Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Retinal Microvascular And Neuroretinal Structural Changes In Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Assessed By Octa: A Comparative Study ​, Murat Erdağ, Tunahan Çalişkan, Hakan Yildirim, Tarik Kivrak, Mehmet Canleblebi̇ci̇, Ali̇ Dal, Mehmet Balbaba

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disorder with systemic vasculopathy, and noninvasive assessment remains challenging. The retina, sharing anatomical similarities with the cerebral microcirculation, is an accessible site for visualizing systemic vascular compromise. This study quantitatively evaluated retinal microvascular and neuroretinal structural changes in PAH patients compared to healthy controls using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Materials and methods: In this single-center, cross-sectional case-control study, 40 patients with group 1 PAH and 38 healthy controls were enrolled. For statistical independence, only the right eye of each participant was analyzed (total: 78 eyes). All participants underwent high-resolution OCTA imaging. …

Asthma Data In Türkiye Between 2016 And 2022: A Nationwide Descriptive And Observational Study Covering The Entire Adult Population, Kurtuluş Aksu, Gürgün Tuğçe Vural Solak, Nai̇m Ata, Mustafa Hami̇dullah Türkkani, Mustafa Mahi̇r Ülgü, Şuayi̇p Bi̇ri̇nci̇, Funda Aksu

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Determining the current burden of asthma in countries is important in the diagnosis and follow-up of asthma patients and for the development of national health policies. Our study aimed to clarify the epidemiological and clinical data regarding asthmatic adults in Türkiye.

Materials and methods: The study was designed as a nationwide descriptive, observational cross-sectional study. Data on adult patients who were followed with the diagnosis of asthma in all public, private, and university hospitals in Türkiye between January 2016 and December 2022 were obtained from the e-Nabız database of the Ministry of Health and analyzed.

Results: The number of …

Association Between Superstition Levels On Sports-Specific Success Motivation In Active Athletes: A Study In Ankara Province ​, Canan Sayin Temur

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: When athletes perceive themselves as strong, they may seek to maintain their motivation through the control of random external factors. The present study examines the effect of superstitions on sports-specific success motivation among active athletes.

Materials and methods: The research population consisted of licensed athletes in the athletics branch, while the sample comprised licensed and active athletes based in Ankara. A total of 408 athletes participated in the research, including 201 women, and 207 men. The participants completed a three-part questionnaire consisting of a Personal Information Form, the Motivation in Sports Scale, and the Superstitious Beliefs and Behaviors in …

Sun-Macerated Hypericum Perforatum Oleates In Fixed Oils: Analytical Characterization And Comparative Wound-Healing Activity, Ci̇han Çapar, Esra Akkol, Ayli̇n Yaba, Ayhan Parmaksiz, Engi̇n Sümer, Erdem Yeşi̇lada

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Hypericum perforatum L. oleates prepared in fixed oils have long been used for wound management due to their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and tissue-regenerative properties. The bioactivity of these oleates is mainly attributed to hypericin, hyperforin, and pseudohypericin. This study aimed to comparatively evaluate the wound-healing potential of H. perforatum oleates prepared in different fixed oils, including Olea europaea L. (olive), Sesamum indicum L. (sesame), Helianthus annuus L. (sunflower), and Nigella sativa L. (black seed).Materials and methodsFixed oils were characterized by GC–MS, while oleuropein in olive oil and thymoquinone in black seed oil were quantified by HPLC, and sesamin and sesamol …

Serum Phosphoproteome Alterations Associated With Cardiac Troponin I Levels In Acute Myocardial Infarction ​, Merve Öztuğ, Meltem Aşicioğlu, Konca Altinkaynak, Evren Kilinç

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) triggers systemic biochemical responses, including dynamic changes in the phosphorylation status of circulating proteins. However, the phosphoproteomic profile of serum in the context of AMI remains insufficiently characterized. This study aimed to investigate serum phosphoproteomic alterations associated with AMI and to explore potential correlations with markers of cardiac injury.

