedure still a viable option for posttraumatic knee stiffness in 2024? A comprehensive systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rinaldi Vito Gaetano , Sassoli Iacopo , Fogacci Alberto , Favero Antongiulio , Lullini Giada , Mosca Massimiliano , Morri Mattia , Zaffagnini Stefano , Marcheggiani Muccioli Giulio Maria 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundPosttraumatic extension contracture of the knee (PECK) is common after knee injury. Initial management is conservative to improve the range of motion; if it fails, surgery may be necessary. This systematic review analyses existing literature on Judet quadricepsplasty for PECK. We will assess clinical outcomes, complications, patient satisfaction and factors that may influence its success.MethodsA search was conducted on 25 November 2023, adhering to preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses guidelines. PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar were used. Search strings were ([Judet] OR [quadricepsplasty]) AND (knee) AND (stiffness) and ([Judet] OR [quadricepsplasty]) AND (knee). Inclusion criteria: English articles focused on PECK, published between 2003 and 2023, and a minimum follow‐up of 24 months. Exclusion criteria: case reports, alternative techniques, knee stiffness cases not only due to trauma, a sample size of <10 patients and articles not reporting functional outcomes.ResultsAmong selected studies, 239 patients were considered. The average time between injury and Judet was 27 months. The population was predominantly male; the mean follow‐up was 33 months. An average intraoperative knee range of motion improvement of 79.1 degrees (confidence interval 76.9; 81.3) compared to the average preoperative starting value of 30.7 degrees was observed. This improvement decreased by 13.5 degrees at the first postoperative check and by an additional 2.4 degrees at the follow‐up, while maintaining an average value of bending above 90 degrees.ConclusionJudet quadricepsplasty appears an effective technique for the management of PECK. The heterogeneity of included studies and the absence of standardized outcome measures limit the ability to draw definitive conclusions.Level of EvidenceLevel III.
Proteome characterization of extracellular vesicles from human milk: Uncovering the surfaceome by a lipid‐based protein immobilization technology
Authors: Ahlberg Emelie , Jenmalm Maria C. , Karlsson Anders , Karlsson Roger , Tingö Lina 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBreast milk is an essential source of nutrition and hydration for the infant. In addition, this highly complex fluid is rich in extracellular vesicles (EVs). Here, we have applied a microfluidic technology, lipid‐based protein immobilization (LPI) and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) to characterize the proteome of human milk EVs. Mature milk from six mothers was subjected to EV isolation by ultracentrifugation followed by size exclusion chromatography. Three of the samples were carefully characterized; suggesting a subset enriched by small EVs. The EVs were digested by trypsin in an LPI flow cell and in‐solution digestion, giving rise to two fractions of peptides originating from the surface proteome (LPI fraction) or the complete proteome (in‐solution digestion). LC‐MS/MS recovered peptides corresponding to 582 proteins in the LPI fraction and 938 proteins in the in‐solution digested samples; 400 of these proteins were uniquely found in the in‐solution digested samples and were hence denoted “cargo proteome”. GeneOntology overrepresentation analysis gave rise to distinctly different functional predictions of the EV surfaceome and the cargo proteome. The surfaceome tends to be overrepresented in functions and components of relevance for the immune system, while the cargo proteome primarily seems to be associated with EV biogenesis.
Achieving reduced radiation exposure with maintained fluoroscopy effectiveness using ultralow‐dose settings in cryoballoon ablation
Authors: Kaneshiro Takashi , Murota Sadahiro , Nehashi Takeshi , Nodera Minoru , Yamada Shinya , Ikeda Masamitsu , Takeishi Yasuchika 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackground and AimsOptimization of fluoroscopic image quality for reducing radiation exposure in cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation (CB‐PVI) has not yet been fully investigated. Therefore, we tried to compare the radiation doses among three different X‐ray system settings.MethodsConsecutive 148 patients scheduled for their first CB‐PVI were prospectively enrolled: low dose with the use of an anti‐scatter grid for the first 51 patients (LD + G group), low dose without an anti‐scatter grid for the subsequent 46 patients (LD‐G group), and ultralow dose (ULD group) with an anti‐scatter grid for the remaining 51 patients. We compared the radiation doses required to complete CB‐PVI procedures among the groups. There were 27 patients for whom CB‐PVI was performed without cine acquisition, but with fluoroscopy only, and the radiation doses were also compared.ResultsThe median procedure time and fluoroscopy time were 119 and 35.5 min, respectively, with no significant differences among the groups. The median cumulative air Kerma (AK) decreased in both the LD‐G group (71.8 mGy, p < .001) and the ULD group (73.0 mGy, p < .001), compared to the LD + G group (145.0 mGy). Among 27 patients who underwent CB‐PVI without cine acquisition, the median cumulative AK further decreased in both the LD‐G group (31.4 mGy, p < .05) and the ULD group (22.7 mGy, p < .01), compared to the LD + G group (64.6 mGy).ConclusionUsing an ULD X‐ray setting and avoiding cine acquisition, we can reduce radiation exposure, while ensuring the necessary fluoroscopy time for the CB‐PVI procedure.
