Prevalence Characteristics Research Articles

The meaning of apathy in Huntington's disease: A qualitative study of caregiver perspectives

ABSTRACT Although one of the most prevalent and impactful features of Huntington’s disease (HD), little is known about the impact of apathy on HD caregivers, although there is evidence it affects perceptions of distress and burden. Given the importance of the caregivers, we aimed to explore the lived experience of people supporting someone with HD and associated apathy. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 caregivers and analysed using reflective thematic analysis, informed by a phenomenological framework. Five overarching themes were produced: (1) What even is apathy? (2) It makes my life harder: the practical impact of apathy, (3) They haven’t forgotten me, but they have forgotten that they ever loved me, (4) I’m grieving for someone who hasn’t died yet, and (5) I need a safe space to say what I really feel without fear of judgement. Inter-woven between these themes were complex narratives about the unspoken nature of HD, the invisibility of caregivers who felt trapped and unheard, and the one-sided nature of loving someone with the disease. Findings are discussed in relation to theoretical frameworks of anticipatory grief and ambiguous loss, and situated within the wider literature on caregiving for people with a neurodegenerative condition.

Picturing immediate echolalia within the context of autism: Examining its formats, actions and patterns under conversation analysis

ABSTRACT Echolalia, a prevalent feature of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), has been extensively debated among behaviourists and developmental researchers for decades, long segmenting clinical work within the context of autism. This qualitative study aimed to explore the interactive underpinnings of immediate echolalia naturally occurring in dyadic conversation between autistic individuals and clinicians, employing turn-by-turn and sequence-by-sequence analysis within the framework of Conversation Analysis (CA). The results revealed that varying the complete-incomplete-transformed format, echolalia helped participants a) express their emotions, b) automatically associate conversation, c) organise their response, d) maintain conversational reciprocity, and e) assist with request initiation. Within the context of echolalia, the dynamics of conversation exhibited blocking, diverting, or affiliating patterns. The current study provides insights into the interactive traits of immediate echolalia and underscores the potential utility for clinical therapists to employ the echoic sources in clinical intervention.

Heterojunction functionalized sodium alginate/carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals film enhancing sterilization performance for wound healing

In the realm of natural polysaccharides, hydrogen bonding is a prevalent feature, yet its role in enhancing photocatalytic antimicrobial properties has been underexplored. In this paper, heterojunctions formed by graphene oxide (GO) and ZIF-8 were locked in sodium alginate/ carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals via hydrogen bonding networks, designated as SCGZ. The SCGZ films exhibit superior photocatalytic performance compared to either ZIF-8 or heterojunctions. This enhancement is primarily due to two key factors: firstly, the hydrogen bonding network significantly enhances the transfer of protons and holes, thereby improving the separation efficiency of photo-generated carriers; secondly, the hydrogen bonding between the layers facilitates a more efficient charge transfer, which expedites the movement of electrons from ZIF-8 to GO upon illumination. In vitro studies demonstrated that the SCGZ films possess remarkable antibacterial capabilities, achieving 99.75 % and 99.61 % inhibition rates against S. aureus and E. coli, respectively. In vivo animal experiments have shown that SCGZ films can significantly accelerate the healing process of damaged tissues, with a healing efficiency of up to 90.5 %. This research provides additional insights into the development of natural polysaccharide-based multi‑hydrogen bonded macromolecules with enhanced photocatalytic properties.

Prevalence and clinicopathological features of primary age-related tauopathy (PART): A large forensic autopsy study.

Primary age-related tauopathy (PART), often regarded as a minimally symptomatic pathology of old age, lacks comprehensive cohorts across various age groups. We examined PART prevalence and clinicopathologic features in 1589 forensic autopsy cases (≥40 years old, mean age±SD 70.2±14.2 years). PART cases meeting criteria for argyrophilic grain diseases (AGD) were AGD+PART (n=181). The remaining PART cases (n=719, 45.2%) were classified as comorbid conditions (PART-C, n=90) or no comorbid conditions (pure PART, n=629). Compared to controls (n=208), Alzheimer's disease (n=133), and AGD+PART, PART prevalence peaked in the individuals in their 60s (65.5%) and declined in the 80s (21.5%). No significant clinical background differences were found (excluding controls). However, PART-C in patients inclusive of age 80 had a higher suicide rate than pure PART (p<0.05), and AGD+PART showed more dementia (p<0.01) and suicide (p<0.05) than pure PART. Our results advocate a reevaluation of the PART concept and its diagnostic criteria. We investigated 1589 forensic autopsy cases to investigate the features of primary age-related tauopathy (PART). PART peaked in people in their 60s in our study. Many PART cases over 80s had comorbid pathologies in addition to neurofibrillary tangles pathology. Argyrophilic grain disease and Lewy pathology significantly affected dementia and suicide rates in PART. Our results suggest that the diagnostic criteria of PART need to be reconsidered.

