Significant Difference In Distribution Research Articles

Vehicle Collision Analysis of the Reinforced Concrete Barriers Installed on Bridges Using Node-Independent Model

This paper focuses on improving vehicle collision simulations using finite element analysis (FEA) to examine interactions between reinforced concrete barriers and bridge decks. Three scenarios are explored: treating the barrier as a rigid body, analyzing reinforcement with a fixed base, and including the bridge deck’s cantilever portion beneath the barrier. Except for the rigid body model, a node-independent approach models the complex interactions between reinforcement and concrete in barriers on the bridge deck. This study evaluates barrier strength, occupant risk, and post-collision vehicle safety. Strength is assessed by examining stress in reinforcement and concrete, while occupant risk is measured using Theoretical Head Impact Velocity (THIV) and Post-impact Head Deceleration (PHD). Vehicle trajectory during collisions is also analyzed for stability. The results show significant differences in stress distribution and failure patterns when the bridge deck is considered compared to scenarios without it. Occupant risk evaluations suggest more flexible responses when the bridge deck is included. However, vehicle trajectory post-collision showed no significant differences across scenarios. These findings indicate that modeling efficiency varies based on evaluation criteria, suggesting a more realistic and effective approach for assessing barriers on bridges.

Clinical efficacy of three plating systems in management of mandibular parasymphyseal fractures: a retrospective study.

The main goal of management of the mandibular fracture is to obtain the pre-injury contour of the bone and pre-injury occlusion as well as regain function early. For Parasymphyseal fractures, the ideal fixation method is still debatable. It could range from rigid to semi-rigid fixation. The current study aimed to compare the clinical and radiographic effect of two miniplates, 2.3 high-profile Miniplates, and three-dimensional (3D) Miniplates for internal fixation treatment of mandibular para-symphyseal fractures. The study reviewed 240 medical records, dividing 60 patients into three treatment groups: Group I (25 patients received 2.0 mini plates), Group II (22 patients received 2.3 high profile miniplate), and Group III (13 patients received 3D miniplate). Data included demographics, fracture diagnosis, radiographs, maxillomandibular fixation use, surgical time, intervention, postoperative stability, and complications. The present study included 60 patients with mandibular parasymphyseal fractures, divided into three treatment groups: Group I (n = 25, 41.67%), Group II (n = 22, 36.67%), and Group III (n = 13, 21.67%). The study found no significant differences in age and sex distribution among the three groups, but the mean surgery time varied significantly. Group II had the highest rate of complications at 22.73%, followed by Group I at 20% and Group III at 7.69%. In conclusion, the (3D) Miniplates could provide better internal fixation treatment of mandibular para-symphyseal fractures in terms of easy use, short surgery time and less complication such as malocclusion and infection.

Remote sensing and spatial analysis reveal unprecedented cyanobacteria bloom dynamics associated with elephant mass mortality.

The 2020 mass mortality of 350 African elephants (Loxodonta africana) in Botswana sparked global concern, with cyanotoxins in watering holes (pans) being a suspected cause, though evidence remains inconclusive. Combining remote sensing and spatial analysis, we examined the relationship between the ecohydrology of ~3000 pans and the locations of deceased elephants. Our analysis revealed a significant difference in the spatial distribution of fresh versus decayed carcasses (p < 0.001), indicating that the die-off deviated from typical regional elephant mortality patterns. We identified 20 pans near fresh carcasses that experienced increased cyanobacteria bloom events in 2020 (n = 123) compared to the previous 3 years combined (n = 23), exhibiting the highest average phytoplankton biomass of the period 2015-2023 (Normalised Difference Chlorophyll Index >0.2). These findings suggest a heightened risk and likelihood of cyanotoxin presence in these pans. Elephants were estimated to have walked 16.5 km (± 6.2 km) and died within 88 h (± 33 h) of exposure. Our study provides evidence that cyanobacterial toxicity could be a contributing factor to the 2020 die-off, while also considering other potential causes, and offers a general framework for investigation of future mortality events. We underscore the need to integrate spatial analysis and regional ecohydrological assessments to monitor and mitigate animal mortality events and inform conservation strategies.

Behavior and flow of microplastics during sludge treatment in Japan.

