Identification Of Individuals Research Articles

Prognostic Value of Cardiovascular Biomarkers in the Population.

Identification of individuals at high risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease within the population is important to inform primary prevention strategies. To evaluate the prognostic value of routinely available cardiovascular biomarkers when added to established risk factors. Individual-level analysis including data on cardiovascular biomarkers from 28 general population-based cohorts from 12 countries and 4 continents with assessments by participant age. The median follow-up was 11.8 years. Measurement of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I, high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, B-type natriuretic peptide, or high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. The primary outcome was incident atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, which included all fatal and nonfatal events. The secondary outcomes were all-cause mortality, heart failure, ischemic stroke, and myocardial infarction. Subdistribution hazard ratios (HRs) for the association of biomarkers and outcomes were calculated after adjustment for established risk factors. The additional predictive value of the biomarkers was assessed using the C statistic and reclassification analyses. The analyses included 164 054 individuals (median age, 53.1 years [IQR, 42.7-62.9 years] and 52.4% were women). There were 17 211 incident atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease events. All biomarkers were significantly associated with incident atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (subdistribution HR per 1-SD change, 1.13 [95% CI, 1.11-1.16] for high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I; 1.18 [95% CI, 1.12-1.23] for high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T; 1.21 [95% CI, 1.18-1.24] for N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide; 1.14 [95% CI, 1.08-1.22] for B-type natriuretic peptide; and 1.14 [95% CI, 1.12-1.16] for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) and all secondary outcomes. The addition of each single biomarker to a model that included established risk factors improved the C statistic. For 10-year incident atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in younger people (aged <65 years), the combination of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein resulted in a C statistic improvement from 0.812 (95% CI, 0.8021-0.8208) to 0.8194 (95% CI, 0.8089-0.8277). The combination of these biomarkers also improved reclassification compared with the conventional model. Improvements in risk prediction were most pronounced for the secondary outcomes of heart failure and all-cause mortality. The incremental value of biomarkers was greater in people aged 65 years or older vs younger people. Cardiovascular biomarkers were strongly associated with fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events and mortality. The addition of biomarkers to established risk factors led to only a small improvement in risk prediction metrics for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, but was more favorable for heart failure and mortality.

Intelligent Video Surveillance System for Bank

With the increasing sophistication of financial crimes and the growing demand for secure banking services, the implementation of advanced security measures has become imperative for banks worldwide. Facial recognition technology emerges as a promising solution to enhance security and streamline authorization verification processes. This paper explores the application of facial recognition technology in banks to determine the authorization status of individuals accessing accounts or conducting transactions. The primary objective of this research is to investigate the efficacy of facial recognition systems in accurately identifying and verifying the identity of individuals in banking environments. By leveraging biometric data, such as facial features, these systems aim to authenticate users with a high level of accuracy and reliability. Moreover, the integration of facial recognition technology enables banks to combat various forms of fraud, including identity theft, account takeover, and unauthorized access. This study will examine the technological aspects of facial recognition systems, including their underlying algorithms, data processing techniques, and integration capabilities with existing banking infrastructure. Additionally, it will analyze the security implications and privacy concerns associated with the deployment of facial recognition technology in banking operations. Furthermore, the research will explore the practical implementation of facial recognition systems in real-world banking scenarios, evaluating their effectiveness in enhancing security, reducing fraud, and improving customer experience. It will assess the potential challenges and limitations faced during deployment, such as system accuracy, scalability, and regulatory compliance

Expanding the spatial scale in DNA-based monitoring schemes: ascertainment bias in transnational assessments

