bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute obstetric coagulopathy is associated with excess plasmin generation and proteolysis of fibrinogen and factor V
Authors: Collins Peter W , Whyte Claire S , de Lloyd Lucy , Narwal Anuj , Bell Sarah F , Gill Nicholas , Collis Rachel E , Jenkins Peter V , Mutch Nicola J
Published: February 2025

Haemostatic impairment may exacerbate postpartum haemorrhage (PPH). Previously, we described a distinct coagulopathy, associated with multiple causes of PPH including placental abruption and amniotic fluid embolus, termed acute obstetric coagulopathy (AOC). AOC is characterised by very high plasmin/antiplasmin complexes and rapid depletion of functional fibrinogen and factor (F)V. To determine mechanisms underlying AOC we investigated plasma from 12 women with AOC (here defined as plasmin/antiplasmin >25,000 ng/mL) and 21 severe PPH (measured blood loss >2000 mL or placental abruption) without AOC (plasmin/antiplasmin <25,000 ng/mL). Plasma from patients with AOC had a 4-fold increased ability to generate plasmin compared to severe PPH without AOC (p<0.0002). AOC was strongly associated with fibrinogen cleavage in the circulation, demonstrated by fragment D and other breakdown products on Western blot, (p<0.0001). D-dimer were increased 36-fold in AOC compared to severe PPH without AOC but thrombin/antithrombin complexes were not raised. FV was reduced on Western blot in AOC but not severe PPH without AOC (p<0.001) suggesting FV cleavage. Confocal microscopy showed similar clot structure between AOC and non-AOC samples but both groups differed from non-bleeding pregnant controls. These data suggest that in AOC an excess of plasmin cleaves fibrinogen and FV in the circulation causing a specific, pathognomonic depletion of coagulation factors. Fibrin(ogen) breakdown products have cofactor function for tissue plasminogen activator and these data are consistent with these breakdown products enhancing plasmin generation and potentially driving aberrant plasmin generation in AOC. These results have implications for the clinical management of coagulopathy during PPH.
Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis in adults with lower respiratory tract involvement: a retrospective study of the OrphaLung and GETIF networks
Authors: Ratsihorimanana Romy , Maitre Thomas , Dusselier Matthieu , Triet Ngo Minh , Mangiapan Gilles , Fournier Clément , Bourdin Arnaud , Jouneau Stephane , Matar Maroun , Favrolt Nicolas , Egenod Thomas , Michel Vergnon Jean , Wermert Delphine , François Boitiaux Jean , Borie Raphael , Caliandro Raffaele , Freynet Olivia , Gounant Valérie , Mankikian Julie , Camuset Juliette , Elabbadi Alexandre , Parrot Antoine , Calvani Julien , Fortin Marc , Guibert Nicolas , Cottin Vincent , Cadranel Jacques
Published: February 2025

Background

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a rare respiratory disease primarily caused by chronic human papillomavirus (HPV) infection of serotypes 6 and 11. It manifests in childhood (juvenile-onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis [JoRRP]) and adulthood (adult-onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis [AoRRP]), leading to progressive obstruction by papillomas in the upper airway and occasionally in the lower respiratory tract (LRT), including the lungs, with a potential for malignant transformation. This study aimed to delineate the characteristics of JoRRP and AoRRP with LRT involvement in adulthood.

Methods

A multicenter French-speaking cohort study was conducted, coupled with a comprehensive literature review of clinical, histological, therapeutic, and prognostic features associated with RRP-LRT.

Results

Among the 122 with LRT involvement with LRT involvement analyzed, 55 (45%) had JoRRP and 67 (55%) had AoRRP. The mean age at diagnosis was 4 years for JoRRP and 54 years for AoRRP. Ear, nose, and throat involvement was observed in all JoRRP cases and in 34 AoRRP cases (51%). Lung involvement occurred in 47 JoRRP cases (85%) and in ten AoRRP cases (15%). Malignant transformation to squamous cell carcinoma in the trachea (n=6) or lung (n=36) was observed in 42 patients (34%). Factors associated with lung involvement included JoRRP, repeated debulking, and malignant transformation; the only factor associated with malignant transformation was lung involvement. Overall mortality was 16%, with JoRRP, lung involvement, and malignant transformation identified as risk factors for death.

Conclusion

This study highlights the prevalence of lung involvement and malignant transformation in RRP with LRT and advocates for targeted screening measures and preventive therapeutic strategies.
SARS-CoV-2 spike treatment and transfection impairs airway epithelial repair
Authors: Guo Tony , Singhera Gurpreet , Vaghri Jasmine Memar , Liang Wan Yi , Leung Janice M , Dorscheid Del
Published: February 2025

The airway epithelium serves as a physical and immune barrier against inhaled insults. This tissue is susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection and following injury, the airway epithelium undergoes repair to restore barrier function. Though components of SARS-CoV-2, such as the spike glycoprotein essential in viral entry, have been shown to alter biological functions in various tissues, it is unclear how SARS-CoV-2 can impact airway epithelial functions, such as wound repair.

In this study, 16HBE14o- epithelial monolayer cultures were treated with recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein S1 subunit at 4 μg·mL−1or transfected with a plasmid expressing full-length spike glycoprotein. Secreted inflammatory mediators, markers of proliferation and cell-cycle arrest, culture proliferation, and wound closure measurements following mechanical injury were assessed.