Microplastic (MP) pollution is a growing public and scientific concern. In urban environments, wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are major sources of MPs. This study sampled sludge and separated water from each sludge treatment unit in two WWTPs in Osaka, Japan. Analyzing method for MPs in sewage sludge was optimized, ultrasonic pretreatment and double digestion were introduced into the analyzing method of MPs in sewage sludge, recovering test of standard MPs proved its high efficiency. Then MPs larger than 100 μm were extracted and analyzed, their size and type were recorded, the MP concentration was calculated, and the MP flow in the sludge treatment system was estimated. MPs were detected at every step of the sludge treatment process, and 13 types of MPs were identified. The MP concentration in sludge ranged from 81 ± 48 to 6470 ± 1490 particles/kg dry sludge (DS). In the separated water, MP concentrations were much lower, ranging from 0 to 1740 ± 794 particles/kg DS. During the thickening and dewatering processes, nearly all MPs were transferred into thickened or dewatered sludge; only 5-10 % of MPs returned to the primary sedimentation pond with the separated water. The most common types of MPs were PMMA, PE, and PS. No significant differences in MP type distributions were observed among sampling batches; however, significant differences in a few types of MPs were detected between treatment units, which requires further investigation. All detected MPs were smaller than 1000 μm; larger MPs might have been removed in the grit chamber before reaching the primary or secondary sedimentation ponds. Overall, the particle size distribution did not substantially change during sludge treatment.

Assessing Protein Surface-Based Scoring for Interpreting Genomic Variants

Clinical genomics sequencing is rapidly expanding the number of variants that need to be functionally elucidated. Interpreting genetic variants (i.e., mutations) usually begins by identifying how they affect protein-coding sequences. Still, the three-dimensional (3D) protein molecule is rarely considered for large-scale variant analysis, nor in analyses of how proteins interact with each other and their environment. We propose a standardized approach to scoring protein surface property changes as a new dimension for functionally and mechanistically interpreting genomic variants. Further, it directs hypothesis generation for functional genomics research to learn more about the encoded protein’s function. We developed a novel method leveraging 3D structures and time-dependent simulations to score and statistically evaluate protein surface property changes. We evaluated positive controls composed of eight thermophilic versus mesophilic orthologs and variants that experimentally change the protein’s solubility, which all showed large and statistically significant differences in charge distribution (p &lt; 0.01). We scored static 3D structures and dynamic ensembles for 43 independent variants (23 pathogenic and 20 uninterpreted) across four proteins. Focusing on the potassium ion channel, KCNK9, the average local surface potential shifts were 0.41 kBT/ec with an average p-value of 1 × 10−2. In contrast, dynamic ensemble shifts averaged 1.15 kBT/ec with an average p-value of 1 × 10−5, enabling the identification of changes far from mutated sites. This study demonstrates that an objective assessment of how mutations affect electrostatic distributions of protein surfaces can aid in interpreting genomic variants discovered through clinical genomic sequencing.

Image Features and Diagnostic Value of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound for Ductal Carcinoma In Situ of the Breast: Preliminary Findings.

To explore the image features and the diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) of the breast. A total of 96 female patients with a solitary and histologically proven DCIS were analyzed retrospectively, and 100 female cases of invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) lesions were used as the control group. The Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) category of breast lesions was assessed according to conventional ultrasound features. The DCIS lesions were classified into mass type and non-mass type. The CEUS characteristics of these breast lesions were retrospectively analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The final gold standard was biopsy or surgery with histo-pathological examination. Comparing the ultrasound images of DCIS with that of IDC, there were significant differences in echo pattern, calcification morphology, and calcification distribution (p < .05 for all). There was a significant difference between DCIS and IDC in enhancement intensity, perfusion defects, peripheral high enhancement, intratumoral vessels, and arrival time (AT) (p < .05 for all). In the logistic multivariate regression analysis, two indicators linked with DCIS were recognized: perfusion defects (p = .002) and peripheral high enhancement (p < .001). In forecasting DCIS, the logistic regression equation resulted in an AUC of 0.689, a specificity of 0.720, and a sensitivity of 0.563. CEUS showed differences in enhancement characteristics between DCIS and IDC, with perfusion defects and peripheral high enhancement being associated with DCIS.

Impact of diversion ileostomy on postoperative complications and recovery in the treatment of locally advanced upper-half rectal cancer.