Harmonising methodology between countries is crucial in transborder population monitoring. However, immediate application of alleged, established DNA-based methods across the extended area can entail drawbacks and may lead to biases. Therefore, genetic methods need to be tested across the whole area before being deployed. Around 4,500 brown bears (Ursus arctos) live in Norway, Sweden, and Finland and they are divided into the western (Scandinavian) and eastern (Karelian) population. Both populations have recovered and are connected via asymmetric migration. DNA-based population monitoring in Norway and Sweden uses the same set of genetic markers. With Finland aiming to implement monitoring, we tested the available SNP-panel developed to assess brown bears in Norway and Sweden, on tissue samples from a representative set of 93 legally harvested individuals from Finland. The aim was to test for ascertainment bias and evaluate its suitability for DNA-based transnational-monitoring covering all three countries. We compared results to the performance of microsatellite genotypes of the same individuals in Finland and against SNP-genotypes from individuals sampled in Sweden (N = 95) and Norway (N = 27). In Finland, a higher resolution for individual identification was obtained for SNPs (PI = 1.18E-27) compared to microsatellites (PI = 4.2E-11). Compared to Norway and Sweden, probability of identity of the SNP-panel was slightly higher and expected heterozygosity lower in Finland indicating ascertainment bias. Yet, our evaluation show that the available SNP-panel outperforms the microsatellite panel currently applied in Norway and Sweden. The SNP-panel represents a powerful tool that could aid improving transnational DNA-based monitoring of brown bears across these three countries.

Nine-year seroepidemiological study of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus infection in feral horses in Cape Toi, Japan

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a fatal zoonosis caused by ticks in East Asia. As SFTS virus (SFTSV) is maintained between wildlife and ticks, seroepidemiological studies in wildlife are important to understand the behavior of SFTSV in the environment. Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan, is an SFTS-endemic area, and approximately 100 feral horses, called Misaki horses (Equus caballus), inhabit Cape Toi in Miyazaki Prefecture. While these animals are managed in a wild-like manner, their ages are ascertainable due to individual identification. In the present study, we conducted a seroepidemiological survey of SFTSV in Misaki horses between 2015 and 2023. This study aimed to understand SFTSV infection in horses and its transmission to wildlife. A total of 707 samples from 180 feral horses were used to determine the seroprevalence of SFTSV using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Neutralization testing was performed on 118 samples. In addition, SFTS viral RNA was detected in ticks from Cape Toi and feral horses. The overall seroprevalence between 2015 and 2023 was 78.5% (555/707). The lowest seroprevalence was 55% (44/80) in 2016 and the highest was 92% (76/83) in 2018. Seroprevalence was significantly affected by age, with 11% (8/71) in those less than one year of age and 96.7% (435/450) in those four years of age and older (p < 0.0001). The concordance between ELISA and neutralization test results was 88.9% (105/118). SFTS viral RNA was not detected in ticks (n = 516) or feral horses. This study demonstrated that horses can be infected with SFTSV and that age is a significant factor in seroprevalence in wildlife. This study provides insights into SFTSV infection not only in horses but also in wildlife in SFTS-endemic areas.

Individual identification method using samples associated with doping tests: A comparison of mitochondrial and nuclear genetic data.

Doping offenses involve the use or attempted use of any prohibited method or substance as well as substituting samples. Consequently, it has been recommended that short tandem repeat (STR) analysis be used to determine if the doping control samples are from the same athlete. However, it has been recognized that it may be difficult to obtain full STR analysis using negligible amounts of DNA samples. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is characterized by its stability and high cellular copy number. Therefore, mtDNA testing in urine is expected to be used to analyze samples that cannot be analyzed using STR analysis. The objective of this study was to compare mtDNA testing with STR analysis by conducting sensitivity, concordance (whole blood, dried blood spot, and urine), and case-type studies. In sensitivity studies, mtDNA testing exhibited greater sensitivity compared with STR analysis. Concordance studies indicated that all samples were consistent with the mtDNA sequences and STR profiles. Allelic dropout occurred in some urine samples that were examined for STR analysis. Case-type sample studies demonstrated that mtDNA testing could be used to obtain DNA profiles of all the samples tested, including blood, dried blood spots, urine, blood residues on needles, and blood stains. In conclusion, mtDNA testing is valuable for analyzing highly degraded DNA samples, such as urine samples, compared with STR analysis. Urine testing should be performed for the initial testing procedure, because mtDNA is inherited maternally. In situations where the DNA match is detrimental to the athlete, additional blood STR analysis may be required.

Predicting unplanned hospitalisations in older adults using routinely recorded general practice data.

