bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract 783: Early impact assessment of in-house EGFR testing for NSCLC in Kenya
Authors: Njau Allan , Nguku Samuel , Abuodha Joseph
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Quality of life and survival among non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients have improved in the last two decades owing mainly to use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and other targeted therapies. Low and middle-income countries (LMICs) especially in Africa, are lagging in realizing these benefits largely due to hurdles in molecular testing. In addition, quality histology and molecular data from LMICs is deficient. The aim of this study is to assess the immediate impact of improved access to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) testing in Kenya, and to establish a long term-lung cancer data base.

Methods: Staring mid-June 2023, an in-house PCR-based method was adopted for EGFR testing of NSCLC in order to side step the challenges of out-of-country send outs which was until then, the only option for EGFR testing. Further, a sponsored access program was created. From prospectively accrued samples, we performed a before-and-after assessment of the number of NSCLC cases intercepted, cost and turnaround times (TAT) as measures of impact. Demographic, histopathology, and EGFR mutation profiles were analyzed in comparison to Asia, USA and European data. Whole slide histology scanned images are made to compliment the database.

Results: Over the four-month period, 62 NSCLC cases were accrued, median age at diagnosis was 63 with a range of 24 - 93. The male to female ratio was 1: 1.5. Adenocarcinomas comprised 89%, squamous cell carcinoma 5% and 3% were not classifiable. Metastatic disease was reported in 14 (22%) with the brain being the commonest site. EGFR mutations were identified in 16 (25%) with exon 19 deletions and L858R mutations constituting 94% of them. Monthly requisitions for EGFR have increased 3-fold, and the average TAT has been halved to 7 days.

Conclusion: Similarities between our data and global patterns are noted; median age is in the seventh decade, NSCLC is more common in women, and so are the rates of EGFR mutations, adenocarcinomas are the predominant type, and there are high rates of brain metastasis at diagnosis. EGFR mutation rates appear to be higher than USA and European data but lower than Asian data. In-house and sponsored testing has had an immediate impact in reduction of costs and TAT and increased requisitions. Assessment of access to targeted therapy, clinical outcome, survival, expansion of molecular profiling beyond EGFR, and build-up of the database including virtual histology images for exploring artificial intelligence algorithms are our next steps.

Citation Format: Allan Njau, Samuel Nguku, Joseph Abuodha. Early impact assessment of in-house EGFR testing for NSCLC in Kenya [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 783.
Abstract 788: Leveraging multi omics approach to examine the potential role of causative viruses in glioblastoma
Authors: Gunasegaran Bavani , Alnakli Aziz Abdullah A , Guillemin4 Gilles J. , Ahn Seong Beom , Heng Benjamin
Published: March 2024

Glioblastoma (GB), a grade IV brain cancer, has the lowest survival rate. Despite aggressive and targeted therapies, patients remain to have the worst prognosis. More than 16% of cancer incidence worldwide has been attributed to infectious agents, raising uncertainties about the role of infections in the development of brain cancer. While numerous studies have suggested potential viral involvement in GB pathogenesis, a common limitation is the reliance on a singular technology, such as DNA/RNA sequencing or immunohistochemistry, within each study. This approach may restrict the comprehensive exploration of viral contributions, as different technologies offer distinct insights into the complex mechanisms underlying GB development. Utilizing a combination of techniques could provide a more holistic understanding, enhancing the robustness of findings and potentially uncovering nuanced aspects of viral influence that a single technology might overlook. To clarify the role of viruses in GB pathology, our study employs a comprehensive approach integrating three distinct research methods. We screened 178 publicly accessible raw mass spectrometry (MS) data of GB tumors from three independent publications (PMID: 31331834, 31154438, 36720864) by employing our internally developed data identification pipeline. The pipeline transforms raw MS data for downstream analysis, conducts database searches against the latest viral protein databases and undergoes peptide validation for enhanced robustness. Subsequent analysis filters duplicate hits and consolidates nested peptides. The final protein list includes only those identified with two or more peptides of over eight amino acids. The pipeline concludes by inferring and listing the corresponding viruses, ensuring a comprehensive and refined approach to the identification and analysis of viral proteins in the context of MS data. To enhance this dataset, we incorporated whole-genome metagenomics and MS-based proteomics, examining a preliminary cohort of15 GB tumor tissues. This approach explored a wide range of viral encoded proteins. Our comprehensive analysis, integrating bioinformatics, genomics, and proteomics, identified multiple herpesvirus species across our cohorts. This potential identification of viruses within GB has the capacity to redefine the stratification of tumor types in GB patients, signaling a significant development in our understanding of the disease.

