bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large-Scale Deep Learning for Metastasis Detection in Pathology Reports
Authors: Krawczuk Patrycja , Fox Zachary R , Petkov Valentina , Negoita Serban , Doherty Jennifer , Stroupe Antoinette , Schwartz Stephen , Penberthy Lynne , Hsu Elizabeth , Gounley John , Hanson Heidi A.
Published: December 2024

No existing algorithm can reliably identify metastasis from pathology reports across multiple cancer types and the entire US population. In this study, we develop a deep learning model that automatically detects patients with metastatic cancer by using pathology reports from many laboratories and of multiple cancer types. We trained and validated our model on a cohort of 29,632 patients from four Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registries linked to 60,471 unstructured pathology reports. Our deep learning architecture trained on task-specific data outperforms a general-purpose LLM, with a recall of 0.894 compared to 0.824. We quantified model uncertainty and used it to defer reports for human review. We found that retaining 72.9% of reports increased recall from 0.894 to 0.969. This approach could streamline population-based cancer surveillance to help address the unmet need to capture recurrence or progression.
Third-generation-philic hidden naturalness
Authors: Chung Yi , Goertz Florian
Published: December 2024

We present a solution to the electroweak hierarchy problem, where the relevant new particles are third-generation philic and hidden in Standard Model processes with third-generation fermions. Due to this feature, the mass bounds from direct searches are much weaker, and the required fine-tuning can be reduced drastically. A concrete model is constructed based on a SU(6)/Sp(6) fundamental composite Higgs model with collective symmetry breaking and an extended hypercolor mechanism. The construction allows us to raise the scale f to ∼3  TeV, corresponding to resonances at Mρ≳10  TeV, without much tuning—employing ingredients that are naturally inherent in the (composite) Goldstone-Higgs framework. The experimental signatures are discussed in detail. It is found that current bounds allow for a model with negligible tuning.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Note on ’t Hooft-line defect integrated correlators in
N=4
supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory
Authors: Dorigoni Daniele
Published: December 2024

We derive the perturbative expansion of a particular integrated correlator of two superconformal primary operators in the stress tensor multiplet of N=4 supersymmetric SU(N) Yang-Mills theory in the presence of a half-BPS ’t Hooft-line defect. The calculation is based on a recently derived expression for this physical observable in terms of a two-dimensional lattice sum with manifest automorphic properties under the electromagnetic duality group. When the gauge group is SU(2), this analysis matches with the presented supersymmetric localization approach while for higher-rank gauge groups, where no alternative formulation is available, the methods introduced prove to be crucial in obtaining the perturbative expansion of integrated correlators for ’t Hooft-line defects.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Behavior of the generalized Brownian motion in a parabolic potential: Effect of the field on the bath
Authors: Colmenares Pedro J.
Published: December 2024

The author, in a previous work, solved the generalized Langevin equation of a Brownian particle in a thermal bath whose constituents were composed of noninteracting harmonic oscillators interacting with a parabolic potential. This approach acceptably describes the memory kernel and the frequency-dependent friction coefficient when compared with the molecular dynamic simulation at a constant temperature of methane immersed in water modeled as a Lennard-Jones fluid. In this work, we determine properties, for a field frequency greater than that of the simulation, such as the susceptibility, the timescales of the colored noise correlation function, the average position of the tagged particle, the standard deviation of the position probability density, the time-dependent diffusion coefficient, the system's entropy and production, and the mechanical work generated by an optimum external protocol. The calculations show the system would undergo an atypical-anomalous diffusion because a solvent aggregation process around the particle occurs before it reaches the steady state. This leads to momentary negative entropy production, which vanishes at longer times and is explained in terms of Maxwell's demons and the fulfillment of the second law. Likewise, the optimum driving is no longer linear, and work can be extracted. Furthermore, an alternate method to determine the fluctuation-dissipation theorem is derived. The procedure hasn't appeared in the literature and doesn't appeal to its probability distribution but to simple rules.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Suppressing Counter-Rotating Errors for Fast Single-Qubit Gates with Fluxonium
Authors: Rower David A. , Ding Leon , Zhang Helin , Hays Max , An Junyoung , Harrington Patrick M. , Rosen Ilan T. , Gertler Jeffrey M. , Hazard Thomas M. , Niedzielski Bethany M. , Schwartz Mollie E. , Gustavsson Simon , Serniak Kyle , Grover Jeffrey A. , Oliver William D.
Published: December 2024

