bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of initial combination with belimumab in newly diagnosed childhood-onset lupus nephritis: a single-centre historical control study
Authors: Gong Yinv , Liu Shuhua , Liu Haimei , Shi Yu , Li Yifan , Guan Wanzhen , Zeng Qiaoqian , Lv Qianying , Zhang Xiaomei , Wei Qijiao , Chen Jing , Shen Qian , Xu Hong , Sun Li
Published: December 2024

Objective

To explore the efficacy of initial treatment of newly diagnosed childhood-onset lupus nephritis (cLN) with combination of belimumab and either cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil, tacrolimus or multitargeted therapy.

Methods

A historical control study was conducted on children aged 5–17 years with newly diagnosed cLN. All patients recruited met the 2012 Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics and/or 2019 European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology classification criteria for SLE, and the 2003 International Society of Nephrology/Renal Pathology Society histopathological criteria for LN. The primary endpoint was primary efficacy renal response (PERR) at 12 months, and secondary endpoints included complete renal response (CRR), lupus low disease activity state (LLDAS) and remission (Definitions of Remission in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (DORIS)) at 12 months, changes of SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and dose of glucocorticoid (GC).

Results

A total of 101 patients were included with 38 patients in the belimumab group and 63 patients in the standard immunotherapy group. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups at baseline. At 12 months, compared with the standard immunotherapy group, more patients in the belimumab group had a higher PERR (97.1% vs 80.0%, χ2=3.965, p=0.046), CRR (94.1% vs 76.6%, χ2=4.679, p=0.031), LLDAS (75.0% vs 18.6%, χ2=27.84, p<0.001) and DORIS (34.4% vs 11.9%, χ2=6.626, p=0.01). The belimumab group had faster and greater reductions in SLEDAI and dose of GC (p<0.05), with a significantly higher proportion of patients with dose of GC ≤7.5 mg/day (82.9% vs 30.4%, χ2=19.737, p<0.001). In the standard immunotherapy group, 4 patients (6.3%) experienced a decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate of 30% or more at 12 months, while no patients in the belimumab group experienced worsening of renal function. There were no serious adverse events reported in two groups, and there was no significant difference in the occurrence of infection between the two groups.

Conclusion

This study reported for the first time the effectiveness of combined belimumab therapy in a Chinese cohort of patients with cLN. The strategy of initial combination with belimumab helps achieve treatment targets earlier and faster GC tapering. And initial combination therapy in children with cLN with high disease activity may yield more significant benefits.
Sudden cardiac death after acute myocarditis with arrhythmic presentation: hunting for risk predictors − a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Narducci Maria Lucia , Ballacci Federico , Giordano Federica , Collini Valentino , Imazio Massimo
Published: December 2024

Background

Ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) frequently occur in the acute phase of myocarditis. Possible arrhythmic recurrences and the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in this setting are reasons for concern, and limited data have been published to guide clinical management of these patients. The aim of the present paper is to report the incidence of major arrhythmic events, defined as sustained VA, SCD and appropriate implantable cardiac-defibrillator (ICD) treatment, in patients with acute myocarditis and ventricular arrhythmic phenotype.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to evaluate studies reporting long-term outcomes in patients with acute myocarditis and arrhythmic presentation. We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE and Scopus databases for relevant studies up to 2 August 2024. Study quality was assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The primary outcome was a composite of SCD, VA recurrence and appropriate ICD therapy. Random-effect models were used to calculate pooled ORs and CIs.

Results

Five observational studies enrolling 322 patients were identified. The pooled proportion of patients who experienced VA recurrence was 0.41 (95% CI 0.30 to 0.53, p=0.13). An increased risk of adverse outcomes during follow-up was observed in patients presenting with monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (OR 3.77, 95% CI 1.23 to 11.53) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <50% (OR 2.74, 95% CI 0.78 to 9.63). Gender and anteroseptal late gadolinium enhancement were not found as potential risk factors in this analysis.

Conclusions

Patients with myocarditis with arrhythmic ventricular presentation have a high recurrence rate of VA, underscoring the importance of careful monitoring and management in this patient population. Risk stratification for SCD during follow-up should be individualised, and monomorphic VA at presentation or a reduced LVEF may be markers of poor prognosis. In these cases, an ICD implantation may be cautious pending further dedicated studies.
Neural network-assisted generic predictive models of safety factor and yield acceleration for seismic slope stability and displacement assessments
Authors: Wang Mao-Xin , Leung Y.F. , Li Dian-Qing
Published: December 2024

As two well-recognized approaches for seismic slope stability assessment, the pseudo-static analysis calculates the factor of safety ( FS) and the Newmark-type analysis estimates the permanent downslope-displacement for given yield acceleration ( ky ). However, FS and ky are usually obtained from nontrivial slope stability calculations, which can become computationally demanding in probabilistic analyses or regional landslide mapping. This study presents neural network-assisted predictive models for (1) seismic or static FS and the category of failure mode; and (2) ky and the thickness of failure mass. Extensive stability analyses of more than 741 000 and 123 000 slope configurations are conducted to compile datasets of FS and ky , respectively. Performance evaluation results indicate that the models produce physically reasonable prediction trends and have good generalization capability with correlation coefficient higher than 0.94 in blind tests. Compared to the infinite slope model and existing predictive tools, the new models achieve improved applicability and functionality, accounting for pore-water pressure, depth to hard stratum, and various failure modes. Both the spreadsheet and MATLAB files established in this study are provided to facilitate generic applications. Therefore, this work not only demonstrates the capability of neural network in slope stability predictions, but also provides useful tools for practitioners, contributing to both the pseudo-static and Newmark-type approaches.
Comparison of Latissimus Dorsi versus Teres Major Tendon Transfer to Restore External Rotation of the Shoulder in Patients with Erb Palsy
Authors: ABDELAZIZ Ashraf M. , ABDELFATH Mohamed Ahmed , ISMAIL Mahmoud Ali , WAHD Yaser El Sayed HASSAN , ALI Abdelaziz MONSEF , AKEED Tharwat AL
Published: December 2024