Spike treatment and transfection altered measures of culture proliferation and markers of proliferation and cell-cycle arrest. Secreted interleukin-6 but not interleukin-8 were significantly higher with spike S1 treatment, while both were significantly elevated with spike transfection. Wound closure was inhibited by both spike treatment and transfection, with significant reductions compared to control.

SARS-CoV-2 spike S1 treatment and transfection can alter measures of proliferation, inflammation, and impair wound closure of 16HBE14o- airway epithelial cells. These results highlight how components of SARS-CoV-2 can impair functions of the airway epithelium independent of viral replication.
Risk factors, molecular analysis, and treatment outcomes of amikacin-resistantMycobacterium aviumcomplex pulmonary disease
Authors: Kodama Tatsuya , Aono Akio , Fujiwara Keiji , Furuuchi Koji , Ito Masashi , Kamada Keisuke , Watanabe Fumiya , Chikamatsu Kinuyo , Igarashi Yuriko , Murase Yoshiro , Ogata Hideo , Shiraishi Yuji , Yoshiyama Takashi , Ohta Ken , Mitarai Satoshi , Morimoto Kozo
Published: February 2025

Although the incidence of AMK-resistant MAC-PD is suspected to have increased, limited data are available on AMK-resistant MAC-PD. This study evaluated the risk factors associated with AMK resistance, the molecular characteristics of the AMK-resistant isolates, and treatment outcomes of the patients with AMK-resistant MAC-PD. This retrospective case-control study included 73 patients with severe and refractory MAC-PD who had a history of aminoglycoside (AMG) drug use. Patients with initial and repeat AMK minimum inhibitory concentration≥64 μg·mL−1were classified as AMK resistance. To clarify the clinical outcomes and prognosis, an observational study was conducted. Twenty-one patients with AMK resistance (AMK resistance group) and 52 controls (AMK susceptible group) were analyzed. In all cases of AMK resistance where previous isolates were available, the AMK MICs were elevated compared to the levels prior to AMG administration. In the multivariate analysis of risk factors, clarithromycin resistance (odds ratio [OR]: 6.31; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.68–23.7 and >12 months of total duration of AMG use (OR: 4.69; 95% CI: 1.09–20.2) were identified as independent risk factors for AMK resistance. Twelve out of 21 AMK-resistant isolates (57%) were found to have mutations in therrsregion. There was a significant difference between the AMK-resistant and AMK-susceptible groups in terms of worsening outcomes, including the introduction of home oxygen therapy (38%versus12%; p=0.01) and 3-year mortality (33%versus10%; p=0.02). Better management strategies for patients with severe and refractory MAC-PD are crucial. This includes placing a strong emphasis on preventing AMK resistance.
Association of inactive pulmonary tuberculosis lesions with the risk of active disease development in the elderly: a population-based retrospective study
Authors: Shen Lingyu , Zhang Yu , Xin Henan , Cao Xuefang , Du Jiang , Di Yuanzhi , Huang Juanjuan , He Yijun , Feng Boxuan , Li Zihan , Liang Jianguo , Wang Wei , Peng Ying , Hao Xiaogang , Fang Chunfu , Xu Bingjun , Wang Xiaomeng , Chen Bin , Wang Zhen , Wang Fei , Zhu Ping , Gao Lei
Published: February 2025

Individuals with inactive pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) lesions were found to be high-risk populations for active PTB development. This retrospective study evaluated the association between different types of inactive PTB lesions and the development of active PTB aiming to provide epidemiological evidence for developing precise intervention strategies. Based on a population-based PTB active case-finding project conducted on the elderly, a total of 154 028 subjects who had participated in the 2020 baseline survey was included in current analysis. During the 2-year follow-up, 462 cases developed microbiologically confirmed active PTB with an overall incidence rate of 0.19 per 100 person-years. Among the study population, 15 037 (9.76%) showed chest X-ray radiography (CXR) abnormalities suggestive of inactive PTB, which was found to be independently associated with an increased risk of active PTB with an adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of 6.00 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.85–7.43) as compared to normal CXR. Such a relation was consistently observed for inactive lesions including fibrosis, calcification, pleural thickening, and nodule lesions with aHRs ranging from 2.94 to 6.55. Inactive PTB lesions alone or history of anti-TB treatment alone were independently associated with the risk of active PTB with aHRs of 6.96 (95% CI: 5.59–8.67) and 7.67 (95% CI: 4.26–13.78), respectively. A combined effect between inactive PTB lesions and with history of anti-tuberculosis treatment was found with an aHR of 10.50 (95% CI: 5.93–18.52). Overall, individuals with inactive PTB lesions, regardless of lesion types and history of anti-TB treatment, are at increased risk of developing active PTB and deserve interventions for TB control.
Monitoring and evaluation in disaster management courses: a scoping review
Authors: Voicescu George Teo , Lamine Hamdi , Loșonți Andra Elena , Lupan-Mureșan Eugenia Maria , Luka Sonia , Ulerio José García , Ragazzoni Luca , Corte Francesco Della , Caviglia Marta
Published: February 2025

Background

Owing to the infrequent emergence of disasters and the challenges associated with their management, responders need appropriate training beyond doubt. Ensuring the highest standard of disaster management (DM) training is of paramount importance for high-quality DM. However, the literature concerning DM training monitoring and evaluation (M&E) is scarce. The primary objective of this review was to document the existing M&E strategies for DM training.