Qubit decoherence unavoidably degrades the fidelity of quantum logic gates. Accordingly, realizing gates that are as fast as possible is a guiding principle for qubit control, necessitating protocols for mitigating error channels that become significant as gate time is decreased. One such error channel arises from the counter-rotating component of strong, linearly polarized drives. This error channel is particularly important when gate times approach the qubit Larmor period and represents the dominant source of infidelity for sufficiently fast single-qubit gates with low-frequency qubits such as fluxonium. In this work, we develop and demonstrate two complementary protocols for mitigating this error channel. The first protocol realizes circularly polarized driving in circuit QED through simultaneous charge and flux control. The second protocol—commensurate pulses—leverages the coherent and periodic nature of counter-rotating fields to regularize their contributions to gates, enabling single-qubit gate fidelities reliably exceeding 99.997%. This protocol is platform independent and requires no additional calibration overhead. This work establishes straightforward strategies for mitigating counter-rotating effects from strong drives in circuit QED and other platforms, which we expect to be helpful in the effort to realize high-fidelity control for fault-tolerant quantum computing.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Earnings manipulation behavior in the non-financial listed firms of Palestine: the implication of Beneish model
Authors: Abusharbeh Mohammed , Zakarneh Esraa N.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The aim of this research is to detect the possibility of distortion of annual reports for non-financial listed firms at Palestine Exchange (PEX). It validates the effectiveness of Beneish model in detecting earnings management (EM) using panel regression estimates.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology of this study is based on secondary data that were collected from the audited annual reports of non-financial listed firms for the period 2016–2022. Fixed-effects model and two steps generalized method of methods (GMM) estimator were used to conduct research findings.

Findings

The results validate the efficiency of Beneish model in detecting EM. The variables of sales overstating, accruals and leverage have leading items of earnings manipulation in case of Palestinian listed firms. However, collection period, gross margin, assets utilization, running expenses and firm size are not effective in predicting the distortion of financial reporting.

Practical implications

Corporate managers are suggested to control the leverage in order to reduce accrual EM and avoid making discretionary accruals (DA) choices to depress EM.

Originality/value

These findings contribute to the policy makers in Palestine by ensuring that financial reports accurately reflect the company’s current situation and is free from earnings manipulation, which would have several research implications in theory and practice.
Assessment into the nexus between load capacity factor, population, government policy in form of environmental tax: accessing evidence from Turkey
Authors: Bekun Festus Victor , Yadav Ashutosh , Onwe Joshua Chukwuma , Fumey Michael Provide , Ökmen Mahsum
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Over the last decades, the need for sustainable energy production and consumption has been heavily discussed. However, there has been no consensus in the extant literature. Thus, to this end, this study aims to explore the long-run and causality connection among disaggregated energy consumption, environmental tax and economic growth in a carbon-function framework for Turkey.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses annual frequency data for econometrics analysis. To this end, our analysis utilizes the autoregressive distributive lag (ARDL) technique for cointegration and long-run analysis, while the Granger causality was used for causality direction.

Findings

Economic growth drives Turkey’s Load Capacity Factor (LCF), indicating energy efficiency is linked to economic performance. Renewable energy boosts LCF, while nonrenewable energy hinders it. Population growth positively affects energy efficiency, but environmental taxes have minimal impact, suggesting policy reform is needed. These outcomes have far-reaching implications for macroeconomic policies and environmental sustainability in Turkish economy energy mix amidst its growth path.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest the need for policy reforms prioritizing renewable energy investments to enhance Turkey’s energy efficiency and sustainability. Additionally, the current environmental tax structure requires reevaluation to support sustainable energy practices better. These policy changes are crucial for balancing Turkey’s economic growth with environmental goals, ensuring a more sustainable energy future.

Originality/value

This study explores the role of government policy in form of environmental tax in environmental performance in Turkey.
Beyond the ideal: unravelling the complexities of overqualification, employee volunteering and job satisfaction
Authors: Georgellis Yannis , Roodbari Hamid , Akaighe Godbless Onoriode , Oraee Atrina
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This article examines the relationships between objective overqualification, volunteering as an extra-work activity and job satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on a vast secondary sample of 20,686 British employees across four waves covering the period 2009–2017. The bivariate ordered probit estimate was used to test the study hypotheses in the bioprobit procedure in STATA.

Findings

Our study unravels compelling insights. Overqualified employees experience lower job satisfaction and engage more in volunteering activities. The results emphasised that voluntary work allows the utilisation of skills and fulfils basic psychological needs, leading to enhanced general well-being and higher job satisfaction.

Practical implications

Overqualified employees, by actively engaging in volunteering, not only make valuable contributions to society but also experience positive spillover effects that significantly influence their workplace attitudes and behaviours. This underscores the potential for promoting volunteering as an effective means to mitigate the private and social overqualification.

Originality/value

This study provides valuable insights into the role of overqualification as well as resulting job dissatisfaction, in shaping volunteering decisions. This insight contributes to the overqualification literature and strengthens our understanding of volunteering as an important mechanism in the relationship between overqualification and job satisfaction.
Continuous degradation modeling under random shocks and imperfect maintenance using generalized renewal process
Authors: Tanwar Monika , Raghavan Nagarajan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The idea is to develop a condition-based maintenance (CBM) model for continuously monitored degrading systems under imperfect maintenance. The system is subjected to random shocks, inspection, corrective maintenance (CM) and preventive maintenance (PM); respective thresholds are set to make decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The generalized renewal process is considered for degradation modeling, and the maximum likelihood estimation method is used for parameter estimation. Optimum replacement time is derived by minimizing downtime per unit time (DT).

