bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Male Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, an Overlooked Diagnosis
Authors: do Socorro Teixeira Moreira Almeida Maria , da Costa Arcoverde Josué , Jacobino Mário Nicolau Barros , Coimbra Neto Antônio Rodrigues
Published: November 2011

Lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease of unknown cause that involves multiple systems. Autoimmune diseases that are prevalent in men usually manifest themselves clinically before the age of 50 years old and are characterized by an acute inflammation, whereas autoimmune diseases with predominance among women appear clinically in later stages of life, when chronic diseases, fibrosis and increased number of autoantibodies are present. Lupus erythematosus is more prevalent among women during the reproductive period, but the cause of this predilection is not fully established and little is known about the disease among men. We report a case of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in a male patient whose diagnosis was delayed due to the systemic manifestations and because SLE is considered an uncommon disease in men.
Pemetrexed Induced Pneumonitis
Authors: Dhakal Binod , Singh Veerpal , Shrestha Anuj , Rao Arjun , Choong Nicholas
Published: November 2011

Pemetrexed is an antifolate chemotherapy agent that is active in malignant mesothelioma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Pneumonitis is a rare side effect of Pemetrexed. We report the case of 72-year-old female with metastatic poorly differentiated lung adenocarcinoma. She was placed on maintenance pemetrexed and developed gradual progressive dyspnea after first cycle of maintenance of pemextrexed. The computed tomography (CT) of the chest showed ground glass opacity in both lung fields. Transbronchial lung biopsy showed uniform interstitial widening by a cellular chronic infiltrate with areas of type II pneumocyte and exudation of pale eosinophilic edema fluid; features consistent with acute lung injury. Patient improved both clinically and radiological after stopping pemetrexed and starting prednisone. Although pemetrexed induced lung injury is relatively rare, with the increasing use of pemetrexed in first-line treatment and in maintenance therapy of non-small cell lung cancer, awareness of this potential adverse effects is important.
Ongoing Trials in Low-Grade Lymphoma
Authors: Burchardt Alexander
Published: November 2011

There are many therapies available for the management of low-grade lymphoma. With follicular lymphoma, for example, combination of chemotherapy and rituximab (immuno-chemo-therapy) and consecutive maintenance therapy for 2 years is the current standard of care. To date, the most widely used regimen seems to be rituximab combined with cyclo phosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (RCHOP). Substitution of liposomal doxorubicin in place of conventional doxorubicin may improve outcomes in this indication, although evidence for its use in low-grade lymphoma is not as relevant as in aggressive lymphoma. Bendamustine, in combination with rituximab, has shown very good efficacy and tolerability in several lymphoma types, particularly follicular lymphoma and other low-grade lymphomas. Other combinations, such as those including bortezomib and lenalidomide, are under investigation in low-grade lymphoma, and the duration of rituximab maintenance therapy following bendamustine−rituximab-containing induction is being researched by the German Study Group for Indolent Lymphoma (StiL).
Pilot Study of the Effectiveness of Weighted Vests
Authors: Collins Amy , Dworkin Rosalind J.
Published: November 2011

OBJECTIVE. In this pilot study, we determined the effectiveness of a weighted vest on attention to task for second-grade general education students with difficulty attending.

METHOD. We used an intervention and a control group and an ABA design to compare participants’ percentage of time on task with and without a vest. Ten participants from nine elementary schools in a suburban Texas school district were randomly assigned to an intervention or a control group. Control group participants wore a nonweighted vest. Participants, classroom teachers, and research assistants who coded the data were blind as to the group to which the participants were assigned.

RESULTS. A repeated measures analysis of variance indicated no significant differences between groups or between baseline, intervention, and withdrawal conditions.

CONCLUSION. Our results indicated that the weighted vests were not effective in increasing time on task. These results should be generalized cautiously owing to the small sample size and participant selection process.
Perspectives on Home Safety: Do Home Safety Assessments Address the Concerns of Clients With Vision Loss?
Authors: Barstow Beth A. , Bennett Deborah K. , Vogtle Laura K.
Published: November 2011

PURPOSE. We explored the occupational performance and home safety perspectives of older adults with vision loss. Our study focused on the person–environment interaction to ascertain whether participants’ concerns are addressed by three commonly used home safety assessments.

METHOD. Twenty-two older adults with vision loss participated in face-to-face interviews regarding their perspectives on home safety. We compared categories generated from a content analysis of the data with the contents of three standardized home safety assessments.

RESULTS. Five categories of home safety emerged from the analysis: (1) lighting, (2) contrast, (3) visual distractions, (4) glare, and (5) compensation strategies. Comparisons of content in the three home safety assessments with emerged categories revealed that study participants had specific concerns about home safety that were not thoroughly addressed in the selected assessments.