Methods

The authors conducted a systematic literature search on June 28, 2023, on the PubMed, Scopus, Embase and Cochrane databases, including studies that described the learning objectives and the M&E strategy of DM training. The authors categorized the learning objectives and the evaluation methodology according to the revised Bloom’s Taxonomy and the New World Kirkpatrick model, respectively.

Results

Fifty-seven articles met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, described DM training targeting healthcare and non-healthcare professionals and employed diverse teaching methods and topics. Five studies reported using monitoring, while all reported an evaluation methodology. The learning objectives focused on students’ ability to “Remember” (N = 50) and “Apply”(N = 44). The evaluations centred around the second level of the New World Kirkpatrick model (N = 57), with only 7 articles investigating the third level. Sixteen authors used existing, validated M&E frameworks. When corelating the learning objectives with the evaluation methodology, the authors observed a mismatch, as skills like the students’ ability to “Apply” and “Create” were evaluated using the second level of the New World Kirkpatrick model.

Conclusions

The great heterogeneity in DM training highlights the particularity of these educational programs. The lack of monitoring and the low usage of existing M&E frameworks highlighted a lack of awareness and standardization in the field. The mismatch between the learning objectives and the evaluation process led to deceptive evaluations, which may have resulted in graduates being deemed ready to deploy despite facing hardships in real-world settings, potentially leading to unprepared responders.
Helicobacter pylori SlyD stabilizes TPT1 via hnRNPK and enhances OCT1-mediated CDX2 transcriptional activation to drive gastric intestinal metaplasia
Authors: Zheng Shuwen , Wang Yingying , Ni Chuxuan , Guo Rui , Qiu Xunan , Chen Jijun , Wang Lu , Sun Xiaohu , Chen Moye , Liu Yunen , Yuan Yuan , Gong Yuehua
Published: February 2025

Background

Gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM) represents an important precancerous lesion in intestinal-type gastric cancer, triggered by persistent Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. In a previous study, we unveiled SlyD as a novel virulence factor of H. pylori, establishing its role in GIM induction through TPT1. However, the underlying mechanism remains undetermined.

Methods

Gastric epithelial cells were stimulated with H. pylori 26695, a SlyD inactivated mutant (ΔSlyD), and purified HpSlyD protein, respectively. Real-time qPCR and western blot were subsequently used to assess the expression levels of hnRNPK, TPT1, OCT1, and GIM markers. RNA sequencing was employed to identify differentially expressed genes associated with H. pylori SlyD infection. Protein stability was evaluated using cycloheximide. Molecular interactions were investigated through co-immunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and dual-luciferase reporter assays. Additionally, molecular docking was utilized to predict TPT1 inhibitors. Immunohistochemistry staining was conducted to validate hnRNPK, TPT1, OCT1, and CDX2 expression in gastric tissue samples from both human and Mongolian gerbils.

Results

H. pylori SlyD upregulates TPT1 and induces the expression of GIM markers through hnRNPK. The interaction between hnRNPK and TPT1 enhances TPT1 protein stability, with H. pylori SlyD intensifying this association. TPT1 promotes the expression of GIM markers mediated via OCT1, which binds to CDX2 promoter region, thereby modulating its transcriptional activity. Dihydroartemisinin has the potential to target TPT1, inhibiting the H. pylori SlyD-induced expression of GIM markers.

Conclusions

In vitro and in vivo experiments verified that H. pylori SlyD enhances TPT1 stability through hnRNPK, leading to OCT1-mediated transcriptional activation of CDX2 and the initiation of the GIM process. Our study offers novel perspectives on the pathogenesis of H. pylori-related gastric precancerous conditions.
Epitope mapping of recombinant Salmonella enterica serotype Heidelberg flagellar hook-associated protein by in silico and in vivo approaches
Authors: Yeh Hung-Yueh
Published: February 2025

Background

Salmonella is a leading cause of human acute bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide. Outbreaks of human salmonellosis have often been associated with consumption of contaminated poultry products. Various strategies have been explored to control this microorganism during poultry production and processing. Vaccination of broiler chickens is regarded as one of the effectives means to control this microorganism. The aim of the present study was to compare the epitope identification in the Salmonella enterica serotype Heidelberg FlgK protein by in silico prediction and in vivo experiment with mass spectrometry in association with immunoprecipitation proteomics.

Results

The Salmonella serotype Heidelberg FlgK protein contains 553 amino acids with a molecular mass of 61 kDa. This protein is conserved among Salmonella serotype Heidelberg isolates. The results show that both approaches identified three common shared consensus peptide epitope sequences at the positions of 77–95, 243–255 and 358–373 in the Salmonella serotype Heidelberg FlgK protein.

Conclusions

These findings provide a rational for further evaluation of these shared linear epitopes in vaccine development to cover the chicken population.
Efficient biosynthesis of β-caryophyllene by engineered Yarrowia lipolytica
Authors: Park Young-Kyoung , Studena Lucie , Hapeta Piotr , Haddouche Ramdane , Bell David J. , Torres-Montero Pablo , Martinez Jose Luis , Nicaud Jean-Marc , Botes Adriana , Ledesma-Amaro Rodrigo
Published: February 2025

Background

β-Caryophyllene, a sesquiterpenoid, holds considerable potential in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, cosmetic, and chemical industries. In order to overcome the limitation of β-caryophyllene production by the extraction from plants or chemical synthesis, we aimed the microbial production of β-caryophyllene in non-conventional yeast Yarrowia lipolytica in this study.