Materials and methods: A comparative phosphoproteomic analysis was performed on serum samples obtained from eight patients with AMI and pooled healthy control samples. High-abundance serum proteins were depleted, and phosphopeptides were enriched using TiO2 phosphopeptide enrichment kit. Samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry using …

The Importance Of Early Intraoperative Ultrasonography And The Relationship Between Surgical Technique And Allograft Function In Patients With Compartment Syndrome Following Renal Transplantation Surgery ​, Burak Yağdiran, Emre Karakaya, Ravana Ahmadli̇, Adem Şafak, Yağmur Kurtuluş, Nedi̇m Çekmen, Meri̇ç Yavuz Çolak, Mehmet Haberal

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: In rare cases, patients undergoing renal transplantation (RT) may develop renal allograft compartment syndrome (RACS) if the renal volume is larger than the retroperitoneal space prepared in the iliac fossa. In such cases, the optimal treatment is early decompression surgery. The primary aim of the present descriptive and comparative study is not to identify the optimal surgical technique, but rather to evaluate the role of early Doppler ultrasonography (DUSG) in the recognition of renal allograft compartment syndrome and to assess outcomes following timely decompressive interventions.

Materials and methods: A total of 275 patients were examined retrospectively for the study, …

Red Cell Cryopreservation For Serologic Testing: Bulk Freezing With Polyvinylpyrrolidone (Pvp) ​, Di̇lek Gürlek Gökçebay, Willy Albert Flegel

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Red cell cryopreservation is essential for immunohematology reference laboratories. Various cryopreservation methods maintain the structural integrity of red cells, such as bulk freezing with glycerol and droplet freezing with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). In this paper, we provide a technical note with real-world data and report our experience with a modified PVP bulk-freezing method in a transfusion medicine setting.Materials and methods. Red cells were separated from whole blood samples and incubated for 1 h at room temperature with PVP with slow agitation or no agitation before freezing. Instead of using the established method of shock freezing droplets in liquid nitrogen, the …

Severe Autoimmune Digital Vasculopathy In Systemic Sclerosis With Lupus- And Antiphospholipid-Spectrum Serologic Positivity And Libman–Sacks Endocarditis: A Case Report, Mayada F. Bawayan, Thekra A. Alwafi, Abdulaziz F. Samandar, Abdulaziz M. Gari

Saudi Toxicology Journal

Background: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune connective tissue disease characterized by prominent vasculopathy, which may lead to severe digital ischemia and ulceration. The coexistence of SSc-related vasculopathy with lupus- and antiphospholipid-spectrum manifestations, including Libman–Sacks endocarditis, is uncommon and poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Case Presentation: We report a 37-year-old female with a systemic sclerosis phenotype and overlapping lupus- and antiphospholipid-spectrum features, who presented with severe bilateral digital ischemia and ulceration. Investigations revealed active autoimmune disease with inflammatory, immunologic, and vascular involvement, along with Libman–Sacks endocarditis. Imaging excluded large-vessel occlusive disease. The patient was treated with targeted vasodilator therapy and …

A Rare Case Of Disseminated Herpes Zoster, Reza Nasrollahzadeh, Andrea Francis, Rasmeet Kaur, Micheline Tantchou

Central & West Texas and San Antonio GME Research Day 2026

No abstract provided.

A Unique Case Of Tumor Thrombus In The Superior Vena Cava (Svc), John Leece, Juan Rodriguez

Central & West Texas and San Antonio GME Research Day 2026

No abstract provided.

Clinical Applications Of Topical Platelet-Rich Plasma In Cardiac Surgery: A Scoping Review, Jaron M. Davis

Student Works

Background: Postoperative wound complications persist as a significant challenge within adult cardiac surgery. Deep and superficial sternal wound infections, along with complications at saphenous vein harvest sites, are linked to increased morbidity, extended hospital stays, and substantial healthcare expenses. Topical platelet-rich plasma (PRP), commonly known as platelet gel, has been suggested as a biologically active adjunct that may facilitate tissue repair and mitigate postoperative complications. While PRP has garnered attention in surgical practice, the overall scope and consistency of the supporting evidence in cardiac surgery remain ambiguous.

Objective: The purpose of this scoping review is to map and describe the …

Improving Patient Health Portal Enrollment In The Primary Care Setting, Erika L. Bell

Doctoral Dissertations & Projects

In today’s increasingly digital healthcare environment, patient health portals have become critical tools for enhancing communication, improving care coordination, and empowering patients to actively participate in their health management. These secure, web-based platforms allow patients to access medical records, request prescription refills, view lab results, and message providers. Although patient health portals are offered by a vast majority of U.S. health systems, they remain underutilized, with only 15-30% of patients engaging with these platforms despite their potential to improve patient engagement, health status awareness, and care quality. Enhancing patient health portal use not only empowers patients but also supports broader …

Res-Mnd: Motor Neuron Disease Detection Using Res4net–Convolutional Block Attention Module ​, Shuriya Balusamy, Rakesh Sivalingam, Shobana Rooben, Sony Helen

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Motor neuron diseases (MNDs) are progressive neurological disorders that cause muscle weakness and wasting as a result of ongoing neurodegeneration. MNDs require comprehensive diagnostic approaches that integrate clinical symptoms, laboratory findings, and multimodal imaging data.

