bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gamification as a panacea to workplace cyberloafing: an application of self-determination and social bonding theories
Authors: Nivedhitha K.S. , Giri Gayathri , Pasricha Palvi
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Gamification has been constantly demonstrated as an effective mechanism for employee engagement. However, little is known about how gamification reduces cyberloafing and the mechanism by which it affects cyberloafing in the workplace. This study draws inspiration from self-determination and social bonding theories to explain how game dynamics, namely, personalised challenges, social interactivity and progression status, enhance tacit knowledge sharing behaviour, which, in turn, reduces cyberloafing. In addition, the study also examines the negative moderating effect of fear of failure on the positive relationship between game dynamics and tacit knowledge sharing.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 250 employees from information technology organisations, the study employed a 3-wave study to examine the conditional indirect effects.

Findings

The results ascertain that tacit knowledge sharing plays a central role in the relationship between gamification and cyberloafing. Further, game dynamics positively influenced tacit knowledge sharing, which in turn reduced cyberloafing. Especially, social interactivity and progression status greatly reduced cyberloafing behaviour when the fear of failure was low.

Originality/value

This study is one of the initial studies that suggest gamification as a progressive tool to reduce workplace cyberloafing behaviours. It utilises a problematisation approach to analyse and criticise the in-house assumptions regarding cyberloafing prevention measures. Further, the study proposes a conceptual model explaining the link between gamification and cyberloafing through alternate assumptions.
Indoor fixed-point hovering control for UAVs based on visual inertial SLAM
Authors: Li Zhiyu , Li Hongguang , Liu Yang , Jin Lingyun , Wang Congqing
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Autonomous flight of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in global position system (GPS)-denied environments has become an increasing research hotspot. This paper aims to realize the indoor fixed-point hovering control and autonomous flight for UAVs based on visual inertial simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) and sensor fusion algorithm based on extended Kalman filter.

Design/methodology/approach

The fundamental of the proposed method is using visual inertial SLAM to estimate the position information of the UAV and position-speed double-loop controller to control the UAV. The motion and observation models of the UAV and the fusion algorithm are given. Finally, experiments are performed to test the proposed algorithms.

Findings

A position-speed double-loop controller is proposed, by fusing the position information obtained by visual inertial SLAM with the data of airborne sensors. The experiment results of the indoor fixed-points hovering show that UAV flight control can be realized based on visual inertial SLAM in the absence of GPS.

Originality/value

A position-speed double-loop controller for UAV is designed and tested, which provides a more stable position estimation and enabled UAV to fly autonomously and hover in GPS-denied environment.
The co-evolution of sustainable finance stakeholders under the EU taxonomy for sustainable activities: an exploratory study of Irish disclosure experiences
Authors: Kirby Dylan , MacMahon Cormac Hugh , Thompson Sandra
Published: July 2024

Purpose

In pursuit of objectives, under the European Green Deal, to channel capital flows to sustainable activities, the EU Taxonomy offers clarity, labelling real economic activities as “sustainable”, based on technical screening criteria. This study of disclosure experiences aims to explore the role of co-evolutionary relationships in the Taxonomy’s effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

Co-evolution theory implies a dynamic interplay among sustainable finance stakeholders (SFSs), through adjustment to, impact on and operationalisation of the Taxonomy. Corporate disclosure experiences, including those of financial institutions and related SFS experiences, may reveal co-evolutionary processes. With significant Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS) and Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), Irish SFSs provide contextual insight. Semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of Irish SFSs capture inaugural corporate Taxonomy disclosure experiences.

Findings

A thematic analysis reveals six co-evolutionary processes that facilitate Taxonomy implementation in pursuit of policy objectives: [1] cross-functional reporting; [2] iterative pre-empting and addressing compliance issues; [3] regulation as a catalyst for co-evolution; [4] advanced capacity building; [5] stakeholder adaptation and [6] graduated use of ESG data. Implications for sustainability policy development and management are significant.

Practical implications

Whilst limited to just one EU jurisdiction, given limited prior empirical evidence for sustainable finance regulations from co-evolutionary perspectives, this study highlights a catalytic, yet precautionary role for co-evolution in their transformation effectiveness. As such, they must take account of their potential to stimulate co-evolution and to nurture it in pursuit of their policy objectives.

Social implications

The findings of this study add to a small, but growing body of academic literature on the Taxonomy Regulation, which suggests that a co-evolutionary lens is important for gaining a comprehensive understanding of its early-stage dynamics. From an implementation perspective, the qualitative data reveals actionable implications for regulators and policymakers, such as building capacity, better anticipation of outcomes and investment in data infrastructure.

Originality/value

Unlike existing analyses of disclosures, this study offers a co-evolutionary lens on Taxonomy contributions to sustainable development through qualitative accounts.
How does corporate social irresponsibility affect organisational reputation? The mediating role of moral anger and distrust
Authors: Zasuwa Grzegorz
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Once established, a strong reputation is not indestructible. To protect this intangible asset, the process of reputation damage needs to be explained. Drawing on the irresponsibility and crisis communication literature, this study seeks to better understand this process. Specifically, this study aims to show how moral anger and distrust mediate the relationship between the awareness of an irresponsible incident and organisational reputation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examined the proposed conceptual model in the empirical context of retailers bending the law. A large survey (n = 991) on consumer responses to retailers’ misbehaviour was used to collect data. The hypotheses were tested using Hayes’ PROCESS macro.