CONCLUSION. The findings provide preliminary content areas that should be included in the development of a home assessment specific to the low vision population.
Observation of strato-mesospheric CO above Kiruna with ground-based microwave radiometry – retrieval and satellite comparison
Authors: Hoffmann C. G. , Raffalski U. , Palm M. , Funke B. , Golchert S. H. W. , Hochschild G. , Notholt J.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. CO serves as a tracer for dynamics in the polar winter middle atmosphere. This work presents the retrieval and the characterization of ground-based CO measurements from the winters 2008/2009 and 2009/2010 by the Kiruna microwave radiometer KIMRA, located in northern Sweden (67.8° N, 20.4° E). Furthermore, the dataset is used for an extensive comparison to the recent satellite instruments MLS on Aura, ACE-FTS, and MIPAS on Envisat. The vmr profiles are retrieved using the optimal estimation approach. A detailed analysis of the averaging kernel functions is carried out, showing sensitivity of the measurements between 40 and 80 km altitude, a vertical resolution of 16 to 22 km, as well as a residual influence of the region up to 130 km altitude. An error assessment reveals a total error of the retrieved profile that increases with altitude and is approx. ±0.1 ppmv at 50 km altitude and ±3 ppmv at 80 km altitude. The main contributions to this total error arise from the measurement noise and the uncertainty of the used temperature profiles. The expected dynamical features of the polar winter middle atmosphere are qualitatively identified in the retrieved time series, but are not quantitatively analyzed here. The dense MLS dataset is used to investigate the influence of the collocation criteria on the satellite comparison, showing that relaxing the distance criterion causes a high bias for MLS. The comparison including the other instruments is difficult because of the small number of coincidences. However, it suggests that there is a general agreement between KIMRA and the satellite instruments below 65 km altitude, but a high bias for KIMRA above this altitude. Furthermore, the shape of the KIMRA profile appears to be systematically different from the satellite profiles.
Seasonality in a boreal forest ecosystem affects the use of soil temperature and moisture as predictors of soil CO2 efflux
Authors: Niinistö S. M. , Kellomäki S. , Silvola J.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Our objectives were to identify factors related to temporal variation of soil CO2 efflux in a boreal pine forest and to evaluate simple predictive models of temporal variation of soil CO2 efflux. Soil CO2 efflux was measured with a portable chamber in a Finnish Scots pine forest for three years, with a fourth year for model evaluation. Plot averages for soil CO2 efflux ranged from 0.04 to 0.90 g CO2 m−2 h−1 during the snow-free period, i.e. May–October, and from 0.04 to 0.13 g CO2 m−2 h−1 in winter. Soil temperature was a good predictor of soil CO2 efflux. A quadratic model of ln-transformed efflux explained 76–82 % of the variation over the snow-free period. The results revealed an effect of season: at a given temperature of the organic layer, soil CO2 efflux was higher later in the snow-free period (in August and September) than in spring and early summer (in May and June). Regression coefficients for temperature (approximations of a Q10 value) of month-specific models decreased with increasing average soil temperatures. Efflux in July, the month of peak photosynthesis, showed no clear response to temperature or moisture. Inclusion of a seasonality index, degree days, improved the accuracy of temperature response models to predict efflux for the fourth year of measurements, which was not used in building of regression models. During peak efflux from mid-July to late-August, efflux was underestimated with the models that included degree days as well as with the models that did not. The strong influence of the flux of photosynthates belowground and the importance of root respiration could explain the relative temperature insensitivity observed in July and together with seasonality of growth of root and root-associated mycorrhizal fungi could explain partial failure of models to predict magnitude of efflux in the peak season from mid-July to August. The effect of moisture early in the season was confounded by simultaneous advancement of the growing season and increase in temperature. In a dry year, however, the effect of drought was evident as soil CO2 efflux was some 30 % smaller in September than in the previous wet year. Soil temperature was a good overall predictor of soil CO2 efflux, possibly partly because its apparent effect was strengthened by many environmental factors and ecosystem processes that varied in concert with its variation. However, the consistent underestimation by the predictive models for the peak season corroborates recent findings concerning the importance of seasonal changes in carbon inputs to processes producing CO2 in soil.
Extreme climate, not extreme weather: the summer of 1816 in Geneva, Switzerland
Authors: Auchmann R. , Brönnimann S. , Breda L. , Bühler M. , Spadin R. , Stickler A.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. We analyze weather and climate during the "Year without Summer" 1816 using sub-daily data from Geneva, Switzerland, representing one of the climatically most severely affected regions. The record includes twice daily measurements and observations of air temperature, pressure, cloud cover, wind speed, and wind direction as well as daily measurements of precipitation. Comparing 1816 to a contemporary reference period (1799–1821) reveals that the coldness of the summer of 1816 was most prominent in the afternoon, with a shift of the entire distribution function of temperature anomalies by 3–4 °C. Early morning temperature anomalies show a smaller change for the mean, a significant decrease in the variability, and no changes in negative extremes. Analyzing cloudy and cloud-free conditions separately suggests that an increase in the number of cloudy days was to a significant extent responsible for these features. A daily weather type classification based on pressure, pressure tendency, and wind direction shows extremely anomalous frequencies in summer 1816, with only one day (compared to 20 in an average summer) classified as high-pressure situation but a tripling of low-pressure situations. The afternoon temperature anomalies expected from only a change in weather types was much stronger negative in summer 1816 than in any other year. For precipitation, our analysis shows that the 80% increase in summer precipitation compared to the reference period can be explained by 80% increase in the frequency of precipitation, while no change could be found neither in the average intensity of precipitation nor in the frequency distribution of extreme precipitation. In all, the analysis shows that the regional circulation and local cloud cover played a dominant role. It also shows that the summer of 1816 was an example of extreme climate, not extreme weather.
Ralp & Rocco Stitch: Original Technique
Authors: Spinelli Matteo Giulio , Cozzi Gabriele , Grasso Angelica , Talso Michele , Varisco Daniela , Rahman Davide Abed El , Acquati Pietro , Albo Giancarlo , Rocco Bernardo , Maggioni Augusto , Rocco Francesco
Published: November 2011