Materials and methods: In this study, a novel residual network for motor neuron disease detection (RES-MND) framework is proposed for detecting MNDs using multimodal imaging data. Initially, the input multimodal images, including MRI, CT, PET, and DTI, are preprocessed using adaptive dynamic histogram equalization and the total variation bilateral filter. The preprocessed multimodal images are processed through Res4Net-CBAM for feature extraction to enhance image …

Role Of Novel Renal Biomarkers In Prognosticating Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease: A Prospective Cohort Study, Raghavan Padmanabhan, Kaviya Manoharan, Melina Sahay, Pooja Bhujangarao, Luxitaa Goenka, Solai Priya, Kumaraswamy Subramaniyan, Damal Kandadai Sriram, Melvin George

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Several biomarkers have been assessed for the diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, limited data are available regarding their ability to predict mortality in CKD. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of lipocalin-2, receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1), osteopontin, and trefoil factor 3 (TFF-3) in predicting the prognosis of patients with CKD.

Materials and methods: We included patients with CKD as defined by an estimated glomerular filtration rate of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 of either sex who were above the age of 18 years. Patients with a history of acute-on-chronic kidney disease were excluded. The novel markers of interest were estimated from patients’ plasma samples using the multiplex enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. These patients were followed for 1 year to assess mortality.

Results: The median (with interquartile range) plasma concentrations of lipocalin-2, RAGE, TIMP-1, osteopontin, and TFF-3 were 56.9 …

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis For Hiv Among Healthcare Workers In Türkiye: A Descriptive, Multicenter Retrospective Study, Veysel Akca, İlkay Akbulut, Gül Ruhsar Yilmaz, Alper Tahmaz, Nefi̇se Öztoprak Çuvalci, İlknur Esen Yildiz, Mehmet Çabalak, Şeyma Topal, Özgür Günal, Bi̇rcan Kayaaslan, Fatma Eser, Tuba Damar Çakirca, Deni̇z Ölmez, Ali̇ye Baştuğ, Fi̇rdevs Aksoy, Hani̇fe Nur Karakoç Parlayan, Beyza Süllü, Damla Verendağ, Hatun Öztürk Çeri̇k, Mehmet Ali̇ Aşan, Ayhan Akbulut, Gülden Eser Karlidağ, Behi̇ce Kurtaran, Hüsnü Pullukçu, Turhan Togan

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) plays a vital role in preventing transmission among healthcare workers following occupational exposure. Despite its clinical importance, epidemiological data regarding PEP implementation in Türkiye remain scarce. This study aimed to assess PEP practices, prophylactic treatment regimens, and follow-up outcomes among healthcare workers at risk of occupational HIV exposure.

Materials and methods: This retrospective, multicenter study was conducted between January 2020 and December 2024 across 16 healthcare facilities participating in the National HIV/AIDS Working Group. Healthcare workers aged 18 years and older who presented for evaluation following occupational exposure to HIV were …

Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Neuropharmacology: Reshaping Drug Discovery And Translational Strategies For Neurological Diseases ​, Pri̇yanka Rathee, Suni̇thi̇ Lohan, Sari̇ta Khatkar, Neelam Mali̇k, Esra Akkol, Renu Sehrawat, Pooja Rathee, Anurag Khatkar

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

The rapid expansion of data-driven technologies, particularly machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI), has substantially influenced biomedical research and drug discovery. In neuropharmacology, the availability of large-scale genomic, proteomic, chemical, and clinical datasets has stimulated the adoption of AI-based approaches to address persistent challenges in neurological drug development, including high attrition rates and the scarcity of disease-modifying therapies. Unlike prior reviews that broadly discuss AI applications in drug discovery or neurology, this narrative review focuses specifically on neuropharmacology, with an emphasis on translational relevance, disease-oriented examples, and real-world constraints. We critically examine the application of AI and ML across …

Impact Of Two Sedation Protocols On Cardiac Electrophysiology During Spinal Anesthesia ​, Selvi̇naz Durantaş, Burak Nalbant, Fatma Kavak Akelma, Gökhan Erdem, Abdulkadi̇r But

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Perioperative factors such as anesthetic drugs, central blocks, surgical stress, pain, and anxiety can affect cardiac electrophysiology and increase the risk of arrhythmias. Arrhythmia susceptibility can be assessed using ventricular markers such as the QT interval (QT), heart rate-corrected QT interval (QTc), QT dispersion (QTd), time between peak and end of T wave (Tp–e), cardiac electrophysiologic balance index (iCEB), and heart rate-corrected index of cardiac electrophysiologic balance (iCEBc), obtained from noninvasive electrocardiography (ECG) data. This study compared the effects of propofol and dexmedetomidine sedation on these parameters in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty performed under spinal anesthesia.

