Large language model based mutations in genetic improvement.

Ever since the first large language models (LLMs) have become available, both academics and practitioners have used them to aid software engineering tasks. However, little research as yet has been done in combining search-based software engineering (SBSE) and LLMs. In this paper, we evaluate the use of LLMs as mutation operators for genetic improvement (GI), an SBSE approach, to improve the GI search process.

Challenges in Care Provision for Children and Adolescents With Differences of Sex Development.

Objectives: The ideal model of care for individuals with Differences of Sex Development (DSD) continues to evolve, with multiple models proposed. This study aimed to explore current care models for individuals with DSD in Australia and New Zealand (NZ) and to identify clinician perceptions of gaps and barriers in current practice.

Methods: Cross-sectional anonymous online questionnaire, conducted via Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) software.

Ectopic expression of DNMT3L in human trophoblast stem cells restores features of the placental methylome.

The placental DNA methylation landscape is unique, with widespread partially methylated domains (PMDs). The placental "methylome" is conserved across mammals, a shared feature of many cancers, and extensively studied for links with pregnancy complications. Human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs) offer exciting potential for functional studies to better understand this epigenetic feature; however, whether the hTSC epigenome recapitulates primary trophoblast remains unclear.

Transcriptome and DNA methylation profiling during the NSN to SN transition in mouse oocytes.

Background: During the latter stages of their development, mammalian oocytes under dramatic chromatin reconfiguration, transitioning from a non-surrounded nucleolus (NSN) to a surrounded nucleolus (SN) stage, and concomitant transcriptional silencing. Although the NSN-SN transition is known to be essential for developmental competence of the oocyte, less is known about the accompanying molecular changes. Here we examine the changes in the transcriptome and DNA methylation during the NSN to SN transition in mouse oocytes.

Donor site morbidity of upper extremity flaps in head and neck reconstruction.

Objective: This retrospective cohort study aims to compare donor site morbidity of three commonly used upper extremity flaps used in head and neck reconstructive surgery: scapular tip free flap (STFF), radial forearm free flap (RFFF), and pectoralis major pedicled flap (PMPF).

Methods: The billing database of an urban, academic, tertiary otolaryngology practice was queried to identify patients who underwent STFF, RFFF, and PMPF from 2020 to 2023. The primary outcome was identification of donor site pain and need for physical therapy (PT) referral after undergoing reconstruction.