Findings

Optimum replacement time is derived by minimizing DT. The paper provides insight into the virtual age model’s applicability and efficacy in CBM policy-based decision-making.

Practical implications

This paper assesses the CBM policy for continuously degrading systems under random shocks and imperfect maintenance. An operating system faces five events, i.e. CM, PM, inspection, random shock and sudden failure, during its lifetime. The combination and timing of these mutually exclusive events decide the degradation path in addition to the system's natural degradation (wear-out) dynamics when it is not tampered with in any way. Sequential modeling of such events for a degradation dataset will provide maintenance estimation and prediction parameters.

Originality/value

In general, CBM models do not consider CM to be part of the maintenance policy. It is debatable whether to include CM as part of a CBM policy. In our case, we consider CM in CBM policy formulation, assuming: (1) fail-repair: the system is restored to its operating state after failure with repair; (2) salvage: disposal of non-repairable part or material from the system, i.e. CM actions are a result of minor component-level failures. System failure is referred to as a case involving rebuild/complete system replacement. We assume CM for minor failures and acknowledge that failure can be delayed using CBM but cannot be avoided entirely. Therefore, the consideration of CM in the CBM model will make the model more generic and comprehensive.
What leadership qualities are required for Associate Psychological Practitioners in primary care networks?
Authors: Bhikha Asira , Allsopp Kate , Lever Molly , Budd Miranda , Dunlop Brendan J
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify leadership skills required for Associate Psychological Practitioners (APPs) working within primary care networks (PCNs).

Design/methodology/approach

An online questionnaire about current leadership opportunities and skill set was sent to APPs and leadership staff (clinical leads, PCN managers and clinical supervisors). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with APPs and leadership staff and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Questionnaire and interview data were combined, and themes mapped onto three competency constructs (knowledge, skills and abilities and personal characteristics).

Findings

The subthemes that were considered important leadership skills for APPs to possess included: knowledge of policies and procedures, shared vision and goals in PCNs and the roles, teams and connections within PCNs; skills in communication and partnership working, organisation and independence and the ability to reflect, adapt and challenge others; and personal characteristics such as assertiveness, confidence, resilience, being able to act in a professional and calm manner and to be engaged within their team and supportive of colleagues.

Originality/value

Clinical implications to promote leadership skills and opportunities for APPs working within PCN settings include additional training in leadership skills, risk management and policies and procedures; increased team meetings to aid communication; and further research and evaluation to explore career progression for APPs.
How do managers make decisions in the face of innovation failure? From a risk governance perspective
Authors: Zhao Rui , Niu Lixia , Wang Shiquan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

In this study, we explore the impact of innovation failure on organizational strategy from a risk governance perspective, considering systems thinking as a mediating variable and risk perception as an essential weighting variable.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper conducts questionnaire research using 364 survey data from high-tech small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China. It uses a hierarchical regression approach to test an original model.

Findings

The results indicate that systems thinking mediates the effect of innovation failure on organizational strategy. The contingency analyses also revealed that the positive impact of systems thinking on imitation strategy is stronger at high levels of risk perception. However, the relationship between systems thinking and innovation strategy is weaker when the risk perception is high.

Originality/value

This paper constructs a theoretical research framework for risk governance to explore how innovation failure affects enterprises’ future organizational strategy, offering valuable insights for enterprise innovation management after innovation failure.
Sustainable adoption of biodegradable plastics: a quantitative analysis of determinants and consumer behaviour in developing economies
Authors: Moshood Taofeeq Durojaye , Mahmud Fatimah , Nawanir Gusman , Ahmad Mohd Hanafiah , Mohamad Fazeeda , AbdulGhani Airin
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The study explores the sustainability of biodegradable materials as an eco-friendly substitute for traditional plastics across diverse applications. These materials decompose harmlessly within a specific timeframe, contributing to a holistic lifecycle. Yet, their widespread adoption depends on convincing consumers, manufacturers and regulators of their effectiveness. An empirical study was undertaken to investigate the determinants impacting the sustainability of biodegradable plastics.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a quantitative approach, seeking to discern the factors shaping the endurance of these materials in Malaysia. The study encompassed 316 viable responses, with outcomes from the PLS-SEM analysis offering partial support to the research framework.

Findings

The study reveals that individual characteristics strongly influence the sustainability of biodegradable plastics and are essential factors in determining behavioural intentions related to sustainability, such as purchasing environmentally friendly packaged food products.

Practical implications

The study provides practical implications for government and corporate sectors to design effective strategies encouraging consumers to choose biodegradable plastics. Regular awareness campaigns should be conducted to increase consumer engagement in environmental concerns and reduce the use of non-eco-friendly packaging in the public sector.

