bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-term Outcomes of Robotic Left Colectomy Reconstructed by Intracorporeal Overlap Anastomosis for Left-sided Colon Cancer: A Single-center Report from Japan
Authors: NITTA OSHIKATSU , ISHII MASATSUGU , TAKI MASATAKA , KUBO RYUTARO , HOSOKAWA NORIHIRO , ISHIBASHI TAKASHI
Published: November 2024

Background/Aim: Surgery for colon cancer requires covering a wide area and performing both tumor resection and precise lymph node dissection. Robotic left-sided colectomy (RLC) has not been thoroughly established due to the rarity of descending colon cancer. Therefore, we investigated 19 patients who underwent RLC for left-sided colon cancer. Patients and Methods: Between January 2023 and July 2024, a total of 19 consecutive patients underwent robotic radical left colectomy, which included mobilization of the splenic flexure. We compared the intra- and postoperative factors between left-sided colectomy with and without stent placement. Results: Total operative time (p=0.002), console time (p=0.001), and lymph node harvest time (p=0.001) were significantly different. The total operative time with stent placement was longer than that without stent placement (421.6 vs. 302.0, p<0.01). Console time with stent placement was longer than that without stent placement (315.0 vs. 202.0, p<0.01). More lymph nodes were harvested with stent placement than without (33.1 vs. 11.0, p<0.01). Conclusion: We did not experience any conversions to open surgery, and two Grade II complications were observed according to the Clavien–Dindo classification. Both total operative and console times were longer in cases with stent placement compared to those without. Nevertheless, we safely performed robotic left colectomy, regardless of whether the left-sided colon cancer was treated with stent placement, even in cases where the anastomosis overlapped naturally. Our postoperative outcomes showed no anastomosis-related complications. Therefore, RLC reconstruction using an intracorporeal overlap anastomosis is feasible for left-sided colon cancer, both in terms of intraoperative and postoperative outcomes.
Risk Classification of Patients With Advanced Urothelial Carcinoma Treated With Enfortumab Vedotin
Authors: ISHIKAWA GAKU , MATSUSHITA YUTO , KITAGAWA YUICHI , UCHIYAMA ASUKA , OISHI YUYA , TANAKA HIROKI , WATANABE SHINYA , SUZUKI EITO , WATANABE SHUNSUKE , WATANABE KYOHEI , WATANABE HIROMITSU , TAMURA KEITA , MOTOYAMA DAISUKE , MATSUMOTO RIKIYA , ITO TOSHIKI , NAGATA MASAO , UNNO TOSHIYUKI , FURUSE HIROSHI , MIZUNO TAKUJI , OTSUKA ATSUSHI
Published: November 2024

Background/Aim: Enfortumab Vedotin (EV) is a widely used antibody-drug conjugate for patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma (UC) who have previously been treated with platinum-based chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, limited information is currently available on prognostic factors and risk classification. Therefore, the present study attempted to identify clinical factors that predict outcomes in patients with advanced UC treated with EV and to develop a novel risk classification model. Patients and Methods: We conducted a multicenter retrospective study including patients with advanced UC treated with EV. Oncological outcomes were assessed using progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), and prognostic factors for PFS and OS were investigated. We then examined the usefulness of risk classification based on the prognostic factors identified. Results: Median PFS and OS were 7.1 and 16.3 months, respectively. High C-reactive protein levels (CRP level ≥0.5 mg/dl) and hypercalcemia (corrected calcium level >10.2 mg/dl) were identified as prognostic factors for PFS (p=0.012 and p=0.003, respectively) and OS (p=0.035 and p<0.001, respectively). We then divided patients into three risk groups: no prognostic factors group, one prognostic factor group, and two prognostic factors group. Significant differences were observed in PFS and OS among the three groups (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively) and c-indices were 0.766 for PFS and 0.800 for OS. Conclusion: The risk classification using CRP and hypercalcemia is useful for predicting the outcomes of patients with advanced UC treated with EV.
Prediction of Treatment Response Based on Nutritional Status and Tumor Immunity in Oropharyngeal Cancer Patients Treated With Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: KITAGAWA MIO , KAGUCHI JUNO , SOMEYA MASANORI , FUKUSHIMA YUKI , HASEGAWA TOMOKAZU , TSUCHIYA TAKAAKI , GOCHO TOSHIO , MAFUNE SHOH , IKEUCHI YUTARO , OKUDA RYU , OHGURO ATSUYA , KAMIYAMA RYO , ASHINA AYATO , TOSHIMA YUKA , HIROHASHI YOSHIHIKO , TORIGOE TOSHIHIKO , SAKATA KOH-ICHI
Published: November 2024

Background/Aim: Radiotherapy (RT) for advanced oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) is effective, especially when combined with chemotherapy (CRT). However, its success can vary depending on factors, such as tumor stage, HPV infection (p16 status), and the patient’s nutritional and immune status. This study examined the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score and tumor immunity as predictive factors for treatment outcomes in OPC, aiming to develop a personalized risk score. Patients and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 84 patients with OPC treated with definitive RT or CRT, and survival outcomes were compared based on various factors, including BMI, CONUT score, CD8 expression, and HLA class II expression. Results: We observed better overall survival (OS) rates in CD8-positive patients and those with higher HLA class II expression. The univariate analysis identified stage, p16 status, BMI, CONUT score, and CD8 expression as significantly associated with OS. In multivariate analysis, stage, BMI, and CONUT score remained significant predictors of OS. A risk scoring system was developed based on stage, p16 status, BMI, CONUT score, and CD8 expression. Patients were categorized into low-risk and high-risk groups, with significantly better survival in the low-risk group. Conclusion: A combined risk score incorporating clinical, nutritional, and immune factors can improve the prediction of treatment outcomes for OPC patients. This risk stratification may enable personalized treatment plans and improve ΟS rates.
Effectiveness of Steerable Microcatheters During Transarterial Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: ISHIKAWA TORU , SATO RYO , NATSUI HIROKI , IWASAWA TAKAHIRO , OGAWA MASAHIRO , KOBAYASHI YUJI , SATO TOSHIFUMI , YOKOYAMA JUNJI , HONMA TERASU
Published: November 2024