Results

Two genes, tHMG1 from S. cerevisiae to boost the mevalonate pool and QHS1 from Artemisia annua, were expressed under different promoters and copy numbers in Y. lipolytica. The co-expression of 8UAS pEYK1-QHS1 and pTEF-tHMG1 in the obese strain yielded 165.4 mg/L and 201.5 mg/L of β-caryophyllene in single and double copies, respectively. Employing the same combination of promoters and genes in wild-type-based strain with two copies resulted in a 1.36-fold increase in β-caryophyllene. The introduction of an additional three copies of 8UAS pEYK1-tHMG1 further augmented the β-caryophyllene, reaching 318.5 mg/L in flask fermentation. To maximize the production titer, we optimized the carbon source ratio between glucose and erythritol as well as fermentation condition that led to 798.1 mg/L of β-caryophyllene.

Conclusions

A biosynthetic pathway of β-caryophyllene was firstly investigated in Y. lipolytica in this study. Through the modulation of key enzyme expression, we successfully demonstrated an improvement in β-caryophyllene production. This strategy suggests its potential extension to studies involving the microbial production of various industrially relevant terpenes.
Using the WHO building blocks to examine cross-border public health surveillance in MENA
Authors: Buback Laura , Martin Shayanne , Pardo Esbeydy , Massoud Farah , Formigo Jesus , Bonyani Atousa , Farag Noha H. , Almayahi Zayid K. , Ishii Kenta , Welty Susie , Schneider Dana
Published: February 2025

The introduction of the Sustainable Development Goals by the United Nations has set a global target for achieving Universal Health Coverage, requiring resilient health systems capable of addressing public health emergencies and ensuring health security. Public health surveillance, crucial for detecting and responding to infectious disease outbreaks, is key to building health system resilience. Due to the high levels of mobility and political instability in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, unique challenges arise in cross-border health surveillance. This review aims to highlight the importance of cross-border public health surveillance in strengthening health systems across MENA to achieve equitable health outcomes.

A mixed-methods approach was utilized, combining a systematic literature review with semi-structured in-depth interviews (IDIs) involving 28 stakeholders from seven MENA countries. The literature review adhered to PRISMA guidelines, while the IDIs provided qualitative insights into current surveillance practices and challenges. Findings from the literature review and IDIs were triangulated and analyzed using the WHO Health Systems Strengthening (HSS) Building Blocks Framework to identify key challenges and recommendations for improving cross-border surveillance.

Results indicate that existing cross-border surveillance systems in MENA face challenges in data collection, analysis, and sharing, with disparities across countries based on income levels and political contexts. Key challenges include delayed and incomplete data sharing, insufficient funding across sectors, inadequate training, inconsistent data definitions, and limited integration of health data for mobile populations. Recommendations emphasize strengthened governance and leadership to facilitate regional cooperation and information sharing, sustainable financing for implementing a One Health approach, utilizing innovative information systems, workforce development to enhance data collection and analysis, and secure supply chains for medicines and vaccines and equitable service delivery for all mobile populations.

In conclusion, the WHO HSS Building Block Framework provides a comprehensive approach to assessing and improving cross-border public health surveillance and enhancing health security and equity in MENA. Strengthening cross-border surveillance systems may help MENA countries meet IHR requirements, achieve greater health security, and advance health equity among all types of mobile populations. Despite limitations, the study offers critical insights for improving cross-border surveillance strategies in the region.
Is it beneficial to use lateral protective crossing K-wires during medial open wedge high tibial osteotomy? A retrospective comparative study
Authors: Mahmoud Hossam Fathi , Farhan Ahmed Hatem , Abdelwahab Ahmed Mohamed , Elshaer Ahmed Mohamed , Mahmoud Mahmoud Abdo , Fahmy Fahmy Samir
Published: February 2025

Background

An iatrogenic lateral hinge fracture is a common intraoperative problem that may occur during medial open wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO). This study aims to assess the significance of using additional crossing lateral K-wires and their advantage in protecting the lateral hinge during MOWHTO procedures.

Methods

The data of patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria who underwent MOWHTO between May 2021 and August 2022 were retrospectively evaluated. One group had additional lateral hinge crossing K-wires (+ MOWHTO group), while the other did not (-MOWHTO group). Both groups were assessed for rate of intraoperative lateral hinge fractures, knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score − 12 (KOOS-12), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), time of union, and time to return to work. The outcomes were compared using the independent T-test for continuous variables and the Fisher Exact test for nominal variables. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant for both tests.

Results

The study included forty-eight patients; twenty-four in each treatment group. The mean follow-up durations were 30.5 ± 3.6 months for + MOWHTO and 31.6 ± 3.2 months for –MOWHTO (p = 0.26). There was no statistically significant difference regarding mean age, sex, KOOS-12, MPTA, and time of surgery between both groups. The + MOWHTO group had a faster time of union (p = 0.001), an earlier return to work (p = 0.002), and a lower rate of intraoperative lateral hinge fractures (p = 0.04).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that using additional crossing lateral K-wires during MOWHTO had a beneficial effect on reducing the rate of iatrogenic lateral hinge fractures, with a faster time of union, and an early return to work. The KOOS-12, MPTA, and mean operative time did not reveal significant differences between treatment groups.