Variability in the Treatment of High-Risk Type B Aortic Dissection at a Single Center

Although there are established high-risk features in acute Type B aortic dissection (TBAD), its management is variable. This study characterizes complicated, uncomplicated, and high-risk TBAD in addition to their management and outcomes to gain insight into the actual significance of these high-risk features and the reality of real-world practice in managing TBAD. A retrospective review of 62 patients was conducted. Patient demographics, management, and outcomes were characterized and evaluated with Pearson's χ 2 test, Fisher's exact test, or analysis of variance (ANOVA). Of the 32 high-risk TBADs, 66% (n=21) received endovascular repair, 31% (n=10) were medically managed, and 3% (n=1) received hybrid (open and endovascular) repair. Refractory hypertension and pain (52%, n=11) were the most common high-risk features in patients with high-risk TBAD that received endovascular repair. A maximum aortic diameter of > 40 mm (67%, n=6) was the most common high-risk feature in patients that received medical management. The most prevalent high-risk feature for all treatment groups in the high-risk TBADs was an aortic diameter of > 40 mm (n=16; 50%). Adverse post-operative outcomes were highest in the high-risk and complicated groups with endoleak as the most common adverse outcome (high-risk 12.9%, complicated 13.6%). Among the 62 patients, 47% (n=26) had follow-up since their admission with an average follow-up time of 69 ± 166 days. The significance of high-risk features in management of high-risk TBAD remains unclear. This single-center experience with managing acute TBAD reveals the reality of inadequate follow-up that may be specific to this disease process. This highlights a need to direct more efforts to assess long-term outcomes after treatment.

Adjacent venous tumour thrombus in primary osteosarcoma of the pelvis and limbs.

Venous tumour thrombus (VTT) is a rare finding in osteosarcoma. Despite the high rate of VTT in osteosarcoma of the pelvis, there are very few descriptions of VTT associated with extrapelvic primary osteosarcoma. We therefore sought to describe the prevalence and presenting features of VTT in osteosarcoma of both the pelvis and the limbs. Records from a single institution were retrospectively reviewed for 308 patients with osteosarcoma of the pelvis or limb treated between January 2000 and December 2022. Primary lesions were located in an upper limb (n = 40), lower limb (n = 198), or pelvis (n = 70). Preoperative imaging and operative reports were reviewed to identify patients with thrombi in proximity to their primary lesion. Imaging and histopathology were used to determine presence of tumour within the thrombus. Tumours abutted the blood vessels in 131 patients (43%) and encased the vessels in 30 (10%). Any form of venous thrombus was identified in 31 patients (10%). Overall, 21 of these thrombi were determined to be involved with the tumour based on imaging (n = 9) or histopathology (n = 12). The rate of VTT was 25% for pelvic osteosarcoma and 1.7% for limb osteosarcoma. The most common imaging features associated with histopathologically proven VTT were enhancement with contrast (n = 12; 100%), venous enlargement (n = 10; 83%), vessel encasement (n = 8; 66%), and visible intraluminal osteoid matrix (n = 6; 50%). Disease-specific survival (DSS) for patients with VTT was 95% at 12 months (95% CI 0.87 to 1.00), 50% at three years (95% CI 0.31 to 0.80), and 31% at five years (95% CI 0.14 to 0.71). VTT was associated with worse DSS (hazard ratio 2.3 (95% CI 1.11 to 4.84). VTT is rare with osteosarcoma and occurs more commonly in the pelvis than the limbs. Imaging features suggestive of VTT include enhancement with contrast, venous dilation, and vessel encasement. VTT portends a worse prognosis for patients with osteosarcoma, with a similar survivability to metastatic disease.

