bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What do medical students think are characteristics of a good ultrasound tutor? A qualitative study
Authors: Walter Robin , Alt Leander , Hari Roman , Harris Michael
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study was designed to elicit medical students’ opinions on the characteristics of a good ultrasound tutor. The results should help educators to create an optimal teaching environment and inform tutor training.

Materials and methods

The qualitative study recruited 15 participants from a larger mixed-methods study of 64 medical students who underwent a basic course on abdominal ultrasound taught by faculty and near-peer tutors. During semi-structured interviews, they were asked which characteristics make a good ultrasound tutor. We used inductive thematic analysis to identify the most important categories.

Results

Medical students identified teaching themes and subthemes relating to teaching skills (e.g., course structure, repetition, vocabulary, feedback, guidance of participants), tutors’ attitudes (e.g., atmosphere creation, empathy) and knowledge as the crucial components of being a good ultrasound tutor.

Conclusions

While some of the themes that students identified are generic to medical education, others are specific to ultrasound teaching. Tutors can use our results to assess their own teaching. They should aim to address learning needs, optimise understanding, give adequate feedback, and create a non-threatening atmosphere with empathic interactions. Accounting for the ultrasound-specific setting they should possess the necessary knowledge, provide verbal guidance to their students, and distribute examination time wisely.
MetSCORE: a molecular metric to evaluate the risk of metabolic syndrome based on serum NMR metabolomics
Authors: Gil-Redondo Rubén , Conde Ricardo , Bruzzone Chiara , Seco Maria Luisa , Bizkarguenaga Maider , González-Valle Beatriz , de Diego Angela , Laín Ana , Habisch Hansjörg , Haudum Christoph , Verheyen Nicolas , Obermayer-Pietsch Barbara , Margarita Sara , Pelusi Serena , Verde Ignacio , Oliveira Nádia , Sousa Adriana , Zabala-Letona Amaia , Santos-Martin Aida , Loizaga-Iriarte Ana , Unda-Urzaiz Miguel , Kazenwadel Jasmin , Berezhnoy Georgy , Geisler Tobias , Gawaz Meinrad , Cannet Claire , Schäfer Hartmut , Diercks Tammo , Trautwein Christoph , Carracedo Arkaitz , Madl Tobias , Valenti Luca , Spraul Manfred , Lu Shelly C. , Embade Nieves , Mato José M. , Millet Oscar
Published: July 2024

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of medical conditions and risk factors correlating with insulin resistance that increase the risk of developing cardiometabolic health problems. The specific criteria for diagnosing MetS vary among different medical organizations but are typically based on the evaluation of abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia. A unique, quantitative and independent estimation of the risk of MetS based only on quantitative biomarkers is highly desirable for the comparison between patients and to study the individual progression of the disease in a quantitative manner.

Methods

We used NMR-based metabolomics on a large cohort of donors (n = 21,323; 37.5% female) to investigate the diagnostic value of serum or serum combined with urine to estimate the MetS risk. Specifically, we have determined 41 circulating metabolites and 112 lipoprotein classes and subclasses in serum samples and this information has been integrated with metabolic profiles extracted from urine samples.

Results

We have developed MetSCORE, a metabolic model of MetS that combines serum lipoprotein and metabolite information. MetSCORE discriminate patients with MetS (independently identified using the WHO criterium) from general population, with an AUROC of 0.94 (95% CI 0.920–0.952, p < 0.001). MetSCORE is also able to discriminate the intermediate phenotypes, identifying the early risk of MetS in a quantitative way and ranking individuals according to their risk of undergoing MetS (for general population) or according to the severity of the syndrome (for MetS patients).

Conclusions

We believe that MetSCORE may be an insightful tool for early intervention and lifestyle modifications, potentially preventing the aggravation of metabolic syndrome.
EBV-positive small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of nasopharynx as a probably unique subtype of neuroendocrine carcinoma: a clinicopathologic study of three cases and literature review
Authors: Chen Ying , Zhou Ning , Huang Caijun , He Xin , Wang Xiaodong , Tang Hao , Wang Wenyan , Wang Jiashuang , Li Tao , Guo Deyu
Published: July 2024

Background

There is currently scarcity of information on small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the nasopharynx (SCNEC-nasopharynx). It is believed that this type of cancer is not associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection and is indistinguishable from classic SCNEC occurring in other organs.

Materials and methods

Herein we provided 3 cases of nasopharyngeal mass in our hospital, two males and one female. On admission, these patients were considered nasopharyngeal carcinoma with lymph node metastasis, and one of them had liver metastasis. The nasopharyngeal mucosal tissues were biopsied for pathological examination including immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. PubMed database was searched for articles about SCNEC-nasopharynx published up to April 2024 in any language.