Level of evidence

retrospective cohort comparative study; level III.
Sorghum surpasses wheat as a feed grain for broiler chickens following dietary crude protein reductions
Authors: Wang Mengzhu , Toghyani Mehdi , Macelline Shemil P. , Lemme Andreas , Holmes Andrew J. , Selle Peter H. , Liu Sonia Y.
Published: February 2025

Background

Wheat and, to a lesser extent, sorghum are the dominant feed grains in Australian chicken-meat production. There is considerable local interest in the development of reduced-crude protein (CP) broiler diets in part because this would decrease the need to import soybean meal into the country. Maize is rarely included in Australian broiler diets, but birds appear better able to accommodate dietary CP reductions with maize than with wheat-based diets. Sorghum is more similar to maize than wheat and for this reason wheat- and sorghum-based diets, with standard and reduced-CP concentrations, were evaluated in broiler chickens in a direct comparison.

Results

Reducing dietary CP from 205 to 175 g/kg CP did not statistically influence weight gain and FCR in broilers offered sorghum-based diets from 14 to 35 d post-hatch. In contrast, the 30 g/kg CP reduction compromised weight gain by 10.1% (1,964 versus 2,187 g/bird) and FCR by 9.68% (1.575 versus 1.436), in broilers offered wheat-based diets. Consequently, treatment interactions (P < 0.001) were observed for dietary CP levels grain type for both weight gain and FCR. Another treatment interaction (P < 0.001) was observed for starch digestibility coefficients in the distal jejunum. Birds offered 205 g/kg CP, wheat-based diets had superior starch digestibility by 11.6% (0.914 versus 0.819), but sorghum supported superior starch digestibility by 9.70% (0.837 versus 0.763) in the context of 175 g/kg CP diets.

Conclusions

Under the condition of thid study, broiler chickens offered sorghum-based diets had a greater capacity to accommodate dietary CP reductions than their counterparts offered wheat-based diets. This study confirmed that wheat-based diets are not conducive to CP reductions, but the causal factors have yet to be identified precisely.
An automated adaptive trading system for enhanced performance of emerging market portfolios
Authors: Tudor Cristiana , Sova Robert
Published: February 2025

One of the most notable developments in the asset management industry in recent decades has been the growth of algorithmic trading. At the same time, significant structural changes in the industry have occurred, with passive investing gaining momentum. The intersection of these two major trends poses special challenges during market downturns, magnifying portfolio losses and leading to significant outflows. Emerging market (EM) investors have seen two major downturn events in the 2020s, namely the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, both of which have strongly affected EM portfolios’ risk-return profiles and increased their correlations with their developed market counterparts, eliminating much or all of EMs’ diversification benefits. This has led to major capital outflows from EM countries, further destabilizing these fragile economies. Against this backdrop, we argue that capital need not exit these riskier markets during periods of turmoil and support this by developing a second-generation Automated Adaptive Trading System (AATS) back-tested on a relevant, diversified EM portfolio that tracks the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Emerging Markets Index during a volatile period characterized by negative returns, high risk, and a high correlation with global markets for the buy-and-hold EM portfolio. The system incorporates an Autoregressive Moving Average-Generalized AutoRegressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity model that offers an interpretability advantage over machine-learning methods. The main strength of the AATS is its ability to allow the embedded hybrid forecasting model to adapt to the changing environments that characterize EMs. This is done by implementing a recursive window technique and running a user-specified fitness function to dynamically optimize the mean equation parameters throughout the lead time. Back-testing several configurations of the flexible AATS consistently reveals its superiority while assuring the robustness of the results. We conclude that with the right investment tools, EMs continue to offer compelling opportunities that should not be overlooked. The novel AATS proposed in this study is such a tool, providing active EM investors with substantial value-added through its ability to generate abnormal returns, and can help to enhance the resilience of EMs by mitigating the cost of crises for those countries.
Refining the Make My Day stroke prevention intervention for primary healthcare through co-creation with stakeholders
Authors: Johnsson Cecilia , Jakobsson Elin , Hagströmer Maria , Guidetti Susanne , Patomella Ann-Helen , Asaba Eric
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To describe and explore the refinement of a stroke prevention intervention and conditions for implementation in primary healthcare by utilising co-creation with stakeholders.

Method

This was an iterative co-creation process of five collaborative workshops engaging stakeholders; healthcare professionals (HP), and persons at risk for stroke, who participated in or delivered a stroke prevention intervention in primary healthcare.

Results

Through co-creation with stakeholders key components for revision were identified in the Make My Day intervention. The overall pedagogics, which was recognised as overarching, and three additional key components: the HP education, the intervention sessions, and the digital tool were identified. Moreover, the co-creation process rendered refinements of the prevention program addressing the key components representing stakeholder experiences. Refinements encompass delivering and receiving the Make My Day intervention, material ownership, and the interprofessional team.

