bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P27.25.A THE UTILITY OF INTRAOPERATIVE MRI IN THE RESECTION OF RECURRENT GBM: A SINGLE-CENTER RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS
Authors: Alhalabi O , Dao Trong P , Mironov K , Nabiev K , Gareib A N , Jordan M , Joser S , Krieg S M , Unterberg A W , Jungk C
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUD

Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) guidance for the resection of newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GBM) has been shown to be comparable to fluorescence guidance. However, the role of iMRI-guided resection in the recurrent setting remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to examine the utility of iMRI in the resection of recurrent GBM.

METHODS

Patients undergoing re-resection for the first recurrence of WHO grade 4 IDH-wildtype GBM were retrospectively analyzed. The utility of iMRI (1.5T) guidance with respect to intraoperative decision-making for additional tumor resection and residual nodular contrast enhancing (CE) tumor on early postoperative MRI (epMRI, within 48 hours, 3T) scans was assessed.

RESULTS

103 consecutive patients (mean age: 59 years; 64 males and 39 females) undergoing re-resection for first GBM recurrence in the years 2018 to 2022 were included. iMRI-guided resection was performed in 84 (81%) cases and 5-ALA was applied in 8 (8%) cases. In 11 cases (11%), neither was applied. In 77/84 (92%) patients of the iMRI group, a gross total resection (GTR; defined as no residual nodular CE tumor) was intended. After iMRI, additional resection was carried out in 53/84 cases (63%) while a GTR was already achieved in 28/84 cases (33%). In the remaining 3 cases, additional resection was not possible due to functional reasons. On epMRI, a GTR was achieved in 63/84 (75%) cases. In 17 cases (20%), residual CE was detected on epMRI (GTR not intended in 3 cases). In 28 cases with intraoperatively assumed GTR, epMRI confirmed GTR in 25 cases (89%, mismatch in 3 cases, 11%), which was higher than in cases with additional intraoperative resection after iMRI (GTR in 42 out of 53 cases, 82%, p=0.07). In the remaining 11/53 cases, residual CE tumor was detected despite additional intraoperative resection (18%). Hence, GTR was achieved in 63 out of intended 77 patients (81%). Postoperative neurological deficits were noted in 11/53 patients with additional resection (20%) compared to 3/28 patients without additional resection (10%, p=0.126) and were mostly transient (permanent deficits 3/53 and 1/28 patients, respectively). In this cohort, median survival after repeat surgery was 220 days.

CONCLUSION

iMRI provides valuable information on residual CE tumor for intraoperative decision making concerning additional tumor resection in the setting of recurrent GBM. A mismatch between GTR assessed on iMRI and epMRI could be attributed to different magnetic field strengths.
P27.26.B TUMOR GROWTH RATE IN RECURRENT GLIOBLASTOMA: WHEN TO PLAN THE BASELINE SCAN?
Authors: Dobber L , Geurts M , van den Bent M
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the growth rate of glioblastoma once disease progression occurs. This is relevant for the timing of baseline imaging for second-line treatment in clinical trials and subsequent response monitoring. If a tumor grows rapidly in the period between imaging and therapy initiation, adequate response assessment may be hindered leading to false interpretations of progression to the experimental treatment. Recommendations on the interval duration between baseline scanning and treatment initiation are inconsistent between the RANO 2.0 criteria and various study protocols. We assessed whether the tumor area differs between the scan showing progressive disease (‘progression scan’) and the scan for study entry (‘baseline scan’) to determine the tumor growth rate.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients who participated in a prospective clinical intervention for their first glioblastoma recurrence in the Erasmus MC and who had two available MRI scans with measurable disease made within ≤35-day interval between the progression scan and baseline scan were included. Main exclusion criterion was tumor re-resection. Tumor areas (2D) were assessed by three independent observers (per RANO). The percentage change in tumor area was calculated and compared to RANO’s ≥25% definition of disease progression. We chose a 17-day cut-off as landmark to evaluate the number of patients with tumor progression considering this is the maximum interval allowed by recent studies (e.g. NCT01986348, NCT04910022).

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients were included. Mean time between the progression scan and the baseline scan for study entry was 20 days. Mean tumor areas at progression and baseline scan were 1223mm2 (range, 128-4397) and 1405mm2 (range, 239-4493), respectively (mean difference in tumor area of 182mm2 (95% confidence interval (CI), 114-249mm2, p<0.001). This corresponds to a 15% tumor area growth (CI, 9-21%, p<0.001) between scans. Most tumor areas (47/53) increased in the short time interval between imaging. Eighteen out of 53 patients had formal disease progression (≥25%) within the 35-day interval. One third of the patients (7/19) who had two scans within 17 days had ≥20% tumor area increase and 5/19 patients had ≥25% tumor area increase.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate the fast growth rate of recurrent glioblastoma. To properly assess the effect of second-line treatment, we emphasize the importance of baseline imaging as close as possible to starting with trial treatment: even a 17-day interval may result in misinterpretation at the first follow-up moment. Trial protocols must consider enrolling patients based on the scan demonstrating progression and perform baseline imaging 1-2 days prior to starting treatment.
P27.28.B UPSKILLING AND CONNECTING THE NEURO-ONCOLOGY WORKFORCE THROUGH A FREE, COMMUNITY-LED NATIONAL PLATFORM: REFLECTIONS ON TWO YEARS OF THE TESSA JOWELL ACADEMY
Authors: Allen B , Goetz C , Wright A , Huskens N , Bushby K
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