Temperature Trends and Influence of the Base Period Selection on Climate Indices in the Mediterranean Region Over the Period 1961–2020
Authors: Di Bernardino Annalisa , Casadio Stefano , Iannarelli Anna Maria , Siani Anna Maria 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIn this study, the daily maximum and minimum temperatures measured over the period 1961–2020 by 18 stations located near the Mediterranean coast are analysed to evaluate temperature trends and to compute 10 climate indices, selected among those proposed by the Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices to monitor the occurrence of climate extremes of temperature. The trend analysis is performed using the Seasonal‐Kendall test. The results show statistically significant positive trends in both above‐mentioned variables throughout the Mediterranean, although the rate of warming is more marked in the minimum than in the maximum temperature and is more evident in the western portion of the Mediterranean Basin from 1990 onward. The climate extremes indices are evaluated assuming two different base periods (1961–1990 and 1991–2020). The shift forward of the base period involves a general rise in the percentile‐based thresholds used for identifying temperature extremes, as a natural consequence of the current atmospheric warming, resulting in fewer warm events and more cold events since the 1990s using a warmer/later base period. The application of the Seasonal‐Kendall test to the occurrence of extreme warm and cold events reveals that the western portion of the Mediterranean and the Adriatic Sea are the subregions most influenced by the base period update. This study demonstrates that the selection of the base period for the identification of extreme temperature events significantly impacts the results, and that the choice of a recent base period partially masks the ongoing atmospheric warming. The results suggest that the base period 1961–1990 might be more appropriate for climatological studies, as it provides a solid and stable baseline, and that attention must be paid when scientific results are shared with stakeholders, so as not to alter the communication of warnings and specific risks for the population.
Structural and Pasting Properties of Lentil Starch: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Nahar Najmun , Rahman Md. Hafizur , Hazra Seyashree , Ahmed Jasim 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTLentils are highly nutritious as they are rich in both proteins and starch, making them a crucial component of the human diet. This review article focuses on the morphology, microstructure, and pasting properties of lentil starch (LS). The LS exhibits poor crystallinity due to its high amylose‐to‐amylopectin ratio as reflected in its pasting behavior. The shapes of the LS granule range a wide variety, starting from huge ovals to small rounds, as captured in the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy displays the arrangement of starch molecules at the vicinity of the granule surface and detects the presence of additional functional groups in the modified starches. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) demonstrates both the qualitative and quantitative alterations in the crystalline domains of starch granules effectively. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), in particular 13C CP/MAS have successfully examined the structural order of amylolyzed LS concentrations and amylose–lipid complex at the molecular level. This review might be of interest to the professionals involved in food and pharmaceuticals on product development using lentil as one of the ingredients in their formulations.
Reflux disease and congenital laryngomalacia in neonates: A Kids' Inpatient Database analysis
Authors: Shah Vraj P. , Patel Aman M. , Kaki Praneet C. , Yassa Arsany , Filimonov Andrey 
Published: November 2024

AbstractObjectivesCongenital laryngomalacia (CLM) is the most common cause of stridor in neonates and is commonly associated with reflux disease (RD) such as gastroesophageal reflux and newborn esophageal reflux. This study investigates the impact of RD on the management and outcomes of neonates with CLM.MethodsThe 2016 Kids' Inpatient Database (KID) was queried for neonates with CLM (ICD‐10: Q31.5). RD status, procedures, and complications were identified with ICD‐10 codes. Univariate and multivariable analyses were implemented to determine statistical associations.ResultsOf 2212 neonates identified with CLM, 585 (26.45%) had RD. Patients with RD were more often female (p = .038) and premature (p < .001). Upon multivariable analysis, patients with RD had greater total charges (Mean $457,810.87 vs. $259,020.90, p < .001) and longer length of stay (Mean 46.03 vs. 26.44 days, p < .001). Those with RD had more diagnoses recorded (Mean 14.15 vs. 9.66, p < .001), underwent more procedures (Mean 5.47 vs. 3.49, p < .001), and had a longer wait until their first procedure (Mean 13.27 vs. 7.02 days, p < .001). Patients with RD had increased odds for undergoing laryngoscopy (OR 1.799, 95% CI 1.382–2.321, p < .001), bronchoscopy (OR 2.179, 95% CI 1.598–2.801, p < .001), and ventilator use (OR 1.526, 95% CI 1.197–1.886, p < .001) on multivariable regression adjusting for patient demographics, hospital characteristics, and comorbidities. Patients with and without RD had similar odds for undergoing tracheotomy (OR 1.540, 95% CI 0.934–2.522, p = .088) and mortality (OR 1.084, 95% CI 0.397–2.646, p = .874).ConclusionCLM is a common diagnosis in neonates that is associated with RD. In our cohort of neonates with CLM, those with RD had overall poorer outcomes.Level of evidence4.