Conclusions

The co-creation process revealed the importance of applying a strategic pedagogic approach in a complex intervention. The process underscored the need to augment a sense of material ownership and to improve interprofessional collaboration in primary healthcare, ultimately enhancing the intervention experience and facilitating the change process for individuals at risk of stroke. Utelising a co-creation process in this current intervention allowed for creation of refinements to the intervention optimising conditions for implementation.
A rare case of brain hemorrhage secondary to venous angioma in the right parietal lobe: case report and literature review
Authors: Altamirano Juan Manuel , Salinas-Barboza Karla , Lopez-Ortiz Eduardo , Fernandez-Gutiérrez Luis Miguel Alfonso
Published: February 2025

Background

Venous angiomas, also known as developmental venous anomalies (DVAs), are congenital vascular malformations that typically do not cause neurological symptoms. However, in rare cases, they can present with headaches, seizures, and even hemorrhages. This report highlights a rare case of a brain hemorrhage secondary to a venous angioma in the right parietal lobe without the common association with a cavernoma.

Case presentation

A 41-year-old woman experienced a sudden and severe headache, dizziness, left-sided hemihypoesthesia followed by seizures. Initial brain CT scans and MRI revealed a right parietal lobe bleed with a nodular hyperintense lesion on T1 and T2 sequences with lobulated borders and a hemosiderin halo on gradient echo sequences, initially suspected to be a cavernoma. Subsequently, the lesion was surgically resected using neuronavigation. The neuropathologic evaluation confirmed a venous angioma. Postoperatively, the patient was managed with antiepileptic medication and remained with left-sided hemihypoesthesia. Follow-up imaging showed stable residual gliosis and no active vascular anomalies.

Conclusions

This case underscores the importance of thorough pathological assessment and advanced imaging in accurately diagnosing DVAs. While typically benign, DVAs can present significant clinical challenges when symptomatic. This case is particularly notable for the absence of an associated cavernoma, which is more commonly seen and often responsible for hemorrhagic presentations.
Metabolites induced by citrus tristeza virus and ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ influence the feeding behavior of Diaphorina citri: an electrical penetration graph and LC–MS/MS study
Authors: Zhang Jingtian , Xia Fengchun , Li Yuhe , Liu Yangyang , Wu Fengnian , Deng Xiaoling , Xu Meirong
Published: February 2025

Citrus Huanglongbing and Citrus tristeza are two diseases that affect the citrus industry worldwide. The pathogens causing these diseases are the phloem-limited bacteria ‘Candidatus Liberibacter spp.’ (mainly Ca. L. asiaticus, CLas) and citrus tristeza virus (CTV). We recently found that both CLas and CTV could be acquired and retained by the Asian citrus psyllid Diaphorina citri. However, the mechanism through which CLas and CTV interact with the insect vectors and plant hosts has not been defined. In this study, an electrical penetration graph was used to study the feeding behavior of D. citri adults on four groups of Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. Hongjü plants: healthy, CLas-infected, CTV-infected, and CTV-CLas coinfected plants. Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) was applied to analyze the metabolites of the four groups of plants. The combined results are as follows: (1) The lowest number of metabolites were enriched in CTV-infected plants, which hardly influenced the feeding behavior of D. citri, suggesting that mild CTV strain (CT31) infection caused limited disorders in citrus plants compared with CLas infection; (2) Increased levels of L-arabinose and kaempferol in CTV-infected and CLas-CTV coinfected plants were suggested to contribute to increased penetration time during feeding of D. citri. CLas-infection increases the difficulty of finding appropriate feeding sites by the vector and results in xylem feeding for certain duration; (3) A significant reduction in α-linolenic acid metabolism in CLas-infected plants was found to be related to methyl jasmonate signaling, which induced resistance to D. citri and increased the duration of salivation. This effect was reversed by coinfection with CTV and was consistent with the phloem structure and carbohydrate accumulation alteration; (4) Stress response-associated 2'-hydroxygenistein and sakuranetin were highly upregulated flavonoid in CTV-CLas coinfected plants. This combinged with the anatomical alterations might interfere with D. citri feeding in the citrus phloem, as reflected by the time reduction of sap-sucking there. These findings will provide new insights into the interactions between CTV and CLas in citrus and the insect vector D. citri that transmiting these pathogens.
Outcomes of total hip replacement in adults with septic arthritis of the native hip joint: A systematic review
Authors: Cheong Teddy , Selvakumar Surya Varma , Goh Ryan Kwang Jin , Moo Ing How
Published: February 2025

Background

Septic arthritis is a debilitating condition that results in joint destruction and irreversible loss of joint function. Surgical treatment options include arthroscopy, resection arthroplasty, and total hip replacement (THR). Current literature on the treatment of septic arthritis of various joints includes periprosthetic or native joints. However, to our knowledge, a consolidated review that focuses solely on THR outcomes in a previously infected native hip is still lacking. This systematic review, for the first time, examined the clinical outcomes of THR, specifically in adults with septic arthritis of the native hip joint.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), SCOPUS, Cochrane Library, grey literature, and bibliographic references were searched from inception to October 2023. Only case series or cohort studies published within the last 20 years assessing the outcomes of THR for native hip septic arthritis were included. Literature retrieval and data extraction were conducted by three independent reviewers. Re-infection rate and various functional outcomes, measured in terms of the Harris Hip Score (HHS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Merle D'Aubigne and Postel (MAP), Western Ontario, McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) Short Form 12-Item (SF-12) scores, were analyzed. Range of motion (ROM) and limb length discrepancy (LLD) were also examined.

