bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutrition counsellors’ recommended eating patterns for individuals with type 2 diabetes in the USA
Authors: Khosrovaneh Katherine , Hisamatsu Rina , Reiss Jacob , Rau Jacqueline , Oshman Lauren , Diez Heidi L , Lee Joyce M , Aikens James E , Richardson Caroline , Griauzde Dina H
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Multiple eating patterns can promote glycaemic control and weight loss among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). Clinical practice guidelines for T2D management encourage health professionals to guide patients’ selection of a patient-centred eating pattern. This study aims to characterise beliefs about and recommendations for and against practice guideline-concordant eating patterns among registered dietitians (RDs) and other healthcare professionals who provide nutrition counselling to patients with T2D.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional online survey. We invited 82 RDs affiliated with an academic health system in the midwestern USA to participate. We also invited health professionals who provide nutrition counselling to patients with T2D and are affiliated with 264 primary care practices within the Michigan Collaborative for Type 2 Diabetes. Participants were asked to select the eating pattern(s) that they commonly recommend or avoid for patients with T2D and why.

Results

Survey respondents (n=81) most commonly recommend low-carbohydrate (77.8%); Mediterranean-style (52.8%) and energy-modified/calorie-restricted (36.1%) eating patterns. Survey respondents most commonly recommend avoiding very low-carbohydrate (51.0%) and very low-calorie (49.0%) eating patterns. Respondents who did not recommend very low-carbohydrate were most concerned about the eating pattern being too restrictive (93.0%).

Conclusions

Survey respondents recommend a range of guideline-adherent eating patterns to patients with T2D but tend to recommend against very low-carbohydrate and very low-calorie eating patterns. Additional strategies are needed to increase patient-centred use of these evidence-based options in clinical practice settings.
Systemic lupus in the era of machine learning medicine
Authors: Zhan Kevin , Buhler Katherine A , Chen Irene Y , Fritzler Marvin J , Choi May Y
Published: March 2024

Artificial intelligence and machine learning applications are emerging as transformative technologies in medicine. With greater access to a diverse range of big datasets, researchers are turning to these powerful techniques for data analysis. Machine learning can reveal patterns and interactions between variables in large and complex datasets more accurately and efficiently than traditional statistical methods. Machine learning approaches open new possibilities for studying SLE, a multifactorial, highly heterogeneous and complex disease. Here, we discuss how machine learning methods are rapidly being integrated into the field of SLE research. Recent reports have focused on building prediction models and/or identifying novel biomarkers using both supervised and unsupervised techniques for understanding disease pathogenesis, early diagnosis and prognosis of disease. In this review, we will provide an overview of machine learning techniques to discuss current gaps, challenges and opportunities for SLE studies. External validation of most prediction models is still needed before clinical adoption. Utilisation of deep learning models, access to alternative sources of health data and increased awareness of the ethics, governance and regulations surrounding the use of artificial intelligence in medicine will help propel this exciting field forward.
‘One Is Too Many’ preventing self-harm and suicide in military veterans: a quantitative evaluation
Authors: Finnegan Alan , Salem K , Ainsworth-Moore L
Published: March 2024

Introduction

In 2021, the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust allocated over £2 million to programmes designed to have a clear and demonstrable impact on suicide prevention. Four grant holders delivered a combination of psychotherapeutic interventions, group activities, social prescribing, peer support mentoring, life skills coaching, educational courses and practical help with housing and employment. The evaluation was completed between August 2021 and July 2023.

Methods

A survey was completed by 503 participants at entry and 423 at exit. It captured data regarding demographic and military-specific details, health status, situational stressors, predisposing symptoms, help-seeking behaviour, social engagement, housing, living arrangements and employment status. The questionnaire included a number of validated psychometric questionnaires.

Results

This evaluation revealed reductions in situational stressors, symptoms and mental health illnesses. Seventy-six per cent of participants had completed an Operational Tour, and 77% were exposed to a traumatic event during service. It was the negative impact of unresolved traumatic effects that influenced service-users to require support. Forty-nine per cent delayed seeking help, and 36% self-referred to the One Is Too Many programme which demonstrates the importance of this option. There were improvements in the participants’ social networking, social activities, club membership and having people to rely on. Only 4% of participants were women which reinforces the requirement to explore initiatives to engage with female veterans.

Conclusions

Timely therapeutic and social prescribing interventions in a safe environment lowered depression, anxiety and the associated situational stressors leading to self-harming and may have reduced suicide. It presented another option to veterans and their families regarding where they can obtain support, care and therapeutic interventions. The programme provided a strong foundation for delivery organisations to forge lasting collaborative partnerships that can be extended to working with other authorities and institutes. The results highlight pathways for prevention and intervention strategies to inform policymakers, healthcare professionals and third-sector organisations.
The relative influence of landscape features on maternity roost and hibernaculum selection in temperate bats
Authors: Legros Jade , McGuire Liam P. , Elliott Kyle H. , Simard Anouk
Published: March 2024