Materials and …

Analysis Of Calr-Mutated Essential Thrombocythemia As A Distinct Disease Entity Compared With Jak2 V617f-Mutated And Triple-Negative Patients ​, Gökhan Sami̇ Aydin, Eli̇f Aksoy, İpek Yönal Hi̇ndi̇lerden, Aynur Dağlar Aday, Emi̇ne Gültürk, Meli̇ha Nalçaci, Fehmi̇ Hi̇ndi̇lerden

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Calreticulin (CALR) mutations in essential thrombocythemia (ET) are associated with younger age, higher platelet counts, and lower thrombosis rates. The present study analyzes the demographic, laboratory, and clinical features of the CALR mutation and its prognostic impact.

Materials and methods: The clinical impact of CALR mutations was assessed in 391 ET patients.

Results: CALR-mutation patients were more commonly male than JAK2 V617F-positive and triple-negative patients. Age at diagnosis was similar across all groups, although patients with type 2 CALR mutations were younger than those with nontype 1/nontype 2 mutations. Compared with JAK2 V617F-positive patients, CALR-mutation patients had lower leukocyte …

Comprehensive Profiling Of Gut Microbiota In Postmenopausal Osteoporosis ​, Gülsemi̇n Ertürk Çeli̇k, Sedat Yildiz, Münevver Aksoy Bektaş, Yaprak Engi̇n-Üstün

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Osteoporosis is a multifactorial skeletal disease that predominantly affects postmenopausal women and is characterized by reduced bone mass and an increased risk of fractures. Growing evidence suggests that the gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in bone metabolism through immunological, endocrine, and metabolic pathways, forming the basis of the so-called gut– bone axis. This study aimed to characterize gut microbiota composition in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis compared with healthy controls.

Materials and methods: Forty postmenopausal women aged 55–65 years were classified into osteoporosis (n = 20) and healthy control (n = 20) groups based on dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry T-scores. …

Coverage, Traits, And Geographic Distribution Of Online Surgeon Reviews: Large-Scale Cross-Sectional Analysis, Michael Geng, Carlos Riveros, Yash B. Shah, Sanjana Ranganathan, Kai Fok, Renil Sinu Titus, Vatsala Mundra, Eusebio Luna Velasquez, Dharam Kaushik, Allan S. Detsky, Angela Jerath, Benjamin N. Breyer, Yusuke Tsugawa, Christopher J. D. Wallis, Raj Satkunasivam

Student Papers, Posters & Projects

BACKGROUND: The use of online physician rating platforms has significantly increased and has been shown to influence physician selection. There are limited data on the use of these platforms for rating surgeons.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we sought to assess the geographic distribution of and patterns in rating scores of surgeons in the United States. Additionally, we examined rating volumes across different surgical specialties and the association between peer-nominated and patient-initiated ratings on online rating platforms in the United States.

METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study by identifying 201,154 surgeons in the United States via the National Plan and Provider …

Dasatinib And Quercetin Senolytic Treatment Delays Early Onset Intervertebral Disc Degeneration In Sm/J Mice, Emanuel J. Novais, Olivia K. Ottone, Sanjana Jagannath, Esther Jesutofunmi Akande, Makarand V. Risbud

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Faculty Papers

Genetic background is a major determinant of disc degeneration, a leading cause of chronic back pain and disability. Herein, we demonstrate that premature disc cell senescence contributes to early-onset degeneration in SM/J mice and test two systemic senotherapeutic strategies to mitigate it: Navitoclax (Nav.) and a cocktail of Dasatinib and Quercetin (DQ). While Nav. treatment did not improve severe degeneration in SM/J mice or senescence status, DQ-treated mice showed lower grades of degeneration and a decreased abundance of senescence markers, including p19ARF, p21, and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). DQ improved disc cell viability and phenotype retention and retarded fibrosis …