Incontinence and impotence are the two chief drawbacks of radical prostatectomy (RP). Incontinence is the most relevant for most of the patients, even if there is high variability in terms of prevalence and definition of continence. Incontinence seems the result of several factors, the most important being the surgical injury of some structures and the biomechanical instability associated with vesicourethral anastomosis. In the posterior urethra, which guarantees the continence mechanism, two functionally independent regions can be recognized: the proximal and the distal. The proximal region can be identified with the bladder neck, while the distal region is the rhabdosphincter urethrae. Concerning the distal functional region, two kinds of strategy can be applied: the preservation of puboprostatic ligaments and urethral attachments, or the reconstruction of the urethral rhabdosphincter, which can be anterior, posterior or total. We describe our technique of choice for posterior reconstruction, first described by Rocco and then modified by Patel et al.
Formulary Coverage of Brand-Name Adalimumab and Biosimilars Across Medicare Part D Plans
Authors: Klebanoff Matthew J. , Li Pengxiang , Lin John K. , Doshi Jalpa A.
Published: June 2024

This study examines formulary coverage of brand-name adalimumab and biosimilars across Medicare Part D plans.
Prevalence and Co-Occurrence of Psychiatric Conditions Among Bereaved Adults
Authors: Rheingold Alyssa A. , Williams Joah L. , Bottomley Jamison S.
Published: June 2024

Importance

Rates of grief-related psychiatric conditions, such as prolonged grief disorder (PGD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and major depressive disorder (MDD), among bereaved adults in the US are largely unknown due to limited studies that leverage national samples.

Objective

To assess risk factors for and prevalence rates and co-occurrence of PGD, PTSD, and MDD among bereaved adults in the US.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Data for this survey study were collected from a large US panel sample between October 10 and 28, 2022, using a web-based survey. Participants were aged 18 years or older and were proficient in English. Data analysis was conducted between March and June 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Probable psychiatric conditions were assessed with validated measures that used conservative cutoff scores, duration, and impairment criteria. These measures included the revised Prolonged Grief Disorder scale for PGD, the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 for PTSD, and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 for MDD. Data were analyzed using basic descriptives and logistic regression.

Results

A total of 2034 adults (n = 1529 and 505 in the bereaved and comparison groups, respectively) completed the study. Respondents had a mean (SD) age of 40.7 (15.9) years; the majority were women (1314 [64.6%]) and had at least some college experience (1394 [68.5%]). With regard to race and ethnicity, 392 respondents (19.3%) were Black, 138 (6.8%) were Hispanic, and 1357 (66.7%) were White. Among bereaved adults, 312 (20.4%), 518 (33.9%), and 461 (30.2%) met criteria for a presumptive diagnosis of PGD, PTSD, and MDD, respectively. Comorbidities were common, with 441 participants (28.8%) meeting criteria for at least 2 co-occurring disorders. Comorbid PGD, PTSD, and MDD were more common than any 2 co-occurring or isolated disorders; the presence of co-occurring conditions was more likely among respondents who reported a traumatic loss. Age and educational attainment were associated with the risk of psychiatric conditions; less time since the index death, loss of a psychologically close other, and a traumatic loss experience were associated with increased risk of PGD, PTSD, and MDD or their co-occurrence.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, the majority of bereaved adults did not meet presumptive criteria for PGD, PTSD, or MDD. Nevertheless, PGD, PTSD, and MDD were highly prevalent and comorbid, particularly among those who experienced traumatic loss. These findings underscore the need for integrated psychological care that leverages transdiagnostic mechanisms of evidence-based practice.
Radiation With Immunotherapy May Be a Double-Edged Sword—How Can We Learn From Recent Negative Clinical Trials?
Authors: McGee Heather M. , Williams Terence M. , Lee Percy
Published: June 2024

This Viewpoint explains differences between recent studies using radiotherapy with immunotherapy and possible reasons for their different outcomes.
Health Care Use for Eye Pain
Authors: Shapiro Jeremy N. , Abuzaitoun Rebhi O. , Pan Yue , Woodward Maria A. , Clauw Daniel J. , Lee Paul P. , Shtein Roni M. , De Lott Lindsey B.
Published: June 2024

Importance

National estimates regarding the frequency of presentations and patterns of care for eye pain are unknown. This information could guide research and clinical efforts to optimize outcomes.

Objective

To estimate eye pain visits in the US in the outpatient and emergency department (ED) settings.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cross-sectional study of National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey and National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey data (2008-2019) analyzed a population-based sample of visits to outpatient clinics and EDs. The sample consisted of patients presenting with eye pain. Data were analyzed from September 2023 to April 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Weighted sample data estimated outpatient and ED eye pain presentations including patient and clinician characteristics, diagnoses (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision [ICD-10]), and disposition.