Many animal life-history stages center around residences (nests, roosts, etc.) where the availability of resources within an optimal range can affect fitness. Understanding factors influencing residence selection is fundamental for efficient management or recovery plans. Many bat species use permanent roosts during different periods of the year, and while most conservation plans aim to protect these roosts, the availability of suitable habitat near the roosts (e.g., foraging habitat) is also critical to consider. We evaluated the importance of landscape features at multiple scales surrounding seasonal bat roosts in two regions (north and south) of Québec (Canada), using data from participatory science and government databases. In the human-altered environment of south Québec, bats selected maternity roosts with high anthropogenic cover and water edge density at the 150 m and 2 km scales, respectively. Conversely, roost selection in north Québec, a forested area, could not be explained by any landscape features. In winter, fewer bats used hibernacula located in heavily human-modified landscapes—opposite to the trend observed with maternity roost selection. Our study demonstrates how considering landscape features at the appropriate temporal and spatial scales can promote more efficient conservation for bats.
The dynamic hadronization of charm quarks in heavy-ion collisions
Authors: Bierlich Christian , Gustafson Gösta , Lönnblad Leif , Shah Harsh
Published: March 2024

ThePythia8/Angantyr model for heavy ion collisions was recently updated with a mechanism forglobal colour reconnection. The colour reconnection model used is QCD colour algebra inspired and enhances baryon production due to the formation of string junctions. In this paper, we present updates to the junction formation and string fragmentation mechanisms, connected to heavy quark fragmentation. This allows for the simulation of heavy quark fragmentation, using junction formation, in heavy ion collisions. The framework is validated for proton collisions, and we show results for charm baryon production in proton-lead collisions.
Generalized time-bin quantum random number generator with uncharacterized devices
Authors: Tebyanian Hamid , Zahidy Mujtaba , Müller Ronny , Forchhammer Søren , Bacco Davide , Oxenløwe Leif. K.
Published: March 2024

Random number generators (RNG) based on quantum mechanics are captivating due to their security and unpredictability compared to conventional generators, such as pseudo-random number generators and hardware-random number generators. This work analyzes evolutions in the extractable amount of randomness with increasing the Hilbert space dimension, state preparation subspace, or measurement subspace in a class of semi-device-independent quantum-RNG, where bounding the states’ overlap is the core assumption, built on the prepare-and-measure scheme. We further discuss the effect of these factors on the complexity and draw a conclusion on the optimal scenario. We investigate the generic case of time-bin encoding scheme, define various input (state preparation) and outcome (measurement) subspaces, and discuss the optimal scenarios to obtain maximum entropy. Several input designs were experimentally tested and analyzed for their conceivable outcome arrangements. We evaluated their performance by considering the device’s imperfections, particularly the after-pulsing effect and dark counts of the detectors. Finally, we demonstrate that this approach can boost the system entropy, resulting in more extractable randomness.
Investigation of soliton solutions to the Peyrard-Bishop-Deoxyribo-Nucleic-Acid dynamic model with beta-derivative
Authors: Secer Aydin , Ozisik Muslum , Bayram Mustafa , Ozdemir Neslihan , Cinar Melih
Published: March 2024

This study purposes to extract some fractional analytical solutions of the Peyrard-Bishop-Deoxyribo-Nucleic-Acid ([Formula: see text]-PBDNA) dynamic model with the beta-derivative by the unified Riccati equation expansion method (UREEM). Furthermore, we examine the role of various parameters of the fractional model on the soliton dynamic. The research focuses on computational biophysics and materials science, examining the impact of various parameters on the fractional model. This paper contributes to understanding soliton solutions and the [Formula: see text]-PBDNA dynamic model, demonstrating the applicability of the UREEM method to various fractional models. Some soliton solutions of the model are successfully generated by applying the UREEM. Implementing the UREEM, we take a fractional wave transformation to convert the model into a nonlinear ordinary differential equation. So, a linear equation system is generated. After the system is solved, the soliton solutions are gained for the appropriate solution sets. Finally, 3D, 2D and contour graphs of diverse solutions are depicted at suitable values of parameters. In addition, this paper presents 3D, 2D and contour graphs of various solutions with suitable parameter values. The results are beneficial for interpreting the model in future work and confirm that UREEM is effectively applicable to diverse fractional models, coupled with a comprehensive graphical analysis of how different parameters influence these solutions.
Understanding Urban Women's Interaction with Domestic Technologies in Malawi: Advancing Feminist Theories in HCI
Authors: Chidziwisano George Hope , Cummings Adam William , Potnis Devendra Dilip , Jalakasi Maureen Zarah
Published: March 2024

In sub-Saharan Africa, women are caretakers of their homes. Despite the gendered nature of technology use, human-computer interaction research has rarely focused on women's interaction with domestic technologies in this context. We explore how urban women in Malawi use domestic technologies to support activities in their homes. We conducted semi-structured interviews, observations, and focus group discussions with 33 married women living with their husbands and other family members. Our findings suggest that women are the primary users of utilitarian domestic technologies; however, their spouses have control over how they use these technologies. Further, we found that purpose and time influence women's decision-making process for selecting domestic technologies to use, especially cooking appliances. The structure of some Malawian homes—which consist of a combination of modern and traditional structures—also influences women's decision-making process. Our findings contribute to feminist theories in human-computer interaction through the application of ecology, pluralism, and self-disclosure aspects.
Am I Hurt?: Evaluating Psychological Pain Detection in Hindi Text Using Transformer-based Models
Authors: Kaur Ravleen , Bhatia M. P. S. , Kumar Akshi
Published: March 2024