The efficacy of diversion ileostomy followed by radical surgery for locally advanced upper-half rectal cancer remains uncertain. This study seeks to compare the effectiveness of treatment with and without diversion ileostomy in preventing anastomotic leakage (AL) and to identify a subset who may benefit from diversion ileostomy after AL occurs in Chinese patients with stage II and III upper-half rectal cancer. A retrospective study enrolled a total of 809 patients with locally advanced upper-half rectal cancer between 2017 and 2021, with 27.6% (n = 223) treated with diversion ileostomy and 72.4% (n = 586) treated without diversion ileostomy. The Diversion(+) group (n = 172) and Diversion(-) group (n = 172) were compared for perioperative outcomes through 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM). The selection of variables for multivariable logistic regression was determined through bivariate logistic regression analysis. Additionally, optimal cutoff values for risk factors were identified using ROC curve analysis. Within the entire cohort, patients in the Diversion(+) group exhibited a lower distance from the anal verge (DAV) and higher rates of chemoradiotherapy (CRT), diabetes, cN2 stage, mrCRM positivity, EMVI positivity, and CEA elevation compared to those in the Diversion(-) group. Following PSM, a satisfactory balance of baseline variables was achieved between the two groups. There were no statistically significant differences in AL rates (7.0% vs. 5.8%, p = 0.659) or AL grade distribution (Grade A: 0.6% vs. 0%, Grade B: 5.2% vs. 4.1%, Grade C: 1.2% vs. 1.7%, p = 0.691) between the two groups. However, the Diversion(+) group demonstrated a higher incidence of postoperative complications (30.8% vs. 17.4%, p = 0.004), Clavien‒Dindo III-IV complications (2.9% vs. 2.3%, p = 0.013), particularly wound infections (8.1% vs. 1.2%, p = 0.002), and early postoperative inflammatory small bowel obstruction (EPISBO) (8.7% vs. 1.2%, p = 0.001) compared to the Diversion(-) group. Results from multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that male gender (OR = 2.354, p = 0.014) was the only independent risk factor associated with AL, while the presence of diversion ileostomy (with vs. without, OR = 1.144, p = 0.686) did not show significant associations. In patients with AL, the onset of the AL was observed to occur later in the Diversion(+) group compared to the Diversion(-) group (7.0 ± 3.3 vs. 3.4 ± 1.4 days, p < 0.001), while the recovery time was significantly shorter (11.3 ± 4.7 vs. 20.3 ± 7.2 days, p < 0.001). Similarly, in Grade C AL patients, the occurence time was delayed in the Diversion(+) group compared to the Diversion(-) group (8.7 ± 4.7 vs. 3.2 ± 1.5 days, p = 0.008), with a shorter recovery time (19.3 ± 2.1 vs. 25.7 ± 6.7 days, p = 0.031). A trend was observed indicating a longer interval before ileostomy restoration in the AL patients compared to the non-AL patients (7.6 ± 4.9 months vs. 5.5 ± 2.9 months, p = 0.079). In addition, DAV (OR = 0.078, p = 0.002) was identified as the only independent factor associated with potential-diversion-benefit in patients with AL, with an optimal cutoff point of 8.6cm. The utilization of diversion ileostomy as a preventative measure for AL in cases of locally advanced upper-half rectal cancer is not universally endorsed due to potential complications such as small bowel obstruction and wound infection. Nevertheless, in the occurrence of AL, diversion ileostomy may prove advantageous for patient recuperation. Particularly, male patients with a DAV ranging from 7 to 8.6cm may experience benefits from undergoing diversion ileostomy subsequent to AL in cases of locally advanced upper-half rectal cancer.

Retrospective analysis of HPV infection: Cotesting and HPV genotyping in cervical cancer screening within a large academic health care system.

