bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Systematic Review of Tularemia During Pregnancy
Authors: Fleck-Derderian Shannon , Davis K Meryl , Winberg Jessica , Nelson Christina A , Meaney-Delman Dana 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Tularemia is caused by the gram-negative bacterium Francisella tularensis. Although rare, tularemia during pregnancy has been associated with pregnancy complications; data on efficacy of recommended antimicrobials for treatment are limited. We performed a systematic literature review to characterize clinical manifestations of tularemia during pregnancy and examine maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes with and without antimicrobial treatment.

Methods
We searched 9 databases, including Medline, Embase, Global Health, and PubMed Central, using terms related to tularemia and pregnancy. Articles reporting cases of tularemia with ≥1 maternal or fetal outcome were included.

Results
Of 5891 articles identified, 30 articles describing 52 cases of tularemia in pregnant patients met inclusion criteria. Cases were reported from 9 countries, and oropharyngeal and ulceroglandular tularemia were the most common presenting forms. A plurality (46%) of infections occurred in the second trimester. Six complications were observed: lymph node aspiration, lymph node excision, maternal bleeding, spontaneous abortion, intrauterine fetal demise, and preterm birth. No deaths among mothers were reported. Of 28 patients who received antimicrobial treatment, 1 pregnancy loss and 1 fetal death were reported. Among 24 untreated patients, 1 pregnancy loss and 3 fetal deaths were reported, including one where F. tularensis was detected in placental and fetal tissues.

Conclusions
Pregnancy loss and other complications have been reported among cases of tularemia during pregnancy. However, risk of adverse outcomes may be lower when antimicrobials known to be effective are used. Without treatment, transplacental transmission appears possible. These data underscore the importance of prompt recognition and treatment of tularemia during pregnancy.
Utilization of and perceived need for simulators in clinical electrophysiology: results from an EHRA physician survey
Authors: Tjong Fleur V Y , Perrotta Laura , Goette Andreas , Duncker David , Vernooy Kevin , Boveda Serge , Chun Kyoung-Ryul Julian , Svennberg Emma 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Aims
Simulator training has been recently introduced in electrophysiology (EP) programmes in order to improve catheter manipulation skills without complication risks. The aim of this study is to survey the current use of EP simulators and the perceived need for these tools in clinical training and practice.

Methods and results
A 20-item online questionnaire developed by the Scientific Initiatives Committee of the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) in collaboration with EHRA Digital Committee was disseminated through the EHRA Scientific Research Network members, national EP groups, and social media platforms. Seventy-four respondents from 22 countries (73% males; 50% under 40 years old) completed the survey. Despite being perceived as useful among EP professionals (81%), EP simulators are rarely a part of the institutional cardiology training programme (20%) and only 18% of the respondents have an EP simulator at their institution. When available, simulators are mainly used in EP to train transseptal puncture, ablation, and mapping, followed by device implantation (cardiac resynchronization therapy [CRT], leadless, and conduction system pacing [CSP]). Almost all respondents (96%) believe that simulator programmes should be a part of the routine institutional EP training, hopefully developed by EHRA, in order to improve the efficacy and safety of EP procedures and in particular CSP 58%, CRT 42%, leadless pacing 38%, or complex arrhythmia ablations (VT 58%, PVI 45%, and PVC 42%).

Conclusion
This current EHRA survey identified a perceived need but a lack of institutional simulator programme access for electrophysiologists who could benefit from it in order to speed up the learning curve process and reduce complications of complex EP procedures.
Association of metformin use and cancer incidence: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: O’Connor Lauren , Bailey-Whyte Maeve , Bhattacharya Manami , Butera Gisela , Hardell Kaitlyn N Lewis , Seidenberg Andrew B , Castle Philip E , Loomans-Kropp Holli A 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Metformin is among the most widely used antidiabetics medications because of its minimal toxicity, favorable safety profile, availability, and low cost. In addition to its role in diabetes management, metformin may reduce cancer risk.