The automated evaluation of pain is critical for developing effective pain management approaches that seek to alleviate pain while preserving patients’ functioning. Transformer-based models can aid in detecting pain from Hindi text data gathered from social media by leveraging their ability to capture complex language patterns and contextual information. By understanding the nuances and context of Hindi text, transformer models can effectively identify linguistic cues and sentiments and expressions associated with pain, enabling the detection and analysis of pain-related content present in social media posts. The purpose of this research is to analyze the feasibility of utilizing NLP techniques to automatically identify pain within Hindi textual data, providing a valuable tool for pain assessment in Hindi-speaking populations. The research showcases the HindiPainNet model, a deep neural network that employs the IndicBERT model, classifying the dataset into two class labels {pain, no_pain} for detecting pain in Hindi textual data. The model is trained and tested using a novel dataset, दर्द-ए-शायरी (pronounced as
Dard-e-Shayari
), curated using posts from social media platforms. The results demonstrate the model's effectiveness, achieving an accuracy of 70.5%. This pioneer research highlights the potential of utilizing textual data from diverse sources to identify and understand pain experiences based on psychosocial factors. This research could pave the path for the development of automated pain assessment tools that help medical professionals comprehend and treat pain in Hindi-speaking populations. Additionally, it opens avenues to conduct further NLP-based multilingual pain detection research, addressing the needs of diverse language communities.
Scenario-based Adaptations of Differential Privacy: A Technical Survey
Authors: Zhao Ying , Du Jia Tina , Chen Jinjun
Published: March 2024

Differential privacy has been a de facto privacy standard in defining privacy and handling privacy preservation. It has had great success in scenarios of local data privacy and statistical dataset privacy. As a primitive definition, standard differential privacy has been adapted to a wide range of practical scenarios. In this work, we summarize differential privacy adaptations in specific scenarios and analyze the correlations between data characteristics and differential privacy design. We mainly present them in two lines including differential privacy adaptations in local data privacy and differential privacy adaptations in statistical dataset privacy. With a focus on differential privacy design, this survey targets providing guiding rules in differential privacy design for scenarios, together with identifying potential opportunities to adaptively apply differential privacy in more emerging technologies and further improve differential privacy itself with the assistance of cryptographic primitives.
First-Order Temporal Logic on Finite Traces: Semantic Properties, Decidable Fragments, and Applications
Authors: Artale Alessandro , Mazzullo Andrea , Ozaki Ana
Published: March 2024

Formalisms based on temporal logics interpreted over finite strict linear orders, known in the literature as
finite traces
, have been used for temporal specification in automated planning, process modelling, (runtime) verification and synthesis of programs, as well as in knowledge representation and reasoning. In this article, we focus on
first-order temporal logic on finite traces
. We first investigate preservation of equivalences and satisfiability of formulas between finite and infinite traces, by providing a set of semantic and syntactic conditions to guarantee when the distinction between reasoning in the two cases can be blurred. Moreover, we show that the satisfiability problem on finite traces for several decidable fragments of first-order temporal logic is
ExpSpace
-complete, as in the infinite trace case, while it decreases to
NExpTime
when finite traces bounded in the number of instants are considered. This leads also to new complexity results for temporal description logics over finite traces. Finally, we investigate applications to planning and verification, in particular by establishing connections with the notions of insensitivity to infiniteness and safety from the literature.
A Personalized Framework for Consumer and Producer Group Fairness Optimization in Recommender Systems
Authors: Rahmani Hossein A. , Naghiaei Mohammadmehdi , Deldjoo Yashar
Published: March 2024

In recent years, there has been an increasing recognition that when machine learning (ML) algorithms are used to automate decisions, they may mistreat individuals or groups, with legal, ethical, or economic implications. Recommender systems are prominent examples of these ML systems that aid users in making decisions. The majority of past literature research on recommender systems fairness treats user and item fairness concerns independently, ignoring the fact that recommender systems function in a two-sided marketplace. In this article, we propose
CP-FairRank
, an optimization-based re-ranking algorithm that seamlessly integrates fairness constraints from both the consumer and producer side in a joint objective framework. The framework is generalizable and may take into account varied fairness settings based on group segmentation, recommendation model selection, and domain, which is one of its key characteristics. For instance, we demonstrate that the system may jointly increase consumer and producer fairness when (un)protected consumer groups are defined on the basis of their 
activity level
and 
main-streamness
, while producer groups are defined according to their popularity level. For empirical validation, through large-scale on eight datasets and four mainstream collaborative filtering recommendation models, we demonstrate that our proposed strategy is able to improve both consumer and producer fairness without compromising or very little overall recommendation quality, demonstrating the role algorithms may play in avoiding data biases. Our results on different group segmentation also indicate that the amount of improvement can vary and is dependent on group segmentation, indicating that the amount of bias produced and how much the algorithm can improve it depend on the protected group definition, a factor that, to our knowledge, has not been examined in great depth in previous studies but rather is highlighted by the results discovered in this study.
Deep Learning for Iris Recognition: A Survey
Authors: Nguyen Kien , Proença Hugo , Alonso-Fernandez Fernando
Published: March 2024