In 2019, the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology introduced fundamental shifts toward "risk-based" guidelines, with human papillomavirus (HPV) genotyping as a principal test for investigating squamous intraepithelial lesions. This study aims to provide practice-based evidence and supplement the updated guidelines by investigating HPV demographic distribution and uncovering the pathological features of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs) caused by high-risk HPV (hrHPV) subtypes. Patients who underwent Papanicolaou screening and HPV testing in two hospital systems over the course of 4 years were recruited. The cytology results were categorized on the basis of the 2014 Bethesda classification. DNA sequences of 14 types of hrHPV were detected by Aptima test. The histological features of HSILs caused by different subtypes were compared between biopsies and excisions. A total of 63,709 cases were included. The HPV prevalence was 14.70%, predominantly in the 30 to 39-year-old age group, with slightly higher rates observed in African Americans. There was no significant racial distribution difference between HPV 16/18/45 and other types. HPV 16/18/45 infection was directly correlated with the severity of abnormal cytology, although the other subtypes were the major causes of cytological abnormalities. The trend for HPV prevalence was consistent across calendar years, and was associated with 8.77% negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy, 30.46% atypical squamous cell of undetermined significance, 64.62% low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, 66.75% atypical squamous cell-cannot exclude a high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, and 91.80% HSIL. Furthermore, 29.09% of HSILs associated with other subtypes were not detectable on subsequent resections. Given the HPV demographic distribution and the histological features of HSILs caused by different subtypes, cotesting with reflex HPV genotyping in specific populations, or expanding the subtypes in the primary HPV screening test, should be considered.

Radiotherapy as a metastasis directed therapy for liver oligometastases - comparative analysis between CT-guided interstitial HDR brachytherapy and two SBRT modalities performed on double-layer and single layer LINACs

IntroductionSurgical resection is gold standard for treatment of liver metastasis, locally ablative techniques including computer tomography (CT)-guided interstitial high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy (CT-BRT) and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) have gained prominence as alternatives, offering comparable outcomes in selected patients. We aim to compare CT-BRT and SBRT - based on dosimetric analysis.Material and methodsPatients who underwent CT-BRT for oligometastatic, ≤4cm liver metastases between 2018 and 2024 were eligible. SBRT plans for Halcyon (SBRTh) and TrueBeam (SBRTtb) were prepared virtually. In the CT-BRT group CTV was equal to PTV, for SBRTh and SBRTtb planning, a 5 mm margin was applied to CTV to create PTV. Dose calculation was carried out with the TG-43 algorithm for CT-BRT and Anisotropic Analytical Algorithm for SBRTh and SBRTtb group. Descriptive statistics were used to compare the data. The Wilcoxon pairwise order test was utilized to compare dependent groups.ResultsCT-BRT resulted in a more favorable dose distribution within PTVs for Dmean, D50, and D90, while SBRT showed better results for D98 and V27.5Gy. No significant differences were observed for V25Gy between CT-BRT and SBRTtb, but SBRTh favored over CT-BRT. For OARs, CT-BRT plans showed better values for V5, V10, and V11.6Gy in the uninvolved liver volume. There were no significant differences in dose distribution for the duodenum, bowel, and heart. SBRT modalities performed better in the kidney. CT-BRT had improved dose distribution in the esophagus, great vessels, ribs, skin, spinal cord, and stomach compared to SBRT.ConclusionsCT-BRT could be a viable alternative to SBRT for certain patients with liver malignancies.

Establishing a Novel Pyroptosis-Related Gene Signature and Predicting Chemical Drugs for Papillary Thyroid Cancer.

The present study aimed to construct a novel pyroptosis-related gene signature to predict the prognosis of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). The gene expression level and survival and prognosis information of PTC were obtained from TCGA. The differentially expressed pyroptosis-related genes (DEPs) between cancer and control groups were selected, followed by subtype analysis. A prognostic model was built using LASSO regression analysis. The samples were then divided into high- and low-risk groups, and the differences in immune cell distribution in different risk groups were compared. The chemical drugs associated with genes in the prognostic model were extracted from the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database. A total of 31 DEPs were selected, and 3 different subtypes were obtained. A prognostic model based on 6 pyroptosis-related genes was constructed. The risk grouping was significantly correlated with the actual prognosis, and the model was found to be an independent prognostic factor. Six immune cells with significant differences in distribution in different risk groups were screened. CGP52608 could target four genes in the prognostic model, including GSDMB, NLRC4, IL1A, and IL6. The present study constructed a pyroptosis-related gene signature that could predict the prognosis of PTC. Additionally, this signature was correlated with tumor immunity.

Apolipoprotein E Gene ε4 Allele is Associated with Atherosclerosis in Multiple Vascular Beds.