Unplanned hospitalisations represent a hazardous event for older persons. Timely identification of high-risk individuals using a prediction tool may facilitate preventive interventions. To develop and validate an easy-to-use prediction model for unplanned hospitalisations in community-dwelling older adults using readily available data to allow rapid bedside assessment by general practitioners. Retrospective study using general practice electronic health records of 243,129 community-dwelling adults aged ≥65 years linked with national administrative data. The dataset was geographically split into a development (58.7%) and validation (41.3%) sample to predict unplanned hospitalisations within 6 months. We evaluated the performance of three different models with increasingly smaller selections of candidate predictors (i.e. optimal, readily-available and easy-to-use model, respectively). We used logistic regression with backward selection for model development. The models were validated internally and externally. We assessed predictive performance by area under the curve (AUC) and calibration plots. In both samples, 7.6% had at least one unplanned hospitalisation within 6 months. The discriminative ability of the three models was comparable and remained stable after geographic validation. The easy-to-use model included age, sex, prior hospitalisations, pulmonary emphysema, heart failure and polypharmacy. Its discriminative ability after validation was AUC 0.72 [95% confidence interval: 0.72-0.71]. Calibration plots showed good calibration. Our models showed satisfactory predictive ability. Reducing the number of predictors and geographic validation did not impact predictive performance, demonstrating the robustness of the model. We developed an easy-to-use tool that may assist general practitioners in decision-making and targeted preventive interventions.

Unveiling Otherness: Gendered Memories and Identity in Octavia Butler's Dawn

In recent years, American Studies have shifted their focus towards the political realm. However, despite the undermining of many moral-philosophical dogmas of the Western metaphysical tradition by poststructuralism and deconstruction, a significant portion of the political claims made in this revisionist turn still rely, albeit tacitly, on these moral and ethical assumptions. As these assumptions often clash with the theoretical foundations of revisionist works, some proponents resort to what could be termed as the "pathos of marginality" and rely on vague concepts of "otherness." Furthermore, these political-ideological interpretations often neglect aesthetic aspects, suspecting them of carrying implicit and hegemonic strategies of representation. This abstract delves into the exploration of gendered memories and identity within Octavia Butler's seminal work, Dawn. The narrative unfolds in a world fundamentally transformed by alien intervention, where the protagonist, Lilith, grapples with the complexities of her own identity amidst encounters with enigmatic extraterrestrial beings. Through an analysis of key characters and narrative themes, this study elucidates the nuanced portrayal of otherness and the role of gendered memories in shaping individual and collective identities. Butler's visionary narrative offers a thought-provoking examination of the intersections between memory, gender, and the construction of the self in a post-apocalyptic world. By delving into the philosophical underpinnings and ethical implications of otherness, this research aims to shed light on the intricate dynamics of identity formation and the quest for belonging in speculative fiction.

Exploring the factors affecting political education in Iran

The transmission of political values and norms through education is crucial for global political systems. It enhances citizens' engagement in politics and society. This paper explores influential factors in the political education of Iranian citizens within an Islamic community society. Focusing on Islamic political education values and objectives, it elaborates on principles impacting Iranian citizens' education. It examines the conceptual framework, nature, goals, applications, and dimensions, while scrutinizing components' role in educating committed citizens. This article employs the qualitative document analysis method. The findings highlight the crucial role of Iranian political culture in developing political education. The political culture of Iranians is a combination of participant and subject political cultures. Iranian political culture significantly influences political education, driven by factors like family, media, education institutions, government, political and religious rituals, and religion. These factors play a critical role in shaping the perspectives, values, and political identities of individuals.

War and the Question of Identity: A Study of the Novel Half of a Yellow Sun and the Movie The Wall

This study examines the complex correlation between warfare and individual identity as depicted in Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's literary work, "Half of a Yellow Sun." and a movie entitled “the wall”. The novel explores the effects of the Nigerian-Biafran War on personal and group identities, providing a captivating narrative within this historical context. The movie also tackles the issue of identity by providing viewers with situations pertaining to the issue of identity formation. This research aims to explore the impact of war on the transformation and reinterpretation of identity, encompassing ethnic, national, and personal ties. It achieves this by closely analyzing the experiences of the individuals involved. This paper explores the characters' reactions to the societal disruption resulting from the war, scrutinizing their efforts to navigate their sense of self amidst the presence of aggression and forced relocation. Furthermore, this study critically examines the influence of memory, trauma, and storytelling on the development of the characters' changing perception of their own identity. Through an exploration of these thematic elements, a more profound comprehension of the ways in which war may both shatter and form identities is attained, thereby illuminating the intricate nature of human experiences within periods of conflict.