Result

The 3 cases had similar histological features of SCNEC in other organs but differed in rich- tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). All of them stained for pancytokeratin (panCK) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Case 1 and Case 2 diffusely expressed insulinoma-associated protein 1(INSM-1) and synaptophysin (Syn), Case 3 strongly stained for CD56 and Syn. Immunostaining of all 3 cases for p40, p63, TTF-1, CK20, S-100 and NUT showed negative. BRG-1, INI-1 and Rb were retained. And p53 all showed wild-type expression. The Ki-67 labeling indiced of case 1, 2, and 3 were 80%, 90%, and 80%, respectively. In situ hybridization showed strong and uniform nuclear positivity of EBV-encoded small RNAs (EBER) in the neoplastic cells of 3 cases.

Conclusion

EBV-positive SCNEC-nasopharynx was exactly rare. The origin of this tumor is still controversial. It may originate from EBV-infected mucosal epithelium like nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Based on our cases and relevant literature, we found EBV-positive SCNEC-nasopharynx as a probably site-specific subtype of SCNEC with differing pathogenetic mechanism. The subtype not only virus positivity but also that it was associated with TILs and did not show p53 or Rb alterations by immunohistochemistry. It may be more responsive to treatment and have a better prognosis than classic SCNEC. We will continue to follow-up these patients and collect additional cases to further understand the unique biology of this rare solid tumor.
Biosynthesis and signal transduction of plant growth regulators and their effects on bioactive compound production in Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen)
Authors: Li Heqin , Jiang Xuwen , Mashiguchi Kiyoshi , Yamaguchi Shinjiro , Lu Shanfa
Published: July 2024

Plant growth regulators (PGRs) are involved in multiple aspects of plant life, including plant growth, development, and response to environmental stimuli. They are also vital for the formation of secondary metabolites in various plants. Salvia miltiorrhiza is a famous herbal medicine and has been used commonly for > 2000 years in China, as well as widely used in many other countries. S. miltiorrhiza is extensively used to treat cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in clinical practices and has specific merit against various diseases. Owing to its outstanding medicinal and commercial potential, S. miltiorrhiza has been extensively investigated as an ideal model system for medicinal plant biology. Tanshinones and phenolic acids are primary pharmacological constituents of S. miltiorrhiza. As the growing market for S. miltiorrhiza, the enhancement of its bioactive compounds has become a research hotspot. S. miltiorrhiza exhibits a significant response to various PGRs in the production of phenolic acids and tanshinones. Here, we briefly review the biosynthesis and signal transduction of PGRs in plants. The effects and mechanisms of PGRs on bioactive compound production in S. miltiorrhiza are systematically summarized and future research is discussed. This article provides a scientific basis for further research, cultivation, and metabolic engineering in S. miltiorrhiza.
Sound as a bell: a deep learning approach for health status classification through speech acoustic biomarkers
Authors: Wang Yanbing , Wang Haiyan , Li Zhuoxuan , Zhang Haoran , Yang Liwen , Li Jiarui , Tang Zixiang , Hou Shujuan , Wang Qi
Published: July 2024

Background

Human health is a complex, dynamic concept encompassing a spectrum of states influenced by genetic, environmental, physiological, and psychological factors. Traditional Chinese Medicine categorizes health into nine body constitutional types, each reflecting unique balances or imbalances in vital energies, influencing physical, mental, and emotional states. Advances in machine learning models offer promising avenues for diagnosing conditions like Alzheimer's, dementia, and respiratory diseases by analyzing speech patterns, enabling complementary non-invasive disease diagnosis. The study aims to use speech audio to identify subhealth populations characterized by unbalanced constitution types.

Methods

Participants, aged 18–45, were selected from the Acoustic Study of Health. Audio recordings were collected using ATR2500X-USB microphones and Praat software. Exclusion criteria included recent illness, dental issues, and specific medical histories. The audio data were preprocessed to Mel-frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCCs) for model training. Three deep learning models—1-Dimensional Convolution Network (Conv1D), 2-Dimensional Convolution Network (Conv2D), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM)—were implemented using Python to classify health status. Saliency maps were generated to provide model explainability.

Results

The study used 1,378 recordings from balanced (healthy) and 1,413 from unbalanced (subhealth) types. The Conv1D model achieved a training accuracy of 91.91% and validation accuracy of 84.19%. The Conv2D model had 96.19% training accuracy and 84.93% validation accuracy. The LSTM model showed 92.79% training accuracy and 87.13% validation accuracy, with early signs of overfitting. AUC scores were 0.92 and 0.94 (Conv1D), 0.99 (Conv2D), and 0.97 (LSTM). All models demonstrated robust performance, with Conv2D excelling in discrimination accuracy.

Conclusions

The deep learning classification of human speech audio for health status using body constitution types showed promising results with Conv1D, Conv2D, and LSTM models. Analysis of ROC curves, training accuracy, and validation accuracy showed all models robustly distinguished between balanced and unbalanced constitution types. Conv2D excelled with good accuracy, while Conv1D and LSTM also performed well, affirming their reliability. The study integrates constitution theory and deep learning technologies to classify subhealth populations using noninvasive approach, thereby promoting personalized medicine and early intervention strategies.
Enhancing molecular property prediction with auxiliary learning and task-specific adaptation
Authors: Dey Vishal , Ning Xia
Published: July 2024