Background/Aim: Although transarterial chemo-embolization (TACE) is a key treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), its effectiveness depends on the cannulation of the microcatheter tip into the feeding artery. Steerable microcatheters allow remote operation of the tip, enabling its insertion into feeding arteries otherwise difficult to reach. This study investigated the indications and effectiveness of steerable microcatheters in TACE for HCC. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively examined 22 patients with HCC who underwent TACE using steerable microcatheters at our Department between December 2014 and July 2024. Previous TACE administration, number of TACE sessions, and feeding artery disruption affecting TACE were examined. Results: Among the first TACE cases requiring steerable catheters, three demonstrated steep bifurcation of the celiac artery or superior mesenteric artery from the parent artery, two had sharp bends in the posterior segment, and four had the left hepatic artery bifurcating from the left gastric artery. All three procedures performed in the inferior phrenic artery required second TACE sessions. Steerable microcatheters were used in two patients during their eighth TACE session; both procedures involved selective cannulation of neovessels feeding from a new anastomotic branch to segment 4, following damage to the main feeding artery from repeated treatments. Conclusion: Steerable microcatheters were effective in reaching steep or strongly bending branches of the parent or feeding artery in the first TACE cases or neovessels and anastomotic branches in previous TACE cases. Studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to validate the use of steerable microcatheters for effective TACE.
Bilateral Parotid Gland Oncocytoma Mimicking Oropharyngeal Cancer Metastasis: A Case Report from a Radiation Oncologist’s Perspective
Authors: LEE SEOK HO , PARK WOORI , JUNG DONG HAE
Published: November 2024

Background/Aim: Parotid oncocytomas typically present as benign, unilateral, slow-growing, painless, and solitary masses that are histologically firm and multilobulated. They are often misdiagnosed as pleomorphic adenomas, hemangiomas, or other forms of oncocytosis. However, in our case, the parotid oncocytomas initially mimicked bilateral parotid gland metastasis of advanced oropharyngeal cancer. Here, we present a case of oropharyngeal cancer with bilateral parotid oncocytomas treated with chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). Case Report: We report the case of a 74-year-old man with a sore throat, neck pain, right earache, oropharyngeal cancer, and bilateral parotid gland oncocytoma. Head and neck computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed soft-tissue swelling in the right tonsillar fossa and several enlarged level II neck lymph nodes. MRI revealed enhancing masses in both parotid glands, initially suspected to be metastatic lymph nodes. A biopsy of the right palatine tonsil confirmed squamous cell carcinoma with human papilloma virus-16 positivity. A positron emission tomography scan was performed, and biopsy-proven malignant lesions were observed in the right tonsillar region with metastatic lymph nodes in the right and left neck. Focal hypermetabolism was observed in the parotid glands, suspected to be pathological lesions such as metastatic intra-parotid lymph node or Warthin’s tumor. An ultrasonography-guided biopsy of the left parotid gland confirmed an oncocytoma. Based on these results, the patient was scheduled for CCRT. After pathological confirmation of parotid oncocytoma, CCRT was administered, excluding the parotid glands within the radiotherapy field. Conclusion: This is a case of bilateral parotid gland oncocytoma mimicking oropharyngeal cancer.
Associação entre volume expiratório forçado e a relação cintura-quadril em escolares com sobrepeso e obesidade
Authors: Etges Schuster Vanessa , Möhlecke de Souza Marina , Santos de Mello Fabiana Rafaela , Dos Passos Vieira Luana , Da Rosa Djennifer Raquel , Breyer Figueiró Betina , Machado Cardoso Dannuey , Nunes Paiva Dulciane
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre o volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo da capacidade vital forçada (VEF1) e a relação cintura-quadril (RCQ) de escolares com sobrepeso e obesidade. Método: Estudo transversal que avaliou indivíduos de ambos os sexos de 7 a 17 anos, alocados de acordo com o índice de massa corporal (IMC) no Grupo Eutrófico (GE), Sobrepeso (GS) e Obesidade (GO). A função pulmonar foi avaliada por espirometria digital e a RCQ por meio de medida antropométrica. Resultado: Amostra (N=320; GE [n=140]; GS [n=88] e GO [n=92]) com média de idade de 11,51±2,74 anos e com RCQ de 0,78 [0,73 – 0,82] cm, 0,80 [0,76 – 0,83] cm e 0,85 [0,80 – 0,89] cm, respectivamente. Houve diferença significativa no VEF1 entre GO (2,20 L) e GE (2,71 L) (p= 0,037) e da RCQ entre GE (0,78 cm) e GO (0,85 cm) (p<0,001), bem como entre GS (0,80 cm) e GO (0,85 cm) (p<0,001). Houve associação significativa, inversa e moderada entre a RCQ e o VEF1 no GE (p<0,001; r= -0,448) e no GS (p<0,001; r= -0,421), enquanto no GO, houve associação significativa, inversa e fraca (p<0,002; r= -0,325). Conclusão: Escolares obesos apresentaram menor VEF1 em relação aos eutróficos, entretanto, ocorreu associação inversa entre tal volume pulmonar e a RCQ independente do peso corporal.
Análisis poblacional de donantes para subgrupos del antígeno "A" en la ciudad de Yopal, Casanare
Authors: Santamaría J. Astrid , Herrera G. Diego , Urbina R Johana , Vargas R. Ledmar Jovanny , García A Lorena , Martínez G Melissa
Published: November 2024