Results

From 2008 through 2019, 4.6 million (95% CI, 3.9 million to 5.3 million) outpatient and 1.0 million (95% CI, 0.8 million to 1.1 million) ED eye pain visits occurred annually. Patients were predominantly women (63.2% [95% CI, 59.4%-67.0%]) and older than 60 years (46.6% [95% CI, 42.4%-51.0%]) in the outpatient setting. Patients presenting to the ED were more often men (51.8% [95% CI, 48.7%-55.0%]) and aged younger than 45 years (aged <15 years: 16.4% [95% CI, 13.9%-18.8%]; 15-24 years: 19.2% [95% CI, 16.6%-21.7%]; and 25-44 years: 35.6% [95% CI, 32.7%-38.5%]). In nearly half of outpatient eye pain visits, the major problem was classified as nonacute (2.0 million [95% CI, 1.6 million to 2.3 million]). Eye pain was the primary reason for the visit (RFV) in 42.0% (95% CI, 37.8%-46.2%) of outpatient visits and 66.9% (95% CI, 62.9%-70.9%) of ED eye pain visits. It was the only RFV in 18.3% (95% CI, 15.0%-21.7%) of outpatient and 32.7% (95% CI, 29.0%-36.4%) of ED eye pain encounters. Ophthalmologists evaluated the largest number of outpatient visits (45.3% [95% CI, 38.8%-51.7%). The primary diagnosis was non–vision threatening for most outpatient (78.5% [95% CI, 56.8%-100%]) and ED (69.9% [95% CI, 62.1%-77.7%]) visits when eye pain was the primary RFV. Additional follow-up was scheduled in 89.4% (95% CI, 86.2%-92.6%) of visits.

Conclusions and Relevance

More than 5 million eye pain visits occur annually; the largest percentage are outpatient with ophthalmologists. Most diagnoses were non–vision threatening in both the outpatient and ED setting and resulted in additional care. Expanding therapeutic approaches to treat the causes of eye pain may reduce the burden on the health care system and optimize outcomes.
A new tool for setting biodiversity management priorities adapted from aquatic invasive species management: A pilot using Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in NS, Canada
Authors: Kingsbury Sarah , Collison Ben R. , Daigle Remi , Hogan J. Derek , Lowen Ben , Lowles Andrew G. , Stortini Christine , Trudel Marc , Tuziak Sarah M.
Published: June 2024

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are a leading cause of global loss of biodiversity. However, the relationships between AIS and vulnerable species (e.g. species at risk and endemic species) are not well‐documented and few studies have combined risk of AIS invasion with species distribution modelling of vulnerable species.

An integrated management approach was developed and applied to assess the effects and risks of AIS on Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in Nova Scotia (NS), Canada. A semi‐quantitative risk assessment tool was used to evaluate the risk of introduction, establishment and ecological impact of eight AIS currently found across NS. A suitable habitat for Atlantic salmon was predicted using a random forest model and identified watersheds of high conservation value. A vector‐based screening‐level risk assessment was developed to determine the relative risk of potential vectors introducing AIS into each primary watershed in NS, alongside other anthropogenic pressures. Finally, a matrix was developed to provide recommendations to AIS managers based on species invasion stage and invasion risk score.

Results from this study showed that ecosystem engineer species (e.g. crayfish and invasive plants) were more likely to affect invaded ecosystems, but were less widely reported in NS While invasive piscivores (e.g. chain pickerel [Esox niger], smallmouth bass [Micropterus dolomieu]) had less potential ecosystem impacts, they were more widely reported in the assessment area. Hitchhiking on watercraft and fishing gear were the riskiest vectors for continued spread of AIS in NS. The AIS Management Matrix supports recommendations of scenarios in which AIS could be eradicated or where response plans may be developed to control, contain and respond to new introductions. The Herring Cove Medway and the Salmon Mira were the top two watersheds recommended for Atlantic salmon conservation and AIS control or prevention based on habitat conservation value. Water temperature and physical changes to freshwater habitat (especially adjacent land use) were the model variables that were most important to predict Atlantic salmon habitat suitability.

At a time of heightened global biodiversity loss, but limited dedicated conservation resources, the integrated management approach developed in this study can be applied to recommend geographically specific actions to managers for strategic vulnerable species conservation planning and AIS management.
Design of an artificial neural network and proportional‐integral‐derivative controller using particle swarm optimization for Boeing 747‐400 aircraft pitch control
Authors: Mitiku Hunachew Moges , Salau Ayodeji Olalekan , Sharew Estifanos Abeje
Published: June 2024