The Tessa Jowell Academy is a community platform that connects and upskills the neuro-oncology workforce through training, educational resources, peer-to-peer learning and networking opportunities. Informed by the findings of the Tessa Jowell Centre of Excellence review process, which identified best practice, variation and common challenges, it uses a grassroots community-led approach to disseminate excellence in treatment, care and research and collaboratively build solutions to national challenges. We reflect on two years of success connecting and training NHS clinicians and researchers.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The Academy empowers the neuro-oncology community to jointly tackle challenges by: • Sharing knowledge: through tailored neuro-oncology webinars and training courses, a clinical trial finder, and a charity directory, all designed and delivered by the community in prioritised areas. • Connecting professionals: through networks and working groups, a peer-to-peer connect service and tailored centre support, directly connecting professionals both across the country and between specialties, breaking down siloes and creating a coherent and connected neuro-oncology community. All Academy features are designed and delivered by the community, in response to the most pressing needs facing the UK neuro-oncology workforce. Membership is open for free to all NHS professionals, individuals based in UK academic institutions and partners of the Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer Mission (TJBCM).

RESULTS

In two years the Academy has supported an unprecedented community-building project, with over 1,200 members from 31 NHS centres, 2,400 workshop registrations, 24 national working groups and networks, and 200 members actively involved in task-and-finish groups. The Academy has tackled siloed working practices, helping doctors, nurses and allied health professionals (AHPs) working in single-handed, isolated settings to connect with peers and learn best practice. The first scenario-based supportive care training for neuro-oncology AHPs was delivered, with three more planned and Academy groups are now developing specialty-specific guidelines in areas such as neuropsychology and physiotherapy to standardise practice across the UK.

CONCLUSION

The Academy’s success has only been possible due to the extraordinary level of engagement from the adult neuro-oncology community. Through this community-led approach, the Academy will continuously build on the excellence of the community in a solution-focused manner, with an expansion planned for the paediatric neuro-oncology community. The TJBCM will continue working with this community, generating learnings that can easily be applied to other cancers and rare diseases.
P27.32.B V-REX RANDOMIZED TRIAL
Authors: Dhayalan D
Published: October 2024

IMPORTANCE

Current guidelines for treating small- to medium-sized vestibular schwannoma recommend either upfront radiosurgery or waiting to treat until tumor growth has been detected radiographically.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether upfront radiosurgery provides superior tumor volume reduction to a wait-and-scan approach for small- to medium-sized vestibular schwannoma.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Randomized clinical trial of 100 patients with a newly diagnosed (<6 months) unilateral vestibular schwannoma and a maximal tumor diameter of less than 2 cm in the cerebellopontine angle as measured on magnetic resonance imaging.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were randomized to receive either upfront radiosurgery (n = 50) or to undergo a wait-and-scan protocol, for which treatment was given only upon radiographically documented tumor growth (n = 50). Participants underwent 5 annual study visits consisting of clinical assessment, radiological examination, audiovestibular tests, and questionnaires.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was the ratio between tumor volume at the trial end at 4 years and baseline (V4:V0). There were 26 prespecified secondary outcomes, including patient-reported symptoms, clinical examinations, audiovestibular tests, and quality-of-life outcomes. Safety outcomes were the risk of salvage microsurgery and radiation-associated complications.

RESULTS

Of the 100 randomized patients, 98 completed the trial and were included in the primary analysis (mean age, 54 years; 42% female). In the upfront radiosurgery group, 1 participant (2%) received repeated radiosurgery upon tumor growth, 2 (4%) needed salvage microsurgery, and 45 (94%) had no additional treatment. In the wait-and-scan group, 21 patients (42%) received radiosurgery upon tumor growth, 1 (2%) underwent salvage microsurgery, and 28 (56%) remained untreated. For the primary outcome of the ratio of tumor volume at the trial end to baseline, the geometric mean V4:V0 was 0.87 (95% CI, 0.66-1.15) in the upfront radiosurgery group and 1.51 (95% CI, 1.23-1.84) in the wait-and-scan group, showing a significantly greater tumor volume reduction in patients treated with upfront radiosurgery (wait-and-scan to upfront radiosurgery ratio, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.23-2.44; P =.002). Of 26 secondary outcomes, 25 showed no significant difference. No radiation-associated complications were observed.

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

Among patients with newly diagnosed small- and medium-sized vestibular schwannoma, upfront radiosurgery demonstrated a significantly greater tumor volume reduction at 4 years than a wait-and-scan approach with treatment upon tumor growth. These findings may help inform treatment decisions for patients with vestibular schwannoma, and further investigation of long-term clinical outcomes is needed.
The Use of Grayscale Muscle Ultrasound to Indicate Muscle Recovery After Peripheral Nerve Reconstruction
Authors: Saffari Sara , Boon Andrea J. , Shin Alexander Y.
Published: October 2024

Aim:

This study aimed to validate the use of grayscale muscle ultrasound by measuring echo intensity to longitudinally evaluate functional muscle reinnervation in a rabbit peroneal nerve defect model.