Citation Format: Bavani Gunasegaran, Aziz Abdullah A Alnakli, Gilles J. Guillemin4, Seong Beom Ahn, Benjamin Heng. Leveraging multi omics approach to examine the potential role of causative viruses in glioblastoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 788.
Abstract 798: Increasing breast cancer incidence across generation status in Mexican American women: The Multiethnic Cohort
Authors: Zhang Xinman , Cheng Iona , Paik Adelynn , Huang Brian , Setiawan Veronica Wendy
Published: March 2024

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Latino women in the US. Compared to foreign-born Latino women, US-born Latino women have a higher incidence of BC. While prior studies have suggested this difference in incidence may be explained by risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, reproductive history, and neighborhood socioeconomic status, it is unclear how the risk of BC has changed over generations among Latinos women. In this study, we investigated the association between generational status and BC incidence among Mexican American women within the Multiethnic Cohort (MEC).

Methods: The study population included 15,303 self-reported Mexican Americans from the MEC. Generational status was categorized as: 1st generation (Mexico-born, n = 6,347), 2nd generation (US-born with one or two parents born in Mexico, n = 6,390), or 3rd generation (US-born with both parents born in the US, n = 2,566). Multivariable Cox models were used to calculate the hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of BC incidence by generational status. All models were adjusted for relevant risk factors including age, physical activity, smoking, alcohol intake, education, body mass index, diet, family history of BC, menopausal status, age at menarche, parity, mammography history, hormone use, neighborhood socioeconomic status, and Hispanic ethnic enclave.

Results: During an average 21.5-year follow-up, 815 incident BC cases were identified. The age-adjusted incidence rate (per 100,000) of BC increased by generation (1st: 191.9; 2nd: 265.3; 3rd: 284.0). Third (70.4%) and 2nd (66.5%) generations had a larger proportion of localized disease at diagnosis compared to 1st generation women (59.7%). Compared to 1st generation Mexican Americans, 2nd (HR = 1.24; 95% CI: 1.03-1.49) and 3rd generation (HR = 1.28; 95% CI: 1.02-1.60) had elevated risks of BC (p-trend: 0.02) The positive association with generational status remained significant when restricting to women who reported mammogram use (HR 2nd vs. 1st = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.04-1.55; HR 3rd vs. 1st = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.06-1.70) (p-trend: 0.01).

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that generational status among Mexican American women is associated with risk of BC, after adjusting for sociodemographic, lifestyle, neighborhood, and reproductive risk factors. Further studies are warranted to discover the potential factors that contribute to this increased risk and elucidate the underlying etiology.

Citation Format: Xinman Zhang, Iona Cheng, Adelynn Paik, Brian Huang, Veronica Wendy Setiawan. Increasing breast cancer incidence across generation status in Mexican American women: The Multiethnic Cohort [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 798.
Abstract 815: Leveraging clinical workflow for rapid integration of social needs assessment in a urologic oncology clinical practice
Authors: Washington Samuel L. , Rhoads Kim F. , Carroll Peter R. , Shariff-Marco Salma , Chan June M.
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Social determinants of health and resulting social needs are known to impact cancer care, yet characterization of social needs within a specific clinic’s population remains in its infancy. We aim to characterize early findings from social needs screening in patients seen in a tertiary urologic oncology clinic.

Methods: Screening was conducted using survey questions about specific domains of social needs (e.g., financial strain, unmet transportation needs, and food insecurity) that were integrated into new patient and annual follow-up questionnaires for all patients seen within a urologic oncology faculty clinic, starting in January 2023. Screening items were rapidly implemented into workflow by taking advantage of existing processes. Clinical and demographic data and screening responses were abstracted from the electronic medical record. Summary statistics were calculated. P value<0.05 was deemed statistically significant.

Results: A total of 2305 patients were included (4% Non-Hispanic Black, 11% Asian American, 8% Latinx, and 63% Non-Hispanic White). Responses increased from 30 in January to 399 in October. Respondent mean age was 67 years [standard deviation (SD) 12.3] with 87.8% identifying as male. Roughly 13% screened positive for at least one social need (one positive 8.1%, two positive 3.4%, three positive 1.2%) with variations by domain [transportation 3.6%, food insecurity 5.4%, 10.2%] and race and ethnicity (Figure 1, p<0.001 for all).

Conclusions: By leveraging the existing clinical workflow, rapid uptake of social needs screening demonstrates variations by social needs domains and race and ethnicity within a urologic oncology patient population. These efforts represent institutional action towards characterizing the burdens faced by our patient population and inform the design of interventions to address social needs within the catchment area, to improve clinical care and clinical trial participation.