Background: The transfer of latissimus dorsi (LD) and teres major (TM) have been described for restoration of external rotation (ER) and shoulder abduction in neonatal brachial plexus palsy (NBPP). The aim of this prospective randomised study is to compare the outcomes of LD versus TM transfer in the treatment of internal rotation contracture of the shoulder in children with NBPP.

Methods: The study was conducted from February 2014 to January 2018 and included NBPP patients with internal rotation contracture of the shoulder. Patients were randomised to either LD (Group 1) or TM (Group 2) tendon transfer. Patients were followed up for at least 38 months and assessed for improvements in the arc of shoulder abduction and ER.

Results: The study included 30 patients with 15 patients randomised to each group respectively. Group 1 (n = 15) included 4 boys and 11 girls with a mean age of 2 years and 8 months (range: 1.5–5) and a mean follow-up of 62 months (range: 38–68). Group 2 (n = 15) included 6 boys and 9 girls with a mean age of 2 years and 6 months (range: 1.5–4.8) and a mean follow-up of 58 months (range: 38–68). All patients showed improvement in shoulder abduction and active and passive ER. There were no differences in shoulder abduction (p = 0.467), active ER (p = 0.124) and passive ER (p = 0.756) between both groups.

Conclusions: Both LD and TM tendon transfers improved shoulder function in NBPP patients with internal rotation contracture of the shoulder.

Level of Evidence: Level II (Therapeutic)
The Fine Line Between Persuasion and Coercion
Authors: Grimmelmann James
Published: December 2024

How government can—and cannot—influence social-media platforms' content-moderation policies on controversial issues.
Leveraging Data Characteristics for Bug Localization in Deep Learning Programs
Authors: Manke Ruchira , Wardat Mohammad , Khomh Foutse , Rajan Hridesh
Published: December 2024

Deep Learning (DL) is a class of machine learning algorithms that are used in a wide variety of applications. Like any software system, DL programs can have bugs. To support bug localization in DL programs, several tools have been proposed in the past. As most of the bugs that occur due to improper model structure known as structural bugs lead to inadequate performance during training, it is challenging for developers to identify the root cause and address these bugs. To support bug detection and localization in DL programs, in this paper, we propose Theia, which detects and localizes structural bugs in DL programs. Unlike the previous works, Theia considers the training dataset characteristics to automatically detect bugs in DL programs developed using two deep learning libraries,
Keras
and
PyTorch
. Since training the DL models is a time-consuming process, Theia detects these bugs at the beginning of the training process and alerts the developer with informative messages containing the bug's location and actionable fixes which will help them to improve the structure of the model. We evaluated Theia on a benchmark of 40 real-world buggy DL programs obtained from
Stack Overflow
. Our results show that Theia successfully localizes 57/75 structural bugs in 40 buggy programs, whereas NeuraLint, a state-of-the-art approach capable of localizing structural bugs before training localizes 17/75 bugs.
Electrode-Level Modeling of Silicon Anodes for Improved Cell Design
Authors: Hamedi Amir-Sina , Shumway Edmund M. , Wheeler Dean R.
Published: December 2024

Silicon has a remarkably high specific capacity as a Li-ion battery anode material; however, its large volume expansion and contraction make it extremely challenging to use. This work introduces a pseudo-2D (P2D or Newman-type) model that incorporates the distinctive mechanical and electrochemical behaviors of porous electrodes with large volume changes characteristic of silicon and similar active materials. Localized volume change is propagated rigorously to other electrode variables, considering elastic, plastic, and chemical strains; associated advection and hysteresis; the presence of a fluid reservoir and packaging adjacent to the cell stack; nonlinear electrode swelling behavior; deactivation of active material; and the effect of stress on open circuit potential. A silicon half-cell model is carefully parameterized by previously published experiments, and indeed provides insights in how to interpret the experiments and shows where some are problematic. The model is used as a digital twin to predict the degree of electrode utilization for different packaging designs and active material loadings, thereby allowing improved cell design.
Decreased cardio-respiratory information transfer is associated with deterioration and a poor prognosis in critically ill patients with sepsis
Authors: Morandotti Cecilia , Wikner Matthew , Li Qijun , Ito Emily , Oyelade Tope , Tan Calix , Chen Pin-Yu , Cawthorn Anika , Lilaonitkul Watjana , Mani Ali R.
Published: December 2024

This study adopts an integrative approach through physiological network analysis to investigate sepsis, with the goal of identifying differences in information transfer between physiological signals in sepsis survivors versus nonsurvivors. We found that greater information flow between heart rate, respiratory rate, and capillary oxygen saturation was associated with reduced mortality, independent of age, disease severity, and comorbidities. In addition, reduced information transfer was linked to an increased risk of 48-h deterioration in patients with sepsis.
Retention of a Swallowed Dental Tool in the Small Bowel: Unusual Lodgment and Prolonged Conservative Management
Authors: Kigozi Ken Chapman , Agirembabazi Nevis , Kanyike Andrew Marvin , Nalunkuma Racheal , Nakandi Rachael Mukisa , Nsingo Simon Peter , Ssebuufu Robinson
Published: December 2024