Atherosclerosis is a systemic disease that can involve multiple vascular beds. The risk factors for atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds remain unclear. Apolipoprotein E (APOE) is involved in inflammation and lipid deposition in the process of atherosclerosis. The objective of this study was to investigate whether APOE polymorphisms are associated with atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds. A total of 416 patients with atherosclerosis in single vascular bed and 658 patients with atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds were included. APOE genotypes were detected and the differences of APOE genotypes between the groups were compared. Logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the relationship between APOE genotypes and atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds. APOE E3/E4 genotype frequency was lower in the patients with atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds than that of patients with atherosclerosis in single vascular bed (11.4% vs 17.8%, P=0.004). There was no significant difference in age and gender distribution, proportion of history of smoking, alcohol consumption, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus between the two groups (all P>0.05), and among patients with different APOE alleles (all P>0.05). Logistic regression analysis indicated that APOE E3/E4 genotype (E3/E4 vs E3/E3: odds ratio (OR) 0.598, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.419-0.854, P=0.005), and APOE ε4 allele (ε4 vs ε3: OR 0.630, 95% CI: 0.444-0.895, P=0.010) associated with atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds. APOE ε4 allele is associated with atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds.

Impact of transinfection of Wolbachia from the planthopper Laodelphax striatellus on reproductive fitness and transcriptome of the whitefly Bemisia tabaci.

The whitefly Bemisia tabaci is critical global pest threatening crops and leading to agricultural losses. Wolbachia is an intracellular symbiotic bacterium in insects, which can regulate the growth and development of the host through various ways. In a prior study, Wolbachia was found to be transferred to whitefly and induce fitness changes. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms of host-Wolbachia interactions in B. tabaci. In this study, a Wolbachia strain wStri was isolated from the small brown planthopper, Laodelphex striatellus, and transferred to B. tabaci. The distribution of Wolbachia in whiteflies was determined using fluorescence in situ hybridization. Reciprocal crossing experiments demonstrated that wStri did not induce cytoplasmic incompatibility phenotypes in B. tabaci, but prolonged the developmental duration of the offspring. We performed transcriptomic analysis of Wolbachia-infected female and male adults using Illumina-based RNA-Seq. A total of 843 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in infected females, among them 141 were significantly up-regulated and 702 were down-regulated by Wolbachia infection. In infected males, of 511 gene sets, 279 host genes were significantly up-regulated, and 232 were down-regulated by Wolbachia infection. KEGG analysis of DEGs demonstrated significant differences in gene pathway distribution between up-regulated and down-regulated genes. These genes are involved in various biological processes, including, but not limited to, detoxification, oxidation-reduction, metabolic processes, and immunity. The transcriptomic profiling of this study offers valuable information on the differential expression of genes in whiteflies following Wolbachia infection, and enhances our understanding of this host-symbiotic interaction.

Mifepristone-Misoprostol Regimen vs. Surgical Abortion: Evaluating Pregnancy Termination Options in Bangladesh

Background: Access to safe and effective abortion services plays a vital role in safeguarding women's reproductive health, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being. This is particularly relevant in Bangladesh, where the legality of abortion is contingent upon specific circumstances. Therefore, ensuring women have the autonomy to choose between safe and effective termination methods becomes crucial. Objective: The study aims to see explore the efficacy, safety, and accessibility of mifepristone-misoprostol regimen and surgical abortion methods within the context of Bangladesh. Methods: This investigation employed a cross-sectional observational design, conducted within the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Dhaka National Medical College in Bangladesh. The study spanned one year, commencing in March 2023 and concluding in February 2024. To ensure a representative sample of the patient population seeking abortion services, consecutive sampling was utilized. This approach involved recruiting all patients admitted during the designated timeframe who fulfilled the pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Ultimately, the study enrolled 104 participants, a sample size determined by the number of admissions fitting the criteria within the one year. Results: The study found no significant difference in age distribution between women choosing medical or surgical abortion, with both groups mainly consisting of women aged 18-25. Overall complication rates were similar, but medical abortion had a higher need for additional procedures and longer stays, while surgical abortion required more bleeding observation. Pain experiences differed significantly, with no women in the medical group reporting no pain and a higher prevalence of moderate pain compared to surgical abortion. Women undergoing medical abortion were slightly more likely to experience complications overall, and primigravid women (first pregnancy) were significantly more likely to experience complications than multigravid women. Conclusion: Our findings suggest comparable safety profiles for both surgical and medical abortion procedures within the studied population. This indicates that surgical abortion can be a safe and effective option alongside medical abortion, potentially expanding the range of choices offered to women.