Citation Format: Samuel L. Washington, Kim F. Rhoads, Peter R. Carroll, Salma Shariff-Marco, June M. Chan. Leveraging clinical workflow for rapid integration of social needs assessment in a urologic oncology clinical practice [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 815.
Abstract 829: Phthalate exposure results in circadian rhythm-induced BBB dysfunction increasing the risk for breast cancer brain metastasis
Authors: Tiburcio Destiny , Adolphe Sarah , Akpu Ijeoma B. , Teglas Timea , Naranjo Oandy , George Sophia H. , Toborek Michal J.
Published: March 2024

Phthalates, classified as plasticizers, represent a group of chemicals pervasive in the general U.S. population, with notably higher levels in non-Hispanic Blacks compared to non-Hispanic Whites. These persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have been identified for their impact on the circadian rhythms of the brain and vascular system. Several studies indicate that phthalates can elevate neuroinflammation and reduce levels of the junctional protein ZO-1 in the hypothalamus, home to the master circadian clock known as the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The SCN regulates cellular and tissue circadian rhythms, including tight junction proteins essential for the blood-brain barrier's (BBB) main barrier function. Interestingly, experimental studies reveal that prolonged chronic circadian rhythm disruption (CRD) in mice leads to increased breast cancer metastasis. However, the effects of phthalates on CRD concerning brain cancer and metastasis remain poorly understood. Given their significant prevalence and biological impact, we hypothesize that phthalate exposure induces CRD through hypothalamic dysregulation, resulting in BBB dysfunction and an elevated risk of brain metastasis.

Results. We developed an in vitro BBB model using endothelial cells and exposed them to an environmentally relevant mixture of five phthalates simulating chronic low-grade exposure. Analysis showed dysregulation of critical clock genes (Bmal1 and Clock), along with a substantial decrease in BBB tight junction proteins (claudin-5 and occludin) at the protein and mRNA levels. The tumor trans-endothelial migration assay using breast adenocarcinoma cells along with endothelial cells demonstrated an increased metastatic potential following phthalate exposure.

Conclusion. These findings offer crucial insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying phthalate exposure, suggesting potential targets for future brain metastasis treatments. Additionally, they hold implications for the future regulation and management of phthalate usage and policy. This work was supported by the University of Miami U-LINK Resilience Challenge grant.

Citation Format: Destiny Tiburcio, Sarah Adolphe, Ijeoma B. Akpu, Timea Teglas, Oandy Naranjo, Sophia H. George, Michal J. Toborek. Phthalate exposure results in circadian rhythm-induced BBB dysfunction increasing the risk for breast cancer brain metastasis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 829.
Abstract 921: The value of cancer genomic data sharing
Authors: Nelson Stefanie , Anan Charlisse Caga , Gillanders Elizabeth
Published: March 2024

Our understanding of and ability to combat cancer relies on the generation, analysis, and sharing of data. The Epidemiology and Genomics Research Program in the National Cancer Institute’s Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences (DCCPS) has supported generation of large genomic data sets and advocated for and/or required broad sharing of this data. One of DCCPS’s scientific priorities is focused on data strategies namely, “the use, enhancement, expansion, and accessibility of new and existing DCCPS-supported data resources to accelerate cancer control research” (https://cancercontrol.cancer.gov/overview-highlights/2022/future_directions.html).EGRP funded the Genetic Associations and Mechanisms in Oncology (GAME-ON) Initiative, a multidisciplinary collaboration of researchers focused on understanding the genetic architecture, biology, and clinical and epidemiologic utility of common cancer risk variants. This program focused on 5 common cancer types - breast, colorectal, lung, ovarian, and prostate - and required research that incorporated multiple research domains and sharing of any data generated. A major accomplishment of this program was development of the OncoArray genotyping chip, which used information from genetic epidemiology studies, biological/functional analyses, and clinical and epidemiologic insights to create a comprehensive, high-density genotyping array for pan-cancer studies that has led to the discovery of hundreds of new cancer predisposition variants. This chip was used in a massive, coordinated genotyping effort that culminated in the generation of 7 datasets comprising genotyping data for nearly 500,000 individuals. All the data were deposited in dbGaP between 2014 and 2021 and are available (via controlled access) to any investigators. To understand the secondary use of these data, we determined the number of times the data had been downloaded, who downloaded the data, and types of research for which it was used. We also identified publications using OncoArray data and characterized the publications by research type, cancer type, and other details. Through this analysis, we explore how well the GAME-ON initiative and the OncoArray projects promote the DCCPS scientific priority of optimizing secondary research by making the data findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable (FAIR).