Pretrained Graph Neural Networks have been widely adopted for various molecular property prediction tasks. Despite their ability to encode structural and relational features of molecules, traditional fine-tuning of such pretrained GNNs on the target task can lead to poor generalization. To address this, we explore the adaptation of pretrained GNNs to the target task by jointly training them with multiple auxiliary tasks. This could enable the GNNs to learn both general and task-specific features, which may benefit the target task. However, a major challenge is to determine the relatedness of auxiliary tasks with the target task. To address this, we investigate multiple strategies to measure the relevance of auxiliary tasks and integrate such tasks by adaptively combining task gradients or by learning task weights via bi-level optimization. Additionally, we propose a novel gradient surgery-based approach, Rotation of Conflicting Gradients ($$\mathop {\texttt{RCGrad}}\limits$$
RCGrad
), that learns to align conflicting auxiliary task gradients through rotation. Our experiments with state-of-the-art pretrained GNNs demonstrate the efficacy of our proposed methods, with improvements of up to 7.7% over fine-tuning. This suggests that incorporating auxiliary tasks along with target task fine-tuning can be an effective way to improve the generalizability of pretrained GNNs for molecular property prediction.

Scientific contribution

We introduce a novel framework for adapting pretrained GNNs to molecular tasks using auxiliary learning to address the critical issue of negative transfer. Leveraging novel gradient surgery techniques such as $$\mathop {\texttt{RCGrad}}\limits$$
RCGrad
, the proposed adaptation framework represents a significant departure from the dominant pretraining fine-tuning approach for molecular GNNs. Our contributions are significant for drug discovery research, especially for tasks with limited data, filling a notable gap in the efficient adaptation of pretrained models for molecular GNNs.
The association between preoperative serum cholinesterase and all-cause mortality in geriatric patients with hip fractures: a cohort study of 2387 patients
Authors: Zhang Yan-Ning , Xiao Peng , Zhang Bin-Fei
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study is to evaluate the association between preoperative cholinesterase levels and all-cause mortality in geriatric hip fractures.

Methods

Elderly patients with hip fractures were screened between Jan 2015 and Sep 2019. Demographic and clinical characteristics of patients were collected. Linear and nonlinear multivariate Cox regression models were used to identify the association between preoperative cholinesterase levels and mortality in these patients. Analyses were performed using EmpowerStats and the R software.

Results

Two thousand three hundred eighty-seven patients were included in this study. The mean follow-up period was 37.64 months. Seven hundred eighty-seven (33.0%) patients died due to all-cause mortality. Preoperative cholinesterase levels were 5910 ± 1700 U/L. Linear multivariate Cox regression models showed that preoperative cholinesterase level was associated with mortality (HR = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.78–0.88), P < 0.0001) for every 1000 U/L. However, the linear association was unstable, and nonlinearity was identified. A cholinesterase concentration of 5940 U/L was an inflection point. When preoperative cholinesterase level < 5940 U/L, the mortality decreased by 28% for every 1000 U/L increase in cholinesterase (HR = 0.72, 95%CI: 0.66–0.79, P < 0.0001). When cholinesterase was > 5940 U/L, the mortality was no longer decreased with the rise of cholinesterase (HR = 1.01, 95%CI: 0.91–1.11, P = 0.9157). We found the nonlinear association was very stable in the propensity score-matching sensitive analysis.

Conclusions

Preoperative cholinesterase levels were nonlinearly associated with mortality in elderly hip fractures, and cholinesterase was a risk indicator of all-cause mortality.

Trial registration

This study is registered on the website of the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR: ChiCTR2200057323) (08/03/2022).
Use of colloids and crystalloids for perioperative clinical infusion management in cardiac surgery patients and postoperative outcomes: a meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Shan-Dong , Ma Yu-Tong , Wei Hui-Xia , Ou Xin-Rong , Liu Jia-Yi , Tian Ya-Lan , Zhang Chao , Xu Yun-Jin , Kong Yao
Published: July 2024

Background

The optimal fluid management strategy for patients undergoing cardiac surgery was controversial regarding fluid volume and intraoperative fluid types. This study aimed to assess the correlation between colloids and crystalloids used for perioperative fluid therapy in cardiac surgery patients and postoperative prognosis.

Methods

The Ovid MEDLINE(R) ALL, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched for eligible studies on fluid management strategies using colloids and crystalloids for cardiac surgery patients published before August 25th, 2023.

Results

Ten randomized controlled trials met the eligibility criteria. Compared to the use of crystalloids, the use of colloids, including hydroxyethyl starch (HES), albumin, and gelatine, did not show any differences in mortality, transfusion, acute kidney injury, and atrial fibrillation rates, postoperative blood loss, the length of hospital stay, or the length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay. The results of this meta-analysis showed that the crystalloid group had significantly reduced postoperative chest tube output compared to the colloid group. In the subgroup analysis, the amount of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) infused was significantly lower when using fluid management in the ICU and when using isotonic crystalloids compared to the colloids. In addition, when using fluid management in the ICU, patients in the colloid group had a significant increase in urine volume 24 h after surgery. However, other related factors, including the type of crystalloid solution, type of colloidal solution, and timing of liquid management, did not affect most outcomes.