Methods
We conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the association between metformin use and cancer risk, with evaluation by specific cancer type when possible. Applicable studies were identified in PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus from inception through March 7, 2023, with metformin use categorized as “ever” or “yes” and a cancer diagnosis as the outcome. Article quality was evaluated using National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute guidelines, and publication bias was evaluated using the Egger test, Begg test, and funnel plots. Pooled relative risk (RR) estimates were calculated using random-effects models, and sensitivity analysis was completed through leave-one-out cross-validation.

Results
We included 166 studies with cancer incidence information in the meta-analysis. Reduced risk for overall cancer was observed in case-control studies (RR = 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.30 to 0.80) and prospective cohort studies (RR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.37 to 0.93). Metformin use was associated with reduced gastrointestinal (RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.73 to 0.85), urologic (RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.78 to 0.99), and hematologic (RR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.75 to 0.99) cancer risk. Statistically significant publication bias was observed within the studies (Egger P &lt; .001).

Conclusions
Metformin may be associated with a decreased risk of many cancer types, but high heterogeneity and risk of publication bias limit confidence in these results. Additional studies in populations without diabetes are needed to better understand the utility of metformin in cancer prevention.
A phase 2 trial investigating the efficacy and safety of the mPGES-1 inhibitor vipoglanstat in systemic sclerosis-related Raynaud's
Authors: Tornling Göran , Edenius Charlotte , Pauling John D , Denton Christopher P , Olsson Anna , Kowalski Jan , Murray Andrea , Anderson Marina , Bhat Smita , Del Galdo Francesco , Hall Frances , Korkosz Mariusz , Krasowska Dorota , Olas Jacek , Smith Vanessa , van Laar Jacob M , Vonk Madelon C , Wojteczek Anna , Herrick Ariane L 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Objective
Our objective was to test the hypothesis, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study that vipoglanstat, an inhibitor of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 (mPGES-1), which decreases prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and increases prostacyclin biosynthesis, improves RP.

Methods
Patients with SSc and ≥7 RP attacks during the last screening week prior to a baseline visit were randomized to 4 weeks treatment with vipoglanstat 120 mg or placebo. A daily electronic diary captured RP attacks (duration and pain) and Raynaud’s Condition Score, with change in RP attacks/week as the primary end point. Cold challenge assessments were performed at baseline and end of treatment. Exploratory end points included patients’ and physicians’ global impression of change, Assessment of Scleroderma-associated Raynaud’s Phenomenon questionnaire, mPGES-1 activity, and urinary excretion of arachidonic acid metabolites.

Results
Sixty-nine subjects received vipoglanstat (n = 33) or placebo (n = 36). The mean weekly number of RP attacks [baseline; vipoglanstat 14.4 (S.D. 6.7), placebo 18.2 (12.6)] decreased by 3.4 (95% CI –5.8; –1.0) and 4.2 (–6.5; –2.0) attacks per week (P = 0.628), respectively. All patient-reported outcomes improved, with no difference between the groups. The mean change in recovery of peripheral blood flow after the cold challenge did not differ between the study groups. Vipoglanstat fully inhibited mPGES-1, resulting in 57% reduction of PGE2 and 50% increase of prostacyclin metabolites in the urine. Vipoglanstat was safe and well tolerated.

Conclusion
Although vipoglanstat was safe, and well tolerated in a dose achieving full inhibition of mPGES-1, it was ineffective in SSc-related RP. Further development and evaluation of vipoglanstat will therefore be in other diseases where mPGES-1 plays a pathogenetic role.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT0474420.
2023 ACR/EULAR classification criteria in existing research cohorts: an international study
Authors: Foddai Silvia G , Radin Massimo , Cecchi Irene , Rubini Elena , Barinotti Alice , Alba Paula , Gimen Alonso Carla , Rossi Daniela , Roccatello Dario , Sciascia Savino 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Objective
To assess the impact of the updated ACR/EULAR APS classification criteria on two large research cohorts.

Methods
Consecutive patients who tested persistently positive for at least one aPL in the last three years were enrolled. The first APS Sydney index event was considered and computed for the comparison between Sydney and 2023 APS criteria. When computing the 2023 APS criteria, additional manifestations were also considered.