Citation Format: Stefanie Nelson, Charlisse Caga Anan, Elizabeth Gillanders. The value of cancer genomic data sharing [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 921.
Abstract 955: Double-targeting of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC): Unveiling the potent combination of NMS-873 and BAY-876
Authors: Eppinger Emily Rita , Schneeweis Christian , Saur Dieter
Published: March 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) stands out as one of the most aggressive and challenging-to-treat cancers known. Consequently, the development of effective therapeutic strategies holds significant importance in enhancing patient outcomes. In contrast to single-drug treatments, combination therapies offer the potential for improved results by addressing multiple pathways. This approach not only reduces the likelihood of drug resistance but also encourages synergistic effects, all while permitting the use of lower individual drug doses, thus minimizing potential side effects. In this study, we subjected a panel of PDAC cell lines with varying degrees of sensitivity to a high-throughput combinatorial drug screen. Mitochondrial complex 1/p97 inhibitor NMS-873 was tested in combination with 95 other compounds, revealing remarkable synergy when paired with Glut1 inhibitor BAY-876. In order to affirm the validity of these findings, we conducted further experiments involving multi-dose drug combinations within long-term clonogenic assays. These supplementary investigations also demonstrated significant synergistic effects between BAY-876 and NMS-873, as quantified through the calculation of Bliss and Zip scores. Notably, this combination exhibited superior efficacy when confronting PDAC cell lines that are more resistant to NMS-873, highlighting the potential of this combination to overcome therapy resistance. To gain insights into the underlying mechanisms behind these outcomes, we performed a gene enrichment analysis which revealed that the more sensitive cell lines exhibited elevated rates of cell division, while the more resistant ones demonstrated heightened cRNA processing and increased metabolic activity, particularly in protein, phospholipid, and lipid synthesis. The combination of BAY-876 and NMS-873 presents a promising avenue for the targeted treatment of PDAC. This study underscores the remarkable synergy observed in mouse PDAC cell lines with a particular emphasis on the heightened efficacy against cell populations that are more resistant to NMS-873. These results warrant further investigation to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and validate these findings in clinical settings.

Citation Format: Emily Rita Eppinger, Christian Schneeweis, Dieter Saur. Double-targeting of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC): Unveiling the potent combination of NMS-873 and BAY-876 [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 955.
Figure S5 from D-2-HG Inhibits IDH1mut Glioma Growth via FTO Inhibition and Resultant m6A Hypermethylation
Authors: Pianka Sean T. , Li Tie , Prins Terry J. , Eldred Blaine S.C. , Kevan Bryan M. , Liang Haowen , Zapanta Rinonos Serendipity , Kornblum Harley I. , Nathanson David A. , Pellegrini Matteo , Liau Linda M. , Nghiemphu Phioanh Leia , Cloughesy Timothy F. , Lai Albert
Published: March 2024

ATF5 is a Downstream Effector of the IDH1mut → D-2-HG ⊣ FTO Axis Resulting in Gliomasphere Growth Reduction.
Já visto jamais visto?
Authors: Tonacci Andrea
Published: March 2024

Imagens filmadas e esquecidas, abandonadas, perdidas, escondidas, quando encontradas, parecem permanências no tempo revelando a impermanência de tudo, passado, presente, fugazes de um momento, são como alteridades que emergem de outros tempos e lugares distantes e desconhecidos, nunca vistos nem lembrados, paisagens, pessoas, movimentos, que são como vazios pedindo sentimentos. Olhamos a aparência, o aspecto, sem percebermos ainda sentido apesar da intenção do olhar que as materializou, e eis que nos invadem como um devir memória de um passado até então ausente.
An Introduction to the Coney Island Amateur Psychoanalytic Society
Authors: Beloff Zoe
Published: March 2024

Em meu trabalho como artista, exploro formas de manifestar graficamente os processos inconscientes da mente e descubro como eles se cruzam com as tecnologias da imagem em movimento. Meu ponto de partida são sempre registros históricos, documentos. Mas quero encontrar formas de documentar o intangível, imagens que “não estão lá”.
A subjetividade e as imagens alheias: ressignificação
Authors: Bernadet Jean-Claude
Published: March 2024

Este texto é uma reflexão em torno de dois filmes que realizei, São Paulo sinfonia e cacofonia em 1995, e em 1999, Sobre anos 60. Ambos foram feitos com material de arquivo, o primeiro na totalidade, o segundo tem menos de 10% de filmagens adicionais. Quando São Paulo sinfonia e cacofonia foi apresentado pela primeira vez, Ismail Xavier fez uma piada: você publica um livro contra o cinema de autor e faz um filme de autor. É esta piada que quero comentar aqui. E outra também, esta de Roberto Moreira: você trabalha com imagens prostitutas.
People's Intentions to Use Metaverse Technology: Investigating the Role of Gratifications and Perceptions
Authors: Zarouali Brahim
Published: March 2024

The aim of the Metaverse is to become a major achievement in the realm of cyberspace, envisioning a significant advancement toward a more immersive and interactive internet experience. Given the potential impact of this new development, a thorough understanding of people's intentions to use this technology is warranted. Drawing on the theoretical tenets of Uses and Gratification theory and I-P-R framework, a research model was developed that incorporates three types of gratification (hedonic, utilitarian, and social) and three psychological perceptions (immersion, telepresence, and realism) that are related to people's behavioral intentions. Structural equation modeling was used as an analytical strategy based on a representative sample of 617 respondents. Results showed that all three gratifications and perceptions were positively associated with people's intentions to use Metaverse technology. In conclusion, this model offers a relevant starting point toward establishing a timely research line on users' perceptions and engagements with Metaverse technology.
The Quantitative Role of Moisture and Vertical Motion in Shaping Summer Heavy Rainfall over North China under Two Distinct Large-Scale Weather Patterns
Authors: Li Jiao , Zhao Yang , Chen Deliang , Zhao Ping , Zhang Chi , Wang Yinjun
Published: March 2024