Findings

The study revealed that the mere awareness of corporate misbehaviour is not enough to directly harm accumulated positive information about a firm. Discrete emotions of moral anger and distrust fully mediate the effects of knowledge about wrongdoing. The irresponsibility appraisal is a moderator of this process that substantially changes the impacts of misbehaviour on organisational reputation.

Originality/value

By demonstrating how moral anger and distrust mediate the effects of misbehaviour awareness and identifying a boundary condition, this study advances our understanding of how corporate wrongdoing affects organisational reputation.
Comparing the treatment of endometriosis‐related pain by excision of endometriosis or hysterectomy: A multicentre prospective cohort study
Authors: Lewin Jonathan , Vashisht Arvind , Hirsch Martin , Al‐Wattar Bassel H. , Saridogan Ertan
Published: July 2024

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of endometriosis excision alone to excision plus hysterectomy, with and without bilateral oophorectomy, for endometriosis‐related symptoms.

Design

Multicentre prospective cohort.

Setting

Eighty‐six specialist endometriosis centres.

Population

Women undergoing rectovaginal endometriosis surgery between 2009 and 2021.

Methods

We performed multivariable regression with random effects for patient and centre, controlling for age, BMI, smoking, laparoscopic versus open approach and type of bowel surgery performed, with sensitivity analysis for loss to follow‐up.

Main Outcome Measures

Pain scores, bowel symptoms and quality‐of‐life measures.

Results

Compared to endometriosis excision alone, women undergoing hysterectomy with conservation of ovaries had greater improvement in non‐cyclical pain (MD: 1.41/10, 95% CI: 1.03–1.78, p < 0.001), dyspareunia (MD: 1.12/10, 95% CI: 0.71–1.53, p < 0.001), back pain (MD: 1.29/10, 95% CI: 0.92–1.67, p < 0.001) and quality‐of‐life scores (MD: 8.77/100, 95% CI: 5.79–11.75, p < 0.001) at 24 months post‐operatively. Women undergoing hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy also had greater improvement in non‐cyclical pelvic pain (MD: 2.22/10, 95% CI: 1.80–2.63, p < 0.001), dyspareunia (MD: 1.05/10, 95% CI: 0.59–1.52, p < 0.001), back pain (MD: 1.18/10, 95% CI: 0.77–1.59, p < 0.001) and quality of life (MD: 12.41/100, 95% CI: 9.07–15.74, p < 0.001) at 24 months compared to endometriosis excision alone. Compared to hysterectomy with ovarian conservation, hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy was associated with greater improvement in non‐cyclical pelvic pain (MD: 0.81/10, 95% CI: 0.32–1.30, p = 0.001) at 24 months and quality of life (MD: 3.74/100, 95% CI: 0.56–6.92, p = 0.021) at 12 months, although this result was sensitive to loss to follow‐up.

Conclusions

Patients who undergo endometriosis excision plus hysterectomy experience greater improvement in pain and quality of life compared to those who have endometriosis excision alone. There are additional benefits of bilateral oophorectomy with hysterectomy, although its value is less clear due to loss of follow‐up.
Temporal changes in Lycium barbarum fruit separation force and hardness during selective harvesting
Authors: Xu Yuhao , Cheng Pengle , Zhang Cun , Huang Ying
Published: July 2024

Lycium barbarum, a plant belonging to the Solanaceae family, is widely used in China due to its abundant nutritional value. Although the current mechanized harvesting method of L. barbarum has effectively minimized production expenses, it continues to have the challenge of inconsistent quality of the produced L. barbarum. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the correlation of the separating force and hardness concerning the timing of harvesting, maturity, and variety. Thus, the optimal time for harvesting ripe L. barbarum can be determined to enhance the quality of selectively mechanized harvesting of this fruit. The experiment was conducted in a L. barbarum plantation located in Qinghai Province during the 2023 harvest period. Two occasions were studied focusing on the primary cultivars Ningqi No. 1 and Ningqi No. 7, examining the three ripening stages of L. barbarum harvested at various times throughout the day. The finding of this study showed that the separation force and hardness of L. barbarum fruits were influenced by the harvesting time, the fruit variety, and the level of maturity. The optimal timing for harvesting different types of L. barbarum varies. It was observed that Ningqi No.1 was best to be harvested in the late afternoon and evening (17:00–21:00), whereas Ningqi No.7 was most suitable to be harvested in the morning (7:00–9:00).
Geochronology and Petrogenesis of Late Carboniferous to Early Permian Basalts in the Central Lhasa Subterrane, Southern Tibet: Implications for the Evolution of the Sumdo Paleo‐Tethys Ocean
Authors: MA Wang , LIU Yingchao , YANG Zhusen , HUIZENGA Jan‐Marten , LI Zhenqing , YUE Longlong , ZHAO Sibo
Published: July 2024