Environmental and Metabolic Risk Factors Linked to Gallbladder Dysplasia

Gallbladder disorders encompass a spectrum from congenital anomalies to inflammatory and neoplastic conditions, frequently requiring surgical intervention. Epithelial abnormalities like adenoma and metaplasia have the potential to progress to carcinoma, emphasizing the importance of histopathological assessment for early detection of malignancy. Gallbladder cancer (GBC) may be incidentally discovered during cholecystectomy for presumed benign conditions, underscoring the need for a thorough examination. However, the lack of clarity regarding the molecular mechanisms of GBC has impeded diagnostic and therapeutic advancements. Timely detection is crucial due to GBC’s aggressive nature and poor prognosis. Chronic inflammation plays a central role in carcinogenesis, causing DNA damage and oncogenic alterations due to persistent insults. Inflammatory cytokines and microRNAs are among the various mediators contributing to this process. Gallbladder calcifications, particularly stippled ones, may signal malignancy and warrant preemptive removal. Molecular pathways involving mutations in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes drive GBC pathogenesis, with proposed sequences such as gallstone-induced inflammation leading to carcinoma formation. Understanding these mechanisms, alongside evaluating mucin characteristics and gene mutations, can deepen comprehension of GBC’s pathophysiology. This, in turn, facilitates the identification of high-risk individuals and the development of improved treatment strategies, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes. Thus, in this review, our aim has been to underscore the primary mechanisms underlying the development of gallbladder dysplasia and neoplasia.

MAFLD identifies patients with significant hepatic fibrosis better than MASLD.

Diagnostic criteria for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) have been proposed but not yet validated. This study aimed to compare the diagnostic accuracy of the MASLD definition with the existing criteria for metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in identifying patients with significant fibrosis. The analysis included a total of 8317 individuals who had complete biochemical and liver ultrasonography data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2017-2020). In this study, significant fibrosis (≥ F2) was determined by a median liver stiffness of ≥ 8.0kPa. To identify independent factors associated with significant fibrosis, multivariable logistic regression analyses were applied. MAFLD (OR 3.44; 95% CI 2.88-4.12; P < 0.0001) has a trend for stronger and independent association with significant fibrosis compared to MASLD (OR 2.63; 95% CI 2.22-3.11; P < 0.0001). Non-MASLD MAFLD is independently associated with a 14.28-fold higher odds of significant fibrosis compared to non-MAFLD MASLD. The sensitivity for detecting significant fibrosis for MAFLD and MASLD was 76.23% vs 69.94%, respectively. The performance of MAFLD remains consistent in a sub-analysis of patients with no or mild alcohol intake. The definition of MAFLD provides a more precise identification of individuals who have both fatty liver and significant fibrosis, assessed by non-invasive tests.