Conclusion

Both colloids and crystalloids could be used as alternatives for perioperative fluid management after cardiac surgery. The use of crystalloids significantly reduced the postoperative chest tube output, and the need for FFP infusion decreased significantly with the use of isotonic crystalloids or fluid management during the ICU stay. ICU patients in the colloid group had higher urine output 24 h after surgery. In addition, although the infusion method was not related to most outcomes, the rates of red blood cell and FFP transfusion and postoperative blood loss in the crystalloid group seemed to be lower, which needed to be further studied in high-quality and large-sample RCTs.

Trial registration

PROSPERO, CRD42023415234.
What influences user continuous intention of digital museum: integrating task-technology fit (TTF) and unified theory of acceptance and usage of technology (UTAUT) models
Authors: Zheng Feiyu , Wu Shan , Liu Ren , Bai Yiqun
Published: July 2024

Digital museums play a crucial role in facilitating users' access to and exploration of digital cultural heritage resources. However, exploring the factors influencing user engagement with these digital museums from a user experience perspective remains essential. This study evaluates the factors driving user continuous behavioral intention towards the digital museum of Beijing’s central axis, integrating the new task-technology fit (TTF) and the new unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) models, and introducing perceived enjoyment, design aesthetics, and perceived cultural value as additional variables. Analyzing survey data (n = 377) utilizing structural equation modeling (SEM), the study identifies the following key findings: (1) the task and technology characteristics of digital museums significantly impact the TTF; (2) performance expectancy, effort expectancy, design aesthetics, perceived enjoyment, and perceived cultural value all positively impact user continuous behavioral intention; (3) the technological characteristics of digital museums were observed to positively impact users' effort expectancy; but (4) the TTF and social influence did not have no significant impact the user continuous behavioral intention. These findings offer valuable insights into the factors driving users' continuous behavioral intention to use digital museums of cultural heritage, offering practical guidance for future development and optimization of these digital museums, and highlighting specific implications and suggestions for enhancing the user experience.
Modified ILM flap techniques versus classical inverted ILM flap technique for large macular holes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Alghamdi Sarah A. , Aljahdali Faisal F. , Sharif Rahaf K. , Homsi Jumanah J. , Alzahrani Asma A. , Alomari Lugean K. , Abukhashabah Amro
Published: July 2024

Background

Macular holes (MHs) constitute a vitreoretinal interface disorder that occurs when structural abnormalities in the fovea lead to impaired central vision. The standard treatment for MHs is mainly surgical. Using an inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap has enhanced the success rates of MH surgeries. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the classical inverted ILM flap technique to modified ILM flap techniques for managing large MHs.

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase, and CENTRAL. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the classic inverted ILM flap technique to modified ILM flap techniques as initial surgical treatment of eyes with large MHs of more than 400 microns. We sought to evaluate the following outcomes: (1) MH closure. (2) Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). (3) Foveal closure type (4) Rate of ellipsoid zone (EZ) defects and external limiting membrane (ELM) defects. The standardized mean difference (SMD) was used to represent continuous outcomes, while the risk ratio (RR) was used to represent dichotomous outcomes.

Results

Four RCTs that enrolled 220 participants were deemed eligible. The analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in MH closure between both groups (95% CI: 0.20, 7.96; P = 0.81). No statistically significant differences in mean BCVA were found at 1 and 3 months between both groups (SMD: 0.04; 95% CI: −0.16, 0.23; P = 0.70 and SMD: −0.167; 95%CI: −1.240, 0.906; P = 0.760, respectively). In addition, there were no significant differences between the two groups in the pattern of foveal closure, namely U-shape, V-shape, and flap open at 3, 6, and 12 months (RR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.67, 1.12; P = 0.28, RR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.58, 1.61; P = 0.89, and RR: 1.95, 95% CI: 0.26, 14.50; P = 0.51, respectively). Finally, the analysis showed no statistically significant difference in both groups’ EZ and ELM defect rates at 3, 6, and 12 months (RR: 1; 95% CI: 0.85; 1.18: P = 1 and RR: 1.14; 95% CI: 0.90, 1.45; P = 0.27).

Conclusion

Macular holes (MHs) constitute a vitreoretinal interface disorder that occurs when structural abnormalities in the fovea lead to impaired central vision. The standard treatment for MHs is mainly surgical. Using an inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap has enhanced the success rates of MH surgeries. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the classical inverted ILM flap technique to modified ILM flap techniques for managing large MHs.
The development and implementation of trauma, posttraumatic growth and trauma-informed rehabilitation course for psychiatric personnel-case study
Authors: Mazor Y. , Ezra A. , Hadas-Lidor N.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The National School for Training in Mental Health Rehabilitation and Recovery at the Ono academic college operates under the auspices of, and is funded by, the Division for Mental Health Rehabilitation of the Israeli Ministry of Health. Intended to hone the quality of services provided, it offers numerous training courses, that target various populations associated with and working in the field of mental health recovery, among them clients and their family members, as well rehabilitation professionals and support personnel. The novel course of trauma and posttraumatic growth (PTG) was developed and aimed at supporting recovery, coping strategies and ultimately PTG through the lenses of both recovery and trauma informed care for psychiatric and support personnel, professionals with lived experience, and family members. It is built of eleven six hours long sessions with lectures, in-vivo assignments, and group supervision.