Results
The cohort comprised 249 patients (185 with APS and 64 aPL carriers according to Sydney criteria). The 185 patients had as first index event venous thrombosis in 55 cases (29.8%), arterial thrombosis in 63 (34%) and pregnancy morbidity in 67 (36.2%). When applying the updated criteria, 90 subjects (48.7%) failed to reach the composite score of the new criteria. The percentage of thrombotic APS per Sydney criteria decreased from 47.3% to 34.9% because of high cardiovascular risk in 23 cases, IgM aPL profile in six cases and in two patients for both reasons. Patients with pregnancy morbidity decreased from 26.9% to 3.2% (39 cases of recurrent early pregnancy loss and 20 of fetal losses). Consequently, the percentage of aPL carriers increased from 26% to 61%. When looking at the disease evolution at follow-up, 32 additional patients out of 90 (35.6%) fulfilled the new APS criteria, after developing additional clinical manifestation following index event.

Conclusion
When applying the new APS criteria to our research cohorts, not-negligible differences exist in patients’ classification. A multidisciplinary approach will be mandatory to assess the impact of the new criteria on research and, ultimately, patients’ care.
Use of methane production data for genetic prediction in beef cattle: A review
Authors: Dressler Elizabeth A , Bormann Jennifer M , Weaber Robert L , Rolf Megan M 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Methane (CH4) is a greenhouse gas that is produced and emitted from ruminant animals through enteric fermentation. Methane production from cattle has an environmental impact and is an energetic inefficiency. In the beef industry, CH4 production from enteric fermentation impacts all three pillars of sustainability: environmental, social, and economic. A variety of factors influence the quantity of CH4 produced during enteric fermentation, including characteristics of the rumen and feed composition. There are several methodologies available to either quantify or estimate CH4 production from cattle, all with distinct advantages and disadvantages. Methodologies include respiration calorimetry, the sulfur-hexafluoride tracer technique, infrared spectroscopy, prediction models, and the GreenFeed system. Published studies assess the accuracy of the various methodologies and compare estimates from different methods. There are advantages and disadvantages of each technology as they relate to the use of these phenotypes in genetic evaluation systems. Heritability and variance components of CH4 production have been estimated using the different CH4 quantification methods. Agreement in both the amounts of CH4 emitted and heritability estimates of CH4 emissions between various measurement methodologies varies in the literature. Using greenhouse gas traits in selection indices along with relevant output traits could provide producers with a tool to make selection decisions on environmental sustainability while also considering productivity. The objective of this review was to discuss factors that influence CH4 production, methods to quantify CH4 production for genetic evaluation, and genetic parameters of CH4 production in beef cattle.
Enhanced Screening for Ectasia Risk: Multimodal Refractive Imaging Observations From the Fellow Unoperated Eye of Patients With Post-Laser In Situ Keratomileusis Ectasia
Authors: Salomão Marcella Q. , Hoffling-Lima Ana Luisa , Sena Nelson , Lopes Bernardo T. , Guedes Jaime , Ambrósio Renato 
Published: January 2024

Purpose:
The aim of this study was to report multimodal refractive imaging findings that may predict ectasia susceptibility on nonoperated eyes of patients who developed post-LASIK ectasia in the fellow eye.

Study Design:
This is a retrospective case series.

Methods:
The nonoperated fellow eyes of 5 patients who had unilateral LASIK with progressive ectasia underwent a comprehensive ophthalmologic evaluation and multimodal refractive imaging (MRI), including Pentacam HR and Corvis ST (Oculus; Wetzlar, Germany), along with segmental OCT (RTVue; Optovue, Inc, Fremont, CA). Different objective indices and parameters from the Pentacam, Corvis ST, and OCT were analyzed.