Exploring the age and gender-based distribution of paranasal sinus osteomas using cone beam computed tomography: A retrospective cross-sectional study

ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to explore the prevalence, size, location and radiographic features of osteomas in the paranasal sinuses using cone beam computed tomography imaging. Study designThis study was planned as retrospective cross-sectional. 499 consecutive cone beam computed tomography scans obtained in a dentomaxillofacial radiology department for various dental indications. Statistical analysis of all data was done with SPSS version 22. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to determine the prevalence of categorical parameters. ResultsOsteoma was detected in 7 % (n = 35) of the 499 images analyzed. The age of the patients ranged from 6 to 96 years (mean 42.03 ± 18.70). No significant difference was found between the genders (p = 0.77). In terms of localization, it was significantly more common in the ethmoid sinuses (p < 0.01). Cortical type osteoma was observed the most frequently in the analyzed images (p < 0.01). The incidence of osteoma was not significant depending on age (p = 0.50). ConclusionOsteomas in the paranasal sinuses show a 7 % prevalence in CBCT images, with the ethmoid sinus being the most common site. The average size of osteomas was 3.43 ± 1.78 mm, predominantly cortical in type. These findings highlight the necessity for thorough examination of CBCT images by dentomaxillofacial radiologists to avoid overlooking osteomas.

Genetic and clinical study of PARK7 in Japanese Parkinson's disease

BackgroundBiallelic variants in PARK7, which encodes protein-nucleic acid deglycase DJ-1, can cause early-onset Parkinson's disease (PD). Although many patients with PARK7 variants have been identified from European and Middle Eastern ethnic groups, there have been no reports in the Japanese population. ObjectivesTo determine the prevalence and clinical features of patients with PD harboring PARK7 variants in Japan. MethodsWe performed a molecular genetic analysis of PD patients with PARK7 variants identified using comprehensive panel sequencing, to explore the details of variants. Moreover, clinical neurological features were investigated, including neuroimaging analyses. This study followed STROBE guidelines. ResultsFour patients with biallelic rare variants of PARK7 were identified in the cohort. All four patients presented with levodopa-responsive parkinsonism, with an age at onset in the early 30s. Furthermore, two of the four patients had psychiatric complications. Dopamine transporter imaging revealed nigrostriatal pathway dysfunction. ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this is the first report of Japanese patients with PARK7 variants. We identified a relatively low frequency of PARK7 variants in patients in Japan. As opposed to typical patients with sporadic PD, the identified patients developed the disease in their 30s and presented with a variety of non-motor symptoms and complications. Further studies are needed to identify the clinical features related to PARK7 variants in Japanese patients with PD, and to analyze the pathophysiology of how the variants identified in the present study might affect DJ-1 function.

Loss of H3K9 trimethylation leads to premature aging.

Aging is the major risk factor for most human diseases and represents a major socio-economical challenge for modern societies. Despite its importance, the process of aging remains poorly understood. Epigenetic dysregulation has been proposed as a key driver of the aging process. Modifications in transcriptional networks and chromatin structure might be central to age-related functional decline. A prevalent feature described during aging is the overall reduction in heterochromatin, specifically marked by the loss of repressive histone modification, Histone 3 lysine 9 trimethylation (H3K9me3). However, the role of H3K9me3 in aging, especially in mammals, remains unclear. Here we show using a novel mouse strain, (TKOc), carrying a triple knockout of three methyltransferases responsible for H3K9me3 deposition, that the inducible loss of H3K9me3 in adulthood results in premature aging. TKOc mice exhibit reduced lifespan, lower body weight, increased frailty index, multi-organ degeneration, transcriptional changes with significant upregulation of transposable elements, and accelerated epigenetic age. Our data strongly supports the concept that the loss of epigenetic information directly drives the aging process. These findings reveal the importance of epigenetic regulation in aging and suggest that interventions targeting epigenetic modifications could potentially slow down or reverse age-related decline. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the process of aging will be crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies that can delay the onset of age-associated diseases and preserve human health at old age specially in rapidly aging societies.

Genomic surveillance and vaccine response to the dominant SARS-CoV-2 XBB lineage in Rio Grande do Sul