This paper presents the design of an artificial neural network (ANN) and proportional integral derivative (PID) controller using particle swarm optimization (PSO) for Boeing 747‐400 aircraft pitch control (APC). The combinations of disturbance, open loop unstable and nonlinear dynamics are major problems in a Boeing 747‐400 commercial aircraft. This paper investigates the control mechanism of pitch angle control of Boeing 747‐400 with small disturbance theory linearization methods and ANN based non‐linear controllers. A PID controller is tuned by PSO, whereas the PID is tuned by graphical user interface (GUI) when compared with an ANN controller. The controller for this system was designed using an ANN controller and PID tuned using a recent optimization technique such as the PSO method with integral square error (ISE) as an objective function. A comparative study of the time domain performances of the pitch control of the Boeing 747‐400 commercial aircraft was presented. The ANN controller outperformed the PID‐PSO and PID‐GUI controllers in terms of system performance, including rising time (tr), settling time (ts), percentage overshoot (percent OS), and steady state error, across various elevator deflection angles. Basically, the percentage overshoot and steady state error were 0% and 0 respectively, indicating that the ANN controller achieved an improvement of 100%. Various parameters were compared with the PID‐GUI, PID‐PSO, and ANN controllers for pitch control of the Boeing 747‐400 air craft. The ANN controller architecture comprises of two input neurons, two hidden layer neurons, and one output layer neuron. The simulation was performed using Matlab/Simulink. The results show that the PID‐PSO controller was improved by the ANN controller and the performance specifications of the aircraft obtained by the ANN controller were satisfactory.
Effect of gut microbiota and PNPLA3 polymorphisms on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in lean and obese individuals
Authors: Lin Yen‐Po , Tsai Yu‐Chieh , Tsai Mu Jung , Huang Pao‐Yuan , Chen Chien‐Hung , Yao Chih‐Chien , Chuah Seng‐Kee , Kuo Yuan‐Hung , Tai Wei‐Chen , Lian Wei‐Shiung , Fang Hsin‐Wei , Hu Tsung‐Hui , Tsai Ming‐Chao
Published: June 2024

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is commonly associated with obesity but is also found in non‐obese individuals. The PNPLA3 gene variant (rs738409) is by far the most important genetic determinant of NAFLD. To date, there is no study exploring the differences and associations between gut microbiota and PNPLA3 genotype on lean and obese NAFLD patients. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the association between gut microbiota and lean and obese NAFLD, while considering the role of PNPLA3 variants. This prospective study took place at Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital from December 2019 to November 2020. We recruited 35 lean NAFLD patients, 70 obese NAFLD patients, and 35 healthy individuals. Fecal samples were collected to analyze the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene for intestinal bacteria composition. Although lean and obese NAFLD groups did not differ in PNPLA3 variant abundance, the lean NAFLD group had a higher percentage of the G allele variant (82.9% vs. 72.9%) than obese NAFLD group. Alpha diversity for gut microbiota was not significantly different among the three groups. Microbiota differed significantly between lean and obese NAFLD groups in a multi‐response permutation procedure analysis (p = .005). Although, there were no significant differences between PNPLA3 G and C in alpha and beta diversity, the same phylum, family, and genus dominant microbiota differed between lean and obese NAFLD. Lean and obese NAFLD patients have different predominant gut microbiota, as do PNPLA3 C and G variants, indicating that lean NAFLD patients may be associated with PNPLA3 G allele variant.
Clinical impact of mutated JAK2 allele burden reduction in polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Guglielmelli Paola , Mora Barbara , Gesullo Francesca , Mannelli Francesco , Loscocco Giuseppe Gaetano , Signori Leonardo , Pessina Chiara , Colugnat Ilaria , Aquila Raffaela , Balliu Manjola , Maccari Chiara , Romagnoli Simone , Paoli Chiara , Nacca Elena , Fagiolo Lorenzo , Maffioli Margherita , Barbui Tiziano , Passamonti Francesco , Vannucchi Alessandro M.
Published: June 2024

The variant allele frequency (VAF) of driver mutations (JAK2, CALR) in myeloproliferative neoplasms is associated with features of advanced disease and complications. Ruxolitinib and interferon were reported to variably reduce the mutant VAF, but the long‐term impact of molecular responses (MR) remains debated. We prospectively measured changes in JAK2 and CALR VAF in 77 patients with polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia, treated with ruxolitinib for a median of 8 years, and assessed correlation with complete clinical and hematological response (CCHR) and outcomes. At last observation time, JAK2 VAF reduced overall from a median of 68% (range, 20%–99%) to 3.5% (0%–98%). A profound and durable MR (DMR; defined as a VAF stably ≤2%), including complete MR in 8%, was achieved in 20% of the patients, a partial MR (PMR; VAF reduction >50% of the baseline level) in 25%, and 56% had no molecular response (NMR). A CCHR was reached by 69% overall, independently of any degree of MR achieved; conversely, a DMR correlated with longer duration of CCHR and, most importantly, with reduced rate of progression to myelofibrosis and with longer myelofibrosis‐free, event‐free and progression‐free survival. Achievement of PMR also had some favorable impact on outcomes, compared to NMR. A baseline JAK2 VAF <50%, and a VAF reduction of ≥35% after 2 years of treatment, predicted for the achievement of DMR and reduced progression to myelofibrosis. Overall, these findings support the clinical value of achieving profound, durable MR and its consideration as surrogate endpoint in future clinical trials.
Radical‐Induced Changes in Transition Metal Interfacial Magnetic Properties: A Blatter Derivative on Polycrystalline Cobalt
Authors: Nowik‐Boltyk Ewa Malgorzata , Junghoefer Tobias , Giangrisostomi Erika , Ovsyannikov Ruslan , Shu Chan , Rajca Andrzej , Droghetti Andrea , Casu Maria Benedetta
Published: June 2024