Two distinct categories of weather patterns, denoted as Type 1 and Type 2, which show higher-than-expected frequency of summer heavy rainfall days (HRDs) over North China (NC), are selected from nine weather patterns categorized by the self-organizing map algorithm during 1979–2019. The respective HRDs over NC exhibit dissimilar characteristics, with Type 1 showing a northern distribution and Type 2 a southern distribution. The quantitative disparities in terms of moisture content and vertical motion are discussed in reactions to the synoptic-scale patterns associated with HRDs. The outcomes of a 20-day backward tracking, using the so-called Water Accounting Model-2layers, reveal noteworthy contrasts in moisture sources. Type 1 predominantly receives moisture from the western North Pacific, while Type 2 relies more on contributions from the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Eurasia. However, the major moisture sources with grid cells contributing more than 0.01 mm show a consistent cumulative contribution of 77% for Type 1 and 80% for Type 2. The finding suggests that the discrepancy between the two types cannot be solely attributed to moisture supply. Further examination of the transverse and shearwise Q-vector components provides insights into how these distinct weather patterns influence HRDs by the alteration of vertical motion. In Type 1, an upper-level jet entrance induces a thermally direct secondary circulation that enhances vertical motion, while a baroclinic trough plays a dominant role in generating vertical motion in Type 2. Moreover, these unique configurations for each type of weather pattern are not only pre-existing but also intensified during HRDs.
Application of the Geriatric Trauma Outcome Score in a Rural Setting
Authors: Archer Allen D. , Hahamyan Henrik A. , White-Archer Melissa L. , Mannino Elizabeth A. , Roche Keelin F. , Burns J. Bracken
Published: March 2024

Objective

To retrospectively apply the Geriatric Trauma Outcome (GTO) score to the patient population of a rural South Central Appalachian level 1 trauma center and identify the potential utility of the GTO score in guiding goals of care discussions.

Methods

Trauma registry data was extracted for 5,627 patients aged 65+ from 2017 to 2021. GTO score was calculated for each patient. Descriptive statistics were calculated for age, Injury Severity Score (ISS), GTO score, receipt of red blood cells, discharge status, and code status. A simple logistic regression model was used to determine the relationship between GTO score and discharge status. The probability of mortality was then calculated using GTO score, and the distribution of code status among patients with ≤50, 51-75%, and >75% probability of mortality was examined.

Results

For every 10-point increase in GTO score, odds of mortality increased by 79% (OR = 1.79; P < .001). Patients had an estimated 50% probability of mortality with a GTO score of 156, 75% with 174, and 99% with a score of 234, respectively. Seventeen patients had a GTO score associated with >75% probability of mortality. Of those 17 patients, four retained a full code status.

Conclusions

Our analysis demonstrates that the GTO score is a validated measure in a rural setting and can be an easily calculated metric to help determine a geriatric patient’s probability of mortality following a trauma. The results of our study also found that GTO score can be used to inform goals of care discussions with patients.
Assessing Futile Trauma Transfers in Rural Appalachia Following a Regional Health Care System Consolidation
Authors: Everly Michelle A. , Archer Allen , Heard Matt , Roche Keelin , Burns J. Bracken
Published: March 2024

This study sought to define and analyze rates of futile trauma transfers (FTTs) after the consolidation of two rural level 1 trauma centers into one. Data was extracted from the regional trauma registry for a period of 5 years (2017-2022) for all trauma patients transferred into our level 1 trauma center (n = 3369). An FTT was defined as a transfer that (1) received no major interventions and (2) died or was discharged to a hospice facility within 72 hours. Out of the 3369 transfer patients analyzed during the 33-month pre-consolidation and 33-month post-consolidation periods, 34 patients met the criteria of an FTT within the transfer-to-discharge window. The pre-consolidation category contained 12, and the post-consolidation category contained 22. Chi-square analysis indicated no significant difference in FTT rate between categories. Furthermore, the post-consolidation FTT rate of 1.1% remained consistent with the estimated national average of 1.5%.
Catalysts are more likely to start a movement the more they grow
Authors: Hoskins Daniel Gene , Prinz Emanuel
Published: March 2024

This article examines the traits and competencies that characterize effective move-ment catalysts, based on a study of 147 effective movement catalysts from around the world. It goes on to examine how pioneer mission leaders develop these qualities over time. Interestingly, the overwhelming majority of their traits and competencies show no correlation with ministry longevity or with life maturity. Irrespective of age and experience, a pioneer leader can develop these vital catalytic qualities to a high degree. Also, research shows that effective catalysts continue to grow them over time, whereas other pioneers who did not start a movement not just plateau, but seem to decline. As a whole, this is a call to make personal growth and development a central task in ministry.
Advertising as governance: The digital commodity audience and platform advertising dependency
Authors: Joseph Daniel , Bishop Sophie
Published: March 2024