Objective: The study seeks to analyze in a population, the subgroups of the “A” antigen in donors in Yopal-Casanare in 2020. Materials and methods: It is a cross-sectional descriptive study, information was gathered through the blood bank database of the Hospital Regional de la Orinoquía (HORO) in donors from January to December 2020, accessing to immunohematological records. Results: A total of 3341 donors’ records were obtained, 600 of them were initially classified as A, and from these, 465 were subclassified as A1 equivalent to 77.88% and 135 as A2, that is, 22.61%. Conclusion: It was possible to identify the importance of determining the subgroup of blood group A donors, since sensitization may occur in patients that trigger adverse events in the future.
Presencia de serpientes venenosas en entornos comunitarios en San Antero, Córdoba, 2022
Authors: Manrique Llanten Oscar
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: Identificar la presencia de serpientes venenosas en entornos comunitarios en San Antero, Córdoba. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo aplicado a 382 habitantes de las zonas rural y urbana fueron indagados a través de encuestas especializadas sobre la presencia de serpientes en áreas antrópicas. Resultados: 75% de los encuestados reportaron haber observado serpientes en sus entornos. Las descripciones sugieren que especies de las familias Elapidae y Viperidae son las más prevalentes en la región de estudio, ya que el ~55% y ~45% de las observaciones se ajustaron (respectivamente) a los rasgos principales de ambas familias. Conclusiones: Las comunidades cumplen un papel importante en la identificación de especies de serpientes venenosas, siendo un punto de partida para la construcción de estrategias de educación y prevención para minimizar el impacto del accidente ofídico en la población.
GENOTYPING OF Plasmodium falciparum WITH Pfmsp1, Pfmsp2 AND Pfglurp IN THE SOUTH OF CÓRDOBA, COLOMBIA
Authors: Yasnot Acosta María Fernanda , Quintero P Gustavo Enrique , Velasco P María Camila , Rodríguez R Virginia Consuelo
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Plasmodium falciparum is a highly polymorphic parasite. This condition allows it to evade the immune response of the host, to disseminate drug resistance and to favor transmission. Objective. To know the polymorphism of Pfmsp-1, Pfmsp-2 and Pfglurp markers in patients with P. falciparum malaria in the endemic area of the state of CórdobaColombiaG. Materials and methods. Genomic DNA extraction and Nested polymerase chain reaction (Nested PCR) were used to genotype clinical strains of Plasmodium falciparum from the endemic area of the State of Córdoba, Colombia. Results. The most polymorphic allelic families were IC3D7 pertaining to Pfmsp2 and C-terminal repetitive region (R2) of GLURP, and the highest frequency is that of the MAD20 allele. Conclusion. This study shows that multiplicity of P. falciparum infection is low, reflecting a low malaria transmission intensity in the southern area of the State of Córdoba.
Diagnóstico molecular de SARS-CoV-2 en habitantes de cuatro municipios de Córdoba, Colombia, 2022
Authors: Loaiza1 Erica T , Sánchez Isaura P , Yassin Lina M , Tovar-Valle4 José F.
Published: November 2024

Objetivo. Evaluar la incidencia y prevalencia de la infección por SARS-CoV-2 en municipios aislados de Córdoba, Colombia, y desarrollar capacidades de diagnóstico mediante PCR en tiempo real más eficiente. Materiales y métodos. Estudio descriptivo transversal en cuatro municipios de Córdoba, utilizando muestras de hisopados nasofaríngeos/orofaríngeos y un kit de detección de PCR en tiempo real. Análisis estadístico para describir características de la población y determinar asociaciones. Resultados. Muestras de 18,079 personas se obtuvieron, principalmente en Sahagún. El 2,2% fue positivo para SARS-CoV-2. Cerca del 50% de los muestreados tenía entre 18 y 49 años, mayormente mujeres rurales y sin pertenencia étnica establecida. Conclusiones. El estudio proporciona información sobre incidencia y prevalencia de la infección por SARS-CoV-2 en municipios aislados de Córdoba, Colombia. Destaca la importancia de desarrollar capacidades de diagnóstico más eficientes. Hallazgos guiarán estrategias de control y prevención en estas áreas. Fundamentales herramientas de diagnóstico y vigilancia para enfrentar futuras pandemias.
Salud mental: Evolución del concepto
Authors: Amador Ahumada Concepci´ón
Published: November 2024