Results:
None of the 5 cases showed ectasia detection on the Pentacam TKC (topographic keratoconus classification), and inferior–superior (IS) asymmetry values were lower than 1.0 D in all 5 cases. Corneal thicknesses at the thinnest points measured with the Pentacam were 530, 466, 517, 488, and 511 µ, and with the OCT were 512, 460, 508, 480, and 495 µ, in cases 1to 5, respectively. The keratoconus risk scoring system based on OCT measurements demonstrated a high risk in 2 patients. The BAD-D (Belin-Ambrósio Enhanced Ectasia Deviation) was higher than 1.22 in all 5 cases and higher than 1.6 in 2 cases. Four cases had ARTmax (Ambrósio Relational Thickness to the meridian with maximal progression increase) lower than 390. The PRFI (Pentacam Random Forest Index) was equal or higher than 0.12 in all 5 cases, and enhanced posterior elevation, which is calculated using data from the standard elevation map, excluding a 3.5-mm area centered on the thinnest point, was abnormal in all 5 cases. The value of the current version of the tomographic biomechanical index (TBI V1), derived from artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, which integrate Scheimpflug-based tomography and biomechanical data, was equal or higher than 0.29 in 3 cases.

Conclusions:
Signs of ectasia susceptibility were detected in all nonoperated eyes based on multimodal imaging. These findings support the clinical relevance of such analysis when screening for ectasia risk among candidates for refractive surgery.
Recent developments of telemedicine in glaucoma
Authors: Jo Jason J. , Pasquale Louis R. 
Published: January 2024

Purpose of review
Telemedicine has an increasingly significant role in the fields of ophthalmology and glaucoma. This review covers recent advancements in the development and optimization of teleglaucoma techniques and applications.

Recent findings
Glaucoma monitoring and diagnosis via remote tonometry, perimetry, and fundus imaging have become a possibility based on recent developments. Many applications work in combination with smart devices, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence and have been tested in patient populations against conventional “reference-standard” measurement tools, demonstrating promising results. Of note, there is still much progress to be made in teleglaucoma and telemedicine at large, such as accessibility to internet, broadband, and smart devices, application affordability, and reimbursement for remote services. However, continued development and optimization of these applications suggest that the implementation of remote monitoring will be a mainstay for glaucoma patient care.

Summary
Especially since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, remote patient care has taken on an important role in medicine and ophthalmology. Remote versions of tonometry, perimetry, and fundus imaging may allow for a more patient-centered and accessible future for glaucoma care.
Risk Factors for Severe Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in Hospitalized Children
Authors: Ma Hsuan-Yin , Lin I-Fan , Liu Yun-Chung , Yen Ting-Yu , Huang Kuan-Ying A. , Shih Wei-Liang , Lu Chun-Yi , Chang Luan-Yin , Huang Li-Min 
Published: January 2024

Background:
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants and young children. Starting in December 2010, RSV monoclonal antibody (RSV mAb) was endorsed by Taiwan National Health Insurance and given to children with prematurity and/or congenital heart diseases, which are considered high-risk factors for severe RSV diseases. Investigating other important contributing risk factors is warranted.

Methods:
We conducted a cohort study at National Taiwan University Hospital to determine the rate of severe outcomes among children hospitalized due to RSV infection from 2008 to 2018. Adjusted for age, sex and birth cohorts born before and after RSV mAb endorsement, we identified risk factors for severe RSV infection, defined as the requirement of invasive ventilator support.

Results:
There were 1985 admissions due to RSV infections. Among them, 66 patients (3.3%) had severe RSV infection. The proportion of severe RSV infections decreased significantly after RSV mAb endorsement. Multivariable analysis revealed that age <1.5 months and cardiovascular and congenital/genetic diseases were high-risk underlying conditions. In addition, bacterial coinfections, elevated creatinine levels and initial abnormal chest radiograph findings posed warning signs for severe RSV infection.