Basalts from the Late Carboniferous to Early Permian are extensively developed in the central Lhasa subterrane, southern Tibet. Studying the petrogenesis of these rocks may have implications for the late Paleozoic arc magmatism along the central Lhasa subterrane uncovering more of the evolution of the Sumdo Paleo‐Tethys Ocean and its dynamic mechanism. Basalt samples from the Luobadui Formation in the Leqingla area, NW of Linzhou City in the central Lhasa subterrane, southern Tibet exhibit arc‐like geochemical signatures in a subduction‐zone tectonic setting characterized by high Al2O3 and low TiO2 contents, fractionated REE patterns with low Nb/La ratios and high LREE concentrations, and negative HFSE anomalies. Based on their higher Th/Ce, Nb/Zr, and lower Ba/Th, Pb/Nd ratios, slightly negative to positive εNd(t) values, and the relatively high Sr‐Pb isotopic compositions, these samples were probably derived from partial melting of a depleted mantle source of garnet + spinel lherzolite, metasomatized by subducted sediments around 297 Ma. Modeling of the trace elements indicates that these basalts experienced fractional crystallization of olivine, clinopyroxene and minor plagioclase during magma ascent and eruption. It is proposed that these Late Carboniferous–Early Permian basalts are associated with the northward subduction of the Sumdo Paleo‐Tethys Ocean seafloor along the southern margin of the central Lhasa subterrane.
A Monte Carlo resampling framework for implementing goodness‐of‐fit tests in spatial capture‐recapture models
Authors: Choo Yan Ru , Sutherland Chris , Johnston Alison
Published: July 2024

Spatial capture‐recapture (SCR) models provide estimates of animal density from spatially referenced encounter data and has become the most widely adopted approach for estimating density. Despite the rapid growth in the development and application of spatial capture‐recapture methods, approaches for assessing model fit have received very little attention when compared to other classes of hierarchical models in ecology.

Here, we develop an approach for testing goodness‐of‐fit (GoF) for frequentist SCR models using Monte Carlo simulations. We derive probability distributions of activity centres from the fitted model. From these, we calculate the expected encounters in the capture history based on the SCR parameter estimates, propagating the uncertainty of the estimates and the activity centre locations via Monte Carlo simulations. Aggregating these test statistics result in count data, allowing us to test fit with Freeman‐Tukey tests. These tests are based on summary statistics of the total encounters of each individual at each trap (FT‐ind‐trap), total encounters of each individual (FT‐individuals) and total encounters at each trap (FT‐traps). We assess the ability of these GoF tests to diagnose lack of fit under a range of assumption violating scenarios.

FT‐traps had the strongest response to unmodelled spatial and trap heterogeneity in detection probability (power = 0.53–0.56), while FT‐ind‐traps had the strongest responses to random individual variation in detectability (power = 0.88) and non‐spatial discrete variation in (power = 0.35). The tests, designed to diagnose poor fit in the detection parameters, were insensitive to unmodelled heterogeneity in density (power = <0.001). They also demonstrated low false positive rates (<0.001) when the correct models were fitted; therefore, it is very unlikely that they will provide false indications of poor model fit.

We demonstrate that these GoF tests are capable of detecting lack‐of‐fit when unmodelled heterogeneity is present in the detection sub‐model. When used jointly, the combinations of test results are also able to infer the type of lack‐of‐fit in certain cases. Our Monte Carlo sampling methods may be extended to a wider range of GoF tests, thereby providing a platform for developing more GoF methods for SCR.
The SASP factor IL‐6 sustains cell‐autonomous senescent cells via a cGAS‐STING‐NFκB intracrine senescent noncanonical pathway
Authors: Herbstein Florencia , Sapochnik Melanie , Attorresi Alejandra , Pollak Cora , Senin Sergio , Gonilski‐Pacin David , Ciancio del Giudice Nicolas , Fiz Manuel , Elguero Belén , Fuertes Mariana , Müller Lara , Theodoropoulou Marily , Pontel Lucas B. , Arzt Eduardo
Published: July 2024

Senescent cells produce a Senescence‐Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP) that involves factors with diverse and sometimes contradictory activities. One key SASP factor, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), has the potential to amplify cellular senescence in the SASP‐producing cells in an autocrine action, while simultaneously inducing proliferation in the neighboring cells. The underlying mechanisms for the contrasting actions remain unclear. We found that the senescence action does not involve IL‐6 secretion nor the interaction with the receptor expressed in the membrane but is amplified through an intracrine mechanism. IL‐6 sustains intracrine senescence interacting with the intracellular IL‐6 receptor located in anterograde traffic specialized structures, with cytosolic DNA, cGAS‐STING, and NFκB activation. This pathway triggered by intracellular IL‐6 significantly contributes to cell‐autonomous induction of senescence and impacts in tumor growth control. Inactivation of IL‐6 in somatotrophic senescent cells transforms them into strongly tumorigenic in NOD/SCID mice, while re‐expression of IL‐6 restores senescence control of tumor growth. The intracrine senescent IL‐6 pathway is further evidenced in three human cellular models of therapy‐induced senescence. The compartmentalization of the intracellular signaling, in contrast to the paracrine tumorigenic action, provides a pathway for IL‐6 to sustain cell‐autonomous senescent cells, driving the SASP, and opens new avenues for clinical consideration to senescence‐based therapies.
Population limitation of a non‐ruminant in a nutrient‐poor ecosystem—predation rather than food
Authors: Duncan Patrick , Valeix Marion , Loveridge Andrew J. , Grange Sophie , Barnier Florian , Ncube Hlengisizwe , Périquet Stéphanie , Vitet Camille , Davidson Zeke , Mbizah Moreangels , Madhlamoto Daphine , Fritz Hervé , Chamaillé‐Jammes Simon
Published: July 2024