Methods:

Eighteen New Zealand White rabbits underwent a 30-mm peroneal nerve reconstruction with autografts or decellularized allografts. Ultrasound measurements of tibialis anterior muscles were performed before surgery and at 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 weeks postoperatively and included cross-sectional muscle area, mean gray value (MGV), and mean gray value normalized for area (MGVA). At 24 weeks, functional motor recovery was evaluated with isometric tetanic force (ITF) and compound muscle action potential (CMAP). MGVA data was compared with ITF and CMAP measurements by calculating the Spearman correlation coefficient.

Results:

Muscle area (Left/Right Ratio (L/R)) of autografts was superior to allografts at 4, 12, 16, 20 and 24 weeks (p<0.03 for all comparisons). MGVs of the operated side were significantly higher for autografts at 4, 8, and 12 weeks and at 12, 16, 20, and 24 weeks for allografts (p<0.01 for all comparisons), compared to their unoperated sides. Similar patterns were seen in both groups for MGVA (operated versus control side). MGVA (L/R) demonstrated a strong correlation with ITF (L/R) for autografts (ρ = -0.7) and allografts (ρ = -0.87), but inconsistent with CMAPs (L/R).

Conclusion:

Quantitative muscle ultrasound demonstrated a reliable, non-invasive tool for evaluating motor recovery in a rabbit peroneal nerve reconstruction model. Clinical translation could provide valuable insights into muscle health and structural changes following nerve reconstruction.
Quantifying the Impact of C7 Spinal Nerve Harvest on Spontaneous, Patient-Initiated Movement of the Donor Upper Extremity
Authors: Muhlestein Whitney E. , Chang Tommy Nai-Jen , Logue Cook Rachel N. , Chang Kate W.-C. , Lu Johnny Chuieng-Yi , Chung Kevin C. , Yang Lynda J.-S. , Brown Susan H. , Chuang David Chwei-Chin
Published: October 2024

Background:

Transfer of a healthy C7 spinal nerve is a tool for upper extremity reanimation in patients with severe brachial plexus injury (BPI). Its use remains controversial owing to concern for neurological injury to the donor arm. Utilizing wearable motion-sensor technology, we aimed to quantify donor arm morbidity after C7 spinal nerve harvest in patients with pan-BPI, reporting both the time and magnitude of donor arm movement in a real-world setting compared to healthy controls.

Methods:

Seventeen patients who underwent contralateral C7 (CC7) transfer for traumatic pan-BPI at least 2 years prior were compared to 14 healthy controls. Each participant wore an accelerometer on both arms for 7 consecutive days. The vector time (VT), or time of movement measured in hours/day, and the vector magnitude (VM), or magnitude of arm movement measured as a single vector magnitude per second, were collected and compared between groups. The correlation between VT and VM and time from C7 spinal nerve harvest was also calculated.

Results:

At mean 7.7 years after C7 spinal nerve harvest, there was no difference between donor and control arms for VT (5.76±1.55] vs 5.45±1.22 hours, P = 0.56) or VM (2242236±753853 vs 1919223±579723 activity counts, P = 0.20), regardless of donor arm dominance. The C7 harvest cohort used the injured arm 53% of the time and with 27% of the power of the donor arm.

Conclusions:

There was no significant difference in time or magnitude of arm movement between donor arms and the arms of healthy controls.
MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION AND PROMOTER ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF GROWTH REGULATOR BRAGRF5 INBRASSICA CAMPESTRISL. SSP.CHINENSIS
Authors: Wang Xiu-Ying , Zhang Jing , Qi Xian-Hui , Li Gai-Zhen , Lan Chuang-Ye , Li Qi-Zhang
Published: October 2024

The transcriptional regulation of eukaryotic gene expression is a critical aspect, with transcription factors playing a key role by combining with cis-acting elements in the promoter regions. Growth regulating factors (GRFs) are plant-specific transcriptional factors. TheArabidopsis thalianagrowth-regulating factor gene (AtGRF5), when ectopically expressed in crops such asBeta vulgaris(sugar beet) andBrassica napus(canola), has an effect of accelerating shoot organogenesis and enhancing the efficiency of genetic transformation. However, an efficient plant regeneration and genetic transformation system inBrassica campestrisL. ssp.chinensis, a major vegetable crop in China, remains to be established. In this work, we identified and characterized theAtGRF5ortholog inB. campestris, named asBraGRF5, from BRAD database. Molecular analysis ofBraGRF5gene and exploration of its protein interaction network were further conducted. Therefore, the promoter region ofBraGRF5was thoroughly examined to determine cis-acting elements of various kinds and quantities. It is expected to provide a foundation for regulation ofBraGRF5, and a informative reference for the improvement ofB. campestristransformation efficiency and molecular breeding.
Projected Trends of Obesity throughout the Life Course According to Sex, Race, and Birth Cohorts in the United States
Authors: Hazelton William D. , Ni Peiyun , Harlass Matthias , Hahn Anne I. , Tian Ruiyi , Zauber Ann G. , Lansdorp-Vogelaar Iris , Cao Yin
Published: October 2024

Background

Most research on obesity trends and projections has focused on changes across calendar years. However, as the risk of disease increases with cumulative exposure to obesity, it is crucial to characterize the obesity landscape through a life-course perspective and across birth cohorts.

Objective

To enhance the accuracy of obesity epidemic projections throughout life course and across birth cohorts in the US.

Design

Cross-sectional and cohort study.

Setting

United States

Participants

Individuals participated in three National Health Examination Surveys (NHES) from 1959 to 1970 and 18 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) from 1971 to 2020.