218 Weaning weights associated with improved performance of grow-finish pigs

Abstract This study was conducted to evaluate the downstream impact of wean weight (WW) on finishing pig performance. Individual body weights (BW) were recorded at the time of weaning using the LeeO individual animal identification system. Finisher performance evaluation started at d 57 post-weaning. Pigs (n = 1,276; PIC 800 x DNA 241 F1) were blocked by wean age (20.6 ± 1.5 d) and sex, ranked in order of individual WW (6.05 ± 1.43 kg), and divided into BW quartiles to create four WW treatment groups [WW Quartile (Q) 1, 2, 3, and 4; Table 1]. Pigs (n = 21) in the same Q were housed in each pen yielding 15 replicate pens per quartile. Pigs were fed common diets formulated in a 4-phase sequence from the time of placement in the finisher through marketing, which occurred on a fixed-BW basis targeting 131.5 kg. Pen BW and feed disappearance were recorded every 3 wk and at marketing, and individual BW were recorded on d 134 post-weaning. Data were analyzed using linear mixed effects models in the lme4 package of R. Differences in mean BW of each Q were evident at weaning (P &amp;lt; 0.001), start of finisher evaluation (d 57, P &amp;lt; 0.001), and through d 121 (P &amp;lt; 0.001); by d 144, the BW between Q3 and Q4 did not differ (126.6 vs 129.0 kg, respectively, P &amp;gt; 0.05). Overall average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) were greater (P &amp;lt; 0.001) for finishing pigs of either Q3 or Q4 compared with Q1, but no difference (P &amp;gt; 0.10) in gain to feed ratio (G:F) was observed between quartiles from 28.0 to 131.5 kg BW. Pigs in Q3 and Q4 required fewer (P &amp;lt; 0.001) days on feed than pigs in either Q1 or Q2, which culminated in an overall linear (P &amp;lt; 0.001) effect such that a 0.45-kg advantage in WW resulted in 2.25 d less to reach a market BW of 131.5 kg. Coefficient of variation (CV) in BW at d 134 post-weaning was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.001) for pigs in Q1 compared with pigs in Q2, Q3, or Q4. Backfat depth was thicker (P &amp;lt; 0.05) for Q1 pigs compared with Q4 pigs but did not differ from pigs in Q2 or Q3. A decrease (P &amp;lt; 0.001) in carcass ADG was seen for pigs in the lightest 50% of the population compared with those in Q4. In conclusion, even though feed efficiency was not impacted by WW, heavier WW resulted in fewer days to reach desired market weight while simultaneously resulting in improved carcass characteristics.

39 Using genetics and technology to improve swine robustness

Abstract Abstract Pig robustness has been an increasing concern in the global swine industry over the last 10 yr. This trend of increased mortality across all phases of production continues to worsen over time despite greater focus on research, management, and other production practices to control it. During this time, dramatic improvements in genetic progress have been realized through the selection of economically important traits. Historically, swine genetic companies have relied on data from their purebred animals reared in high-health and well-managed environments which has proven difficult to provide meaningful insight on variation in robustness traits. More recently, leading genetic companies have invested in large commercial test herds where crossbred pigs and breeding animals are individually identified with pedigree and genomic information. These pigs are reared under challenging and varying commercial conditions and mortality, removals, and reproductive efficiency data are gathered and used to generate crossbred breeding values. This type of data increases the accuracy of genetic estimates as well as creates new traits aimed at improving robustness and ease of management. Further investments have been made in precision livestock farming technologies such as computer vision which is quickly being developed due to the low cost of cameras and the ability to use edge computing to process images in real-time or to transfer images and data to the cloud. These developments are particularly compelling in the genetic improvement space when they can be paired with individual animal identification enabling novel traits to be measured in large populations more consistently and at a reduced cost compared with previous labor-intensive or cost-prohibitive methods. Early examples of this are the use of cameras to score feet and leg soundness in replacement gilts as lameness and associated feet and leg injuries are still one of the largest contributors to sow culls and mortality. This new digital feet and leg soundness scoring method has initially resulted in dramatically greater accuracy and heritability compared with conventional subjective human scoring methods. Other camera-based algorithms have been developed to track individual pigs and assess their daily behaviors and interactions. These developments are key to collecting new phenotypes for the selection of positive behavior traits for genetic selection compared with what was previously possible with human observer or scan sampling methods. Gene editing is another promising technology that has been used in human health and plant breeding but is now being widely researched in livestock. This technology has been used to create the first PRRS-resistant pigs to address one of the most costly diseases in the industry. New sources of data and technologies are key to creating and capturing existing and novel phenotypes on large populations of pigs in commercial environments to aid in the genetic improvement of non-conventional traits.