In this work, we study the interface obtained by depositing a monolayer of a Blatter radical derivative on polycrystalline cobalt. By examining the occupied and unoccupied states at the interface, using soft X‐ray techniques, combined with electronic structure calculations, we could simultaneously determine the electronic structure of both the molecular and ferromagnetic sides of the interface, thus obtaining a full understanding of the interfacial magnetic properties. We found that the molecule is strongly hybridized with the surface. Changes in the core level spectra reflect the modification of the molecule and the cobalt electronic structures inducing a decrease in the magnetic moment of the cobalt atoms bonded to the molecules which, in turn, lose their radical character. Our method allowed us to screen, beforehand, organic/ferromagnetic interfaces given their potential applications in spintronics.
Capturing and managing genetic diversity in ex situ collections of threatened tropical trees: A case study in Karomia gigas
Authors: Linan Alexander G. , Gereau Roy E. , Sucher Rebecca , Mashimba Fandey H. , Bassuner Burgund , Wyatt Andrew , Edwards Christine E.
Published: June 2024

Premise

Although ex situ collections of threatened plants are most useful when they contain maximal genetic variation, the conservation and maintenance of genetic diversity in collections are often poorly known. We present a case study using population genomic analyses of an ex situ collection of Karomia gigas, a critically endangered tropical tree from Tanzania. Only ~43 individuals are known in two wild populations, and ex situ collections containing 34 individuals were established in two sites from wild‐collected seed. The study aimed to understand how much diversity is represented in the collection, analyze the parentage of ex situ individuals, and identify efficient strategies to capture and maintain genetic diversity.

Methods

We genotyped all known individuals using a 2b‐RADseq approach, compared genetic diversity in wild populations and ex situ collections, and conducted parentage analysis of the collections.

Results

Wild populations were found to have greater levels of genetic diversity than ex situ populations as measured by number of private alleles, number of polymorphic sites, observed and expected heterozygosity, nucleotide diversity, and allelic richness. In addition, only 32.6% of wild individuals are represented ex situ and many individuals were found to be the product of selfing by a single wild individual.

Discussion

Population genomic analyses provided important insights into the conservation of genetic diversity in K. gigas, identifying gaps and inefficiencies, but also highlighting strategies to conserve genetic diversity ex situ. Genomic analyses provide essential information to ensure that collections effectively conserve genetic diversity in threatened tropical trees.
Assistive tools for classifying neurological disorders using fMRI and deep learning: A guide and example
Authors: Warren Samuel L. , Khan Danish M. , Moustafa Ahmed A.
Published: June 2024

Background

Deep‐learning (DL) methods are rapidly changing the way researchers classify neurological disorders. For example, combining functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and DL has helped researchers identify functional biomarkers of neurological disorders (e.g., brain activation and connectivity) and pilot innovative diagnostic models. However, the knowledge required to perform DL analyses is often domain‐specific and is not widely taught in the brain sciences (e.g., psychology, neuroscience, and cognitive science). Conversely, neurological diagnoses and neuroimaging training (e.g., fMRI) are largely restricted to the brain and medical sciences. In turn, these disciplinary knowledge barriers and distinct specializations can act as hurdles that prevent the combination of fMRI and DL pipelines. The complexity of fMRI and DL methods also hinders their clinical adoption and generalization to real‐world diagnoses. For example, most current models are not designed for clinical settings or use by nonspecialized populations such as students, clinicians, and healthcare workers. Accordingly, there is a growing area of assistive tools (e.g., software and programming packages) that aim to streamline and increase the accessibility of fMRI and DL pipelines for the diagnoses of neurological disorders.

Objectives and Methods

In this study, we present an introductory guide to some popular DL and fMRI assistive tools. We also create an example autism spectrum disorder (ASD) classification model using assistive tools (e.g., Optuna, GIFT, and the ABIDE preprocessed repository), fMRI, and a convolutional neural network.

Results

In turn, we provide researchers with a guide to assistive tools and give an example of a streamlined fMRI and DL pipeline.

Conclusions

We are confident that this study can help more researchers enter the field and create accessible fMRI and deep‐learning diagnostic models for neurological disorders.
Olfactory dysfunction as an early predictor for post‐COVID condition at 1‐year follow‐up
Authors: Granvik Christoffer , Andersson Sara , Andersson Linus , Brorsson Camilla , Forsell Mattias , Ahlm Clas , Normark Johan , Edin Alicia
Published: June 2024

Background

Olfactory dysfunction together with neurological and cognitive symptoms are common after COVID‐19. We aimed to study whether performance on olfactory and neuropsychological tests following infection predict post‐COVID condition (PCC), persisting symptoms, and reduced health‐related quality of life.

Methods

Both hospitalized (N = 10) and non‐hospitalized individuals (N = 56) were enrolled in this prospective cohort study. Participants were evaluated 1–3 months after infection with an olfactory threshold test and neuropsychological tests, which was used as predictors of PCC. A questionnaire outlining persisting symptoms and the validated instrument EuroQol five‐dimension five‐level for health‐related quality of life assessment were used as outcome data 1 year after infection (N = 59). Principal component analysis was used to identify relevant predictors for PCC at 1 year.