In this survey, we provide a comprehensive review of more than 200 articles, technical reports, and GitHub repositories published over the last 10 years on the recent developments of deep learning techniques for iris recognition, covering broad topics on algorithm designs, open-source tools, open challenges, and emerging research. First, we conduct a comprehensive analysis of deep learning techniques developed for two main sub-tasks in iris biometrics: segmentation and recognition. Second, we focus on deep learning techniques for the robustness of iris recognition systems against presentation attacks and via human-machine pairing. Third, we delve deep into deep learning techniques for forensic application, especially in post-mortem iris recognition. Fourth, we review open-source resources and tools in deep learning techniques for iris recognition. Finally, we highlight the technical challenges, emerging research trends, and outlook for the future of deep learning in iris recognition.
Editors’ Choice—Challenges and Opportunities for Developing Electrochemical Biosensors with Commercialization Potential in the Point-of-Care Diagnostics Market
Authors: Akhlaghi Amir Ali , Kaur Harmanjit , Adhikari Bal Ram , Soleymani Leyla
Published: March 2024

There is a plethora of electrochemical biosensors developed for ultrasensitive detection of clinically relevant biomarkers. However, many of these systems lose their performance in heterogeneous clinical samples and are too complex to be operated by end users at the point-of-care (POC), prohibiting their commercial success. Integration of biosensors with sample processing technology addresses both of these challenges; however, it adds to the manufacturing complexity and the overall cost of these systems. Herein, we review the different components of a biosensor and avenues for creating fully integrated systems. In the context of integration, we focus on discussing the trade-offs between sensing performance, cost, and scalable manufacturing to guide the readers toward designing new electrochemical biosensors with commercialization potential.
Network Pharmacology Analysis and Molecular Docking to Identify the Mechanism of Kuntai Capsules: Brief Research on Its Action in Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
Authors: Cai Ruihong , Wang Hailiang , Lin Qiuping , Zhou Jintuo , Zhang Jinhua
Published: March 2024

Objective. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic targets and related pathways of Kuntai capsules (KTCs) for premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) using network pharmacology and molecular docking. Methods. The active components and their targets of KTCs were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) website, and disease therapeutic targets of POI were downloaded from DisGeNET, GeneCards, and OMIM databases and combined with the disease differential genes of POI microarray dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The intersecting genes of drug potential therapeutic targets and disease therapeutic targets were uploaded to the STRING database to form a protein‐protein interaction network. Also, the possible pathway of KTCs in the treatment of POI was explored by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis; through the core therapeutic targets, the corresponding active ingredients of KTCs were found. Finally molecular docking was conducted to verify the accuracy of the drug action. Results. 120 potential therapeutic targets of KTCs for POI were found. The bioinformatics analysis revealed that KTCs may regulate the recruitment, growth, and development of follicles by controlling various pathways such as fluid shear stress, atherosclerosis, PI3K/AKT, and p53 signaling. They can inhibit granulosa cell atrophy and apoptosis, promote follicle maturation, regulate follicle sensitivity to follicle‐stimulating hormone, and ultimately impact ovarian function. The core therapeutic targets were TP53, AKT1, and TNF, and the corresponding active ingredients were quercetin, kaempferol, and stigmasterol. The molecular docking results showed that all the root mean square deviations were less than 2. Conclusions. KTCs improve ovarian function probably by acting on regulating the recruitment of follicles, reducing the apoptosis of granulosa cells, promoting their growth and development, reducing oxidative stress damage, and improving the sensitivity of follicles to FSH.
Focused Ultrasound Thalamotomy for Tremor Relief in Atypical Parkisnsonism
Authors: Sinai Alon , Nassar Maria , Shornikov Lev , Constantinescu Marius , Zaaroor Menashe , Schlesinger Ilana
Published: March 2024

Background. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided focused ultrasound (FUS) VIM-thalamotomy has established efficacy and safety in tremor relief in patients with essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease. The efficacy and safety in patients with atypical parkinsonism have not been reported. Objective. To report on the efficacy and safety of FUS VIM-thalamotomy in 8 patients with parkinsonism, multiple system atrophy-Parkinsonian type (MSA-P) (n = 5), and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) (n = 3). Methods. Tremor was assessed in the treated hemibody using the Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor (CRST). The motor Unified MSA Rating Scale (UMSAR) was used in the MSA-P and motor sections of the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS-III) in DLB patients. Cognition was measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Results. In MSA-P and DLB patients, there was immediate tremor relief. CRST scores measured on the treated side improved compared to baseline. During the follow-up of up to 1 year tremor reduction persisted. The change in CRST scores at different time points did not reach statistical significance, probably due to the small sample size. Adverse events were transient and resolved within a year. Conclusions. In our experience, FUS VIM-thalamotomy was effective in patients with MSA-P and DLB. Larger, controlled studies are needed to verify our preliminary observations.
Evaluating Students’ User Experience on Student Management Information Systems
Authors: Kuadey Noble Arden , Ankora Carlos , Adjei Laurene , Krampa Elikem , Bolatimi Stephen Oladagba , Bensah Lily , Agbesi Collinson Colin M.
Published: March 2024