CONTINUAL LEARNING—THE KEY TO COMPETITIVE SUCCESS
Authors: Pietersen Willie 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe author, a business school professor, former attorney, and Chief Executive Officer/CEO, writes that “the best leaders are lifelong learners, cultivating their personal gardens and drawing valuable lessons from each season’s experience.” He references such organizational thinkers as Richard Cyert, James G. March, Chris Argyris, Donald Schön, and Peter Senge, and notes the Darwinian aspect of learning within organizations. He also quotes an additional theorist/author, Margaret Wheatley: “You cannot change a living thing from the outside. You can only disturb it, so it changes itself.” He notes the importance of keeping a learning journal, referencing both his own long‐time example, and that of Dr. Ash Tewari, “one of the pioneers of robotic surgery.” He also notes the importance of questions, and writes about their different usages based both on his experience as an attorney, and as an executive. There is “a science to asking questions that are likely to generate real insights.” A major part of the article is about strategic learning, which involves four steps that move in a cycle. In his words, they are Learn, Focus, Align, and Execute. He further explains: “Then you loop back to the Learn step, thus creating a cycle of ongoing learning and adaptation.”
Investigation of the influence of cryogenic‐temperature machining on ultrafine‐grained chips and machined surface quality of solution‐treated aluminum 7075 alloys
Authors: Chen H. , Zhang Y. , Jiang F. , Chen T. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractIn this study, cryogenic‐temperature formal machining technique was used to process solution‐treated aluminum 7075 alloys, the mechanical properties, morphology, and microstructure of machined surface and produced chips are investigated. Results show machining temperature has a huge influence on chip and machined surface morphology, cryogenic‐temperature machining chips and machined surfaces possess better surface integrity, chips are continuous and smoother, and machined surfaces are flatter. In contrast, room‐temperature formal machining chips exhibit serrated cracks on their free surface and the machined surface produces more serious scaly spines phenomenon. Both cryogenic‐temperature and room‐temperature samples experience severe deformation, cryogenic‐temperature machining alumium 7075 alloys max microhardness has enhanced from 98 HV 0.1 to 174 HV 0.1, and cryogenic‐temperature samples’ microhardness is higher than corresponding room‐temperature samples’ microhardness among all machining parameters. Cryogenic‐temperature can effectively suppress dynamic recovery thus chips could store more dislocations and then possess smaller ultrafine‐grained structures, accounting for higher microhardness. Besides cryogenic‐temperature inhibits precipitation of solute cluster and second phase particles and plays a lubrication effect at tool‐chip interface, thus cryogenic‐temperature machining aluminum 7075 alloys could obtain superior machined surface quality/chip morphology to improve processability. (*: Equal contributi)
Efficacy and safety of maintenance intravenous immunoglobulin in generalized myasthenia gravis patients with acetylcholine receptor antibodies: A multicenter, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Bril Vera , Berkowicz Tomasz , Szczudlik Andrzej , Nicolle Michael W. , Bednarik Josef , Hon Petr , Vaitkus Antanas , Vu Tuan , Rozsa Csilla , Magnus Tim , Panczel Gyula , Toomsoo Toomas , Pasnoor Mamatha , Mozaffar Tahseen , Freimer Miriam , Reuner Ulrike , Vécsei László , Souayah Nizar , Levine Todd , Pascuzzi Robert M. , Dalakas Marinos C. , Rivner Michael , Griffin Rhonda , Coll Montse Querolt , Mondou Elsa 
Published: November 2024

AbstractIntroduction/AimsProspective, randomized, controlled trials of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) maintenance therapy in myasthenia gravis (MG) are lacking. In this trial, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of caprylate/chromatography‐purified IVIG; (IGIV‐C) in patients with generalized MG undergoing standard care.MethodsSixty‐two patients enrolled in this phase 2, multicenter, international, randomized trial (1:1 IGIV‐C [2 g/kg loading dose; 1 g/kg every 3 weeks through week 21] or placebo). Efficacy was assessed by changes in Quantitative MG (QMG) score at week 24 versus baseline (primary endpoint) and percentage of patients with clinical improvement in QMG, MG Composite (MGC), and MG‐Activities of Daily Living (MG‐ADL) scores (secondary endpoints). Safety assessments reported all adverse events (AEs).ResultsThe change in QMG at 24 weeks was −5.1 for IGIV‐C and −3.1 for placebo (p = .187). Seventy percent of patients in the IGIV‐C group had improvement in MG‐ADL (≥2‐point decrease) versus 40.6% in the placebo group (p = .025). Patients showing clinical improvement in QMG and MGC (≥3‐point decrease) were 70.0% for IGIV‐C versus 59.4% for placebo (p = .442) and 60.0% for IGIV‐C versus 53.1% for placebo (p = .610). IGIV‐C was well tolerated; serious AEs were similar between arms. Three of four MG exacerbations requiring hospitalizations occurred in the IGIV‐C arm with one death.DiscussionSeveral efficacy parameters showed numerical results greater than those seen in the placebo group. This was a small study and may have been underpowered to see significant differences. Additional studies may be warranted to fully determine the efficacy of IVIG maintenance therapy in MG.