The COVID-19 pandemic has been marked by novel viral variants, posing challenges to global public health. Recombination, a viral evolution mechanism, is implicated in SARS-CoV-2's ongoing evolution. The XBB recombinant lineage, known for evading antibody-mediated immunity, exhibits higher transmissibility without increased disease severity. We investigated the prevalence and genomic features of XBB in SARS-CoV-2-positive cases in Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil. We sequenced 357 samples from epidemiological weeks (EW) 47/2022 to 17/2023, and included 389 publicly available sequences. Clinical and epidemiological data were obtained from DATASUS, e-SUS, and SIVEP GRIPE (data recording systems of the Brazilian Ministry of Health). Of these, 143 were classified as XBB and 586 were other Omicron lineages. In March 2023 (EW 10), XBB became dominant, accounting for 83.3% of cases. 97.7% of XBB-infected patients successfully recovered from the infection, with a low mortality rate (2.3%). Even after receiving three vaccine doses and having been previously infected, 59.5% of the patients experienced reinfection with XBB. However, for 54% of the individuals, the interval between their XBB infection and the last vaccine dose exceeded one year, potentially leading to a decline in antibody levels. In addition, we identified 90 mutations in RS circulating XBB, spread throughout the genome, notably in the Spike protein region associated with immune resistance. This study provides insights into the dynamics and impact of a recombinant variant becoming predominant for the first time in the state. Continued surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 genomic evolution is crucial for effective public health management.

Cardiac Atrophy, Dysfunction, and Metabolic Impairments: A Cancer-Induced Cardiomyopathy Phenotype

Muscle atrophy and weakness are prevalent features of cancer. Although extensive research has characterized skeletal muscle wasting in cancer cachexia, limited studies have investigated how cardiac structure and function are affected by therapy-naive cancer. Herein, orthotopic, syngeneic models of epithelial ovarian cancer and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, and a patient-derived pancreatic xenograft model, were used to define the impact of malignancy on cardiac structure, function, and metabolism. Tumor-bearing mice developed cardiac atrophy and intrinsic systolic and diastolic dysfunction, with arterial hypotension and exercise intolerance. In hearts of ovarian tumor-bearing mice, fatty acid-supported mitochondrial respiration decreased, and carbohydrate-supported respiration increased-showcasing a substrate shift in cardiac metabolism that is characteristic of heart failure. Epithelial ovarian cancer decreased cytoskeletal and cardioprotective gene expression, which was paralleled by down-regulation of transcription factors that regulate cardiomyocyte size and function. Patient-derived pancreatic xenograft tumor-bearing mice show altered myosin heavy chain isoform expression-also a molecular phenotype of heart failure. Markers of autophagy and ubiquitin-proteasome system were upregulated by cancer, providing evidence of catabolic signaling that promotes cardiac wasting. Together, two cancer types were used to cross-validate evidence of the structural, functional, and metabolic cancer-induced cardiomyopathy, thus providing translational evidence that could impact future medical management strategies for improved cancer recovery in patients.

Loss of MEF2C function by enhancer mutation leads to neuronal mitochondria dysfunction and motor deficits in mice.

Genetic changes and epigenetic modifications are associated with neuronal dysfunction in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. However, the mechanism behind genetic mutations in the non-coding region of genes that affect epigenetic modifications remains unclear. Here, we identified an ALS-associated SNP located in the intronic region of MEF2C (rs304152), residing in a putative enhancer element, using convolutional neural network. The enhancer mutation of MEF2C reduces own gene expression and consequently impairs mitochondrial function in motor neurons. MEF2C localizes and binds to the mitochondria DNA, and directly modulates mitochondria-encoded gene expression. CRISPR/Cas-9-induced mutation of the MEF2C enhancer decreases expression of mitochondria-encoded genes. Moreover, MEF2C mutant cells show reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential, ATP level but elevation of oxidative stress. MEF2C deficiency in the upper and lower motor neurons of mice impairs mitochondria-encoded genes, and leads to mitochondrial metabolic disruption and progressive motor behavioral deficits. Together, MEF2C dysregulation by the enhancer mutation leads to mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, which are prevalent features in motor neuronal damage and ALS pathogenesis. This genetic and epigenetic crosstalk mechanism provides insights for advancing our understanding of motor neuron disease and developing effective treatments.

A Novel Computational Paradigm for Reconstructing Solid CAD Features from a Segmented Manifold Triangular Mesh

We introduce a novel computational paradigm for reconstructing solid computer-aided design (CAD) features from the surface of a segmented manifold triangular mesh. This paradigm addresses the challenge of capturing high-level design semantics for manifold triangular meshes and facilitates parametric and variational design capabilities. We categorize four prevalent features, namely extrusion, rotation, sweep, and loft, as generalized swept bodies driven by cross-sectional sketches and feature paths, providing a unified mathematical representation for various feature types. The numerical optimization-based approach conducts geometric processing on the segmented manifold triangular mesh patch, extracting cross-sectional sketch curves and feature paths from its surface, and then reconstructing appropriate features using the Open CASCADE kernel. We employ the personalized three-dimensional (3D) printed model as a case study. Parametric and variant designs of the 3D-printed models are achieved through feature reconstruction of the manifold triangular mesh obtained via 3D scanning.