Studies evaluating students’ UX of applications that will influence their continuance use of educational systems in Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) have not been sufficiently addressed in the African region, specifically in Ghana. Thus, conducting a study on students’ UX of systems in HEIs will enhance students’ interest in continuing to use such systems. Therefore, this study examines students’ user experience (UX) and how it impacts their continued use of the Student Management Information System (SMIS). The study proposed a research model by integrating user experience questionnaire (UEQ) constructs with continuance intention to use. The study adopted an online questionnaire to collect data from 415 students at Koforidua Technical University (KTU). The partial least square-structural equation model (PLS-SEM) method was used to evaluate the proposed model’s reliability, validity, and relationship among the constructs. The UEQ data analysis tool was used in analysing the data. The study’s findings showed that attractiveness, perspicuity, efficiency, stimulation, and novelty significantly influenced students’ continuance intention to use the SMIS. However, dependability did not significantly affect students’ continuance intention to use the SMIS. Also, the study’s findings on the benchmark results showed that attractiveness, perspicuity, and stimulation were categorized as good, while dependability, efficiency, and novelty were categorized as excellent. These findings offer valuable insights for UX designers and developers aiming to create engaging and intuitive SMIS solutions. Also, it will provide students feedback on system UX that can be incorporated into future release updates. Furthermore, this research contributes significantly to the understanding of student UX with SMIS in developing country HEIs and its impact on continued usage.
Correcting the Cognitive Bias for Commuting Time to Relieve the Driving Stress Level in Snow Weather Condition: A Naturalistic Driving Study in Harbin, China
Authors: Yang Zifeng , Shi Zhenwu , Lu Di , Liu Jie
Published: March 2024

As a negative emotion, professional drivers’ stress levels significantly affected driving behavior and thus were related to driving safety issues. Nevertheless, current evidence fell considerably short of explaining whether and why private drivers’ stress levels might be influenced while commuting driving in a specific scenario and how to relieve their stress levels. This study aimed to identify and analyze the contributing factors of the drivers’ stress levels while commuting driving in various scenarios (clear or snow weather conditions). On weekdays between 1st October 2020 and 31st January 2022, the questionnaire data from a sample of 985 private drivers were collected from six different locations of business districts in Harbin, China. Based on the naturalistic driving study (NDS) database, a 7‐item questionnaire was designed for participants to self‐report their driving stress levels in various scenarios, which was generated from the shortened and adapted version of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The results showed that participants’ stress levels had significantly increased in snow weather conditions, especially nervous and stressed feeling, and unable to control the arrival time, which indicated that participants’ highly increased cognitive bias for commuting time could be the critical reason. The results of hierarchical linear regression models indicated that overall stress scores could be predicted through participants’ sociodemographic characteristics, driving experience, commuting driving, and cognitive bias for commuting time. Such an association was significantly strongest with commuting time gaps, especially in snow weather conditions. In addition, a recommendation was derived from these results that correcting the cognitive bias for commuting time could relieve participants’ stress levels. The implication of the reminder message supported this recommendation. The participants’ stress levels were reduced significantly after providing a reminder message every 10 mins while commuting driving in clear weather conditions and every 5 mins in snow weather conditions.
Genetic Diversity and Biological Characteristics of H3 Avian Influenza Virus Isolated from China in 2021–2022 Showed the Emerging H3N8 Posed a Threat to Human Health
Authors: Yin Xin , Wu Tiantian , Liu Shuo , Peng Cheng , Li Jinping , Mao Qiuyan , Zhang Yaxin , Zhou Shuning , Zhou Wanting , Hou Guangyu , Jiang Wenming , Liu Hualei
Published: March 2024

The H3 influenza viruses are widespread in domestic poultry but have been ignored because their pathogenicity in poultry is low. Three human infections with H3N8 influenza viruses have been reported in China since 2022, raising public concern. Here, we comprehensively analyzed 30 H3 subtype avian influenza viruses isolated from live poultry markets in China between 2021 and 2022. Genetic and phylogenetic analyses showed that the H3 viruses have undergone frequent reassortment and have formed complex genotypes. Notably, the viruses that caused human infections in 2022–2023 were highly homologous to the H3N8 viruses circulating in poultry in 2022, with internal genes derived from the H9N2 viruses. The analysis of chicken infections indicated that the novel H3N8 viruses were more infectious in chickens than those that do not carry H9N2 genes, whereas the H3 viruses detected in China in 2021–2022 showed low pathogenicity in mice. Our findings suggest that the novel H3N8 viruses bearing internal H9N2 genes have adapted to and circulated in chickens and pose a threat to human health. These results highlight the need for continued surveillance of the H3 influenza viruses and their impact on the poultry industry.
Relationship between Antibiotic Consumption and Resistance: A Systematic Review
Authors: Abejew Asrat Agalu , Wubetu Gizachew Yismaw , Fenta Teferi Gedif
Published: March 2024