El concepto de salud mental como tal ha surgido desde mediados del pasado siglo XX; desde suconceptualización y uso en el sector se refería de manera indistinta tanto a estados de salud mentalcomo de enfermedad de la esfera mental.Ya en periodos más recientes se ha elaborado y difundido el concepto de salud mental “positiva”, elcual es más complejo en su interpretación ya que su uso implica la interpretación de tener bienestarmental, expresado en conductas como estabilidad emocional, calma psicológica e integraciónsocial, criterios que le permiten al sujeto con salud mental positiva enfrentar los momentos difícilesque se presentan en su vida cotidiana, alcanzando la felicidad entendida como bienestar subjetivo;entonces puede afirmarse que la salud mental positiva está presenta cuando el sujeto es conscientede las propias limitaciones, capacidades y afronta su día con positivismo, bajo la percepción detener dominio sobre la situaciones que se presentan en el entorno y cuando ante ciertas condicionesde naturaleza estresante las aborda sin la presencia de dificultades en el comportamiento, en lasemociones, es decir cuando posee las habilidades requeridas para mantener en equilibrio suvida psíquica, emocional, familiar y socio-afectiva en la cotidianidad está libre de trastornos o deenfermedades mentales.
Depresión, bienestar subjetivo y rendimiento académico en adolescentes escolarizados 2017
Authors: Torres V. Juan Antonio , Arango Paternina Carlos Mario
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: Analizar desde la psicología positiva la relación entre depresión y bienestar subjetivo con el rendimiento académico en adolescentes escolarizados de Planeta Rica. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio analítico, correlacional, y prospectivo, cuya muestra estuvo constituida por 799 adolescentes escolarizados. Resultados: La prevalencia de depresión moderada y grave fue de 25.9%. El 61,5% manifestó niveles altos de bienestar subjetivo. El 50.6% presentó una afluencia familiar baja. El promedio general de rendimiento académico fue básico (3.5), con un 15% de estudiantes con rendimiento académico alto. Se encontró relación estadística entre la depresión y el rendimiento académico, los estudiantes con depresión tienen un 70% más de probabilidad de presentar un rendimiento académico bajo. Conclusiones: La depresión, la afluencia y la estructura familiares están estrechamente involucrados con el rendimiento académico de los estudiantes, dichas variables pueden ser tenidas en cuenta para formular políticas de salud pública que redunden en el beneficio de los estudiantes adolescentes.
Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy for Reducing School Anxiety in Adolescents: Pilot Study
Authors: Beele Gesa , Liesong Paula , Bojanowski Sabine , Hildebrand Kristian , Weingart Malte , Asbrand Julia , Correll Christoph U , Morina Nexhmedin , Uhlhaas Peter J
Published: November 2024

Background

Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) is a promising treatment approach for anxiety disorders. However, while its efficacy has been demonstrated in adults, research on the efficacy of VRET in the treatment of adolescents with anxiety disorders is largely lacking.

Objective

A pilot study was carried out to test whether exposure to a virtual reality (VR) school environment elicits state anxiety and autonomic arousal in adolescents with school anxiety (diagnoses covering social anxiety disorder or specific phobia involving school contexts). In addition, we examined whether repeated VR exposure led to a reduction in this fear response, trait school anxiety, and social anxiety symptoms. Moreover, the relationship of presence, the subjective sense of “being there,” during VR exposure with anxiety measures and treatment response was examined.

Methods

In a pilot study, 10 adolescents with school anxiety (age range 14 to 17 years) participated in five VRET sessions. Self-reported state anxiety, heart rate, and presence during exposure, as well as trait school anxiety and social anxiety before and after treatment, were measured.

Results

The VR scenario induced state anxiety and autonomic arousal. After VRET, a significant reduction in state anxiety (η2=0.74) and social anxiety symptoms (d=0.82) as well as a trend toward a decrease in trait school anxiety were observed, while autonomic arousal did not change. In addition, presence during VR exposure was associated with state anxiety and treatment response.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate the feasibility and potential effectiveness of VRET as a treatment method for symptoms of school and social anxiety in adolescents.
Large Language Models May Help Patients Understand Peer-Reviewed Scientific Articles About Ophthalmology: Development and Usability Study
Authors: Kianian Reza , Sun Deyu , Rojas-Carabali William , Agrawal Rupesh , Tsui Edmund
Published: November 2024

Background

Adequate health literacy has been shown to be important for the general health of a population. To address this, it is recommended that patient-targeted medical information is written at a sixth-grade reading level. To make well-informed decisions about their health, patients may want to interact directly with peer-reviewed open access scientific articles. However, studies have shown that such text is often written with highly complex language above the levels that can be comprehended by the general population. Previously, we have published on the use of large language models (LLMs) in easing the readability of patient-targeted health information on the internet. In this study, we continue to explore the advantages of LLMs in patient education.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the use of LLMs, specifically ChatGPT (OpenAI), to enhance the readability of peer-reviewed scientific articles in the field of ophthalmology.

Methods

A total of 12 open access, peer-reviewed papers published by the senior authors of this study (ET and RA) were selected. Readability was assessed using the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level and Simple Measure of Gobbledygook tests. ChatGPT 4.0 was asked “I will give you the text of a peer-reviewed scientific paper. Considering that the recommended readability of the text is 6th grade, can you simplify the following text so that a layperson reading this text can fully comprehend it? - Insert Manuscript Text -”. Appropriateness was evaluated by the 2 uveitis-trained ophthalmologists. Statistical analysis was performed in Microsoft Excel.

Results

ChatGPT significantly lowered the readability and length of the selected papers from 15th to 7th grade (P<.001) while generating responses that were deemed appropriate by expert ophthalmologists.