Screening and the analysis of genotypic and phenotypic characterization of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency in Fujian province, China.

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a common X-linked hereditary disorder in southern China. However, the incidence rate of G6PD deficiency and the frequency of the most common G6PD gene variants vary widely. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence, genotype, and phenotypic features of G6PD deficiency in neonates in Fujian province, southeastern China. This retrospective cohort study enrolled 2,789,002 newborns (1,521,431 males and 1,267,571 females) based on the newborn screening program for G6PD deficiency in Fujian Province between January 2010 and December 2021. Of the 2,789,002 newborns enrolled, 26,437 cases were diagnosed (22,939 males and 3,498 females), and the estimated prevalence of G6PD deficiency in Fujian province was 0.95%. The prevalence was significantly higher among males (1.51%) than in females (0.28%) (p < 0.00001). Among the 3,198 patients with G6PD deficiency, 3,092 cases (2,145 males and 947 females) were detected to have G6PD gene variants. The top six prevalent genotypes identified represented 90.84% (2095/3,198) of the total and included c.1376G > T (44.93%), c.1388G > A (18.42%), c.1024C > T (9.32%), c.95A > G (8.69%), c.392G > T (5.25%), and c.871G > A (4.22%). The frequency of genotypes with c.1388G > A, c.1024C > T, and c.871G > A was higher in males in the Fujian province than in females, while the frequency of genotypes with c.1376G > T was lower. Furthermore, when comparing the enzyme activities of the top six prevalent genotypes, there were significant differences in the enzyme activities among the genotypes of male hemizygotes and female heterozygotes. According to the new classification of G6PD variants proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO), the variants with c.1376G > T, c.95A > G, and c.871G > A were recognized as Class A, while the c.392G > T, c.1388G > A, and c.1024C > T were recognized as Class B. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to systematically describe the overview of epidemiological characteristics of newborn G6PD deficiency in Fujian province, China, including the screening rate, incidence rate, and variant spectrum. Additionally, we elucidated the relationship between the distribution of enzyme activity with specific mutations and their WHO classification patterns. Our results could provide strategies for screening, diagnosis, and genetic counseling of G6PD deficiency in this area.

Pediatric Autoimmune Encephalitis: A Nationwide Study in Latvia.

Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) is the third most common encephalitis in children. Diagnosis can be challenging due to overlapping and diverse clinical presentations as well as various investigation results. This study aims to characterize the clinical, diagnostic features, as well as treatment and outcomes of AE in children and determine the incidence of pediatric AE in Latvia. The study was conducted at the Children's Clinical University Hospital in Riga. The study participants were patients under the age of 18 years diagnosed with AE from 2014 to 2022. Data regarding clinical characteristics, investigation findings, treatment strategy, and outcomes were retrospectively collected from the medical history data system. We included 18 pediatric patients diagnosed with AE. The mean incidence of pediatric AE in Latvia was 0.56 per 100,000 children. Most patients (66.6%) had seronegative AE. In the seropositive group, the most common was anti-methyl-D-aspartate receptor AE, with two patients having other antibodies. The most prevalent clinical features were personality change, cognitive impairment, autonomic dysfunction, and movement disorders. The majority of patients (58.8%) received first-line treatment only. More than half (55.6%) of our AE patient group had long-term sequelae. Our study shows that the pediatric AE incidence in Latvia is similar to what has been previously reported in other studies. A relatively high proportion of seronegative AE was present in our cohort, indicating that awareness of possible misdiagnosis should be raised. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms, characterize clinical features, and determine the treatment of choice in different situations to improve long-term outcomes.