Results

Against the relevant criteria, seven studies (six case series, one cohort study) involving 1243 patients were included. The patients aged from 18 to 78 years old. The reinfection rate ranged from 0 to 22.8%, with a mean rate of 19.6%. With regards to functional outcomes, the mean increase in HHS was from 39.5 to 48.92 and the increase in MAP ranged from 7.3 to 10.9. Improvement in LLD ranged from 2.28 to 3.52 cm, with all studies reporting < 1 cm of LLD postoperatively.

Conclusion

THR, both single and two-staged, is an effective treatment option for septic arthritis of the native hip joint that and yields good functional outcomes and acceptable reinfection rates. However, more prospective and randomized trials are needed to establish clear protocols on antibiotic regimes, clinical criteria clearance, and optimal time from infection to joint replacement.
Artificial intelligence v/s human intelligence: a relationship between digitalization and international trade
Authors: Aggarwal Vani , Karwasra Nidhi
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on society has become a hot topic of discussion as it is being incorporated into academics and other fields. With the growing adoption of AI, this article focuses on a critical comparison between AI-driven insights and human intelligence in understanding complex issues. Specifically, it explores whether AI alone can effectively shape research agendas on the intersection of digitalization and international trade, or if human expertise remains indispensable.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a comparative framework, comparing AI-generated insights on digitalization and international trade (via ChatGPT) with key perspectives derived from a comprehensive review of human-generated academic literature.

Findings

The findings reveal that while AI can significantly enhance research efficiency and streamline access to information, it falls short of fully replacing human intelligence. AI proves inadequate in delivering in-depth and comprehensive evaluations, particularly in complex fields like the interplay between digitalization and international trade. The analysis underscores that while human intelligence remains sufficient for conducting rigorous research, AI serves as an efficient but ultimately insufficient tool for fully analysing the intricate dynamics of digitalization and trade.

Originality

This study uniquely investigates the comparative strengths and weaknesses of AI-generated versus human-generated insights, to evaluate the relationship between digitalization and international trade.
Sungai Batu Archaeological Complex (SBAC) in Kedah, Malaysia, as a sustainable heritage tourism product
Authors: Halim Mohd Hasfarisham Abd , Masnan Shyeh Sahibul Karamah , Saidin Mokhtar
Published: February 2025

Archaeological research at the Sungai Batu Archaeological Complex (SBAC) has revealed evidence of iron smelting workshops, river jetties, port management buildings, and ritual and Buddhist sites across an area of 4 km2. These features were developed into a heritage tourism product in the Kuala Muda district. To support heritage tourism, the data collected through field studies were processed into a 3-dimensional form via CorelDraw X7 (64-bit) and 3ds Max software. The Living Culture Gallery at the SBAC develops heritage tourism by applying digital technology such as VR, AR, hologram fans, and QR codes. Therefore, it directly contributes to the promotion of tourist sites and ensures their sustainability.
Impact of Funding Source on Long-Term Outcomes in Prostate Cancer: Analysis of a Large Public Database From Sao Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Maluf Fernando C. , de Oliveira Cintia S.K.S. , Ziegelmann Patrícia K.
Published: February 2025

PURPOSE

We investigated the impact of the funding source (public
v
private) on the overall survival (OS) of men with prostate cancer in Brazil.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed patients with prostate cancer from a large hospital registry from the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Patients age 50-99 years diagnosed with prostate acinar adenocarcinoma or adenocarcinoma not otherwise specified (NOS) between January 2014 and December 2017 were eligible. Demographic and clinical features were analyzed alongside the funding source. On the basis of clinical characteristics at diagnosis (lymph node status, distant metastasis, prostate-specific antigen [PSA], and Gleason score), patients were categorized into low-risk, intermediate-risk, high-risk, and metastatic groups.

RESULTS

Of 25,009 patients analyzed, 85% had a public funding source. These patients were slightly older, had greater proportion of adenocarcinoma NOS, and higher PSA levels and risk category. There was a significant difference in OS favoring patients with a private funding source (
P
< .0001). The estimated OS rates at 5 years were 76.2% (95% CI, 75.6 to 76.9) and 86.9% (95% CI, 85 to 88.7) for the public and private groups, respectively (
P
< .0001). The funding source was significantly associated with OS independent of age, educational level, and receipt of any treatment in the intermediate-risk (hazard ratio [HR], 2.28 [95% CI, 1.58 to 3.30];
P
< .001) and high-risk (HR, 1.36 [95% CI, 1.02 to 1.80];
P
= .04) groups, but not in the low-risk (HR, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.60 to 1.21];
P
= .38) or metastatic groups (HR, 0.84 [95% CI, 0.64 to 1.11];
P
= .23).

CONCLUSION

The worse OS observed for patients with prostate cancer with a public source of funding underscores the need for actions directed to improve the standards of public health care in Brazil.
Addressing the Oncologist Shortage in Latin America: Insights From a Survey of Medical Oncology Fellowship Programs
Authors: Zegarra-López Mauricio , Aranda-Gutierrez Alejandro , Muñoz Lozano Jose Felipe , Villarreal-Garza Cynthia
Published: February 2025

PURPOSE

Limited information exists about medical oncology fellowship programs in Latin America. Our study aimed to clarify unknowns, with the goal of identifying areas for improvement and potential expansion of fellowships.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixteen medical oncologists, each from a different Latin American country, were surveyed using an online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the collected variables.