Accidental ingestion of foreign bodies during dental procedures is relatively common, with the potential for serious complications, including intestinal perforations and severe pulmonary disorders. Our case report describes the prolonged, asymptomatic retention of a swallowed hex driver in the small bowel of a 38‐year‐old male, managed conservatively over an extended period. The patient, with a significant medical history of depression, was undergoing a dental procedure involving implant‐supported restorations when the incident occurred. Initial x‐rays confirmed the presence of the hex driver in the gastrointestinal tract. Despite its stationary position for over a week, it passed naturally without requiring invasive intervention. This case highlights the importance of individualized patient care and deferring recommendations for intervention in certain instances. We recommend a more individualized approach to managing ingested foreign bodies in dental settings, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies based on the patient’s specific circumstances and clinical stability.
Supplementary Data from Simultaneous Targeting of NQO1 and SOD1 Eradicates Breast Cancer Stem Cells via Mitochondrial Futile Redox Cycling
Authors: Luo Ming , Shen Na , Shang Li , Fang Zeng , Xin Ying , Ma Yuxi , Du Min , Yuan Yuan , Hu Chenchen , Tang Yun , Huang Jing , Wei Wei , Lee Myung Ryul , Hergenrother Paul J. , Wicha Max S.
Published: December 2024

Supplementary data and table
Supplementary Figures 1 from Genotype-Directed Synthetic Cytotoxicity of ATR Inhibition with Radiotherapy
Authors: Ng Victor , Sinha Sonali , Novaj Ardijana , Ma Jennifer , McDermott Niamh , Pei Xin , Longhini Ana Leda F. , Grimsley Helen , Gardner Rui , Rosen Ezra , Powell Simon N. , Pareja Fresia , Mandelker Diana , Khan Atif , Setton Jeremy , Roulston Anne , Morris Stephen , Koehler Maria , Lee Nancy , Reis-Filho Jorge , Riaz Nadeem
Published: December 2024

Supplementary Figures
Supplementary Table S1 from Efficacy, Safety, and Influence on the Tumor Microenvironment of Neoadjuvant Pembrolizumab plus Ramucirumab for PD-L1–Positive NSCLC: A Phase II Trial (EAST ENERGY)
Authors: Aokage Keiju , Koyama Shohei , Kumagai Shogo , Nomura Kotaro , Shimada Yoshihisa , Yoh Kiyotaka , Wakabayashi Masashi , Fukutani Miki , Furuya Hideki , Miyoshi Tomohiro , Tane Kenta , Samejima Joji , Taki Tetsuro , Hayashi Takuo , Matsubayashi Jun , Ishii Genichiro , Nishikawa Hiroyoshi , Ikeda Norihiko , Tsuboi Masahiro
Published: December 2024

Supplementary Table S1: Patient characteristics of the FAS Population.
The Landscape of ctDNA in Appendiceal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: White Michael G. , Zeineddine Mohammad A. , Fallon Eleanor A. , Zeineddine Fadl A. , Dansby Julia , Chowdhury Saikat , Hornstein Nicholas , Yousef Abdelrahman , Yousef Mahmoud , Bhutiani Neal , Gu Yue , Kee Bryan , Dasari Arvind , Overman Michael J. , Raghav Kanwal , Kopetz Scott , Uppal Abhineet , Taggart Melissa , Newhook Timothy , Fournier Keith , Helmink Beth , Drusbosky Leylah M. , Shen John Paul
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

Appendiceal adenocarcinoma is a rare malignancy with distinct histopathologic subtypes and a natural history with metastasis primarily limited to the peritoneum. Little is known about the molecular pathogenesis of appendiceal adenocarcinoma relative to common tumors.

Experimental Design:

We analyzed molecular data for patients within the Guardant Health database with appendix cancer (n = 718). We then identified patients with appendiceal adenocarcinoma at our institution (from October 2004–September 2022) for whom ctDNA mutation profiling (liquid biopsy) was performed (n = 168) and extracted clinicopathologic and outcomes data. Of these 168 patients, 57 also had tissue-based tumor mutational profiling, allowing for evaluation of concordance between liquid and tissue assays.

Results:

The mutational landscape of ctDNA in appendiceal adenocarcinoma is distinct from tissue-based sequencing, with TP53 being the most frequently mutated (46%). Relative to other tumors, appendiceal adenocarcinoma seems less likely to shed ctDNA, with only 38% of patients with metastatic appendiceal adenocarcinoma having detectable ctDNA (OR = 0.26; P < 0.0001 relative to colorectal cancer). When detectable, the median variant allele frequency was significantly lower in appendiceal adenocarcinoma (0.4% vs. 1.3% for colorectal cancer; P ≤ 0.001). High-grade, signet ring, or colonic-type histology, metastatic spread beyond the peritoneum, and TP53 mutation were associated with detectable ctDNA. With respect to clinical translation, patients with detectable ctDNA had worse overall survival (HR = 2.32; P = 0.048). In the Guardant Health cohort, actionable mutations were found in 93 patients (13.0%).