Objectives

Portray the development, implementation, and outcomes of the course from psycho-educational, clinical, social, and personal perspectives of students as well as the course’s developers.

Methods

A case study of the course that will be portrayed through qualitative anonymous testimonials from students’ surveys and assignments, as well as the analyses of processes that the course underwent through the years.

Results

The course has several dimensions that allow the integration between trauma, recovery, and PTG in psychiatric rehabilitation: the integration between academia and research-based knowledge with experiential knowledge; integration between the perspectives of PTG and recovery; and, integration between social and cultural perspectives and person-centred care. In addition, the course promotes trauma-informed models in psychiatric rehabilitation; offers new perspective and implantation to psychiatric recovery-oriented tools so as to promote PTG; and enhances social support and cohesion within mental health services and personnel.

Conclusions

The current case study portrays the unique processes of knowledge development, implementation, and training in psychiatric rehabilitation personnel, supported staff and people with lived experience. The course brings a focus on PTG as a promising addition to the trauma-informed approach in psychiatric rehabilitation, which is only scarcely linked to recovery.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Novel approach of prophylactic radiation to reduce toxicities comparing 2-step 40 Gy with 56 Gy simultaneous integrated boost intensity-modulated radiation therapy for locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: A phase III trial (JCOG1912, NEW BRIDGE).
Authors: Yokota Tomoya , Zenda Sadamoto , Kodaira Takeshi , Kiyota Naomi , Fujimoto Yasushi , Wasano Koichiro , Takahashi Ryo , Mizowaki Takashi , Homma Akihiro , Sasaki Keita , Machida Ryunosuke , Sekino Yuta , Fukuda Haruhiko
Published: July 2024

TPS6121

Background: Chemoradiotherapy (CRT) with concurrent cisplatin is the standard of care as a nonsurgical definitive treatment for patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (LA-SCCHN). However, CRT is associated with increased severe late adverse events, including swallowing dysfunction, xerostomia, ototoxicity, and hypothyroidism. Few strategies aimed at less invasive CRT without compromising treatment outcomes have been successful. The purpose of this study is to confirm the non-inferiority of reduced dose prophylactic radiation with 40 Gy compared to standard dose prophylactic radiation with 56 Gy in terms of the time to treatment failure (TTF) among patients with clinical stage III-IVB LA-SCCHN. Methods: This study is a multicenter, two-arm, open-label, randomized phase III trial. The main inclusion criteria are as follows: (i) Primary lesions are located in the oropharynx, hypopharynx, or larynx. (ii) Histologically proven SCC on biopsy specimens of the primary lesion. Immunohistochemistry reveals p16 negativity in patients with oropharyngeal cancer. (iii) Clinical stage of III, IVA, or IVB (excluding N3a) based on the 8th UICC-TNM classification. Patients are randomized to the standard arm or experimental arm. A total dose of 70 Gy for tumors with concurrent cisplatin at 100 mg/m2 are administered in both arms. For prophylactic field, patients in the standard arm receive a total dose of 56 Gy in 35 fractions for 7 weeks using simultaneous integrated boost (SIB56) and those in the experimental arm receive 40 Gy in 20 fractions using two-step methods for 4 weeks (2-step40). A total of 400 patients will be enrolled from 52 Japanese institutions within 5 years. The primary endpoint is TTF, and the secondary endpoints are overall survival, complete response rate, progression-free survival, locoregional relapse-free survival, acute and late adverse events, quality of life score, and swallowing function score.Patient accrual was started in May 2021 and the study is now open for accrual. A total of 186 patients have been enrolled as of January 2024. This trial has been registered in the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials as jRCTs031210100. Clinical trial information: jRCTs031210100 .
Evaluating the Performance of Two Automated Anti-drug Antibodies Assays for Infliximab and Adalimumab Without Acid Dissociation
Authors: Karsten Carley , Grannas Karin , Bergman Oskar , Movérare Robert , Roforth Matthew , Willrich Maria Alice V. , Snyder Melissa R. , Yang Yifei K.
Published: July 2024

Monitoring anti-drug antibodies (ADAs) to infliximab and adalimumab is critical to treatment management in various autoimmune disorders. The growing need for proactive therapeutic monitoring further requires the detection of ADAs in the presence of measurable concentrations of infliximab or adalimumab. To provide robust analytical assays for clinical application, we evaluated two automated immunoassays developed using ImmunoCAP™ technology and based on the bridging format to measure serum ADAs to infliximab and adalimumab respectively. Without an acid-dissociation step, these research prototype assays can detect a positive control monoclonal ADA towards infliximab and adalimumab, ranging from < 25 ng/ml to 10,000 ng/mL. Both assays exhibit imprecision less than 20% at different ADA titer levels and can distinguish ADAs towards different drug targets. In method comparison using authentic patient samples, the quantitative results of the ADA assays are not directly comparable to two existing clinical immunoassays for ADAs (correlation coefficient rs = 0.673 for infliximab ADAs; rs = 0.510 for adalimumab ADAs), presumably due to the lack of commutable ADA standards and the polyclonal nature of ADAs. Nevertheless, there is qualitative agreement between the methods when evaluating putative positive and negative patient samples (overall agreement 0.83 for infliximab ADAs; 0.76 for adalimumab ADAs). Biotin and high levels of rheumatoid factors may interfere with the performance of the automated assays due to competitive binding with the biotinylated drug and non-specific formation of bridging complexes. The two ImmunoCAP assays can provide new analytical methods for proactive therapeutic monitoring of adalimumab and infliximab.