Originality/value

Previous literature has overlooked the sustainability aspects of the biodegradable plastics market, leaving a gap in understanding the influential factors and their sustainability, especially in the Malaysian context. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the determinants that govern the sustainability of biodegradable plastics.
Cost stickiness: the role of Shariah compliance
Authors: Bugshan Abdullah
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the cost stickiness among the firms listed in six Gulf Cooperation Council countries and whether the Shariah compliance status has an impact of on corporate cost behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study uses a sample of non-financial firms listed in six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to show that the Shariah compliance status of the firm affects its cost behavior. The study uses panel ordinary least squares and Heckman’s selection bias models to test the hypothesis of the study.

Findings

Firms classified as Shariah-compliant experience more cost stickiness compared to non-Shariah-compliant peers. This behavior is attributed to the restrictions on external financing options that Shariah corporates experience. Further analysis shows that the Islamic financial development of a country plays an important role in reducing the cost stickiness among the Shariah compliant firms.

Originality/value

The role of Shariah compliance in a firm’s cost structure is not well-explored in the current literature. This study is the first to investigate the relationship between cost stickiness and Shariah compliance. Further, the study establishes a nexus between cost stickiness, Shariah compliance and Islamic financial development.
Investigating the responses of bystanding customers to loyalty programs: a moderated-mediation model
Authors: Noble Matthew , Arli Denni , Rajaguru Rajesh
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide insight as to how middle-tier frequent flyers react to witnessing the preferential treatment of a top-tier customer, how rule clarity concerning the top tier impacts this effect and which mediators are present.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a single between subjects’ scenario-based experimental design, with 235 MTurk respondents participating. Two treatment groups and a control group were used. PROCESS Macro Models were used for analysing the data.

Findings

The results support self-enhancement motivation functioning as a positive mediator of this effect, along with it being positively moderated by rule knowledge. There were no significant findings regarding unfairness perceptions functioning as a mediator. The results also suggest middle-tier bystanding customers respond negatively when attainability and rule knowledge are low, but positively when both moderators are high.

Practical implications

The findings show that when planning and evaluating either the amount of preferential treatment given to frequent flyer top-tier customers, or how clear the rules are for obtaining top-tier frequent flyer status, managers must not only consider the top-tier customers. Middle-tier frequent flyer customers must also be included in planning or evaluating these elements of the frequent flyer club, or the business risks inaccurate planning, evaluation and ultimately decreased profits.

Originality/value

This research considers secret tiers, which are common in frequent flyer clubs. However, past researchers have surprisingly failed to consider the impact of this design feature on customer loyalty. Considering their commonality and lack of research, the findings are both valuable and novel.
Pavlovian‐Type Learning in Environmental Bacteria: Regulation of Herbicide Resistance by Arsenic in Pseudomonas putida
Authors: Paez‐Espino David , Durante‐Rodríguez Gonzalo , Fernandes Elena Alonso , Carmona Manuel , de Lorenzo Victor
Published: December 2024

The canonical arsRBC genes of the ars1 operon in Pseudomonas putida KT2440, which confer tolerance to arsenate and arsenite, are followed by a series of additional ORFs culminating in phoN1. The phoN1 gene encodes an acetyltransferase that imparts resistance to the glutamine synthetase inhibitor herbicide phosphinothricin (PPT). The co‐expression of phoN1 and ars genes in response to environmental arsenic, along with the physiological effects, was analysed through transcriptomics of cells exposed to the oxyanion and phenotypic characterization of P. putida strains deficient in different components of the bifan motif governing arsenic resistance in this bacterium. Genetic separation of arsRBC and phoN1 revealed that their associated phenotypes operate independently, indicating that their natural co‐regulation is not functionally required for simultaneous response to the same signal. The data suggest a scenario of associative evolution, akin to Pavlovian conditioning, where two unrelated but frequently co‐occurring signals result in one regulating the other's response – even if there is no functional link between the signal and the response. Such surrogate regulatory events may provide an efficient solution to complex regulatory challenges and serve as a genetic patch to address transient gaps in evolving regulatory networks.
Comprehensiveness in Primary Care: A Scoping Review
Authors: GRUDNIEWICZ AGNES , RANDALL ELLEN , JONES LORI , BODNER AIDAN , LAVERGNE M. RUTH
Published: December 2024

Policy Points

Efforts to address a perceived decline of comprehensiveness in primary care are hampered by the absence of a clear and common understanding of what comprehensiveness means.

This scoping review mapped two domains of comprehensiveness (breadth of care and approach to care) as well as a set of factors that enable comprehensive practice.

The resulting conceptual map supports greater clarity for future use of the term comprehensiveness, facilitating more precisely targeted research, practice, and policy efforts to improve primary care systems.