RESULTS

In total, 232 fellowship programs exist in the surveyed nations, of which 444 medical oncologists graduate every year. Only Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and Peru have more than five active fellowship programs. Honduras and Nicaragua did not report any fellowship programs. These nations—along with Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Peru—depend on foreign education for the training of their medical oncologists. Only one of every 50 medical graduates pursues a career path in medical oncology, and a mere 2.2% of internal medicine residents transition into the field. Nearly half of the data were collected through word of mouth, as many countries lack official, publicly accessible sources for some of the variables studied.

CONCLUSION

This study serves as a pioneering effort that future research groups can build upon. We believe that addressing the shortage of medical oncologists in Latin America by increasing the number of locally trained fellows is the most effective way to swiftly and sustainably improve cancer outcomes.
Financial Distress Screening and Navigation in Pediatric Oncology Within the National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program
Authors: Robles Joanna M. , Dressler Emily V. , Kittel Carol , Nightingale Chandylen L. , Kyono Wade T. , Santacroce Sheila J. , Salsman John M. , Montez Kimberly , Prasad Pinki , Sugalski Aaron J. , Ohlsen Timothy J.D. , Zheng Daniel J. , Parsons Susan K. , Beauchemin Melissa P.
Published: February 2025

PURPOSE

Cancer-related financial hardship is associated with poor quality of life, risk of household material hardship, and psychological distress for families affected by pediatric cancer. Current processes on financial distress screening and financial navigation across the pediatric National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) network remain unknown.

METHODS

Financial distress screening and financial navigation services among NCORP practices were assessed using two survey items from the 2022 NCORP Landscape Assessment Survey. Practices answering yes to providing oncology care for pediatric patients were included. Univariable models were used to test associations between practice characteristics and financial screening and financial navigation.

RESULTS

Of the 53 NCORP practices serving pediatric patients with cancer that responded to the survey, 44 (83%) reported routinely conducting financial distress screening. Most of the practices reported that financial screening is completed by social workers (n = 40/44, 91%). One third of practices reported financial screening using a survey completed by patients/caregivers (n = 14/44, 32%). Almost all practices (n = 51/53, 96%) reported responding to financial needs through a social worker. One third of the practices reported having a cancer-specific financial navigator (n = 17/53, 32%) or a nondedicated (not cancer-specific) financial navigator (n = 19/53, 36%). Practices that served a proportion of new patients with cancer at or above the national average of Hispanic individuals in the United States were as likely to screen for financial distress as practices below the national average (odds ratio, 2.42 [95% CI, 0.45 to 13.03];
P
= .30).

CONCLUSION

Most pediatric NCORP practices report screening for financial distress. Fewer groups offer dedicated cancer-specific financial navigation, and practices vary. Further research is needed to explore the development and implementation of standardized financial distress measures and financial navigation interventions within pediatric cancer care.
Phase II Study of Copanlisib in Patients With PTEN Loss: Results From NCI-MATCH ECOG-ACRIN Trial (EAY131) Subprotocols Z1G and Z1H
Authors: Gouda Mohamed A. , Wei Zihan , Rodon Jordi , Davies Michael A. , Janku Filip , Gray Robert J. , Wang Victoria , McShane Lisa M. , Rubinstein Larry V. , Patton David R. , Williams P. Mickey , Hamilton Stanley R. , Liu Raymond , Bota Daniela A. , Swiecicki Paul L. , Buchschacher Gary L. , Tricoli James V. , Conley Barbara A. , Arteaga Carlos L. , Harris Lyndsay N. , O'Dwyer Peter J. , Chen Alice P. , Flaherty Keith T.
Published: February 2025

PURPOSE

Copanlisib, a pan-class phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor with activity predominantly against the PI3K-delta and PI3K-alpha isoforms, has shown promising results in preclinical cancer models with PTEN loss. Herein, we report the activity and safety data from the Z1G and Z1H subprotocols, which included patients with PTEN loss, of the National Cancer Institute Molecular Analysis for Therapy Choice trial.

METHODS

Patients with complete loss of cytoplasmic and nuclear PTEN as determined by immunohistochemistry regardless of
PTEN
mutation or deletion status were included in subprotocol Z1G, and patients with a deleterious mutation in the
PTEN
gene and retained expression of PTEN were included in subprotocol Z1H. Copanlisib was given intravenously over 1 hour at a dose of 60 mg on days 1, 8, and 15 in a 21-day-on and 7-day-off schedule in 28-day cycles. Patients continued treatment until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

RESULTS

Overall, 49 patients (20 patients in Z1G and 29 in Z1H) were included in the primary efficacy analyses. The objective response rates in both cohorts were 0% (Z1G; 90% CI, 0 to 13.9) and 3.4% (Z1H; 90% CI, 0.2 to 15.3), respectively. The median progression-free and overall survival durations were 1.8 months (90% CI, 1.4 to 3.9 months) and 13.7 months (90% CI, 6.8 to 18.3 months) for the Z1G cohort and 1.8 months (90% CI, 1.8 to 2.1 months) and 9.0 months (90% CI, 5.4 to 13.3 months) for the Z1H cohort, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our results do not support the antitumor activity of single-agent copanlisib in tumors with PTEN loss regardless of mutation or deletion status or
PTEN
deleterious mutations with PTEN expression.