From Beauty To Burden: Mapping The Health And Psychosocial Impacts Of Fragrances And Cosmetic Products Use In The Uae, Sharifa Alblooshi, Mariam Al Ali, Dana N. Abdelrahim, Suheir Awadalla

All Works

Background The dynamic beauty care sector in the Middle East is on an upward trend in the UAE; however, concerns persist about the side effects of this industry, attributed to chemical exposure, which is believed to contribute to skin problems and other health issues. In the UAE, there is a lack of data on consumer usage, awareness, and the health effects associated with it.Methods This study presents the results of an online survey administered to 461 female subjects in the United Arab Emirates as part of a cross-sectional study. The survey consisted of 55 questions on product use, knowledge, attitudes, …

An Education Project To Address Pain Management Solutions For Adult Clients With Ue Involvement To Reduce Dependence On Pharmacological Options To Increase Comfort And Performance With Life Activities, Alexander J. Birdsall

Student Capstone Papers

Upper extremity (UE) pain affects approximately 30.7% of adults in the United States and is associated with decreased function and participation. Despite evidence supporting non-pharmacological approaches, pharmacological interventions remain commonly used. This capstone project implemented and evaluated an occupation-based educational program to promote non-pharmacological pain management among adults receiving outpatient occupational therapy for UE conditions. This 14-week project included 10 participants and utilized a mixed-methods design with pre-, mid-, and post-surveys. The program consisted of an introduction and three modules addressing therapeutic movement, physical agent modalities, and sensory regulation. Outcome measures included pain, activity engagement, medication use, confidence, and program …

Prognostic Significance And Clinicopathological Associations Of Tumor Budding And Poorly Differentiated Clusters In Endometrioid Endometrial Carcinoma ​, Hani̇fe Seda Mavi̇li̇, Ömer Atmiş, Fatma Seher Pehli̇van, Fatma Sezen Çavdaroğlu Deveci̇, Ali̇ Riza Kandi̇loğlu

Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences

Background/aim: Tumor budding (TB) and poorly differentiated clusters (PDCs) are histopathological parameters that have been associated with poor prognosis in various malignancies, particularly colorectal carcinoma. Although numerous studies have demonstrated an association between the microcystic, elongated, and fragmented (MELF) pattern in endometrial carcinomas and lymphovascular invasion as well as lymph node metastasis, the literature regarding TB and PDCs in this context remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the potential associations of the MELF pattern, TB, and PDCs with overall survival, progression-free survival, and clinicopathological parameters in cases of endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (EEC).

Materials and methods: A total of 190 …

Acute Compartment Syndrome Following Lower Leg Vascular Injury: A Big-Data Approach To Estimating Incidence And Risk Factors, Harry Moroz, Edward J. Harvey, Yasser C. Bouklouch

Journal of Shock and Hemodynamics

Acute Compartment Syndrome (ACS) is a limb- and life-threatening complication of lower leg fractures. Rapid recognition and fasciotomy can prevent irreversible ischemic injury, but ACS is often under-recognized. Vascular injury may increase the risk of ACS by impairing perfusion and exacerbating swelling. This study aimed to determine the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of ACS in patients with lower leg fractures, with particular emphasis on the impact of vascular injury. This retrospective cohort study used data from the 2017 American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Programs database to perform a multicenter analysis of patients with lower leg fractures. Patients were …

Advancing Hand Therapy Practice Through Specialized Clinical Reasoning And Patient Education, Candace Heinlein

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) was completed at Corewell Health Grand Rapids Hospitals Hand Therapy Clinic and focused on two ACOTE concentration areas including advanced clinical practice skills and education. The experience combined hands-on clinical practice in a specialized outpatient hand therapy setting with the development of high-quality client education materials and home exercise programs (HEPs). Objectives were created to address identified needs through the creation of client education handouts, development of diagnosis-specific Medbridge HEP templates, and creation of training resources to improve therapist efficiency with Medbridge use. Outcomes of the project included improved access to evidence-based educational materials, reduced …

Safety And Efficacy Of Ciltacabtagene Autoleucel For Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma: A Cibmtr Study., Doris K Hansen, Danai Dima, Hira Mian, Jakob Devos, Ruta Brazauskas, Temitope Oloyede, Aimaz Afrough, Nausheen Ahmed, Larry Anderson, Rahul Banerjee, Jesus G Berdeja, Aram Bidikian, Binod Dhakal, Ajoy Dias, Yvonne Efebera, Muhammad Salman Faisal, Lohith Gowda, Hamza Hashmi, Abu-Sayeef Mirza, Meera Mohan, Ravi Narra, Ashley E Rosko, Mark Schroeder, Taiga Nishihori, Heather Landau, Saad Usmani, Marcelo C Pasquini, Othman S Akhtar, Surbhi Sidana, Krina K Patel