Background. Unreserved use of antibiotics exerted selective pressure on susceptible bacteria, resulting in the survival of resistant strains. Despite this, the relationship between antibiotic resistance (ABR) and antibiotic consumption (ABC) is rarely studied. This systematic review aims to review the relationship between ABC and ABR from 2016 to 2022. Methods. Articles published over 7 years (2016–2022) were searched from December 23 to 31, 2022. The search strategy was developed by using keywords for ABC and ABR. From 3367 articles, 58 eligible articles were included in the final review. Results. The pooled ABC was 948017.9 DPDs and 4108.6 DIDs where over 70% of antibiotics were from the Watch and Reserve category based on the WHO AWaRe classification. The average pooled prevalence of ABR was 38.4%. Enterococcus faecium (59.4%), A. baumannii (52.6%), and P. aeruginosa (48.6%) were the most common antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Cephalosporins (76.8%), penicillin (58.3%), and aminoglycosides (52%) were commonly involved antibiotics in ABR. The positive correlation between ABR and consumption accounted for 311 (81%). The correlation between ABR P. aeruginosa and ABC accounted for 87 (22.7%), followed by 78 (20.3%) and 77 (20.1%) for ABR E. coli and K. pneumoniae with ABCs, respectively. Consumption of carbapenems and fluoroquinolones was most commonly correlated with resistance rates of P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae, E. coli, and A. baumannii. Conclusion. There is a positive correlation between ABC and the rate of ABR. The review also revealed a cross-resistance between the consumption of different antibiotics and ABR. Optimizing antibiotic therapy and reducing unnecessary ABC will prevent the emergence and spread of ABR. Thus, advocating the implementation of stewardship programs plays a pivotal role in containing ABR.
Supplementary Figure 1 from The Salivary Microbiome and Predicted Metabolite Production Are Associated with Barrett's Esophagus and High-Grade Dysplasia or Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Solfisburg Quinn S. , Baldini Federico , Baldwin-Hunter Brittany , Austin George I. , Lee Harry H. , Park Heekuk , Freedberg Daniel E. , Lightdale Charles J. , Korem Tal , Abrams Julian A.
Published: March 2024

Supplementary Figure 1: Advanced neoplasia patients (HGD/EAC) had significantly lower alpha diversity, p=0.0029 by Simpson’s Diversity Index.
Supplementary Table S1 from Passenger Gene Coamplifications Create Collateral Therapeutic Vulnerabilities in Cancer
Authors: Bei Yi , Bramé Luca , Kirchner Marieluise , Fritsche-Guenther Raphaela , Kunz Severine , Bhattacharya Animesh , Rusu Mara-Camelia , Gürgen Dennis , Dubios Frank P.B. , Köppke Julia K.C. , Proba Jutta , Wittstruck Nadine , Sidorova Olga Alexandra , Chamorro González Rocío , Dorado Garcia Heathcliff , Brückner Lotte , Xu Robin , Giurgiu Mădălina , Rodriguez-Fos Elias , Yu Qinghao , Spanjaard Bastiaan , Koche Richard P. , Schmitt Clemens A. , Schulte Johannes H. , Eggert Angelika , Haase Kerstin , Kirwan Jennifer , Hagemann Anja I.H. , Mertins Philipp , Dörr Jan R. , Henssen Anton G.
Published: March 2024

List of gene dependencies associated with DDX1 co-amplification.
Data from Passenger Gene Coamplifications Create Collateral Therapeutic Vulnerabilities in Cancer
Authors: Bei Yi , Bramé Luca , Kirchner Marieluise , Fritsche-Guenther Raphaela , Kunz Severine , Bhattacharya Animesh , Rusu Mara-Camelia , Gürgen Dennis , Dubios Frank P.B. , Köppke Julia K.C. , Proba Jutta , Wittstruck Nadine , Sidorova Olga Alexandra , Chamorro González Rocío , Dorado Garcia Heathcliff , Brückner Lotte , Xu Robin , Giurgiu Mădălina , Rodriguez-Fos Elias , Yu Qinghao , Spanjaard Bastiaan , Koche Richard P. , Schmitt Clemens A. , Schulte Johannes H. , Eggert Angelika , Haase Kerstin , Kirwan Jennifer , Hagemann Anja I.H. , Mertins Philipp , Dörr Jan R. , Henssen Anton G.
Published: March 2024

Abstract
DNA amplifications in cancer do not only harbor oncogenes. We sought to determine whether passenger coamplifications could create collateral therapeutic vulnerabilities. Through an analysis of >3,000 cancer genomes followed by the interrogation of CRISPR-Cas9 loss-of-function screens across >700 cancer cell lines, we determined that passenger coamplifications are accompanied by distinct dependency profiles. In a proof-of-principle study, we demonstrate that the coamplification of the bona fide passenger gene DEAD-Box Helicase 1 (DDX1) creates an increased dependency on the mTOR pathway. Interaction proteomics identified tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle components as previously unrecognized DDX1 interaction partners. Live-cell metabolomics highlighted that this interaction could impair TCA activity, which in turn resulted in enhanced mTORC1 activity. Consequently, genetic and pharmacologic disruption of mTORC1 resulted in pronounced cell death in vitro and in vivo. Thus, structurally linked coamplification of a passenger gene and an oncogene can result in collateral vulnerabilities.
Significance:
We demonstrate that coamplification of passenger genes, which were largely neglected in cancer biology in the past, can create distinct cancer dependencies. Because passenger coamplifications are frequent in cancer, this principle has the potential to expand target discovery in oncology.