Current theory predicts that plains zebra (Equus quagga) populations should be resource‐limited. Long‐term, detailed work in the Hwange ecosystem (Zimbabwe) on zebras and all their major predators provides empirical data to test this on a population that has been at a low density for at least 2 decades and is largely naturally regulated. Information on body condition is used as an indicator of resource use, and offtakes by the three major predators are estimated from a synthesis of data on densities and diets. This information leads to rejection of the expectations for resource limitation. Zebras provide a significant part of the diets of all the main predators and are important (11%) for the most abundant of these, spotted hyaenas (Crocuta crocuta). Using conservative values, we calculate that the three main predators, hyaenas, lions (Panthera leo), and leopards (Panthera pardus), kill some 17.5% of the zebra population. Given that this estimated offtake is of the same order of magnitude as maximum population growth (22.3% per year), we conclude that this population is likely to be limited by predation. Further work is needed to better understand the mechanisms by which the greater susceptibility of juveniles to predation in ungulates contributes to population limitation.
Seasonal movement behaviour of large male elephant in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Authors: Cygan Magdalena G. W. , Hoare Richard , Ngwenya Nobesuthu , Traill Lochran W.
Published: July 2024

A great challenge for African conservationists is human–wildlife conflict outside the boundaries of protected areas (PAs). This is particularly true when considering large mobile species, such as elephants, that often disperse from PAs into community land. In Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park, studies on elephant dispersal have focused on breeding herds. Here, we analyse the movements of five older, large males fitted with GPS collars. We found some dispersal outside Hwange, but large males were largely restricted to the Park, especially during the late dry season when water was scarce. Our findings may be useful to regional conservation decision makers.
Habitat connectivity and plant characteristics affecting a fossorial skink, Typhlacontias brevipes
Authors: Utsumi Kaera L. , Eifler Maria A. , Muradzikwa Tanaka E. , Luyanda Brendan , Kanyanga Michael K. , Liu Elizabeth F. , Buchanan Colleen A. , Eifler Douglas A.
Published: July 2024

Plant traits and connectivity influence habitat usage, but fine‐scale ecological characteristics that determine fossorial animal movement patterns remain unclear. To understand the influence of landscape connectivity on movement behaviour, we examined vegetation characteristics relative to tracks between vegetation hummocks left by the short blind dart skink, Typhlacontias brevipes, a fossorial lizard inhabiting dunes of the Namib Desert. We measured characteristics of >700 plant hummocks and 293 T. brevipes tracks. Tracks were relatively direct from hummock to hummock (median straightness = 0.94). Vegetation hummocks with tracks were significantly larger than hummocks without tracks, indicating that vegetation size was the most important factor we measured in predicting track occurrence and was more important to skinks than the distances between hummocks, with only 24% of tracks occurring between nearest neighbouring vegetation hummocks. Network clusters consisting of as many as 15 vegetation hummocks were connected by tracks. Skink tracks had a median length of 815 cm and were oriented primarily from 0° to 30°. Our study highlights the importance of vegetation size to fossorial skinks and raises questions regarding other vegetation features that might influence the movement and ecology of fossorial lizards.
Long‐term penile prosthesis couple's satisfaction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Corona Giovanni , Santi Daniele , Cocci Andrea , Vena Walter , Pizzocaro Alessandro , Vignozzi Linda , Isidori Andrea M. , Pivonello Rosario , Salonia Andrea , Minhas Suks , Bettocchi Carlo , Reisman Yacov , Maggi Mario
Published: July 2024

Context

Data supporting successful and satisfactory penile prosthesis (PP) implantation outcomes are mainly based on subjective, rather than objective, analysis.

Objective

To systematically review and objectively analyze, all available data related to patient and partner PP satisfaction.

Evidence acquisition

An extensive search was performed, including the following key‐words: (“penile prosthesis” and “satisfaction”). The search, which accrued data from January 1, 1969, up to July 31, 2023, was restricted to English‐language articles including human participants.

Evidence synthesis

Out of 663 retrieved articles, 83 were considered including, 12,132 subjects with a mean age and mean follow‐up of 58.6 [range 20; 77.1] years and 47.6 [range 6; 374] months, respectively. Overall, a high patient satisfaction rate was observed 83[80; 86]%. The satisfaction rate increased in subjects with three‐piece PP and in those with a higher rate of cardiovascular or neurological diseases and was independent of the patient's age. Partner's satisfaction rate was lower when compared to that observed in men and it increased according to the use of inflatable devices and the presence of patient Peyronie's disease. The long‐term complication rate was limited ranging from 3% for erosion to 4.6% when mechanical failure was considered.

Conclusions

Patient and partner satisfaction is excellent and increases with time. The number of complications is limited and is strongly associated with the presence of diabetes mellitus.