Conclusions:

Although metastatic appendiceal adenocarcinoma tumors are less likely to shed tumor DNA into the blood relative to colorectal cancer, ctDNA profiling in appendiceal adenocarcinoma has clinical utility.
Figure 5 from SpliceMutr Enables Pan-Cancer Analysis of Splicing-Derived Neoantigen Burden in Tumors
Authors: Palmer Theron , Kessler Michael D. , Shao Xiaoshan M. , Balan Archana , Yarchoan Mark , Zaidi Neeha , Lopez-Vidal Tamara Y. , Saeed Ali M. , Gore Jessica , Azad Nilofer S. , Jaffee Elizabeth M. , Favorov Alexander V. , Anagnostou Valsamo , Karchin Rachel , Gaykalova Daria A. , Fertig Elana J. , Danilova Ludmila
Published: December 2024

Per-patient SA of ICI-treated patients with melanoma per treatment arm and response type after treatment. A, The per-patient pseudo purity compared with the mean SA averaged across genes by the response for all treatment arms. Kendall Tau test. B, The mean SA averaged across genes per patient and normalized by the pseudo purity, for all treatment arms combined. Wilcoxon test and Cohens d. ****, P value ≤ 0.00005. SA, splicing antigenicity.
Figure 4 from SpliceMutr Enables Pan-Cancer Analysis of Splicing-Derived Neoantigen Burden in Tumors
Authors: Palmer Theron , Kessler Michael D. , Shao Xiaoshan M. , Balan Archana , Yarchoan Mark , Zaidi Neeha , Lopez-Vidal Tamara Y. , Saeed Ali M. , Gore Jessica , Azad Nilofer S. , Jaffee Elizabeth M. , Favorov Alexander V. , Anagnostou Valsamo , Karchin Rachel , Gaykalova Daria A. , Fertig Elana J. , Danilova Ludmila
Published: December 2024

Pan-cancer correlation analysis of per-sample SA with nonsilent mutations in splicing machinery coding genes. Distribution of SA per sample, averaged across genes, by mutations in the splicing factor gene SF3B1 in BRCA (A) or HNSC (B). *, P value ≤ 0.05. See TCGA cancer-type abbreviations in Supplementary Table S1. SA, splicing antigenicity.
Figure 2 from SpliceMutr Enables Pan-Cancer Analysis of Splicing-Derived Neoantigen Burden in Tumors
Authors: Palmer Theron , Kessler Michael D. , Shao Xiaoshan M. , Balan Archana , Yarchoan Mark , Zaidi Neeha , Lopez-Vidal Tamara Y. , Saeed Ali M. , Gore Jessica , Azad Nilofer S. , Jaffee Elizabeth M. , Favorov Alexander V. , Anagnostou Valsamo , Karchin Rachel , Gaykalova Daria A. , Fertig Elana J. , Danilova Ludmila
Published: December 2024

Comparison of predicted splicing antigens from SpliceMutr to proteomics datasets. A, The log10-transformed total number of MHC-binding kmers found with and without reference kmer filtering in all samples of the breast cancer TCGA cohort (BRCA). B, The percentage of IEAtlas-validated immunogenic kmers between SpliceMutr with and without reference kmer filtering in all samples of the breast cancer TCGA cohort (BRCA).
Data from SpliceMutr Enables Pan-Cancer Analysis of Splicing-Derived Neoantigen Burden in Tumors
Authors: Palmer Theron , Kessler Michael D. , Shao Xiaoshan M. , Balan Archana , Yarchoan Mark , Zaidi Neeha , Lopez-Vidal Tamara Y. , Saeed Ali M. , Gore Jessica , Azad Nilofer S. , Jaffee Elizabeth M. , Favorov Alexander V. , Anagnostou Valsamo , Karchin Rachel , Gaykalova Daria A. , Fertig Elana J. , Danilova Ludmila
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Aberrant alternative splicing can generate neoantigens, which can themselves stimulate immune responses and surveillance. Previous methods for quantifying splicing-derived neoantigens are limited by independent references and potential batch effects. Here, we introduce SpliceMutr, a bioinformatics approach and pipeline for identifying splicing-derived neoantigens from tumor and normal data. SpliceMutr facilitates the identification of tumor-specific antigenic splice variants, predicts MHC-binding affinity, and estimates splicing antigenicity scores per gene. By applying this tool to transcriptomic data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, we generate splicing-derived neoantigens and neoantigenicity scores per sample and across all cancer types and find numerous correlations between splicing antigenicity and well-established biomarkers of antitumor immunity. Notably, carriers of mutations within splicing machinery genes have higher splicing antigenicity, which provides support for our approach. Further analysis of splicing antigenicity in cohorts of patients with melanoma treated with mono- or combined immune checkpoint inhibition suggests that the abundance of splicing antigens is reduced post-treatment from baseline in patients who progress. We also observe increased splicing antigenicity in responders to immunotherapy, which may relate to an increased capacity to mount an immune response to splicing-derived antigens. We find the splicing antigenicity to be higher in tumor samples when compared with normal, that mutations in the splicing machinery result in increased splicing antigenicity in some cancers, and higher splicing antigenicity is associated with positive response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies. Furthermore, this new computational pipeline provides novel analytical capabilities for splicing antigenicity and is openly available for further immuno-oncology analysis.
Significance:
SpliceMutr shows that splicing antigenicity changes in response to ICI therapies and that native modulation of the splicing machinery through mutations increases the contribution of splicing to the neoantigen load of some The Cancer Genome Atlas cancer subtypes. Future studies of the relationship between splicing antigenicity and immune checkpoint inhibitor response pan-cancer are essential to establish the interplay between antigen heterogeneity and immunotherapy regimen on patient response.
Zlata (Katica) Kalanj (Gomirje, 5. travnja 1909. – Zagreb, 10. listopada 1981.) – prva medicinska sestra sa diplomom Filozofskog fakulteta
Authors: Franković Sanda , Mirilović Snježana
Published: December 2024