This article is featured in Selected Articles from This Issue, p. 384
Supplementary Table 3 from The NUTRIENT Trial (NUTRitional Intervention among myEloproliferative Neoplasms): Results from a Randomized Phase I Pilot Study for Feasibility and Adherence
Authors: Mendez Luque Laura F. , Avelar-Barragan Julio , Nguyen Hellen , Nguyen Jenny , Soyfer Eli M. , Liu Jiarui , Chen Jane H. , Mehrotra Nitya , Huang Xin , Kosiorek Heidi E. , Dueck Amylou , Himstead Alexander , Heide Elena , Lem Melinda , El Alaoui Kenza , Mas Eduard , Scherber Robyn M. , Mesa Ruben A. , Whiteson Katrine L. , Odegaard Andrew , Fleischman Angela G.
Published: March 2024

Supplementary Table 3. Longitudinal complete metabolic panels of participants.
Patient Characteristics Associated With Using Transcatheter Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Versus Oral Anticoagulants for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Lin Kueiyu Joshua , Singer Daniel E. , Avorn Jerry , Heist E. Kevin , Sreedhara Sushama Kattinakere , Anand Priyanka , Zhang Yichi , Tsacogianis Theodore N. , Schneeweiss Sebastian
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Transcatheter left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) is an alternative to oral anticoagulants (OACs) for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation, but the predictors of LAAO use in routine care are unclear. We aimed to assess the utilization trends of LAAO and compare the change in characteristics of LAAO users versus OACs since its marketing.

METHODS:

Using the US Medicare claims database (March 15, 2015, to December 31, 2020), we identified patients with atrial fibrillation, ≥65 years, and CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc score ≥2 (men) or ≥3 (women), with either first implantation of an LAAO device or initiation of OACs, including apixaban, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, edoxaban, or warfarin. Patient characteristics, measured 365 days before the first LAAO or OAC use date, were compared using logistic regression.

RESULTS:

There were 30 058 LAAO recipients (mean age, 77.74 years; female, 42.1%) and 792 600 OAC initiators (mean age, 78.48; female, 53.3%). In 2020, patients had higher odds of initiating LAAO use than in 2015 (0.52 versus 9.32%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 13.64 [95% CI, 12.56–14.81]). Old age (ie, >85 versus 65–75 years; aOR, 0.84 [95% CI, 0.80–0.88]), female sex (aOR, 0.74 [95% CI, 0.71–0.76]), Black race (aOR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.58–0.68]) versus White race, and Medicaid eligibility (aOR, 0.61 [95% CI, 0.58–0.64]) were associated with lower odds of receiving LAAO. Among clinical characteristics, frailty, cancer, fractures, and venous thromboembolism were associated with lower odds of LAAO use, while history of intracranial and extracranial bleeding, coagulopathy, and falls were associated with higher odds of receiving LAAO.

CONCLUSIONS:

Among patients with atrial fibrillation receiving stroke-preventive therapy, LAAO use increased rapidly from 2015 to 2020 and was positively associated with the risk factors for OAC complications but negatively associated with old age, advanced frailty, and cancer. Black race and female sex were associated with a lower likelihood of receiving LAAO.
Characterization of Vascular Niche in Systemic Sclerosis by Spatial Proteomics
Authors: Rius Rigau Aleix , Li Yi-Nan , Matei Alexandru-Emil , Györfi Andrea-Hermina , Bruch Peter-Martin , Koziel Sarah , Devakumar Veda , Gabrielli Armando , Kreuter Alexander , Wang Jiucun , Dietrich Sascha , Schett Georg , Distler Jörg H.W. , Liang Minrui
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease that can serve as a model to study vascular changes in response to inflammation, autoimmunity, and fibrotic remodeling. Although microvascular changes are the earliest histopathologic manifestation of SSc, the vascular pathophysiology remains poorly understood.

METHODS:

We applied spatial proteomic approaches to deconvolute the heterogeneity of vascular cells at the single-cell level in situ and characterize cellular alterations of the vascular niches of patients with SSc. Skin biopsies of patients with SSc and control individuals were analyzed by imaging mass cytometry, yielding a total of 90 755 cells including 2987 endothelial cells and 4096 immune cells.

RESULTS:

We identified 7 different subpopulations of blood vascular endothelial cells (VECs), 2 subpopulations of lymphatic endothelial cells, and 3 subpopulations of pericytes. A novel population of CD34
+
;αSMA
+
(α-smooth muscle actin);CD31
+
VECs was more common in SSc, whereas endothelial precursor cells were decreased. Co-detection by indexing and tyramide signal amplification confirmed these findings. The microenvironment of CD34
+
;αSMA
+
;CD31
+
VECs was enriched for immune cells and myofibroblasts, and CD34
+
;αSMA
+
;CD31
+
VECs expressed markers of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. The density of CD34
+
;αSMA
+
;CD31
+
VECs was associated with clinical progression of fibrosis in SSc.