Conclusions

LLMs show promise in improving health literacy by enhancing the accessibility of peer-reviewed scientific articles and allowing the general population to interact directly with medical literature.
Authors' Response to Peer Review of “Exploring the Accuracy of Ab Initio Prediction Methods for Viral Pseudoknotted RNA Structures (Preprint)” (Preprint)
Authors: Medeiros Vasco , Pearl Jennifer , Carboni Mia , Zafeiri Stamatia
Published: November 2024

UNSTRUCTURED
Study of Paediatric Appendicitis Scores and Management Strategies (SPASMS): protocol for a prospective multicentre observational study (Preprint)
Authors: Lee Wei Hao , O'Brien Sharon , Mckinnon Elizabeth , Craig Simon , Dalziel Stuart , Collin Michael , Phillips Natalie , Babl Franz , Davidson Sarah , George Shane , janine Shefali , Tham Doris , Tran Viet , Borland Meredith
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Abdominal pain is a common reason for children to attend the Emergency Department (ED) with acute appendicitis being the most common surgical cause. Various clinical prediction scores (CPSs) have been developed to assist in determining the risk of appendicitis; however, CPSs have been inadequately validated in children and haphazardly adopted in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) EDs.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to compare and validate various CPSs for diagnosing paediatric appendicitis in children presenting to ANZ EDs.

METHODS

This prospective multicentre observational study across ten ANZ EDs is recruiting children 5-17 years presenting to participating EDs with acute right-sided or generalised abdominal pain ≤7 days and clinician suspicion of appendicitis. CPSs will be calculated by the study team from clinician-recorded data and clinician gestalt recorded on a visual analogue scale. Accuracy of CPSs will be assessed by Area Under the Receiver Operative Characteristic Curve and proportions correctly identified as either low-risk or high-risk based on the CPSs published cut-offs. Final diagnosis of appendicitis will be confirmed on histopathology, and the absence of appendicitis confirmed by telephone/email follow-up for those discharged directly from ED.

RESULTS

This study received funding in July 2023 and started enrolment in August 2023. As of October 2024, we enrolled and completed follow up on 1227 participants with an expected end date in mid-2025.

CONCLUSIONS

This study aims to determine the best performing CPS for diagnosing pediatric appendicitis in ANZ EDs. Implementation of this CPS in ANZ EDs has the potential to reduce healthcare costs, rationalise the use of healthcare resources, and improve management and outcomes of childhood appendicitis.

CLINICALTRIAL

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622001293752): https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12622001293752
Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Coronary Heart Disease: Comprehensive Insights from the Suita Study (Preprint)
Authors: Vu Thien , Kokubo Yoshihiro , Inoue Mai , Yamamoto Masaki , Mohsen Attayeb , Martin-Morales Agustin , Dawadi Research , Inoue Takao , Ting Tay Jie , Yoshizaki Mari , Watanabe Naoki , Kuriya Yuki , Matsumoto Chisa , Arafa Ahmed , Nakao Yoko M , Kato Yuka , Teramoto Masayuki , Araki Michihiro
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Identifying key risk factors is essential for effective risk assessment and prevention. Machine learning (ML) offers advanced methods for analyzing complex datasets, revealing novel predictors of CHD beyond traditional models.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the contribution of various risk factors to CHD, focusing on both established and novel markers using machine learning techniques.

METHODS

The study recruited 7,672 participants aged 30 to 84 years from Suita City, Japan, between 1989 and 1999. Over an average of 15 years, participants were monitored for cardiovascular events. Five ML models—Random Forest (RF), XGBoost, Support Vector Machine (SVM), Logistic Regression (LR), and LightGBM—were used. The optimal model was identified based on accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and AUC. SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) were then employed to explore the contribution of various risk factors to CHD.

RESULTS

RF achieved the highest AUC (95% CI) of 0.94 (0.93-0.96), outperforming LR, SVM, XGBoost, and LightGBM. SHAP on the best model identified the top CHD predictors. Intima-media thickness of common carotid artery (IMT_cMax) was identified as the strongest predictor of CHD, highlighting the importance of arterial health. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, along with lipid profiles (non-HDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides), were closely associated with CHD incidence. eGFR underscored the link between renal function and CHD. Novel insights included the impact of lower calcium levels, systemic inflammation (elevated WBC counts), fructosamine levels, and obesity-related factor (body fat percentage). A protective effect in females indicated the need for sex-specific CHD management strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

ML, particularly the RF model combined with SHAP, effectively identified key risk factors for CHD, including arterial health, blood pressure, lipid profiles, renal function, and novel markers. These findings support a multifactorial approach to CHD risk assessment.
The Expert Patient Clinic: a psychiatric educational activity to improve experience in community mental healthcare (Preprint)
Authors: Dean Natalie , Holdcroft-Long Jason , Stanyon Miriam , Rayner Meg , Ryan Karl , Mullins Elizabeth , Dave Subodh
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

The vast expansion in medical student numbers makes a meaningful educational experience of community psychiatric care increasingly difficult.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate a co-produced teaching intervention, the Expert Patient (EP) clinic, which aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop and enhance skills and confidence in running a psychiatric outpatient clinic.

METHODS

Pre/post evaluation of the teaching intervention using confidence rating scales and qualitative feedback to assess efficacy and learning outcomes.98 students took part in the teaching session as part of the pilot study at Derby Psychiatry Teaching Unit.