Uvod: Budući da u Hrvatskoj tek u posljednjih desetak godina bilježimo organizirane napore u promociji potrebe za sustavnim proučavanjem povijesti sestrinstva, tako nalazimo i relativno mali broj radova koji se bave povijesnim pregledima i kritičkim osvrtima na rad Hrvatske udruge medicinskih sestara (HUMS). Cilj je ovog rada opisati život i rad Zlate Kalanj jedne od predsjednica HUMS-a u razdoblju između dvaju svjetskih ratova.Metode: Rad se temelji na analizi i sintezi dokumenata pohranjenih u Hrvatskom državnom arhivu, Državnom arhivu u Zagrebu, Arhivu Filozofskog fakulteta Sveučilišta u Zagrebu i pismohrani družbe Milosrdnih sestara sv. Križa u Đakovu. Kao nadopuna radu korištena su sjećanja obitelji Kalanj, dokumenti u privatnom posjedu i dosad objavljeni radovi.Rezultati: U obitelj Kalanj, osim Zlate Kalanj, još su dvije njezine sestre, Helena Kalanj (s. Isabella) i Danica ud. Mrđa, bile u svojem profesionalnom životu vezane za zdravstvene ustanove i sestrinsku školu. Katica Kalanj završila je Državnu veliku gimnaziju u Gospiću i, prema istraženim izvorima, možemo je smatrati prvom medicinskom sestrom koja je završila Filozofski fakultet. U dva je mandata bila predsjednica Sekcije za Savsku banovinu Jugoslavenskog društva diplomiranih sestara pomoćnica i u jednom mandatu njezina potpredsjednica.Zaključak: Rad donosi dosad nepoznate podatke o životu i radu Zlate Kalanj, jedne od istaknutih osoba Hrvatske udruge medicinskih sestara između dva rata. Uzimajući u obzir dosadašnja oskudna istraživanja povijesti sestrinstva u Hrvatskoj, ovo istraživanje popunjava praznine u povijesnim pregledima i pruža uvid u životne okolnosti i profesionalne izazove s kojima su se susretale medicinske sestre u međuratnom razdoblju. Biografija Zlate Kalanj ne samo da nadopunjuje povijesne praznine nego može služiti kao inspiracija budućim generacijama medicinskih sestara, ukazujući na važnost obrazovanja i predanosti sestrinskoj profesiji.
Superior Vena Cava Isolation With Cryoballoon in AF Ablation: Randomized CAVAC AF Trial
Authors: Castro-Urda Víctor , Segura-Dominguez Melodie , Jiménez-Sánchez Diego , Aguilera-Agudo Cristina , Vela-Martín Paula , Lorente-Ros Alvaro , García-Rodriguez Daniel , Sánchez-Ortiz David , Pham-Trung Chinh , García-Izquierdo Eusebio , Mingo-Santos Susana , Toquero-Ramos Jorge , Fernández-Lozano Ignacio
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Superior vena cava (SVC) has been considered a specific trigger in atrial fibrillation development.

METHODS:

We investigated the efficacy and safety of combining cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) with SVC ablation compared with PVI alone in 100 patients with paroxysmal or non–long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation. Patients were randomly assigned to either the PVI+SVC ablation group or the PVI-only group. Each patient was given a mobile device to record a daily ECG and detect atrial tachyarrhythmias.

RESULTS:

The primary end point, freedom from any atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence between 91 and 365 days post-catheter ablation, did not significantly differ between the 2 groups (62.9% versus 72%;
P
=0.41). However, the PVI+SVC group exhibited higher rates of phrenic nerve paralysis (20.8% versus 6%;
P
=0.003) and transient sinus node injury (18.8% versus 0%;
P
=0.001) compared with the PVI-only group. The median burden of atrial tachyarrhythmia showed no significant difference (
P
=0.91).

CONCLUSIONS:

The addition of SVC ablation to PVI did not enhance freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmia at 12 months, and it led to increased complications. These findings do not support the routine inclusion of SVC ablation in cryoballoon procedures for first-time catheter ablation in patients with paroxysmal or non–long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation.
“A Man for Strength and a Woman for Good Looks”: Fishy Feminism and the Schooners of Gloucester
Authors: Glassie Alison
Published: December 2024

In the second half of the nineteenth century, Gloucester's fishing schooners bridged masculinized and feminized labor and were central to negotiations about industry risk. Reading these vessels alongside literature, newspapers, and art, I argue that their complex cultural position is legible in their design and in constructions of their gender.
A new species and five new combinations of Thaxterogaster (Cortinariaceae, Agaricales) from China
Authors: XIE MENG-LE , LI YI , WEI TIE-ZHENG , LI YU , LI CHANG-TIAN
Published: December 2024

Thaxterogaster is a species-rich genus with more than 170 species worldwide, but the actual species diversity in China remains poorly understood. In this study, T. sinoscaurus, collected in mixed forests from China, is described as new to science. The new species is mainly characterized by an olive brown to yellowish viscid pileus of strongly hygrophanous streaks margin, marginate bulb stipe, green universal veil, distinct blue in the context of the stipe, and big ellipsoid to oblong basidiospores. The distinct taxonomic status of T. sinoscaurus is confirmed by the ITS phylogenetic analyses. In addition, five new combinations in this genus are proposed.
A synopsis of Macropharynx (Apocynaceae) in Colombia, with comments on floral characters, and a new combination
Authors: MORALES J. FRANCISCO , ENDRESS MARY E.
Published: December 2024