Measurements

Body mass index (BMI) distributions by sex, race, and birth cohort.

Results

By leveraging over 40 years of cross-sectional and longitudinal data from nationally representative surveys, we developed models to estimate historical and future BMI distributions in the US for both children and adults throughout their life course. We also calculated life-years of exposure to overweight and obesity, according to sex, race, and birth cohort. Our findings reveal significant increases in these metrics among birth cohorts since 1965 and highlight differential trends by sex and race for the 1965, 1985, and 2005 cohorts.

Limitations

Assumption that model parameters will hold in the future.

Conclusion

Our approach significantly expands upon previous models by projecting life course with continuous BMI distributions informed by longitudinal trajectories, explicitly accounting for variations in birth cohorts.

Primary Funding Source

National Institutes of Health.
SGLT2 inhibitors improved clinical outcomes on biliary diseases beyond glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Gao Ming , Lin Qiuyu , Zhu Tingyi , Hu Kaiyue , Zhong Bei , Zhang Kaini , Chen Xiaoli , Chen Xinyu , Zhang Ying , Li Yangyang , Tang Shaowen , Su Dongming , Liang Xiubin , Liu Yu
Published: October 2024

Background & aims

Diabetes is known to increase the risk of gallstone disease. This study assesses the impact of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on the incidence of biliary diseases, relative to sulfonylureas, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and lithogenic diet (LD)-fed mice.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was performed on T2DM patient data who commenced SGLT2i or sulfonylurea therapy from January 1, 2017, to September 1, 2022-sourced from Nanjing Medical University’s database. They were matched using propensity scores (PS) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). Follow-up for developing biliary diseases was conducted up to the earliest relevant end-point. Cox models, PS matching, and sensitivity analyses, including standard mortality ratio weighting (SMRW), were applied to determine hazard ratios (HRs) and confidence intervals (CIs). Parallelly, LD-fed C57BL/6J mice were administered SGLT2i or sulfonylureas to corroborate findings in animal models.

Results

From the 1,901 patients analyzed over an average of 2.83 years, SGLT2i therapy correlated with a substantially lower risk of developing biliary diseases (HR 0.595, 95% CI 0.410-0.863), particularly among defined subgroups. A downward trend in risk was observed with extended use beyond two years. Concordant data from the mouse model pointed towards SGLT2i mitigating gallstone formation, with putative mechanisms including reduced liver injury and dyslipidemia, as well as improved gallbladder motility and bile acid production.

Conclusion

SGLT2i potentially reduces the risk of biliary diseases compared to sulfonylureas, meriting further clinical investigation.
Activated carbon ameliorates type 2 diabetes via metabolic remodeling of the gut microbiota
Authors: Zhao Cai-Xia , Wu Yu-Tong , Guo Xiao-Yu , Wang Yin , Su Jian-Qiang
Published: October 2024

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a major public health concern worldwide and there has been increasing attention on the role of natural dietary drugs in diabetes therapy. However, the effects of these drugs on gut microbial composition, functional potentials and metabolisms remain unclear. Here, we conducted integrated 16S rRNA sequencing and metabolomic analyses in T2D GK rats and healthy Wistar rats that exposed to four natural dietary drugs (highly porous activated carbon, wheatgrass, dandelion and corn stigma). Oral administration of activated carbon and dandelion decreased the body weight gain in both high-fat diet (HFD) GK rats and Wistar rats. Significantly lower level of blood glucose was observed in GK rats with activated carbon intervention. A group of beneficial bacteria and metabolites were promoted, and the endotoxin-producing bacteria were inhibited by dietary drugs, especially for the activated carbon diet. Oral administration of activated carbon resulted in metabolic changes and anti-inflammatory effects that decreased both high-fat diet-induced obesity and diabetes. The beneficial effects of increased positive responders are related to improved carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, regulated inflammatory mediators, with simultaneous reduction of detrimental compounds such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) synthesis and modification of the gut microbiome. These findings highlight the effectiveness of natural dietary drugs, with a particular emphasis on activated carbon, and establish a foundation for tailoring the use of these drugs in T2D therapy.

Importance

Our findings highlight the significant hypoglycemic effect of activated carbon, demonstrating its potential to remodel the gut microbiota, improve carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, regulate inflammatory mediators, and reduce detrimental compounds such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS). These results suggest that dietary intervention with activated carbon could be a noninvasive and accessible method for improving diabetes management, providing novel insights into the role of natural dietary drugs in metabolic health and diabetes therapy.
Building the future through digital entrepreneurship and innovation
Authors: Sánchez-García Eduardo , Martínez-Falcó Javier , Marco-Lajara Bartolomé , Gigauri Iza
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The main objective of this research is to analyze the dynamics of academic research on digital entrepreneurship and innovation, unveiling the main research trends developed in the last decade.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis has been carried out using a dual methodological approach comprising bibliometric methods and an innovative three-level systematic review, involving the analysis of the most used keywords, the co-occurrence network of keywords and a traditional review of the abstracts of the 1713 peer-reviewed articles that make up the database under study, with the aim of revealing and discussing the most important research trends developed in the period analyzed.

Findings

The results reveal seven major research trends that underscore the fundamental role of digital platforms in democratizing innovation, enabling a more inclusive and collaborative environment wherein startups, established firms, academia and government entities converge to drive technological advancements and societal progress. Additionally, the pressing need for a holistic understanding of digital technologies' potential to spur economic growth, societal progress and sustainable development is highlighted, as well as the challenges posed by privacy, security and the digital divide.