217 Weaning weight associated with improved nursery pig growth rate

Abstract Heavier body weight (BW) at weaning is associated not only with heavier birth weight, but also with heavier downstream BW at nursery exit and at fixed-time marketing. To further address management implications of wean weight (WW), this study evaluated WW impact on nursery pig start-up, gain to feed ratio (G:F), and performance variation from 6 to 20 kg BW. Individual BW were collected at the time of weaning using the LeeO individual animal identification system. Pigs (n = 1,054; PIC 800 x DNA 241 F1) were blocked by wean age (20.1 ± 0.8 d) and sex, ranked in order of individual WW (5.94 ± 1.35 kg), and split into eight WW groups each representing 12.5% of the weaning population (P &amp;lt; 0.05; Table 1). Similar sized pigs were housed together (12 pigs/pen, 11 replicate pens/WW group) and fed a common 4-phase nursery diet for 42 d post-wean. Pen weights and feed disappearance were recorded at d 7, 14, 21, and 42, and individual BW were collected at d 42. Data were analyzed using linear mixed effects models in the lme4 package of R. Body weight differences (P &amp;lt; 0.05) between each WW group were evident on d 0 and through d 7 post-weaning. The lightest 12.5% of the weaning population had the greatest (P &amp;lt; 0.001) individual pig BW coefficient of variation (CV) at weaning and d 42 whereas no differences (P &amp;gt; 0.05) in d 42 BW CV were evident among the other WW groups. During the first week post-weaning, average daily feed intake (ADFI) diverged (P &amp;lt; 0.05) between the lightest 12.5% (113 g/d) and the heaviest 25% (134 g/d) of the wean population. From d 0 to 42, the lightest 12.5% WW pigs had slower average daily gain (ADG; P &amp;lt; 0.001), less ADFI (P &amp;lt; 0.001), and reduced exit BW (P &amp;lt; 0.001) than the other WW groups. Neither ADG nor ADFI differed (P &amp;gt; 0.05) among the median 50% of the population from d 0 to 42. No differences (P &amp;gt; 0.10) in overall nursery G:F between any WW groups were observed. Across the population, regression analysis indicated a 0.45 kg increase in WW resulted in a 1.0 kg increase (linear, P &amp;lt; 0.001) in nursery exit BW. Moreover, both ADG and ADFI as a percentage of BW increased as WW decreased, suggesting lighter WW pigs have competitive growth capacity to their heavier WW counterparts through 20 kg BW. Data demonstrates WW influences nursery exit weight of pigs fed a common diet. Future research should explore solutions to increase growth rate of light WW pigs.

Ammonium sulfate denatures transport medium less dependent on guanidinium isothiocyanate and enables SARS-CoV-2 RNA and antigen detection compatibility

IntroductionRapid identification of infected individuals through viral RNA or antigen detection followed by effective personal isolation is usually the most effective way to prevent the spread of a newly emerging virus. Large-scale detection involves mass specimen collection and transportation. For biosafety reasons, denaturing viral transport medium has been extensively used during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. However, the high concentrations of guanidinium isothiocyanate (GITC) in such media have raised issues around sufficient GITC supply and laboratory safety. Moreover, there is a lack of denaturing transport media compatible with SARS-CoV-2 RNA and antigen detection.MethodsHere, we tested whether supplementing media containing low concentrations of GITC with ammonium sulfate (AS) would affect the throat-swab detection of SARS-CoV-2 or a viral inactivation assay targeting coronavirus and other enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. The effect of adding AS to the media on RNA stability and its compatibility with SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection were also tested.Results and discussionWe found that adding AS to the denaturing transport media reduced the need for high levels of GITC, improved SARS-COV-2 RNA detection without compromising virus inactivation, and enabled the denaturing transport media compatible with SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection.

Abstract PO1-09-03: Clinical Impact of Multigene Panel Testing in Patients with a Personal or Family History of Breast or Ovarian Cancer Previously Negative for BRCA1/2 Genes