A synopsis of Macropharynx (Apocynaceae) in Colombia is provided. Five species are reported, a key is provided, and a new combination is made. Free corona lobes are reported in Macropharynx renteriae A.H. Gentry for the first time in the genus. A lectotype is selected for Peltastes isthmicus Woodson, a second-step lectotypification is completed for Echites spectabilis Stadelm. and a neotype is designated for Temnadenia stenantha Woodson. Pictures of all the species are included. Macropharynx renteriae is reported for the first time to Panama.
Land Suitability Evaluation for Agroforestry Using Geospatial Techniques in Genale Sub-basin Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Haile Getachew
Published: December 2024

Agroforestry is a sustainable agricultural method that integrates trees, crops, and/or livestock within a unified land space, promoting ecological balance and resource efficiency which has been widely used for centuries due to its social, economic, and environmental advantages, despite its numerous advantages, it has not achieved substantial global acknowledgment. This research investigates the land units within the Genale sub-basin to assess their suitability for agroforestry practices, focusing on the factors that significantly impact tree and crop growth as well as productivity. Conducting a land suitability analysis is essential for designating particular areas for specific agricultural purposes. The study employs an integrated approach utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing (RS), and the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) model, along with a weighting function, to assign suitability weights to the criteria and sub-criteria influencing plant growth, ultimately producing a predictive map of agroforestry cultivation suitability. Soil fertility parameters (soil nitrogen (N), potassium (K), organic carbon (C), phosphorus (P) and pH), Climatic (rainfall) and Topographic (Elevation and Slope) were considered in the model as a significantly determinant of agroforestry factors. Each of criteria/factor layers were classified (not suitable, less suitable, suitable and highly suitable) based on reviewed literature and expert level judgement. The Analytical Hierarchical Process indicated that the most influential variable determining agroforestry practice were, Soil nutrient availability, Slope, The Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), Mean annual rainfall and Elevation, respectively with 5% consistency index. The model results showed that approximately 0.6% (19,072.80 ha) of sub-basin area has optimal growth conditions, 67.83% (2,193,368 ha) suitable, 30.8% (995,382 ha) less suitable and 0.77% (24,841.60 ha) Not suitable conditions for agroforestry practice. The findings indicate that the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) with the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model, incorporating a weight function, proves to be effective in identifying and assessing land units suitable for agroforestry practices aimed at optimizing production yields. This study's outcomes provide valuable insights for land-use policymakers and farmers, facilitating informed decision-making concerning agroforestry cultivation in the Genale sub-basin and similar watershed regions.
Genetic Variability and Character Association among Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Genotypes at Areka, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Kuma Amanuel
Published: December 2024

Evaluating genetic variability among genotypes is vital for identifying superior genotypes because selecting parents who create segregating populations is critical in breeding programs. The current study was done at Areka Agricultural Research Center during the 2020/21 major cropping season, with the goal of estimating genetic diversity and character connection among 25 common bean genotypes. The experiment consisted of two replications of a 5 x 5 simple lattice design. Data were obtained on 12 quantitative parameters, and the analysis of variance revealed extremely significant variations between genotypes for all characters. It demonstrated that genotypes vary significantly. GCV and PCV were highest in plant height, number of pods per plant, biological yield, number of seeds per plant, and seed yield, while lowest in days to flowering and days to maturity. Plant height, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per plant, biological yield, and seed yield all showed significant broad-sense heritability (H2) and high predicted genetic advance as a percentage of mean GAM. This suggested the presence of additive gene activity in the inheritance of these traits. The number of major branches per plant, biological yield, days of 50% flowering, hundred seed weight, and harvest index all show a highly substantial and positive link with seed yield at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. The biological yield and harvest index both have a strong positive direct effect on seed output. As indicated, these traits could be utilized for selection to increase seed output. Based on the D2 value, 25 common bean genotypes were divided into four clusters. Clusters I and IV had the greatest inter-cluster distance (766.78), whereas clusters I and II had the smallest (53.78). Breeding programs could use genotypes from distant clusters to increase variety. Thus, the enormous genetic variation among common bean genotypes must be evaluated for use in common bean breeding efforts.
Screening of Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes for Septoria Tritici Blotch in Central Highland of Ethiopia
Authors: Girma Endashaw
Published: December 2024

Septoria tritici blotch is a major disease that limits wheat yields globally. This study aimed to identify Septoria-resistant bread wheat genotypes for use in future breeding and variety development programs. A total of 49 genotypes were evaluated in the first year and 60 in the second year, selected from an international nursery and evaluated during the 2016–2018 cropping seasons. The experiments were conducted in both research and farmers' fields during the 2018/19 and 2019/20 cropping seasons. The trial used an alpha lattice design with three replications. Data on yield and related traits were analyzed using SAS version 9.3 software. The results indicated significant (P < 0.01) variation among the genotypes for all phenotypic traits measured at Holetta over the two years. Similarly, significant differences (P < 0.01) were observed at Weliso for all traits except for Septoria disease severity, thousand kernel weight, and grain yield. Across the two locations, the highest grain yield recorded was 5.4 t/ha, while the lowest was 1.8t/ha. Therefore, the study findings indicated that some genotypes showed the best performance and a good opportunity to incorporate a variety of development of wheat breeding programs.
A More La Niña–Like Response to Radiative Forcing after Flux Adjustment in CESM2
Authors: Zhuo Jing-Yi , Lee Chia-Ying , Sobel Adam , Seager Richard , Camargo Suzana J. , Lin Yen-Heng , Fosu Boniface , Reed Kevin A.
Published: December 2024