Chatbots for Sexual Health Improvement: A Systematic Review

There is a rising interest in chatbots dedicated to enhancing sexual health. However, there is limited research on the effectiveness of these chatbots, and the current literature lacks sufficient exploration of gaps and patterns in this field. In this review, we provided an overview of the state-of-the-art research conducted on sexual health chatbots, with the goal of identifying prevalent trends, design patterns, and features. In addition, we investigated existing research gaps, challenges, and shortcomings in the landscape of sexual health chatbots. Further, we proposed potential enhancements and directions for future research and development to create more effective chatbots in this field. A systematic search and screening of the literature from the past decade (2013–2023), extracted from seven databases, yielded a total of 1040 studies, out of which 29 articles were included in the final review following screening. The findings suggest that chatbots are usable and effective tools in sexual health education, persuasion, and assistance that are appreciated for their confidentiality, efficiency, and 24/7 availability. However, their performance is hindered by limitations such as restricted scope of knowledge and challenges in understanding user inputs. Additionally, constraints such as text-only input/output modalities and a predominant reliance on the English language limit their accessibility and acceptability. There is also a crucial need for more research in low-income or lower-middle-income countries, where individuals require increased sexual health education and support.

P-311 Impact of adenomyosis on reproductive outcomes applying the revised Morphological Uterus Sonographic Assessment criteria in fresh donor oocyte recipients pretreated with GnRH agonist

Abstract Study question Could the diagnosis of adenomyosis (AD) impact reproductive outcomes when applying the revised Morphological Uterus Sonographic Assessment (MUSA) criteria in fresh donor oocyte cycles? Summary answer Adenomyosis diagnosis following the revised MUSA criteria in recipients did not have adversely affect reproductive outcomes in fresh donor oocyte recipients pretreated with GnRH agonist What is known already Prior metanalysis on IVF outcomes in patients with adenomyosis suggested lower clinical pregnancy and live birth rates, and increased miscarriage rates. Some studies suggest improved pregnancy rates with ultra-long GnRH agonist pretreatment. Most studies focused on autologous embryo transfer without euploidy confirmation, and diagnostic criteria lacked consensus, in 2021 MUSA redefined criteria distinguishing direct and indirect features with different implications. Study design, size, duration A retrospective cohort study included all fresh oocyte donation cycles from January 2014 to September 2023, evaluating adenomyosis impact on implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, ectopic pregnancy rate. The study analyzed 252 cycles without a formal sample size calculation due to its retrospective nature. Participants/materials, setting, methods The study included 252 first fresh oocyte reception cycle with a fresh embryo transfer. Severe male factor cases were excluded. A transvaginal ultrasound (TUS) screening for adenomyosis criteria was performed, diagnosis required at least two criteria, with one being direct. Endometrial preparation involved one dose of 3,75mg triptorelin acetate intramuscularly injected in mid luteal phase, to facilitate the synchronization with donor and estradiol patches. Main results and the role of chance Adenomyosis was diagnosed in 10,7% (AD), endometriosis (END) was present in 21,8 % and 26,6% of patients presented both diagnoses. Endometriosis patients received more pre-treatment (oral contraceptive or 2-3 long-agonist doses) than those without (40,7% AD, 43,6% END vs 17,3% non-AD/END). Comparing patients with and without adenomyosis, no statistical differences were found in embryo transfer results between groups: clinical pregnancy rate (63% vs 56,9%), miscarriage rate (23,5% vs 14,1%), ectopic pregnancy rate (11,8% vs 4,7%) and live birth rate (40,7% vs 45,8%). No differences in gestational outcomes were observed in terms of the number of adenomyosis criteria present, the number of direct criteria, the type of criteria, or when differentiating between focal and diffuse adenomyosis. Similarly, there were no differences when comparing patients with both diagnoses to those with isolated adenomyosis. The most prevalent adenomyosis features reported were hyperechogenic islands (direct criteria), followed by an irregular junctional zone and asymmetrical wall thickening (indirect criteria). Finally, no differences were found in perinatal outcomes or complications during the pregnancy follow-up between groups. Limitations, reasons for caution Although this is the largest serie evaluating adenomyosisto the low adenomyosis prevalence in our population, these results should be confirmed in larger series. In our center all adenomyosis/endometriosis symptomatic patients are under medical treatment before assisted reproduction techniques, that may modify adenomyosis criteria over time and probably pregnancy outcomes. Wider implications of the findings This is the first study to characterize adenomyosis using the revised MUSA definitions in an oocyte donation programme. Applying these criteria and preparing endometrium with GnRH analog pretreatment and treating medically symptomatic patients before ART, adenomyosis did not adversely affect reproductive outcomes. Trial registration number Not applicable

A Review paper Advancements in Shear Wall Design for Seismic Resistance in Residential Buildings: A Comprehensive Review