Abstract Rapid developments in cancer genetics and hereditary cancer risk assessments have enabled the identification of individuals at elevated risk for hereditary malignancies to guide enhanced cancer screening and prevention efforts. Multigene panel testing has emerged as the standard approach as emphasized in the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. The purpose of this study was to investigate the frequency of other pathogenic mutations identified through multigene panel testing in individuals who previously tested negative for germline BRCA1/2 and assess the clinical impact of panel testing. Patients either previously diagnosed with breast cancer or with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer that had also been seen by Oncology Genetics at a single institution and tested negative for BRCA1/2 genes but had not undergone prior multigene panel testing were invited via a letter to return for an additional genetic counseling visit to discuss multigene panel testing. Patients were also able to opt-in to a survey component of the study and received an email to fill out the Multidimensional Impact of Cancer Risk Assessment (MICRA) and Cancer Worry Scale (CWS). Surveys were completed prior to the initial genetic counseling appointment and repeated after discussion of the multigene panel test results. A total 24 women met with a genetic counselor of which 22 (92%) had a personal history of breast cancer, 1 (4%) had a family history of breast cancer, and 1 (4%) had a family history of ovarian cancer. The mean age was 52.6 years (range, 42-68) and 100% of women were Caucasian. Of the 24 women, 17 (71%) completed multigene panel testing. Of the women that underwent testing, 7 (41%) had negative results, 6 (35%) had variants of unknown significance (VUS), and 4 (24%) had a pathogenic mutation identified in another gene (CDKN2A, CHEK2, and CFTR). There was no significant change in MICRA or CWS scores after multigene panel results were reviewed in the 9 patients that completed both pre- and post-genetic testing surveys. The mean/median summary MICRA scores pre- and post-counselling were 30 (SD 12.4), median 26 (min 18, max 56), and 21.2 (SD 15.4), median 21 (min 3, max 43), respectively (p=0.19, Wilcoxon signed ranks test). The mean/median summary CWS scores pre- and post-counselling were 14.3 (SD 5), median 15 (min 7, max 24), and 13.6 (SD 2.59), median 14 (min 10, max 17), respectively (p=0.53, Wilcoxon signed ranks test). Of the 4 patients with newly identified pathogenic mutations, 2 started new screening protocols and 1 underwent a prophylactic mastectomy. In conclusion, multigene panel testing identified pathogenic mutations in a subset of individuals who previously tested negative for BRCA1/2 genes leading to changes in clinical management. The completion of multigene panel testing did not lead to a significant increase in MICRA or CWS scores. Key limitations of this study include a small sample size and an all Caucasian population. Citation Format: Devon Miller, Stephanie Pritzl, Angela Tess, Jessica Gooding, Lisa Barroilhet, Lori Dubenske, Kari Wisinski. Clinical Impact of Multigene Panel Testing in Patients with a Personal or Family History of Breast or Ovarian Cancer Previously Negative for BRCA1/2 Genes [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO1-09-03.

Elusive mustelids-18 months in the search of near-threatened stoat (Mustela erminea) and weasel (M. nivalis) reveals low captures.

Stoat (Mustela erminea) and weasel (M. nivalis) are hard to monitor as they are elusive of nature and leave few identifying marks in their surroundings. Stoat and weasel are both fully protected in Denmark and are thought to be widely distributed throughout the country. Despite this stoat and weasel were listed on the Danish Red List as Near Threatened in 2019, as their densities and population trends are unknown. Using a modified novel camera trapping device, the Double-Mostela, a wooden box comprising a tracking tunnel and two camera traps, we attempted to obtain density estimates based on identification of individual stoats and weasels. We deployed camera traps both inside Double-Mostela traps and externally in three different study areas in northern Zealand, Denmark, and tested commercial, American scent-based lures to attract stoat and weasel. We obtained very low seasonal trapping rates of weasel in two study areas, but in one study area, we obtained a seasonal trapping rate of stoat larger compared to another study using the Mostela. In one study area, both species were absent. We observed no effect of scent-based lures in attracting small mustelids compared to non-bait traps. Potential reasons behind low capture rates of weasel and stoat are suboptimal habitat placement and timing of deployment of the Double-Mostelas, land-use changes over the last 200 years, predation from larger predators, as well as unintended secondary poisoning with rodenticides. Due to the scarcity of weasel and stoat captures, we were unable to make density estimates based on identification of individuals; however, we identified potential features that could be used for identification and density estimates with more captures.

Mitral Annular Disjunction in the Contextof Mitral Valve Prolapse: Identifying the At-Risk Patient.