Results

Objectively assessed olfactory dysfunction at 1–3 months post infection, but not subjective olfactory symptoms, predicted post‐COVID condition with reduced health‐related quality of life (PCC+) at 1 year. The PCC+ group scored more often below the cut off for mild cognitive impairment on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (61.5% vs. 21.7%) and higher on the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory‐20, compared to the group without PCC+.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that objectively assessed, olfactory dysfunction is a predictor for PCC+. These findings underscore the importance of objective olfactory testing. We propose that olfactory screening in the early post‐acute phase of COVID‐19 infection might identify individuals that are at higher risk of developing long‐term health sequalae.
16S rRNA gene sequencing reveals altered gut microbiota in young adults with schizophrenia and prominent negative symptoms
Authors: Chen Yi‐Huan , Yu Huan , Xue Fen , Bai Jie , Guo Li , Peng Zheng‐Wu
Published: June 2024

Background

Gut dysbiosis has been established as a characteristic of schizophrenia (SCH). However, the signatures regarding SCH patients with prominent negative symptoms (SCH‐N) in young adults have been poorly elucidated.

Methods

Stool samples were obtained from 30 young adults with SCH‐N, 32 SCH patients with prominent positive symptoms (SCH‐P) along with 36 healthy controls (HCs). Microbial diversity and composition were analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Meanwhile, psychiatric symptoms were assessed by the positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS).

Results

There is a significant difference in β‐diversity but not α‐diversity indexes among the three groups. Moreover, we found a higher abundance of Fusobacteria and Proteobacteria phyla and a lower abundance of Firmicutes phyla in SCH‐N when compared with HC. Besides, we identified a diagnostic potential panel comprising six genera (Coprococcus, Monoglobus, Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group, Escherichia‐Shigella, Dorea, and Butyricicoccus) that can distinguish SCH‐N from HC (area under the curve = 0.939). However, the difference in microbial composition between the SCH‐N and SCH‐P is much less than that between SCH‐N and the HC, and SCH‐N and SCH‐P cannot be effectively distinguished by gut microbiota.

Conclusion

The composition of gut microbiota was changed in the patients with SCH‐N, which may help in further understanding of pathogenesis in young adults with SCH‐N.
The effect of consumer participation during the new product development process on consumer brand identification: A gaming industry study
Authors: Correia Ricardo Fontes , Jakutis Lauryas , Vilkaitis Karolis , Survilaitė Eimantė , Venciute Dominika , de Sousa João Paulo Pereira
Published: June 2024

This study examines the role of consumer participation in the new product development process within the gaming industry, focusing on its impact on Consumer Brand Identification (CBI), with brand attractiveness as a mediating factor. Using a between‐subjects experimental design, we tested three scenarios of consumer participation and analyzed the data with one‐way ANOVA and mediation analysis. The findings reveal that although consumer involvement enhances brand attractiveness, it does not significantly increase brand identification. This research provides new insights into the limited effects of consumer participation on deepening brand connections despite its positive influence on brand perception. This study is one of the first to empirically explore the varying impacts of consumer participation on CBI within the gaming sector, offering a nuanced understanding of its role in shaping brand perception. Practical implications suggest that while consumer involvement is beneficial for enhancing brand attractiveness, its effectiveness in fostering brand identification is limited, and marketers should temper expectations when employing this strategy.
Clinical characteristics and literature review of chronic active Epstein–Barr virus‐associated enteritis
Authors: Meng Yajie , Li Rendong , Ding JieWen , Xiang Bo , Wang Qin , Wang Min , Tang KeJiang
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Chronic active Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) infection‐associated enteritis (CAEAE) in nonimmunodeficient individuals is rare. To report a case of CAEAE, relevant articles were searched through databases. The clinical manifestations, endoscopic findings, strategies of treatment, prognoses, and follow‐up results of CAEAE patients were analyzed. Including this report, seven citations in the literature provide descriptions of 27 cases of CAEAE. There were 21 males and six females, with a mean age of 40 years. The main clinical manifestations were fever (25/27), abdominal pain (14/27), diarrhea (16/27), hematochezia or bloody stools (13/27), and decreased hemoglobin and red blood cell counts in routine blood tests (14/27). Elevations in inflammatory markers, white blood cell (WBC) counts, and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were common. Coagulation was often abnormal. Histopathology confirmed EBV‐encoded small nuclear RNA (EBER) in the affected tissue via in situ hybridization. The average serum EBV DNA load was 6.3 × 10^5 copies/mL. All patients had varying degrees of intestinal ulcers endoscopically, and the ulcers and pathology were uncharacterized and misdiagnosed mostly as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The course of the disease was progressive and later complicated by intestinal bleeding, intestinal perforation, septic shock, and a high rate of emergency surgery. However, the conditions of the patients often did not improve after surgery, and some patients soon died due to reperforation or massive hematochezia. Hormone and antiviral treatment had no obvious effect. There was a significant difference in surgical and nonsurgical survival (p < 0.05). The proportion of patients who died within 6 months was as high as 63.6% (7/11). CAEAE belongs to a group of rare, difficult conditions, has an insidious clinical course, has a high case fatality rate, and may later develop into EBV‐positive lymphoproliferative disorder (EBV‐LPD), which in turn leads to carcinogenesis. Clinicians should raise awareness that in patients with multiple ulcers in the intestine of unknown etiology, attention should be paid to EBV serology, and histology to make the diagnosis as early as possible.
Metastasectomy for extracalvarial renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Abo Kasem Rahim , Joseph Karan , Shaik Adnan , Downes Angela , Janjua M. Burhan
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Palliative surgical resection of extra‐calvarial metastatic lesions from renal cell tumors is crucial for controlling metastatic spread, improving quality of life, and preventing associated morbidity. Careful surgical planning, including selective preoperative embolization and controlled resection around critical structures such as the sagittal sinus, is essential for successful outcomes. Cranioplasty with Titanium mesh and bone cement post‐resection can provide symptomatic relief, better cosmesis, and overall improved quality of life.