Originality/value

This research has been developed using an innovative methodology, and contributes to the academic discourse by providing a comprehensive overview of the current state and prospects of digital entrepreneurship and innovation for policymakers, entrepreneurs and researchers, urging a collaborative effort to harness the benefits of digital transformation in an equitable and responsible manner, fostering an environment of innovation that is conducive to the sustainable growth of the digital economy.
Influencer-product attractiveness transference in interactive fashion marketing: the moderated moderating effect of speciesism against AI
Authors: Cheng Junjun , Wang Jiaxuan
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Fashion marketers are adopting attractive virtual personalities to replace human influencers on social media, but the impact of consumer bias against virtual influencer acceptance is not fully understood. Drawing upon match-up hypothesis, attribution theory and speciesism against artificial intelligence (AI), this research investigates how speciesism shapes the influencer-product attractiveness transference in AI-powered influencer marketing for fashion products.

Design/methodology/approach

Three studies were conducted (N = 1,385) to test the influencer-product attractiveness transference, the moderating role of influencer type and the moderated moderating role of speciesism against AI.

Findings

Our studies validated the attractiveness transference and revealed that influencers’ attractiveness promotes purchase intention via perceived product attractiveness. The adoption of virtual (vs human) influencers weakens the attractiveness transference and attenuates the mediating effect. Low speciesism boosts the effectiveness of virtual influencers, such that attractiveness transference disappears only when high-speciesism consumers react to virtual influencers.

Originality/value

Our findings clarify how influencers’ physical appearance, AI application and speciesism together impact interactive fashion marketing, offering practical insights into successful influencer strategies on social media.
Defining, measuring and managing healthcare quality using unstructured physician review comments
Authors: Terpend Regis , Rossetti Christian , Kroes James
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Physician review websites (PRW) and Medicare requirements are pressing administrators to measure, monitor and improve healthcare service delivery. Healthcare service attributes linked to patient satisfaction have received increased attention. Text analysis provides an alternative methodology to capture contemporaneous data on service delivery attributes. A Kano analysis based on these service attributes can help administrators prioritize service delivery and ultimately improve patient satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Healthcare service attributes were defined from 4,000+ comments on a PRW using latent content text analysis. The resulting 15 attributes were validated by medical professionals using a q-sort methodology and analyzed using a Kano methodology.

Findings

The 15 attributes cover three domains of healthcare service – clinic operations, competency and care. The Kano analysis yields a hierarchy, or pyramid, of healthcare service attributes: (1) must-be’s: establish service operational capabilities and benchmark peer performance; (2) satisfiers: establish and increase trust through: (a) clinical competence, (b) careful management of young patients and (c) delivery of appropriate care and treatment (3) delighters: use service-dominant logic to provide patient-centered care.

Originality/value

This research bridges the gap between the “what” and “how” that is frequently missing in text analysis of online reviews. We provide a methodology coupled with a Kano analysis, a widely used quality improvement tool, which results in a hierarchy of service attributes that can guide administrators and researchers.
Financial crisis of 1931? British banking stability and the role of open‐market operations
Authors: Römer Matthias
Published: October 2024

To what extent was the summer of 1931 a financial crisis in Britain? Previous research has shown how London merchant banks were affected, but it remains unclear to what extent the largest commercial banks of London – the clearing banks – were under threat. Monthly balance sheets reported by clearing banks do not fully reflect the day‐to‐day liquidity in financial crisis, possibly overstating available liquidity. This article does not rely on what clearing banks reported, but what the largest five London clearing banks actually did on a daily basis during the summer of 1931. I find that the London clearing banks were not seriously under threat. This is because large‐scale asset purchases by the Bank of England stabilized the liquidity of the London clearing banks. This intervention is consistent with previous crisis situations during the nineteenth century and at the outset of the First World War.
Long‐term effects of treatment and management approaches for impinging dorsal spinous processes in ridden horses
Authors: Brassington R. , Hardy R. , Bye T.
Published: October 2024

Background

Impinging dorsal spinous processes (IDSP) are a common cause of pain and loss of performance in sports horses, with a range of surgical and conservative treatments available.

Objectives

Identify relationships between treatment choice and the likelihood of returning to previous level of performance for horses diagnosed with IDSP.

Study design

Cross‐sectional survey of owners with horses diagnosed with IDSP.

Methods

A 14‐question online survey was circulated via social media. Data were collected for 260 horses and analysed for associations between treatment choice and return to pre‐diagnosis level of performance.

Results

Just under 50% of horses in the sample returned to their previous level of performance post‐treatment. Horses that were treated surgically had twice the odds of returning to their previous level than those that were not, and horses that underwent an exercise rehabilitation programme had 10 times the odds of returning to level.

Main limitations

As this was an owner survey, self‐selection bias and recall bias could have influenced the findings.