This article draws from an ethnographic investigation of YouTube to argue the significant and specific role of advertising in the governance of platformised cultural production. We pursue this investigation in a critical dialog with theoretical approaches drawn from platform governance, platformisation and political economy communications, foregrounding the concept of the audience commodity. In our analysis of official and unofficial YouTube content, the role and desires of advertisers were discussed in depth. Community commentary videos publicly argued that YouTube cared about advertisers more than a content creating community; marketing-orientated entrepreneurial growth content advised creators to pursue a ‘buying audience’; and YouTube’s official communications painstakingly reminded creators to ‘put themselves in advertisers’ shoes’. Each of these perspectives contributes an understanding of the ways advertising structurally shapes the governance of cultural production in practice.
Differences in the interplay of face and speech processing in 5-year-olds and adults
Authors: Sensoy Özlem , Krasotkina Anna , Götz Antonia , Höhle Barbara , Schwarzer Gudrun
Published: March 2024

The current study examined to what extent face and speech processing interact with each other and whether they enhance or impair the processing of the other in 5-year-olds ( n = 51) and adults ( n = 34). Using a computer-based speeded sorting task allowed to directly test the influence of auditory speech on face processing and the influence of face identity on auditory speech processing within one experiment. Participants were asked to either sort faces while ignoring auditory speech information (face task) or to sort auditory speech while ignoring face information (speech task). The tasks comprised three conditions: control (irrelevant dimension constant), correlational (congruent pairing of relevant and irrelevant dimension), and orthogonal (random pairing). For the 5-year-olds, reaction times did not differ in the face task, but differed in the speech task. They were the fastest in the control and the slowest in the orthogonal compared with the constant conditions. Adults’ reaction times were similar across conditions and tasks indicating an independent processing of faces and speech. Hence, we found an asymmetrical processing pattern between face and auditory speech processing in children, in which face identity is processed independent of auditory speech; however, auditory speech processing is affected by face identity.
Does attachment in adolescence predict neural responses to handholding in adulthood? A functional magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Lin Jingrun , Stern Jessica A. , Allen Joseph P. , Coan James A.
Published: March 2024

Objective: Early life experiences, including attachment-related experiences, inform internal working models that guide adult relationship behaviors. Few studies have examined the association between adolescent attachment and adult relationship behavior on a neural level. The current study examined attachment in adolescence and its associations with neural correlates of relationship behaviors in adulthood. Method: 85 participants completed the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI) at age 14. Ten years later, at age 24, participants underwent functional brain image when participants were under the threat of electric shock alone, holding the hand of a stranger, or their partner. Results: We found that adolescents who were securely attached at age 14 showed increased activation in regions commonly associated with cognitive, affective, and reward processing when they held the hand of their partner and stranger compared to being alone. Adolescents with higher preoccupied attachment scores showed decreased activation in similar regions only during the stranger handholding condition compared to being alone. Conclusions: These findings suggest that adolescent attachment predicts adult social relationship behaviors on a neural level, in regions largely consistent with previous literature. Broadly, this study has implications for understanding long-term links between attachment and adult relationship behaviors and has potential for informing intervention.
Boundary-aware value function generation for safe stochastic motion planning
Authors: Xu Junhong , Yin Kai , Gregory Jason M. , Hauser Kris , Liu Lantao
Published: March 2024

Navigation safety is critical for many autonomous systems such as self-driving vehicles in an urban environment. It requires an explicit consideration of boundary constraints that describe the borders of any infeasible, non-navigable, or unsafe regions. We propose a principled boundary-aware safe stochastic planning framework with promising results. Our method generates a value function that can strictly distinguish the state values between free (safe) and non-navigable (boundary) spaces in the continuous state, naturally leading to a safe boundary-aware policy. At the core of our solution lies a seamless integration of finite elements and kernel-based functions, where the finite elements allow us to characterize safety-critical states’ borders accurately, and the kernel-based function speeds up computation for the non-safety-critical states. The proposed method was evaluated through extensive simulations and demonstrated safe navigation behaviors in mobile navigation tasks. Additionally, we demonstrate that our approach can maneuver safely and efficiently in cluttered real-world environments using a ground vehicle with strong external disturbances, such as navigating on a slippery floor and against external human intervention.
Systemic inflammation response index as a prognostic factor for patients with sepsis-associated acute kidney injury: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Tang Jia , Zhong Zhenguang , Nijiati Muyesai , Wu Changdong
Published: March 2024

Objective

To assess the association between the systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) and the prognosis in patients with sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI).

Methods

In this observational study, adult patients with SA-AKI were categorized into three groups based on SIRI tertiles. Survival outcomes were compared across the three groups using Kaplan–Meier survival curves. Various Cox proportional hazards regression models were developed to determine the association between the SIRI and mortality in patients with SA-AKI. Subgroup analyses were also performed to explore the association between different SIRI tertiles and all-cause mortality.