Renal cell carcinomas are aggressive tumors with distant systemic disease. The calvarium appears to be an unusual and rare site for distant metastasis. The treatment modalities are challenging and out of the normal realm for the management of these tumors. We report a case of a 63‐year‐old woman with a previous history of nephrectomy who presented with symptoms of severe headaches, and swelling of bi‐frontal and bi‐parietal scalp regions due to multifocal extracalvarial disease. Preoperative bilateral superficial temporal artery embolization was performed to control the intraoperative bleeding. Surgical technique has been described with the critical steps involved, and a literature review has been conducted. Palliative tumor resection surgery was performed to improve the patient's quality of life as well as to confirm the histopathological diagnosis. Gross total resection of the extracalvarial metastatic tumor was achieved. Biopsy confirmed renal cell tumor with the clear cell subtype. The patient recovered well from her surgery with slow healing of the scalp wound. At 6‐month follow‐up, no recurrence of the extracalvarial disease was observed on serial imaging. Extracalvarial metastasis is a rare presentation in renal cell carcinoma. Considering the inherent radioresistant nature of the tumor, palliative surgical resection can be offered to control the metastatic spread, relieve agonizing pain symptoms, and to improve the quality of life. Preoperative embolization helps to decrease intraoperative blood loss. Moreover, palliative surgical resection of extracalvarial diseases helps to treat the metastasis as well as avoiding the associated morbidity that may occur if left untreated.
Synthesis of Planar Chiral Ferrocenes by Catalytic Desymmetrization Reactions
Authors: Qi Hongbo , Hang Nan‐Nan , Ming Jialin
Published: June 2024

Since its discovery in the early 1950s, the sandwich‐type structure of ferrocene has sparked significant research into its applications across various disciplines, including asymmetric synthesis, medicinal chemistry, and materials science. Planar chiral ferrocenes play a crucial role in asymmetric catalysis by serving as essential scaffolds for chiral ligands and catalysts. Classical methods for synthesizing planar chiral ferrocenes often encounter limitations such as low atom economy and lengthy synthesis steps. In contrast, catalytic desymmetrization synthesis strategies offer a promising alternative due to their ability to enhance step and atom efficiency. This review highlights recent advancements in this field, particularly focusing on transition‐metal‐catalyzed C−H functionalization and catalytic enantioselective desymmetrization reactions.
ADH‐Catalyzed Biooxidation of (Hetero)aromatic sec‐Alcohols to Ketones Employing Vinyl Acetate as Acetaldehyde Surrogate
Authors: Rudzka Aleksandra , Reiter Tamara , Kroutil Wolfgang , Borowiecki Paweł
Published: June 2024

The oxidation of sec‐alcohols is a common reaction in organic chemistry. We report a biocatalytic approach for oxidizing racemic (hetero)aromatic sec‐alcohols to the corresponding ketones. The reaction relies on employing freeze‐dried E. coli cells containing a recombinant variant of an alcohol dehydrogenase deduced from Lactobacillus kefir (E. coli/Lk‐ADH Prince) and vinyl acetate as an in situ acetaldehyde surrogate as oxidant. Biooxidations of a set of 20 racemic (hetero)aromatic alcohols were carried out in the presence of a catalytic amount of NADP+ cofactor, the biocatalyst, and vinyl acetate in an aqueous medium to generate the corresponding ketones with up to >99 % conv. Preparative scale (1.0 mmol; 100 mM in 10 mL) reactions led to obtaining ketones in the 56–83 % isolated yield range.
Regulating Adsorption Behavior of Reactants on NiO/CuO/Co3O4 Surface by Electronic Effect to Promote Electrosynthesis
Authors: Zhu Yumei , Wu Jia , Wei Jinlv , Chen Rong , Zhai Zhixiang , Yin Shibin
Published: June 2024

Developing efficient electrooxidation 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) catalysts with high selectivity and fast reaction kinetic is challenging. The HMF oxidation reaction (HMFOR) involves the adsorption of HMF and OH− on the catalyst, thus understanding the adsorption behavior between the catalyst surface and reactants is vital. In this work, by studying the relationship between HMFOR performance and the adsorption behavior of reactants on different transition metal oxides (TMOs), it is discovered that the catalytic performance of TMOs is related to the adsorption capacity of OH− and HMF simultaneously. Subsequently, TMOs with different HMF and OH− adsorption abilities are coupled to further optimize the catalytic performance of HMFOR. Experimental and theoretical calculation results indicate that the electronic interactions between different TMOs can regulate the substrate adsorption behavior and electron transfer ability of the catalysts, which is beneficial for HMFOR. Among them, due to the strong interaction between the three components optimizes the adsorption capacity for HMF and OH−, NiO/CuO/Co3O4 exhibits the best HMFOR performance with FDCA selectivity of 99.6 % and formation rate of 16.45 mmol gcat−1 h−1. This work provides a design principle for HMFOR catalysts by modulating the adsorption behavior of reaction molecules.