RESULTS

Rating scales showed a significant increase in confidence in all tasks, and qualitative feedback demonstrated the benefit of involving and receiving feedback from real patients and feedback from peers and clinically trained facilitators.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot of the EP Clinic endorses the involvement of those with lived experience in teaching, allowing students to practice communication skills in a realistic but safe environment. This paves the way for further EP involvement in training in community mental health for medical students and crucially enhancing clinical opportunities in response to growing numbers of medical students.
Pengaruh Komposisi Media Tanam terhadap Pertumbuhan dan Hasil Terung (Solanum melongena L.) Secara Hidroponik
Authors: Fauzi Rahmat Dwi , Taryono Taryono , Ilmiah Haviah Hafidhotul
Published: November 2024

Penurunan lahan pertanian produktif karena konversi lahan untuk tujuan nonpertanian, dapat berpengaruh terhadap produksi bahan pangan salah satunya adalah terung. Salah satu upaya yang dapat dilakukan untuk mengatasi masalah tersebut adalah menerapkan sistem budidaya hidroponik dengan menggunakan media tanam alami. Arang sekam dan serbuk sabut kelapa merupakan bahan yang dapat digunakan sebagai media tanam hidroponik, karena keduanya memiliki sifat yang dapat menopang pertumbuhan tanaman serta memiliki kemampuan menyerap air yang baik. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui komposisi arang sekam dan serbuk sabut kelapa yang paling baik untuk budidaya terung secara hidroponik. Penelitian dilaksanakan pada bulan Januari hingga Mei 2022 di PIAT (Pusat Inovasi Agroteknologi) Universitas Gadjah Mada menggunakan rancangan acak lengkap dengan satu faktor perlakuan yaitu komposisi arang sekam dan serbuk sabut kelapa terdiri dari 1:0; 2:1; 3:1; 3:2; 4:1; 4:3; 5:1; 5:2; 5:3; 5:4; dan 0:1. Pengamatan meliputi komponen pertumbuhan dan hasil. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis varian dan uji lanjut Scott Knott pada α = 5%. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa komposisi arang sekam dan serbuk sabut kelapa 2:1; 3:1; 4:1; 5:2 dan 5:4 memberikan pertumbuhan dan hasil terbaik untuk terung hidroponik.
Peningkatan Produksi Edamame Melalui Aplikasi Biostimulan PGPR dan Biourine Sapi
Authors: Soelaksini Liliek Dwi , Krismiratsih Fitri , Arofah Yustika Apriliya
Published: November 2024

Aplikasi pupuk kimia secara berlebih menyebabkan turunnya kualitas tanah dan menurunkan produksi Edamame. Upaya yang bisa dilakukan untuk meningkatkan produksi Edamame yaitu pengaplikasian pembenah tanah berupa kombinasi biostimulan PGPR (Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria) dan bio urine sapi. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk (1) mengetahui konsentrasi yang optimum dan pengaruh aplikasi biostimulant PGPR pada edamame, (2) mengetahui konsentrasi yang optimum dan pengaruh biourine sapi pada edamame dan (3) mengetahui interaksi antara konsentrasi biostimulant PGPR dan Biourine sapi untuk tanaman edamame. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan pada bulan Mei – Juli 2022 di Lahan Penelitian Politeknik Negeri Jember.  Rancangan yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Rancangan Acak Kelompok (RAK) Faktorial dan diulang sebanyak tiga kali. Faktor pertama yaitu konsentrasi biostimulant PGPR yaitu tanpa Aplikasi (P0), Aplikasi 10 mL/L (P1), dan aplikasi 20 mL/L (P2) dan faktor kedua Konsentrasi Biourine sapi yaitu tanpa aplikasi (B0), aplikasi 60 mL/L (B1) dan aplikasi 120 mL/L (B2). Hasil Penelitian menunjukkan aplikasi 20 ml/l biostimulant PGPR memberikan hasil terbaik pada parameter jumlah polong segar pertanaman, berat polong segar pertanaman dan berat polong segar per plot. aplikasi biourine sapi 60 mL/L memberikan hasil terbaik pada berat polong segar pertanaman dan berat polong segar perplot. Interaksi PGPR 20 mL/L dan Biourine sapi 60 mL/L menunjukkan hasil terbaik pada jumlah cabang produktif, berat polong segar pertanaman dan berat polong segar per plot, dan kombinasi aplikasi biostimulant PGPR 20 mL/L dan Biourine sapi 120 mL/L menunjukkan hasil terbaik pada variabel jumlah polong segar pertanaman.
Tanggapan Tanaman Jagung Manis terhadap Aplikasi Tiga Jenis Pupuk
Authors: Nafi'ah Hanny Hidayati , Rosmayanti Raihan , Sativa Novriza
Published: November 2024