In response to greenhouse gas forcing, most coupled global climate models project the tropical Pacific SST trend toward an “El Niño–like” state, with a reduced zonal SST gradient and a weakened Walker circulation. However, observations over the last five decades reveal a trend toward a more “La Niña–like” state with a strengthening zonal SST gradient. Recent research indicates that the identified trend differences are unlikely to be entirely due to internal variability and probably result, at least in part, from systematic model biases. In this study, Community Earth System Model, version 2 (CESM2), is used to explore how mean-state biases within the model may influence its forced response to radiative forcing in the tropical Pacific. The results show that using flux adjustment to reduce the mean-state bias in CESM2 over the tropical regions results in a more La Niña–like trend pattern in the tropical Pacific, with a strengthening of the tropical Pacific zonal SST gradient and a relatively enhanced Walker circulation, as hypothesized to occur if the ocean thermostat mechanism is stronger than the atmospheric mechanisms which by themselves would weaken the Walker circulation. We also find that the historical strengthening of the tropical Pacific zonal gradient is transient but persists into the near term in a high-emissions future warming scenario. These results suggest the potential of flux adjustment as a method for developing alternative projections that represent a wider range of possible future tropical Pacific warming scenarios, especially for a better understanding of regional patterns of climate risk in the near term.
Antecedents and repercussions of CEO dismissals in the US: A glass cliff for women CEOs?
Authors: Cook Alison , Glass Christy , Ingersoll Alicia
Published: December 2024

The current study builds upon and extends research on the glass cliff by analyzing the antecedents and repercussions of CEO dismissal. Recent research on the relationship between performance, gender, and CEO dismissal has led to contrary conclusions. We build on this nascent work by examining whether negative firm performance places women CEOs of US firms at a greater risk of involuntary dismissal relative to men CEOs. We further explore whether gender moderates market response to the dismissal announcement and replacement. Our analysis relies on data of all CEOs from the United States’ Russell 3000 index, which represents a spectrum of small to large companies, who departed their organizations between 2016 and 2022. We also rely on a novel measure of CEO dismissal, the push-out score, which overcomes previous limitations related to the nature of CEO departures. We find that women are more vulnerable than men to involuntary dismissal during periods of performance decline and that investors reward firms that replace dismissed women CEOs with white men. Our findings have implications for gender equity in the C-Suite.
‘It does not compare to the bright dialectical materialism propounded by Marx, Engels, and Lenin’: Revolutionary refractions and Marxist critique of Freudianism in pre-revolutionary Iran
Authors: Khademnabi Mir Mohammad
Published: December 2024

The critical stance adopted by Iran's prominent communist party, the Tudeh Party, toward psychoanalysis is illustrated through a polemical essay preceding the translation of A Primer of Freudian Psychology. Echoing the Bolsheviks in the Soviet Union, who vehemently criticized psychoanalysis as a ‘bourgeois science’, Hushang Tizabi, a translator affiliated with the Tudeh Party, delves into the shortcomings of Freudian thought in the preface to his rendition, contrasting it with the ‘bright dialectical materialism’ inherent in Marxian ideology. This article represents an intersection between Marxism and Freudianism in a nation not communist in the vein of the Soviet Union but significantly influenced by socialist discourse. It exemplifies how prefatory materials in translation can alter the politico-ideological stance of a text, offering new interpretations and emphasizing specific elements while potentially overlooking other significant aspects. This discussion also contextualizes translations within the historical landscape of humanities in Iran.
Research on pitch error measurement method of non-circular gear based on digital twin
Authors: Liu Yongping , Zhang Xueying , Dong Changbin
Published: December 2024

Aiming at the challenge of measuring errors in non-circular gears, it is proposed to establish the mathematical model of gear measuring center based on digital twin technology, and research on the detection method of pitch error of non-circular gears. The mathematical model simulates the operation of the gear measuring center, replacing traditional hardware with a 3D model and simulation software. By calculating the trajectory of the probe based on the unique characteristics of non-circular gears, the Portal program framework is developed. This framework allows for precise calculation of pitch errors and comparison with actual measurements to achieve accurate detection and analysis of the non-circular gear errors. The proposed approach reduces reliance on traditional experimental methods, offering a more efficient and accurate means of analyzing non-circular gear errors.
Detection of plant root diseases using computational intelligence and advanced image processing techniques
Authors: Selvi A Kalai , Varalakshmi Vajja , K Rajathi , L Jimson
Published: December 2024