Oncology Articles

Ciltacabtagene autoleucel (cilta-cel), an anti-B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, was approved in 2022 for heavily pretreated relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of cilta-cel in RRMM patients reported to the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research registry between March 2022 and December 2023 who met commercial release specifications. Among 595 patients, median age was 64 years, 57% were male, and 70% had ≥1 comorbidity. Extramedullary disease and marrow plasma cell burden ≥ 50% were present in 13% and 14% of patients, respectively. The median number of prior lines …

International Consensus On The Evaluation And Management Of Hypothalamic Hamartomas: Results From A Modified Delphi Survey, Nathan T Cohen, Xiaotong Li, Madison M Berl, Chima O Oluigbo, Hiroshi Shirozu, Samuel F Berkovic, Margaret Zacharin, Wirginia Maixner, Andreas Schulze-Bonhage, Kerstin Klotz, Nicola Specchio, Sarah Ferrand-Sorbets, Christine Bulteau, Alexis A Arzimanoglou, Jean Regis, J Helen Cross, Martin M Tisdall, Hanna Richardson, Arthur Cukiert, Cristine Cukiert, Julia Jacobs, Elizabeth J Donner, Phillip L Pearl, John F Kerrigan, Angus A Wilfong, Kevin C J Yuen, Dennis J Dlugos, Daniel Curry, Irfan Ali, John Ragheb, Lisa Soeby, Erica Webster, William D Gaillard

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Background and objectives: Hypothalamic hamartomas (HH) are rare brain lesions associated with epilepsy and numerous comorbidities. Worldwide treatment is varied. There is a paucity of high-quality evidence to guide treatment. This study aimed to establish expert consensus on the evaluation and management of HH.

Methods: A modified Delphi survey was designed by the Medical Advisory Board of Hope for Hypothalamic Hamartomas and was conducted among 17 International League Against Epilepsy level II epilepsy surgery centers. The survey included 257 questions in round 1 and 81 refined questions in round 2, covering domains of diagnosis, imaging, medical and surgical treatment, neuropsychological …

Dapk2 Regulates Pkm2 Phosphorylation At Threonine 45 To Facilitate Disturbed Flow-Induced Atherosclerosis, Shuai Guo, Long Xu, Yixin Chen, Yuan Zhao, Yuting Zhang, Runfa Yu, Kaixiang Cao, Litao Wang, Wenjia Ai, Jiang-Yun Luo, Lu Lu, Jun He, Yuan Zhou, Li Wang, Andrew H Baker, Yuqing Huo, Yiming Xu

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Background: Oscillatory shear stress (OSS), resulting from disturbed blood flow, is implicated in atherosclerotic plaque formation by incompletely understood mechanisms. This study aims to elucidate the involvement of death-associated protein kinase (DAPK) 2 in OSS-induced endothelial cell (EC) activation and atherosclerosis.

Methods: Publicly available resources, including genome-wide microarray, RNA sequencing, and single-cell RNA sequencing, were utilized to identify key OSS-sensitive regulatory factors. Techniques such as mass spectrometry, immunoprecipitation, proximity ligation assay, and RNA sequencing were employed to identify pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) as the binding protein of DAPK2 and determine the specific site of PKM2 phosphorylation by DAPK2. To assess …

Global Impact Of Germline Structural Variation On The Cancer Proteome, Fengju Chen, Yiqun Zhang, Luis F Paulin, Darshan S Chandrashekar, Sooryanarayana Varambally, Fritz J Sedlazeck, Chad J Creighton

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Proteome and transcriptome data combined can help assess the relevance of non-coding germline variants. Here, we combine germline Structural Variants (SVs) with mass spectrometry-based proteomics on tumors from 1637 cancer patients spanning various tumor tissues of origin to determine the extent SV breakpoint patterns involve differential protein expression of nearby genes. Rare and singleton SVs disrupting protein expression of known cancer susceptibility genes collectively involve 6% of patients. About 24% of the hundreds of genes with SV-associated non-coding cis-regulatory alterations at the mRNA level are similarly associated at the protein level. Both rare and common SVs may associate with differential …