Graphical Abstract
Parallel Cycles for the Emergy Evaluation of Information in Manufacturing, Culture, and Life
Authors: Abel Thomas
Published: July 2024

For environmental accounting, the incorporation of human cultural information is challenging. In 1987, Howard T. Odum published an emergy analysis of highways in Texas. The highways were conceived as typical environmental-industrial products; however, his analysis incorporated the unusual feature of evaluation of the information required. Information for highway use was in the production of highway maps, which was his principal object of information study. However, in addition, he also evaluated the information for the control of highway production in specification documents. His study addressed the creation of both information forms, and the evaluation of that information with emergy. In this paper, that analysis is re-examined considering a theoretical and methodological advancement in the study of material production with information control. That advancement is the modelling of two distinct forms of information that are required for any manufactured or information product. That modelling makes use of the ‘information cycle’, a systems design that assures the maintenance and perpetuation of information against Second Law depreciation of information carriers. The two information forms are labeled here the object information and the expression information. The object information is the template for the final product (the ‘design specs’ for a widget, the script of a play, or the DNA of an organism). The expression information in cultural production is the operating procedures, standards, and conventions for setting, venue, or factory that enable the object, while in life, the expression information is the programmed behavior of the organisms and organs of reproduction. Based on the ‘information cycle’, this paper uses Odum’s highways study to demonstrate a ‘parallel cycles’ model for the perpetuation of the two forms of information.
Nematomorpha - poorly known parasites of invertebrates
Authors: Łapkiewicz Katarzyna , Cichy Anna
Published: July 2024

Nematomorpha, also known as ‘horsehair worms’, is a poorly known group of animals that parasitize as larvae both, invertebrates and, less frequently vertebrates. There are approximately 360 species within this phylum, and previously, they were incorrectly classified as representatives of nematodes due to morphological similarity. Nematomorpha are cosmopolitan, found in fresh and salt water, and on land, usually in humid habitats. Their life cycles are simple or complex and usually associated with the phenomenon of ‘parasitic manipulation’ of the host. This term refers to parasites that can take control of their host's body and behaviour. These efforts mainly lead to the host's death in the name of parasites' survival. The level of knowledge about Nematomorpha is insufficient, as is the role of these behaviour-altering parasites in the ecosystem. This is mainly due to their relatively low species representativeness and a secretive lifestyle in which, alongside free-living adults, there are parasitic larvae. The aim of this article is a review of the literature on ‘horsehair worms’ and an attempt to determine further directions of research on this systematic group.
Pathogenesis, diagnosis and current treatment of prolactinoma: a review of the literature
Authors: Szyszka Monika , Kruszewski Adrian , Kucharska Maja , Dąbrowska Anna , Błaszczak Karolina , Paduszyńska Natalia , Przybysz Paulina
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT:
Prolactinoma is a benign tumor of the pituitary gland that leads to the overproduction of prolactin. It is the most common type of pituitary adenoma, accounting for approximately 50% of all pituitary tumors. The clinical presentation of prolactinoma varies depending on the level of prolactin elevation and the size of the tumor. In women, common symptoms include galactorrhea, amenorrhea, and infertility. Men may present with hypogonadism, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and gynecomastia. Large prolactinomas, known as macroadenomas, can cause mass effects such as headaches, visual disturbances due to compression of the optic chiasm, and hypopituitarism due to pressure on surrounding pituitary tissue. Understanding the pathogenesis of prolactinoma is crucial for developing effective treatments and improving patient outcomes. The development of prolactinomas involves a complex interplay of genetic, hormonal, and cellular factors. Treatment of prolactinoma aims to normalize prolactin levels, reduce tumor size, and alleviate symptoms. The first-line therapy is dopamine agonists, such as cabergoline and bromocriptine, with surgery and radiotherapy reserved for refractory cases. Furthermore, chemotherapeutic agent - temozolomide may be a treatment of choice in aggressive or malignant prolactinomas. By understanding the underlying mechanisms and different treatment methods, healthcare providers can optimize the management and outcomes for patients with prolactinoma.
Split in bhakti, United in bhakti
Authors: Keerthi Naresh , Mucciarelli Elena
Published: July 2024