Patient summary

We found a high couple satisfaction score that was higher when reported by males compared to females. Patient satisfaction increased with time, and it was independent of age.
SLCO1B1 and ABCG2 genotype‐informed phenotypes are related to variation in ramipril exposure
Authors: Abbes Houwaida , Zubiaur Pablo , Soria‐Chacartegui Paula , de la Torre Tamara , Villapalos‐García Gonzalo , Candau Carmen , Rodríguez‐Lopez Andrea , González‐Iglesias Eva , Aldama Marina , Navares‐Gomez Marcos , Omezzine Asma , Ochoa Dolores , Abad‐Santos Francisco
Published: July 2024

Ramipril is an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor used for hypertension and heart failure management. To date, scarce literature is available on pharmacogenetic associations affecting ramipril. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of 120 genetic variants in 34 pharmacogenes (i.e., genes encoding for enzymes like CYPs or UGTs and transporters like ABC or SLC) on ramipril pharmacokinetic variability and adverse drug reaction (ADR) incidence. Twenty‐nine healthy volunteers who had participated in a single‐dose bioequivalence clinical trial of two formulations of ramipril were recruited. A univariate and multivariate analysis searching for associations between genetic variants and ramipril pharmacokinetics was performed. SLCO1B1 and ABCG2 genotype‐informed phenotypes strongly predicted ramipril exposure. Volunteers with the SLCO1B1 decreased function (DF) phenotype presented around 1.7‐fold higher dose/weight‐corrected area under the curve (AUC/DW) than volunteers with the normal function (NF) phenotype (univariate p‐value [puv] < 0.001, multivariate p‐value [pmv] < 0.001, β = 0.533, R2 = 0.648). Similarly, volunteers with ABCG2 DF + poor function (PF) phenotypes presented around 1.6‐fold higher AUC/DW than those with the NF phenotype (puv = 0.011, pmv < 0.001, β = 0.259, R2 = 0.648). Our results suggest that SLCO1B1 and ABCG2 are important transporters to ramipril pharmacokinetics, and their genetic variation strongly alters its pharmacokinetics. Further studies are required to confirm these associations and their clinical relevance.
Feedback and observational learning differ in effectiveness during category learning in early school aged children and adults
Authors: Li Zhongying , Huang Tengfeng , Seger Carol A. , Liu Zhiya
Published: July 2024

When learning new categories, do children benefit from the same types of training as adults? We compared the effects of feedback‐based training with observational training in young adults (ages 18–25) and early school aged children (ages 6–7) across two different multimodal category learning tasks: conjunctive rule based and information integration. We used multimodal stimuli that varied across a visual feature (rotation speed of the “planet” stimulus) and an auditory feature (pitch frequency of a pure tone stimulus). We found an interaction between age and training type for the rule‐based category task, such that adults performed better in feedback training than in observational training, whereas training type had no significant effect on children's category learning performance. Overall adults performed better than children in learning both the rule based and information integration category structures. In information integration category learning, feedback versus observational training did not have a significant effect on either adults' or children's category learning. Computational modelling revealed that children defaulted to univariate rules in both tasks. The finding that children do not benefit from feedback training and can learn successfully via observational learning has implications for the design of educational interventions appropriate for children.
Tumor thickness as a novel risk factor for lymph node metastasis by superficial squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck
Authors: Fujii Satoshi , Katada Chikatoshi , Watanabe Hidenobu , Shimoda Tadakazu , Ochiai Atsushi , Yokoyama Tetsuji , Sakamoto Yasutoshi , Kano Koichi , Ichinoe Masaaki , Nemoto Tetsuo , Fujita Masahiro , Tateishi Yoko , Sugiura Hitoshi , Mikami Tetuo , Yano Tomonori , Kato Takakuni , Muto Manabu , Hayashi Ryuichi
Published: July 2024

Narrow‐band imaging combined with magnified endoscopy has enabled the detection of superficial squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SSCCHN) that has been resected with minimally invasive treatment, preserving vocalization and swallowing functions. However, risk factors of lymph node metastasis (LNM) must be identified, as some patients with LNM have a poor prognosis. From an initial 599 patients with 700 lesions who underwent trans‐oral surgery in 27 Japanese hospitals (a nationwide registration survey), we enrolled 541 patients with 633 SSCCHNs, as indicated by central pathological diagnoses. All pathological specimens for each patient were examined using 20 pathological factors that are thought to affect the LNM of SSCCHN. In all, 24 (4.4%) of the 568 SSCCHNs exhibited LNM, and all 24 had at least one solitary nest of epithelial neoplastic cells present in the stroma, clearly separated from the intraepithelial carcinoma. Multivariate analysis also showed that tumor thickness (p = 0.0132, RR: 7.85, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.54–40.02), and an INFc pattern classified as infiltrating growth (INF) with unclear boundaries between tumor and non‐tumor tissues (p = 0.0003, RR: 14.47, 3.46–60.46), and tumor budding (p = 0.0019, RR: 4.35, CI: 1.72–11.01) were significantly associated with LNM. Solitary nests may be indicative of LNM. In addition, tumor thickness was revealed to be a risk factor for LNM in SSCCHNs using pT factors that do not include an invasion depth element because of the anatomical absence of the muscularis mucosae.
Leveraging binding pose metadynamics to optimise target fishing predictions for three diverse ligands and their true targets
Authors: Yau Mei Qian , Wan Angeline J. , Tiong Aaron S. H. , Yiap Yong Sheng , Loo Jason S. E.
Published: July 2024