This study presents an advanced Siamese-based Squeeze Googlenet and LeNet-5 (SSGL) model for the early detection of root diseases in plants, which is crucial for agricultural productivity and crop management. The methodology integrates state-of-the-art image processing techniques and Deep Learning (DL) algorithms across several key stages. In the pre-processing phase, techniques like median filtering, histogram equalization, i-CLAHE, and Z-score normalization are applied to enhance image quality and prepare the data for segmentation. The segmentation process utilizes a modified DeepLab V3 model, renowned for its precision in isolating root structures from complex backgrounds, ensuring accurate subsequent analysis. Feature extraction focuses on deriving comprehensive characteristics from segmented root images, including texture features using GLCM, color histograms, geometric metrics like area and perimeter, and shape descriptors such as circularity and rectangularity. A hybrid optimization approach employs the Hybrid Pufferfish-based Coati Optimization (HPCO) algorithm for feature selection, effectively identifying the most relevant features crucial for disease detection. For detection, the SSGL model integrates optimized architectures from SqueezeNet, GoogleNet, and LeNet-5 within a Siamese network framework. This setup enables efficient classification of root images into healthy and diseased categories based on cosine similarity. The proposed SSGL model outperforms other models with the highest accuracy (0.9856), precision (0.9760), sensitivity (0.9764), and F-measure (0.9771), while also achieving the lowest FPR (0.0149) and FNR (0.0109).
Investigating the Real Effects of Isotretinoin on Enthesopathy in Acne Vulgaris Patients: A Prospective, Controlled Study
Authors: Orenay Ozge Mine , Karaosmanoglu Nermin , Mulkoglu Cevriye , Genc Hakan , Temel Berkay , Tiftik Tulay
Published: December 2024

Background:

Isotretinoin is frequently used for treating severe, treatment-resistant, and scarring acne. A wide range of musculoskeletal side effects are reported due to isotretinoin, and one of them is enthesopathy.

Objectives:

In this study, we used ultrasound to evaluate tendon thickness and the presence of enthesophytes, erosions, calcifications, and bursitis. Overall, the main objective was to determine the effects of isotretinoin on enthesopathy.

Methods:

The study included 30 patients diagnosed with acne vulgaris (AV) and on isotretinoin treatment for ≥3 months. Thirty patients with AV without treatment or on topical treatments were included as the control group. In both groups, 5 areas in the lower limb were examined bilaterally for tendon thickness, erosion, calcifications, enthesophytes, and bursitis and compared among themselves. Moreover, the Glasgow Ultrasonographic Enthesitis Scoring System (GUESS) scores were also calculated and compared between the 2 groups.

Results:

The quadriceps tendon, distal patellar ligament, and right Achilles tendon thicknesses were statistically higher in the isotretinoin group than in the control group ( P = .02, P = .03, P = .04). The GUESS score was also statistically higher in the isotretinoin group ( P = .02).

Conclusion:

This study showed that isotretinoin has certain effects on tendon thickness. Clinicians should be alert that patients under isotretinoin treatment may develop enthesopathy even with no clinical signs.
Indoor Tanning Addiction: Biological Mechanisms and Association with Other Disorders
Authors: LaMonte Olivia C. , Feldman Steven R.
Published: December 2024

Although many people who use tanning beds are aware of the negative consequences, they continue to indoor tan, possibly due to addictive properties. The purpose of this paper is to review the existing literature on tanning addiction, its potential biological mechanisms, and its association with psychological disorders. A PubMed search was conducted using the terms “Tanning Addiction,” “UVR AND B-endorphin,” and “tanning dependence AND gene.” The articles were organized based on the following categories: endorphins, dopamine and the brain, genetic associations, and associations between tanning addiction and other disorders. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation leads to the synthesis of β-endorphins in the skin, the release of dopamine in the brain, and increased blood flow in brain regions associated with reinforcement and addiction. Genes associated with tanning addiction include PTCHD2 and ANKK1. Several psychiatric disorders are comorbidities of tanning addiction and excessive indoor tanning parallels many of the patterns of substance use disorders. In frequent indoor tanners, greater awareness of tanning’s addictive potential and further development of interventions aimed at treating this addictive behaviour may be needed to stop indoor tanning.
Development and testing of a remote hybrid SMS/web-based perioperative messenger: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Hriberšek Mojca , Laxar Daniel , Hammerle Fabian Peter , Ulbing Stefan , Teufel Anna , Bartos Stefan , Gauß Nikola , Niederle Martin , Kimberger Oliver , Schaden Eva
Published: December 2024

Background

Perioperative messengers as tools for hospitals to communicate with patients’ loved ones during surgery have been described in form of pagers, SMS, email, and apps. The approach of combining multiple means of communication to create a secure and reliable messenger promises several advantages and has not been investigated to date.

Objective

The aim was to develop and test the technical feasibility and acceptance of a remote hybrid SMS/web-based perioperative messenger that keeps patients’ loved ones informed around the time of surgery.

Methods

Three focus groups were held with six physicians, five nurses, and 11 members of the Austrian Patient Council separately to understand their concerns and needs regarding the perioperative messenger. Their input was used to develop the perioperative messenger. Twenty-five patients and their selected loved one tested the messenger in a feasibility study. Data were collected between September 2021 and August 2023.

Results

Focus groups indicated that the most important characteristics of a messenger were transparent and prompt communication, ease-of-use, data security, and no additional workload for healthcare professionals. Our developed perioperative messenger uses SMS notifications to link to new information on a secure web platform. Participating patients were aged between 18 and 78, their loved ones between 18 and 71. Thirteen patients and 15 loved ones were female. A total of 173 messages regarding the 25 surgeries were sent, 99% of which were read on a mobile device. The median time between sending and reading surgery-related messages was 63s. All loved ones were either “fairly satisfied” or “very satisfied”.

Conclusion

The idea of a perioperative messenger was received positively by physicians, nurses, and members of the Austrian Patient Council. The developed SMS/web-based hybrid messenger system for receiving perioperative updates was shown to be feasible, and of interest and satisfaction to the loved ones.