Results

After adjusting for several confounders, the second SIRI tertile (2.5 < SIRI < 7.6) was found to be an independent risk factor for 30-day mortality [hazard ratio (95% confidence interval): 1.19 (1.01–1.40)], 90-day mortality [1.22 (1.06–1.41)], and 365-day mortality [1.24 (1.09–1.40)]. Furthermore, high SIRI values were associated with increased risks of 30-day, 90-day, and 365-day mortality in patients with SA-AKI across all three models. The third tertile showed a significant association with adverse outcomes in most subgroups.

Conclusions

The SIRI serves as a comprehensive biomarker for predicting all-cause mortality of critically ill patients with SA-AKI.
High-strength gypsum binder with improved water-resistance coefficient derived from industrial wastes
Authors: Kamarou Maksim , Moskovskikh Dmitry , Kuskov Kirill , Yudin Sergey , Akinwande Abayomi Adewale , Smorokov Andrey , Özkılıç Yasin Onuralp , Abdulwahid Mohanad Yaseen , Bhowmik Abhijit , Romanovskaia Elena , Korob Natalia , Paspelau Andrei , Romanovski Valentin
Published: March 2024

The article presents the possibility of increasing the water resistance of gypsum binders (GBs) obtained based on synthetic gypsum by introducing additives derived from industrial wastes. Regularities were obtained for the influence of the type and amount of additives on the water/gypsum ratio (W/G), strength indicators and water resistance of high-strength GB. The introduction of a single-component additive to improve water resistance does not have a significant effect. Complex additives based on Portland cement, granulated blast-furnace slag, electric steel-smelting slag, expanded clay dust and granite screenings of various fractions have been developed that make the maximum contribution to improving the water resistance of a high-strength GB based on synthetic calcium sulphate dihydrate, which made it possible to increase the water-resistance coefficient from 0.39 to 0.82.
Manganese dioxide nanoparticles provoke inflammatory damage in BV2 microglial cells via increasing reactive oxygen species to activate the p38 MAPK pathway
Authors: Sun Xingchang , Qin Xin , Liang Gaofeng , Chang Xuhong , Zhu Huike , Zhang Jiahao , Zhang Dan , Sun Yingbiao , Feng Sanwei
Published: March 2024

With the widespread use of manganese dioxide nanoparticles (nano MnO2), health hazards have also emerged. The inflammatory damage of brain tissues could result from nano MnO2, in which the underlying mechanism is still unclear. During this study, we aimed to investigate the role of ROS-mediated p38 MAPK pathway in nano MnO2-induced inflammatory response in BV2 microglial cells. The inflammatory injury model was established by treating BV2 cells with 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 μg/mL nano MnO2 suspensions for 12 h. Then, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger (20 nM N-acetylcysteine, NAC) and the p38 MAPK pathway inhibitor (10 μM SB203580) were used to clarify the role of ROS and the p38 MAPK pathway in nano MnO2-induced inflammatory lesions in BV2 cells. The results indicated that nano MnO2 enhanced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α, elevated intracellular ROS levels and activated the p38 MAPK pathway in BV2 cells. Controlling intracellular ROS levels with NAC inhibited p38 MAPK pathway activation and attenuated the inflammatory response induced by nano MnO2. Furthermore, inhibition of the p38 MAPK pathway with SB203580 led to a decrease in the production of inflammatory factors (IL-1β and TNF-α) in BV2 cells. In summary, nano MnO2 can induce inflammatory damage by increasing intracellular ROS levels and further activating the p38 MAPK pathway in BV2 microglial cells.
Design of air-ground cooperative landing platform and autonomous landing strategy
Authors: Song Liangang , Lin Hong , Fu Guanhua , Chen Yehao , Cai Chenxiao
Published: March 2024

This paper studies innovative design for landing platform design and autonomous landing strategies for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). First, a self-leveling landing platform on a mobile unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) is designed, which can be maintained even when the UGV moves on uneven terrain. Then, with the cooperation of the UAV and the UGV, they are controlled to reach the same velocity in the horizontal direction, which helps avoid the UAV’s rollover caused by horizontal velocity difference. Meanwhile, a buffering strategy is designed to reduce the vertical velocity difference, which helps avoid a hard landing. Finally, a combined landing code is designed to improve the accuracy and success rate of UAV landing. Experiments are carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design of a self-leveling platform and autonomous landing strategies.
The New Psychology of Secrecy
Authors: Slepian Michael L.
Published: March 2024

Nearly everyone keeps secrets, but only recently have we begun to learn about the secrets people keep in their everyday lives and the experiences people have with their secrets. Early experimental research into secrecy sought to create secrecy situations in the laboratory, but in trying to observe secrecy in real time, these studies conflated secrecy with the act of concealment. In contrast, a new psychology of secrecy recognizes that secrecy is far more than biting our tongues and dodging others’ questions. Our secrets can consume mental space before and after concealment situations, and even the secrets that require no active upkeep can burden the secret keeper. The current article reviews recent insights into the many ways in which our secrets relate to personal and relational well-being and what follows from revealing our secrets.
Forecasting ESG Stock Indices Using  a Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Suprihadi Eddy , Danila Nevi
Published: March 2024