Conclusions

If the aim is for the horse to return to a competitive career post‐treatment, the most appropriate surgical intervention appears to be the best approach, and an exercise rehabilitation plan may have benefit.
Echoes of insecurity: The detrimental effect of crime on corporate employment
Authors: Peng Zhang , Shi Xinzheng , Yu Junyan
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the influence of local crime on corporate employment in China. Leveraging a comprehensive data set of 85 million court judicial documents, we construct city‐level crime measures. We find that local crime is negatively associated with corporate employment. Using China's Gang Crime Crackdown program as a quasi‐natural experiment and the difference‐in‐differences approach, we further identify the causal relationship. Violent crimes and those with longer sentences drive the negative correlation between local crime and corporate employment. This relation is particularly pronounced among low‐skilled employees, in cities with inadequate commuter security, and in financially constrained firms. Our findings emphasize the role of a secure social environment in the local labor market and firms' employment decisions.
Characterisation of the Novel HLA‐B*58:139 Allele by Next‐Generation Sequencing
Authors: Li Qi , Chen Nanying , Dong Lina , Zhang Wei , Zhu Faming
Published: October 2024

HLA‐B*58:139 differs from the HLA‐B*58:01:01:01 allele by one nucleotide substitution in exon 4.
Synaptic communication within the microcircuits of pyramidal neurons and basket cells in the mouse prefrontal cortex
Authors: Fekete Zsuzsanna , Weisz Filippo , Karlócai Mária Rita , Veres Judit M. , Andrási Tibor , Hájos Norbert
Published: October 2024

Basket cells are inhibitory interneurons in cortical structures with the potential to efficiently control the activity of their postsynaptic partners. Although their contribution to higher order cognitive functions associated with the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) relies on the characteristics of their synaptic connections, the way that they are embedded into local circuits is still not fully uncovered. Here, we determined the synaptic properties of excitatory and inhibitory connections between pyramidal neurons (PNs), cholecystokinin‐containing basket cells (CCKBCs) and parvalbumin‐containing basket cells (PVBCs) in the mouse mPFC. By performing paired recordings, we revealed that PVBCs receive larger unitary excitatory postsynaptic currents from PNs with shorter latency and faster kinetic properties compared to events evoked in CCKBCs. Also, unitary inhibitory postsynaptic currents in PNs were more reliably evoked by PVBCs than by CCKBCs, yet the former connections showed profound short‐term depression. Moreover, we demonstrated that CCKBCs and PVBCs in the mPFC are connected with each other. Because alterations in PVBC function have been linked to neurological and psychiatric conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia and CCKBC vulnerability might play a role in mood disorders, a deeper understanding of the general features of basket cell synapses could serve as a reference point for future investigations with therapeutic objectives.

image

Key points

Cholecystokinin‐ (CCKBCs) and parvalbumin‐expressing basket cells (PVBCs) have distinct passive and active membrane properties.

Pyramidal neurons give rise to larger unitary excitatory postsynaptic currents in PVBCs compared to events in CCKBCs.

Unitary inhibitory postsynaptic currents in pyramidal neurons are more reliably evoked by PVBCs than by CCKBCs.

Basket cells form chemical synapses and gap junctions with their own cell type.

The two basket cell types are connected with each other.
Megastudy testing 25 treatments to reduce antidemocratic attitudes and partisan animosity
Authors: Voelkel Jan G. , Stagnaro Michael N. , Chu James Y. , Pink Sophia L. , Mernyk Joseph S. , Redekopp Chrystal , Ghezae Isaias , Cashman Matthew , Adjodah Dhaval , Allen Levi G. , Allis L. Victor , Baleria Gina , Ballantyne Nathan , Van Bavel Jay J. , Blunden Hayley , Braley Alia , Bryan Christopher J. , Celniker Jared B. , Cikara Mina , Clapper Margarett V. , Clayton Katherine , Collins Hanne , DeFilippis Evan , Dieffenbach Macrina , Doell Kimberly C. , Dorison Charles , Duong Mylien , Felsman Peter , Fiorella Maya , Francis David , Franz Michael , Gallardo Roman A. , Gifford Sara , Goya-Tocchetto Daniela , Gray Kurt , Green Joe , Greene Joshua , Güngör Mertcan , Hall Matthew , Hecht Cameron A. , Javeed Ali , Jost John T. , Kay Aaron C. , Kay Nick R. , Keating Brandyn , Kelly John Michael , Kirk James R. G. , Kopell Malka , Kteily Nour , Kubin Emily , Lees Jeffrey , Lenz Gabriel , Levendusky Matthew , Littman Rebecca , Luo Kara , Lyles Aaron , Lyons Ben , Marsh Wayde , Martherus James , Maurer Lauren Alpert , Mehl Caroline , Minson Julia , Moore Molly , Moore-Berg Samantha L. , Pasek Michael H. , Pentland Alex , Puryear Curtis , Rahnama Hossein , Rathje Steve , Rosato Jay , Saar-Tsechansky Maytal , Almeida Santos Luiza , Seifert Colleen M. , Shariff Azim , Simonsson Otto , Spitz Siddiqi Shiri , Stone Daniel F. , Strand Palma , Tomz Michael , Yeager David S. , Yoeli Erez , Zaki Jamil , Druckman James N. , Rand David G. , Willer Robb
Published: October 2024