This comprehensive review synthesizes diverse studies, providing valuable insights into the advancements, challenges, and future directions in shear wall design for seismic resistance in multi-story residential buildings. It serves as a reference for researchers, engineers, and practitioners seeking a deeper understanding of shear wall dynamics in the context of structural stability and seismic resilience. Shear walls are a prevalent feature in multi-story constructions as they effectively counteract horizontal forces and offer substantial rigidity and durability within the same plane. This unique quality allows them to carry both significant horizontal loads and provide support for vertical or gravitational loads, thereby presenting a valuable asset in the realm of structural engineering applications. The location and arrangement of shear walls in a building are important factors in their effectiveness in resisting seismic loads. Studies have shown that shear walls arranged in the form of a core at the center of the building are the most effective in reducing top-story displacement during earthquakes. Corrugated steel plate shear walls (CPSW) have been introduced as an alternative to flat steel plate shear walls (FPSW) due to their advantages in terms of stiffness, strength, and ductility. Double layer corrugated steel plate shear walls (DCPSW) have been found to have the highest inelastic deformations, which can be considered an advantage over CPSWs. End shear walls in tall buildings have been shown to decrease maximum inter-story drift and improve seismic performance. Keywords: Shear walls, multi-story residential buildings, lateral support, seismic performance, structural integrity, retrofitting, literature review

Prevalence, Characteristics and Distribution of Odontogenic Cysts amongst the Indian Subpopulation of Southern Rajasthan: A 5-year Retrospective Study of 218 Cysts.

Odontogenic cysts (OCs) arise from the odontogenic epithelium and occur in the tooth-bearing regions of the jaws. Proliferation and/or degeneration of this epithelium lead to OC development. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence, characteristics, distribution and clinicopathological features of OCs and compare with other studies. Records of OCs were retrieved, and patient's data, aetiology, clinical features, histopathological distribution, treatment, complications and recurrence were studied. A total of 218 OCs were studied in 200 patients. The mean age of patients was 35.74 years. The overall sex ratio (male: female) was 1.22:1. Second, third and fourth decades of life were commonly affected. The majority of the patients (85%) reported with a complaint of pain (with or without swelling). Radicular cyst was the most prevalent type (49.55%). The most common site involved was the anterior maxilla (41.75%). Dental complications such as displacement, mobility, discoloration and root resorption were diagnosed in 91 cysts (41.75%). Bony complications such as expansion and perforation were present in 136 cysts (62.38%). Dentition was non-vital in 61.46% of cysts. The most common treatment method performed was combination surgery (enucleation with or without endodontic treatment/extraction and apicoectomy). Recurrence rate was 3.20%. The prevalence, characteristics and distribution features of OCs in India are similar to those of studies conducted in other parts of the world. There is a broad spectrum of OCs, with some cysts having a propensity for certain age, gender and site, whereas a few cysts have distinct properties to recur and have aggressive and invasive behaviour.

A Pictorial Essay of Coronary Artery Anomalies on Coronary CT Angiography: A Single-Centre Observational Study.

Background Congenital anomalies of the coronary artery anatomy (CAAs) encompass a spectrum of disorders, often asymptomatic but potentially carrying severe clinical implications such as arrhythmia, chest pain, myocardial infarction, or sudden death. The estimated prevalence of CAAs in the general population ranges from 0.3% to 1.3%, with underdiagnosis in asymptomatic individuals. Multidetector computed tomography angiography (CTA) has emerged as a vital non-invasive tool for diagnosing and characterising CAAs, offering improved visualisation and aiding in appropriate management decisions. This study aims to analyse the spectrum of CAAs in a tertiary care setting, focusing on imaging features, prevalence, and potential clinical significance, utilising data from patients who underwent multidetector CTA. Methodology A single-centre, retrospective analysis of consecutive coronary angiograms over a five-year period identified patients with CAAs, with imaging conducted using a 128-slice, single-source CT scanner. Detailed imaging evaluation was performed by experienced radiologists, with anomalies classified according to established criteria. Results Among 756 coronary CTA examinations analysed, 37 instances of anomalous coronary vessels were identified. The study revealed a diverse range of anomalies, including myocardial bridging, anomalous origin of coronary arteries, and extracardiac abnormalities. Conclusions This study contributes valuable insights into the prevalence and imaging features of CAAs, enhancing our understanding of these anomalies and guiding improved patient outcomes in cardiovascular care. Future research should focus on elucidating pathophysiological mechanisms and establishing multicenter registries to address the challenges associated with studying these infrequent but clinically significant anomalies.