Jaimini’s Book of the Horse Sacrifice (Jaiminīya Āśvamēdhikaparvan) is a late mediaeval Vaiṣṇava text that is unusual for several reasons. In this article we examine the interplay of violence, devotion and ritual in the Sanskrit vorlage and its Kannada transfiguration—the Jaiminibhārata of Lakṣmīśa (ca. 1500 CE). Violent emotions or extreme feelings are deeply imbricated in South Asia religious discourse. Extreme feeling is entangled with the history of texts that emerged as a result of interreligious and intra- religious debate. Our article puts forth the idea of violence as a mode of bhakti devotion, and we historicize the emergence of violence-as-bhakti in the Vaiṣṇava context, using the tale of Mayūradhvaja from Jaimini’s Book.
Vīrabhadra, the Dreadful Destroyer of Sacrifice
Authors: Pieruccini Cinzia
Published: July 2024

When Śiva is not invited to the great sacrifice organised by Dakṣa, his bride Satī’s father, he emanates from himself the terrible Vīrabhadra, who completely destroys the sacrificial arena. The remote origins of this mythical story, which is extensively narrated especially in the Purāṇas, lie in some myths concerning Rudra, Śiva’s Vedic-Brahmanic precursor. The cult of Vīrabhadra spread throughout South India during the Vijayanagara empire, mainly thanks to the Śivaite sect of the Vīraśaivas. The long-lasting diffusion of his cult is also demonstrated by the wide production of metal plaques depicting this god. A few years ago the art collectors Paola and Giuseppe Berger donated a conspicuous collection of these plaques to the Veneranda Accademia Ambrosiana of Milan; they are currently on display in the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana. Many of these plaques are possibly attributable to the 18th and 19th centuries and their exact provenance cannot be defined at the present stage of studies, but most of them presumably come from Karnataka. They show an almost constant basic iconography, but also a wide range of different artistic languages. Here we propose a general analysis of this repertoire, and a more detailed description of some of the specimens.
Rajput Vocabulary of Violence
Authors: Turek Aleksandra
Published: July 2024

The aim of this article is to reflect on certain keywords of the Rajput world shaped by the “predominantly masculine martial culture” (Kasturi 2002: 12). Those keywords are crucial to understanding the phenomenon of violence in the Rajput milieu, violence that is perpetrated irrespective of kshatriyahood and outside the battlefield. Keeping in mind that violence cannot be identified with a particular community, but certain types of aggressive acts can be associated with certain social classes or groups (Kasturi 2002: 20), this article seeks to demonstrate that terms such as vair, bāroṭiyā, dacoity, and bhomiyāvat, reveal the mechanisms of collective violence in the socio-political practice of the Rajputs. This will be useful in understanding the cultural background of specific regional patterns of violent behaviour in contrast to the colonial stereotype of a Rajput as primitive, violent, but brave.
Destroying Phantom Jams with Connectivity and Automation: Nonlinear Dynamics and Control of Mixed Traffic
Authors: Molnar Tamas G. , Orosz Gábor
Published: July 2024

Connected automated vehicles (CAVs) have the potential to improve the efficiency of vehicular traffic. In this paper, we discuss how CAVs can positively impact the dynamic behavior of mixed traffic systems on highways through the lens of nonlinear dynamics theory. First, we show that human-driven traffic exhibits a bistability phenomenon, in which the same drivers can both drive smoothly or cause congestion, depending on perturbations like a braking of an individual driver. As such, bistability can lead to unexpected phantom traffic jams, which are undesired. By analyzing the corresponding nonlinear dynamical model, we explain the mechanism of bistability and identify which human driver parameters may cause it. Second, we study mixed traffic that includes both human drivers and CAVs, and we analyze how CAVs affect the nonlinear dynamic behavior. We show that a large-enough penetration of CAVs in the traffic flow can eliminate bistability, and we identify the controller parameters of CAVs that are able to do so. Ultimately, this helps to achieve stable and smooth mobility on highways.

History: This paper has been accepted for the Transportation Science Special Issue on ISTTT25 Conference.

Funding: This work was supported by the University of Michigan’s Center for Connected and Automated Transportation [U.S. DOT Grant 69A3551747105].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/trsc.2023.0498 .
Media Authenticity, Construction of Perpetrators' Motives, and Integration of Forensic Communication: The Investigation Process of Sexual Violence Cases in Online Media
Authors: Putra Fajar Dwi , Unde Andi Alimuddin , Cangara Hafied , Sofyan Andi Muhammad , Chang Jian
Published: July 2024