Scholars warn that partisan divisions in the mass public threaten the health of American democracy. We conducted a megastudy (
n
= 32,059 participants) testing 25 treatments designed by academics and practitioners to reduce Americans’ partisan animosity and antidemocratic attitudes. We find that many treatments reduced partisan animosity, most strongly by highlighting relatable sympathetic individuals with different political beliefs or by emphasizing common identities shared by rival partisans. We also identify several treatments that reduced support for undemocratic practices—most strongly by correcting misperceptions of rival partisans’ views or highlighting the threat of democratic collapse—which shows that antidemocratic attitudes are not intractable. Taken together, the study’s findings identify promising general strategies for reducing partisan division and improving democratic attitudes, shedding theoretical light on challenges facing American democracy.
Capacity recovery by transient voltage pulse in silicon-anode batteries
Authors: Yang Yufei , Biswas Srija , Xu Rong , Xiao Xin , Xu Xin , Zhang Pu , Gong Huaxin , Zheng Xueli , Peng Yucan , Li Junyan , Ai Huayue , Wu Yecun , Ye Yusheng , Gao Xin , Serrao Chad , Zhang Wenbo , Sayavong Philaphon , Huang Zhuojun , Chen Zhouyi , Cui Yi , Vilá Rafael A. , Boyle David T. , Cui Yi
Published: October 2024

In the quest for high-capacity battery electrodes, addressing capacity loss attributed to isolated active materials remains a challenge. We developed an approach to substantially recover the isolated active materials in silicon electrodes and used a voltage pulse to reconnect the isolated lithium-silicon (Li

x

Si) particles back to the conductive network. Using a 5-second pulse, we achieved >30% of capacity recovery in both Li-Si and Si–lithium iron phosphate (Si-LFP) batteries. The recovered capacity sustains and replicates through multiple pulses, providing a constant capacity advantage. We validated the recovery mechanism as the movement of the neutral isolated Li

x

Si particles under a localized nonuniform electric field, a phenomenon known as dielectrophoresis.
Unexpected far-field deformation of the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes revealed by space geodesy
Authors: Ergintav S. , Vernant P. , Tan O. , Karabulut H. , Özarpacı S. , Floyd M. , Konca A. Ö. , Çakır Z. , Acarel D. , Çakmak R. , Vasyura-Bathke H. , Doğan U. , Kurt A. İ. , Özdemir A. , Ayruk E. T. , Turğut M. , Özel Ö. , Farımaz İ.
Published: October 2024

The spatiotemporal pattern of surface displacements from large earthquakes provides crucial insights about the deformation of Earth’s crust at various scales and the interactions among tectonic plates. However, the lack of extensive and large-scale geodetic networks near such seismic events hinders our thorough understanding of the large-scale crustal deformation resulting from earthquakes. Using Türkiye’s extensive and continuous global navigation satellite system (GNSS) network during the moment magnitude 7.8 and 7.6 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes on 6 February 2023, we show that large earthquakes can induce far-field crustal deformations (>700 kilometers), exceeding current predictions from elastic dislocation models. They can lead to the mobilization of tectonic plates and the triggering of far-field earthquakes, which carries profound implications for seismic hazard assessments and necessitates a new perspective on crustal deformation and earthquake mechanics.
The stakes for science
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: October 2024

Where Kamala Harris and Donald Trump stand on the issues that matter most to scientists
Clues emerge about an obscure virus’ sudden spread
Authors: Quaglia Sofia
Published: October 2024

Increased virulence may have allowed Oropouche to explode in Latin America
Effect of Cellulose Loading Ratio on Fiber‐Matrix Bonding of LDPE‐Based Biocomposite
Authors: Amensisa Yoobsan Ejeta , Demsash Hundessa Dessalegn , Tefera Muluken Eshetu
Published: October 2024

The properties of biocomposite materials have been highly affected by the amount of cellulose particles and/or fibers added to the matrix during manufacturing. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of the cellulose loading ratio (CLR) on the fiber‐matrix interfacial bonding of the biocomposite made of extracted celluloses from coffee husk (CH) and brewer’s spent grain (BSG) fibers with recycled post‐consumer low‐density polyethylene (r-LDPE) matrix. The test samples were prepared using the solvent casting method with different CLRs of 10wt.%, 15wt.%, and 20wt.% and abbreviated as BC‐10%, BC‐15%, and BC‐20%, respectively. The study was carried out using the Vickers microhardness test (VMH), thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and water absorption test. The study findings show that the maximum Vickers hardness value (Hv1) of 17.16 kgf/mm2 was obtained in the BC‐15% composite sample. TGA showed that BC‐10% and BC‐15% exhibited good thermal behavior compared to BC‐20%. Based on SEM microstructure image analysis, moderate fiber‐matrix interfacial bonding was observed. The water absorption test indicated that as the CLR increases, the water absorption rate of the composite samples also increases. In general, an increase in the CLR could influence some principal properties such as hardness, thermal stability, fiber‐matrix compatibility, and water absorption rate of cellulose/r-LDPE biocomposites.
A Rare Case of Tracheal Schwannoma Successfully Treated With Endoscopic Resection and Cryoablation Under Rigid Bronchoscopy
Authors: Chan Ming Chiu , Leung Cheuk Cheung Derek , Chan Yu Hong , Ho Man Ying , Chen Chun Hoi , Ngai Ching Man , Chan Hiu Ching Christy , Yeung Yiu Cheong
Published: October 2024