Jagung manis adalah salah satu tanaman hortikultura yang memiliki kandungan gizi yang banyak. Untuk mencapai pertumbuhan dan hasil yang baik tanaman jagung memerlukan unsur hara, karena tanah digunakan secara terus menerus sehingga menyebabkan unsur hara yang terkandung dalam tanah ikut terangkut pada saat panen dan ada pula yang terkikis oleh air hujan. Jadi penyediaan pupuk dan bahan organik adalah hal yang diperlukan untuk lahan pertanian. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode eksperimental dengan Rancangan Acak Kelompok (RAK) dengan pola Faktorial 2x2x3 dengan tiga kali  kali ulangan. Faktor pertama adalah komposisi Dosis pupuk organik (O), yaitu : o1 = 5 ton.ha-1 (1,25 kg.plot-1) dan o2 = 10 ton.ha-1 (2,25 kg.plot-1). Faktor yang kedua adalah konsentrasi pupuk hayati yang terdiri dari dua taraf h1 = tanpa pupuk hayati dan h2 = 20 ml.l-1. Faktor yang ketiga adalah dosis pupuk anorganik yang terdiri dari tiga taraf : a0 = 300 kg.ha-1 (4,8 g.tanaman-1), a1 = 225 kg.ha-1 (3,6 g.tanaman-1), a2 = 150 kg.ha-1 (2,4 g.tanaman-1). Hasil percobaan menunjukkan perlakuan pupuk organic 10 ton.ha-1, pupuk hayati 20 ml.l-1, dan pupuk anorganik 300 kg/ha dapat mengoptimalkan lahan bekas padi sehingga meningkatkan pertumbuhan dan hasil jagung manis.
Surrogate End Points in Apolipoprotein L1–Associated Kidney Disease
Authors: Rosenberg Alix T. , Flaherty Carina , Anderson Amanda H. , Appel Lawrence J. , Coresh Josef , He Jiang , Lash James P. , Liu Celina , Rao Panduranga S. , Taliercio Jonathan , Surapaneni Aditya , Grams Morgan E. ,   on behalf of the CRIC Study Investigators
Published: November 2024

Key Points

Apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) high-risk genotype had higher risk of 3-year GFR-related surrogate end points and long-term kidney failure than those with the low-risk genotype.

No consistent difference in surrogate–clinical outcome associations by APOL1 genotype, supporting the use of surrogates in APOL1 kidney disease.

Background

Surrogate end points for the clinical outcome of kidney failure have been accepted by the US Food and Drug Administration. However, they have not been specifically evaluated in Apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1)-associated kidney disease.

Methods

This random-effects meta-analysis included Black participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study (N=3071), Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (N=998), and African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension (N=609). Surrogate end points included a 3-year 30% and 40% decline in GFR, doubling of urine protein–creatinine ratio, and >3 ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year decline in GFR. Clinical outcomes included kidney failure requiring KRT, heart failure, cardiovascular disease, and death after 3 years.

Results

22% in the African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, 18% in the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort, and 13% in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study had the APOL1 high-risk genotype. Participants with the APOL1 high-risk genotype had higher risk of all 3-year GFR outcomes but not doubling of urine protein–creatinine ratio, as well as kidney failure after 3 years. The 3-year outcomes were strongly associated with kidney failure with weaker but statistically significant associations with the development of heart failure, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. There were no differences in associations between short-term and long-term clinical outcomes by APOL1 risk status.

Conclusions

Individuals with the APOL1 high-risk genotype were more susceptible to 3-year GFR-related end points and long-term kidney failure than individuals with the APOL1 low-risk genotype. There was no consistent difference in short-term clinical outcome associations by APOL1 genotype, supporting the use of surrogates in APOL1-associated kidney disease.
Bisphosphonate Use after Kidney Transplantation Is Associated with Lower Fracture Risk
Authors: Kahwaji Joseph M. , Yang Su-Jau , Sim John J. , Parke Chong Young , Lee Roland L.
Published: November 2024

Key Points

Bisphosponate use may decrease the risk of fracture in patients receiving kidney transplant.

Identifying those at risk of fracture after kidney transplant is critical.

Background

Kidney transplant recipients are at higher risk of fractures compared with the general population. The use of bisphosphonates has been shown to increase bone mineral density after transplantation but has not been shown to lower fracture rates. In this study, we aim to determine whether exposure to bisphosphonates is associated with lower incidence of nonvertebral fractures after kidney transplantation.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review for all Southern California Kaiser Permanente kidney transplant recipients with osteoporosis transplanted between 2000 and 2019. Baseline variables were collected. Those prescribed an oral bisphosphonate were compared with those who were not. The primary outcome was nonvertebral fracture. Chi-square test was used to evaluate categorical variables and Wilcoxon rank-sum test for continuous variables. Propensity scores were generated to balance covariates in the bisphosphonate and nonbisphosphonate groups. Cause-specific hazard and subdistribution (Fine–Gray) methods were performed for competing risk analysis. Death-censored graft survival was evaluated as a secondary outcome using standard Cox regression.

Results

There were 489 patients included in the study, 203 of which were in the bisphosphonate group. The cause-specific hazard model suggested a 64% lower risk of nonvertebral fracture in the bisphosphonate group (P = 0.02). The Fine–Gray hazard model treating death as a competing risk did not show lower relative incidence of nonvertebral fracture. Bisphosphonate treatment was associated with lower death-censored graft failure (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Bisphosphonate use after kidney transplantation may be associated with a lower risk of nonvertebral fracture after transplant. Bisphosphonate use in this study was also associated with lower death-censored graft failure. Caution is advised when interpreting these results given the retrospective nature of the study.
Study on the Teaching Path of Integrating Hongyan Spirit into High School Philosophy and Culture Course
Authors: Wang Peibo , Hu Menxiang , Yuan Xuezhe
Published: November 2024