Context

Associated with system efficiency and patient‐perceived quality, comprehensiveness is widely recognized as foundational to high‐quality primary care. However, there is concern that comprehensiveness is declining and that primary care physicians are providing a narrower range of services. Efforts to address this perceived decline are hampered by the many different and sometimes vague definitions of comprehensiveness in current use. This scoping review explored how comprehensiveness in primary care is conceptualized and defined in order to map its attributes in support of being able to more clearly and precisely define this key concept in research, practice, and policy.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review, following the methods of Arksey and O'Malley and Levac and colleagues. The search included terms for two key concepts: primary care and comprehensiveness. Developed in Ovid Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), the search was adapted for Cumulated Index in Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and Embase, as well as for gray literature. After a multistep review, included sources underwent detailed data extraction.

Findings

A total of 360 sources were extracted; 57% were empirical studies and 65% were published between 2010 and 2022. Across these sources, we identified nine attributes of comprehensiveness in primary care. We mapped these attributes into two conceptual domains: breadth of care (services, settings, health needs and conditions, patients served, and availability) and approach to care (one‐stop shop, whole‐person care, referrals and coordination, and longitudinal care). Additionally, we identified three enablers of comprehensiveness, namely structures and resources, teams, and competency.

Conclusions

The conceptual map of comprehensiveness in primary care offers a valuable tool that supports clarity for future use of the term comprehensiveness. The domains and attributes we identified can be used to develop definitions and measures that are appropriate to research, practice, and policy contexts, enabling more precise efforts to improve primary care systems.
Identifying the Genetic Association Between Sjogren's Syndrome and Autoimmune Thyroid Disease: A Bidirectional Two‐Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Zhao Mingming , Zhang Yuanyuan , Sun Guoxun
Published: December 2024

Background

Although observational studies have suggested a correlation between Sjogren's syndrome (SS) and autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD), a conclusive evidence supporting a causal relationship is still lacking. This study aims to explore the potential causal relationship between SS and AITD.

Methods

Using genome‐wide association studies, we performed a bidirectional two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. In our analysis, the random‐effects inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was predominantly employed, followed by several sensitivity analyses, which include heterogeneity, horizontal pleiotropy, outliers, and “leave‐one‐out” analyses.

Results

In the study of the effect of SS on AITD, SS was associated with an increased risk of Hashimoto's thyroiditis (OR = 1.09, 95%CI 1.02–1.16, p = 0.01). The causal associations were supported by sensitivity analyses. In reverse MR analyses, Hashimoto's thyroiditis (OR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.08–1.42, p < 0.01) and Graves' disease (OR = 1.11, 95% CI 1.03–1.21, p < 0.01) were found to be risk factors for SS.

Conclusion

Our results support a bidirectional causal relationship between SS and Hashimoto's thyroiditis and a positive correlation of genetically predicted Graves' disease on the risk of SS.
Vaginal Microbiome: Environmental, Biological, and Racial Influences on Gynecological Health Across the Lifespan
Authors: Dubé‐Zinatelli Eleni , Cappelletti Luna , Ismail Nafissa
Published: December 2024

The human vaginal microbiome (VMB) is a complex and unique ecosystem composed of various microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, archaea, viruses, and candidate phyla radiation. A healthy VMB is often characterized by the presence of Lactobacillus species, which play a crucial role in protecting and maintaining homeostasis within the vaginal environment. When this balance is disrupted, the protection of the vaginal epithelium weakens, leading to a reduction in Lactobacillus species and an increased risk of various gynecological and reproductive health issues. However, this generalized description can lead to misconceptions and an incomplete understanding of vaginal health, as Lactobacillus is not always dominant across all ages and racialized groups. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of the environmental, biological, and racial influences on the VMB at each stage of a woman's life, highlighting their implications for gynecological health and offering a holistic understanding of the VMB for all women.
Role of Systemic Immune‐Inflammation Index, Systemic Inflammation Response Index, and Pan‐Immune Inflammation Value in the Prediction of Preeclampsia: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Özkan Sadullah , Dereli Murat Levent , Firatligil Fahri Burcin , Kurt Dilara , Kurt Ahmet , Sucu Serap Topkara , Sucu Sadun , Celen Sevki , Engin‐Ustun Yaprak
Published: December 2024

Objective

The aim of the study was to investigate the role of systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), and pan‐immune inflammation value (PIV) calculated from first trimester complete blood count (CBC) in predicting preeclampsia without (PE) and with severe features (PE‐SF).

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 126 women with PE, 126 women with PE‐SF, and 126 women with healthy, normotensive pregnancies delivered at a large tertiary referral hospital between 2018 and 2022. The main outcome measures were SII, SIRI, and PIV.