Conclusions:
Children younger than 1.5 months of age with cardiovascular or congenital/genetic diseases were predisposed to severe RSV infection and might benefit from RSV mAb prophylaxis.
Time to recovery of asphyxiated neonates and it’s predictors among newborns admitted to neonatal intensive care unit at Debre Berhan Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia
Authors: Yehouala Sisay Girma , Tesfahun Esubalew , Dejene Tadesse Mamo , Gebreegziabher Zenebe Abebe 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundEven though there have been inquiries into the survival rates of asphyxiated neonates in Africa, there is scarce data concerning the recovery duration for asphyxiated newborns in developing nations and the factors affecting this process. Consequently, the objective of this study is to ascertain the time it takes for asphyxiated neonates to recover and identify its predictors.MethodsConducting a retrospective follow-up investigation, the study took place at Debre Berhan Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from January 1st, 2020 to December 31st2022, involving a sample size of 330. The analysis included the computation of the Kaplan-Meier survival curve, the log-rank test, and the median time. Additionally, a multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression model was employed to determine the survival status.Resultsin this study, among the 330 participants (100%), a total of 270(81.8%) successfully survived throughout the entire cohort. Predictors are independent of each other, affecting the time to recovery and survival of asphyxiated neonates, encompassed prolonged labor (AHR: 0.42, 95%CI:0.21-0.81), normal birth weight (AHR:2.21, 95% CI: 1.30-3.70),non-altered consciousness (AHR:2.52, CI:1.50-4.24), non-depressed moro reflex of the newborn (AHR:2.40, 95%CI: 1.03-5.61), stage I HIE (AHR: 5.11, 95% CI: 1.98-13.19), and direct oxygen administration via the nose (AHR: 4.18, 95% CI: 2.21-7.89).ConclusionThe duration for recovery seems to be slightly prolonged in comparison to other research findings. This underscores the significance of vigilant monitoring, early preventive interventions, and swift actions to avert the progression of infants to the most severe stage of HIE.
Intermediate morphology in the patterning of the crystalline Ge(001) surface induced by ion irradiation
Authors: Erb Denise J. , Pearson Daniel A. , Škereň Tomáš , Engler Martin , Bradley R. Mark , Facsko Stefan 
Published: January 2024

We investigate the morphologies of the Ge(001) surface that are produced by bombardment with a normally incident, broad argon ion beam at sample temperatures above the recrystallization temperature. Two previously observed kinds of topographies are seen, i.e., patterns consisting of upright and inverted rectangular pyramids, as well as patterns composed of shallow, isotropic basins. In addition, we observe the formation of an unexpected third type of pattern for intermediate values of the temperature, ion energy, and ion flux. In this type of intermediate morphology, isolated peaks with rectangular cross-sections stand above a landscape of shallow, rounded basins. We also extend past theoretical work to include a second-order correction term that comes from the curvature dependence of the sputter yield. For a range of parameter values, the resulting continuum model of the surface dynamics produces patterns that are remarkably similar to the intermediate morphologies we observe in our experiments. The formation of the isolated peaks is the result of a term that is not ordinarily included in the equation of motion, a second-order correction to the curvature dependence of the sputter yield.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Surveying the mass spectra and the electromagnetic properties of the
Ξc(′,*)D(*)
molecular pentaquarks
Authors: Wang Fu-Lai , Liu Xiang 
Published: January 2024

Motivated by the observed PψsΛ(4459)/PψsΛ(4338) and Tcc(3875)+ states as the ΞcD¯*/ΞcD¯ and DD* molecular candidates, respectively, in this work we investigate the Ξc(′,*)D(*) molecular systems. We obtain the mass spectra and the corresponding spatial wave functions of the Ξc(′,*)D(*)-type double-charm molecular pentaquark candidates with single strangeness, where we utilize the one-boson-exchange model and take into account both the S−D wave-mixing effect and the coupled-channel effect. Our results show that the most promising candidates of the double-charm molecular pentaquarks with single strangeness include the ΞcD state with I(JP)=0(1/2−), the Ξc′D state with I(JP)=0(1/2−), the ΞcD* states with I(JP)=0(1/2−,3/2−), the Ξc*D state with I(JP)=0(3/2−), the Ξc′D* states with I(JP)=0(1/2−,3/2−), and the Ξc*D* states with I(JP)=0(1/2−,3/2−,5/2−). To gain further insight into the inner structures and the properties of the isoscalar Ξc(′,*)D(*) molecular candidates, we utilize the constituent quark model to analyze their M1 radiative decay behaviors and magnetic moments based on the obtained mass spectra and spatial wave functions, which can offer significant information to determine their spin-parity quantum numbers and configurations in the forthcoming experiments. We suggest that our experimental colleagues search for the predicted Ξc(′,*)D(*) molecular states.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024