Hongyan spirit is a characteristic local red culture and an important part of the spiritual pedigree. It has rich ideological and political resources and can inject spiritual motivation into the growth of high school students. Based on the analysis of the connotation and value of Hongyan Spirit and the overview of the content related to Hongyan Spirit in the course of Philosophy and Culture in high school, this paper proposes to develop school-based curriculum, innovate teaching methods, combine online and offline, and experience roles, enhance the cognition of specific paths, enhance students' patriotic feelings, strengthen students' ideals and beliefs, and implement the goal of cultivating virtues and cultivating people. To provide students with mental calcium.
The Subjective Tendency of Separable Phenomenon of the Separable Words
Authors: Anjie Cui
Published: November 2024

The separation structure of separable words is a construction that functionally expresses the speaker’s subjective tendency, which is the inherent law governing the phenomenon of separation of separable words. With the deepening of linguistic research, people have also begun to recognize the importance of linguistics in communication. Language is not just about expressing propositions and narrating events, it has a deeper meaning: it can serve as the speaker’s emotions or attitude, and so on. The subjective characteristics of language are also becoming the most important aspect of verbal communication.
A Study on “Chou” Metaphors in 300 Song Lyrics
Authors: Shi Cunqian
Published: November 2024

Advancements in modern cognitive linguistics have rendered metaphor a conceptual tool for understanding the world. The interplay between emotion and cognition highlights the importance of studying human emotions, which are often metaphorized by people. The expression “Chou” is one of the most prevalent emotions in Chinese Song Lyrics. This paper adopts a cognitive linguistics perspective, utilizing 300 Song Lyrics as the corpus, to conduct a detailed exploration and analysis of the types and meanings of “Chou” metaphors by applying Conceptual Metaphor Theory. The study identifies six main types of “Chou” metaphors in 300 Song Lyrics, namely ontological metaphors, image metaphors, body metaphors, personification, synaesthetic metaphors, and reverse metaphors. Among them, the most common are ontological metaphors and image metaphors. This paper aids in a better understanding of the emotion of “Chou” in Song Lyrics. It is also significant for enhancing appreciation of Chinese poetry and literature, while facilitating a deeper understanding of the characteristics of national metaphorical thinking and promoting cultural exchange.
Exploring the Root Causes of Child-Soldierhood in Ahmadou Kourouma’s Allah Is Not Obliged and Ishmael Beah’s A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier
Authors: Traore Ousmane , Gueye Dr. Mansour
Published: November 2024

Conflicts usually turn upside down the norms of societies, and as such, young people lack references. Since family units and social tissues are severely damaged or even broken, children are left to themselves without any guidance and safety. So, the destruction of social entities is fully accompanied by the total demise of customarily living standards where children are protected and considered to be innocent and defenseless people. That being said, it can be argued that it is the changing nature of conflicts that has brought children into its core as indispensable fighters. Since most countries were wrecked internally in the last two centuries, this collapse set communities within these territories against one another, as no social component was spared of the wrath of war.
Nutrient requirements of non-basmati rice varieties in rice zone of Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: qbal Muhammad Nadeem I , Amin Fariha
Published: November 2024

Among various agronomic practices, the balanced use of fertilizers is important to get maximum economic yields. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the economically optimum nutrient requirement for producing higher yields of non-Basmati varieties of rice. To achieve these objectives, experiments were conducted at 14 sites at farmers’ fields from 2016 to 2020. The levels of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potash (K) were N (0, 87,174, 261), P2O5 (0, 52, 104, 156) and K2O (0, 40, 80,120) kilogram per hectare respectively arranged in central treatment design with eleven treatments. Experiments were designed and conducted in the field under randomized complete block. Maximum paddy yield (6,223 kg ha) was obtained with 174-156-80 kg ha-1 on an overall basis. However, the maximum benefit cost ratio was observed with 174-0-80 kg ha-1 with a lower yield level. Marginal rate of return was higher for nutrient N due to its lower price but higher for P and K nutrients due to their higher prices. Based on the results, 174-156-80 kg ha-1 of N-P2O5-K2O may be used by farmers seeking maximum incomes whereas 174-104-0 may be used by farmers seeking maximum cost benefit ratio, however, total income of farmers in this case may be lower
Geographical Analysis of Trends and Patterns in Sugarcane Production: A Case Study of Meerut District, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Kumar Roop , Sachan Sharad , Kumar Avinash , Bhangu Preet Kamal Singh
Published: November 2024

Sugarcane, a commercial crop, is the second-largest agro-based industry in India, producing nearly 25% of global production. India is the second-largest country producing sugarcane after Brazil, and its production is crucial to the country's economy. Sugarcane cultivation in India is divided into tropical and sub-tropical regions, with the sub-tropical region contributing 47% of the country's production. Uttar Pradesh is the largest producer, providing employment opportunities. However, input prices increase, and farmers face challenges such as inadequate quantity and delayed payment from sugar mills. Thus, this study aims to study the economics of sugarcane production in the study area. The study uses secondary sources of data from various sources, including the District Statistical Handbook, Census of India, and various journals. It uses percentage methods and pictorial diagrams to show trends in sugarcane cultivation. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) method is used to measure sugarcane production growth from 2002-03 to 2021-22. The study reveals fluctuations in sugarcane production, area, and productivity in the Meerut district over the last 20 years. However, the area under sugarcane shows an increasing trend, with little change in the state and Meerut. Sugarcane is a crucial cash crop and politically sensitive, so small steps in favour of farmers lead to larger changes in cropping patterns. The cost of cultivation and harvesting has increased alarmingly due to labour shortages and unpredictable monsoons. The government can play a vital role by providing weather forecasting and strong policies for crop procurement to stabilize production and price