Mitral annular disjunction (MAD), a separation between the left atrium/mitral valve annulus and the left ventricular myocardium, is frequently seen in patients with arrhythmic mitral valve prolapse. Although an association exists between MAD and ventricular arrhythmias, little is known regarding the identification of individuals at high risk. Multimodality imaging including echocardiography, computed tomography, cardiac magnetic resonance, and positron emission tomography can play an important role in both the diagnosis and risk stratification of MAD. Due to a paucity of data, clinical decision making in a patient with MAD is challenging and remains largely empirical. Although MAD itself can be corrected surgically, the prevention and treatment of associated arrhythmias may require medical therapy, catheter ablation, and an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. Prospective data are required to define the role of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators, targeted catheter ablation, and surgical correction in selected, at-risk patients.

A Modified Frailty Phenotype Used for Identifying Frailty in Health Care Practice: Validation Among Chinese Older Adults

ObjectivesThe study aimed to evaluate a simplified and practical frailty detection tool derived from the Fried frailty phenotype (FFP). This tool was developed to facilitate the identification of frail individuals in constrained settings, addressing the challenges posed by uncertain cutoffs of FFP indicators in prompt frailty assessment. DesignA longitudinal study and a cross-sectional study. Settings and ParticipantsA total of 1978 older adults aged 67.4 ± 6.16 years from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), and 972 older adults aged 72.8 ± 6.75 years from a pilot cross-sectional study conducted in Shanghai communities. MethodsFrailty was assessed according to the FFP criterion. A Chinese modified frailty phenotype (CMFP) was developed, incorporating specific cutoffs for grip strength and an alternative test for walk speed. The internal consistency reliability, the criterion, and predictive validity of the CMFP were evaluated. ResultsThe 5-time chair stand test (5t-CST) was significantly associated with the 2.5-m walk test (r = 0.373 in the CHARLS and 0.423 in the pilot study). Each element of the CMFP showed moderate to strong correlations with the total CMFP score and showed Cronbach's alpha of 0.303 and 0.358 in both populations. The Spearman's r and kappa values between the CMFP and the FFP were 0.795 and 0.663 in the CHARLS, and 0.676 and 0.537 in the pilot study. The areas under the curve (AUC) were 0.936 and 0.928 in the 2 studies, respectively. In addition, frailty assessed by the CMFP significantly predicted future incidence of outcomes, including all-cause mortality, activities of daily living (ADL)/instrumental ADL disability, hospitalization, and depression. Conclusions and ImplicationsThe study demonstrated the CMFP as a valid tool, particularly highlighting its excellent predictive ability on outcomes. The 5t-CST may act as a viable alternative test for assessing slowness. The CMFP can be systematically integrated into preclinical practice to identify frail individuals, especially within constrained spaces.

Longitudinal albuminuria patterns predict coronary artery calcification progression: Findings from the coronary artery risk development in young adults study

Background and aimsAlbuminuria is an established risk factor for adverse cardiovascular outcomes. However, few studies have characterized longitudinal albuminuria patterns based on long-term measurement of urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) levels. We aimed to evaluate the association between longitudinal albuminuria patterns in midlife adults and subsequent CAC progression. MethodsWe included 1919 participants with CAC assessment by computed tomography from CARDIA (Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults) study. CAC progression was determined for each individual as the difference of logarithmic CAC scores at follow-up and baseline. Albuminuria patterns across a 10-year span were estimated by longitudinal UACR levels. Multivariable general linear models were used to evaluate the association of long-term albuminuria patterns with CAC progression. ResultsOf the 1919 included participants, 583 (30.4%) participants experienced CAC progression, and the mean (SD) age was 50.4 (3.5) years at year 25. A total of four dynamic albuminuria patterns were identified. After multivariable adjustment, there were significant differences in CAC progression by albuminuria patterns as demonstrated as percent change in CAC with 36.0% (SE, 1.5) progression for mid- and late-life normoalbuminuria group, 46.0% (SE, 7.6) for midlife normoalbuminuria and late-life high albuminuria group, 52.4% (SE, 7.1) for midlife high albuminuria and late-life normoalbuminuria group, and 54.5% (SE, 8.7) for mid- and late-life high albuminuria group (p = 0.019). Similar findings were also observed in CAC volume score changes. ConclusionsLongitudinal albuminuria patterns across a 10-year span were associated with worse CAC progression independent of baseline CAC level and albuminuria changes, suggesting that it may provide early identification of high-risk individuals with dynamic rises in albuminuria who may benefit from aggressive risk factor modification.