Computational target fishing plays an important role in target identification, particularly in drug discovery campaigns utilizing phenotypic screening. Numerous approaches exist to predict potential targets for a given ligand, but true targets may be inconsistently ranked. More advanced simulation methods may provide benefit in such cases by reranking these initial predictions. We evaluated the ability of binding pose metadynamics to improve the predicted rankings for three diverse ligands and their six true targets. Initial predictions using pharmacophore mapping showed no true targets ranked in the top 50 and two targets each ranked within the 50–100, 100–150, and 250–300 ranges respectively. Following binding pose metadynamics, ranking of true targets improved for four out of the six targets and included the highest ranked predictions overall, while rankings deteriorated for two targets. The revised rankings predicted two true targets ranked within the top 50, and one target each within the 50–100, 100–150, 150–200, and 200–250 ranges respectively. The findings of this study demonstrate that binding pose metadynamics may be of benefit in refining initial predictions from structure‐based target fishing algorithms, thereby improving the efficiency of the target identification process in drug discovery efforts.
Prediction of disease progression in individuals with subjective cognitive decline using brain network analysis
Authors: Deng Simin , Tan Si , Song Xiaojing , Lin Xinyun , Yang Kaize , Li Xiuhong ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to explore potential differences in brain functional networks at baseline between individuals with progressive subjective cognitive decline (P‐SCD) and stable subjective cognitive decline (S‐SCD), as well as to identify potential indicators that can effectively distinguish between P‐SCD and S‐SCD.

Methods

Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database was utilized to enroll SCD individuals with a follow‐up period of over 3 years. This study included 39 individuals with S‐SCD, 15 individuals with P‐SCD, and 45 cognitively normal (CN) individuals. Brain functional networks were constructed based on the AAL template, and graph theory analysis was performed to determine the topological properties.

Results

For global metric, the S‐SCD group exhibited stronger small‐worldness with reduced connectivity among nearby nodes and accelerated compensatory information transfer capacity. For nodal efficiency, the S‐SCD group showed increased connectivity in bilateral posterior cingulate gyri (PCG). However, for nodal local efficiency, the P‐SCD group exhibited significantly reduced connectivity in the right cerebellar Crus I compared with the S‐SCD group.

Conclusion

There are differences in brain functional networks at baseline between P‐SCD and S‐SCD groups. Furthermore, the right cerebellar Crus I region may be a potentially useful brain area to distinguish between P‐SCD and S‐SCD.
Artificial intelligence in colorectal multidisciplinary team meetings. What are the medicolegal implications?
Authors: Tjhin Yovita , Kewlani Bharti , Singh Harpreet K. S. I. , Pawa Nikhil
Published: July 2024

Aim

To give an insight into areas for future development and suggestions in the complexities of incorporation of AI into human colorectal cancer (CRC) care while bringing into focus the importance of clinicians' roles in patient care.

Methods

Existing literature around AI use in CRC care is reviewed and potential regulatory issues and medicolegal implications around its implementation in CRC multidisciplinary team meetings (MDTs) are identified.

Results

Challenges with patient privacy and confidentiality, patient consent, inequity and bias, patient autonomy, as well as AI system transparency and the liability and accountability issues arising from complications that arise from AI‐aided clinical decisions are important focusses associated with the use of AI in CRC MDTs.

Conclusion

Consideration of various medicolegal aspects of the use of AI in CRC MDTs is warranted to ensure its safe and smooth incorporation into CRC MDTs. AI function as a clinical decision support system and does not replace professional expertise.
Clinical Characteristics of Hospitalized Patients With COVID‐19 and Their Association With the Progression to Critical Illness and Death: A Single‐Center Retrospective Study From Northwestern Mexico
Authors: Martínez‐Villa Francisco A. , Angulo‐Zamudio Uriel A. , Leon‐Sicairos Nidia , González‐Esparza Ricardo , Sanchez‐Cuen Jaime , Martinez‐Garcia Jesus J. , Flores‐Villaseñor Hector , Medina‐Serrano Julio , Canizalez‐Roman Adrian
Published: July 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to associate the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients hospitalized for COVID‐19 with the progression to critical illness and death in northwestern Mexico.

Methods

From March to October 2020, we collected the demographic and clinical characteristics of 464 hospitalized patients from northwestern Mexico.

Results

Sixty‐four percent (295/464) of the patients became critically ill. Age, occupation, steroid and antibiotic use at previous hospitalization, and underlying diseases (hypertension, obesity, and chronic kidney disease) were associated with critical illness or death (p: < 0.05). No symptoms were associated with critical illness. However, the parameters such as the heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and diastolic pressure and the laboratory parameters such as the glucose, creatinine, white line cells, hemoglobin, D‐dimer, and C‐reactive protein, among others, were associated with critical illness (p: < 0.05). Finally, advanced age, previous hospital treatment, and the presence of one or more underlying diseases were associated with critical illness and death (p: < 0.02).

Conclusions

Several epidemiological (e.g., age and occupation) and clinical factors (e.g., previous treatment, underlying diseases, and vital signs and laboratory parameters) were associated with critical illness and death in patients hospitalized with COVID‐19. These data provide us with possible markers to avoid critical illness or death from COVID‐19 in our region.
Enfortumab vedotin‐induced cutaneous eruption: Ring mitotic figures as a distinctive histopathologic feature
Authors: Sport Catherine , Clawson Rebecca C. , Tisdale Lauren E. , Melson John W. , Mochel Mark C.
Published: July 2024