Unveiling the genotypic diversity of Candida albicans and Candida dubliniensis in the oral cavities of drug abusers in Ahvaz, Iran

Candida albicans is a diploid yeast that, under certain conditions, can cause oral or oropharyngeal infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Recent molecular investigations have classified genotypes A, B, and C for Candida albicans, along with genotype D for Candida dubliniensis. This study aimed to identify the different genotypes of the C. albicans complex in drug abusers in Iran. Oral swabs were collected from drug abusers and cultured on CHROMagar Candida. A 21-plex PCR method was employed for the detection of isolates, and the Candida 25S rDNA gene was amplified using primer pairs CA-INT-L and CA-INT-R for ABC genotyping of C. albicans. Out of the 245 substance abusers screened, 151 individuals (61.63 %) were found to harbor the C. albicans complex. The most common genotype among patients was genotype D (39.1 %), followed by genotype A (31.12 %), genotype B (9.93 %), and genotype C (5.29 %). Additionally, 14.56 % of patients had a mixed genotype. Notably, significant differences in genotype distribution were observed in relation to age, underlying diseases, and marital status (P < 0.05). This study highlights the significance of molecular genotyping in understanding the epidemiology of C. albicans and C. dubliniensis in at-risk groups.

Lesions of the Palm – Mimickers of Dupuytren’s Disease

Background and Aims: Dupuytren’s contracture is a prevalent, hereditary fibroproliferative disorder affecting the palmar aponeurosis, which can resemble various neoplastic and non-neoplastic disorders of the hand. This resemblance poses a diagnostic challenge for healthcare professionals. This observational study aims to evaluate the range of conditions that can be mistaken for Dupuytren’s contracture over a 12-year period (2008–2020) at a specialised orthopaedic oncology centre. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of palmar lesions referred to our tertiary orthopaedic oncology hospital was conducted. Data were gathered from oncology, radiology and histopathology databases. We specifically examined lesions located solely on the palmar aponeurosis, excluding the thenar and hypothenar regions. Patient demographics, clinical features, imaging results and clinical management outcomes were documented for descriptive analysis. Results: A total of 21 palmar lesions meeting the inclusion criteria were identified. The average age of the participants was 48 years (ranging from 3 to 69 years). There was no significant difference in gender distribution, with 11 females and 10 males represented in the cohort. The majority of the identified lesions were benign tumours (16), with one case of malignant rhabdomyosarcoma. Among the benign tumours, lipomas were the most common ( n = 5). Other benign tumours included three neurofibromas, a schwannoma, a granuloma, a ganglion cyst, a giant cell tumour (GCT), an angiomyxoma, a myofibroma, a cavernous haemangioma, a non-specific fibrovascular lesion and four additional non-neoplastic lesions. Conclusion: A variety of benign, malignant or neoplastic conditions of the hand can closely resemble Dupuytren’s contracture, particularly in the initial stages of their development. A thorough clinical examination, combined with a high level of suspicion, along with supplementary investigations and histopathological analysis, is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective management of patients.

Comparative Analysis of Tsunami Casualty Estimation Approaches: Agent-Based Modeling versus Simplified Approach in Japanese Coastal Cities

AbstractEstimating potential casualties from a significant earthquake and tsunami event is crucial to enhance disaster preparedness and response. Although various approaches exist to assess potential casualties, few studies have made direct comparisons between them. The present study aimed to clarify the differences in the estimation of casualties between an agent-based model (ABM), which can capture detailed evacuation behavior but demands significant computational resources, and a simplified approach at less computational cost by assuming that evacuees would move along a straight line from their initial location to the closest evacuation destination. These different approaches were applied to three coastal cities in Japan—Mihama, Kushimoto, and Shingu in Wakayama Prefecture—revealing significant differences in the estimated results between the ABM and the simplified approach. Notably, when the effects of building collapse due to an earthquake were considered, the mortality rates estimated by the ABM were higher than those estimated by the simplified approach in the three cities. There were also significant differences in the spatial distribution of the estimated mortality rates between the ABM and the simplified approach. The findings suggest that while the simplified approach can yield results more quickly, casualty estimates derived from such models should be interpreted with caution.