As the demand for investment products tied to environmental, social and governance (ESG) concerns rises, ESG stock indices have been established. These indices aim to aid investors in navigating and assessing the risks associated with firms based on ESG factors and potential investment returns. The objective of the article is to predict ESG stock indices using a machine learning approach. We use daily data of Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) World, DJSI Asia Pacific and DJSI Emerging Market from 2018 to 2022 as samples. Two-layer ensemble model – combination of support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), long short-term memory (LSTM) and gated recurrent unit (GRU) algorithms – is employed to forecast the indices. The results show that the ensemble model accurately forecasts the indices, with the prediction line closely matching the actual values. It gives the implication that investors are able to improve investment decisions, assist in managing investment risk, and optimize their portfolio diversification. Meanwhile, policymakers are able to anticipate economic trends, inflation and interest rates, assisting in the development of successful economic policies.

This research article presents a machine learning approach for predicting ESG stock indices. The proposed model combines SVM, RF, LSTM and GRU algorithms to create a powerful two-layer ensemble model that outperforms individual models. The results show that the ensemble model accurately forecasts ESG stock indices, with the prediction line closely matching the actual values. The model offers insights into the behaviour of different algorithms, highlighting their strengths and limitations. The proposed model can guide decision-making processes, support investment strategies, and ultimately contribute to advancing sustainable investment practices.
Vaccine Hesitancy Against COVID-19 Vaccines in Patients with Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases and Effect of Specialist Counselling on Vaccine-hesitant Patients
Authors: Chandwar Kunal , Vijayakumaran Abilash Krishnan , Kishor Kriti , Dogga Prasanna , Dixit Juhi , Ekbote Digvijay , Kumar Puneet , Dhakad Urmila
Published: March 2024

Objectives:

To assess causes of vaccine hesitancy to COVID-19 vaccines in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRD).

Methods:

Study design: We conducted a cross-sectional observational survey-based study of patients attending Rheumatology OPD regarding the reason for vaccine hesitancy, counselled by treating rheumatologists and responses regarding willingness recorded after counselling. Convenience sampling was done by including all adults (>18 years) with AIRD attending rheumatology OPD. Those vaccinated, recently infected (within six weeks), and non-AIRD patients were excluded. The questionnaire included details about patients’ demography, medication and reason for vaccine hesitancy. Statistical analysis was performed using measures of central tendency for quantitative variables and using counts and percentages for qualitative variables.

Results:

A total of 322 patients participated in the study with a mean age of 40 years (18–76), with 73% (234) females and 27% (88) males. Most patients had RA (40%) followed by SpA (27%), SLE (13%) and were on immunosuppressive medications (95%). A significant proportion of patients (60%) had more than one reason for vaccine hesitancy. Almost 60% of the respondents feared disease flare post-vaccination, while almost half (44.4%) feared vaccine side effects and more than one-third (35%) doubted vaccine efficacy while on immunosuppressive medications. Other causes were the inability to get vaccinated (18%), doubts about vaccine efficacy (15%), and fear of injections (10%). Most patients (91%) expressed vaccine acceptance after specialist counselling.

Conclusions:

Vaccine hesitancy is multifactorial. Addressing reasons for vaccine hesitancy in patients with AIRD like fear of flare of disease post-vaccination, fear of vaccine side effects and doubts over vaccine efficacy while taking immunosuppressive medications are necessary. Most patients were willing to take vaccine after counselling by a rheumatologist.
Nature and Treatment Received for Psoriasis and Co-morbidities in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis. A Multi-centre Observational Study from Western India
Authors: Kadam Soham , Jadhav Praveen , Shaikh Asna , Shinde Sushant , Bagul Varsha , Oak Jyotsna , Nolkha Nilesh , Balakrishnan C. , Mehta Priti Nagnur , Kalke Shubhada , Bhojani Kaushik , Samant Rohini
Published: March 2024

Background:

Many recent studies have suggested a changing paradigm of management of psoriatic disease. One of the main concerns is the lost opportunity of controlling ‘psoriatic disease’ during the early phase, especially when the disease is limited to the skin.

Objective:

The study’s main aim was to determine psoriasis (PsO) treatment before the patient’s presentation to the rheumatologist. We also studied the associated comorbidities in these patients.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study done at eight centres. Data was collected from 375 patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) about their demography, details of psoriatic lesions, treatment taken for them, additional co-morbidities and pattern of PsA.

Results:

Only 22.4% of patients had received oral methotrexate for PsO: the majority for less than a year. Plaque and scalp PsO were the most common, and 75% of patients had body surface area involvement greater than 5%. There was a significantly higher prevalence of type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (24% vs. 9.1%) and obesity as compared to the general population.

Conclusion:

Few patients received sustained systemic treatment for PsO prior to the development of arthritis. There was a significant association of co-morbidities such as T2DM and obesity with PsA.