Results

SII scores differed significantly between the control versus PE and control versus PE‐SF groups, while SIRI scores showed a significant difference between the control versus PE and PE versus PE‐SF groups. However, the PIV values showed a significant difference in all three groups. According to the receiver operating characteristic analysis performed for the discriminatory power of SII, SIRI, and PIV, the area under the curve (AUC) values were 0.801, 0.609, and 0.774 for the prediction of PE and 0.535, 0.701, and 0751 for the prediction of PE‐SF, respectively. An SII with a cutoff value of > 620.59×103/µL (sensitivity 81%, specificity 67%) and an SIRI with a cutoff value of > 0.94×103/µL (sensitivity 74%, specificity 69%) had the highest discriminatory power for the prediction of PE and PE‐SF, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results suggest an association between high SII, PIV, and SIRI results and an increased risk of future PE and could be used as a first trimester screening test to improve decision making in the prediction of PE.
NSQIP surgical risk calculator: a useful adjunct for the urology multidisciplinary meeting
Authors: Wu Hongyi , Guduguntla Arjun , Gyomber Dennis , Niall Owen , Satasivam Prassannah
Published: December 2024

Background

Surgical risk calculators are not often routinely used in Urology Multidisciplinary Meetings (MDM), and little is known about their impact on clinical decision‐making. The aim of this study is to assess the utility of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) risk calculator for decision‐making in the Urology MDM setting, with particular consideration given to decisions about surgical candidacy.

Methods

We analysed all adult patients discussed in our Urology MDM with urological conditions whose management plan could potentially include major surgery. During a MDM, a consensus management decision was made prior to the NSQIP score being revealed to blinded team members. Any change in decision after revealing the score was documented, including rationale.

Results

Sixty‐three out of 64 eligible cancer cases being discussed at MDM warranted NSQIP scores being revealed to the MDM post initial consensus. 95.2% (n = 60) did not have a change in the MDM management plan after reveal of NSQIP score. The NSQIP score led to a change in the MDM management decision in three cases: two renal cancer cases where management changed to biopsy with view to microwave ablation if positive, and one prostate cancer case, where management changed to recommend against radical prostatectomy.

Conclusion

The NSQIP risk calculator was a useful tool and adjunct in the MDM setting. It served as a safety net where surgical risk was not initially properly estimated by team members, and reinforced decisions where there was concordance between NSQIP score and clinical judgement.
Acalabrutinib in combination with rituximab and lenalidomide in patients with relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma: Results of the phase 1b open‐label study (ACE‐LY‐003)
Authors: Strati Paolo , Agajanian Richy , Lossos Izidore S. , Coleman Morton , Kridel Robert , Wood Andrew , Lesley Robin , Wun Chuan‐Chuan , Stephens Deborah M.
Published: December 2024

Patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) follicular lymphoma (FL) have limited effective treatment options. Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKis) increase the anti‐tumoural phenotype of tumour‐associated macrophages, providing rationale to combine them with rituximab and lenalidomide (R2). Acalabrutinib, a second‐generation BTKi, has potential to improve R2 efficacy without increasing T‐cell–mediated toxicity due to its lack of interleukin‐2–inducible T‐cell kinase inhibition. Here, we report safety and efficacy from a phase 1b dose‐finding study (NCT02180711) evaluating acalabrutinib plus R2 in patients with R/R FL. Overall, 29 patients received acalabrutinib plus R2 (lenalidomide 15 mg, n = 8; lenalidomide 20 mg, n = 21). At a median acalabrutinib exposure of 21 months, the most common grade ≥3 treatment‐emergent adverse event (TEAE) was neutropenia (37.9%). The incidence of grade ≥3 serious TEAEs was 37.5% and 52.4% in the lenalidomide 15‐mg and 20‐mg cohorts, respectively; overall, the most common were COVID‐19 pneumonia, COVID‐19 infection and pneumonia. Earlier treatment withholdings/reductions were observed in the 20‐mg cohort. With a median follow‐up of 34.1 months, the overall response rate was 75.9%. The complete response rate was 25.0% and 42.9% in the lenalidomide 15‐ and 20‐mg cohorts, respectively. Due to acceptable toxicity and preliminary efficacy, the lenalidomide 20‐mg dose was selected for further investigation.
Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz polysaccharide ameliorates DSS‐induced colitis in mice by regulating the gut microbiota and tryptophan metabolism
Authors: Zhang Qian‐Wen , Yang Meng‐Jiao , Liao Chun‐Yu , Taha Reham , Li Qing‐Yu , Abdelmotalab Mohammed Ismail , Zhao Si‐Yu , Xu Yan , Jiang Zhen‐Zhou , Chu Cheng‐Han , Huang Xin , Jiao Chun‐Hua , Sun Li‐Xin
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease, and the range of current clinical treatments is not ideal. We previously found that polysaccharide of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz (PAMK) is beneficial in DSS‐induced colitis, and we aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms in this study.

Experimental Approach

PAMK was used to treat DSS‐induced colitis in mice, 16S rRNA sequencing analysis was used to detect changes in the intestinal microbiota, targeted metabolomics analysis was used to determine the content of tryptophan‐metabolizing bacteria, and western blotting was used to determine aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and pregnane X receptor (PXR) levels. Furthermore, antibiotic‐mediated depletion of gut microbiota and faecal microbiota transplantation were performed to assess the role of the gut microbiota in PAMK alleviation of colitis.