Selective Twin NIR‐IIb Ratiometric Luminescence Nanoprobes Enable the Accurate Visualization of MPO‐Mediated Oxidative Stress in Acute Liver Injury

AbstractOxidative stress, orchestrated by myeloperoxidase (MPO), plays crucial roles in the progression of many diseases. Nonetheless, the role of MPO‐mediated oxidative stress in distinct factor‐induced acute liver injuries (ALI) is still up for dispute, mainly due to the lack of probes for in vivo monitoring of MPO releases. Here, a highly selective MPO probe (CSQ) based on the epoxidation biochemical reaction within the MPO‐H2O2‐Cl− system is screened to construct dual near infrared‐IIb (NIR‐IIb) ratiometric (F1550Em, 808Ex/F1550Em, 980Ex) luminescence nanoprobes by integrating CSQ onto down conversion nanoparticles (DCNPs) with and without liver‐targeting moiety (twin NIR‐IIb nanoprobes). Liver‐targeting probes are employed to monitor MPO release, whereas non‐liver‐targeting probes are utilized to assess MPO activity across all cell types. Using twin NIR‐IIb nanoprobes, the MPO‐mediated oxidative stress progressively increased are observed in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced ALI over 12 h. In contrast, the MPO‐mediated oxidative stress in acetaminophen (APAP)‐induced ALI initially increased, peaked within 3 h, and then rapidly weakened to normal levels within 12 h. Importantly, the differential release of MPO from neutrophils/Kupfer cells to extracellular fluids in the two types of ALI is revealed. This work reveals significant differences in MPO distribution and the role of MPO‐mediated oxidative stress in CCl4 and APAP‐induced ALI.

Gender Disparity of Orthopaedic Surgery Grand Rounds Speakers

Introduction Women are significantly underrepresented within orthopaedic surgery and academia. Limited opportunities to present at local and national conferences may impact professional advancement for women. The purpose of this study was to determine how often female orthopaedic surgeons presented at orthopaedic grand rounds between 2016-2021, if there was a difference between the types of presentations (technical vs non-technical) given by female and male speakers, and whether the COVID-19 pandemic increased the number of opportunities available for female orthopaedic surgeons to speak at orthopaedic grand rounds with the increase of online platforms. Methods A cross sectional study of 8 ACGME accredited orthopaedic residency programs, who are a part of COERG, was performed. Program directors were asked to describe the demographics of grand rounds speakers and the types of presentations given by those speakers before and after the COVID-19 pandemic from September 2016 to September 2021. Results Between September 2016-February 2020, 472 male (83.7%) and 92 (16.3%) female orthopaedic surgeons presented during grand rounds. There was no significant difference in the gender distribution of speakers from March 2020-September 2021 during which 81 men (79.4%) and 21 women (20.6%) presented (p=0.315). Men were more likely than women to present on technical topics before (p=0.006) and after the COVID-19 pandemic (p=0.023). Conclusion Male orthopaedic surgeons more frequently present at grand rounds in comparison to female orthopaedic surgeons. This was unchanged during the COVID-19 pandemic when online platforms were increasingly utilized. Male speakers were more likely to present on technical topics; whereas female speakers were more likely to present on non-technical topics. Understanding the gender disparity amongst orthopaedic grand rounds speakers is necessary for programs to re-evaluate and revise the methodology by which speakers are selected. This can allow for more balanced topic discussions and can foster female career advancement in academia.