Enfortumab vedotin (EV), a nectin‐4‐binding agent that affects microtubules, has become standard therapy for advanced urothelial carcinoma. The agent, now given in combination with pembrolizumab, frequently induces cutaneous reactions. Here, we report a severe EV‐induced cutaneous eruption. A 58‐year‐old woman with metastatic urothelial carcinoma developed a rash after receiving simultaneous first doses of EV and pembrolizumab. The eruption began on the flank and spread to involve her trunk and extremities with prominent involvement of folds, including the axillae and medial thighs. Skin biopsy revealed extensive vacuolar alteration of the basal epidermis and numerous epidermal keratinocytic mitotic figures, often suprabasilar, including ring and “starburst” forms. The findings supported a diagnosis of EV‐induced eruption. With EV cessation and systemic corticosteroids, the rash resolved over a few weeks. Pembrolizumab was restarted as monotherapy, and the patient's cancer showed a significant radiographic treatment response at 3 months. An emerging literature of small series and case reports, largely from oncologic literature, presents the histopathology of EV‐induced cutaneous eruption as a vacuolar interface dermatitis with the inconsistently reported feature of arrested mitotic figures. This case study demonstrates distinctive clinical and histopathologic features of EV‐induced eruption, which may inform dermatologic and oncologic management.
Oncocytic/Hürthle cell lesions have the same implied risk of neoplasm/malignancy as their follicular counterparts
Authors: Lin Diana , Hanna C. Alexandra , Frost Andra , Wrenn Allison , Eltoum Isam
Published: July 2024

Introduction

There are conflicting results on whether the presence of oncocytes modifies the risk of neoplasm (RON) or malignancy (ROM) for thyroid fine‐needle aspirates (FNAs): Atypia of undetermined significance AUS and Follicular Neoplasm, FN, or Oncocytic Neoplasm, ON. To our knowledge, the effect of non‐invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary‐like nuclear features (NIFTP) has not yet been studied. We compared RON and ROM between follicular type AUS (AUS‐FT) and oncocytic type AUS (AUS‐OT) and between FN and ON.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively analysed all thyroid FNAs with the diagnostic category of AUS‐other or Neoplasm (2005–2015). AUS‐FT had predominance of microfollicles and AUS‐OT had predominance of oncocytes. Histology follow‐up was then reviewed and RON, ROM was then calculated and compared (significant at p < 0.05). We repeated the search for 2018 to evaluate for NIFTP effect.

Results

Pre‐NIFTP, 859/5063 cases (17%) were AUS‐FT, AUS‐OT, FN, and ON. Histology follow‐up was available for 297 cases (35%). RON was 83/183 (45%) for AUS‐FT, 35/76 (46%) for AUS‐OT, 15/25 (60%) for FN and 11/13 (85%) for ON. Post‐NIFTP, RON was 11/31 (35%) for AUS‐FT, 5/8 (63%) for AUS‐OT, 1/2 (50%) for FN and 4/5 (80%) for ON. For both periods, RON, ROM of AUS‐FT was not significantly different than AUS‐OT, and no significant differences were observed comparing FN and ON.

Conclusion

The predominance of oncocytes does not modify the implied RON, ROM for categories of AUS or FN\ON, even after the adoption of NIFTP.
Neural oscillations suggest periodicity encoding during auditory beat processing in the premature brain
Authors: Edalati Mohammadreza , Wallois Fabrice , Ghostine Ghida , Kongolo Guy , Trainor Laurel J. , Moghimi Sahar
Published: July 2024

When exposed to rhythmic patterns with temporal regularity, adults exhibit an inherent ability to extract and anticipate an underlying sequence of regularly spaced beats, which is internally constructed, as beats are experienced even when no events occur at beat positions (e.g., in the case of rests). Perception of rhythm and synchronization to periodicity is indispensable for development of cognitive functions, social interaction, and adaptive behavior. We evaluated neural oscillatory activity in premature newborns (n = 19, mean age, 32 ± 2.59 weeks gestational age) during exposure to an auditory rhythmic sequence, aiming to identify early traces of periodicity encoding and rhythm processing through entrainment of neural oscillations at this stage of neurodevelopment. The rhythmic sequence elicited a systematic modulation of alpha power, synchronized to expected beat locations coinciding with both tones and rests, and independent of whether the beat was preceded by tone or rest. In addition, the periodic alpha‐band fluctuations reached maximal power slightly before the corresponding beat onset times. Together, our results show neural encoding of periodicity in the premature brain involving neural oscillations in the alpha range that are much faster than the beat tempo, through alignment of alpha power to the beat tempo, consistent with observations in adults on predictive processing of temporal regularities in auditory rhythms.

Research Highlights

In response to the presented rhythmic pattern, systematic modulations of alpha power showed that the premature brain extracted the temporal regularity of the underlying beat.

In contrast to evoked potentials, which are greatly reduced when there is no sounds event, the modulation of alpha power occurred for beats coinciding with both tones and rests in a predictive way.

The findings provide the first evidence for the neural coding of periodicity in auditory rhythm perception before the age of term.
Development and validation of 10‐year risk prediction models of cardiovascular disease in Chinese type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in primary care using interpretable machine learning‐based methods
Authors: Dong Weinan , Wan Eric Yuk Fai , Fong Daniel Yee Tak , Tan Kathryn Choon‐Beng , Tsui Wendy Wing‐Sze , Hui Eric Ming‐Tung , Chan King Hong , Fung Colman Siu Cheung , Lam Cindy Lo Kuen
Published: July 2024

Aim

To develop 10‐year cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk prediction models in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) managed in primary care using machine learning (ML) methods.