Key Results

PAMK treatment relieved intestinal microbiota dysbiosis in mice with colitis, contributed to the proliferation of tryptophan‐metabolizing bacteria, and increased the levels of tryptophan metabolites, resulting in a significant increase in the nuclear translocation of PXR and expression of PXR and its target genes, but not AhR. The gut microbiota is important in PAMK treatment of colitis, including in the alleviation of symptoms, inhibition of inflammation, maintenance of the integrity of the intestinal barrier, and the regulation of the Th17/Treg cell balance.

Conclusion and Implications

Based on our findings, we elucidate a novel mechanism by which PAMK alleviates DSS‐induced colitis and thus provides evidence to support the potential development of PAMK as a new clinical drug against UC.
The Life and Death of Hydrocarbon Traps in East Greenland: The Charge and Degradation Histories of Laplace Bjerg and the Mols Bjerge
Authors: Andrews Steven D. , Decou Audrey , Marshall John E. A. , Hyden Fiona , Parnell John , Strogen Dominic P.
Published: December 2024

The exhumed hydrocarbon traps of East Greenland provide a superb opportunity to study the evolution of fluid flow in the petroleum systems of the North Atlantic. Following basin inversion during the Cenozoic these structures were exhumed and deeply incised which has allowed them to be observed and mapped in great detail. This study examines the diagenetic history of the Mols Bjerge and Laplace Bjerg exhumed hydrocarbon traps, from the initial charge of Triassic and Jurassic reservoirs, to their eventual uplift and destruction. Detailed petrographic analysis was undertaken on 67 samples collected at representative intervals throughout the structures. Variations in the distribution of diagenetic phases and remnant porosity were investigated. Twenty three samples were also subjected to helium porosity measurement. Bitumen, up to 18%, was recognised in 34 samples, 6 of which were analysed for their form and reflectance. Fluid inclusion data, collected from the nearby Bjørnedal region, helps to constrain the thermal history of the region. Helium porosity and permeability measurements are low, largely below 10% and 2 mD respectively. However, the abundance of bitumen highlights the presence of significantly higher porosity and permeability during hydrocarbon charge. A synthesis of fluid inclusion data and bitumen reflectance, alongside a detailed examination of the paragenetic sequence, demonstrate that hydrocarbon charge occurred in the Eocene, during maximum burial, at which time only a minor reduction in original intergranular porosities had taken place. The destruction of the pore systems occurred due to the degradation of hydrocarbons to bitumen, resulting from heat flow during intrusive events, and subsequent carbonate and limonite cementation during uplift. The original source of the hydrocarbons is unclear. This work highlights that where unaffected by intrusives and uplift, the largely untested Triassic play may still contain viable reservoir intervals at depth on the Norwegian Continental Shelf.
Expansion of the Structure–Activity Relationship Profile of Triaminopyrimidines as Inhibitors of Caspase‐1
Authors: East Amanda , Polasek Callista G. , Miller Elizabeth A. , Ranganathan Srirajkumar , Reda Isabella D. , Patel Aisha , Ahlers Christopher D. , Zingales Sarah K. , Karver Caitlin E.
Published: December 2024

Caspase‐1 is a sought‐after therapeutic target for inflammatory conditions due to its role in activation and release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, but there has been little success getting drugs into the clinic. We have previously shown triaminopyrimidines such as CK‐1‐41 are potent, reversible small molecule inhibitors of caspase‐1, likely binding in an allosteric site within the enzyme. A series of analogs of CK‐1‐41 were synthesized and tested against caspase‐1 to develop a more robust structure–activity relationship profile. In general, alkyl and aryl groups were well tolerated via an ethylene or methylene linkage to the piperazine nitrogen, with IC50 values ranging from 13 to 200 nM. The most potent compounds were methylene linked o‐tolyl (AE‐2‐21) and ethylene linked 4‐trifluoromethylphenyl (AE‐2‐48) with IC50 values of 18 and 13 nM, respectively. Derivatives with electrophilic covalent warheads linked via an amide bond to the piperazine nitrogen were synthesized and characterized. CA‐1‐11 and EM‐1‐10 were semi‐reversible, non‐competitive inhibitors of caspase‐1 with slightly reduced potencies of 134 and 144 nM, respectively. All derivatives docked well into the allosteric site, supporting our hypothesis that this family of caspase‐1 inhibitors function via an allosteric non‐competitive mechanism of inhibition.
Concomitant Upd(14)mat and Trisomy 14 Mosaicism in a Newborn Detected by Whole Genome Sequencing
Authors: Olsen Tilde , Ek Jakob , Bak Mads , Grønskov Karen , Bache Iben , Farholt Stense , Tümer Zeynep
Published: December 2024

Maternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 14, upd(14)mat, leads to Temple syndrome (TS), an imprinting disorder characterized by pre‐ and postnatal growth retardation, hypotonia, motor delay, joint laxity, and precocious puberty. The occurrence of upd(14)mat is rare, and it may, in even rarer cases, co‐occur with trisomy 14 mosaicism. To date, only 11 live‐born cases have been reported in the literature. We present a newborn girl with severe hypotonia, global developmental delay, feeding difficulties, dysmorphic features, and cardiac malformations. Using trio whole genome sequencing (WGS) no causative sequence or structural variants were detected. As a chromosomal disorder was suspected the data was further analyzed with a pipeline including analysis of UPD and low‐level mosaicism, which revealed upd(14)mat and low level trisomy 14 mosaicism. This study underscores the significance of advanced genetic testing techniques, thorough data interpretation, and expert clinical evaluation in diagnosing rare disorders with complex molecular mechanisms.
Bilateral Lung Transplantation in Patients With Severe Chest Asymmetry: A Case Series From a Single Center
Authors: Mendogni Paolo , Palleschi Alessandro , Grisorio Giacomo , Mazzucco Alessandra , Diotti Cristina , Morlacchi Letizia Corinna , Rosetti Valeria , Bonitta Gianluca , Nosotti Mario , Rosso Lorenzo
Published: December 2024

Suppurative lung diseases leading to end‐stage respiratory failure are typical indications for bilateral lung transplantation (LuTx). Some cases may present severe chest asymmetry because of recurrent infections or previous surgical procedures, and the most used surgical options are single LuTx and contralateral pneumonectomy or bilateral transplantation with graft downsizing. Our purpose is to evaluate our treatment protocols for these patients and review surgical strategies reported by others.

We prospectively collected clinical data of patients with significant pleural cavity asymmetry who underwent bilateral LuTx at our center from 2017 to 2022. Clinical reports of all patients who underwent LuTx for end‐stage suppurative disease in the same period were reviewed as the control group.

During the study period, 74 patients underwent bilateral LuTx for suppurative disease; seven of them presented with severe thoracic asymmetry, and all of them were extubated by the second postoperative day. The mean intensive care unit stay was 4 days. The postoperative radiological evaluation did not show clustering or atelectasis of the graft implanted in the smaller hemithorax. No perioperative major complications were recorded, and the average length of stay was 23 days. The perioperative course appeared remarkably good, and both the short‐ and long‐term follow‐up were similar to that of the control group.
Advancing Disability Healthcare Solutions Through Privacy‐Preserving Federated Learning With Theme Framework
Authors: Alruwaili Madallah , Siddiqi Muhammad Hameed , Idris Muhammad , Alruwaili Salman , Alanazi Abdullah Saleh , Khan Faheem
Published: December 2024

The application of machine learning, particularly federated learning, in collaborative model training, has demonstrated significant potential for enhancing diversity and efficiency in outcomes. In the healthcare domain, particularly healthcare with disabilities, the sensitive nature of data presents a significant challenge as sharing even the computation on these data can risk exposing personal health information. This research addresses the problem of enabling shared model training for healthcare data—particularly with disabilities decreasing the risk of leaking or compromising sensitive information. Technologies such as federated learning provide solution for decentralised model training but fall short in addressing concerns related to trust building, accountability and control over participation and data. We propose a framework that integrates federated learning with advanced identity management as well as privacy and trust management technologies. Our framework called Theme (Trusted Healthcare Machine Learning Environment) leverages digital identities (e.g., W3C decentralised identifiers and verified credentials) and policy enforcements to regulate participation. This is to ensure that only authorised and trusted entities can contribute to the model training. Additionally, we introduce the mechanisms to track contributions per participant and offer the flexibility for participants to opt out of model training at any point. Participants can choose to be either contributors (providers) or consumers (model users) or both, and they can also choose to participate in subset of activities. This is particularly important in healthcare settings, where individuals and healthcare institutions have the flexibility to control how their data are used without compromising the benefits. In summary, this research work contributes to privacy preserving shared model training leveraging federated learning without exposing sensitive data; trust and accountability mechanisms; contribution tracking per participant for accountability and back‐tracking; and fine‐grained control and autonomy per participant. By addressing the specific needs of healthcare data for people with disabilities or such institutions, the Theme framework offers a robust solution to balance the benefits of shared machine learning with critical need to protecting sensitive data.
Performance variation with pristine and doped high‐k materials via atomic layer deposition
Authors: Jung Eun Su , Yoo JinUk , Choi Tae Min , Lee Hwa Rim , Lee Chae Yeon , Kim Dong Hyun , Pyo Sung Gyu
Published: December 2024

This review examines the performance variations of pristine and doped high‐k materials deposited using atomic layer deposition (ALD). This paper explores the fundamental principles of ALD and its application in creating high‐k materials with superior dielectric properties. High‐k materials such as HfO2, TiO2, and ZrO2 are critical in the semiconductor industry due to their high dielectric constants and ability to improve device performance. The review highlights how doping these materials can further enhance their electrical, chemical, and physical properties, leading to improved device reliability and efficiency. Various dopants and their effects on material characteristics, including dielectric constant, leakage current, and breakdown voltage, are discussed in detail. This paper concludes that ALD, with its precise control over film thickness and uniformity, is essential for the ongoing advancement of semiconductor technology and the development of next‐generation electronic devices.