Treatment of kidney disease: an analytical decision model at a Swiss university hospital

Abstract Background An observational hospital-based cohort study, where the kidney disease staging is identified as a digital marker, and the association between the standardised staging of Kidney Disease (KD) and the outcomes is assessed along the treatment process. Methods The clinical and administrative data for all patients are stored in the Clinical Data Warehouse. A specific digital marker for an exact KD staging is applied. Three retrospective patient cohorts for exact and imprecise staging and missing diagnosis are defined and compared regarding the in-hospital mortality, all-cause mortality and disease progression. Results In total, 83146 hospitalisations of 40421 patients with KD, treated in 2014-2023 (2016-2023 will be updated) were identified; the number of the first hospitalisations with exact staging was 847 (2%), unprecise 29934 (72%) and missing diagnosis (26%). The demographic and baseline factors distribution between groups was tested with no association (chi-squared test statistic). The median survival time with a 95% CI was 7.94 (7.66, 8.81) years for the exact and 7.47 (7.42, 7.53) for the imprecise staging group. A log-rank and loglikelihood tests indicated a significant difference in survival between the groups, p &amp;lt; 0.0001. The Cox regression model shows a statistically significant difference in Hazard Ratio; KD staging, age, Elixhauser van Walraven index, treatment, nephrotoxic medication, contrast agent application, and AKI were identified as the significant covariates, C-statistic 0.730, Likelihood ratio test, Wald test, log-rank score on 42 df, p &amp;lt; 2e-16. ANOVA analysis confirmed a significant difference in cost distribution between the groups. An economic decision model proposal integrates the findings, combining a profile-level Markov cohort with a Discreet Time-To-Event Simulation DICE. Conclusions The study demonstrates a better outcome regarding all-cause mortality, in-hospital mortality, and costs if a standardised KD staging was applied. Key messages • Intuition (clinical judgement) and standardised kidney disease staging perform differently regarding clinical outcomes and costs. • The study demonstrates a better outcome regarding all-cause mortality, in-hospital mortality, and costs if a standardised KD staging was applied.

The mortality implications of increasing and decreasing sST2 levels during acute decompensated heart failure

Abstract Introduction Soluble Suppressor of Tumorigenicity (sST2), a marker of cardiac remodelling and fibrosis, has demonstrated promises in prognostication of heart failure (HF) and therefore recommended as an additional test for risk stratification of HF in the 2017 ACC/AHA/HFSA guidance. It is well investigated as single measurements in acute and ambulatory settings. Data regarding sST2 level changes during acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) and its potential in providing additional prognostic information is however sparse. We therefore sought to evaluate changes in sST2 and its prognostic implications in hospitalized patients during ADHF. Methods Between December 2019 and February 2022, consecutive patients with ADHF and reduced ejection fraction (EF&amp;lt;50%) presenting to our University Hospital were recruited as part of the Investigating the soluble ST2 biomarker in addition to Natriuretic peptides in managing patients with Heart Failure and a Reduced Ejection Fraction (INST2ANT-HF) study (REC Reference: 19/EE/0269). Serum samples were taken at clinician determined decompensation and recompensation in all participants, who were then followed up for one year post discharge. The study primary end point was all-cause mortality at one year. A 2x2 contingency table was constructed to display the relationship between the frequency of unchanged/increased or decreased sST2 levels at recompensation and the frequency of mortality at one year (Table 1). A Kaplan-Meier curve was plotted to display the survival probability of the two groups during one-year follow up (Figure 1), and log-rank test applied to evaluate for significant difference in the survival distributions. Results In 169 patients with paired sST2 samples, median age (IQR) was 72 (62-80.8), 39 (23.2%) were female and 160 (95.2%) were ethnically white. 158 (94.1%) presented with NYHA class II-IV and the median (IQR) EF was 26% (17.5-32.5). Median (IQR) length of stay in hospital was 8 days (5-13). Median (IQR) sST2 level at decompensation and recompensation were 60ng/ml (40-93.3) and 39.5ng/ml (24-64.8) respectively. At clinician determined recompensation, sST2 level decreased in 136 (81%) patients while 32 (19%) had unchanged/increased sST2 levels. One-year mortality was 37.5% in patients with unchanged or increasing sST2 levels during ADHF, compared to 16.2% in those with decreased sST2 levels. The mean (SE) survival time was 332 (7) days for patients with unchanged/increasing sST2, and 274 (22.5) days for patients with decreasing sST2 at HF recompensation (p=0.003). Conclusion Our data demonstrates that there was a downward trend in sST2 in most patients during recovery from an ADHF episode. Importantly, a static or increasing sST2 level from HF decompensation to recompensation was associated with a significantly higher risk of mortality at one year. Further research may ascertain if the mortality risk is also dependent on the percentage changes in sST2 concentrations.Table 1:2x2 contingency tableFigure 1:Kaplan-Meier curve