We present a rare case of tracheal schwannoma, the first reported in Hong Kong, emphasizing the diagnostic challenges and treatment outcomes. A 54‐year‐old woman with respiratory symptoms underwent evaluations revealing a tracheal mass causing luminal narrowing. Emergency operation with rigid bronchoscopy and cryoablation successfully removed the tumor. Follow‐up bronchoscopies showed a gradual reduction in residual tumor size, with no evidence of recurrence after 3.5 years postoperation. Tracheal schwannomas are exceedingly rare, often resulting in delayed diagnosis. Clinicians should maintain a high suspicion of tracheal tumors in patients with unexplained respiratory symptoms. Spirometry and flow volume loop analysis aid in identifying upper airway obstruction. Rigid bronchoscopy is preferred for diagnosis and treatment, ensuring airway stability and obtaining tissue samples. Surgical resection remains the mainstay, but observation after endoscopic resection may be considered. This case highlights the successful management of tracheal schwannoma through endoscopic resection and cryoablation, emphasizing the need for further studies and case reports on this rare entity.
Ensemble Classification Model With CFS‐IGWO–Based Feature Selection for Cancer Detection Using Microarray Data
Authors: Panda Pinakshi , Bisoy Sukant Kishoro , Kautish Sandeep , Ahmad Reyaz , Irshad Asma , Sarwar Nadeem
Published: October 2024

Cancer is the top cause of death worldwide, and machine learning (ML) has made an indelible mark on the field of early cancer detection, thereby lowering the death toll. ML‐based model for cancer diagnosis is done using two forms of data: gene expression data and microarray data. The data on gene expression levels includes many dimensions. When dealing with data with a high dimension, the efficiency of an ML‐based model is decreased. Microarray data is distinguished by its high dimensionality with a greater number of features and a smaller sample size. In this work, two ensemble techniques are proposed using majority voting technique and weighted average technique. Correlation feature selection (CFS) is used for feature selection, and improved grey wolf optimizer (IGWO) is used for feature optimization. Support vector machines (SVMs), multilayer perceptron (MLP) classification, logistic regression (LR), decision tree (DT), adaptive boosting (AdaBoost) classifier, extreme learning machines (ELMs), and K‐nearest neighbor (KNN) are used as classifiers. The results of each distinct base learner were then combined using weighted average and majority voting ensemble methods. Accuracy (ACC), specificity (SPE), sensitivity (SEN), precision (PRE), Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC), and F1‐score (F1‐S) are used to assess the performance. Our result shows that majority voting achieves better performance than the weighted average ensemble technique.
Case of T‐B+NK+ X‐Linked Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Disease
Authors: Qian Wenya , Wu Min , Wang Guanling
Published: October 2024

We report a case of T‐B+NK+ severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID) caused by IL2RG gene mutation (NM_000206.3 [IL2RG]: c.925‐2A > G). The patient, a 2‐month‐old male, experienced multiple infections and decreased white blood cells in the early postnatal period. Antibiotic treatment was ineffective and ultimately resulted in multiple organ failure. The second‐generation gene sequencing of patient showed that the IL2RG gene had a hemizygous mutation NM_000206.3 (IL2RG): c.925‐2A > G, indicating a classical splice site mutation. According to the guidelines of the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG), NM_00206.3 (IL2RG): c.925‐2A > G variants can be classified as pathogenic (PVS1&PM1&PM6).
Evaluating Nudaurelia dione (Saturniidae), an Edible Insect, for Sustainable Nutrition: Composition, Benefits, and Antinutritional Insights
Authors: Eunice Boko Adjoua Christiane , Blei Sika Hortense , Koko Anauma Casimir , Angaman Djédoux Maxime
Published: October 2024

Increasingly, insects are heralded as a sustainable and efficacious solution to global challenges of malnutrition and protein scarcity. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) advocates for the use of insects as a sustainable substitute for conventional animal‐based proteins, in response to the escalating pressures on natural resources and the environment. This study focuses on Nudaurelia dione, exploring its nutritional and antinutritional profiles through rigorous laboratory analyses employing standardized methodologies. Our findings establish that N. dione is a potent source of macronutrients, providing significant quantities of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates, with a calculated energy content of 413.64 ± 13.32 kcal per 100 g of dry matter (DM). The lipid fraction is particularly rich in essential fatty acids, including α‐linolenic and linoleic acids. Additionally, the insect species contains high levels of essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. Despite these nutritional benefits, the presence of considerable amounts of phytates (2059.96 ± 5.12 mg per 100 g of DM) poses potential health risks. Therefore, it is imperative to develop and apply appropriate processing methods to reduce these antinutritional factors effectively.
Convergence Theorems for Two Simultaneous Quasinonexpansive Mappings in Banach Spaces
Authors: Saejung Satit , Yotkaew Pongsakorn
Published: October 2024

We discuss the approximation method of finding a common fixed point of two certain mappings defined on a Banach space. This paper deals with three modes of convergence, namely, weak, strong, and △‐convergences in the presence of the uniform convexity of the norm. It is worth mentioning that the △‐convergence which is closely connected with the weak convergence is discussed without assuming the Opial’s condition. Our results not only generalize the results recently announced by Garodia et al. but also rectify a gap in their paper. Finally, some concrete numerical examples are shown that our results are genuine generalizations of a number of results in the literature.
M− Prime Ideals in Lattices and Their M− Prime Spectrum
Authors: Teshale Amare Natnael
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we explore various characteristics and attributes of prime ideals, minimal prime ideals, and weakly prime ideals in a lattice. We demonstrate that the image and inverse image of an prime ideal (or weakly prime ideal) also qualify as an prime ideal (or weakly prime ideal). Additionally, we investigate the relationship between prime ideals and weakly prime ideals. Finally, we introduce the concept of the space of prime ideals and discuss their characterizations.