This study explores the integration of forensic communication with media analysis to understand and address sexual violence. Media authenticity is examined as a crucial factor influencing public perception and judicial processes. Through a detailed examination of how media constructs motives and the application of forensic communication techniques, the research demonstrates the potential of mass media to serve as forensic evidence. The study employs an interpretive paradigm and Ricoeur's Hermeneutics of Suspicion to analyze media texts and police examination minutes. Findings indicate that the construction of motives in media significantly impacts the evidentiary process in sexual harassment cases. This research underscores the importance of accurate media representation and calls for the media to adhere to accuracy, integrity, and social responsibility principles. Further research is suggested to explore the broader social dynamics and collective motives in criminal cases, particularly sexual violence.
Optimizing Food & Baverage Company Performance Through Governance and Social Responsibility: Random Effect Model Approach
Authors: Dwianto Agus , A'yun Annisa Qurrota , Kaira Lamin , Sesay Daniel Kassim , Turay Ibrahim Rahman
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study is to improve the efficiency of food and beverage companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange by implementing GCG & CSR principles. Using panel data from 95 companies covering the period 2018-2022 and using the Random Effects model, the regression analysis shows that the Board of Commissioners has no statistically significant effect on company performance. In contrast, the Audit Committee shows a significant and beneficial impact. The novelty of this study emphasizes the complex nature of the interaction between GCG parameters, CSR, and business success in the food and beverage industry. Practical suggestions include increasing the authority of the Audit Committee to improve performance and applying CSR more contextually to reduce the impact of the Board of Commissioners. The contribution of this research is a valuable understanding of the interaction between governance dynamics and CSR in the context of strategic decision-making.
Ethnic health inequalities in cardiac rehabilitation: driving high-quality data
Authors: McAllister Joanne , Harrison Mary , Lawson Claire A , Singh Sally J
Published: July 2024

People of South Asian ethnicities are underserved by cardiac rehabilitation services, despite being more susceptible to developing cardiac risk factors and experiencing higher rates of cardiac-related mortality and hospitalisations. To reduce ethnic health inequalities and increase uptake and completion of cardiac rehabilitation, services must understand the demographic characteristics related to this population and make culturally relevant programme adaptations. Cardiovascular nurses can play a key role in improving the quality of data collection, identifying and reporting health inequalities and redesigning services to consider the needs of those who are most at risk.
Advanced practice nursing in the United States: benefits of competency-based education
Authors: Mackavey Carole
Published: July 2024

In the first of a two-part look into advancing practice in the US, Carole Mackavey details the recent shift in US advance practice nursing towards competency-based education (CBE), and the advantages and competencies its has brought to their healthcare systems
Foot care with kidney disease webinar
Authors: Federation National Kidney
Published: July 2024

The National Kidney Federation (NKF) are a primary resource if your patients are seeking additional renal information and support, including maintaining good foot health for individuals living with kidney disease
Record keeping
Authors: Ellis Peter
Published: July 2024

Peter Ellis outlines the importance of record keeping, and its legal and ethical aspects
Improving diagnosis and management of kidney disease via new online education platform
Authors: Corwin Hillary
Published: July 2024

UK Kidney Association outlines the diverse array of eLearning courses available on the UKKA Education Hub
Research roundup
Authors: Welyczko Nikki
Published: July 2024

In this section, Nikki Welyczko presents a brief synopsis of a range of recently published articles that may be of interest to nurses working in the renal setting. The aim of this roundup is to provide an overview, rather than a detailed summary and critique, of the research papers selected. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
The Cue Sheets of James C. Bradford
Authors: Anderson Gillian B.
Published: July 2024

English Abstract: A new Excel file has been created using data from 211 cue sheets at the George Eastman House, ninety-one cue sheets at the Library of Congress, and the cue sheets in The American Organist . The Museum of Modern Art, New York (MoMA) has recorded scores reconstructed from the cue sheets of compiler James C. Bradford for its restorations of the films Rosita (Ernst Lubitsch, 1923), Forbidden Paradise (Lubitsch, 1924), and The Cat and the Canary (Paul Leni, 1927). Together these developments enable us to evaluate the work of the most prolific compilers of cue sheets, James C. Bradford and to begin to understand the complex role cue sheets actually played in the accompaniment of music for 'mute' films. French Abstract: Un nouveau fichier Excel a été créé à partir des données de 211 feuilles de repérage conservées à la George Eastman House, de 91 feuilles de repérage conservées à la Library of Congress et des feuilles de repérage publiées dans The American Organist . Pour ses restaurations des films Rosita (Ernst Lubitsch, 1923), Forbidden Paradise (Lubitsch, 1924) et The Cat and the Canary (Paul Leni, 1927), le Museum of Modern Art, New York (MoMA) a enregistré des partitions reconstituées à partir des feuilles de repérage du compilateur James C. Bradford. Ces développements nous permettent d'évaluer le travail de James C. Bradford, le plus prolifique des compilateurs de feuilles de repérage, et de commencer à comprendre le rôle complexe que les feuilles de repérage ont réellement joué dans l'accompagnement de la musique des films muets. German Abstract: Eine neue Excel-Datei wurde unter Verwendung von Daten aus 211 cue sheets vom George Eastman House , 91 cue sheets der Library of Congress und den cue sheets in The American Organist erstellt. Das Museum of Modern Art, New York (MoMA) hat für seine Restaurierungen der Filme Rosita (Ernst Lubitsch, 1923), Forbidden Paradise (Lubitsch, 1924) und The Cat and the Canary (Paul Leni, 1927) Partituren erstellt, die aus den cue sheets des Zusammenstellers James C. Bradford rekonstruiert wurden. Zusammengenommen ermöglichen uns diese Vorbereitungen, die Arbeit von James C. Bradford, des produktivsten Verfassers von cue sheets , zu bewerten und damit ein Verständnis zu erlangen, welche komplexe Rolle cue sheets tatsächlich bei der Musikbegleitung für Stummfilme spielten.