CONCLUSIONS:

Using spatial proteomics, we unraveled the heterogeneity of vascular cells in control individuals and patients with SSc. We identified CD34
+
;αSMA
+
;CD31
+
VECs as a novel endothelial cell population that is increased in patients with SSc, expresses markers for endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and is located in close proximity to immune cells and myofibroblasts. CD34
+
;αSMA
+
;CD31
+
VEC counts were associated with clinical outcomes of progressive fibrotic remodeling, thus providing a novel cellular correlate for the crosstalk of vasculopathy and fibrosis.
Abstract 028: Chronic Subdural Hematoma Treatment with Embolization Versus Surgery Study Protocol
Authors: Siddiq Farhan
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is one of the most common neurosurgical diseases with a significant financial burden. Current management includes observation for mild or asymptomatic patients and surgical drainage for moderate and severe patients. However, surgical drainage is associated with a 15% reoperation rate and a mortality of up to 10%. Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) is a promising minimally invasive alternative with an estimated surgical recurrence rate of 6.8% and 4.6% for standalone MMAE and combined MMAE and surgery respectively. However, randomized data is lacking for this emerging therapy.

Methods

CHESS is a NIH‐funded, prospective, multi‐center, randomized, open label clinical trial. Subjects with moderately symptomatic cSDH (de novo or recurrent) will be randomized in a 1:1 radio to standalone MMAE or conventional surgery. Moderately symptomatic patients are defined as patients with moderate weakness (4/5), gait ataxia and/or mild aphasia. Embosphere or PVA will be used for MMAE. Primary outcome is defined as the proportion of patients that require rescue surgery or die within 180 days. Safety outcomes include the proportion of subjects with ischemic strokes, serious/life threatening adverse events, worsening neurological status or development of new disabling neurological symptoms, seizures, and cranial neuropathies (blindness and facial paralysis) within 180 days of randomization. One interim analysis for overwhelming efficacy and futility will be performed assuming a group sequential design of O’Brien and Fleming boundary.

Results

Based on an effect size of 13% of the composite primary outcome, a two‐sided Type I and Type II error of 0.05 and 0.15, and a dropout rate of 10%, a sample size of 394 patients is estimated.

Conclusion

CHESS will be the first US randomized controlled trial to provide evidence on the safety and effectiveness of 1) standalone MMAE vs surgical drainage; 2) particles as the embolic agent, and 3) MMAE on recurrent, in addition to de novo, cSDHs.
Abstract 047: Solumbra ‘PINCHING’ technique for medium vessel occlusions (MeVOs): A Single Center Experience
Authors: Waghralkar Mandar , Sikand Trimaan , Goel Gaurav , Mahajan Anshu
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Various techniques have been evolved and used by different operators for mechanical thrombectomies for improved procedural performance, lower intraoperative times and better recanalization rates The widely used, isolated stent‐retriever and contact aspiration technique for medium vessel occlusions (MeVOs) carries a high risk for clot fragmentation, spasm and distal migration. The stent–aspiration (Solumbra) technique uses a large bore aspiration catheter with a stent retriever device for potential synergistic effects. However, its use is limited in distal thrombectomies. Hereby, we assess the efficacy and safety of solumbra ‘Pinching’ technique by using a smaller profile aspiration catheter for MeVO thrombectomy.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed our prospective institutional database for medium vessel occlusions (M2, M3 MCA/ A2, A3 ACA/ P2 PCA) who underwent endovascular mechanical thrombectomy using stent retriever or aspiration or combined (solumbra) technique. The technique involves deploying a stent retriever through microcatheter and large bore aspiration catheter like ACE 68 (Penumbra, Inc.), followed by both microcatheter and aspiration removal, clot localization and blind navigation of a correctly sized lower profile (3MAX or 4MAX, Penumbra, Inc.) aspiration catheter over stent bare wire to “pinch” the primal end of the clot. Besides various demographic parameters, we collected final recanalization rates with first pass effect [using modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) score]. All the intra‐procedural complications (haemorrhage, vasospasm) were analysed. Clinical outcome was analysed using modified ranking score (mRS) on 7th day post procedure/ discharge(whichever is earlier) and at 90 days.

Results

Total 26 MeVOs were successfully treated in twenty‐five patients with solumbra ‘Pinching’ technique since January 2022 (Male: female 16:7, mean age 58.6 years, mean NIHSS 9.1). Majority of the procedures were done for primary MeVOs and 72% consisted of M2 MCA occlusions. Whether to use a 3MAX or 4MAX aspiration catheter was determined by eyeballing the appropriate calibre for target vessels. Final first pass mTICI 2c/3 recanalization was achieved in 24 patients (88%). Minor Intra‐procedural complications were observed in 13 patients. Favorable modified ranking score (mRS 0‐2) was achieved in approximately 80% patients at the end of 7 days/discharge and 14 out of 16 follow up patients achieved good clinical outcome at 90 days

Conclusion

Solumbra ‘Pinching’ technique, using a low profile aspiration catheter like 3 MAX or 4 MAX (Penumbra, Inc.) with a stent retriever, can be effectively used in management of acute ischaemic stroke secondary to a MeVOs with significantly enhancing the first‐pass recanalization with lesser risk of intimal injury, dissection and secondary embolization.