Methods

In this 10‐year population‐based retrospective cohort study, 141 516 Chinese T2DM patients aged 18 years or above, without history of CVD or end‐stage renal disease and managed in public primary care clinics in 2008, were included and followed up until December 2017. Two‐thirds of the patients were randomly selected to develop sex‐specific CVD risk prediction models. The remaining one‐third of patients were used as the validation sample to evaluate the discrimination and calibration of the models. ML‐based methods were applied to missing data imputation, predictor selection, risk prediction modelling, model interpretation, and model evaluation. Cox regression was used to develop the statistical models in parallel for comparison.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 9.75 years, 32 445 patients (22.9%) developed CVD. Age, T2DM duration, urine albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (ACR), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), systolic blood pressure variability and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) variability were the most important predictors. ML models also identified nonlinear effects of several predictors, particularly the U‐shaped effects of eGFR and body mass index. The ML models showed a Harrell's C statistic of >0.80 and good calibration. The ML models performed significantly better than the Cox regression models in CVD risk prediction and achieved better risk stratification for individual patients.

Conclusion

Using routinely available predictors and ML‐based algorithms, this study established 10‐year CVD risk prediction models for Chinese T2DM patients in primary care. The findings highlight the importance of renal function indicators, and variability in both blood pressure and HbA1c as CVD predictors, which deserve more clinical attention. The derived risk prediction tools have the potential to support clinical decision making and encourage patients towards self‐care, subject to further research confirming the models’ feasibility, acceptability and applicability at the point of care.
Evaluation of time in tight range and the glycaemia risk index in adults with type 1 diabetes using an advanced hybrid closed loop system: A 1‐year real‐world assessment
Authors: Rizzi Alessandro , Tartaglione Linda , Lucaccini Paoli Lorenzo , Leo Maria Laura , Popolla Valentina , Viti Luca , Barberio Annarita , Di Leo Mauro , Pontecorvi Alfredo , Pitocco Dario
Published: July 2024

Aim

To assess the long‐term glycaemic outcomes, with additional metrics, in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) using the Tandem t:slim X2 with Control‐IQ technology advanced hybrid closed‐loop (AHCL) system.

Methods

This was a single‐centre, retrospective study involving 56 T1D patients who transitioned to the Tandem t:slim X2 with Control‐IQ system. The primary and secondary endpoints consisted of variations in time in tight range (TiTR; 70‐140 mg/dL) and the glycaemia risk index (GRI), respectively. Additional standardized continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) metrics, mean sensor glucose, coefficient of variation, the glucose management indicator (GMI), HbA1c and insulin daily dose, were also evaluated. Variables were measured at baseline and at 15 days, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year after Tandem t:slim X2 Control‐IQ initiation. Glucose outcomes are expressed as mean (standard deviation).

Results

Use of Tandem t:slim X2 with Control‐IQ over 1 year was associated with an increase in mean TiTR, from 38.11% (17.05%) to 43.10% (13.20%) (P = .059), and with a decline in the GRI, from 41.03 (25.48) to 28.55 (16.27) (P = .008). CGM metrics, including time in range and time above range, showed consistent improvements. Mean sensor glucose, the GMI and HbA1c decreased significantly over time. After an initial increase, insulin daily dose remained stable throughout the 12 months.

Conclusions

The results highlight the sustained effectiveness of Tandem t:slim X2 with Control‐IQ in improving glycaemic outcomes over 1 year and support the use of this technology for the management of T1D.
Validation of a new gamma ray soil bulk density sensor
Authors: Pepers Karin H. J. , van Egmond Fenny , Koomans Ronald , Teuling Kees , Staats Gijs , van Os Gera
Published: July 2024

Soil compaction and soil bulk density are key soil properties affecting soil health and soil ecosystem services like crop production, water retention and purification and carbon sequestration. The standard method for soil bulk density measurements using Kopecky rings is very labour intensive, time consuming and leaves notable damage to the field. Accurate data on bulk density are therefore scarce. To enable large‐scale data collection, we tested a new portable gamma ray sensor (RhoC) for in situ field and dry bulk density measurements up to 1 m depth. In this first validation study, measurements with the RhoC‐sensor were compared with classic ring sampling. Measurements were made in two agricultural fields in the Netherlands (a sandy clay loam and a sandy soil), with large variation in subsoil compaction. At 10 locations within each field, three soil density profiles were made. Each profile comprised six depth measurements (every 10 cm from 10 to 60 cm depth) using the RhoC‐sensor and Kopecky rings, resulting in 30 pairwise profiles and 180 measurements in total per field. At an average soil density of 1.5 g/cm3, the relative uncertainty was 9% for the Kopecky rings and 15% for the RhoC‐sensor. Because the RhoC‐sensor is easy and quick to use, the higher relative uncertainty can easily be compensated for by making additional measurements per location. In conclusion, the RhoC‐sensor allows a reliable quantitative in situ assessment of both field and dry bulk density. This provides the much‐needed possibility for rapid and accurate assessment of soil compaction. The acquisition of this data supports the calculation of soil organic carbon stocks and is indispensable for (national) soil monitoring, to assess soil health and to inform sustainable land management practices for sustained or improved soil health and provision of soil ecosystem services, such as requested in the proposed EU Directive on Soil Monitoring and Resilience.